2/52

a portrait of Ada once a week, every week for a year

This little lady has found her voice this week! I managed to get on video her impersonating me and copying me back every time I went "Ohhhh" at her. She's finally decided she likes her dummy, and (most of the time) can send herself off to sleep now, which leaves me with a little extra time! The sun has started to come out most days so I've been digging out her little vintage dresses, it's still so cold outside though I've got to stick a little woolen cardigan over the top to keep those pudgy little arm rolls warm!

Why Rebrand?

You may have noticed a little rebrand over here recently. It's been on the cards for ages; I started writing 'Lady Liquor' back in 2011 when it was a way to promote my online business. It soon turned into a fashion and beauty blog, so the name ended up pretty irrelevant pretty quickly! Rebranding is a great way to give your blog a new lease of life if you don't want to start a whole new one, but there are some things to take into account.

Thinking of a name is perhaps one of the hardest things. I'm not the wittiest or most creative of people, so it took me a good while to brainstorm up a few different names before settling on 'Hey, Mama'. There are some really good blog names out there which don't really have any sort of relevance to the blog, which is fine if that's your thing, but I knew personally I wanted my name to represent the new direction my blog was heading in, which is of course discussing motherhood a lot more often after having Ada. I didn't really do any research into the name, I just took a leap of faith and registered a new domain online, changed a few layout aspects and by the next morning, Lady Liquor was no more.

You should really take into consideration social media when thinking of a new name; I completely missed this memo and when it came to changing some of my accounts, I had a bit of difficulty, with Instagram mostly. It's worth having a quick check through Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to see if some usernames are already taken. You can usually get the names you'd like with a well placed '_' or '.' between some words, but if you wouldn't be happy with that, it's back to the drawing board.

There's a few other things to consider too, such as if you're going to be changing your url, you'll have to change Bloglovin' accounts, and it's all a bit of a faff. Rebranding isn't something to be really rushed into, and if you're just falling out of love with blogging, that's probably just it. I'm really pleased I rebranded, even though I've lost a few followers that's okay, I'm just heading into a new direction that I know some won't have any interest in. It's also probably a good idea to let your readers know in advance that a little change is going on, again, something I didn't do! Eeeek. 

I know personally, I've found it as a really big motivation to write more. I don't have the money, let alone the time, now to be testing out a ton of beauty products, so rebranding to show I'll be writing more about motherhood with a bit of business and interiors thrown in really made sense for me. 

Would you ever consider rebranding?

My Baby Essentials

Buying for a baby can be pretty hard work; there's a serious amount of things out there, and of course the stores would advise you to get a lot of it in, when in reality you don't need that much. There's a few select things that I really couldn't live without, so I thought I'd share my essentials so far!

1 | I picked up a swing for Ada from a car boot for £8, which is honestly an absolute steal. When you need a minutes peace, or ten to do the washing up, this is priceless. Ada will quite happily sit in her swing for around thirty minutes, and most of the time, even if she's having a bit of a whinge, she'll fall asleep in it. I have a Chad Valley swing which has a few different speeds and plays little tunes, but there's loads on the market, I like the look of this one from Mamas & Papas.

2 | If you follow me on Instagram, you might have spotted a post about Ada finally taking her dummy recently. I picked up the Natursutten one as it's made out of a natural rubber, and has a large mouth cover which touches the nose, so mimics the feeling of a breast for the baby. It took Ada a while to show any interest at all, but now that she's got the hand of it she can send herself off to sleep sucking it, which as a breastfeeding Mum, is wonderful!

3 | One of my beautiful lady friends got me a bunch of Burts Bees baby things as a baby shower present, and they are just lovely. The Calming Lotion is really nice to give a baby massage with, and it has such a lovely scent which is perfect for using in the evenings. The little sets are really good too, like the Getting Started kit. It's great for trying out products without having to buy full size, just to make sure they agree with your baby's delicate skin!

4 | I don't swaddle Ada anymore, although I did whilst she was a tiny baby in her moses basket, and it seemed to give her a bit of a comfort and make her feel secure out in the big world. I've got a few different ones and whilst I like them all, the quality of the Aden & Anais ones is unbeatable. Now I don't swaddle her I use them as lightweight blankets or a shawl for feeding, but there's a lot of possible uses for them. 

