New Fall Styles...

...and we're kicking it off with a giveaway!!! This week there were several new chic styles welcomed to Milan Maternity. You can check out those styles out here.

The giveaway is for the Black Feliciana faux-wrap ruffle dress. It is the perfect Maternity & Nursing replacement for your "little black dress" A stunning, affordable piece with ruffle & ruched detailing!

Now that you have fallen in love with it, you're wondering, "HOW do I enter?!?"

Here's how: [you can leave in individual comment for each entry]

Required Entries:

1.] Follow Milan Maternity's Facebook Page

2.] Follow this Milan Maternity Blog. It's in the right column. If you don't have a blogger/google account, following on Networked Blogs [also to the right] is connected to facebook!

Optional Additional Entries:

3.] Follow Milan Maternity on Twitter if you have an account.

4.] Tweet about this contest! [copy & paste: "Visit Milan Maternity's blog for a chance to win the new Felician faux-wrap ruffle dress; a perfect LBD! http://editurl.com/jbl"

5.] Blog about this contest [leave the link]

6.] Share Milan Maternity in your Facebook Status linking to this post and/or the Milan Maternity Facebook page.

CONTEST RUNS UNTIL FRIDAY OCTOBER 1st, 2010 AT 11:59pm PST

Winner will be chosen at random by Random.org

Also, we're giving friends and fans the opportunity to get a discount through Monday, September 27th, 2010, with a 10% off your entire order with the code "FALL2010" AND free shipping on orders over $100, [no code needed]. Valid through Monday, September 27th, 2010!

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{On a Budget?}

During this Economic Downfall... so they say.... we are all somewhat on a different budget. Maybe you are like me and have had to cut out the McDonald's drive-thru and figure out how to make a weekly meal plan? Anyone?!
Or maybe you have decided to bring out the domestic diva deep inside yourself and figure out what it takes to make your soon-to-be babies wardrobe... really?
OK.
But it's worth a shot right?

Miss http://www.elsiemarley.com/ has set up a amazing website and turtorials on how to do just that.
Also one of my favorites... Jill @ Homemade by jill never disapoints.
and another http://mycraftevolution.blogspot.com/ is alwasy inspiring.

These are just a few of the ones I enjoy, but just look around and you will find there are MILLIONS of fabulous mom's doing this same thing.

Eat Your Heart Out Gap, we no longer drool over your amazing designer children outfits... ok, that was a little drastic, we will always covet those amazing baby clothes! But at least we can attempt to make something fantastic on a minimal budget!

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Shoes for Comfort & Style: Pregnancy & Beyond

Comfort & style is something we are all looking for in shoes. Finding something that encompasses both can be a real challenge. This becomes especially true during pregnancy and motherhood in general. The need to be able to quickly slip on shoes without feeling frumpy increases with the size of your belly. 

If you are purchasing shoes online, read reviews to see how the sizing is running. Order up if your feet are swelling or you need to add comfort by way of inserts. Look for deals and shipping promotions. Target is doing a buy one get one 50% off sale on shoes! If you can't find the shoe you're looking for at your local Payless Shoe Store, but they are available online, they can actually be shipped FOR FREE to your local store!

The first shoe to embrace if you haven't already is the ballet flat. Easy to slip on during pregnancy & fast to slip on for the busy mom on the go. Snazzy flats in funky prints and bright colors, look great with a monochromatic outfit [even if you accidentally end up putting on two different pairs in your 8th month.] 

Here are a few that are simple with a little embellishment to give it that extra umph...without the high price tag:

[direct links under each shoe]

rocket dog mindless ballet flat

wanted ruby flat

If you don't quite feel bold enough to wear a funky print on your clothing, adding them to your feet is a fashionable way to do that!

audrey exotic knot flat

pointed toes help to elongate the leg:

anstin point flat

For those of you that live in areas where it will snow, ice or rain a lot these coming seasons, a boot is not just a fashion piece but practical, too. There are some ultra snazzy rain boot options at target [they are having a buy one get one 50% off right now...I always purchase when they do this sale!] Also for the rainboots, I recommend the boot liners. TIP: put the liners on before you put on the boots to prevent the sliding and slouching of the liner. They come in many colors to match your boots! 

schooled fish rain boots

If you're like me and you like the look of a rustic, heeled boot, it's best to stay with a low heel if you're having balance issues. It's common in pregnancy! Boots look great with anything: dresses, skirts, jeans and leggings. As with any shoe, but especially with heeled shoes, make sure the traction on the bottom is enough to keep you from slipping. These boots qualify:

mossimo kagome western boot in cognac

Another boot choice would be an ankle boot. These from cutesygirl.com, fit the comfort bill! They come in four different colors also.

 terra15 ankle boot

And finally if you just want something that's super duper comfy and keeps you toasty, but has a fashionable factor, this one comes with rave reviews for just that:

flurry moc by airwalk

Hope you find some foot comfort during your pregnancy and beyond!

