Britt from Southern Mama + Child: Living on Purpose

Happy Monday!  And happy March!  Here's to hoping March brings some spring time weather right?!  Today is the last day of our guest posts in the series, Living on Purpose.  I'll still be sharing my post though later this week.  But today the sweet Britt, from Southern Mama + Child is here!  Britt has a heart of gold and we had the random chance of meeting last spring when she was in Wilmington!  If you haven't heard of Britt's new site, Southern Mama + Child you are missing out.  She covers everything from decorating your home to feeding your family.  I'm so thankful she is here today to share part of her heart!  Take it away Britt!

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I am so thankful for the opportunity to be here today on Denise's lovely blog sharing a little bit about how I aspire to live everyday with intention and purpose. My name is Britt, and I have a resource blog called Southern Mama+ Child. I try to give the best information about motherhood including guides, real mama stories, inspiring nurseries, mama+child style, recipes, and much more!

Living with intention and purpose is hard for me to do each and every day, but what is important is that I do strive to achieve that each day. One of my biggest lessons in life was becoming a mother and experiencing loss at the same time. I will keep the details light and short, but 3 months after I lost my brother and nephews in a hiking accident I became a mother. I'd say my head was in the clouds for many months after she was born. I was happy, distracted, tired, grieving, and trying to take care of myself and a newborn. Nothing could have prepared me for becoming a mom and nothing could have prepared me for loss. It's what I did after that changed my life completely. Part of me is glad that I was in shock for close to a year, because in many ways it saved me, and I was able to focus on being happy and fulfilling my role as a mother. Many people ask me how I did it, and I really cannot give a true answer. But, what I did do, was live each day fully and find happiness in every small thing I could. Doing just that kept me hopeful. A baby's smile, a load of laundry put away, a fresh cup of coffee in hand, a nice text... the list goes on. I've thrived off of those moments and made them huge positives in my life. Each day is a gift, I know that, more than most people, so I made it a promise to myself to praise happy moments and to praise positivity, because that is what gets me through each and every day.

Three Tips For Staying Positive

1. Do not let other's people's negativity take up too much of my happy life. If my friend, spouse, or family member is having a bad day, I definitely will be there for them, but I try not to let it disrupt my whole day. Too often do I get so involved in others' feelings that it affects my own. When offering advice to someone, I always try to bring up positive things from the negative situation to help turn it around. Leaving them on a positive note can help them feel better sooner.

2. Radiate positivity always. One of my biggest things is to not post negative things on social media and try to keep gossip to myself. No matter how upset or mad I could be at something, social media is just not the place to express those feelings and gossiping to a friend in time of hurt can escalate things in an unnecessary manner. I think people feeding off of positivity over negativity is much more effective to other's and friendships. When I lift others up I inadvertently lift up my own spirits. Plus, this is a great way to be a positive role model for my child. Having my daughter see me praising positivity will encourage her to do that as well.

3. Leave some sparkle wherever I go. I always try to encourage others. Saying thank you goes a very long way. Not being on my cell phone in the check out line and asking the person how their day is going is polite and shows appreciation for that person and their job, pushing my chair in at a restaurant, or simply smiling at others when they may not be smiling. These little notions are small, but their impact is huge. I know that when I was struggling in the grocery store with a fussy baby one day that another woman's smile and encouraging words went a loooong way.

The world is not always rainbows and butterflies. I know that. And life can throw us unexpected hurt and pain. No matter how long or short term those hiccups are, there is always a reason and an opportunity to learn from it. I am still learning to live with loss, and my recovery has been a long road, but I couldn't do it without those 3 reminders each day. I know my back story may not be relatable to everyone, but I think every person experiences some type of hiccup in their life and hopefully my story was inspiring.

Thank you again Denise for letting me write here today, I am truly grateful that you let me share my story. And, thank you to those who took the time to read my story! I hope you will come over and visit my blog, Southern Mama+Child :)

Find Britt Here:

SM+C  /  Instagram

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Sheila from The Failte House: Living on Purpose

Happy Friday!  I hope each of you have enjoyed these posts and this series as much as I have.  These women are real and honest and their hearts are pure.  I love reading the different ways each person chooses to live on purpose.  Well, we are wrapping up the series soon.  We've got two more posts for next week, one being mine!  But today we have a special treat - the lovely Sheila from The Failte House Blog and Sheila Sheridan Photography.  Sheila is someone who inspires my core.  Every time we catch up she asks real, bold questions.  I love that in a person.  She is someone who chooses to live her life for Jesus on purpose and she does so fearlessly (or at least it seems that way:)!).  I'll let her do the rest of the talking today I suppose...

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When sweet Denise asked me to write a post on how I plan to Live on Purpose this year, I chuckled.  You see, three years ago Denise wrote a blog post about how she picks one verb each January and focuses on that word throughout the year. I was so inspired by her post, I made this part of my yearly New Year Eve rituals for the past three years.  

