Maxi Mania

Iono about you but I seriously love me a good maxi. No...take that back. I am obsessed with a good maxi. But it can't be just any maxi dress. I've done some serious researching when it comes to my maxi loving ways and I think I can officially title myself the Maxi Connoisseur. It has to be the right fabric, the right pattern, the right neckline and without a doubt...the right length. For crying out loud...a maxi dress should not stop at your ankles. In fact, your maxi should be long enough to hit the ground and if you're anything like me, it will be dragging the ground and you will most likely trip over it 19 times throughout the day. That, my friends, is what I like to call a maxi dress success. (Also, the amount of times I just said "maxi" in that paragraph should be illegal.)

Being that my wardrobe will be a little different this spring, and I have tried on and am refusing to believe that maternity shorts are a real thing (gag me with a spoon...or maybe I just haven't found the right pair?) I've been looking high and low, literally, for all the good maxi dresses I can possibly get my hands on. (Random fact #1: I told Beau that I only ever wanted to be pregnant during the spring and summer and if it didn't happen by then, we wouldn't try again until the timing would be right for the following spring/summer. I just couldn't fathom being in jeans and sweaters when I'm as large as a beached whale...) Anywho...like I was saying...I've been scouring the shelves and interwebs for maxi dresses that fit all of my qualifications, specifically...the length.

Above are a few of my very favorite that I've either bought or ordered and are on their way to me as I type this. (Not all are maternity...but I snuck a couple in there for anyone who might also have expanding bellies this spring.)

1. Royal Blue Basic Maternity Maxi @ Pink Blush Maternity (Obsessing with this shop right now!)

2. Colorblock Racer Maxi @ Target

3. Peaches & Cream Maxi @ Oakleigh Rose Boutique (Umm hello? It had me at giant bow!)

4. Maternity Cowl Neck Maxi @ Old Navy (I actually bought this one in two colors!)

5. Colorblock Maxi Dress @ Target

Do you love a good maxi, or what?! Where do you find the best ones?!

P.S.-thank you thank you thank you to everyone who sent me well wishes and puppy prayers for our sweet Oakley girl yesterday and the night before! We made it through night last night (all 3 of us, piled in the living room floor) and she popped up first thing this morning wagging her tail and wanting to be fed. (That's my girl!) Though Beau and I can officially say we are both exhausted from waking up at least once every hour, we are just beyond happy that she's home and she's breathing and seems to be doing better already.

This weekend's forecast looks like snuggles with a large side of Oakley kisses. :) And I'm perfectly fine with that!

Happy weekending, friends!

Hump Day || Bump Day - 16 Weeks

I swear...pictures are deceiving. There really is something there!

How far along: 16 weeks

Baby size: An avocado...guacamole, please!

Weight gain: 5 pounds and proud of all 5 of 'em! I have no idea what's "normal" for the first 16 weeks but I'm okay with a 5 pound weight gain so far.

Maternity clothes: Yes! Well...not all...but the shirt in the picture above is maternity and I adore it! Seriously-the softest articles of clothing I've ever met. Also-I recently ordered this maxi, this maxi and this maxi from Old Navy (hello 40% off!) so they'll be joining my maternity collection soon enough! Also, my Bella Band came in and is making its big debut today! Hallelujah. I feel like I can stop pulling my suit pants up to my boobs and that I actually am starting to look the part. It's weird...you can only see "the bump" in really really low cut pants (or nothing at all and I'm doing you all a favor by not posting that picture) so next week's bump picture should look a lot more "true to size" now that my pants won't be pushing everything in.

Stretch marks: Nope

Sleep: Yes. Whenever and as much as possible.

Gender: If you saw my Instagram post from Monday, you would know that I could technically know at this point what we're having...but I don't. We had our gender scan this past Monday but I've sworn myself to not peeking into that little magical envelope and at this point, I really have no choice because Beau has hidden it somewhere in this house of ours. T-minus ELEVEN days 'til we know. ELEVEN!

Movement: Ummm I definitely had NO idea when I would legitimately be able to answer this question but as for this week...it's a big fat YES! After consulting with a few girlfriends that are pregnant and my sister-in-law, it seems like Baby H has been kicking/punching me every so often and I am just so stinking excited about that!! It's the craziest feeling ever! While it hasn't happened a lot, it's definitely occurred several times now. I think it's baby's way of saying "Hey momma! All is good! Keep on cookin' me, wouldya?!" A lot of people say they've felt "flutters" but mine have felt more like teeny, tiny muscle spasms happening a few inches below my belly button! It really is SUCH a neat feeling! 

