Happy Friday, everyone, I hope you had a wonderful week!
This week has been nuts adjusting from being back from vacation, celebrating my sweet baby Lincoln’s third birthday, and now preparing for Ben’s parents to arrive for a visit this weekend. When it rains, it pours! I tend to get really stressed out when there’s more on my to-do list than hours in the day to do them (I guess who doesn’t?) so when that happens I take a step back and ask myself, in 5 years, will this particular task/item matter? Usually the answer is no, so I try and give myself a little slack and grace.
Plus two scoops of Dirt Cake. Just saying.
All that said, new recipes are coming your way next week but for the past 5 days I really needed to focus on my family. I know you understand, and that doesn’t mean I don’t have a million thoughts running through my head which I’m putting to paper, -er, computer screen, in this month’s Currently post!
Time and place: 3:51pm, sitting at my kitchen counter listening to the mailman gas then brake from house to house praying the noise doesn’t wake up my sleeping child, God bless ’em both.
Celebrating: Lincoln’s 3rd birthday! This past Tuesday our little man turned THREE years old, which seems entirely impossible. He woke up that morning asking, “Is it my birthday?! Are there hats? Balloons? The things that hang from the ceiling?! Is everybody here?!” Then bolted out of bed. It was so adorable!
We had to break up his celebration because of family availability, so after a fun Mama/son afternoon at the Science Center, Ben, myself, and my Mom and Dad took him out to Jethros, per his request, for a birthday dinner of a burger and fries, then back to our place for Dirt Cake (which we’ve dubbed “Nana’s Allergy-Friendly Dirt Cake” bahahahaha. Horrible name, but seeeeeeeeriously, that Dirt Cake!!!!) and presents, of course!
Early hits have been Disney books and Mickey PJs from Zulily, a giant egg of Silly Putty, and this toddler camera.
Jury’s still out on the Mickey mask. ? Seriously though, if your child asks for a Disney-themed birthday party than Party City, where I got all the decorations, life-sized Mickey balloon, Lincoln’s little birthday badge, and yes, this mask, has you covered!
Happy, happy birthday to our first born and little ray of sunshine. We could not have asked for a sweeter little boy, and are excited to continue celebrating all things Lincoln this weekend with Ben’s parents!
Loving: Zerorez. A couple weeks ago we got our downstairs carpets cleaned by Zerorez and I am thrilled with the results (to be clear this is NOT a sponsored mention.) We had a few stains leftover from the previous owners which were driving me nuts, plus I accidentally spilled an entire mug of coffee on the carpet whilst sword fighting Lincoln about a month ago and couldn’t get the stain out for anything. My bad! Anyway, like I said, couldn’t have been happier with the results. The cleaning took less than an hour, wasn’t crazy expensive ($155 for family room, formal living + dining room, and stairs,) and they get everything out, including the old stains which were at least three years old (the length of time as we’ve lived in our house.) At one point while I was watching our tech clean Lincoln asked me, “Mommy, why are you smiling?” Because I’m a crazy freak who loves clean carpets, honey!
Utilizing: quick wash. I just recently realized we had a “quick wash” feature on our washing machine and it’s been a game changer. The “normal” setting took 59 minutes a load (which is just ridiculous, right?!) while the quick wash zips through one in 26. Laundry that takes half the time? Yes please.
Seeking: Solly baby wrap. I’m in the market for a soft yet snug baby wrap for Mr. Man 2.0. We have the Baby K’Tan (and an Ergo for lots of support when we’re out of the house) but want something that’s a little sturdier yet still soft. I’m hearing Solly is the way to go, but there’s several different “models”. Any better than the rest?
Craving: Chocolate Chip Paleo Zucchini Bars. Like, cannot stop thinking about how gooey and chocolatey these look. Must make ASAP, especially because Lincoln can eat them too!
