tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48980293416781728992024-03-18T20:40:20.352-07:00Bringing Up LeavittBringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.comBlogger121125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-18617968027654685752018-04-26T09:20:00.002-07:002018-04-26T09:20:49.884-07:00Disney with Toddlers<div style="text-align: center;">
We are home from our first ever trip to Disney! It really is one of the most magical places, but dang did it test my patience. I am not one for big crowds, or waiting in lines so I was riding the high of my little ones who were living their best life. My husband who also had never been to Disney as a kid was loving it so it was extra fun to share this with him. My Mom, sister, and my sister's family were in Florida with us and the cousins got to experience Disney for the first time together which made for some pretty amazing memories!</div>
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We got there right when they opened, as did everyone else it seemed like so I'm not sure that overly shared tip is really that beneficial. Everything they say about fast passes is true, you need them, especially if your kids aren't great at waiting... so like me and mine. </div>
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I honestly think Dumbo was my favorite ride for the kids. It is so stinking cute. Preston rode with my mom and I, while Nick and Leavitt rode together. I loved watching them on the ride together they were having the best time making it go up and down. Disney is the one place it really is fun to be married to a big kid! This was the one ride we didn't have a fast pass for and were able to get on it pretty quick!</div>
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| <a href="https://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=603120002&CAWELAID=120299900000116507&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=35201331985&CATCI=aud-372956340958:pla-298663229988&tid=onpl000000&kwid=1&ap=7&gclid=Cj0KCQjw8YXXBRDXARIsAMzsQuVOtu8SNi9it4Ldpy2BA6JhuBVxHNRSzvhsBjjhO1VBrahHu_GSKU8aAhQpEALw_wcB" style="color: #d5a6bd;" target="_blank">Mickey Shirts</a> | <a href="https://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=291460022&CAWELAID=120280880001787341&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=10149031538&CATCI=aud-370133033027:pla-61561330136&tid=gppl000001&kwid=1&ap=7&gclid=Cj0KCQjw8YXXBRDXARIsAMzsQuWR_BCkBta-pwIY8QExuDsXz2pTOAmf7iDimnQUjA4piTjDDGis8c0aAib3EALw_wcB" style="color: #d5a6bd;" target="_blank">Baby Shorts</a> | <a href="https://www.zappos.com/p/under-armour-kids-prototype-shorts-toddler-red/product/8700283/color/585?ef_id=WfFRzAAAAFrsdnCP:20180426151845:s" style="color: #d5a6bd;" target="_blank">Toddler Shorts</a> |<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"> </span></div>
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| <a href="https://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?pcid=5058&vid=1&pid=211985012&searchText=mickey" style="color: #d5a6bd;" target="_blank">Toddler Shoes</a> | <a href="https://freshlypicked.com/products/mickey-mouse?variant=55473047559&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=&campaignid=&utm_content=&adgroupid=52577577729&utm_term=&matchtype=&utm_device=&gclid=Cj0KCQjw8YXXBRDXARIsAMzsQuVSvJ1fFjk_XWO4DLC8Sx6uSL5pMTzApikyja665QNqWWKLTuvUOlAaAgrJEALw_wcB" style="color: #d5a6bd;" target="_blank">Baby Moccasins</a> |</div>
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I bought a new double stroller for our trip because I knew Leavitt would need to ride for a little bit. I am so pleased with my choice because the heat and long distance walks took a toll on my big boy and he loved riding in the shade and sharing popcorn with his little bro. Their matching outfits felt a little overkill at home but once we got there I realized they were subtle compared to everyone else's Disney swag! I loved how enthusiastic everyone is there with their outfits, it was really cute to see all the other Disney siblings dressed up! </div>
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My littlest boy was in heaven at Disney. He adored the rides and it still makes my heart swell to see his happy little face in these pictures. Disney can be hard on littles. It's hot, crowded, and involves a lot of waiting. So these moments of bliss on their faces were really worth all the effort. We enjoyed the afternoon parade after we had lunch and then went back to our house to swim and eat dinner. I returned that night with Leavitt and the rest of my family while Preston slept it off with his Dad. </div>
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The fireworks were truly my favorite part of the whole day, I am only sad I didn't get to share them with Preston and Nick too. I am so glad we got to share this special trip with my mom, sister, and her family. It was really fun watching the kids make memories and I know we will be doing it again someday!</div>
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Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-69660316829114154062018-03-21T17:10:00.001-07:002018-03-21T17:16:36.412-07:00Freshly Picked: Disney<br />
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Guys! My little family is headed to Disney in April and we are so so excited. Disney was a right of passage for me as a toddler. It was an annual trip my parents took us on, and something we looked forward to every year. My sister and I would get out the JC Penny catalog (anyone else remember those?!) circle our vacation wardrobe must haves and magically the Easter Bunny would get it all to us in time for the big trip.</div>
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In preparation to get my boys ready I have been compiling lists in my head of all the outfits we need, but especially for the day at Magic Kingdom. I had no idea how serious the outfits are for Disney, and being that I am a shoe girl through and through I knew Mickey shoes were top of my list!! For Preston there is no shoe more worthy of such a milestone than <a href="https://freshlypicked.com/" style="color: #d5a6bd;">Freshly Picked Moccasins</a>. They fit his wide chubby baby feet, but are durable enough to stand up to his rowdy boy ways. He also leaves them on his feet which saves me from fighting with him to get them on. Anyone else have a kiddo that curls his toes when you put their shoes on?! Only me? OK. <!-- start Markerly tracking code --><script src="https://storage.googleapis.com/markerly-tracker/tracker.min.js#tracker_id=storytellercam61655&blogger_id=29613" type="text/javascript"></script><!-- end Markerly tracking code --></div>
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Lucky for Preston I will be letting him walk as much as possible in these because I am dying to save his little footprint once they are worn into the sole from a day at Disney. Adorable shoes baby loves doubling as a memento for mom! </div>
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One last thing that I am really so impressed by is that every pair of moccasins comes with dust bag perfect for traveling! If you are headed to Disney you must check out the rest of their Disney line <a href="https://freshlypicked.com/search?q=disney" style="color: #d5a6bd;">here</a> they also have great Spring and Easter options. As a bonus for you all Freshly Picked is giving a free pair of moccs away to one lucky reader on Instagram you can enter that on my Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bringingupleavitt/?hl=en"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">@Bringingupleavitt</span></a> for details head over there! Any Disney experts have any tips for me send them my way I am going to need all the insight I can get!</div>
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Pictures taken by the oh so talented <a href="http://daniellebradyphotography.com/" style="color: #d5a6bd;" target="_blank">Danielle Brady</a>.<br />
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<i>I was given products in exchange for this review. All opinions are and always will be my own.</i> </div>
Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-63808391729453884122018-02-21T19:17:00.000-08:002018-02-28T15:48:58.842-08:00JORD Engraved Watches: The extra touch for a perfect gift<div style="text-align: center;">
I love a sentimental gift, especially if it includes my two favorite things, my kids, and fashion. So I am so excited to share with you all something I know you will love as much as I do! I was recently approached to review JORD wooden watches. Within minutes of browsing their website I couldn't say yes fast enough to work with them. Not only is everything beautiful on their site, but they set themselves apart with sustainable materials, engraving (more on that later), and their modern meets traditional style. </div>
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As soon as the watch arrived at my house I couldn't wait to show my husband. He is into cool watches much more than I am so when he was impressed I knew it was special. The packaging is beautiful. The watch arrived in a wooden box with no detail overlooked. The box has a magnetic closure to the top, and a small drawer to the bottom, perfect for storing spare links, the cleaning cloth, or small jewelry. I chose the dark sandalwood & smoke watch. I love the dark natural look of the wood with the feminine touch of rose gold on the smokey gray face. It pairs so well with my rope bracelet that I wear every day. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ782cDUxOB9PqVVYy_X5oXmS86Tx3qYhlbPGpsQvhtw6jsiDJF6RCWi0WnauWIZyeIcFOFnocJYuVCChoCW7WmNfiZ1k9ON-7tHgDEE9ZggWh9BEITDJ_5F-aYF6Bwi4KICUWm9PyKhUA/s1600/dbp-0024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ782cDUxOB9PqVVYy_X5oXmS86Tx3qYhlbPGpsQvhtw6jsiDJF6RCWi0WnauWIZyeIcFOFnocJYuVCChoCW7WmNfiZ1k9ON-7tHgDEE9ZggWh9BEITDJ_5F-aYF6Bwi4KICUWm9PyKhUA/s640/dbp-0024.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.woodwatches.com/series/frankie/dark-sandalwood-and-smoke/#bringingupleavitt" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">My watch</span></a> came engraved with "Every second I love you more" with my boys initials. I can't tell you how much that effects my mood when I look down I am reminded of what is written on the back of my watch and how lucky I am to be their mom. It alters my way of thinking when the days of mothering two boys can be long, that time is precious and loving them is easy... even on the hard days. I just know that any mother would love to have a cool watch she can wear every day with a precious message from her family on the inside. JORD's engraving services are top notch. They can engrave the wooden watch or the box, and can even use a sample of your handwriting! How precious would it be to have your spouse or child's handwriting engraved on the box? I know it's a little early but Mother's Day will be here before we know it so start shopping those <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.jordwatches.com%2Fshop%2Fwomen%2F%23bringingupleavitt&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEchVWyrM4JOnTnQIILIjglUmPoEQ" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">women's watches here!</span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhThn0kFweFhhh7ONfZrCOltrTsLP3rlChYz7KbxNJWUz2LaaLHoniVyVSxZWynJkdnECNDbvmrTFosp8bDqzeRHttzdOXXV3f0U1_YpWL2zEHzKWY-VAQcNX10Ht4h8tlKidWjtDKZHRbm/s1600/dbp-0027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhThn0kFweFhhh7ONfZrCOltrTsLP3rlChYz7KbxNJWUz2LaaLHoniVyVSxZWynJkdnECNDbvmrTFosp8bDqzeRHttzdOXXV3f0U1_YpWL2zEHzKWY-VAQcNX10Ht4h8tlKidWjtDKZHRbm/s640/dbp-0027.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Speaking of Mother's Day, Father's Day will be here before we know it too! Like I said my husband was gushing about how amazing the packaging is, and how fresh the wood style is so I am going to be purchasing one for him for Father's Day and having the kiddos help customize it by having it engraved! There are so many unique watches for men it will be so hard to choose one for him.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWdbEfrztOJtaVVhwBGKMMxc-bKc2HRTetZQ__sEbQeAT1RZI7YFNe6F5jfKZBTcpZP1IucMkGPLo_gw6MQf_pRSa4AqL__B3Uf6K5f3SDb-ywXPZNpDz7vdxXoCmbFLAyBHU5rLaRBGrT/s1600/dbp-0037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWdbEfrztOJtaVVhwBGKMMxc-bKc2HRTetZQ__sEbQeAT1RZI7YFNe6F5jfKZBTcpZP1IucMkGPLo_gw6MQf_pRSa4AqL__B3Uf6K5f3SDb-ywXPZNpDz7vdxXoCmbFLAyBHU5rLaRBGrT/s640/dbp-0037.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Some other really amazing things about JORD wooden watches, as a company they take great care in using sustainable materials in their products ensuring that your purchase is not only beautiful but good for the environment. The glass used on the face of the watch is sapphire glass which I was impressed to learn is second only to diamonds as the most scratch resistant and durable materials on earth! Pretty incredible! The company is run by artists, designers, marketers, and minders who value experiential living. I can't think of a better outlook especially while raising little people. The wood is considered to be splash proof so there is no need to worry about it during everyday wear, it however is not waterproof so no swimming with it! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaptoliVIX_fgObQRLq-g2UuR8oG-sR-PCVykC7XYne29PCo5qr3LL3JxxrgnEyINonBlHcCW62UUdN07w1-BXQPwrAszwElZItl7OvO83HNLbx0V2rYWeC2M_5ULKeemOClwZW7dQsOZa/s1600/dbp-0033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1065" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaptoliVIX_fgObQRLq-g2UuR8oG-sR-PCVykC7XYne29PCo5qr3LL3JxxrgnEyINonBlHcCW62UUdN07w1-BXQPwrAszwElZItl7OvO83HNLbx0V2rYWeC2M_5ULKeemOClwZW7dQsOZa/s640/dbp-0033.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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My friends at JORD want to share the love with you all as well and are giving you a chance to win $100 gift card to buy the watch of your choice! <span style="color: #d5a6bd;"> <a href="https://www.woodwatches.com/g/bringingupleavitt" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Enter to win here</span></a> </span></div>
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Here are some quick links to make shopping easier for you!</div>
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Men's Watches / <span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"> </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.jordwatches.com/shop/men/%23bringingupleavitt&source=gmail&ust=1519354005822000&usg=AFQjCNFxscYnAFlF9UkMiKeF10S-efCo7w" href="https://www.jordwatches.com/shop/men/#bringingupleavitt" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; orphans: 2; widows: 2;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">https://www.jordwatches.com/<wbr></wbr>shop/men/#bringingupleavitt</span></a></span></div>
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Women's Watches / <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.jordwatches.com/shop/women/%23bringingupleavitt&source=gmail&ust=1519354005823000&usg=AFQjCNHGS8elmeXB_EyC0encbVCrbgiGPQ" href="https://www.jordwatches.com/shop/women/#bringingupleavitt" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; orphans: 2; widows: 2;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">https://www.jordwatches.com/<wbr></wbr>shop/women/#bringingupleavitt</span></a></div>
