enJOY it

an archived personal and craft blog from Elise Blaha Cripe.

Last week I celebrated getting through the first half of my pregnancy and wanted to share some of the things I have been enjoying thus far. One thing I have noticed about pregnancy – and perhaps child raising in general – is that the opinions are strong and all over the map. One day I'll have someone tell me they couldn't have gotten through life without maternity clothes and the next day I'll hear from someone else that maternity clothes are a complete waste of money. I'm learning there is little ambivalence; it's a love/hate relationship with everything.

Which is no big deal. All this really means is I have to wait and see what's going to work for me and try things out for myself. I cannot express enough : my number one belief with pregnancy is that you have to do whatever feels right for you and your baby. But that said, most of these favorite things are items I heard about from other mamas and tried on their recommendations so it can't hurt to share.

Faves@20weeks2

Great with Child by Beth Ann Fennelly. When I shared with friends that I was pregnant, I was sent this book as a gift (thank you, Sara!) and immediately read it cover to cover. I laughed, I cried, I LOVED it. Truly the only book I would recommend to a new (or experienced!) mother. It's a gift I'll be giving newly pregnant friends for the rest of my life. Love that it celebrates pregnancy and motherhood in an honest but uplifting way.

citrus! So happy to be pregnant during citrus season. Loving little cuties, big oranges and nearly everything else lining the produce section these days.

Alternative Apparel henley tees. These have been perfect in the first half while my bump has been small. I imagine I'll be able to continue to wear them for a bit, especially with tank tops (Old Navy has long great ones) or my be maternity band (which I wasn't wild about at first but find much more comfortable as my bump has gown). Love the texture and sleeve length of these henleys – super flattering.

Pangea Organics facial skincareThis isn't new. I have been using Pangea Organics for the past year and a half. But so far, I have not had to switch to anything different. My face is behaving well despite the hormonal changes. (The rest of my skin is pretty dry, but I think that's more winter's fault than anything else.)

nameberry.com. I have spent endlessly entertaining hours on this site, reading new names and shouting them to Paul. Our favorite girl's name (that we are 99% set on) isn't too much of a hit over there, but we love it anyway. Totally fun if you are looking for new ideas and their lists are pretty awesome.

Vitafusion Prenatal gummy vitamins. I had been taking these (or a generic version) for over a year before I got pregnant and am continuing to take them daily. Swallowing pills is not my favorite thing so this is working for me.

Snoogle Total Body Pillow. I made a mistake at about 15 weeks and read that I should now be sleeping only on my side OR ELSE. I am NOT a side sleeper and for about two weeks I woke up often at night on my back or stomach, worried that I was hurting the baby. Enter the Snoogle. It keeps me on my side and also keeps me incredibly comfortable at night.

maxi-dresses and skirts. As my normal jeans have stopped fitting, I am reaching for maxis more and more. In Southern California this usually works out okay (though in spring they will be much more exciting). I am always on the look out for a cute, soft skirt. Recently purchased this one on sale and I'm loving it.

 

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51 responses to “pregnancy faves @ 20 weeks.”

  1. Kelsey Avatar

    I also love gifting Great with Child to newly pregnant mamas, such a sweet book. And every day at lunch I amass myself a huge pile of citrus, so good! I get some funny looks from co-workers in the kitchen but I just point to the bump 🙂 I’m 30 weeks and recently asked my midwife about laying on my back sometimes, she said it’s still OK! Many people tell you it’s so bad but she said your body will tell you when it’s not right, you’ll feel out of breath or sick. I was relieved to hear that.
    I’d also highly recommend the Bella brand maternity waist band. It has this little almost sticky lining in it that helps it really stay in place on your pants and the material is thicker. I bought mine on Amazon.
    Keep enjoying this amazing time!

