Nursery Planning

Since we found out we are having a girl, all I can think about is the nursery. I was trying so hard to get inspiration for a gender neutral nursery, but couldn't. Now that I can focus on a girl theme, it only took a few minutes for it all to come together.

It all started with a chandelier I got while at Ikea. I thought this would be the perfect way to get the ball rolling. Since we already had a dark dresser in the room, we knew we wanted a dark crib to match. With those in place, all that is left is paint and décor.

We want to paint the room a real nice pale green and accessorize with pink. That way it's not so overpowering. Here are some color ideas.

My mom is making a quilt out of Lilly Pulitzer fabric that I absolutely can't wait for! With Lilly in mind, I decided I wanted to make a ruffle crib skirt out of Lilly fabric.

As far as sheets go, I'm going to stick with solid colors to balance out all the Lilly.

My last idea is to get her name in wooden letters and use spare Lilly fabric to decorate the letters in a collage fashion.

That's all I have for now, but I think it's a pretty good start. Now if only it all turns out as nice as it looks in my head! What do you think? I'm open to suggestions!

Week 17 Update

I can't believe another week has come and gone! I'm getting so close to the halfway point that I can almost smell it. Overall it was a good week with little to know pregnancy symptoms so I can't complain.

 

This weekend was nice and relaxing and gave me a chance to catch up on grocery shopping so we can start eating at home! We are the worst at eating out, especially during the week, so I meal planned and bought groceries to make some quick and easy crock pot meals. If all goes well, I will share those recipes!

 

How far along?: 17 weeks, 2 days
Baby is the size of an: Onion
Total weight gain/loss: 13lbs and holding.
The Bump: I'm starting to notice a subtle change, but I think it will still be another few weeks before I will look pregnant
Symptoms: Feeling pretty good!
Food Cravings: No cravings, just a bigger appetite.
Anything Making Me Queasy or Sick: Nope
Sleep: Been sleeping pretty good these last few weeks. I'm going to enjoy it while it lasts.
What I miss: For the first time this week, I really missed having a glass (or two) of wine after work.
Weddings Rings On or Off: On
Any Names Picked Out Yet: YES! Still need to settle on a middle name, but I think we will be announcing it in the next few weeks.
Gender Prediction: Girl!
Movement: Nothing obvious yet. I think I'll know when I feel it.
Maternity Clothes: Probably 50/50. I just really feel more comfortable in maternity clothes and that is key right now.
Labor Signs: None.
Best Moment of the Week: Starting to feel a bit more pregnant and a bit less fat.
What I’m excited about/looking forward to: My next appointment where we will get to see our little girl again.

High Five for Friday!

I really enjoyed my uneventful week. So much in fact, that I can't believe it's already Friday! I had nothing planned during the week after work, so it was nice to come home and just enjoy being lazy (my weeks are numbered so I plan to take advantage of them while I can).

I've been having a hard time finding inspiration for this blog over the past few weeks (I think it has to do with the above mentioned laziness, ooops), so next week I'm going to make every effort to blog everyday! (Monday-Friday) Think I can do it?!

Some pretty fun events happened this week that will make it one to remember. Without further ado, here they are: my high fives for the week!

1. How can you not get a warm fuzzy feeling when the weather is this beautiful? After a week of scorching temperatures, the chill in the air is just the relief we all needed.
2. In case you missed it, we announced Baby Bolt's gender on Monday! I was so excited to put the crib together and make my first girly purchase: a chandelier! I am already in love with how this room is turning out and I've only just begun!
3. My youngest niece was baptized this weekend and look how happy she is! Thanks to Aimee from Aimee Keller Photography for snapping this great shot of her at her party!
4. This has been such a treat this week! My husband brought these home for me and I don't think they are going to make it much longer.
5. One of Milo's favorite spots; an old computer chair at the top of the stairs that is only there because he sleeps so sweetly in it.

What are YOUR high fives from the week? Linking up with Lauren Elizabeth for H54F.

