the wonder weeks

As a new mom, I started reading a ton of books.  I don't advise this because there are way too many books out there and they will all say different things.  On top of that, you will constantly be comparing how your baby is developing to what the book says and let's just say you might have a nervous breakdown because the book said the baby shouldn't be away for more than two hours at a home and you can't get yours to fall asleep for the life of you.  

There is one exception, but the best part is you really don't need to read the book because there is the most convenient app to get you where you need to go!  Let me introduce you to The Wonder Weeks.  This book breaks down the different developmental "leaps" that your baby will go through in the first two years of their life.  It is the simplest concept, and when I started reading it I instantly felt like the dark shade of all the unknowns was lifted.  Every baby goes through ten specific developmental stages, and through each one they are making more and more sense of the world.  Each stage opens up a new discovery for them, and they may either react to toys differently or even physically change. When each baby is going through a "leap" they will be off-either they are going to be moody, eat less, eat more, sleep less, wake up more often..

Some leaps last for a week, while others last for multiple weeks (and trust me, you will know when you are going through one).  The best, and I really mean best, part of it all is that these leaps all take place at specific times, so you know when to expect them.  

So the even better part is the app!  It will tell you exactly where your baby is at, how many days until their next leap, what is changing developmentally, what they will be able to do after going through this leap, and what the next leap will contain for you.  There's even this super nifty chart to make it that much easier for you to see!  

So Nathan had been sleeping like a dream, and all of a sudden a few days ago that all changed.  He was waking up constantly during the night, and also wouldn't fall back to sleep after 5am.  I was starting to get rather frustrated and then I took out my phone to see if he was going through a "leap".  Sure enough he was!!!  Hallelujah!!!  Then I read what was changing in him and how it would affect him, and it made complete sense.  Right now he is going through the "relationships" leap, is understanding how things stand in relation to one another and also notice if you're farther away from him.  He is very interested in zippers and tags (that always go in his mouth) and is getting frustrated when something can't get closer to him.  I felt like I hit the mama gold mine knowing that there was a reason why Nathan was acting so "off" in terms of his sleep, and sighed a VERY big sigh of relief.  

I share this to save all other mamas from wanting to pull their hair out or think "what is going on with this little baby of mine???".  It's gold my friends, pure gold!  

must have dry-shampoo

I stumbled upon the most amazing dry shampoo recently and just had to share!  Finding the best dry shampoo is like finding a 4-leaf clover.  It has to not only soak up all that oil you're trying to hide, but also not leave a white residue all over your hair and make you feel fresh and clean.  I've tried a few, and it might shock you to know that I first tried dry shampoo just over a year ago.  

Dry shampoo is essential!  Thick haired girls can't afford the time to wash their hair everyday.  Plus, it strips your hair washing it that much and dries it out.  Having bangs makes it a challenge to get away with only washing every three days.  I'm left doing the same thing I always do, pulling them back to the side with two bobby pins.  Well, this gets a bit boring.  When I had long hair, I knew exactly how to stretch out my washes by styling my hair differently everyday.  Sadly, top knots and short hair just don't jam together very well.  Therefore, finding a dry shampoo that works was very essential for me and the do'. 

I took a huge leap of faith at Target one day, and put this sweet goodness into my basket.  I had never read any reviews, or been loyal to Dove products.  It just told my soul it would work :)  

This. Stuff. Works!  

If you're looking for a dry shampoo that takes away the oil, does not leave a white residue, and makes you feel like you just got a blow out, then this is for you!  

Just follow these three easy steps:

1. Spray it onto your roots, holding it at least 3 inches away from your scalp. 

2. Massage it into your hair. 

3. Run a brush through your hair and glean at the voluminous reflection staring back at you. 

and they all slept happily ever after

**Thank you SO much to everyone who participated in the Freshly Picked giveaway!  Cindy was the big winner.  I absolutely loved hosting a giveaway and hope to do it very soon!!

Let's talk about sleep, shall we.  Now any parent of a child at any age knows that this is a big topic, as babies go through different stages and change so quickly.  Plus, there's the discussion of where the baby sleeps.  Are they co-sleeping, in your room, or already in their crib?  Do you nurse or rock them to sleep or let them fuss?  And it feels like no matter which of these choices you choose to do, you feel a slight sense of judgement by those who do the opposite.  

One thing that surprised me when I became a mom was how much I wanted Nathan to be in bed with us.  I wasn't completely against co-sleeping, but I did not think it was quite right for us.  For the first month he slept on me (which I know is a huge no-no, but it was blissful).  We have the arms reach co-sleeper, which is basically like a basinet.  It can be raised to reach the height of your bed, and then also attach to your side of the bed as well.  For some reason, doing this made me feel claustrophobic so it has always been about a foot away from my bed. 

Nathan used to be a great sleeper.  I remember even at 2 weeks old, he slept for 7 hours straight and I woke up in a panic to check that he was still breathing.  That didn't last very long at all, and right at three and a half months we started what was known as the "four month sleep regression".  This lasted all the way up to about two weeks ago, and it was probably one of the hardest parts of being a new mom.  We dealt with waking up every hour and a half, fighting going to sleep, and waking up extremely early.  I finally got to the point where I looked over at Daniel and said, "I think we are ready for the crib".  I was exhausted and frustrated.  Frustrated at myself for getting upset and then starting to get frustrated with Nathan (which made me feel double terrible).  

