Monday, May 8, 2017

Baby Wish List - First Purchases


Well hello there friends. It's been a while! Yes, I am still pregnant, and yes I am still on bedrest. You'd think with all of this extra time i've had, id be able to do more blog posts. Well, I guess that is not the case for me. I mean, when you're lounging around in sweats and no makeup all day, it doesn't exactly give you much motivation to write about fashion. So, i've decided since my mind is on all things baby lately, ill share with you some of my must have baby items. These are the items I have decided to get first, because they are the most expensive or just a must have in my opinion. Maybe any of you expecting moms out there will appreciate this as much as I would.

 It has now been almost 5 years since I've purchased any baby items, and wow have things changed! Everything is so techy and all organic. It makes buying things for the baby so much more fun, but also a little more stressful. I've asked all my close friends what their favorites are, and have read at least 500 reviews, and these seem to be my favorites so far. I'll go through and list why, and give recommendations of other options as well.

1. Strollers - For me a stroller was first on my list. Strollers seem to be one of the most expensive items you'll purchase for the baby, so I decided to get that out of the way first. For me already having two kids, and one on the way- I need a double stroller. I've owned the Baby Jogger City Select for about 4 years now, and still love it. Its an amazing single stroller, and also converts to a double. I love how versatile it is, and that you can face the kids so many different ways. Plus, it rides like a dream and has tons of storage space. The downside? I absolutely hate how big it folds down. The good news is that there is now a brand new version: The City Select Lux. It folds down 30% smaller, has a new sleek design and better fabric, and a new breaking system. I've also done a lot of research on the Silver Cross Wave double stroller. The reviews are similar to the City Select double, so if you're looking for another option; you might want to try this.

If you're looking for a single stroller, I've had my eye on this Stokke Xplory stroller for a while now. Not only is the design classy and sleek, but the reviews are pretty amazing too. It has multiple parent and forward facing seat positions, plus raises your baby higher for increased eye contact and connection. 

2. Diaper Bag - For me choosing a diaper bag was a no brainer. Time and time again i've heard that Fawn Design is the best of the best. Its virtually child proof, doesn't stain, has tons of compartment space, and the design is pretty darn cute. I just got mine in the mail last week, and already can't wait to use it!

3. Swaddles - Im all about organic muslin swaddles, and there are so many options available these days. I thought this print was too cute, and have heard great things about this brand. They are supposedly much softer that aden and anais swaddles.

4. Bassinet - Okay, i've done a lot of research on this, and I have two options I'd like to share. First is the Halo Bassinest swivel sleeper. This option is less pricey, and is super functional. I love that it has a 360-degree swivel and adjustable height, making it perfect for middle of the night feedings etc. Second is the Happiest Baby Snoo Sleeper. You guys, it sounds AMAZING!!! Only problem is that its a pretty penny. Depends how much you appreciate a good nights sleep, so for me it is well worth the price tag.  Listen up because this bad boy sounds too good to be true, and the reviews are pretty outstanding. When your baby starts to fuss, it softly sways your baby back to sleep and plays white noise. It also has a built in protective swaddle to keep your baby safe. It also has dual mesh walls for comfort and breathability. I mean, where was this when my boys were babies?

5. Baby Swings - There are a lot of great options out there, but I've heard way too many good things about the 4moms momaroo to ignore it. I actually bought one for my sister in law who just had her first baby, and she said her baby boy absolutely loves it. Instead of just swinging your baby back and forth, it mimics the way a mother would rock and cradle her baby- and I'm all about that!

6. Baby Monitors - When it comes to baby monitors, I wanted something that would not only allow me to keep an eye on my baby while he or she slept, but would also alert me if my baby stopped breathing. As a mom of two NICU babies- this is huge for me. The Angel Care Monitor is the perfect option for both.

7. Docking Station - I knew id want the DockATot even before we found out we were pregnant. Its perfect if you want to co-sleep some nights, but worry about the safety of your baby. The raised bumper is breathable and hypoallergenic, and the design makes it extra versatile. It's perfect for lounge, play, rest, tummy, or cuddle time; and is super lightweight for easy travel.