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  2. Jessica B Avatar

    Elise! I love maxi skirts too and I’m not even pregnant. Haha! They are just so flattering and comfortable I can imagine that any pregnant girl would love them too. Just wanted to share that if you are ever heading down to San Diego again there is a fabulous outlet mall in Carlsbad, CA which is 30 mins north of SD. Take the Palomar Airport Rd exit off the 5-S and turn left you won’t miss it. Anyway… There is a Gap outlet there and they always have maxi skirts on sale. I buy one almost everytime I’m in there. I have a black one and a blue and white stripe one. So it’s worth checking out of you’re ever near the area again! 🙂

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  3. Kathleen Avatar

    Ohhh Great With Child is one of my favorites. And what’s so awesome about it is that it is still completely applicable after you have the baby – rereading it then will give you a whole new appreciation for it. (It also had the side-effect of inspiring me to write real letters to my friends!)

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  4. orange gearle Avatar

    Elise, you are so right about doing what’s right for you! Guess what? When the baby gets here, you’ll get all kinds of advice again, equally confusing, opinionated and (probably) not even requested! My only advice (that you didn’t ask for) is: listen to those you love and trust yourself. You and Paul are baby girl Cripe’s Mommy and Daddy (exciting!) and that’s what matters. Also, (and you probably know this) usually all advice is very well intentioned! 🙂

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  5. Paige Avatar

    There is no one more passionate than someone who has been through pregnancy or new baby-dom – opinions run wild and you HAVE to do what is best for you and your family. I will recommend another book though – Bringing Up Bebe. After growing up in Europe, I thought much of what it talks about was universal, but after having a little one here in the US, it very much is not. Obviously to each their own, but I’d definitely recommend it. I didn’t love any of the what to expect books, but if you are looking for a book post baby, Eat Sleep Poop was my favorite and took a really open stance on what to do in different circumstances. I’ve started a little series on some of baby’s favorites by month, but again, it is totally personal and you just have to do what’s best for you. (http://www.comeandtakeitblog.com/2012/11/01/baby-essentials-month-1/). Sorry for the novel!

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  6. Beth Avatar
    Beth

    Have you read Operating Instructions by Anne Lamott? Totally recommend it.

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  7. Claire Avatar

    this is making me all broody! hehe 🙂

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  8. Dawn Ritchie Avatar
    Dawn Ritchie

    Best pillow ever. Between that and having a Boppy when the baby’s born are my top two pregnancy purchases. If you want to know where to get an awesome custom Boppy cover, my sweet friend Anna does them: http://www.etsy.com/shop/fortheloveofjoy
    Unless you want to sew your own, which I know you would rock out! And you’re totally right, everybody has very big opinions on pregnancy and moving forward. Just do what’s best for you and baby and it’ll all work out. Took me a little while to grasp that and I’m much happier for it. 🙂

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  9. Destiny Avatar
    Destiny

    I’m not sure what your birth plans are; but I would peg you for a ‘natural’ girl. 🙂 If that is your hope (or even if it’s not) I would highly recommend reading Ina May Gaskin’s book ‘Guide to Childbirth’. She is so wise in the ways of women and birthing babies. I just (2 months ago) gave birth to our second girl via a non-medicated VBAC. It was a super quick labor (thank God) but during almost the whole experience I kept replaying many of her words in my head. I really think it helped me get through the two hours of INTENSE labor. I have loved reading your blog for the last couple of years and wish you the best as you enter motherhood. It’s a wild ride, but amazing at the same time.
    Take care,
    Destiny

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  10. Jessica B Avatar

    You HAVE to do what is best for you! I got really good at just smiling and saying ok when people would tell me that I had to do something specific.
    With that being said, you seem to like Old Navy as do I. Check out the clearance for maternity. I found some great basic dresses that were so comfy for only $10. In the winter, I would just throw a zipper hoody on or some sort of jacket. But, is off season for dresses for you may be in luck. I love them so much I altered them so I could still wear them. I tried to buy basic maternity things my with my first that way I could keep them for my second. Nothing too trendy because I was one of those mindsets that I did’t want to waste the money.
    Good luck with pants, I had so much trouble with that because I’m so tall. So that is why I lived in dresses.