Best moment this week: Hands down...feeling that tiny little kick for the first time (well, first few times....since I didn't know what it was the very first time it happened.) Also to note...knowing that we are SO close to finding out if our little baby bean is a boy or a girl and seeing our little one on the ultrasound screen. I'm simply amazed every time they pull up babe on the big screen!  Pregnancy is so incredibly miraculous and I'm feeling very grateful to be on this journey. :)

Looking forward to: THE FREAKING GENDER REVEAL.

Food cravings: The main craving that has stayed tried and true has been pickle juice (no lie...my mouth started watering when I walked past the pickles in the grocery store) and Sour Patch Kids. And really...anything sour...green grapes and lemon in my water, too.

Weirdest food I ate this week: If you were to ask Beau, he would definitely say that drinking pickle juice straight from the jar at the dinner table is by far not only the weirdest thing I've eaten/drank, but it's probably the weirdest thing he's ever seen me do. I honestly just can't help it. And here go the jaws watering again...

Anything making you queasy or sick: Negative ghostwriter. And I'm still very thankful for that.

Labor signs: N.O.

What I miss: Wine. Duh. And I miss having curves around my torso...or at least a figure of some sort. My torso has felt like a barrel for the past month and I'm not a huge fan. OH! And sleeping on my back! Grrrr! Apparently week 16 is when you're officially supposed to only sleep on your side from here on out and the idea of that makes me cringe. 

Symptoms: Headaches. Awful headaches that have been driving me freaking nuts. Also, pregnancy brain and growing boobs. Not a fan of any of these but I realize things could be a lot worse so I'll take the cards I've been dealt and just be grateful for them. 

Workouts: 20-30 minutes of walking uphill on a treadmill, followed by 20-30 minutes of strength training twice per week. Hoping to get back to three times a week but that's yet to happen.

Things that suck: To be perfectly honest, updating that stinking chalkboard sucks, which is why this may be it's last debut here on the blog. I wanted to do all 40 weeks in hopes of making a Shutterfly album, like I do with all my other pictures, but to be honest, I'm not enjoying it anymore. As you can see, the chalkboard markers are getting harder and harder to erase every week (no lie...I spend a minimum of 20 minutes trying to clean that stupid stuff off). After it's finally clean, it doesn't take me much time to write on it, but I have to physically plan out when I'm going to look presentable enough and when the lighting is good enough in that room to take the picture in front of the chalkboard. I tried it and it's just not for me. Props to those of you who make it the entire way updating your boards every week but this chick is OUT! I'm hoping to catch some more "natural" looking shots outside or something, rather than posing in front of lame wall. Who knows...the board may be back next week. We shall wait and see...

Things that don't suck: 2 hour naps after work. I don't think Beau or Oakley are opposed either...

Sh*t Pregnant Women Say {1st Trimester Edition}

Omg does that say "positive"?

How much weight am I "allowed" to gain?

It's ok...I'm eating for two...

Ummm...am I gonna be sick?

Is it nap time yet?

(In response to "How are you feeling?") Good! Besides the fact that I'm exhausted, on the verge of a nervous breakdown, my body is changing by the minute and my boobs hurt like the dickens...I feel just greeeeat.

What?! No sushi??

Do you think I'm showing? Or is that just the pancakes?

Can I eat this?

Oh my gosh...nine months with no wine??

I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR.

When do I get to find out what I'm having?

Shhh. We're pregnant. But you can't say anything to anyone for 6 more weeks...

Uhh...where's your nearest restroom?

What about now? Is it nap time yet?

Wait. Did I just feel movement?

Do you think I need to wear maternity clothes yet?

Are you sure there's only one in there?

No really...my sister-in-law just had triplets. ARE YOU SURE??

Do we have any pickles?

I think I need to pee.

Does this make me look fat?

I don't think I'm going to make it to the gym today...

Ummm...what's a birth plan?

I'm just sooooo tired...

Do you smell that??

We should probably start planning our babymoon...

ACHOO!! Did I just pee?

I just can't eat that tonight...

Are you going to take my blood again??

I'm just really tired...

When can I start telling people?

