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The final week is upon us and I am so ready to let go of the pregnancy part of this adventure. My bump seems to be growing a bit more by day, and I’m getting a little restless waiting for her arrival.  I have decided to opt for the infamous elective c-section, which I am aware is controversial for some but was the right choice for me.   Childbirth is something that is personal for each of us, and after plenty of research, speaking to friends and family, I felt this was the right decision for me.  The fact that it is pretty common in HK made it a less daunting choice.  My little sister, and many of my friends and family’s children were born the same way, but at the end of the day I just felt I wanted more control of the time and situation.   I will also have lots of help after she arrives, don’t drive, and don’t have an office job to rush back to, so recovery time is less of a concern for me.  Our date is next Wednesday so exactly one week today! I’ll share my birth story here after she arrives and let you know how it goes 🙂



How far along?


 37 weeks


Maternity Clothes?
Big tanks, the boy’s boxer shorts, two floaty dresses you can get here, Topshop maternity leggings, and Emma Jane Maternity/Nursing bras.

Stretch Marks?


I have a tiny one on my side now, but Bio Oil seems to have made it fade already.  I hope that will be it.  Was pretty upset when it happened but glad it’s near my back rather than on the front of my tummy. 



Sleep?

A lot.  That’s basically all I do.  


Best moment of this week?


Seeing her at our last ultrasound before she arrives.  We were worried about her weight pre-c section but she’s grown a lot and has the cutest lips, cheeks, and eyes.   I can’t wait to meet her.  


Worst moment this week?

There were so many fun events this week, and I’m missing out on meeting a few of my favourite fashion designers and fun parties.   I just didn’t feel up to dressing up my bump and am so exhausted.  Am looking forward to feeling like myself again.  

Miss anything?


Going out with my friends, working out, my thighs. 


Food Cravings?


Tacos, chocolate, and ice cream.  

Anything making you feel sick or queasy?


Nothing. I haven’t had any sickness really throughout the 9 months.  

Symptoms?


More pelvic pressure, especially if I’m on my feet during the day.   Just wanting to sleep all time.  Nesting.  I keep wanting to organize and clean.  


Belly button in or out?


It’s still in but really small now.   Looks stretched to the limit as does the skin on my stomach.  


Happy or Moody?

Happy and very excited.

Looking forward to?

Our nanny arriving, and next Wednesday! We cannot wait to meet her, it is literally all we can think and talk about !

April 16, 2014 0 comment
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How far along?

 36 weeks

Maternity Clothes?
I’ve been home most of this week so mainly the boy’s tees and boxers while lounging at home.  I also have a major oversized sweater I wear as a dress when I’m forced to leave the house for supplies.

Stretch Marks?

still none.  fingers crossed i’ll make it through without any!!


Sleep?

I have been sleeping all day and all night.  Drinking less herbal tea before bed has made sleeping at night easier and of course a back massage from the boy helps me hit deep slumber mode. It’s becoming a evening habit now.

Best moment of this week?

Washing and ironing all the cute baby clothes and getting all ready for her.  Feeling her being super active this  week, and planning a summer family trip.

Worst moment this week?
A little bored and feeling restless but other than that I’m just excited.

Miss anything?

Still my clothes.  I’ve been organizing my wardrobe and have so many outfit ideas I want to try out and can’t.   Cannot wait to have my old tummy and thighs back.  

Food Cravings?

Cupcakes, coconut water, decaf hazelnut lattes, cheese omelets, and burgers.

Anything making you feel sick or queasy?

Nothing. I haven’t had any sickness really throughout the 9 months.  

Symptoms?

More pelvic pressure, especially if I’m on my feet during the day.   Extreme exhaustion.  I want to nap all the time. 

Belly button in or out?

Still in

Happy or Moody?
Happy and very excited.

Looking forward to?
Some last minute shopping and our nanny moving in.  



