May Post Recap

I can not believe that today marks the LAST day of May! Ronin will be here in 5 days! This week has been bittersweet. I have been so excited that it marks my last week of pregnancy (I am so over it) but super emotional and a little sad that Max is no longer going to be my baby. I have spent most of the week just sitting and playing with Max, soaking up each and every moment with just us two. These next few days posting will be a little scattered since all I want to do is NOTHING...well other than fold clothes and clean every little thing I can.

Here is a recap of a few of my favorite posts from May.

#1) My post delivery essentials. I am officially all packed and ready to go. All of the above items are in my suitcase.

#2) How to make your own nail polish in any color. This is such a fun way to make that shade you want but cant seem to find anywhere.

#3) Flourless zucchini brownies. I am a little embarrassed to admit that I have made these about 4 times since posting the recipe ;)

#4) DIY half circle polymer clay necklace. The great part about this diy is it only costs about $2 to make it yourself.

#5) The benefits of dry skin brushing. Have you ever tried this? It is amazing how wonderful and refreshed it makes your skin feel.

Pregnancy Style by Andrea Howe

Today I have one of the cutest Momma's around taking over my blog and I could not be more excited about it!

Hi Delighted Momma readers, I'm Andrea from For the Love Of, and I'm so happy to be here guest posting for Lindsay so that she can get some nesting done before baby Ronin arrives. Thank you Lindsay for having me today!

Today I wanted to share a few pregnancy styling tips that have been crucial for me this time around. Since it's my 3rd and final pregnancy, I really wanted to enjoy it and even treat myself a bit, which means not sacrificing style for comfort, but figuring out how to combine both. I'm passionate about style, after all I made it my career for over 13 years, and think that at no other time does the saying "look good, feel good", ring more true as it does when you're pregnant. Here are my top 5 tips for maintaining your personal style, even during pregnancy.

Elastic Waists - I hate maternity jeans and pants. There, I said it. I think they're all uncomfortable, whether you buy the Target pair or the designer pair. The waistbands are either too short so you're constantly pulling your pants up, or they're too high and you have to stretch that ridiculously huge belly panel over your belly, which is just sort of a humiliating feeling. Since they are a necessary evil, I only wear 1 or 2 pair when I absolutely have to wear pants, and then opt in for non maternity pants, shorts and skirts that have an elastic waist. They ride and sit low, under the belly, but I just make sure to wear tops that are long enough to cover the bump and I'm good to go.


(elastic waist shorts from Target with Gap Maternity tank top)

Empire Waist Dresses - For the most part my upper body doesn't change in size much when I'm pregnant; it's the bottom half that experiences the most change. Because of this, I'm usually able to continue to fit into non-maternity dresses and tops that have an empire waist. The empire waist sits right above the belly and allows for ample room. Best part is I can stretch my wardrobe since I can continue to wear items like this in my closet, and I can buy a cute non maternity dress when I'm pregnant, knowing I'll continue to get use out of it after the baby is born.


(this dress was a recent purchase from Forever 21; it's flowy silhouette fits perfectly over my bump)

Layering Pieces - Whenever I'm feeling a bit frumpy I've noticed that adding a layering piece, such as a blazer or sweater from my existing closet, makes me feel pulled together and also ties me back into my old body and the body I'll hopefully go back to. It reminds me that my body will only be this way for a short time and that I can still enjoy pieces from my old body just the same. If anything this trick is more of a morale booster and helps me treasure this time in my life that much more.

(this mint cotton blazer from Zara has been my favorite purchase during this pregnancy and I've worn it more times than I can count, and will continue to wear it after the baby is born)

Accessories - When in doubt, just add an accessory or two to help get you out of a pregnancy styling slump. I always keep it simple by adding a statement necklace or a bunch of bracelets, since after all I've still got young children to care for. But nothing adds instant style to an outfit than a sweet pair of earrings or a perfect necklace.

(this bright jade statement necklace was a recent DIY, set against an ASOS maternity dress, it's hard not to feel good wearing so many cheerful colors!)

Know Your Resources - The last time I was pregnant 5 years ago maternity ware looked a lot different. Places like Pea In the Pod, Baby Style and Japanese Weekend were about the only places you could hope to find anything remotely stylish, but everything was a fortune! Now though, there are so many other options for maternity style including online resources like TopShop and ASOS. Prices are way affordable and the styles are current and pretty. I love having many different options to find cute and affordable maternity clothes, so do a little research and don't feel like you have to settle with the boring standard maternity shops.