Birchbox - July 2013

Last week I shared with you my July Ipsy bag, so this week we will be talking about my July Birchbox. People seem to debate these two monthly subscription beauty bags nonstop on the Internet, so what better way to make a decision than to try it out for yourself? That's what I decided to do, sign up for them both and give them an equal chance. After one month, whichever one I liked the best will be the one I keep (I'm trying to tell myself there is no need for two of these monthly subscriptions).

Enough talk about the two, let's open the Birchbox and see what it has to offer!

My overall first impression was good! I like the clean and simple look of how the box is packaged and felt like it was a special gift because of the tissue paper.

One of the best features is the card you get that describes each product that is in your box. Based off an online profile, they choose products especially for you from the variety of options for that month. Below are the products I received based from my profile.

1. I find this funny, I received this Coola Sunscreen in my July Ipsy bag! You would think they would know what their competitors are putting out every month.
2. Benefit's Hello Flawless Oxygen Wow foundation feels super soft and I was quite pleased that it was a color I could definitely use.
3. Number 4 Super Comb Prep and Protect was a bit of a disappointment. I saw some people got hairspray, which I would have much rather preferred. This particular product is a leave in conditioner for color treated hair (which I don't have). I'll give it a try of course.
4. I have heard so much about the Tan Towel and am so happy to finally get to try one! If you know me, you know I'm all about sunless tanning, so this is right up my ally!
5. 100% Pure Nourishing Body Cream was a bit of a let down. It was just 3 sample sized packages. It would have been nice if it was in a bottle like everything else. Good to throw in the purse for when you need some lotion on the go.

I would have to say this is a huge toss up. The foundation and tan towel were my favorites and are making this decision between Ipsy and Birchbox a tough one. I have some time to think it over. What do you guys think, based off my bags or your own from this month, would you keep one over the other?

Week 16 Update

Last week, was not one a good week for me for a few reasons, so I convinced my husband that there was only one way to make it all better; to find out the gender before the 20 week appointment! For those of you who don't know me personally, patience is not one of my best qualities (yes, I know I need to work on this before the baby comes), so I decided we weren't going to wait any longer to answer the most anticipated question....boy or girl?

That's right, my dreams and intuition were COMPLETELY wrong! I was so shocked and excited to learn that we were going to have a precious little girl! I guess it's time to pass down my bows and Lilly!

How far along?: 16 weeks, 2 days
Baby is the size of an: Avocado
Total weight gain/loss: 13lbs according to my last doctor's appointment.
The Bump: Nothing too obvious just yet, but I'm sure that will change in a few weeks.
Symptoms: Nothing too bad. Feeling pretty good these days!
Food Cravings: Just always hungry. My stomach growls as if I haven't eaten in days every 3 hours.
Anything Making Me Queasy or Sick: Nope
Sleep: Got my Snoogle last week so I'm thankful for that! I don't think I move at all during the night with it so in turn, I'm sleeping sounder.
What I miss: My Lilly Pulitzer dresses. I love wearing Lilly all summer, and now none of it fits.
Weddings Rings On or Off: On
Any Names Picked Out Yet: We are pretty certain about what we are going to name our little girl, but not ready to tell everyone just yet. Still haven't decided if we are going to make it public knowledge before she's born.
Gender Prediction: I said boy all along, but was completely WRONG! We are so excited to be having a little girl!
Movement: Last week I mentioned I might have felt some flutters. Starting to think I was wrong. Should be feeling something in the coming weeks.
Maternity Clothes: I'm definitely more comfortable in maternity clothes, but can still wear some of my normal clothes, so I mix it up.
Labor Signs: None.
Best Moment of the Week: Finding out we are having a baby girl!
What I’m excited about/looking forward to: Now that we know the gender, I'm really looking forward to planning the nursery!

High Five for Friday!

It's Friday again! I wish it weren't so hot here (99 for a high but it will feel like 110!) but I guess I can't complain because at least it's sunny out! I think I will be spending most of my time indoors, maybe I will start some fun craft projects!

Enough of that, time for my high fives!

