Thrifty Wife Happy Life

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Confessions of a First Time Mom

by Katie Haller

 I have to admit that I am a total first-time mom.  As a first time mom, I am learning every day how to figure out this whole parenting thing.  I never thought it would be easy to be a mom, but I honestly never knew it would be as hard as it is.  I learn a little every day on how to be a better mom.   Many of my friends from high school and college are at the same place in life as me, with little kids at home, but we are all scattered across the country.  We don’t get to talk every day or see each other all the time.  I don’t have any other mom friends that live near me to talk with about babies.  That’s why I thought it would be fun to create a series of posts called “confessions of a first time mom”.  I thought it would be a nice way to share my experiences and thoughts on my journey through motherhood with all of you!

As a first time mom, I am constantly concerned about doing things “the right way”.  I’m always questioning myself about the way I do things.  What I’m finding out is that there is no right way to raise a child.  You kind of have to find out how to do it on your own.  You can read every book and blog out there on parenting and it still won’t have the answers, because every child is different.

I will stress out over the silliest things sometimes.  Recently, I was overly concerned about how to wean Jack off his bottle.  He was really starting to love his bottles, especially his evening one.  I was so concerned that he was going to have a fit and cry and make giving up bottles so hard.  But then one day he went to bed without a bottle.  Then the next night he went down without a bottle.  Now I have him completely weaned off the bottle and he’s sleeping through the night now!! (at least most nights.)  I can’t remember why I was so stressed out.

My baby loves to read.

We love to read together before bed.

I’m learning that parenting is not as hard as we make it out to be.  It’s a live and learn kind of thing, full of trial and error.  You make mistakes, then you learn and move on.  I hope that I will learn from all my parenting fails with Jack and not make them with the next baby, but somehow I know that I will still be learning even as a second time around mom.  That’s just how life goes. 

I hope to share more of my motherhood thoughts soon! Thanks for reading! 

9 Ways to Wear a Cardimom

by Katie Haller

If you haven’t already read my review on the CardimomⓇ by Multiwear.co, I suggest you go back and read my last post on this great little piece of clothing for moms.  The one thing that I really love about the CardimomⓇ is how versatile it is with my wardrobe.  I’m all about making the most out of my wardrobe.  I love to find new ways to wear my clothes so that I don’t have to repeat my outfits all the time.  The CardimomⓇ is perfect for that!  Honestly, I had a hard time finding clothes in my closet that it doesn’t go with.
Today, I wanted to share 9 outfits that I put together wearing my CardimomⓇ.  The great part about these looks is that they would all double as maternity looks, as well as look for nursing moms.

This is my go-to running errands look, with my converse sneakers, distress jeans, and stripe tunic. 
This is another running errands look.  It fits perfectly into my life with a blush tank, distressed jeans, and flats. 
The CardimomⓇ works great for layering over button-downs.  I’m a huge fan of gingham, and I love how the green cardigan looks with it. 
I also like to wear my CardimomⓇ as a poncho.  For this look, I belted it up with a pair of jeans, nude pumps and a colorful statement necklace.  This would look cute for an evening out for dinner or a casual church look.
I love to layer a cardigan over a sundress.  For this look, I took a simple black sundress and layered my CardimomⓇ over it.  I accessorized the look with my ankle booties, perfect for a transitional look for spring. 
It doesn’t matter if you’re pregnant or not.  We all like to have a big oversized cozy top on sometimes.  This look is completed with leggings, boots and a gold pendant necklace. 
If you’re not in the mood for the poncho look, you can always flip it up and make it a cardigan look.  This is the same look as above, just worn as a cardigan, instead of the poncho.
For this look here, I wore a long-sleeve stripe dress with some black strappy wedge sandals and a statement necklace.  This is another great transitional spring look.

Last but not least, I love wearing my CardimomⓇ with my yoga or workout clothes.  It’s the perfect way to accessorize your workout look. 

  Those are my 9 looks with my CardimomⓇ.  Don’t forget to check out Multiwear.co to see what other great mom accessories they have!

The Cardimom

by Katie Haller

Back when I was nursing Jack, I was always challenged by what to wear.  It was hard when we would go out because I never felt very comfortable nursing in public.  I had to be creative when putting together outfits.  I had a nursing apron, but it was bulky when I tried to pack it into my diaper bag.  Blankets always slipped off and I tried using scarves to cover up, but they never worked out as well as I had hoped for.  I was always trying to figure out a way to cover up, look stylish, yet also easily feed my baby.

