mama + mini

October 9, 2016

Decorate the Nursery, Not the Crib

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As a [semi] new mama, there are so many things that I constantly worry, and have worried, about [the first bath, explosive diapers, starting solids, getting naps down--to name a few], but once I got passed a lot of those firsts and began to get the hang of mamahood, so many of those fears <i>faded</i> <i>away</i>. But, I never quite got over my biggest fear of SIDS.<br />
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From the moment that we brought Niko home, not one night has gone by where I did not worry about him after putting him to bed. Our first few nights home together, I actually did not sleep. And, it was not because Niko was up crying through the night, but because I was so worried that somehow his [<b>super</b>] tightly wrapped swaddling blanket would come undone and cover his little face or that he would just suddenly stop breathing through the night. I actually did not start sleeping soundly [<i>if you could even call it that</i>] through the night until Niko was well over a year old. To this day, I still look at the monitor more times than I would actually like to admit to before I check on him one last time before I head to bed, myself. <br />
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Since October is SIDS Awareness Month, and since I feel so strongly about practicing safe sleeping habits, I wanted to help <a href="http://www.halosleep.com/?utm_source=influencers&amp;utm_medium=outreach&amp;utm_campaign=2016">HALO</a> raise awareness by sharing the importance of 'decorating the nursery, not the crib.' When planning and decorating the nursery for your little one, it is extremely important to take extra safety precautions to help prevent SIDS. And, one way to do this, is to ensure that the crib is bare and free from any blankets or decorations that could cause suffocation or choking. Decorations should solely be used around the nursery and kept far away from the crib. For more information regarding safe sleeping habits, keep reading below, and enter <a href="https://gleam.io/fb/mZucZ">here</a> to have a chance on winning a <a href="http://www.halobassinest.com/">HALO Bassinest® Swivel Sleeper</a> and Safe Sleep Starter Kit to start practicing your own safe sleeping habits.<br />
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<i>***</i><br />
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<i>Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) still claims more than 3,500 infants each year in North America.  More than half of these deaths are preventable when proper safe sleep practices are followed.   To help keep all babies sleeping safely and avoid these unnecessary tragedies, <a href="http://www.halosleep.com/?utm_source=influencers&amp;utm_medium=outreach&amp;utm_campaign=2016">HALO</a> is dedicated to putting the health, safety and well-being of babies first. In fact, over 1,400 hospitals use <a href="http://www.halosleep.com/100-cotton-muslin-1/">HALO® SleepSack®</a> wearable blankets through the <a href="http://www.halosleep.com/?utm_source=influencers&amp;utm_medium=outreach&amp;utm_campaign=2016">HALO</a> Safer Way to Sleep Hospital Initiative. Through this program <a href="http://www.halosleep.com/?utm_source=influencers&amp;utm_medium=outreach&amp;utm_campaign=2016">HALO</a> has helped Hospitals and Birth Centers throughout North America create their own safe sleep programs, which utilize the <a href="http://www.halosleep.com/sleepsack-swaddle/">HALO SleepSack Swaddle</a> to demonstrate to parents and caregivers how to keep their babies sleeping safely.  To date, <a href="http://www.halosleep.com/?utm_source=influencers&amp;utm_medium=outreach&amp;utm_campaign=2016">HALO</a> has donated more than $4.3 million in its efforts to promote safe sleep education. </i></div>
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<b>Safe Sleep Tips</b></div>
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<b>ALWAYS</b></div>
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• Place baby to sleep on his or her back at naptime and at night time.</div>
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• Use a crib that meets current safety standards with a firm mattress that fits snugly and is covered with only a tight-fitting crib sheet.</div>
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• Remove all blankets, comforters and toys from your baby’s sleep area (this includes loose blankets, bumpers, pillows and positioners). The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests using a wearable blanket instead of loose blankets to keep your baby warm.</div>
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• Offer a pacifier when putting baby to sleep. If breastfeeding, introduce pacifier after one month or after breastfeeding has been established.</div>
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• Breastfeed, if possible, but when finished, put your baby back to sleep in his or her separate safe sleep area alongside your bed.</div>
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• Room share, but don’t bed share. Bed sharing can put a child at risk of suffocation.</div>
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<b>NEVER</b></div>
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• Never put your baby to sleep on any soft surface (adult beds, sofas, chairs, water beds, quilts, sheep skins etc.)</div>
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• Never dress your baby too warmly for sleep; keep room temperature 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit.</div>
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• Never allow anyone to smoke around your baby or take your baby into a room or car where someone has recently smoked.</div>
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Here's the direct link to these safe sleep tips and more on the <a href="http://www.halosleep.com/?utm_source=influencers&amp;utm_medium=outreach&amp;utm_campaign=2016">HALO</a> website:</div>
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<a href="http://www.halosleep.com/safe-sleep-for-baby">http://www.halosleep.com/safe-sleep-for-baby</a></div>
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For more safe sleeping tips, practices and products, follow <a href="http://www.halosleep.com/?utm_source=influencers&amp;utm_medium=outreach&amp;utm_campaign=2016">HALO</a>'s social media channels below: </div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">• </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaloSleep">Facebook</a></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">• </span><a href="http://instagram.com/Halosleep">Instagram</a></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">• </span><a href="https://twitter.com/HaloSleep">Twitter</a></div>
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From my mini to yours, happy safe sleeping!</div>
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featured, growinglittleminis, mandmstyle

