Four on Friday - Knock off's and Dupes

I'm always looking for a good deal.  If I can't find something on sale, I won't buy it.  Pay full price?  Never!

So one of my favorite things to do is find amazing 'kock-off's' and 'dupes' for some of the higher end products I'm interested in.

1.

Beauty Blender's

I head to TJ Maxx and buy mine for about $3 or I wait and order them from Amazon for about $2.

I keep tabs on the ones from Amazon.  When they drop to $1.99 I often order 3 or more.  Shipping takes a while, but the savings is totally worth it.

2.

Make up Remover Cloth

I found a few great dupes before realizing that a microfiber cloth does the EXACT SAME THING.

I've also seen the cloths at TJ Maxx for under $10.

I LOVE using these at night.  They take off everything (even waterproof mascara).  When my cloth is in the wash, I just use a regular microfiber cloth from Home Depot.

Yup.  Home Depot.  The ones that come in the big pack for under $10.

They aren't as soft, but they clean my face just as well.

3.

Norwex

I admit, I was extremely interested in these cloths for quite a while.

A girlfriend sold them and brought some to the church nursery to do some clean up one day.  After watching her work for a while, I realized that they were basically glorified microfiber cloths.

Yup.  The same microfiber cloths I buy from Home Depot.

I use these for everything.  Windows, counters, car, bathroom, make up remover, and dusting.

I prefer to use vinegar and water when I clean instead of just water (like Norwex recommends).  I like knowing that the vinegar is both natural AND killing germs.

4.

Lipsense

I have NOTHING against Lipsense.  However, it just doesn't work for me.  I've tried.

The idea of lipstick lasting ALL DAY though?  Sign me up!

So I went on a hunt for a lipstick that would last all day for a fraction of the price.

After a few trials and errors - my loss is your gain.

I found TWO that are amazing.

1.

Covergirl Outlast Lipstick

2.

Maybelline Superstay 24 Lipstick

I wear these daily.  One application in the morning and I am scrubbing it off at bedtime.

Both are under $10 and include a moisturizing lip gloss!!

Happy Friday!  Spring has truly Sprung here.

We're headed back outside to soak up the blue skies and Vitamin D!!

 

37 Weeks - Full Term

How far along:  37 weeks - Full TERM!

Baby size:  Head of romaine lettuce

Baby's progress:  Now baby is focused on putting on the pounds and getting ready to be born

Weight gain:  20 pounds

Stretch marks:  None!  Hallelujah!

Sleep: Lots and lots and lots of potty breaks

Gender: Guesses are pretty much split 50/50.  We officially have a name for both a boy and a girl.  So either way, we're ready!

Movement:  All the time.

Best moment this week: Maternity photos this weekend.  The sneak peek brought tears to my eyes. 

Looking forward to:  My Baby Sprinkle this weekend (Followed up by a pedicure with the girls).  We are so blessed to have such wonderful people in our life.

Food cravings:  I'm officially OVER sunny d!  WOO!  I poured my usual morning glass and gagged at the taste.   However, I'm also hungry and nauseous at the same time.  So that's fun.

Belly Button - In or Out:  mostly out.

Anything making you queasy or sick: Food in general

Wedding Rings - On or Off:  Off during the week while at work.  Off at home.

Labor signs: Braxton Hicks.  Pelvic pain aka signs of dilation.  I've had a few painful contractions as well.

What I miss:  A nice cold beer on a sun filled patio.

Symptoms: Low baby, pelvic pain, lower back pain.  Body is getting ready for baby!

Workouts: Ha.  Hahahaha.  I'm walking.  That's it.

Things that suck:  The aches and pains that come with the final weeks of pregnancy.  Most of the time I feel fine, but dang, some of those pains are SHARP and prevent me from playing with #wiggydiggy the way I used to.

Things that don't suck:  Knowing we are about to be a family of four.  #wiggydiggy is so excited to be a big brother and asks for baby to come every day. 

#wiggydiggy at 37 weeks

Weekend Wrap up

 We finally had spring weather!

And by spring weather, I mean no snow.

Today it's snowing.

Friday night was a picnic dinner outside and the inaugural fire pit lighting!  Yay for mid 60's!!

Saturday morning #wiggydiggy and I headed out the door to run a few errands and then spend some time soaking up sunshine at the park.  I took 0 pictures and we had the very best time.