So two weeks ago we took the plunge and started putting Nathan in his crib.  That day he napped in his crib (which were super short cat naps) just to get him used to it.  That same day we stopped swaddling his arms, too.  When it came to nighttime I was very nervous it was going to blow up in my face and that he would be up all night long.  Well, that night he wake up twice and went right back down after being nursed.  He also slept until 7am which was a huge improvement compared to 5:30.  The next night he woke up once, and slept until 8am!!!  I couldn't believe how much better he was sleeping!  On top of that, Daniel and I were finally getting some restful sleep.  

It is easy to say that the crib agrees with Nathan.  He just started to roll over onto his side while snuggling his elephant, which is probably the most adorable thing ever.  We also let him fuss a bit for nap time, instead of making sure he is completely asleep.  At first this was hard for my mama heart, but we go in and soothe him here and there and he puts himself to sleep in a few minutes.  

Now, I write this with sensitivity.  Sleep is a sensitive issue.  We are so quick to pass judgement onto other moms for how their child is sleeping, where their child is sleeping, and for how long.  I write this as a sign of hope.  If you're little one is having some sleep issues, know that you're not alone!  And since going through it, I vowed not to ask about how someone's child is sleeping at night between 3-6 months.  Also, let's just be real.  If your child is still waking up 1-2 times a night can we not claim they are "sleeping through the night"?!?  All this really does is put a false hope in our exhausted mama hearts, and make us feel "less than" because ours isn't.  

Nathan wishes you and your family sweet dreams! 

learning to love father's day

This past week my students were making the sweetest cards for their dads to give them on Father's Day.  They were listing 5 things they love about them, and as I was making an example for them I was quickly reminded of the emotions I hold with me on Father's Day.  When others are sharing pictures of them on their dad's laps when they were a child, or thanking their dad for all of the love they've shown, I'm filled with sadness and hopelessness.  

We all have a story, and I've shared bits and pieces about this story of mine.  Today I'm opening up a bit more about this part of my life.  My parents divorced when I was a baby, and then my mom remarried.  My stepdad was there for most of my upbringing and was who I called "dad".  I continually yearned for his approval and love, and was left a crumbled mess when they divorced and he wanted nothing to do with me.  Fortunately, my mom is now remarried to an amazing man who I'm proud to have as a stepdad.  

But I wouldn't be lying if I told you that I still long for that daddy-daughter relationship that many have had.  It has been a very big process getting over a parent that is no longer a part of your life.  

But this year is very different than years past, because this Father's Day I get to think about my husband who is one amazing dad.  I get to beam with pride thinking about how much he dotes on Nathan, gives him all of his attention, kisses him nonstop, and oozes love and compassion on our sweet boy.  On my days off, Daniel will wake up before me to get the baby out of his crib and let me sleep an extra half hour.  And trust me, those 30 minutes make a big difference.  He spends all of his energy on Nathan when he is home, throwing him in the air, helping him sit up, playing with his toys.  He constantly assures me that I'm doing a good job, and has been my biggest cheerleader in this new season of life.  Daniel works tireless hours, is continually exhausted from work, yet comes home cheerful and eager to play with his son.  He wants to make memories with him, take him to the beach, teach him how to throw a ball.  He dreams of the day when they can go fishing together, and never gets discouraged when Nathan is plain old fussy.  His patience is something that I can't even comprehend, and admire more and more each day.  Daniel's sense of humor is hysterical and balances out my, at times, high-strung personality.  

To say that I'm blessed to do life with this husband of mine is an understatement.  And this Father's Day all I feel is love, joy, and happiness because I get to see the type of relationship unfold in front of my eyes that I always longed for.  

bananas for mama and baby

There's something you must know about me.  I love bananas.  In fact, I have to eat one every single day.  And each banana in my fruit basket is planned out.  If we ever run out of bananas I immediately figure out when I will be able to go to the grocery store to buy some more.  

Sliced on top of oatmeal or yogurt, blended up in my smoothie, on top of toast with almond better…I mean, the possibilities are endless.  So when I discovered that I could mash them up to make a healthier option for pancakes, I was sold.  I like to call it my "weekend treat".  What I love even more is that this pancake recipe makes the perfect amount for one person because the husband of mine isn't a pancake fan.  

Side note: when we first were married, every Sunday morning was Pancake Sunday.  I woke up early to mix up a batch before church, and loved experimenting with different variations.  This went on for a solid couple of months until he informed me that he didn't like pancakes.  I'm sure you could imagine the shocked look upon my face and how much my heart sank.  So being able to make this perfect amount for one person just rocked my world. 

Nathan started eating solids this past month, and right now we are giving him banana in the morning and avocado in the afternoon.  I knew he was my son when he took his first bite of mashed banana.  He instantly opened up his mouth nice and big ready for the next bite.  It was kind of the cutest thing you ever could see.  