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JORD Homepage / <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.woodwatches.com/%23bringingupleavitt&source=gmail&ust=1519354005822000&usg=AFQjCNG9Pbg_zO1cwc9bs1D83IOVQdMCQQ" href="http://www.woodwatches.com/#bringingupleavitt" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; orphans: 2; widows: 2;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">http://www.woodwatches.com/#<wbr></wbr>bringingupleavitt</span></a></div>
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Giveaway!! /<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"> </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.woodwatches.com/g/bringingupleavitt&source=gmail&ust=1519354005823000&usg=AFQjCNHfNzO1RWVCvyXmXYEckopBqVis4w" href="https://www.woodwatches.com/g/bringingupleavitt" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; orphans: 2; widows: 2;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">https://www.woodwatches.com/g/<wbr></wbr>bringingupleavitt</span></a></div>
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<!-- JORD WOOD WATCHES ARTICLE WIDGET END -->Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-64318178152149410382018-01-22T07:14:00.000-08:002018-01-22T08:02:27.059-08:00Family Photos 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKCGMrBhdAWrWpMtVlna4flvo8oML1ci_Rxbt1dbXSgqdERz-Hem47zFdmlLzrjSAkNtLGBaxvSMIXEGLMtQ96F9xOS64NiAKWPSYXSpgFGKXzR8w8Z5MzhhEiBCK1j0A-C5QMgt-bnCkI/s1600/dbp-0010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1065" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKCGMrBhdAWrWpMtVlna4flvo8oML1ci_Rxbt1dbXSgqdERz-Hem47zFdmlLzrjSAkNtLGBaxvSMIXEGLMtQ96F9xOS64NiAKWPSYXSpgFGKXzR8w8Z5MzhhEiBCK1j0A-C5QMgt-bnCkI/s640/dbp-0010.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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So long Holiday's! You stressed us out, brought us joy, ushered in a parade of crap into our homes, and left us happy we have a year to recover before we have to meet again. The one thing I love about the holidays, but that stresses me out the most is Christmas cards. At the end of summer I start messaging <a href="https://www.facebook.com/daniellebradyphotography/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Danielle</span></a> with ideas for outfits and we try to put a session on the books. I love a holiday look to our photos and its the only time of year I can sucker my husband into them because I always say I want them because Leavitt's birthday is coming. Which is true, but inside I'm scheming up our card.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtlgAmvdMHB_knRHuMbAO77lfARhQKaFYXX22x0vSIqBLN8nY5XiPA7SwqMXbAjJ24-xV2kGRJ9rXkDBYbfRMLaQoXsIdfL_8JCAc9rUkrS0sBQ0lHJZ0mbpxFJeHph6w7zB88YgHjGxcJ/s1600/dbp-0013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtlgAmvdMHB_knRHuMbAO77lfARhQKaFYXX22x0vSIqBLN8nY5XiPA7SwqMXbAjJ24-xV2kGRJ9rXkDBYbfRMLaQoXsIdfL_8JCAc9rUkrS0sBQ0lHJZ0mbpxFJeHph6w7zB88YgHjGxcJ/s640/dbp-0013.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I always start with my outfit. Being that I am the only girl in the family, and probably the most self critical I want to make sure whatever I wear I will love. I was obsessed with<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"> <a href="http://us.asos.com/maya-tall/maya-tall-long-sleeved-maxi-dress-with-delicate-sequin-and-tulle-skirt/prd/8989427?clr=taupeblush&SearchQuery=maya%20long%20sleeve&gridcolumn=1&gridrow=1&gridsize=4&pge=1&pgesize=72&totalstyles=24" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">this dress from ASOS</span></a></span>. For me it hit all the marks. Holiday vibe, long sleeve, forgiving enough that I could move and be present with my family while Danielle captured us. I STALKED this dress for a good two months. I think Danielle was ready to kill me after the 100th text about it. They offer this dress in petite, tall, regular length, plus, and maternity. They also offer a midi version, and short sleeve version. I wore the maroon short sleeve version the year before so I didn't want to go with that one, but its gorgeous! After a couple months of the dress not being restocked I started to panic and dug out my dress from last year. I noticed I hadn't ordered my normal size so I double checked the measurements on the size guide and I was able to size down and purchase a regular length dress. HALLELUJAH!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBWdFvEoUoCjugfnXNN3eCex3eYwTqzlgK0Y2UGQFHBlrcpKp5m2Qe4XjWj3zUpcWFitcALez8WvPG18nOUV4Ht1MPsxVU3dzsHcA76QkWNoFJaSxtGhjC7xl1d6ZuOiGHqqYSji6di03_/s1600/dbp-0041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBWdFvEoUoCjugfnXNN3eCex3eYwTqzlgK0Y2UGQFHBlrcpKp5m2Qe4XjWj3zUpcWFitcALez8WvPG18nOUV4Ht1MPsxVU3dzsHcA76QkWNoFJaSxtGhjC7xl1d6ZuOiGHqqYSji6di03_/s640/dbp-0041.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The next thing I did was check out <a href="https://www.minted.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Minted</span></a> to see what card I wanted. I settled on<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><span style="color: #ead1dc;"> </span><a href="https://www.minted.com/product/foil-stamped-holiday-cards/MIN-ZO8-HFS/heavens-song?color=A&greeting=religious&shape=default" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">this one</span></a></span> as soon as I saw it. I love the message, simple design, and the trees in the sample look exactly the same as our favorite tree farm where we always get our pictures done so it seemed meant to be.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFiBt0aldgYqR3bP1aNqPeqzaG3qD73xPjn642CMgc_oVDe_cDGMgbaDmRQPDYXXUn3rUO0wx5yNloU1FteCBmVCK6OzyPhbRfaR-9kQTA-Ia-hTWDSA-CwQ0mXvD-BInMvdqgi8TVXg5N/s1600/dbp-0060.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1065" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFiBt0aldgYqR3bP1aNqPeqzaG3qD73xPjn642CMgc_oVDe_cDGMgbaDmRQPDYXXUn3rUO0wx5yNloU1FteCBmVCK6OzyPhbRfaR-9kQTA-Ia-hTWDSA-CwQ0mXvD-BInMvdqgi8TVXg5N/s640/dbp-0060.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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I then easily pulled the boys looks together, and at the last minute opted to get Nick a plaid shirt instead of a matching one to Leavitt, and used a little burgundy on the boys. Preston in his shoes, and Leavitt with a thermal under his flannel shirt.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipETIbnrjHc5Bo4ogvhxGSh4RThdNNRwR8O3tzqZkSEUkOC_jzfTI_mCWKpTeaTK8eeZlS78alklfTu_UrbkmmqvruZVf3YthwFbapf21KD6h7JRoudrTyvjtcy_fvHyrBr1Gu4wiXWeIW/s1600/dbp-0061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipETIbnrjHc5Bo4ogvhxGSh4RThdNNRwR8O3tzqZkSEUkOC_jzfTI_mCWKpTeaTK8eeZlS78alklfTu_UrbkmmqvruZVf3YthwFbapf21KD6h7JRoudrTyvjtcy_fvHyrBr1Gu4wiXWeIW/s640/dbp-0061.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This year our session happened to land on a freakishly cold day. I had hair and makeup appointments, a sitter at home to help me, and an influx of texts from Danielle and my husband wondering if I was really crazy enough to go through with it on this frigid day. I was like heck yes I am still doing this! My hair is done! They ended up talking sense into me, and we rescheduled, and I did my own hair and makeup the day of the actual shoot... cue the tears (and sarcasm).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYyxb5OiM1tLDyTQXCIka2ppCPWP_4FgjT21PPV17CT2nHZg8FRxDEsufVT6J9F1_m0gccyJoNLwoPmQjYflWQgdsQvNt7CBmgWOend8h2STCjkzN27iyaokhE7n7ulta29i3_Cwe91M7_/s1600/dbp-0075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYyxb5OiM1tLDyTQXCIka2ppCPWP_4FgjT21PPV17CT2nHZg8FRxDEsufVT6J9F1_m0gccyJoNLwoPmQjYflWQgdsQvNt7CBmgWOend8h2STCjkzN27iyaokhE7n7ulta29i3_Cwe91M7_/s640/dbp-0075.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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My favorite thing about having Danielle photograph us is that she doesn't stop when things start to go rogue. She caught Leavitt's expression immediately after kicking his brother in the face accidentally. She caught me comforting him while he screamed in my face and my husband looked on. She caught Leavitt shaking his booty instead of looking at the camera. She caught Leavitt under my tulle skirt a habit he has had since our wedding two years ago, then again last year during Christmas card photos, and apparently the tradition is going strong 3 years later, HAHA! I love having photos of who we really are, and how we actually interact with each other. I know that will serve my heart more years from now so much more than the perfectly posed pictures we send our friends and families. But I do love those perfect pictures too, it proves to me that in the real chaos of our lives we really do have perfect moments... having proof isn't bad either! I linked our outfit details below, for those of you interested!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin_YaTUmSqlOrG1nXimdA1jg-UfOwVtQaxAlI3be44rGMnvkEPXlXRXIHA-4MjvY5T9f6U6RXaGwjPHoUZ_zv-i-YHPbXt4rEleCz_N6Y_sAGoViFiMkgRVJMsFvAlh5VBl1_QtLhmRqLy/s1600/dbp-0074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin_YaTUmSqlOrG1nXimdA1jg-UfOwVtQaxAlI3be44rGMnvkEPXlXRXIHA-4MjvY5T9f6U6RXaGwjPHoUZ_zv-i-YHPbXt4rEleCz_N6Y_sAGoViFiMkgRVJMsFvAlh5VBl1_QtLhmRqLy/s640/dbp-0074.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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My - <a href="http://us.asos.com/maya/maya-long-sleeved-maxi-dress-with-delicate-sequin-and-tulle-skirt/prd/7866276?clr=taupeblush&SearchQuery=&cid=8799&gridcolumn=3&gridrow=3&gridsize=4&pge=1&pgesize=72&totalstyles=19" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Dress</span></a><br />
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Preston - <span style="color: #ead1dc;"><a href="https://www.bonton.com/product/1299289.html?presize=9Months&CID=GOOG-PLA-AS&gclid=Cj0KCQiAtJbTBRDkARIsAIA0a5OQt7gVrt7u0Vmha3aKkJDuQfNzmwwJTJE8D4S4JWRqvO2ujhicTFQaAthtEALw_wcB&kwid=productads-adid%5E215771259559-device%5Ec-plaid%5E333500406931-sku%5E0190795805833@ADL4BONTON-adType%5EPLA" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Outift</span></a><span style="color: #ead1dc;"> </span></span>//<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><span style="color: #ead1dc;"> </span><span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=925805002&vid=1&locale=en_US&kwid=1&sem=false&sdkw=cozy-deer-trapper-hat-P925805&sdReferer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Hat</span></a> </span></span>//<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><span style="color: #ead1dc;"> </span><a href="https://freshlypicked.com/collections/moccasins/products/burgundy" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Moccasins</span></a></span><br />
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Leavitt - <span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?pcid=5151&vid=1&pid=822152002" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Shirt</span></a> </span>//<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"> <a href="https://www.target.com/p/toddler-boys-chino-pants-cat-jack-153-brown/-/A-52377597#lnk=sametab&preselect=52216845" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Pants</span></a></span> // <a href="https://shop.nordstrom.com/s/hunter-first-classic-rain-boot-walker-toddler-little-kid/3745537?contextualcategoryid=2375500&origin=keywordsearch&keyword=toddler+hunter+boots" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Boots</span></a><br />
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Nick - <a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Faded-Glory-Men-s-Long-Sleeve-Flannel-Shirt/44608764?wmlspartner=wlpa&adid=22222222227035109168&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=95385940368&wl4=aud-310687321602:pla-131636094528&wl5=9002649&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=online&wl12=44608764&wl13=&veh=sem" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Shirt</span></a> // <a href="http://www.truereligion.com/geno-slim-mens-sateen-pant/MDBJ19N29X.html?color=2000" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Pants</span></a> // Sneakers are sold out <a href="https://www.gucci.com/us/en/pr/men/mens-shoes/mens-sneakers/kingsnake-print-gg-supreme-slip-on-sneaker-p-407362K52208978?position=7&listName=PGUS4Cols&categoryPath=Men/Mens-Shoes/Mens-Sneakers" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Similar here</span></a>Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-78066102637449098032017-12-20T11:57:00.001-08:002017-12-20T11:57:35.018-08:00Holiday Reality Check<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I had intentions of making this holiday season magical and meaningful for my kids. I wrote out our <a href="http://bringingupleavitt.blogspot.com/2017/11/holiday-bucket-list.html" target="_blank">holiday bucket list</a> and packed our weekends with all the things I just knew my kids would love. Well, let me just recap that list for you so far. We piled in with my in-laws and drove two hours to the Polar Express. I don't think the other adults were that excited to begin with but Leavitt was pretty pumped so I joined him in his enthusiasm... until his little brother hit a wall and lost his shit on the train. At one point while trying to keep him from his great escape he managed to unbutton most of my shirt leaving me looking like a half dressed fool with unruly children. We left there for Cabela's to try to salvage the day when Leavitt lost his mind and cried in the parking lot for 20 minutes, and proceeded to cry as my husband drove us home. Luckily I had brought Preston his new Plush Activity Octopus to play with in the car. He spent most of the trip using the different features on the tentacles to make different noises, each one made him giggle a little. He chewed on the textured teething rings, and the soft fabric was perfect for snuggling on the go. If you are going to be traveling with a little one this holiday season I suggest snagging one because we adore ours and it will entertain them. You can snag one<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"> </span><a href="http://amzn.to/2CG9iZX" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ead1dc;">here</span></a> and a little birdie told me it's on sale right now!<br />
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The next weekend we were off to the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens to see Gardens aglow. I left Preston with his grandparents and was going to take Leavitt with his cousins, my mom, and my friend Meghan. We didn't even make it a mile from my house when we were in a minor car accident. By the time we made it home and the tow truck had my sister's (brand new) mini van, none of us were in the mood to attempt the trip. <br />
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Last weekend I went to Portland shopping with some gal pals. All of us needed to get a few things, but mostly needed a break from the Christmas stress. We had planned to go to the Magic of Christmas show and blew that off for some extra time shopping. Another dreamy plan sidelined for getting more checked off the to-do list. We had the best time, and if you follow along on Instagram stories you know that meant I got to do a cheap spa treatment in bed!<br />
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We have been talking a lot about the meaning of the season. How Jesus was born, and what a gift that is to us all. How kindness is the gift we give others, and that when we forget to be kind we can ask for forgiveness - the gift believers receive because Jesus was born. We went to a live nativity where we saw an outdoor play of the night Jesus was born. What do you know Leavitt would refuse to wear his snowsuit, so I let him stand there knowing he would freeze. Two scenes in he wants to go get his snowsuit on causing us to miss half of the show.<br />