Decorate the Nursery, Not the Crib

As a [semi] new mama, there are so many things that I constantly worry, and have worried, about [the first bath, explosive ...

September 21, 2016

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Getting ready for baby can be stressful and overwhelming, especially when it comes to creating your registry. Trying to figure out what <i>you</i> want for baby and what the baby will actually <i>need</i>, is actually <i>really hard</i>. The first time we went to register, I took one stroll down the bottle aisle, which was filled with literally a million different nipples for a thousand different stages of a baby's bottle-feeding lifetime, and turned right around and said, "<b>Nope, not today." </b>[The worst part is, is that I did not even have any plans on bottle-feeding!] We had already added the few things to the registry, so we walked right out. Feeling defeated, Justin, ever-so-sweetly, took me out for some nachos to cheer me up, as he knows that nachos are only thing that can comfort me after a long, stressful afternoon [especially when wine is no longer an option]. </div>
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From the time you announce that you are pregnant, you will find that everyone has an opinion on what you will need for baby [and, <i>that is okay</i>, some suggestions are actually really great], but unfortunately, it is not until your sweet bundle of joy is home, that you will find out what he or she really <i>wants</i> and <i>needs</i>. We had to make a ton of adjustments and numerous trips back and forth to Babies 'R Us, until we found which products worked best for us. So, here is my opinion on a few of our favorite newborn essentials [<i>which, you can take with a grain of salt, as your baby will differ from mine</i>]. You will find that some are tested tried and true, while others are my thoughts on how I would have done things differently, if I could turn back time, or will do differently the next time around. </div>
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1. The <a href="http://binxybaby.com/collections/all/products/shopping-cart-hammock-triangles">Binxy Baby</a> Shopping Cart Hammock - What's nice about the <a href="http://binxybaby.com/">Binxy Baby</a> Shopping Cart Hammock is that it fits most standard grocery store shopping carts, can be used as a car seat sling or allow your baby to lounge while you shop, and holds up to 50 pounds. This product is especially nice for infants that cannot quite sit up just yet and takes up much less space than your infant car seat carrier! That was always my issue. I never felt safe putting the infant car seat on the hand rail, so I would place Niko, car seat and all, in the cart, which took up all of our grocery space. So, here is my treat to you! <b><a href="http://binxybaby.refr.cc/6TFHW44">Click here</a> </b>for 10% off of your Binxy Baby order. You're welcome! </div>
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2. <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=53376716&cp=2255957.2273447.12661883&parentPage=family">Motorola Remote Wireless Video Baby Monitor</a> - A baby monitor is a must-have for any baby registry. Having a video monitor has made checking up on Niko a breeze and allows us to see how he is doing without waking him [Sometimes, we like to check in and watch him and call it the Niko show, ha!]. I would definitely recommend adding some sort of video monitor to your registry, but I would try to stay away from any monitor that needs to connect to your wifi. </div>
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3. <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=51378736&cp=&parentPage=search">4moms MamaRoo Infant Seat</a> - If you have read our post about <a href="http://mamaandminiblog.blogspot.com/2016/01/nikos-first-round-picks-part-1-top-10.html">Niko's Top 10 Faves</a>, then you already know how much we love the <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=51378736&cp=&parentPage=search">4moms MamaRoo</a>. If you have not read our previous post, then I will quickly catch you up: The <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=51378736&cp=&parentPage=search">MamaRoo</a> is a bouncer, rocker, and swing all-in-one and allows you to control its movements and sounds all from the touch of a button on your phone! This little seat was a lifesaver when Niko was an infant and I really do not have a bad thing to say about it. If you decide to go with the <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=51378736&cp=&parentPage=search">MamaRoo</a>, then I would recommend picking up the <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=21913876&cp=&parentPage=search">4moms MamaRoo Infant Insert</a>, as well. This will keep your baby all snuggled up and secure while he or she is still all tiny and squishy! </div>