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  11. Christina Avatar
    Christina

    elise, here’s a small tip for you regarding wearing pants/shorts during your pregnancy:
    if they have a hole & button closure (like jeans) you can use an elastic hairband to keep it together but loose under your belly. I hated wearing maternity jeans (and they are expensive) so I did this and could wear my regular jeans well into my 8 month or so. (one more thing, obviously you’ll want to wear a longer shirt!)

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  12. Leigh Avatar
    Leigh

    Totally craved citrus is both pregnancies, but I was hung up on lemons. Particularly ice cold, fresh squeezed lemonade. Made batches of it! Glad you are feeling good. Enjoy this special time.

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  13. elise blaha Avatar

    Yes, best book ever! I ordered a Bella Band, but did not think it worked that much better than my cheaper Be Band from Target. Loving the band though!! 🙂

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  14. elise blaha Avatar

    Yep! I have read it! Really enjoyed it and found some parts fascinating. 🙂

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  15. elise blaha Avatar

    Not yet! It is on my list.

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  16. elise blaha Avatar

    Yes! Have read this twice. Once before I was pregnant and then again after I found out. Great, inspiring book.

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  17. elise blaha Avatar

    Yep! Do that all the time when I want to wear jeans and long tops.

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  18. KissMyTulle Avatar

    Elise, you list is SO different from mine! Probably because I’m 35, a very different body shape from you (coughcoughtotalfattycoughcough), and because I can’t eat citrus (allergic). I was in maternity clothes within the last days of the 1st trimester and can’t stomach pre-natals (I have to supplement via single different doses).
    Funny how different this experience is for people.

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  19. Amanda Abernathy Avatar
    Amanda Abernathy

    I don’t have children. But I will say that the maternity pants with the big ol stretchy waste band = greatest thing ever. Also, the body pillows like that are my all time fav. I always got decent sleep when I had one of them.

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  20. Samantha Avatar

    Just ordered the skincare kit, my skin has been so horrible lately (I’m 24 and I remember thinking to myself at 16 that I’d be done with skin issues in my 20s) Anyways, thanks for sharing, and congrats on the halfway mark, so happy for all the ‘magic’ you’ve got in your life right now. Keep on inspiring us Elise!!

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  21. Jojo Avatar

    I totally agree about the Snoogle. I bought mine early on and use it nightly…it is my saving grace. I’ve been wanting to keep a good list of my pregnancy go-to items would love to know how you do your collages…I’m sure you’ve done a tutorial :).
    As my belly has been growing I’ve been using the California Baby lotion. I haven’t had any stretch marks or itching and I’m not sure if it’s because I started this stuff early but can’t hurt…I’m about to order another tube for the last 7 weeks :): http://www.diapers.com/p/california-baby-natural-pregnancy-nourishing-emulsion-94479
    I also have been eating tons of string cheese, it’s the perfect snack for me when I’m feeling queasy…protein, calcium, portable 🙂
    I also bought a pair of black skinny pants at Pea in the Pod…they were a bit pricey but they have been my absolute FAVORITE pants. They look and feel like leggings but also like pants. I think these are them: http://www.apeainthepod.com/Product.asp?Product_Id=632980291&MasterCategory_Id=MC27?BLACK
    Those are my top few favorite items, can’t wait to hear what else you end up using and liking :).

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  22. Ang Avatar

    Love this! I’ve been waiting for you to share your pregnancy faves!
    We got married around the same time and are expecting around the same time so reading your blog is so much fun!

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  23. Jojo Avatar

    I have one of each and think they are the exact same. Go for the cheaper one :). I think they are from the same maker…they just do a cheaper version for Target. I wear mine upside down so the wider band is on the bottom holding up my pants. I’m wearing a be band today with a pair of lululemon leggings and i’m 32 weeks pregnant 🙂

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  24. Jennifer W. Avatar
    Jennifer W.

    I can’t wait to hear her name! Are you going to share it and the story behind her pick?

