Essential Maternity Basics You’ll Love

It’s true – I’m a creature of habit with the clothing items I love! Especially when I am pregnant, and even more so when I have found the perfect level of comfort! After two pregnancies, I can confirm that these items are my very favorite go-to’s. Most of the items are shown in black but most do come in other colors as well – I just tend to wear a lot of black when pregnant! Black tends to be a bit more slimming while lighter colors and patterns add to the cause. 🙂 All items are linked below, trust me, these are the very best – I wouldn’t steer you wrong!

Aerie Real Me Boybrief Undie

Comfort Slip On Memory Foam Slippers

Surplice Front Jumpsuit

Full Busted Seamless Nursing Bra

Play Real Me High Waisted Legging

Pure Body V-Neck Long Sleeve

Pure Body V-Neck Short Sleeve

Maternity Tank Dress

Maternity 3/4 Sleeve Dress

Ruched Waist Sleep Shorts

Secret Fit Shaping Panty

Jill & Joey Maternity Belt 

Here are some images of me wearing these items over the past 9 months:

I’m so basic 🙂

Which items will be you be grabbing? What am I missing from this list? Let me know which items you try!

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Winter Styling Must Haves {with Eva Hair NYC!}

**this post is sponsored by Eva NYC but all thoughts are my own**

* girl power + world domination…one strand at a time *

…now that’s a tag line I can get behind!

I recently got the opportunity to work with and try several styling tools and styling products from from Eva NYC. They are just entering the midwest (specifically in Meijer) and I am happy to help them spread the good news. The ladies from the Eva team that I chatted with were so sweet and I love what the company stands for.

“Eva NYC represents the duality found in real women. We stand for a community that embraces a (beauty) lifestyle that is un-regimented, fun and free.”

The premium Ingredients found in their products that are meant to encourage stronger, healthier hair:

Keravis™ protein complex

Argan oil

omegas 3, 6 & 9

vitamin C

natural rice starch

zeolite

My personal favorite characteristic of the styling products is the GLORIOUS SMELL and the soft finish that they leave behind – so so good!

Eva NYC Mane Magic 10-in-1 Primer 

I spray on my damp hair as a primer and heat protectant before blow drying! Has a super light misting bottle and leaves a silky finish after using the hot tools.

Eva NYC Therapy Session Hair Mask

Deeply conditions, repairs, and strengthens. Leave on hair in shower for 5ish minutes!

Eva NYC Freshen Up Dry Shampoo

Every girls best friend. I love this dry shampoo because it is so LIGHT, but it still is powerful enough to work. No white residue, no crunchy hair! Absorbs excess oils in the root.

Eva NYC Skip the Spa Thermal Hair Wrap

Kween Glitter Spray

Super subtle hair and body glitter – perfect for the holidays or NYE!

Eva NYC Healthy Heat Ceramic Styling Iron – 1 1/4″

This heavy duty ceramic iron gets the job done and is healthier for your hair than your typical metal tool.

mini healthy heat ceramic styling iron 

Eva NYC Healthy Heat Digital Clip-Free Curler – 1″

This wand is LEGIT. And so powerful! My favorite feature is that you can adjust the heat – I had never used a wand where you could adjust the temp! These waves lasted me 5-7 days with no wash – seriously!

healthy heat pro-power dryer

This dryer has replaced my old hair dryer for good. It left my hair feeling smoother and shinier, and I love the attachment on the end which helps to cut dry time in half.

mini healthy heat pro-power dryer

My very favorite of the products listed are the 10in1 Primer, the Dry Shampoo, and the Healthy Heat Dryer!

*Products used for straight hair below: 10in1 Primer, Healthy Heat Dryer, Healthy Heat Ceramic Iron

*Products used for wavy hair below: 10in1 Primer, Healthy Heat Dryer, Healthy Heat Ceramic Wand, Freshen Up Dry Shampoo

Which products would you be interested in trying? It was a pleasure working with Eva Hair NYC – expect to see much more of them in the midwest soon! Let me know if you decide to pick any of these up!