5 | Ada was in a moses basket for the first few weeks of her life, but being such a tall baby, she quickly outgrew it. The first night we put her in her cotbed, she slept through from 11-7 and has done ever since, so shoutout to the Marks & Spencer Hasting Cotbed. With the price of a mattress added on, it's definitely not a budget option, but the quality is seriously good and it'll last for years. There's a handy pull out drawer for underneath too, where I store all her bedding. I thought I'd mention too that now she's not swaddled, I use the Marks & Spencers Sleeping Bags which Ada absolutely loves, she kicks her little legs in excitement as soon as we get her ready for bed. They're really good quality and feel nice and soft, and with a little wriggler on my hands, I can sleep knowing Ada is safe inside them. 

6 | Another thing I couldn't live without is my Mamas & Papas Playmat, it's the second thing that can keep Ada entertained for a good hour or so. She loves reaching out trying to hit the things dangling down, and it makes a good sensory toy with lots of different textures and noises to be made! Mine isn't the exact one pictured but again, there's a lot of good options out there. 

7 | I'm pretty sure most Mamas can't live without sleepsuits, whilst I settled into motherhood it's all Ada wore around the house for the first four weeks. Ones from Marks & Spencers and John Lewis are my favourites (we just picked up this cute bunny set for A!) I found the ones from George to be pretty good quality too, but unfortunately Ada grew out of hers at around 7 weeks old as she's such a tall baby, whereas the M&S and John Lewis 0-3 months are still good. 

I know all babies are different so what works for me might not be what works for you and your baby, but I thought I'd talk through my favourites anyway. What are your baby essentials?

6 Inspiring Pins To Start The Week

1 | I really want to add more plants in my home, but I keep thinking it might look a bit too much. Pinterest has shown me that there really is no such thing as too many plants, and given me quite a few ideas on how to display them. I'd like to add more to my window sills in the conservatory, although I may have to train my cats next to jump up there first!

image on pinterest | image source

2 | Now I work a lot more in my office than ever before, I really want to make it into an inspiring, nice area to work. Unfortunately as it's also a stock room, it's quite difficult as it usually ends up with vintage clothes and homewares everywhere, so perhaps I'll have to look into more storage options again. I'm going to work on keeping my desk clean and tidy, and think about getting some prints for the walls too, I love how these work in well with whats on the desk.

image on pinterest | image source

3 | I see so many cute pins on Pinterest (actual pins!) and I think I need to buy some. I used to be a real brooch wearer, but now that I don't wear so much vintage myself I've only got a couple that I bring out every once in a while. I think having two or three pins on a jacket is a lot more 'me' now.

image on pinterest | image source

4 | Smock tops are just my favourites on little girls and babies. I'm hoping to find a few I can pair with little knickers for Ada for the summer, hopefully it'll be warm enough to wear them all!

image on pinterest | image source

5 | Another thing I used to wear a lot of; jewellery, in particular rings. I used to feel naked if I didn't have a ring on every finger, and then I think I got a bit paranoid of wearing them everyday. Some of them were inherited from my Grandma and I'd be devastated if anything ever happened to them. I like to wear a few together now, but most of the time I just forget. I think I need to get a little ring holder on my bedside table so I can grab a few each day. 

image on pinterest | image source

6 | Am I strange for really wanting a cute mug collection? Mine are all so boring, I keep going onto Urban Outfitters and adding about £50 worth of mugs into my basket, only to realise I'm an adult with a child and that's ridiculous. So I think this 'adulting is hard' mug is pretty appropriate.

image on pinterest | image source

Are you on Pinterest? You can find me here!

Being More Productive

Being self-employed, it's pretty easy to have lazy, slow days. Wake up in the morning, spend a couple hours on your social media accounts, watch This Morning, have a late lunch.. Suddenly half your day is gone and you've achieved nothing. Now my free time is even more precious, I thought I'd share how I make sure my day is the most productive it can be.

Make a Morning Routine

I really believe how you start your morning has a direct effect on the rest of your day. A slow, lazy start, lounging in bed checking your twitter feed isn't the greatest start. I personally hop up out of bed as soon as Ada's had her morning feed and settled back down for a nap, make my bed and head down for a coffee or green smoothie. If I stay in bed longer I pretty much always end up falling back to sleep, or wasting my time on Facebook and Twitter.

