This Is My Moment

April 18, 2015

This is a simple post.

Do you have moments you live for or moments when you quietly think, “Ahhh, this is life”?

It is just you and me and the sunshine streaming into your nursery window. We rock. I hum and feed you your morning bottle. After a burp, the binkie goes in and I turn some Avett Brothers music on. Wrap you tightly, pull you close, and we rock some more. Every now and then your eyes lock with mine and they light up and you smile so softly as I sing you the words. Once you fall asleep in my arms the whole world feels so incredibly peaceful. The house is absolutely still and quiet except for our music and rocking.

This is my moment.

I have come to realize that I work hard all week for this very moment. My weekdays are countdowns to my weekends at home with you. If I could imagine what heaven would feel like, this is it.

This is my moment and it is always with you.

Do you have a favorite moment that you live for? A simple moment that matters the most. Share in the comments below!

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This Is What Motherhood Did To Me

April 13, 2015

I once was a woman who kept up with her home. Clean dishes, folded laundry, organized cabinets and a made bed.

Now dishes are piled high as if the sink is just a storage bin. Our laundry sits in the baskets so long that it wrinkles to the point that I have to wash it all over again. My bed looks like a teenage boy resides here (no offense!). If I make the bed on Saturdays. It is a luxury.

I once was a woman who equated a good time with going out. Friday nights at home were lame. Dinner dates never began before 7 pm and always ended with drinks and maybe even dancing somewhere with friends.

Now Fridays consist of heels off, sweatpants on, take-out ordered and if we are lucky, we last past 9:30 pm.

I once was a woman who made a fuss over presentation. My home decor changed on the spot with the season. Even the simplest of get-togethers included well-thought out themed menus, down to matching disposable plasticware.

Now I consider myself extra festive with my new Spring flag in the front yard. It was Fall harvest themed about two weeks ago.

I once was a woman who found time for me. I made salon appointments for the latest ombre hairstyle, booked a manicure, did a little shopping, or a lot of shopping and always seemed to run out of time on weekends getting to do what I wanted to do.

Now I consider it a good day if my hair is not high atop my head in a messy bun, if both legs are shaved (yes, I have in a hurry forgot to shave a leg), and my goodness I felt like I went to the spa when I took some time to clip my nails and pluck my eyebrows.

This is what motherhood did to me. Motherhood turned me into someone else. Someone on most days that I don’t recognize. Motherhood took the former me and shook her up a bit. Rocked the ground beneath where she once stood.

Motherhood made me a messy house baring, pizza eating homebody who would trade in getting all dolled up for a night out on the town for sweatpants and a movie, holding her baby.

You see before motherhood the woman I once was cared about things, but that is just what they were, things. Everything that defined the woman I once was, centered around perceptions. I don’t feel like she was a selfish woman, she just didn’t know any different or better. Motherhood gave me the ability to live more simply and love more stronger. It allowed me to put things into perspective and see what is important. Motherhood said your dishes can wait but your baby will grow if you don’t slow down and live in the moment. Motherhood made me appreciate what I had and not what I wanted.

This is what motherhood did to me… and I kind of like it.

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To My Siblings, Thank You For The Lessons

April 10, 2015

I don’t really remember welcoming my Brother Tyler into the world. I was too young. When I think of us as young children flashbacks of photos I have seen over the years come to my mind. Burned images from times cherished by family long ago. As the first born, Tyler can be credited for giving me the title of “sister” that I get to carry with me through life. He was my first real friend, first best friend.

Like these photos? Bare with me. These were not ancient times, but this was long before any one of us could whip out a phone to capture a moment, upload to Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, develop a hashtag #SiblingLove, email out to family and then send it to WalMart to have the image printed and mailed to your home, because this is a picture that you actually want a hard copy of too versus just a plain ole’ digital.

Sometimes you can recall a moment in your life when a lesson may have been learned. That instant when you achieved a new understanding or appreciation. With Tyler, I can’t because I was just three when he was born. But I know now that Tyler was the one who taught me to share, taught me how to play well with others, taught me that life wasn’t always about me and taught me how to love in a new way. Simple things really, but crucial achievements for a child.

