Pregnancy - Second Half

Second half of pregnancy recap (first half is here)!  It's been 7 weeks, but it honestly feels like a lifetime ago that I was pregnant.  People say you will never forget certain things in life, but pregnancy is apparently not one of them.  I'm looking at these pictures and don't even remember being that huge!

Compared to last time (1/2/3), I think I got bigger faster this time, and then kind of stayed the same.  I mean, my belly from week 34 to week 40 isn't much bigger.  I did gain more weight, which is a bummer, but I guess common for second babies.  It doesn't make sense to me, because I'm pretty sure I was more active and eating better throughout this pregnancy.  And my babies were pretty close to the same size.  The great mysteries of being a woman!

Anyway, I've actually taken a couple outfit pictures this week, so get excited for some non-maternity posts coming soon.  I make no promises that I will stop wearing maternity clothes, though.  Those are comfy and I reserve the right to wear them for at least another month.  

Bella Gravida Recap

Continuing the trend of posting outfits a month after I wear them...

This skirt is the last of my items from Bella Gravida.  I really liked getting some fun maternity clothes, and probably would have kept it if I was still working.  But as I've said a million times, being a SAHM, I really don't need pretty skirts and dresses very often.  

After doing a few months of LeTote, and now doing a couple months of Bella Gravida, I guess I should compare the two.  Of course, if you aren't pregnant, the Bella Gravida review isn't particularly relevant, but maybe it will be helpful in the future.  So I guess I'll just break out my favorite things about each option:

Bella Gravida wins at:

• Actual clothes - I generally liked almost everything that they sent me.  Your account has a closet that you put things in, and they only send you things from the closet.  Sizes were somewhat limited, so I ended up putting things that I was kind of iffy about in my closet, but everything they sent me fit and I actually wore!  LeTote sent me quite a few things that either didn't fit at all, or I didn't like the style of and just sent back.  Also, most of the clothes I got from BG were new with tags!  Probably because they are a newer company, but still, it was awesome!  
• Rotation timing - shipping seemed faster, and they would start preparing your new items when you notified them that the others were on the way back.  The turnaround was MUCH faster than with LeTote.  They also sent items in separate boxes with separate return envelopes, so I could wear a shirt and send it back right away instead of waiting to wear my other 2 items.  
• Customer service - I got a very sweet handwritten note with every box I received!  Sometimes it was just a comment about something in the box, but other times reminders about how to get the most out of the service.  

LeTote wins at:

• size availability - while I didn't always like the styles, there were plenty of options in my size range.
• shipment tracking info - I liked being able to check on when my items would arrive, but it was slower than Bella Gravida. 
• customization of items - LeTote would email and say "hey, your tote is ready, take a look!" and then you could go in and change anything that you didn't want.  

So anyway, I think I'm done with box clothes for now.  I do think it's a pretty cool concept, but the normal monthly cost is too high for me.  I do like how they give you one month at a discount so you can try it out.  Once I'm not pregnant, I might have to try Gwynnie Bee, because they have a month free trial!  Any other clothing rental companies I should know about??

Skirt: Bellyssima via Bella Gravida
Tee: ON Maternity
Cardigan: H&M
Shoes: Target

Phantom of the Opera

This is what I wore to the last broadway show of the season:  Phantom of the Opera.  I was happy to have another fun dress from Bella Gravida to wear.

I'm not a big fan of Phantom.  I know it's a favorite of many people, but I just don't get into it.  I first saw it about 6 or 7 years ago.  It's one of my MIL and SIL's favorites, so I was excited.  I also had a vague idea of the plot, which was completely wrong.  I always thought the Phantom was a nice but misunderstood guy, but he's actually quite evil.  So that's a whole different dynamic!

Anyway, with my expectations lowered, I did enjoy this show.  The music is pretty fun, and I about jumped out of my seat when the chandelier falls.  My SIL was like "didn't you know that was coming?"  No, I really didn't remember it from 7 years ago!  Shocking, I know.