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Through all of the madness of the season, the extra expenses, and stress I want them to feel that message more than anything else. As much as I am looking forward to hearing the shrieks of excitement when Leavitt sees his box of new fishing clothes, hearing him tell me about the manger and why we celebrate is the only thing I want this year...unless my husband is reading this then I want a day at the spa!<br />
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Now for those of you hoping to get your hands on one of those <a href="http://amzn.to/2CG9iZX" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ead1dc;">Plush Activity Octopus toys</span></a> I have teamed up with Nuby to give one lucky reader one! Head over to my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bringingupleavitt/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ead1dc;">Instagram @bringingupleavitt</span></a> to enter! I am going to close the giveaway Saturday December 23rd! Good luck!Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-91177137385201075722017-11-13T09:17:00.000-08:002017-11-13T09:18:34.064-08:00Holiday Mealtime<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I am at that really exciting place in mothering brothers when they both admire each other but constantly want to compete with each other. Everything is a race. No one can have something the other doesn't or it becomes a really intense game of tug of war. Preston is still young so many disputes end in me reasoning with Leavitt and redirecting Preston. Unless it is mealtime. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Preston still sits at a highchair but he likes to be pushed up to the island to eat near his brother. They like a lot of the same foods but Preston is by far my better eater, for now. Until he's done and starts frantically throwing food on the floor so I get the memo. I love that they like to eat together but throwing his plates on the floor is a real pain. Leavitt pawns his unwanted food off on Preston, and Preston is always trying to steal Leavitt's drink. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I found some really awesome ways to transition Preston into the big kid he wants to be while making my life so much easier! Nuby makes these amazing Sure Grip Feeding Mats that suction to the table keeping it on the table and off the floor. Preston thinks the monkey face is fun, and I am so glad I don't need to keep replacing plastic plates he breaks on the floor and it makes clean up that much easier. These make great useful gifts for parents and grandparents! I am going to snag a few for the grandmas in our lives to have for when we make the rounds this holiday season! You can grab one on Amazon<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"> <span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2ysFWQw" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">here</span></a>.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Speaking of grandparents, last night I took the kids to my mom's house for dinner. My kids love for each other is fierce but their love for their cousins is equally matched. With so many toddlers tearing up the house it can be easy to missed a tipped cup, or abandoned snacks. Preston really wants to be in the action with his cousins so I have been using the same cups for my two kids in different colors so they can tell them apart. Preston feels like a big boy using these adorable 360 wonder cups from Nuby! I can't tell you how sweet they are when they cheers them together its precious! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4qd4NmKCNXHnRhyphenhyphenRUD2oNWnG8GzsVrGD6i999T_-CXLUQTdnuuraOATsva20HsuDqm_yRDNYEQwEFKySjPnN9dSrT3tWhZJxVy7yGkEFHt8r921U9HNFL9BZFvZQmwRJoMo32fWUUxvra/s1600/unnamed-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4qd4NmKCNXHnRhyphenhyphenRUD2oNWnG8GzsVrGD6i999T_-CXLUQTdnuuraOATsva20HsuDqm_yRDNYEQwEFKySjPnN9dSrT3tWhZJxVy7yGkEFHt8r921U9HNFL9BZFvZQmwRJoMo32fWUUxvra/s400/unnamed-5.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I was lucky enough to get a sneak peak of the 360 Wonder cup, it features the 360 drinking action that allows baby to drink from any where on the rim! Now the range comes in new fun prints and is made of tritan from Eastman. Coming soon to Babies R’ Us stores. Seriously snag these! They are spill proof unlike any other, and come with a cover to keep them clean while on the go! Kids love the the prints, Preston has claimed the airplanes, while Leavitt likes the red cup better. I love that these work for my one year old and that my almost four year old likes it too. It is encouraging Preston to use a big boy cup without stressing me out that there will be a mess if he knocks it over. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">This weekend has been a not so gentle reminder that the busiest season for moms is upon me. While I love the hustle and bustle, and dinner invites galore, I really love the coziness of being home. I would never say I like sick season BUT when Preston got sick last Friday, I put on the Christmas movies and really relaxed in the playroom with the kids. I had my coffee, Preston had his new 360 Wonder cup with pedialyte , and Leavitt was using his new Snack N Sip cup. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">How clever is this little cup? It <span style="background-color: white;">holds 9 oz of liquid in the bottom & 4.5oz of dry snacks in the top. I was not a mom when we built our home so the playroom is a hike from the kitchen. Which means it is a chore to get snacks and drinks to the playroom for movie time. Leavitt loves having one thing to carry around with him and he thinks it is so cool to have them in one cup! I can't wait to take it in the car too! Perfect for holiday movies at home or road trips! I can't wait until Preston can use one without spilling the snacks on top! But I have a feeling Santa will be putting one in his stocking this year! You can get one online<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"> <a href="http://amzn.to/2y2aZRO" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">here</span></a></span> or in store at </span><span style="background-color: white;">Walmart, & Babies R’ Us. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Want to win a Sure Grip Feeding Mat? We are giving one away on Instagram! You can enter<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bringingupleavitt/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">here</span></a></span>! Giveaway ends Thursday November 16th! Good luck!</span></div>
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<i style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Century Gothic', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">Bringing up Leavitt is a Nuby parent blogger and was given products in exchange for reviews. All opinions are and always will be my own.</i></div>
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Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-8307502051789989532017-11-08T15:59:00.005-08:002017-11-08T16:10:18.409-08:00Holiday Bucket list<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Photo | <a href="http://daniellebradyphotography.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Danielle Brady Photography</span></a> |</div>
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It feels early to be talking Christmas, but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't already planning my kids Christmas pajamas and dreaming about all the ways I will decorate our house this year. I also am at that point in motherhood where I am totally sick of all the toys. My kids are not however sick of toys so there will be plenty of that kicking around here this year but I am going to shift my focus from shopping to creating memories in the season. I have been scouring the Internet since September for announcements and event schedules of things to do in Maine with kids. It wasn't long before I had something going on every weekend from Thanksgiving to Christmas and to be honest I might regret that come January but I really want us to enjoy the magic of Christmas while the boys are still so small. So I have come up with my Holiday Bucket list for 2017!</div>
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<a href="https://www.mainenarrowgauge.org/polar-express/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">The Polar Express</span></a> We have never done the Polar Express but from November 24th through December 23rd you can board The Polar Express in Portland and head the "North Pole" complete with hot chocolate, cookies, a visit from Santa and a Christmas story. I can't wait to take Leavitt I know he will get a kick out of it since he's had me watching the Polar Express over and over for a week now. </div>
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<a href="http://www.mainegardens.org/calendar-events/gardens-aglow/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Gardens Aglow</span></a> This event was all I heard about last year. Everyone raved about how amazing it was and I was super jealous by the time I knew I had to go they had sold out so definitely get your tickets early! They light up the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens with over 500,000 lights and you can walk the gardens. They also have a S'mores pit, popcorn stand, and art exhibit. This year it will run November 17th through December 31st. I really think it would be magical to do with the kids, but then again it would make the perfect date night, or girls night out. </div>
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<a href="http://www.ci.rockland.me.us/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&SEC=%7B8254CF58-0C57-42BE-9BFF-075A5982F114%7D&DE=%7B8B058964-60EC-45EF-8A0B-E72529F3FE47%7D" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Rockland Festival of Lights</span></a> November 24th through November 26th Rockland has some really fun and uniquely Maine Christmas festivities. On the 24th Santa arrives by Coast Guard Boat, you can enjoy coco, cookies, and free horse drawn carriage rides. That evening they light the world famous lobster trap tree that was featured on the TLC Channel "extreme Christmas trees". The 25th you can enjoy the carriage rides, gingerbread houses on Main St. and a parade at 5:00pm. Sunday the 26th you can enjoy pancakes with Santa. We have never been for the full festivities but I have taken Leavitt every year to see the tree during the week when the town is quiet. </div>
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<a href="http://www.crossinsurancecenter.com/events/480/rudolph-musical" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Rudolph the Musical</span></a> Who doesn't love a Christmas Musical? I saw this show was going to be at the Wang Theater in Boston and was dying to go but logistics were stacked against me. Getting a weekend free with the husband and leaving Preston behind because let's be honest a 15 month old doesn't want to see a musical. So having a show in Maine may just be the way to make this happen for us! I hope we get to attend the only drawback is its in the middle of the week at 7pm (who plans theses things?!) We might be playing hooky from school the next day (#sorrynotsorry).</div>
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<a href="https://boxoffice.porttix.com/single/PSDetail.aspx?psn=54&tnewq=92e841b3-c94e-4c75-88d6-4aa7498425e4&tnewp=29e9bd09-979f-44e5-b9fe-6d941698d9ce&tnewts=1508671750&tnewc=porttix&tnewe=ptixgeneral18&tnewrt=Safetynet&tnewh=03537bb7e6856145f8b1357c850c1666" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Magic of Christmas</span></a> is a show put on by Portland Symphony Orchestra. They will play at Merrill Auditorium for the 38th year! I have never been but have a girls shopping trip and this show on the books for December. I can't wait to dress up with my nearest and dearest gal pals and enjoy some traditional Christmas music in the gorgeous Merrill Auditorium. If you are one of my gal pals and want in on this trip hit a sister up the more the Merrier!!</div>
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<a href="https://www.llbean.com/llb/shop/512152?page=northern-lights" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">L.L. Bean Northern Lights Celebration</span></a> is something we did last year and I am adamant we do it again. They have the most charming Santa Claus in the cutest little barn that has some seriously magical reindeer in it. There is a warming yurt this year with free hot chocolate and a letter writing station to send letters to the North Pole. A model train village that will make all the little boys in your life go crazy. There are also horse-drawn wagon rides, and the Discovery Forest with 600 trees lit up for a magical little stroll. It truly is a great experience and the shopping isn't bad either! It runs from November 18th - December 31st and the best part is it is all FREE! Yes, you read that right, free. Who doesn't love a perfectly magical free Christmas experience because lets be honest, the holidays are expensive enough!<br />
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Last year we went to a live nativity scene which ended up being a lot like an outdoor play. It was at a local church and while I don't have any info on one in particular it would be worth it to check out your local churches in your area for Christmas plays, or live nativity scenes. They really hit home what the season is truly all about. </div>
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<br />Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-43139644005151297502017-10-19T16:08:00.002-07:002017-10-19T16:08:12.055-07:00Mom Code<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB2cG0MBjBuVhCQwQtxn8jfhlF8aEA5vuYkT0MpGR0yK1zh7_0aY_QLqUVKkeY77NqKvC34h4vmFUnlsORCMv3ibOLOdIN2imotEilDmOKE81GjkYWX8guz180_Tkq4CWOTTfOASP4LfhQ/s1600/13901554_10157230957220274_6991780523063814489_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB2cG0MBjBuVhCQwQtxn8jfhlF8aEA5vuYkT0MpGR0yK1zh7_0aY_QLqUVKkeY77NqKvC34h4vmFUnlsORCMv3ibOLOdIN2imotEilDmOKE81GjkYWX8guz180_Tkq4CWOTTfOASP4LfhQ/s400/13901554_10157230957220274_6991780523063814489_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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As young girls, even as a young adult woman there was the unspoken Girl Code. You know - no dating each others exes, no copying the same outfits, no gossiping, keeping each others secrets, and no fornicating with the enemy... whoever the enemy of the hour was. None of that crazy applies to my current life. Obviously becoming a wife and mom crosses plenty of that off the list and the rest is hopefully just irrelevant to adult life. But then there is mom code. Mom code is the unspoken code of conduct for us baby bearing broads. <br />
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Do not expect me to roll out a freshly vacuumed red (or any colored for that matter) carpet for you when you arrive to a play date. I may answer the door. I may just holler that its unlocked. Obviously on a first mom date I will go out of my way to make you feel welcomed. After that make yourself at home.</div>
