Hello, hello from the end of a gorgeous fall week! We’ve been hanging in the 30s, 40s, and 50s the past couple of days and it’s been just fabulous. Especially since I’m carrying around so much extra “insulation”. Sistah is HOT!
I had my next to last checkup before baby earlier this week and when asked how I’m feeling I answered with an honest “GREAT”. My back is killing me and my walk has officially become a waddle, but the end of this pregnancy is so close I can practically touch it and with it has come a very unexpected burst of energy. After weeks of feeling like making it through the entire day was an impossible feat, I am totally digging it.
Here’s what else is currently going on!
Time and place: 2:12pm, at the kitchen counter. Lincoln came down with a bug in the middle of the night last night (?) so he went down for his afternoon nap right after lunch. Hopefully he can kick this thing relatively quickly – he’s got a baby brother to meet!
Awaiting: baby! We have mere days until our little guy is born and I am more than ready, both emotionally and physically, to meet this little rolly pollie. This pregnancy was much harder on my body for various reasons – being in my 30s (ugh,) having Celiac Disease (double ugh,) not being as active (triple…ok, I’ll stop,) etc, and to be honest these last 2 months have kind of crawled by. Regardless, little man’s room is ready, his wittle clothes are washed, and our arms are open. Let’s do this!
Wearing: leggings. I finally joined the LuLaRoe revolution and have been living in their leggings. They really are as soft as advertised, and so adorable (and in case you were wondering, the OS waistband fit over my baby bump – three cheers for strechy pants!) One of my best friends, who just started selling the line, and I got together with another one of our besties last weekend and we ALL showed up in head to toe LLRoe. It was hilarious! Maybe you had to be there… Anyway, I recently bought this pair and got so many compliments on them. I can feel an obsession quickly building.
Snacking. If you need another idea for your fall apple stash, try my latest snack creation using The Laughing Cow cheese wedges. I sliced apples, spread them with The Laughing Cow’s Creamy Original Swiss cheese, then sprinkled with cinnamon and freshly chopped peanuts. So Divine. By the way, I feel like chopped peanuts are so underrated – have you ever tried them sprinkling them into your salads? AMAZING.
Loving: Contigo Snap Seal Travel Mug. The Target end cap strikes again… ? Truly I’ve been in the market for a new travel mug for the past couple of months (I threw all ours away in a manic kitchen purge,) and this Contigo cup I picked up at the very tail end of my last Target visit has worked out really well so far. The coffee stays blazing hot for hours and the cup is dishwasher safe, too.
Watching: Modern Family. I was going to say the Presidential debates – I am hooked – but I’ll keep IGE drama free (that’s what Facebook is for, right?) and go with Mofy because if you are not watching, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?! It’s one of the only shows on television that Ben and I enjoy watching together (besides Top Chef – Charleston’s up next, woot!) without having to pretend the other one isn’t rolling their eyes every five minutes. Ok, 2. Ok, 1. So glad fall television is back. I also think “This is Us” is fantastic, but not as cult-following-worthy as it’s becoming. Just my $.02.
Eating: soup. Of all kinds. It’s the obvious answer to these cool, fall evenings and is a dish I know Lincoln and I will both happily eat for dinner then lunch the following day. Ben, who is generally not as soup-enthusiastic as we are, has been very compliant! I made this Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Soup the other night sans meat, plus an additional 1/2 cup or so of chicken broth, and with dried thyme instead of fresh, and it was sooo good.
Wearing: slip on Chucks. I slipped (har!) this in a post last week but wanted to share again – I recently bought these slip on CTs and they are adorable! Perfect for this time of year and they go with pretty much anything…especially leggings. ? FYI, I had to order a 1/2 size down. Now, any tips for keeping white shoes white, besides not standing in wet grass for fall leaf photo opps? I haven’t owned any since my Keds in 4th grade.
Craving: Chickpea Bacon Carbonara with Spiralized Sweet Potatoes. This spiralized dish is speaking to my soul. Carbonara is one of my favorite foods – Ben and I had it approximately 18 times each when we went to Italy – and I can’t wait to try this healthier yet still decadent-tasting twist.