Hump Day || Bump Day - 15 Weeks

How far along: 15 weeks & 3 days!

Baby size: A softball, a navel orange or an apple...depending on which website you read.

Weight gain: Let's just say yes to this one...

Maternity clothes: My sweet SIL gave me ALL of her maternity clothes and this weekend, I may or may not have worn one of the shirts. Might I add it was the longest, softest, comfiest fitted shirt I think I've ever worn!

Stretch marks: Nope

Sleep: Oh ya. Snuck in a nap last night, too. Hey, why not?!

Gender: 18 days til we know for sure but I will say that everyone, with the exception of my aunt and my boss (hi Gina!!), think we're having a boy, including complete strangers. I kid you not. 

Movement: Nothing yet but I'm anxiously awaiting to feel that first flutter!! I'm also wondering if I'll even know when it happens?!

Best moment this week: Booking our babymoon definitely takes the cake this time, however, another best moment from this past week is that we officially started moving stuff out of our office to begin slowly turning it into a nursery. Seeing a baby swing and 4 boxes of diapers in that room is pretty surreal and exciting all at the same time!

Looking forward to: My 16 week appointment coming up next week! I just need to see our sweet little nugget squirming around on the big screen again! Also (and completely un-baby related)...my little brother is getting married exactly one month from today and I am beyond excited to celebrate with friends and family!!!

Food cravings: Maybe it's just me but I feel like these change from week to week. Though I'm still wanting my fair share of pickles and Sour Patch Kids, this week I've been really wanting fresh fruit...apples, pears, pineapples, oranges...and I want them all cut up and mixed together. If we want to get specific...

Weirdest food I ate this week: Most people wouldn't consider this to be weird, but for me, a fully loaded baked potato is weird for me to eat. I honestly cannot tell you the last time I had a baked potato, nonetheless one that was stuffed with butter, cheese, sour cream, bacon bits & pulled pork. I blame the rodeo for that meal and I promised my thighs it would never happen again. #itwaswortheverybite

Anything making you queasy or sick: Negative ghostwriter. And I'm still very thankful for that.

Labor signs: N.O.

What I miss: Being able to wear all my cutesy spring dresses. Either every single one of my dresses have shrunk or my hips and butt are expanding by the millisecond and seeing that I don't dry any of my dresses, I think it's safe to assume they have not, indeed, shrunk in size. 

Symptoms: Intermittent headaches and all of a sudden my belly button is kinda sensitive. It's weird, that's for sure.

Workouts: In addition to taking Oakley on her 2 walks per day, I've been consistently working out twice/week and while it's not as much as I'd like to be exercising, I'll take what I can get. 

Things that suck: Being asked if you've been having morning sickness because your face looks pale. Wow...thanks! While I fortunately haven't had any morning sickness, I'll go ahead and take a hint that I need to get at tan. Also...I still firmly believe that Babie's R Us sucks. Mainly because of my own ignorance and confusion when I walk through those stupid doors but really...it makes no sense to me and we're not friends...yet...though I know its inevitable.

Things that don't suck: The fact that babymoons are popular these days. I mean, I didn't even have to convince Beau that we "needed" to go on one. It was kinda like he automatically expected it! Thank you to whomever created this wonderful excuse to take a vacation! ;)

19 Things I Know (So Far) About Being Pregnant

1. Secrets. People can't keep 'em. Even the ones you trust the most.

2. What the following abbreviations stand for: U/S, MC, 15w1d, CS, VBAC & NT (ultrasound, miscarriage, 15 weeks 1 day, c-section, vaginal birth after c-section, nuchal translucency...for those of you who are curious...)

3. Knowing you're going to gain weight is a harsh, harsh reality but hey, it's all for the baby so I say, bring it on!

4. Naps will become your newest BFF. Nothing...and I mean nothing...trumps a good nap.

5. So will toilets. Whether you're peeing or tossing up your cookies every 20 minutes, make good ties with your porcelain God. You'll be hanging out quite often.

6. Your boobs. They're going to hurt. Especially for the first 13 weeks, at least. You will want to stab the next person who hugs, or even thinks about hugging you, but don't. No one wants to be the pregnant chick at the county jail. Unless you're Jennelle from Teen Mom, but that's a whole 'nother conversation...