When I was six, Tanner was born. He was our blue eyed, blond haired baby boy. I can distinctly remember the day Tanner entered our family. I was in Mrs. Adam’s First Grade Class. I remember being in the hallway at our Elementary School, lined up against the wall, awaiting our turn to use the restrooms. I can remember seeing my Dad walk through the main entrance of the school and kneel before me. “You have a new baby brother. Do you want to go see him?” I am so sorry still to this day, Tanner.

“Nope!” I replied. “I really want to go to art class next.” And, calmly my Dad obliged. I later learned my Mom waited in her hospital room with her newborn waiting for her happy family to arrive to meet our new baby. When my Dad returned and explained I wanted to stay at school and go to art class, she was sure he was lying and that I was waiting in the hospital hallway to run in and yell surprise! No, I remained at school. I also, remember returning to Mrs. Adam’s classroom after art and as we started our math lesson I cried in the back of the room wanting my family. Or, maybe it was just to escape math!

National Sibling Day - BackwardsNHighHeels.com

Tanner was always such a happy baby, and again I must apologize because once a third was added to the mix I quickly learned what the phrase “third wheel” meant. Some days it was me and other days it was Tanner. Somehow Tyler always got a team! He taught me to fight and truly pick. And, while you may think, “Hey, poor, Tanner, that is not nice!” Know that with that came the lesson in learning right from wrong, your actions have consequences and how to make amends.

In fifth grade, our family expanded yet again. What the heck where you thinking, Mom and Dad? I remember being in class and getting called to the office. My mom called the school and wanted to share with me that we were having another boy, I was having another brother… another brother! I cried, and cried and cried. It ruined the rest of my day. I sat, this time in Mrs. Smith’s class, thinking “Another boy! Really?” Oh, how I longed for a sister.

Then the thought of being the only girl grew on me and then seeing him for the first time, well, I no longer cared about what might have been but was as excited as any kid could be. Turner was born just eight days after my birthday and we celebrated with our first official family photo in the hospital. It took my parents four tries to finally accomplish this feat!

Turner added chaos to our no longer “little family.” He successfully with his small little being brought complete strangers to bewilderment and introduced us all to a new thing – the double-take look, as my parents went into public places with their little “crew” of ducklings following behind. So, many kids? How do they do it? Things got kicked up a big notch on the home front and I can thank Turner for teaching me the value of teamwork as he evened the playing field. Turner also blessed me with the eldest sibling pride and a protection instinct that one from a big family learns they possess. Maybe it was my age that allowed me to realize that while we turned to our parents for guidance, siblings also develop a bond and reliance on each other.

I don’t know what made my parents think this was a good idea and I don’t know why I am sharing this picture with you. The suitcases were a nice touch though.

Then it happened… I was 15 years old. I remember this one clear as day. I stood beside my mother as she and I shared the bathroom to get ready for the day and she hit me with words, “I am pregnant.” I think my first reaction was an awkward you are kidding, please tell me you are kidding laugh. Although, what followed will forever haunt me. When she shook her head “no” and confirmed she was expecting, I cried, I screamed, I cried again. Worse than the 5th grader who just learned she was having, “another brother.” What was she thinking? Why would she mess with our already perfect “big” family? Weren’t we enough?

We did not speak for a few days, maybe weeks. Not because of her, but because of me. I held a big grudge. Then we received news that my mother’s already complicated pregnancy may become more complicated when she was sent to another hospital to run tests on the baby after some other concerning test results. I remember being sick to my stomach. Sick for my actions, words and thoughts from when she first told me she was expecting. I remember thinking God was punishing me and I prayed for the baby to be okay and for me to make things right.

It was the first time 3D Sonograms were being used and I traveled with my mom and got to see her… yes her! The sister I cried for some few years prior. We learned everything was going to be okay and my perspective was put into focus.

