VALENTINE’S BASKET

Being a mom has a way of just making the mundane things so much more fun! I now enjoy making every little holiday so special. However- my goal is to do it all on a budget! I wanted to share what I did for her Valentine’s Basket this year in case any one needed some ideas for a cute gift on a budget! Everything can be found at either Walmart or Dollar Tree.

*for reference I have a 2.5 year old*

WHAT IS IN MY BASKET:

-Cute Valentine’s window clings (dollar tree)

- Valentine’s Paint Set (dollar tree) 

-Cute Heart Sweatshirt and legging set (Walmart)

- Guess how much I love you book (Walmart) 

-Basket (Walmart dollar section- did you know that was thing??) 

SHOP HERE 

I started one more thing this year for Valentine’s Day that is so sweet and free! Each day from Feb 1- Feb 14 Ella wakes up with a new heart on her bedroom door with something we love about her written on it! I Just cut them out with construction paper we already had. She loves reading them each morning 🩷

 

6 free summer activities for toddlers

 

I love doing fun things with Ella but things can get expensive quick and let’s be honest- your girl is on a budget! So- I compiled a list of some of our recent favorite FREE activities to entertain our almost 2 year old.  🥹

1. PARKS / SPLASH PADS 

Our friends showed us the cutest park recently. It has tons of fun things for the kids to play on, a splash pad, which Ella hasn’t warmed up to yet and it’s super clean and nice! It made for the most fun & free day with friends. 

2. GET CREATIVE 

It’s no secret kids love making a mess and love being creative. I love to look up cute crafts on Pinterest and with stuff I usually already have at home, we create something together. They’ll love it & you’ll have something super cute to keep &  remember it by! 

3. GET OUTSIDE

Coming from someone who lives in southern Louisiana, our outdoor activities may be short lived but Ella still loves to be outside! Bike rides, walks, water tables & bubbles are a few of our favorite things. Honestly though, kids are easily entertained- the other day Ella spent 10 minutes playing with the water faucet that’s attached to the house lol. 

4. CHORES 

I know I know, it doesn’t sound like a “fun activity” but hear me out. I use to try and squeeze in chores while she sleeps but I started including her in things she could help me with. Loading/unloading dishwasher, sorting clothes, sweeping, cleaning up toys, etc. I learned she really just enjoys doing what we are doing and it’s fun for her to just be with us. Plus, it teaches her good habits. It’s a win win. 

5. LIBRARY

My mom has brought her to different library activities. Check your local library because they have lots of things going on year round for different ages. Their kids area is also super fun to bring them to anytime and teaches them a lot!

6. PET STORE

This sounds weird but Ella loves going to petco or petsmart. We look at the cats, the dogs people bring in, the mice and the fish. She thinks it’s the coolest thing and luckily she’s not at the age yet to ask for any of these animals so as of right now, it’s a free activity! Lol

I hope this gives you some ideas! One thing I’ve learned with a toddler is to not over think it. They truly love just being with the people they love and what might be the most mundane thing to us is the most amazing thing in a child’s eyes!

Have the best day! 

Finding Joy in the Everyday

 I have been a mom for a little over a year now and throughout pregnancy and now into motherhood I have noticed a common theme…people don’t really like to talk about the positives of motherhood.

It’s more common to hear these types of phrases:

“Just wait until the terrible twos”

“Just wait until those bad teenage years”

“Just wait until the second one” 

“You’ll never bounce back”

“Better travel while you can” 

The list goes on. 

Don’t get me wrong- I’m not saying motherhood is easy. Of course it’s difficult! When our mindset is negative though, it is a lot easier to feel unhappy in a situation that could bring such joy. I also know there is a time and place to be open about the difficulties of your routine changing and your body changing and the fact that you’re exhausted and not to mention how scary it truly is to love someone this much, just to name a few. (I am so thankful for my family & mom besties who I can be open with) Today, however, I am just talking about changing our perspectives. 

Changing our outlook can not only bring us more joy but it can also encourage other women and moms to be.

Here are three things that tend to overwhelm me along with a new perspective I could take in those moments: 

1. When the house is a mess and I can’t seem to find the time to actually clean it. Let me be thankful that they feel safe and have so much fun playing. 

2. When I have to buy dinner, cook dinner or grocery shop. Let me be thankful we have this little mouth to feed and another meal with family. 

3. When my kid is sick or does not want to sleep. Let me be thankful for the extra cuddles. 

I say all of this because I’ve already learned that time is a thief. Kids grow up too soon and that loud house will one day be quiet again.  Right now I am living in the moments I have always dreamed of and I really want to cherish every bit.

FRIDAY FAVES

 Hey! I am back with another Friday Favorites- if you’re new here .. every Friday I make a short, random list of things that I have been loving lately! 