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4. <a href="http://www.boppy.com/product/boppy-slipcovered-pillow/">Boppy Nursing Pillow</a> - The <a href="http://www.boppy.com/product/boppy-slipcovered-pillow/">Boppy Pillow</a> got us through many late night nursing sessions and around the clock cluster feedings. During those cluster feedings, it allowed me to have my hands free to do as much as I possibly could, while being glued to one spot. The contour of the pillow is the perfect shape to give you and baby the support you need during those long [or short] nursing sessions. Not only is the <a href="http://www.boppy.com/">Boppy</a> great for nursing, but it is also great for other uses, such as tummy time and keeping your little one docked in one spot for a short period of time. [Disclosure: <a href="http://www.boppy.com/">Boppy</a> recommends never allowing your baby to sleep in the <a href="http://www.boppy.com/">Boppy</a>, nor leaving your baby unattended while using the <a href="http://www.boppy.com/">Boppy</a>.]</div>
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5. <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=17518776&cp=&parentPage=search">Plain Onesies</a> - You are going to need a ton of plain white onesies. We literally had to cut so many white onesies off of Niko due to diaper blowouts. They are cheap enough to stock up on and they are perfect to lounge around in those first couple of days while you get used to their feeding/pooping patterns. The best part is, is that you will never feel guilty about having to cut these little guys up or tossing them out because they are not pretty nor or they expensive. </div>
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6. The <a href="https://dockatot.com/">DockATot</a> - The <a href="https://dockatot.com/">DockATot</a> was a product that I had come across well after I had Niko, but it is something that I wish we had gotten when he was an infant. We now have the <a href="https://dockatot.com/collections/dockatot-grand">DockATot Grand</a>, which is made for babies 9 to 36 months [they also offer the <a href="https://dockatot.com/collections/baby-lounger-pillow-dockatot-deluxe">Deluxe</a>, which is for infants 0 to 8 months], and Niko seems to love hanging out and lounging around in it, so far! We are excited to use it as we transition Niko from his crib to his big boy bed, and continue to work on his napping skills. What I love about the <a href="https://dockatot.com/">DockATot</a> is that it is a breathable, functional lounger, co-sleeper, and playtime lounger that is handmade in Europe. The <a href="https://dockatot.com/">DockATot</a> is also <a href="https://www.oeko-tex.com/en/business/certifications_and_services/ots_100/ots_100_start.xhtml">OEKO-TEX certified</a> and made of 100% all natural cotton. Another treat for you: <a href="http://dockatot.refr.cc/4GXZBWB">click here</a> for $10 off of your <a href="https://dockatot.com/">DockATot</a> purchase! Snuggle up and enjoy your snuggly little baby while you can! </div>
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7. <a href="http://www.halobassinest.com/meet-bassinest/">Halo Bassinet </a>- The <a href="http://www.halobassinest.com/meet-bassinest/">Halo Bassinet</a> is one of my must-haves for future babies. I did not come across this product until Niko was already sleeping in his crib, but I knew as soon as I stumbled upon it, that it would be future must-have. We originally used the bassinet that came with our Pack 'n Play, which was fine at the time, but as time went on, I really wished that we had a bassinet for Niko, especially one that did not take up as much space. What I love about the <a href="http://www.halobassinest.com/meet-bassinest/">Halo Bassinet</a> is that it has a 360 degree swivel, a retractable side wall, soothing sound machine, and two different levels of vibration. Sounds like a perfect way for baby to sleep, if you ask me! </div>
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8. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Britax-B-Safe-Infant-Seat-Black/dp/B0107CZ5U0/ref=sr_1_5_s_it?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1474492714&sr=1-5&keywords=infant%2Bcarseat&th=1">Britax B-Safe 35 Infant Car Seat</a> - I have been told that <a href="http://www.britax.com/">Britax</a> is one of the safest car seats that is currently on the market, and when it comes to Niko's safety, I only want what is going to keep him safest. We truly love our <a href="http://www.britax.com/">Britax</a> car seat and I would recommend <a href="http://www.britax.com/">Britax</a> over and over again. You can read more about it's safety features here: <a href="https://us.britax.com/car-seats/b-safe-35/">https://us.britax.com/car-seats/b-safe-35/</a>.</div>