The CardimomⓇ, by Multiwear is the answer for all the breastfeeding moms out there trying to figure out how to dress stylish, yet still, be able to cover up and easily feed your baby.  The CardimomⓇ is a shrug cardigan, that easily converts into a poncho, perfect to use as a nursing cover.  I feel like the cardimomⓇ is such a clever clothing item for moms.  The great thing about the CardimomⓇ is that it’s not just for nursing moms.  It can be worn as maternity wear, a shrug cardigan with any outfit, a car seat or stroller cover, a blanket, a shopping cart cover…. the list goes on.

I’m not currently in need of a nursing cover, but I am loving how comfortable and wearable my cardimomⓇ is.  It fits perfectly into my everyday mom wardrobe.  I can’t wait until I have the chance to wear it as a maternity top when it’s time for baby number 2…..one day. 

Weekend errand running look.

A big thank you to Multiwear for sponsoring this post!

Look for more CardimomⓇ outfit ideas in my next post! 

A Day in the Life

by Katie Haller

I thought that it would be fun to do “a day in the life” post and share what a normal weekday is like for me as a working mom with a one-year-old.  I don’t think my life is that exciting, but maybe some of you can relate to me. 
Lately, it’s been hard for me, because Kevin has been working more, so I don’t have the extra help that I normally do during the week.  On this particular Monday that I chose to document my day, things did not go as planned at all, but that’s why it was the perfect day.  Life doesn’t always go as planned.

Here is my day…

5:00am Wake up
The alarm goes off.  I know it’s early, but I have to set it that early to give myself the time I need in the morning to get ready for the day.  On this particular morning, I got lucky, because Jack slept in a little and gave me enough time to shower.  I like to get up before him, especially on the days that Kevin works early because it’s getting harder to get ready with him up and wanting to be entertained. 
5:30am Breakfast
Time to start getting coffee and breakfast ready.  I try to eat breakfast every morning because it really helps give me the boost I need for the day.  Currently, my daily breakfast has been Grape Nuts with lots of fruit over it with almond milk and of course my morning cup of coffee. 

5:45am Jack is up
Once Jack is up he normally eats breakfast right away.  He usually eats fruit and either a waffle or cereal.  Luckily, I packed his food for school the night before.  I try my best to have his lunches prepped for the week on Sunday night, so I don’t have to worry about it during the week, on this morning I only managed to have one day packed.

6:10am Start getting myself ready
On this particular morning, Kevin had left the house before 6, so I was on my own with Jack, so I let him play in the bathroom while I did my make up.  That was a big mistake because he ended up breaking one of my bronzers all over the floor.  That cut into my morning time because I had to clean up the mess.  I try and make my morning make up routine quick and easy.  I use the same makeup every day and wear it the same.  For my hair, I quickly blow dry it.  I’ve been guilty of wearing my hair in a ponytail more than I like to, but with Jack being so busy lately, I just live with it. 

6:45am Get Jack ready
Getting my squirmy one year old ready in the morning is a challenge.  He cries, runs away from me, then I finally wrestle him down and get an outfit on him.  I try to have an idea of what he’s wearing the night before, the same way I do for myself.  Once he’s ready it’s time to finish up a few last-minute things around the house.  On this day, my dishwasher was broken, so I did a few dishes before we left.
We matched in our stripes for the day.

7:15am Take Jack to School
I take Jack to school in most mornings unless Kevin’s around to help.  He loves his school and friends, but for whatever reason, on this morning he had a case of the Mondays and was being extra clingy.  I was late for work, but I hated leaving him when he was so sad.  It was the first day he ever cried like that and he’s been going to his daycare since he was 8 weeks old.

7:30am Starbucks stop
I don’t always stop at Starbucks on my way to work.  I try to bring a cup of coffee from home, but this was a rough morning.  Plus, I got over $75 in Starbucks gift cards for Christmas, so I needed an extra cup on my way to work. My usual drink is a tall blond roast.  I like to make my gift cards last as long as they can.

7:45am Get to work 
Mondays are always busy mornings at work for me.  Lots to do in a short amount of time before the kids arrive at 8.  My preschool class keeps me super busy.  By 2:00 they leave and I get my planning time.  I like to stay in my classroom listening to calming music as I do my work in the dark.  It’s a relaxing way to end my workday. 

3:40pm Leave work
On a normal day, I try to head out of work before 3:30, but today I was running a little behind since I got there late. My drive to pick up Jack is usually filled with thoughts in my head of my day.  It’s my time to unwind and think, but oftentimes I’m anxious on my ride home because I’m excited to see Jack. 

My car is taken over by baby even when he’s not with me.
4:00pm  Home
After I pick up Jack at school we come home.  Most days I like to either take him for a walk to the park or play with his ball at home.  On this evening he wasn’t having it.  He was a little on the cranky side because his teeth were bothering him, so we settled for his favorite Youtube channel, Little Baby Bum.