My first word was Gratitude – I wanted to learn to live each day with a thankful heart, focusing on the positive and learning to give thanks for the good and bad.  I also started a 1,000 Gift Gratitude Journal, a big thank you to Ann Vonskamp, and try to practice gratitude daily.  My second word was Courage – I wanted to let go of fear and learn to live life without being held back by my own worries.  I learned the best way to overcome fear is by just taking the first step.  It is amazing to see how many fears are left behind after you learn to take one small step forward.

My third, and current, word is joy.  My dream is to become a woman of joy with a content and grateful heart.  I want to wake up every day and make the decision to choose joy, even in challenging situations. And when I face conflict or trials during the day, I want to choose joy.  And when I go to bed a night, I want to look back and see how I tried to choose joy that day.  

Finding the beauty in every situation has not been the easiest, especially during this busy season of work, but I believe I am living on purpose in 2015 by continually striving to choose joy in all situations. It’s wonderful how a joyful, grateful and content heart can help you take an average day, and make it a beautiful day. 

Choose joy with me this year!

Xoxo always,

Sheila

Find Sheila Here:

Blog  /  Photography  /  Instagram

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Sarah from Sarah Tucker Styles: Living on Purpose

The beautiful Sarah Tucker is here today to share how she is Living on Purpose.  Sarah is the first blog I really read and followed and she was definitely the one who inspired me to get into blogging.  I admire so much about Sarah - her humble nature, her natural living tips, her mama way and her style.  I imagine if/when we meet we would sit in a coffee shop and chat for hours about being a mama and wife! And her hubby and my hubby share an alma mater, so that's fun!  She is the true definition of class and her tiny, handsome little Tuck?  I die.  So stinkin' cute.  OK I'll stop rambling and let Sarah take it away...

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“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” - Howard Thurman

I quit my job last November, which was something that at times made me come alive.  But it was overwhelming me in this season of my life.  There are so many working mother's that amaze me - they do it with such grace.  I realized I wasn't one of them.  I was frazzled and struggling at balancing any of it.  So for this season, I decided to take a break.  If a break is such a thing with small children (; ... This season is short.   Just typing that makes me want to hold onto it but I know it's like sand slipping through the cracks of my hands.  Which makes me a bit weepy to be honest.   I am a mom to a just turned two year old little wild man nicknamed Tuck, and in two months I'll welcome his brother, Wesley, into this world.  Being with him day in and day out is a hard thing but the best thing for me right now.  Sometimes I am not very good at it.  I'm still his mom, his world, and so he doesn't seem to mind.  Thank God for the grace children are easy to give.  Something that worries me as I've transitioned into full time stay at home mama is that I'll lose myself.  I'll get so caught up with my children that I'll forget all of the things that made me come alive, the dreams God has placed in my heart from before I was born.  Truthfully, I've already fallen down that rabbit hole a bit!  I think that's a pool we mother's can't help but dip our toes into.  These babies, they are our world, aren't they?  So I think part of living on purpose in this season of my life is reminding myself that it is just that - a season. One of the most precious seasons of my life for sure. Which helps me to focus on it, die to myself a bit more than is comfortable, and trust that God (as always) outdoes my plans tenfold into something more beautiful than I could have dreamed up.  But I think it's still important to keep those things that make your heart sing close to you, to never lose them, sure they will evolve possibly into something better - but I want to remember them.  I want my children to see me as their mother who loves them unconditionally, but also one with purpose and passions all her own.  So what makes me come alive/ what fires me up?  Adventures.  The colors of the ocean.  being seaside.  a great conversation with a close friend.  my momma's love for her family.  marriage.  Gods Grace.  gratitude.  veggie gardens.  florals.  being outside.  porches.  walks.  children.  snuggling.  my boys!  helping others.  my family.  camera in hand.  blogging about things that matter vs just stuff.  early mornings.  good books.  good food.  organic everything.  .... And so I hope, once this season is done, and my babies are in elementary that whatever I do involves those things to some extent.  I hope I add a few more.  I know my children will teach me more than any school or any job - I just have to pay attention.  Some days I will fall short, some days it will be hard to see the beauty through the stains on my t-shirt, my ratty hair, my dark circles looking back at me in the mirror.  But I hope I look at my children with wonder and wide eyes, am grateful for this time together, give myself some Grace when I think I've fallen short and share what makes me come alive with my boys.  

Find Sarah Here:

Blog  /  Instagram

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Nicole from Simply Mama: Living on Purpose

YAY YAY YAY! Happy Friday! Today you get the pleasure of hearing from one of my sweet friends, Nicole. Nicole blogs over at Simply Mama and I love her recipe posts and following along on her journey as a mama to the most handsome Jake. Nicole and I have a blate planned this year we just haven't nailed down a date, time or place. Details! But we will. I can promise you that. Nicole was a savior in my early mama days when I would send her novels at 3 am while nursing and she would kindly respond and answer all of my mumbo jumbo questions. She's the best. So give her some love...