Loving: lunch/snack plates. I gave a talk at my last MOPS meeting about healthier, happier family meal times and shared these cute lunch/snack plates that I’ve been making for Lincoln lately. I actually LOVE to talk about children’s meal and snack times but know not everyone who reads IGE has an interest or need in that department. Anyway, my Mom used to make lunch meat faces for us as kids (usually with a slice of bologna!) and the fact that I still remember them with complete clarity, yet can’t recall what I had for breakfast, is a testament to how much fun they are for little ones. For Lincoln I usually stack a slice of turkey on top of a slice of GF bread and use a round cookie cutter to trim, then decorate with anything and everything we have in the fridge and pantry. He is OBSESSED. Just an idea for your lunch-bored toddlers/kids.
Screen shotting: travel ideas. I’ve taken to screen shotting all the places I want to visit in the future for easy, visual reference. My latest include Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland, Autumn in New York, Yellowstone National Park, and Denali National Park (<< holy buckets that Insta account.) Guess I’m in a mountain state of mind!
Feeling: anxious + excited. Just because I’m ready to meet our baby boy doesn’t mean I’m not experiencing 50 shades of anxiety right now. I miss Lincoln already and can’t even think about not being able to give him my undivided attention without crying. Dealing with a newborn’s sleep schedule got me like ? and I would be lying if I said that I had any clue what my blog posting schedule will be like over the next couple of months. I will say that having perspective, since this is our second time around, has done wonders for my nerves and despite feeling anxious I’m also experiencing an unusual sense of calm (emphasis on unusual.) Whatever happens, happens – you can’t really predict or control a whole lot when you’ve got a newborn. Plus I’m trying not to let any of this overshadow our excitement to become a family of four! Those newborn nights tho… ?
Thankful for: YOU! As I mentioned, I truly don’t know what my posting schedule will look like for at least a month or so after baby arrives late next week, but I remember feeling so encouraged by you to do what’s best for me and my family last time around when I took, oh, three days off? In hindsight I should have given myself way more time to recuperate, which is what I plan to do this time. That said, worker bees gotta work so I know I won’t stay silent for too long, don’t you worry! I just really appreciate knowing that you’re there, and you’re patient. THANK YOU. This is not see ya’ later yet, though, as I’ll be back all next week. That said, I’ll catch ya’ on the flip side!
Have a great weekend!
I would love a post on children’s meal/snack time. I also always loved your mommy mind updates!
First time commenter here, but frequent reader –all of my family’s favorite recipes come from your site! Best wishes on the arrival of baby boy number 2; and take your time getting back — we’all all still be here! Can’t wait to hear about the little man’a arrival into your sweet family!
Same at my house! Every recipe is a hit and I don’t have to doctor it; just make as directed!
Where did you get the Lincoln plate? It’s adorable! I would love to get one for my new baby boy. And also, those newborn nights indeed ???
A sibling is the absolute best gift you can give to Lincoln! A wise mom of 5 told me this when I was going from 1 to 2 kids and feeling apprehensive about all the changes! All the best in the weeks to come!
I just wanted to say thank you for the last few things you wrote regarding pregnancy, baby, & expectations. In the most shocking day of my life thus far, I delivered my first baby girl on Tuesday, nearly 4 weeks early. She is snoozing on my chest right now after a night where I felt out of sorts, so I popped over here for some sense of normalcy since IGE had been a staple morning read for me since the early years, and you said just what I needed to hear. Best wishes to you and your family as you countdown til your new little one. We will be here whenever you get back.
I can’t wait to “meet” baby boy #2! What an unbelievably exciting time for your family. Newborn nights are definitely rough but everything is temporary. That Lincoln plate is so cute…details please :) Good luck!
I’ve had a few pairs of the same Chuck Taylors and while I can’t figure out how to clean the canvas part (can they be thrown in the wash?) I can confidently say that you can keep the rubber portion clean with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. I’ve used it for the last few years and it’s wonderful! Takes the scuffs off every time and the shoes look like new! I now use them on all white rubber shoes including my children’s Natives.
I also use the Magic Eraser on the soles and toe tip of my high top Chucks and that works pretty well.
I throw them right in the washing machine. The pair I am wearing right now are 1 year old and look brand new. I wash every few weeks. ;)
When I was a kid, my neighbor told me to wet my white shoes, pour salt on them (straight from the container), then wash them like you normally would. I had spilled Coke all over my shoes and they came out looking brand new!
I am planning to get a pair of these soon as well. A popular fashion blogger says to Scotch Guard them and you can get pretty much everything out! I has been amazing on my chairs so I don’t doubt it!