Finishing: home decor projects. My intense nesting phase seems to have come down to a simmer now that we’ve gotten a couple home projects finished. Good thing too – Ben was getting scared! First we (and by “we” I mean my amazing Mom who did most of it while we were in Colorado!) painted a hallway and wall this blue color, which I love against the white trim. It’s Benjamin Moore’s Little Falls. Pardon the books and wrinkly runner, by the way. Home/DIY photographer I am not!
(Frames from IKEA, bowl from Homemakers, table from World Market, (in need of an intense steaming session) runner from Etsy.)
I’ve been watching this floating Bon Appetit wire sculpture on Anthropologie’s website for literally two years and it FINALLY went on sale a few weeks ago. We hung it above our kitchen window and it looks even better than I imagined. Very dainty and understated. (Again, sorry for the crappy pic, it’s so hard to shoot interiors!)
Finally, I think I got my builtins to a place where I like them! I switched the top two blue vases from one bookcase to the other after seeing this picture, but for now, I am DONE. Unpictured is the office >> guest room switcheroo, and multi closet purge. Last thing is to get the baby’s room painted and setup, then we are ready to ROCK!
Eating: peaches. Last Sunday the boys and I visited Will’s Family Orchard for pick your own organic peaches. Peaches aren’t typically grown in Iowa because they’re extremely sensitive to cold, so this was a TREAT. The peaches were as sweet as candy, and I love that Lincoln now knows how they’re grown. It also got me crazy excited for pick your own apples and pumpkins in a few months. Love ya’, summer, but holy cow I cannot wait!
Reminding: Go Sugar Free Course (< affiliate link.) Speaking of sweet as candy, Jacqueline Smith’s next Go Sugar Free Course starts Wednesday, August 10th! This course completely changed my life and I have no idea where I’d be today in terms of sugar consumption had I not taken it – likely drowning in sour gummy worms and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. I will say I’ve had a slight setback this pregnancy with craving all. of. the. sweets. but plan on retaking the course in early 2017 (graduates have lifetime access, which is ah-mazing) to reset my palate and cravings.
Hating: pregnancy insomnia. The second trimester of this pregnancy was the most glorious I have felt since 2012. How crazy is that? Energy through the roof. That said, I can definitely tell the third trimester has hit, especially in regards to sleeping. It’s just uncomfortable and I’ve found myself wide awake at 3:30am more times in the past couple of weeks than I’d like, that’s for sure. Maybe this is on purpose – just so we’re prepared for the mind numbing tiredness that is being a parent of a newborn?! I’m scared.
Watching: Bachelor in Paradise. Yep, I’ll admit it. Love me a good train wreck of a reality show! The twins make me laugh. Ah, youth.
Snacking. Loving this easy, summery snack I recently created for my partners at The Laughing Cow! I just toasted flat bread (still loving MyBread for all my gluten-free flatbread/pita bread needs,) then slathered it with The Laughing Cow Creamy Original Swiss and topped with Cucumber and Tomato Salad. Summer bliss, baby!
Reading: It’s Hard for Them Too. This article was floating around Facebook a month or two ago and was so eye-opening. I’ve always thought about the fact that children – toddlers, especially – have no control over what they do, eat, see, etc, and this just really confirmed that man, that must be TOUGH! Such a great read for parents of little ones.
Wondering: LuLa Roe. Can someone give me the lowdown on LuLa Roe? I’d never heard of them until recently and now it’s all I hear about both online and in real life. Apparently they have amazing leggings, but you have to go through a consultant to order?
Adoring: this kitchen. Can you say kitchen goals?! I almost can’t even handle it. This entire house is incredible!
Anticipating: The Olympics! So excited to watch the opening ceremonies tonight then to engross myself in all things gymnastics, swimming, volleyball, diving, and track & field over the next couple of weeks. Such a great way to end the summer. What sport(s) are you looking forward to following the most?
Aubrey 08.06.2016
I live in Urbandale — do you buy the My Bread pita at HyVee? If so what is it by (fresh, frozen, GF asile)? I was at the Jordan Creek store today and couldn’t find it. Thanks!
