Casual Work day...with Hayden. Easy and functional? Yep! Read why!

Yesterday, I took some time to work outside of the house while I was hanging out with the little man. Love being able to be mobile and functional.  A couple of things make this possible for me: the ergo infant carrier and my LoyalHana comfy, light weight flannel nursing top.  

I like the nursing top so much, I have it in blue, too. (pictured HERE). I enjoy being able to dress it up or down. But, mostly, I like the discreet zippers that allow me to nurse on the go without having to pull down straps. An added plus? Pockets! I also wear the brand's dresses! Like THIS ONE.

The jeans are part of the are not super low (which I like better for fall) and are comfy and stretchy.  As far as the sunnies go, I'm not the only one that likes them. You can buy them now, but they are back ordered for a couple of weeks (for $12-- so worth the wait!) The sale is going strong for another week... but, get 'em while you can before items sale out or prices go up. 

ps- in my recent online order, I got glasses that I posted HERE. They sold out after I posted, but they're back in stock! Limited quantity, though. 

Question for the moms: I'd love to know what secrets or habits you have that make it possible for you to be mobile... like what items do you never leave the house without? xo

IT'S FRIDAY, I'M IN LOVE ... AND FULL OF QUESTIONS. HELP!

I wish I could show you what I look like right now... you know...I might try because I just finished breastfeeding and putting Hayden down in his Halo. I am now pumping while I'm trying to write this post and shop the last days of the #NSALE! And I need some advice. I haven't kept it a secret that I had some issues with breastfeeding. Now, I'm having trouble with milk supply. He's totally getting fed! I'm just supplementing with formula if he's still hungry after I breast feed him- mainly at night.  I'm drinking a lot more water (I was drinking plenty before, but I guess this process requires an abundant amount of H2O) and adding fenugreek oil.  However, does anyone have any advice? One consultant recommended a hospital grade pump to increase supply.  Thoughts?

Also, did anyone else feel like they were gaining weight after they initially lost some of the pregnancy pounds? Is this due to breast feeding? Of course, he's worth all of it a million times over! Just curious if there were something else I should be doing/know about. Like more cardio (ha!!)!

I have more questions, but perhaps I should start with these two topics first. Both are fairly big conversations!  Hope you all had a good start to the weekend. xo

#OOTD #SaleAlert!

I didn't sleep much last night, so I'm totally fine hiding my eyes today with these sunglasses! And for $18, why wouldn't I? Also, part of the #Nsale under $20, this top is great. It comes in several colors and patterns. For summer, I'm liking this racerback, but just ordered (also on major sale) one with long sleeves for fall.  It also comes in the same pattern with sleeves. 

Certain colors just make me happy. I'm drawn to them. Turquoise is one of them, but as barbie doll as it sounds, I love pink. These earrings and their pop of color are too fun. And priced just right.  I must add that I posted some pieces a few days ago that already sold out (still waiting for them to restock these glasses -- they said they would-- that I posted HERE). All to say, get 'em while you can.  Okay, heading out for my meeting today. I linked the post below...xo

Monday got me feeling like...!!! (a few of our favorites from the first two months)

I'm taking note of the items we've loved in these first couple months. (And by the way, I woke up yesterday with tears in my eyes. He's already two months!!) I had no idea when I registered for Hayden what we would end up using all the time and what we wouldn't. It's hard to come up with a registry when you don't know if your child will really use certain items or not. Each baby is different, but the more I commiserate with other moms, there are some universally popular items...Of course, I could put a thousand things on the list (and will do a more extensive post on this at some point soon). 

The 4 Moms Mamaroo we have enjoyed daily. It makes a great shower gift, especially if a group of friends want to go in together! Another item moms swear by (and I'm understanding why) is the Fisher Price Snugabunny.  Portable, compact, and the babes love to lounge. 

I'm adding a few items that we use daily in the gallery below. We're loving Hayden's activity grow-with-me center. It's so affordable and we use it every day for tummy time and stimulation/play time. And, if you follow some of our pictures, you'll notice his WubbaNub in quite a few.** That elephant Wubbanub, I can't ever forget, no pun intended! 

I swear, I'd never get a blog post written if it weren't for the ergo carrier. Hayden loves  lounging/hanging out with me at a coffee shop or lunch, then usually dozes off for awhile and I get to work! Not sure how much longer I'll be able to do this while he is so well behaved, so I'm taking advantage now. 

"Fall"ing For Flats (and they're under $60 at Fall #NSale)

I've never in my life gone out of my way to find flats. My girlfriend from high school, Michele Bell, gave me flats for my baby shower. She warned me as a new mom I would wear them out. These particular ones in the photo above come in many patterns and colors. I love a great neutral color, too, though.  I enjoy the added interest of the ties up the calves. Plus, they work now in the summer and will work well in the fall with the closed pointed toe.

Below, I've linked a few of my other favorite flats (already ordered some!) that are part of #NSale at Nordstroms! Take a peek. Note that prices are only reflected once on the site, not listed below with the pictures. And Ps- a bit obsessed with these Felicity and Coco dresses. Tonight, I'm wearing this strapless one (you can barely see it above in the photo above, but look how cool the back is in the picture to the right). I threw it on right after I pumped for a quick date night. It's under $80. I wore several of them while I was pregnant, too... since they're non-maternity, they work even better now post-preg. Because I'm breastfeeding and need support with the strapless dress, I am wearing this bandeau, also a part of the #NSale.  

Have a great night, everyone!

Hidden Gems...like zippers on nursing attire!

On a recent early date night (yes, we brought Hayden because he's at a good age and we made it a very early night) I thought I had it all planned out perfectly.  But, alas, I'm learning there is no "perfect" with a newborn and nursing. He needed to eat sooner than I expected and I happened to be prepared. These nursing dresses are pretty genius with the hidden zippers. (And if you've followed me for a bit, you know I'm a sucker for pockets, too). 

Just picked up these booties that will work with this dress (and in other patterns here) through the fall and winter. Speaking of fall and winter, I also grabbed some wraps that work for nursing in public (like on this date night), but will double for cozy warmth in the colder months with or without nursing. 

TAKE A LOOK BELOW AT A FEW OTHER (SOME SALE) ITEMS:

SUMMER WHITE! on sale!

Last weekend, we visited Travel Town in Los Angeles's Griffith Park. Huck is slightly obsessed with trains, so this was a perfect family outing. I dared to wear white, but lately I'm oxy cleaning daily, so I figured why not! And today I found out my shirt is on sale for $40! I actually had women stop and ask me where I got it. It's easy, classy and I love the flirty little touch of lace.  I'm wearing a small. It's fairly room-y.  I remember reading once that when in doubt, go monochromatic. So, I threw on skinny white jeans, (those are part of the #NSALE)  white converse and some fun chunky white earrings (can you believe they are $14?) and threw my hair in a messy bun (the messy part was courtesy of the long sleepless night).  And, I protected Hayden's little eyes with these polarized, non-slip glasses.  So hilarious and cute and necessary- and come in a ton of colors. You can also get babiators baby and toddler sunglasses on sale right now here.

And I rounded up other summer whites! Take a look below!

Mother's Day Out

My mother recently came in town last week  (thank the Lord) to help while I went back to work filming GENERAL HOSPITAL- check back for more info in a post soon.  Hayden turned one month old.  Read more HERE about the reality of the first month.  We managed to have one outing together with the baby.  We were on a mission to finish the nursery (I can't wait to share it all with you!).  

I'm wearing my first ever NURSING top. I didn't think I'd need or want one, but let me tell you, when it came time to feed Hayden, it was so nice to simply unzip each side and discretely nurse.  I haven't had the easiest road this first month with breastfeeding, so things that make it easier are welcomed!

Plus, I got several compliments on my "adorable" top - with pockets!  It's flattering without being too tight (I'm wearing an XS and there's still room). It comes in red, too. I'm picturing wearing this again in the spirit of 4th of July  with these sandals and white shorts - maybe a red purse! This day, I added my favorite go-to Ippolita silver Earrings to dress up the look with flats and jeans.

 

SHOP THE POST BELOW!

NO MORE CRYING OVER SPILLED MILK! What items are saving me (and my milk)!

UPDATE: AUGUST 2020. I hope this helps even one of you out there! I am so grateful I was able to have this time with Hayden and give him breastmilk. I also supplemented on occasion because I didn’t produce enough for his growing body. That combination worked for us. But, I spent so much time feeling guilty I wasn’t producing more. I look back and just wish I could have celebrated all the milk I did produce that fed his healthy body (there was a lot!). It’s easy to feel inadequate during this time and please do not fall into that trap! If you are reading this and have a baby, I hope you have a support system at home that builds you up and does not tear you down. If you don’t have that, there are groups online for new moms. You are doing great, mama!! Fed is best!! Whatever that looks like for you and your baby.

If you’re a new mom or know a new mom and have any questions, please leave them here. If I don’t have the answers, I will do my best to get them.

xoAshley

First of all, I'm grateful I can breastfeed. I know it's a privilege. I treasure this time with Hayden. His little hand patting my chest. The way he looks up at me…the sweetest feeling mixed with such an overwhelming feeling of responsibility.

It's been an incredibly challenging, emotional roller coaster. Sleep deprivation is a real thing! However, I know I will never regret all the effort I am putting into this. Although it hasn't even been a month, there are a few key materials I wish SO MUCH I had utilized from day one in the hospital. I'm back to work today on the soap. These products have helped me save extra milk for Hayden. This is simply my experience... I'm obviously not a doctor (even though I play on one on B&B- ha!), so do your own research and find what is best for you. 

First off, I've had issues. I'll write more in another post for those that are curious of my experience, but to spare you the morbid details, I'll just say my nipples got so raw, I couldn't breastfeed. I was still pumping, but it hurt. Badly. Excruciatingly bad. Finally, I listened to my mother and bought breast shields. Immediately, I was able to go back to breast feeding with Hayden.  It doesn't take away all the pain, but it lessens it by about 75%.  (***Please note: before you use these, do your own research. I truly believe they can help temporarily, but over time, could lessen your supply of milk. Don’t rely on it too long!)

Medela Breast Shield

I’m also using Milk Savers.  I really want to produce and save milk, it crushes me to see wasted milk in breast pads or dripping down my clothes.  When I would nurse on one breast, the other one would leak quite a bit. These would've saved me  a ton of grief, pain and spilled milk!  You know the saying... no sense crying over spilled milk? Well, let me tell you. I've shed a few tears over wasting this precious liquid gold.  Every girlfriend (nursing or about to try nursing) I have told about this product wants it!

While the Milk Savers are great while I'm nursing or even around the house, I am using breast shells inside my nursing bra occasionally between feedings. They collect excess milk and it can really add up. (TIP: if you use the lids with ventilation at the top, be careful when you lean over--- it will spill out!!). This is an easy way to collect milk when you aren't feeding or pumping. Plus, at least for my situation, it protects the nipples while they are healing.  I really used them mainly for that. I didn't love collecting milk in them.

Below, I rounded up the products that have helped me the most with breastfeeding.  I added my favorite nursing bra, too. I'm still in shock how quickly they get messed up and need washing... one minute the girls are all good and the next... oops! We're leaking! Anyhow, check it out... and please--- this takes a village, if there are products you highly recommend, PLEASE leave a comment. And let’s go drink more water and eat all the good things. xo

A FLIRTY TWIST ON THE CLASSIC STRIPE!

It's been three weeks since Hayden was born! I'm writing this at 4:30 am in between feedings. It's ironic that as sleep deprived as I am, sometimes I can't sleep! But, good news for y'all because I'm sharing my latest and greatest find for summer.  

I could not be more obsessed with this top.  It's "on trend" right now with the off the shoulder aspect, however it's also a piece I will wear for years. Stripes are not only slimming, but classic.  I'll wear it with white shorts or skinny jeans for summer events. (How perfect for a upscale 4th of July event? Or even just with flip-flops and shorts for a picnic). I wore it for a photo shoot two days ago and had to keep it/buy it!  The top is cleverly reversible, allowing for several different looks-- it's worth the investment. 

Above is a shot of it tied in the back. It's both classy and flirty with the off the shoulder aspect. If you tie it in the front, with higher waisted pants or shorts, you don't have to reveal too much skin.

ps- comes in solid white, too. And notice the white cuffs if you decide to roll the end of the sleeve up. 

HOSPITAL SHORT LIST...plus, the items I should have had in the hospital!

As I mentioned in an earlier post, I packed my bag at the last minute.  I'm glad I managed to get a few necessities thrown in.  I've been talking to my girlfriends that are about to follow suit (read about it all under written blog) and made a list for them, so I thought I should share with anyone else in the same boat! 

1) PAJAMAS!

Chic, comfortable pajamas to wear are key  (hospital garb may be functional, but it's heinous, let's face it).  You're going to want functional AND something that is pretty. These come with matching outfits for baby and a robe (with pockets!). Read more about why I chose these HERE.

2) COMPRESSION SOCKS

I was pumped with a ton of fluid during labor and post labor.  If you're anything like me, it can take a few days for the swelling to go down.  I should have worn these socks more than I did. Once I got home, my ankles and legs were really swollen. These on-trend chevron and striped socks  (come in different colors) with no-slip tops provide compression to reduce minor swelling and foot fatigue, while cushioned soles and arch support pamper soles.  

3) LOTION for YOU and BABY

The hospital can be dry and cold.  It was so nice to have lotion for my own skin that I could also feels safe using on Hayden. Even if I didn't use it on him, I didn't want what I used to rub off on him if it wasn't safe for baby. This smells just like you want a baby to smell... so divine.

4) Cozy Shoes

I came in tennis shoes.  So glad I brought my own house shoes to wear as I walked around the hospital (which they encourage you to do occasionally).   I attest, they really are comfy.  

I 

5) Miscellaneous Items...THAT WE FORGOT!

*coins or dollar bills for vending machines *extension cord and chargers (so your phone won't be charging across the room!)    *pen and paper for notes   *protein bars or favorite snacks  *nail file  *hair brush *bar soap*hair bands  *hair dryer (I never used one, but some do)  *portable wireless speaker if you want music from your phone *lanolin for the breasts  

OTHER ITEMS I'M GLAD I  DID HAVE:  *facial wipes  *deodorant *makeup bag *lipbalms and easy to apply lipsticks

watch our afforadable birthing makeup video with celebrity makeup artist jamie GReenberg

PRE AND POST BABY FAVORITES!

It's #throwbackthursday and I'm already feeling like time is going by too fast with the little man. I started looking at pictures while I was still pregnant. Once I got over the fact that 9 days ago Hayden was still inside me, I realized how these NON maternity dresses and tops are going to be fun to continue to wear all summer. And some are on sale---Like the purple dress I love-- 40% off for $30!! Click on photo to shop the outfit, or shop the post at bottom.

What's in my (HOSPITAL) bag?

I procrastinated until the last minute to pack our hospital bags. I kept putting it off for some reason. I guess I kept believing I had more time than I actually did. As my due date approached, I convinced myself I would go way passed that day.  But, the night before I went into labor, I had the weirdest feeling and began to pack a bag.... And the main thing I'm so glad I remembered to add are these pajamas!

It was so nice to have cute, seriously comfortable pajamas that doubled as "outfits" as visitors popped by.  I can't tell you how many compliments I got these two sets...and full disclosure, I washed and wore them constantly the days that followed once we got home.  I loved how they made me feel a little more put together than I actually was/am!  The fabrics felt so nice to cuddle up little Hayden our first night in the hospital, too. These two sets come with robes (with pockets!) and nursing tops, bottoms and matching gown and cap for baby. I can't think of a better gift to get or give someone going into the hospital (or going home with a new baby). 

                                                            See?--- wearing the nursing top and bottoms here! 

Prints Charming!

I love a good print. Especially one that pops (pun intended- re:baby) and makes me happy. The pink color and palm design make me feel like leaving for a vacation, which I won't be doing any time soon, so it's fun to pretend and let my mind wonder.  (Although, this IS non-maternity, so I'll be wearing it this summer and will definitely bring it on our first vacation post baby). It's longer in the back, which I love to cover my backside. Once I start working out again, I think this would double as a cute coverup over a bathing suit, too.  It come in other colors AND a maxi dress!

I've paired it with white bottoms, a statement necklace (that blends well here and looks amazing against this black and white printed top, too!)

...and some kitchy, incredibly affordable sunglasses for under $18 in both pictures!

STEPPING UP and VENTURING OUT 39 WEEKS PREGANT!

At 39 weeks pregnant and counting, I debated if I had the energy to venture out today, but some things are worth the sacrifice. Step Up Womens Network is one of them (read more about the event and see other pictures here!). I went back to my trusted, comfy tank dress (that comes in tons of colors- I'm wearing an XS-- I wore the purple version - and a few other styles HERE). Plus, I add in extra support and confidence with maternity spanx.  I wore these heels only on the red carpet (pictured below) and then quickly slipped into my fold up, go to flats that fit in my purse and save my feet, completely worth the money. 

Charming Charlie was one of the main sponsors of the charitable event... Ali and I sported a few of their pieces. Ali's wearing one of their maxi dresses (under $35) and several pieces of jewelry-- and I love her purse/clutch. It's only $25! I think I'll be ordering that one. I was excited to wear these fun (incredibly affordable) earrings!

 Ali (32 weeks pregnant here) and I took a few pregnant pictures together in the press line.

I just started timing my contractions on the way home with my girlfriends...(more on that here). My husband is texting me demanding I get my hospital bag together! I can't believe we're in the last days.... better go get it together. 

 

Weddings and Showers and Summer Parties

It seems we've entered the birthday/wedding/shower season and there's no end in site.  Last weekend was packed with events.  Although I can't go to everything for obvious reasons, I am trying to not to be a hermit! And it's nice to be comfortable (I wore flats during the day!), but still in something bright and cheery.  I want to write more (and I know some of you think I'm not looking very big, so I'm gonna post side pictures later!), but heading out to another doctor's appointment. Final stages--- it seems I'm always in that office now!

The LIST Part Two

The list of my pregnancy staples is growing, so I'm breaking it down into parts. Read Part One HERE -- and scroll down for more!

5) Crisp White Shirt

Don't we find this on EVERY list of staples? I swear, InStyle magazine has this as a must have for every season, every year. 

Well, there's a reason it ends up on so many essentials list. The white shirt (I'm wearing in the picture for this post) by IsabellaOliver keeps an outfit modern, fresh. It's incredibly versatile. Works over leggings, jeans, skirts.  Wear it with leggings and converse or with jeans (see Part One) and booties. You will look put-together. And let me tell you, being this pregnant, it's hard for me to feel put together.  

 6) Leggings

I've live in leggings in general... yoga pant type leggings. I didn't subscribe to needing a pair of maternity until recently, though. Once I hit the 3rd trimester, my girlfriends kept telling me how much I'd love real pair of maternity leggings. Ali Fedotowsky loves hers and preached how much I needed a pair. I must say, once I put them on, I was sold.  Leggings are a must have. 

7) Face Wipes

The further along I get into pregnancy, the more I'm less likely to be diligent about my skincare. At the very least, I've promised myself to remove all my makeup, pollution, sunscreen etc. So, I keep facial wipes with me in my car and by my bed. Most of the time, I enjoy the full nighttime routine of taking off the day and preparing my skin to relax. But, just in case I'm about to fall asleep (happening more and more), I can at least do something.  I have a feeling these will be on my "new mom" list of survivals, too.  I also have stocked up on THESE and the ones below.

The LIST - Part One

I wish someone had just made me get the items on this list from the get-go. But, here I am well into the 9th month and still figuring out the necessities.  I've been asked several times about my "essentials" of pregnancy, so I thought I'd begin a list: a compilation of things I know I will have at the start line for the next baby, Lord willing. These are products/wardrobe pieces I found through trial and error, suggested through friends or purchased myself. Please understand these are opinions I'm revealing based on my own finds.  Always consult your doctor with anything that could affect your pregnancy or personal health. 

1) Sunscreen and Skincare.

I've been using IS Clinical Sunscreen. It's paraben free.  I try to slather it on as much as possible to prevent hyper pigmentation and sensitivity to the sun during pregnancy (and in general).  The brand's Active Serum has been a must have pre- pregnancy for me. I've been using it again to keep breakouts at bay, as my doctor feels it's safe for where I am in my pregnancy. Please consult your OB to figure out what's best and within your comfort zone. I'm also a fan of multi-tackers. Coola Suncare Makeup Setting Spray and SPF 30 is great to keep on hand. Just remember, whatever brand you choose- wear your sunscreen!

2) Stretch Mark Oil

I've used a few different ones throughout the pregnancy.  One thing I didn't understand: I should have started using something the day I found out I was pregnant.  No need to wait till the belly, thighs and buns start to grow. 

These are my favorites.  The Mama Mio is a cult classic. People rave about it the results of it. The cream does peel slightly, so I recommend the oil. My favorite smell was the Mama Bear Lavender Oil.  It dries quickly and without residue. I end up rubbing it all over sometimes- from neck to toes! And I like the Basq Resilient Oil. I like that it's a spray and easy to apply and absorbs nicely. So far, I haven't developed any stretch marks, but I am watching my backside and thighs closely.  I feel like these last few weeks I need to be on top of things, not slacking.  I'm getting so tired at night, it's easy to want to skip steps. ps- I added one very affordable option with Palmers Cocoa Butter. I haven't used this during my pregnancy, but I have heard it works well.  Not everything needs to be such an investment.

3) Maternity Undergarments- ON SALE RIGHT NOW! 

I wear them for work to smooth out the bump (because I was/am playing a character that isn't pregnant), but I also wear them to add a little confidence to my outfit...er..enough confidence to wear fun knit and jersey fabric body- hugging dresses like these. Even if we don't really need them to "look" better, I like the feel of the support for my belly and back.

 

4) Favorite Jeans

I didn't want to own a pair of maternity jeans. I may have never bought them if I hadn't needed them for work and auditions. But, I must say, there are times you just want to wear cute jeans that look like jeans- not like what our moms wore when they were pregnant with us! Some of the items on this list are investment pieces  to last throughout the pregnancy (or multiple!) and even postpartum.  

outfit details below... 

Stay tuned for Part Two of The List. And any words of wisdom, tidbits, funny thoughts, etc.- leave a note!

xo