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9. <a href="https://www.adenandanais.com/swaddles/shop-all/midnight-3-pack-silky-soft-swaddles-9211">aden + anais Swaddle Blankets</a> - As you may know by now, we have an obsession with all things <a href="https://www.adenandanais.com/">aden + anais</a>, as we just love how soft and breathable all of their products are, especially their swaddle blankets. We cannot get enough of them and never leave the house without one! You can read more about them in our Niko's <a href="https://mamaandminiblog.blogspot.com/2016/01/nikos-first-round-picks-part-1-top-10.html">Top 10 Faves</a> post and our <a href="https://mamaandminiblog.blogspot.com/2016/05/nikos-favorite-summer-essentials.html">Niko's Favorite Summer Picks</a> post. </div>
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10. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Jogger-City-Select-Stroller/dp/B00G3XRDSA/ref=sr_1_3_s_it?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1474512358&sr=1-3&keywords=baby+jogger+city+select">Baby Jogger City Select</a> - This is one of those products that we do not have, but is on my wishlist for when baby no. 2 comes along. If I could go back in time, I would not have invested in buying a travel system, because we will eventually need a double stroller and our travel system will become obsolete. So, rather than purchasing a travel system, I should have purchased the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Baby-Jogger-City-Select-Stroller/dp/B00G3XRDSA/ref=sr_1_3_s_it?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1474512358&sr=1-3&keywords=baby+jogger+city+select">Baby Jogger City Select</a>, as it can be used as a single stroller and travel system, and then, when the time comes, a second seat can be added to make it a double stroller. With over 16 possible configurations, I do not know what I was thinking not getting this stroller in the first place! </div>
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11. <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=52103576&cp=&parentPage=search">Cloud B Sleep Sheep</a> - This is one of those desert island products that we could not live without when Niko was a newborn, and still continue to use. Having a white noise machine drowns out any other noises that Justin and I make while Niko sleeps, and has taught him to be able to sleep through anything. I am not even kidding. I am able to run the vacuum while he sleeps and he just continues to snooze away! </div>
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12. <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2267522&cp=2255957.2273447.2276218&parentPage=family">BabyBjorn Baby Carrier Original</a> - In my opinion, a baby carrier is pretty essential when having a newborn. Sometimes, it is the only way to get things done around the house. Plus, they say wearing your baby is super beneficial to the baby, so I wore Niko as much as I could. We loved the <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2267522&cp=2255957.2273447.2276218&parentPage=family">BabyBjorn Baby Carrier</a> because it was safe and comfy for Niko, as well as comfy for us. We also loved that Niko could be forward-facing or outward-facing [after 5 months, it is not recommended to wear baby outward-facing before then because  their hips are still developing]. However, I also loved [and still love] the <a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=24709096&cp=&parentPage=search">Baby K'tan Baby Carrier</a>. I loved wearing Niko in a wrap type carrier, but it really is all about personal preference and what is comfortable for you and baby. </div>
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My last bits of advice to you before creating your registry would be: not to register for too many clothes [you will receive plenty at your shower, especially if you know the gender of your baby, and once the baby arrives]; do not worry about the price [Someone once told me to look at your registry as if were a wish list. If someone wants to spend the money, then lucky for you! If not, you can always pick it up later with a gift card and/or use your completion discount towards the item]; use the online registering tool, as there are so many more options online than in the store; register for products that you will need months down the road, such as a jumper, a walker, etc.; and lastly, sit back and enjoy the ride, it is not every day that you are pregnant with your first!</div>
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<i>From my mini to yours, good luck! </i></div>