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Real friendship is not high maintenance. If I don't call you for a week its because I'm probably losing my mind or can't find my phone. Hurt feelings over being left out are silly. Invite yourself - it is one less thing for me to think about. </div>
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Be real. Sometimes I am put together and my house is perfect - usually that's Thursday after my greatest luxury, my cleaning lady leaves. If you pop in on a Wednesday we are a wreck. Roll with it. We live here. Between the two kids, two dogs, and Tasmanian devil I married, I am doing good to be caught up on laundry and have food in the house. </div>
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Day drinks. Every now and then, the sun will come out, the kids will be playing in harmony, and a wave of relaxation hits and you think, "I would love a mimosa the size of my head" to really feel like I'm on vacation here. Having a day drink with the girls is always fun because we don't have to plan for sitters, or stay up past bedtime, we can have a girls night in the middle of the day. Then there are days when everything goes wrong and you need an emergency drink at the local hang spot because... life, kids, and husbands. </div>
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There is no greater contribution to this world than the people we raise. I love my kids beyond measure and I know you love yours too. Of course they also drive us nuts. I will never judge someone for saying their kid is acting like a jerk, or for sarcastic jabs spoken under your breath as you fill a sippy cup for the hundredth time, or remind your toddler to stop doing something while counting to three through gritted teeth.<br />
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This is real life, with real problems and trials. If something in your life is totally going wrong and you need me I will get a sitter and be there. If you really just need a sitter to be alone - drop them off. Mom friends, aren't just friends it is a sisterhood. A safe place to not take it all too seriously. </div>
Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-75434092935464297852017-10-17T08:58:00.002-07:002017-10-18T13:03:42.468-07:00Fruitsicles for Fall<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGF7qoJ4qhyphenhyphenLJs1WBXz6LahiB2XJ4LOfmFX8ndo1pG6-hyRXo2-00pA3MUYBLRpX52PntJx_pYSYytjTEQxyAwQKvvKkOlWZ1H8b0sekWOZ7pAyr8AhnANDEKkaxRzZ3VCTei8GY679T8h/s1600/thumbs62.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="970" height="122" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGF7qoJ4qhyphenhyphenLJs1WBXz6LahiB2XJ4LOfmFX8ndo1pG6-hyRXo2-00pA3MUYBLRpX52PntJx_pYSYytjTEQxyAwQKvvKkOlWZ1H8b0sekWOZ7pAyr8AhnANDEKkaxRzZ3VCTei8GY679T8h/s400/thumbs62.jpg" width="400"></a></div>
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This week has seen mother nature usher in that crisp fall air we wait all year to enjoy. We have been enjoying the cooler air, but we are also suffering with the first virus of the season. While I wade through the not so fun mom tasks of sick kids, one who is the proud new owner of molars, and even worse a sick husband, I have something fun for you guys!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm-UjHqGId7LkiCHu0_sY0_QiqloYwZp1F5ruB0aL-MdsSO1x5OC3m6nwA8HkK3kkjOgiyMhQZTz6IYSBBVNgs56laIXwMUtX8e-gFAE1D0OxC1P_T50o3Due0by54OvEbmg0DOT3GFZYT/s1600/unnamed-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm-UjHqGId7LkiCHu0_sY0_QiqloYwZp1F5ruB0aL-MdsSO1x5OC3m6nwA8HkK3kkjOgiyMhQZTz6IYSBBVNgs56laIXwMUtX8e-gFAE1D0OxC1P_T50o3Due0by54OvEbmg0DOT3GFZYT/s400/unnamed-4.jpg" width="300"></a></div>
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While we love the season changing there are a few things the kids miss about summer. No schedules, less clothing, and Popsicles. I try to be creative with how I introduce new foods to the baby, but also getting my toddler to eat the same things. So when I saw this Garden Fresh Fruitsicle Frozen Pop Tray from Nuby I had high hopes of getting the boys to finally try yogurt, disguised as a Popsicle, and all kinds of other clever concoctions.</div>
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When it arrived on my doorstep, it saved me. The kids have had fevers and tummy issues the last few days. Preston won't drink anything other than milk. He hates juice and water. He is also getting a brand new set of molars, which he is hoping came with a 30 day return policy. After a trip to the pediatrician's office I swung through the pharmacy to snag an infant electrolyte drink. He threw the bottle on the floor, and screamed what I am assuming were baby obscenities. I happened to glance over at the Nuby box and was like electrolyte Popsicles might work, and oh did they ever. <br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXls7O025FU1BcDu9aWreL1av-WvqsfNt5kfyMTOCZml2Dm-sSiwMgV4ZTx0C4acf2KQ1xwunBjsc9oBPFag7EdtpGgtaV9xyfzJ6_AZgae4eagNKwudgevcNkQbkc47szeI-wQFs47No-/s1600/unnamed-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1320" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXls7O025FU1BcDu9aWreL1av-WvqsfNt5kfyMTOCZml2Dm-sSiwMgV4ZTx0C4acf2KQ1xwunBjsc9oBPFag7EdtpGgtaV9xyfzJ6_AZgae4eagNKwudgevcNkQbkc47szeI-wQFs47No-/s400/unnamed-3.jpg" width="330"></a></div>
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I made two of the electrolyte pops, and put his favorite breakfast (pureed banana, cinnamon, and oats) in the other two spots. Preston was obsessed and ate two in one sitting. Leavitt also feeling under the weather loved the strawberry electrolyte pops. It was so easy to pour the liquid into the tray, or scoop the pureed food. They felt like they were having a treat and for the first time in a few days I felt good about what they were eating. </div>
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The Nuby Garden Fresh Fruitsicle Frozen Pop Tray features:</div>
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- Freeze and feed Popsicle molds, with perfectly shaped handles for kids.</div>
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- Turns purees and juices into 1 oz Popsicles.</div>
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- Wide base handle design catches drips.</div>
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- Soothes gums for teething babies.</div>
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- 6 months + </div>
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- BPA free</div>
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The Fruitsicles Tray can be purchased <a href="http://amzn.to/2y3JAzg" target="_blank">here on Amazon</a>. </div>
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Want to win one? Enter to win one our Facebook Page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Bringing-up-Leavitt-1651043855143202/" target="_blank">Brining Up Leavitt</a><br>
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<i style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Century Gothic', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">Bringing up Leavitt is a Nuby parent blogger and was given products in exchange for reviews. All opinions are and always will be my own.</i><br>
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Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-32335743098847992612017-09-25T16:26:00.002-07:002017-09-25T16:32:12.901-07:00Preston's First Fiesta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you have been keeping up you know my precious little man is one. I threw him a little fiesta to celebrate his first birthday and we had the best time. It is no secret we love our local Mexican restaurant so it felt perfect to host a fiesta theme for our favorite little birthday boy.</div>
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I'm not a huge kid party fan, and after my first born's first birthday he has had family parties only. I decided this needed to be as mom friendly as it was kid friendly because after all we do all the work, am I right mamas? I know I am! </div>
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I made a huge batch of "I made it a whole year mothering two children and we all survived" AKA skinny margaritas, for my favorite moms to take the edge off while our kids bounced themselves silly in the pirate ship bounce house. The dad crew sipped on their favorite local beers as bribery to spend a Saturday afternoon with sugar drunk children.</div>
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The cake was so cute! Noelle at Sew Sweet always gets it right. I ran the fiesta theme by her, showed her a couple pictures and she hit it out of the park per usual! Preston devoured his entire smash cake and really went to town on it. The rest of us had lemon cake with blueberry filling, which we enjoy on every special occasion around here. The cake toppers came from <span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><a href="http://www.inspiredbyalma.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Inspired by Alma</span></a> </span>and they were so stinking cute! We had discussed the theme and she instantly had something personal and fun for us. She made one with Preston's name on it and then another one with the cactus and his age. She also sent matching cactus party picks that I scattered on the food table in different dishes and on the smash cake. I love personalized everything so having his name was so special and fun, I will be keeping it as a keepsake for sure! </div>
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The kids snacked on Chick-fil-A nuggets and waffle fries, my kids favorite treat. Let's be honest there were plenty of adults perusing the kids food table snacking on waffle fries! I figured I had better have some good bribery food if we were ever going to get the bigger kids off the bounce house! I totally underestimated the level of destruction my older son and his posse are capable of and am for sure renting a space if he has a party in December! While my house was trashed I have to say it was worth every pit of shredded tissue paper just watching them all play together. Leavitt has a really sweet group of friends and to see them all loving on his brother makes my heart so happy to watch them celebrating him.</div>
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On that note, someone bring me a margarita, how on earth is my baby one already? <br />
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<i>I was provided with some of the items in this post. All opinions are and always will be my own. Post may contain affiliate links.</i></div>
Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-13002123565954619902017-09-20T09:21:00.002-07:002017-09-20T09:21:08.626-07:00Dear Preston: Year One<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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| <a href="http://daniellebradyphotography.com/" target="_blank">Danielle Brady Photography</a> |</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Preston,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">You are one. I never thought I could love someone as much as I did your brother, and then you came and rocked my world with your light. You have a gentle loving smile that reminds me so much of my dad. I am blessed beyond measure with your perfect temperament. I have yet to feel frustrated by you. There is something extraordinary about your calmness and I cannot wait to see how this natural gift serves you in life. Your easygoing nature has been the perfect compliment to your brother, and your dad and I could not love you more. I adore your smile and your zest for life. You cannot wait to keep up with your brother, and despite my reservations you already love to rough house with him. I'm always so scared you will get hurt and then you emerge from under his pig pile with a smile ready for more. Your fun loving side is only matched by your serene demeanor. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">In your first week of life you had attended church, been to my mommy group, dropped your brother off at school, and been my sidekick </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">anywhere I went. You hit the ground running with me and we haven't stopped since. Now that you are ready to start running I can only imagine you will take off and not look back. I hope you know I will always be standing there behind you cheering you on and shooting you a wink if you decide to look back.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Around three months we started going to the library while your brother was in school for the morning. You loved looking at the other kids, singing the songs, and listening to stories. You have a magnetic personality, people are drawn to you, and you always make their day by being happy to see them. It is a gift not many have and I pray it stays with you, but something tells me it will. </span>Lately<span style="font-family: inherit;"> you have been showing signs of a temper, which has me feeling oddly proud. You are a force to be reckoned with, and will not be pushed around. A couple weeks ago while I made breakfast you found a stray fishing lure and hooked yourself with it. </span>While<span style="font-family: inherit;"> that is a story for another time, you shocked me with how high your pain tolerance is and I </span>have<span style="font-family: inherit;"> more gray </span>hair<span style="font-family: inherit;"> than ever. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Your first word was "mumma" and I did a major celebratory dance inside that I could claim that! You say "dada" a lot now too which has him pretty smitten. I watch your dad look at you with so much pride in his eyes it makes me love him even more. The way you look at him and crawl to the door to greet him is the sweetest thing, and I'm sure after a long day at work away from you that it is exactly what he needs. That's the thing about you, while you need us, we are getting so much more from you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I hope you can feel my love and prayers being poured into you every day. The lord has trusted me with you and I can think of no greater calling than to raise you. I know you are going to continue to bless our little family, and show us all the ways you will make us better. You'll forever be this baby to me. A husky little baby, ready to run, crazy for a hug, explorer of your world, and a sucker for a good nap. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So incase you don't already know - you are so loved, treasured, and adored. We could never repay you for the happiness you have brought our whole family, so I'm sure you will work on figuring out how to even the score as you inch towards two! We love your Preston Frederick and can't wait to see how far you go in your next year!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">All my love,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Mommy</span></div>
Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-54177188294314821452017-09-14T17:29:00.000-07:002017-09-14T17:31:13.331-07:00Preston: The Birth Story<div style="font-family: times; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">| <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://daniellebradyphotography.com/&source=gmail&ust=1505521425142000&usg=AFQjCNG-2r9Ojyh99ku76LX8thuvnChmcA" href="http://daniellebradyphotography.com/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Danielle Brady Photography</a> |</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I am not a huge fan of birth stories. Some people love them, I don't happen to be one of those people but I never want to forget that day. So for the sake of my memory and anyone who loves a birth story here we go!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">5:30AM I wake up soaked. I am not totally sure if I peed my pants (gross but possible), if my toddler peed on me in his sleep (also gross, also possible) or if my water broke but I know I need to get up. As soon as my feet hit the floor so does some more water. I jump in the shower knowing we just spent our last night as a family of three. I let Nick sleep and text my doctor. As I finish getting ready Leavitt wakes up and I get him breakfast and ready for school. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">8:30AM I drop Leavitt off at school. He's crying. I start crying. Pissed we are sharing our last moment together in this little school kitchen crying in front of what feel like strangers. The teachers suggest my tears are making it worse, so I tell them I will be having the baby today, which for some reason is really difficult to verbalize. It was so hard to have to say bye to him as the baby there. I kept telling him his grandfather would get him from school and he could come see me later. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">9:00AM I get to my doctors office who confirms my water broke. He seems to think I did a good job breaking it as he shows me on an ultrasound what looks like my baby kissing the placenta. He sends me over to the hospital. I start to let my mind calm down knowing all these visits to this office were all in preparation for today and I need to just let everyone do their job when I get to the hospital. I call my husband who is at work, and I head home to finish packing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">10:20AM we check into the hospital. I start to feel super calm. I chat with the registration girl about how different the hospital is since I got done working there. The first of a dozen people who will recognize me, making me nervous I will have to be vulnerable around people I know. </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Our last picture together before we became parents for the second time.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">In the afternoon we had visitors bringing Nick food, checking to see how long before we have this little guy. I relaxed most of the afternoon. Checking in with my father-in-law who had picked up Leavitt from school for us. I brought a travel oil diffuser, calming music, and prayed to keep things into perspective. Sitting around makes my mind wander. I started thinking about the last time we were all up there together welcoming one little one into the family and saying goodbye to another. It was so important to keep my mind positive so I refocused myself on little Preston and how lucky I am to be his mom. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">At about 4:30PM I got my first epidural... that had to be taken out and replaced. Then the second epidural was only working from the knee down. By the time it started working where I needed it to I could feel literally nothing and was kind of excited to be pain free for the first time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">6:00PM. A quick chat with my doctor and he was heading home, he told Nick and my mom that it would be another 6-12 hours. I knew that couldn't be. I just knew he would be here sooner than that. But I trusted my doctor so I tried to get some rest.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Around 8:00PM My mom went for a walk but when they checked on me while she was gone I had progressed enough that they needed to call my doctor back. I finally put the gun to Nick's head to pick a name for the baby. We had agreed on Preston months ago but needed a middle name. Nick suggested we use Frederick, my Dad's first name, who passed when I was 6 months pregnant. It also happens to be Nick's great grandfather's first name. I laid there for a few moments as they wrote his name on the board thinking about all the ways I hope Preston is able to be like my Dad even though they will never meet here on earth. My Dad loved life and having fun, thinking about him gave me a good smile and I really knew everything would be OK.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">At 9:10PM my doctor was getting ready to let me push soon, and my sister showed up. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">After two contractions of pushing the doctor asked me who was cutting the cord. Nick said he was all set to stay up by my head. So I said I wanted to do it. Then the doctor tells me ok, he will be here soon. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">9:35PM he was born. So peaceful. No crying, just staring at me. The most perfect coloring, precious pouty lips, and dark hair like his mama. The nurse begged him cry, shaking him on my chest with a towel to irritate him into a cry. My mom and sister told me after that made them nervous. I wasn't nervous at all though. The way he looked at me, his perfect color, and his rooting around in the first few minutes I knew he was fine. After a minute of bonding the doctor hands me the cord and a pair of scissors with Preston still on my chest I cut the cord. My doctor then jokes I'm his new hero, I am pretty sure I laughed at that... he's an old army doc after all. </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Our first picture together just moments after he was born. </span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">There it is folks, the nitty gritty details of meeting Preston for the first time. It was a great experience and I would do it all again tomorrow if I could. The mix of hormones, adrenaline, fear, love, the whole darn circus of emotions somehow always make me feel so at peace. Never have I felt greater purpose for my life than in the moments leading up to and after giving birth. I will always feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude to have had this experience, and it having been a good one. So many people can't say that and I don't take it for granted that I can. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">| <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://daniellebradyphotography.com/&source=gmail&ust=1505521425142000&usg=AFQjCNG-2r9Ojyh99ku76LX8thuvnChmcA" href="http://daniellebradyphotography.com/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Danielle Brady Photography</a> |</span></div>
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Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-72664092167592678542017-08-07T07:47:00.001-07:002017-08-07T07:47:24.010-07:00Baby Steps <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhirytCmQgGXxciHh-i6yo3n4hjRYehpYViuCmsf0cZnJ6EHUcwUCxVp5xy7Hb8JLkPlt6bOJ4CHAG9E1ZabTr7ytWGZk2vAEyHlRqmb4YbNO3EfUWu0Bo8nnxbt2JgWs_nbyza_73yfwSD/s1600/2017-08-01_0031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhirytCmQgGXxciHh-i6yo3n4hjRYehpYViuCmsf0cZnJ6EHUcwUCxVp5xy7Hb8JLkPlt6bOJ4CHAG9E1ZabTr7ytWGZk2vAEyHlRqmb4YbNO3EfUWu0Bo8nnxbt2JgWs_nbyza_73yfwSD/s640/2017-08-01_0031.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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We are on the downhill to Preston's first birthday and my mama heart is in complete and total denial. It's as true as it is cliche that they grow up so fast. One day last week I was able to set him anywhere, the next he was opening doors and pulling himself up on everything while hauling things out of the baskets or drawers. We are on the move folks! The first birthday means a few big things. We survived a year of being a family of four. Our newborn, turned infant, is almost a toddler who will be walking. Is it just me or is it a little cruel that they turn one and walk around the same time? Oh my Heart!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKYe5ykbVQpr61FCl7G7P3OhKxve0mFpIIVOjbwDmafvAFJd9I1gYc8ddbejdpzzU3n2LhVnz1fVSa4M2b5N4F2u0EBUXV_nG6wiHOxoTxvj1O_S_iuwmZ6OCRua48nAVHRqXtG6hE8ujS/s1600/2017-08-01_0036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKYe5ykbVQpr61FCl7G7P3OhKxve0mFpIIVOjbwDmafvAFJd9I1gYc8ddbejdpzzU3n2LhVnz1fVSa4M2b5N4F2u0EBUXV_nG6wiHOxoTxvj1O_S_iuwmZ6OCRua48nAVHRqXtG6hE8ujS/s640/2017-08-01_0036.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Ever the shoe addict and overly sentimental mama, I had to find the perfect pair of shoes for those first steps to be taken in. Never one to value function over style I settled on these Cactus moccasins from <a href="https://freshlypicked.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ead1dc;">Freshly Picked</span></a>. They are the sweetest little moccasins, and as stylish as they are functional so he adores them too! The elastic opening means easy on and off for mama, and they stay on all day. The soft leather bottoms are my absolute favorite part. He can easily feel the floor making it easier to learn to walk for him, and once those little feet are on the move his footprint will be worn into the bottom for me to keep forever. I cannot explain the feeling I had when I was going through Leavitt's old shoes to use for Preston when I stumbled on the moccasins Leavitt walked in for the first time. Seeing his little footprint worn into the sole felt so bittersweet but they are a treasure I will forever keep.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCckuzhd7x00N2EdaErIunnNpGziPeJVYzYSIXqOvIadlVnu5rhsyvg6wVNzMsF7cUjYxclGAf3SGXruxiwZ4DP2WCC4N20qTp9sxj-hGxg8y9PwiUOVq6Doy24qwkZEj6aRu1zctkxrIl/s1600/2017-08-01_0030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCckuzhd7x00N2EdaErIunnNpGziPeJVYzYSIXqOvIadlVnu5rhsyvg6wVNzMsF7cUjYxclGAf3SGXruxiwZ4DP2WCC4N20qTp9sxj-hGxg8y9PwiUOVq6Doy24qwkZEj6aRu1zctkxrIl/s640/2017-08-01_0030.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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I can't lie it stings a little that he is pushing for independence lately. I have traveled this road once before with his big brother only this time I know what to expect. Less concerned with meeting the milestones, and more concerned with burning them into my memory. I have watched these boys bond with each other, Preston just adores his big brother. So I know he is trying his hardest to get those feet under him and take off. When he does I will be there cheering him on, dying a little inside, and when he's on to his next pair of shoes I will have these moccasins with his footprints worn into them to remind me of these days I'm desperate to live over and over again. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioVgLG9LsLnFImgqq95Pkpso5rJ_AUfYVRuptGxUNwfNXTojBLKMnPUkWkFKcRKaihaA31D-a3N-Y0ymvWHGNgIVBlbeuCgEolxEqR3DgqnpLKcC0FH3XoeOVpj_rBASHy_RfO4TB2i05W/s1600/2017-08-01_0037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioVgLG9LsLnFImgqq95Pkpso5rJ_AUfYVRuptGxUNwfNXTojBLKMnPUkWkFKcRKaihaA31D-a3N-Y0ymvWHGNgIVBlbeuCgEolxEqR3DgqnpLKcC0FH3XoeOVpj_rBASHy_RfO4TB2i05W/s640/2017-08-01_0037.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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To help celebrate Preston's first birthday Freshly Picked & I are giving a pair away to one lucky reader! The giveaway is being hosted on my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Bringing-up-Leavitt-1651043855143202/" style="color: #ead1dc;" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> to enter head over there to enter!</div>
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<i>Bringing up Leavitt is a Freshly Picked partner and I was provided with a pair of moccasins for this post. All opinions are and always will be my own!</i></div>
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<br />Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-71468963885381412952017-08-02T12:39:00.003-07:002017-08-06T14:31:50.014-07:00Mommy Needs A Drink<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZpITJJw9MbEQAZNiO97eSoZAlMMPb7384bvkssUMfnR7603-h-NsbCjkur66KHpdO87qEn5yK_fJ7oMO3dwAA3fgR_zRlq7Ytk6sy2v466_sXzWzXtsglt2l3dWSoSXfDbpfc-TH1Avuc/s1600/2017-08-01_0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZpITJJw9MbEQAZNiO97eSoZAlMMPb7384bvkssUMfnR7603-h-NsbCjkur66KHpdO87qEn5yK_fJ7oMO3dwAA3fgR_zRlq7Ytk6sy2v466_sXzWzXtsglt2l3dWSoSXfDbpfc-TH1Avuc/s640/2017-08-01_0003.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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I love summer don't get me wrong, but holy heck is it hot. Not just that but our social calendars are all packed, and mommy attends every one's obligations. Trying to make everyone happy and involved is killing me! When I get a hot second with my gal pals, or the end of the day when the babies are all sleeping, mommy wants a cocktail. </div>
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If you've ever grabbed a drink with me you probably know my drink of choice is raspberry (or blueberry for summer) vodka with sprite zero... my friends and family have dubbed it "The Samantha" and they are all on the bandwagon. Many of you also know I am trying to be a little healthier so I decided to ditch the diet soda in an attempt to do that while also being able to indulge in an evening lifter. </div>
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If I have to be healthier I might as well make it fun, so to jazz things up I grabbed some coconut vodka and watermelon lemonade seltzer. I then tossed in some frozen watermelon and fresh mint leaves I have kicking around for infusing water to stay hydrated throughout the day. Guys, it is literally so good! Smells like vacation, tastes like vacation, and is super low cal - 133 calories per 1.5 oz serving of vodka and the seltzer is zero calories. I've been serving these up to my ladies and they are a major hit! You could even use a drink dispenser for a party, I might just have a party just to serve them up! <br />
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Mix up a batch of these, by eyeballing the ingredients because ain't no body got time to measure things, or do extra dishes!<br />
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Shopping List:<br />
Pinnacle Coconut vodka<br />
Polar Watermelon Lemonade seltzer<br />
Frozen watermelon<br />
Fresh mint leaves</div>
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Over Ice<br />
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Thanks to Cassandra from <a href="http://www.andtheresthis.com/" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #ead1dc;">and there's this</span></a> for taking these pictures and sipping cocktails with me! </div>
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Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-62976170921622751632017-07-27T03:50:00.001-07:002017-07-27T03:50:42.979-07:00The Perfect Watermelon Snack<div style="text-align: center;">
I love how effortless meals are in the summer. I don't mind the drive by snacks and meals on their way in and out of the pool, or the fact that we live on fruit and cheese as a real meal when it's hot out. We have a very short window of warm weather and I try to keep myself out of the kitchen as much as possible. Somewhere along the way I decided summer was a guilt free mom season and we were meant only to enjoy it. </div>
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In my guilt free haze I sometimes end up in a snack slump. We have the same basic on-the-go crap on hand every day... cheese, goldfish, gummies, pirates booty, you know healthy stuff (insert eye roll). Leavitt and I recently had a little time on our hands while Preston took a nap and decided to get our creative on in the kitchen. We cut up some watermelon, half to eat, half to create something with. I decided to scour the pantry, we happened to have some white chocolate melts in there and fruit dipped in chocolate is basically a love language in our house. I let Leavitt help me pick our toppings. I wanted shredded coconut, and he opted for raisins. </div>