SHOP THE LIST HERE

Reusable Starbucks Cups—

I am thankful that my husband makes me iced coffee every morning and has pretty much perfected it to make it taste like my Starbucks order! So these cups have me saving money & feeling like I went to my fave coffee shop. Win win!

Scale + App—

I am loving this scale! It has an app that connects to your scale to track your progress! It has been so motivating!

LMNT Electrolyte Drink—

My favorite flavor is the raspberry salt! I also love the fact that they come in little packets so it’s easy to travel with! 

Cutie Sun Hat—

I personally took the brown band off and I love just the plain natural color! It’s a perfect size and super comfortable & affordable!

Let me know in the comments what you have been loving lately! 

Talk soon!

Newborn Necessities ( in my opinion :)

 

I have a lot of family and friends that are getting ready to have babies! Baby registries can be so overwhelming! It is hard to know what is necessary vs. what can be skipped. Not that I am a pro by any means, but I did just go through the newborn stage so I figured I may be able to help! I have written a list of what I think is important and would definitely use again with future children. List is in no particular order!

-SHOP THE LIST HERE-

1. Stroller with infant car seat adapter

2. Owlet Monitor

3. Audio Monitor

4. Infant bath tub

5. Bath Rinser

6. Bath Cloth / Towels

7. Baby Soap

8. Car Camera 

9. Zipper or Tie pajamas only- trust me, wait on the buttons- way to many diaper changes in the beginning

10. Diaper Trash Can

11. Swaddles 

12. Bottles

13. Bassinet with zipper side to make it easy to get baby from feeding times

14. Nose Frida- gross but works well

15. Baby carrier- I put her in this to get chores done around the house (Babybjorn and Solly Baby wrap were my favorites)

16. Diaper Bag

17. Diapers / wipes

18. Pump (If breastfeeding)

19. Car seat + bases

20. Burp cloths

21. Baby Bouncer

22. Baby Swing

Let me know in the comments if there is anything I may have missed that was super important to you as a new parent!

Talk soon!

First Birthday Gift Ideas

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Okay.. this has truly been the fastest year of my life. I know people always say “don’t blink” but I swear when you become a parent time truly just decides to speed up. I just sent her birthday party invites out and it still seems surreal to me that my newborn baby is about to be a one year old. *insert sad face*

That being said, with each stage comes new things for your kiddo to learn and to do and I am truly just winging it most days. So, after some research and comparing list with my other mom friends, I have compiled a list of first birthday gift ideas so you don’t have to! 

FIRST BIRTHDAY GIFT IDEAS:

1. Pottery Barn Anywhere Chair

2. Nugget Couch

3. Little Tikes Cozy Coupe

4. Activity Table & Chair Set

5. Montessori Toys

6. Puzzles

7. MEGA Building Blocks

8. Rainbow Counting Bears

9. Outdoor Slide

10. Radio Flyer

11. Busy Board

12. Clothes- I am particular when it comes to Ella’s clothes lol. So, if you're anything like me, I would add a few clothing items you like to your wish list to make it super simple for those buying!

13. Snack Spinner Container

14. Money Towards Savings Account 

SHOP AMAZON LIST

Whether you’re a parent of a soon to be one year old or just looking to buy for the little one in your life, I hope this list has helped! I will be keeping you updated with party planning ideas too! I am one of those annoying people who loves to go all out for birthdays..even a one year old. I am aware she will not remember it but guess what.. I WILL! Haha

Have a great day!

Talk soon!

New Year Thoughts

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Having Ella has changed my prospective on a lot of things. It’s made me realize what’s actually important and the things that use to seem so big are actually pretty small. One goal this year is for me to be content with exactly where I am. I realize now I truly have all I could ever want right in front of me. I enjoy nice, new things as much as the next person but it’s not what truly brings me joy. 

What brings me joy is spending time with family, seeing Ella do things for the first time, jokes, laughter, hugs, exercise, waking Ella up every morning and spending time with Jesus. Those things matter to me and bring me true Joy. 

We get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of every day life. We get so caught up in fitting in and having what another person has. I am fully guilty of this; But in 2022 I say, no more. 

I strive to be more content. 

To live in the moment.

To not major on the minors. 

To laugh at myself more. 

To just enjoy life as it is and not wish for more. 

We are not promised tomorrow and too often we take the things that are truly important for granted!

Bring it on 2022. 

Life Update + First Trimester Must Haves

 Hey Everyone, long time no chat!

    Gosh, I can't tell you how long I have wanted to just sit down and write a blog post. I kept making excuses and just being lazy. However, I have finally found my motivation; pregnancy. 

