Weekend Sales 12/7

Hi friends! I’m basically in a coma right now haha…we had the busiest day and I’m super tired! We had the most precious day visiting Santa & had a fun stocking scavenger hunt in our village. Just making some holiday memories, guys! And this mama is exhausted now! I’m about to post these sales and head to bed! Happy Shopping loves! Hope you find some good gifts and maybe a little something for yourself :)

Nordstrom: New Markdowns:

J Crew: 48% off your purchase

Abercrombie: 25% off sale items (there’s some good ones!)

DSW: 30% off all High Boots and 20% off everything else!

Bloomingdales: Friends and Family! 25% off most items :)

Hope you all have a great weekend! xo

Alex

All things Stroller Running

Alo Set High Waist Leggings • Alo • $59.97
Nike Epic React Flyknit 2 Running Shoe • Nike • $105–112
Bob Strollers BOB& Revolution& PRO Duallie& Stroller in Black • BOB Strollers • $689.99
Bob Strollers BOB& Revolution& Flex 2.0 Jogging Stroller • BOB Strollers • $389.99

Stroller Running

Flashback to when I was pregnant with my first baby and people would ask me if I planned on getting a running stroller.

My ignorant answer? No…I like to keep my workout time as “me time”.

HA HA HA. If you’re a mom or a parent you know why I’m laughing. BECAUSE…..Your time is their time.

I realized pretty quickly that I didn’t want to be dependent on others for a workout/run (especially because my husband travels for work a lot). I invested in a running stroller when my son was about a year old and I haven’t looked back since! t was probably one of the best investments I made since becoming a mother.

I consider myself a seasoned pro with the running stroller using it pretty religiously over the past 4.5 years. I have run with a single running stroller, and a double running stroller. I’ve run with both the single & the double while pregnant as well! Today, I wanted to share some of my tips on ALL THINGS Running strollers!

WHY A RUNNING STROLLER

Like I mentioned above, I had always thought I would be able to plan my workouts well enough that I woulden’t need a running stroller. But between juggling work, life & parenthood it has been virtually impossible for me to get workouts away from my kids. Some weeks are better than others, but I usually get at least one stroller run in a week. My soon to be 8 month old rode in the running stroller for the first time today, so I’m excited to say that I’ll be back on the roads again with the stroller 1-2 times a week!

My biggest reason for purchasing the running strollers was not wanting to be dependent on other people for something that was so important to me- my fitness and health.

WHERE SHOULD YOU GET ONE?

Running stroller’s are no doubt a blow to the wallet. A good (NEW) one can set you back anywhere from $300-500. But, if you break it down, you would spend over $600 in one year paying a babysitter for one hour a week to run (for me that hour is the minimum I would use it!). Multiply that by the amount of years you will use it (I’m going on 4!) and it is totally worth it!

I highly recommend first looking on Facebook marketplace, craigslist and ebay for used ones. The quality is generally high on the top name brands (even used) and you can get a good deal. I also have seen them at thrift/second hand stores as well!

I unfortunately wasn’t able to find any secondhand, but I used a BuyBuyBaby 20% coupon on both of my BOB’s Strollers (and they were also on sale!). I only paid $425 for my double. I know it seems crazy, but if you run it is totally worth it. What could be more important than your health?

My husband also runs so we get double the use out of it. Especially now with having 3 kids, its all about dividing and conquering! So even if both of us are home, sometimes we take 1 or 2 with us (my oldest bikes now) and leave the other one at home.

HOW HARD IS IT?!

Ok, I’m not going to lie. It’s no walk in the park. But, I can say that my running strollers are the only strollers I used for everything once I hit about 5 months pregnant. Why? Because they are so EASY to push!! They literally glide. So, yes, you work hard. But, they are built to be pushed! Expect to run slower (duh), but don’t write your run off. I’ve had some great splits and runs with the single (and double). Think of it as great resistance training. I know that it has 100% helped me with my fitness, and when I run on my own it seems so easy! Well, easier. ha.