7. People are going to ask quite possibly the dumbest question that I know I'm guilty of asking too, "Sooo...were y'all trying?" No. We were doing the hibbity dibbity sans protection in hopes of not getting knocked up. YES WE WERE "TRYING".

8. You WILL get the stinkeye for shoving that third cookie into your piehole. Guaranteed.

9. Friends and family are going to stare at your stomach every single time they see you even though there's nothing to see or feel. Personal space, people. Respect it!

10. The moment your pee stick says "Pregnant", you will immediately begin to encourage all of your girlfriends to follow suit. Heck, no one wants to ride this gravy train alone!

11. Reading and watching pregnancy videos online regarding labor and/or breastfeeding (for me, anyways) will scare the heck out of you. Unlike Nike says, just DON'T do it. Ignorance is bliss for me when it comes to the labor and delivery part and I'd like to keep it that way.

12. Because you don't look or really feel pregnant just yet, you will undoubtedly convince your husband that you need that fetal doppler you saw online. You know...so you can play doctor any time you want and listen to the heartbeat at the drop of a hat.

13. You will think about all things fluffy pillow, cozy blankets, yoga pants and bed-related no less than 79 times per day. You used to watch the clock until 5pm to run off to happy hour with your girlfriends but you will quickly find that your now version of happy hour now happens in your bed and without a margarita.

14. Thanks to #13, your motivation to do anything for the first 12-14 weeks is completely and utterly out the door. Cooking? HA! Cleaning? What's that? Working out? I wish. Actually getting dressed on a random Sunday? Ya. Right...

15. Sure, there are a lot of changes going on and a ton of new things that you're just not used to but at the end of the day, growing a teeny tiny little human inside your belly is not near as bad as I thought it would be. Coming from someone who's terrified of blood, needles, body changes, medical issues, etc...I cannot believe those words just came out of my mouth but it's true.

16. Seeing diapers and baby swings in your soon-to-be nursery is quite possibly one of the most surreal views you could ever imagine.

17. Babies-R-Us is the most overwhelming store you will ever visit and your first few trips there will annoy the hell outta you. On top of not knowing what anything in that store does, means or is, the aisles don't make sense and every single store is laid out completely different. Rest assured...their rocker/glider section will become your favorite spot in the place and if you feel so inclined to do so, prop up your feet and take a cat nap. Afterall, you're pregnant.

18. Maternity clothes are weird and awkward and so unsexy, however, they are an inevitable part of this entire journey. Go ahead...give up your size 4's for all things soft & stretchy...even I've been pleasantly surprised!

19. Its a beautiful ride. It really is. And I pray it continues to stay this way not only for myself, but anyone else out there "with child" or trying to get there. Just enjoy it!

Five on Friday

I always look forward to Fridays. I mean...who doesn't? But this Friday...I've been looking forward to for quite some time now!

Lets get right to it...

one. I have a date with THIS hunk-a-burnin' Aussie love tonight and if you have never seen Keith Urban in concert, I'm fully convinced you haven't lived yet. Ok...maybe that's just the country music obsessee coming out in me but holy mother of all things sexy! A few years back was my first time to see him at the rodeo and though I really liked his music, I wasn't necessarily a huge fan (like I am for my boys of FGL). It was that first rodeo I saw him when he go INTO the stands with all of us in the audience and sang his little Australian/country music heart out that I immediately fell in. love. As you can tell from the picture, he's pretty excited to see me, too.

two. Fourteen days later...our sweet Oakie Bear is still in heat. We've washed diaper after diaper after diaper. I've bought more maxi pads in the last two weeks than I've bought my entire life. I've pulled those dang panties of her's up 1,065 times by now. Poor thing has no hips or booty to keep 'em up! I feel awful for her but I am so looking forward to having her fixed after all of this! Bless her little heart...its rough being a girl...

three. I have seen this gem at HobLob for the past year now and every time I've gone back to buy it, its been sold the heck out! Not this time, my friends! BEST $25 I think I've spent in a while! And it's big!! If I had to guess (though I'm no mathematician over here...) I'd say it's about 2 ft x 2 ft! It hangs in our kitchen right where the morning sun hits it and I just love it!