1. I haven't really been sleeping well and I read that this snoogle pillow really helps. I was so excited to have a gift card from my birthday to Babies R Us so I could get one! I didn't think it would work that well, but it really does! It keeps me from tossing and turning all night. 
2. I broke down and got this shirt over the weekend. I had seen it on a few of my pregnant friends and decided it belonged in my closet. I could wear it everyday! 
3. I'm not one to get overly excited about nature, but for some reason when driving through my small town I saw this and HAD to take a picture. I love all the colors!
4. I make to do lists every weekend and it never fails that at least 3 things don't get done (I'm overly ambitious I suppose). But not this weekend! I don't remember the last time I completed my huge list by Sunday night. Probably the best feeling of the week.
5. Milo loves this spot at the foot of our bed. Mostly I like that he uses Duffy, the Disney Bear's foot as a pillow (Yes, those are Mickey and Minnie house slippers, don't judge).

Stay cool everyone and I hope you enjoy your weekend. Linking up with Lauren Elizabeth for H54F!

Ipsy Beauty Bag - July 2013

I have been seeing these monthly beauty subscriptions all over the Internet lately and decided to give it a try. I decided to try both Ipsy and Birchbox. Whichever has the better bag this month, will be the one I decide to keep. I'm sure I could talk myself into keep them both, but I need to stick to one for now since we have a little one on the way.

My July Ipsy Beauty Bag came first, so that will be the one I share with you today (stay tuned for my Birchbox next week). I have heard mixed reviews on Ipsy, so I didn't have high expectations, but my overall first impression was good! Maybe it's because I'm a noob at this and my standards are low for these, but I think I got some great stuff that I can't wait to try out!

 

1. I can't wait to try the Healthy Sexy Hair Soy Renewal Beach Spray! At first I was disappointed with it being a beach spray (since I have short hair, I'm not one to rock the just got out of the ocean look very well), but the directions also say you can use it as a root lifter! Winning! You all know I love my big hair, so this will definitely be put to good use.
2. The Pouty Pop Lip Crayon is super soft and moisturizing! I'm used to lip crayons being dry and brittle, but this felt like a high end lipstick when going on. The color is a little neutral for me, but I think it will look great with a more muted, dressed down look.
3. Who doesn't need sunscreen? This Coola Mineral Face SPF Moisturizer will definitely come in handy. Toss it in your purse to have just in case you find yourself out in the sun for longer than you thought.
4. We've all heard of Benefit, but Benetint? This product looks scary at first glance (reminds me of food coloring), but it actually is very easy to use and not as harsh as it seems. In fact you can use it very sparingly. I used it as a blush and loved it! Just the right amount of rosy. And if you want more color, just swipe a little bit more on and blend!
5. Lastly was this great pallet from BH Cosmetics. It is a sample from 3 of their newest color pallets. I think I will get the most use out of the Hollywood purple and the San Francisco brown. The Malibu gold might be a little too warm for me (I usually wear an off white).

All in all I think it was a very successful bag! I even enjoyed the pink cosmetic bag it all came in. What I find most beneficial of Ipsy, is getting to sample products you've heard of but never broken down and bought for yourself. Now if you like it, you can buy it. And even better? Ipsy will offer coupons on the products you got to get the full size of. Win win!

If you've ever thought about signing up for a monthly subscription beauty bag, so far my experience with Ipsy has been positive. Which ever one you choose, I'm sure you will have good months and bad months, but at least you got to step out of your everyday product bubble and try something new!

Week 15 - Update

I'm back on track for my weekly updates (they are supposed to be one Mondays, but last week got pushed to Tuesday, ooops). This week I'm exciting to be going into week 16, which means one week closer to meeting out little one! It started off rough with those debilitating headaches I talked about last time, but as those subsided later in the week, I felt like a new person!