Alyvia, or Livy Lou as I like to call her changed absolutely everything about my world. She was born just a few days before my 16th birthday, so the whole experience with her was so different than my brothers. She became “my baby.” I learned how to change a diaper, rock her to sleep, give her a bath, make a bottle, all the little things that first time moms experience. She became the bookend to our family and all the worries and fears I had standing in the bathroom starring at my Mom who just announced “I am pregnant,” disappeared with Livy. Instead of “What were you thinking?” I was thanking my Mom and Dad for the gift of just one more. Livy taught me what a “sister bond” was. I had never known it before her. She taught me how to love longer and stronger and I credit her with so much of what I know now as a first time Mommy.

Today is National Sibling Day and while we celebrate our parents and thank them for their love, support and guidance throughout our lives, sometimes we forget the ones who also have contributed to the people we are today. You see, each one of my siblings taught me something along the way and they continue to teach me.

With our siblings we can have forever friends and supporters through this crazy road called life. I am so incredibly grateful for them. And, to my parents, who I have thanked so much throughout the years for various acts of kindness and lessons, I thank you for the greatest gift you gave each of us and that is each other.

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Wednesday Wisdom

April 8, 2015

It’s back. Wednesday Wisdom coming at ya’.

There is a quote that my Dad often says to me in times of chaos, stress or anxiety. You may have heard it before. It is pretty famous.

“God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” – Reinhold Niebuhr

You know you would think after all these years that I would know that when I turn to him out of worry or just to vent he would repeat the words above. I mean he is a man of few words to begin with so I don’t know why I expect more. Worry and stress never seem to fleet me and yet instead of learning my lesson and just saying those words in my head, because you know, I have them memorized, I still find myself turning to him. Maybe the comfort just exists in hearing his voice say the words. Yeah, that is it. I am going to go with that.

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March Favorites

April 6, 2015

Hey, April, Hey! Seriously, can you believe we are already into a new month? We are officially 1/4 of the way through 2015! Yes, 1/4 of the way! It is super cray, cray (hip way of saying crazy).

My beauty picks for the month of March are slim pickings, but don’t let the quantity fool you. These three items pack a mean punch. So, much so, that instead of waiting to share, I decided to move forward with this post. As a new mommy, with a three-month old, I don’t have much time for lengthy regiments and I am not spending much money on myself these days. Instead my investments are in the form of wipes, diapers and cute little outfits that make me giggle in delight. The last time I got this excited over clothes was when Mattel started making hip Barbie clothes and I would go shopping with my chore money. The point is these items are all at a very affordable price point.

1 – Coconut Foot Creme – My absolute new favorite beauty item! I declare this product a miracle worker. Here is the gist. Cute shoes – check, Painted toenails – check, Pretty feet – cricket, cricket… Somewhere in the last few years I developed cracked heels. They become terribly tough and dry through the winter. Then when the weather finally turns around and I can break out my sandals, I feel slightly insecure. This cream, or should I write, creme (read it with a British accent too. It just makes it sound better) showed its power very quickly. In just three days I noticed results. I just lather up my heels and then wear a pair of socks to bed. So, easy!

2 – Prime Time Foundation – This product had been sitting in my bathroom cabinet just waiting to be used and now that I am using it I am so sorry I ignored it for so long. Really, Prime Time, I am sorry. See I typically use another primer brand and when I found myself out of that product last month, I turned to this here bottle. And, to the rescue she came! Why I am referring to Prime Time as a human and a female, I don’t know, but please play along with me. Here is how she works… apply a small amount to your face after moisturizing but before you apply your makeup foundation. It makes your face so smooth and provides an even texture making makeup last longer and look less cakey. I tend to have drier skin, so this product works for me. Although, if you have oily, I have heard mix reviews.

