Maternity Jeans

I must admit maternity clothes have come a long ways since our moms were pregnant with us, so I should be grateful. I finally realized I needed to pick up some maternity jeans last week when even using a rubber band to hold my pants up, they still felt so tight I started feeling faint and ended up sick in the bathroom. I tried on the pair of maternity jeans I had picked up during my previous pregnancy and could not have felt more disgusted. They made my butt and hips look incredibly wide and droopy and were not quite long enough in the inseam (a big pet peeve) no wonder I felt so self conscious during my last pregnancy. That weekend, I took the opportunity to go shopping on my own in search of some kind of maternity jeans that did not make me look like I was wearing high-waters, or a diaper. I'll admit there was a pretty decent selection of maternity jeans that look OK on the shelf. I tried on a few pairs, but quickly grew more and more depressed with my choices. They all had the same problems, they were totally unflattering, all of them were just 1/2 inch or so too short in the inseam, I didn't like the maternity band, or the denim felt more like paper than denim. Finally I decided to try on some of the expensive designer jeans just to compare and see if all maternity jeans had to be this way. Man on man was there a difference! I tried on Citizens, Sevens and Joes and they all looked so cute...and did not scream Pregnant pants! They looked just as cute as jeans should look when you aren't pregnant. I was so excited when I could turn around to check out my rear and see that it still looked like it's supposed to. And did I mention they all have like a 34 inch inseam so length is not a problem, if you need them shortened then having them hemmed to perfection is no big deal. So, after browsing the tops and seeing what a rip off they all were, I decided I would splurge on a nice pair of jeans for my pregnancy. I'm a jeans girl so this felt like a definite must have item. And based on the current fashion, you can get the rest of your tops a stores like forever 21 for cheap since most of the tops there are long and flowy and meant to go with leggings...they make perfect tops for a pregnant woman.

I decided to go with the Joe's Jeans, they looked the best and were on sale. I am loving them and I really enjoy the new secret belly fit, it is so comfortable and does not create seams or lines like my old maternity jeans did. My piece of advice after going through this is to just find the pair of jeans you like the best, try them on a figure out what size you need, then try buying them on ebay if you aren't in a rush, you could save yourself a lot of money or get them on sale through Amazon. I've posted a link below to the same pair I just purchased.

Campaign for Safe Cosmetics

What's going on? That is the question poised on the safe cosmetics website, which includes EWG's Skin Deep Cosmetic Safety Database. You would assume your body lotion or your baby's shampoo would be safe right? Well, now you can find out just how safe many of the cosmetic products you have in your home really are. Go into the Skin Deep: Cosmetic Safety Database and look up some of the products you regularly use in your household.

I randomly searched Jergen's Moisturizing Body wash, which came up with a hazard score of 8 (out of 10) and informs you that ingredients in the product are related to cancer, developmental/reproductive toxicity, allergies and immunotoxicity, Other concerns for ingredients used in this product:
Neurotoxicity, Endocrine disruption, Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive), Miscellaneous, Multiple, additive exposure sources, Irritation (skin, eyes, or lungs), Enhanced skin absorption, Contamination concerns, Occupational hazards, Biochemical or cellular level changes

The report goes on with more in depth information. However, this website is not to freak you and out depress you about all the products we have access to being hazardous to our health, you can use this website to find better products. For another website that lists some links to more great natural cosmetics, click HERE.

The Makeup Face Lift

Sherri Hubner, Education Executive with Bobbi Brown Cosmetics and my best friend's mom shares the secrets of the Bobbie Brown 5 step process called "The Makeup Face Lift".

Bobbi's Five Instant Look Lifters

1. Plump
Layer skincare formulas (a wet, hydrating cream under a rich dense balm) to give skin a plumped-up, cushiony look.


*Hydrating Eye Cream
*Intensive Skin Supplement
*Extra Moisturizing Balm
*Extra Soothing Balm (press into skin over foundation to give a glow to dehydrated skin)
*Extra Face Oil

2. Brighten
Lighten the under-eye area and draw your attention up with a pink or peach toned corrective concealer paired with a yellow toned concealer. Be sure to apply concealer close to the lashes and to the inner corner of the eye as well.