Our happy little boy was wiped after his park play and took an excellent nap after lunch.  Justin was busy doing his yard work errands and prepping for the big spring clean up.  However, after nap time the wind really picked up so we played inside until dinner time.

Sunday morning was church.  Per usual.

Sunday after nap we lucked out with no wind and mid 60's again.  Hallelujah!

I scheduled maternity pictures back in December, but we were thinking everything would be MUCH greener by now.

Instead, none of us were really in the mood for a long photo session.  Our photographer is a Rock Star and we busted out photos in under 45 minutes.  #wiggydiggy scored a few minutes in the park playing while I did some solo pictures at the end.

A Sneak Peek - I stole this from her facebook page

LC Photography

Lil man was such a trooper!  I wore the same dress and heels I wore for #wiggydiggy's maternity pictures.  So sweet.

That afternoon I sat my super pregnant butt into a lawn chair and soaked up some sun.

#wiggydiggy was busy hunting for bugs and Justin started on some yard work.

We had another picnic dinner and headed indoors just in time to get a notification of "rain starting in your area in 15 minutes"

We woke up to snowflakes falling.

GGGRRRR

Fingers crossed that the foretasted 70's actually show up this week!  I'm ready to break in our new stroller on some evening walks before #babywigs arrives in a few weeks.

Happy Monday!

Friday 5

 Five Favorite Pinterest Pins:

1.

New dish

Lemon Garlic Chicken

I have to skip the pepper because #wiggydiggy doesn't like the 'sprinkles' on the chicken.

It's such a fast meal!  I serve it over pasta with steamed veggies on the side.  I have a feeling I'll be making this at least every other week this summer.

2.
Postpartum Outfit

You know you're reaching the end of pregnancy when you start to day dream about pants that button and zipper.....

3.

Herb Garden

It's almost time to plant!  I love all of the blue pots.  I think it's time to try some herbs this year.

4.

New Living Room Rug

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this rug from Rugs USA.  I think it will be the perfect update for our living room.

5.

Maternity Pictures

We have photos this weekend, and this pose just bring tears to my eyes.  So so sweet.

Happy Friday Friends!!

36 Weeks

 How far along:  36 weeks

Baby size:  Big as a Papaya.  Approx 19 inches long.

Baby's progress:  Practicing breathing and putting on the pounds

Weight gain:  20 pounds

Stretch marks:  Not yet!!

Sleep: I'm sleeping well, but I'm getting up at least three times a night for potty breaks.

Gender: Not much longer until we find out!!

Movement:  Constant!  This baby is a mover.

Best moment this week: I scored a Britax B-Ready on a local resale site for CHEAP.  It came with the second seat AND car seat adapter!  I'm still dancing for joy.

Looking forward to:  Maternity pictures are this weekend.  Fingers crossed the sun is out and it's warm-ish.

Food cravings:  A glass of sunny D every morning.  Haha.  I still find the taste gross, but I HAVE TO HAVE a glass before starting my day.

Belly Button - In or Out:  mostly out.

Anything making you queasy or sick: Food in general

Wedding Rings - On or Off:  Mostly off.  I wear them on the weekend, but sitting at work makes my fingers swell during the day.  I dug out my "Boat Ring" to wear during the day.

"Boat Ring"  aka $6 ring from Wal-Mart I would wear when we were boating or camping.

Labor signs: Braxton Hicks.  Lots and lots and lots of them.

What I miss:  MARGARITA'S

Instagram is cruel when everyone is posting pictures of their patio dinners with a big, cold, margarita in their hand.

Symptoms: Baby is low.  Lots of pressure and full blown waddle going on.

Workouts: Does walking back and forth to the bathroom count?

Things that suck:  Just the physical limitations right now. Only a few more weeks!

Things that don't suck:  #wiggydiggy is so excited to be a big brother.  He talks, sings, and kisses the baby all the time.  We had an ice cream date last night and he asked to get some ice cream for the baby.  Melt my heart. 

#wiggydiggy at 36 weeks

35 Weeks

 
How far along:  35 weeks

Baby size:  close to 6 pounds!  Woah.

Baby's progress:  It's all about birth prep now - putting on weight and getting into position.

Weight gain:  18 pounds

Stretch marks:  Not yet!!

Sleep: My naps on the weekend are THE BEST.  A solid two hours of deep sleep make up for the tossing and turning I'm doing at night.

Though - we are getting a new mattress topper and I think it will immensely help.

Gender: Coming to a hospital near us this May!

Movement:  Lots of hiccups still.  Movement is still big, but not as often as before.