3 – Jergens Natural Glow Foaming Daily Moisturizer – Get yo’ tan on girl! That is what I said to myself as I starred at my legs. You could see my veils. Seriously. That is how pale I was! With the forecast actually showing 60 degrees, I know I needed to take some action. I picked up this bottle without any investigating into self-tanning products. I literally just grabbed her (there I go again) off the shelf and went on my merry way. Luckily, I am surprised with how much I like this product. After three applies I have noticed a difference. It no longer appears like I am wearing white hose! It is the quickest and easiest self tanner I have used. Tip: Apply a little moisturizer to your wrists, knees and elbows before applying, that way you don’t get and odd coloring in those locations.

That is all folks! Have any must-try, must-buy beauty products? If so, feel free to comment.

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Easy Eggplant Parmesan

April 1, 2015

The past few weeks have been so incredibly busy with work. Major events and projects have collided together creating late nights, early mornings, skipped meals and crash and burn evenings. Dramatic, much? I know.

My dear husband has had to really take charge, as my parenting and household upkeep has been needless to say, slacking. After receiving a frantic call from my husband that consisted of a one way street conversation of – “Get home!” I was slightly nervous as I turned the front door handle and stepped into a quiet house. As I peeked into the nursery I saw my husband rocking a wide-eyed baby as he mouthed “be quiet.” I ninja-tip-toed out of the room and over so many baby items scattered across the floor. The house looked like we were robbed. As if a robber knew that somewhere under the building dust some serious loot resided and combed every inch of our home throwing bottles, diapers and baby clothing in complete madness.

I walked into the Master Bedroom and saw all of Baby Lo’s Diaper Bag belongings out and about throughout the room. Blankets, a formula dispenser, diapers, baby clothes, more diapers, even the Infant Tylenol and Vitamin D Drops which were neatly stored in their boxes and tucked away in a pocket of the diaper bag were out of their boxes and laying scattered across the bed (I am completely organized in the wrong places in life these days).

“Umm… what happened here tonight?” I asked. I think my husband had a twitch in his eye as he stated, “Onesie. I just needed a onesie.”

“And you thought maybe you would find it inside the Tylenol box?”

We still are laughing about that one. Needless to say, he warned me to buy more onesies, like boxes and boxes, but he has also been super helpful and amazing with taking care of Baby Lo, our home and even me.

So, in an effort to gain some normalcy back into our lives, I decided a home cooked meal is just what we needed.

EASY EGGPLANT PARMESAN:
Serves 4

1 – Eggplant
2 – Eggs
1 Cup of Breadcrumbs (Italian Flavored)
1 1/2 Cups of Shredded Parmesan
3 tsps of Dried Basil
1 – Jar of Prego Traditional Pasta Sauce
2 Cups of Shredded Mozzarella
Pepper to taste
Fresh Basil to garnish (optional)

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

Peel the skin of an eggplant and cut 1/3 of an inch pieces, so you have various circle size bites (basically, do not cut lengthwise). Beat two eggs in a bowl. In a separate bowl or plate mix 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese and 1 tsp of dried basil. Dip the eggplant in the egg, coat evenly, and then dip into breadcrumb mixture, again, coat evenly. Place eggplant on baking sheet. I end up using two sheets. Bake for 10 minutes, flip and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Remove and set aside.

I use a 9×13 baking dish since this recipe serves four. Coat the bottom with pasta sauce. Place a layer of eggplant and add a spoonful of sauce. Add 1 cup of Mozzarella, 1/2 cup of Parmesan, 1 tsp of dried basil and pepper to taste. Repeat the layering with eggplant, the remaining sauce and cheeses and season with 1 tsp of dried basil and pepper.

Bake for 15 minutes or until the top is golden and gooey, like this!

Garnish with fresh basil and serve alongside salad and bread! Delicious and easy!

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Looks For Less

March 28, 2015

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I have a slight obsession with jewelry. Now before you roll yours eyes at me, please know this obsession does not impact my husband or our wallet because while I am all for accessorizing, I am also all about not spending a fortune.

Costume jewelry is much more my focus. Take me into Tiffany and Co. and yes I will smile and gawk at the jewels before me, but take me into a pop-up accessory store and I will jump up and down and scream like the audience members when Oprah announced everyone was getting a car.