How far along?: 15 weeks, 2 days
Baby is the size of an: Orange
Total weight gain/loss: Still holding at 10lbs (thank God!)
The Bump: Still not a real bump, just looks like I've been packing on the lbs.
Symptoms: Still have the headaches, but it is definitely getting better. Water obviously helps, so I'm trying to keep hydrated so they don't get bad.
Food Cravings: Nothing in particular. If someone mentions something, I want it.
Anything Making Me Queasy or Sick: Nope
Sleep: Getting a little better, just having crazy dreams. I think they are real when I wake up. It's exhausting!
What I miss: Being able to pull my own weight around the house. Not being able to do Milo's liter or lift things gets real annoying. I hate having to ask for help all the time.
Weddings Rings On or Off: On
Any Names Picked Out Yet: We have a short list of girl names, but boys are a whole different story. I don't know why it's so hard to come up with boy names!
Gender Prediction: Still going with boy.
Movement: I think I might have felt some flutters the other day, but I totally could be wrong.
Maternity Clothes: I have been enjoying picking up maternity clothes here and there when I see cute pieces on sale. I try to wear maternity pants mainly for the comfort. I can still wear my old pants but I have to leave them unbuttoned and wear the belly band.
Labor Signs: None.
Best Moment of the Week: Starting to feel human again. Headaches tapering off and sometimes I don't even feel like I'm pregnant which is a relief!
What I’m excited about/looking forward to: Finding out the gender! That answer will be the same until 20 weeks.

High Five for Friday!

The past few weeks have been dragging by but this week is the first in a while that has flown by! I'm definitely not complaining because the sooner we can get to mid August, the better (that's when we find out our baby's gender)!

As always, here are my highlights from the week!

1. I had the opportunity to work from home one day this week. Nothing like having multiple computers going to feel productive!
2. Milo either lays on the floor or on your face. I got a rare moment of him curling up next to me like a real cat!
3. "Saving Mr. Banks" combines so many of my loves: Disney, Tom Hanks and Mary Poppins. This movie is coming out this Christmas and I couldn't be more excited! Check out the trailer!
4. I can't remember the last time I got Cold Stone! I feel like now that frozen yogurt is the craze, everyone forgets about the real thing! I decided it was up to me to give ice cream the love it deserves.
5. Lastly, I decided to try some new makeup techniques when bored one night. You can't see much here, but I am applying my eyeliner differently as well as using new foundation. Sometimes it's good to change up your look every now and again. I still kept with the same colors, but just went a little more dramatic. 

Now if only this rain would go away and leave us a nice weekend, I would be happy! I hope everyone has a fun weekend!

Linking up with Lauren Elizabeth for H54F!

Week 14 - Update

I really want to do these posts every Monday, but Sunday just completely got away from me, so I'm posting just a day late.

How far along?: 14 weeks, 3 days
Baby is the size of a: Lemon
Total weight gain/loss: 10lbs
The Bump: Looks like I've put on some extra weight - not a real bump just yet
Symptoms: Headaches! Sometimes they are really intense where I need to lay down and other times they are just annoying and linger. They never completely go away.
Food Cravings: I'm more into salty foods and carbs right now (that probably explains how I've already gained 10lbs)
Anything Making Me Queasy or Sick: Nothing that I can put my finger on
Sleep: Still just tossing and turning, but I think I'm getting used to it.
What I miss: Running (never thought I would say that). I wish I weren't so tired when I get home from work because I think going for a run would really make me feel better.
Weddings Rings On or Off: On
Any Names Picked Out Yet: We've started a list of names, but nothing speaks to us yet.
Gender Prediction: I still think it's a boy. I had a dream I had a boy the other night.
Movement: None yet
Maternity Clothes: I wear a few pieces (mainly on the weekends) just to be more comfortable since me normal clothes are super tight.
Labor Signs: None.
Best Moment of the Week: Having the energy to get some much needed cleaning done around the house!
What I’m excited about/looking forward to: Still really excited to find out the sex. But I'm also really looking forward to feeling some movements!

High Five for Independence!