Best moment this week: I slept for 6 straight hours without tossing or turning once.

Also, we finished some big projects for the nursery.  I'm just waiting on an order to arrive and then we just have to wait until baby arrives to finish the decor!

Looking forward to:  Swim lessons with #wiggydiggy and his best friend!  Maternity pictures are coming up soon too!

Food cravings:  Still want Sunny D.  I'm down to a glass in the morning when I wake up and that's about it.  Food aversion is back (mostly because I'm running out of room)

Belly Button - In or Out:  mostly out.

Anything making you queasy or sick: Food in general

Wedding Rings - On or Off:  Off while at work.  The warmer weather and sitting all day makes my fingers swell (and thankfully nothing else)

Labor signs: Braxton Hicks

What I miss:  Working out, sleeping on my back.  Jeans that button and zipper.

Symptoms: Baby is LOW.  Belly is big.  Braxton Hicks are happening daily.

Workouts: Does walking back and forth to the bathroom count?

Things that suck:  Groin/Pelvic pain.  This baby is low and ready to go.  OUCH.

Things that don't suck:  #wiggydiggy singing songs to the baby before bed.  It's the cutest!!

#wiggydiggy at 35 weeks

A Letter to My Baby

Today we are 35 weeks along.  I've been writing this letter to you for a few months now, but as the time ticks down to your arrival I realized I better get it finished before you get here!

Your Daddy and I are so excited to meet you.  Though, your big brother may be the MOST excited!  He loves to sing to you at bedtime.  I know that you will be well loved when you join our family.

We have prayed for you for so long.  Through some very trying and dark times, we continued to pray for you.  Knowing that you were growing under my heart brought so much light back into our lives.  I love feeling you kick and wiggle as you grow.  In just a few short weeks I'll be holding you in my arms for the first time!  I cannot wait to kiss your precious face all over. 

We cannot wait to find out if you are a little boy or a little girl.  I'm hoping that you'll stay put until at least May.  I really want you and your Daddy to share a birthday month.  He'd love to share his birthday with you :)  As much as I want you here Right Now, I'm doing my best to be patient.  Once you arrive time will start to fly by again.  You'll be 3 years old before I have a chance to blink my eyes!

My darling child, please know that no matter what life brings, we will always support you and care for you.  You are the final piece of our families puzzle.

We love you little Lovebug.  We love you more than you will ever know.  We will love you forever.  

Love, 

Mama

5 on Friday - Spring?

 It's a Winter Wonderland outside.

If only I had Christmas music playing......

With Spring taking a break this year, I'm crossing my fingers that at least summer still wants to show up!  My current "spring" loves:

1.

Baby Showers

At least they are Spring Themed!  haha

These are the only photos I took at my co-worker shower this week.  One gal made homemade curry and rice.  It was SO GOOD.  I may or may not have had fourths.  Then eaten it for lunch the next two days........

I did :)

2.

Spring Clothes

Not for me of course!

From Target

I was gifted a few sizes of these cute oatmeal and mint colored pajamas.  They are so cute!

I can't wait for this lil nugget to get here so I they can wear them :)

3.

Spring Shoes

I have to share them just one.more.time.

Dr. Scholls Madison Slip on Sneaker

They are beyond comfortable.  I try to wear them every chance I get (though it's been hard with all the dang snow on the ground)

4.

Spring Meals

Its been hard to move away from all of our fall and winter staples with snow falling every week, but I'm trying to incorporate a few new flavors into our weekly routine.

We had a sunny and warm-ish day last week.

And by warm-ish, I'm talking low 40's.

So we grilled up some burgers.  First time the grill was turned on in months.

Other than burgers I've hit a wall.

Help a girl out?  Any fun new recipes to try?

5.

Spring Lust Item

New Patio furniture

Specifically the Hampstead Collection from Pottery Barn

Hello pretty :)

So now I'm on the hunt for a more affordable dupe.

Though, with the harsh weather of Montana, I'm thinking white may not be the best decision.

Decisions, decisions.

I hope your Spring is a bit warmer and a bit greener!

34 weeks

 How far along:  34 weeks

Baby size:  size of butternut squash - around 18 inches long!

Baby's progress:  Baby is putting on some fat and their skin is smoothing out

Weight gain:  18 pounds

Stretch marks:  Not yet!!

Sleep: I'm waking up around 3 AM every morning and I'm not really able to go back to sleep.  I am, thankfully, able to rest until my alarm goes off.