April 8, 2014 0 comment
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I have been putting together my hospital bag, and at 36 weeks it’s almost done.  You can see my list of essentials here, but the hardest part has been what to bring to wear during my five night stay.  I’m not into the whole hospital gown thing, and my at home sleeping attire is a little bit non existent/revealing for visitors, doctors, and nurses.  I want something comfortable, breast feeding friendly, and preferably with a matching robe.  Something that will look nice in photos but still sloppy enough that I don’t mind sleeping/lounging to my heart’s content.  After some research I stumbled across Hatch, an amazing site for maternity wear.   I will say it.   I hate maternity wear, but next time around I may invest in a few of these stylish, wearable pieces that don’t look as if they are solely catered to yelling to the world you are carrying another being in your tummy.   The best part is they have the cutest Hatch to Hospital Box which is perfect for a hospital solution and may be the best baby shower gift for mommies to be.  

The box includes:

An amazing-fit Cosabella x HATCH panty brief in lace-trimmed black, which offers 
you full coverage without sacrificing style 

Knee-length modal nightgown that feels like an extension of your softest, coziest tee, and can be pulled down for nursing 

Coordinated jersey robe that hits just below the knee, with attached belt for your convenience 

Pair of delectable grey cashmere tube socks 


What more could a girl need?




xx
April 8, 2014 0 comment
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We had so much fun this week washing all the new baby clothes, setting up her bassinet, getting packages from family, and of course my first baby shower 🙂 I only moved to HK a three years ago and feel so lucky to have met such amazing and supportive friends already. These girls are so fun, down to earth, and make this city feel like home. The baby shower was at the cutest little cafe, Another Fine Day, which was the perfect sanctuary for a pink girly catch-up session. I’ll share all the fun gifts with you guys soon. Only three weeks now. I can’t believe how fast time is flying by. Too excited to meet her. Having a new baby is really exciting, and we thought about the difficult question of what would happen if someone happened to us and a friend of mine suggested that we search to find cheaper life insurance with Moneyexpert.com, while we didn’t jump on it right away, it is still something we are thinking about.

How far along?

35 weeks


Maternity Clothes?
Shopping for PJs and robes for the hospital. I love this Equipment Pyjama Shirt and Eberjey Lace Trimmed Jersey Robe. Both perfect for breastfeeding and will be suitable for living in after we get home. I’m sure I won’t be wearing much more than pyjamas for the first month so I want to get a few pieces I will love wearing.

Stretch Marks?

still none 🙂 I use Bio Oil twice a day and organic coconut oil. So far so good.


Sleep?

Better this week. I wake up a few times each night, but chamomile tea and a little snack before bed seems to be helping. I still take a two hour nap each day which makes me feel super refreshed and lively for dinner with the boy. We are trying to have a nice dinner together each night as it will be awhile until we get alone time after the baby arrives.


Best moment of this week?

The baby shower. I didn’t really think I would even have one, and was so flattered and happy that my friends helped plan something so fun, and all showed up with amazing gifts for our little girl. It makes me feel so much more comfortable to know I have good mommy and non mommy friends here in HK who are always supportive and ready with advice. My husband got me a great card and he found loads of quotes posted on lifehacks and wrote them inside for me. It was so cute!!


Worst moment this week?
None. It’s been a great week. I’m getting a little impatient. I can’t wait to meet her, but other than that I’m enjoying the last few weeks of ice cream, chocolate, and constant kicks in my tummy.

Miss anything?

Fashion. Being able to put together random outfits and attend parties with friends. Can’t wait until my wardrobe fits again. I miss my clothes and shoes.


Food Cravings?

Actually not as hungry this week. Maybe she’s taking up so much space there isn’t much room for food.


Anything making you feel sick or queasy?

Nothing, but I’ve been home a lot so haven’t been exposed to random smells etc.

Symptoms?

Lots of pelvic pressure. If I talk a walk it becomes pretty painful by the evening. I try to not be on my feet all day and it’s not too bad.


Belly button in or out?

Still in


Happy or Moody?
Happy and very excited.

Looking forward to?
Her arrival!