*Tinted Eye Brightener can be worn alone, or used before corrector and concealer if extremely dark under the eye (skip eye cream if needed)
*Suggest Tinted Eye Brightener as an option for your day off, going the gym, or to be worn with Tinted Moisture Balm

Foundation Tips:
• Focus on plumpness and illumination of the skin
• Luminous Moisturizing Foundation (Super-moisturizing with anti-aging benefits. Luminous Moisturizing Foundation is formulated with a natural collagen boosting, skin firming blend of Hexapeptides and Milk Thistle Extract. Instantly moisturizes and keeps skin hydrated all day. Softens fine lines and imperfections. Skin looks and feels refreshed, renewed and beautifully luminous. Buildable formula offers medium-to-full coverage. For Normal to Dry Skins).
• Tinted Moisturizing Balm
• Teach your customer to apply foundation like a lotion or cream, and buff it out with the Foundation Brush
• Use your hands to press foundation into skin
• Put effort into covering spots and concerns

Powder Tips:
• Powder only where needed (usually avoiding the cheeks)
• Powder around the mouth (above the lip) for those who sweat

3. Pop
Dust blush high on the apples of your cheeks

*Use multifunctional colors (Pot Rouge can be worn on cheeks and lips)
*Teach your customer to blend Pot Rouge above and below the cheek bone to give a flushed appearance to the skin
*When using Shimmer Brick, apply to the smoothest part of the skin

4. Define
When lining eyes, extend the liner ever so slightly at the outer corner of the eye. Make sure the liner is thick enough and visible when your eyes are open

*Black Gel Eyeliner (no skin should be showing along lash line)
*Use Eye Shadow to line along and slightly above Gel Eyeliner to blend out a harsh line

Eye Shadow Tips
• Highlight the brow bone (Bone, White)
• Brow bone should be the lightest part of the skin
• If doing a crease color, the height of the shadow should be at the arch of the brow bone
• Non shimmer shades are less intimidating to your "mature" customer

Mascara Tips
• Cream mascara (Everything Mascara) dries matte
• Gel Mascara (No Smudge and Lash Glamour) hold curl
• Sell two mascaras by layering a gel over a cream to get lashes that create an impact (use Everything Mascara as a lash primer)

5. Finish
After applying lipstick and pencil, layer a light shade of light reflecting, high shine lip gloss


*Concentrate lip liner on the outer corners of the mouth to give a fuller appearance
*Brightening Lip Gloss is infused with brightening pearls giving lips a luminous, glowing sheen. The effect immediately brightens and lifts your look

"I've learned that it's not about looking young for your age - it's about looking great for your age."
- Bobbi Brown

Inspired by Chapter 3 in "Living Beauty" by Bobbi Brown.

How to dress Like you Have Money

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You know you're a MOM when....

So what can I say? I'm frazzled in general I guess! I've never felt so stupid, seriously! In the last month I've driven my husbands new car over a curb in a parking lot, now the steering makes a funny noise, I left the laptop on the couch where my 2 year old was able to send it flying to it's doom, I washed and dried my husband's work phone...totally fried....he doesn't know how he's going to be able to work tomarrow since all his contacts were on that, and I almost wrecked his work computer tonight (not telling him!) looking up toddler charts when some virus thing popped up and long story short, the computer would not work until God answered my begging and pleading prayer, which ended finally with "I promise I'll volunteer for AWANA if you make the computer go back to normal!" BINGO...magically the computer went back to normal, when Windows wouldn't even start before... I think that's what motherhood will do to you. When you have kids...if you ever can't find the milk in the fridge, it's probably in the cupboard, your keys are probably still in the front door, your missing purse is on your arm and you have forgotten to put on shoes when you left the house at least once...oh and when your husband comes home and tries to kiss you, suddenly you remember that you forgot to brush your teeth that day! lol....well, at least I managed to shave my legs and throw on some mascara before church today.

(I don't even really know what AWANA is...I just saw a thing about volunteers in the bulletin at a church we visited today.....but, I guess I'm doing it! Considering that I couldn't get windows to work, or get much more than error messages in dos for 10 minutes, it all ended and worked instantly when the word's 'I promis to volunteer for AWANA' left my lips. hmmmm.....)

eHow, My Daughter and I on the Dallas Evening News

Fun Easy Project

I just made this tutu as a birthday gift for a party we are going to in the morning. I didn't want to spend a lot of money, but I also didn't want to just give a cheap toy that would add clutter, then I remembered this eHow article I found called How to Make a Boutique Style Tutu. This took maybe an hour from start to finish and probably cost $5 at the most. I found the spool of tulle in the wedding section at JoAnns Fabric Store. (The last place in the store I looked!) I also just used an elastic headband for the waistband. This was super easy and fun, I'll be making more of these for sure! Save money and give a great gift!
(the wand in the picture was in the $1 bin by the checkout...)

A Few of My Favorite Things...

Well, I had a great month of earnings last month on eHow and decided to spend a little of it on myself guilt free! I had a fun trip to the mall and picked up some summer essentials!

Number 1 item on my summer essentials list is this black Maxi Dress. I found one I LOVE at Old Navy on sale for $15. I got it in a chic black as pictured to the left (from the Old Navy website). However, any color/style of Maxi Dress this summer is a major "DO"!