Gender: Coming to a hospital near us this May!

Movement:  Big movements!  Lot of hiccups too.

Best moment this week: Work Baby Shower tonight!  I am still in shock they are throwing us a baby shower for baby #2.  We are so blessed.

Looking forward to:  Work trip next week.  I have about an hour to myself to squeeze some shopping in.  Baby needs a coming home outfit :)

Food cravings:  Still want Sunny D.  Thankfully I want less of it than weeks prior!  Haha.  I'm running out of room so I'm snacking a lot more instead of eating full meals.

Belly Button - In or Out:  mostly out.

Anything making you queasy or sick: Nope

Wedding Rings - On or Off:  Off while at work.  Sitting seems to bring the finger swelling on.

Labor signs: Braxton Hicks

What I miss:  Working out, sleeping on my back

Symptoms: Baby is LOW.  They've been head down for quite a few weeks now, but they've dropped.  I'm full blown waddling and headed to the bathroom every hour.

Workouts: Does walking back and forth to the bathroom count?

Things that suck:  Groin/Pelvic pain.  This baby is low and ready to go.  OUCH.

Things that don't suck:  #wiggydiggy singing songs to the baby before bed.  It's the cutest!!

#wiggydiggy at 34 weeks

Almost 3 1/2 - #wiggydiggy update

 4 years ago around 6 AM, I found out we were going to become a family of 3.

Today, April 3, 2018, you are 3.

This is your last month as our only child.

You are the light of our lives and the laughter that fills our home.

You are also VERY EXCITED for the baby to arrive!

At 40 Months Old (ok - that cracked me up.  I actually had to sit down and count the dang months!  haha) or almost 3 1/2 you are one busy boy.

You Love

- All Sports

- 'Mighty Machines' aka Construction Equipment

- Jelly Beans

- Reading Books

- Police Sirens

- 'Round Cheeses' aka Baby-Bels

- Costco Applesauce Pouches

- Being Outside

- Road Trips

We moved you to a new school in September and we just had our first Parent/Teacher conference.  You are one smart boy!  Your teachers are amazed with your vocabulary and often tell you to let classmates answer the questions during Circle Time.  We are pretty dang proud of you :)

You recognize all your letters and are trying to write them now.  You recognize numbers by sight up to 20 and often count items while we are running errands.

You recognize your name by sight and can spell it for us as well.

(You also love "playing" flash cards.  This cracks your daddy and me up, but we will never discourage it!)

Your memory constantly amazes us.  You watch a very limited selection of shows, but you can tell us plot points, small details, and entire story lines WEEKS later after watching something once.

Yes, Daddy and I are very strict when it comes to screen time.  The only shows you are currently allowed to watch:

Little Einsteins

Super Why

Super Wings

Tumble Leaf

Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood

Blippi

Robocar Poli

This year you took your first ski lessons.  You loved it!  We can't wait to take you up again next winter!

Now, it's not all sunshine and rainbows.  You have a screech that could break glass when you are mad and not getting your way.  On Easter you threw an EPIC tantrum at church and we spent the whole service sitting in an empty classroom while you calmed down.  Thankfully you are a pretty happy kiddo and those fits are few and far between.

You are always trying to make us laugh by acting so silly.  Currently you are big into playing with all of the baby gear and baby toys.  You'll tell us how you are going to teach the baby to play with your old toys.  Haha.

You still have an obsession with Might Machines aka construction equipment.  You know all of their names and point every single one out to us that we pass by.

You wake around 6 AM and want snuggles before beginning your day.  You love school and are always coming home with something new to teach us.

You still nap (hallelujah) for at least 2 hours after lunch.  On the weekends you remind us during lunch that you're tired and get a nap after you eat.  Please, please, please don't outgrow naps for at least another year.  Please?

Bedtime is 8-ish.  Daddy and I tend to read to you longer than we should and we lay with you until you fall asleep.

Though - on the nights that we can't lay with you, you fall asleep earlier and quicker.  So you can blame Daddy and me for any sleep deprivation you have!  Haha.

You are a pretty decent eater.  Though, I'd love for you to eat more veggies.  You have a STRONG love for applesauce and eat at least 5 a day.

I love that your 'soothing' technique is still rubbing your ear.  You came out rubbing your ears and you haven't stopped in 3 years!  You even need to rub our ears before falling asleep and when waking up.

We love you so much buggy.
To the moon and back.