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Thursday, November 28, 2013

Mini Break

Happy Thanksgiving! 
 
I'm taking a mini-break from the blog while I'm traveling, spending time with family, stuffing my face and {hopefully} getting a nap or two in. 
 
In my absence, jump on over to Houston Moms Blog to read what I'm thankful for this year!  Also, if you are local, check out our Mom's Guide to Holiday Events in Houston.
 
See you next week when I plan to share my holiday decorations, shopping experience at The Vintage Pearl and a vlog starring Jack!

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

...And I'm Also Thankful For

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!  I hope you enjoy your special day tomorrow with your family, friends, computer for online shopping or just some quiet time alone.  We will be spending the next few days with family. 

Heather and Amber are hosting a great link-up today about what we are also thankful for.  The obvious ones being our friends and family.  You all know I am so incredibly thankful for my precious son, husband, pup, mommy and all of my family and friends. 

photobucket
 
This year, I'm also thankful for:
 
  • My neighborhood Starbucks...even though I'm mostly drinking Decaf these days, it give me an emotional boost when I'm tired or cranky.  Plus the baristas are quickly becoming my new friends even noticing little haircuts or changes in my makeup when no one else does. 
  • Target...why is this store so perfect when Jack and I need to get out of the house, but have no place to go
  • My home and neighborhood...I just get happy every day when I drive into my neighborhood.  I feel like it's exactly where Jason and I are supposed to be
  • Ugg slippers...just go try some on and you will understand. 
  • Houston Moms Blog...what an amazing community of friends I am so blessed to be a part of!  Be sure and check out our post tomorrow about everything we are thankful for. 
  • My little bloggy community...I talk about all of you as if we are real life friends that I've met.  I love "seeing" you on the blog and instagram everyday even if we are miles away!
  • The Internet...how would I get my Christmas shopping done this year without it (among many other things)
  • Studio Ainsley Photography...several people have mentioned that I may have a problem with professional photo sessions and my son.  My response?  Why yes I do now let's move on. 
  • Stretchy and curvy jeans from Loft...my post pregnancy, busy, lazy (oxymoron) body is thankful for you. 
  • Instagram...my current social media obsession and how I've survived nursing.  Follow me @ChelseaPurifoy
What are you also thankful for this year? 
     

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Weekend Recap

Hope you had a great weekend, survived Monday and are ready for Thanksgiving!

Friday

After work, Jason, Jack and I attended my step-brother's gun store opening.  Nothing like a baby being surrounded by a wall of guns.  We are some good parents I tell ya!  He was pooped after the party, but alert enough to try his first vegetable, an avocado.  Success!  He couldn't get enough.  Just like his mama. 


Look at those cowboy boots!



Saturday

Pretty lazy Saturday.   We all slept in too long so I missed my morning workout.  I did manage to fit in a hair cut, trip to Target, Mimi visit and getting out all of the Christmas decorations.  We didn't finish decorating because someone wouldn't sleep.  We tried the cry it out method, but that didn't last very long.  We are wusses and still trying to find the perfect method for getting the little guy down.  I hope he isn't a night owl like me, but after nine months of being in my night owl stomach, I wouldn't be surprised.   

Jack rocking his new Gap Christmas PJ's (and not sleeping)!

Sunday

We attended church on Sunday and attended a meeting afterwards about the Christmas Pageant...we are supplying the Baby Jesus!  Afterwards we took my mom and stepdad to lunch for his birthday.  Jack was such a good boy during the entire meal and sat in a restaurant highchair for the first time (loved using the Itzy Ritzy highchair cover and Tiny Diner). 

We ended the day doing more decorating, {trying} to watch the American Music Awards and hanging out with my sister-in-law.  I guess Jack was too excited to see his AJ (Aunt Jeanna) and didn't want to sleep...again!

I'm happy to report that Jack went down great on Monday night after we made a few modifications to his bedtime routine...here's hoping we have a repeat tonight!

Friday, November 22, 2013

Five on Friday

Very random Five on Friday edition today!  Hope you have a great weekend (and if you are in Houston, be careful in this weather). 