Dress: Leota via Bella Gravida
Jacket: Target
Necklace: F21
Shoes: Target

Standard Activities

You'll never guess what I did the day I wore this outfit.  Oh wait, it's the same things I do most days that I wear something remotely blog-worthy!  Lunch with John and then a doctors appointment for Mr. Baby.  Only on this particular day, it was even more exciting, because apparently my slip was showing out the bottom of my dress, and my collar was unintentionally popped.  Never a dull moment around here, you guys!

Dress: Lilac via Bella Gravida
Jacket: JCF
Shoes: Target

Orange Blouse

Well, I'm still about a month behind on posting outfits.  This was from early April when we went out to dinner with John's mom and grandpa.  I, of course, took the opportunity to wear one of my maternity box clothing items.  I don't love this orange blouse, but it was something different to wear. Plus we went to dinner at my favorite restaurant, so that was fun!

ETA:  I'm totally cheating and linking up with Third Thursday Threads, because I can't be trusted to pay attention and actually post the theme on the proper day.  But white jeans from last Friday seems recent enough, right?

Jacket: JCF
Top: Lilac via Bella Gravida
Jeans: ON Maternity
Shoes: Target

Zebra Tee

So here's an outfit that I wore about a month ago.  If I remember correctly, Mr. Baby and I had lunch with John, and then walked around the mall a little bit before going to a doctor's appointment.  But then we were getting onto the elevator for the doctor's office, and they called to cancel, because the doctor had to go deliver a baby.  But then I went up to the office to reschedule, and they said that the doctor actually had time to see me before she left.  So I felt a little awkward because I was worried about the woman who needed to give birth!  But I assume the doctor was being responsible with her time, right?

These are the boring OB visits.  I know baby is fine because he's kicking me all the time, so hearing the heartbeat isn't as important to me as it was during those earlier visits.  It's mostly just "how are you?"  "more uncomfortable than last appt."  "Okay, sounds about right! See you in a few weeks!"

Cardigan: ON
Tee: Everly Gray via Bella Gravida
Jeans: ON Maternity
Shoes: Target

Currently May

This was from a couple Sundays ago.  I had a little helper who was exploring the deck while I took outfit pictures.  Believe it or not, all the pictures where he isn't in the frame, I look ridiculous because I'm nervously watching him to make sure he doesn't do something dangerous!  I also love his rhino shirt sooooo much.  It's one of the few ridiculous clothing items I have purchased for him.  

It's also time for the Currently link up with In Residence and Dearest Love.

celebrating - so much!  I'm officially in the 3rd trimester with baby2.  My sister is getting married this weekend.  I get to celebrate my 2nd Mother's day (and my first when I'm not in the hospital!), and then Mr. Baby turns 1 in less than a week.  It's a wild and crazy time!  

reading - hopefully soon I can start The Nightingale.  I've been on hold for the ebook forever, and I'm next in line!  I've heard it is really good.  

pondering - how the past year has flown by.  May 4th was my due date last year, and then Mr. Baby showed up about a week later.  Some moments he seems so big and grown up, and the next he just seems so itty bitty still.  And baby2 will be here before I know it.  It keeps hitting me that I will have 2 babies soon and what will I even do with them??

Dress: Bellyssima via Bella Gravida
Cardigan: JCF
Shoes: Target
Mr. Baby's shirt and pants: Gap outlet

Floral Blouse

Can you tell that I have no creativity anymore?  I mean, these post titles are truly inspired.  Honestly, when I'm editing pictures and starting posts, I just label them with the item of clothing I'm wearing, and then I usually end up changing the title at some point.  But then there's now, where I don't have much to say.  I wore this outfit to go out to dinner with my 2 favorite guys.  This blouse was another favorite from Bella Gravida, even though it didn't quite fit properly.  It was fine for a couple hours, and I felt very pretty!

Cardigan: Gap outlet
Top: Olian via Bella Gravida
Jeans: ON Maternity
Shoes; JCF

Red dress

I'm a good 5 or so weeks behind on outfit posts, but I'm going to try to post them somewhat in order.  This was from late March.  I think I just wore it to run a few errands with Mr. Baby and meet John for lunch.  This is my $4 dress from Gap.  I'm sure it's not the most flattering, but it is comfortable, and sometimes that's all you need as a pregnant lady!  