featured, growinglittleminis, nikosfirstroundpicks

Getting ready for baby can be stressful and overwhelming, especially when it comes to creating your registry. Trying to figure out wh...

September 16, 2016

FiNN + EMMA

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1. Rattle Buddy - <a href="https://www.finnandemma.com/collections/woodland/products/finley-rattle-buddy">Finley the Fox</a></div>
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2. Wood Teething Rattle - <a href="https://www.finnandemma.com/collections/woodland/products/finley-rattle-buddy">Matilda the Squirrel</a></div>
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3. Teething Ears - <a href="https://www.finnandemma.com/collections/woodland/products/woodland-teething-ears">Woodland</a></div>
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Aren't these little rattles and teethers the cutest things that you have ever seen?! Even Niko cannot get enough of these little guys [especially <a href="https://www.finnandemma.com/collections/woodland/products/finley-rattle-buddy">Finley the Fox</a> and <a href="https://www.finnandemma.com/collections/woodland/products/finley-rattle-buddy">Matilda the Squirrel</a>]! We recently stumbled upon the <a href="https://www.finnandemma.com/">Finn + Emma</a> brand, and, boy, are we glad that we did. Not only are these little goodies too cute, but they are organically and eco-friendly made, making them super safe for your little one's teething mouths [or non-teething mouths--let's be serious, babies will put anything in those little mouths of theirs]. In fact, <i>all</i> of <a href="https://www.finnandemma.com/">Finn + Emma's</a> toys are made from lush, buttery soft G.O.T.S certified organic cotton, yarn, and wool stuffing, non-toxic, eco-friendly dyes, and untreated Indian hardwood. Knowing that every little detail, for every little toy, has been thoroughly though out to provide a chemically-free, safe environment for my little one gives me a sense of ease while Niko stuffs <a href="https://www.finnandemma.com/collections/woodland/products/finley-rattle-buddy">Matilda the Squirrel</a> in his mouth and gnaws away. </div>
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For more organic and eco-friendly clothing and toys, visit Finn + Emma at www.finnandemma.com and follow them on Instagram at @finnandemma. And, as a little treat, click on the link below for 15% off of your purchase of $50 or more!<br />
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<a href="http://finnandemma.refr.cc/VHD3L52" rel="nofollow nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">http://<wbr></wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: inline-block;"></span>finnandemma.refr.cc/VHD3L52</a><br />
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<i>From my mini to your yours, enjoy!</i></div>
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featured, nikosfirstroundpicks

