Ian's First Brunch

Who has brunch on a Saturday?! We do!!  

Ian and I went to Claire's at the Museum at the Long Beach Museum of Art for my sister's birthday brunch.  Delicious food under cute umbrellas is just what we needed after experiencing an earthquake the night before.

It was such a perfect day to have yummy creme brulee french toast and a cutie (champagne and tangerine) over an oceanfront view.

Next time, I hope to actually visit the exhibits and take a walk down the beach.

Special thanks to John Photography for the pictures of Ian.

<3

Melissa

A Look Back: My Maternity Photoshoot

Yesterday was Nike Air Max Day and if you follow me on Instagram, I commemorated the day by posting one of my maternity shots.  It got me reminiscing about that day of the photoshoot and I thought I'd share it with you :)

Now unlike many maternity shots, I don't have the baby daddy with me.  He was out from the very beginning so I planned it all by myself..but I kept him in mind.  For those of you who know more of the situation, I probably shouldn't have "included" him in this special moment, but for this shoot to be meaningful and symbolic, I had to. For those of you who REALLY know me, you know that I am pretty good at hiding those clues.

I'll open up a bit and give you the inside on to my special day:

First off, the photos were shot in a park where he is from.

 

I am reading the books, Pinocchio (to symbolize him learning to tell the truth)
and Peter Pan (to symbolize him not wanting to grow up) 

 The first pair of shoes that I bought for Ian were boat shoes.

I use to tease the baby daddy on his "fancy" boat shoes 

that he wore to the gym once.

It's also a refection on how I plan on outfitting Ian.

 

I like to work out and the baby daddy and I use to go to the gym together.
I plan on working out with Ian.

He'll give me a work out chasing him around, 

but I'd also want to teach him tennis and basketball. 
How he'll learn to golf and bowl, well...hopefully it's in his genes.

 The baby daddy would wear Air Maxs.

Red and black are his favorite colors.
Mine are gray, red, white, black, and olive green.

These were our "dancing shoes."

I think every maternity photoshoot should have some story to tell. Whether it be shot at a beach you fell in love at or have a theme that matches the lifestyle your baby will be a part of. 

It's a beautiful thing..

no matter what the situation

<3

Melissa

Journey of a Dress

Had to go to the Diane von Furstenberg’s Journey of a Dress exhibit at LACMA 

before it ended in April.

The exhibit showcased DVF's iconic wrap dress in different styles, prints and silhouettes.  Each was labeled with the year it was created. It made every mannequin into a collectible fashion figure.  Oh how I wish to own a few someday..

 

If you haven't checked it out yet, it got extended until May 1st!

Be sure to post a picture on Instagram and hashtag #journeyofadress.

You can get a complimentary photo printed out as a souvenir. 

Best idea ever!

<3

Melissa

Matching in Denim

Denim button down:  Gymboree Thermal long sleeve: Carters Bandana scarf: Gap Baby
Beanie: Wlamart Pants: Disney Shoes: TJ Maxx

Sunglasses: Versace Top: Forever 21 Bralette: Foreign Exchange

Cardigan: Cotton On Tights: old Shoes: Dolce Vita (Nordstrom Rack)

Everyone knew I wanted a son.  While I was pregnant, a lot of people mentioned that they would want me to have a girl because they knew I'd dress her up all cute and probably even match with her.  But who said you can't dress up and match with a boy?  I only had one friend notice that I've been doing this ever since Ian was born. I think I'll keep doing it until he says to stop. lol. For now, I don't care what people think.. it's NOT weird.

<3

Melissa

My Disneyland Survival Kit

I planned on making a "What's in your diaper bag" post but I thought this would be a good way to not only show my everyday must haves when taking Ian out, but also some of my life saving gear when I'm taking him on longer adventures and travels.

As mentioned on my previous post, I over-packed for my first Disneyland trip.  Here's an edited version, which made a total difference in how I felt about leaving my stroller while we went on the attractions.

Backpack. I knew I wanted a Nike one and Zappos.com totally sold me on this one while watching the video.  It's pretty big, but I figure I can use it as a carry on when flying and it'll have plenty of room for Ian's stuff and mine.  I like the separate storage area that can hold his soiled clothes or things I want "hidden"/ not easily accessible.  The small pocket on top is where I put my wallet and phone so I can get to it easily but it's also pretty inconspicuous.

