Happy Monday, happy holidays and happy Blogmas/Vlogmas to all my fellow creatives out there! I cannot believe it's finally December, but I'm so glad the most wonderful time of the year is here because Christmas is my second favorite holiday. It's no secret that the moms in all our lives are the real MVPs of the holiday season. They basically make Christmas magical and wonderful without so much as a 'thank you.' This year I've asked a few of my fellow moms what they really wanted for Christmas this year because they deserve it and so much more! Keep reading for their wish lists and be sure to check out their blogs after!

Why I'm A Fan of Probiotics For My Baby

This post is sponsored by Evivo but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

As a first time mom I talk about my baby's poop more often than I care to admit. If the diapers in my diaper pail could talk, I'm sure they would have some pretty outrageous stories to tell. But did you know our baby's poop can tell a much bigger story like whether she has a healthy gut? How do you know if your baby has a healthy gut? There's an easy 3 question Baby Gut Check you can take to determine the answer!

Must-Try Skincare: Olay Regenerist Whip Fragrance-Free

I am nowhere near beauty maven status, but I do love finding out all I can about the latest beauty products. Taking care of my skin and making it the best it can be has been a goal of mine for the past couple of years, so when I was given the chance to try out Olay Regenerist Whip I was thrilled. What made it even better was that Olay Whip is now available fragrance-free! 

3 Easy & Inexpensive DIYs for Baby's Nursery

When I found out I was pregnant I could not wait to start turning our second bedroom into a nursery. When we found out it was a girl and decided on a name, I had so many ideas about themes and it was so hard to decide on decor. But I knew I wanted to make a few things by hand and always make them a part of McKenna's room. I love every single one of these DIYs and I'm so happy to share them on the blog with you today! Keep reading for 3 easy and inexpensive DIYs that will add a personalized touch to your little bundle of joy's nursery without breaking the bank!

3 Things I Did With My First Child That I DEFINITELY WON'T Do With My Second Child (& 3 I Definitely Will Do!)

Happy #MotherhoodMonday y'all! Now that McKenna is a toddler I keep getting the question about when we're going to have another child. The answer is always," Not anytime soon!" but that doesn't stop me from thinking about what I would do differently, if given the chance. Keep reading for 3 things I did with McKenna that I definitely WILL NOT do with my second child and 3 things that I definitely will do!

Fall Athleisure Staples

As a stay-at-home mom there's nothing I wear more than joggers or leggings and I'm not complaining at all! They're so comfortable and if I have to leave the house, I still look pretty put together. Here are a few of my favorite athleisure staples that are sure to be your favorites, too!

Cheap & Free Fall Family Events in Richmond

One of the main reasons I love living so close to Richmond is all of the events that go on all year long. TONS of these events are free and great for families looking to get out of the house this time of year. I've rounded up a few events for the rest of October that are sure to be a great time without sending your wallet screaming for the hills!

Fall Fashion Faves Under $50

Happy Friday, y'all!! The weather has been perfect for fall lately and it got me so excited for fall fashion! I really need to add everything on this list to my closet because I am SERIOUSLY lacking in the fall wardrobe department. That might actually be doable since EVERYTHING on this fall fashion finds list is less than $50!

15 Ways to Help Baby LOVE Reading

Happy Monday! I've been super inconsistent with posting on the blog in the past couple of months, but I'm hoping to change all of that with my new posting schedule. From now on I'll be posting twice a week, Monday and Friday, with each day having its own theme. I am declaring Mondays as "Motherhood Mondays," where I'll be sharing all of my "mom blog" posts. Fridays are "Fashion Fridays," where I will getting back into what made me want to start this blog in the first place: sharing affordable fashion options so we can all look good together!

Today's "Motherhood Monday" post was inspired by all the books I've been reading lately, which is everything from the "Crazy Rich Asians" trilogy (pretty good) Gabrielle Union's "We're Going to Need More Wine" (a must read!!) to Robert Gailbraith's latest Cormoran Strike novel (couldn't put it down!!!). I absolutely LOVE to read and McKenna loves to as well (Actually, she just looks at the pictures and talks to them and it's SOOO CUTE!). Keep reading for tips on how to get your baby to love reading! 

3 Ways to Check If Baby Has a Healthy Gut

This post is sponsored by Evivo but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

Baby's gut health is one of the most buzzed about topics in parenting news right now. Good gut health is important to help protect and keep baby safe from potential health issues such as diabetes and allergies. There's so much information out there about what's best for baby and it can feel overwhelming. Let me save your brain from exploding by helping you answer the questions, "Are probiotics right for my baby?" and "Does my baby have a healthy gut?"

