Trying out Aleva Naturals

Have you heard of Aleva Naturals? 

I’m no stranger to the brand. I actually received a massive box of their wipes from my BabiesRUs registry. It honestly helped me get through the first two months of life with baby Ava. A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to try out a few other products from the line.

The line is ideal for moms like me who don't want to use any products which might be an allergen on their children. From the very beginning I knew that I only wanted to use mostly Vegan brands on Ava.

Aleva Naturals is...

• Vegan
• Hypoallergenic
• Paraben Free
• Phenoxyethanol Free
• Toxin Free
• Harsh Chemicals Free

Currently Obsessed: The Face Shop Dr. Belmeur Line

I have a question for you... When your skin is going through a hormonal episode "Do you switch up your skin care?" I do! Recently I was gifted a few items from The Face Shop Dr. Belmeur line to incorporate into my skin care routine. 

I tried various The Face Shop products through my blog in the past. 

But I was wondering who is Dr. Belmeur?

"A premium derma-cosmetic skincare line that uses plant-based ingredients that have similar components to our skin. Dermatologically tested, this line provides gentle skincare and barrier-enhancing solution to common skin problems. The Clarifying collection offers a custom-made formula that helps improve oily and acne-prone skin."

I was given a box which was Combo/Oily Skin. Although I am not Combo/Oily skin daily. I have one week out of the month when my skin goes insane. I tried these products out for a few weeks to test them out. This is a 5 step routine. I chose to do it at night... which is totally hard when your fighting sleep but worth it.

How to take your baby's temperature: Newborn | Six Months | Nine Months

Oh no! 

You suspect your little one is sick. There is nothing more stressful than a sick baby. 

It's even worst because it's not possible for them to tell us what's wrong. 

If it could only be so easy!

The first time Ava Rose was a little feverish, I was instantly paralyzed with worry. Is this serious? Or am I just imagining that she's warmer than normal? After calling Telehealth, they instructed me to take her temperature. Thankfully she was okay but it totally could have been a serious situation.

The day after I googled instructions on "How to take a baby's temperature at multiple months" because I totally wanted to be prepared for my next freak out. 

**Please contact your family doctor for accurate information**

Double Cleansing: Do you need Micellar water?

I wasn’t always a micellar water fan. Back in the day I’d use it but hated how I still felt a light waxy film on my face from it. Or how much it burned my eyes!! 

Well several formulations later...It’s a important part of my double cleanse routine. 

My routine has changed but a lot of the products I wear now are long-lasting and smudge-proof. Cleanser and water doesn’t always get it all off in one shot.

Even when I’m exhausted... I don’t skip steps because at this age I can’t risk pimples. 

Here are some Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water products -
I was recently gifted to take my make up removal techniques to the next level.

New Mom Essentials: Up to 6 months! Was it worth it?

Looking back, I can say I did quite well prepping for Ava. How? By talking to other moms and looking at baby registry must haves. I can admit not EVERYTHING is necessary but some things are essential.

I’m always asked what are my must haves... 

Now that Ava is 7 months I can tell you what made my transition to motherhood smooth.

Diaper Caddy
Why?
I wanted everything at my fingers when diaper changing.
I never wanted to have to leave her on the change table to have to run and get anything.
How did it ease your new mom concerns?
I always knew what my supply was.
I never was out of wipes/diapers/body lotion/diaper cream.
Plus it also helped my husband stay organized as well.
How long did I use it?
This is something that I will continue to use for a WHILE.
As long as Ava is still in diapers.
Would you purchase again?
I'm 50/50 for only one reason. I do feel like if you hit it (walking past it or whatever) with enough force. It will crack and eventually break. But I love how simple it as and cost effective- so I'm torn.

Three beauty products that you need this Spring- Matte Lips- Highlighters-Skin Care

Would you believe me if I told you that I'm getting rid of most of my beauty stash. 

Why?

As a new mom, I want a fresh start.

I was holding on to some products past their shelf life.

Let's be honest A LOT of us are!

I'm excited for my new venture and discovering products again!

*****

With that being said. I have to rebuild- my beauty collection.

Here are three products that you should add to your list this year
because I'm adding more to mine!

MATTE LIPSTICKS

Clarins Joli Rouge Velvet in Guava

First Time Mom Must Haves- Four to Six Months

Oh my! How behind are we?!? I apologize. So much has been going on! I have been in school, working and taking care of the baby. Plus being wife! Can’t forget that one. I legit have no time for anything but that needs to change. This is the update from her being four months to six months old. 

UPDATE:

• She can say dada. 
• She’s been saying that since she was four months old. 
• She loves to roll back-and-forth.
• She’s working on sitting up without any assistance. 
• She’s good at doing it for a few seconds and then she gets excited and wants the clap but doesn’t have any balance to do so. So she ends up falling over. 
• She also loves singing and dancing. 