In fact, I was walking through the hallway at work this past week, with a statement necklace on and someone stopped me and said, “I love your necklace! Kendra Scott, right?” (I had no idea who Kendra Scott was. Now I do.). I stopped, thought about telling a white lie and nodding my head yes, but instead replied, “Honestly, you won’t believe it but it was a Payless Shoes accessory find.” The kind woman replied, “Honey, you got yourself a knock-off!”

LEFT: Forever21 – 7.90 || RIGHT: JCrew – 99.00

LEFT: Tiffany and Co. – 650.00 || RIGHT: Baublebar – 28.00

LEFT: Banana Republic – 34.99 || RIGHT: Alexander McQueen – 365.00

LEFT: Charming Charlie – 8.00 || RIGHT: Barneys (Irene Neuwirth) – 3,080.00

How insanely close is the last example? I can’t get over the similarity visually and then to see a price point of $8 versus $3,080?!?! Say, wha!! Explanation point city happening right here. Moral of the story – you can look extra chic for extra cheap! Happy Shopping!

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0-3 Months Baby Must Haves

March 23, 2015

Preparing for baby Lo felt like a college cram session (in case you are new to the blog, I should share that this is my first child). When I initially found out I was pregnant I downloaded the What To Expect App, which I would very much recommend to any new mommies out there. It tracks your pregnancy and provides daily advice based on your pregnancy progression. Some days I would wake up with a new pregnancy symptom or worry and open the App and the daily topic would be so relevant. MIND BLOWN! Download the App!

When we revealed to family and friends our news, an overwhelming amount of verbal advice came rushing in. From which bottles to use and what diapers are the best, to the must have baby gadgets and whether or not organic matters.

I honestly had a few panic attacks in the first trimester from the overwhelming amount of advice I was receiving. It felt suffocating at times. At one point I even thought… “I should have read more before I thought about getting pregnant! How will I ever learn everything?”

Some of my biggest worries came down to baby products. It felt like I needed a truckload to welcome baby. I scanned Consumer Reports, read Baby Blogs, listened to fellow Mommy’s advice and visited website reviews. Looking back there were things I could have lived without but there are also those things that have been absolutely necessary.

Baby Must Haves

1 – Aden + Anais Classic Swaddles – These are my absolute favorite baby item! There is a huge difference when swaddling baby in Aden + Anais versus a cotton receiving blanket.They are made from muslin so they are breathable. Plus, the patterns are super cute too!

2 – Ingenuity Moonlight Rocking Sleeper – This is the sole reason I sleep at night! Baby Lo loves this Sleeper. When she was born we had the Sleeper in our Living Room because it is not as bulky as a Pack N’ Play. Once we realized Baby Lo preferred to sleep in the Rocking Sleeper over the Pack N’ Play we had set up in our room, well, we packed up the Pack N’ Play and moved the Sleeper back beside our bed. She loves the incline position.

3 – Motorola Digital Video Baby Monitor – When you can’t be two places at once, this digital monitor is a must! I can sneak in a shower while the baby sleeps in the next room and not have to worry that I can’t hear her because this monitor has video and sound capabilities.

4 – Britax B-AGILE Travel System Stroller – I spent the absolute most time researching the best stroller and car seat for Baby Lo. I read so many reviews and received so much advice. Go to the store and test out the products! That is my advice. I was torn between this brand and another, but once I tested the Britax system out while registering I knew this was the one for me. The stroller is lightweight and will grow with baby. Storage is also super convenient.

5 – Munchkin Formula Dispenser – This inexpensive must have is one super valuable item. One time my in-law accidentally took ours home, mistaking it for theirs and both my husband and I planned our day around picking it up. Since, I breastfeed and supplement formula, this little invention is so helpful for when we are on-the-go or even for middle of the night feedings.

6 – Dreambaby Room & Bath Thermometer – This is an absolute must! I can’t tell you how many times I have thought the bath water felt just right but was well over 102 degrees! A big no, no for baby bath time. What feels good to you as an adult is so much different for baby. I did hear a great tip to use your elbow to test bath water versus your hand, but it is still comforting to know what temperature the water is before I put the baby in.