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Hi there friends, I'm Nicole from Simply Mama!  I honestly don't know where to start on this topic of living with purpose.  It seems to have taken on a whole new meaning for me in 2015, in more ways than one.  I finally took the leap and ::gasp:: started my own photography business, a task that has been a blessing and a curse of chaos all at the same time.  I've spent years learning my camera, teaching myself little tricks and taking endless pictures, but it never quite felt right to start a business.  Or rather, I never felt quite right.  Like I wasn't good enough.   Like I was going to be diving into a pool of super creative, gifted people and just couldn't keep up.  Courage was what I  needed.  And courage was what the Lord gave me.  Endless nights of sleep, endless mornings of staring at the ceiling asking for guidance, for strength, for the ability to put away my self-doubt.  I woke up one more in January and said, today.  And that was it.  Simply You Photography was born.

And with it brings new challenges.  Challenges of balance.  Of finding the time to create my craft while still having a full-time job, a husband, an ever-needy dog and of course, a toddler!  I don't have this down.  I doubt I ever will.  The days are too short, but the trail of life is getting shorter.  So I'm teaching myself to ignore the mess.  To keep to my list of accomplishing three things a day.  Just three.  The rest can wait.  There are towers to be built.  There are airplanes to watch.  And there are moments in life when sitting on the couch next to someone you love is really what you need to be doing.

Living on purpose simply means making the choice to do what fills your stomach with that unstoppable joy.  For me that means creating moments with my camera, blowing raspberries, watching my son chase my husband around until they're both in a fit of giggles and spending every day doing something I love - whether that's my day job, my night job, my mama job or indulging a Hart of Dixie marathon.  Hey, a girl's got her guilty pleasures :)

Find Nicole Here:

Blog  /  Instagram  /  Photography

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Business Feature! Cara from Sugar by the Sea

Today I am super excited to introduce you to one of my dear friends, Cara.  She recently started her business, Sugar by the Sea, a licensed in-home bakery, that produces delectable treats that almost look to gorgeous to eat!  Cara's talent is undeniable and working with her is such a pleasure.  My mom recently placed an order for Super Bowl and as always, Cara didn't disappoint.  She does everything from birthday parties and weddings to baptisms and graduation celebrations.  She is located in Leland but serves the entire surrounding area including Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach.  If you are in need of a delicious treat for a special occassion or just because she's so good, she is your gal!  So here y'all go, get to know the sweet baker behind Sugar by the Sea, and check out some of her AMAZING orders from Valentine's Day!

Tell about your blog/business in a few sentences.

I am a self-taught baker and cake designer and have been baking and decorating cakes since 2007 when I decided, spontaneously, to bake and decorate a mermaid cupcake cake for my sister’s birthday. I was in college at the time getting a degree in studio art and it seemed like a good idea to experiment with cake! I am so glad that I did. I love making cakes for people to enjoy esthetically as well as tasting delicious! I love thinking about the joy people will get, not just out of the cake, but out of the event itself—whether it’s a birthday, bachelorette party, or wedding!

Where do you see yourself/your business in 5 years?

In 5 years I would love to have a cake studio space to work and meet with potential clients that is TF (toddler free!). It would be amazing to not destroy my personal kitchen every day as well! In the short-term I am working on converting a room in my house to my office/cake display room and I’m super excited to have this new creative space to plan, draw and design cakes in!

What's a personal trial you had to overcome?

A personal trial I had to overcome was really, truly believing in myself. For years people told me “You need to open a cake business!! Why haven’t you?” and I had a million and one excuses. I really started examining this this past year and wondering what I was so scared of. I finally realized I was terrified of not being “perfect”, I was so scared to make a mistake that I never even tried. It has been the most amazing thing for me to realize that we are not called to be perfect, because no one is. Everyone that is really good at something once started out as a complete beginner. I tell myself this when I get scared to try something new, which after starting this business is almost daily!

Who or what inspires you?

My inspiration for everything comes from my faith in Jesus Christ. I feel his presence and know that he gave me my passions and gifts for a reason. To live in fear of failure is, in essence, to disrespect the gifts he has given me. I trust him above all so I chase my dreams with full force, with Jesus I have nothing to fear! I want to be able to stand before God and say wholeheartedly that I have used everything he has given me to the best of my ability. How liberating it is to realize this. As a 27 year old woman I feel like I am finally starting to push fear aside and trust God.  I also get lots of inspiration from my sweet family- my daughter and husband who are everything to me! Lastly, I am so inspired in this beautiful place that I get to call home - the coast. I love everything about Coastal North Carolina. The ocean feels like a very part of me, hence my logo the mermaid (holding a yummy cupcake of course!!)  

Share one of your favorite pictures and tell why it's your favorite.

This is one of my favorite pictures. My daughter was only a week old and I was so exhausted, but so happy! Despite being the heaviest and probably sorest I’ve ever been, I felt really beautiful. My husband took the picture and it was probably about 1 in the morning; everything about this picture makes me happy because I remember the moment exactly. I was so proud of this perfect little beautiful creature! We would just stay awake staring and marveling at her (we still do this...does it ever stop?!).

