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Jeneba Jalloh Ghatt

Watch Every Episode of OITNB’s Danielle Brooks’ Netflix Family Pregnancy Web Series {Videos}

Posted on December 19, 2019

The gorgeous star of Orange Is the New Black Danielle Brooks might have welcomed her first child with her boyfriend Dennis on November 16, but fans of her Netflix family YouTube and web series “A Little Bit Pregnant” can still catch episodes of the video shorts she shot while in her final months of pregnancy

In each episode, Brooks interviews doulas, child birth experts and parents on what to expect when expecting and tackles topics from pregnancy cravings to pooping while pushing during labor! LOL!

 

It is unfiltered and I absolutely adore the bold sister locs and outfits she wears on the show. They are comfy yet stylish.  Brooks announced the news of the birth of her child via Instagram.

“11.16.19  ❤️♾❤️ She’s perfect,” Brooks captioned a black and white photo of her baby girl resting on her chest.  While she has been very secretive about her significant other, he starred in one of the shorts. See below the uploaded pics so far.

I also dug the various looks she wore during her pregnancy as shared in social media.

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This moment is sacred. ? This moment is about birth and RE-birth. ? This moment is discovering new parts of myself that I never knew existed before. ? This moment is about gaining clarity on what I will or will not except so that when my daughter watches me, she is clear on who she is and what she believes. ? This moment is understanding what’s worth my energy and what is not. ? This moment is unapologetically leaning on those that truly understand the definition of family and friendship. ? This moment is about experiencing all that life has to offer me as a woman. I’m living and basking in the right now! And it feels damn good. #mothertobe ? @islandboiphotography Hair: @infamousmstish Makeup: @theartistknownasjae

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Months ahead of her due date, a good friend hosted a bee-themed baby shower,  that included sunny yellow decor and the guest of honor featured in a cue long floral  dress.

“When your mommy and her best friend plan a surprise baby shower for you! I’m a Happy Mother- to- ?,” the star captioned her photograph.

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Mommy Glow ✨

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Shop For Your Student Athlete {Guarantee Delivery By Christmas}

Posted on December 18, 2019

This post contains some affiliate links. If you click thru and purchase any of the products I suggested, I will earn a small commission from referring the sale to the brand. 

I know I promised to just do one gift guide this year but since I also re boosted my mom-to-be guide and posh parent gift guide from last year, I thought I should update my fitness gift guide for kid athletes this year.

I polled some friends on Facebook and asked them what their kid wanted for their sport for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and generally, for the holiday season and beyond.

I then conducted some online and in store research and came up with the following list of 13 items.

ALL athletes

1 Noise cancelling headphones:  First, for all athletes, in between events, traveling to away games or for just tuning out the distractions and noise, there is noise cancelling headphones to help them get in the right mind set to compete. Now these headphones can get pretty pricey  so I would only recommend getting the higher end on the list for the very responsible kid who isn’t going to leave it around carelessly, on the floor by the pool where it can get wet or damaged or forget it out in the open on the field in a public park.

The best out there, which is going for the lowest price right now per my research, is Sony’s WH-1000XM3. It is on par with Bose’s, the gold standard in home audio equipment. It’s $278 right now on Amazon and the cheapest you will ever see them this year.

Now if that is out of your budget, Wired magazine says best of the lower cost headphones is TaoTronics Active Noise Cancelling headphones which is just about $49.99 and has 45 hours of battery life and it pretty light weight. Get it at Amazon.

2. A Sports Back pack:  Student athletes got a lot of gear, uniform and sport-related equipment they have to lug to school, to practice and to games, meets, tournaments and competitions.  They need a back with a lot of compartments internal and external so they can organize all their stuff. The UA Hustle 4.0 Backpack is the ultimate back pack for any student athlete. It has a front pocket for shoes and lots of interior pockets to separate all the gear and keep the soiled stuff separate from the clean. The side pockets can hold large 24 ounce bottles of water or recyclable water bottles. It’s light weight and sturdy for a sports bag only. Don’t have it double as a school backpack.  This backpack is usually $55 but is down to $40 for the holidays. I’m getting three: one for my soccer player daughter, my track and field middle kid and my cross country eldest kid. That’s three sports.

You can personalize it and add your kid’s sport or name to it too!

BONUS: All athletes need training apparel and there is no need to break the bank stocking up on them. Hit the overstock stores like TJMaxx, Burlington Coat Factory, Marshalls and Ross to get some after market deals.

Alternatively, all of the major brands have Factory Stores that are also online if you want to avoid the crowds or do not have one near you.

Nike Factory Outlet has sales going on now.

Adidas – Free shipping on Orders over $49 and Use Code 20EXTRA for extra

UnderArmour- Take an Extra $30 off all orders over $100

New Balance has free shipping on orders over $50

Puma – Use code Extra10 for an additional 10% off items and there is a sale of up to 50% off

Reebok – Take an Extra 55% off select items including sale ones.

Umbro– Get on it! Save 25% when you spent $75. Tomorrow is the last day to ship for Christmas delivery!

Cross Country/Cold-Weather Training

3. Athletic Outdoor Training  Shirt: For your Cross Country or Outdoor Track kid (or for any kid who engages in a winter or cold weather sport),  Nike has its Sphere Element Running long sleeve shirt with thumb cut out to keep the hands warm and made of the company’s patented Nike® Therma fabric which offers lightweight insulation and warmth, while keeping sweat off the skin via the Dri-FIT® technology..

The shirt is a steal at $50, down from $70 at Dick’s right now.

Today only, you can spend $100 worth of gear and pay just $80 at DICK’s

4. Running Shoes: For running, there are many brands that offer superior quality shoes.  My two sons’ high school is sponsored by Under Armour and we have had success for three years in the HOVR Infinite  which lasts an entire season of training runs and meets. Don’t just take my word for it. The HOVR won Runner’s World Magazine’s recommended running shoe recognition this year! The best tech in the shoe is the  ‘zero gravity feel’ to maintain energy return that helps eliminate impact step after step. It’s a good shoe overall and has great reviews.

The shoe costs $120 but if you purchase it for the holidays you can get it for $30 at the UA website off if you use the code FRIENDS30 at checkout!

You can still have it delivered by Christmas if you order it up to this weekend!

5. Training Compression Pants: For training runs in the cold, the UA  Qualifier Compression Tights works best! It’s made of compression material and made to feel like second skin.  The pants comes with a pocket large enough to fit a big mobile phone like a Samsung Galaxy or iPhone X or Plus size. It has the traditional wicking material which keeps sweat off your skin and dries what accumulates fast as you run. The best is the anti-odor tech that staves off the growth of funky odor causing microbes. It’s the best and a steal at just $65 compared to more expensive running pants that I’ve seen out there sold by other athletic brands! Gift these to your XC Runner or other sports trainer who runs outdoors in the cold weather!

Basketball Player

You’d think every student basketball player athlete would want an official Spalding NBA Basketball and a portable backboard to practice at home with. Yes, those too, but the serious ones are thinking ahead.

6. Agility Ladder: Per the experts, an agility ladder like the SKLZ ladder is a great tool for ambitious basketball players who want to improve their footwork and coordination. It’s just $25.49 on Amazon and can be delivered well before Christmas if you order soon!

7. Shooting Sleeve: Throw in a Nike Pro Combat Elite Shooting sleeve for $19.90 and your aspiring basketball NBA or WNBA star will be one happy kid!

Swimming

8. Swimming Goggles: All of my three kids swim, in the Summer rec league and one year round for a club and for his school so we are always in the market for swimming gear.  Goggles are always in demand and  Speedo’s MDR 2.4 googles delivers performance with its Innovative Elastomeric™ technology  which reduces goggle pressure against your kid’s face and Clearsight lenses eliminates distortion for a clearer view without eye fatigue.  These goggles also offer a middle eye fit with liquid silicone seals and an adjustable strap and is just $24.99 at Dick’s 

9. Flippers: Or get em a pair of Floti’s flippers with an extra long blade to emphasize the kick, a flexible foot pocket with ankle support and easy on and off functionality on sale at Swim Outlet for just $19.99, which is 23% off the regular price, and just $15.99 if you used the code GIFT25 at checkout!

Gymnast

10. Balance Beam: For your gymnast, there is still time to get an FBSPORT floorbeam from Amazon in time for Christmas. This adjustable and foldable portable beam has a 5-inch to which is the same width as those used in competitions but has a 6 inch base to stabilize it so it won’t topple over.  Per the manufacturers, it’s made of “high density EVA foam, our padded beam is covered in suede-like material with a nonslip rubber bottom for a soft sturdy practice surface that won’t flatten over time.” Get it for $59.99 today!

Lacrosse

11. Rebounder: To help your lacrosse player hone his or her passing and catching skills, a lacrosse rebounder is a great gift for a goalie, offensive player or for team practice drills to increase your kid’s reaction skills. Dick’s has an exclusive deal for the PRIMED rebounder for $129.99 right now. It can also be picked up if it is available at a Dick’s near you.

But if that price point is not in the budget,  Champion Sports sells one for half the price at $59.99 on Amazon. Both can be ordered and delivered before Christmas.

Soccer

12. Cleats Dryer: For the active soccer player who either plays in various travel teams, or year round rec leagues, a cleats dryer I hear is an in-demand item. Amazon Prime members can get Lavieair Shoe Dryer shipped for Free before Christmas for just  $36.99. 

If you are not an Amazon Prime member, it’s free to join! Sign up here for 30 Days FREE!

Tennis

13. Nike Workout Gear: Nike’s Court line has these popular hoodies for after play starting at $60.  It’s made of French Terry cloth and has a boxy shape that makes it unisex though Nike sells a female and male version of the hoodie! It comes in other colors than the traditional Tennis white and you can still get it in time for Christmas!

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Iggy Azalea Squelches Pregnancy Rumors, Cardi Style

Posted on December 17, 2019

Rapper Iggy Azalea has recently been reported to be 6-months pregnant with her rapper boyfriend Playboi Carti.

Several gossip outlets like RadarOnline sourced  Hollywood Unlocked with the story from insiders about that news.

However, since then, the “Fancy” recording artist has attempted to indirectly debunk the rumors by posting  videos and pics from rehearsals for her upcoming performances.

In video, she is seen looking fit and trim with a tiny tummy ant resembling nothing close to 6 months pregnant.

Although, as we’ve blogged before, it is quite possible to not look traditionally pregnant at 6 months because all women carry differently and many carry small. [See all the posts from this blog  about Iggy’s fellow Australians doing just that here and here and here and here)

Nonetheless, Azalea showed up to the International Music Awards in Berlin on November 22 lightly subconsciously tapping her belly, yet in a performance in Brazil last night, you wouldn’t think she was pregnant in those outfits either.

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she‘s so stunning ?? #IggyAzalea

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But on the flip side,  Cardi B did the same thing when news of her first pregnancy with daughter Kulture leaked.

She posted a video with her belly looking flat’ish to squelch rumors but was clearly pregnant at the time as we later learned she was three months along in that video.

Time will tell….

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Do These Postpartum Pilates Movements to Get You Back On Track

Posted on December 17, 2019

 

With the whole journey that comes with pregnancy and the long-awaited birth of your little one now behind you, it’s time to face the transition from pregnancy to postpartum recovery.



Postpartum recovery generally refers to the first three to six weeks that new moms go through after giving birth. During this period, moms go through a lot of changes.

While your body works on recovering from the stress of pregnancy, you’re also going through the motions of adjusting to motherhood.

Caught in the midst of caring for yourself and your newborn, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and even fall into a depressed mood.

In fact, reports from New York Times reveal that 10 to 20 percent of moms with newborns suffer from serious postpartum depression.



Luckily, there are many things that can help mothers go through this postpartum period, with taking on a simple exercise regimen being one of them.

In an article on Parsley Health, Hollywood Pilates instructor Heather Dorak mentions the importance of starting “with something small,” saying that no matter what type of workout you do, you take those baby steps to get back on track.

This sentiment  also resonated in a past post, ‘Mental Health Check ins to Make During and After Pregnancy’, which mentions that slowly getting back into exercise through activities that allow you to rediscover how your body likes to move can be an effective tool in taking care of your physical and mental health after pregnancy.



Benefits of Pilates



Childbirth is a major procedure that will have a huge impact on your physique and requires the body to go beyond its limits. As such, it’s important for recovering moms to subscribe to activities that promote muscle strength without being too straining. This makes Pilates a good option, as explained by FFC, Pilates strengthens the inner and outer hips, which can help support the pelvis, which will have been stretched during pregnancy and then relaxed upon childbirth.

Moreover, certain Pilates movements are known to relieve lower back pain and pelvic floor discomfort by strengthening the abdominals, hips, and back. Harper’s Bazaar suggests that because Pilates is a highly immersive exercise that requires focus and concentration, it brings emotional and mental benefits by being a great ‘time-out’ from everyday stressors.

Postpartum Pilates Movements



To experience all the amazing benefits Pilates can bring during your postpartum recovery, try the following movements:



Knee dancing



This movement which concerns the abs, butt, and thighs, can be easily done by kneeling down on a mat with your knees hip-distance apart and your shoulders pulled back. While in this position, pull your abs in while simultaneously squeezing your butt then raise your arms in front of you to shoulder height. Then, lean back a little. Try to hold this position for 30 seconds and do it three times.



Powerhouse planks



Like any other plank, this movement works on your core, abs, butt, legs, arms, back, and, with a little modification, your pelvic floor as well. To do this, get down on all fours and lower yourself down to your elbows. Then, as you align your head to your spine, tilt your pelvis under slightly to protect your lower back while squeezing your thighs up together to form a V shape. Hold this position for 30 seconds and do three sets.



Attitude



This movement allows you to work on your butt, thighs, and calves. You can do this by standing in front of a counter-top and then, bending over and resting your forearms on the counter with your forehead lowered onto it. Then, walk your feet back until they are underneath your hips and stand with your heels together and your toes slightly apart. Tuck your pelvis under while squeezing your butt then lift your left leg behind you with your knees bent at 45 degrees. Do 3 sets of 16 repetitions for each leg.

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Inside Cassie Ventura and Alex Fines’ Baby Weekend

Posted on December 16, 2019
cassie fine baby shower

cassie fine baby shower

Singer and model Cassie Ventura already welcomed her first child with new husband and fellow model ex model Alex Fine last week, but a couple months ago, the two celebrated the baby’s then impending birth date in a low key rooftop coed baby shower weekend.

Friends, including actress Karruche Tran, rapper Lola Monroe celebrity stylist Marni Senofonte, mom-to-be Malika Haqq  gathered at the Dream Hollywood and its rooftop lounge and restaurant The Highpoint.

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#babyfine

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The “Me & U” singer looked stunning in a black body suit by Naked Wardrobe, which is available for a steal of $56! Get it here.

Her girls enjoyed a luxe suite overnight and brunch the next day.

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I had the amazing opportunity to curate #ADayForMoms with @hatchgal. The day was designed to create a space for all of these women that I admire who are mothers or soon-to-be, to disconnect from the world and to connect with each other. I really enjoyed this experience and I hope to curate more work that allows us as women to take the time to call on each other because we really are all one. Same experiences, different people. Thank you to @hatchgal and all of our special partners & of course, Thank You Mommies! ?? ? @jenjphoto Doula @kimberlydurdin Hydration @hemphydrate Catering @twenty_five_eight Sweet Treats @sweetlaurelbakery Massage @thenowmassage Meditation @karmabliss Via @devibrown Facials @heydayskincare Gifting @babybjorn Thank you @meremir for helping me put this together ♥️ #hatchtagged

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The Fines began dating in late 2018, following Cassie’s split from her longtime boyfriend, rap mogul Sean ‘P. Diddy‘ Combs.

She revealed she was pregnant in June, and announced their engagement in August, before tying the knot in Malibu, California in September.

Photos by Instagram, @christopherballadarez

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Gifts for That Mom-To-Be on Your Christmas List

Posted on December 16, 2019

This gift guide for expecting moms is still current and good to use as a reference as you do some last minute holiday shopping for the mom-to-be on your list:

1.Letters to My Baby: Write Now. Read Later. Treasure Forever ($11)

Fill these twelve envelopes with memories and hopes for your bundle of joy. Then postdate, seal, and save the letters to gift to your child at a later date. Such a sweet idea and concept!

2.Naipo Neck Massager ($34.99) I reviewed this earlier and found it to be the BEST thing since slice bread.  You can see the review here but I swear by this thing!

3.Tom’s Slippers in Birch Glow in the Dark Tree Lights ($59.99) You cannot go wrong with this warm and comfy slippers to ease an achy pregnant and constantly expanding feet!

4.The Bump Pregnancy Journal This photo album is filled with blank pages that moms can fill with sonogram photos, bump updates, and other baby mementos. Get it at Amazon for $22

5.Spa Gift Card Any expecting mom could use a massage, facial and some good old fashioned pampering while she waits for her bundle of joy ($25+)

6. Uggs Dakota Slippers ($99) For a slightly higher price point, an expecting mom would really appreciate these plush puppies from a known quality brand!

7. Leachco Snoogle Original Maternity/Pregnancy Total Body Pillow If you know how uncomfortable sleeping can be while pregnant, you’d know that this pillow is heaven sent! It allows you to position your body and belly, neck and back in a way most comfortable for a restful night’s sleep. Your expecting family member or friend will LOVE you for getting her this gift! Get it at Amazon for $59.99

8. At Home Spa Gift For moms on bed rest, an at home spa gift basket would be perfect. This basket from an Etsy shop includes belly butter, magnesium lotion, anti-nausea tea, and a bath soak. Nice!($45.99)

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Cassie Ventura Welcomes Daughter, Frankie Fine

Posted on December 14, 2019



What a fine looking family!

On Wednesday, Cassie and Alex Fine treated their fans to pictures of their newborn daughter Frankie, who was born on December 6.

“She’s just different. Frankie Stone Fine. My BFF,” Cassie captioned her post, where her baby girl can be seen holding her hand. For his part, Alex shared a bedtime selfie of his wife and daughter, writing, “My greatest Loves. These two girls made me the luckiest man on earth. #TheFines.”

 

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Cassie’s mom squad was quick to adore over her little bundle of joy. New mom Shay Mitchell, who welcomed her baby girl Atlas in October, commented, “YES!” Mom of three Ayesha Currychimed in, writing, “Omg,” along with a string of heart-eyed emojis. Cassie also got some love from mommy-to-be Malika Haqq: “Frankie Fine. And she’s FINE!”

Now an official member of the mommy gang herself, Cassie is already loves being a mother. An insider close to new mom revealed that she and baby Frankie are “doing great” and that she’s enjoying “soaking in time at home with Alex.”

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Baby’s First Hannukah and Other Holiday Shopping Faves for Families

Posted on December 13, 2019

As you shop this Holiday season, I encourage you to shop small, shop local, support the little guys and those who have a social cause attached to their ecommerce brand or shops.

Wild Dill is the perfect affiliate partner because I really love their products and really support the concept behind fair trade commerce.

They source their goods direct from the creators in Africa, South America, Israel and all over the world and sell them online for a fair share of the profit which is different from what a lot of companies do: they steal the concept, create duplicates in China made of sub par material and market them as authentic.

Here are my picks of my Fave Wild Dill poducts.

  1. I really love the plush and soft look of the Nui Organics Augustin Sweater. It is made from 100% GOTS organic merino wool the thermal properties are further enhanced by the many air pockets created by the beautiful honeycomb knit structure. The Augustine sweater is mid weight, durable and warm but also very soft to the touch.

2. For mom, this colorful and bright floral Pink Rose Bag made by artisans in Thailand caught my eye! It has a zipped main pocket for security and is lined in kelly green and made of an interior wipe clean nylon inside.

3. Because I am originally from Africa, I just adored the Red Fan African Wax Print Baby Sundress by Dsenyo for babies 18-24 months old. This 100% cotton dress is made by a women’s cooperative in Malawi, Africa. Pair with coordinating bloomers for the full look. Fair trade clothing for babies and toddlers. Dsenyo is a social enterprise partnering with artisan communities in Malawi, Zambia and Brazil, enabling women to become economically empowered through the sale of fair trade gifts and ethical fashion. I also like the Butterfly Monarch print version.
4. My First Christmas shirts are plentiful for baby but you rarely see My First Chanukah onesies or clothing and that’s why I was digging this Israeli-made Baby’s First Chanukah Organic Body Suit as part of Wild Dill’s Hebrew Baby Collection.

5. Because I believe in learning from birth, I was really digging this World Map Fabric Decal Mural that you can affix to baby’s nursery and keep in his room through pre-school so he can learn from the start that the world is larger than the confines of the four walls he is in! American Pop & Lolli creates these chic fabric wall stickers made of nontoxic materials, lead free ink and free from the PVC’s used in the manufacturing of vinyl. The decals maintain a very eco-friendly water based adhesive and the colors are printed with the new Eco-Sol Max inks, which are solvent inks that provide durability and UV resistance, but do not contain the harsh chemicals used in mild and full solvent printing.

6. I also love the handmade 100% cotton Batik Global Mama’s  Teal Floral Dress created by artisans in Ghana, West Africa!

There you have it! My faves and head on over to Wild Dill where you will discover a world of top quality fashion and products from all over the world that are quite unique and will have all your family and friends admiring them and wanting to know where you got them!

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Beyonce on Taking a Motherhood-Driven Mental Health Year

Posted on December 12, 2019



Beyonce gets raw and candid in an “Ask Me Anything” interview with members of her fandom Beyhive inside the January 2020 edition of Elle US, in a cover shoot directed by famed Queen & Slim director Melina Matsoukas (Insecure on HBO, Formation & We Found Love music videos among others)

Mrs. Carter talks about the nonstop bump watch speculation.

“Are you pregnant?’” is that question she says she hates hearing the most, adding, “Get off my ovaries!”

The songstress and director candidly spoke about having a difficult pregnancy with her twins, Rumi and Sir.

The troubled pregnancy led to a year long break from the music industry.

“After having a difficult pregnancy, I took a year to focus on my health,” the 22-time Grammy award winning singer-songstress and voice over actress opened up.

“I have researched information on homeopathic medicines,” adding, “I don’t just put any prescription in my body. My diet is important, and I use tools like acupuncture, meditation, visualization, and breathing exercises,”

The mom of three spoke about the importance of self-care in a society where, she says, women are expected to “tough it up”, ignore the symptoms and take care of everyone else before themselves.

The Queen Bey also  spoke about how motherhood has changed her and  opened up about experiencing miscarriages, how parenthood has changed her perspective on life and the importance of introspection, self-care and purpose.

She also spoke on the importance of self-care in a society where, she says, women are expected to “tough it up”, ignore the symptoms and take care of everyone else before themselves.

The Lion King star also talked about coming to love her curves, after experiencing fluctuating weight post baby making.

“If someone told me 15 years ago that my body would go through so many changes and fluctuations, and that I would feel more womanly and secure with my curves, I would not have believed them. But children and maturity have taught me to value myself beyond my physical appearance and really understand that I am more than enough no matter what stage I’m at in life.”

Good for you, mama!

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“This new [Ivy Park] line is fun and lends itself to creativity, the ultimate power,” @beyonce told ELLE. “I focused on designing a unisex collection of footwear and apparel because I saw so many men in Ivy Park. The way they have embraced the brand is an unexpected gift. I appreciate the beauty of gender-neutral clothing and breaking the so-called fashion rules. I took a chance on myself when I bought my company back. We all have the confidence in us to take chances and bet on ourselves.” Link in bio for the full January 2020 cover story. #BeyoncexELLE ⁣ ⁣ ELLE January 2020: ⁣ Editor-in-Chief: @ninagarcia ⁣ Cover star: @beyonce⁣ Photographer: @msmelina ⁣ Stylist: #KarenLangley ⁣ Makeup: @sirjohn ⁣ Hair: @nealfarinah @nakiarachon ⁣ Production: Ben Bonnet @westyproductions

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“If someone told me 15 years ago that my body would go through so many changes and fluctuations, and that I would feel more womanly and secure with my curves, I would not have believed them,” @beyonce told ELLE. “But children and maturity have taught me to value myself beyond my physical appearance and really understand that I am more than enough no matter what stage I’m at in life. Giving zero ?s is the most liberating place to be.” Link in bio for the full January 2020 cover story. #BeyoncexELLE ⁣ ⁣ ELLE January 2020: ⁣ Editor-in-Chief: @ninagarcia ⁣ Cover star: @beyonce⁣ Photographer: @msmelina ⁣ Stylist: #KarenLangley ⁣ Makeup: @sirjohn ⁣ Hair: @nealfarinah @nakiarachon ⁣ Production: Ben Bonnet @westyproductions

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JJ’s Favorite Things {2019 Gift Guide}

Posted on December 12, 2019

This year, instead of producing 15 holiday guides with tips and suggestions of products I’ve learned about from others, marketing materials sent to me or from what social media says is the hottest “must-have” items, I’m publishing just one guide/list.

This list includes items that I have either 1) purchased or was gifted personally and I use and love; or I have researched and inspected and want on my personal “wish list”.

Therefore, followers and readers of this blog will get my authentic, genuine and unbiased perspective on what items I believe are great gifts!

naipo shiatsu massager

1

First up is this Naipo Shiatsu neck and upper back massager. The makers gifted this to me over a year ago to review and I must say it is the absolute best. My husband and I are still using it today and it has not malfunctioned and continues to provide almost daily relief to our achy necks and backs after a long day at work, sitting at a computer desk all day or after waking up from a restless night sleep. The massager cover is made of leather and has oscillating balls and three settings that deeply kneed into your muscles to break up knots, soothe aches and pains.

An expecting or new mom would absolutely love this as she experiences the aches and pains of carrying a baby and caring for a new born.

It’s $49.99 at Amazon.com with free shipping for Prime members.

I absolutely recommend this massager as a gift. Tell the recipient it came highly rated by me! They will love you for it

ABC 3d

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Second, as a work at home mom blogger and solo-preneur who works from home, I am always on the go, covering events, shuttling my kids to sports, music activities, practices, meeting up with clients at coffee shops, blogging from cafes and lounges and local libraries and just hustling about.

Although my children are t/weens now, not long ago, I used to buy them toys and books for Christmas. I discover some at the library, book stores and am pitched several. My fave books for a baby or new mom are these 18 board books for Baby’s First Library

But if you want a book that is visually stunning, stimulating to a young brain and eye popping as a gift, I highly recommend the ABC 3D pop up book by French designer and artist Marion Bataille that I discovered while thrifting and vintage shopping one day. Each of the 26 three-dimensional letters move and change before your eyes.  SEE It for yourself up close in this YouTube Video!

