What's In My Hospital Bag?

It’s time to start packing for the hospital – most advise you to start packing around 37 weeks but I think anytime in the third trimester is fine especially if you’re high risk.

This post contains affiliate links - meaning if you purchase through any of my links a small percentage will come to me to help me continue to create!

So let’s jump into it!

All of my personal care items will be travel sized so that I can pack them ahead of time!

Mom

Soap

Deodorant

Toothbrush

Toothpaste

Lip Balm

Hair Ties

Lotion

Robe

Going Home Outfit

Slippers

Insurance Info

 

Dad/Partner

Change of clothes (2-3)

Toothbrush

Deodorant

Shower Necessities

Phone + charger

 

Baby

2-3 outfits

Hat

Blanket

Socks

Mittens

Snowsuit (Winter Baby)

Bottle

Car seat

Extras:

Camera

iPad/Tablet

Laptop

Snacks

Change (for vending machine)

Pillows

Blanket

A Day of Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving!

I just wanted to get it out of the way before you begin to enjoy your feast for the day.

I’m looking forward to enjoying all of my favorites today; macaroni and cheese, collard greens, fried chicken, rice and gravy!

Although my mind is filled with what I’m going to be eating later, my thoughts are on what makes this day so important to my family. It’s tradition that we go around and recite what we’re thankful for. I’ll get a head start with you all.

Today, I’m thankful for life, my family, and friends. I’m grateful for the many opportunities that have come my way in such a short time. I’m blessed to have my loyal readers to help keep me going and most of all I’m thankful for love.

In just a few weeks, I will be welcoming my baby boy and I’m tickled with joy. I’m already thankful for the safe delivery because I’m counting it done!

 

What are you thankful for?

Black Friday Sale with PinkBlush

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Mama’s this one is for you! Thanks to PinkBlush I’m bringing you some Holiday Deals!!! All opinions are completely my own - as always!

Have you been wanting to update that wardrobe but you haven’t been sure how to do so or don’t think you can afford it? SURPRISE! You’re in luck! I’m always being complimented on how nice my clothing from PinkBlush is and now you’ll get the opportunity to have some, IF you shop the sale!!!

LARGEST SALE OF THE YEAR!!!

Below are some items that I’ve been able to select that are apart of the sale. Make sure you head over to their site to see what awesome deals you can catch! What I love most about PinkBlush is they are totally keeping me trendy for pregnancy and beyond. Once you become a mom you feel like you lose some of your hotness but NO MA’AM! I will defiantly be able to keep it hot!

Outfit 1: Light Blue Solid Delivery/Nursing Robe

This item is apart of their Holi-Deals*

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Ladies, I had to grab this robe! I own another one of their robes and I’m in LOVE! It’s comfy and light. This is not your grandmother’s robe! I love that I will be able to nurse my little one with my robe on due to the tie on the inside. You will want this in your collection and it’s a super low price Black Friday thru Cyber Monday!

Sizes: 1X - 3X

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Outfit 2: Ruffle Trim Puff Sleeve Maternity Dress

Red Puff sleeve dress

If you’ve been following me for a while you know I’m a “maxi girl” I LOVE a good maxi dress but I decided to do something a little different and opt for a short dress. You can still look fabulous and show a little skin! The color I’m wearing is no longer available but it is available in black, mauve, and royal blue!

I will definitely be rocking this to some holiday parties this year! You don’t have to opt for a long dress in the winter. Pair the dress with tights and you’re good to go! I also added a faux fur vest to give the outfit an extra flare.

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Sizes Available: S-XL

Non-maternity option: Burgundy Sequin Sleeveless V Neck Evening Gown

Outfit 3: Blue Plus Maternity Sweater Top

Blue PinkBlush Sweater

I can appreciate a cozy oversize sweater! This is perfect for going out and lounging around the house! I’ve paired this top a pair of jeggings and was pleased! The further along in the pregnancy I’m getting the more I want comfort! The neckline of the shirt is versatile. It’s open, I opted to wear it slightly off the shoulder - completely optional! I also love that it’s long enough to almost completely cover my hips! I can avoid tugging at my shirt constantly!

Sizes: 1X - 3X

Non-maternity option: Light Blue Cowl Neck Striped Accent Terry Top

If you’re anything like me, you’re planning your deals for Black Friday, that’s why I wanted to give it to you early so you’re ready! Remember you deserve something nice this holiday season as well! Everything will be up to 60% off! Be sure you use the CODE: BLACKFRIDAY


P.S. Stay tuned to my Instagram this week I will be doing a giveaway with PinkBlush just in time for your holiday shopping!

How To Make The Most Of Your Winter Photoshoot

Today we have special guest writer Denise Benson of Denise Benson Photography preparing us for our Winter Photoshoot!

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Spring and summer are long gone and holiday portrait season has passed.  The leaves have all fallen from the trees, the temps are freezing and your the skies seem to be a forever shade of grey.  The last thing on your mind is taking outdoor family photos, but as a photographer I'm here to tell you this is a great time of year to do it!  

I know you're probably reading this thinking I'm crazy, but just hear me out.  Everyone has photos taken during spring when flowers are in full bloom and if you're in the south, right as summer hits before things get too muggy and hot.  You're in the park because it's beautiful and scenic, but there are tons of other people there too enjoying the nice weather.  And likely other photographers.  Your images will likely look like your next door neighbors, and their neighbor, and theirs...you get the picture.  But winter is a great opportunity to switch things up and try unexpected locations or even the same location you've used during warmer times, but you're seeing it in a whole new light now.  And if you find the right time of day to shoot you'll likely not run into anyone else which always makes for better photographs.  So now that you're thinking maybe a winter shoot isn't the worst idea in the world here are a few tips to help seal the deal!


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1.  Opt for an indoor session.  During spring and summer you'll more than likely want to be outside while everything is blooming and filled with lush colors.  Use the winter shoot to try out a new location you may have never considered.  Your local museum may have some beautiful architecture and even a fun in-home lifestyle session works great during colder temps.

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2.  Wear something that pops.  If you do opt to keep your session outdoors this is a great time to make yourself and your family the center of attention.  Oftentimes when shooting in warmer weather the trees and grass are green and full of color, but during winter everything tends to be a muted shade of brown so if you opt to wear beautiful jewel tones like emerald greens and lush purples you'll automatically stand out from your  background.  No competing necessary.

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3. Add in fun props.  Just because it feels cold doesn't mean you have to look cold.  By adding some winter props like a cozy blanket, some hot cocoa with marshmallows and adorable accessories (who doesn't love a good pair of earmuffs?!) you can instantly make your session memorable and out of the norm from whatever your friends and family are doing.


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I believe a session can be fun and beautiful regardless of what time of year it is.  You just have to make the session unique to you.  So stop assuming that winter means no photoshoots and if you're lucky maybe it will even snow for your special day!

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All photos are by Denise Benson Photography!

Want to connect with her?

Instagram: @denisebensonphotography

Facebook: www.facebook.com/denisebensonphotography

Website: www.densiebensonphotography.com