FiNN + EMMA

1. Rattle Buddy - Finley the Fox 2. Wood Teething Rattle - Matilda the Squirrel 3. Teething Ears - Woodland ...

September 6, 2016

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1. <a href="http://www.mallybeauty.com/eyes/mascara-lashes/more-is-more-mascara">Mally</a> - More is More Mascara</div>
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2. <a href="http://www.sephora.com/foundation-stick-P270549?skuId=1587435&icid2=products%20grid:p270549">Bobbi Brown</a> - Skin Foundation Stick</div>
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3. <a href="http://www.qvc.com/Mally-H3-Hydrating-%26-Brightening-Concealer.product.A281940.html">Mally</a> - H3 & Hydrating & Brightening Concealer</div>
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4. <a href="http://www.sttropeztan.com/self-tan-classic-bronzing-mousse-240ml/">St. Tropez</a> - Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse</div>
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5. <a href="http://www.qvc.com/Mally-Glowing-Goddess-Luminizer-w-Brush.product.A281945.html?sc=A281945-SRCH&cm_sp=VIEWPOSITION-_-4-_-A281945&catentryImage=http://images.qvc.com/is/image/a/45/a281945.001?$uslarge$">Mally</a> - Glowing Goddess Luminizer</div>
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6. <a href="http://www.lushusa.com/face/cleansers/grease-lightning/02896.html">Lush</a> - Grease Lightning</div>
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To be honest, since I have been working for a makeup company the past few years, I rarely venture away from the brand; it is just easier and cheaper this way [<i>and, it doesn't hurt that I genuinely love so many of our products!</i>]. From working in the industry, I have also been very lucky to have the opportunity to try all different types beauty products and brands without breaking the bank. But, every once in a while, I decide to treat myself and splurge on something new, even if it is not necessarily makeup related. As with anything else, some products are <i>totally worth it </i>and become instant go-tos<i>,</i> while others get tossed aside in my ever-growing makeup drawer(s).</div>
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As a working, blogging, new mom, I find it more important now than ever to take care of myself as often as possible, as the days of long showers and blowing out my hair are long gone [<i>Bye, bye to the 2 hours of perfecting the perfect blowout; hello to the we need to be ready and out of the house in 15 minutes. Sound familiar?</i>]. When Niko was born, I made a promise to myself that I would at least get a quick shower and do my makeup for the day, just so that I could feel somewhat normal and not lose myself in the chaos of housework and the "<i>OMG, I need to change again because the baby spit his organic pureed carrots, that I mashed myself, all over me" </i>moments. That is why my top 10 beauty faves are so important to me because they get me feeling-normal ready within minutes. And, when I get the chance to really put myself together, they make me feel like the young 20-something woman that I am! </div>
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So, here they are: </div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 23.4px;">• </span><a href="http://www.sttropeztan.com/self-tan-classic-bronzing-mousse-240ml/">St. Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse</a> - Everyone who knows me, knows that I am pretty fair skinned and it takes me quite some time to build a natural tan. That is why I love this product so much! I can apply it at night and wake up the next morning looking like I just laid out all summer. I have used all types of self-tanners, from mass products to prestige, to Mystic Spray Tans to professional spray tans, and I always come back to this product! Don't get me wrong, I would probably choose to get professional sprayed for a big event, but this product is great for at home use and when you do not have the time to go to the salon. Honorable mentions: the <a href="http://www.sttropeztan.com/inshower-gradual-tan/">Gradual Tan in Shower Lotion</a> and the <a href="http://www.sttropeztan.com/gradual-tan-classic-body-lotion-light-medium/">Gradual Tan Classic Body Lotion</a>. Can't go wrong with either of these if you are looking for a more natural, sun-kissed gradual glow. </div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 23.4px;">• </span><a href="http://www.sephora.com/translucent-loose-setting-powder-P109908?skuId=870618&icid2=products%20grid:p109908">Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder</a> - I actually never used a setting powder until I received this product as a Christmast gift last year. Around that same time, I started getting into highlighting and contouring and practicing as much as I could. This product is fabulous for setting/baking your highlighted areas. I find that it does not crease under my eyes and really locks in my concealer. Nothing moves, and I mean nothing! Like, wake up the next morning and your concealer looks untouched.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 23.4px;">• </span><a href="http://www.mallybeauty.com/eyes/mascara-lashes/more-is-more-mascara">Mally More is More Mascara</a> - Now, this product is a new favorite of mine. Again, anyone know knows me, knows that I am a mascara junkie and am very picky about which mascara I use. I was an avid Mally Volumizing Mascara girl until this product launched in April. I was skeptical about changing up my mascara routine at first, but once I started using it, I never looked back! The brush is very similar to the Benefit's They're Real Mascara, which was a close second favorite of mine at one point, but I find that the They're Real Mascara is not quite buildable and dries to quickly for my liking, leaving my lashes really clumpy. But, the More is More formula is extremely buildable and I can get my lashes to look like falsies. This product is literally insane, and probably my number 1 beauty pick of the moment! </div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 23.4px;">• </span><a href="http://www.dermstore.com/product_Perfect+Pumpkin+Peeling+Enzyme+Masque_23278.htm">June Jacobs Perfect Pumpkin Peeling Enzyme Masque</a> - In honor of PSL season and being super basic, I bring you the June Jacobs Perfect