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Bump Watch 2014: 24 weeks

June 13, 2014, 2:38 am
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I survived my second week of commuting to and from Edinburgh. It is pretty draining and, I won't lie, I take off my shoes and put my feet up on the train home but it's not soul destroying. We are still nowhere near having an agreed upon name but I guess we have 15 weeks until we figure that out! A lot of the names we'd discussed last time are too popular now, we just don't like any more or just don't work. Searching for baby names online is interesting because I swear so many of them make up the name's origins and meaning!




*How far along?: 24 weeks
*How big is baby?: A cantaloupe. Now I want a wedge of cantaloupe with some salt sprinkled on it. 
*Maternity clothes?: Yes, but this dress is not maternity. This is a Land's End dress my Mom sent me last year but it was a bit big in the bust and body. Massive pregnancy boobs and bump means it fits now though!
*Sleep?: I'm so exhausted from my commute Monday-Wednesday I sleep really well the second half of the week.
*Best moment this week?: My Mom booked her flights to come in September!
*Movement?: Yes; getting movement at other times of the day rather than just at night.
*Food cravings?: Lemons and salts. If I could have margaritas I'd be rocking out.
*Labor signs?: No
*Belly button in or out?: Innie, but much shallower; you can see that my belly button ring isn't actually a belly button piercing but a stomach piercing. What you say? See apparently when I was a baby the upper lip of my belly button got infected and was cauterized off except no one told me this until AFTER I got my belly button pierced and discovered it's really just a dermal stomach piercing. Luckily my stomach isn't flat and you can't really tell.
*What I miss: Antihistamines. I have some allergy medicine from the GP but it really isn't as good as the real stuff. I think just the tail end of my chest infection and my allergies combined are not fun.
*What I'm looking forward to: We leave for France on Wednesday!
*Milestone: First bebe inconvenience. NotBlondeHusband ordered Still Game tickets last year and they arrived today---for bebe #2's birthday. Guess he won't be making that show. 

If you like to compare/contrast here is Blondie Boy's 24 week update & bump pic.


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Wiggle your legs for Legs Eleven

June 16, 2014, 3:23 am
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Costa Bingo are celebrating the famous bingo calls, like Legs Eleven, with a series of videos on YouTube. Bingo is a bit of a foreign thing to me if I'm honest and I only ever played Bingo at a Memorial Day or Labour Day festival in my small town as a kid and there were never any crazy rhyming calls! I had no clue that bingo in the UK had a language of its own with famous bingo calls.


 
The video has been published as part of a series of video postings by the brand as they aim to put all 90 bingo calls into video form. Who knew there were 90 calls?!? I might have to take the plunge and try bingo in the UK as I imagine it is a bit more exciting and interesting then what I played as an 8 year old kid in Ohio!

You can learn more about the bingo calls video project at Costa Bingo. 


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What I Wore Wednesday: Meet Big Fashionista

June 17, 2014, 4:00 pm
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As you are reading this we are on our way to France--hooray! I've been so looking forward to a vacation and so happy to be back with Eurocamp again. Of course in the run up to all of this Blondie Boy has been sick (he's finally perked back up!) so the fabulous Kellie from Big Fashionista has stepped in with a guest post today.

Kellie is not shy, from her bright and bold hair colours to voicing her opinion on controversial topics you can count on her to stand out from the crowd. I'm in love with the look she's shared this week (you know I love skulls!) so I will pass you over to her!

Think of a dress that you own that makes you happy the minute you slip it on. This Hell Bunny dress is mine. A sneaky eBay purchase, I loved the print immediately and had to have it.  I've worn it a couple of times now, it's a dress that I want to wear more but it is very memorable and hard to wear around the same people more than twice.



The dress is sleeveless but I really dislike my arms so I usually wear it with a bolero.

On my feet I either glam the dress up with heels or I've been known to wear it with Converse.

And jewellery? It has to be this.






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Bump Watch 2014: 25 Weeks

June 20, 2014, 3:30 am
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So this past weekend Blondie Boy was really unwell. He had a fever all day (ibuprofen would lower it some but then it'd come right back), cough and was just generally pathetic. Then he wouldn't eat anything and Sunday night we thought he'd broken out in a dark purple/red pinprick rash on his face that wasn't fading. So after a a call to NHS24 we were off to out-of-hours at 2am. Turns out kids can cough so hard they can burst capillaries in their face--who knew? I worked from home with him on Monday and NBH stayed home with him Tuesday by when he'd luckily perked up. 

Wednesday we left the house at 4:30am and flew to France!  I'm so excited to be back with Eurocamp again and can't wait for a week of fun in the sun. This is the first time in 5 years I'll have gone on holiday without visiting a tanning bed first (I only go for 5 minutes when I do to remind my pasty ass what the sun actually is) so hopefully I my skin doesn't go into shock and get burned! So far we've had a lovely 24 hours and Blondie Boy got to see his first fireworks show for the parc's 50th anniversary yesterday.

 
*How far along?: 25 weeks
*How big is baby?: An eggplant or rutabaga. Has anyone actually ever seen a rutabaga?
*Maternity clothes?: Still yes. Can we talk about how the only maternity shorts available in the UK are cootchie cutters? What woman pregnant enough to need maternity shorts wants her arse cheeks hanging out? I'm wearing Adidas shorts shorts with a stretchy waist pulled down under my bump while we are in France.
*Sleep?: I'm sleeping better but I tend to wake up really sore even though I've got a wedge pillow.
*Best moment this week?: I'm typing this out from sunny France while Blondie Boy snoozes and NotBlondeHusband watches the World Cup :)
*Movement?: Yes; bebe likes to move it move it.
*Food cravings?: I was saying to NBH that TGIFriday's mozzarella sticks are vaguely one but also not really because I always enjoy melty cheese (who doesn't?)
*Labor signs?: No
*Belly button in or out?: Innie and there is shall stay.
*What I miss: Am I really supposed to have a different thing to miss every week for 40 weeks?
*What I'm looking forward to: enjoying the rest of our holiday and then my birthday next week
*Milestone: What will probably be our last family vacation as a threesome 

If you like to compare and contrast here is Blondie Boy's 25 week update from 2009.

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Bump Watch 2014: 26 Weeks

June 27, 2014, 1:03 pm
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We've spent the past week in France and are now back in Glasgow. It was an amazing holiday that I'll blog about later but we almost didn't make it home. French air traffic control went on strike (as they do every summer, arseholes) and hundreds of flights were cancelled. Our flight luckily was not but it was over 3+ hours delayed so I spent 6 hours stuck in the world's tiniest airport on my birthday--fun!
Once we got back to Glasgow though we went out to Hard Rock Cafe for a birthday dinner and had a great time. They let Blondie Boy pick songs to be played and he even got a quick tour of the kitchen the lucky boy! Then on Thursday I headed to the physiotherapist to see about my SPD.

I had SPD when I was pregnant with Blondie Boy but not this bad this early. It turns out that the right side of my pelvis had slipped out of place and gotten stuck; that explains why my right leg went numb twice on vacation! So the physiotherapist manipulated my pelvis back into place. It sounds awful but really I had my leg up over her shoulder while I pressed back with my thigh and then she pushed my leg up higher. Sexy right? So that should have popped it back in place and now I have exercises to do to keep it in place in addition to the regular SPD precautions and I'll go back in July. It will probably get worse before better but if it works and keeps me off crutches longer I'm happy!


*How far along?: 26 weeks
*How big is baby?: A head of lettuce. I'm guessing they mean American sized lettuce because I feel like lettuce here is pretty small. Perhaps if they specified variety I'd feel more confident about this choice.
Maternity clothes?: Yes with the exception of my swimsuit. Why do maternity swimsuits have no support and no boob space? I bought one from a nice high street chain and guess what? MY BOOBS BROKE IT. First the plastic on the adjuster part of the halter strap broke. So I tied the halter to make it shorter and guess what happened the next day? The freaking hook that attaches it to the suit snapped. So yea if you want to start up a business make maternity swimwear that can hold 34G+ boobs.
*Sleep?: I'm so happy to be back in my memory foam mattress. I'd wake up with one whole side of my body asleep in France and have to swap to the other until that side went asleep and back again.
*Best moment this week?: Just had a great time swimming and playing on the beach with Blondie Boy and watching him dance his heart out in the mini show on holiday.
*Movement?: Yes especially if you encroach upon their space. I can't fold my arms over my bump without getting kicked.
*Food cravings?: Had super yummy spinach and artichoke dip at Hard Rock for my birthday but again it's more an American thing than a craving I think.
*Labor signs?: No
*Belly button in or out?: Innie
*What I miss: France!
*What I'm looking forward to: Blondie Boy's graduation from pre-school (edited to add we've seen it now and it was the epitome of Montessori and totally random)
*Milestone: I'm in double digits apparently. I wouldn't have known I was under 100 days if I hand't copy/pasted the questions from 2009's post. I also had my first physio therapy appointment as mentioned above.

If you like to compare/contrast here is Blondie Boy's 26 week update from 2009.


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What I Wore Wednesday: Route 66 Tee

July 1, 2014, 4:00 pm
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First apologies for no post last week! We flew back from France last Wednesday and it was also my birthday. We spent a good 6 hours sat in the world's tiniest airport as our flight was delayed due to French air traffic control strikes. You might remember we got stuck in the strikes last year too so needless to say I wasn't happy. When we finally did get home we dumped our bags and went out for a birthday dinner so What I Wore Wednesday was the last thing on my mind!

We are really lucky that both NotBlondeHusband's parents (and their respective partners) help us out with Blondie Boy. Before we went on holiday BB's Grandma took him shopping with her while both of us were at work. He actually is a pretty good shopper (it is in his genes) and while out he picked out an entire outfit all by himself.

When I heard he'd picked out an entire outfit all by himself I wasn't expecting much but the kid can coordinate! It has all of his favourite things and was very holiday appropriate.


Boys Route 66 T Shirt

Route 66 Tee
Yellow Cargo Shorts
Shark Print Beach Shoes
(all Marks and Spencer)

Route 66 Cars Tee

First off how much do I love my kid for being bang on trend with bright yellow shorts? The beach shoes were perfect for the ocean as while Le Brasilia has a sandy beach it is really pebbly right where the tide comes in so it protected his tootsies. It is also way easier to walk on hot sand in beach shoes than flip flops!

Life the Flap tee

You  had to know with Blondie Boy that cars would be involved somehow so it doesn't surprise me that he picked this Route 66 themed t-shirt. What is really cool is it is a lift the flap tee. So there are little surprise designs under flaps scattered around the tee. How cool is that?

He was very proud of his purchases and I think I might have to let him pick out outfits for himself more often! Do you pick out your children's clothes or do you let them style themselves?







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Bump Watch 2014: 27 Weeks

July 4, 2014, 8:00 am
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Nothing too exciting to really recap this week. Although I have found out that Blondie Boy has thought it made sense to share with his teachers and friends that Mommy has a sore pelvis. So that's fun having his teachers ask how I'm feeling when I pick him up! We had two nice-ish days and now it's cold and wet again so no 4th of July BBQ for us today. Blondie Boy also has a cough and a fever even though he says he "feels fine" so nothing crazy for us.

We did get a lovely package from my sister with patriotic stickers, tattoos and sunglasses yesterday just in time for today so we will have some low key celebrations. We'll watch the World Cup and play Trivial Pursuit and hopefully some patriotic baking.

My leg has gone numb three times since Sunday so I called back up the maternity physio since I thought maybe my pelvis popped out of place again. Apparently my leg going numb is "not that worrying" but I beg to differ. I can call them back if my mobility is severely affected. I get they are busy but I'd rather not wait until I literally can't walk but I guess I don't have a choice!


*How far along?: 27 weeks
*How big is baby?: A rutabaga. What is a rutabaga? Has anyone ever eaten one?
*Maternity clothes?: Yes.
*Sleep?: Sleeping mostly okay.
*Best moment this week?: Had super yummy Thai food with NotBlondeHusband on Sunday just the two of us.
*Movement?: Yup. The other night Emma dog randomly came and sat and put her paw on my belly.
*Food cravings?: Hot fudge sundaes.
*Labor signs?: No
*Belly button in or out?: Innie but considering removing my belly bar but then I'll have two holes/scars on my stomach and not like anyone sees my stomach but that's obviously bugging me.
*What I miss: Not feeling like I have to pee 24/7. I've managed to pick up another UTI so I feel like I have to pee really bad; hopefully antibiotics kick in soon.
*What I'm looking forward to: Making fruit pizza for the 4th of July tonight.
*Milestone: None I can think of?

Happy 4th of July!


Like to compare? Here's Blondie Boy's 27 week update.

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What I Wore Wednesday: Summer Pops of Colour

July 8, 2014, 4:01 pm
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I'm a big fan of bright colours and one of my favourite things about summer is being able to wear pops of colour. So I thought this week I'd share my favourite colourful things I am loving so far this summer.



Neon Friendship Bracelets- Bijou Brigitte

I always like to try and get something when we are on vacation and since I'm only rocking maternity clothes these days I knew it would be accessories this trip. I really wanted a set of brightly coloured neon bracelets so I knew what to keep my eye out for when NotBlondeHusband and I had a wee wander in Perpignan. I found these bracelets, which are all connected with one clasp, at Bijou Brigitte (where I got the braided bead bracelet I wore to BritMums last year).

I love the different textures of friendship bracelet- braided thread, leather and metal and especially the bright colours! It brightens up my wrist and makes me smile and really what more can you ask for from an accessory?


Woppin' Watermelon Chubby Stick-Clinique

I try not to get sucked into "freebies" you get with magazines but this one sucked me in and I'm so glad it did! I really struggle to find lip colours that match my complexion but don't look strange to me since I have dark-ish lips. I got this Clinique Chubby Stick for free with Glamour magazine which I only paid £2 for at the store. Clinique's cult chubby sticks retail for £17!  I love that you can layer on as much or as little colour as you like to get a perfect shade that blends into a colour that suits you.

Most pink lip colours look strange to me since I'm used to seeing darker lips but this is absolutely perfect. It is probably a wee bit light to wear outside of the summer months but I don't care and for £2 I will totally get a fair use out of it!




Old Navy Flipflops

When I go home to Ohio I always go to Old Navy. I only wear Old Navy jeans (if you are hourglass get the Sweetheart, they'll change your life) and once every year or so I get new flipflops. First they are ridiculously cheap--I think at most they only ever cost you £2.50 and they come in lots of colours.  I bought light purple and fuchsia this year but have had baby blue, dark purple and green in the past (they are probably in my closet who am I kidding). 

We don't get tons of flip flop weather in Scotland but the very second I can get away with wearing them I do. Also being pregnant my feet aren't the biggest fans of shoes so I will be wearing them whenever it isn't raining. Again the bright colours make me happy and means my feet don't get sore on my commute, too!

What is your favourite way to add pops of colour to your style?





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Bump Watch 2014: 28 Weeks

July 11, 2014, 11:52 am
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So I'm keeping it real with my bump pic this week. I look a hot mess but this is how I look when I work from home whatcha gonna do--at least I put a bra on for y'all. The truth is if I'm working from home I have no make-up, my hair is in some semblance of a bun and I'm in the most comfortable clothing I can find (hence no bra).  It was another gorgeous day in Glasgow so I took my laptop outside and worked al fresco.


It was a downright tropical 73F in Glasgow and I didn't want to miss out. Emma was feeling the sunshine too. She's gotten exponentially more cuddly the more pregnant I get. Either she knows there will be two things terrorizing her soon or she's just mellowing in her old age (she turns 10 next week). She was on my lap outside most of the afternoon until she got to hot and went underneath a beach chair to hide int he shade.

*How far along?: 28 weeks
*How big is baby?: An eggplant or if you're feeling European an Aubergine.
*Maternity clothes?: How many times do I have to say yes? I do have a non-maternity maxi dress on today but I'm bumming around the house working from home.
*Sleep?: I slept pretty well last night but I was exhausted
*Best moment this week?: We let Blondie Boy play hookey yesterday as it was gorgeous and we went to the outdoor swimming pool in Gourock and then strawberry, raspberry and pea picking at East Yonderton farm. Then we rounded it off with a BBQ in the backyard.
*Movement?: Yes and I'm pretty sure there is some sort or appendage stuck in my side.
*Food cravings?: I've really been wanting a slushie but it is a tropical 73 in Glasgow.
*Labor signs?: No but I had my first Braxton Hicks after our adventures yesterday.
*Belly button in or out?: Innie
*What I miss: living in a country that has outdoor pools all over the place
*What I'm looking forward to: World Cup final on Sunday. I'm not the biggest fan but Blondie Boy has really gotten in to it and loves watching with NBH.
*Milestone: I'm in my 3rd trimester now. WTF.
If you like to compare/contrast here is Blondie Boy's 28 week update from 2009.

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What I Wore Wednesday: Manicures and Pedicures

July 15, 2014, 4:01 pm
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Last week I got a text from my Mother in Law saying she'd just read my bump update and that based off my update from 2009 she owed me a pedicure! Not one to turn down a pedi I took her up on her offer and officially made the 28 week pregnancy pedicure a thing!

We went to Revival Retreat on Byres Road in Glasgow where I'd not been before but they have proper spa pedicure thrones (not common here) and we got the works. It was very relaxing and if I'm honest I don't think I can comfortably reach my toes now myself! Obviously y'all know I'm digging on neon this summer so I immediately was drawn to OPI's neon collection. I try to get colours in a salon that I don't have at home so I chose You're So Outta Lime.


Neon Green Pedicure

Ignore my fat pregnant feet (see I told you I like Old Navy flip flops) but isn't it a fun shade of green? I was slightly worried it would look like I have a fungus or something but I think it is bright, fun and super summery!

I asked a few of my fellow Scottish bloggers to share some of their summer manicures so you aren't just starting at my swollen tootsies!  First up is Lori, also known as Glasgow Beauty Blogger, who got this fab hosiery inspired Calgel manicure from Swoon Nails in Glasgow.



Next up I had an amazing selection to choose from since Forever Yours, Betty loves to experiment with nail art but since we'll be getting 250 new emjoiis in the next few weeks (is anyone else excited or is it just me?) I had to go with this Emoji manicure by Nancy Mc in London.

Emoji Nail Art

Finally I'm in love with Amanda's, who blogs at Honey Pop, white and glitter manicure. I'm a sucker for glitter and I love how it's subtle in this reverse French manicure with an added statement nail.

Glitter French Manicure

Which nails are your favourite? Do you tend to go for a traditional one colour manicure or do you like to play around with nail art?




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Bump Watch 2014: 29 Weeks

July 18, 2014, 11:11 am
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striped high low maternity dress

First how fab is that Dr. Murad quote? I'll be living a long ass time! I've just noticed that the dress in the above photo is the same length all the way around--it's a high-low sundress. So the back should be longer than the front but my massive bump just decided to even it all out for me.

I had a midwife and physio appointment this week. The MW appointment was fairly uneventful; she took blood to test my iron and Rh and all the other regular stuff. She said baby is measuring a little bit ahead but doesn't feel fat, rather just a bit long maybe. Since NotBlondeHusband is 6'3" this isn't surprising and I think I remember them saying Blondie Boy felt long, too.  I had to schedule my whopping cough vaccine and then they said they'd bring me back again in 8 weeks. I feel like the MW is seeing me A LOT less than my first pregnancy and I kind of find that strange especially since I thought they see you more in 3rd trimester. Oh well.

Today I went to the physio and discovered that the right side of my pelvis had not only slipped out of place again but now was completely rotated-FUN! So I had it manipulated back in to place again (not fun) and am now the proud owner of a pair of shiny crutches. I'm open to suggestions on how I can dress them up for the next 10 weeks so send in your answer on a postcard (or just comment). I'm also on the look-out for a cute, but comfy backpack if you've seen any.

29 week baby size squash


*How far along?: 29 weeks 
*How big is baby?: Acorn squash
*Maternity clothes?: I had on a pink shirt my mom got when I was pregnant with BB and it was borderline short already. Oy vey.
*Sleep?: I'm not sleeping in, but I'm not up all the time
*Best moment this week?: My pregnancy pampering pedicure courtesy of my MIL
*Movement?: Yes. I've had a foot stuck in my side for the past few days and you can totally see the baby shape shifting underneath my skin/through my shirt. I think I traumatized my friend Steph for life last night.
*Food cravings?: I'm more struggling to find anything I really would like if I'm honest
*Labor signs?: No 
*Belly button in or out?: Innie; my belly button is fairly deep I don't think it will pop out. Popped out belly buttons skieve me out so it better not. 
*What I miss: Sitting, laying or standing comfortably 
*What I'm looking forward to: We're having a 3D/4D scan with Babybond tomorrow! Blondie Boy seemed really excited so hopefully he'll like seeing his sibling.
*Milestone: I have 10 weeks until my c-section.

Like to compare/contrast? Here's Blondie Boy's 29 week update from 2009.


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What I Wore Wednesday: MuradSpace Debenhams Glasgow

July 22, 2014, 4:01 pm
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Last Thursday Steph and I were invited to learn more about the launch of MuradSpace at Debenhams Glasgow.  MuradSpace is a unique retail environment designed by Murad, Inc., America’s most respected modern clinical doctor’s brand synonymous with high performance, science-based products and services. MuradSpace offers Glasgow the opportunity to experience a skin health assessment inspired by the consultations world-renowned dermatologist Dr. Howard Murad gives his patients.


Clients who visit MuradSpace will receive a complimentary Skin Health Assessment featuring YouthCam, a state-of-the-art skin analysis system. YouthCam’s proprietary software is based upon over 40 years of research by Dr. Murad and measures 5 key skin health markers: fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation, redness, inflammation and pores. The end result is a personalised product recommendation that addresses both the customer’s concerns as well as those identified by YouthCam, providing a scientifically-backed path to restoring youthful beauty. 

MuradSpace counters will also carry all of Murad’s 12 solution-based skincare categories, specifically formulated with the Murad recipe of antioxidants, anti-inflammatories and hydrators, to deliver glowing, healthy and hydrated skin. 

I was treated to a pomegranate facial at the event and my skin felt amazing afterwards.


Murad takes a holistic approach to skincare looking at your skin from the inside out and taking diet and emotional health into your skin care, too. I love Dr. Murad's approach and especially love his inspirational quotes! If this one is true I'm going to live a long ass time!



MuradSpace counters carry all of Murad’s 12 solution-based skincare categories, specifically formulated with the Murad recipe of antioxidants, anti-inflammatories and hydrators, to deliver glowing, healthy and hydrated skin. The 12 categories are: Blemish Control; Anti-Aging Blemish Control, Resurgence®, Age Reform®, Environmental Shield®, Redness Therapy®, Bodycare, Murad Man, Age-Proof Suncare, White Brilliance®, Hybrids® and Pore Reform®.





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Bump Watch 2014: 30 Weeks

July 25, 2014, 1:04 pm
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Last week we were lucky enough to visit Babybond for a private pregnancy scan in Glasgow. Babybond 4D bonding scans are the original and most popular in the UK and include a growth report with estimated fetal weight and optional sexing at no extra charge.  All scans are performed by a qualified sonographer with diagnostic obstetric scanning experience and if your baby doesn't cooperate and they can't complete the primary purpose of the scan they may offer you the option of a free rescan appointment. Scans ranges from fast results like the £39 justgender scan to longer appointments which suit all budgets.

We headed to our local babybond clinic in Glasgow (there are 7 clinics in Scotland and over 60 UK wide!) on Saturday with Blondie Boy for a growth scan. For us the main purpose of the scan was for Blondie Boy to get to see the baby as he had not been to any of my hospital scans, since children are not allowed at NHS scans, and to also get a peek at the baby in 3D and see their facial features!

Our sonographer was lovely and really patient with Blondie Boy answering his questions and explaining everything as she went along. We had a 40 minute session where she checked the baby's measurements, sex and saved images for later. According to the measurements the baby has really long legs (like their Dad!) and was measuring two weeks ahead on their femur length! No wonder I feel like I've got feet jammed in my side constantly!

The baby totally has the same chubby cheeks that their brother had and we think from the images they will probably look a lot like Blondie Boy!


29 week baby 3d 4d scan ultrasound

The baby almost always had their hand up over their face but one of the coolest things was that they kept yawning throughout the scan! I'd never heard of a baby yawning on an ultrasound before. We got a CD of all our images, some print-outs and a DVD as well; I've edited it down from it's full length of over 6 minutes to just show a quick example and you'll see a yawn--and the baby's tongue!--right around 15 seconds in.



We had an amazing experience and it was a lot more personal and involved that the typical NHS scan. It was especially lovely for Blondie Boy to see there really was a baby in there and he has told all his friends and teachers at school about it. I'd highly recommend babybond to anyone looking for private pregnancy scans.


30 week baby size

*How far along?: 30 weeks
*How big is baby?: Cucumber (I assume some sort of genetically mutated, antibiotic fed cucumber because cucumbers aren't that big normally)
*Maternity clothes?: Yes; although I've been wearing some XL tank tops in this heat. No bump pic this week because I've be a hot, sweaty mess.
*Sleep?: Yes, but waking up around 5:30 for a bathroom break
*Best moment this week?: The amazing weather we have been having--it is actually like summer. Yes I'm melting in the heat but we've had 4 days in a row of gorgeous sunshine!
*Movement?: Yes and it is really sore. I think my kid might have super strength.
*Food cravings?: No.
*Labor signs?: No
*Belly button in or out?: Innie but I took out my belly bar because it was sore.
*What I miss: Air conditioning.
*What I'm looking forward to: Fancy pants dinner (that I won!) with NBH next Thursday.
*Milestone: 9 weeks left....

If you like to compare/contrast here is Blondie Boy's 30 week update from 2009.


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Eurocamp camping holidays in France

July 28, 2014, 7:33 am
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We were so excited to be going back on another Eurocamp camping holiday in France this year but we knew Blondie Boy would only want to go to one parc: Le Brasilia. He's been talking about going back since our trip last September and he's now talking about when can we go back again!

This year we knew all the amazing amenities Le Brasilia had to offer but not how truly awesome Eurocamp's new Aspect holiday home is. The Aspect is brand new for 2014 and exclusive to Eurocamp. It represents the next generation of holiday home and has been designed to help you make the most of al fresco living, with no compromise on indoor comfort.

The first thing we noticed was its kerb appeal--call me shallow but the Aspect looks really good from the outside. Isn't she pretty?


Aspect holiday home Eurocamp


Pretty and functional; the extra large double decking is covered so if you have a translucent child like I do you can eat breakfast first thing without having to slather him in sunscreen first.  There are two sun loungers and a large wicker effect table with four chairs and four foot stools. Can I just say how amazing it was as a pregnant woman to be able to sit at the table with my feet up? Divine!


Comfortable Sun Loungers

Beautiful Patio Furniture

Did I mention the BBQ? It's a super nice, fancy pants gas BBQ. I think NotBlondeHusband's eyes lit up with glee when he saw it. Not that there is anything wrong with a charcoal BBQ but this was so easy to use and clean it made grilling out a treat. We ate every literally meal outside, from breakfast to dinner. We spend the bulk of our time outside on holiday so having a great space to eat, read, relax and play cards is essential and the Aspect more than delivered.


Dining al fresco in France

I know I just said we spend the bulk of our holiday outside but we were totally spoiled with the inside of the Aspect as well. The kitchen is high spec with a coffee maker, microwave, oven/stove, full size fridge/freezer and (wait for it) A DISHWASHER! The last thing I want to do on holiday is wash dishes so this totally won me over! 

There are three bedrooms: a bunk room, a room with two twin beds and the master bedroom. The master bedroom has a king size bed, a ridiculous amount of closet space and was just spacious in general. There would have been plenty of room for a cot and still freedom to move. All of the bedrooms have black out blinds in addition to curtains as well which is always a plus! I can't stress enough how spacious this bedroom was: it really feels more like a hotel room or home bedroom than a holiday home.


Eurocamp large bedroom

The bathroom is also much bigger than we were used to in a holiday home. The shower is just as big as our shower at home and there wis plenty of shelf space as well for all your toiletries.  There are tons of other great features like an iPod dock, free mobile wifi, air conditioning and the couches also fold out into beds so it can sleep 8 adults.

During our week we saw so many people come to look at the Aspects, both on their own and with Eurocamp staff, and you really can't blame them. All Eurocamp accommodation is clean and functional but the Aspect just takes it to a whole other level.

Even with such luxurious accommodation, the amenities of the park are still key to a great holiday and Le Brasilia has everything you could need. Blondie Boy loved walking up to the one site boulangerie to get fresh baguettes in the morning (is there anything better?) and practicing his French!


  
In addition to the boulangerie there is a fruit and vegetable store (with farm fresh produce), a deli, mini-mart, cave (you can bring your own containers for wine), tabac, laundromat, gift shop and even a hairdresser! That's all in addition to the restaurant, bar and pool snack shop. If you wanted to you really don't have to leave the site but there are large supermarkets nearby, too.

By far the best amenities on site are the swimming pool complex and the direct beach access.  I grew up as a total pool rat and Blondie Boy has inherited his mother's love of the water. With four pools, four water slides, two children's slides, a spa and plenty of sun loungers there really isn't more you can ask for. Blondie Boy loves it so much he'd barely pause to tell me about it!



Right behind the pool complex there is direct access to the beach. The beach is all white sand right until you reach the water where it is a bit pebbly. The sea itself is really shallow so perfect for children and you can go really far out without it going over your shoulders.


Best beach children france

You can borrow beach toys from Eurocamp and Blondie Boy loved digging and building sandcastles along the shore. Since it is so shallow it is also perfect for kids to body surf--basically you just float and wait for a wave and then surf in on your belly!



Having direct access to the beach is great because it means if Blondie Boy decides he's had enough after 15 minutes or is hungry or it is too hot we can just walk straight back to the holiday house no problem. No need to pack a massive bag for the day and spend ages looking for parking--just maximum beach fun!


sandy beaches france

The most fun though had to be watching Blondie Boy in the mini show. I wish I could share videos but there are so many other kids in it that I wouldn't feel right. Blondie Boy LOVES the mini show and we went every single night. Basically all the kids get on stage and put on a show by dancing to some Le Brasilia songs. He puts on little mini shows at home it was so cool to see how much better he was at picking up the choreography this year. I know that Le Brasilia had proper shows at night as well but the mini show was all I needed.



We were really lucky that this year Blondie Boy's Grandma got to come and spend the last few days of our holiday with us. My mother-in-law and her husband had been in Spain so they drove up and got to spend time at Le Brasilia with us.  Since they'd both visited French holiday parcs before I asked her what she though of Eurocamp from a grandparent's, and seasoned European traveller's, point of view:

When our son and daughter-in-law invited us to join them in France to share their Eurocamp holiday, we were delighted to be able to go although if I'm being honest, I have to say we also felt some trepidation. We had a fairly wide experience of holiday destinations in Europe from when our children were small and were confident about the level of service and the type of accommodation we could expect. However there was little resemblance between Le Brasilia and the barely adequate standards of our previous experiences.

Our accommodation was of a very high standard. Purpose built for the environment, with modern bathroom and shower, it also boasted a dishwasher and huge decked area with comfortable furniture. We loved sitting there in the evening, playing board games with our grandson. There was just so much space, inside and out, perfect for generations to holiday together.
grandparents on holiday

We were in a three bedroom home but we noticed that the touring pitches were generously proportioned and well-screened, not often the case in the South of France where spaces are often cramped and small.

The night before we left we agreed that while Eurocamp destinations are great for a family holiday, they would also be perfect for us on our own. Spacious and clean accommodation, the  beach, the pool, excellent shops with fresh produce, evening shows if you want or a quiet drink on your own deck. Eurocamp exceeded our expectations and we will definitely be back.

It's not easy to please three generations at the same time but Eurocamp certainly delivered again.  I know this won't be our last Eurocamp holiday and our next one we will have a baby! I don't know what to expect on a holiday with a baby but I know Eurocamp will be able to cater to whatever we need (they do free hire of baby and toddler essentials!)


Eurocamp deals offers 2015
Right now Eurocamp is running an early booking offer for 2015! Get up to 25% off when you book by October 31st and pay just a £99 deposit!

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Transatlantic Blonde's accommodation was provided for the purpose of this review but all travel and other costs on holiday were met by ourselves. All opinions are our own--do you think I could 3 generations to lie?
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Bump Watch 2014: 31 Weeks

August 1, 2014, 9:14 am
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How do you like my fancy purple crutches? I just got back from the physiotherapist and just to mix things up the left side of my pelvis was posterior rotated today (last time it was right anterior). She manipulated it back in to place and I get to try a compression belt now, too. I'm doing everything thing I should be and I should just minimize moving around basically which is frustrating but is what I'm going to have to do.

This week the Commonwealth Games are in Glasgow so the boys went to the badminton on Sunday (train was cancelled and we couldn't park close enough for me to walk so I dropped them off) and we all went to the athletics on Monday. Blondie Boy is really enjoying them and we are going to watch the road race go past NBH's Dad's house Sunday morning and then the boys have the Squash on Sunday evening where BB will get to see a medal ceremony. I might join them (we have enough tickets) depending on how I'm feeling since you can feel worse before better after manipulation.

The weather has turned here and has cooled off quite a bit into the 60's again. It makes sleeping at night much more comfortable temperature wise! Last night NBH and I got to go for a 7 course tasting menu that I won through Yelp at the Finnieston which was lovely; it focused on the best of Scottish seafood with crab, mackerel, trout, salmon and the most gorgeous heirloom tomatoes with goats cheese. YUM!  We have a special surprise for Blondie Boy tonight and I can't wait to see his face when he figures it out :)



*How far along?: 31 weeks
*How big is baby?: A pineapple; no wonder I'm so freaking sore the baby has spikes.
*Maternity clothes?: Yes and I'm thrilled that tops were getting too short around this stage last time and I'm not just some behemoth of a beached whale this time around
*Sleep?: I tend to wake up with one side totally numb & have to switch to the other side OR wake up on my back and go "oh crap I'm not supposed to be on my back"
*Best moment this week?: Going to the Commonwealth Games! I saw an athlete with one leg, drop his crutches to throw a discus and win bronze--I feel stupid about complaining after seeing that (although I bet his pelvis is perfect).
*Movement?: Yup. This baby's movements are much stronger than Blondie Boy's and they make my stomach contort into strange shapes much more than I ever remember BB doing.
*Food cravings?: I really wanted McPhabb's Mac and Cheese (and I got it!) earlier this week but I think that was because it was a dull, grey and wet day
*Labor signs?: No
*Belly button in or out?: Innie; I think I've given up putting my belly bar back in.
*What I miss: Not being sore
*What I'm looking forward to: I've got a surprise planned for Blondie Boy tonight that I think will blow his mind
*Milestone: 2 months left until my section

If you like to compare/contrast here is Blondie Boy's 31 week update from 2009.

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What I Wore Wednesday: Jord Wood Watches Giveaway

August 5, 2014, 4:00 pm
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I'm the first to admit I'm not really a watch person; I tend to look at my phone for the time but I love how chunky watches look as an accessory. Jord Wood Watches use natural materials to offer a unique fashion flare. Their wood watches are one of a kind, premium quality time pieces, hand-crafted with sustainable materials from all over the world. 

The watches are stylish but also sustainable and definitely stand out in the sea of metal and rubber watches out there. I personally fell in love with the black and maple Sully. I love the mix of dark and light wood and the large face. If I'm going to wear a watch I prefer it chunky rather than delicate. The Sully is technically in the men's range but I love the oversized look and feel.



Maybe it's just me but I love a large, masculine watch against more delicate, feminine bracelets.  The watch itself is so well crafted and doesn't feel mass produced. So many watches look identical regardless of brand but Jord watches really stand out as being unique and since the wood grain will vary from piece to piece each one truly is one of a kind.

The team at Jord are giving you a chance to win your very own Jord wood watch! Choose a Sully like mine or any watch up to the value of $139! Jord ship their amazing watches worldwide so the competition is open to all of my readers around the globe!

Leave a blog comment with what watch you'd choose and follow the Rafflecopter instructions to enter. Competition ends Friday, August 22nd at 5pm BST (see widget for hours remaining). See Rafflecopter widget for full Terms and Conditions--only valid entries will be counted.

a Rafflecopter giveaway


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Bump Watch 2014: 32 Weeks

August 8, 2014, 9:02 am
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It's the post Commonwealth Games come down this week but for us things are only just getting busier as it gets closer and closer to my due date. This was Blondie Boy's last week at pre-school; we've loved sending him to Montessori and it has been amazing for him. He starts primary/elementary school next week so we've been getting everything we need for his uniform ready. He'll only be going half days in August but they will go full days from September!

I also got my hair to the shade of blonde that Glaswegian summers just can't thanks to Sindy at Hely Hair Studio. Maybe it's just me but fresh highlights and a trim always put me in a good mood. It's also perfect timing as today is NotBlondeHusband and my 6th wedding anniversary and we're out for dinner just the two of us.

I'm working from home as much as possible since my pelvis is still really sore but travelling to Edinburgh for important meetings. I'm really lucky that I have a job where I can literally do it from anywhere--especially my bed!


how big is baby 32 weeks


*How far along?: 32 weeks
*How big is baby?: Squash. This kid is the longest mother freaking squash ever because I can always feel them poking out on either side of my bump at the same time.
*Maternity clothes?: Yes; but maternity tops are too short which is fun.
*Sleep?: I woke up yesterday morning around 5:30, gave up trying to sleep again around 6:30, read until 7:45 and went back to sleep until 10.
*Best moment this week?: Brighter, blonder highlights--new hair always puts me in a good mood.
*Movement?: Yup. I had maybe a 1/3 of a bottle of Mt Dew (so the same caffeine as a can of Coke) and I swear the kid starting moshing in my belly. Mt. Dew must be what gives it super powers because OMG the movements hurt.
*Food cravings?: I'm either starving or not hungry at all.
*Labor signs?: No
*Belly button in or out?: Innie; it's deep it isn't going to pop out and scare me.
*What I miss: Walking around and going where I want without wondering if I can get parked close enough or if there is a mobility scooter I can borrow.
*What I'm looking forward to: Blondie Boy starts elementary/primary school next week!
*Milestone: Today is our 6th wedding anniversary.

If you like to compare/contrast here is Blondie Boy's 32 week update from 2009.


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What I Wore Wednesday: Meet Innocent Charmer

August 12, 2014, 4:01 pm
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I'm getting ready for Blondie Boy's first day of primary school tomorrow (!!!!) so the lovely Kara, from Innocent Charms Chat is stepping in and guest posting today! Kara is a super sweet blogger who I had the pleasure of working in a previous job and she's an amazing mum to Grayson, Addison & Deacon and tirelessly campaigns and strives to make sure Grayson, who has special needs, gets the best for him. It's been amazing watching her fight for him and watching him come on leaps and bounds thanks to his amazing mother! She's also a fashion fanatic--without further ado here is Kara....


I love this Kimono, it is by far one of my favourite purchases this past year, it is simple to wear, covers the bingo wings and has neon hints. I love neon, I wish I could find more fashion items with neon touches.

It is simple to dress, I have worn it on a date night dressed up or like in this outfit today with a cami and jeans for a day out shopping.

Plus Size Kimono

I am a plus size girl and up until recently I found it hard finding exciting clothes to wear, but since becoming involved in the Plus Size Blogging community my outfits are becoming a lot more fun.

This outfit embraces my love of blue, every since having my youngest son I am obsessed with blue.

Outfit Details

* Glasses -Select Specs
* Necklace - Gift
* Kimono - New Look Inspire at ASOS
* Cami - ASOS Curve
*Jeans - ASOS Curve
* Shoes - SunJellies
* Bag - Accesorize

three blue stone necklace

After being so inspired by WIWW and the PS Blogging community I have now started a weekly fashion link up for Plus Size blogging outfits, if interested do head on by to #fashionfridayplusssized and find out more, we would love to have you join in.




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Bump Watch 2014: 33 Weeks

August 15, 2014, 8:12 am
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I copy all the questions from my posts back in 2009 and damn we were way more prepared last time than we are now. This time around though we are both working full-time and throw in a 4 year old who just started primary school and it gets a lot more harried. Not to mention my mobility is in an understatement, not great. I just got back from the physio and had a 3rd different kind of manipulation; seems my pelvis likes to mix things up and is rotated or stuck in a different way each time I visit. She thinks the next course of action might be to try acupuncture and I'm willing to give anything a try.

Blondie Boy started primary school and took like a fish to water. He went straight in the past three days, no clinging or crying or anything. We are so proud of him and he seems to really love it.  I don't have a bump picture this week even though I was all dressed up with pearls and everything for a parliamentary meeting earlier this week; I didn't get home until 7:30 and forgot to get a picture before I stripped off into PJs. Just look at last weeks picture and imagine I look more tired, round and haggard and you'll get the drift.


*How far along?: 33 weeks
*Total weight gain: 17.5 lbs; I know I haven't been doing this but I weighed myself today thinking that I'd have put on a horrendous amount of weight but the average weight gain for 33 weeks is 22-28lbs so I'm below those limits! I feel MUCH bigger this time so I was surprised that I'm below average. I did have a heavier starting weight than before I got pregnant with BB but still I'm pleased the overall gain during pregnancy isn't anywhere as near as bad as I thought it would be.
*How big is baby?: A durian---a fruit so smelly it's banned on public transportation in most of south-east Asia. I once brought my co-workers back Durian flavoured candy from Thailand because I left it until the last minute and that's what was at the airport. They tasted like gross cheese.
*Maternity clothes?: I'm going to have to buy new maternity tops. Pretty much all of mine are already too short; thanks for that bump and boobs; no one wants to see my under belly.
*Sleep?: If I go to bed before midnight (which my body always wants me to do) I wake up at 5am so I'm trying to make myself wake up.
*Best moment this week?: Blondie Boy started primary school!
*Movement?: "If you want to feel the bebe move all you have to do is stick your hand on my bump; the kid doesn't like people up in their space" I didn't even have to change what I wrote 5 years ago; exactly the same now as it was then
*Food cravings?: No real cravings; I'm really thirsty so just very, very cold beverages.
*Labor signs?: No
*Belly button in or out?: NBH lost my belly bar after my scan on Tuesday (on purpose? possibly) so I have to decide to order a new one or let it grow over.
*What I miss: Being able to go wherever I want to go without thinking about accessibility. I know I'm very lucky that my SPD issues are temporary but my eyebrows are a hot mess. The salon I go to is in town in Glasgow and you can't park right outside and there is no guarantee I could get parked even within a block so I'm struggling to figure out how I'm going to get rid of my Bert (roommate of Ernie) eyebrows.
*What I'm looking forward to: My first nieces/nephews/niece & nephew arriving in February! My sister has announced she is expecting TWINS!
*Milestone: Hitting the 8 month mark

If you like to compare/contrast here is Blondie Boy's 33 week update from 2009.


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What I Wore Wednesday: School Boy

August 19, 2014, 4:08 pm
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So a week ago Blondie Boy started primary school. In Scotland if you turn 4 before the end of February you can start P1 the following fall. Blondie Boy is one of the youngest in his class but we knew he was more than ready for school. He's loved going to Montessori preschool and he's reading ahead of his age level so it would have been silly to red shirt him.

We made the right decision as he's totally taken to school like a fish to water. He's only on half-days through the end of August before starting full days in September but he loves school. He lined up and ran straight in no looking back that first day and hasn't looked back since. I'm so glad he's loving school and as much as I didn't think I was a uniform person (uniforms are standard in all schools) he looks pretty freaking dapper in his!




Blazer- Tesco
Shirt- Marks and Spencer
Trousers- Marks and Spencer
Shoes- Clarks
Tie- School Shop

I've blurred out the school logo on his blazer for privacy but we got all of the embroidered items (his blazer, polo shirts and sweatshirts) from Tesco online. It was way cheaper than the place the school recommended AND they donate 5% back in cash to the school so win-win!

Since he's got a teeny, tiny waist I wanted to make sure he got trousers with an adjustable waist so we hit up Marks and Spencers; their button down shirts also have velcro instead of a button at the very top so it's more comfy.

Clarks are as always our go to for nice, durable shoes. They measure kids' feet using an iPad now which BB found pretty cool, too. He also got gym/indoor shoes (they call them sand shoes here WTF?) at Clarks.  I'm happier to pay a little bit more for higher quality shoes because I know they will last him a lot longer.

He loves getting dressed and ready for school and especially is in love with his blazer. Most days he just wears a polo top and sweatshirt and as long as it's not raining his blazer as a coat. I never wore uniforms to school so it's totally new to me and even though I wore a tie for 3 years waiting tables I still don't know how to tie one so that is a job for NotBlondeHusband!

Did you wear uniforms to school? Do your children wear uniforms?

It's your last chance to enter my Jord Watch giveaway as it closes the 22nd!







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