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Are you in love yet?  With her talent and her heart?!?!  Thank you Cara for sharing today.  Be sure and head over to Sugar by the Sea's Facebook Page and "like" it so you can see more of her amazing work and get any updates.  Also, feel free to email Cara with any questions at sugarbythesea1 [at] gmail.com

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Linh from A Beautiful RAWR: Living on Purpose

Happy Monday!  I'm excited to continue with our Living on Purpose series as I introduce a dear friend of mine, Linh, from A Beautiful RAWR.  Linh is a loving mama and wife and just launched her business, which you can check out here!  And!  And!  Lucky us!  Linh is offering all Gratefully Inspired readers 20% off with the code PURPOSE!  Code will run for a week so once you read her heartfelt words, go shop!  Before I spill all the beans I'll let her take over...

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Hi, friends! My name is Linh and I own A Beautiful RAWR, a faith-based online shop catered to creating modest comfortable apparel to inspire, support, inspire, and remind every woman of this simple message:  I can do ALL things through Him who strengthens me" - Phil 4:13. RAWR stands for Real Amazing Woman Representing and we are the modern day SUPERWOMEN of society. We are the mothers, daughters, wives, and sisters of our time.  We represent love, strength, beauty, courage, faith, and grit.

2014 was a year full of highs and lows for our family.  My mother, who was diagnosed with leukemia in 2013, relapsed from her chemotherapy just 6 short months later and this took a heavy toll on our family. Shortly after, I quit my corporate job so I could stay home with Marli AND spend more time with my mother.  Turns out, this would be one of the BEST decisions we made!  Day in and day out, I watched as my mother battled this terrible disease and it was nothing short of amazing to see how strong she was. Her will power and faith in God never wavered.  When others crumbled around her, she reassured them (including me) that there was nothing to fear.  To this very day, she is still fighting the battle and it is truly a remarkable sight to witness the greatness of God’s miracles.

In between hospital visits, caring for Marli, and fulfilling my role as a wife, I did a LOT of praying. I prayed for strength, courage, reassurance, help, and clarity.  I asked God to show me how to be a great role model to Marli, a brave and supportive daughter to my mother, a loving wife to my husband, and above all, a PURPOSEFUL Christian woman.  I wanted to live a more meaningful life through a passionate career where I would be able to give back and make a difference in the world.  And that’s when He allowed me to chase my dreams, open my online shop, and begin living with PURPOSE.

My online shop has one goal – to create a PURPOSEFUL brand to remind amazing women that we can overcome and achieve any obstacle we encounter because we are strong and capable of so much. Whether it’s a personal goal (such as losing weight, starting a family, beating an illness) or a professional one (owning your own business, getting promoted, changing careers), I want you to know that you are A BEAUTIFUL RAWR.

***Visit THE SHOP  today and enjoy 20% off your entire order with the code ‘PURPOSE’ at checkout.  Promo will run for a week!***

A proceed of all sales are donated to LLS (Leukemia & Lymphoma Society) or Pediatric Cancer Research. (Simply notate your preference in the notes/message section at checkout.)

Sales are final and promo ends in one week.

Dream Big. Believe in Yourself. Shine Bright. Never Lose Faith. And Never Give Up. 

Thank you so much for supporting the message behind the brand.

Find Linh Here:

Blog  /  Shop  /  Instagram

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Jess from Float On: Living on Purpose

And now for our second, adorable, sweet guest blogger!  Meet Jess, from Float On.  Jess is a new mama, wife, blogger and just one of the sweetest friends I have met through this blogland.  Can't wait for you to read her post and I know you'll love her just as much as I do!

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Hey, Gratefully Inspired readers! I’m Jess and I blog over at Float On!

I was really excited when Denise asked me to come up with a post about how I’m living on purpose. It’s such a great topic for the new year and something I’ve really been working on since becoming a mama 7 months ago. Now that I have a little one to take care of, on top of everything else that I do, it’s more important more than ever that I live my life intentionally. It’s something that I hope I can instill in my son through my actions. Plus, my one goal for the new year is to be the best version of me that I can, so I really have to step up my game.

Being present in the moment, is really helping me to live my life with more intent. I’m a working from home mama, so not only do I have to take care of the baby and the house, I also have to get work done during the day. It’s a crazy juggling act that I am just now starting to get more of a handle on (kinda). I do my best to make sure that I am focus on each area of my life and give it my all. So, when I’m with baby, I focus on just being with him. No computers. No work. No distractions. I want him to know he has my full attention and it’s really helping me to relish my time with him. Of course, he is my little helper for housework. He loves vacuuming in the Ergo!

On the flip side, when he naps, I focus solely on work. It’s way easier to get work done quickly and efficiently, when I’m not also watching the baby and trying to do laundry. Yeah multi-tasking is great, but I think sometimes its best to focus your all on one area at a time. So far, this situation is working well for me. I’m hoping once the little man is sleeping a bit better I can have a bit more “me” time.