7 – AVENT Soothie Pacifier – Have you read this? Now you know why I love a binkie!

8 – Baby K’Tan – I researched the perfect baby carrier and after reading many other Blogs giving this product high praises, I was so happy to receive the Baby K’Tan and equally enjoy. It is super durable, cleanable and lightweight! Plus, you get your hands back, so you can cook, clean, pay bills… you know, fun adult stuff. Baby Lo loves when I put her in the Baby K’Tan and vacuum the house. She falls right asleep!

9 – Boppy – If you are breastfeeding then I would highly recommend the Boppy. During the first few weeks the Boppy was so important in providing support. As Baby Lo got bigger, the Boppy has been great for propping and supporting her while I fold laundry beside her or even put on some make-up. I know, crazy?! Also, make sure the Boppy is purchased before you have baby and pack it with your Hospital Bag. Trust me! You will be so happy you did!

10 – Medela Breast Pump – Again, if you choose to breastfeed, this is a must! Once your milk comes in and you start to get the hang of breastfeeding you will want to explore pumping. I was so grateful once I had stored milk for someone else to assist with a feeding. My insurance covered this pump. It is a basic pump, but I really like it and would recommend it to anyone who is planning on breastfeeding.

What items would you recommend for a Baby Registry? Do you have must have baby items for 0 – 3 month old babies? If so, please share below!

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Sausage And Pesto Pizza

March 18, 2015

One item that is typically always in my refrigerator is a pizza crust. Now the toppings, well that is another story, but a pizza crust, yes, you will find. Pizza is an easy solution to weeknight dinner predicaments. Since, we are creatures of habit in my household, we typically lean towards pepperoni and cheese or a version of a supreme depending on what vegetables are available. My personal favorite is our buffalo chicken which is a recipe we have perfected, but every now and then we get creative. In my opinion when you mix creativity with simplicity in the kitchen, well boys and girls, you have culinary success!

This recipe was adapted from another Blog, Food n’ Focus. I stumbled upon the post on Pinterest and after I made some adjustments based on the ingredients I had on hand, I decided to share with you.

SAUSAGE AND PESTO PIZZA:

1 Tbsp of Olive Oil
1 Pre-made Store Bought Pizza Dough
4 Sweet Italian Sausage Links
1/2 Cup of Pesto
1 Cup of Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
1/2 Cup of Shredded Parmesan Cheese
1 Jar of Artichokes
Handful of Parmigiano-Reggiano Shavings
1 Package of Pre-Cooked Chicken

Pre-heat the oven to 375 degrees.

Remove casing from the Sweet Italian Sausage Links and crumble the sausage. Cook the sausage in 1 Tbsp of Oil in a skillet on medium high. Once cooked through, remove and drain.

Start by spreading 1/2 a cup of Pesto over the Pizza Dough. Then layer on 1 cup of the Shredded Mozzarella Cheese and 1/2 cup of Shredded Parmesan Cheese. Add the Artichokes and the Pre-Cooked Sausage to the top of the Pizza. Sprinkle the top with a handful of Parmigiano-Reggiano Shavings. Place the Pizza directly on the top oven rack and place a baking sheet on the rack below to catch any food. Cook for about 10-15 minutes.

Remove and sprinkle with fresh basil.

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How I Survived The Market With An Infant

March 15, 2015

* I must begin this post with explaining the word “Market.” In my neck of the woods, we refer to a Grocery Store as a Market and we refer to a large grocery purchase as a “Market Order.” I work in the next state over from where I call home and I will never forget the looks on my co-worker’s faces as I casually stated, “Yeah, this weekend I made it to the Market. I had to get a huge Market Order so I am packing a good lunch today, girls.” Everyone stared at me like I was talking in a new language. Later I learned no one had any clue what a “Market” was nor a “Market Order” and had visions of me shopping at a Farmer’s Market style venue where I sent in a pre-order and picked it up. My one co-worker said, “I envisioned you in a farm field with rows upon rows of produce in crates.” Ahhhh, I wish. So, now that I set the vocabulary for my post, let’s dive in.