--ONE--

Yesterday was a doozie.  I got about 3 hours total of sleep (thanks Jack).  We ran out of coffee filters, Our pool guy blocked me in so I was late to work...then he ran through our yard with his truck.  Our cable, electricity and Internet all went down.  I could only pump 1/3 of what I usually pump (tmi)? 

But even crappy days like yesterday, I still get to come home to this face and all is okay!

Jack playing with his new Pottery Barn Kids Farm Plush Blocks from Adrienne!

--TWO--

Thank you to everyone who linked up yesterday to show us "What's in your bag."  Ashley and I are so appreciative and loved seeing everyone's must-haves.  Go check it out now!


 

--THREE--

Parenthood is the best show ever.  I dare you to make it through an episode without crying.  {I was watching it while typing this post}.  Speaking of TV, did you catch the Billy Joel episode of Glee last night?  Love me some Billy Joel!

--FOUR--

I'm doing something this weekend that I've NEVER done in my. entire. life...decorating for Christmas BEFORE Thanksgiving!  I feel a Target run in my future as I'm loving these items for the living room:


Perfect timing to decorate now that Jack's stocking was delivered yesterday to match ours!



--FIVE--

I got some new boots yesterday!  Nothing crazy expensive, just some good basics to have.  I didn't buy any new boots last year so the ones I had were in desperate need to replacing. 

 
Black Boots: Ralph Lauren from DSW - Can't find online, but similar here

Thursday, November 21, 2013

What's In Your Bag?

Ashley and I are so excited to share what's in our bags with you today!
 
I opted to show you what's in my diaper bag as I often use it for my purse so I'm not constantly switching bags.  This is why it was so important for me to find a diaper bag that looked like a purse and didn't scream MOMMY.  I didn't want to run out the door to a work meeting with a bright, floral backpack.  It's hard enough being taken seriously sometimes in the male dominated industry I'm in.  I don't need cutesy things drawing attention to my gender!
 
 
Bag Details: Burberry Diaper Tote Bag

I love this bag for so many reasons.  I love that it doesn't scream diaper bag!  The material is nylon so it is all wipeable and easy to clean, but the straps, and bottom are durable, real leather.  I use the two shoulder straps, but that bag also comes with a detachable long cross-body strap.  It comes with a removable changing mat and has lots of compartments to be organized including 2 great side compartments. 

I was very adamant about finding a tote because I love that you have easy access to grab anything out of the bag without worrying about flaps, zippers and clasps (although there is a zipper on this bag if you want).  I'm used to carrying this bag as my purse so I knew I would love this style.



For Mommy:



For Baby:
 
Now it's your turn! 
1.  Write a post showing us what's in your bag...purse, diaper, makeup bag: anything!
2.  Grab a button (below) and link back to both of our blogs
3.  Add your blog to the list below
4.  Visit everyone's post and leave comments to make new friends
5.  Join the conversation on Twitter and Instaqram using #whatsinyourbag
 
Link Up
 

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Wednesday Wishlist: Workout Gear

HomeofMalones
 
In honor of me getting my post baby body back on track {this morning at 5:30 a.m. to be exact @ Pure Barre}, I'm wishing for new workout gear today. 
 
 
Top Row:
  • Forme Jacket - Great jacket to wear over your workout tanks.  Mama has to hide those post-pregnancy rolls when out in public!  I love the long arms, cuffins and lots of stretch. 
  • Ta Ta TamerII - I've never needed a "high support" bra until now since I'm nursing.  Much needed. 
  • Wunder Under Crop - If you have never worn Lululemon, this is a great item to start with.  They feel amazing and hold you in.  I wear these all the time around the house..even when not working out. 
Middle Row: 
  • Modern Racerback - these tanks are awesome.  I own several and love how long they are.  You will never worry about your shirt coming up when doing different yoga poses
  • Bang Buster Headband - I haven't tried this headband yet, but have heard awesome things
  • No Limits Tank - these tanks are super comfy and very forgiving
Bottom Row:
  • Heart Opener Tank - this tank looks cute and would be easy to nurse in post workout
  • Studio Starre Sock - perfect sock for barre method classes!  I love that when you fold them over they say "Feel the Burn" and "Nice Shaking".  Perfect stocking stuffer Jason!
  • Pure Balance Sweater - A comfy item to throw on before and after the gym
 
What do you like to wear to workout? 
 