Get Dressed & Ready For The Day

This is a pretty big one for me. I'm not sure why, but I don't really feel like I'm ready for everything the day brings until I'm dressed, with my hair done or up, and a little bit of make-up on. It's only a bit of concealer and mascara with jeans and a t-shirt, but I feel like I can accomplish anything I need to when I'm dressed, rather than still in last night's pyjamas.

Turn Off Distractions

Distractions come in all different shapes and sizes. For me, it's television or my phone, so I now always work in my office (unless Ada is awake and no-one else is home) and keep my phone at the opposite end of my desk, on silent, so I'm not tempted to see what people are sharing on Instagram that morning (it'll only be yet another snap of eggs and avocado on toast, anyway)

Always Check Your Planner & Make A Priority List

I always write in my main planner what I need to be doing that day, when I want certain blog posts to be posted, if I have a courier collection that day, and what new stock needs to get listed in the shop, and it's one of the first things I look at each day. I then use my weekly planner desk pad and plan my day, in order of what needs to get done first. Make sure you always finish one task before starting the next

Take A Break

It's pretty easy to burnout if you work continuously through the day often, but it's easily done when you work as home alone. Personally, elevenses is my favourite time of the day, just to take a little break with a brew and a couple of biscuits, usually after I've completed one of the things I needed to do that day, and can easily move onto the next when I finish the break. 

How do you ensure you have a productive day?

1/52

a portrait of Ada once a week, every week for a year

As I'm writing this up Ada is a whole two months old. Two months! The time has flown by so quickly, but at the same time I feel like she's been here forever. My Mum asked the other day what I did with my days before she arrived, and I honestly don't even know, it couldn't have been a lot! My days are a bit of a blur of getting up at 7am after her first feed to work, playing with her in the morning before she naps in the afternoon, cleaning, blogging, feeding. It seems like before I know it it's 10.30, time for bed before the whole day repeats itself in the morning.

I'm not one of those Mothers who brags about her childs development, but this little lady impresses me everyday. She did her first, definitely not wind smile with a big giggle at just three weeks, and she can hold her head up pretty steadily for a few seconds now. Her grasp is getting pretty decent, to the point that I'm sometimes a little screwed if I decide I need a drink mid-feed, as she's usually clasping onto my hand and won't let go! She's a little porker now, weighing 11.7 at her last weigh in over a week ago, and most of her 0-3 sleepsuits she was too tall for a couple weeks ago! I'm convinced she's going to be taller than me by the time she hits double figures! Her playmat is just her absolute favourite, she's moved on from fishy to the plastic spinning balls, although her arms aren't quite long enough yet to hit them each time she attempts. She coos and babbles away, her first words are a while away yet but she sounds as though she'll have the cutest little voice!

Spring Wishing

1. Selfish Mother has been popping up all over social media, and I have to say I pretty much want one of everything. I couldn't decide between the French 'Maman' tee or the 'Winging It' sweatshirt, but I think the t-shirts are perfect for everyday wear, and it makes things a lot more self-explanitory for when I nip into Sainsburys with my hair thrown up in a bun and no make-up on. Money from each design heads off to a different charity too, so you're supporting great causes with each buy.  

2. There's not much excuse needed for wanting to buy Kate Spade stationery; this Telegram notepad makes the perfect memo pad for my desk. 

3-4. I'm a really big fan of Next baby clothes, and in particular I love the Sunshine range they've released for Spring. Anything with mustard, navy and smock designs is a winner for me. A relative kindly bought Ada one of the floral rain macs for when she's a little older, and I'm almost tempted to buy half the collection for next year (when she can get more wear out of them). I've got my eye on the little floral smock top and the mary janes!

5. If you're a Mama you'll know that warm brews really are a rarity. I always end up reheating my coffees and green teas, so a thermal cup would be perfect for around the house. I love this one from Kate Spade. 

6. After I kindly donated my office chair (The Made Wilton) to Ada's nursery, I'm stuck with an awful, cheap Ikea one which hurts my bum and back after a measly half an hour of being sat in it. I don't usually go for the typical office chair look, but I love the Made Lex Chair. The colour is really beautiful, and I love the design on the seat, plus it just looks so darn comfortable!

