A List of Must Haves for New Moms - Babbleboxx

This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx

 Wooooo, we're half way there...

Well, almost half way, anyways... and for me that means I'm starting to prep for baby. Actually, who am I kidding? I've been buying cute things and a few necessities since I saw the positive test but now things are starting to "get real" so I'm feeling that urge to "nest" a little bit more. Instead of stocking up on pink clothes and bows this time, I'm trying to be more of a minimalist and stick to the things we need.

I recently sat down to make a list of my essentials and the items I know we need for baby #2, when Babbleboxx asked me to partner with them on this epic box for new moms... and I obviously said yes when I realized the box included a bunch of must-haves for moms (and new babies)!

With that said, let's dig in and start going through the box together. Trust me when I tell you, you're going to NEED it all!

First, let's chat about Bamboobies. The company name may make you giggle but the products are absolutely some of my favs! I remember when I first started my breastfeeding journey with Delainey, I had no clue what I would need and what was excessive but washable nursing pads and nipple balm were two staples that I highly recommend to any new mom.

The washable nursing pads from Bamboobies are more comfortable than any other brand and help protect from leaks. I love that they are sustainable, designed with renewable bamboo and still washable! The perfect little secret to tuck into your bra, since they are completely discreet and made of super-soft velour in the shape of an adorable little heart, which contours to you no matter your bra size!

If you're a first time mom, something you may not think to add to your hopsital bag, but absolutely is a necessity for breastfeeding mom's is nipple balm! The Bamboobies Organic Nipple Balm is so soothing and provides relief during those adjustment periods while nursing and dealing with sore nipples! Since it's an organic, plant-based formula there's no need to wipe it off before breastfeeding and I love that it doesn't contain any of questionable chemicals found in other creams/balms (like phthalates, parabens, synthetic frangrances, etc). The best part is, it helps your poor nipples recover and provides relief, which I promise you'll need during those first few weeks/months! These are the things most people don't mention about postpartum but I think you need to know...

   Want to try out a Bamboobies product for yourself? Use the code Babbleboxx (valid through 12/31/21).

Speaking of things you need to try for yourself, The First Years makes a multitude of products that we loved with my 5 year old but two we knew we needed for this babe were the The First Years First Dreams 3D Portable Bassinet and The First Years Gentle Warmth Digital Bottle Warmer.

The First Dreams 3D Portable Bassinet is going to be a lifesaver, I already know! I'm a huge advocate for letting baby sleep whenever and wherever they fall asleep while also practicing safe sleep - this handy bassinet is going to be perfect for that! Safe, cozy, and portable, it's going to be perfect to keep baby in arms reach while letting her snooze away! I love that it includes a carry tote for outings and a set of machine washable sheets for mishaps and diaper malfunctions!

Not only is it portable, but it's easy to fold up - with an easy one hand 3D fold, you can keep your other hand free for baby! Whether you're traveling or napping in your own room, you'll be able to see baby snoozing away with the 360 degree view thanks to the full mesh sides! I can't wait to catch some ZzZ's while baby snoozes and find comfort in knowing she's perfectly safe in this perfect little Portable Bassinet!

One item I wasn't so sure we needed as a first time mom, that ended up being an absolute must was a bottle warmer and this fancy Gentle Warmth Digital Bottle Warmer from The First Years looks like it's a true upgrade from the one we had. Breastfed or formula-fed sometimes baby needs a bottle when mama isn't around and making sure it's the right temperature is vital! The warm water bath the bottle is submerged in helps evenly and effectively heat up the bottle and it stays warm longer than steaming.

Whether you're heating up breastmilk or formula, you'll be able to find comfort in consistency with the Gentle Warmth Digital Bottle Warmer and it doesn't require a specific type of bottle or bag so you can use it with whatever brand you prefer... even better, once you start purees you can even use this gadget to warm those as well. The easy to use digital touch screen makes this device fool-proof, so those middle of the night feedings will be a breeze for you or Dad!

Another favorite brand of ours from when D was a baby is Baby Magic! Trusted by us and many, many other parents (over the last 70 YEARS) the Baby Magic brand is a true legacy. From helping to clean up blow outs to soothing those midnight woes, Baby Magic is there for your family and the products they offer truly do their job!