Yesterday I accomplished a feat. It was such an accomplishment that my exhausted mind and body are just now sitting down to write this post. What major event do you have to announce, you ask? Well, Baby Lo and I successful went to the Market.

You see up until this point, I have solely relied upon my husband for the market runs. While I was on Maternity Leave he would call before leaving the office and stop to get anything I may need which usually consisted of coffee (I was sleep deprived), water (I was always thirsty) and Oreo’s (my sweet tooth from pregnancy never disappeared).

Twice, just twice can I recollect taking the baby to the market in the last 12 weeks. Both times have been for essentials and no more than the Express Lane limit. In and out was my motto! Once, I attempted to take her for an order. I was getting her out of her car seat to transfer her to the Baby K’Tan and after realizing she had a dirty diaper and changing her on a slant in the backseat of the car, I was so tired and she was so cranky, that I packed her back up in the car seat and came home. We ordered take-out that night.

Let me tell you… I felt like the Little Engine that could. “I think I can, I think I can.” She just successfully downed a bottle, had a nice clean diaper and was in a snugly sleep as we walked into this new found land. By the way these three essentials are key. I had nightmares of having to breastfeed by the Frito Lays, so high fives for a full belly.

I sat baby Lo, who slept peacefully, car seat and all into the back of the buggy (Yep, shopping cart. You are learning quick, young grasshopper) and headed straight for produce. Have you ever grocery shopped with an infant that cannot yet sit upright in the buggy? Ummmm… newsflash, there is LIMITED room in the cart once baby and car seat are set down. So, to say I had to get crafty and creative with my groceries is an understatement. I somehow managed to fit all my produce and some additional items in the child seat portion of the buggy. I actually got excited over how I organized and utilized the minimum space I had. I know… I am weird.

Shopping with a baby has its major perks. Fear of a mid-shopping session meltdown and the lack of cart space had me on a mission and seconding the need for every purchase. No, more crazy thoughts like, “I think I will make homemade granola this week!” Followed by parking my buggy in aisle 5 as I search Pinterest for a recipe.

I did however stop with baby to gawk at our Market’s amazing selection of Izze’s. Thank you for NOW deciding to carry more of a variety. I only lived off these when I was pregnant with Lo. FYI – Pregnant friends, these are amazing! Also, if you find yourself say at the beach pregnant or hanging out with non-pregnant, drinking friends… these are your lifesaver. Promise!

If that is not enough to make you giddy, going to the market with a baby means extra hands and help from the people around you. I would have never described fellow grocery shoppers up until this point as kind and patient. Let’s just say if I was Nora in Christmas with the Kranks, people would have been paying me to take the last of the Honey Ham.

At one point I launched the buggy into the middle of the aisle as I scanned the shelf for canned corn. I know, daring. I actually heard the woman sigh very loudly as if saying to me, “Okay, move! You are blocking the whole aisle.” Once she saw I had a baby in the buggy, she actually apologized and explained how she, “remembered those days.”

Finally as my journey came to an end, reality set in about the same moment I was searching through the diaper bag for my coupons and money. While the baby fit so well in her car seat surrounded by the many items I was purchasing, how would she and the bulky disposable bags co-exist together in the buggy until I was able to unload. Let me tell you, I broke out into a cold sweat. And, so did other shoppers as people watched me unload the car seat, load the bulky bags that now took up all the buggy space and teeter the car seat on the rim of the buggy. (Don’t freak out! Apparently this is how I should have shopped with the car seat all a long.)

Walking out of the market, I just wanted to get home. Baby Lo was amazing but my constant worrying left me mentally exhausted. The funny thing is after I finally got everything unloaded and put away at home it dawned on me… I picked up nothing for dinner for that evening!! Seriously? How does this happen.

After rocking the baby to sleep, my husband and I kicked our legs up and dived into a hot dog. Guess what? I have always loved hot dogs, so life is good!