Meet Shepard Luther Jennings

Born Tuesday, September 24th at 8:43pm, Shep weighed 7 pounds 13 ounces and measured 19 3/4 inches long. Now 8 weeks old, Shep continues to grow and has both mommy and daddy wrapped around his finger. Mommy-hood is exhausting, but wonderful, and I could not be more thankful. I am also happy to say that 6 weeks post-delivery I was back at the barre teaching and taking classes. I credit Pure Barre for helping me stay healthy throughout pregnancy and am already seeing results as I work to bounce back post-baby. 

What I've learned so far: 

• The first 4-6 weeks pass by in a complete blur! People will tell you to sleep when the baby sleeps. This was impossible for me. I was utterly exhausted during this time. People complain about pregnancy fatigue, but just wait until you have a newborn! It's easy to feel overwhelmed during these first few weeks, but it does get easier as you both begin to settle into a routine. 
• Other new mommy friends are the best! 
• We could not live without Dr. Brown's bottles, our Aden & Anais swaddle blankets, boppy pillow, and the Wubbanub pacifier. 
• Carve out time for yourself and for your spouse. 
• Breastfeeding is much harder and more time-consuming than I expected. 
• We prefer Huggies to Pampers (Shep is already in size 2 diapers!) and love Kickee Pants baby clothes. 
• I could not have asked for a more supportive or loving husband. Shep is lucky to have Luke as his dad! 
• You will fall completely head-over-heels in love with your little one and the sleepless nights will be well worth it!

6 days until d-day!

Just 6 days away from my due date, Luke and I made an unexpected trip to the hospital last night. After a fairly uneventful pregnancy, I noticed some sudden, significant swelling in my feet. My doctor suggested that I go ahead and come in just to be safe. Two hours of monitoring later, they sent me back home with orders to start slowing things down. While I am experiencing contractions, they are irregular, and the swelling is likely due to fluid retention and the Texas heat. Baby Boy Jennings is perfectly fine and appears to be quite content exactly where he is. Here’s to hoping he decides to get a move-on sooner, rather than later. Stay tuned! 

Loved teaching my last Pure Barre class before baby! 

38 Weeks & Still at the Barre!

The countdown is officially on! We are just less than 2 weeks away from Baby Boy Jennings’ due date. Here’s to hoping he makes an early, or on-time, arrival! 

Symptoms This Week: Swollen hands and feet, flip flops are all I’m wearing these days. Tingling and pain in my hands, who knew that pregnant women often suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome? I’m having difficulty sleeping and am certainly over the Texas heat, but know that it will all be well worth it as soon as we see his sweet little face. 

What the Doctor is Saying: Not much. While Baby Boy Jennings is in position, he doesn't appear ready to make his appearance just yet. 

The Tables Are Beginning to Turn: For the majority of my pregnancy, I felt as if I was constantly reaching out to other new moms asking for advice and guidance on anything from registering, pediatricians, schools, and symptoms, but recently I've had the privilege of returning the favor to other expecting moms. 

What I’ve Learned About Exercising: It’s a must! No matter how tired you feel, exercising will absolutely make you feel better, even if just marginally. It will also help with flexibility, strength, and weight gain. From what I’ve heard from other new-moms it also helps with endurance during, and post, delivery. Fairly early on in my pregnancy, I read that pre-natal exercise should focus on maintenance and not gain. In other words, you are not going to become thinner or suddenly able to push yourself to a new level. To the contrary, you will gain weight and be forced to adopt certain modifications. Looking back on these past 9 months I am increasingly thankful for Pure Barre. It has helped me maintain a healthy and balanced pregnancy and has made exercise easy and fun. I have loved being able to share my pregnancy journey with our Pure Barre clients, family, and friends and am constantly inspired by other Pure Barre Dallas mommies and mommies-to-be. Fingers crossed, I have been lucky enough to continue teaching and taking classes throughout my pregnancy and hope to be back at the barre as quickly as possibly post-baby. 

Here's a look back at weeks 25, 30, & 36...

Meet Pure Barre Dallas Mommy To Be (and Barretender) Ashley Epstein!

21 weeks pregnant & glowing, meet Pure Barre Dallas Mommy To Be (and Barretender) Ashley Epstein! 

Hi my fellow Pure Barre enthusiasts!!  I am so thrilled to be sharing a bit of my “First Baby Journey” with you all!  Some of you know me as one of the girls who sits at the check-in desk and most of you know me as, Ashley.  I love being a part of the Pure Barre family and if it weren’t for my full time job as an RN, I would be up there everyday!  Pure Barre has most definitely changed my focus and my self-confidence.  It is the first workout experience I have had that incorporated realistic goals for my overall fitness and a strong mind-body connection.  Now that I am on my way to becoming a mom of a little GIRL (!!!), I am so thankful to share this influence and example in her little life.  