Sending positive internet vibes for an easy delivery. Can’t wait to see pictures of the new baby boy.
I saw your mention of those slip on chucks last week and want them so bad but I also wonder how to keep them white so I’ll be watching for any suggestions.
Our second is due to arrive in January and though it’s still a ways off… my nerves about sleep and emotions about sharing attention between two versus one are incredible. I know it will be fine, plenty of awesome mamas have paved the same path, but I relate to how you feel.
Also, Contigo thermoses are the only ones we use. I can usually get them way cheaper at Costco- 2 for $15 last week!
Blessings and prayers for an easy delivery! ??
I’ve had good luck washing white canvas shoes in the washer with oxyclean in the past…it is worth at least.
I’m super excited for you having baby 2! My oldest daughter meeting her baby sister (and then the 2 of them meeting the next baby sister) remains one of my sweetest memories!
Super excited about Too Chef being in Charleston! My husband and I went there after you blogged about it and absolutely loved it! Now to figure out how to watch Too Chef when don’t have Bravo!
Yup, totally buying those shoes. Now to decide, White, or Black? (insert thinking emoji face here…)
LOVE the snack plate idea! I have a three year old that is a picky eater so I can’t wait to try this. I’m also due with baby #2 in a couple weeks and I’m not looking forward to those sleepless nights. There is something about knowing there are other mommas out there going through the same thing makes me feel a little better. Sorry! :) Congratulations and enjoy being a family of 4!
Love your idea for Lincoln’s food. Where did you get his plate?
Ahh! So excited for you that the little one is almost here. Praying for a safe and healthy delivery! Can’t wait to hear his name :)
Good luck and enjoy!
Best wishes on the delivery, Kristen. Enjoy your family. Don’t worry, I’ll be here when you’re ready to start blogging again. ?
My daughter was a little under 3.5 when her baby brother arrived last winter, and it was a very smooth transition! I made sure she knew how much I needed her help (it wasn’t a lie!). She fetched pacifiers, threw diapers away, refilled my water bottle when I nursed etc. It was awesome! I still had lots of time to talk and cuddle with her, and she really never showed any jealousy at all :)
I know not all readers would want the children meals/snacks post, but I would LOVE it! :) Even just once in a while would be awesome. I am running out of ideas for my 2 year old as he is becoming more and more picky.
And good luck with the arrival of you new little one! I am so excited for you to meet him!
Wishing you an easy delivery and the best of luck!! Those emotions are totally normal and just know that your heart expands with each new addition. Can’t wait for pictures! Good Luck!!
I have no idea why, but when you said lunch meat faces, I pictured, like, a piece of bologna with eyes and mouth holes bitten out. And then I thought of that CPR dummy scene from The Office. It’s been a long week :)
So excited for your Kristin! I’ve been a reader for 4 (!) years now, it seems like just yesterday you were anticipating Lincoln’s arrival! We’ll miss your posts, but take all the time you need!! Congrats in advance on the newborn :)
Ahhh, congrats – you are so close! I had a baby boy on Sunday & totally hear you about pregnancy bring harder in your 30’s! Enjoy every second of those first few days, it is easier knowing there is an end to sleepless nights in sight :)
I’m so excited for you for your little baby boy coming soon! I’ll be praying for your delivery and hope you’re able to rest and recuperate during these upcoming months. Your faithful blog readers will still be here whenever you feel it’s best to return :)
I bought a pair of the slip on Chucks and they are pure awesomeness.
Have that baby and then get all of the cuddles, rest, and relaxation that you need and deserve!
“Relaxation” is probably the wrong word to use when you have a newborn…but get lots of cuddles and rest! :)
All the best with your new addition! Take time off to enjoys the moments.
imannette.net
Congrats on that sweet new baby you will get to hold soon!! Take time to snuggle and enjoy those early first days, they go by so fast. Let others help you and don’t worry about posting here for awhile. We all understand that family is the most important thing, and for the ones that don’t, cie la vie!
I haven’t done it myself, but another blogger I follow has the exact same shoes and I remember reading that she actually scotch guards hers.
I would love to see kid snack and meal ideas!
My girls and I all have the white converse. I have found that spraying them with scotch guard helps. It doesn’t keep all the dirt off but I wash them with some borax in the washing machine and they come out very clean.
I would love to see more kid snack ideas. I love the faces! Maybe on Instagram you could the snacks faces. Thanks!
