Saturday, January 29, 2011

Love That Girl

There is a new show on TV One called Love That Girl, it’s a cute comedy. The title made me reflect on how I now feel about my new body. My reflection and I have had a rocky relationship so far. There are days that I feel like I look good for a woman who had a baby then I see other moms and don’t feel too happy about my appearance. So I'm on a mission to find methods to give the much needed love to the girl looking back at me.

I was introduced to Spanx a few years ago and loved what they had to offer. Spanx is a collection of shapewear that provides hosiery that sucks in all the extra spillage. I ordered three pair of the Tight End Tights. They are great because they are reversible so I'm getting more for my dollar. They are kinda pricey but the investment is well worth it. I wear them with jeans, slacks, and dresses. They’re great in the fall and winter. I also purchased a pair of their Super Shaping Sheer Stockings for the times when I don’t feel like tights.

To add to the cinching I have purchased a new Belly Bandit in a smaller size. It comfortably tightens the stomach area, looks smooth under my shirts, and feels comfortable.

My older brother is training to be a police officer and offered some assistance in my quest to love my midsection. Although I haven’t tried it yet he told me to start a crunches regimen. Haven’t gotten around to it yet but I'll keep you all posted.

Ok so I know I can’t be the only woman who dreads shopping for jeans. For the first few weeks that I and my little were getting to know each other I recycled my maternity pants. But it soon became apparent that some new jeans were a must. Since I was 16 years old, the thought of having to try on countless pairs of jeans was enough to make me shed a tear. It’s hard to find jeans that fit because I have a small waist and big thighs. So you can imagine how happy I was when I discovered a brand that fit my curves like they were tailor made. I was delivered a crushing blow when I ordered the brand and realized that they no longer were the quality material and fit that they once were. I was devastated! Then my hunny calmed me down and assured me that I would find jeans that fit, and I did! Thank to the Levis Outlet at Potomac Mills Mall I have three new pair.

Being introduced to the new reflection has its challenges, like what to do with my pre pregnancy clothes that don’t fit. I summoned up all the courage I had and tried on all of my old clothes. I was pleasantly surprised by what did fit. I didn’t allow myself to feel bad about what didn’t fit; I simply moved them for next season when they will make a recurrence.

When it comes to your clothes finding mission, don’t pay attention or get discourage by the size. Focus on fit.

Well ladies, talk to you later! Don’t forget to tell yourself you’re hot!

Thursday, January 20, 2011

Mrs. Cellophane

If you've ever seen the movie Chicago you'll remember the scene where Roxy's husband sings a song called Mr. Cellophane; he felt invisible. If you are a new mom you can sympathize with him.In an instant you go from caring for yourself to devoting every waking moment to another person who is completely dependent upon on you. I found my maternity leave to be rewarding yet challenging and I want to share some tips and thoughts with you.

While I spent time bonding with my little one, I noticed that I didnt have much time to care for me. So I quickly learned to find fast ways to care for my skin. One thing that really helped me was facial wipes. I would suggest purchasing the wipes that don't require you to add water or lather them up. Simply wipe off the baby drool and slather on a great moisturizer. You'd be surprised at how much these two little steps can improve your skin and lift you spirits.

Never underestimate the power of a spray of perfume and a swipe of lip gloss. With a newborn, it can be challenging to schedule a decent time to take a shower. In the times when it looks like it may be a 3am shower, spray some body spray on for a quick pick me up. Keep your lips smooth and hydrated with your favorite chapstick and layer it with your sexiest lip gloss.

Some impolite people think its ok to tell you, "You look tired". Of course you look tired, because you are! But who needs a reminder? To combat the sleepy look, stay hydrated. Keep a water bottle by your bed and sip every chance you get. Hydration does wonders for the skin. When you feel up to wearing makeup, try Benefit's Ooh La Lift. It adds light underneath the eye and helps give off a youthful appearance.

Change your clothes every day. Even if you stay in comfy lounge wear, a new outfit can fight off the feeling of being in a predictable rut.

Keep your hair oiled. It maybe hard to find the time and or the energy to do your hair but keeping it oiled is a must. Your body is going through an adjustment period and this can cause your hair to be brittle and dry. Your hair can even break off, I lost two locs! Yikes! Let sleep be the only thing you loose.

Well Maternal Mavens, we'll chat soon!

Project Bringing Sexy Back

Attn: Maternal Agents

Thank you for meeting with me today. This meeting is of great importance. Your mission should you chose to accept it is to prepare for your body to be occupied by only one person.

Goal: Sexy in 6 months

A great tool is binding your stomach. You can do research and find dozens of stomach cinchers that help your stomach decrease and provide back support. I personally used the Belly Bandit. I wish I purchased it before the baby came as I probably would have had even better results. Their most inexpensive belly binding system is $45.00. I wore it every day and washed it in cold water when it was dirty and laid it flat to dry. The only time I took it off was to shower.

Beware of the villain stretch marks and the dreaded post pregnancy pooch. This is a worthy opponent who you need to plan your attack carefully and react quickly. I found two products that I 'm using to tone my skin on diapers.com. The company is called Mustela and they produce products that are safe for breastfeeding mothers. I bought the body firming activator pill and a lotion that helps my skin regain its elasticity. I'll keep you updated on how its working.

I am currently researching safe diet and exercise plans so any suggestions would help! Until next time agents.
WARNING: THIS MESSAGE WILL SELF DESTRUCT IN 20 MINUTES.