4:45pm Dinner for Jack
Most day’s Jack is starving when he comes home from school.  I try to hold him off until 5, but on this day I couldn’t do it.  It’s getting harder to figure out what to feed him.  On this night he had pita and hummus, mixed veggies, peaches, cheese and chicken.  While Jack ate and I waited for Kevin to get home, I prepared his lunches for the rest of the week.  Monday is my leftover night, since I usually make dinner on Sunday.  The night before was the Superbowl so I kind of had a random mix of leftovers, so Kevin and I ate chicken, rice and veggies on a tortilla.  It was a quick and easy meal.

6:00 pm Bath time
After dinner is cleaned up, it’s time for Jack’s bath.  He loves his bath time and it usually gives me a little down time, because he’s entertained in the water.  On this particular evening, he was not himself and bath time was kind of quiet, but he was still content for me, until I wipe his face, which I save for last.

7:00 pm Jack’s bedtime
After Jack’s bath, I lotion him and get his jammies on, which he hates.  Then we play in his room for a bit and read books together.  He is finally showing interest in books and will sit through a few of his favorite stories.  I love our time together before bed.  He gets a bottle, we snuggle then he goes to sleep.  I rock him and cuddle him more than I should according to all the parenting books on getting your child to sleep through the night, but I don’t care, because sometimes after a long day apart you just need those extra snuggles. 

7:15 pm Me time

Once Jack is asleep, I finally have the time to do what I want, unfortunately, there are usually chores that need to be done and I’m so tired I just get right to bed.  If time, Kevin and I might watch some Netflix or I try to find some time to blog, but we are usually too tired.  Usually I’m asleep between 8 and 9. 
That was my day last week.  Like I said, it’s not exciting at all, but it’s my life and I don’t think I’m ever bored.  It’s not perfect, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.  I know one day I will look back on this day and miss it.  That always happens for me. 

Baby Update- One Year Old

by Katie Haller

It’s hard for me to believe that I have a one-year-old already!  It is so true that the first year flies by.  It has been such an amazing year being Jack’s mom.  I used to get sad whenever Jack had his monthly birthdays because I wanted him to stay that little baby I held in my arms for the first time at the hospital forever, but now I’ve learned to just embrace his age because I know how fast he grows.

Jack loves his new basketball hoop he got for his birthday!

 Right now, Jack is at a great age!  He started walking right after he turned 10 months and he’s been on the go ever since!  He loves to play with balls.  Playing catch with daddy after school is a daily game for him.  He also loves music and dancing.  He is building up a pretty good vocabulary for his age.  He can say “Jack”, “mama”, “dada”, “baba” and his favorite word “no”.  He ‘s trouble and loves to get into all the cabinets in the kitchen, but he tells on himself as he does it, saying “no, no” and waving his hand around.  It’s so cute!  He also just picked up waving “bye-bye”.

Jack has a great personality, but he can be stubborn sometimes.  He is already starting to show toddler signs.  When I take something away from him he throws himself on the ground and screams.  But on the other hand, he loves to bring me a book and sit on my lap when he wants me to read to him.  He wants me to hold him all the time, which can be annoying sometimes, but I also love feeling needed by him, so I don’t mind doing things with one arm.

Jack is a great eater and eats pretty much anything that I give him.  He really loves fruits, especially strawberries and peaches.  He is also getting pretty good with a sippy cup.  I’m slowly starting to eliminate bottles.  I’m a little nervous about getting rid of them altogether because he really loves his evening bottle.  I’m ready to do away with the bottles though, I’m so sick of cleaning them and I can’t wait to be done with formula.

Running to Mommy.

He’s such a big boy now!

Jack is starting to get better at sleeping through the night.  He’s still not the best sleeper, but it’s getting much better than it was before.  I really don’t think I was prepared for the lack of sleep I would get in the first year of having a baby.  That has definitely been one of the biggest challenges for me, but I feel like my body has just adjusted to the lack of sleep and I just power through and make it work.

Overall this year has been amazing!  Even though I wish I could keep him little forever, I look forward to the next year.  I can’t wait to hear him talking more and gain independence.  I’m so grateful to be this little guy’s mom.

Traveling with a Baby- What to Bring on the Airplane

by Katie Haller

I am looking forward to traveling to Michigan over the holidays to celebrate Jack’s first Christmas with all our family!  However, whenever the thought of traveling with a baby comes up, I tend to get very anxious.  There is just so much to think about and so much to pack!  I’ve been making lists in my head of all the baby essential I will need for the airplane, so I thought I would share some of the items that I will be bringing with me.  