I hope you've found these tips useful and true, and please share any other tips you may have! I always love to hear what other women find useful in helping them feel good. Thanks again for having me!

Crispy Green Bean Fries

With only a few days left of being pregnant, I figured it's probably best that I do not give in to the greasy french fry (steak french fries if I am going to be specific) craving that I have been having recently. I feel like a fat kid trapped inside of a body that is not mine right now and I am so ready to get back to the gym and get my workout on...all in good time of course.

I tested out this recipe yesterday as a "Pre Memorial Day BBQ snack," and these babies totally hit the spot! Plus the prep time took less than 5 minutes, which is always a plus in my book.

What you will need:

• Fresh green beans (not frozen) I used about 3 cups.
  
• Olive oil (enough to thoroughly coat the green beans)
  
• Salt, pepper and garlic salt to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
   
2. In a large bowl, combine the green beans with the olive oil, salt, pepper and garlic salt.
   
3. Place green beans on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning once while baking. Take them out when they are nice and crispy. The browner and more caramelized they are the better!
   

If you are having a craving (pregnant or not) for a starchy little snack, but want to have a healthier option...these will do the trick!

Things That Make Me Say Yeay

My son sneaking a random piece of cake at my niece's birthday (after he already had a giant slice 10 minutes prior). He cracks me up, love my little guy so much.

Discovering that my Mom saved my wooden blocks from when I was little and using a few of them for Ronin's nursery. Nursery is still a small work in progress but I decided I am not going to stress about it and just add little pieces as I find them.

The first heirloom tomato of the season. Ahhh I am so looking forward to fresh homemade salsa this summer...with a Corona :)

Getting my hospital bag all packed and ready to go! I think the hardest part of packing was deciding on which outfit Ronin will come home in.

Hope you have a wonderful weekend. I am nesting like crazy and all I can think about doing this weekend is cleaning and getting every last detail ready for this new little baby...exciting stuff over here I know.

Dairy Free Chocolate Avocado Pudding

Although I have not gone full Paleo just yet, I am having so much fun experimenting with different recipes. After making Paleo flourless zucchini brownies a few weeks ago I knew this super clean way of baking and making desserts was right up my alley. I stumbled upon a delicious sounding Paleo pudding recipe here and after making a few carb and diabetic friendly modifications I am here to say that this is beyond delicious and lasted a whole 20 minutes before Max and I fully devoured the whole batch...woopsie.

What you will need:

• 2 ripe avocados
• 2 tbs of raw honey
• 1/3 cup of organic cocoa powder
• 2 tbs of softened coconut oil
• 1 tsp of organic vanilla extract

*I made a slightly different version for my husband later that day (he was so bummed when I sent him a picture and then 20 minutes later told him there was none left ha) that had 1 avocado and 1 banana and it was just as good! You could also use only banana if you are not a huge fan of avocado.

Directions:
Add all of the ingredients to a blender or food processor and puree until you have a nice smooth consistency. Place pudding into the fridge and let it get nice and cold for an hour or so. Enjoy!

This did not disappoint! The avocado and the chocolate completely compliment each other and it is rich, creamy and smooth...everything a good pudding should be.

37 weeks + Elf bag review

Hello to 37 weeks pregnant! I can hardly believe that my baby will be in my arms in just two weeks from now. I actually had the checker at the grocery store tell me over the weekend that I have really "blown up!" Haha! She is the nicest lady so I know she meant it in a sweet way but I guess there is no denying that I really am about to pop.

I was recently sent this beautiful handmade bag from Elf. I was SO excited when I received it in the mail and could not wait to do this review. The moment I opened the package I could tell that it was impeccably made. It is made of quality leather (you can choose from a variety of colors) and the inside is completely lined with hand printed batik and suede. I also love the gorgeous braided detail on the front. This is such a great bag! It is super practical for everyday use due to the nice size...a major plus for this Momma.

Elf not only carries purses and clutches, they also carry the most beautiful handmade leather shoes. How adorable are these?

In my opinion, every woman needs a quality bag so if you are on the market for something unique and truly one of a kind...Elf is the place to shop!