7. Ada is such a good little sleeper, I kind of dreading when she starts teething and her routine goes all up in the air. It probably won't be for at least a couple months yet, but I'll definitely be getting in a few bits from Sophie La Girafe, which are made out of a nice soft, natural rubber so baby can chew it safely. I've got my eye on the Original Teether but I may have to pick up the Teething Ring too.

8. I've always had mostly oily skin, but recently my forehead and around my eyes and nose have gone so dry, the skin has started flaking off. I've never had to buy anything for dry skin so I have ZERO idea what sorts of products are good, but I've been pointed in the direction of Kiehls. The Ultra Facial Deep Moisture Balm sounds like it would be perfect for just applying around the really dry areas. 

9. Kikki K is a bit of a new discovery for me after seeing them pop up on quite a few blogs around the new year. The notepads and stationery is just absolutely dreamy, but I just can't justify any new ones at the moment (so unlike me!) but I love their little pen sets, the Everyday Ballpoint Set is just gorgeous. 

What are you wishing for this Spring?

Breastfeeding 101 : What I've Learned So Far

Breastfeeding is a funny old topic; it's something you're always strongly advised to do by health visitors, and something that you really just expect to come so naturally to you, but for some that's not always the case. Between trying to find positions that work for you, getting a decent latch, hour long feeds every two hours, even during the night, leaking and engorged boobs, it can be bloody hard work for those first few weeks. Once you have a bit of experience behind you, it's definitely easier, so today I'm sharing what I've learnt so far.

1 | Be Prepared

There are a few things Mothers deem as 'essentials' for breastfeeding, and for me, there's really just one; Lansinoh. If I'd stocked up on that it could have saved quite a few tears the first week. Ada didn't have a bad latch, we eased into it pretty well, but after the very first feed my nipples cracked and bled, after a few days every feed was like torture. After just a day of using lanolin everything felt so much better, I just berated myself for not having it in sooner! There's also nipple shields you could try, but I loved being able to pop on some soothing lanolin after each feed.

Other mentions need to go to disposable breast pads (in case you leak) and some muslin cloths; these have so many uses, I've used them over the shoulder when I'm burping Ada, as a bit of a cover if I'm in quite a busy area feeding, cleaning up spit-up.. just buy some! Oh, and of course a good nursing bra, gone are the days of being able to wear pretty options! There are some quite nice ones on the market, just make sure you buy a size or two up from your pre-pregnancy size.

If you're planning on expressing, a good pump is essential. I expressed for the first time at 7 weeks (it's only advised after six weeks when your supply is established, unless for medical reasons you need to pump as well), and using the Medela Swing I was able to get out 3.5oz in around twenty minutes, which I think is pretty good going! I also bought the Philip Avent Natural Bottles, which have a teat shaped similar to breasts for easy transitioning between breast and bottle feeding. 

2 | Get Comfortable 

Whether you fancy the idea of a breastfeeding pillow, or just using cushions from the sofa, being comfortable is essential, with a newborn you can be stuck in one place for a good few hours! I used to use cushions to prop Ada up but these days I just sit back with my legs crossed holding her up, which just works for us. You'll probably find with the shape and size of your breasts different positions work better, experimenting with different ways and using cushions is a good way to get it figured out.

3 | Have Snacks & A Drink On Hand

Again, this is something it took me a while to realise; one day I looked at my phone, realised it was 4pm and I hadn't even had a drink that day yet. Being dehydrated can effect your milk supply so it really is essential to keep something on hand. Unfortunately you'll probably only notice your suddenly incredibly thirsty after you've already started a feed (it just works that way!) so I always keep bottled water next to the sofa now. It's probably a good idea to make a little basket that's in reach, and you can fill it with snacks, and even books or other entertainment.

4 | Relax

And again, this is something I'm definitely guilty of. Babies are pretty intuitive things, and if you're feeling anxious and stressed, they'll pick up on that for you. Breastfeeding is hard work, and it's easy to get frustrated sometimes if you've spent all day looking after baby and they're not latching on, crying and fussing at the breast. Just take a second, breathe, and try again. 