So, yes, my husband, Chris, and I are expecting our little girl to arrive around January 13^th 2014.  I am in the middle of my 21^st week of pregnancy (about 5 months) and have experienced my body changing in ways I had heard and read about, but I had really no idea.  A small list of those changes is as follows: weight gain, appetite changes, nausea, weight gain, spreading of the hips, veiny boobs, weight gain, extreme fatigue, peeing every 15 minutes, forgetfulness, turrets-like outbursts, weight gain, and a belly button that has become the size of a crater.  It’s been awesome.  (wink-wink)

It is quite an adjustment to suddenly have to think of yourself as a two-person being.  I mean let’s be honest; I had lived 30 years of my life eating, drinking, and getting involved in anything I wanted without hesitation.  Now – realizing that everything I do could have an effect on this innocent life was a big “Holy S*#%” moment. (I have decided I should start finding creative ways to express myself so as not to teach Little One un-ladylike behavior – spelling words out and unknown hand gestures are becoming two of my favorites).  

Anyway, what I have gathered in wisdom from other moms and soon-to-be moms is that this is not only totally normal, but also just the beginning!  I have experienced a shift in my brain’s ability to make decisions based solely on my own person.  I worry about her, I talk to her, I sing to her, I work out with her experience of my movements in mind, and the list goes on and on.  No wonder women are so amazing!  I have started multitasking my brain’s natural processes without even the blink of an eye!  (We are geniuses and it took a baby for me to finally get it!) 

I have learned to listen to my body, trust in those I love to support me, and have grace with myself as I adjust. I still have so much to learn and experience, so many adventures ahead of me that are unique to motherhood and it is all terrifyingly fantastic, however, I must remember how far I’ve come already. So, my point is this: Regardless of where you may be in your life and the titles you have earned thus far, ‘Woman’ may be the greatest of them all. 

Hello 36 Weeks!

36 Weeks: It’s hard to believe that we are just 4 weeks away from Baby Boy Jennings’ due date! I am beginning to feel Braxton-Hicks contractions and my hands and feet are swollen (the 100 degree temps that insist on continuing through the end of the month certainly don't help), but I am thankful for flip flops, watermelon, and ice cream which make everything more bearable. I am also thankful to have been able to share my journey thus far with all of our Pure Barre family & friends. Thank you for your continued support, encouragement, and excitement. Cheers to 36-weeks, the ninth month, and officially being full-term. Let the countdown begin! 

Highlight of the Week: Pregnant Pure Barre clients continue to be a source of inspiration and support. What better way to show them my appreciation, and also build a community within our studio of new and expectant mothers, than by teaching a pre- and post-natal Pure Barre class? Thank you to all of the clients, and also to Allison Stitsworth, C.N.M., who joined me bright and early last Sunday morning. 

Where to Shop This Month: While my pre-pregnancy workout pants still fit (although a little more tightly each week) I didn't really want to invest in more expensive workout tops that likely won't work post-baby. Gap Maternity has some cute maternity workout tops at more reasonable prices and even better sales. Baby Gap is also wonderful for cute, casual baby wear at more affordable prices. The Gap at Northpark carries both lines so you can actually try on as opposed to just ordering off of the website. 

Be Prepared For: For whatever reason, most people seem to love pregnant women and dogs. As Luke says, we have both. When walking our two pups, I am often greeted by complete strangers who excitedly comment on my growing belly and how the dogs must feel in anticipation of the new baby's arrival. Embrace others' enthusiasm. Recognize that for the most part, people mean well. Try to ignore those who don't. Learn to laugh at the more ridiculous comments. My favorites so far? "You are HUGE!" "You must be ready to pop!" and "How much weight have you gained? I'm 33 weeks and have only gained 9 pounds. You must be due tomorrow" Yikes! 

Remember: Every woman, every pregnancy, and every baby are different. You are supposed to gain weight and your body is supposed to change. How else could you grow a baby? It's only 9 months. Relax, indulge (in moderation), and embrace it! The Pure Barre Baby Bounce Back Package is available when you're ready to get that Pure Barre body back. :) 

Maternity Photo Shoot, Pre-Natal Classes, Pregnancy Must-Haves, Win A Free Pure Barre Class, & More!

Hello 35 Weeks!

Maternity Photo Shoot: Yes, please! Thank you to Lauren Ashley Photography for capturing my pregnancy at week 33. Visit her blog to see more of the images from our session: http://www.laurenashleyphotos.com/?p=688

Pre-Natal Classes Worth Taking: 

• Prepared Childbirth - Fast Track (including a tour of the maternity ward): By far the most valuable class we took, this all-day Saturday class taught us the essentials of labor and delivery. 

• Basics of Baby Care: This two-hour evening class provided helpful tips on swaddling, bathing, and bringing home baby. 

