Post Baby Diary // 15 Weeks On

My little Gracie is almost 4 months old (well a week shy) and next week will be my last post till February. I'm having the rest of the month off and also January.

Gracie has been such a wonderful little blessing to us (and of course so is Charlie). She has been sleeping through for the past week, and was a great sleeper from about 6 weeks. So I've been feeling so much better. I wish I could say that I'm this amazing routinest or that I had any part to play in it but I don't. Gracie is just one of those supper chilled out kids who decided that she wanted her sleep from a young age...BLESS this little one. As for my little man Charlie, we used to party through the night till he was about 10 months, which was fine because it was just a season. But God is good.

More good news. I gave myself those few weeks off and am finally back (or just below) my pre-Charlie weight, which is encouraging. After having Charlie I went below my normal weight (so to reach this I have 3 1/2kgs to go) so hopefully the same will happen with Gracie (breastfeeding is the best). I haven't had much time to exercise but am hoping to get into it more over the next few weeks as social stuff settles down.

Fashion
So this outfit has definately appeared before... just in different combinations. But with the weather being so strange I've had to pull out some of my winter things and get creative again.

Post Baby Diary // 14 Weeks On

Once again I'm late to post this (this is 2 weeks old)....and another one is coming soon. You'll be happy to know that my down-day lasted all of one morning (thank goodness). I know you can probably relate to this feeling though.... enjoy oxo

I'm sitting at home, and to be honest, feeling alittle low. Why? No reason in particular because I've had such a loving day with two of my good friends visiting. Maybe its just the low after the fun of a high?? Anyways, I thought I'd do alittle bit of blog work to keep the mind busy and to stop this silliness.

We've had the vomiting bug this week with Charlie, Trev and I all sick at once. After we recovered we got to make a little trip down to Milton. We spent some time out on the farm and I got all inspired. I'm looking forward to what 2012 has to offer. I've decided that my new years resolution is "to be content no matter what the circumstances". Its easy to be content when things are going well, it will be the slow harder days that will be my struggle.

Fashion
Whilst in Ulladulla I impulsively purchased this top. I love how flowy and fresh it is. Plus its so easy to just chuck on with anything.

Post Baby Diary // 13 Weeks On

Its been afew weeks since my last post and to be honest not alot has changed. I'm loving spending time with my little people, and we are flat out with the sale of our house, catching up with family and friends and general end of year social events.

As for the weight loss its slowly happening (I hope) and I've decided not to weigh myself until the end of December because I was finding that it was all alittle too depressing. As for exercising I've been fitting in a walk run whenever I have a spare hour (which isnt as often as I'd hoped).

I'm really looking forward to 2012. Hopefully a year of relaxation, balance and feeling settled (into a new house). I'm also looking forward to having more time. I'm hoping to get more time to blog, bringing you more on fashion.

I've just started a facebook page called GarageSale. Its an online garage sale and I sell other peoples clothing. Check it out for bargains on great clothes. Keep your eyes out for our designer sale also coming very soon.

Fashion
I recently bought this cute net dress on an online facebook page called Savannah Lane for $40. Its so versatile. You could wear it over your swimmers or over an underdress as I have done here. I also got these cute boots on etsy...my new favorite boots.

Post Baby Diary // 9 Weeks On

So this post is now 4 weeks old but I still thought I would post it anyways (and Ill also post an up-to-date one tomorrow morning).....

Christmas is 2 months away...ahhh so soon. Anyways my aim is to be back to my pre-pregnant body weight so I have the 5kgs to loose. I will be eating healthy and exercising. So feel free to join me in the Christmas weight challenge. Lets not get too obsessed...nothing worse than having to hear about weight loss 24 hours a day from someone you love (Note to self...dont talk about weight 24/7 ha ha).

