my pregnancy essentials

every pregnant mama bird surely has a few must-haves in their arsenal of goodies when making a human.  some products out there really do make you feel better and prettier, i must say.  and when you are bloated and not feeling your best, a little pampering goes a long way. 

i remember searching pinterest for other mama's pregnancy essentials when first becoming pregnant with stella and thinking there was all this trendy stuff i needed to have just to get by.  so, so not the case.  i think the fear of the unknown experience got the better of me and i resorted to target with a huge list in hand.  

this second time around, my list is short and sweet.  it is made up of only my essentials because there are just a few things that have really helped me out with baby boy on board.  

1. fresh flowers: walking into a room and being welcomed by the happiness of fresh flowers really makes my mood soar.  for a few dollars a week, i buy a colorful bouquet and place stems in jars and vases all over our home.  they are a simple yet constant source of joy for me. 

2. organic coconut oil: this stuff is pretty wonderful.  after exfoliating in the shower and while my skin is still warm, i step out and put this stuff everywhere.  my face, legs, belly, thighs, feet.  everywhere.  it works wonders for my skin and is the only moisturizer i will ever use.  i think stretch marks are genetic, but if that notion is a myth, they have helped keep mine at bay.  trader joes has some for a great price. 

3. seamless bandau bra: due to my ever expanding rib cage and bust line i have found that a seamless bandeau bra is a little slice of heaven.  i wear this one from urban outfitters with everything from dresses to tanks to tees and it is very, very comfortable.  i even sleep in it on occasion.  i anticipate i will be sporting it whilst breastfeeding as well since it is so easy to adjust.  and i got it in this deep wine hue which makes things kind of fun, but they do offer many colors and patterns. 

4. blueberry green tea: tea is my jam.  well, that and coffee.  and bacon.  but let's talk about tea.  each night i settle down with a cup of this all natural blueberry tea.  it has become a part of my bedtime ritual and it tastes like candy.  i think it is important to have bedtime ritual and weaving tea into mine sets a calming tone for the evening.  it helps me unwind and has been a good substitute for something to sip on lieu of my usual glass of vino.  (which i do miss, by the way)

5. peach lip stain: i am not much of a lip stick gal per se, but i do adore a good lip stain.  i tend to lick off lipstick so revlon colorburt lip butter is perfect for me because it lasts.  for summer i like tutti fruiti which gives my lips a peachy glow.  this lip stain is on my pregnancy list because it is an easy solution for looking more awake when i hit my mid-day lull.  which is everyday, folks.  

6. california baby aromatherapy bubble bath in roman chamomile: something about chamomile just evokes serenity for me.  to ease my second trimester back pain i have been taking many bubble baths.  this calming scent helps to relax me and make my time in the tub more enjoyable.  it even comes with a little bubble wand to share with your kiddos! 

  

7. burt's bees mama bee oil vitamin E oil: this stuff rocks.  it is intended to be used as an all over body mositurizer but i have my husband use it when he gives me back rubs.  it smells so good and keeps my back and legs feeling soft as ever.  you really can't go wrong with any burt's bees product. 

8. head scarf: pregnancy is synonymous with exhaustion.  i have found an easy way to keep my hair up for the day while looking half way decent.  i really don't like doing my hair and especially while pregnant.  i have not used a blow dryer or straightener in i cannot remember how long.  those of you who follow me on instagram know my love for scarfs.  i have found most of them at antique shops around the city for about $1 a piece.  i do not recommend spending more than $5 on them because they are indeed out there for much, much less if you know where to look. 

9. lots of pillows (not pictured): if i want to get a good night's sleep, i need pillows.  lots and lots of pillows.  i went to target a few months back and bought two new feather pillows and they have been a pregnancy dream.  i basically surround myself with them each night.  it makes sleeping on my side much more comfortable.  i did not go the route and get a body pillow because i think they are rather ugly.  i am all about being practical and buying products that will last even beyond my pregnancy. 

10. back massages from my husband (not pictured): what in the world would i do without back rubs?  i haven't the slightest!  my second pregnancy has brought with it pretty severe lower back pain.  i am guessing it is from the toddler lifting etc.  andrew has been a big help in easing my pain by massaging it every now and then.  most often in the mornings and at night.  he usually talks to our little man while he rubs.  it's dang sweet.

what are some things you love or could not do with out while pregnant?