Happy {1/2} Birthday Little One! - 6 Month Mommy/Baby Update

      

Wow. I can not believe that my little guy is 6 months old! Or that I am now 25. TWENTY FIVE. Where has all the time gone? I was just 4 years old playing house, cooking dinner on my pretend kitchen set while holding my baby-doll, and talking on my Fisher Price house-phone (they existed back then) to my imaginary husband. And now well, I am 25 years old and I am no longer pretending. I am there! How awesome is it that I have become everything I dreamed of as a child?! VERY! This is so important to remember when I am ready to pull my hair out when Aaron decides to skip naps for a week straight! Yup a whole week! Speaking of my little pumpkin, he is growing so fast, learning so much,and developing new skills everyday. Six months is a very fun time, and I am looking forward to it only getting funner from here! Here is our 6 month update!

Weight - 14.2 pounds, he gained a pound! He is just about done wearing size 3-6 mo. and 6 mo. is fitting him perfectly! 

Aaron's Schedule- 

Has been all over the place for the last couple weeks, as we had a either a doctor's, physical therapy, or occupational therapy appointment pretty much every day. It is no wonder he went on strike with his naps! He doesn't have as many appointments for the next few weeks, so we should get back on track. I think if we hadn't kept his family dinner and bedtime routine the same he would have refused sleeping at night too - consistency is key with him! 

Fighting his nap!

Looking a bit nervous before his Dr. visit

Yeah yeah I'll nap, but first let me take a selfie!

New Foods/Solids - 

Aaron is not only eating an entire ounce more than he was last month - he is happily taking solids too! His favorites include apple and sweet potato! So far he has tried avocado, banana, rice cereal, oatmeal cereal, carrots, sweet peas, pears, apple, sweet potato, pumpkin, peaches, and prunes- all without any reactions! Daddy also handed him his first piece of bread today and he chomped/sucked away happily for 10 minutes! Seems baby led weaning may be the way to go with him! I'll keep you posted next month!

Loving his sweet peas - One step closer to removing his Mic-Key Button!

New Discoveries- 

Paper - apparently it is magical! He plays with his napkin at dinner, my grocery list at the store, the paper they pull out for him to lay on at the Dr.'s office (seriously considering buying a roll), the mail... just give him all the paper!

Accomplishments- SO many! It has been a great month! We started physical therapy this month as he lacks muscle tone due to the time he was in the hospital. Certain things are a little more challenging for him such as sitting, rolling over, and tummy time. In a matter of a week he has started to roll over, is sitting for longer periods of time, tolerates tummy time and even pushes up to his elbows. It was so disheartening to hear he would need physical therapy, but he is rocking it like the little champ he is!

-Eating solids
-No longer requires continuous feedings throughout the night and is taking everything except one meal by mouth!!!! AAAAAAAAAH! SO SO SO proud of my little boy!
-He is able to burp (children with fundoplications typically can't/shouldn't)
-Can feed himself!!!!!
-Changes the page when we read books - no joke!
- Can drink from a cup if needed, and is training on straws
- Plays Peek- a-boo

Mr. Independent 

First time drinking from a bottle!

Sitting for his physical therapist!

Wearing the sweater and hat Grandma made him!

Aaron's very first pumpkin patch!

Mommy Update -

• I mentioned that my milk supply was decreasing last month, I am happy to say that it is still going strong! Some days I have less than others but as long as I am consistent, drink a lot of water, and eat enough I am getting more than enough - I have quite the stash in the freezer just in case :)
• My hair is still falling out like crazy - help!
• Being new parents it is so easy to have our lives revolve around Aaron (and in many ways this is exactly as it should be), however we try to make time for ourselves and our relationship also. For example, if we can't go out we have date nights in. This month we had an Italian themed night after Aaron went to bed- complete with Antipasto, wine, and homemade pizza.This takes extra effort, but is so important! I feel that if we are happy and our relationship is strong, Aaron will be happy knowing his parents love each other and have an example of a healthy relationship. I want that for him. I also know that in the end Robert and I will always have eachother :) 
  
• Confesion- I call my mom EVERYDAY. On the tough days and the good days, to vent, to cry, for advice, to brag about Aaron's new skills, for everything! SO glad to have her!

Ok I'll end this now, I can ramble forever and I have a lot of homework! I am looking forward to another great month with my baby boy and family, and wish you ALL the same! Thank you all so much for reading and all of your support! I really appreciate having so many people care about Aaron, and to exchange ideas with! Love you all!