As far as my arms, I usually only hold one hand on the bar of the stroller to push and swing my other arm while I run. I usually rotate each arm.

I find that my apple watch doesn’t track my run because my arm isn’t moving all the time so I usually use Map My Run (its an app) to track my mileage, splits and time!

The Kids

Ok, this is the million dollar question, right? How do you keep your kid/baby happy in the stroller? I find that the younger you start, the easier it is for them to be accustomed to you running with them! When they are little, it is pretty easy. They like being outside, being with you, and you can even plan it during their nap. The older they get it can get tricky. I try to plan a fun outing after the run ie. Run to the fire station to look at firetrucks, run to the farmers market, the park, or to a smoothie shop. if you don’t live in a city/village setting where you don’t have those options, be creative on something fun you can do with your child when you get back!

Here are some of my tried and true tips for having a HAPPY child & happy mom:

1. Timing: For babies, this is obviously super important. Always do it after you feed. One, so your boobs are empty. Second, they are satisfied and more likely to go to sleep. Don’t go at obvious times that could cause issues with toddlers (ie. lunch, dinner, etc.) Its obviously trickier wit multiple kids and their schedules but you can easily work around it! For example: Post nap was one of the best times for me to go for a run with the stroller about 18 months ago (when my two older boys had one afternoon nap at the same) I loaded my two older boys up with some snacks and hit the road. They were still half asleep and pretty placid! But today for example, I ran about an hour after the baby woke up (8:30 am!). He was fed, and it was far enough away from his naptime that he didnt sleep. My baby is actually a pretty happy guy so I avoid running at nap time and give him a toy or two to chew and he is a happy clam!

2. Nap time can be a great time to run, but also a bad time: If your child only naps once a day, I recommend staying away running anytime close to that nap. There’s nothing worse than them falling asleep for only 30 minutes and then refusing their only nap of the day. However, if you have an older baby (10 month and up) or young toddler who is still on 2 or 3 naps- this is a great way to get your workout while they sleep! I like to get things done around the house while my baby sleeps so I avoid running during naptime but if you have a bad napper (hey, it happens) or a fussy baby it might put them to sleep!!!

3. Snacks: snacks>>> everything!

4. Post-run fun: Like I mentioned earlier, plan a fun outing after the run for 30 minutes for the kids to look forward to! I usually stretch while they’re on the swings, playground, or sandbox. If we stop at the market or somewhere like that, I use the walk home as cool down and stretch at home.

5. Be excited: Have FUN bringing them along. They’ll read your energy levels and feed off of it!

6. Electronics: I know some people let their kids have an ipad or phone (I don’t) but just an idea if you’ve got meltdown city and you really need to get your run in!

Other notes:

I always bring my phone just incase something happens
I always play fun music!
I never bring water on my solo runs, but I always do with the stroller because I have the space to store it!

Lastly, Remember what an amazing example you are setting for your children by prioritizing fitness WITH them!

Happy Running, Mama’s!

xo

Alex

-Last Minute Valentines Day Gifts for Kids-

Last Minute Valentines Gifts for Kids

Hey y’all, hope you had a good weekend! Not much happening over here ((what else is new lol)) My weekend consisted of the usual... nursing, changing diapers and playing referee to my two older kids. Because I haven’t been able to get out as much as usual (( or like.. at all)) for obvious reasons I’ve done some ordering on amazon prime for a Valentine’s Day! 