Oh, I’ve spent a lot of time vacationing in Laurerbrunnen as a child. It truly is at least as beautiful as it looks on pictures. If you ever get the chance to go, do it!
Definitely take all the time you need plus a little more!! Good luck and blessings to you!
ps Maybe share some pics on Insta at least? Look forward to seeing your little guy!
Enjoy the time with your new baby Kristin with Lincoln right by your side. They grow up so fast (now that my boys are adults) I would give anything to have some of that time back. I’ve used so many of your recipes with high praise and am grateful to you for that. Hope all goes well with the delivery and I look forward to seeing your sweet little pea.
We have a Contigo coffee mug and it is the last one anyone in the household wants to use, it is the one that leaks. The Hyro Flask is far better, hot coffee for hours and never a leak so far.
I feel ya on the Chuck Taylors! In the past year I’ve acquired 3 pair (2 purchased and 1 as a gift): slip-ons in white and charcoal grey, and regular tie in black. And now I kinda think I might need a red pair. :)
I’ll tell you what…nothing rounds out a nice Hawkeye rally shirt better than a pair of black CTs! Woot woot! :)
And if I figure out how to keep the white ones white…I’ll report back. Mostly so far I’m just trying to be really careful…we know that won’t last.
I’m getting so excited for you and the family!! Having two kids is a lot of fun. Hope your delivery goes as you’d like it to go, and it’s a smooth transition for you all. :)
Good luck next week! I remember the moment before my second when I looked at the calendar and realized that no more schedule pre-baby check ups meant I would have a baby. Crazy how it took me 9+ months to figure that out. Best wishes for an easy, healthy delivery. ?
I know! You just keep going – same old same old – then it’s like, oh ok, so this is actually happening…! ;)
OMGosh! So excited for your little family!!! My kiddos are soon to be 10 and 17!! Sending you prayers!! Try to get some rest and we can’t wait to see pics of the little man <3
Thank you, Tina!! Cannot believe by this time next week we’ll have two little guys – CRAZY!
Best wishes to your family, Kristin! (P.S. Oct. 20 is a great day to have a baby. That’s my birthday!) ?
Thank you so much, and happy early birthday, Stephanie! I hope you have a wonderful birthday!
Strange observation but it seems so weird how attached women are to their first boy and him being their baby vs if it’s the first girl.
Let the boy have his space and be an individual and not be a momma clinger ?
Never! Mother smotherer for life right here!
Same ;)
Love these ‘Currently…’ posts! Anywho, I have the adorable white slip on Chucks that you mentioned (also have them in Navy. Love!) and I pretty much live in them bc, as you said, they go with errythang. So I almost had a full blown panic attack when I woke up one morning to find one of my cats had, ahem, PUKED on them overnight. I was convinced they were ruined, but I threw them in the wash and they came out looking brand new. Nothing quite like bright white shoes, y’all. So just wanted to pass that on to you, should you ever find yourself in a situation where you need your shoes clean. Or you can just buy a backup pair and hide them from your husband in the back of the closet. You know, just to be on the safe side. ??
Noooo, ahhahaha, I would have freaked out! Well, Lincoln already stepped on mine at the zoo yesterday so I’ll definitely be giving the washing machine a trick a try sooner vs later. ;)
I spray my shoes with scotch guard–has worked great with my white chucks!
Ok great to know – added to my next Amazon Prime order! :)
Thinking of you and hoping that all goes well….rest and enjoy this precious time with your new baby!
Best Wishes! Enjoy this special time with your family. Don’t rush-we will still be here when you return :).
Those Contigo travel mugs are the best, just an FYI that Groupon has them as well. 2 for something like 24 bucks.
I’m in the Scotchguard camp as well! I have several white or light colored pairs of Superga sneakers and give them all a thorough spray before wearing the first time.
I’ve had good luck with washing canvas shoes over the years as well-works like a charm! All the best to you and Ben and little Lincoln as you welcome baby #2 into your family! I look forward to hearing from you again after what will be a much-needed break :)
I am SOOOOOO excited for you all!! I am also excited to live vicariously through you once that sweet little boy makes his debut. I have no desire for more children, but miss those sweet baby snuggles and nursing sessions….
Wishing you ALL the best!!
I would LOVE it if you wrote more about baby/toddler meals. I’m always looking for new ideas!