I've also decided to stop posting my 'post baby diary' every week and just do a random post here and there. This will just help with the business leading up to Christmas and also with the fact that we are selling up and moving to our new home in the next couple of months. So life is about to get even more hectic. I will be back into it though in the new year. And in the mean time I'll try do afew fashion posts to keep you in the know for summer.

9 Weeks On
Exercise: 3 walks and situps daily
Weight: Still 5kgs to go.
Skinny Jeans Test: No change here...plenty of muffin top.

Fashion
I decided to buy some new workout clothes (on a budget). I got these Slazenger leggings from Big W for $36. Two new singlets from Kmart for $10 white one and $15 for the pink one as it has a shelf bra. Plus I got two new crop tops (I love this stripped one) for $20. Stoked. Its about shopping smart sometimes.

Post Baby Diary // 8 Weeks On

2 months already....I cant believe it. This week was a great week. Trev, my husband has been off so I got to have my first gym session with my girlfriend Elzy. She pushed me hard, and it was amazing. I felt so much better for getting a workout in. We also got to have some family time. We went to the beach and I even put on a bikini (crazy I know). But it was so nice hang out as our little family of four.

8 Weeks On
Exercise: 2 walks and a gym session plus daily situps
Weight: still 5kg to loose.... now I have to start watching what Im eating.
Skinny Jean Test: They still feel the same...way too tight with a huge muffin top hanging over (but I know I'll be in them eventually).

Fashion
Ive been wearing this little black dress with tee's over the top to hide my little tummy. The fitted bottom shows my shape but the tee over the top hides my tummy. Perfect for this stage in my weight loss. This outfit is perfect for those with round (apple) body shape.

Hot Easy Hair // by Joey Maalouf

Hey Ladies I came across this video the other day. Hot, easy hair by Joey Maalouf (Rachael Zoes husband). This is for all you girls that are time poor but still like to look hot.
Enjoy oxo

Post Baby Diary // 7 Weeks On

Time is going so fast. Little Gracie Silver is already 7 weeks old and it feels like time is flying by. I'm really settling into life with two children.

This week I decided to do a complete wardrobe makeover. I have almost halved my wardrobe (so keep an eye out on my facebook for my clothing sale). I feel so much more organised and its been a cleansing experience (especially now that I can actually fit my clothes in my cupboards). I'm looking forward to going shopping for some new pieces and have decided that I'll do wardrobe clean outs and sales more often (so keep an eye out for upcoming sales also).

7 Weeks
Walks: 3 walks and sit ups daily
Weight: I didn't get the chance to weigh myself (so next week I'll check in again)Feeling: Getting the hang of this.
Skinny Jeans Test: I'm getting there.

Fashion
I have been styling afew women for their summer wardrobes. This is an outfit I wore on a shopping trip with my oldest client yet (64 years old...and never too old for a makeover..what an inspiration). This patterned satin dress was perfect for over an all black outfit, so comfy but also giving me the cover I'm needing for my little tum (if you like the dress I am selling it on my facebook). I also bought myself these ripped jeans the other week. They were only cheap which is perfect while I'm that size larger.

Post Baby Diary // 6 Weeks On

6 Weeks on and I'm finally getting used to having the two little ones. Learning to juggle two has been quite interesting. I've being using the help of the tv (for babysitting purposes, especially when I'm feeding) and a jar of lollies (very helpful when needing to bribe good behavior for visits to the doctors and shops) which has helped, especially in these early weeks when my energy levels haven't been as good as usual. I'm sure as the weeks go on, and as I feel more confident that the use of these will get less (well hopefully anyway).

6 Weeks On
Walks: 3 walks and sit ups daily
Weight: 5kg to loose
Feeling: Heaps better. Getting used to life with two kids.
Skinny Jeans Test: Still a way to go but I'm motivated to get there for summer. Still huge muffin top but button and zip can be done up.