I don’t know about you guys, but having kids makes Valentines Day that much more FUN and special! They get so into the holiday with their crafts, valentines, and school events! I

I thought I would share some of my picks for cute gifts for your little ones - that are delivered right to your door in time for Valentine’s Day- without any stress! 

| Melissa and Doug Train Conductor costume/dress up. My boys love to play dress up!!! |Melissa and Doug Race Car driver costume/ dress up |Girl Heart Jammies |Shopping Cart ||Dyson kids vacuum | Play Doh |I know the Grinch is another holiday..but if you don’t love Xmas all year round WHO ARE YOU. lol. My kids loved this movie and I might snag it for them for V-Day | How amazing is it that the caboodles for girls are back?!!!|These confetti crayons look so fun|Both of my boys are obsessed with these lego books|Gas n Go mower- both my kids love these! |Walkie Talkies for kids | V Tech Interactive walker |Candy Land Board Game|Duck and Goose Valentine Book| Minnie’s Valentine Book | Franklin’s Valentines Book

Hope you all have a great day!

xo Alex

Valentines Day Outfit ideas!

My top || Jeans ||| V-Day baby option 1 || #2 || #3

Well... Valentine’s Day sure did sneak up on me this year. Don’t know about you guys!! I still have yet to get the boys and my hubby a little something. Having kids makes Valentines Day even more fun in my opinion!!

Not sure we will be hitting the town this Valentine’s Day for obvious reasons (any takers for babysitting??!!) but I’ve rounded up a ton of V-day options whether you’re staying in, need something fun to wear for your kids on the holiday, have a school function for your kids to go to, or have a fancy date night! 

Casual/Stay In/Cozy/Daytime Wear:

I’m always game for a good turtleneck and this one fits the bill for the holiday vibes!
This madewell heart sweater is adorable!
Cute sweatshirt for V-day and after…only $32
Love wildfox stuff and this sweatshirt is no exception
Madewell heart pullover sweater
Same madewell sweater but different color!
DEAD over this pink pullover! Cozy and perfect for skinnies or leggings
Another wildfox sweater under $60
Madewell bandana for hair or neck
Comfy leggings if you’re staying in
Madewell jeans are amazing. The white is perfect for V-Day
Lately I’ve tried a few pairs of AE jeans and they’re so comfy. Here’s a high waisted pair that have a great fit and are under $30!
Heart undies
Cozy pink ugg slippers on sale

Valentines Day Date Night

This dress is amazing and one of my top picks for a V-Day date night
Jumpsuit from Nordys
Lace Midi Dress- sleeveless. The detail is gorgeous on this.
Lace Midi Dress- LS
Bodycon dress
I really like the tularosa line for bikini/swimwear so this caught my eye
Jumpsuit under $75
If you’re in a warmer climate this Free People jumpsuit that looks like a dress is fun and looks like a dress!
Mini Dress for only $24
Casual sweater dress for $22!!
I love velvet throughout the holidays and February! This is beautiful.
I ordered this dress. Love the detail and feminine ruffles!

Have an awesome friday babes!

xo Alex

Peanut Butter Blondie's Maternity Favorites!

34 weeks with baby 3! Happy Saturday everyone!

This post has been on the back of my mind for weeks now and I wanted to get it out this week! I had another post planned as well (holiday dress wear) for those of you still looking for your Christmas outfits but I’ll try to get that one up by early next week.

Things have been crazy with my boys being sick, especially my youngest with an ear infection. I’m a little behind on here, and I’ve got boat loads of wrapping to do! Yikes! I think we are on the mend finally, once we got some meds he has been feeling sooo much better thank god! There is nothing worse than sick little babies :(

Anyway, obviously I have been pregnant three times so I have had a lot of time for trial and error on maternity fashion and what feels and looks good. I also love to look good, but also be comfortable! Especially because with my last 2 pregnancies I have been running after other kids , and even my first I was doing a ton of coaching through the whole pregnancy!

There have been so many things that I have either ordered and hated, or wore a couple times, and realized after wear that it didn’t work (ie. fell down, too much pressure on stomach, stretched out, etc.) and I don’t want you all to make the same mistake!!