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I melted the chocolate according to the directions on the package and let it cool enough to thicken. Dipped small/medium sized watermelon wedges in the chocolate and tossed some coconut and raisins on there. We slid them into the freezer for a couple hours and enjoyed them outside when the baby got up from his nap!</div>
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I have honestly missed being in the kitchen with my not so little man. He has become such a great fisherman this year, and while I am so happy for him I miss these moments in the kitchen just us. He asked me the other day if we could try again and put some cheese on there, when I said no (frozen cheese?!) he said he wanted to try Cheetos. So stay tuned we may conjure up some more epic concoctions! </div>
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Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-23074836530327204752017-07-15T08:29:00.004-07:002017-07-15T08:29:58.357-07:00Catching Up<div style="text-align: center;">
I just love all the messages you guys sent on my post <a href="http://bringingupleavitt.blogspot.com/2017/05/the-fitting-room-diaries.html" target="_blank">The Fitting Room Diaries</a>, seriously some of the sweetest messages. I did end up hiring a trainer and going back to the gym I went to after having Leavitt, and while it is much less glam feeling, I suppose that is what I need for now. A humbling experience, in a good way. I'm older than I was, busier, and actually much happier now than I was back then making the work a little harder. I just hope my trainer has thick skin and can handle my eye-rolling and sass.</div>
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Other than my new torture routine, I have been neck deep in the summer. I took a weekend away to surprise a lovely gal pal at a bachelorette weekend her bridesmaids had planned. Being a friend to ladies without kids, I think its super important to give the relationship that attention because they hang in there with me when I say "what were we talking about" 100 times during lunch when my brain is just scattered and trying to keep up with kids and conversation. It was lovely, and I missed my babies dearly. They were in capable and loving hands with our parents making it that much easier to relax. </div>
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We have been fishing like crazy so that my oldest can get his fix. He loves fishing and is so good at it. I feel kind of bad he's stuck with me all day while his dad works and he would much rather be tossing lines than hanging out with the mommy and me crowd. Where are the redneck kids camps at?! That being said we have had so many fun play dates this summer and I am really loving all this unstructured down time with the kids. </div>
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We spent Independence Day with my husband's family. Eating lobster, fishing, and catching up. We really needed some down time after the holiday, and have spent some much needed time hanging out at home, and at the pool. Preston is so rambunctious and eager to keep up with his big brother. When we got home from camp after the holiday, I had to lower his crib mattress down again, when I heard him fussing (totally not his character), I found him with his diaper off. This was the first time he showed me his spunky spiteful side - I loved it. </div>
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I'm working on some new posts for you all. Including a super cheap patio update. We have lived here for almost four years and still have no deck furniture. That will change in the up coming weeks and I did it on the cheap. With kids, dogs, food, and Maine's weather I didn't want to spend a fortune for usable outdoor stuff. So stay tuned for that! I hope you all are enjoying your summer and really soaking in these warm summer days. I am going to miss the smell of warm baby hair lathered in sunscreen when these kids head back off to school! </div>
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Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-56605927330904049902017-06-05T14:14:00.003-07:002017-06-05T14:28:23.752-07:00Weekend Recap & Nuby On-the-go <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx8wsE9lSlBzigUqldv_Ym4m4zft_Ivu5A2038z7TkjoF9YqZvD8sb3ClxDBN8ogkoG0Gy-s1WALNnABeJ-vqPD-t5FjCoZ12-PDppUzNo9vcaeZeACzRXADbj8uGaSRcYbxfD9Wiwk_rO/s640/blogger-image-1781190091.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx8wsE9lSlBzigUqldv_Ym4m4zft_Ivu5A2038z7TkjoF9YqZvD8sb3ClxDBN8ogkoG0Gy-s1WALNnABeJ-vqPD-t5FjCoZ12-PDppUzNo9vcaeZeACzRXADbj8uGaSRcYbxfD9Wiwk_rO/s640/blogger-image-1781190091.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx8wsE9lSlBzigUqldv_Ym4m4zft_Ivu5A2038z7TkjoF9YqZvD8sb3ClxDBN8ogkoG0Gy-s1WALNnABeJ-vqPD-t5FjCoZ12-PDppUzNo9vcaeZeACzRXADbj8uGaSRcYbxfD9Wiwk_rO/s400/blogger-image-1781190091.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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We are home from another weekend at camp and I am already feeling the aftershock at home. The amount of stuff we lug down and back every weekend makes my head spin. This weekend was the first real weekend of camp so it was nice to be able to hang with the boys and watch Leavitt really come into his own as a fisherman! He can cast his line all the way to the neighbors dock, and caught more fish than I can count. That being said it's really all he wants to do which is hard on poor Preston who is less than comfortable in that bulky lifejacket. He will get used to it I am sure, and he loved the boat. </div>
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The hardest part of being at the lake is feeding the kiddos. Leavitt will fish a solid eight hours every day if he can, he hates to come in off the dock to eat, while his adult caretakers are starving so he must be famished! My husband asked about getting him some meal replacement shakes for him so we know he's getting enough good stuff when we are on-the-go or he is busy with activities. I snagged a few and his favorite water canteen from Nuby and he kept it with him all day. I don't love the idea of replacing meals for kids or letting him skip them, so we still put up the good fight over meals but I felt better when he walked away after meals knowing he had gotten plenty of nutrients and hydration throughout the day. He is in love with the bear print especially at camp and the free flowing straw, and I love that the transparent base lets me see how much he has consumed. I also love the flip top to keep the straw clean. I tell you these boys are going to keep me on my toes! </div>
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If you have a teething baby this is a game changing must ha<span style="font-family: inherit;">ve for introducing solids and rel</span>ieving the pain from teething. You can get a<span style="color: blue;"> </span><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="http://amzn.to/2qTEZLY" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">one pack here</span></a><span style="color: #d5a6bd;"> </span></span><span style="background-color: white;">and a <a href="http://bit.ly/2nDTikO" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">two pack here</span></a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The <span style="background-color: white;">NEW Nuby Thirsty Kids Active water canteens is coming soon to Babies R’ Us stores! Can’t wait shop the Nuby Thirsty Kids Reflex water canteens in store at Target or online</span><span style="background-color: white;">: </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://bit.ly/2rEeprm&source=gmail&ust=1496769887080000&usg=AFQjCNEH-41SHB2w97N1kP8Qac6YzhD55w" href="http://bit.ly/2rEeprm" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">http://bit.ly/2rEeprm</span></a>. How cute are all those prints the canteens come in? Leavitt loved the bears, I really love the gray ones, which are your favorites? </span></div>
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Because we love you we are going to give one of you a chance to win a Nuby Thirsty Kids Active water canteen. Find us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Bringing-up-Leavitt-1651043855143202/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Facebook</span></a> to enter! </div>
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<i style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Century Gothic', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">Bringing up Leavitt is a Nuby parent blogger and was given products in exchange for reviews. All opinions are and always will be my own.</i></div>
Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-37284472485324857642017-05-31T17:50:00.000-07:002017-05-31T17:50:47.407-07:00The Fitting Room Diaries <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Grab a cup of coffee and hold on to your mom jeans, its about to get real.</div>
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After my post about <a href="http://bringingupleavitt.blogspot.com/2017/04/mom-bod-spring-essentials.html" target="_blank">dressing the mom bod for spring</a> I got some of the sweetest feedback to my inbox. Most everyone can relate to needing a little extra love in the wardrobe department to help us navigate our post baby bodies and closets. While I loved all the positive feedback, and felt good that I had encouraged some of you, I have to admit I have been backsliding lately on the self love. </div>
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Last weekend I was out of town on a girls shopping trip. I went out the night before to eat and had a couple drinks because the kids were with my mom. My 3AM wake up call and 5 hours in the car bright and early had me feeling less than my best. Then I decided to spend the day dressing and undressing over and over again in front of a mirror under fluorescent lights. Needless to say my usually solid self esteem took a nosedive and I saved my husband lots of money not going crazy updating my closet for summer. I figure I should probably stop living my life like I am on permanent vacation and shake this mom bod of mine back to its happy place. </div>
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The week before our shopping trip Preston got super sick, Leavitt seemed to also be sick but not double-ear-infection-and-pneumonia-sick like his little brother. My talented and super thoughtful gal pal the fabulous <a href="http://daniellebradyphotography.com/" target="_blank">Danielle Brady Photography</a>, had us on the books for mommy and me pics that had to be rescheduled because who needs 100 pictures of my kids crying and me sweating? No one. I mean those are actually my favorite pictures from every single session ever, but I do love the perfectly sweet candid just as much. I was kind of happy they got pushed back so I could find new outfits for the photos, however after my day in the fitting room I started to think I didn't want to do pictures at all. </div>
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Now I will just stop here and say I am a fairly confident gal, who despite knowing my flaws tends to embrace the season knowing at some point I will work on it (or not depends on the mood I guess) but I just don't find my self worth in the mirror, or in my closet for that matter. I love fashion and clothes make me happy but that is not part of my self worth. I give and receive love all day every day and that's where my worth comes from. I have a deep appreciation for my body, for carrying two healthy baby boys, a gift that I would never cheapen by hating it for being a little too soft should we say. </div>
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My weekend in the dressing room was a rough one on the pride, but I would never turn down the chance to take pictures with my boys, to document a season of life because my ego is deflated. I am mad at myself for letting my head go there. So mamas, suck it up, suck it in, take the pictures and for gosh sake when the fitting room is letting you down head to the shoe department! Can I get an AMEN on that one?! </div>
Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-9586023668707686652017-05-19T07:56:00.000-07:002017-05-21T18:51:10.752-07:00Here We Are<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have a little confession to make. I've had so many ideas for new content and even started a handful of posts, but I can't seem to finish them or I get a little negative and scrap on the idea. So many of my closest friends had been checking in on me leading up to the one year anniversary of my Dad's passing. Which happened to fall on the day before Mother's day and my birthday. I am fairly tough and try to be in control of my emotions so I was confident I was going to stroll through this one OK. The more I was reminded though, the more I began to get a little sad and reflect on what a crazy year it was. I put every ounce of myself into Preston and Leavitt that I didn't take the time to ever grieve properly. Instead I began the constant panic and internal obsession over my health. Going crazy thinking anything that didn't feel right was something terrible. A few new moles were shown to three different doctors just to make sure I didn't have melanoma. I have been channeling my grief into a weird almost obsessive fear of leaving my kids behind. Maybe it's a control thing, who knows. </div>
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Sorry if this all seems a little crazy, but putting it all into words helps sort out why I haven't wanted to blog. It's not just blogging I have been avoiding without meaning to, I have had a few friends ask if they did something or if I'm mad because I have been distant. I clearly let myself wander into a rut and have only focused on my family and some of my gal pals who have kept my mind off of the sad stuff and on having fun and celebrating my last year in my 20's. I'm so thankful for friends that recognize when I'm a little off and help me stay the course. Where would a girl be without her friends?</div>
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We are winding down at school, and have finished our last week of MOPs. How crazy the year has flown by! At our last MOPs meeting I realized I was still pregnant with Preston when we started this year. At the beginning of the school year I was so concerned that adding to our family would create chaos, an unmanageable amount of work for me, and rock my world in a way I could never recover from. I had a good little thing going and was nervous to rock the boat. Then came Preston. The sweetest, little bundle of love there ever was, who completed us all in a way we didn't even know we were desperate for. He seamlessly filled a huge part of me, so much so it is hard for me to even believe we got by without him. But here we are wrapping up the year, starting our summer, and that tiny human I was still growing is now a husky eight month old I don't ever recall living without. </div>