P.S.  Come back tomorrow for the What's in Your Bag Link-Up Party!

Tuesday, November 19, 2013

Four Christmases

 
 
Check out my post about how I survive our crazy Christmas season over at Houston Moms Blog today!
 
P.S.  Don't tell my husband I posted these pictures of him!  Proof that he never reads my blogs!

Monday, November 18, 2013

Link Up Reminder

Happy Monday everyone!  I hope you had a great weekend.  We didn't have much going on, but then ended up being busy and exhausted by Sunday night.  Funny how that works.  I'm super excited that at church yesterday our pastor asked if Jack would play Jesus in this year's Christmas Pageant!  Jesus will just have to be a very big newborn this year. 
 
Don't forget to join me and Ashley on Thursday for the What's in Your Bag link up.  Dump out those purses or diaper bags and show us what's inside {and show us your great bags too}!  We will have the linkup posted on Thursday, November 21 at 7:00 am. CST.  Don't forget to grab the button below for your post.  See you then!
 
Link Up

Friday, November 15, 2013

Five on Friday

Happy Friday everyone!  I hope you have wonderful plans this weekend.  I haven't been feeling great and Jason has tons of homework so it's another low-key weekend for us.  No complaints from me though! 

I'm linking up with Darci and the girls for another round of Five on Friday...


--ONE--
 
This time of year is so fun.  After Halloween I switched the creepy Halloween decor to Thanksgiving decor.  I plan to enjoy those decorations for one more week and then it's time to switch again for Christmas! 

 
Normally I am strongly against decorating for Christmas before Thanksgiving, however this year we aren't hosting Thanksgiving at our home so we've been talking about getting a jumpstart.
 
--TWO--
 
Speaking of Christmas decor, this week I ordered Jack's Christmas stocking from Ballard Designs to match ours.  I can't wait for it to arrive!



--THREE--
 
My sweet friend Lauryn made this super cute sign for me after I fell in love with hers.  Jack has been woken up countless times by people ringing my doorbell...ugh.  I'm so thankful to have this sign (and for Lauryn)!
 
Now I just need to figure out a way to keep Tucker from barking when someone is at the door...



--FOUR--
 
You've read about my obsession with Halloween PJ's.  Now it's time to obsess over Christmas PJ's.  Where have you found your favorites?  Get 'em fast if you have a tiny one.  Sizes under 12 months always seem to go fast.  My faves are the Holiday fleece footed pj's from Gap {on sale now for $22.91}, original $26.95



 
If you aren't into spending your money on PJ's can you at least buy a pack of festive diapers.  I'm a Pampers mom all the way, but I couldn't resist these Elf diapers from Target:

 
I think Huggies makes a Santa diaper also, but I have yet to find them...brilliant marketing ploy to get us to try your brands diaper companies!
 
--FIVE--
 
In case you missed the announcement last week, don't forget to link-up with me and Ashley next Thursday, November 21!

Thursday, November 14, 2013

Favorite Things Under $10 - Winter Edition

I'm linking up today with Andrea and Erika  to share our favorite things under $10.00.  This is a great idea to remind each other that you don't have to spend a fortune this holiday season to give a fabulous gift. 

Just imagine curling up on your favorite chair next to a fire with these items...heaven!



Homegrown Monogram Mug, $8
Cozy Socks, $6.99
ChapStick Hydration Lock, $2.99 - Vanilla Creme
-  Starbucks Holiday Drink {under $5 for a grande} or give a $10 giftcard for a gift!
-  InStyle Magazine {under $5 for 1 magazine in store, or under $20 to give a 1 year subscription}

These items would make stocking stuffers by themselves or all paired together for a great "cozy day" giftset.  Be sure and check out Ashley's favorite things...more things I love that make great gifts under $10.

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Wishlist Wednesday: Splurges

HomeofMalones
I'm linking up today with the girls for Wishist Wednesday! 