Earning Our Stripes

While brainstorming ideas for this blog post I came across this quote from Joyce Armor, "Think of stretch marks as pregnancy service stripes." It made me think twice about my body and everything it has gone through, including giving birth to a little human.

Fall Florals for Two

*I received clothing from PinkBlush in exchange for a review. This post may contain affiliate links. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 

I can't believe we're in the middle of September! There's a slight fall chill in the air (thanks Hurricane Florence), so that means summer is really coming to an end. Fall is my favorite season and I can't wait to really get into a #FallFeels mood!

6 Tips for Dreamy Cake Smash Photos At Home

It's been a little over a month since McKenna's first birthday and I still can't believe she's one! Even after 400 days on this Earth she still continues to amaze me. I knew I wanted to commemorate the occasion with a cake smash photo shoot and these photos did not disappoint. I think they are the most beautiful pictures of my little girl that I've EVER taken (#humblebrag)! I learned a few things while attempting to get these photos taken that will definitely help you out as you plan and take your little one's cake smash photos at home.

Our Tried & True Nighttime Routine

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #GetJohnsonsBaby #ChooseGentle #CollectiveBias

As a first-time mom it took me months to even think of developing a nighttime routine for McKenna. I thought I could just lay her in her bassinet at bedtime and she would magically fall asleep. If I could only redo one thing from her first year I would definitely incorporate a bedtime routine from the start. Since we've started using this tried and true nighttime routine McKenna falls asleep faster and stays asleep longer! Of course, a tried and true nighttime routine isn't complete without using tried and true gentler products from JOHNSON'S®!

Why Baby's Gut Health Matters

This post is sponsored by Evivo but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

Did you know 9 out of 10 babies are missing the good bacteria needed to protect their gut? The good bacteria, B. infantis, has disappeared over generations and babies in the U.S. no longer receive B. infantis at birth due to the unintended consequences of modern medical practices like C-sections, antibiotics, and formula feeding.

Preparing for Christmas in July with Basic Invite

This post was sponsored by Basic Invite. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

It's no secret that I love taking photos of McKenna and her 1st birthday cake smash photos were no exception. If you follow me on Instagram (and if you don't, what are you doing?!) you've probably already seen a few of these pictures. I thought I would share a few more here and how I plan on using these photos for our photo holiday cards with Basic Invite. Even though its July it's never too late to get started on this year's Christmas cards using these gorgeous pics!

What I Wish I Packed in Our Hospital Bags

This time last year I was on day 2 of labor after being induced to give birth to McKenna. Time has really flown by since then! I only found out I was being induced a few days before, so I was beyond nervous and not at all prepared. I had hospital bags packed for the baby and I weeks earlier (I didn't even get around to packing one for my boyfriend!), but I still forgot a few things. A year later and I'm still thinking of things that would have made a great addition to our hospital bags!

4 Summer Sensory Play Ideas + How We Stay Protected in the Sun

Disclosure: I have received information and materials from Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc. 2018. The opinions stated are my own. This is a sponsored post. #SunnyMoments #CollectiveBias 

As a kid I remember spending tons of time outdoors during the summer. There's plenty of activities we can do inside to stimulate her mind, but I want McKenna to enjoy spending time outside in the fresh air. Now that we're spending more time outside, its crucial that for both of us to be protected from the sun's rays. Today I'm sharing 4 super simple summer baby sensory activities and how we keep our skin protected while out in the harsh summer sun!

The Best Lilly Pulitzer Styles for Breastfeeding Mamas

It's officially summer and, if you haven't already, time to pull out all of those beautiful Lilly Pulitzer pieces in your closet! Lately, I've been obsessed with all the new prints like Mermaids Cove, Pinch Pinch, and Jet Stream. As I was browsing a Lilly BST (buy, sell, trade) group on Facebook (no doubt trying to expand my collection of items in my all-time favorite prints, Fan Sea Pants and So Snappy), a member posed a question about the best Lilly pieces for breastfeeding mamas. It was a great question that NEEDS answers since it's prime Lilly-wearing time, so I did all the dirty work and came up with 10 Lilly Pulitzer pieces that are perfect  for breastfeeding mamas. Whether you wear your Lilly to work or a (not so) quick trip to the grocery store, these are the pieces that will make nursing or pumping a little bit easier. These are not all of the styles that would work for breastfeeding or pumping, but my personal go to styles that I know have worked for me or other women.