I hope everyone enjoyed their 4th of July! I don't think my husband and I have ever seen fireworks on the 4th together. He grew up going to events that had big fireworks but his family never bought them and did them on their own. And ever since we've been married, we haven't' done anything or gone anywhere, so I was excited to have some plans! My sister invited us over and we lit a ton of good fireworks. It reminded me of my childhood when the neighbors would get together and put on a fireworks show. I hope everyone had a good 4th of July and got to see fireworks from wherever you were.

Now onto my high fives!

1. In case you missed yesterday's post, this is Milo with the wreath I made. He really likes when I craft because he thinks everything is for him. He is probably trying to get a pipe cleaner and eat it here.
2. Rocking the patriotic nails this week. I went and had gel nails done because I love how long they last and don't chip so I can keep with cleaning and crafting no problem.
3. No 4th of July post is complete without a fireworks picture. This was my view last night: Spectacular.
4. We went out to dinner for a friends' birthday and his 7 year old daughter was hell bent on getting lobster. I may or may not have encouraged it and begged that he let her get it mainly because I wanted to see her eat it. You should have seen the waiters face when they dropped the lobster off to the little girl!
5. We had my parents over for dinner during the week, and I made baked ziti. It's a recipe you can't mess up and always tastes perfect!

Linking up with Lauren Elizabeth for H54F!

4th of July Deco Mesh Wreath - DIY

I decided I needed a new wreath on my door for the 4th of July. At first, I thought about making yet another ribbon wreath, but then decided to try something new and switch it up. Don't get me wrong, I love my ribbon wreaths, but these deco mesh wreaths have become quite the trend. I looked through Pinterest to find a good tutorial and give it a try!

I went to Michael's and was able to get everything I needed. I spent $27 but that was because I got 2 colors of deco mesh and a roll of burlap. You can make this wreath with just one roll of deco mesh and probably only spend $15.

Supplies:

Scissors

Deco Mesh (one roll is enough, but I wanted multiple colors)

Burlap (optional)

Pipe cleaners

Wire wreath form

The first step is to take your pipe cleaners and twist them all over the wire wreath. Alternate between inner and outer circles to create multiple rows when adding your deco mesh.

Now, take your first color of deco mesh (or burlap in my case) and secure one end to the pipe cleaner. Then create a loop by securing it about 12 inches down to the next pipe cleaner.

This is after one layer around the wreath. I ended up doing two layers of burlap around the wreath.

All you have to do is keep adding layers however you choose. You can attach new layers to already used pipe cleaners. In fact, some of mine had 3 layers of deco mesh to one pipe cleaner. You can't mess this up.

After the burlap, I did a layer of red then blue and found it still needed one more layer, so I went back around with another layer of red. This project is super easy and not time consuming at all. I think it took me less than an hour to make.

When it was done, I decided it needed a little more decoration. You can add letters, American flags, garland, or anything you want! I chose to make a bow out of some leftover patriotic ribbon I had to add some dimension. If I had more of it, I probably would have made 3 more, but I think one is fine. I can always add to it next year!

This truly is an easy project that anyone can do it, whether you are a seasoned crafter or never done a project in your life. The more advanced you are the more you can add to it. If you're a beginner, keep it simple. I hope you give this a try! Email me your photos if you end up making one for yourself. I would love to see all your creations!

 

Have a happy and safe 4th of July!

Wardrobe Essentials - First Trimester

For this week's WIWW (What I Wore Wednesday) I am going to tell you about a few wardrobe staples that have helped me through my first trimester. Not a true outfit post, but hopefully it will help you if you are just finding out you are expecting and don't quite know what to do with your new body.

Thank goodness for me, I have friends and relatives who have all recently had babies so they have given me great wardrobe advice. Many things vary by individual but I'm sure you will find something that will work for you!