8. Baby Seat - Sometimes I like to have something I can easily take with me anywhere, and let the baby sleep comfortably next to me.  I normally use a baby bouncer for this, but I don't necessarily love having to bounce the baby with my foot while trying to multi task doing something else. This Nuna Leaf Curv seems like a great option that seems to do the work for you. With just once gentle push, it maintains motion for a good two minutes. Pretty cool if you ask me!

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Monday, April 17, 2017

Pink Lace Dress with Rachel Parcell Spring Collection


Rachel Parcell Clothing

Oh April, how I love this month. The beautiful blooming trees, sunshine, and the ever so waited anticipation of Summer. These past few days have been absolutely gorgeous here in NJ. Just yesterday I was looking out the window and pulled my husband over, every tree in our neighborhood is in full bloom, and looking out our living room window you could see the pinks, whites, yellows, blues, and purples. It is simply magical, and something I hope to never take for granted. 



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Sunday, April 16, 2017

Prince of Peace


Happy Easter everyone! Let me tell you, this post has been a long time coming. What I originally wanted to do for this post was share some family photos and explain what Easter Sunday means to our family. I wanted to share with you one of the 8 principles of peace, and how one in particular seemed to be more relevant in my life, as it is something I have to continually strive for every single day. After whats been going on the past week or so, it just didn't feel right sharing what I had originally planned and the story I had to go along with it.

As some of you know, this week we had some pretty bad scares and some bad news about my pregnancy. It's been a rough week for our family; so many tears and so much fear of the unknown. This trial has brought us to our knees, and ultimately tested our faith. Since we received the bad news, I've been really down in the dumps. Thats not like me, I'm more of a glass half full type of girl. This particular trial however, is something I have now experienced three times. As some of you know, I had both of my boys at 27 weeks gestation. It is something i've had to accept and try to move past, as my body just can't seem to keep babies past this week. After Beckham was born, we swore up and down he was our last. His birth and NICU stay was very traumatic, and it's not something I share too often because it was a very heart breaking time in our life. Even so, as the years past we kept feeling like we were meant to have one more. It started the day we attended the temple for my sister in laws wedding, and we both tried to ignore it; saying there was no way we could handle that again. Another year past, and it started happening more frequently. After a good four years, we both knew it was time. As scary as that was, we couldn't ignore the fact that we both strongly felt there was a little spirit who was anxiously waiting to meet our family.

The day we found out we were pregnant was surreal (and scary), but we both had such high hopes. We started talking to specialists even before I became pregnant, and had done everything we possibly could to ensure that this little one would make it to full term. Countless doctor appointments, preventative medicines, bed rest, etc. After some pretty scary complications this past week, and some really bad news about the babies brain; it feels as though i'm experiencing the horror all over again. I've had to rely on Faith, that sometimes things are just not in my control; and I need to trust that our Heavenly Father will take care of us and especially the precious angel I am so grateful to be carrying. 

Faith-

This is something I have to work on every single day, it is something I have to continually rely on and know that sometimes after all is said and done, I need to trust that my Heavenly Father loves me and wants whats best for me. Sometimes I just have to rely on him and ask him to lift my burden and take on the weight of something that is impossibly hard for me to handle. I honestly hate the saying, "God will never give you a trial that is too hard to handle." I don't believe that in the slightest. I do believe however, that we WILL have trials that are too hard to handle, but he promises to help lift our burden and help us through if we let him. If we have faith in him. These trials are meant to mold and shape us into who he wants and needs us to be. To bring us closer to him, to make us better people, to serve others, to be more compassionate and understanding, and to be a beacon of hope to others who later might go through this same trial.


 Now here I am, on Easter Sunday (my favorite Sunday of the entire year); on bedrest while my husband and boys are at church without me.  It's been a rough few months full of ups and downs, but somehow I feel nothing but love.  Love for this little one growing inside me, love for my husband for being a super human and taking on all of my regular mom duties along with his own, and for my two sweet boys who bring me so much joy and happiness. More than I ever thought imaginable. With all of the unknowns in life, I know one thing for sure. God knows our name, he knows our hearts, and he will always be there to lift us up if we let him. I have faith that no matter what the outcome of our current circumstance, everything will be okay. Why? Because Heavenly Father will help us through it.