Skin Care Tip of the Week *DIY sweet orange facial exfoliant*

When I was working full time as an esthetician my main focus and specialty was corrective treatments. Most of my clients were coming to me because they were experiencing issues with acne, rosacea and pigmentation problems. I did not put a ton of focus on "fluffy" treatments and facials. This skincare series has really let me be creative and exercise that relaxing and rejuvenating side of skin esthetics a little more...which is so much fun!

This week I am sharing a DIY facial exfoliant that not only smells delicious but makes your skin silky smooth. This exfoliant uses dried orange peel, which is energizing and helps revitalize tired dull skin and fine yellow cornmeal, which is a really gentle and can be used on all skin types.


What you will need:

• Orange peel. I buy mine at my local bulk health food store. If you have a local heath food store that carries products in bulk, check there first. You can also order it here.
  
• Fine yellow cornmeal

Directions:

1. Mix equal parts orange peel and yellow corn meal into an airtight container.
   
2. When you are ready to use your exfoliant, take out about a teaspoon.
3. Mix it with your favorite facial cleaner and a little water a gently scrub your face using a circular motion and avoiding the eye area.
   
4. Remove with warm water.
   

I made a little batch of this for my own personal use and keep it on my bathroom counter. I use it a few times a week and I just love the way my skin feels after. This is gentle enough where you could use it daily if you like.

If you are interested in other natural facial exfoliants, I also recommend checking out this one.

Things That Make Me Say Yeay

The most comfortable cotton t-shirt that I recently purchased for post baby. I think I want to buy it in every color. You can find it here.

The cutest little tweezers...that I really did not need but purchased anyway.

Colloidal silver soap. This stuff has completely cleared up any pregnancy induced body acne and congestion that I was experiencing. I love love it.

My new pump! My old one just decided to STOP WORKING last week (so scary). My new one was air mailed to me via critical UPS and I am so thankful for that. Doing insulin shots all day like I had to do when I was pump-less last week really sucked.

Low carb almond butter cookies...Mmm!

Have a wonderful weekend! We are relaxing, sleeping in (if Max allows) and just going to enjoy being a family of 3, which is all going to change soon!

DIY Half Circle Polymer Clay Necklace

I was recently browsing around on Etsy and I spotted this beautiful necklace. I was instantly inspired and since it was made out of polymer clay I knew I wanted to recreate it myself. Here is how I did it...

What you will need:

• 2 polymer clay colors
• Waxed cotton cord
• A metal bead making tool. You can find this at Michaels or Hobby Lobby.
• Razor (not pictured)

Start by conditioning your clay. Roll out two skinny tubes and attach them at the middle by rolling them together until they "fuse."

Poke your clay bead in the center and begin squishing your bead onto the metal tool. Don't worry if it looks all limpy and weird, it will all come together in the next step.

After you get the clay all the way onto your bead making tool, use the palm of your hand to roll out any imperfections and to make it smooth. Wiggle the metal tool around until you have a nice size hole. Carefully remove the clay bead and shape it into a half circle shape. Bake your bead according to clay directions. Once the bead is done, use the razor to slice off a tiny bit of each end to make it look clean. You will want to do this before your bead completely cools.

Such an easy and simple statement piece! I had so much fun making this that I think I will make a few more with bright and bold colors next.

36 weeks--Almost There!

Yep this is the only non blurry/halfway decent picture that I have from Mother's Day (other than an iPhone one my husband took). I am not surprised though. This is usually how it goes with our family. Have you seen these pictures? Unless we hire a professional photographer it is almost impossible to get a picture where we are all looking at the camera at the same time. This makes me smile though. My son was in true form...trying to escape and play with the balls on the grass a few feet away. I love this little guy more than I can even explain and I feel beyond blessed to be his Momma and call him my son.

I am now 36 weeks pregnant! I feel like a mini elephant and I can not wait to NOT be pregnant anymore. The countdown has really begun. I only have 3 weeks left.

A few things on my pregnant mind:

• I have already hit the 35 pound weight gain. I would love to not gain anymore. Thank you.
• Girls...never ever get your belly button pierced if you plan on getting pregnant. If you did get it pierced, take it out the moment you even think about getting pregnant. I will get all stretched out and weird. This is coming from personal experience.
  