When I first started my obsession with all things beauty, MAC Cosmetics was EVERYTHING. I still remember when I purchased my very first higher end eye-shadow: All that Glitters. There is something about having a lot of makeup set out in front of me, for me to swatch and play with, that makes me all giddy inside- so I was hooked from there! I began to slowly build my collection buying an eye-shadow, or lipstick, here and there. Soon I was  researching limited edition collections, visiting Cosmetic Counter Outlets in search of past limited edition items, and depoting my eye-shadow pots to create my all time favorite neutral palette. Needless to say, this palette was/is my pride and joy. Even now that I have ventured into other makeup brands like NARS, Benefit, Tarte etc., MAC eye-shadows are still one of my favorites, and this palette remains my most reached for. If you are anything like me, curious {cough nosy cough}, I like to see what other people use, so I figured I would show you what is in my MAC Palette! 

Top recommendations:

Woodwinked - My all time favorite eye-shadow is Wood-winked. It looks amazing on everyone, to the point that I have actually stopped someone in the street to ask what was on their lids and they answered woodwinked. I love that I can just slap it on all over my lid, and look like I actually tried. I always tend to reach for this shadow for special occasions no matter what time of year it is. Do yourself a favor and pick one up!

Grain - Have you heard of the your lid but better? That is exactly what this shadow is! Whenever I have the opportunity to do bridal makeup, I always reach for this because it has a very pretty natural sheen to it, minus any glitter or shimmer that can be aging.

Soft Brown - I absolutely love this color for blending out shadows in the crease, it adds warmth and allows for a very nice transition.

All that Glitters - It is a cult favorite for a reason! This pretty shimmery champagne pink  is a must have in everyone's collection!

What are your favorite MAC shadows?

Mommy & Baby Must Haves: 0-6 Months!

Wow my little man is nearly six months old! I can't believe I have had the pleasure of being a mommy for half a year already! Or how much life has changed! I mean I suck boogers out of my little guy's nose with. my. mouth (more on that later)! I remember scouring over tons of mommy blogs, Pinterest boards, and YouTube videos, trying to figure out what kind of parent I wanted to be, what I needed to buy, etc. I made lists, and lists, and more lists, of what I NEEDED. Turns out I didn't need a butt wipe warmer, water wipes are being recalled because they have a dangerous bacteria in them, and Aaron had his own preferences - go figure! Either way I know that as moms we want what is best for our babies, and the nesting phase won't let up until we just have everything perfect. Honestly I still stay up at night researching more baby things - so I compiled a list of the stuff I ACTUALLY did use - over these last few months! I hope this helps all the mamas out there like me! 

1. Aden + Anais Classic Swaddle Blankets - I recommend these to anyone having a baby that will listen to me! They are worth all of the hype for sure. They are stretchy, thin, and breathable- perfect for swaddling baby during warmer months - These saved our lives when our AC broke, and Aaron would not sleep unless swaddled. I also use them as car seat covers, breastfeeding covers, to lay out for diaper changes, and for snuggles :)
2. Mini Arc Co-Sleeper- All of the benefits of sleeping next to your baby minus all of the hazards - enough said. 
3. Medela Symphony BreastPump or  Medela Lactina Select Breastpump- Being a NICU mom meant that I had to pump my breasts if I wanted Aaron to have breast milk exclusively, and that I was able to try both hospital grade breast pumps, and a cheaper alternative provided by my insurance (most insurances provide one of some kind - fight for a Medela!). I have been able to maintain my milk supply for 6 months despite having Aaron in the hospital for half of it, and I credit these pumps!
4. Dr. Brown's Bottles - These are the best for babies with gas and re-flux!
5. Medela Quick Clean Micro Steam Bags - These bags make sanitizing your bottles, and even small plastic toys so easy! Just throw them in the bag, add 2 oz. of water and put them in the microwave for 3 minutes! And you can take them with you everywhere!
6. Medela Tender Care Hydrogel Pads -If you are breastfeeding, YOU NEED THESE IN YOUR LIFE! Trust me!
7. Boppy Pillow- A registry must have and my go to babyshower gift! I used this for breastfeeding in the early months, and still use it now for tummy time, supported sitting, and to hold Aaron elevated to keep acid re-flux from getting him. 
8. Philips Avent BPA Free Soothie Pacifier- Aaron won't go anywhere without his binky, he has loved it since day 1, and I feel good knowing it is BPA free, and doesn't accumulate moldy water in the back like other cute pacifiers do.
9. NoseFrida Nasal Aspirator- This is by far my favorite thing on this list. Aaron can not afford to have any boogers in his nose, and this lets me control the suction to make sure I get all of his boogies out. It has a filter guys- don't worry!
10. Slimming/girdle style underwear - Yes there is underwear on this list. That is because one does not walk out of the hospital with a baby in hand and a flat stomach. I believe I was asked when I was due three days after Aaron was born! Many people recommend the belly bandit, but I found it bulky, uncomfortable, and obvious. A tight fitting, high waisted/girdle style under wear sucked everything in, helped my mommy tummy go down (got a smaller size every week to keep tightening) AND I felt good about myself!