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{Great Site}

I'm a sucker for a good deal.. and this site is just that.

They advertise and have special sales for 3 DAYS ONLY, all you have to do is sign up as a member...easy.

Go HERE to see all the great stuff like this...

Pretty cool huh?

or maybe you have a shoe problem like me...

or do you have one of these?

But hurry fast... once the clock runs out of time, sale's over!

Check it all out at TOTSY.com.

And just as a bonus, every time you purchase from this site, they plant a tree...very cool.

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{Mommy Brain?}

If you are a mom... or mom to be, I'm sure you have used the phrase..."I have a case of Mommy Brain!"
Did you know it is a actual proven thing? I just thought it was a excuse for the dumb things we do or forget to do! At least that is what I was using it for!

But no, seriously... read this...

Facts & Fun (No matter how Pregnant You are)
By Alyson McNutt English

 

They call it “momnesia”: those times you put the milk in the cupboard instead of the refrigerator; or you walk into a room, only to forget why you’re there. But “mommy brain” is more than a punch line, says Shoshana Bennett, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist in San Ramon, Calif., who specializes in prenatal and postpartum counseling. Experts say it’s a very real neurological issue resulting from powerful endocrine and brain chemistry changes. Fortunately, Bennett says, you can take steps to minimize the impact of mommy brain:

• Trimester 1 Start eating brain food

Eating foods high in tryptophan (a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that can boost brainpower), including oats, bananas and turkey, can improve memory. Apples, blueberries and onions contain a memory-boosting flavonoid called quercetin, and lean protein foods provide key amino acids that function as neurotransmitters.

• Trimester 2 Establish healthy sleep habits

As little as 5 ½ hours straight can give you a full sleep cycle, which is ideal. If you’re still feeling drowsy, try a power nap: Research shows these quick snoozes can improve brain function and memory.

• Trimester 3 Develop a structure

Baby’s arrival can create organizational havoc. To prepare, get your home ready by deciding on a place to put your purse, keys, diaper bag and other essentials every time you walk in the door. Also, starting a list-making habit can be a lifesaver.

• Throughout pregnancy Get your game on

Research shows that video games in which you problem solve or work through patterns, like Nintendo’s Brain Age, Popcap’s Bejeweled or your newspaper’s Sudoku puzzle, can improve memory and brain function.


Interesting huh?! I thought so.
So there you go, next time you need to tell your husband you forgot something... blame the mommy brain!

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Pregnancy Survival Kit: Essentials to Get You Through in One Piece.

Ahh...The beauty of Pregnancy....sometimes. Sometimes it doesn't quite feel beautiful when your body is no longer your own and going through the ringer. Whether this is your first, third or nineteenth pregnancy [those Duggars are incredible], there are some things you're going to be needing to get you through with your sanity in tact! 

*Tums Sooth Dissolves in Tropical Smoothies. [assorted fruit is okay, I like lemon but it was a shocker after eating a cherry.] BEFORE eating any, realize that you cannot/should not consume more than ten in a twenty-four hour period. I say this because, if you are not experiencing heart burn as of yet, 10 in a twenty-four hour period sounds like a lot....that is until there's an ERUPTING VOLCANO OF DEATH in your chest. I know there are things that work better, faster, last longer...but these things are GOOD. [which is another reason to note that there's a daily dose limit to these babies.]

*Water. I prefer tap in a water bottle. It's free. but if I'm feeling fancy, I'll get Smart Water. Why??? Because, the writing on the bottle is hysterical. Water is so important while pregnant. It's what your baby is surrounded by. Dehydration during pregnancy can make you more uncomfortable than you are. It can cause headaches, nausea, cramps, dizziness, worse constipation, and even preterm labor by triggering contractions. Water can also aid in heartburn and indigestion relief caused by your slower digestion rate. 

*Camis. I have always loved long layering tanks/camis. I lived in them while pregnant with each of my two girls. Baby number 3 is on his or her way and I am loving them again! You can layer them, work out in them and sleep in them. Has to be the most essential single piece of clothing ever designed. [So obviously a woman designed it!] Some maternity stores charge the equivalent of a couple limbs per cami. You can find them comfy and reasonably priced HERE.