I really wish I'd relaxed more about feeding out in public; it's something I stressed about from as soon as she was born until I went out with her two or three weeks later, and I really didn't need to. The first experience wasn't great but after a couple attempts, it's so easy now, I feed her when and wherever, and I don't give the slightest thought to someone who might catch a glimpse whilst she's latching on! With the right outfit you can't see anything once baby's on anyway, so it's honestly not even worth thinking about. 

I was one of the lucky ones that found breastfeeding came quite easily to them, the only issue I've ever had is that I actually have an oversupply which can give Ada quite a bit of a wind when she's trying to gulp it down so quickly, and she coughs and chokes on it which was a little concerning at first, but it doesn't give her any real troubles. The main thing I did find difficult was being the one solely responsible for feedings, especially when you're up for the third or fourth time in a night and your partner gets to snooze away next to you, undisturbed! But those sleepy night time feeds are just lovely, I actually quite miss them now that Ada sleeps through until 7am.

Even after all the frustrations that it can sometimes bring, I can firmly say that I absolutely love breastfeeding. For me there is no better way to bond with Ada, she's always staring into my eyes whilst feeding and occasionally giving me a cheeky grin half way through, it is honestly just wonderful. It's sad to see that whilst 80% of women start off breastfeeding, that reduces to 50% after two weeks; I know some women may have issues that stop them from being able to, but most of the problems are solved within two to three weeks, so my advice is really to stick it out. The benefits for your baby are so worth it, and it's so convenient! You may have to get your boobies out in front of others, but it saves you from hours spent sterilizing bottles and making up formula. 

Did you breastfeed your baby? What are your essentials?

5 Ways To Make The Most Of 'Me Time'

Time to yourself is a bit of a rarity with children; whereas I used to spend a good hour in the bath a few times a week, I'm lucky now if I manage a few minutes in the shower about twice a week (thank you for existing, dry shampoo). When Kane finishes work early and after Ada has had a nice long feed, I make a quick dash upstairs and get to spend a whole hour to myself, uninterrupted. Here's a few of the ways I like to spend it.

1 | Having A Pamper

I have to say, this is usually the one that wins out above all the rest. Running a warm bath with a Lush bubble bar, slapping on a face mask (or two) and having a good soak is pretty much my favourite way to spend an hour. My skin has gone really dry and flaky recently so I've been giving it some much needed hydration, my current favourites are Nuxe Masque Creme Fraiche and Lush Oatifix. Occasionally if I'm lucky, I'll even have time to paint my nails and moisturize! 

2 | Sitting In Silence

Yep, I know this sounds seriously cheery, but sometimes if you're feeling a little stressed, just taking the time to breathe and relax in silence is absolute bliss. Usually I like to light some candles and just sit on my bed, collecting my thoughts.

3 | Brainstorm & Plan Blog Posts

Blogging is my number one hobby, and something I'm pretty sad that I don't have the time to do daily anymore. I've gone through periods of blogging on and off for around eight years now, and I always come back to it because I love the process of writing up topics that interest me, creating pretty photographs and being part of the blogging community. After I've finished my work and if Ada is having a really good nap day, I'll dedicate that time to getting as many posts as possible written up.

4 | Talking A Walk

Granted, I don't really class this as 'me' time as I've usually got Ada with me, but getting some fresh air works wonders occasionally. I always said whilst I was pregnant that I'd try to get out daily with her, but sadly the awful weather has kept us cooped up inside most of the time. We've been out recently when the sun's been shining, it sends her straight off to sleep and I get a nice long walk to myself.

5 | Reading

Again, something that comes a bit of a rarity when you have a baby. Whether you're a book lover, or prefer blogs and magazines, reading is a great way to lose yourself for a while. Personally I head straight over to a few of my favourite blogs for a good catch up. 

How do you like to spend your 'me time'? 

Being A WAHM (Working At Home Mum)

Being a parent is hard enough.. Throw into the mix trying to run a business, blog and looking after a house, it's pretty exhausting at times. Ada is now in quite a good routine which definitely helps, but I've still picked up a few tips along the way to really get the most out of my days.

Work when they're napping

At first you're told by everyone to sleep when they are, but as a WAHM, you've got to make the most of those precious free hours. I should probably get Ada up earlier in the mornings, but I know that after her 7am feed, she'll go back down for up to two hours, and after another small feed, she'll usually sleep for around a further 90 minutes. This is when I make the most of my time to get some new stock listings done, sort out parcels that need to be sent out, and get sharing it all on social media. 