Hair Care Giveaway: MATRIX + shu uemura - USA and Canadian

Last year, my hair was in it's best condition!
It was strong, long, healthy and so full of body.
Why? 
Those prenatal pills that I took did wonders. After the baby, I maintained a good amount of hair but I did notice that I did have some fall out. Which I'm trying to grow back on my own. I was gifted with some hair care products to try out this winter.

What I'm most excited for:
The shu uemura art of hair Ultimate Reset Collection

Baby: Hospital bag must haves

Say goodbye to the days where everything is provided to you in the hospital. (Some) Hospitals provide you with the bare minimum in terms of amenities. You get a bed, washroom and staff that will assist you with getting your bundle of joy out. But did you know that it was your responsibility to bring things like extra linens and pillows to stay comfortable. I totally did NOT!

Here are a few things that you should not forget to pack in your hospital bag for labour.

Best Sephora Collection Holiday Picks Under $50

A Christmas gift from Sephora is a must. If you're on a budget Sephora collection is an awesome option. I religiously buy their eyeliner, lip glosses and make up brushes. The holiday's is a great way to try out their items. You can get affordable sets which you can gift or keep for yourself! Check out my gift guide to see a few amazing Sephora Collection items under $50.

buybuy BABY: Breast Pumping Essentials

This post is in partnership with buybuy BABY. All opinions here are my own.
Making the decision to incorporate pumping into your daily life is a tricky one. I applaud moms who are exclusive pumpers. Which means that they pump around six-eight times a day. I pump about four times a day (on a good day) and I feel like I am tied to my machine...but I will do anything for my little baby.

If you're a first time mom and interesting in pumping essentials- you have found the right post!

All of these products can be found at buybuy Baby. If you have any questions: One of their staff members can explain each product to you. They can also let you know what would work for your unique lifestyle before you have your baby. You can even put it on your registry!

Quick and Easy Mom Last Minute Gift Guide

As a new mom, when you ask me "What I want for Christmas?" my answer will always be... "Don’t buy me anything! Just get gifts for the baby." Honesty, It’s more important that she’s good. I can always come second or even third. If you have someone in your life who is like me- it might be hard to find a gift for them that would work into their lifestyle. I am sharing three items that will be perfect for any new mom.

HAIR
I got rid of all of my flat irons. Either they were too old or didn't heat up quick enough. Back when I was pregnant I was gifted with a Conair Infiniti pro 3Q styling tool ($109.99 CAN). I seen it at Bed Bath & Beyond. I'm happy to stay that it has totally satisfied my hair needs. I'm currently protective styling with extensions because of the holidays. 

Diono Radian 3 RXT Car Seat

Safety is number one when it comes to choosing a car seat. When I was pregnant, my husband and I always decided that we would get two car seats. One for his car because he will be driving the most. The second car seat would be for my car or a family member (if they were helping out with the baby). 

A few factors go into choosing a car seat.

First thing is
Longevity:
We were looking for something that is going to last a long time. We have a very tall baby- so anything that is going to honestly take her from infant to onwards is ideal.

Design:
There are some awesome designs out there but wanted something that was black and sleek.

Safe:

This is number one! We wanted something that is sturdy and long lasting. Also because she’s so tiny right now- she needs comfort but style.

I was lucky that I was able to try the new Diono radian 3 RXT ($399.99 CAN).

Five Tips to consider when visiting a new baby

Around this time is when germs are around the most. People are battling colds, flus, fevers and God knows what else. There is a lot to consider before you make the trip out to see your good friend or family member.  Here are five tips to consider when visiting a new baby.

If u have a tickle in your throat.. Don't come

I don’t even care if it’s allergies... Don’t come. If it’s going to make you have to explain yourself to the mother/father- it totally isn’t worth it. What if that tickle isn’t from allergies and it's actually the beginning of a cold. Just reschedule when you feel better.

First Time Mom Must Haves- Third Month

Hello everyone!

We're back with another update. I’m gonna start doing these monthly. 

Hopefully, I can keep up until 12 months!

Ava Rose turned three months on October 23. The most noticeable change is that she loves playing with her hands. From the earlier months, she loved hitting things like toys. Now she’s grabbing them and inspecting them. It's really cute! Also she’s in screaming stage. Which is funny because she only yells when she’s home. Usually when she’s outside she doesn’t really make any noise (AT ALL). Overall, still a very well behaved baby who sleeps through the night.

Meaning that this Toronto mom gets some sleep at night now!

Wooooo!

Now onto the products which have made my 2 -3 month transition easy.

I know how I have shared this on Instagram a while back but baskets are everything! 

I have a basket for everything relevant. 

Basket A is for clothes that are her under shirts, plush toys and bibs. 

Basket B is for her bows, clips and socks. 

Baskets C has her washcloths, burp cloths and more socks!

These can be found at ToysRUs/BabiesRUs.

Postpartum acne is REAL!

I’m not sure how this post will be received but I know there will be one person out there who would/will identify. Let’s talk skin! One thing that isn’t spoken about enough is... Postpartum acne. 

I didn’t even know it was a thing until I researched it.