I know without a doubt, with every fiber of my being, that Christ lives. I know that God sent his only son to die for us. I know that because he suffered for us, he knows exactly what we are going through. He knows every pain, every sorrow, he knows our hearts and he knows our names. I have faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and I love him. In this world full of doubt, let this Sunday be a reminder to us all that we are loved and cared for. “In our hour of deepest sorrow, we can receive profound peace from the words of the angel that first Easter morning: ‘He is not here: for he is risen."President Thomas S. Monson

Do you, or do you know someone who exemplifies one of the 8 principles of peace? Id love to hear your stories, and encourage you to share them on social media using the hashtag #PrinceOfPeace. Visit mormon.org to learn more.




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Friday, April 14, 2017

A Casual Spring look with Banana Republic

best spring outfits
If you follow me on Instagram, you might have read about my eventful week. To say it's been a bit chaotic one would be the understatement of the century. Now that I am at home, finally able to keep food down, and on bedrest; I figured it would be a good time to get caught up on blogging. I'll try to update you all on what exactly is going on, so stay tuned. :) 

On another note...



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Saturday, April 8, 2017

Floral Bell Sleeve Blouse RESTOCK ALERT


I just wanted to stop in quick and let you all know that my absolute favorite bell sleeve spring floral blouse is finally back in stock! You guys, it is seriously too cute! Not only is it the most darling floral print, but its also bell sleeved with a scalloped hem. I mean, it doesn't get much cuter than that! Am I right? Plus, these nude perforated wedges are actually pretty comfy and are the perfect spring/summer shoe. 


I've also linked some of my favorite floral print tops below. Can you tell i'm obsessed with florals? Yay for spring and lots of sunshine! Hope you all are enjoying your weekend. 

XOXO



Shop some of my other floral favorites below! :)

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Wednesday, April 5, 2017

Lord & Taylor Friends and Family Sale

studded sandals
Thank you Lord and Taylor for allowing me to choose this adorable outfit, and for sponsoring todays post. As always, all opinions are my own.

Happy Wednesday, friends! Today is one of my favorite sales of the year, the Lord & Taylor Friends and Family sale!! Now is the time to grab some of your favorites for spring and summer for a great deal! This bell sleeve top for instance, is a wardrobe staple. It can be worn dressed up or down, and the sleeves give it that little extra flare. The best part? It's currently on sale for under $30 with code FRIENDS at checkout! I paired it with these perfect distressed denim with un-hemmed ankle, these adorable studded sandals, and a pink bag for a pop of color. Almost everything I'm wearing is apart of the sale, and you won't believe the prices! See HERE for exclusions.


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All about the Ruffles...

ruffle blouse

I've featured this Chicwish ruffle top a couple times now on my instagram, and am still just as much in love with it. Lately i've been all about the ruffles- I love how feminine they are, and how they can make even the simplest clothing look chic and beautiful. This blouse is no exception. I mean, lets just talk about the delicate color and glorious sleeves. This beauty also comes in white, and is on sale for under $50 in both colors. 




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Friday, March 31, 2017

My Haircare Routine with Dove

best haircare products


In collaboration with Dove Hair.

As some of you might know, I've ditched my extension and am going o'natural for a while. I have to admit, it’s been a rough transition. I miss my long luscious locks, and trying to get my hair healthy and thick again has been harder than one might think. I'm trying to wash my hair less to get the natural oils going stronger on my scalp. With that, comes lots of product to extend my time in between washes. I was noticing my scalp becoming dry and itchy from product build up, but didn't want to spend even more money on expensive shampoos and conditioners. So, discovering Dove Hair DermaCare Scalp Series came right at the right time. You all know how much I love Dove products, so I was excited to try this.