The Best Facial Cleanser for Glowing Summer Skin

Don't tell fall, but I'm having a love affair with summer. I love it for all the same reasons I love autumn: the weather is (usually) great and I can have fun with my fashion and beauty choices. In my personal opinion, the best summer accessory is hydrated, glowing skin. Baking in the sun to achieve the perfect summer glow is very low on my summer bucket list, so I was lucky enough to stumble across a facial cleanser that gave my skin a goddess-like glow.

5 Things I Do Every Day to Boost Baby's Brain Development

This post is sponsored by Gerber® but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

It's no secret that new parents want to give their baby the best start in life. An easy way to boost baby's brain development is through stimulating baby's brain with activities we already do everyday! Here are five easy ways I (and you!) can boost baby's brain development.

3 Baby Products I Said I Would Never Buy (& Now I Can't Live Without Them!)

When I started our baby registry I remember seeing certain items and just thinking, "Who NEEDS this stuff?!" After 10 months of being a mom I can definitely say that my attitude has done a complete 180. I've broken down and bought a few things I deemed ridiculous or swore I would NEVER use on my child. Today I'm sharing all of the items I said I would never buy and now I can't live without them! This post is a long one, so all you moms out there grab that cup of cold coffee and dive right in...

My Favorite Items for Easy Solo Spring Outings with Baby

Now that the weather is FINALLY warming up, I'm trying to get McKenna out of the house as much as possible. Since her dad has an alternative work schedule, a lot of these outings are just the two of us. Since there's no way I can push a stroller and a shopping cart while juggling a diaper bag and purse or change a diaper on the slide at the playground, I've discovered a few must-have items that make getting out of the house this spring so much easier!

One Item, Three Ways: Floral Jacket for Spring

Who doesn't love a versatile statement piece? This floral jacket from H&M is my new favorite piece in my closet. It instantly makes any outfit feel like spring while being heavy enough to keep me warm on those days where it feels more like winter is still hanging around. I love it so much that I want to wear it all the time! In order to do that I had to do a little shopping in my closet. Keep reading to see how I styled this jacket 3 different ways using items I already had in my closet!

What to Really Get a New Mom for Mother's Day

We've only got a couple weeks until moms everywhere are celebrated! Stumped on what to get the new mom in your life for her first Mother's Day? Here's a gift guide on what moms really want from a first-time mom.

4 Items to Easily Update Your Look for Spring

This shop has been compensated by Schwarzkopf. #FashionColorExpert #sponsored

Y'all, I looked in my closet the other day and realized I don't have very many "spring" pieces! My closet jumps straight from winter to summer (much like the weather in Virginia) and I'm sure I'm not the only one. I headed out to a few of my favorite retailers and scouted a few things that will help us all update our looks for spring, including a new hair color from Schwarzkopf color ULTÎME®.

Spring Target Clothing Haul #1

This post contains affiliate links. If you click or make a purchase using these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Spring has made a few appearances around here, but I can't wait for the season to arrive full-time. Even though the weather isn't cooperating a lot of retailers have already started to release their spring pieces. I am so excited to see lilac, gingham, and sun dresses hitting the racks of my favorite store, Target. They're also hitting another rack: the one on my closet! Today I'm sharing my latest pickups that I can't wait to wear this spring (and even summer!).

3 Ways to Get Over Blog Jealousy

It’s so easy to get caught up in the jealousy game when it comes to blogging or vlogging. There’s always that one person in your niche who seems to have it all together - sponsored post opportunities, tons of views and engagement, and all the followers you could ever dream of. I know I'm 100% guilty of doing this! Lurking on their pages can cause the big, green monster to rear its ugly head and before you know it you’re wallowing in a puddle of your own self-pity. You constantly think about what you’re doing wrong and why you don’t get the offers the other blogger seems to get. We’ve all been there at some point and I know I feel this way at least once a week, but it’s not the end of the world. I’ve got 3 tips for getting over blog jealousy and moving on with your life.

Blessed, Not Stressed

This post contains affiliate links. If you click or make a purchase using these links, I may earn a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

I recently watched a video by fellow Virginian YouTuber Kaleb McAfee about her experience with quitting social media for 30 days (check it out here!). She mentioned her feeling that social media can have negative effects on so many different aspects of your life and I completely agree. Not a day goes by that I don't feel bad about not having the perfect body, wardrobe, or just life in general. I take time out of my day, time away from my daughter and boyfriend, to make sure I upload the perfect photo with the perfect filter at the perfect time. It's a vicious cycle that bloggers, influencers, and YouTubers go through on a daily basis.