Another area I’m really striving to become more purposefully about is my family’s health and wellness. We’ve always done our best to eat well (organic and wholesome), exercise, and use natural products; but I really want to do more. I’m intentional looking for more natural solutions in all aspects of our lives. We are getting ready to try out essential oils, which I’m really excited about. I’m all about making my own green cleaners. And I look forward to adding lots of great supplements to our diet. Got anymore ideas- throw them at me!

Honestly, despite the lack of me time and sleep, having a baby has really changed me for the better. So cliché, but motherhood is the best thing to happened to me. Not only does my life have a new purpose, but I really am living life with more intent, which is how it should be!

Find Jess Here:

Blog / Instagram

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Brittany from Life of Charmings: Living on Purpose

Ok y'all!  I am so very excited about our first guest post in the Living on Purpose Series!  Today you get the privilege of hearing from Brittany, of Life of Charmings.  Brittany transformed from blog friend turned real life friend last May when we had our first official blate.  We became bloggy friends long before that and share so much!  Our baby girls have the SAME birthday only her darling M was born in 2012 and sweet little G was a 2013 baby.  And and!  We are both preggy with our second bundle and due about a week apart!  So fun, I know!  She's also a health and wellness guru (in my books at least!) and has introduced me to all sorts of fun things, like silver!  Who knew you could use that stuff to make you feel better.  I digress... that's realllllllly not the point of this series so without further ado, I'll let Brittany take over....

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hi friends of the loveliest denise!! my name is brittany, and i have a little blog called life of charmings where i love to document bits of my life... which, much like denise, now mostly revolves around being the mom to a little princess lady, with one more baby on the way this summer!! with my wonderful and supportive husband around, too, of course. ;) so, i'm definitely learning a whole lot in my "adult life" here! ha, but i mean, am i really supposed to be an adult already?!! oh my! i suppose i am!!

so, one thing that i'm learning these days, for sure, is that the older i get and the more i take on in life, the more important it becomes to live every day with purpose and intention. and i won't lie, i'm not that great at it!! but... baby steps, right! my little girl is growing, my unborn is growing, my marriage is still growing, and so am i! and my favorite way to learn and grow is to start with the little things. i really cherish the little things in life. it's totally my nature. so in that respect, i'm learning to take the smallest moments in my days and make something of them. i definitely know now that you have to keep your foundation strong in order to be strong for those around you, so, here are a few ways i'm trying to do just that...

-browsing my iphone as i fall asleep at night? that's the perfect chance for me to get my fill of bible verses and end my day in prayer! i'm a terrible [iiii mean terrible!] morning person, so just like how many people say they love to start the day with their devotional time, i find that i love to end the day on a good note like that! i just have to make a point to do it, before i default to pinterest browsing. but hey! there are some great and beautifully illustrated verses on pinterest, right! ;)

-feeling like i'm in a rut? that's when i make an absolute point to spruce myself up a bit. step awaaaay from the obligations, put on my makeup, and maybe paint my nails! i also love having a bottle of neutrogena micromist spray tan on hand to keep my glow going through the winter. [just try not to inhale it!] and also, thank goodness for a good concealer. if there's one thing that i find totally depressing, it's when your reflection is pasty with purple under-eye circles! nooo thanks!

-not a lot of breaks in my day? this is such a tough one for me! as a stay at home mom, i feel like there's so much that's up to me to figure out in my day from the time i wake up to the time i collapse on the bed [most often my toddler's bed, because honestly, i pass. out. these days!], but at the same time, it's all just working around my little one, too! so, as time goes on, it's always a new challenge to restructure our days and find new balances between getting things done, quality play time, getting out of the house, and just taking moments here and there to stop and put my feet up for thirty minutes. i mean, since i'm currently pregnant and entertaining a toddler [ahem, i'm sure you can relate, denise!!], sometimes i really just have to encourage some major independent play, or throw a couple shows up on the tv so i can just give myself a break! because in my head, i should keep going, going, going, but... let me tell you, the body often says otherwise!

-wondering where my value comes from? wellll, living in a society that encourages us all to find our importance in the world, in titles, in recognition, i often have a really hard time with this! i mean, i believe in my heart of hearts that i am doing exactly what God wants me to be doing as i spend my days preparing a tiny little member of this next generation for the big world around her... but heavens to betsy, wouldn't it be just DANDY if maybe for one day, the ole "office" was abuzz with the news of my big promotion?! if my growing paycheck reflected all the hard work i've been doing right there in numbers, in writing?! maybe the boss walks up and says, "brittany, you did a real bang-up job on the richardson file!! you're getting your bonus early this year!" haha. okay, so, truthfully, i would absolutely perish if i tried to make it in the corporate world, so i think my business fantasies are more of a metaphor or something. but all this to say... no matter what role you take on in life, your importance, worth, recognition, value... it should come from above! the Lord sees my intentions, accomplishments, failures, hopes, and dreams, and at the end of the day, that is such a comfort!

so, anyway!! for me, living on purpose is in the little things each day. the tiny adjustments when i think i might be heading off course. the small moments that i can make something more of! and time out, let's not forget to throw in some good doses of fresh flowers, hot cups of coffee, and sunny afternoon drives, a million breaths of outdoor fresh air, and really, life is good. :) thank you so so much for having me, sweet denise! i love your heart of gold!!