Next item was the braided-Trim Camis. These are WONDERFUL! The have a slightly loose fit, giving you room to breath, while being slimming at the same time. I can wear my capris that normally give me a muffin top, but this top camoflauges any extra lumps around the middle. YAY. It is also very chic and casual. I've worn this one a lot already. Also at Old Navy. I got mine in black but am thinking of going back for more.



Mix and Match Tankini/Bikini's at Old Navy are another must have. They have an awesome selection of cute affordable swimwear!


Stripped Slub Tank from Forever 21. I picked up a couple of these in different colors. This is the perfect light weight casual tank that you will live in this summer. I'm so exicted about mine! And even more exciting? only $5.50 each!




My other favorite new item this year are my Seven for All Mankind Dojo Short (Capris). These can vary in price and are one of the more spendy items. I found a pair that was slightly damaged on eBay for $40. They are like the ones pictured here (in a slightly darker wash), that are going for $171 on Zappos.

A youthful glow or greasy goop?

Some people use lips gloss on their lips, other's apparently use it on their legs! Check out Gwenyth Paltrow's overly shiney legs. It looks like she oiled them up to go sun bathing. Although it's helpful to look to celeb moms for style and beauty tips, this one is a fashion DON'T.


HOWEVER, it IS okay to dust your body with a shimmery body bronzer to add subtle sheen and definition, giving your legs, arms, shoulders and chest a more youthful glow. My favorite product for this is Bobbie Brown Beach shimmer body powder. I think it comes with a fluffy applicator. I have this myself, however, their Shimmer Brick for Body looks great too.
Visit the Bobbie Brown Website to learn how to create a beautiful, effortless looking Illuminating Bronze Look.

Fake Tan = Hot Mom

Everyone looks better with a tan. I forgot how much of a difference it can make! I pulled out a bottle of self tanner today that I must have bought 2 or 3 years ago because I really don't remember having ever taken the time and effort to apply self tanner since I became a mom 2 years ago. Well, my husband was on a road trip for work and I wanted to look extra good when he came home so I pulled out the tanning lotion. I had to do it during nap time and it was a big pain to have to stand around in my room in my birthday suit for 30-40 minutes careful to not touch anything for fear of staining anything or messing up the tan. I stood and read a book (The "Hug and a Kiss and a Kick in the Pants" book actually). Anyways, Finally it dried and I was very pleased with the results. It was maybe the best application I'd ever done...minus my right ankle and the white spot in the middle of my back that I couldn't reach.

Anyways, when I looked in the mirror with my new tan, I felt like a younger version of myself again. My hair looked lighter and my teeth looked whiter. When my husband got home, he instant commented on how great I looked and he was like, "what did you do? Something is different! Did you get your hair highlighted while I was gone? It looks lighter".

Later that evening we went out to the pool and my husband and daughter played in the water while I lounged. It was so exciting looking down at tan legs rather than being BLINDED BY THE LIGHT!

It was worth the trouble and the stupid looking spot on my ankle. However, I called my sister and apparently she was applying a fake tan at the exact same time that I was (we're in sync like that), however, it only took her 10 minutes and she didn't miss or mess up any spots. Next time I'm going to use what she uses, it's called Loreal Sublime Bronze Airbrush, a tanning spray. She says it dries almost instantly, has a great color and has no smell.

YAY for fake tans!

As for indoor tanning lotion tips, I came across some solutions after the fact:

*Rub lotion around ankles and tops of feet to blend with legs.

*Use a sponge paintbrush, available at any hardware store, to apply self tanner to your back. Look for one that is from two to three inches in size. Wash before use and let it air dry. The brushes with wooden handles are better, as the plastic handles can scratch skin.

Mom Jeans

Funny Mom Jeans Spoof Funny Video! This is a spoof on how some women start wearing those high waisted pants after they get to be a certain age. You know this is true because you see women wearing them all the time.

So how do you find the PERFECT pair of jeans for your body? Well, depends on your body type, however, the muffin top and the bend over to pick-up kid butt crack show seems to be a common problem for most moms as we try to avoid the awful high waisted jeans, but then it's hard to find jeans that aren't too low cut.

The most flattering style is probably a midrise bootcut jean. But with so many stores and so many brands, how do you find the right pair for you? Easy! Here is How To Find the Perfect Jeans for your Body.