SO. I have made a huge list of all my maternity faves. I have tried to mix winter and summer stuff in here but that is hard because its the dead of winter! LOL. Also…a lot of this stuff is neutrals…so sorry if it is boring colors lol…I build around it with accessories, oversized sweaters, tunics, cardigans, etc because you’re only pregnant for so long so you don’t want to completely buy a ton! ALSO…these can be GREAT gifts if you have a loved one who is newly pregnant!! Trust me, giving the Zella Leggings is like the GOLDEN ticket for a pregnant mama!!

I also plan on doing a blog post on some of my favorite transitional pieces which are great for first trimester (and even second if you are carrying small or a first time mom). These pieces generally are also perfect for that transitional postpartum period when you’re not back to your normal size but want to feel good and wear regular (not maternity) clothing!! These are all clothes I would wear even if I wasn’t pregnant and most were already in my closet anyway!

I plan on doing a post potentially next week or over Christmas on my favorite workout gear while pregnant so I will have a few more options on different items then! I hope this helps you pregnant mamas….!!xo

……Talking My Favorites…..

1. My number 1 on the list has to be the Maternity Zella Leggings. I wear these basically every day. Amazing quality, can be dressed up or down, they are the BEST. Hands down, the number one item I can’t live without. These fit TTS, select your pre-pregnancy size.

2. Second thing I wear the most is the Pure Body Tees/Long sleeve tees. I wear these under sweaters, coats, to run in, perfect for layering. They are cotton, super comfy and cheap when you get them on sale. Must have. (Gap always has 30-50% off sales!)

3. Same as above but long sleeve option!

4. Finding jeans can be tough. I’ve found that I like the old navy rockstar ones the best. I’ve honestly tried every designer brand and I like these the best! Like Gap, they have good sales so get them on sale (I believe right now these are on sale too!) These don’t fall down too much, are comfy and look good. Note that the dark wash of these run a little smaller. I got the second smallest size for reference.

5. Spanx faux leather leggings maternity! f-these are great to head out to dinner or dress up your every day outfit. I did find they slipped a little but I think I needed to size down to the XS. They look amazing though and are definitely comfortable and you can move in them.

6. I love these fleeces They are great to and from the gym or even just at home. I used them also to run in. Run TTS.

7. Love me some overalls! TTS and super cute…as seen in my photo!!

8. Distressed overalls…comfy and so cute! Can transition from winter to spring, can be worn in summer or fall and a warmer winter day!!

9. I didn’t love the blue wash of the madewell maternity jeans, but I loved the black ones. I lived in them in Paris. Great color, super comfy. TTS to madewell brand (which usually runs a little big)

10. This is a great non maternity dress that you can wear through all stages of pregnancy and AFTER. Its a flattering fit. Not pregnant I usually size up to a S, and when pregnant M. Its on sale right now as well and comes in tons of colors! Here is the tank version!

11. My favorite maternity workout tank

12. Cutest suit

13. This vest is great for layering during fall/winter/spring! I have this in black.

14. Cozy sweater and great fit and price ! Comes in tons of colors.

15. Cutest tee!

16. Joggers are my Go-to. These always sell out!

17. This is for sure my favorite sports bra to wear when I’m pregnant for high impact activities- running, etc. It keeps your girls in place and it also has straps for nursing so when you have the baby you can wear this as well. It is definitely harder to get on but for me its totally worth it because my chest size increases like 3 times when pregnant and nursing so I need the tight support!

18. My winter jacket-

Congrats and let me know if you have any questions about anything!

xo

Alex

Max's 3rd Birthday Party...and 6 tips for your first kiddo party

Happy Birthday to my big boy Max who is now three...where has the time gone?! 

I know a lot of people go really overboard with parties and invite tons of people including kids from their child's preschool class but I just can't get my head around that right now. For Max's first birthday I felt so CRAZED and last minute with everything and it was just a family party with 25 people. Last year I felt the same. So this year I vowed to be ORGANIZED. There is nothing worse than being super stressed trying to get ready for a party. I honestly tried to keep it really simple this year by repeating last years theme! I had some leftover supplies from last year ...and With the baby, work, and Max loving the farm theme last year I thought..hey, why not. Let's take the load off! 