Fashion
I've decided to steer clear of the shops for a little while until I tone up and get back to my normal size. However, I did do a little second hand shop this week and got two gorgeous pieces. The first item I got was a gorgeous $5 rabbits fur jacket which zips off into a vest. Only that morning I had been looking at one online that was $240 (and it was almost identical - see pic). So I scored big on that item. I also got this cute kimono for $5 which will be great for throwing over a little dress or adding colour to an all black outfit.

(online one)

Wardrobe Cleanout // Facebook Garage Sale

Havent had the chance to get my things together so I will be uploading the folder next week. Sorry ladies I decided to head away for afew days. oxo

Post Baby Diary // 5 Weeks On

5 weeks (sorry I didn't get the chance to do my 4 week check-in) on and we are settling in quite nicely. However, I'm in need of a little Ruthie time. I've had 5 weeks of getting very limited me time (which is to be expected), so I popped up to Miranda for a speed shop and abit of me time. It was so lovely. Plus I've made the effort to get out and do some walks... the fresh air and exercise has made a world of difference.

Making exercise a priority has been much harder than I thought. But that is my aim at the moment, getting out for some walks and also trying to get some training sessions in with Elzy (one of my supper fit girlfriends).

5 Weeks On
Feeling: Feeling good, especially after starting the exercise up.
Exercise: 3 walks
Weight: 5kg to loose
Skinny Jeans Test: Still got a lovely muffin top. Tried on a pair of skinny jeans today (DJ's mirrors are far from kind), this helped me come to the conclusion that I'm not ready to shop for clothes yet. Exercise first, shop later.

Fashion
So this is far from a fashion photo but I thought I would do the 'post baby walking outfit' update. This is me today with both kids in the pram, ready to go for a walk.

Summer 2012 // Short Shorts

Short shorts are sticking around for another season. So I have found some pictures to help inspire you when wearing your shorts.

Team your shorts up with a button-up loose fit shirt, oversized light jumper, oversized tee/singlet or tuck your favorite fitted singlet or feminine scalloped button up shirt in for a sophisticated cute look.

When choosing shorts this season try mid-thigh tailored shorts, lace bottom cotton shorts, cut-off denim shorts (no butt cheeks please ladies he he) or go with a textured wool pair for something different.

Enjoy oxo

(Images from Lookbook and The Sartorialist.)

Post Baby Diary // 3 Weeks On

Wow Gracie is already 3 weeks old. Its totally flown, and I'm so glad I've enjoyed every little cuddle we've had together. I'm on a total high still. I love my little family. Charlie is such a beautiful big brother and Gracie is such a gorgeous little girl.

3 Weeks On
Feeling: Feeling good, I've had heaps of energy and have been catching up on sleep by having a lunch time rest.
Exercise: 2 walks
Weight: 5 1/2kg to loose
Skinny Jeans Test: I managed to squeeze into my skinny jeans this morning (with a huge muffin top as expected ha ha), but none the less stoked to have been able to get them on.

Fashion
On the weekend we got to share in the joy of some friends wedding. It was little Gracie's first wedding and my outfit had to be feeding friendly. I wore a baggy Tigerlily dress with a fitted black dress underneath (making it feeding friendly) and some high black strappy wedge shoes. To give myself abit of confidence I decided to get a spray tan for the occasion. It was my first spray tan and Liv did such a great job. It was natural and even. I have her contact details if you are interested in getting a tan.

Pregnancy Diary // Welcome Gracie

Two weeks ago today we welcomed our beautiful little girl Gracie Silver Elizabeth into the world. It was the most amazing day. So for those of you who are interested in the details (well not too detailed) here it is....

The Birth Story
On Wednesday 24th August the pre-labour pains began. I spent the day keeping busy and made sure I got some rest. I went to bed at about 10pm that night and my labour had started. I had 7 minute apart contractions and tried my hardest to rest in between. By 3.20am my contractions were 3 minutes apart so we got ready to go. Naomi came to look after Charlie and Trev and I headed to Sutherland hospital.