four. I came home to find our gender reveal invitation in our mailbox and immediately squealed with excited! This is just a little sneak peek and I promise to post more about it but my brother is an incredible designer and worked with my best friend, Ashley, to design these for us! (Seriously...is my baby brother talented or WHAT?!) Sidenote: Is it weird that this invitation started to make this whole thing real for me??! These past 14 weeks haven't felt all that surreal for me because overall, I've felt pretty good and I didn't really look pregnant but I feel like once you find out what you're having and you can actually buy something pink or blue for that little nugget of yours that it really starts to hit home! Ah! Two weeks from tomorrow and I'll know!! I AM DYING.

 and five. I saved the best for last (duh) because on this very day last year, March 14, we brought our sweet Oakley girl home, into our lives and changed our world forever. (And for the better, of course!) Whew-those first nights were rough, those teeth were sharp, she tested our patience like nothing ever before (and still does) but I know I speak for both Beau and myself when I say we cannot imagine life without our 80 pound sassafrass. She's grounded us, she's made us start to feel like we are already kinda parents and she adores us every single second of every single day. There really is no love like that of a dog. :)

Ok-off to work! Lots to do this morning, I've got a good friend of mine moving in SIX doors down from us this afternoon and then it's off to the rodeo to see my man, Keith! Have a great weekend everyone! Ta ta!

Be sure to link up with the girls for "Five on Friday"!! 

Hump Day || Bump Day - 14 Weeks

How far along? 14 weeks (& 3 days!)

Baby size: A lemon!

Weight gain: Still not sure...I think I'm better off not knowing. Sure-I know weight gain is inevitable but to me, it's just a number. My clothes are still fitting (some a little better than others) for the most part (with the exception of some dresses, which are too tight in the booty), but other than that, if I had to guess I'd say around 5-7 pounds. But that's really a shot in the dark. It could be 15 for all I know...

Maternity clothes: No but I have a feeling they're on the horizon. I've bought a couple new skirts/dresses recently but they've all be "normal" clothes that will allow me to grow with them. Lets just say I'm  going to be very thankful for empire wasted maxi dresses, sundresses and maxi skirts this spring/summer.

Stretch marks: No.

Sleep: Yes. And loving every minute of it. I wasn't sure if I wanted to type this out or not because I don't want to jinx myself but seeing that I haven't napped in over a week and I stayed up past 10 the last 3 nights...I think my energy levels are slowly getting back to normal!

Gender: This question is just mean. Flat out MEAN right about now! 24 more days...but who's counting?

Movement: Not yet!

Best moment this week: Working with some of the best friends a girl could have as they begin to plan every little detail of our gender reveal party!! Seriously...feeling very loved by my girls! :) Speaking of...I (think) I found something to wear to our gender reveal party and I'm pretty stoked about it! Now to find something for that baby daddy of mine...

Looking forward to: Seeing this lil' bump of mine GROW! One day it's in, one day it's out. If I'm going to BE pregnant and FEEL pregnant, I at least want to LOOK the part! 

Food cravings: Still anything vinegar-related & sour patch kids. (I think my dentist about had a heart attack when I told him that was one of my cravings!) 

Weirdest food I ate this week: I hit an all-time low this week, y'all. When I say I crave anything vinegar-related, I'm specifically talking about soy sauce (or a soy alternative I use), pickle juice and now...buffalo sauce. I want it on any and everything, you know...like as a salad dressing (twice) and mixed in with my mac & cheese (gluten and dairy-free, of course. Yes, they make that!) I know...I know...that probably sounds terrible but my taste buds were literally doing back flips all three times. Don't judge me. Or do. #iwould

Anything making you queasy or sick: Negative ghostwriter. And I'm still very thankful for that.

Labor signs: N.O.

What I miss: Being able to lift my "normal" weights when I workout. This whole 20-30 pound weight limit is really cramping my style, however, I'm just glad I've had the energy lately to workout so I'll take what I can get.

Symptoms: A little more tired than usual, but not near as exhausted as I was weeks 7-12. 

Workouts: Once so far this week, plus a 2+ mile walk with Oakie Bear. Might I add I RAN for the very first time in 3 months on 'said' walk. It wasn't far but it happened and is worth documenting.

Things that suck: Peeing a little when I sneeze. Hey...just being honest up in hurr. It's just flat out weird.

Things that don't suck: Buffalo sauce as a salad dressing, feeling so loved by family and friends who are offering parties & showers for baby H, and...my new Bump Nest pillow. Oh-my-lanta...more on this later but this is a total game changer for sure.