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Tuesday, March 28, 2017

Floral Tunic

Tis the season of florals! Lately i've been so picky about the tops I've been purchasing, because half the time they are belly shirts trying to fit over my growing belly. That is why this floral tunic is like heaven to me. Flowy, soft, comfortable; with plenty of room for me to grow as the weeks progress. I paired it with some skinny denim, and the cutest neutral lace up espadrille wedges (similar style). This top is not maternity, but I would definitely suggest it for any of you expecting mamas out there. 



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Sunday, March 26, 2017

Floral Maxi Dress

floral maxi dress
I dare say there is nothing I love to wear more, than a beautiful floral dress in the spring. This season always brings such happiness to my family. After a long winter, finally seeing the trees bud with beautiful blooms, and the sun shining more brightly. My boys have loved finally being able to play outside again, and I love it too. Heaven knows mama needs some vitamin D every once in a while. 



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Friday, March 24, 2017

Bell Sleeve Stripe Blouse with Chicwish

Bell sleeve blouse
Yay! It's finally spring!! Anyone else agree the was the longest winter in the history of ever? I shouldn't even be complaining, because we had such a warm winter. I am however excited to see the flowers and leaves on the trees again. Winter is always so glum and gloomy around here. I'm ready for the sunshine!

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Thursday, March 16, 2017

Tory Burch Sale






The Tory Burch sale is one of my favorites of the season! They have some seriously adorable spring color options available, and some bold vibrants for summer as well! Now is the time to save big before prices go back up! Happy Shopping! 

 XOXO Bethany
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Thursday, March 2, 2017

Shopbop Spring Sale!!

Hello there friends, It's that time of year again! The Shopbop Spring Sale is always one of my favorites, because it's the perfect time to stock up on summer/spring essentials! I have a "Babymoon" trip planned mid March before I go on bedrest, so I'm grabbing some favorites like this darling straw beach bag, and this simple yet adorable white ruffle swimsuit. Oh, and don't even get me started on these soft pink wedged espadrilles. I mean, how cute are they? Also, my favorite white lace peplum is also on sale, and is absolutely adorable on. 
**Click on any of the items below, to be taken directly to the product page for purchase. Happy Shopping!**

spring clothing sale




Shopbop sale

shopbop sale

shopbop spring sale



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Monday, February 27, 2017

Spring Floral Dress

hi-low spring floral dress
With a growing belly, its become harder and harder to find flattering dresses. With my boys I only showed up front and was 100% all baby, this time around I'm starting to show everywhere! haha Probably has something to do with the fact that this is my third pregnancy and this was bound to happen eventually. I've learned to just embrace it, because this body of mine is creating a beautiful life. However- I hate trying on dresses for church, because most of the time they just don't look good on me. This hi-low floral dress however, is flowy and hugs in just the right place. It shows off my baby bump, while still looking feminine and beautiful. I wore it to church on Sunday and got so many compliments. It had me feeling confident all day long. I love the gorgeous floral print, and the high low bottom; making it easy to show off my scalloped ballet flats. :)  This dress is actually not maternity, and would look adorable on anyone pregnant or not. But, if you are looking for a maternity dress; I would definitely consider this beauty. 
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Friday, February 24, 2017

Bell Sleeve Utility Jacket with Banana Republic

Happy Friday! Today I am excited to be collaborating with Banana Republic, to share some of my favorite spring transition essentials. Here in New Jersey the weather has been amazing! I'm trying not to get too used to it, because I'm sure its just teasing us. However, I've loved wearing my new spring clothes and pulling out my favorites from years before. 



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Monday, February 20, 2017

A Spring Outfit with Kohls

cutout open toe booties

Happy Monday! Today has been the best, hanging out with my two little men and husband. I love when the boys have a day off from school, because we get the entire day to just relax and have fun together. The weather here this week has been pretty amazing. Today is a high of 75, and I'm all about that! I forgot how nice it was to actually see the sun! It had me excited to pull out my new white skinny denim, and these adorable cutout ankle boots that are perfect for spring. The boys were excited to finally be in shorts again too! I found these simple yet classic childrens polos and khaki shorts from the Jumping Beans Section at Kohls. I stocked up on shorts and tees for the spring/summer, because they have the perfect every day clothing for a great price! 