So on Saturday mornings, we have a new tradition.  I make banana pancakes for me, mash up some bananas for Nathan, and we enjoy a lovely breakfast together.  The husband?  Well, he isn't a huge breakfast fan so I let him sleep in, which helps me soak up and enjoy this new mama and son bonding time.  

Peanut Butter Banana Pancakes

1 medium banana

2 eggs

1 spoonful of peanut butter (or almond butter)

1 tsp. cinnamon

1 tsp. vanilla

coconut oil for cooking 

1. In a bowl mash up your banana.  You want some chunks left for texture. 

2.  Add in the eggs and mix well. 

3. Stir in your spoonful of nut butter.  Then add the cinnamon and vanilla and mix. 

4. Over medium heat, coat a pan with coconut oil and drop 1/4-1/3 c. of mixture onto the pan.  Let cook 2-3 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook 1-2 minutes on the next. 

**Cooking tip: I prefer using an electric skillet and coconut oil spray from Trader Joe's.  Also, a wide spatula is super helpful for these.  Before flipping, use your spatula to lift an edge of the pancake to see if it is ready.  

Enjoy by themselves or add a little pure maple syrup on top! 

freshly picked giveaway

I remember dreaming up outfits that I'd put my baby boy or baby girl in once they were here.  And I always knew that I wanted them to have a pair of Freshly Picked moccasins!  Now I have this little baby boy, who just so happens to be in some adorable mocs, and I just can't help but want to pinch myself.  I think it is such a beautiful thing when life just sneaks up on you.  When you take a moment to take in all that is your life at that very moment, and realize that you are right where you wanted to be.  

One thing I have quickly learned in motherhood is that dressing baby boys is sometimes a bit of a challenge.  My go-to is a cute bib, hat, or shoes.  And these mocs are definitely helping me keep him looking cute!  I'm a huge fan of how Freshly Picked came to be, and loved watching their story on Shark Tank.   These shoes do not disappoint!  The elastic around the opening means they will fit on any chubby baby's foot.  The leather is great quality, and let's just talk about the colors…the choices are endless!  

Well, how would YOU like to win a pair?????  

Comment below with how you style your little miss or mr.  Want other ways to win?  See below!!  The giveaway will end Friday night at midnight :) 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

nathan james: 5 months

How are we just one month away from Nathan's first year?  I'm pretty sure I start out every monthly update blog post like this, but it is so incredible how quickly they grow and change.  Nathan is becoming more and more curious about everything, and he thinks the best way to figure something out is by putting it in his mouth.  Right now I just thank my lucky stars he is not mobile yet, because when that day comes we are going to be busy bees baby-proofing and keeping an eye on him.  

Growing// My guess he is just about 18 pounds right about now.  Our poor little guy had RSV for the first time this past month, so we had a solid week spending lots of time at the doctor's office.  At his last appointment two weeks ago he was 17 lbs. 8 oz.  And trust me, I can definitely tell you heavy he is getting every time I have to lug that infant car seat out of the car.  I'm almost ready for a convertible so I don't have to hassle with taking the carseat in and out anymore.  As much as I wish Nathan was itty bitty still, he is able to do so much more now that he is bigger.  He rides in the stroller without the carseat, which is amazing, and he loves it.  The other night he was fussy and I had a stressful day at work, so I put him in the stroller and went for a run.  Needless to say, we both were very happy afterwards. 

This month he rolled over back to front!  He has only done it a couple times where he rolls completely over, other attempts he gets stuck on his arm and just teeters on his side for a bit.  He also is able to sit in the tripod position for more than 30 seconds…depending on his mood at the time.  Right now his 3-6 month jammies are getting pretty snug, so I think it's about time for me to unpack his 6-9 month clothes…and I just cried a bit! 

Eating & Sleeping// Yikes, this is still super challenging.  At night he has been waking up 3 times a night, and every time I try to console him with the soothie or rocking him it turns into screaming fits that are only calmed once I break down and nurse him.  He's still in his co-sleeper next to our bed, but is getting a bit too big for it so this month we're transitioning to the crib…which I'm sure will bring on even more sleeping issues.  He naps three times a day, but the times and length are pretty inconsistent.  

Nathan is an amazing eater.  Upon our pediatrician's suggestion, we started rice cereal, which he loves. Every time he sees the spoon he immediately opens his mouth, and he is also watching me eat like a hawk.  I'm reading Super Nutrition for Babies which has actually taught me a bit more about rice cereal, so we are going to stop feeding him that and start with avocados and bananas this week.  

Loving// There's not a whole lot Nathan doesn't like.  As of late, his toes are the bomb dot com.  He can finally reach them and is trying so hard to put them in his mouth.  Mirrors are about the most fascinating thing ever, and he loves playing with the "baby" he sees staring back at him.  He loves kisses from mommy, and I love kissing him all over.  Getting his feet rubbed at nighttime is pretty spectacular, and he immediately calms down once I start.  Being on his tummy is becoming more comfortable, although now he wants to move so he becomes easily frustrated.  Sophie is his main love.  That giraffe hung the moon for him.  

Loathing// I'm so thankful that there's not much our little bug doesn't like.  Just have food ready and he is set!