*Boots Wonderbalm. This is actually one of my favorite things. It's Boots brand Mediterranean Olive Almond & Sage Wonderbalm. It's for everything: dry elbows, knees, hands, lips. I exfoliate my lips and then put this stuff on. M-A-G-I-C. oh and it's affordable. You can also find this in the BOOTS makeup section at Target. I love almost everything in their line. Magic for a low price.

*Ginger Ale and Club Crackers. or Sprite, 7UP, Saltines and/or ginger candy. You can find these at your local grocery store. Ginger candy can also be found online if you live in a town like mine [read=it's small, we have nothing but basics]. I really don't like soda. Only time I consume it is during pregnancy for the most part. It works.

*Prenatal Workout DVDs are your friend. Just embrace it. Especially if you don't like to workout in public or can't make it to the gym or you look ridiculous trying to sweat it out. It's okay. I do too. BUT you are preparing for the marathon of your life. It can be VERY overwhelming because there are literally hundreds! 

Here are some I think pretty much rock: Element Prenatal  & Postnatal Yoga and MommyShape Prenatal Complete. Why you'll like these: Element is very calming. The music isn't annoying, the voice isn't annoying, and my three year old sat quietly watching me do this. [She is NOT a quiet child by any stretch of the word. Truly remarkable] I think that this is easy to follow but I have also done Yoga for years. Might get tricky later in pregnancy, which leads me to MommyShape. This is your all inclusive. There's a warm-up, sculpt & stretch, dance sequence, yoga & relaxation, and a cool down. And you can do what ever part you want when you feel like it. There are different levels [beginner, intermediate, advanced] It's a custom workout. Apparently there are awesome reviews for this thing as a non-pregnant-fitness-lifesaver! So I expect to get tons of use out of it.

  Video Previews:
        Element Prenatal & Postnatal Yoga                 MommyShape Prenatal Complete

*China Glaze Re-fresh Mint Nail Polish [or YOUR favorite!]. This one is my absolute favorite nail polish of all time. It's like the PERFECT vintagey shade! Of course any shade that you love works perfectly too! My hubby has always painted my toes while pregnant. It's fun, and he looks so sweet painting them too! 

*Rapid Release Tylenol. Headaches, backaches, and any other -ache. One of the few safe over the counter meds you can safely take.

*Pregnancy reading material that won't scare the living life out of you. If a family member tries to tell you their horrific labor story, worthy of an Academy for best Horror Flick, kindly ask them not to share until your beloved child is born. And people try. Some prenatal reading material can be the same way. A magazine I love to pick up at Barnes & Noble is Fit Pregnancy. It's motivating. A good Nicholas Sparks book works also [though beware the overflow of hormones that make you cry easier now!] You will need lots of tissues during the emotional roller coaster. 

*Some type of belly cream. Don't knock this. I gained 65lbs with my first pregnancy [I was thin before hand...haven't seen a size 1 since] and I used a belly cream EVERY single day on my belly, breasts and thighs. I had not ONE stretch mark. For some reason I didn't use a belly cream with my second, only gained 15 lbs and I have a roadmap to prove it. USE belly cream. I'm so serious. My favs are: Motherlove Pregnant Belly Salve and Skin Nutrition which is also good for existing stretch marks/scars. Also, old fashioned Cocoa Butter or Vitamin E oil are timeless and work.

*Fashionable, Comfy Shoes. ie: FLATS. I refuse to forgo fashion while pregnant...soooo, thank goodness there's ballet flats! Add some inserts for added comfortability. Order a half size up if on the internet to allow for inserts and possible swelling that occurs in pregnancy.

*A Couple Supportive Bras. Just because you're pregnant doesn't mean it has to mean ugly and uncomfortable! I would choose a normal looking bra that doubles as a nursing bra if you plan on breast feeding. And a sports bra type for yoga, exercising and binding sore/tender breasts.


*Vitamins. We all know that we are supposed to take our Prenatals on the daily for the benefits and health of ourselves and our precious cargo. The folic acid in them are so important to your baby [or babies!] BUT not everyone is able to stomach some prenatals on the market or the iron is too high [making constipation more of a problem] ALWAYS talk to your doctor about it. I had to this go around and my doctor told me taking Flintstone Vitamins until I'm able to regain control of my morning sickness was perfectly fine!


Hold on, and remember "this too shall pass". I say that a lot lately! Also, putting these things together for a pregnant friend or family member in a cute basket is just a wonderful way to show your understanding care!

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The Bag

"Is your bag Ready?"
"What Bag?"
"The Hospital Bag."
"What? The Hospital's have bags?"
"No. When you go to the Hospital to have your baby.... YOU will need to bring your own bag."
"Oh? A bag for the baby?"
"No... a Bag for you!"

Does this conversation sound familiar? Or maybe your having a panic attack right now with the thought of one more thing you need to get together before this baby gets here.

OK, maybe that was a little dramatic I know.

But everyone always tells you the things you need to get ready or in order for the baby... no one thinks to include the things you're going to need for yourself.

No worries.

I got you covered.

Today's Lesson in Bringing Home Baby 101...

The Hospital Bag! (For Mom)

(Go Here for this French Bag.)
1. Let's get the serious stuff in their first...A picture ID (driver's license or other ID), your insurance card, and any hospital paperwork you need. It's also a good idea to have a few dollar bills for any vending machine runs you might send the husband on.
2. 
   Eyeglasses, Even if you usually wear contact lenses, you may not want to deal with them while you're in the hospital.
3. OK, let's face it. You just had a baby and unless you're the 3% of women who look amazing right out the gate, you're going to feel like crap, you're going to have some pain, and the last thing you're going to want to do is put on those skinny jeans you have been dying to fit back into... DON'T PACK THOSE! Instead... pack some DRAW STRING sweat pants or shorts, preferable cotton and comfy. If you cant find draw string, go for something loose, your stomach doesn't want to be touched for a few days after child birth... do you blame it? It has been through enough already!
(Click Here for lots of Old Navy Options)
(Click Here for Target "Hoot Hoot" Options)
4. And The Shirt. Let's think about it. A t-shirt has to be pulled over your head and snugs against the girls, then all day your lifting and pulling to gain access... let's just be smart. Find a great button up shirt, or zipper jacket, nothing fancy, cotton preferably, that you can have some easy access whenever needed.

(Victoria's Secret, Lightweight Robe)
5. A lightweight robe, so visitors don't get any sneak peeks of "off limit" body parts!! You're most likely to be in the hospital for a few days so don't worry about packing too many items of clothing... just one for leaving. The other days they are going to make you wear their gowns... deal with it, there are worse things.

(Here for Target Cosmetic Bags)
6. Makeup... forget the caboodle. There is no need for all that stuff. Pack a mini tote with the essentials, mascara, lip gloss, and some foundation if you must... who are you going to impress? They have all seen you at your finest so the last thing you should worry about is your eyeliner!
7. Also in this mini tote you're going to need some NECESSITIES... toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, comb, hair tie, bobby pins, and the most important... a mini shampoo & conditioner. (Those Hotel ones you took a few months back and saved will work perfect!) Believe me, you're not going to want to use hand soap in those locks after all you have been through. (I say mini tote because you aren't going to want to be digging in the bag looking for these things, save yourself some time and keep them all together.)
8. A few things you will need, but the hospital should provide you with a few, Panty Liners, Heavy Pads... yuck I know, but for real, these will become your best friend. Also some awesome grandma panties will work wonders. Don't worry, your man is not going to be looking at you like that for at least 6 weeks!! So take advantage and wear them because you can, and they hold a lot in too!!
9. Some people prefer to bring something to keep them occupied while waiting long hours for something to happen, if this is you then you might want to slip in a good book, IPAD, IPOD'S, Magazines, whatever... but don't count on even getting them out!

10. Lifesavers... Yes, the candy. You're going to go a while without eating and when you can eat your going to be Starving. Lifesavers or mints or any hard candy is a good way to satisfy your stomach in between meals or just to keep you occupied for a little while.

(Zappo's Slipper Collection)
11. Slippers or Socks. One thing you are allowed to wear at all times is socks... and you don't want to be walking around on those floors with out them. Pack at least 5 pair or better yet, go get you some cute slippers.
12. A CAMERA. Very important! Don't count on your significant other to remember it either! And before you just shove it in there check the batteries, make sure your card is empty, and wipe the lens really fast... you will thank me later! Did I say this one is very important already?!
13. I know you are worried about the baby too... What am I supposed to bring for the baby? The hospital will provide you with the necessities... but you will need a going home outfit, socks, and a blanket... and the all important car seat! (We will go into this more another day! For now its just about you!!)
14. And last if your like me you have to sleep with your own blanket and pillow no matter where it is your sleeping. So keep a blanket folded and close and a pillow too, your going to need to sleep as good as you can because once you get home... it's over!!

Just Remember you are at a hospital and if you do forget something they probably have it. Don't worry about the small things, this little bag is just a small part of this HUGE journey your beginning...

YOUR GOING TO HAVE A BABY!

Oh, and it doesn't hurt if the bag is super cute either!....

(Pleated Poppy Bloom Bag)
Enter MILAN at Checkout and get a 10% discount!

(Downeast Outfitters Bag Boutique)

(Tiny Seamstress Designs Bag)

Do you have any other advice on this?

Leave a comment, share the love!

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