Postpartum Thyroiditis

We've all heard of the Baby Blues and Post Partum Depression as well as fatigue, anemia and pain as problems new moms can face. When those symptoms don't clear up by around 3 months, however, one lesser known problem that could be keeping the mother from returning to normal health is called Postpartum Thryroiditis. It is due to inflamation of the thyroid gland cause by anitbodies which work against the thyroid. The antibodies seem to reach their highest concentration around 5-7 months postpartum and can take up to a year to level off. These are some of the symptoms a woman may face as a result:

Common Symptoms of Thyroid Disfunction

Hyperactive (overactive)

• Anxiousness
• Tremousness
• Rapid Heartbeat
• A feeling of warmth
• Difficulty Concentrating
• Muscle weakness
• Weight Loss

Hypoactive (underactive)

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Weight Gain
• Constipation
• Memory Impairment
• Sensitivity to Cold
• Muscle Cramps

After this happens, a woman can eventually level off and go back to normal with or without treatment depending on severity, or they may become permanently hypothyroid after this due to the damage on their thyroid.

Some women who experience fatique or depression 3-6 months after giving birth might really have a thyroid problem. This can improve with simple thyroid treatment, usually taking one pill a day of prescribed thyroid medication if you are hypothryroid. Your dr. can diagnose you through a blood test and physical examination.

Postpartum thyroiditis is a common dissorder which often goes unrecognized. Mainly because women assume these feelings are a normal part of the recovery from childbirth, or they assume they have postpartum depression, but do not report it to their Dr.
Treatment is painless and simple. If you are hypothyroid, even just temporarily after giving birth, you can safely take levothyroxine synthroid while breastfeeding.

If you have or suspect you have a thyroid problem, I would highly suggest (from personal experience) that you see a thyroid specialise. Many dr.'s are not informed about the details of Thyroid problems. If you feel you have anxiety or depression symptoms from it, they will give you an anti depressant, if you can concentrate, you might get ADD medication. A thyroid Dr will know that you need more Thyroid medicine and NOT a generic as they are NOT the same when it comes to Thyroid medicine.

If you didn't seem to bounce back from pregnancy the same as most women do, this may have been the reason. If you had a long slow recovery from your last childbirth and are planning on having more, go to an endocrinologist/Thyroid Dr during your pregnancy.

Just a quick note

I just wanted to make a note about this parenting book I'm reading. My daughter is 2 and all the sudden, my hubby and I had to really figure out how to properly discipline our daughter in a loving and effective way. Anyways, my mother-in-law was visiting and gave me this old book that she had called A Hug and a Kiss and a Kick in the Pants. I'm about 1/3 through it and I just think every parent should have a copy. This isn't my first book on the topic, but so far it's the best. Instead of having a hundred rules of don't this and don't that....you have 3 rules.
No hurting yourself
No hurting others
No hurting things
It also teaches about logical consequences rather than spanking or time out for every infraction. My favorite examples were about a 4-yr old who didn't clean his room in the allotted time. His mom couldn't think of a good consequence and she had warned him there would be a consequence if he didn't do what she asked, but she wasn't prepared to follow through. Then she had an idea, she said "bye, I'm going for ice cream". Her boy said "wait I'm coming with you!" Mom replies "no you're not, you didn't clean your room" so she left him home with dad and went for ice cream. She came home with a quadruple scoop ice cream and ate it in front of him. The next time she asked him to clean his room, he did it in 5 minutes. There were other funny stories too. This book actually makes me laugh a lot!

I've already found the info I've learned from this book so helpful in correcting my daughter's behavior. Honestly, since I started reading it and getting new ideas, I haven't really had any tantrums or issues with my daughter, I'm finding her to be a lot more compliant! And I haven't had turn into the "monster mommy".

Anyways, so this is just a shout out for that book! Look up the book "A Hug and a Kiss and a Kick in the Pants" by Kay Kuzma on Amazon to find a copy.

I have to tell you about one of my nearest and dearest friends. She is not yet a mom, but is a superwomen who I know will become one of those Super Moms. Anyways, aside from her day job (at an engineering firm) she is really an entrepreneur at heart. It must run in the Family as her grandparents run the oldest, most popular drive-in joint back in our high school town. Anyways, She spent quite a bit of time living in Mexico so she could become a fluent speaker. While there, she came in contact with the owner of the Vieri purse factory. The purses are sold in upscale stores in Cancun and Mexico City, not available in the US. However, she has started her own small business through her relationships with the Factory owners. She is the only supplier of these high quality designer bags in the United States. Here is a picture of me with one of her tote bags that doubles as a great alternative to the vinyl whinnie the pooh diaper bag!

I will post a link to her website soon. But if you are interested in finding out more, you can always contact me as I help her out a lot since I have time during the day while she is at the Engineering firm. You can also email moonmadnesspurses@yahoo.com for more info.

BONUS! I'm so excited, she also recently got in contact with the factory that makes BKE jeans that you find at The Buckle! One of my faveorites along with Citizens and Sevens. Those will be sold at a nice discount as well. It's crazy how much they are marked up!

Is your Thyroid Making you Fat?

Could you be suffering from Hypothyroidism? The symptoms are subtle and often mistaken for depression. If left untreated, it can cause anemia, low body temp and heart failure.

I was diagnosed while in high school. I was always cold and lethargic. I was dead tired no matter how much sleep I got and getting out of bed felt impossible at times. I often got detention for having so many tardies and would fall asleep in some of my classes that had teachers that didn't care. My mom was the one who finally suspected low thyroid. We then did the Basal body temp test for about 3 weeks and it was pretty obvious, with my average temperature some where around 96 whereas the average persons resting body temp should be around 98.

Hypothyroidism is a lot more common than people think and it often goes misdiagnosed. The basic blood testing might show someone on the low end, however, if it's within the normal range, most doctors will tell you that you are fine. However, even being on the low end can mean you need treatment.

To determine if you may be gaining weight or just feeling exhausted at all times due to a hypothyroidism, check out the symptoms here!
If you do come back positive for Hypothyroidism, never fear, there are certain things you can do to help you lose weight when you are hypothyroid. Learn more from my article How to Lose Weight when your are Hypothyroid.

And for those who are interested, you can see my article on treating hypothroidism naturally here!

I'm Not a Skinny B!tch

Looking great is not about becoming a waif like the models we see in all the media around us. You can be a hot momma by putting your best face forward....taking a bit of time to look in the mirror and get ready, to make sure you are wearing clothes that flatter your figure, and exercise for health, well-being, and to get a break from your job as a mom/wife! I'm not super skinny, I haven't been "skinny" since before I was 15. I guess I consider myself medium size. Not big, not small....not the size of Montreal (That just came out! Memories from Childhood...I don't even remember the original rhyme).
Anyways, whatever your SIZE is, don't obsess. Be the best you can be, love yourself and tell yourself that you are sexy and attractive. Your attitude and how you feel about yourself radiates and others pick up on it. If you are always thinking negative things about yourself, it will show in your demeanor and others will pick up on it. So put on a smile, enjoy your life and your family and embrace the skin you are in....just remember to exfoliate and moisturize! (and maybe add a little bronzer:)

A Few Fitness Myths

Don't lift weights otherwise you'll get huge arms or too big of muscles. MYTH!
It takes so much work to build that kind of muscle bulk in your arms. Lifting weights can help slim and tone your body and help you burn more fat!

Working out while still nursing will cause your breast milk to go sour and the baby won't like it. MYTH!
Some women think they can't work out after having a baby if they are nursing mothers for fear of spoiling their milk. This isn't true. If your doctor has given you the green light to work out and you feel up to it, then by all means, get some exercise!

You can spot reduce fat. IE-get flat abs from merely doing crunches. MYTH!
In order to get a smaller waist or flat abs, you have to burn fat. This means working up a sweat from doing cardiovascular exercise. Creating a routine combined of cardio and strength training will help reduce overall body fat. You can do all the sit-ups that you want, but without burning off the fat, you'll just have mud on rocks.

No Pain No Gain! MYTH!
We've all heard the saying "no pain no gain" when it comes to fitness but it's just not true. If you are in pain while working out, you are either doing it wrong or have an injury. To make gains in your workout, you may work yourself to the point of fatigue or exhaustion, but remember, muscle fatigue and pain are not the same thing. Pain in the form of soreness a day or two after working out is normal, but pain during your workout is not.

Stylish Moms

When trying to find a style for yourself as a mom that doesn't scream "MOM", look to stylish celeb moms for ideas. Not all celeb moms are model style icons....I don't see myself walking my daughter to school when she's 5 wearing booty shorts like Kate Moss. After looking at a few pictures of each celeb mom, you will start to notice a preference for certain celeb moms, as their style seems to mesh with your own, or is at least something you could see yourself emulating.

Check out PHOTOS of Stylish Moms on the go! Click Here.

Hot Momma's can indulge their chocolate cravings without the guilt!

So I've been trying to eat less junk food lately, but I'm a sucker for anything crunchy or chocolaty. (who isn't!). I've been on a good workout regime, going to Yoga class and working out at Gold's Gym and doing Abs of Steel or Turbo Jam at home, but I haven't wanted to give up my treats! I walked by the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory at the mall the other day and ever since I couldn't shed the craving for chocolate covered almonds, which I LOVE! Well, I kept thinking about it and decided to make my own. Using raw, unsalted almonds and dark chocolate from the baking section, I've recreated one of my favorite treats, but now I consider it "superfood". lol. Maybe the experts wouldn't include it, but after all the articles I've read about superfoods, it is clear to me that raw almonds and dark chocolate are on that list. So, I gave it a try and they turned out great or as Rachel Ray would say "Yum-O!"

Just because you want to try to maintain your figure or even loose a bit of it doesn't mean you have to deprive yourself completely. I consider this a healthy snack...as long as I don't eat too many at once. Check out my recipe and enjoy!

A Smokin' Pregnancy

Being a hot mama doesn't mean you have to have a flat stomach (although it doesn't mean we all want one anyway!) Even when you're stomach is the size of 3 watermelons during pregnancy you can still look great. To look great and feel attractive during pregnancy, buy a few maternity clothes. It's tempting to just wear our husband's baggy shirts and that's okay when you are lounging around the house needing to be comfortable, but you should invest in at least a few cute maternity clothes for when you do leave the house, or just even when you want to look nice when your man comes home.
You should shop around for the following items:
Start out with some cute maternity panties. Wearing cute new panties can add a little spring into your step and I'm pretty sure your hubby won't complain! I had a hard time finding any cute undergarments while I was preggo, but here is where you can find a 4-pack of these cute little panties.

Citizens Maternity Jeans will make you look and feel stylish a great. Designer jeans are a little pricey, but well worth the splurge, esspecially if you are planning on having multiple pregnancies. If not, you can re-sell your used Citizens on Craigslist or eBay! Buy you new pair HERE.
This feminine little summer dress looks so comfortable for easy, effortless style on the go. Plus, a dress like this is great post pregnancy too giving you extra room and camouflaging your post-baby belly. I found this dress at a fun webstore called Hot Mama Maternity.


Another MUST HAVE item for pregnancy is a Bella Band. You will be able to wear all your favorite pants a little longer as you can unbutton them and hold them up with the bella band, available in an assortment of colors and they add a stylish layered effect. Get a couple in a few basic colors HERE.


Think about getting at least one nice maternity blouse and then the rest can just be empire waist tops or stretchy long tanks and t-shirts that can be layered. I like this top a lot! Find it HERE.


Now to really feel great and have a beautiful smokin' pregnancy, is to stay healthy and fit in a safe and appropriate way. When I was pregnant, I was broke but I did splurge on a prenatal yoga DVD and it was so worth it. Doing Yoga during pregnancy energizes you, aids digestion and helps relieve back pressure and physical and emotional stressed caused by pregnancy. When doing Yoga during pregnancy you have to be very careful as some exercises are dangerous during pregnancy, which is why it is safer to just buy a DVD specifically for Prenatal Yoga. I enjoyed this DVD by Gaiam.

Easy Weight Loss Tips After Having a Baby

* Breastfeeding burns up to 500 calories a day!
* Drink Green Tea as it helps give your metabolism a boost and is a great antioxidant. The caffeine will also give you the little extra umpf you need as a mom.
* Drink dairy, and if you drink 1% or 2%, switch to fat free milk and instantly cut out calories without changing anything else.
* Hold your baby in front of you rather than on your hip. When you hold your baby on your hip, you tent to push out your stomach muscles, which doesn't help with the pounch factor. Hold your baby in front of you and remember to keep your abs in.
* Eat plenty of whole grains and fiber.
* Drink lots of water. Especially of you are nursing.
* Eat an apple 30 minutes before your next meal to curb your appetite.
* Dance with your baby, or dance around the house while your baby watches from her swing. It will entertain your baby and get your heart rate up.
* Get in on with your man. Once the doctor gives the okay, get all the baby stuff out of the room and get intimate with your man. Being on top is a great way to work your muscles and start getting back in shape. And it's fun and relieves stress...something moms know a lot about!!! (And stress can make it harder to lose weight or even cause you to gain weight.)

Embrace your Face!

Do your make-up, even if it’s a quick job. Even if you are not big on make-up, you can brighten up and freshen your look with some under eye concealer and a swipe of mascara on top eyelashes to look brighter and more awake. I recently discovered Bare Escentuals Mineral Make-up and I will NEVER go without it again. It goes on so light you don’t even feel like you are wearing make-up plus it is fast and easy to apply.No special beauty skills required. I apply some powder under and around my eyes and use the warm powder to add a natural looking glow to my face and I instantly look and feel 10 times better! I can literally change my complexion from blah to aw in 1 minute. The powders have been lasting me a long time too and I can honestly say I haven't been more impressed with any other kind of coverage make-up, OH and it also has built in SPF coverage too! Seriously, I can't live without this stuff! I don't understand how it can be so light, yet cover up all my blemishes so perfectly at the same time.
Bare Escentuals Mineral Make-Up starter kit
Bare Escentuals Bare Minerals Starter kit (Medium)
Bare Escentuals Sephora Exclusive Get Started Kit - Fair ($174 VALUE for $60)

It's all in the hair!

Even if you can't attain your ideal body, it's nothing to get too depressed about. Seeing pictures of celebrity moms can either make you feel worse about yourself or inspire you to look your personal best. Some people hang pictures around their house and on the fridge of celebrities with nice bodies for inspiration...however, you might want to consider putting up pictures of you in your prime. It's a more realistic goal to look forward too, since you know you are capable of looking like that again.
Aside for physical fitness and body shape, there are other ways to embrace your beauty and femininity as a mom. Do your hair. Part of what contributes to the dreaded "mom" look is not the size of pants you wear, but they way you cut and style your hair....or if you do anything with it at all! Having your hair look nice can transform your entire look and take your from "tired" looking to "WHOA SEXY MAMA!"
Are you now thinking "but I don't have time to do my hair in the morning, it's a mad rush!" well, all it takes is some preparation at night after the kids are in bed. Check out my article on How to Wake Up With Nice Hair.
Invest in a few good hairstyling tools such as the Ted Gibson Professional Flat Iron or the CHI
I tried an imitation CHI ceramic hair flattener at first, but it didn't really do a great job of getting my hair straight, smooth and silky. After spending FOREVER straightening my wavy, crazy hair with not good results with the imitator, I got online and bought a CHI. It was the best investment ever! Even on days when I wake up in a rush and my hair is kind of frizzy and fro-y, I can quickly smooth it out with my CHI. It heats up incredibly fast too. If I straighten my hair at night and go to bed without a pony-tail, It looks great in the morning when I wake up. I would pretty much tell anyone that a high quality Ceramic hair straightener is essential, even if you have shorter hair.

Celeb Mom Beach Bods

Denise Richards, although I've never been a fan of hers, looks good. She has some curves and looks real and natural.
Courtney Cox looks stunning in a bikini. She looks long, lean and firm and you gotta love the tan! Makes me want to go do some yoga and pilates right now!
Can you believe Jessica Alba had a baby so recently??? She is smokin' in that bikini.
Demi Moore, the cougar. Geeze, she looks almost too good, it kind of pisses me off! haha. This is an example of someone who is obviously blessed with great genetics!
Heather Locklear looking great in a tankini. She looks real too, not too perfect, but still hot.

Make Money so you Can Shop!

When your a busy mom, how can you make some extra cash so you can have some frivolous spending money to pamper yourself with a nice haircut and highlights or a new outfit?
There are plenty of ways to make extra money from home, but what I've found most successful is writing articles on the web for eHow. You can see me on the homepage banner! :)
I tell every mom I meet about eHow because it is so much fun and it actually makes you money! It just requires an investment of time and effort on your part in the beginning.
I was invited among 17 eHow users to the eHow headquarters in Oct 2008 in Santa Monica, Ca. It is such a cool website and they treat their users so well! I learned a lot there about writing better articles and tips for becoming more successful with eHow. While I was there, I made a friend with another stay at home mom who won an award for the highest earnings. She is a super smart gal and you can find her on eHow as Writergig. She wrote a super helpful ebook that will give you all the info you need to get off to a great start and maximize your earning potential! I highly reccommend it!
Click here to view more details

Smokin' Hot Celebrity Moms

I'll never be as skinny as Nichole Richie, but she has great style!
Jennifer Garner comes across as such a natural mother. She's smokin' too!
Heidi Klum is so perfect I hate her! (jk!)
Another celebrity rocking her killer abs post baby.
Well, it's no secret that Angelina Jolie is a hot momma!
I've never been a huge fan of Christina Agulera, but I must say she looks fantastic!

See Mommy Run

Sheryl Crow walks with her son

Ready to get motivated and feel good about yourself? Want to make friends with common interests in walking or running?

Stay fit. Stay healthy. Join other moms in your area to run or walk or to share health, fitness, and everyday living tips. We invite you to join an existing group in your area or start your own.

seeMOMMYrun is a free site to locate or start your own running or walking group in .

Here is how it works:

1. Register
2. Join a group.
3. OR start a group.
4. Communicate with other members.

I've met with moms through this website to have someone to walk and talk with while getting fit. It's SUCH a great resource, especially if you don't have any mom friends yet. This site is a must try. Look for groups in your area or start your own group. The only bad thing about starting your own group is that it can take a while before anyone joins it.
You don't have to be a runner, you can join a walker's group.

If you want to start running, here is a video you might find helpful:

How to Start Running for Beginners

Stubbly Prickly Legs Aren't Smokin'

Do you ever climb into bed at night, snuggle up next to your man and as you graze your leg against him to get his attention, hear him say "Ouch!"? That's not how you wanted to get his attention! Even as we get comfortable with each other and having perfectly smooth legs becomes less of a priority, it's still nice to surprise your love with silky smooth legs that he can caress rather than feel like he's in love with a porcupine. Even though he won't love you less for being a little prickly at times, you might want to check out these tips on How to Shave your Legs Perfectly!
Speaking of hair removal and grooming, one way to put a little spring into your step and really catch your man's attention is to pay some careful attention to grooming and shaping down there. So even if you were home all day, your hair not styled, dressed in scrubs, your house is cluttered with toys, at least you know something is tidy! And at the end of the day, when the kids are fast asleep, you can show it off and strut your stuff. You're husband/partner will totally think you're smokin'. (Just don't tell him you borrowed his beard trimmer! lol)

Another Smokin' Mom to Look Up To

Trista Sutter, famous from the Bachelor and Bachelorette is a poster girl for getting her body back after having her first baby. Check out those flat abs, My daughter is a lot older than that baby and I still have a ways to go! I have to admit, I've had this picture hanging on my fridge for a long time now as inspiration, along with a sample of her diet. This is how she lost her baby weight: How to Loose Baby Weight Like Trista Sutter. I think she is a great example of a mom who got her body back in shape and seemed to do it in a healthy way and is a good model for other moms out there.

Trista Sutters Diet that I saved from my US Weekly magazine:

Trista Sutter’s sample diet menu (2,000 calories daily) While Breastfeeding

Day 1:

Breakfast A bowl of Frosted Mini-Wheats with skim milk.

Snack Sambazon Supergreens Revolution Organic Acai Smoothie; Muscle Milk Light shake.

Lunch Turkey sandwich with light mayo on Oroweat Whole Grain & Flax Bread; handful of Honey Graham Sunchips; an Uncle Eddies Vegan Cookie

Snack French Vanilla Crisp Pria Bar

Dinner Three slices of Amy’s organic Spinach Pizza and a mixed salad

Snack Six Nestle Crunch Dibs

Day 2:

Breakfast Two LifeStream Flax Plus Waffles with 2 tbsp Horizon Organic butter and 2 tbsp syrup.

Snack Chocolate Peanut Crunch Pria Bar.

Lunch Peanut Butter and jelly sandwich on Oroweat bread; Sambazon Original Acai Juice; two Oreos.

Snack Muscle Milk Light snake

Dinner Red beans and rice burrito; spinach salad

Snack Six Dibs

Day 3:

Breakfast Two wholewheat pancakes with Smart Balance spread and syrup.

Snack Mix 1 Tangerine drink.

Lunch Grilled cheese on whole wheat; bowl of tomato soup.

Snack One apple and 2 tbsp peanut butter; Muscle Milk Light shake.

Dinner Grilled Chicken, broccoli and a sweet potato.

Snack A few bites of Ben & Jerry’s Lighten Up ice cream.

I'll admit, I did go to Costco and buy a big box of mini-wheats after reading the interview. I'd count them out and have a bowl for any meal of the day.

Think Your too Busy? Think Again!

Among moms there is a common dilemma...When are we supposed to have time to stay in shape? We're busy taking care of our kids, our home our partner and maybe even a job, there is just not enough hours in the day to do everything we need to do, let alone the things we "should" do, like taking care of ourselves.
Well, next time you are at the playground with your kids, if they are old enough that you can just keep an eye on them while doing this playground workout, you can totally multitask. Check out the video below for the playground workout to trim down, tone your body or at least just keep from losing your body completely. For other easy ways to squueze in exercise while taking care of kids, check out this article: How to Exercise While Taking Care of Kids.

Smokin' Sculpted Abs!!!

WOW. I just saw this pic of Jenny McCarthy and her AMAZING abs. I don't know if that is a realistic goal for me, especially since I'm hoping to get preggers again, but it sure is inspiring. I tried to search and find out if there was any info on her diet and work-out routine, but all I came up with is that she did Weight Watchers after her pregnancy and lost all the weight without exercise. But that was a few years ago now and obviously she does something to get that sculpted.

Here is a really great ab workout that can help whittle your waistline.

Smokin' Momma Begins

What mom out there doesn't want to be considered smokin hot, at least by her husband, friends, family and most importantly, herself? As a mom determined to never wear "mom jeans" or get a "mom haircut" and constantly looking up tips and ways to maintain and embrace some of that beauty from the pre-baby life, I wanted to share the journey with you.
Together, we can vow to NOT LET OURSELVES GO!
This is my first blogging attempt and I think it should be fun :)