Work smarter, not longer

When you do find the time to work, it's time to werk girl! Turn off the TV, get up to that office and really get to work. Put your phone on silent, or in another room, and try to get everything you need to as quickly as possible. Separate your working area from your usual living area. 

Have an organized workspace

This really ties in with the previous point; spend some time creating a desk space that works for you, with everything you need so you're not wasting time searching for things when you should be working. A clear desk with a couple prints, a nice diffuser and all my stationery puts me in the right, relaxed mood to work. And remember to declutter and tidy up at the end of your working time. I'm awful for this, I never put away that days new stock listings, so when I come to work the next day I need to tidy up first. When you're pushed for time, it's not the greatest start. 

Prioritise your tasks

Sometimes you won't always get in the time you need (babies are indecisive little things!) and anything can throw a normal routine out of the window, so it's important to get the most important things done first. If you have deadlines, make sure they're all sorted before moving onto other things. Personally, I'm usually focusing on getting new stock into my shop, so unfortunately my blog sometimes ends up being a little neglected. I make sure I always get my photographs done first though, so if Ada does take a good nap in the afternoon, I can usually get a post or two written up as well. 

Create a morning routine

I always feel a good start to the day makes everything go that much easier. Getting up, making my bed, getting dressed and having a (decaffeinated!) coffee or green smoothie really starts my day off properly. Before Ada came along I'd get up whenever I fancied, treated myself to a nice breakfast, watched This Morning and probably started my work mid afternoon. By that time I'd already lulled in energy so much, I probably got half the work I do now done, without a baby!

Ask for help

Most of my work definitely gets done when Kane has days off work, but I don't want to spend all our free time stuck at home because I need to spend it on my laptop. It doesn't matter quite as much whilst Ada is still a teenie baby, but as she gets older, we need to be taking her out, being entertained and discovering new things. I work as much as I can in the mornings, but if that just can't happen, I have a family member round once a week to look after Ada for me. I'm sure most grandparents wouldn't ever turn down spending time with the newest member of the family, and it means I can get on with my work undisturbed (until she needs a feed!)

Learn to roll with it

Unfortunately, some days you can put all of these points into action, and it's still all going to go horribly wrong. That's just the way it is with kids! Don't spend your time getting frustrated because you've been interrupted, spend the day with your kiddo and make up the time when you can. 

Do you have any tips for getting stuff done at home with a baby?

A Relaunch

Well, 'Lady Liquor' is no more. And thank goodness! A relaunch has been a long time coming really, Lady Liquor was started as a way to promote my online shop Lace & Liquor Vintage, another thing I'd be renaming if I didn't have so many darn business cards to get rid of! Honestly guys, a tip from me, when you're eighteen and thinking of names for a shop you want to open, just consider when you'll be twenty five with a child, wishing you'd given more thought to your ridiculous business name! But oh well, it's all just trial and error until we get there in the end.

This blog hasn't been about my business for a long time now, but now really feels like the perfect time to give things a change. I was absent from my online space for so much of last year, and I'm really going to try to build it all back up again from now on. 'Hey, Mama' will of course be a space for discussing motherhood, as well as snippets of the usual business talk, beauty and interiors. I've got a whole load of posts lined up and ideas scribbled down, there's nothing like a rebrand for fresh inspiration. 

All my social media handles have been changed too, so if you fancy seeing me on there, head over to:

Twitter / heymamablog

Facebook / heymamablog

Instagram / heymama.blog

Pinterest / heymama_blog

A Lush Haul

I often wonder if my Lush addiction will ever die down; it's been going quite a good few years now and shows no signs of stopping, whenever I pass a store I pretty much have to go in and treat myself to a few new bits. It's mostly bubble bars and bath bombs that I head for, but Lush also have some seriously good skincare, hair and shower ranges too.