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  25. elise blaha Avatar

    we will share her name for sure! but not until she is here. The story is not so good! but the name is great. 😉

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  26. desiree Avatar

    so true that everybody has opinions on the issues regarding pregnancy and motherhood. Hope you stay true to you. 🙂 Thanks for the name site, it is one I had not heard of, even with our three…. off to go check it out!

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  27. Pam Satran Avatar

    Hi Elise — Thanks for the shout-out for Nameberry. We’re really happy we’re on of your favorites and if you ever want to write a guest post for us, we’d love to host you! Congratulations and best wishes, Pam Satran/Nameberry

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  28. elise blaha Avatar

    how fun! thanks Pam. 🙂

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  29. Vics Avatar

    I know what you mean about the extreme opinions! We’re weaning our little boy at the moment and I was (probably naively) surprised at how people are not at all shy in telling you they think what you’re doing is wrong, simply because it’s different to what they’re doing. I’ve really learnt to trust myself and block out any negative noise — more so than ever!
    A doula friend of mine recommended The Nursing Mother’s Companion by Kathleen Huggins and it was a lifesaver… I still read and refer to it regularly and my little one is nearly 7 months, I can’t recommend it highly enough!

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  30. goshery Avatar

    Since my “baby” is 23 years old my advice would probably be out dated so I will only say ENJOY every minute (now and after she’s born). I kind of rushed through pregnancy thinking I would savor the moments the second time around . . . but for a number of reasons that time never came.
    The best news is that I’ve had 23 years with an awesome young lady that I still think of as my baby. That will never change!
    So happy for you and Paul!

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  31. Andi Avatar

    I too have a very difficult time swallowing pills, so I’ve been taking One a Day for Women gummy vitamins, and Fish Oil vitamins. We plan on starting our family later this year around late fall and I thought it would be good to start taking PreNatal gummy vitamins, but I’ve heard pros and cons. Do you notice a change when you were taking them before you were pregnant? Sorry if that question is too personal.

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  32. elise blaha Avatar

    A change? Not really… maaybe stronger finger nails and better skin but nothing crazy. 🙂

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  33. Jess Avatar
    Jess

    Thanks for the pregnancy suggestions. Can’t wait to read the book! I’m 10 weeks and in awe of how cute you look in your maternity clothes. Wherever do you find them? Looking into the skirt now, but I need help with tops that can be worn at work (business casual) that don’t look too old or maternity-ish. I’m 30. Thanks for the nameberry.com recommendation, too. I think we have our boy and girl names (don’t know who’s in there yet!), but I love looking for more ideas! Can’t wait to find out yours!

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  34. Lisa Avatar
    Lisa

    mmmm… there is nothing better then citrus when you’re pregnant! fresh pineapple is dreamy too… it’s like everything takes on a new depth of flavor!

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  35. Heidi Nicole Avatar

    Those vitafusion vitamins are delicious! Okay, I’ve never had the prenatals, but the regular ones taste like candy!

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  36. Brianna Avatar
    Brianna

    Great list. Thanks for sharing it. I’m going to check out Nameberry for naming characters in my books.

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  37. Heather O. Avatar
    Heather O.

    I love your list! I’d love to hear additional book recommendations (for pre-pregnancy and during) if you have any and feel comfortable sharing.

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  38. Kathy Avatar

    Well you have hit the nail on the head….what works for one person may not work for another but everyone has an opinion…….once the baby comes this will increase 10 fold…sleeping, nappies, routines, breast feeding etc. Just remember don’t take everything too personally, just listen and take what you want from it and if it doesn’t work for you move to the next thing….I will give you a word of warning about breast feedings…babies don’t come out knowing how to attach themselves…mummy has to help them. Mummy was not born knowing herself how to attach a baby to the breast she has to be shown by special lactation consultants. It’s not as easy as popping the baby next to your nipple. The other “biggie” for me was I went to the maternity talks and the lady there exaggerated the whole process and at the time I thought it was a bit ridiculous however that was the one thing that stuck in my mind….the baby needs it’s mouth really wide just about covering the whole nipple and the surrounding pink area (aka areola)and then it will be easier for baby to get the hang of it. Don’t just think the nipple sticks out and baby just sucks on the sticking out bit….(this may or may not help but it is something to be aware of). Love your pillow…total must when pregnant and of course when you are 38-40 weeks this pillow will come into it’s own. Very excited about this pregnacy for your. I don’t even know how I came across your blog but probably from Ali Edwards or someone like that with a link and I started reading it when you were planning your wedding…sometimes I think it is weird that I have been following someone else’s life for that long but I love reading your inspirational posts. Regards Kathy A, Brisbane, Australia