Kristin 08.10.2016
I usually buy it at Whole Foods and I think I’ve found it at HyVee before though it’s hit or miss! At Whole Foods it’s kept in the gluten-free freezer, which is right across from the hot bar.
Aubrey 08.17.2016
Thanks
Kristin 08.06.2016
I love my Solly Wrap for #2. She almost immediately falls asleep when I wear her so I can have my hand free. I had a ktan with #1 and never felt that it was snug enough. Might have been a sizing issue, but it’s nice that my husband can wear the Solly too. It’ll probably only last a few months, but it’s been a lifesaver through the witching hour!
Holly 08.06.2016
I am 26 weeks pregnant and after lots of research ordered the Solly wrap this past week. This is my first baby so hopefully it’s the right choice! Haha.
Kristin 08.06.2016
I think they all have their pluses and minuses – I’m sure you’ll love anything that gives you free hands for even a little bit! :)
Kalli 08.06.2016
Super random, but I saw you at my OB office yesterday! I started to fan girl but my husband told me to shut up :-)
Kristin 08.06.2016
HA, you should have! We’ll be there a lot of the next two months, so say hi if we cross paths again! ;)
Megann B 08.05.2016
I know all about the LulaRoe! It has hit the Quad Cities with a vengeance, and I was sucked in like all the rest! The legging are called butter leggings for a reason, they are incredibly soft and comfy and the Julia dress is my new obsession, it looks amazing on all body types! The only drawback is that it’s all delicate wash and hang to dry. But, small price to pay for the most comfortable clothes EVER!
Kate 08.05.2016
Our boys have the same birthday, but mine is a year younger! Happy Birthday, Lincoln! ?
Kristin 08.06.2016
Awww, happy birthday to your little guy!!! Hope you guys had a blast!
Rachel 08.05.2016
Yes, LuLaRoe is awesome! Love their leggings, tops, dresses and skirts. Perfect when you want to be comfortable.
The Solly wrap is good if you want another newborn stage carrier similar to the K’tan. Typically a stretchy wrap becomes less comfortable after baby hits about 15 lbs. If you want something that you can use from newborn to toddler, I would recommend a woven wrap. If you can get to a meeting of your local babywearing group (pregnant women are welcome!) you will get to see lots of different carriers. If you would like, you can email me for more info. I am a babywearing educator and happy to answer any questions you have. :)
Ot 08.05.2016
Happy birthday to Lincoln! My little man is 2 days younger than Lincoln and I feel this year was the most fun so far on his birthday because he understood what was really happening!
I also have a 4 month old boy and your heart will melt seeing them together. Congrats!
Kristin 08.06.2016
Seriously – SO much fun this year!! Happy birthday to your little one, too! <3
Kayla 08.05.2016
lularoe has super comfy, fun leggings but also lots of other comfy and cute clothes – skirts, dresses, tops, kids clothes. You do purchase through a consultant. My sister recently started selling it — https://www.facebook.com/groups/LuLaRoeBrookeAllen/
Most consultants host online pop-up shops (hers are on Tuesday evenings) and do in home pop up shops.
Also – were you and Lincoln at the miracle league park in ankeny a few weeks back? I was there with my little boy and thought it was you and him, but didn’t want to weird you out by asking ☺️.
Kristin 08.06.2016
We were! I think maybe in late June? We were in the area visiting a friend and Lincoln has asked to go back about 100 times – SUCH a great park!
Yum Yucky 08.05.2016
Happy birthday Lincoln! I am playing catch up here — didn’t realize you were a mommy now. That is just so darn wonderful!
Kristin 08.06.2016
Yes, our little bean!! So good to hear from you, Josie – I hope you’ve been well!!
Erin 08.05.2016
I definitely needed to read ‘It’s hard for them, too.’ My almost-3-year-old has been very trying this week. Combine that with a lack of sleep with our 2-month-old and I’ve lost my patience with him more than once. But today is a new day and I feel like this article’s perspective is just what I needed to reset. Perfect start to the weekend. Thank you!