The Baby Magic Moisturizing Lotion is one you and your baby will be praising for years to come. As we all know, nothing is sweeter than those newborn baby cuddles but maintaining that soft skin means replenishing moisture is a must - enter Baby Magic lotion, enriched with nourishing Calendula, hydrating coconut oil, and soothing aloe, it's the perfect way to seal in moisture and keep your sweet bundle of love feeling comfortable and soothed.

Speaking of comfort, baths were never D's favorite - that is, until we found the right soap! The Baby Magic Gentle Hair & Body Wash is one of our family favs and I can't wait to share it with the new babe. Baby Magic Gentle Hair & Body Wash is delicately formulated for daily use and since it's free of sulfates, parabens, dyes, and phthalates, it helps babe feel clean and soft all day long. Baby and parents can rest easy knowing it's tear-free, allergy and dermatologist tested, and completely hypoallergenic - what every new baby needs!

One thing I didn't have with D that I wish I would've had is more support - in every facet of the word. One way I plan on seeking out support with this baby is by using WishGarden Herbs! Their liquid herbal extracts (or tinctures) are remedies that have been around for ages and the AfterEase and Baby Blues formulas sound like they will be so soothing once this baby enters the world!

AfterEase is an-in-the-moment type of soother that has been lovingly formulated to soothe normal and temporary afterbirth contractions that occur when the uterus contracts and returns to it's normal pre-pregnancy size. If you've had another baby you may be aware that these pains last for 2-3 days after birth and aren't very comforting when you're adjusting to life with the new babe. With AfterEase you'll have something to help calm and support your body as it adjusts.

Baby Blues is another formula I wish I would've had after birthing D, as a mood support it helps mamas who are dealing with a bit of the postpartum blues. It's a powerful, yet gentle combination of herbs that helps your body support healthy hormone levels. Like a big ol' herbal hug, Baby Blues supports new mamas in the moments you need it most.

The last item on my essentials list from this Babbleboxx is the Triple Paste Diaper Rash Cream! If you've ever been around a baby with diaper rash, then you know how painful and saddening (for mama and baby) it can be, luckily Triple Paste is a life-saver and helps relieve that pain and ease the tears almost instantly.

Triple Paste includes just the right amount of medicine and ingredients to keep baby's bum soothed while not including unnecessary chemicals or ingredients. I love that it's not just me hyping Triple Paste up though, it comes pediatrician recommended and dermatologist tested! If you're wanting to provide protection, relief, treatment, and/or soothing comfort for you little one's bum - Triple Paste is what you need!

So tell me, if you're a first-time mom, what's one "must have" item on your list?

The Truth about Postpartum Life - 10 Not so Pretty Things No One Tells You About Having a Baby

Here's the thing, having a baby is the biggest blessing in the world... I'm so lucky to finally have my little blessing. She is very well my biggest accomplishment in this life and I'm SO proud of her and so proud of myself for giving life to this wonderful, sweet, little light.

And well, you know, I'm not trying to be a party pooper but everyone only really talks about all of the amazing parts of having a baby. You hear about the happy moments, sometimes even the touching moments, but no one mentions the uhhhh... not so pretty parts of motherhood.

It's true, life isn't all rainbows and butterflies after giving birth - contrary to popular belief. No one mentions that:

1. Your stomach turns into a pillow -  I had high hopes that my tummy would bounce back from being stretched out enough to hold a volleyball sized baby to a flat and toned little tummy, but then I woke up from that dream and saw my stretch marks and my giant belly. Not everyone is as unlucky as me, but it's totally normal to have a flabby belly after giving birth.

Honestly, I'm 8 months out and just now starting to feel like I really need to do something about it - i.e. exercise more enthusiastically. Some people are more gung-ho about getting back into shape and those are the people that likely bounce back a little easier. With that said, embrace your extra fluff while also working on your fitness and maybe take a minute or two to cuddle that baby - there's nothing wrong with some curves and the stretch marks will fade, babies don't keep - after all.