Carrier. Lifesaver when going on adventures.  Ian is very curious and loves people watching so I face him out most of the time.  I chose the Infantino Swift Baby Carrier because it was 1) affordable and 2) easy to put on without anyone's help (I watched the product use video on the Infantino site).  Plus it's comfortable for both me and Ian!

Mini Cooler. Can't leave without one since it keeps breastmilk and his food cold.  I use the bottom storage to hold ice packs.

Knitted Blanket. A family friend knitted this one for Ian.  I like it because I can use it to shield the sun from Ian's face when he's in his stroller and he won't feel claustrophobic.  I like to hope that he can still be able to see a little and not be scared that he's alone.  When it gets cold, I put it on him as a blanket and he looks like a sweet innocent baby..haha.

Here's a closer look at what's inside the backpack:

Water - for me and Ian's formula
Sandals for when it's hot, shoes for when it's cooler
Jacket 
Baseball cap to shield Ian's face from the sun,
Camera - just in case my phone dies.  I wouldn't want to miss photo ops.
Receiving blanket - I mostly use it to put it under Ian's head if I change him on a hard surface
Diaper Bag Insert Organizer - one of my must haves since I knew from the start that I didn't want to buy an actual diaper bag.  The cute ones that don't look like typical diaper bags can cost you $100+ and I think that's totally ridiculous.  I use a Betsy Johnson Weekender Bag (bought at Burlington Coat Factory for $40) and with this insert I think it has more organized storage than any diaper bag out there. And in this case, I can easily switch from bag to bag and not have to worry about forgetting to transfer anything.

I love being organized!

Of course, everything is grouped together 
Diapers, Wipes, Changing Pad
Extra Clothes - I've encountered many diaper explosions and I know there will be lots more.
Bottle & Formula
A couple pacifiers since Ian can be picky and Pacifier Wipes in case he drops them 
Baby Sunscreen - A MUST! Broad spectrum. I use this one by Aveeno  
Baby Lotion -  Ian had eczema so I try to keep him moisturized and put some on his face, arms and legs after each diaper change. 
Hand Sanitizer - A MUST! 
Mama snacks - 'cause sometimes there isn't time to eat a proper meal. I like having granola bars handy until I can get a real meal in.

**not pictured: tissue, a couple paper towel rectangles, plastic bag - all for accidents

Seems like a lot huh?  Having to lug all this around isn't just to fulfill the saying "It's better to be prepared than sorry"...it's just what your baby needs.

Oh and be sure to check out the Baby Care Centers at Disneyland and California Adventure!  They have changing tables, a feeding area with high chairs, a small kitchen, a toddler potty and nursing rooms.  They also have baby essentials for purchase in case you forget any of the above.  Your little one will love the sticker they give before you leave too ;)

Hope this helps you prepare for your magical day at Disneyland!

<3

Melissa

I Promised Him Mickey

I took Ian to Disneyland for the first time yesterday. It wasn't an irritable, fussy baby that made the trip tiring...it was the 90' heat! Yes, I knew I'd be going on the hottest day of the week, but I thought having been born and raised in warm SoCal weather would mean that it wouldn't be that bad.  Ok, it wasn't thaaaat bad but the heat did melt my first ever Dole whip float soon after I took a picture of it.

Aside from the heat, I would say our first visit went really well.  Ian was quiet, curious and well behaved.  His first attraction was the Pinocchio ride and despite having a death grip on my shirt, he didn't cry.  I took him to Mickey's house as promised but we didn't get to meet Mickey.  We saw him in California Adventure but waiting in line for a picture meant Mama would miss her time slot for her Cars fast pass..oops.

We only went for a half day and didn't get to see or do much.  It was my first time there in over 5 years and I just wanted to "scope out" the new stuff.  My future trips will be planned out better so Ian can see and do different things each time he goes.  That way I hope he doesn't get too overwhelmed or tired.  What kid gets tired of Disneyland though?! Maybe it's an excuse for me to not feel so pressured to do too much every time.  Thank God for annual passes.

Speaking of planning, check back this week for my "Disneyland Survival Kit" post.  I over-packed for this trip so I will give you an edited version.