Due to a crazy day at work (hello 4 hour meeting), personally (I forgot parts of my breast pump) and at home (hello burst pipe and emergency water shut-off), I'm sorry I can't add more to this post, but I think this bag is fabulous enough to stand alone. 

I am soooooo in love with the color and style of this Tory Tote.  My mom and I are always on the search for the perfect nude bag and this one fits the bill.  We actually saw it in person a few weeks ago and it's stunning.  I didn't even think the price is that bad for a large Tory...right Santa?

Tory Burch Marion Slouchy Tote - Beige

Monday, November 11, 2013

Jack: 6 Months!


 
 
Length:  27.5 inches
Weight:  18 lbs
Head Circumference:  17 inches
Based on measurements from your 6 month checkup on 11/8/13


Milestones this month:
  • Starting solids...right now you are just on rice cereal, but boy do you love it!
  • Sleeping on your tummy sometimes
  • You are not quite sitting up unassisted, but you are getting so much stronger. 
  • Scooting on your butt
  • You learned that kicking your legs in your bouncer and mamaroo makes the toys bounce around so you are a busy guy with those legs
  • Reaching and grabbing for everything.  When you want something you start clenching your fists
  • Much more talking
  • Discovering how funny Tucker is and wanting to grab him
  • First fever after your 6 month shots (this isn't really something to celebrate, but I wanted to document it...I guess it is cause for celebration that you made it 6 months without getting sick).  Knock on wood! 
  • Recognizing people other than mom and dad...like his Mimi {who is now squeals and laughs everytime he sees her}
 


Things you like this month:
  • Mirrors
  • Shrieking...especially during church
  • Music
  • Animals
  • Being outside
  • Your mommy, Nanny Y and Mimi
  • Bath time
  • Watching Tucker
  • Your stuffed animal friends
  • The Exersaucer is your favorite, but you also love the Jumperoo
Things you don't like this month:
  • Afternoon naps
  • Getting lotion applied after your bath...oh the screams!
  • Getting your fingernails cut
Special memories this month:
  • First trip to San Antonio and first time in a hotel
  • Spening the weekend with Mimi and Papi in San Antonio
  • Laughing hysterically with Nonni singing "What does the fox say"
  • First trip to the pumpkin patch
  • Taking holiday family photos
  • Showing you off at my company picnics in Houston and San Antonio
  • Discovering Snuggles the cat at Pops' house
  • Getting more comfortable nursing in public...we are both getting so much better at this!
  • Feeding you rice cereal with a spoon for the first time
  • Screaming and laughing with Mimi while in your exersaucer

Dear Jack,

No way has it been 6 months.  We just brought you home.  Next thing you know we will be planning your first birthday party.  I am so proud of you and love watching your personality develop.  You have the cutest little smirk these days...it's like you know how cute you are!  We have so much fun together and I miss you like crazy when we aren't together.  I've always been a bit of a scrooge during the holidays...until this year!  I can't wait to celebrate this special season with you and create new family traditions for our little family of 3...plus Tuck!  I love you so much Little Jackamus.

Momma

Friday, November 8, 2013

Five on Friday

Happy Friday peeps.  Time for another random Five on Friday.



THE GOOD LIFE BLOG
 
 

--ONE--


Mark your calendars!  Ashley of Newlyweds and Nesting and I are going to host a linkup on Thursday, November 21. We want to see what's in your bag...purse, diaper bag, or make-up bag - we don't care!  Just show us what you can't leave home without!  #whatsinyourbag

--TWO--



It's shot day in our house. While I'm not excited about taking Mr. Jack to get his 6-month shots, I am excited about getting him checked my his doctor and talking to her about starting solids. I love to see how he is growing and (hopefully) learn that he continues to be a healthy little guy. Extra cuddles this weekend are in store!

--THREE--

I have the most informative, wonderful, smart friends! This is yet another example of why I love social media so much. I asked the question yesterday about making baby food at home vs. buying it and the responses I received were overwhelming. Although there were many differing opinions, everyone was so respectful in sharing what worked for them and just truly helpful.


If you are already friends with me on Facebook, check out the thread here. If we aren't friends, but you want to join in on the conversation (or others...I often get these conversations going), feel free to friend me here.