1. Timi and Leslie Diaper Bag- I love that these diaper bags don't look like diaper bags! They are huge, have different compartments to put diapers, bottles, changing pads etc., and stylish!I get tons of compliments on this bag!
2. Humidifier- These are a must for the colder months, and when baby is sick and congested. We had ours on every night when Aaron was having a lot of breathing issues, and will turn it back on when it gets colder again. It also helped with my allergies so it is a win-win!
3. Moby Wrap - I am a huge believer in baby wearing! Babies love feeling close and protected by mom, and mom gets to bond with baby while having hands free to do other things. I almost always wear Aaron when we are out and about because I find it way easier than lugging the stroller around, and I get to play with his feet and kiss his little head while grocery shopping or walking around the mall! 
4. Infantino Twist and Fold Activity Gym Play Mat
5. Coconut Oil- It is all the rage and has been for a couple of years, and there are even more reasons to love it! This 6 dollar bottle of coconut oil prevented stretchmarks from my huge preggo belly, cured Aaron's cradle cap overnight (just apply at night and brush head in morning before washing it out), is great on any dry spots or irritation on his body, removes my makeup, and conditions my hair! Do yourself a favor and get yourself a bottle- they last forever!You can also make a natural vapor rub with it that is baby safe- recipe coming soon!
6. Jumperoo - A dear friend gave us one of these, and it is Aaron's current favorite hangout! He will listen to the Grease soundtrack, or preschool songs and jump away for nearly an hour! I love it because 1) It allows me to get stuff done and 2) Has strengthened Aaron's leg muscles a ton! This is something we were worried about because he spent so much time in the hospital, but after a few days of use I saw great improvement! :)
7. Baby Bullet - It is a lot more work to make your own baby food, but it is actually pretty easy! And there is nothing more rewarding to me than seeing him munch happily on nutritious, preservative free, organic food that I made!
8. Plum Organics Baby Food - When I don't have access to a particular food that I want Aaron to try, or need something fast and travel friendly to take with us to his swallow and eating therapy, I just use one of these organic, single ingredient packets. Aaron loves their sweet peas!
9. Diaper Genie- Speaking of solids..... I could have gone without the Diaper Genie the first few months, but let's be honest solids poop stinks! This diaper pail really does take care of the smell, and I like that there is a designated trashcan for his diapers.
10. Sophie the Giraffe - There is a reason that Sophie is on every modern mama's registry list... it isn't just because she is cute- babies love them! Aaron didn't show much interest in her until he started teething, but now she is his favorite toy. He really likes munching on her ears, and hearing her squeak!  
11. Dribble Bibs - Now that Aaron is teething, he is also drooling. A LOT. I love how cute and stylish dribble bibs look on little boys! I got mine at H&M, but I have seen a large selection on Etsy, and plan to make a few of my own!
12. Baby Toothbrush- I don't have a specific toothbrush for babies that I like, any soft silicone brush will do. I just want to make sure I start taking care of Aaron's teeth early! My mom always did, and to this day I have never had a cavity. I hope to do the same for Aaron - thanks mom!
13. Zoli Bot Cup and the Playtex Training Time Straw Cup -  Speech therapists and dentists alike do not recommend the use of sippy cups, as they can lead to speech delays, lisps, tooth decay, and the need for braces. Both of these cups train babies to go from bottle drinking to straw drinking, are BPA free, and dishwasher safe!Aaron is already getting the hang of it, and I can see how proud he is of himself!
14. Origins GinZing Refreshing Eye Cream - If you follow my blog or Instagram you have heard me talk about this eye cream. I typically don't even like eye creams, and think they are a waste of money.  I just repurchased this one, and that says a lot. The entire time we were in the hospital this helped me look a little more alive, and I am still using it everyday! Highly recommend this for new moms!

I forgot to add this cuddley blanket! Aaron loves it!

I hope this loooong list helps you out! And PLEASE leave any of your MUST Haves as a comment, I am interested in what everyone else is using! Thank you for reading :)

Drugstore Dupes

So... I have a confession to make... I am a bit of a dupe snob. I rarely can truly say that a drugstore product is an exact dupe for a high-end one. If they were than there wouldn't be much of a luxury beauty item market! Although the color may be spot on, quality is usually compromised. That's not to say I don't use drugstore products. I LOVE Revlon, Covergirl, L'oreal, Wet n Wild, and NYX, and a good majority of my collection is from the drugstore. BUT I am just really picky about calling a product a dupe, they have to be nearly identical - if not better! That is why I get really excited when I do find products that I can call dupes! I mean, come on let's be honest, who doesn't like to save money?? Below are three of my favorite (holy grail) products that happen to be dupes!
                             