Find Brittany Here:

blog  /  instagram  /  health+wellness site

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Keri from Living in this Season: Making Baby Food!

Y'all I am so excited to introduce one of my newest and most favorite blog friends - Keri from Living in This Season!  She's here to talk about making some baby food - so enjoy!

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Hello! I am so excited to be sharing today and hope to encourage you all. My life is currently filled with lots of lists and preparation as I am expecting baby number 3 at the end of the month! With a 5 year old and 2 year old boys I am now trying to remember all my baby knowledge and prepare for... a little girl! I am still in shock over this as I was convinced we would have all boys but I am extremely excited as well. Blogging is my little corner of my world where I can share my heart, things I am passionate about, struggling with, or just having fun with. At Living In This Season, I hope to encourage others, no matter what the season of life we are in, to live currently in that season.... embracing the moments.   

Thinking of babies and all things baby has made me think about things I want to do differently and things that worked and I want to do again. One thing that worked was making my own baby food. I know, I know I have lost some of you know.... making baby food, who has time for that?! Trust me I thought the same thing. With my oldest son, I did not tackle making my own baby food. The thought of it seemed overwhelming (although honestly looking back what a perfect time to tackle this when I have only one child!)... Then I was given this book when I was pregnant with my 2nd: Cooking Light First Foods.

 

 I have loved this book! It really was helpful and took all the fear out of making your own baby food. There is information on the different stages of baby food, food safety, storing, etc. And bonus: I realized I could use what I already had: blender, ice cube trays, and freezer bags. My tips for making your own baby food: - Don't let it overwhelm you! You do not have to go crazy and make batches and batches of baby food to freeze. In the beginning I would make up maybe a batch of peas and sweet potatoes on a Sunday for the week. But a lot of the time, I would just blend the veggie/fruit we were eating for dinner. - Keep it simple. You do not need to go out and buy a fancy machine... blender works fine. Ice cube trays work perfectly for freezing. Freezer bags work great for storage. If you are going out, I found small glass or plastic containers with kids work to tote the food around in. - Go local. In the summer I would get a lot of our produce from the farmer's market. It was pretty easy using some of this to blend up for baby food. I am really hoping this year to have success with our garden to be able to use some of that for this baby (this is very optimistic thinking because I do NOT have a greenthumb). - Give yourself Grace. Yes, I loved making my own baby food and it ended up working for me... but remember it is not the end of the world if your child eats store bought baby food. My oldest ate it and is fine! So please do not read this and feel bad if you do use store baby food. Or if you try this out and think, this just is not for me, that is okay. Accept the stage you are in and what you want to take on and what you want to set aside. Yes, I love tackling baby food... cloth diapers though, are another story. :) - Make it fun! It can be insanely messy feeding a little one... but relax and enjoy it! Can't you just tell in my son's face his pure excitement (joking he looks a little amused maybe)...

So I encourage my fellow mamas of babies.. maybe you have always wondered about making your own baby food... try it out! Even better, grab a friend who has a child near your child's age, and tackle this new adventure together. With this book and Pinterest at your fingertips there is plenty of help for you to tackle this baby food making. I promise it is way easier than I ever imagined!

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MUST ASK MAMA ROUND 3!

"Before we get started -- make sure to send over your questions to Lynzy at sparklingfootsteps (at) gmail (dot) com ASAP to get them answered next month!

ONE: "We started my son off in an infant seat then we transitioned him to a convertible car seat after he turned one. We kept him rear facing until only after he turned two (as recommended by AAP). While the convertible car seat is is still great for two year olds we were looking for an additional seat and came across the high back booster. Most of the manufacturers guidelines for the high back boosters say they are ok for two year olds (and 30 to 70 (or sometimes 90) pounds). My son falls well within this range but I am still skeptical about high back boosters for a two year old. He has weight on him but the high back boosters are so much less bulky than the convertible seats- I feel like there might not be enough protection in the event of a crash. There are a few high back boosters that come with a five point harness rather than just the belt positioning seats but I just feel like it might not be "enough" What would you do?"

Kilee: "Honestly I think you need to do whatever you feel best about. If your son falls within the range that the seat manufacturer describes, then I would be okay with it. I tend to trust what the car seat guidelines say and go with what I can afford that fits. I typically think that the more expensive car seats or the seats with more features will always try to make you to feel unsafe in any other situation because that is what sells their seats.  But if you feel like he needs added protection then keep him in the convertible seat for a while longer. If anything they are more comfortable!"

Erica: " I also have a two-year-old but she's on the petite side so I haven't reached this dilemma yet... but if your instincts are telling you that the booster might not be as safe in the event of a crash, I'd try to stick with the regular convertible seat for as long as possible. I think the only factor that might influence my decision in that sense is how happy/frustrated your son is in the carseat. If he's whining or screaming, it will distract you while driving (which will obviously put you at a higher risk for an accident). But if he's content enough in the convertible, I'd say just wait it out. :) "

Emily: " I think the bottom line is that it's important to follow your gut as a mother, and that usually your first instinct is the best! I have a new four year old that I still have in the convertible car seat because I just feel as though she has more protection and security, so I guess my advice would be to stick with what you have until you feel sure he's ready for the booster since that's what your gut is telling you to do!"