--FOUR--


I did a quick Target run on my lunch break this week and there was SOOOOO much stuff that I wanted to buy.  They also have all of their wrapping paper and other Christmas items out already.  Cute wrapping paper alert, although Hobby Lobby is usually my go-to for Christmas wrapping. 

--FIVE--

 
 I just bought this Reindeer advent calendar from Pottery Barn Kids and I can't wait to put it up.  Check out all of PBK's advent calendars

I'm normally a bah humbug this time of year due to all of the holiday stress, but this year I am so excited!!!  I plan to be low-key about gift giving and focused on enjoying the season.  Last year was our first Christmas in our house and we didn't even pull the Christmas tree out.  I was pregnant, tired and we were going to be out of town for Christmas.  This year for Jack's first Christmas we are going all out!

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Wednesday Wishlist: Jack's Christmas List

Pampers&Pearls
  
I'm linking up again this week with Annie and Morgan for Wednesday Wishlist.
 
Here are some fun items on Jack's Wishlist this year for his very first Christmas!
 
Any other suggestions for an 8 month old?
 
 


Playskool Elefun Busy Ball Popper
Elephant Plush Rocker by Pottery Barn Kids
Pottery Barn Kids Anytime Chair
Stuffed Animal Storage Bag by Boon
Trunk Snack Box by Boon
Radio Flyer Classic Walker Wagon (thank you Annie for the idea)
Kushies Zolo Fuzzi, Lovebug(to replace the one I ruined...oops) and Stacker
Aden & Anais Sleep Bags
Books
& of course clothes with lots and lots of monograms (picture above from Ribbons and RickRack!


Can you tell we like elephants in our house? 
 

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Weekend Recap

I hope everyone had a wonderful, restful weekend!  I was busy, but also took some time to focus on my family.  Read all about how I did that over at Houston Moms Blog



--Friday--

We did what's become our standard Friday night...pizza and relaxing.  "Relaxing" is supposed to be a movie, but Jason usually falls asleep right after giving Jack his bath so I'm left to catchup on my blog, emails {and reality TV}! 

--Saturday--

The three of us had an appointment at Studio Ainsley...it's a secret until Christmas cards go out, but I'm really, really excited!  Then Jack and I rushed off to my company's Houston Family Picnic.  Jason stayed home to work on a school paper.  The weather was gorgeous outside; a perfect day for a picnic.  Jack was a little overwhelmed by all of the people and sounds, but we had a great time.




Since the picnic was close to my dad's house we stopped by on our way home.  Jack was entertained the entire time by my dad's cat Snuggles.  This was Jack's first time to really interact with an animal since Tucker is a little on the antisocial side. 



I had every intention of stopping by the grand opening of The Vintage Pearl in Sugar Land Town Square.  I drove around 5 times looking for a parking spot, but since a wine event was going on it was cray, cray and Jack was fussy so home we went!  Did anyone get to go?  Hopefully I can make it by soon.

Jason made me an awesome dinner...I think he felt bad for making me a single parent most of the weekend and we watched The Purge.  Super intense movie, but good!  If you liked The Strangers, this is the movie for you. 

--Sunday--

Jason was still working on that {stupid} paper so Jack and I went to church in the morning and then picked up lunch from Five Guys.  We stayed at home most of the day taking down Halloween decorations, putting away ALL of the clothes Jack has outgrown {too fast} and doing laundry.  I had my first red-cup of the season and took way too many pictures of Jack in honor of his 6-month birthday!!!  Where does the time go???


Hope you had a great weekend too!  Did you do anything exciting? 

Friday, November 1, 2013

Jack's First Halloween

Here are a few more pictures from Jack's first Halloween!  A lot of the pictures are just of us sitting around waiting for the trick-or-treaters to come.  Our neighborhood Facebook page kept reporting that kids were starting around 5:30 so we waited...and waited...and finally got some around 7pm. 
 
And yes, Jason made a fire even though it was so hot hotside...he said it added to the spookiness.  He loves Halloween.
 






My sweet elephant was so tired from all of the picture taking


Love that little tail!



Mimi got Jack a giant Jellycat Elephant that is just about his size


Tucker the Lion!


My babies

 

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