<3

Melissa

Timelaps Photos

Time lapses are a great way to document your growing belly and later on, growing baby.  I used the BabyCenter App throughout my pregnancy and wrote descriptions according to my weekly progress.  Unfortunately my DIY chalkboard didn't turn out right, so I used Photoshop when the board wouldn't go back to black after erasing the chalk.  If I had time, I'd make them all Photoshopped for consistency. 

I tried to stick to the same outfit/color so I would be able to see the differences clearly.  Trying to wear the same outfit 37 times was a challenge.  I had to nix the heels in my 3rd trimester.  My feet got swollen and wouldn't fit most of my shoes.  Luckily it was summertime so I stuck to sandals.

                      

I plan on doing monthly photos of Ian and his sock monkey, Buddy, until his 1st birthday.  Day by day, you don't see much difference but doing time laps photos for his first year will definitely show me how much he's grown.  

Out of convenience and to save time, I just use my cellphone to take these pictures and use a grid app for the type and background.  The hardest part is getting Ian to smile and stay still.

Doing these time laps photos (especially the weekly baby bump ones) is time consuming, but I found that planning helps a lot.  Pick a day and time of the week when you know you'll have time to do it and stick to it.  It will not only ensure accuracy but set a routine for yourself so it doesn't turn into a hassle.  Hang in there 'cause your photos will be worth it.

<3

Melissa

Chasing Waterfalls

This morning some friends and I hiked the Eaton Canyon trail towards the infamous waterfalls.  I jumped on the invite because I've been skipping out on the gym for the past 2 weeks. Waking up at 4:30am (meaning staying up after Ian's feeding) was not a problem if it meant that I'd get a glute and leg work out, hang out with friends and be one with nature.

We first took the trail up the hill for a work out to see the view of LA, then winded down with a brisk hike to one of the falls. I loved walking the shaded paths along the creek.  I didn't even mind doing it with soaked feet after missing a rock a couple times while crossing it.  I especially like hiking there because you see all kinds of people - fit couples, families, friends motivating friends, even random people who come in button down shirts and jeans. Seeing little kids do the hike makes me excited to bring Ian when he's old enough.  I can't wait to see his face when he sees the waterfall for the first time.  I'm sure he'd want to get right in the water.  

 Remember to take time for yourself.
You don't have to feel selfish for taking the time you need 

to think, reflect and dream.

More often than not, it allows you to recollect and refocus.

aaannd...you'll love your little one's smile when you return back home.

<3

Melissa

National Pancake Day 2014

Breakfast is my favorite meal!  From the classics like waffles, biscuits and gravy to the Filipino favorites such as spam, bangus and over easy eggs with rice.  MmMm! My heart's happy just thinking about it! 

Buuut today is National Pancake Day and I had to cook my favorite kind: 

Chocolate Chip with bananas and powdered sugar. 

I hope Ian will love these (and breakfast in general) just as much as I do.

Here's the recipe I used:

• 3 tbsp butter, melted
• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 3.5 tsp baking powder
• 1.5 tbsp granulated sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla
• 1.25 cups milk
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp water
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

I mixed the wet ingredients over the dry until the lumps were gone.  Then I used an ice cream scooper to pour the batter into a pan heated over medium heat.  While cooking about 2 minutes each side, I couldn't help but eat a few semi-sweet chocolate morsels.  15 pancakes later and after taking a shot of my 5 stacker, I finally enjoyed my mid-day nod to the National holiday with a glass of milk ;)

<3

Melissa

Half Birthday Suit

 

Hat: Walmart Sweater: Gap Pants: Walmart Shoes: Old Navy
Toy:  Sophie (gifted)

 I know what you're thinking..."Walmart?" 

I usually only get diapers there but on a rare occasion there are some really affordable stand outs like this beanie for 80 cents (I also got it in black) and these camo pants for $4.

When you're a parent, (single parent in my case) you know that every penny counts.  Ian is pretty big for his age and he seems to grow out of his clothes pretty quickly.  He's only 6 months and he's been wearing 9-12 month clothing since his 5th month.  No shame in sporting Walmart if your little one looks adorable and most importantly..is comfortable in what he's wearing.

<3

Melissa