    So far during my pregnancy, I have learned that there are so many unknowns, so many changes, so many fears and not a lot of authentic, personal experiences out there to help. I want to write about all that I have learned so far and all that I will learn in the future. Heck, even if no one reads this, I want to have it all to look back on and remember this exciting adventure for myself. 

    With that being said, I am currently 21 weeks pregnant! Whoop whoop! However, let's start from the beginning....

THE FIRST TRIMESTER RECAP

        Most of my first trimester was spent with a ginger ale in one hand and a box of cheez-its in the other. I was exhausted and nauseous pretty consistently. I think if work would have let me, I could have slept through those entire 13 weeks. No lie. 

      During the first trimester I absolutely hated chicken and vegetables. HATED THEM. The thought of chicken made me want to throw up. It is so strange because I ate chicken everyday before pregnancy. That all went out the window and all I wanted was carbs and Chick-fil-a Diet Arnold Palmer. The only other craving I still have is for anything sour and frozen. I always laugh because it sounds like I am craving a margarita. Don't worry though- I just settle for a snowball these days! 

      The overall hardest thing for me though was the fear of the unknown. All I can say is...STAY OFF OF GOOGLE. I found so much comfort in prayer-gosh it feels like I prayed constantly! I guess I never truly understood giving something completely to God until pregnancy. He is in complete control! I am also extremely thankful for my very supportive friends and family who let me talk out all my worries and helped ease my mind. 

1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate. I am a sucker for cute water bottles. I love the look of this one and the fact that it has the times on the side so it gives me a goal each hour! I went ahead and ordered the silicone straw lid with it and absolutely love it! Purchase Water Bottle

2. A comfortable bra is a must! My boobs were one of the first things to change and I knew it would only get worse as time went on lol. This bra was recommended by a few friends at my gym and it is amazing!  I can wear it daily to work or to work out, the straps and band are adjustable, and there is so much support! 10/10. Take the quiz to see which bra is best for you! Bra Quiz

3. I mentioned how I craved sour things so these preggie pops were amazing. They are for nausea but are like little sour candies. I loved every flavor! Preggie Pops

4. Once you find out you are pregnant, it is very important to start taking a prenatal vitamin daily. I love this company because their team prays for each order being shipped out. I thought that was super special! Prenatal Vitamins

5. I started using Belly Butter as soon as I found out I was pregnant. I know a lot of it has to do with genetics but I figured it couldn't hurt! This one feels so good and smells good too! Belly Butter

6. Okay, these are an investment but so worth it! These leggings will work throughout my entire pregnancy and post. They are like butter and so stretchy! I  go to the gym daily so finding comfortable workout clothes was so important to me. These are worth every penny! Lululemon Align Leggings

LOVE YOURSELF

Happy Valentine's Day! 

5 Ways to Love Yourself This Valentine's Day

1. At Home Spa Night

This you can't go wrong with. Break out the nail polish, face mask, bath bombs, and candles. Nothing makes me more happy than just taking a moment (or an entire night) for myself to relax and just forget about any chores or errands or things that need to get done. 

2. Spread the Love

Get out there and show love to others. Make a list of easy, random acts of kindness like-- put a dollar on a vending machine, buy the person behind you at Strabz their coffee, offer to babysit for the couple with kids so they can have a date night, whatever you do- do it with kindness and love. It will help spread joy in this crazy world :)

3. Galentine's Party

Tell a few of your girlfriends to come over for a party set with all of the essentials- desserts, wine, movies, flowers, and all of the pink and red decorations your heart could desire. 

4. At Home Date Night

Treat yo self (lol) to your favorite meal, all of your favorite movies or Netflix show, and my favorite part- chocolate LOTSSSSS OF CHOCOLATE. 

5. Hobby

Basically, whatever makes your heart happy-DO IT. No excuses, get out there and do your favorite hobby. If you need ideas- Pinterest is there to help ya out :) 

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Oh Man, I hear different opinions about Valentine's Day ALL OF THE TIME! Some people love it & others feel that it is the stupidest day. I don't know how you feel about it exactly but one thing I do know about Valentine's Day is that it is a day usually spent comparing. 

Comparison is a thief of joy. 

Comparison leads to discontent.

Comparison is completely unnecessary, yet it is something we all struggle with on the daily. 

We have all been there, ESPECIALLY on a day like today. Whether we have received flowers and gifts or nothing at all, we look around and something as simple as that can lead to thoughts like these-- "my boyfriend doesn't love me as much as her's does", "I will never find the one", "I'm lonely", "I'm not worth it", "Am I even beautiful?", (etc...). Comparison leads to all of that nonsense! 

I am hear to tell you that:

You are not alone.

Deuteronomy 31:6 " Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

You are loved.

John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life"

You are worthy.

Proverbs 31:10 " She is worth far more than rubies."

You are Beautiful. 