1. Pants no longer fit right. Not only were they tight in the waist, but they were just so uncomfortable. I know one of the cardinal rules of pregnancy is to not wear maternity clothes until you absolutely have to, but when I found a pair of maternity jeans for $10 at Target (similar here), I had to get them. They have a small panel that basically just feels like I'm wearing sweatpants (who wouldn't love that?). I highly suggest something like this early on as it makes you feel much more comfortable without being in your pajamas.
2. The Belly Band. I had heard so much about this product and how it really extends the length of your wardrobe because it allows you to wear all your bottoms unbuttoned and no one knows! (I'm thinking this will be a great addition to any one's wardrobe for those big family meals like Thanksgiving!) I got my Belly Band from Target and love wearing it not only for the unbuttoned pants aspect but for the way it holds everything together. Its like Spanx just for your stomach!
3. Speaking of Spanx, this is another must have. Since I wear dresses to work and throughout the summer, I needed something to hold my new growing stomach all together. Not to mention most people didn't know I was pregnant, so it helped keep me looking my normal weight. Target carries Assets brand (similar to Spanx) and they come in maternity! They fit like normal Spanx only with a much higher front panel to go over your soon to be baby bump. I have been told these will come in handy throughout my entire pregnancy.

I'm sure as I go through these next 6 months, I will find more essential pieces to add to my maternity wardrobe, but for the first trimester, this is what got me through.

After all, it is WIWW and I can't leave you without an outfit picture! So here you go!

A little 4th of July inspiration!

Linking up with Lindsey @ The Pleated Poppy for WIWW

Spray Tanning - FAQ's

Summertime is the perfect time to trade those pasty white legs for a more bronze glow. But if you are like me (fair-skinned, freckled red head) than you cannot spend more than 5 minutes outside unprotected for fear of the dreaded sunburn! Why should we suffer? After all, tan fat looks better than pale fat. Am I right? So what's a fair-skinned girl to do? Get a spray tan!

I have been getting spray tans since high school, so I like to consider myself quite the aficionado. In fact, at one point I had a spray tan membership. That meant I could go get a spray tan as many times as I wanted and paid a flat monthly fee. It was glorious. Then the reality of buying a house (and now starting a family) led me to cancel those unnecessary things in life. However, you will still find me getting sprayed every now and again.

Below are some FAQ's on the two types of spray tanning that I do, Mystic Tan and custom spray tan, *WARNING: Super long post

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Q: Where do you go and what kind of spray tan are you getting?
A: It depends on if I'm doing the spray tan booth or getting sprayed by a human (yes, you stand in front of a professional naked and they hand spray you with an airbrush). For the booths, I go to my local tanning salon and do the Mystic Tan. For the individual tan, you have to do a little research but you will find some salons offer hand done airbrush tans.

Q: For a special event like my wedding, what do you recommend for first timers?
A: If you have never done a Mystic tan or any other booth tan, do NOT do it for an important event such as your wedding. No matter how well you follow instructions, you are at a huge risk for a streaky orange-ish color. For these events, I cannot stress enough to go to someone who will airbrush your tan for you. Not only does this minimize streaking, but they also custom create a color just for you based on how dark you want to be and the coloring you currently have.

Q: Do you have to be naked?
A: For the spray booths, being naked works the best, however if you are apprehensive you can wear a bathing suit or bra and underwear you don't care about. Just be aware that it will most likely be ruined and you will have some crazy tan lines. As far as the custom spraying goes, I definitely understand the fear of just being naked in front of a complete stranger while they spray you so you have a few choices. Most places will at least give you paper underwear to wear so it's just like being topless. Again, if you want to be more covered, as long as you are prepared to ruin your undergarments then feel free.

 Q: How do you keep from getting orange and streaky like Ross on Friends?
A: I think this is every one's biggest fear (especially when doing a booth for the first time) Everyone seems to have seen that episode and whenever they find out I spray tan that's the first question. First, the technology has gotten so much better just in the past 10 years that I've been doing it. Second, it's all about following the directions. The booths have detailed instructions on how to protect your nails, palms and hair...follow them! Also, most of the booths talk to you while you are in there. They tell you where to place your feet, how to stand and when to turn. It's really not rocket science. Something they don't really stress is to let yourself air dry as much as possible before using a towel and scrapping your skin.