• Same goes for tattoos. I have one on the lower half of my belly (a dragonfly, so cool I know) and if it was any higher it would be a giant deformed bat by now. Thankfully it is still a small little dragonfly.
• I am so ready to start tacking this lovely pregnancy induced melasma that has occurred over the past couple of months.
• Why does my nose get all stuffed up the moment I lay down? Is this a weird pregnancy symptom? It's annoying.
  
• I can not wait to have a glass of wine and go on a sushi date with my husband.
  
• Will Ronin look like Max or look completely different, like me and my sister do?
• I am SO excited to meet and hold my son in just a few short weeks!

Being Prepared + My Post Delivery Essentials

When I went to the hospital to deliver Max, lets just say that I was less than prepared. For starters I was thinking that I would have a normal birth experience, whatever that means. I thought everything would be all roses and I would look great and be all smiley post delivery. Not the case. I was induced (due to being type 1 diabetic) at 39 weeks. I was in labor for 48 hours and then ended up having an unplanned c-section. I was SO swollen from all the fluid they pumped into me, my face looked like it was going to explode. I had a horrible reaction to all the drugs and even hallucinated from the Nubain (pain relief medication) at one point and saw Simba from the Lion King in the big lights above me. I was so shocked that no one else could see him! I ended up spending most of the first moments with my son hovering over a bed pan.

I also did not realize you still look 6 months pregnant after you deliver (I actually did know this but thought I would magically be different). I brought pajamas that were uncomfortable, underwear that was too small and totally forgot a nursing bra! I was a hot mess. This pregnancy I am fully aware that I will be having a c-section and I am going to be so prepared it's not even funny. No need for family members to run off to Target to buy me "big girl high waisted underwear" this time around. Yes that really happened.

1. Facial Towelettes- these are a must! They cleanse your skin, remove makeup and moisturize all in one. Last time I packed my entire beauty routine into my over night bag and I used none of it (duh). This time I want to keep it simple.

2. Rosebud Salve- my go to lip balm to keep my lips nice and soft for all the kisses I will be giving baby Ronin.

3. Slippers- another thing I forgot with my first delivery. You NEED slippers. Especially when you want to walk to the bathroom or walk up and down the halls. Walking around in your socks is just yucky...trust me.

4. Nursing Bra- whoever invented this genius little design is a godsend.

5. Camera- this is one thing I never forget to bring. My friends actually laugh at me because I always have it no matter what. I just need to make sure it is fully charged and has the memory card in it.

6. Boppy- every new Mom needs one of these! It makes breastfeeding so much easier and is so much more comfortable than the air filled pillows that they have at the hospital.

7. Altoids- just in case I end up getting sick again from the medication these will be quite handy. Puke-y breath is no fun.

8. Comfortable underwear and Pajamas- I made the mistake of bringing low cut briefs last time, which is not okay with a c-section. High waisted granny panties are seriously the best for post delivery. No need to get all fancy here.

Did I forget anything?! If you have any other Mom after delivery essentials I would love to hear!

How To Make Your Own Nail Polish In Any Color

Pregnancy insomnia can be a little bit of a blessing (depending on how you look at it). Sometimes when I can't sleep I randomly get these ideas that just pop into my head. I quickly jot them down into my phone and revisit them when I am coherent in the morning. I would say only 30-40 % of them actually turn out like I imagined. Take this little project for example. I tested it out over the weekend to see if it would even work...and it worked! I did a little pregnant happy dance. The exciting part of this is you can make ANY shade you want! The color combinations are seriously endless.

What you will need:

• Clear nail polish.
  
• Cheap eyeshadow. You could also use expired eyeshadow that may just be taking up space in your makeup drawer.
  
• Toothpick
• A funnel. I made mine by wrapping a note card into a cone shape and then taping it on the back.
  

Take out the eyeshadow you want to use. I used a butter knife to scrape it out of the container. I combined the first two colors of the eyeshadow palette above. Crush it up so it is in a powder form.

Empty a small amount of clear nail polish out so you have room for the eyeshadow powder. Place your funnel into the top. Add the color into the bottle.

Use the toothpick to mix up the color into the bottle. Put the cap on and give it a good shake until it is evenly distributed.

You now have you own custom shade of nail polish! I always wanted to name a nail polish so I think I will call this one Emerald Sea-ty ;) I asked my husband if he "gets it?" and he said I'm dork. What do men know about naming nail polish colors anyway?