                                                       Family photo on the hay ride :)

                                                                      Farm Tour!

 We went to Kelkenberg Farm last year for his second birthday and he loved it. So many activities (all included in the price): Hay ride for everyone, pony rides for the kids, a farm tour where you see all of the animals, and the chance to milk the goats. Its a great, laid back atmosphere and we just grill out, have some cake and hang out! 

                                                              Looking after the ponies!

Like I said, I had some supplies from last year (plates, cups, silverware) and I had little die cut labels that my mom made for different foods that we offered. I used a farm theme to rename foods such as "pigs in a blanket" (hot dogs), "cow dung" (brownies), silverware were "pitchforks" (forks), "butcher knives" (knives), and "shovels" (spoons), "greens" (salad), and "farm fresh fruit" (assorted fruits ie watermelon, etc.), and "pig tail pasta salad" (tuna salad). 

I picked up a majority of my supplies from Birthdayexpress.com online as well as Party city and the dollar store. All in all it was an awesome time! I honestly wish I would have had someone helping me along with Max's first birthday, so here are a few tips I have for anyone embarking on their first "bash" for their child!

1. Pinterest that ish!!!
Start Pinteresting a couple of months before the birthday and get an idea of your theme. There are soo many ideas on there and let your child lead the way! If they're older, you can let them pick or at least help you narrow your ideas down. For 1st birthdays, its a little more fun because mom gets to lead the way because they can't talk yet ;) 

2. ETSY THAT ISH!! 
Ok guys, once you get your ideas down, check out etsy. Order your child's birthday outfit {yes, birthday outfit. its a "thing" now. just do it. } early incase it doesn't fit, you don't like it, it gets lost in the mail...whatever. Order it, and check it off the list. I also found some awesome things on etsy like Invites. Last year I just got the pdf and went and printed them out. I would totally not do that again and save money elsewhere. It was freaking awesome having them delivered to my house and not having to deal with either lugging my kids to kinkos to print them, or spending probably the same amount of money with hiring a babysitter just to get them printed out! Its just one less thing to do. I guess if you have a great printer you could do it at home but clearly that is not me. You can also find random things on etsy to enhance your party- for example I got farm theme water bottle stickers (see below) for really reasonable prices as well on etsy. 

3. Order supplies early: 
Like I said, I used birthdayexpress.com. They were great and the prices were decent with free shipping. They have everything you can imagine. I do a lot of online ordering..with the two kids and working I don't get much time to get out on my own and when I'm with the boys I'd rather spend the time outside at the park.

4. DOLLAR STORE GUYS. 
yes, yes and yes. You can get kids wrapping paper, bags, treat bags (if you're doing the kid thing), bowls,big utensils, etc. ALSO BALLOONS. Ok so funny story...last year I spent the $40 on the helium tank...pumped a bunch of ballons (which took forever when I didn't have the time #thestress #omg) and they ALL BLEW AWAY IN THE WIND. I literally almost died in that moment.

That was my cue to never blow them up myself again. So anyway I found out the dollar store sells balloons and blows them up for you for a dollar. Oh. and you can call ahead and get them done in advance? sign me up. This year I bought 20 balloons, for 20 dollars. 20 dollars LESS than the stupid helium tank and I spent {zero} minutes on them. I also brought a few farm theme balloons with me I hadn't used from last year and they pumped those up for me for....yup, you guessed it. a buck! So, moral of the story is save your time and money and hit up a dollar tree. 

5. get help.

Seriously, get help. Especially if you have a baby. Babies are literally like put on earth to make you unproductive!!!!  Have someone come over the day of the party to watch said baby so you can prep. Have others make a simple side dish so you don't need to deal. Remember, It takes a village, mammas. Let's embrace that. Nobody gets a medal for doing it all on their own!! 

6. Take it all in ...and remember it is worth the work! 
After all..they're only ____ years old once #tear. 

xo

Alex