April 2, 2014 0 comment
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I’m ridiculously obsessed with this father daughter duo.   Maybe it’s because I’m such a daddy’s girl or maybe it’s because I know the boy, who is determined to be a very hands on father, will be just as cute with our little one.  Who can resist Harper’s adorable and chic dresses and both David’s off duty and tailored looks.  I mean she’s already front row with Anna Wintour.  Definitely a little fashionista in the making.

April 1, 2014 0 comment
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That moment is nearing by day, and most will tell you to have a hospital bag packed by 35 weeks.  I’m just starting to get mine sorted out, and have been looking at a few of my favourite blogs and sites for essentials and luxe items that are recommended.


A few hospital essentials packing lists you guys should check out:





My hospital packing list:

For Mummy:

Custom made cotton and silk lined nightdress
H&M Pajamas shirt and shorts set
7 pairs of basic black Marks & Spencers cotton undewear
L’Occitane hotel size shampoo, conditioner, and bodywash  
Olay Regenerist, coconut oil, Homeoplasmine, and toothpaste/toothbrush.  
BB Cream and Bare Minerals pink blusher
Unimom breast pump and breast pads
Maternity pads purchased from Bumps to Babes
iPad, iPhone, and chargers
Instax Poloroid Camera and film
Havaiana flip flops and Toms
My Brest Friend Nursing Pillow
Pillow and towel from home
Silk maxi slip and C. by Christing C. cardigan for a going home outfit.

For Baby:

Petit Bateau Onesie
Mothercare plain white newborn vests x 3
Aden Anais swaddling blanket
Baby Gap newborn socks in white
Ralph Lauren cashmere baby blanket
Diapers and organic barrier cream
Waterwipes purchased from Bumps to Babes
Baby Ergo with newborn insert
Maxi Cosi Pebble carseat 
Zara Baby floral dress as a going home outfit


March 30, 2014 1 comment
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  I’ve found this week one of the hardest throughout this entire pregnancy.  I was lucky enough to miss out the entire morning sickness and first trimester horrors, but the last month is taking it’s toll.  I’ve never been more tired and as her due date nears my Braxton Hicks are far more painful and uncomfortable.  Nesting is in full force, and my usual cleaning phobic self is tidying everything in site and organising all our baby purchases.   I am looking forward my baby shower on Saturday which funnily enough is the first baby shower I have ever attended.  Less than a month to go….The countdown has begun!
 
 
How far along?

 34 weeks


Maternity Clothes?
None.  I am running out of clothing to wear.  Pretty into maxi skirts with elastic waistbands to hide my swollen legs and of course my sweatpants.

Stretch Marks?

still none 🙂


Sleep?

Not great at night anymore but still trying to nap as much as possible.  I seem to still get a lot of work done during my sleepless nights so I guess it’s not a horrible situation.


Best moment of this week?

Catching up with lots of family.   We are all so excited and it’s fun to anticipate welcoming our little girl. 


Worst moment this week?
My Braxton Hicks are getting much worst and I’ve had a bit of cramping and pelvic pressure.  It’s probably been my most uncomfortable week since pregnancy.   I’m not looking forward to physically getting through this last stretch. 

Miss anything?

My old body, being flexible and agile, and spin classes.


Food Cravings?

Actually not as hungry this week.   Maybe she’s taking up so much space there isn’t much room for food.


Anything making you feel sick or queasy?

The smell of strong alcohol.   I’m finding it hard to be around lots of people drinking. 


Symptoms?

Swollen legs and face, period like cramping, pelvic pressure, and extreme exhaustion. 


Belly button in or out?

In but looks a bit stretched.


Happy or Moody?
Happy but not very energetic. 
Looking forward to?
My baby shower this Saturday and our ultrasound on Monday 🙂
 
xx
March 27, 2014 0 comment
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Despite the fact that I’ve been warned numerous times babies grow out of clothes quickly, spit up often, and probably only need white onesies in the first few weeks, it’s impossible not to go a little crazy over shopping for ridiculously cute outfits.   I’m pretty ecstatic it’s a girl and have fallen in love with several collections.   She’s a spring baby, so I’ve been leaning towards florals and neutrals, especially with a French twist.  Bonpoint has been one of my absolute favourite brands and I can see her growing with this brand.  The aesthetic is completely my style, so we’ll be able to look well suited without matching, because obviously mother/daughter matching outfits are just too over the top.   The fabrics are as luxe as their delicate prints, and so perfect for our upcoming European trip this summer.  
Bonpoint HK is located on the 3rd Floor in Prince’s Building, Central.
 