2. You're, uhhh, going to be a little damp - Well, honey, I've got some news, you thought that crazy amount of discharge was going to stop when you had your baby - wrong! And... I mean, eventually and unapologetically your pesky Aunt Flo will be paying you a visit again sometime - that's just mother nature for you.

Luckily, U by Kotex Fitness Tampons, Pads, and Panty Liners are a thing - so you're saved! Whether you need protection while toning your core during yoga class or you plan on running a marathon, U by Kotex Fitness are made to fit and form with your body and provide comfortable protection for your busy self.

That's right, you don't have to worry about any nonsense - U by Kotex & Walgreens have you covered! Plus, I have your back - use this rebate offer & save on these postpartum (and all the time) essentials!


3. Watch out... Here comes Big foot! - Yes, mama, I'm talking about you! Okay, well maybe not really but... if you're a shoe hoarder like me you may want to start destashing on ebay while you're pregnant. It's a sad but true fact, your foot grows while you are pregnant and it doesn't shrink back - much like your stomach. The good news is, you now have something to look forward to - shoe shopping!

4. Sleeping in a Pool - This sounds like a luxury vacation... right? WRONG! Another odd but true thing your body does postpartum is sweat profusely at night. I can remember waking up drenched and wondering what had happened, I was cold, I slept without blankets, and still - covered in sweat. It's actually your body ridding itself of all those amazing hormones that helped create your baby... but it's disgusting and you'll probably want a couple of changes of sheets so you don't have to sleep in your own sweat again and again.

5. Go ahead and Start Calling yourself Betsy - If you're breastfeeding that is definitely going to feel like your new name and you'll practically feel like you have udders too. Breastfeeding is such a rewarding part of motherhood but it's not an easy task. At first it hurts... and don't let anyone tell you any differently. Then it's constant, like almost 24/7. You'll want to give up... and it's totally okay if you do - fed is best, after all...then there's always the possibility of engorgement or mastitisis.


But that's all worth it for the benefits of breastfeeding, in my opinion... and the good news is, it all gets better and easier.

6. Want a new hairstyle? Well, you're going to get one. I've always had SUPER thick hair, never had a worry in the world... then I had D. Now my hair is thin, stringy, and gets greasy easier... and somehow lost some of its natural curl. Hair loss is a horrible part of postpartum that I absolutely thought wouldn't effect me... but it did. Oh and did I mention you'll have some hair growth in places you never have before, thanks to those totally awesome fluctuating hormone levels.

7. Party time on the Potty - Well, it's really the opposite of a party... but I wanted it to sound fun. Your first postpartum bowel movement after having your baby will be uncomfortable, to be frank. I was terrified, maybe even more intimidated than I was to give birth. Turns out, I really didn't have much to be scared of. But trust me, you'll be intimidated to poop after having your baby... even if you went while giving birth, which if you didn't know - $h*t happens all the time during child birth and it's totally normal. Oh... and I'm a person that prior to having a baby never even admitted to tooting, now look at me writing about bowel movements on my blog - so I guess you could say your comfort level regarding things like this will likely change as well.

8. Be mindful of postpartum depression and anxiety - Speaking of comfort levels, be aware that postpartum depression & anxiety are both very real. Be careful of the thoughts you choose to focus on and seek help if you are feeling desperate or especially uneasy.

While I luckily didn't really seem to suffer from postpartum depression or anxiety, I've experienced both in my life time and never want anyone to feel that discomfort. While neither condition is preventable, I suggest you take some time and do something for yourself every once in a while, make sure you seek support from your spouse, your family, and your friends, and just try and live in the moment.

9. It's time to discover your new skin - That's right even your skin changes. If you developed stretch marks, those are definitely a huge change so I'm sure you know what I mean. What you don't know is that your skin will likely react differently to your favorite lotion, it may burn easier in the sun, and your skin care routine may need to even be changed to give you the best glow you can get.

10. No longer you - Another thing that no one mentions is you literally are no longer who you used to be. You are "mom" and while that title is a huge honor, it also means you are no longer just living for you. Your life is now ran by a tiny milk-loving dictator and that means you're in for one crazy, sweet, wild, enjoyable ride.