I purchased the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge (left/orange) one day after hearing one of my favorite YouTubers Michele1218 rave about it, and call it a dupe for the Beauty Blender. At the time there was no way I was going to spend $20 on a sponge - I mean it's a sponge. But I was curious to try the much cheaper alternative, so I ordered it and was BLOWN AWAY. It applies make- up flawlessly, sheers out heavy concealer, and makes everything look natural and seamless. It became the only way I apply foundation and concealer. I ended up losing it one day and figured I would shell out the cash for the Beauty Blender. I was so excited to try the "real deal". Sadly I was disappointed. The Real Techniques sponge is softer, and the flat side allows for better application of foundation, meanwhile the Beauty Blender requires a lot of soaking and wringing out of water before it reaches its full size, and gives me a less natural look. The Real Techniques is not only a dupe, it takes the cake!

Both the NARS Sheer Glow Foundation and the Neutrogena Healthy Skin Liquid Makeup are great day to day foundations that give sheer to medium coverage, and leave the skin looking dewy, healthy and glowing - right up my alley! Although the NARS is a bit thicker with higher coverage, I am able to achieve the same look with both and get tons of compliments whenever I wear either of them! Another difference between the two is that the Neutrogena foundation contains SPF 20 and the NARS foundation doesn't. The lack of SPF in the NARS foundation can be good for events where a lot of flash photogaphy will be taken, but since I don't particularly frequent any such events... I prefer to protect my skin on a day to day basis - and save money honey!

I won't ramble on and on here,  I will just say that the Mary Kay Shy Blush is the exact same color as the peachy-pink, gold accented, cult favorite NARS Orgasm blush, AND it has high staying power at one third of the price ...it does have a somewhat more modest name, whether that is a pro or con is up to you ;) 

I wanted to throw in this last drugstore highlighter because I have not been able to find a high-end dupe for it! The ELF Golden Bronzer is an amazing multiple use product! It is a very subtle and natural highlight on the cheekbones, a perfect bronze eye shadow quad, the lightest shade serves as a great inner eye corner brightener, and sometimes I just swirl a fluffy blending brush in it and slap it on all over my eyelids for a glowy, wide awake effect! At just three dollars a pop - you can't go wrong!

I am curious... what are your drugstore dupes/ favorites? Thank you for reading, and don't forget to follow my blog! 

XOXO,

                   

  

Baby Fall Fashion Haul: H & M and Freshly Picked

My favorite season of the year is Fall - not that we get a real fall season here in California or anything. Either way, every year I buy a new fall wardrobe and wait for any little dip in temperature to throw on a my new flannel, scarf, cute warm socks, boots, and cardigan on. Then I take my happy little self to buy a pumpkin spice latte, and hit Bath & Bodyworks to stock up on too many Leaves scented candles - you get it I LOVE fall. Apparently this year Aaron will be partaking in my "fall traditions" since he has been eating tons of pumpkin puree and ... I went a little crazy at H&M Kids late one night after finishing a 10 page paper on how not to spoil your kids... oh the irony! I couldn't help myself, they have the exact style I picture Aaron wearing, high quality clothes - and all at pretty affordable prices! The way I went about choosing his fall wardrobe was to pick out a few trendy items (Graphic Tees, trendy fall shoes), fall essentials (beanies, skinny jeans, sweatshirts) and a bunch of basic long-sleeved onesies. It was so much fun putting outfits together for him, so I thought I would share! Enjoy :)

Freshly Picked Moccasins in Walnut

I didn't pick these up at H&M, but I did purchase these cute baby moccasins as part of Aaron's fall
wardrobe, so I decided to include them. I fell in love with these as soon as I laid eyes on them. If they came in adult sizes, I'm sure I would own a pair this color. They are also buttery soft, and smell amazing ... I can't wait to see his chuncky little legs in these super comfortable and cute shoes!

Outfit # 1

Outfit # 2

Outfit # 3

Outfit # 4

Outfit # 5

Outfit # 6

Outfit # 7

*By the way they are having a huge mid-season sale offering 60% off! The site doesn't say when the sale ends, so I wanted to get this post up as soon as I finished my final paper for my ABA class. Now I'm off to finally wash all of the clothes and put it away!