March 25, 2014 1 comment
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The minute you let the excitement of your pregnancy mingle amongst friends and family much needed advice, horror stories, and heart melting experiences start rolling your way. I love hearing the anecdotes in great detail, revelling in how much a little person can change your life.  I have bombarded friends with questions and soaked up information that will last a lifetime.  One of the things I feared most was a huge consensus that our lives would completely change. As happy as I am to uproot our routine and adapt to parenthood I always want to make sure the boy and I remain true to who we are, and to instill those values into our little girl.
The truth is you often hear “your life is over.” That travel, date nights, partying will be a thing of the past. Instead of surrendering to this general statement I knew I was determined to prove this was not the only way. That as a family we could still be nomadic enough to see the world, spend long dinners bathed in candlelight, and find hours of free time to roll around on a sandy beach. The couples I found most inspiring have been those who have avidly kept their careers, managed to take their little ones on long haul trips, and still lead sociable lives.  Not to say it’s not amazing to just concentrate on parenthood and stay at home as much as possible, but these experiences have related to me the most. The key is to integrate the little one into your routines, keep my unfussy relaxed attitude and make sure it rubs off onto her perspective of the world.
 

I have absolutely fallen in love with the site Romy and The Bunnies, written and curated by none other than Julia Restoin Roitfield.  I have always admired her Parisian chic style and now find her incredibly relatable as a mother.  Inspired by her daughter in hopes of creating a space for women who wish to retain their sensuality and femininity during and after pregnancy, she has created an inviting sanctuary for a mother to be like myself.  Her interviews present a plenitude of inspirational women who have driven careers, natural lifestyles, and still remain sexy, stylish, and true to their pre motherhood selves.  I love that many of the questions are based around how they continued to travel, work, play as before but how they involved their children into these lifestyles.  I don’t think keeping your lifestyle means you can’t be an extremely hands on parent and these women prove that fact.  Stories like these make me so excited to become a mother, as it can only enhance our experiences, colour our travels, and paint our lives with more love and excitement than before.

Check out Romy and the Bunnies for stunning vintage photos of style icons during pregnancy or with their children, interviews with inspiring beautiful mothers (Miroslava Duma and Rachel Zoe), pregnancy style tips from the fashion elite, beauty must haves, workout ideas, and advice such as hospital essentials from some of my fashion favourites (Margherita Missoni). 
 xx
March 21, 2014 0 comment
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Camping in an office is the only appropriate way to describe our former living conditions.  The boy and I had plenty of space and resources to play with, but laziness always overtook and it was easier to set up in a huge bed and stay weirdly content in that element.   We have lived in more than our fair share of flats together and have been happiest in the open plan studio types, over several bedrooms and a pretty house.  Once news of the imminent arrival of our little girl hit, motivation peaked and we have completely rearranged our entire home one room at a time.  The largest room is where we have made the most effort making sure to inject as much of our personality as possible.  Although our baby girl will most likely stay with us and make little use of her nursery in the first year, we are taking our time to make it a space fit for a boho princess. The amount of nursery rhymes I will be singing to her will be unreal, but this is the best part of having kids. Watching them grow up and being there through every step is something every parent will never forget.

Going down the flimsy, messy yet stylish route is much more me than the boy, but a clean and ultra modern design in not conceivable with what we have, so I guess I win. I’m loving the idea of a fort, because lets face it how much fun was fort building when you were little.  The rest will be all about pretty prints, dreamcatchers, draped fabrics, vintage art, and clothes that double as display.  I’m sure you can tell I’m pretty excited it’s a girl 😉

xx


March 20, 2014 0 comment
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