I used to be aaaaaall about the fresh face masks, but when I found myself having to waste a little as they don't tend to last very long at all, I stopped buying them for a while. I've bought myself a couple ones I haven't tried before recently and I either slap a whole load on in one go, or make sure I use it a couple times a week. The latest buy is Oatifix (£6.95) which I bought to try and help out my current dry, flaky skin issues. It smells so delicious, I could honestly eat it. I also picked up Dirty (£5.75) shaving cream for Kane, the boy who cares so little about caring for his skin that he's recently been using shower gel to shave with. It has some great hydrating ingredients in there, so it's like secretly making him use skincare at the same time, sssshhhh.

I ran out of The Comforter Shower Cream recently and usually I head straight for what I know in the Lush shower deparment, but I thought I'd mix it up a bit (oh, the excitement of life). I noticed Prince Charming was back in from their Valentines range but then I spotted Yummy Mummy (£9.75) which I thought was obviously so appropriate for me (I kid, I kid). It a bit more of a subtler scent than the sweetness overload that I usually go for, but it's really lovely. I used it yesterday and my skin felt so soft afterwards, which is perfect considering I can never find the time to moisturise properly anymore!

And of course, I couldn't leave without a couple bubble bars. It's a given that The Comforter (£4.95) always heads straight into my basket, it's definitely my most used Lush product. I also got the Sunnyside (£4.95) bubble bar which has a really nice zesty citrus scent, and of course I love the glitter, even though it literally gets everywhere. 

Have you done any Lush shopping recently?

A New Bedroom Addition

Yep, my bedroom, once my sanctuary and retreat from all things stressful, has been well and truly taken over. Ada's extremely generous Uncle and Auntie offered to buy her a cot when I first found out I was pregnant, and considering one of them works at Marks & Spencer, that seemed the obvious place to shop. We decided on the Hastings Cot Bed (£349.00) and the Natural Mattress (£149.00) both of which arrived last week.

I was surprised at the size at first, but it makes sense as it converts from a cot to a bed so will take A right into her toddler years. It seems like a really well made, solid piece of furniture, with good details such as teething rails along the edges for when your baby starts trying to bite everything in sight! It comes with a handy pull out drawer on wheels underneath too which I love, so far Ada's room has a serious lack of storage space so it'll come in handy. I'm really impressed by the mattress too; it is incredibly good quality and feels really firm, so I know it'll last for years to come. It was delivered, assembled by two men in the room and all the packaging was taken away too, so a great service comes with the price.

I was a little nervous that Ada wouldn't settle going into a cot so early after being used to a cosy moses basket, but she seems to love it. Somehow, despite only being 5'2 myself, I managed to produce a much taller than average baby so most mornings I'd find A at the top of her moses basket with a bit of a crooked neck, and I'd always hear her during the nights flailing her arms about in the night, hitting the sides and waking herself up! She's been in a few nights now and slept at least seven hours straight each night, whereas she used to wake up after about 4-5. I always wake up and see her lying like a starfish, so I think she's loving the extra room.

Because it is such a big cot and Ada is a real wriggler, I'm a little nervous of her getting under her covers, so she's been wearing the Pure Cotton Floral 2.1 Tog Sleeping Bag (£18.00) which I really love. It feels like really good quality again, and it's nice and thick so keeps her warm during the cooler months. I went to John Lewis for the sheets and picked up a couple sets, including the Spotted and Floral Printed Fitted Sheet Pack Of 2. The prints are just so pretty, they feel lovely and soft. The mobile was a Christmas gift, and is the Millie & Boris Musical Cot Mobile from Mamas & Papas. When wound up the stars spin and play twinkle twinkle little star, and it absolutely fascinates Ada! I've actually woken up a couple days ago to find her awake and contently staring at her mobile, trying to reach out for it. Anything that gives me a little longer asleep is a winner in my eyes!

What do you think of my buys? 

A Lazy Valentines Morning

I've never been one for going out on Valentines day (busy restaurants and competing for the most over the top gesture, no thank you!) and now with a baby in tow, it's even less likely to happen. I'm more than happy on the day to laze around the house; eating too many chocolates, perhaps with a little bunch of flowers, watching films cosied up on the sofa. So I was thrilled when Debenhams got in touch asking if they could help me celebrate the day with my loved ones. 