The last time I flew with Jack was in July and he was only 4 months.  It was a little easier because we took a red-eye flight and Jack slept the entire way there.  This time, we have an early morning flight and Jack is an active 10-month-old.  I’m no professional jet setting parent, but each time I travel, I learn a little more about how to make it easier on myself.  So here are some of the baby essentials I have come up with for air travel.
1.) Large tote purse- I always bring a big purse on the airplane.  On most airlines, you are allowed to bring one personal item and one carry on bag, that’s why I always like to make sure that I have lots of space to pack in my personal item.  Plus, I have been using my purse as my diaper bag, so the more space the better! 
2.) Ergo Carrier- Last time I traveled with Jack, this was so handy.  I liked being able to wear him and have my hands free.  He also seemed more content being close to me in his carrier. 
3.) Stroller and Car Seat- Last time I traveled, I checked my stroller and car seat at the gate.  I kept Jack in his car seat connected to the stroller until we got to security.  Once we passed the security, I wore Jack and I used my travel system to put all my bags in.  This made it easier to maneuver my way through the airport. 
4.) Large tote bag- When we flew in July, I used my diaper bag as my carry on, but I ran out of space.  This time I am using a large tote bag as my carry on to be sure I have an extra room, especially if we need to bring home some Christmas presents. 

5.) Travel Size Wipes- Wipes are a must and the more the better.  I use wipes for everything with Jack.  My friend had sent me a care package from The Honest Company right after Jack was born, so I have lots of travel size wipes.  An awesome thing about the Honest company is that you can send away for a free trial kit with only having to pay for the shipping.  They will send you a bunch of samples, so you can load up on some travel size wipes and other fun travel size products for the next time you fly.

6.) Changing Mat- I hate using public restrooms for changing diapers, but it’s going to happen when you’re traveling with a baby, so it’s best to be prepared.  I use the changing mat that came with my diaper bag, but I would love a travel size mat like the one above to fit into my purse. 
7.) Diapers- That’s kind of a given.  Just make sure that you bring enough for the trip, you never know when your little one is going to have a surprise for you! 
8.) Travel size diaper cream and lotion- I use the California baby travel size diaper cream and lotion because I got them in a gift set at my shower.  It’s always good to have travel-size toiletries for your baby. 

9.) Light Weight Jacket- I like to dress in layers when traveling, so I dress my baby in layers too.  You never know if it will be cold or warm on the plane.  It’s just best to have a little jacket. 
10.) Comfortable 2 piece outfits with Extras!!!- It’s best to dress your baby in comfortable easy to change outfits while traveling.  I’d also be sure to pack extra clothes, at least 2 extra outfits in your carry on.  You never know what could happen. 
11.) Books- I’m going to try bringing books for Jack’s entertainment.  I figure that they are a quiet toy and he enjoys them.  I’m nervous about keeping him entertained during the flight, so any kind of toy will do. 
12.) Aden + Anais Swaddle Blankets- We love these blankets!  They were one of my favorite shower gifts and they are perfect for traveling.  They are so lightweight and easy to pack.  They’re perfect for the plane!
13.) Pacifiers– My little guy is loving his pacifier right now, especially while he’s teething.  I’ve always heard that it’s a good idea to have a pacifier on hand while flying because of the pressure changes in a baby’s ears.  Jack’s favorite brand is Mam Pacifier, everything else he just chews on.  I like the glow in the dark pacifiers because they are easy to find in my large purse.

14.) Ready to Feed Formula- You are allowed to bring formula or breast milk through security, so this time I fly, I’m going to buy the ready to feed formula.  Last time we flew, I was breastfeeding still, so I wasn’t as concerned about running out of bottles.  This time, I need to make sure that I have enough formula and I’d rather not have to worry about mixing a bottle on the plane.
15.)Burp Clothes- My poor baby is a spit up machine.  He has been ever since he was born, that’s why lots of burp cloths are always a must for me.
16.) Baby food Pouch- Baby food in a pouch is perfect for traveling.  There is little cleanup and they can give your baby a quick healthy meal on the go.  
17.) Sippy Cup- I’ll be bringing a sippy cup of water to help make sure Jack stays hydrated and also give him some entertainment.  I’ve always liked the Playlex sippy cups, and Jack does too!
18.) Snack bowl-  Snacks are a must for the plane.  If he gets fussy, I’m hoping that the snacks will keep him quiet.  
If that seems like a lot of stuff….it is!  I didn’t even mention any of the things that I will be bringing on the plane.  Let me know if there is anything I need to add.  I’m sure I’ll forget something.  Good luck to anyone traveling this holiday season with their little ones!  It will all be worth it once you get to your destinations! 

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