Speaking of a great price. You guys, I couldn't believe my receipt after I purchased everything! I had a little shopping bag reveal with my husband, and had him guess how much I spent. He couldn't believe it either! I think it's safe to say I will be shopping at Kohls a lot more often! Everything I'm wearing is on sale, so hurry before prices go back up again!

XOXO

Kohls Kids Spring Clothing
Kohls spring collection
Kohls Kids Clothing
Kohls Spring Sale
Kohls Women Spring clothing
Kohls Spring Clothing
My Outfit:
Bracelets c/o Julie Vos | Taupe Crossbody c/o Gigi New York

Boys Outfits:

Thank you Kohls for gifting me this adorable clothing for the boys and I, and for sponsoring todays post. As always, all opinions are my own. 

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Tuesday, February 14, 2017

Valentines Cookies with Kids


Happy Valentines Day! Every Valentines day I always try to do some kind of Valentines cookie baking with my kids. This year I bought all of the ingredients for my famous sugar cookie recipe, only for the boys to say they wanted to make something chocolate-y! I don't know about you, but I absolutely HATE grocery shopping with my kids. Is that horrible of me to say? It just takes 10x longer, and they are always so busy its hard to keep them by me and behaving the entire time. Oh, and all while trying to look for specific food/ingredients in almost every isle. Mom life- am I right?

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Friday, February 3, 2017

Causal Spring Outfit



Happy Friday! Today I'm sharing this comfy casual outfit that's perfect for Spring Transition. I call this look my "Momiform," because its variations of this that I wear most days. Lately i've been all about dressing for comfort, and only wearing flats or sneakers since I'm constantly running around and chasing my two boys. When I first started my blog I wore heels all the time, and I just have to laugh because that is not my life at all anymore. Can you imagine me running around in 5 inch heels? Dropping my kids off at school, getting stuck in the grass at soccer practice, tripping on toy trains and trucks; I think id break both ankles. These Nike sneakers are my new favorites for spring. The neutral tones with the blush pink swoop, it doesn't get much better than that. Plus this criss cross tee is the perfect addition to anyones wardrobe, only $29, and adds a little bit of style to the everyday outfit. Oh, and just like most things on Kiss Me Darling, this blush pink utility jacket is also a killer deal! You know I love a good deal, and this jacket is one of them for only $35! I hope you all have a wonderful weekend! 

 XOXO



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Tuesday, January 31, 2017

Instagram Roundup

Well hello there friends! I promise I have some awesome content coming SOON, but for now I think its time for an instagram roundup! It's been a while since i've done one of these, mostly because they take a million years to create. You are worth it though, so here it goes! Most of the items you will find here are all ON SALE, so make sure and hurry before they are gone! Hope you all are keeping warm and enjoying your week!

If you ever want to shop my feed without signing up for liketoknow.it, just head to the "liketoknow.it" tab at the top of my blog. Click on whatever outfit you are interested in, and ready to shop links will appear. 

XOXO




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Monday, January 23, 2017

Valentines Day Outfits and Gifts for Him & Her


Best Valentines Day gifts for Men
With Valentines Day right around the corner, it's time to start planning what you'll wear and what you'll be getting your significant other. I might be biased to this holiday, but it's one of my favorites. Who wouldn't want an excuse to spoil your loved ones with candies and kisses? Considering I have two little boys, Valentines Day is extra fun. Every year I dress them in their most adorable and handsome outfits, and they bring cookies and roses to all of their "girlfriends" at school. When I say girlfriend, I mean girls that are friends. Not sure I am quite ready for either of them to start developing crushes. For now, I'm the woman in their life; and I wouldn't have it any other way. ;) I chose these Love Day inspired outfits for him and her, as well as the perfect Valentines gifts. I hope this helps any of you who are debating as to what to get your signifiant other. Happy Tuesday, and Happy (almost) love month! XOXO

 **Click the red icons, to take you right to the product page of the item you're interested in. **

Valentines gifts for her
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