• Breastfeeding: I opted not to take this class (although I have heard wonderful things) and am instead waiting to meet with lactation consultants at the hospital and pediatrician’s office after delivery when instruction will be more relevant. 

• Infant and Child CPR: Instead of a more traditional group course, Luke and I met with a Basic Life Support Certification Specialist at Children’s Medical Center for an introductory lesson on the basics of infant and child CPR. 

What I’m Reading Now: Baby 411, written by pediatrician Ari Brown, M.D. and parenting expert Denise Fields, provides expert advice on sleep patterns, first aid, soothing a colicky baby, vaccinations and more. This is an easy and practical guide for any new parent. Chapter 1 is best read before your baby arrives.

Pregnancy Must-Haves: 

• Preggle Comfort Air-Flow Body Pillow 
• Maternity Jeans
• Michael Stars’ Maternity Tees 
• Nursing bras & Hanky Panky Original Rise Thongs 
• Belli Elasticity Belly Oil 

Pregnancy Life-Savers: 

• Eat breakfast
• Pack snacks (string cheese, sliced apples, raisins, and bananas are some of my favorites) 
• Smartwater & Gatorade G2 
• Nap (even 20-30 minutes will work wonders) 
• Frosted Flakes, Honey Nut Cheerios, Raisin Bran, and Rice Krispies

Embrace Being Pregnant: Even when your belly grazes the Pure Barre studio floor during pushups.

Answer the following questions about Baby Boy Jennings. First place, the person with the most correct answers, will receive a free Pure Barre class and second place a 5-pack of Emi-Jay hair ties: 

• How much will Baby Boy Jennings weigh? 
• How long will he be? 
• What color hair will he have? 
• What color eyes? 
• Baby Boy Jennings is due September 25th. He will arrive ______ days early, _____ days late, or right on-time. 

*Post your answers in the form of a response below or under the blog link on the Pure Barre Dallas Facebook Page*

Choosing a Pediatrician

Choosing a pediatrician proved to be a little more challenging than I originally anticipated. If only my OBGYN, Dr. Rachel Kurian of Women’s Health Alliance (client Allison Stitsworth, C.N.M. is a certified nurse-midwife at the same practice) or our veterinarian, Dr. Ronald Vaughn, could be our pediatrician, my decision would have been so much easier!

At my first prenatal appointment my OBGYN gave us a list of referrals. I started interviewing pediatricians, in the following order, several weeks ago. 

• Baylor Pediatric Center 
• Pediatric Associates of Dallas (PAD) 
• Clinical Pediatric Associates 
• Woodhill Pediatric Associates 
• Pediatricians of Dallas (POD) 

All of the practices offer complimentary prenatal interviews during lunchtime. All but one (Baylor Pediatric Center is located on Park Lane) are located off of Walnut Hill. All offer Saturday hours, one offers evening hours, and one even offers Sunday hours. All, except for Woodhill Pediatric Associates, are group practices, and separate sick child, well child, and newborn waiting rooms are available at all five offices. 

Initially, I began by asking many of the questions on the following pediatrician interview sheet: http://www.babycenter.com/0_pediatrician-family-doctor-interview-sheet_1452019.bc

Most importantly, I wanted to know about hospital affiliation (I was hoping for a pediatrician that has privileges at Baylor since that’s where we’re delivering), coverage after-hours, suggested parenting and sleep training methods, and views on immunizations, circumcision, and breastfeeding. After several visits, however, I realized that many of my most important criteria could not be answered this way. 

Ultimately, my decision came down to a gut feeling, as well as similarity in views on child rearing, eagerness to walk us through, as first-time parents, each developmental stage, best fit personality wise, and how I felt about the office environment. 

All five of the offices I visited are staffed with exceptionally well-qualified pediatricians with many years of experience. Everyone was incredibly helpful and eager to answer any, and all, of my questions. And given that four of the five offices are located in the same medical complex, the office environments had a fairly similar feel. In addition, there was something unique about each practice that was inviting. 

The pediatrician I interviewed at Baylor Pediatric Center is very well-educated and has over 20 years of experience. I also appreciated the affiliation with the Baylor Health Care System since both my OBGYN and Dermatologist practice at Baylor. 

The pediatrician I interviewed at PAD is young, energetic, and comes highly recommended from a friend and fellow Pure Barre client. PAD has privileges at Baylor and also offers weekday evening hours, which is helpful if you are a working mom. 

The office environment at Clinical Pediatric Associates is relaxing, the practice offers Sunday hours, and the pediatrician I interviewed there also has years of experience. Additionally, he drew my attention to potential complications I should be aware of immediately following delivery such as feeding difficulties, jaundice, and low APGAR scores. 

The staff at Woodhill Pediatrics is warm and welcoming. Dr. Larry Gray, the sole practitioner, has years of experience and his friendly, but calm demeanor, immediately put me at ease. It was clear that this practice respects the parent-doctor relationship and aims to work with the parent as the child grows and develops. 

That said, there was something about my visit to Pediatricians of Dallas that felt like it was exactly what I had been looking for. The office environment is incredibly calm, decorated with model boats, nautical artwork, and a large fish tank. There were magazines and books for the children to read and only one television, quietly playing “Toy Story.” I was immediately put at ease by Dr. Hillary Lewis’ warmth, eagerness to educate us as parents on her philosophy of practicing evidence based medicine, love for, and first hand knowledge of (as a new mom herself), children, as well as her general views on parenting, breastfeeding, sleep training, and making your own baby food. POD also has lactation consultants on staff available to help the breastfeeding mom. It’s icing on the cake that she, or another physician from the practice, will be available to visit us in the hospital post-delivery!

I know that I would have been in good hands with any of the pediatricians I interviewed. There is something to be said, however, for continuing to search for that right fit. I couldn’t have told you after the first four interviews exactly what I felt was missing, but after visiting POD, I knew right away that I wanted to place the health care of our child in the hands of this practice. 

Car Seat Installation

Just 7 weeks to go, the car seat is installed and we are one step closer to welcoming our little one into the world. 

I visited http://www.nhtsa.gov/apps/cps/index.htm a couple of weeks ago to find a car seat installation and inspection site nearby. I made an appointment at the Presby location for this past Saturday morning. The site is located in parking lot 1, in front of the Margot Perot Center, just off of Walnut Hill. Car seat installation and inspection takes place here the first Saturday of every month by appointment only. 

I highly recommend taking advantage of this complimentary service. Not only do the inspectors make installation an easy process, but they’re also available to explain step-by-step instructions and answer any questions. Additionally, I learned several interesting and helpful tips including: 

• The safest location for the car seat is actually in the middle seat in the back, while either side is also safe, the middle seat offers the most protection in the event of a side-impact collision. 

• Guidelines now recommend that children sit in rear facing car seats until the age of 2 years.

• Car seats expire 6 years from date of purchase. 

• Those cute toys that you often see hanging from car seats, or those mirrors designed to enable mom or dad to see baby while driving, are actually considered safety risks/projectiles as they are not crash tested and could shatter and injure your baby in the event of an accident. 

Resource of the Week: http://www.fitpregnancy.com

• Great for pre- and post-natal tips, including healthy recipes, workout recommendations, and prepping for, and welcoming home, baby! 

Meet Pure Barre Dallas Mommy, Allison Baker!

Meet Pure Barre Dallas Mommy, Allison Baker. 36 weeks pregnant, she is due August 21st with her first child, a baby girl, to be named Charlotte Claire Baker. She will go by Claire. 

I instantly fell in love with Pure Barre when I started taking classes a year and a half ago.  I had always been the type to do the typical work outs in the gym but I would get bored easily.  One of my good friends introduced me to Pure Barre, and I have loved every minute of it.  I am now 36 weeks pregnant and have been taking Pure Barre classes all throughout my pregnancy.  It has tremendously helped keep my muscles strong and flexible during this time, not to mention improve my mental outlook with all those pregnancy hormones:)  I always leave the classes feeling so refreshed, confident, and happy.  It has also helped me sleep better at night as my hips and legs tend to get very achy as I’m moving toward the end of my pregnancy.  I have really enjoyed and embraced every moment of pregnancy and it is such an amazing feeling to know you are carrying a precious life inside of you.  As I’ve been on this journey, here are just a few things I’ve learned along the way:

1. Start reading books on sleeping, feeding, newborn care, etc while pregnant rather than waiting until the baby arrives.  A friend of mine who had recently had a baby reminded me of that and I have been very thankful as I feel more prepared (well as much as possible:)) 
2. Do not register for clothes or diapers- people will give them to you regardless.  Other items I now find myself having about 2o of are blankets, hooded towels, stuffed animals, and swaddling sets.  
3. When buying clothes, you have to remember the season you are buying for and the age.  And you will receive outfits from people that would be perfect for the summer except your baby won’t fit into that outfit until the winter.  
4. Treat yourself to massages or spa days- especially near the end when walking seems like a chore and you can’t bend over to paint your toe nails.  
5. One of my baby showers consisted of everyone bringing children’s books by the author they were assigned to.  We are so thankful to have so many books now to read to Claire once she arrives.  
6. Give in to cravings with moderation- I didn’t always succeed in this area (especially when my husband brought home double stuffed Oreos) but thank goodness for Pure Barre.  
7. Favorite Baby Items we’ve received so far:  Sophie the Giraffe, Aden and Anais swaddling blankets, Pottery Barn crib sheets, halo sleep sacks, and Mustela baby products.  Now we just have to hope Claire loves them too:)  

I can’t wait to continue Pure Barre classes after my pregnancy, and I am so thankful for all the support I’ve received from everyone at Pure Barre Dallas:)

31 Weeks and Counting!

Only 9 weeks to go until we meet Baby Boy Jennings! All of the festivities surrounding the birth of the Royal Baby this week has made me even more excited for our own arrival. Here’s to looking as radiant as the Duchess just one day post delivery! 