Pyjamas are possibly my favourite thing to buy and receive, so a new slinky dressing gown is perfect to start the day. Typically you'd think of underwear for Valentines day, but as I'm breastfeeding, the pretty sets I'd love to buy are really out of the question! This Butterfly Print Kimono Gown from Ted Baker is such a pretty alternative, I'll definitely be wearing that whilst cuddling up to Kane and Ada in the morning. I don't need any excuse to have chocolate for breakfast, but it's definitely allowed on Valentines Day, and I know we'll be tucking into these delicious Ferrero Rocher!

When it's finally time to go downstairs, Debenhams have got us sorted on the cooking front too. I'm a generally terrible cook (trying to improve!) so I leave most of it to Kane. I'll probably request some pancakes this year, which we'll tuck into at the table staring at these gorgeous dozen red roses from Debenhams Flowers. Debenhams have well and truly sorted me out this year! They're a perfect place to shop for your gifts if you're looking to spoil someone, you can see their entire range here. 

How will you be spending Valentines Day this year?

A H&M Baby Haul

From interiors and now onto baby clothes, I appear to have done a fair bit of buying on H&M recently! Back when I'd just dropped out of university I got a job at H&M which was in their kids section, and even back then (over five years ago!) I remember loving everything I saw, it used to make me so broody spending my days sorting through tiny little dresses, skirts and hairclips. When my niece came along I revisited that section of the store and was still just as impressed, so I've been buying a few bits for Ada now too.

It may be a bit early, but I'm trying to get Ada into a bit more of a routine, and part of that is recognizing it's the start of the day by getting her changed into proper clothes and taking her downstairs. Then part of her winding down routine at the end of the day is a bath, baby massage and back into her sleepsuits. I realised though that I'd bought a little too much in 3-6 months and nothing in smaller sizes, so she's lacking in the casual clothes department! H&M do more sizes too, so I was able to buy everything in 2-4 months which is a lot better fitting and gives her a little longer in them than 0-3 months.

So, moving on to what I actually bought! I couldn't resist these Patterned Bodysuits (£3.99) just in time for Valentines Day. They're really versatile pieces and can be worn with leggings or skirts, or just as another layer on a chilly day. I also got this Heart Print Sweatshirt (£5.99) which just looked so cosy, it's perfect with leggings for lounging around the house. I got two pairs of these Patterned Leggings (£3.99) which are a really good fit, but have plenty of room for growth too. And something a little more fancy that I just couldn't resist is this Embroidered Sweatshirt (£9.99), although it's definitely more of a dress on Ada, being almost down to her knees! Everything is made out of an organic cotton so feels so lovely and soft, it's all really good quality.

Have you bought anything from H&M Kids?

A Valentines Gift Guide (+ Giveaway)

Valentines is one of those days that most people seem to either love or hate, and personally, I am all about the kitsch. You can leave the expensive jewellery and all things fancy for me, I'd really be happy with some red and pink themed sweets and hearts adorned everywhere. 

So if you're like me, I reckon the first place to point your loved ones in the direction of is Paperchase, who are killing it this year. Seriously, I could have made the entire guide from there and titled it 'BUY ME ALL OF THIS' instead. If there's a time for corny puns Valentines is definitely it, my favourites come in the form of 'You're Grate' mug and 'Nice Buns' plate. Stationery is a great option that's not in the 'norm' of usual presents, and I particularly like the Love Note Pad, or you could be really cutesy and get the Rosa Frame and pop a nice picture in! I love the Skinny Dip Heart Macaron iPhone Case for a bit more of an unusual gift too. 

Candles and pyjamas are one of my favourite things to buy or have gifted to me (can you tell I did this guide of stuff I basically just like?) and if your lady is the same great options are the Diptyque Rosaviola candle or the Blurred Floral Satin Pyjamas from the Rosie range at M&S. If she's a bag lady, the Skinny Dip Heart Cross Body Bag is a really lovely, and such a good price at just £26. And of course, you can never go wrong with good old trusty Thorntons. They've written their own blog post this year with lots of ideas on how to have a happy valentines day, which you can read here (I'm pretty sure Kane would love me to cook the steak and homemade chips recipe, although there's an extremely tiny chance of that happening!. There's a ton of options such as the Continental Chocolate Heart and the Milk Chocolate Heart Plaque, which I've kindly been given one of each to give away to one winner! Just enter using the Rafflecopter form below, and the winner will be announced on the 7th February. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway