Easy Workout for Moms

For the past few weeks I've been experimenting with different workouts during various times of the day to see what works best for myself and my little ones. I initially started with going to the gym at 5am to get my workouts in before anyone was awake.

But due to the baby still not sleeping through the night and my pumping schedule I just couldn't do without those last hours of sleep. Once 5am was ruled out I tried working out during the afternoon right before school pick up and that is where I found my sweet spot.

What kind of Momfriend would I be if I didn't share my newest workout with you? I've teamed up with Dove to share my everyday workout with you and tips for getting it done.

Here are my best tips for making sure you are prepared to workout...

Find a time that works for you. 
What are your fitness goals? How many days of the week do you want to exercise? Which days during the week would you like to workout? Consider experimenting with a few different days, times and workouts to see what you can commit to on a regular basis. I found that Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays work best for me and I schedule my workout for the hour leading up to school pick up. If you'll be bringing kids with you think about scheduling your workout during their happiest time of the day. Nothing ruins a workout like cranky toddlers and fussy babies.

Dress for your workout. 
Dress for your workout when you wake up. Your yoga pants will actually get to do some yoga on your workout days, yay! Use your Dove Dry Spray Antiperspirant to keep yourself dry during your workout and the activities that are sure to follow. Dove Dry Spray Antiperspirant goes on instantly dry so it's perfect for Moms like me that get dressed quickly. Your underams will be moisturized resulting in softer smoother skin and you'll be protected from odor and wetness which is perfect for your workout! To learn more go to  Dove.com/trydry. #TryDry

Plan your meals.
Make sure you've prepped your meals and have snacks packed for the kids if you're bringing them.

Gather your gear.
Grab your sneakers, resistance bands, yoga mat, headphones (make sure your music device is charged!), water bottle, stroller and you're ready to go. I like leaving all of my workout items in the basket of my stroller. When it's time to head out all I need to do is grab a bottle of water and I'm set.

Now that you're ready here is my daily workout that any Mom can do with her kids in tow...

Stretch - Get your body warmed up!

Cardio - I speed walk but feel free to run if that's your thing.

Toning (Bicep Curls - 3 sets of 15 reps)

Yoga - Choose a pose of the day or find an app to guide you.

Cool Down - I stroll home from school pick up.

Easy enough, right? I hope my tips and easy workout has inspired you to #TryDry. Remember the new Dove Dry Spray Antiperspirant is the latest beauty trend that you must try. I personally love the Soothing Chamomile scent. It's light, feminine and it keeps me cool and dry.

Will you be trying my workout and the new Dove Dry Spray Antiperspirant?

This post is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group® and Dove Dry Spray Antiperspirant, but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #instantlytrending #DovePartner #TryDry http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV

Army Wife Life: We're Moving To...

Now that plans to move are more concrete I am ready to officially share where we're headed next. I thought our next move was going to be overseas but God had other plans for our family and we are headed to the great Pacific Northwest...

Washington state to be exact. I am beyond excited to live there for the next few years. Savannah and I took a girl's trip with my Mom (to visit my brother) years ago and I remember loving it there.

The air was so crisp and clean. The scenery was amazing - the mountains, the trees, the culture and the people. The food was so good. While in town we ate in Chinatown in Seattle. Hands down the best egg rolls I have ever had in my life. We also took a walk thru Pike Place Market and it was exactly how it looks on tv.

I remember the vibe being so chill even though there was tons of city life around us. There were street musicians (that I wish I could find video of), food trucks and that sense of hustle and bustle that only a city can bring. 

There was also lots of history to take in too. The totem poles were absolutely breath taking...

I'm looking forward to being stationed near family. My husband and I both have family members that live in driving distance to where we'll be. I'm excited about exploring a new place, walking trails and getting reacquainted with all four seasons. I haven't had a Fall or Winter in years.

Most of all I can't believe that we'll be surrounded by water and the mountains. Something about the thought of that immediately puts me in a good mood. 

Here was my view from the plane during our girl's trip...

So the countdown has officially begun! The movers have been scheduled and I'm in the process of preparing our house for their arrival. The amount of excitement I have is unreal.

Have you ever been to the Pacific Northwest?

Operation Snap Back™ Link Up: My Workout Playlist & Progress Report

Next week my #grandfinalebaby will be four months old. Can't believe it. Time is flying.

I finally feel ready to start getting serious about getting back in shape. Getting to the gym and getting any type of exercise in has been a challenge but I have been eating well to compensate for it. Since eating well is half the battle I'm giving myself credit for that.

My water intake has been pretty good. I drink at least 70 ounces a day. I'd like to get closer to 100 ounces but I'll take that 70 for now. I limit myself to one soda a day first thing in the morning.

Nothing wakes me up better than an ice cold Dr. Pepper.

For the first week of the Operation Snap Back™I thought I'd start by sharing my playlist for workouts. Music is such a big part of my life and when I'm working out I have to have my music blasting. Here's what's in my Operation Snap Back Playlist at the moment...

Beautiful - Snoop Dogg feat. Pharrell

Blessings - Big Sean feat. Drake

Blow - Beyoncé

Drunk in Love - Beyoncé feat. Jay-Z

Feeling Myself - Nicki Minaj feat. Beyoncé

***Flawless - Beyoncé feat. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Girls, Girls, Girls - Jay-Z

Girls, Girls Girls, Pt.2 - Jay - Z

The Glamorous Life - Sheila E

Hola Hovito - Jay-Z

How's It Goin Down - DMX

I Don't F**k With You - Big Sean feat. E-40

I Luh God - Erica Campbell feat. Big Shizz

Mercy - Kanye West feat. Big Sean, Pusha T, 2 Chainz)

Ni**as in Paris - Kanye West & Jay-Z

Partition - Beyoncé

Post To Be - Omarion feat. Chris Brown, Jhene Aiko

Renegade - Jay-Z feat. Eminem

Same Damn Time (Remix) - Future feat. Diddy, Ludacris

Still Not a Player - Big Pun feat. Joe

Uptown Funk - Mark Ronson feat. Bruno Mars

Motivation - T.I.

U Don't Know Me - T.I.

ASAP - T.I.

Bring Em Out - T.I.

Stay Fly - Three 6 Mafia

Upgrade You - Beyoncé

Lollipop - Lil Wayne

Got Money - Lil Wayne

Stuntin' Like My Daddy - Birman & Lil Wayne

Cash Money Millionaire - Lil Wayne

What Up Gangsta - 50 Cent

Many Men (Wish Death) - 50 Cent

In Da Club - 50 Cent

Wanksta - 50 Cent

P.I.M.P. - 50 Cent

Drop It Like It's Hot - Snoop Dogg & Pharrell Williams

All I Do Is Win - DJ Khaled feat. T-Pain, Ludacris, Snoop Dogg & Rick Ross

Stronger - Kanye West

Good Life - Kanye West feat. T-Pain

Flashing Lights - Kanye West

Can't Tell Me Nothing - Kanye West

Jesus Walks - Kanye West

Otis - Jay-Z & Kanye West feat. Otis Redding

Power - Kanye West

All Falls Down - Kanye West

Clique - Kanye West,  Jay-Z & Big Sean

The New Workout Plan - Kanye West

Good Morning - Kanye West

Champion - Kanye West

H A M - Kanye West & Jay-Z

Swagger Like Us - Jay-Z, Kanye West, Lil Wayne & T.I.

Make Me Better - Fabolous feat. Ne-Yo

Breathe - Fabolous

Can't Deny It - Fabolous feat. Nate Dogg

Look at Me Now - Chris Brown feat Lil Wayne, Busta Rhymes

Kiss Kiss - Chris Brown feat T-Pain

Run It! - Chris Brown feat Juelz Santana

I Can Transform Ya - Chris Brown feat. Lil Wayne, Swizz Beatz

Loyal - Chris Brown feat. Lil Wayne, Tyga

Fine China - Chris Brown

Aston Martin Music - Rick Ross feat. Drake, Chrisette Michele

The Boss - Rick Ross feat T-Pain

Stay Schemin - Rick Ross feat. Drake, French Montana

Push It - Rick Ross

So Sophisticated - Rick Ross feat. Meek Mill

Hustlin' (Remix) - Rick Ross feat. Jay-Z, Young Jeezy

The Devil is a Lie - Rick Ross feat. Jay-Z

Magnificent - Rick Ross

I'm Not a Star - Rick Ross

House Party - Meek Mill feat Young Chris

Bag of Money - Wale & Meek Mill feat Rick Ross, T-Pain

Maybach Music III - Rick Ross feat Jadakiss, Erykah Badu

Free Mason - Rick Ross feat Jay-Z

MC Hammer - Rick Ross feat. Gucci Mane

Live Fast, Die Young - Rick Ross feat. Kanye West

Started From the Bottom - Drake

Hotline Bling - Drake

Finna Get Loose - Puff Daddy & The Family feat Pharrell Williams

Top Back - T.I.

Still Fly - Big Tymers

Get Your Roll On - Big Tymers

7/11 - Beyoncé

Formation - Beyoncé

Down in the DM - Yo Gotti

My fitness goals are to tone up. I don't have a goal weight in mind I just want to comfortably fit in all my clothes. We don't have a scale in our house. I don't want to be obsessed with a number so I base everything off of how I feel and look. If I feel I look good then I consider that success.

Here I am today...

Now head over to Off the Potomac and see Fatima's Operation Snap Back™progress. She's the creator of the online community that motivates women to strive to meet their fitness goals. If you're new here join the Facebook page and share your sweaty selfie with us on Instagram using #OperationSnapback.

Got a fitness post of your own you want to share with us? Leave your link below and we'll swing by and show you some love!

An InLinkz Link-up

Thought Bubbles 2252016

It's basically March...

Soccer season starts on Saturday...

I ordered a stroller to have before the season starts and the shipping has been delayed...

The hibachi I made for dinner the other night was good. I served it with quinoa instead of rice...

I hate that my broccoli florets were upside down in that pic...

The temps recently dropped into the 60s for the high of the day here. We're freezing...

Costco sent me coupons to get all this free stuff. I keep forgetting my coupons at home...

They sold out of this table I wanted for the kids before I could make up my mind about it...

I was unsure about these black flats when I bought them but now I'm in love with them...

My dentist passes out these Straight Outta Compton sunglasses. I'm here for it...

I still can't believe the stroller that I wanted was sold out every where...

Couldn't even find it online...

I hate settling...

My son has started hiding. His new favorite spot is under his bed...

That face...

I just remembered that I can look online for that kid's table at Costco...

Tomorrow I will treat myself to Chinese for dinner...

Working out and eating right is starting to get easier...

It'll be much easier when that stroller arrives...

I'm partnering with Teems at Off the Potomac for a fitness link-up. Join us on Sunday...

Looking forward to trying out self photography this weekend...

I have some sponsored posts coming up that require it...

We'll be moving in less than about 100 days...

I literally cannot wait...

I'll miss the Fall like winters here though...

Getting the nerve up to do a live reading of a couple pages of my eBook on Periscope next week...

Get your copy here if you haven't already...

So many not so shameless plugs there...

What's going on in your world? Share a thought bubble or two with me...

FOURTH BLOGIVERSARY

It's The Chic Stay at Home Mom's blogiversary! Who made that up? Blog Anniversary.

Anyway. Here is this piece of the interweb four years later. I remember when I started this blog I only had one child and endless amounts of free time. Now I'm three kids deep and my free time ain't so free.

I think this is the year that I'm trying to bring more of my true self to this space, because I feel more grown now. I want to have more fun here and connect with the people that take the time to read my posts and follow me on social media.

I want to offer something here that's similar to what I feel my girlfriends in real life get. A good laugh, compassion, understanding and a good time.

So today in honor of my fourth year as a blogger I launched my mini eBook for Moms on iBooks.

The feedback that I have received so far on the book has been great. I am so thankful to all of the Mamas who signed up to receive the book for free and give it a read. I appreciate the love and support. 

As I continue to grow as a woman, wife and Mom I pray that the brand that's being developed thru this blog remains authentic to who I am. Thanks again to all of you who stop by here to spend time with me - it means more than you know.

Check out my book on iBooks to get to know me in a different way. Happy Blogiversary to me!

As my blog continues to evolve what type of posts would you like to see more of? Is there anything that I do here that you particularly enjoy? 

A Salad You Could Eat Everyday

I eat the same thing for lunch just about everyday. When I'm home and not stuck in the car running errands I make myself a salad for lunch Monday thru Friday.

Why do I eat salad everyday? Well for one I have always loved salads. In high school I would hit up Souper Salad during the Summer and in college I'd crush the salad bar in the cafe. All you can eat. And it's healthy. Yes, please.

While a salad buffet is far from something I'd want to do these days (because solo trips to a buffet with babies sounds like a miserable way to spend a lunch hour) I do still crave my salads and I get one in daily. To make things easy on myself I have found one salad that I love. One that I could eat everyday. Just like Chinese food without the calories and the MSG.

Here's what I keep on hand to make my lunch fast, tasty and healthy...

1 - humungous bag of Earthbound Farm Organic Triple Green Blend (POWER) - Costco

Roma Tomatoes

English Cucumber

Boiled Eggs

Kalamata Olives

Broccoli Florets

Red Onion

Rotisserie Chicken - Costco Deli (All grocery stores have a ready to go 'tisserie these days though.)

For my dressing I go with a diagonal smear of whatever I'm into at the moment. Right now I'm on a creamy ceasar kick. Anyway. This is what I eat everyday to help make the approaching Summer less terrifying. It'll be shorts and tank top season soon and Lord knows I want to be ready...

Getting in shape after Moses has been a process as I have no motivation whatsoever to be at the gym. Now that the weather has broken I do have the itch to get out and start walking/running. We'll see if that itch gets scratched soon. Until then at least I'm eating well. 

What do you normally eat for lunch? Are you creeping thru someone's drive-thru everyday? I encourage you to find a healthy lunch you could (but you certainly wouldn't have to) eat everyday. Have that stuff in your kitchen at all times and see if it cuts down on trips to Chick-Fil A. 

Now I want a spicy chicken sandwich....

My Natural Hair Story with Dove Hair

One of the best decisions I made in 2015 was cutting my hair. Like, for real. I recently shared my new love for short hair here on the blog. I cut my hair because after years of relaxers, braids, sew-ins and hair color my damaged hair needed a redo.

I have always embraced each of my hairstyles but with each style I would experience some type of damage. During a recent trip to Target I found the NEW Dove Hair Regenerative Nourishment Collection. I began using it before I got my haircut to restore my hair from the damage of all the sew-ins and braids I'd been rocking.

While looking for a stylist to cut my hair, Dove Hair products really gave me the confidence I needed to change my look again. My hair started to look stronger and fuller. Having babies wreaked havoc on my hair too. Can any other Moms relate to that? My hair got so brittle and limp after baby number two.

As I was writing this post I remembered some of my hairstyles from the past. I loved them all and I'm happy with where my hair journey has brought me. 

I thought it would be fun to take a walk down memory lane with my hair to show you how I arrived at my pixie cut. I'm pretty sure I'm #teamshorthair for the rest of my life. Let's have a little throwback Mom Hair Monday...

At age five my frizzy hair was fragile. As a little girl I remember loving whenever my Mom would give me bangs. I loved bangs...

In the third grade I got my first perm. The damage from that resulted in me getting my very first haircut in the seventh grade. I grew my hair back out and it was healthy but thin. I literally had one hair style for about a decade. Here I am doing karaoke at a New Year's Eve party with my layers on full display. I was "singing" Beyoncé's Crazy in Love (of course)...

After years of wearing my hair in the same layered look I made the decision to cut all of my hair off and embrace my natural hair. I was pregnant with Savannah and wanted to show her how to love her natural hair. There was something about becoming a Mom that made me want to love all the parts of myself and that meant my curly not so easy to deal with fragile hair...

Since becoming a naturalista I have worn my hair in every style you can imagine. I've done twist outs, box braids, sew-ins, blow outs, afros, ponytails and the list goes on. I have loved each hairstyle but I haven't necessarily loved the damage that came along with them....

These days I'm wearing my hair in a pixie cut that I am absolutely loving. I haven't had to worry about the damage that I've experienced from some of these other hairstyles. My pixie cut is cute, easy to manage and between appointments with my stylist Dove Hair restores my hair from all the heat styling it's being put through...

I feel most beautiful when I know my hair is looking good. The Dove Hair Regenerative Nourishment Collection allows me to take my hair from curly to straight without worrying about the damage that can come from styling. The conditioner is so creamy. It really coats and protects your hair.

The Dove Hair Regenerative Nourishment Collection smells amazing. My favorite product is definitely the Serum in Oil. It's light and a little bit goes a long way. This collection from Dove Hair is available at Target. The next time you're at Target, grab the new Dove Hair Regenerative Nourishment Shampoo, Conditioner and Serum in Oil. Your hair can thank me later!

Have you seen this new line from Dove Hair?

This post is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group® and Dove Hair, but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #MyHairStory #DovePartner  http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV

40 Ways to Recharge Solo

Have you ever just needed to recharge? I'm not talking about a girl's night out or a vacation. I'm talking about a couple hours alone to just breathe and think, recharge.

In the past I have confused this need to recharge with the need to have some good girlfriend time. I would maybe meet a friend for lunch or go shopping and we would have a great time but...

When our little outing was over I'd get back in my car and still not feel recharged. Even though I would have had a blast with my friend I'd still feel like I could use a couple hours completely unplugged. As I have gotten older I have embraced the beauty that is alone time.

Being a military wife has made very comfortable with doing things solo too. Whenever we relocate I do lots of things by myself while I'm getting adjusted to our new surroundings. I thought I would share some of my ideas with you here...

1. Have lunch at a restaurant you have always wanted to try.
2. Visit a makeup counter and have a new look created for you.
3. Find a new fragrance.
4. Volunteer at a local pet shelter. (WARNING: This may result in a new furry family member!)
5. Try a new fitness class.
6. Take a dance class.
8. Paint a picture.
9. Attend a cooking class or demonstration. (Williams Sonoma offers some great free classes.)
10. Go to the movies.
11. Learn a new craft or hobby. (Michael's and JoAnn Fabrics offer classes)
12. Enjoy a mani pedi at a place nicer than your normal nail salon.
13. Get a massage.
14. Do some reading at your local library or favorite book store.
15. Get a haircut.
16. Carelessly wander the aisles of Target or Home Goods.
17. Have some coffee and dessert at a mom and pop diner.
18. Get fitted for a new bra.
19. Go for a walk.
20. Visit an esthetician and get a facial.
21. Check out a new gallery in a museum.
22. Watch the sunrise.
23. Meditate.
24. Clean out your email inbox at Starbucks. Grab a snack and take advantage of that free wi-fi.
25. Shop for swimsuits if it's that time of the year...
26. Or shop for shoes instead.
27. Go thrifting.
28. Pop up at a couple open houses or visit some model homes for interior design inspiration.
29. Visit a local winery...
30. Or buy a few bottles of wine you haven't tried and do a tasting after the kids are in bed.
31. Shop for antiques at a flea market.
32. Take a nap. At a hotel. With room service.
33. Go for a swim.
34. Volunteer at a food bank.
35. Visit a botanical garden and take instagram worthy pics with your 'real' camera.
36. Get behind the wheel of a car that you love during a test drive.
37. Grab one of those coloring books for adults, put on some music and get creative.
38. Play solitaire.
39. Order Chinese and catch up on your DVR.
40. Go for a bike ride.

It is a beautiful thing when you can spend time alone and enjoy it. Treat yourself to some alone time when you can. It is so refreshing to be able to hear yourself think or enjoy something uninterrupted. There's nothing wrong with taking a little time for yourself. See anything on this list that speaks to you? What are some of your favorite ways to spend time alone?

Mini EBook for Moms

Happy Monday! We're in the second week of the year already. I am keeping my word to myself and building momentum to achieve my goals for the year.

Yesterday I attended my first fitness class of the year. I will talk more about that later this week. Over the weekend I also had a chance to work on the cover for the eBook I've been working on. I also had a chance to give myself a refresher on all of the self publishing platforms that are available. After reading lots of terms and conditions on several sites I have selected one that I think will be perfect for my first project.

I am scared to death of this release. What if no one likes it? What if no one reads it? So many what ifs have crossed my mind. The thing is that I feel like I'm suppose to be creating this type of content for women. It's like I have this little voice telling me to do it and every month (or year) that goes by without me doing anything I feel like that voice gets louder and louder.

Listen to the whispers. Trust your instincts. Move forward with confidence.

During a conversation with my Mother I realized that if I constantly allow the fear of all the what ifs hold me back I'll never know what greatness may be waiting for me. Being creative and putting out work is something you just have to do. You have to just go for it even if you don't feel ready. 

I am taking my own advice here. 

If I keep waiting until I'm ready I may miss my blessing. Listen to the whispers, Tia. 

What fears are you pushing past to realize some of your goals?

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#GrandfinaleBaby's Birth Story

Well this post feels like a long time coming. It's Christmas Eve and for the first time in a long time I actually have time to sit down and blog.

This birth story isn't very long or traumatic but I'm sharing it because the aftermath of the delivery is where I think most people will find solace in knowing they are not alone.

As you know I struggled with high blood pressure and symptoms of preeclampsia during my pregnancy. On November 4th (Wednesday) I was admitted to the hospital after a routine growth scan appointment due to my blood pressure being high. The Doctor explained to me that he thought it would be best for me to stay in the hospital until the baby was delivered. My original due date was December 26.

That morning I had gone to the doctor alone. Once the doctor said that he was admitting me I informed him that I would need to go back home to swap cars with my husband and pack a bag. I was driving the car with the car seats and strollers in it and because I had refused to pack a bag (despite my husband's constant suggestions to do so...) I really did need to go home.

So I went home, updated my husband about what was about to happen and we packed a bag and got me back up to the hospital after driving thru Chick Fil A to grab what felt like my last supper.

We arrived back at the hospital and I was immediately taken back to my room in Labor and Delivery. Initially I thought I would just be "living" there until we were much closer to my due date. But then my blood pressure spiked. It was so high that I had to be put on magnesium. Again. I hate magnesium. I think most people do. Magnesium makes you feel like you're having an outer body experience mixed with hot flashes and the flu.

Once you're on the mag (as the doctors call it) you have to stay in bed (because your risk of falling increases) and you're not allowed to eat. Luckily, I had eaten that CFA right before being admitted so I wasn't starving.

The next day was a different story. I was hungry. They were able to get my blood pressure down (by IV) but unfortunately my 24 hour urine sample showed that protein was spilling over into my urine. Your urine sample number shouldn't exceed 300 and my sample came in at 800. Not good.

That's when the team of doctors came in and told me that I would have to deliver the baby because I had developed severe preeclampsia. I had so many different feeling about delivering early. Is my baby going to be okay? Is my situation really that bad? Can't they monitor me for a few more weeks? What are the chances that I'd really have a stroke or a seizure?

I was scared and nervous but at the same time I knew I couldn't let those fears get me upset. I needed to stay calm so I could think rationally about what was about to happen and what the next couple of months would be like. I asked my nurse if someone from the NICU could come talk to me because I knew he would have to spend some time there after the delivery.

The NICU doctor came in and gave me the run down of all of the worst case scenarios. He told me he would come back by again in the morning to make sure I didn't have any questions. When he came back in the morning (Friday) I felt like the entire hospital staff came with him...

Now if you remember I got pregnant after having my tubes tied two years ago. My doctors wanted to talk to me about that and how they would "try their best" to make sure my tubes were really done this time. I got a refresher from the NICU, I met my nurses and the anesthesiologist. Before they began to prep me for surgery I called my Grandfather who's a Reverend and asked him to pray for me. My Grandfather has the most soothing voice. After talking to him I was so calm and I felt so strong. I was ready to walk through this journey, prepared for whatever the results may be...

My husband and I were prepped for surgery and we headed back to the operating room. It was the same room that I delivered Little Mike in two years ago. My husband waited outside while they got me up on the table and gave me an epidural. Normally I am freezing in the OR but I was given warm blankets during my delivery this time and I appreciated that so much.

My husband was escorted into the room and my surgery began. At 4:19pm on November 6 we welcomed our son Moses into our family. He weighed in at three pounds even and he had the tiniest little cry...

My husband and the baby went to the NICU while my doctors finished up my surgery. I spent the next two days in the hospital recovering from the surgery, pumping colostrum and learning as much as I could about the NICU journey.

In the next post I'll recap our NICU journey and share somethings that I think would help you if you ever find yourself in this same situation. I hope you have enjoyed reading about my experience with preE and the delivery of our #grandfinalebaby. 

Has anyone experienced preeclampsia? Share your story with me in the comments...

First Trimester Survival Kit & Tips

Now that I feel much better I thought it would be a great idea to share how I survived my horrible first trimester with two little kids running around. It was not easy or pretty but we all made it out to the other side.

If you've never experienced morning all day sickness, good for you and I'm slightly jealous. For those of us that have dealt with the sickness that comes along with pregnancy you know how tough it can be to find some relief.

Here are some of the products and survival tips I used to help make it through those tough weeks...

Favorite Products:

Cetaphil - Pregnancy acne happens to the best of us.

Palmer's Cocoa Butter Tummy Butter - Itchy skin

Bio-Oil - Safe for use in Second Trimester - Stretch mark

Prenatal Vitamins - This one is a no brainer. :-)

What to Expect When You're Expecting - This pregnancy bible will answer all of your questions and calm your fears.

Journal - Record your milestones.

Ponytail Holders - Wear your hair out of your face. It makes throwing up less messy.

Motion Sickness Bracelets - Some swear by them; give them a shot.

Lemon flavored candy - Sour/bitter candy always helped settle my nausea. (Try making lemonade.)

LBD (Maxi, Maternity - whatever) Black looks good on everyone and will flatter any changing body.

Ginger Tea - Helps with nausea.

Unisom & B6 - Helps with nausea. Ask Doctor before giving this a shot.

Lip Balm - If you become dehydrated a lip balm will keep your lips moisturized.

Body pillow - Sleeping will be so much easier with one of these. Get one and thank me later. :-)

All of the items featured in my First Trimester Kit can be found in my Amazon Store. 

Survival Tips:

Shower - Something about a shower always makes me feel better.

Brush your teeth - Brushing your teeth gets that icky feeling out of your mouth. 

Wash your face 2x a day - This helps fight pregnancy acne. Do it even when you feel tired.

Be slow to rise - Getting up quickly can make you lightheaded/dizzy.

Rest. Rest. Rest. - When you feel tired, rest. Pushing yourself to do more will only make you feel worse.

Eat small meals throughout the day- The too empty or too full struggle is so real. 

Stay hydrated - Get plenty of fluids everyday. If water is tough to keep down try adding lemons to your water.

Get fresh air - Getting off the couch and out of the house helped me a lot during my first trimester.

Exercise - Try a water aerobics class to keep your body moving.

Be weary of Pregnancy apps - The forums on those apps are like the gift and the curse. Proceed with caution. If you've ever been on one you know what I'm talking about.

Treat yourself to something - A pedicure, manicure, hairdo, outfit or something for the baby.

So what were you go-to items during the first trimester? Share some of your survival tips with me in the comments!

Chic Bump Watch: Second Trimester Bump Style

So far I haven't been wearing maternity clothes during this pregnancy. I have been doing the ponytail holder (rubber band) trick on my denim shorts or wearing things with an elastic waist. My boyfriend shorts from H&M have been amazing during these hot Summer days.

Once upon a time they fit loose and comfy. These days they are little snug but they still feel and look great.

A photo posted by chicsahm (tia) (@chicsahm) on Jul 9, 2015 at 11:16am PDT

Black continues to be my color of choice. You know how it is when you're still kind of early in your pregnancy...

Sometimes you look pregnant and sometimes you look like you got extra meat and guacamole at Chipotlé. I fluctuate between the two daily.

A photo posted by chicsahm (tia) (@chicsahm) on Jul 11, 2015 at 1:08pm PDT

Due to the extreme heat that has finally made it's way to San Antonio I probably won't be wearing heels much after this. Maybe I'll pull out some booties in the Fall once it's a bit cooler. Maybe.

My husband and I will be going on a date in a couple weeks. I'm trying to find something cute and comfy to wear for that. We rarely ever get date nights so I always try to bring it with my outfit when we do get to go out. I'll share what put together on Instagram, stay tuned!

What do you think of my maternity style so far? What's your favorite thing to wear while rocking your bump?

Mommy & Me Errands by Chic Mom Blogger Tara

It can be extremely challenging managing 3 children under 5 years old. At such a young age patience is very short and they still need lots of attention from mom. My oldest child is 4, and over the years I have learned how to get the most out of my day. We live in Japan and we don’t have that many options for childcare. We’ve decided as a family that it would be best for me to be a SAHM. Often, I have to take all of the children with me to run my errands. I have been forced to get creative with how I keep the kids busy and calm while I get things done.

So just recently browsing around the ¥100 store(dollar store) I found these food stickers. They were super cute with pictures of basic items that you would find in the supermarket.I thought it would be a great idea for the kids to use these to help me make shopping lists! They cannot write yet at 2 and 4, but they can use stickers. I could keep them busy for a few minutes making their lists while I change the baby, and get everyone ready to leave.

The first time I tried it they naturally took every sticker and put it on their lists, that was ok, but then I started thinking about how this might turn into something expensive. This is when I decide to get the 100 count pack of blank labels and just draw out a few items that I really wanted to get from the grocery store that week or the night before (it does not require sophisticated art skills….I have none). This way if they chose every sticker it would not be a big deal, and I actually had a practical list to use once we got in the store.

This is working extremely well for me and now that my 3 month old baby is here I need those few minutes to get my thoughts together. Three car seats! Amazing how spending just ¥100 can change your life.

See more from Tara on her blog, TaraKamiya.com, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest and Etsy.

Tara Kamiya

I was born and raised in New York City where I later met my husband.

We were chosen by an American reality TV show to have our wedding shown to the world in the form of a competition (Four Weddings season 2). It was a fun experience that has led to many other opportunities.

I am currently a blogger, YouTuber and freelance writer. I’ve been to Canada, Africa, and Costa Rica. I now live with my husband and 3 children in Japan.

To contact Tara email her at kamiyatara@gmail.com

Chic Bump Watch: #GrandFinaleBaby

Hi there everyone!

I'm back from what seems like the longest blogging hiatus ever. I really wanted to blog but to be honest I was just sick and tired, literally. You never realize how much energy you have until it's gone.

If you follow me on Instagram or if you tuned into to my Periscope premiere then you already know that I am currently expecting our third little bundle of joy. I like to refer to this baby as our "grand finale baby". It's our last baby and my very last pregnancy (I think.) Now that I am no longer hovering over a toilet or trash can all day and glued to my couch I am very excited about embracing the last two trimesters of this pregnancy.

My first trimester sucked. It was a mess and I am so glad that it's over. 

I wasn't sure when I was going to share the news about our new baby. It took a while for me to get over the fear that something bad might happen again. After lots of prayer I knew that the only way to release myself of that fear would be to start telling people I was pregnant. I have to trust that everything will be okay and just enjoy this journey.

Here is the announcement I used for Instagram. I decided to use the vision board that I created to share our news! 

So. If you were wondering where I've been now you know. I still have all the same plans for this space and now that my energy is picking up again you can expect to see more of me here and on social media. 

How has everyone been? Tell me what's new with you!

Out & About...

I honestly can't believe we are approaching the second weekend in October already. My little family has been so busy keeping up with Savannah's social calendar. Between school, soccer and gymnastics that little girl is living the life.

Luckily, she takes the rest of us along for the ride. Here they are at the San Antonio Botanical Gardens last week. That place was beautiful. It was better than the zoo in my opinion. Simply gorgeous. If you live in this area I highly recommend it for a day out.

And then there is soccer. We are halfway through the soccer season and I am very happy about that. Pretty soon I'll have my Saturday mornings back.
I tried to get an usie of me and my two Mikes but one of them wasn't feeling it…Savannah has taken to soccer pretty well. Depending on her mood she's actually pretty good.

I hope your Fall season has gotten off to a pretty good start. Don't forget to enter the Dr. Smith's giveaway if you haven't already!

Chic Mom Style: Fall Fashion

Living in Texas doesn't allow me to really dive as deep into Fall fashion as I would like. The mornings and evenings are pleasantly cool but the afternoons are like an east coast summer day.

During the Fall I tend to wear my Fall stuff and I layer up when it's cool enough. I also like wearing black. A lot of it. I could probably wear black everyday and never get tired of it.

My Fall fashion vibe is still all black everything. This is the Mom I want to be everyday…

Nothing extremely fussy. Very chill.

Mommy's Morning Out Part One by thechicsahm featuring black plastic sunglasses

When I am in the mood to wear color I normally go for a print. I love big bold prints. Printed dresses are my go-to when I feel like stepping it up a bit. 

Into FALL by giginicole featuring heel booties

Free Falling by moomoofan1972 featuring MICHAEL Michael Kors

I have determined that my style is a mix of two different women. Part of me is the woman that wears lots of denim with neutral colored blouses and graphic tees. Very safe. The other part of me is a woman who is drawn to prints, color and lots of dresses. I love a good sheath or shirtdress.

Moto jackets, blazers, cardigans, denim - touches of leopard. Those are my Fall staples. What are your's?