Resource of the Week: Visit http://www.nhtsa.gov/apps/cps/index.htm to locate a car seat installation and inspection station near you. Luke and I have an appointment at the Presby location next month. 

Swollen and Tired Feet? Aching back and stiff legs? I recently discovered Evanesque Spa, owned by Pure Barre client, Barbara Rader. Located off of Knox, this boutique spa offers prenatal massages for just $40. 

Latest Find: Custom monogrammed layettes on Etsy. Monogramme Maison (http://www.etsy.com/shop/MonogrammeMaison) makes beautiful “coming home” outfits and monogrammed onesies. 

In Need of Some Workout Motivation? Whenever I find myself struggling to get through a Pure Barre class, I remind myself of some of our pregnant Pure Barre clients, particularly those who are farther along than I. Seeing other mommies-to-be push themselves through a difficult thigh or seat series is just the encouragement I need. 

Hello 30 Weeks!

It’s hard to believe that I’m already 3/4 of the way there! The nursery furniture arrived this past Monday and I am completely ensconced in the “nesting” phase. I have to admit that my lower back and ribs are beginning to ache and that by the end of the day, my feet are swollen and sore, but just 10 weeks away from meeting our little slugger, it’s all well worth it. 

Nursery theme: Baseball and puppies. 

Nursery colors: Navy, light blue, reds, and grays. 

Tips of the week:

• Pedicures are the ultimate cure for those aching feet. Pampered Soles on Lovers is my favorite. They offer a “Pea in the Pod” pedicure that is perfectly suited for the mother-to-be. 

• Read a book that has nothing to do with parenting or babies. 

• Stop over-thinking every minor decision. I swear I’ve spent more time agonizing over how many Aden & Anais swaddle blankets we might need or the pros and cons of a Bumbo Seat. Take a deep breath and relax. 

On Registering: If I were to do it all over again, I would still register at Babies ‘R Us, Pottery Barn Kids, and Restoration Hardware Baby & Child. That said, here are some things worth remembering...

• Babies ‘R Us: Almost always a completely overwhelming shopping experience. I think it has hands down become Luke’s least favorite place in the world. However,  they offer a very easy return policy and almost always have coupons or sales of some sort. 

• Pottery Barn Kids: Better to register online, the store on Knox sometimes seems overcrowded and understaffed, particularly on Tuesdays at 11am when they host story time. That said, I love their products and they also offer an easy return policy. And if you catch them just before close, late in the afternoon on a Saturday or Sunday, it can be a perfectly pleasant shopping experience. 

• Restoration Hardware Baby & Child: Absolutely beautiful merchandise, but given that there isn’t a store located in Dallas, returns have proven to be tricky. You must wait to receive the store credit in the mail, before sending it back to RH Baby & Child, at which time your order is processed and the refund applied to the new order. Just a little bit complicated! That said, some of their items are truly one of a kind. My suggestion, only register for what you truly want from here and are fairly certain that you won’t have reason to return. 

What's in an ultrasound?

Before becoming pregnant, I assumed an ultrasound was the same thing as a sonogram. Little did I know that an ultrasound is actually the procedure by which a sonogram, or picture of the baby is created. However, the terms are often used interchangeably. For more information, visit: http://americanpregnancy.org/prenataltesting/ultrasound.html

Aside from hearing your baby’s heartbeat and feeling him or her kick, seeing your baby’s sweet face appear on the screen is one of the most exciting moments of a pregnancy. The number of sonograms a woman receives throughout her pregnancy varies from practitioner to practitioner. I've heard from some moms, that their doctor offered them a sonogram every week during their third trimester! 

At 8 weeks, a sonogram confirmed my pregnancy. At 13 weeks, I saw our little jumping bean during routing genetic testing. And at 19 weeks, we learned from a sonogram that we are expecting a Baby Boy! Our practitioner has also been kind enough to offer two additional ultrasounds to calm some prenatal nerves. Assuming all continues to go as expected, we will have our last ultrasound next week, at the 30-week mark. Nearly 3/4 of the way there, the homestretch is in sight! 

Hello Third Trimester!

Officially 28 weeks and counting, I am two-thirds of the way there! It's hard to believe that Luke and I are just 12 weeks away from welcoming Baby Boy Jennings into the world.

What I’m Reading: Teach Your Children Well: Parenting for Authentic Success, by psychologist Madeline Levine, is a refreshing reminder that success is all too often measured by high grades and college acceptances, and that our children's worth should not be defined by their next achievement. 