Decluttering to Enjoy the Simple Things

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Ivory. The opinions and text are all mine.

The older McKenna gets the more I realize how fast time goes by. It feels like she was just born yesterday and today she's crawling and babbling! I feel like I took so many of our earlier moments together for granted and it really makes me miss being pregnant with my little Jellybean. In an effort to not miss a single moment I've been all about simplifying our life so we can spend more time together. One way I've been simplifying our life is just getting organized and clearing out things we don't use.

The Perfect First Food for Breastfed Babies

I can't believe McKenna will be 8 months old in a week and a half! She's honestly the most perfect baby and I'm upset that time is going by so fast because I want her to stay little forever! One part of her growing up that was bittersweet was starting solids around 6 months. Starting baby on solids can be an intimidating, but exciting time for new parents. I know it was for my family! We had NO knowledge of how to incorporate solids foods into McKenna's diet, but we did learn a few things that made the whole process a lot easier for our breastfed babe and us!

5 Money-Making Apps for Extra Spring Break Cash

Spring break is right around the corner and you’re flat broke and dreading another boring week at home alone. It’s not the end of the world, my friend. There’s still a way for you to make some quick cash and head off to the beach with a little extra cash in your pockets! You’re always on your phone so why not make some money using it? Download one of my top 5 selling apps and make a little extra money for that trip you’ve been dreaming about.

My Ride or Die Natural Hair Products

Warning: I will use the word "love" a million times in this post. When I first started my natural hair journey I was a product junkie! I watched a lot of YouTube videos and immediately went out the bought whatever products my faves were using. These days I'm a bit picky about what I put on my hair (and how much it costs), so I stick with my tried and true drugstore products that always give me great results.

Rekindled Love for RVA

This post contains affiliate links. If you click or make a purchase using these links I may earn a small commission at no additional cost you.

This post was originally about a new style series I wanted to start on the blog. I had everything written and ready to go for about 2 weeks, but last week I had a change of heart. I love Richmond with all my heart. This city has shown me so many new and amazing things that I can't find back at home. There's always so much to do and even more places to explore.

Save vs Splurge: Basket Bags

This post contains affiliate links. If you click or make a purchase using these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

$39.99 bag vs. $300 bag

$35 bag vs. $100 bag

$33.99 bag vs. $175 bag

It seems like everybody's favorite blogger had a basket handbag last year. I know all of mine did! Be prepared to see them on your feed again this year in all shapes and sizes. They add the perfect touch of fun to any spring (or summer) outfit, so why not get for yourself. I've rounded up a few affordable options for the basket handbags that you will see all over Instagram this season!

6 Tips for Perfect Monthly Milestone Photos At Home

Getting the first and best pics of your little bundle of joy can get pretty expensive with hospital, newborn, yearly, and other photo shoots. If you follow me on Instagram (which if you don't, then you should!) you have probably seen the pics I take of McKenna each month, which I take right in the comfort of our home! This is a great way to cut down on those photo shoot costs, but still get great pictures of your baby's first year. Here are 6 tips for taking the best monthly milestone photos at home!

Winding Down with Ivory

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Ivory. The opinions and text are all mine.

As I mentioned in my latest skincare post, I'm all about simplifying my beauty routine so I can spend more time with my family. Indulging in a hot shower is a luxury I'm not always afforded, so I savor each and every moment. A reputable, gentle cleanser that smells great with pure ingredients is my current go-to and my favorite way to wind down after a long day.

My Must Have Moisturizers

With a 6 month old who has reached the "separation anxiety" phase, it's hard to find time for myself these days. Most days, I'm lucky if I can quickly jump in the shower and into some clean clothes before my daughter wakes up from her infamous 20 minute naps! I realized my beauty routine needed to be simplified for those days when I'm in a time crunch, but I also needed to use products with luxurious ingredients that hydrate and protect my skin. With so many options to choose from, this was no easy feat, especially since I have more melanin in my skin than Caucasian women.

3 Shows to Watch for Major Style Inspo

We got an Amazon FireTV Stick for Christmas and I've been using it nonstop since! I have binge watched black-ish, This Is Us, Riverdale (again) and even revisited my childhood with a couple episodes of Hey Arnold!. There have been a few shows that have inspired me to step outside the box with my outfits and not be scared to try something new. Here are 3 of my faves for major style inspo!