Jacket: JCF

Dress: Gap

Shoes: Target

Oh Hey There

One minute I'm ranting about elevators, and the next I disappear.  Sorry to anyone who was worried the elevator trolls got to me.  I'm safe and sound, I promise. 

Life has just been busy lately, and when I have any free time, I'm tired.  No idea why!  It might be the fact that my body is building a human right now.  But I'm not a doctor, so I can't say for sure. 

Anyway, this outfit is from a few weeks ago, when it was still tights weather.  I think we are safely out of that now.  I'm excited for warm weather, but am also nervous about being pregnant in the hot months of summer.  I'm trying to enjoy my ankles while I have them. 

Cardigan: JCF

Tee: ON Maternity

Skirt: Bella Gravida

Boots: Madden

Elevator Etiquette

Can I just complain for a minute?  Since having a baby, I need to use elevators.  Once you actually FIND the elevator (which is generally hidden in the furthest darkest corner of whatever building you happen to be in), you have to deal with other people who are also using it.  

The number one problem I have with the other elevator patrons is that they stand with their strollers RIGHT IN FRONT OF THE DOOR.  I think they don't realize that whoever is in the elevator might need to get out, before they can get in.  And then they look annoyed when I am like "um, excuse me.. can I sneak past you there..."  This is not rocket science, you guys!  If I stay on the elevator with my stroller, you won't fit.  Just stand to the side and we can all get on with our lives much faster. 

Another common issue is that the people on the elevator are slooooooow getting off, and then the doors close before the new people can board.  Just consider holding the door when you see a pregnant lady with a baby in a stroller.  It's the nice thing to do.

And once we are all on the elevator, if you must stand in front of the buttons, maybe ask the other riders what floor they need?  It's not hard.  

Someday I will use an escalator or stairs again.  But until that day, I just request some common courtesy.  I don't think it's too much to ask.  Of course, the rude elevator patrons probably aren't reading this, are they?  

Cardigan: Loft

Tee: Target maternity

Jeans: Old Navy Maternity

Shoes: Sperry

Easter

When we planned our trip to Richmond, the best week to go happened to fall over Easter weekend.  Sunday ended up being kind of cold and rainy, but we still had a great day.  We went to church, had a delicious lunch, and then an indoor Easter egg hunt.  The kids found all but 3 eggs, and the grownups couldn't remember where else we had hidden them, so I suspect my sister will find them someday.  Then we put some cheerios in bigger eggs for Mr. Baby and hid them in the middle of the room.  He loved it!  Of course, he was more excited about shaking them to make fun noises than opening them to eat the treat, but that's okay.  Plus he got a big chocolate bunny which I graciously volunteered to eat for him.  

My niece was coaching me on model poses during outfit picture time.  I think I should listen to her advice more often, because I look SO COOL.  

And then I convinced her to join me.  It wasn't very hard.  

And then we lured everyone else out (except my brother-in-law) for some more pictures.  

Cousins!

Girl picture

Smiths

My dress is from Bella Gravida.  It was definitely my most favorite item when I was adding things to my wish list, so I was pretty excited when I got the notice that I'd be receiving it just in time for Easter.  It fit kind of weird up on top, but nothing too noticeable.  I was hoping it would be perfect and I could wear it to my other sister's wedding in May, but alas, it was not.  My search for the perfect maternity dress continues.  It's frustrating, because you can be tall, or you can be pregnant, but good luck if you are both!  

Cardigan: JCF
Dress: ASOS via Bella Gravida

Shoe: Old Navy (similar)

Doctors and Duck Ponds

I wore this a couple weeks ago for my big exciting ultrasound.  John and Mr. Baby came with, and then they went and ate lunch at the duck pond nearby while I had my appointment.  And then I got lunch and found them.  Incidentally, these shoes are not that comfortable for walking around a duck pond.  

Ultrasounds are so weird and so incredible.  We got to see Baby2 doing all his crazy moves, and he stubbornly kept his legs in front of his face so our 3D face  pictures look like he has toes growing out of his forehead.  The tech assured us he doesn't. 