That's all I got for ya today. Peace.

Fish TacOMGs

If you're in the market for a new recipe and would like to make your tastebuds do cartwheels, you'll be making these like, yesterday. I found the original recipe here, but changed it up a little bit making it quite a bit healthier. For example, I used butter lettuce leaves, rather than tortillas and I used Greek yogurt in place of the sour cream. (Two of my go-to recipe substitutions!)

Because these little slices of heaven taste like, well, heaven...I've decided they aren't just Fish Tacos. They will now be referred to as "Fish TacOMGs". Because "OMG" is exactly what you'll say to yourself when you realize you're just now trying this recipe for the first time. At least that's how Beau and I felt about 'em.

Really...I will be making these weekly. And craving them daily. Oh and they're naturally gluten-free, too. #winning

Fish TacOMGs

Here's what you'll need for the fish:

• 1 lb tilapia (about 3 large filets)
• 1 T olive oil
• 3 T fresh lime juice
• 2 t honey
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 T chili powder
• 1 t cumin
• 1 t cayenne pepper
• salt & pepper, to taste

Here's what you'll need for the slaw:

• 2 C shredded red cabbage
• 2 T fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 C Fage 0% Greek yogurt
• 1 T lime juice
• salt & pepper, to taste

Extra ingredients: 

• 2 mangoes, diced (for topping)
• 1 avocado, diced (for topping)
• 6-8 butter lettuce leaves

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. 
2. Place fish in large Ziploc bag. Add olive oil, lime juice, honey, garlic, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt and pepper. Close bag and massage seasonings into fish. Set aside and let marinate for 20 minutes.
3. For the slaw, in a large mixing bowl, combine cabbage, cilantro, Green yogurt, lime juice, salt and pepper. Toss with a fork and chill until fish is cooked.
4. Remove fish from marinade and grill for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until done.
5. Divide fish equally into your butter lettuce leaves. Top with slaw, mango and avocado and. if you're anything like me, devour them ALL!

Someone pass me a napkin. I'm drooling over these again. 

Trash Bags Make Good Outfits & Even Better Gifts (+ A Target Coupon!)

Happy Friday friends! Who's excited for the weekend?! I know I sure am!! 

Today my little brother closes on his first home (which means I'm officially old as dirt) and we're going to see Usher at the rodeo. Yes...I said "Usher" and "rodeo" in the same sentence. You are all well aware of the fact that I'm a country music girl to the core, but oh-my-lanta...give this girl some U-S-H-E-R-R-A-Y-M-O-N-D and just like that I don't even know what country music is anymore. Forealz. 

LOVE me some Ursher.

What I'm not excited about is finding something wear for tonight's rodeo festivities. Everything is so awkward fitting these days. Maybe I'll slap on a trash bag, a belt and some boots. Surely a trash bag will fit me, right? Kidding, people.

But speaking of trash bags....when my brother called me the other day and told me he'd be closing on his house this week, my mind immediately started spinning for housewarming gift ideas. A bottle of champs, something off his wedding registry, a gift card? No, no and no. I knew I wanted something a little more creative. Something functional. Something him and his fiance could use and really appreciate. 

That's when I remembered how much I hate moving and worse, how much I hate wanting to do nothing but unpack and decorate yet to put that all on hold because you have to stop everything, go to the store and buy all the house stuff you actually need. 

And on top of moving being expensive, buying all the stuff you actually need can get expensive, too, which is when I painted this little picture in my head:

So off to Target I went and stock up I did. I thought of any and everything you need those first few days when you move into a new home...trash bags, cleaners, paper towels, dish soap, detergents, Ziplocs, hand soap and of course, the most important of them all: toilet paper.

I also knew I couldn't just put all this stuff in a gift bag and hand it to them, which is when I found my self in the laundry basket aisle.

You should also know I have a serious problem with making gift baskets so I knew this little gift was all about the presentation. Plus, I mean, getting cleaning supplies as a "gift" isn't all that exciting so I knew I had to find a way to make cleaning supplies exciting.

I layered the bottom of my laundry basket with towels, because it was a little deep. (Plus-they were towels my brother left over here so he's also getting his own towels back as part of the gift.) I took to toilet paper out of the packaging and used it to stack the shorter stuff so it wouldn't disappear into the deep abyss that is a laundry basket. (Again, presentation people.)