Q: How long before my event should I get a spray tan?
A: I recommend 24-36 hours before your event to get sprayed. This allows for a shower and for your coloring to develop and be at it's peak.

Q: How long before I shower?
A: This is my favorite question. Both types of spray tan will say 4-6 hours before being wet. Here's what I say. Wait at least 12 hours, if not more (I try to go 36 hours). The longer you can wait for the color to develop and sink in, the better. Sure you might not smell good and feel a bit grimy, but if you can stand it, wait. I usually recommend going at night right after a shower so you can at least sleep in it.

Q: Do you shower/shave before going?
A: Absolutely. You want to have the cleanest and freshest skin possible. It is recommended that you exfoliate before going as well. I am pretty lazy and don't do all that. I figure using a loofah and shaving your legs is exfoliating enough. Don't put on lotion.

Q: Do I need all the products they sell?
A: No. I do nothing to prep my skin but exfoliate and after I will use regular lotion to help keep my tan. The only thing I will buy is a scent to put in the spray tan to help with that icky smell. It usually costs a dollar more and definitely worth it if for some reason you are going somewhere right after you get sprayed.

Q: What do you wear after you've been sprayed?
A: Loose and light. If at all possible, have no makeup on and the loosest clothes you can find. I even try to wear minimum undergarments as they are tight and can create lines. Typically I will wear a t-shirt, sweat pants and flip flops because as soon as I'm done, I'm going home and going to bed to marinade.

Q: How do I make sure my face doesn't turn out orange or splotchy?
A: I am never concerned about this because isn't that what make up is for? I keep to my face routine as normal for fear of breaking out and just go one shade darker in my foundation to match the rest of skin. Nothing weirder than a super tan body and a snow white face.

Q: How long until I am noticeably tan?
A: Again, they say the color will develop in 4-6 hours. This DOES NOT mean you get it done 4 hours before you want to be tan. You will notice a gradual color change that will reach its darkest between 12-24 hours (hence why you wait as long as possible to shower)

Q: How long does your tan last?
A: I can usually get a good week before I start to notice it getting splotchy. In order to make it last the longest, I use lotion (the drugstore gradual tan stuff) everyday and use a soft cloth when I shower so I'm not scrapping my tan off every time I bathe. Also, when you are drying off, pat dry, don't rub.

I hope you find these tips helpful and inspires you to stay out of the tanning bed and get that perfect color safely! It may seem like a lot of work, but once you do it a few times, it all becomes second nature. If you have any additional questions, feel free to ask! I'm sure there are things I've left out.

Happy tanning!

Bump Update - Week 13

I'm going to start documenting my weekly progress using the chalkboard I made a few weeks back. I wanted to start earlier, but never got around to it until now. So we shall start with week 13!

How far along?: 13 weeks, 2 days
Baby is the size of a: Georgia Peach!
Total weight gain/loss: 10lbs (It's time to start jogging a little now that I'm in the 2nd trimester)
The Bump: Looks like I've put on some extra weight - not a real bump just yet
Symptoms: Had a few bad days with some morning all day sickness
Food Cravings: I'm not really craving things, just need to eat a lot to keep from getting sick
Anything Making Me Queasy or Sick: Nothing that I can put my finger on
Sleep: I fall asleep just fine, but am hot and constantly tossing and turning. Not to mention the middle of the night bathroom trips. (This is new to me considering I used to sleep like a rock)
What I miss: Having the energy to work around the house and exercise
Weddings Rings On or Off: On
Any Names Picked Out Yet: Not really talking about names until we find out the gender.
Gender Prediction: I'm going with boy since my whole side of the family is girls.
Movement: Too early
Maternity Clothes: I pick up pieces I see on clearance at Target. I also got some gift cards for my birthday from Motherhood, so I went ahead and picked up some basics. I have a few maternity pants that I wear on the weekends because they are super comfy.
Labor Signs: None.
Best Moment of the Week: Getting an ultrasound and seeing our baby for the first time looking human!
What I’m excited about/looking forward to: Finding out if it's a boy or a girl!