2016 Best Wrap Coat Round-Up!

Hey hey all!!! How are we hanging in before the holidays!? 12/22 is my last day of work until I am off until January – so excited! But this day has arrived so. slowly. Can’t wait for a few days off with my family. I explained why in this instagram post.

We got our holiday pics done earlier this month with my gal Henrietta of The Real HB Media and I wore my favorite holiday red wrap coat. I bought this coat last December when I was in desperate need of a winter coat and knew that since you can wrap it to any size, it would fit this year as well. Wrap coats are honestly the best – so flattering, and great for any size (pregnant, postpartum, no kids, etc.)

I first posted about this coat and linked my favorite wrap coats of 2015 here. So now I bring you…..my favorite wrap coats of 2016 below!

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The ‘merlot’ colored coat I am wearing above is actually Vera Wang (but last season) so here is the look alike:

T Tahari (they have the best wrap coats) Marla Wool Blend

BCBG Wool Wrap CoatEllen Tracy Faux Shearling

T Tahari Wool Blend Belted Wrap

 Marla Leopard Wrap Coat

Calvin Klein Short Belted Wrap Coat

Charles Gray London Plaid

Vera Wang Wool Leather Sleeve 

Ralph Lauren Wool Blend Wrap

IVANKA TRUMP Wool-Blend Belted Coat

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As it gets colder and colder outside, these warm coats come in handy -and like I mentioned I really feel you can re-wear from year to year. Such a key piece to invest in! Which one is your favorite? Where is your favorite place to purchase pretty winter coats?

Happy Holidays in advance my loves!

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The 10 Best Diaper Bags for the “Cool Mom”

Hi Friends!! How’s it going? How are we feeling about the holidays? #Stressed? #Blessed? Have you made a list of what you’d like? The concept of asking for gifts gets stranger to me the older I get. Like, if I want something, I probably can’t wait till Christmas and I will most likely just buy it for myself at some other time in the year. I’m not saying that to come off like I can buy anything I want, but more to say I have no self control when I really want something, LOL!

My mom usually likes to get us one “big” gift for Christmas like a nice purse, a pair of boots, a new watch…basically it’s usually an accessory that is our one larger or more expensive gift. I’ll never forget the year that I needed a new CHI hair straightener but my little sister got one instead – I got really mad because I was selfish little jerk and these are the types of things sisters fight over. Am I right? Fortunately, I’ve grown out of this stage and know that gifts are truly one of the least important parts of the holidays at this point in my life.

When trying to think about the ONE gift I’d really want to ask for, I was actually having a lot of trouble, and still am! Normally I would have no problem adding like 10 purses to a wish list, but now it just seems silly to ask for that when 99% of the time I’m either at work or out with the baby – aka trying to minimize my bags and consolidate. When we go out on the weekends, I always throw my personal belongings in the diaper bag and hardly end up using a purse. Things you don’t think about before you have a baby. I first wrote about this here.

Alas, I’ve rounded up the best, most stylish diaper bags for you babes. Very KEY to remaining a cool mom. I have the first two and switch between them often! I think these are all great gift ideas for your own wish list, or for the “cool mom” in your life (yes I’m calling myself cool.)

Skip Hop Chelsea Diaper Bag

Skip Hop Chelsea Downtown Chic Diaper Bag

The Honest Co City Faux Leather

PPB Pathway Backpack

Little Unicorn Manifest Bag

Fawn Design GraySkip Hop 2-in-1 Diaper ToteMaxi-Cosi Rachel Zoe Jet Set Diaper BagBabymel Ally Faux Leather

Little Unicorn Brookside Tote

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I hope everyone is having a great last “full” week before Christmas and New Years! Hang in there mamas, we’re in for a great holiday season!

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More Neutrals [with CupShe] + Options to Accessorize!

Hi Friends – I can’t believe this is the first time I’m posting this month. Let’s just say it’s been a crazy December and I’m just trying to make it through 2016 in one piece 🙂 Although this is one of the best times of year, it can also be the most stressful! Who else is with me?

I’m excited to finally share this shirt from CUPSHE – my newest fave online shop I just recently ordered from for the first time. Their items can only be found online and are super super affordable if you’re looking to mix it up! Also- I was actually blown away by the quality of the items I purchased!