FYI, I won't be posting any ultrasound pics.  I guess I just feel like photos taken of the inside of me shouldn't be on the Internet.  Even though u/s pics pretty much all look the same!  

Jacket: JCF

Tank: ON maternity

Skirt:   Via Bella Gravida

Shoes: ON

Pregnancy - First Half

Well, as of right now, I'm actually 22 weeks, because I meant to post this 2 weeks ago, and life was too crazy.  Last time, I broke it out by trimester (1,2,3), and posted all of those recaps after Mr. Baby was here, but I figured let's try something different this time.  I am also taking outfit photos less consistently, so there are no pictures for some weeks, and 2 for some weeks.

Overall, I feel much larger at this point than I did last time at this many weeks, but looking at old pictures, that seems to not be the case.  It also seems to vary quite a bit from day to day and week to week.  I look bigger in my 17 week picture than my 18 week picture, I think.  Maybe I had just eaten dinner or something?     Or baby was stretched out differently?  

It's definitely harder to be pregnant when you already have a baby to take care of.  I slept SO MUCH last time, and this time I can't do that.  I also remember a point around 8 months last time where I would just give up if I dropped something.  Picking it up was going to be too much work.  That's not going to fly this time, when the thing I need to pick up from the floor is a child!  So the summer might be interesting.

Bugs and Bugs

Last week, it was randomly summer one day, and I was happy to dig out my shorts!  My legs just like to live out in the world, so winter is not my friend.  I also figured it was an appropriate time of year to wear floral print, even if I do kind of hate the bugs that are also included on this shirt.  John was surprised that I would wear a shirt with bugs on it, and I confessed I would not have bought it if I'd have noticed, but it was only like $4, so I'm not too upset about it.

Mr. Baby and I went to a park to have lunch with John.  It was so easy last summer when Mr. Baby would just lay on the blanket where we put him.  Now he wants to crawl off into the grass, eat some leaves, wave sticks around, steal our french fries.  He's a very busy child these days.  There were some ladybugs that came to visit us, so we were trying to show Mr. Baby.  He promptly tried to eat them, so that experiment was short-lived.  And I realized I am now the type of woman who will purposely touch a bug, in order to share the wonder of nature with my child.  What has happened to me???

Shirt: Old Navy (similar)
Shorts: Gap maternity (similar)
Shoes: Sperry (similar)

Maternity Box Clothes

Here's what I wore on Friday, which happened to be another evening when I had Bible study, as well as a going away happy hour for an old co-worker.     

Anyway, this shirt is from a maternity clothing rental company called Bella Gravida.  After I cancelled LeTote, I remembered that Katie had mentioned a similar company for maternity clothes, so I tracked down her post about it, and decided to give it a try.  The first month was only $5, so I figured it would be fun even if I didn't like it.  Well, I loved my first box!  I'd be really tempted to keep all 3 items if I needed more clothes.  I'm sure I will write more about it later, but so far, I like it.  Of course, I probably won't go past my $5 month, because again, I don't have much reason to get dressed up these days, but I'm hoping to at least get a fun Easter dress out of the deal!  

And yeah, I should have taken pictures before sitting for 4 hours and getting a crease in my shirt.  Oops!

Shirt: Bellyssima via Bella Gravida (Not sponsored)

Jeans: ON Maternity (exact)

Shoes: Target (similar)

Game Night

I wore this Friday night to celebrate my father-in-law's birthday with the family.  We went to the local board game cafe, which was actually pretty cool (if you are a nerd who likes board games, which we are!).  We ate dinner and then played a few games.  Spyfall was the first game we played and it was pretty fun, but so stressful!  Basically, everyone gets a card that has a location and an occupation on it, and then one person gets a card that just says spy.  The spy is supposed to figure out where the group is, before the group figures out who the spy is.  So you take turns asking each other questions to figure out who might be the spy.  This was not clear at all when we started playing, and I was the spy of the first round, while I was also trying to feed Mr. Baby!  I was so confused!!!  First, I thought everyone was in a different location, because their answers didn't make any sense.  Then they were actually confused about where they were, because the card said "Carnival" which some of them thought was the one in Venice, some thought was the one in Brazil, and some thought was just a good old-fashioned American traveling circus.  Needless to say, I did not figure out where they were.  But anyway, it was a pretty fun game.  You have to be specific enough in your questions and answers to not give away your location, but to make sure the other non-spies know you aren't the spy.