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I know I am not alone when I say that sometimes I am just happy to be getting by. If I met my kids needs for the day, and my husband and the boys have heard that I love them, that's enough. I love when my house is spotless, the kids are in adorable outfits, and I have it all together. But life happens. Eventually I will get around to going the extra mile, striving for the perfect Instagram worthy snippets of my life to share. But in order to be myself, and be a good friend, mom, wife, and daughter I have to be OK with short seasons of getting by. Letting the details in life go so that I can focus on my relationships is what keeps my heart full when it very well could be a shattered mess.</div>
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I am glad to see Leavitt's first year of school end on a happy note. Preston didn't throw me into a tailspin of chaos. We can handle life as a family of four. I also am glad to be free of this first anniversary. A weight has been lifted and it is time to get back down to business! So if you are still reading this, thanks for hanging in there with me. I have missed posting, I miss seeing your messages when I step back, so if I haven't gotten back to you I will do that this week! </div>
Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-17053692563206281812017-04-10T06:14:00.000-07:002017-04-10T06:14:00.103-07:00Weekend Recap<div style="text-align: center;">
With the days being longer, brighter, and warmer - Monday is becoming a dirty word around here. Our weekend kicked off early Friday when my mother-in-law and I took an impromptu trip to Portland to shop. I wanted to get a couple things for the boys Easter baskets, and got myself some good transitional pieces for this weird delayed spring we are having. </div>
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I rushed back to grab Leavitt from daycare because we had a birthday party to get to. He was exhausted so the fact he managed to not try to bring their house down was a major win for the mom team. We both had after party plans - he was going to his grandparents and I was headed to a girls night. I was already red faced and giggling when I arrived at the second shindig, so it was nice to let my hair down and get some gal pal time in.</div>
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My mom is like a pinterest grandma if that is even a thing. She hosted a super cute Easter egg hunt for her grand kids, and some of our family friends. It was so much fun to watch the kids finding eggs. Per usual she was over the top and had filled something like 215 eggs all stuffed with chocolate. She had made even more Easter goodies inside and we filled our bellies with homemade goodness, and ourselves with new memories. I love that this is now a tradition, and hopefully it is something all the kids get to do together throughout the years. Nick and I decided to head to our favorite Mexican restaurant for a date night. I was honestly pretty tired but I'm not going to turn down an opportunity to have a date night. I ended up having a few margaritas and was feeling pretty festive by the time we left. We are opposites in many ways, but share the same sense of humor, I had a pretty good work out just laughing with him.</div>
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Sunday I woke up feeling more tired than normal thanks to those margaritas, so I got the boys ready and struck off for Starbucks. Leavitt ended up wanting to go with his grandparents to camp for the day. When I pulled in to drop him off the screamed "that's so awesome!" seeing his grandfather's fishing boat hooked to his truck. I love his enthusiasm for all things outdoorsy. I also love that he has someone to do all that stuff with because I couldn't keep up with all that all the time. They ended up bringing him home after less than an hour because he threw up in the car. I thought we had avoided the stomach bug that had been going around, but with our social calendars packed it was only a matter of time. </div>
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We spent the remainder of Sunday resting, snuggling, and watching movies. While the boys took naps I tackled the laundry I normally would put off until Monday. My husband had invited friends over for sushi Sunday night. The boys were already in bed, so if everyone gets sick I'm blaming bad seafood! Ha! </div>
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Busy jam packed weekends are my favorite and I am so excited for our weekends to feel more like this as we get into Summer. If only I could cram a girls night, family time, and a date night into every single weekend I would welcome Monday with a smile a little more often!</div>
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Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-50986264054363926212017-04-05T14:23:00.000-07:002017-04-05T16:58:09.862-07:00Mom Bod - Spring Essentials <div style="text-align: center;">
Well spring is here - kind of. I woke up to snow today, and a text from one of my gal pals that Tuesday it would be 70 out. The girls at Mops were also talking about promising spring weather next week, which had us all giddy and ready to kick cabin fever. So with talks of lunching on the patio at the Sea Dog, and mom park play dates, I am talking all things mom bod and spring wardrobe essentials!</div>
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I live by the motto I am built for pleasure not speed. Meaning I enjoy eating, drinking, having/making babies (too far?), and I truly hate to run. I have big boobs, I don't think God designed me to run. My neighbors also don't want to see me running, they do however enjoy the apple squares I drop off after we go apple picking a dozen times, and leave with an abundance of apples every single time. Keeping the mom bod is actually just an act of community service. </div>
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I am a true believer that calories consumed with friends, on the weekends, or off my child's plate don't count. This is also why I will never be skinny, because those may be the only times I actually eat. Also see above for why this is true. That being said the mom bod is going to rock it's happy self right into the warmer weather, new wardrobe and all. </div>
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Every year I invest in a pair of white jeans. I don't buy expensive ones because I only want them to work for one year. The obvious reason for this is that they are white and need to be washed after every wear. I also use bleach on them which ruins the elasticity, which in turn ruins the fit. The fit of white denim must be good. White denim shows lumps and bumps, and saggy white pant butt, looks like a diaper - not cute. I usually grab a pair from the Gap, this year I found a distressed pair and a regular pair at Old Navy. I also found a great pair at Target last year while pregnant, you can find them <a href="http://www.target.com/p/maternity-over-the-belly-ankle-skinny-jean-white-liz-lange-for-target/-/A-51639129">here</a>... expecting mamas invest in these ASAP!!</div>
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I am also loving all things ruffled sleeves, off the shoulder, chambray, and give me every pink shoe ever. I almost think the pink shoes need a post of their own but here is a sneak peek into what I have invested in so far! Loose tops that flatter and conceal mummy tummy, and mid-rise jeans that don't show your bottom when you bend over are my jam. These are my favorite outfits I just know will be heavy in the rotation as soon as its warm, and my car isn't covered in dirt. </div>
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| <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=85729&vid=1&pid=815202002" target="_blank">Jeans</a> | <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/bp-maddy-mule-women/4529960?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&fashioncolor=BLUSH%20LEATHER" target="_blank">Mules</a> | <a href="http://www.saksoff5th.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524442199956&site_refer=CSE_GGLPRADS001_OFF&gclid=CjwKEAjwq5LHBRCN0YLf9-GyywYSJAAhOw6mXYHlg6pmUQ82ysoxAFWiXrnNdSJxc2v5R3p3o9Hl2RoCOvTw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">Top</a> similar |</div>
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I love these white distressed jeans so much. I got them super cheap during one of their online sales for $22. These mules are everywhere right now. I live for the blush and bow combo. The leather feels luxe, and the sole is a nice heavy wood. They feel more expensive than they are. The top is Beachlunchlounge. I link them a lot because I love their fabrics and I found this one at TJ Maxx, that being said I couldn't find mine online, but I found one similar that I like more for you guys, so jump on that! Also be sure to look for their stuff at your local TJ Maxx, and as always shoot me a message if you find something, or if you're in Maine and think I need to check a store out that has tons of it! </div>
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| <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=85729&vid=1&pid=144758002" target="_blank">Jeans</a> | <a href="https://www.sanctuaryclothing.com/clothing/tops/off-shoulder/misha-off-shoulder-top.html" target="_blank">Top</a> | <a href="http://www.saksoff5th.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524442001776&site_refer=CSE_GGLPRADS001_OFF&gclid=CjwKEAjwq5LHBRCN0YLf9-GyywYSJAAhOw6mpvyBvAQ6Lek86dUV159hHBNz-PCI5245euNVBZjMRhoCiGzw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">Shoes</a> |</div>
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These jeans are also from Old Navy and a ridiculous steal at $25 everyday. They are a nice mid-rise and I won't care if I ruin them and need to snag another pair. The top I got at TJ Maxx for $19.99, it is way pricier ( $69 ) on the designer's website so check out your local stores first! The shoes are also a TJ Maxx find from a couple years ago but you can still find them online!</div>
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| <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=85729&vid=1&pid=144758002" target="_blank">Jeans</a> | <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/tory-burch-miller-flip-flop-women/2963432?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&fashioncolor=FLUO%20FUCHSIA" target="_blank">Shoes</a> | <a href="https://www.goodnightmacaroon.co/products/flossie-striped-flare-sleeve-top?variant=31715214669" target="_blank">Top</a> similar |</div>
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This top is a Max Studio find at TJ Maxx. I could not for the life of me find one online anywhere. I got it for $19.99 and am obsessed with the sleeves. The linked version is super cute too! The sandals I have had for two years and go with literally everything. I know Tory Burch sandals are pricey for flip flops but if you're going to invest in a pair these would be the place to start!</div>
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| <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/nydj-pleat-back-blouse-regular-petite/3833447?origin=category-personalizedsort&fashioncolor=FRAMBOISE" target="_blank">Top </a> similar | <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=85729&vid=1&pid=144758002" target="_blank">Jeans</a> | <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/tory-burch-miller-flip-flop-women/2963432?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&fashioncolor=FLUO%20FUCHSIA" target="_blank">Shoes</a> similar |</div>
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This top is a TJ Maxx find that I couldn't find online so I linked a similar one. I am all about this bright pink. These sandals I was able to link the current version. Mine are the Miller 2 and have a metal logo in the middle and have been discontinued. I love the preppy stripes with pink top combo and will be rocking it on the regular. </div>
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| <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=85729&vid=1&pid=144758002" target="_blank">Jeans</a> | <a href="http://www.saksoff5th.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524442199956&site_refer=CSE_GGLPRADS001_OFF&gclid=CjwKEAjwq5LHBRCN0YLf9-GyywYSJAAhOw6mXYHlg6pmUQ82ysoxAFWiXrnNdSJxc2v5R3p3o9Hl2RoCOvTw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">Top</a> similar | <a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&pid=520722012" target="_blank">Shoes</a> |</div>
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The top and jeans I have already told you about above - but let me tell you about these lace up pink flats!! They speak to me! I love the lace up detail, and bright color. They aren't pricey which is good because I don't think I will get more than a couple years out them unless the lace up flat trend sticks around longer than most. Get them during a Gap sale when they include shoes for a really good deal!</div>
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| <a href="http://www.saksoff5th.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524442199956&site_refer=CSE_GGLPRADS001_OFF&gclid=CjwKEAjwq5LHBRCN0YLf9-GyywYSJAAhOw6mXYHlg6pmUQ82ysoxAFWiXrnNdSJxc2v5R3p3o9Hl2RoCOvTw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">Top</a> similar | <a href="http://www.saksoff5th.com/main/ProductDetail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524442001776&site_refer=CSE_GGLPRADS001_OFF&gclid=CjwKEAjwq5LHBRCN0YLf9-GyywYSJAAhOw6mpvyBvAQ6Lek86dUV159hHBNz-PCI5245euNVBZjMRhoCiGzw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">Shoes</a> | <a href="http://www.gapfactory.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&pid=410225011" target="_blank">Jeans</a> |</div>
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These blush jeans are super cute on. They are just blush enough to not be white, with tiny spots of distressing. The stock website photo shows a hole in the knee and mine came with light distressing on the knee. The stock photo also shows a darker wash than what came in the mail. I like the stock style better but I snagged them during friends and family sale for less than $20 with free shipping so no complaints here. </div>
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As you can see I will be mixing and matching most of these outfits to get me through the spring. I strongly suggest finding things you like online, knowing your retailers sale habits and watching them to make sure you are getting the best deals. Gap and Old Navy run 30-40% off on a regular basis. I would wait to buy anything from them until I saw a 40% off my purchase sale. I also find good deals on current styles at TJ Maxx, if you live north of Portland here in Maine you are probably hurting for options to shop locally. As always message me with any questions on sizing and fit! </div>
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<br />Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-7828328473539831852017-04-03T10:23:00.001-07:002017-04-04T13:31:41.928-07:00Teething: Take Two<div style="text-align: center;">
Motherhood has been pretty magical. I have moments of pure bliss every single day where I am positive every ounce of good karma my husband and I have, was used on our kids. We have been abundantly blessed with healthy, happy, good natured children. Sure the toddler has his moments, hell, I have my moments. You'd be hard pressed to be close to me and not see my impatient, and sometimes demanding side. I can be a little dramatic, and high maintenance. There isn't a day that goes by I don't roll my eyes at Leavitt wondering why he calls everything disgusting, or why he's constantly asking "whats that noise", only to realize I say the same things over and over again. </div>