Kristin 08.06.2016
You bet – Ben and I have both read it a couple times at least!
Lecy | A Simpler Grace 08.05.2016
I’m so excited for the Olympics too! The opening ceremony is always THE show to watch. Have a great weekend! :)
Amanda Lee 08.05.2016
Are you a part of the baby wearing group on FB? I’m in the area too. They are called: Babywearing International of Central Iowa. They have meetings every month around the area and you can join and check out carriers for $30?? Something like that. Might be beneficial to try a couple before you buy! Plus it’s hands on help! :)
Kristin 08.06.2016
Thank you so much for the tip – I will definitely look the group up on Facebook!
Jessica 08.08.2016
I second the tip on Babywearing International of Central Iowa! I started out with a Baby K’tan and then found this group and started attending meetings. I’ve been addicted to all things babywearing ever since – so helpful (especially with two kids)!
Sara 08.05.2016
OOh love me some Lula! The Irmas are my FAVE. (I do have a few pairs of leggings which I love for the fall/winter but I feel like they are too thick and hot for the summer-but the Irmas are great because they are long enough to cover everything.) I would try on first since the sizing is all over the place! And, there are only a certain number of styles/prints made so if you find something you like-snatch it up! :)
And I have been hearing about Zerorez for EVER on the radio (hello, Star 102.5!) and always wondered if it was that good. Might have to try it!!
Kristin 08.06.2016
Seriously SO good, I highly recommend!
Erica Andersen 08.05.2016
Hey Kristin! Yes, LuLaRoe is all the rage! I sell it and am local to Wes Des Moines if you ever want to take a peak. It’s fabulous for pregnancy – the flowy, cotton clothes stretch and are great for pregnancy and post-pregnancy. Leggings usually start the addiction, but we also have several types of shirts, skirts, dresses and kids clothes!
Lynn 08.05.2016
I totally agree about LuLaRoe…I’m not a consultant, but I LOVE their clothes. I wish I had them when I was pregnant. The consultants are so helpful and nice. It is much easier when you start buying to go to a party or go to the consultant’s house to see what size(s) are best for you. I love everything I have, and that says a lot because I used to hate shopping for clothes!
Kristin 08.06.2016
Ok good to know!! I’m debating buying more pregnancy clothes since I’m in my third tri and this will most likely be our last baby, but the leggings post-baby would probably be very useful!
Maureen Gribble 08.05.2016
Too funny about the quick wash cycle – we also just discovered it and yes – game changer! Our clothes are never dirty enough to need an hour – so hello time saver!
Kristin 08.06.2016
Seriously – maybe when Lincoln is 5+ and has grass/mud stains all over his clothes, but no need right now!
Kari 08.05.2016
When I was pregnant, I woke up every morning at 3:30. Guess what time my little guy wanted to eat – 3:30! We were in training together!
Kristin 08.06.2016
I think that’s exactly what we’re training for! ;)
Michelle 08.05.2016
Lularoe is amazing! Leggings are so comfy. If you search in Facebook you can find hundreds of lula groups that sell. My suggestion is to find a local consultant to try on clothes before you buy because Lula sizes aren’t the same as regular sizes. The best part is that they make limited numbers of each pattern, so if you find something you love get it as you may never see it again!
Emily 08.05.2016
You’re right – LulaRoe clothes have to be purchased through a consultant. You can find some online, though, that just sell through their facebook pages and ship to you, avoiding the awkward parties… It’s good stuff – leggings and dresses with pockets! A bit pricey, but seems to be really good quality.
Robin 08.05.2016
Just wanted to chime in about the Solly wrap. Currently using one with my 2nd baby, after using the Moby wrap with my first. Solly is great because it is thin, making it cooler to wear in the summer than Moby. Both of them are preferable to K’tan because you can tighten them up just right–I felt like the K’tan stretched out and I was limited in how tight I could make it, making baby feel insecure. I bought my Solly used–there are many for sale in my local area and online (Solly BST Facebook group). :)