How I’m Sleeping: I’ll be honest, not very well. Between getting up every 2 hours to go to the bathroom and upper back and rib aches, it has been a while since I've had a good night’s sleep. 

How I’m Feeling: Tired, and bigger, but very excited--I can't wait to meet our little bundle of joy. 

Weight Gain:  According to my doctor, I’m on track to gain the recommended 25-35 pounds. I’ll be the first to admit that weight gain can be a little overwhelming. Regardless, I feel healthy, am still able to fit into my Lulu, and can even make it through a killer Pure Barre thigh series without a break. Although I do find myself breathing a little more deeply and sinking a little less low. It’s helpful to remember that each woman and each pregnancy are different.

Latest Craving: Milk chocolate covered graham crackers from Starbucks. 

What I'm Doing:  Interviewing pediatricians. I've met two so far and have two more appointments. I started with recommendations from my OBGYN, other mommy friends and Pure Barre Dallas clients. I had absolutely no idea where to begin when meeting each doctor; the following interview sheet has been incredibly helpful: Pediatrician Interview Guidelines

What's in a Baby Shower?

I have spent the last two weekends celebrating Baby Boy Jennings, first in Dallas, then in Atlanta, with many of my nearest and dearest family and friends. Thank you to my wonderful hostesses for throwing two fabulous parties, and to everyone who was able to join me in the festivities. In Dallas, we indulged in petit fours topped with blue booties and in Atlanta, in Gigi’s Cupcakes. Surpise takeaway? My favorite childhood book, The Giving Tree, signed by all shower guests with sweet notes for Baby Boy Jennings and his mommy-to-be. Most popular gift? Vulli Sophie the Giraffe Teether. And remember Pure Barre Dallas client Claire Christensen's advice on registering and returning? She was absolutely right! Don't be afraid to return or exchange. All three of our registries are almost complete. Baby Boy Jennings is one lucky boy! 

Dallas Hostesses  

Atlanta Hostesses

"Mommy Wars"

Being an expectant mother can be a little bit overwhelming at times. It’s easy to get caught up in the debate over the latest parenting style, recommended sleep training method, or appropriate age to register (or preregister!) your child for preschool. I recently came across a blog post that helped put things in perspective. When it comes to my hopes for Baby Boy Jennings, I couldn’t agree more. 

"Am I Mom Enough? A Motherhood Wish List"

25 weeks down, 15 to go!

What I’ve learned so far: 

Indulge (in moderation). If you never give in to cravings, you’re bound to overindulge at some point. I passed Society Bakery on my way home from my 24-week appointment last Thursday and just had to have a frosted, sugar cookie. I’ve tried to approach pregnancy from the Weight Watchers perspective. If you want a cookie, have it. Just limit yourself to one and remember that’s your dessert for the day. 

(Flower sugar cookie, courtesy of Society Bakery, makes for a very happy Thursday!) 

Exercise. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists recommends 30 minutes of exercise a day on most days of the week, if not all. I swear by Pure Barre. It’s kept my mind calm, my body flexible, and my arms, core, and legs strong, even as my belly has continued to expand.

Pregnancy brain is a real thing. No joke. I find that I am increasingly more forgetful and careless with each passing day. When it happens, apologize. Most people are understanding. 

People will begin to offer you assistance. The checkout woman at PetSmart may offer to carry the dog food to the car for you. A stranger may offer to give up their seat for you. Now is not the time to be entirely selfless. Say yes and thank you. You have the rest of motherhood to do for others.

Trust the advice of other new mothers. New moms are eager to share their experiences, so don’t be afraid to ask. Very quickly you will learn that few things are too personal or off limits. 

Be creative with non-alcoholic drinks. Sparkling water with cranberry juice or ginger ale in a tumbler looks an awful lot like a cocktail. Want something tasty? Virgin daiquiris taste like smoothies, and I’d forgotten how yummy a Shirley Temple actually is. 

Having a baby is a life changer. Hearing his heartbeat and feeling those first faint kicks took my breath away. Through this journey, I have fallen more in love with Luke than I thought possible. And come September, I am absolutely certain that we will be ready for the ride of a lifetime. 

Highlights of a BabyMoon, Curtain Bluff, Antigua

Last week, Luke and I “babymooned” at Curtain Bluff in Antigua. We swam, soaked up the sun, and ate much too much. My philosophy? What I can’t drink in calories, I can certainly consume in chocolate croissants! The most memorable part of our vacation: truly feeling Baby Boy Jennings kick. What started as faint flutters, quickly became strong, little punches and kicks. Luke was even able to feel and see the tiny movements. Officially 24 weeks pregnant, feeling him move is one of the greatest highlights of pregnancy. Here are a few pictures from our vacation...