This black, brown and white top is so ME – that sounds so cheesy but it’s true! Anyone who knows me would agree. I’ve mentioned before that I love any piece of clothing or accessory that I can mix with black and brown, so I had to have this shirt. It was only 23.99 and can be found here.

Because this shirt is super casual, I wore with leggings (because they are technically pants) and brown booties.

^Michael Kors watch
^Purse is Adrienne Vittadini
Get this look from CUPSHE:

CupShe is currently offering some deals on already great prices now – 12/26. Banners below will allow you to redeem the deals:

Some accessories to go with:

We have a packed weekend ahead of us – Calvin dr appt, blog pics today (much needed!), brunch on Sunday with some co-workers, oh and we NEED to pick up our apartment. It is a disaster during the week and we always use the weekends to tidy up! What are your plans?  Are you done Christmas shopping? I’m not even close!

Love you all & hug those loved ones tight this weekend ❤

*this post may contain affiliate links in which I would receive some commission for your purchase*

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It’s Officially Sweater Weather (+a DOUBLE Pink Blush Giveaway!)

It’s finally SWEATER WEATHER! The comfiest time of the year (I’m ALL about comfort so it’s my favorite.) A co-worker asked me the other day how many comfy sweaters I have (since I’ve been wearing them alot.) Literally a million – this is what I live in during the fall/winter much like everyone else! You know that meme saying “my swimsuit body wasn’t ready but my sweater body is on point?” Well, that is 100% me this year!

I am kicking off SwEaTeR wEaTheR with a Pink Blush giveaway!

I first experienced pink blush earlier this year when featuring this mint floral dress and I was hooked! So flattering and a great fit for my new post-partum bod at that time. Pink Blush is the best one stop shop for transitioning from pregnancy, post-baby and beyond – I love ANYTHING that can be repurposed and re-wearing everything *guilty* so these pieces are my favorite.

“PinkBlush brings the latest trends in maternity clothes to the modern mother so that she can transition into pregnancy without skipping a beat, delivering bold prints in vibrant hues to make sure you stand out in style. We offer a comfortable, stylish, and always affordable look for every occasion from Baby Showers to Weddings in a simple and enjoyable shopping experience. It’s your one-stop shop for every wardrobe essential from maternity tops and maternity jeans to shoes and accessories. Fortunately, these styles will not only dress your growing bump, but effortlessly adjust to motherhood and beyond.” – shoppinkblush.com

I paired this Navy Heavyknit Turtleneck Sweater with black jeggings (I swear I live in them) and my go-to black booties.

Calvin is wearing this gray and navy henley, koala baby jeans, and navy slip-ons. He looks so handsome!

I am currently hosting a giveaway on instagram for a $50 Pink Blush giftcard! Super easy to enter and an e-gift certificate will be sent straight to the winner via email. Giveaway will close on 11/8 at 11:59pm. SO head over to IG ASAP & good luck entering! ❤

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I want to give one of my pregnant mama friends or new mama friends with that ‘new mom bod’ this fabulous, comfortable, beautiful Pink Blush dress pictured below. This giveaway will be exclusive to the blog, meaning there will be no other way to enter that right here at RWS. Less people will probably enter, so your chance of winning is greater.

This dress has a value of $65, is almost sold out on the site, is a size Medium – fits true to size – and is brand new with tags on!

Please let me know if you have any other questions about the dress.

To enter to win this dress, all you have to do is enter your email below to subscribe to Running with Strollers! If you already follow RWS via email, comment below and let me know, then I will enter you in the giveaway.

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I’m so excited about this DoUbLe giveaway – so make sure to take advantage now through 11/8!

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As always, thanks babes for following and reading! My ONE YEAR anniversary of blogging is coming up on 11/9…the only thing that keeps me going is my blog friends and readers 🙂

HAVE AN AMAZING WEEKEND!Don’t forget to follow me on my socials! I’d love to have you!

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Telling Time w/ JORD Unique Wood Watches

I’ve talked about “time” in several previous posts – the shortage of time we are all up against, and how fast time flies, especially when we get caught up in “life.” I joked in my instagram post yesterday that I need a watch to constantly check out the time I don’t have 😂 how true is this though? I know so many of my other friends feel the race against the clock each day and truly understand that time is the most valuable asset we can possess. So I guess I wasn’t really joking afterall! I’ve been feeling this so much lately. Blocking time and being smart with how I use it is suddenly more important than ever.

On a lighter note – I’m so excited about this partnership with JORD Wood Watches not only because the importance of staying ” on track” each day, but because I am obsessed with watches – they truly bring a look together! I love neutral watches that I can wear with a variety of outfits. I have my ‘go-to’ silver, gold, black, and now a WOOD watch to wear on repeat.

Yes, this very good looking watch is made of super high quality wood! The face is large and the look is pretty masculine overall which I actually prefer. I don’t have a super feminine style and this dark color is perfect for all the brown and black I have been wearing this season. My exact style, called the Frankie in Dark Sandlewood & Smoke can be found here.

JORD offers both a line of men’s and women’s watches – both which are stunning, different, and eye catching to others. I’ve gotten so many compliments since wearing mine in both the office and social settings!

Because I want to share the love (duh) you can enter here to win $75.00 off a wood watch of your choice. Just by entering, you will receive a complimentary $20 off code for a watch of your choice. With the holidays coming, this would be a super cool gift for either a guy or girl in your life.

The contest will close November 6th at 11:59pm. Both the $75 and the $20 codes will expire on January 1st 2017.  So get to entering 🙂

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What else am I wearing?

Sweater  (Old Navy)

Boots – Similar (Old Navy)

Jeans (Gap)

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*this post was sponsored by JORD Wood Watches*

Watch Gift Ideas

Family Pumpkin Patching (in Free People!)

 We finally made it to the pumpkin patch yesterday – which means it officially feels like fall! The past two weekends have been rainy and dreary here, so this was the first weekend we’ve had in a while where we could even make it outside. We took full advantage….I think all of central NJ was at this same orchard!

I said we were going to get Calvin’s first pumpkin, but I really wanted to go for the apple cider and donuts…duh! We waited in line 45 min for a bag of donuts, but there was no way I was leaving without them. Craig had never had warm, orchard made, cider donuts (aka he has never lived) and he said the wait was #worthit.

I wasn’t originally going to do a post on our pumpkin patch adventure but we ended up getting some great photos that I wanted to share in one spot. I can’t get over Calvin in his plaid and jeans. I also realized that both the top and jeans I wore are some of my favorite ‘Free People’ items that I own, so I linked below and left some tips on where and when to find this brand on sale.

I LOVE Free People clothing – the material is so soft, quality, and comfy! BUT I never buy full price…watch for this brand at Nordstrom Rack and in the sale sections of Macy’s, Lord & Taylor and Nordstrom. You can absolutely get items discounted year round! The shirt I am wearing is originally $98 and I got for 54% off at Nordstrom Rack. The jeans are originally $78 and I got for $25 at Nordstrom Rack. The cheapest I found online right now is at Macy’s for $32 (but they have 25% off sitewide!) I highly recommend sizing down (this is a Small and it’s big!) & Free People as a brand in general, but do not recommend paying full price 🙂

Free People Purple Hi-Lo Blouse – Purple

Free People Hi-Lo Blouse – Black (54% off!)

Free People Purple Top – Similar (40% off)

Free People Relaxed Skinny Jeans (on sale!)

Large ‘K’ Pendant Necklace 

Kayla Sunglasses

Craig’s Plaid Flannel

What are some other fall family activities we could do with an infant? Any ideas!? I loveee seeing all of your fall family pics, keep them coming friends!

PS – I am also still loving Snapchat (as opposed to instastories) and I need some new friends! Follow us @greenskm:

We are off to meet our friends’ new baby today, get some blog shots for upcoming posts (some exciting partnerships!) and I want to make some chili for football! Have a great Sunday…talk soon!

Personal Days and Ponchos (& why both are necessary!)

A personal day? What’s that?

If you are asking that question to yourself or thinking, “SERIOUSLY!” – hear me out! I’ve just recently discovered the single best #momhack #lifehack whatever you want to call it hack.

Early on after having Calvin and going back to work, a co-worker gave me the advice that I should schedule days off work to get personal things taken care of.. aka suggesting that I would have to plan ahead to be productive, a super foreign concept to me. I put this in the back of my mind up until now, as it seemed like a waste of a vacation day, or that it wouldn’t be worth setting aside work or emails for a full day.

It has been a busy and stressful summer & fall back at work, and I have slowly started to fall behind on “life.” So at the end of last week, I decided I needed a personal day – to keep both my physical and mental sanity!

My only regret is that I didn’t do this sooner.

[Every vacation day for the past 18 months has been spent traveling (usually to and from holidays), which in itself can be extremely stressful and tiring. If we weren’t traveling, they were spent at home in Cincinnati staying at others’ homes and juggling how we can maximize time with every loved one we want to see and while in town.]

This was not the personal day where I sleep in until 10am, slowly enjoy my coffee cuddled on the couch with a nice book and then make my way to the salon for a day of pampering.  It was time – this mama needed a day to herself to just get. shit. done.

I never thought I would be the Mom that was off work and still taking her child to daycare, but I can now put myself in that category. It is almost impossible to get anything done when taking care of an 8 month old at home, so off to daycare Calvin went. Because my personal time is so valuable, I did not feel bad… he did get to go late and was picked up early. Either way, Calvin loves daycare (thinking of writing a post on daycare pros & cons) so it was just another chance for him to play with his “friends.” 🙂

I honestly can barely even believe I was so productive. I felt “free” and was able to check so many things off of my to-do that would’ve otherwise eaten into my entire weekend or taken a lot longer than 1 day to accomplish.

Some ideas for fully utilizing a personal day:

Drink your coffee out of a normal mug as opposed to a travel mug (it’s the little things)

Clean/pick-up your home

Laundry

Work on your side hustle

Go to a work-out class

Grocery shop/buy items for a new recipe

Go to brunch or lunch with a friend

Shower and actually get ready

Spend extra time with your child in the morning and afternoon

*I may or may not have been able to do all of these things and more*

If you are a busy mom, or hard working professional and feeling overwhelmed with work, life and responsibilities, I suggest putting some time aside for yourself. Even if ‘personal time’ means you are checking things off your list that involve others – if it’ll make you feel better to accomplish these things that you know need done asap, it’s time.

As a mom, you likely schedule everyone else’s lives around you – what about scheduling some time of your own?

So – my top 3 reasons you should take some time for a personal day – 1) get a bunch of shit done in one focused day 2) revive your mental sanity and 3) you deserve it!

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OUTFIT INSPO:

Boots (similar)

Dress

Necklace

The poncho I’m wearing in these photos is almost like a blanket, super big and warm. It’s from marshals, or maybe TJ Maxx last year and LITERALLY doesn’t have a brand on the tag. (You can probably tell by now that I’m not a big brand snob – I buy what I like, don’t care where it’s from or what the brand is.) I also swore by ponchos when I was pregnant and they are actually what inspired my very first post.  They are probably my favorite cold weather accessory and I’m so glad it’s finally chilly enough to pull them out! Here are some of my other favorites for you to choose from:

Here’s to my two favorite things at the moment: personal days & ponchos! How do you feel about either? What is your plan of attack for completing “life” tasks and not getting overwhelmed? Any hacks I should know about?

Talk soon!

Our {Mommy & Me} Fall Fashion Favorites + a GAP discount code

Hi all, how are we? I’m back, back again – I have to write about the sweetest thing that has started happening with Calvin lately. I wrote about this on a previous instagram post, but he has definitely started WANTING me and showing preference to who holds him, and when. This is new in the last few weeks. When I get home from work he is basically reaching and lunging for me to hold him and just pick him up and squeeze him. If I go in the other room, he now notices, and if I put him down before he wants me to, he’ll grip onto me harder. If we’re sitting on the floor he tries to crawl up my legs. I know that this will probably get old but for now I am just enjoying him wanting to spend time with and love his mom! He shows he needs me and I know I need him, too.

Anyways…it’s a new season, a new month, and guess what? I’m still obsessed with neutrals. I’ve enlisted the help of a particularly cute baby model to help me with this post 🙂 I’m thinking I will do a ‘Mommy & Me’ type fashion post every so often going forward.

Last fall I was preggo and wearing pretty much all maternity clothes, this fall, I get to match with my little dude – so fun!

So because of this year’s change in size, I was feeling like I needed some new things… and I found myself going for all of the brown, tan, cream basics per usual. Am I boring? I’m such a brown, goldeny wearing girl. I love wearing these type of shades, and this always translates into my make-up and accessories as well. I talked in my everyday makeup routine about this and I will be showing you all my newest neutral favorite fall/winter accessory from JORD watches next week!

My fall necessities as always are sweaters, jeans and boots. #basic huh?  I love me a good pair of brown boots, a soft comfy sweater and perfect fit pair of jeans. Obviously I had to get Calvin the same items – brown baby booties, a comfy knit henley onesie and the cutest little baby jeans.

What I’m wearing:

Boots

Sweater

Jeans (Similar)

What Calvin’s wearing:

Booties

Onesie (similar)

Jeans

Both of our jeans are from GAP – all of my best, comfiest, and longest lasting pants are from here. I’m so happy I can pass my love of GAP JEANS onto Calvin so we can match. He’s totally going to hate me for this later on in life so I’ll just do it now while I can get away with it!

Use my code below for 35% off a GAP purchase through 10/8:

35% off! Includes sales styles. Use code WANT at Gap. Restrictions apply. Ends 10/8.

Shop some of mine & Calvin’s other fall favorites:

^I’ve had a pair of Aldo knee high brown boots for 3 years – more pricey, but the best!

We are going to a beer festival tomorrow during the day with our friends who have a little baby boy as well – yes, we’re taking the little guys! Can’t wait to relax and have some fun on this October weekend.

Love you all! Thanks for reading – I hope you can find some comfy & casual fall picks for you and  your babes ❤

My Summer Post Recap: All things Baby, Back to Work, Engagement, Re-branding & Travels!

It’s been a summer for the books! So much growing, traveling, fun & so many firsts in our life! As I was rounding these up, I went back to re-read some of my posts – I need to take some of my OWN advice and remember why I wrote the things that I did.

The post that hit me the hardest was “The 5th Trimester: Learning to Balance Time & Give yourself a Break.” This post is very near and dear to my heart – definitely the most honest words I’ve written to date. If you are a working mom, or will be…check it out!

The most exciting thing that happened personally this summer, is that Craig and I got engaged! We are so official now!

The most exciting thing that happened blog wise, is that I re-branded from “Kayla Marie” to “Running with Strollers.” I finally found my niche and can’t wait to keep writing & bring great content to all my readers!

Here is a recap of this summer’s posts. I have re-linked for easy reading if you may have missed one in the craziness that summer can bring 🙂

Calvin Turns 4 Months + The challenges & rewards during this time 

Back to Work! + My Working Mommy Essentials

The 5th Trimester: Learning to Give Yourself A Break

*My favorite & most honest post of the Summer <3*

My Favorite Way to Order Prescription Glasses + Pics of this Baby Bear!

4th of July Inspired Family Photos

We got engaged! + Our Favorite Vacation Photos 

Calvin turns 5 Months + How Having a Baby Changes Your Priorities

Our Day Trip to NYC + Getting Out of your Comfort Zone 

Mom goes to Nashville + Increasing Your Happiness + How to wear Shorts & Boots

*Blog Re-Brand!!*

Flying with an Infant + Travel Necessities! 

Calvin turns 6 Months + Remembering to Live in the Moment 

Calvin Tries the MamaRoo!

Shirt Dresses: Perfect for the Transition to Fall

Here’s to a new season, more firsts, and finishing out 2016 strong.

So much love for all of you! ❤

Increasing Happiness: How you Think about Current Life Situations & Apply a Shift (+ boots & shorts style inspo)

Happy Weekend!!! We are in NJ again this weekend, pretty much in chill-ax mode before we are traveling again next week!

Can I be transparent and say that pretty much everything about the past 3 months has been challenging and life changing? It has forced me to be intentional with my thoughts and seek out information that will allow me to grow instead of shrink down into the pit of #stress.

I had a conversation recently with a co-worker and they were asking me what I wanted and made the comment that they wanted me to “be happy.” It was interesting to stop and think about this – because I haven’t actually thought about me, my goals, my future… in a very long time. I am constantly thinking about what will make Calvin happy, what will make my family happy, what will make my co-workers/team members happy, what will make my clients @work happy. Although it’s true that if all of those individuals are happy, so am I, but I also got to thinking about what makes ME happy and how can I have more of that in my life?

Sometimes it’s the little things, right? Like a cup of coffee in the morning, getting an extra hr of sleep on the weekend, a new lipstick shade, or the feeling when you can tell fall is on its way.

But most of the time in the midst of busy days, weeks, long days and long nights, true happiness takes effort and a commitment to saying, “I’m going to remain positive, no matter what is thrown my way today.” Unfortunately, it does take effort to count your blessings and remember how amazing your life truly is. The realization of this comes from the self-awareness of NOT remaining as positive as I could when challenges or tough situations have come my way in the past.

I also recently listened to a podcast and it was talking about and listing activities that are PROVEN to increase happiness on one’s life. Some examples were silently meditating, journaling each night, committing to 5 random acts of kindness each week, and taking brisk walks 3x a week. While I’m sure these are proven to increase happiness, I couldn’t really relate. Can you imagine me silently meditating each morning in addition to feeding & changing another human being, getting myself ready and commuting to work all before 830am? As a super busy working mom, I’m not in a spot where I can ADD things to my life. Yes I want to achieve ultimate happiness and overcome stress, but I feel like there’s things I’m already doing, that when viewed with a different mindset, could really change my outlook on love, life, and happiness.

These are some every day realities that could (and often do) weigh on me and prevent me from feeling fully accomplished, fulfilled, and happy. When I change my mindset and develop a PMA (positive mental attitude) these situations are suddenly a blessing instead of a burden:

Situation: Spending weekdays at work, while others get to stay at home with their babes

Shift: You are a strong, hard working, ambitious mom who gets to go to a great job and make money for her family. This job allows you to give your family things and do things together you might not be able to without your income. Your family will look up to you for the things you have accomplished professionally and the success you were able to achieve while balancing both.

You have a long commute

This is YOUR time – time to think, fill your brain with positive info via podcasts or listen to music. Take a deep breath, think your thoughts, and enjoy your cup up coffee the whole way there.

Situation: You’re freaking tired

Solution: Stop and get that damn iced latte if you want it. You deserve it. DUH.

Situation: You don’t have enough time to workout so you’re feeling down on yourself and your body image

Solution: I can’t say we’ll ever have more time, but I’ve been told that if you have a small baby, don’t fret on this. This stage of your life is so quick and fleeting, enjoy it spending time doing what needs to be done (dishes, dinner, baby cuddles, breastfeeding, etc.) Another thing I’ve thought about on this topic…if you don’t have time to workout, you DO have time to eat and drink water (or else you wouldn’t be alive), so make some healthy swaps and it could take some of the stress off of fitting exercise in your schedule.

 Situation: You’re worried about your quality time with your significant other 

Solution: Even being aware of this is key! Keep it top of mind and talk about how you can solve for it. It could be as simple as making sure you eat dinner together, talking about your day each night, or committing to going to bed at the same time each night.

Have you thought lately about what makes you happy? What are your “situations” and “solutions?” How do you view happiness and make sure you are intentional with your thoughts? Any ideas or recos!? Seriously need to hear 🙂

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 *Shop my look*

Black Fringe Boots 

Black MK Watch

White Shorts

Flannel Shirt

Choker

Tank – Similar

More boots/shorts inspo: for when you still want to summer (shorts) but you’re ready for fall (boots!) Love this trend.

Have a great weekend, all!!

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