TWO: "I am expecting my second daughter in July and will be taking a year off work to care for my babies. This is a dream come true but what has me worried is how to transition my 3 year old from a 3 days a week preschool (my current place of employment) to a routine at home with a newborn. How do you fit in everything when caring for two kids under 3 and still be able to shower and have a clean house? Any tips/advice would be greatly appreciated! Thank you, lovely ladies."

Emily: "boy I could go on way too long in answering this one, because having four kiddies in four years has definitely forced me to get organized.haha The best way to condense it would be to stress the importance of lists and schedules! I wake up before any of my kids, or when I'm nursing my youngest in the morning I'll write out a timeline starting with the things that have to happen like meals and nap times, then fill in the spaces things that should happen like chores and errands, and whatever time's left ovr can go to the things that you'd like to happen, like showering and pinterest time.haha"

Erica: "Unfortunately I'm in the same boat as you at the moment so I'm not sure how to answer your question! I have a daughter who just turned two and a son that will be arriving any day now. I can tell you how I've been trying to prepare, though. I've created a room in my house that is childproof and has different montessori-type activities for my two-year-old as well as a place for me to sit and nurse, set the baby down, check my e-mail, etc. This room will be my safe haven when things get chaotic. Other than that, I haven't quite figured out when I'll be cleaning the house, making dinner, taking showers, etc. I guess I'm just going to have to find my rhythm as it comes. My biggest hope is that I can figure out a way to get the two to nap at the same time so that I can have a break! Hah. Sorry I couldn't be more help."

Brittany: "Hi, congratulations on being able to stay home with your children! I don't have any expertise with having two children, but I have a lot of friends with two under age 2 and 3. For me (with just one baby), I take advantage of nap time on days when I need things done around the house or a shower. If I am in need of a shower and it isn't nap time, I usually put her in the exersaucer and give her a few puffs and turn on Daniel Tiger or Angelina Ballerina for 10 minutes while I take a quick shower. Most of the time I just shower at night when she is asleep. As far as getting things done around the house. I usually try to occupy my daughter in the room I am trying to clean with toys or other objects she is interested in. I typically just clean the room she is in while she is playing. Another thing I do is have a dry erase board on my fridge with a few tasks to do each day. This is helpful for my husband for when he is trying to be helpful around the house. My husband is a medical student, so he's not always to help out, but this is the way we communicate what needs to be done without having to ask, and it works for us. Good luck and enjoy every moment! I just know most mama's say the laundry can wait, so try not to stress over it :) "

Kilee: "I could write a few posts about how I run our home, but my best advice would be to feel confident, work out a loose schedule, and be patient. The best way I have found to get things done, keep our house together and be a good mom is to adopt an "I can do it" attitude. I have definitely had my overwhelmed days, but I am confident in myself and my ability to do it all. I am motivated and opptimistic when I wake up everyday because I want to have a good day, I have things to do and I can't let myself get bogged down by a messy house or unhappy kids. We just work together and my kids have learned to expect how things go. My kids expect that I will get ready everyday in the morning and usually that is when they are eating breakfast. Because you have one little one and a baby, I'd recommend doing as much as you can while the baby sleeps but don't stop doing what you need to do just because the kids are up. I get ready with my kids in the bathroom- I shower while the baby lays outside the shower on the floor. I clean while my kids play or they clean with me. I try to follow a simple cleaning schedule where I pick up in the morning and at night and then clean certain areas of the home on each day of the week. Also when my kids were younger we would do the library on Mondays, play group on Wednesdays and a music group on Fridays. Its hard to have a set schedule because you have to be flexible with little ones, but a basic schedule is essential. And last I'd say be patient. With the first year of a new baby, as you know, things change all the time.  You are always in a new phase so you'll have to be really flexible and just keep working at it. Also I guess the last thing is that you need a hobby. You need a hobby to work on after the kids are in bed or before they are up or during naps. A hobby will make you happier and give your brain a break from being a SAHM. You will love it!"

THREE: "Hi Ladies! I'm a stay at home mom to my beautiful 4 1/2 month old baby girl. I am wanting to update my wardrobe but I am at a loss of what I should buy that would work for playtime at home and play dates with friends, running errands, etc? I still want to look stylish and put together but I don't want to buy things that would be impractical or could get ruined by spit up and blow outs ;)"