Meet Pure Barre Dallas Mommy, Kara Duvall and Baby Hayes!

In considering what to write for her blog post, Pure Barre Dallas Mommy, Kara Duvall, turned to an excerpt from one of her own favorite new mommy blogs: http://www.scarymommy.com 

Memory Pre-Motherhood: I could walk from one room to another and know exactly why I was there. I put things where they belonged and I made complete sentences. My brain cells worked as a team.

Memory Post-Motherhood: I walk into a room with a purpose and immediately forget what it is upon arrival. I put the milk in the pantry and the cereal in the refrigerator. I hang up my phone to look for…my phone. I say three words of a sentence and lose my train of thought. Did I also give birth to my brain cells?

Leaving the House Pre-Motherhood: I grabbed my purse and walked out the door.

Leaving the House Post-Motherhood: “Do you have your lunch box, backpack, show and tell, book report, math homework? Why are your shoes on the wrong feet? Did you brush your teeth? Your shirt is on backwards. We’ll try to remember to brush your hair tomorrow. I should probably clean the peanut butter off your forehead.”

Sleeping Pre-Motherhood: I decided when and where and for how long. Period.

Sleeping Post-Motherhood: Mickey Mouse Clubhouse is on. If I sit upright on the couch, can I sneak a 15-minute nap? Is the latch on the cabinet with the cleaning products? Are the markers and crayons out of reach? Can kids really drown in the toilet? Oh, forget it.

Emotions Pre-Motherhood: Under control. Sometimes even stoic.

Emotions Post-Motherhood: Out of control. Unstable. I can go from laughing to crying in seconds for no obvious reason. And Lord help me if I can’t find the remote when that SPCA commercial with Sarah McClachlan comes on.  (You know the one I am talking about)

Evenings Pre-Motherhood: Take-out it is! Fall asleep on the couch watching a movie.

Evenings Post-Motherhood: Are all the food groups represented? Time for baths! Just ONE bedtime story. Okay, two. Yes, I’ll tuck you in. Again. Of course you can have another goodnight kiss. Go. To. Sleep.

Body Fluids Pre-Motherhood: Ewwww.

Body Fluids Post-Motherhood: I’ve been peed on, pooped on, vomited on, and worn snot as an accessory. I’m also quite learned on how to get all of the above out of the living room rug.

Date Night Pre-Motherhood: Let’s go.

Date Night Post-Motherhood:

Ask sitter #1.

Ask sitter #2.

Beg sitter #3.

Leave list with 25 line items of instructions.

Call or text every 20 minutes to see if everyone is ok.

Return by 10 p.m. so sitter can make curfew.

Pay sitter twice what dinner cost.

How I Viewed Motherhood Pre-Motherhood: I think I might like to do that someday.

How I View Motherhood Now: I had NO IDEA what I was missing and how much I would LOVE my new "job!" 

Meet Pure Barre Dallas Mommy, Claire Christensen!

The Art of Registering for Baby

Two months ago, I became a first-time mommy to a precious baby boy, Knox Mitchell Christensen. Knox is mommy’s “Pure Barre Baby”, as I took classes all throughout my pregnancy. Pure Barre was Knox’s naptime. The movement and loud music soothed him right to sleep and since being born, this has not changed one bit! There is no doubt; Pure Barre was one of the reasons that I had a wonderful pregnancy and easy delivery.  I was also able to return quickly to wearing my pre-pregnancy clothes and couldn’t wait to get back to the barre! 

I was incredibly excited when asked by Caroline to write an entry for the Pure Barre Dallas Baby Blog. I’m a fairly open and honest person and love to give advice from my good and not so good experiences. There are countless experiences that I could blog about on pregnancy and being a first-time mommy, but one thing that I found to be the most helpful from my mom friends was tips on registering. I vividly remember the first time I walked through the countless aisles of Buy Buy Baby thinking, “Do I really need ALL this stuff?! How do I actually know where to start?!”  Walking into a baby store can be overwhelming for anyone, much less a hormonal, first-time mother. This is where past mommy expertise sure came in handy! Below are a few tips that I hope will help you, as much as they helped me and allow you to enjoy your registering experience. 