You can buy it for just $10.55 on Amazon!

3

I have several stylish and colorful oversized bags that I chuck all my stuff, laptop, umbrella and other remote office stuff in before hitting the road, but I really need a deep sturdy laptop backpack instead.

I found the Incase Icon Pack in black online that I like because it has several compartments I can use to store an umbrella, pens, make up, my phone, a water bottle, and other items separately so I can find them in a pinch. I am otherwise always digging and rummaging around a big abyss when I need to find something.

I also like it because it looks sleek and has a sexy silhouette. Get it for $90 from Amazon.

This backpack would be much appreciated by the blogger, student, mom, dad or anyone in your family who need to stay organized and is always on the move.

4

When my son was being incubated in my belly during my first pregnancy, I played The Nutcraker Ballet’s “Dance of the Sugarplum Faeries” song regularly and when he was born, whenever he would fuss while in the back seat during travel, for example, he would immediately stop crying, cock his head towards the music and calm down. Music miraculously can calm, soothe and wire our babies brains for intelligence, I believe.

 

Invest in some belly buds to gift to a mom to be. The results will be long lasting, I think. There are a lot of brands out there and a relatively new comer to the market is mbrio which stands out because it pipes out music at a lower volume than its competitors for a safer level for the baby. Moms-to-be can clip the soft medical-grade silicon covered buds to their pants and connect. The buds are  just $34.95 and are compatible with apple iPhones and devices.

.

5

I am not certain a woman exists on earth who would not appreciate a trip to the spa. I know some people out there dislike strangers touching their bodies and face, yes, but they are the minority. A Spa Gift Cardis a perfect gift for any  expecting mom could use a massage, facial and some good old fashioned pampering while she waits for her bundle of joy.

You can purchase a card starting at $25+ and add on from there, depending on the cost of spa services in areas where you live

 

6.

Anything personalized is usually more cherished and loved because the giver obviously had forethought to seek out something just for the receiver. At this late stage in the game, time is running out to purchase a personalized item. I’ve given each of my kids when they were younger a personalized book and they loved it and still have it in their bookshelves today.

You can still get a personalized children book in time for Christmas from Uncommon Goods for US buyers for just $35.

 

 

7.

I just got an iPhone 11 and purchased a basic black Otter Box case which works functionally. I only use Otter because it is the only case that I can rely on to keep my phone safe but the black is not cutting it because it gets lost in the bottom of my purse too easily and I lose track of it all the time because it blends in with counters, and tables. I’ve left my phone several places and luckily got it back but I really blame the cover’s color for this problem. So I’m hoping to get an Otter case in a bright color for Christmas.

It sells all sorts of colors but I would love to get it in yellow for $50

 

insta pot

8.

Because slow cookers have been updated and now it’s quicker and easier to whip up a nutritious meal for the family with minimum effort, Instapot is the hottest thing around. The holiday season has revealed the lowest prices ever for them now as well. Currently, an Instant Pot DUO60 6 Qt 7-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker  which is almost $100 can be purchased for half off at $49 over on Amazon.com!

9.

Here is a personal thing. I am in love with Caroline Herrera scent “Good Girl“. It is my new second fave to Jessica McClintock’s self-named perfume which works with my chemistry and gets me compliments every time and all the time. If you are familiar with a fave scent, get it because many come with a free gift at the department stores. If you order Good Girl from Ulta for $69.99 you can get a free gift, a luxurious soft throw or robe. Nice! It’s like two gifts in one!

dooney and bourke wallet

BONUS.

Finally, I would love a new leather wallet. I have a very cute square coin purse wallet my brother in law gifted me from Brooks Brothers years ago. I get a lot of compliments because of the odd shape but it is not practical. I think anyone would love a nice quality new wallet for the new year!

I’m eyeing Booney & Bourke‘s Saffiano Large zip around wallet which the brand sells on its website for just $69! Woot!

 

There you have it! My 9 (10) favorite things for 2019!

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