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  39. Kathy Avatar

    PS… check out Brooklyn Limestone’s http://www.brooklynlimestone.com new baby that arrived in the last 4 weeks…(blog of course) and particularly her recent post about “I can’t believe I’m one of those people” ie before she had kids she didn’t get why people talk, look at their baby but now she has one she totally is doing the same…it’s just the cutest thing and check our the devine navy and orange tiny nursery she did for their little baby…..trust me…you’ll be feeling the same and all those energy filled decorating days will be spent looking at that baby skin, smelling the baby skin and taking lots of photos..it is an amazing thing that’s for sure.

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  40. Kristen Dudley Avatar

    Anne Lamott’s Operating Instructions: A Journal of My Son’s First Year, is also a must-read 🙂

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  41. Lindsey Avatar

    I had to laugh about your comment on everyone having an opinion on parenting. Boy are you right! And folks don’t hold back- they share whether you want advice or not. So here’s mine 😉 I talked about this with my aunt, frustrated by some of the advice and she said ‘everyone has something to share but when it’s 3 in the morning and you’re out of ideas you just might try their suggestion’. Good luck your baby girl is lucky to have you as parents.

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  42. Jessi Avatar

    I could not get enough grapefruit while I was pregnant. Citrus just tastes so good during pregnancy!! And yes. The opinions are out of control when it comes to pregnancy, childbirth and parenting. Welcome to that world 😉

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  43. elise blaha Avatar

    So far I have read Ina May Gaskins Guide to Childbirth (great if you are considering natural labor and want more stories and information) and Bringing Up Bebe. Love them both, but before I actually go through labor and have a kid, I feel like I am not fit to recommend yet. 😉 LOVED Great With Child so much. 🙂

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  44. elise blaha Avatar

    I have found some cute tops in the Target Maternity section. Also Old Navy. Mostly I am getting buy with non-maternity stuff, we will see how long that lasts. 🙂

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  45. rachel swartley Avatar

    I’ve been a stepmother for the past few years and a mother for two months, and I couldn’t agree more that as a parent, you just have to do what you believe to be the best. That’s true for ALL of life, but I’ve become especially aware of it as a parent. So many people have so many opinions, and while many of them are worth listening to and heeding, ultimately you just have to be confident enough in yourself to do what is best for YOU.

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  46. rachel swartley Avatar

    …and your children/family, obviously. I’m not suggesting that you should be self-centered. 😉

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  47. Emily S Avatar
    Emily S

    As far as “maternity” clothes go, I found that i wore a lot of long sleeve JCrew perfect tees between 20-30 weeks, some beyond. Even with my long torso, JCrew tees are pretty long and stretched nicely.

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  48. Heather O. Avatar
    Heather O.

    Thank you!! I’ll be on the lookout for a list once your baby girl arrives. 🙂

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  49. Laura BC Avatar
    Laura BC

    One of the best things that a friend shared when I was pregnant was a tour of her nursery (she had three boys). She shared what she liked, what she didn’t like, what she would have done differently, and why. She also took me to a baby store and did the same thing. It was a good orientation, and a way to ask questions. I don’t know what made it different from all the “advice”. And yes I still did what worked for me and our baby. But I appreciated the time she took to share like that. I later did the same for my sister. She also made her own choices in the end, but it helped her, too.

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  50. elise blaha Avatar

    I think that is awesome. Sometimes it is easier to hear advice from someone you know really well and someone who knows you really well. At least I have noticed that is the case for me. 🙂

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