1. Lucie’s List – Baby Registry Basics Section - www.lucieslist.com  Before registering this is a MUST READ. It might be a tad lengthy, but goes into great detail of basics to what you should register for, including what brands were ideal.  Don’t forget to take note of the 6 Months+ section and register for those items too.
2. Planning on having more than one child? Think gender neutral!  Instead of registering for all pink or blue items, register for gender neutral colors. Also, you may want to consider a double-stroller, depending on how close you want to have your kids, in age.
3. Don’t be afraid to return/exchange - You will find that a lot of people will NOT buy off of your registry (you’ll have a new appreciation for this, when buying for other people from now on). After your showers are complete, you may find yourself with 10 car seat toys, 20 blankets, and no car seat! I became an expert at the ‘return and exchange’… and all of the related ins and outs. Did you know, they even have an iPhone app to scan the barcode and find out where it came from?  EXCITING!  Because I was smart about the items I kept and returned, I was able to collect enough gift cards, along the way, to complete my registry with the items I really needed and had $$ left over!
4. Clothing sizes…don’t trust them - Depending on the brand of clothing, all sizes are different. For instance, a 3 month old in Carter’s might be the same size as a Newborn at Old Navy. I ended up organizing Knox’s clothes by how they looked rather than the tag read. After doing this you might find that you have many long sleeved clothes that won’t fit your child, until it is summer…obviously that won’t work in Texas.  Long story short:  keep the tags on each piece of clothing, just in case you need to exchange for a different size and don’t wash all their clothes before they’re born. Who knows, you may have a bigger baby that will never be small enough to wear a newborn size!
5. Last, but not least, have a “mommy friend” review your registry once it’s completed. They are your best resources! 

Good luck and happy registering!

21 weeks, more than halfway there!

Highlights of Week 20...

Celebrating a Pure Barre Dallas wedding, party bus style! Congratulations, Mr. & Mrs. Mitchell! Molly & Austin, you make a beautiful couple and we couldn’t be happier for you. Thank you for your sharing your wedding day festivities with us. 

What better way to celebrate your first Mother’s Day as a Mommy-To-Be than with a little nursery furniture & maternity clothes shopping? Crib, armoire, and wall art letters are ordered, thanks to Bellini NYC. While the furniture won’t arrive until July, things are starting to feel a little more real. Nursery theme for Baby Boy Jennings? Puppies and baseball. Latest maternity clothes finds? Splendid maternity foldover leggings, Michael Stars cardigans, summer dresses, and white denim shorts. I’ll even admit to indulging in a maternity bathing suit or two. And while revealing my budding belly may take some getting used to, the tankini certainly makes swimsuit season a little more stylish and comfortable. 

Baby gifts in the way of adorable onesies, handprint keepsakes, personalized burp cloths, hooded towels, the bumper and crib skirt from our bedding collection, a stuffed dog chair, and navy blue overalls, size 3-6 months. Thank you, Melissa, Rebecca, Katie, Daniela, & Adriane for showering our baby boy with love! 

Babymoon in Antigua, one week from tomorrow! Let the countdown begin! 

20 Weeks and Counting! Halfway there!

I am officially 20 weeks pregnant and am delighted to announce that Luke and I are expecting a Baby Boy!

I am thankful to have had a fairly positive pregnancy so far. Aside from fatigue (6 weeks into my second trimester I can finally make it through the day without a nap), low blood pressure, and an insatiable appetite, our little one has made this a relatively easy pregnancy. Then again, I’m only halfway there! 

Low Blood Pressure: 

A fairly common pregnancy symptom, particularly in the second trimester, best cured by frequent snacks, Gatorade, and electrolyte enhanced water. Smartwater is a favorite, although Whole Foods makes a generic version that is just as good. 

Maternity Clothes: 

Must-have staples? Indulge in a pair of maternity jeans, leggings, and a supportive nursing bra. Paige, J Brand, Joe’s Jeans, AG, 7 For All Mankind, and Citizen of Humanity all make great maternity jeans. I was hesitant to purchase a pair with the panel insert, but as another new mommy described them, they fit every time! As for leggings, David Lerner maternity leggings from ShopBop are well-worth the splurge. 

Where to shop? A Pea in the Pod is my favorite. Pickles and Ice Cream, ShopBop, and Target also have great selections. 

BellyBands? I could give or take this often recommended purchase. While it does work nicely, it felt somewhat restricting, and once I finally gave into maternity clothes (at 18 weeks), I quickly realized that they are so much more comfortable. Lesson to remember when Baby #2 comes along? Break out the maternity wear much earlier! Besides being stylish and comfortable, who doesn’t love an excuse to do a little shopping. 

More TidBits: 

Other new mommies continue to be my biggest resource. 

Exercise continues to be my saving grace. I am so thankful that I’ve been able to continue teaching and taking Pure Barre. It has helped with fatigue, kept the weight gain at a slow, but steady pace, and eased prenatal anxieties and worries. 

The Preggle Body Pillow seems to get more and more comfortable as sleeping gets trickier and trickier. 

Where to Register: Babies ‘R Us, Pottery Barn Kids, and Restoration Hardware Baby & Child all have excellent selections, user friendly websites, and conveniently located stores. BabyBliss in Snyder Plaza, Target, and Buy Buy Baby are also great options. 

Up Next on my Reading List: The Happiest Baby on the Block & The Sleep Lady’s: Goodnight, Sleep Tight