Next, I tossed in all the other stuff in front to give it another "layer", if you will.

I stuffed some tissue paper in the back and in between all the products to give it a little bit more character.

And finally, I slapped my signature touch on the front of the basket (a burlap bow, of course) and voila!

And because you just sat here and read about how I threw cleaning supplies in a basket, slapped a bow on it and called it a "gift" I have a little "gift" for you.

Like I said previously, cleaning supplies are expensive and really start to add up. Lucky for you (and for me!) Target has a special coupon right now to save $20 off of $50 worth of cleaning supplies. Yes...you can get $50 in cleaning supplies for $30. 

Here's how: text the word "Stockup1" to the number "827438". You will the receive a text message back with a link to the mobile coupon to be used in store! That's what I used to purchase all the products in my pictures above and it worked like a charm! However, it ends tomorrow so you best get yer hiney to a Target stat!

Also at Target right now...this beauty! I snagged her on my lunch break yesterday and have already gotten a ton of compliments on it already! She also comes in brown, too! #obsessed #Iwantboth

It's Friday. You deserve a new purse, right? 

Hump Day || Bump Day - 13 Weeks

My jeans and I weren't getting along for this picture so pj pants, it is.

How far along? Well, according to my chalkboard and Baby Center app, I'm 13 weeks! (By now, 13 weeks and 3 days.)

Baby size: A widdle peach!

Weight gain: Still not sure on this one. I was too nervous to ask the doctor last week...

Maternity clothes: Negative. My normal clothes are definitely feeling a little snug, though, hence the fact that my jeans and are I currently in a feud.

Stretch marks: No and I pray they stay away. I've been slathering myself in Bio Oil every morning in hopes that it will work its little magic.

Sleep: Oh ya! Slept in 'til 10am this past Saturday, which hasn't happened in years! However, I've been waking up before my alarm clock on most weekdays, which is definitely not my idea of a good night's sleep but then again, it could be (and probably will get) much worse so I'll take all the sleep I can get these days.

Gender: I know your little genitals are formed by now, Baby H, and I am literally dying to know!! Pink or blue...pink or blue!

Movement: Besides a few gas bubbles here and there, no baby movement yet.

Best moment this week: Definitely the sigh of relief that came in the form of a phone call from my OB/GYN giving me confirmation that everything from the NT scans came back negative and everything is looking good! Talk about a nerve-wracking phone call...

Looking forward to: Getting my energy back. I don't want to jinx myself but I really do think I'm slowly but surely getting less and less exhausted. {fingers crossed} I stayed up until almost midnight on Friday night! I don't even know who I am anymore! ;) Also...finding out what we're having exactly one month from TODAY!!!

Food cravings: This week...still anything made with vinegar and all of a sudden...anything sour...green grapes, sour straws and the one, the only...Sour Patch Kids.

Weirdest food I ate this week: Besides another mayo and cheese sandy, I most definitely gulped pickle juice straight out of the jar. Yep. Didn't even want the pickles...just the juice. Because that's totally normal.

Anything making you queasy or sick: No. And thank goodness.

Labor signs: That's a big fat no. But honestly, I wouldn't even know what to feel for?

What I miss: Still wine. And vodka. And beer. Oh...and tuna. I miss being able to eat tuna. Might I add I also miss my motivation to do anything when I get home from work. That can DEFINITELY come back any day now!

Symptoms: Still a little tired but like I said, either it's a fluke or I'm getting over this tiredness hump. Oh-and so far, no headaches this week. Stay gone, headaches. Stay gone. And then of course, the usual...the urge to pee every 20 minutes. That one is still so weird to me. And highly obnoxious, might I add.

Workouts: Went once this week so far and mark my word...I WILL make it to the gym two more times before next week. Yo motivation...where you be?

Things that suck: Going to bars with friends and being served water. Nothing more, nothing less. And not being able to stay up late anymore, though, like I said, I am definitely thankful for all this sleep!

Things that don't suck: Eating Sour Patch Kids and having an extra helpful husband around the house lately (definitely loving that!).

Other than that, things in my little pregnancy bubble are moving along just swimmingly!