Anyway, other than the stress of being a clueless spy, it was a pretty fun night!

Scarf: Target
Dress: ON Maternity (similar)
Cardigan: Gap outlet
Belt: Chinese laundry
Shoes: JCF (exact)

Playdate

It's really fun to have a baby close in age to your best friend's baby.  Our boys are about 2 months apart, so we are making them be bffs, even though they currently have no idea what is going on (like at their first meeting when they were both just confused). Anyway, after both babies were sick a lot in the first 6 weeks of the year, we finally were all healthy enough to get together last week.  This is what I wore.  

Let me tell you, it was a lot easier to let the boys "play" while we talked back before Mr. Baby was crawling all over the place.  Now I'm like "so, how are things going?  MR BABY!  Don't go over there!  Stop stealing toys from your bff!  You cannot eat their tv remote!"   I'm sure it will be even more crazy when both of them are crawling, which I suspect will be any day now.  

My kid just stole that ball from his best friend.  And he's proud of himself!

I also realized while putting this post together that I'm almost entirely wearing Old Navy.  My shoes are from Gap, but everything else is ON.  This is my new $1 shirt, and I really like it!  My hair and cardigan is blocking the lace yoke, which is pretty cute.  I think it would have been a good purchase even if it had cost $8 like the tag said!

Cardigan: ON
Tee: ON Maternity
Jeans: ON Maternity
Shoes: Gap outlet

Family Walk

On Saturday, the weather was just ridiculously gorgeous, so obviously we decided to go to the zoo.  As did everyone else in a 200 mile radius apparently.  When we too the exit ramp off the highway, and saw the zoo parking lot, we abandoned our mission and decided that walking around downtown would be just as fun and probably a lot less stressful.  

This was my attempt to be comfortable while still feeling slightly cute.  I think it worked okay, except the wind was like "cute cardigan - let's make it be a cape instead!" so most of the pictures we took ended up as outtakes!  

And of course, I have to include a little family selfie, because these guys are my favorites.  

Cardigan: JCF

Tee: Gap

Jeans: ON maternity

Shoes; Converse

Currently March

This is what I wore a couple Fridays ago when I actually had 2 events to attend in the same evening!  What?  I rarely have plans on a Friday anymore, much less 2 things.  Anyway, I stopped by a "going away" happy hour for one of my old co-workers who is switching jobs, and then I went to a friend's house for Bible study.  It also happened to be one of the warmer days of February, so I was happy to wear flats instead of boots and let my ankles breathe a little bit!  

But now it is March, and hopefully we will have more and more of those days.  And it's also time for the Currently link up with In Residence and Dearest Love.


wishing I was on a beach somewhere!  The whole "on this day" feature of Facebook reminds me that this is the time of year I usually went on vacations pre-baby!  We were just getting home from a Caribbean cruise in 2010.  I visited my friend in Arizona in 2011.  It's a good think Mr. Baby is so fun!  
craving nothing specific.  Whether good or bad, I don't have crazy pregnancy cravings.    
going to visit my sister in Virginia later this month!  I'm so excited because we haven't gone to see them since they moved.  I've never been to Richmond, and have heard there are so many cool things to see and do.  
wearing lots of jeans and t-shirts, hence the sporadic outfit posts.  I'm firmly in the maternity jeans camp now.
learning how to organize my days better.  I finally feel like I'm getting the hang of this sahm thing, at least most days.  I'm trying to get Mr. Baby on a schedule so it will be easier to plan our days.  You know, just in time for baby2 to arrive and completely shake things up.  

All in all, things are pretty good!  I'm just looking forward to spring, but I'm sure I will complain about the warm weather when my ankles are swollen this summer!  

Cardigan: Gap
Tee: Loft
Jeans: ON Maternity
Shoes: ON