10 Genius Hacks & Tips for Breastfeeding Mamas

Breastfeeding is no easy task. I know I was completely overwhelmed by the pages upon pages of information I would receive from my doctor or read online about the subject. A lot of the information out there is very helpful, but doesn't exactly offer ways to make breastfeeding easier. I took me 6 months to learn these 10 tips and tricks that will make breastfeeding effortless for any new moms who are currently nursing or thinking about it.

30 Things I Want to Do in My 30's

Tomorrow is my birthday and I'll be turning the big 3-0! So much has happened in my 20's, both positive and negative, so I'm a little sad to see the end of those years. I am forever grateful that God allowed me to see 30 and I intend to make the next 10 years the best ones of my life!

4 Trends I Can't Wait to Try This Spring

I've definitely been spoiled by the warmer weather we've been having and now I can't get spring off my mind! I'm so anxious for the higher temps so I can spend more time outside with McKenna. I'm also excited for a new season because my wardrobe could use a serious upgrade. I own little to no spring clothing so I can't wait to expand to it with these 4 trends!

Pink & Red Valentine's Day Gift Guide for Her

This post contains affiliate links. If you click or make a purchase using these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Valentine's Day is right around the corner, so I hope you already have an idea of what to get your sweetheart. If you don't, I have the perfect list of pink and red gifts that are sure to put a smile on her face!

Kendra Scott Elisa Necklace | slip for beauty sleep slip Red Kisses Pure Silk Sleep Mask | Victoria's Secret Fragrance Mist | Fuji Instax Mini 9 | BAUBLEBAR Maraca Drop Earrings | Gucci Soho small leather disco bag | Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Eye Shadow Palette | Kate Spade New York Heart Party Square Scarf | Kate Spade New York Yours Truly Hearts Card Holder | Kendra Scott Alex Drop Earrings | Soap & Glory Pink Big Gift | Thread & Supply Wubby Fleece Pullover | Madewell Montreal Leather Satchel | Fenty Beauty By Rihanna Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Fluid Lip Color | BP. Maddy Mule | Kate Spade New York Yours Truly Pave Heart Drop Earrings | Kendra Scott Danielle Earrings | Sugarfina Three-Piece XOXO Bento Box  | Dior Miss Dior Blooming Bouquet | H&M Pajama Top and Shorts

6 Winter Car Seat Safety Tips for New Parents

This post has been sponsored.

After a couple of mild, teasingly warm days, the cold is back. I don't know about you guys, but I'm anxious for spring to hurry up and get here! Before it can, we've gotta get through what's left of winter. This was my first winter season with a baby and I learned so much about how to keep my babe nice and toasty, but still safe while in her car seat.

3 Accessories to Upgrade Your Winter Style

This post contains affiliate links. If you click or make a purchase using these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

After a couple of teasingly warm days, we are back to the chilly embrace of winter. It was nice shedding a few layers and not feeling like the Michelin Man every time I stepped outside! A couple months ago I shared the best coats for a stylish winter. Now that you've found the perfect coat, it's time to upgrade those boring hats, scarves, and gloves that are more functional than stylish. One of my favorite ways to brighten up these oh-so-dreary winter days is to add a bit of fun to any outfit with more fashion-forward accessories. Winter accessories in unexpected pops of color or a bit of faux fur can be just the right amount of sartorial flair to help you get through another polar vortex. Here are a few of my favorite cold weather accessories to brighten up any dull winter.

Link Love Vol. 1

We made it through the first week of 2018! I hope you guys had a good week because mine was Struggletown, USA. McKenna and I had been sick since the day after Christmas and didn't start to feel better until this past Friday. I'm so glad we're both getting over these colds because it's no fun taking care of a sick baby when you feel like you're dying. The babe and I spent a lot of time in bed watching TV and sleeping, but I also managed to catch up on a lot of blog posts and "window shopping". Here are a few of my faves!

How I (& You!) Can Be A Better Mom in 2018

The best part of 2017 for me was the birth of my daughter, McKenna. Holding her in my arms felt like a dream come true and most days I can't believe how blessed I am to call this happy little girl mine. I don't like making New Year's resolutions. Mainly because I always break them within a week, but this year I have just one: be a better mom. I want to push myself to be the best I can for the person I love most in this world and myself. I've come up with 5 ways how I can be a better mom in 2018 and you can, too!