By 3.45am we were in our room, epidural had been requested and was given by 4am. Trev and I then got to have a sleep and by about 8.30am the fun began. It was the most beautiful experience, I actually got to enjoy the birth (which sounds crazy). But we were all very calm and I had the most amazing midwives. Gracie arrived at 9.15am on the 25th August. Trev and I were totally ecstatic and in love the minute we met her.

An hour after the birth I was up having a shower, washing my hair and even putting on a little makeup. I was on the biggest high and couldn't wait to introduce Gracie to her big brother. Our little family of 3 is now a family of 4.

Please meet Gracie Silver, our little boy Charlie and my husband Trev (I don't think I've introduced my family on my blog yet).

Pregnancy Diary // 40 Weeks

I thought I better do a quick summary write up on the final week and 4 days of my pregnancy. Gracie was 4 days over due. So I went for 40 weeks and 4 days.

40 Weeks
Walks: 0 in my last weeks
Weight: 14kg gained in my pregnancy
Feeling: Felt good right up to the end.

Fashion
So this is the final pregnancy photo that we took. I'm wearing a black maxi tee dress with a white crocheted cardi over it. As you can see I'm so big and fashion was far from my mind when I put together this comfortable outfit.

Enjoy the last photos of my pregnancy. From now on I will be posting a post-pregnancy blog with updates of how I am going with my new addition, body changes, exercise, and the 14kg weight loss.

What a Cute Mumma // Princess Mary

Here are some amazing picturs of Princess Mary taking her son to his first day at school. What a hotty!!!

She looks so great, and her taste is effortless and classy. You can never go past a cute little waisted dress. Enjoy these pics from the daylife website and remember that sometimes simplicity is best. oxo

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Pregnancy Diary // 39 Weeks

One week to go till my due date. Wow that is seriously crazy. This may or may not be my final pregnancy diary post... and then I have to work out whether or not I'll start on a new weekly post on the aftermath of pregnancy, handling a new born, weight loss, exercise and fashion with an ever changing body. Whats your thoughts ladies??

Week 39
Walks: None.
Weight: 14kg gained to date.
Feeling: Good considering I'm huge. Energy is up.

Fashion
All I can think about this far along, is that any day now we could be meeting our little bub which means I'll be baby free so soon. Bring on the ability to fast walk again, to reach my feet comfortably, to sleep on my tummy, to pick Charlie up without getting all puffed out and getting back to feeling like me again.

So this outfit is far from inspiring for all you mumma's-to-be out there. But there is nothing like a comfy oversized tee layered with a long singlet and some comfy leggings. Comfy up in those last weeks of your pregnancies ladies. Hope you've enjoyed my weekly diary posts. oxo

Spring Fashion 2011

If you've had a chance to get to the shops in the last couple of weeks you would have noticed all the colourful threads filling the shelves and hangers. Spring fashion is here and its just gorgeous. So many beautiful clothes that its hard for my pregnant self to window shop. I'll be saving my money for afew new items this summer (when hopefully I'll be back to my usual weight).

With so many different trends this season its hard to work out what direction to take. I always enjoy looking through Sportsgirl for inspiration as they take on many different looks and have something to suit everyone.

Some of the trends you will see include block colours, wilderness inspired looks and coloured bold stripe. Mix these up with the many textures and fabrics such as pleating, crochet, animal print, tribal inspired fabrics, tassels, leather, velvet and feathers. So much going on.

So pick carefully this spring summer. Work out what look you want and stick to what suits you and your body shape. There is definitely something for everyone.

Be inspired by these looks from lookbook.com

Pregnancy Diary // 38 Weeks

2 Weeks to go!!! Well that's if I come on time. I was a week over with Charlie so who knows what will happen.

It's been a very exciting week. Trev just finished all the painting and we finally got our carpet in...what a man (it looks amazing). The house feels like new and is so fresh. The babies room has been set up and the rest of the house is almost cleaned up. So we are almost ready for the arrival of our new bub. Woohoo!!