With all of that said, there's one other thing no one mentions... that's the highs. The heights your emotions will reach from watching your child grow and learn. The first time you see your child smile, the first time you hear the word mama, those first tumbling steps towards you... and your heart will swell with a level of joy and pride you've never even dreamed of feeling before, and that... that is what makes it all worth it. That is what motherhood is all about.

Delainey's Birth Story + Our Moment of Truth

If you're a woman and you have ever taken a pregnancy test, you know that feeling... Whether or not you're planning on having a baby, the second it comes down to the results appearing after taking a pregnancy test can be nerve-wracking. It's either going to come up positive and you are officially expecting or it's going to come up negative and it's time to try again. You want a test that's reliable to provide you with that kind of result. That's why, when I was late last year and wondering what was happening, I opted to use e.p.t., the original home pregnancy test invented nearly 40 years ago.

I can still remember the day we found out we were pregnant with Delainey. It was the most amazing feeling watching two lines show up on the test and knowing that we were going to be welcoming a life into this world. With e.p.t.'s accuracy rate of 99.9%, I knew it was officially happening as soon as the lines started to show. We tried for years, so this wasn't my first rodeo with a test, but it was the first time the whole testing thing resulted in a baby around nine months later.  Sharing the news with our family, hearing her heartbeat, seeing her on an ultrasound, it was all so amazing... and the nine month journey started with just a little plus sign on a test I took at home.

During those nine months, I learned so much about myself and found out my body is capable of things I never even thought were possible. I learned that hormones really do play a role in your emotions and that sometimes they are truly uncontrollable. I also learned to love my body - while it may have expanded, it also created a life and that is beyond amazing.

The life it created came into the world 9 days early, during Hurricane/Tropical Storm Hermine, while my doctor was out of town. 

But let me start at the beginning... we were walking around Target browsing the aisles, when I got super uncomfortable and knew something was different. These contractions weren't just Braxton Hicks, they were intense and almost indescribable, that's when I told my husband I thought we should leave... and he knew something was up, mainly because I never say I want to leave Target.

After we got in the car I called my Doctor's office to be reminded he was out of town. I spoke with his assistant instead and she told me to just wait it out and to call again if those feelings got closer together or my water broke, otherwise I just had to wait. Later that afternoon they got more intense but I waited to call, then around 7pm, I knew it was time to call. We phoned the doctor, which meant she called the hospital ahead of time for us, and they had a bed open waiting for me when I arrived. They started to monitor my contractions and after about an hour of monitoring they decided it was time.

To say I was nervous is an understatement... but I was also so excited. We spent so many years preparing for this day and it was finally here.

While I'll spare you the gory details about my actual labor, I will say I spent around 20 hours in labor total, from the time my doctor told me to wait it out until 12:01pm on September 2nd.

Those 20 hours proved to me I'm capable of anything like bearing through unbelievable pain, adapting to unexpected change, laughing in the face of what I should fear, and so much more. I gave life to something so amazing that day, but honestly, she gave life to me.

And what is the craziest part of it all, you may ask? I would do it all again, in a heart beat... and when we decide it's time to try again, I'll only turn to e.p.t. to give me the answer I seek in that moment of truth.

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of CLEVER and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

Six Ways to Remain Confident (or Gain Confidence) While Pregnant! #BeComfydent

Let's play a little game, what do these phrases have in common?

"Are you expecting twins?"...

"WOW! You look like you're a month overdue!"...

"You're huge!"...

"You're going to POP any day now!"...

You may have guessed it, but for those that didn't know, these are all statements I've heard a handful of times over the last few days from complete strangers. While I'm certain every person that uttered these words to me didn't intend to hurt my feelings - honestly, they kind of did. Then I remembered I'm a confident, beautiful woman, growing a life within my body and shook off all that negativity. If you've been pregnant before or you are currently expecting as well, you know it's tough learning to accept your body when you are carrying a child, no matter how blessed you feel so today I want to share how I've changed my mindset and hopefully I can help another mama change hers if she gets these comments from a stranger any time soon!

Now I'll agree, it's hard hearing every strangers opinion as they walk by and it's even harder watching stretch marks pop up all over the place, but the best part is you are working toward a great end result... that little baby of yours! While it's tough to learn to accept your body during any part of pregnancy, it's totally possible and it may actually be easier than you think. While I'm 9 months pregnant and the last comment listed above may be the truest of the four, I've finally learned to accept my body the way it is and I want to share a few ways I've mastered this "art":

1. Let yourself enjoy pregnancy. This may be the easiest and the hardest part of pregnancy. I love every single second that I'm pregnant, but at the same time things get a bit uncomfortable during your 9th month of pregnancy. I've learned to just let your mind accept that your body knows what it's doing and that you can't compare your bump to your besties, you both are two different people so it only makes sense that your bumps are different. Whether your bump is the size of a planet or tiny, appreciate the fact that you are growing a life within it and embrace the beauty of knowing it will all be over fairly soon. Take photos weekly and embrace watching the beauty that is growing within your body!

2. Wear undergarments that make you feel confident and dare I say sexy. I recommend Hanes, simply because they keep me comfortable, cool, and confident during these warm summer months.

With the amazing Get Cozy ComfortFlex Fit Wire-Free bra it's easy to feel cozy and cool, plus with a versatile style I feel like I can wear my favorite bra with any outfit and not worry about how I look. Offering a sleek silhouette that doesn't show under any outfit, pull-over comfort, and a $9.99 price tag, I'm totally in love with this bra and will be rocking it postpartum, no doubt about it!

With that said, my new Ultimate Comfy Support ComfortFlex Fit Wire-Free Bra is also another new favorite of mine. With lining on the cups to protect myself from pregnancy mishaps or the non-pregnant woman from an awkwardly cold situation and a versatile look to build on, I'm in love with how comfortable these bras are and I highly recommend you look into adding one into your undergarment collection.

Now I suppose I can get to the point and share what all pregnant women want to hear, my underwear have been upgraded to ultimate comfort without sacrificing cuteness. My new Hanes Cool Comfort underwear may be the most important part of staying confident while pregnant. Available in Bikini and Hipster styles I'm always able to stay comfy without sacrificing my confidence, leaving me feeling beautiful! The best part is the Cool Comfort wicking fabric keeps you cool while providing all day comfort, plus the super soft cotton is just what any woman wants in a pair of undies... additionally, you can't find a better deal on panties, with a price point of $13 for a pack of six I'll be stocking up on these beauties to make me feel "comfydent" even after baby arrives!

3. Concentrate on the end result - your baby! While it's easier said than done, spend more time worrying about baby than your body shape. Spend a few hours shopping for clothes for baby or maybe take the time to organize babies items in their closet, it's easy to distract yourself from worrying about your growing waistline with so much to be done for the baby on the way!

4. Educate yourself. Instead of worrying if your belly is the right size, learn about it. Spend a few minutes finding books that will help you master the art of pregnancy, then read all you can about the stage of pregnancy you are currently in.

5. Stay active! While walking is more like waddling at this point, I suggest you take a few minutes each day to walk around the block or even around your favorite place to shop. If walking is too much, spend a few minutes doing some yoga, even if it's just a pose in the morning and a pose at night. It may not seem like much, but the activity is good for you and baby and it'll keep your mind off how round your bump is while also helping your body digest food, circulate blood, increase oxygen flow, etc.

6. Spend time with your husband, spouse, partner, or whatever you call your other half. Tell him about how you're feeling and I bet he's smart enough to let you know that he truly loves you and your belly, it doesn't matter what shape it is or how round it gets...

There you have it, six different ways you can learn to embrace your growing baby bump and gain confidence. I know it's easier said than done, but take it from a girl who has heard every questionable statement from a stranger during her pregnancy... it's okay to love your body while pregnant and even better, be confident! Rock what your mama gave you and what you're giving your baby!

So tell me, have you been in the same boat as me? Are you currently? I'd love to hear how you kept your cool and remained confident during your pregnancy, especially during the third trimester - leave me a comment telling me all about it below or share this post with others and use the hashtag #BeComfydent!

Beat the Heat with The Target Clean Care Box!

This summer has been a little different than any other I've ever experienced, the main reason being that I'm super pregnant and dealing with all the "fun" symptoms that accompany pregnancy. While feeling little Delainey kick and nesting have been two of the positive symptoms as of late, I'll be real and tell you that being 30lbs heavier than my previous weight and dealing with the all of the additional hormones coursing through my body has been interesting.

If you're also pregnant, dreading the heat every single day, or just simply not a big fan of summertime, the Target Clean Care Box is the answer! The contents of these boxes include everything a woman needs to beat the heat and most of it fits right into your handy-dandy little purse... Well, for some of us it all fits in a purse but I've always been one to overstuff my handbag so when I saw all the goodies in this box I knew where most of it was heading. If you're a bit like myself (or Mary Poppins, for that matter), you'll want to keep all of this in your bag just in case it's needed. If not, I still suggest you stock up on some of these heat-combating products while they are on sale at Target!

We'll start with a product I can't get enough of, the NEW Kleenex® Facial Cleansing Wipes! These little beauties combine multi-layered, textured fabric, and a gentle cleanser infused with a pro-vitamin complex to give the natural radiance of a freshly washed clean in just 1 step - the perfect way to keep your face looking fresh even on the most uncomfortably hot day! Alcohol Free, Pre-moistened, Dermatologist Tested, and found in Assorted Patterns, you can rest assured that your skin will look radiant no matter where you spend your days! I love packing these in my beach bag to ensure I look absolutely radiant, no matter what the plans are afterward! More Kleenex Facial Cleansing products are available here.

Another must have item in my bag when I'm heading out for the day is my Cottonelle® Clean Care Bath Tissue & Fresh Care Flushable Cleansing Cloths! Since the bath tissue is unscented and designed to clean better with CleanRipple® Texture—you’ll get hooked once you try it and luckily it'll help you keep dry even on the hottest and most humid days! The CleanRipple texture is designed to give you a better clean, so you feel fresh all day long! For those days that you need a little extra refreshing feel, the Fresh Care cleansing cloths offer just the right amount of moistness with a quick-dry performance to leave you feeling fresh & dry! Used together, your lady parts will feel refreshed after each visit to the ladies room!

If you're expecting or around anyone who is, I suggest you always keep a pack of Kleenex® Facial Tissue in your bag! As emotional as pregnant women can get, it's easy to burst into tears at any moment. While I'm guilty of this lately, I like to make sure I bring along a pack of tissues in case one of my other mama friends happens to be feeling equally as emotional. One soft tissue is all it takes to show you care. With a variety of designs and a good amount of tissues packed into a tiny little pack, it's easy to fit these beauties in my bag no matter the occasion.

Another item every woman needs to have this summer is Skinfix® Ultra Rich Hand Cream! This award winning little lotion is clinically proven to treat dry, cracked skin on hands and it softens, deeply hydrates, and moisturizes even the driest, eczema-prone hands with it’s unscented, medicated, steroid-free formula! No more grubby hands after a day at the beach, this dermatologist tested and paraben-free hand cream relieves and soothes itchy, irritated skin and will keep your digits looking delightful!

Another item I must keep in my bag at all times during the summer is Skinfix® Lip Repair Balm! The answer to any chronically chapped-lipped girls prayers, with a lightweight, deeply hydrating formula, this lip repair balm soothes and moisturizes chapped lips! If you're a coconut oil fanatic like myself you'll be happy to find out,it contains 40% coconut oil to help banish dry lips on contact and it looks as amazing as it feels!

While this item doesn't come with me on outtings, the Bathery® Delicate Sponge is the perfect way to help clean yourself up after a long day in the hot, hot heat. Enjoy a refreshing bath or shower with the soft and soothing texture of this bath sponge is heavenly. The sponge comes in assorted colors and makes for the perfect exfoliator, treat yourself to one and maybe grab one for your hubby too! We all deserve to feel pampered, after all!

So tell me, what are your favorite products to help you beat the heat? If you want to find some new favorites be sure to check out what's included in the Target Cottonelle Clean Care box!