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There is a lot of chatter amongst moms right now about how hard it can be. Some even go so far to say they rarely shower, or have trouble getting out of the house. While I have been lucky to be an early riser - getting a head start on my family most days, I still have days filled with doubt, and stress. I'm always trying out new baby gear, and adapting our schedules to work smarter not harder- so to speak. </div>
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My youngest is 6 months old and cutting teeth. He gets so aggravated when he can't seem to soothe his gums with his fingers or a blanket. He also is getting his toes wet in the new foods department. However he hates being fed with a spoon. He instantly gets this horrified look on his face and spits it out. He prefers to have something soft he can kind of chew on. I had poked a bigger hole in his bottle and added some organic baby oatmeal and fruit to his formula, letting him use the bottle helps because it is familiar. We call it his baby smoothies, but it makes me feel bad that he's not actually getting to taste the fruit alone. Insert greatest new baby product ever. The Nuby EZ-Squee-Z is a soft silicone bottle, with a wide spoon shaped end. The end has little holes that pureed food will come out of while he chews on it soothing his gums, but also giving him a taste of new foods. I am in love with this because it is the same concept as those little pouches us moms love, but it is so easy to make my own food for him and put it into this little bottle. The bottom part is also silicone so he can easily hold it, and squeeze himself. I love that it encourages him to self feed, and look how happy he looks using it! I laughed the whole time he used it for the first time because he couldn't get enough of it, he was so proud of himself. It comes with a hygienic cover that is great to toss in your bag for on the go self feeding. As always you know anything great for him is a hit with me if it cleans well and is BPA free. <span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">The Nuby EZ Squeeze is Coming Soon to Babies R’ US. Can’t wait to shop? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Shop similar item by Nuby here: Nibbler : <a href="http://amzn.to/2nr4MXP"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Amazon</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"> & <a href="http://bit.ly/2nDTikO"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Babies R' US</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">. </span></div>
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Squeeze Feeder: <a href="http://bit.ly/2nqZmfA"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Walmart</span></a> , <a href="http://bit.ly/2nn3hZV"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Babies R' US</span></a> & <a href="http://amzn.to/2nHqOs6"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Amazon</span></a>. </div>
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Nuby also has these great IcyBite teethers that go in the refrigerator but are on a ring that he can easily hold without his fingers getting cold. They have multiple teething surfaces, including the cold surface, a soft rubber surface and the hard textured ring. </div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Shop the Nuby Icy Bite Teether Keys at:</span></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/2ojaf7k"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Buybuy Baby</span></a>, <a href="http://bit.ly/2nDStrX"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Walmart</span></a> & <a href="http://amzn.to/2nqUNlz"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Amazon</span></a>. </div>
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I am still learning how to navigate these infant trials while loving and raising a toddler too. We are on the go so much more than we ever were when Leavitt was an infant. Being in the trenches some days of constantly being tasked with their needs and complaints can be trying. I am grateful to be the one doing life with them, and for great products that make the tough stuff a little easier. OK mamas, I want to know what else do I need to make teething easier? </div>
Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-9180331047296477392017-03-29T08:15:00.004-07:002017-03-29T08:15:52.059-07:00Spring Fever<div style="text-align: center;">
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Lately I have been in a real mood. I am generally someone who sees the light at the end of that dark winter tunnel and doesn't complain but this winter won't quit. We set our clocks ahead, the calendar says spring, time hop is showing me pictures of last year where we already had Easter and the ground was snow less. Mother nature didn't get the memo and is killing my vibe. </div>
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A gal pal of mine was saying she had been shopping more than normal and I realized I had been taking advantage of all this indoor time by online shopping for spring outfits. Trying to stay optimistic warmer and brighter days are ahead with retail therapy is apparently how you avoid seasonal depression around these parts. Give me all the white denim, chambray, off the shoulder, ruffles, and blush a closet can hold. </div>
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It's not just my wardrobe I am sick of and shaking up. I have been struggling with decisions about what next school year will look like for our family. He currently goes to a private school - because he is still too young for public options - I decided to complicate my life and try to choose between part time, full time, christian, and non faith based options. You know because I don't have enough on my plate. While we take his education seriously, we are adamant our kids be encourage first and foremost in these precious young years in their wonder and self confidence. I am more inclined to encourage his love of fishing and his love of family than I am to push a competitive educational agenda. I am definitely airing to the side of "let them be little" - but the temptation to give him the academic edge is still taunting me a little. </div>
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I am also becoming a little bitter with time. While the weather is in a holding pattern, the growth of my new precious baby is not. We have weathered sickness after sickness, and I am beyond anxious to get him outside in fresh air, exploring this world he lives in. I can't wait to experience all of those great Maine firsts with him. Quite frankly I am growing impatient and a little pissed off we are cooped up still. I can't wait to get him downeast, toes in the Atlantic for the first time... you know a good old Maine baby baptism. OK, I might be taking this a little far, but as he grows more, and more into his personality I am impatient to start the adventures of being a mom all over again. Leavitt and I adventure so much during the summer months, and we are so pumped to have another buddy to bring along! I can't help but think that if Leavitt does attend a full time school schedule next year that I need to make the most of our time this summer.</div>
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So spring, show your face or I am moving back to Florida and taking this Maine brood with me!</div>
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Photos are from last year by <a href="http://daniellebradyphotography.com/">Danielle Brady Photography</a> </div>
Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-19783931690983830142017-03-20T08:11:00.005-07:002017-03-21T20:51:31.659-07:00Spring Snacks with SkinnyPop<div style="text-align: center;">
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While we have been recovering from yet another blizzard, I am filling our house will all things spring. As most of you know I am not the crafty type so when I want to create with my little man we head to the kitchen. I was asked by <span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><a href="https://www.skinnypop.com/" rel="nofollow"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">SkinnyPop popcorn</span></a></span> to come up with a spring recipe for you guys and decided I would let my favorite helper in on the action, after all he can't get enough of all things popcorn.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU1VWKuOX_Qvckw9Tx_gzPNbpSUJOHwF1YOWv9AvGpksMeirjTjDd14c_92S-ZPIBvnv2lpjyIYSwEK2SRwmWN_Ss4A57-r0ajPwkEbiWE2J29WeOCQsrg25SX-2-J9GVoQBWbUT1a9HWx/s640/blogger-image--291584692.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU1VWKuOX_Qvckw9Tx_gzPNbpSUJOHwF1YOWv9AvGpksMeirjTjDd14c_92S-ZPIBvnv2lpjyIYSwEK2SRwmWN_Ss4A57-r0ajPwkEbiWE2J29WeOCQsrg25SX-2-J9GVoQBWbUT1a9HWx/s400/blogger-image--291584692.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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This is the simplest little snack that your kids will love helping you make, and they will definitely enjoy. The good news is zero measuring, so they can take the lead if you set all the ingredients out. Even better there is no baking time so those impatient little ones will only have to wait a few minutes for the white chocolate drizzle to dry!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVGn_CfUy_eNxGGcgFaGD6aexeVYWHMquxn-p-nzNDo6QMgaAycFRs-Qnj7raeTZ6wyJOuCD3UpBgHgQ30RjC1sl7UZo4RPfjlGPshBQIYVxhVTxefv0aNE-1vERYJj4ZmOvWgiI45AM4U/s640/blogger-image--1245599344.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVGn_CfUy_eNxGGcgFaGD6aexeVYWHMquxn-p-nzNDo6QMgaAycFRs-Qnj7raeTZ6wyJOuCD3UpBgHgQ30RjC1sl7UZo4RPfjlGPshBQIYVxhVTxefv0aNE-1vERYJj4ZmOvWgiI45AM4U/s400/blogger-image--1245599344.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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We warmed some white chocolate up in the microwave, and while we waited we grabbed a bag of <a href="https://www.skinnypop.com/" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">SkinnyPop popcorn</span></a>, vanilla cupcake goldfish, pastel citrus marshmallows, and some sprinkles - of course. I laid a small section of parchment paper out, and scattered small hand fulls of each snack on to the paper. We used small rubber spatulas to drizzle the melted chocolate, and added some sprinkles for a finishing touch. <br />
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I love the bonding time in the kitchen with Leavitt, and he loves snacking so this was the perfect little activity for a cold almost spring morning. We had so much fun drizzling the chocolate and snacking on the finished product while we watched movies to dodge the cold. </div>
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I wanted to make this super easy for you so below is a picture of your shopping list to make our spring sweet and salty snack mix! I hope you all enjoy it as much as we do, I also hope you make some memories in the process! <br />
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Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4898029341678172899.post-10775545643033656592017-03-06T06:36:00.000-08:002017-03-06T06:36:12.500-08:00You lose some<div style="text-align: center;">
I am in full blown survival mode right now. Friday I took Preston to the doctor for the second time last week. The night before his nebulizer had stopped working so I called the doctor to get a RX for the parts I needed. I set up an appointment to have him seen again before the weekend. Confirmed with my husband sitting next to me that he or his dad could get Leavitt from daycare because I couldn't be in both places at once. He of course said he could. Friday rolls around and we discuss his dad getting Leavitt again... everything seems a go. I spoke with him, then the daycare, about this. Nick called his dad and his dad said he was in the woods and didn't know he was supposed to pick him up. Called me, and said his dad felt bad he missed my text. If you see where this is going, my husband never asked his dad he simply said he did and never got around to it, then assumed I had taken care of it. Luckily we hit the daycare lottery and she was sweet about it, even told my husband she hadn't called to worry me. I had to grab some last minute items at Target and what do you know I get a phone call that Leavitt pooped everywhere. Never happens on my watch but whatever. Stressed he puts a swim diaper on him instead of a pull-up despite Leavitt's protesting that's not the right one. I get home in time to watch Leavitt pee all over his socks. Have mercy. </div>
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Weekends are pretty hit or miss on the mom front over here. We are either planned to the max, or end up a bunch of vegetables which creates anxiety beyond belief for me. This weekend was no different we had plans all day Saturday. Babysitters lined up for a funeral in the morning and an engagement party that night. Sunday I just hoped wouldn't leave us taking up residence on the couches, because it is just too much work to actually relax for me. Preston has been battling a cough all week. No fever, no runny nose, just a really nasty cough. We forged on all week with the reassurance from the doctor he wasn't contagious. Fast forward a week to Saturday Preston woke up worse than I had heard him all week. Despite being seen at his doctors office twice that week, like a crazy person when I found his hands freezing, legs a speckled purple color and feet in the same condition I panicked and called my mom who brought over an oximeter my sister has. Of course his tiny fingers too small for it, and freezing gave us an alarming result which caused me to take him to the ER. Let me just stop here and say, a rational side of me knew he was fine, the panicked mom in me wasn't sure. Turns out my precious Preston will be fine in a few days. Phew. I also have been banned by his doctor and the ER doc to never use one of those things on a baby again for my own sanity... noted. </div>
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As I sit here, coffee in hand, staring at my reflection in the oven - I pray I don't have to use today, I am fairly certain we are in over our heads in this parenting gig. My husband and I have a good sense of humor to keep our marriage afloat during these total WTF moments, but really what the.... are we doing? I hope we aren't alone in the wandering in the dark hallows of parenthood, but sometimes I expect strangers to high five me I have it so together, and other days one kid gets left at daycare, another is unnecessarily take to the ER, and there is a poop smell from dad poop-gate I can't get out of my bathroom. You win some, you lose some. I just hope the boys aren't sitting on a couch someday talking about these cringe worthy parenting moments to a therapist. </div>
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The upside to this weekend was we made it to the engagement party, there was wine, adult conversations, and my mom is a rock star had both kids in bed by their bedtimes and cleaned my house and did my laundry! Meme, you're the real MVP! </div>
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Photos are by the lovely <a href="http://daniellebradyphotography.com/">Danielle Brady Photography</a> who keeps it real documenting life's perfect moments and bloopers for me. </div>
Bringing up Leavitthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00301776500590108957noreply@blogger.com0