Also-I just wanted to say a quick thank you to everyone who's been so kind and supportive lately! I really am so appreciative of all your sweet comments (here and on Instagram), tweets, emails and texts! Like I said before, I promise this isn't turning into a pregnancy blog, however, this is a lifestyle blog that's about my life and right now, it's consumed with sour patch kids and a growing little peach and I just can't help but want to talk/write about it at the moment! It's kind of like a new puppy...the newness will wear off...eventually. ;) xoxo

The Real 1st Trimester Survival Guide

The first day I found out I was pregnant, I did what any sane woman would do. I ran to Pinterest and immediately searched "1st Trimester Essentials". You know, because Pinterest is like the holy grail of everything...weddings, fashion, makeup, recipes, kids, and obviously...pregnancies.

As I scrolled through the lists of items I just "had to have" for  these first 12 weeks, I got to thinking...what? Why? Ok maybe I'll need that. I already have that. What is that? Where do I even find that? I haven't needed any of this yet...I'll just stick it out and see what I really need.

I hate to be the person to say "I was right" but in this instance, I was right. I didn't need the crackers, or the Tylenol or the Bella Band. I was handed down "What To Expect When You're Expecting" from my sister-in-law (loving that book!) and since I'm already a borderline lip balm hoarder, I had that part covered. (Truth: you WILL need something for your lips. I prefer Aquaphor and I like it applied approximately 306 times per day.)

So...now that I'm out of the first trimester (I think? Does it end after 12 or after 13 weeks? Eh-who knows?), and because I promised to be as open and honest as possible throughout this entire journey, I figured I would go ahead and give you the real 1st Trimester Survival Guide. You know...the stuff that no one tells you that you actually need.

A. Portable toilet
No knocked up chick will ever argue with this one. There's no doubt I've recently found it an extreme necessity to have a toilet installed next to my bed, in my office at home, in my office at work, in my car and next to the treadmill. I swear...half of my daily workouts come from trips to the can. Now back to the toilet next to the bed...who do I need to talk to about that?

B. Folding cot
This one is definitely not questionable either. I've said it before (like a gazillion and one times already) and I'll say it again...the exhaustion is something else. (Sidenote: how did I not EVER know this was a pregnancy symptom? {insert idiot here}) Along with my newly installed portable toilet in every room in the house, I'm now requesting a folding cot to be installed directly next to it. Better yet, perhaps I should invent a cot with a built-in pot? I just came up with that but I really think I'm onto something!

C. Fat pants
Or if you want to still feel somewhat youthful, invest in the VS Boyfriend Pants. Baggy, low rise, non-fitted...you won't hate me for this purchase. And for the record...no-I'm not calling myself "fat" by any means but I'm definitely not feeling "fit" or "thin" anymore. If we're being honest here, "fat" and "fluffy" is exactly how I've felt lately and the last thing I want around my waist is anything tight or fitted. Boyfriend pants are where it's AT.

D. The thickest lotion on the market
My choice: Bath & Body Works "Country Chic" body cream. While I'd like to blame my dry hands on the "winter" we've had lately, I can truthfully say my hands have never been so dry in all my life. I tried just "regular" lotion for a while only to find it was a complete waste of time to even put on. Go with the thick stuff. Trust me.

E. Sparkling cider
Because if you're anything like me and booze just because it's Tuesday, you'll be "fake drinking" in front of any and everyone you know for a good 6-8 weeks. And do you wanna know what sucks? Fake drinking for a good 6-8 weeks.

F. The best sports bra on the market
I prefer Under Armour or Champion because they're tight and the material is thick, but everyone is different. Invest a couple of your favoritist sports bras in all the land and buy them. You will now live in them and your aching girls will thank you.

G. Color Wow root cover up
Because if you're anything like me, the timing will work out just perfectly and you will find out you're pregnant the week you're due for highlights and you'll need something to cover up those nappy roots of yours. I know...I know...many people and doctors say you can still highlight your hair throughout the first trimester but I was a little nervous about it at the very beginning. I ended up using the root cover up until about week 10 and finally ended up apologizing to my unborn child, praying to God that he would let me become a blonde again without affecting my baby and scheduling a hair appointment for the first available opening.

H. Coffee IV
No explanation needed. (And before you get all cray cray on me...yes...I know...you can only have so much caffeine when you're pregnant. Though it may seem this way, I'm not oblivious to the world and choose to stick with just one cup a day.) Though that one cup in pure IV form would be really, really nice and incredibly appreciated at about 3pm every day.

So there you go...everything you'll need for your first trimester in it's true form. You're welcome.