Psalm 139:14 "I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well."

This Valentine's Day let's stop the comparing.

Ladies, let's encourage one another. Let's be happy for one another because if we are all being honest, we all struggle with the same insecurities. Let's be content & not discouraged. Let's learn to see who we are in Christ & find our identity in Him. In return, we will learn to love ourselves. Let's begin to live out the fact that we are fearfully & wonderfully made in God's perfect image. 

Bridal Shower Fun

Hey Guys! 

Okay, getting married is so fun! Christian had me laughing so hard because after my bridal shower, he came to help pick up the gifts. Let me stop there for a moment and just say how overwhelmed we were with the love, support, and how many gifts we took home that day. So, Christian proceeds to say "This is like Christmas, we should get married all the time". Haha! 

We are about a month away from the big day, so I felt it appropriate to have some upcoming wedding post! I asked you guys on Instagram somethings you may want to see & I loved the ideas!

I thought I'd start with my bridal shower theme to give you guys some ideas if you are in the process of planning your shower! 

WARNING: THE THINGS YOU ARE ABOUT TO SEE ARE SO CUTE. 

Seriously though, I may be a little biased but I just think I had the cutest bridal shower in all the world. My family's super talented friend decorated. I showed her a couple of pictures of what I wanted on Pinterest and I walk in and she had completely exceeded my expectations. 

The theme was a Tea (pearls and hats not mandatory but definitely welcomed). I hope you love this and be sure to stay tuned for more wedding post! 

Dress Similar | Shoes | Pearls | Bracelets

Praying for Your Future Husband

No matter if you're single, dating, or like me, engaged; praying for your future husband is extremely important. I would say it is one of the most important steps. It helps lay down the foundation for a healthy, God-centered relationship/marriage even before it begins! I will admit, this is something I struggle with. I tend to want to fix things myself and I am not always patient enough to sit, pray, and trust God's timing (I'm working on it). I hope someone out there is touched by this blog post but really and truly, it is a reminder/encourager for myself.

We are human, our future spouse is human. My point? Glad you asked, my point is that we are all going to mess up. No relationship is perfect; how boring would that be?! Another thing I struggle with is what's called "unrealistic expectations" with everything. I have the ability to take something simple and twist it in my head to be the most amazing, Disney fairytale, pixie dust covered, something. Not everything in life is over the top but when I expect it to be, I'm disappointed and end up missing the good stuff aka the little things. Honestly, I have grown to love the little or "simple" things in life. I say all of this because it important for us to realize that we are not perfect. While preparing for our future marriage, and praying for our future husband, it's important to know it doesn't stop there; we start by praying for ourselves. If there is something I have learned, it's that there is always room for God to do more in us and there is always room for us to grow. 

Prayers for myself: 

- To grow in Christ

- Patience 

- Obedience to Christ

- Good Listener

- Constantly changing & growing my heart to love like Christ

Prayers for my future husband:

-To grow in Christ

-Patience

-To love me like Christ loves the church

- Grow everyday into the man God desires him to be

-Change and growth of his heart for others 

You see my prayers for each are very similar and your prayers may be the same as mine or totally different, it's all awesome! I am working on staying in the word more and praying these prayers over my life and future. I am preparing myself to be the person I want, wants. Does that make sense? I'm preparing myself to be that Godly, that patient, that loving, that good listener, that encouraging woman. I'm preparing myself to be all of those things, because those are the exact same characteristic I want in my future husband. You see? Prepare yourself to be the person you want, wants. (I read this tip in this book here, which is a great read for dating/engaged couples) 

Don't get discouraged if you haven't found your person yet. Don't get me wrong, I love my relationship but if you're single, that is something to rejoice about too. That is the perfect time for growth and preparation. Don't loose hope, trust God's timing, pray, prepare, and be patient. When the time is right, God will send you the most perfect imperfect person for you specifically. 

For all my dating, engaged, or even married people out there, I have to share this book that Christian and I have been doing together and we love it. It's about a 2 minute read a day and each day gives you a fun/new way to show love to one another. I really really really recommend it! You can get it here !

Thanks for Visiting

xoxo

Engagement Photos Sneak Peek

Our engagement photos turned out to be everything I imagined! Let's be honest Pinterest helped big time with planning how I wanted to decorate our pictures! Who else is addicted to Pinterest?! 

Love is so fun y'all. Christian is my best friend and we have so much fun together (y'all should have seen the picture bloopers... priceless). As the wedding gets closer there's a ton we have been realizing about relationships and a few things we are both working on daily and I wanted to share a short little list of those things with you all today!

1. Love like Jesus does.

2. Laugh a lot.

3. Do little acts of kindness for one another.

4. Dance

5. Have fun.

6. Be kind.

7. Find a new reason you love them each day!