Did you use an app for tracking breastfeeding?
Alix: No I’m old school and like to see it all written down. I kept a little journal with my feeding times (aiming for a minimum of 8 feeds/24 hours I believe) and a tally for poops and pees (for Quinn- not me haha). I think I did this for about a 1-2 weeks until she was gaining weight and we had a little routine down. I also had a hair tie I wore on the wrist of the last boob side she had fed on, so I would know to start on that side next time unless I was pumping after feeding her. I know there are a ton of apps out there, but this just was easiest for my sleep deprived mom brain.
Heather: I used a breastfeeding app with Jackson but nothing with Cam. If you’re a first time mom, I would suggest some sort of tracker whether it be writing it down or using an app. I think I used Baby Feed Timer and it tracks how long you nurse each side and which side you last fed on. I kind of became obsessed with it though and timed Jackson on each side before deciding he needed to switch when in reality, I should have been letting him dictate. It’s a useful tool at first to help you get the hang of breastfeeding and getting you into a routine but with Cam, I just winged it. Whatever he wanted. Left boob, right boob, didn’t matter. Either way, you and babe will figure it out.. it just takes time and patience 😉
I’m a working mom who wants to dress professionally but not stuffy- help!
I feel like the workforce is pretty relaxed these days.. well at least in the field I was in for the past 10 years. You don’t have to be in a pant suit or skirt/blazer every day and can have fun with your work wardrobe! Think tailored slacks, fitted button downs, long cardigans and pops of color. Change up your silhouettes and textures as well. I always bought a bunch of black and grey slacks, neutral tops and then spiced up my wardrobe with pops of color at my feet and sweaters. And don’t forget dresses! So easy to throw on during the warmer months. Here’s some inspo based on my own work wardrobe that I’ve since passed down to friends:
What is the vanilla powder ingredient in so many of the True Roots drink recipes. Where the heck do I find vanilla powder?!
The vanilla powder is a substitute for vanilla extract. This is an example of what she is recommending in her recipes- it’s pricey but supposed to be less processed and have a better flavor. You can use less of it than the extract (about half as much of what the recipe calls for) Vanilla powder does not contain alcohol either if that is an issue. I haven’t tried it and just use a little vanilla extract or vanilla protein powder in a drink recipe that calls for protein and vanilla.
I’m seeing some other bloggers doing intermittent fasting and curious what the deal is. Is this truly a lifestyle change like they claim or a crazy crash diet? Would love your thoughts!
This article does a great job explaining intermittent fasting. My concerns with this eating plan is that is does not seem like a realistic lifestyle, but more of a quick fix weight loss plan. This would be a challenging lifestyle to maintain because it seems hard to be social and spontaneous on this sort of restrictive (time wise) eating plan. My biggest issue is the fasting may lead to extreme hunger (and stress- hello stress hormones!) which can set you up for binges or unbalanced eating when you’re “allowed” to eat. I’m all about people finding a plan that works for them and makes them happy, but my issue with bloggers basically promoting this is that is can be triggering for some people or send the wrong message. Be smart and do your research before jumping into any new nutrition plan and be honest about what your goals are.
My family and I are taking Christmas photos in August and I have no clue if I’ll be able to find an appropriate outfit – so out of season! Can you find me some green and red sweaters or tops that would work?
Surprisingly, I was able to find some great options! We usually do our Christmas photos in summer too but this year I have to wait until Big 3 is born and try and squeeze a card out within a month of him being born. Riiiiight good luck with that. Ok anyway, here’s what I found that would be perfect for a holiday card:
My choker I wear all the time is tarnishing and I want to invest in a little nicer one. Something simple and dainty. Any ideas?
Heather: I’m obsessed with my Gorjana choker.. versions here and here. Revolve has some cute options too here, here and here.
Alix: I have this Stella & Dot choker and it tarnished because I wore it 24/7, so I’m also looking to invest in a new one as well and have been eying this and this one. Kendra Scott has a cute adjustable necklace here you could make more of a choker.
I’m hosting my first 4th of July party this year and I want it to be perfect. Any ideas for cocktails, food and decorations?
Fun!! OK Pinterest is going to be your BFF but here are some ideas.
For booze these jello shots would be so cute! This patriotic sangria would be fun too. When I think of the 4th and Summer I think watermelon…so spicy watermelon margs would be delish and a crowd pleaser for sure.
Food ideas….kinda of up to you on what direction you want to go. Causal BBQ and sides or something a little fancier?
For a BBQ I love doing kabobs (chicken, veggie, and shrimp) so easy and less messy than burgers (you also don’t need all the burger toppings which are a pain in the butt to prep!) A little fancier…you could do salmon sliders with a yogurt dill sauce or grilled chicken with a fresh mango or papaya salsa. This BLT pasta from True Roots is bomb and perfect for an side dish. A simple watermelon, feta, and mint salad would be refreshing…I like this recipe. OR watermelon salsa yum! You can never go wrong with corn on the cob and use the chili lime seasoning from Trader Joe’s- game changer.
Dessert ideas here, here, and here. I’m always a big fan of angle food cake with fresh strawberries and whip- can’t go wrong with that combo! Also these prosecco pops look SO good please make and report back 😉
Decorations…I say keep it simple. Maybe some fun straws, napkins and balloons. These mason jars are super cute. I love all these simple ideas especially rolling up the cutlery in red, white, and blue bandanas which can be used as the napkin.
Have fun!
The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale catalogue just arrived in the mail.. did you ladies see it and what are you eyeing?!
Did I see it? What a silly question 😉 YES duhhh! This sale is better than Christmas if you ask me. The catalogue kind of disappointed me TBH. BUT.. they only show a small portion of items that will be on sale and I had a girlfriend go to her personal shopper at Nordies yesterday and she said it’s gonna be GOOD this year. YAS! I’m eyeing the following pieces (you’ll need the catalogue for reference since these pieces aren’t online yet):
Halogen cardigan and Leith knit dress (page 8)
Marc Fisher Miggi booties (page 10)- white boots still having a MOMENT.
Stuart Weitzman Lafayette Boots (page 15) but there’s no way I can afford them 🙁
Treasure & Bond Panama Hat (page 23)- looks like Rag and Bone and half the price
Vince Comuto Movinta Bootie (page 30)
Steve Madden Brinkley Over the knee boots (page 31)- this year’s IT black boot
Caslon Jacket faux shearling (page 37) – reminds me of the Free People version from last year
VINCE Plush Hoodie (page 41) – expensive but worth the investment.. maybe?!
Treasure and Bond Leather Jacket (page 44)
Thread and Supply Brandon Jacket (page 52) – side note, I have this in pullover version and wore it to death this winter. This jacket is going to FLY off the shelves. NAB IT!
Sadly, the sneaker and athleisure section didn’t impress me and I didn’t circle anything.. sure that’ll change once I get into the store but for now, nada in that department.
Barefoot Dreams cozy chic cardigan (page 60)- nothing. better. than. barefoot. dreams. don’t even try and argue with me.
Charlotte Tilbury Gift of Magic Glowing Skin Set (page 65)
Diptyque Five Candle Set (page 69) – best smelling high-end candles ever next to the Voluspa set (page 68)
Thanks for stopping by and sending in your questions! Email us at champagnetheory@gmail.com with subject Happy Hour. xx