Pumpkin Peeling Enzyme Masque. Full Disclosure: You will probably want to eat this product, but it is not for consumption! Literally, this product smells so good, you do not want to wash it off of your face. But, that is not the only reason why I love this product so much. I typically use this product whenever my face is feeling like it needs a pick-me-up and/or when I am starting to break out. After one use, my skin feels soft and supple and dewy and just so nice! My face literally feels like it just drank a glass of water; just <i>so</i> good! </div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 23.4px;">• </span><a href="http://www.sephora.com/foundation-stick-P270549?skuId=1587435&icid2=products%20grid:p270549">Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick</a> - I have super oily, problematic skin and have a hard time finding foundations that are high coverage but not heavy. Liquid and moussey foundations typically feel heavy and cakey, and do not mix well with my oily skin. I feel like they tend to fall right off and make my skin feel and look even more oily. But, I found that the Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick was perfect! I love that it is high coverage, super blendable and buildable, but does not leave behind a slick, greasy feeling. I still set my foundation with a powder foundation for extra coverage, because I have a lot of problems to hide, but, my skin still feels like it can breathe. </div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 23.4px;">• </span><a href="http://www.qvc.com/Mally-H3-Hydrating-%26-Brightening-Concealer.product.A281940.html">Mally H3 & Hydrating & Brightening Concealer</a> - Obsessed. I have a love/hate relationship with concealers. Again, I have the same problems with concealers as I do with foundations. I find that most concealers are heavy and greasy, or do not have the payoff that I am looking for. But, ever since I started using this concealer, my life has changed tremendously. The H3 Concealer is super hydrating, blendable and buildable [perfect for highlighting and contouring], and feels amazing when applied [there is a slight cooling effect to it]. I typically set/bake this product with the Laura Mercier and it does not move or crease. </div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 23.4px;">• </span><a href="http://www.sephora.com/beautyblender-P228913?skuId=1151869&icid2=products%20grid:p228913">beautyblender</a> - I do not remember life before I caved and bought myself a beautyblender. My makeup has changed forever. Before the beautyblender, I would go back and forth and apply my makeup with brushes and knock-off beautyblender sponges, but brushes leave your foundation looking streaky and splotchy and knockoff beauty sponges do not even touch the beautyblender. My makeup has never looked more flawless. I was skeptical about this product at first because you wet the sponge to apply your foundation and your setting powder, which I thought was CRAZY! But, it makes a world of a difference and it truly does leave your makeup feeling lightweight and airy. Best $20 I have ever spent in my entire life. </div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 23.4px;">• </span><a href="http://www.qvc.com/Mally-Glowing-Goddess-Luminizer-w-Brush.product.A281945.html?sc=A281945-SRCH&cm_sp=VIEWPOSITION-_-4-_-A281945&catentryImage=http://images.qvc.com/is/image/a/45/a281945.001?$uslarge$">Mally Glowing Goddess Luminizer</a> - Highlighters have become a makeup obsession of mine, recently, and I cannot seem to get enough highlighter on my cheekbones. Strobing is the way to go, in my opinion. I just love the mixture of the matte and pearl formulas swirled together to give you a more natural, subtle highlight. And, I absolutely love the color of this product. The undertone is a soft, golden shade, rather than yellow, which is the undertone of the highlighter that I was using prior to the Glowing Goddess Luminizer. </div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 23.4px;">• </span><a href="http://www.lushusa.com/face/cleansers/grease-lightning/02896.html">Lush Grease Lightning</a> - As I have mentioned above, I have very oily, problematic skin that is very prone to breakouts. My skin has always been very temperamental [which, is most likely due to the PCOS] and, in the past, I have had a hard time finding products that helped keep my skin under control. When I was pregnant with Niko, my skin would go through phases of looking fantastic and glowy and perfect, and then, just like that, I would be breaking out like I was 13 all over again. I do not typically shop in Lush stores, but one day I stumbled into the store, struck up a conversation with one of the associates and an hour and a half later I was on my way home with a sample of their Grease Lightning. Well, it is safe to say that I was hooked after the first time I used this product. My skin was noticeably clear by the next morning. And, when I say noticeably clear, I mean that there was literally not one pimple on my face. Now, I simply cannot live without this product. </div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 23.4px;">• </span><a href="http://www.sephora.com/de-slick-oil-control-makeup-setting-spray-P277222?skuId=1458181&icid2=products%20grid:p277222">Urban Decay De-Slick Oil-Control Makeup Setting Spray</a> - This is a makeup bag must have. If there is only one thing that Urban Decay does well, it would be their setting sprays [I mean, but, let's be honest though, everything Urban Decay does is <i>perfection</i>]. I typically only use this product for events or a big night out, since I have been told that it is not exactly great for your skin. However, if you are looking for your makeup to not move, you must try this product. I am not even close to lying when I say that you can dance the night away and wake up the next morning with your makeup looking untouched. This product has gotten me through many weddings and events and it has yet to disappoint. </div>
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Well, there you have it, my top 10 beauty faves [<i>of the moment</i>]. Leave some of your favorite beauty products and go-tos in the comments below! I would love to hear from you and I am always looking for new product recommendations and to switch up my makeup routine! </div>