Week 38
Walks: 2 slow walks
Weight: 14kg
Feeling: Needing my sleep but got energy when I'm awake.

Fashion
I'm huge...but who isn't with 2 weeks to go ha ha. I'm still struggling to get out of my comfy home clothes. But when I do get dressed it has to be comfy. I love this white shirt that I picked up from a vintage store. It has beautiful crochet detailing on the back and shoulders and plenty of moving room. To be honest I'm just looking forward to having a baby free body (I don't even care that its going to be big and floppy for awhile he he).

Pregnancy Diary // 37 Weeks

Wow the weeks are flying by and Im finding a lack of time for my blog at the moment. Sorry about that ladies.... that is why this blog post is almost a week late. I'll endevour to bring you a post about the beautiful spring fashion thats been on the shop shelves for the past month or so, and also the rest of my pregnancy posts on time.

With 3 weeks to go I've been on a war path trying to organise myself, Charlie, the house, be supportive whilst Trev continues with the renovations and catching up with some friends before life gets that little more complicated with the new addition. Still no bag packed for my hospital stay just yet, but Im hoping to get that done real soon. Along with setting up the babies room (carpet goes in next week).

Week 37
Walks: 2 slower paced walks (getting hard to keep up the speed being so pregnant)
Weight: 14kg
Feeling: Had a cold but on the mend. Trying to get healthy in time for the birth.

Fashion
At 37 weeks I decided to post a pic of what I look like walking. Far from fashionable but thought youd enjoy the change.

Pregnancy Diary // 36 Weeks

4 weeks to go! I know, its not long at all. I need this 4 weeks so that I can get organised. With our renovations almost complete I'm getting excited to start the nesting process. Babies room needs to be set up still but only after we have had new carpet laid. So its all very exciting.

I've been feeling so good. With the itching under control I feel alive and energetic. So the next 4 weeks are very exciting for us. Poor Trev has been working very hard, what a good dad and husband he is.

Week 36
Feeling: Great.
Walks: only 1 due to the rain and having a cold.
Weight: 14kg (and Id like to stay this weight. I put on 14kg with Charlie and stopped gaining weight at 36 weeks so fingers crossed).
Hospital Preparation: Babies bag is packed and I will get my bag packed next week. (My cousin asked if I had a going-home outfit picked yet, and I don't, but I will get back to you with some good hospital and going-home outfits).

Fashion
We got to celebrate one of our beautiful friends birthdays this week with a brekky at Kazbar in Balmain. And it was so lovely. Below is the outfit I wore. A flowy, short white cotton dress with some black stockings and my brown horse leather shoes. To brighten it up I picked a patterned colourful scarf. And for some fun and warmth I wore my grey faux fur/fluffy jacket.

Tip: When you are this far along in pregnancy its hard to look slim, because your just not. So have some fun with textured fabrics and colours. Try to enjoy your size and curves.

Pregnancy Diary // 35 Weeks

5 Weeks to go...that's so not long. Especially considering that we (by we I mean my poor hubby Trev) have to finish renovating upstairs to make room for our new baby addition.

I'm feeling good but not particularly inspired to dress fashionably. When I'm not going out I'm either in pj's or my bonds trackies and with 5 weeks to go I think I have every reason to be relaxing and making the most of comfortable clothing.

Week 35
Feeling: Not too bad. Looking forward to having a baby free body.
Walks: 2 walks
Weight: 13kg

Fashion
Its come to that stage when dressing to go out means picking from the few larger comfy items I have. This week it was an oversized white tee with my denim shirt and maternity black jeans. I've also started wearing a little lippy (which is totally new for me, as I'm more of an eye makeup person). I'm wearing a bright pink matte lipstick in this photo. Blotting it prevents it from being to bright and overpowering. Just a bit of fun when I can't do much with my outfits anymore.