Veronika: "Though I work outside of the home, I think the key to building a SAHM wardrobe is to focus on pieces that are versatile so you can mix and match a lot of different items together to create different looks. The other thing that’s important is to make sure you have the basics as a foundation for the new pieces you buy. By basics I mean a great pair of jeans, a basic white tee that you love the fit of, a jacket that goes with everything (neutral color), some great flats and sandals. I think you’re looking for clothes you can feel comfortable in but also don’t mind getting down on the floor with your kids. For spring and summer, I love J.Crew’s colorful chino shorts that come in a variety of lengths so you can choose what you feel comfortable in. I also love their vintage v-neck tees because they are so simple and comfortable but can be amped up with a long gold chain necklace.  In terms of clothes not being ruined--- make sure to check tags to make sure items are machine-washable and definitely buy some Honest brand stain spray. That spray has literally gotten blackberry, raspberry and paint stains out of my baby’s clothing (even whites!) and it’s all natural. Another thing that’s important to balances a look are accessories- a great watch, sunglasses, hats (I love fedoras and wide brim hats to protect from the sun) can all make such an impact. I also recommend a cute, cross body purse---it’s so easy to carry while running errands and looks great with any outfit- my favorites are by Tory Burch, Kate Spade and Rebecca Minkoff."

Denise: "I totally hear ya girl!  I am in the same boat with my 8 month old baby girl!  Let me just start off by saying I LOVE TARGET.  I seriously find most of my casual tops there and they have comfy, easy dresses that you can run around in too.  I also love H&M!  I find jeans and shorts there mostly, at great prices (and their baby collection is adoraaaable!).  I love JCrew Outlet!  If you have one close to you, then you lucky dog you!  But if not, you can also shop online."

Emily: "wow that's a huge question! I think the easiest way to accomplish that would be to invest in regular items like jeans and t shirts that A, fit well and B, have fun prints! A print instantly dresses up an outfit so it doesn't look so 'boring mom' if you were to run out for errands without having time to change, but they'll still be comfortable enough and washable enough that you won't feel like you're dressed up for the dishes. Also as much as I like wearing brighter colors especially during warmer weather, I wear dark colors more and more these days with a 4, 2, 1, and 4 month old. they just hide everything!"

Lynzy: "My wardrobe has definitely changed significantly since I had Olivia! Most days I wear comfortable jeans (found some great options at H&M) and a tee with some espadrille canvas shoes (so comfy and more dressed up than sneaks!) In the summer I will mostly live in dresses - so comfy - easy on and off!"

FOUR: "What advice or encouragement can you give for the girl who literally knows nothing about babies (me..) and is considering starting a family. I wrestle with feelings of unpreparedness, embarrassment over lack of knowledge, and anxiety. What prepared you or at least made you feel more comfortable with impending motherhood?"

Lynzy: "Okay so let me first start off by saying....you are never fully prepared for motherhood. ever. There is never a "good" time to start a family because there will always be SOMETHING  -- whether it's "we need more money" or "we want to travel first". I can tell you that having Olivia is hands down the best thing that ever happened to me and my husband. There are definitely days where my patience is tried and I feel like I need a break, but we made this little nugget and she is ours and it is a beautiful thing. I haven't read many books or anything, I just use momma's intuition. It's a real thing ;) "

Emily: "That's tough to condense, but I guess what comes to mind is that everyone will have advice on how you should do things, and they'll always conflict.haha But in the end you just have to do what you feel is right for your babies and trust your own best judgement, because no one knows your babes like you do and no two are the same! I remember how scary being pregnant with and having my first baby was, and really it's not gotten any less scary.haha It's a wild, messy, silly, amazing ride so just make sure you don't spend to much time being sad that he or she never wore that one adorable outfit or that you never took 6 month pictures. It's the little tummy giggles and feeling their little downy fluffy heads that matter the most.haha Your babies will love you unconditionally, and if you have a question there's always google!"

Denise:"If you’re heart is being led to have children then you are as prepared as you need to be.  Honestly!  With that said, there are plenty of books to read during your 9 months of pregnancy and golly day thanks goodness for those million doctor visits you go too because they give you information!  And then, once that little baby lady or baby gent has arrived – their pediatrician will give you tons of information at every appointment.  So truthfully my advice, is that you are ready.  You are ready where you are right now.  You don’t have to have any experience with babies or any knowledge.  You will be scared to death with or without that knowledge but something kicks in when you become a mama called instinct.  Oh and thank goodness for Google J

Veronika: "I think no one is ever truly prepared for deciding to pursue parenthood and it’s a learn-as-you go process because every baby and every family is so different. A lot of the times it’s about trusting your own instincts and also turning to others you trust for support and encouragement. If you already know you want a child but are just nervous about motherhood, I will tell you that though it has many challenges, it is also the most rewarding experience and you may surprise yourself at how it all comes together as you learn and grow with your baby. I did read some books and I did work with children when I was younger, but nothing compares to the experience of having your own child so no matter how much experience you have (or don’t have) you just have to “go with the flow.” I know how difficult that sounds because my own personality is to plan things, but the truth is that you may have a really “easy” baby or a baby with colic (and that’s just one example) and you have to cross that bridge when you get there. The best thing you can do when deciding to become a mother is to be sure that your relationship with your partner is strong and that you can count on your partner to support you and provide the assistance you need with pregnancy and childcare. Having a child can really test even the strongest relationships so making sure that foundation is strong and based on mutual respect, love and trust is crucial."

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