featured, justformamas

1. Mally - More is More Mascara 2. Bobbi Brown - Skin Foundation Stick 3. Mally - H3 & Hydrating & Brightening Concea...

September 2, 2016

Sprinkles Saturday on a Thursday

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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">A little bit ago, Niko had been really sick, battling an on-and-off high fever and Hand, Foot, Mouth Virus, so, I really wanted to do something special for him and surprise him with a special breakfast when he woke up. And, since sprinkles make everything into a tiny celebration, I thought, why not have Sprinkles Saturday on a Thursday and add them to one of my favorite breakfast recipes--<i>Mini Maple Pancake Muffins</i>! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I first stumbled upon this recipe when Justin and I first started dating and it was actually the first breakfast meal that I had ever made him. These little bites of heaven quickly became one of our Saturday morning go-to's [but, to be honest, we have not had them in quite awhile]. So, it just seemed like the perfect time to pull this old recipe out, add a bunch of sprinkles, and enjoy them on the back deck!  </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Just as Justin loved these little bites so much the first time I made them, Niko seemed to love them just as much! Actually, he loved them so much, that as I was pulling away his tray, he quickly snatched one last large crumb up and shoved it in his mouth so quickly, I almost did not catch him! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Check out the recipe below:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mini Maple Pancake Muffins.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">1 cup flour<br />1 teaspoon baking powder<br />1/2 teaspoon baking soda<br />1/4 teaspoon salt<br />2 tablespoons sugar<br />2/3 cup buttermilk<br />1 egg<br />2 tablespoons pure maple syrup<br />2 tablespoons melted butter<br />1/2 cup of your favorite mix-in*</span></div>
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif; line-height: 23.4px; text-align: left;">     • </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: left;">Generously grease a 24 cup mini muffin pan with non-stick spray.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif; line-height: 23.4px; text-align: left;">     • </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: left;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif; line-height: 23.4px; text-align: left;">     • </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: left;">Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and sugar in a medium bowl. Sift together with a wire whisk.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif; line-height: 23.4px; text-align: left;">     • </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: left;">In another bowl, stir buttermilk, egg, maple syrup and melted butter until just combined.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif; line-height: 23.4px; text-align: left;">     • </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: left;">Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir with a spoon until combined.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif; line-height: 23.4px; text-align: left;">     • </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: left;">Stir in your favorite mix-in. Reserve a few chips to sprinkle on the tops.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "georgia" , serif; line-height: 23.4px; text-align: left;">     • </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: left;">Bake for 8-9 minutes.</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Makes 24 mini pancake muffins.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Let cool slightly and remove from the pan. You may need to use a toothpick around the edges to separate the pancake muffins from the pan.<br />Serve immediately with warmed butter if you like or even just with maple syrup.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">*Recipe calls for Milk Chocolate Chips, but you can use your favorite fruits or other mix-ins [or even leave them plain] to make them your own! </span></div>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /><span style="text-align: left;">You can find the recipe with photos here: </span><span style="text-align: justify;">http://www.bakerella.com/mini-maple-pancake-muffins/</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">These little guys always seem to be a fan favorite! So, eat up and enjoy! And, if you have left overs, just pop them in the freezer and enjoy another day! </span></div>

featured, growinglittleminis

Sprinkles Saturday on a Thursday

A little bit ago, Niko had been really sick, battling an on-and-off high fever and Hand, Foot, Mouth Virus, so, ...

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