(habits, behavior, speech)... 

The fruitage of the spirit! (Galatians 5:22)

Be the best role model I can for them to follow, because they will always be looking. 

Teach them through love, discipline and action 
(speaks louder than words). 

Uplift my only daughter, encourage my middle child and first son, and guide my youngest, son. 

As a mother I will uplift, encourage and guide them all, 
but with their different age groups, 
and alignment in the family, 
I’ll try to cater to their needs as seems fit.



(take my time, plan more, self care)... 

I know there will only be so much I can do 
with an almost 8 year old, preschooler 
and infant whom I’ll be breastfeeding, 
so I will work at making the best use of my time. (Ephesians 5:16).

I’m already a planner and to-do lister, 
so I’ll continue to do that and more! I might as well 
become an ambassador for Post-It’s.  

And of course, I have to make sure I take care of me: 

Spiritually, physically, mentally and emotionally. 

I can’t pour out from an empty vessel 
and I talked about it in an old post how I already 
teach my first two children the importance of them having time 
to themselves and allowing Mommy to do the same. 

Maintaining my faith and spiritual well-being, eating healthy and resting, even when I want to go go go. 
Positive affirmations, and communicating my feelings and thoughts to my husband, children and others as well.

(let myself and the kids esp. make mistakes)...

 Give myself leeway for doing the best that I can, 
and allow the kids to grow into themselves as we transition and they figure out their new or heightened roles. 

I’ll have to keep in mind there will be more messes 
and  repeated mistakes. 
I have to make the effort to continue to be reasonable and patient with my babies 
and myself as well.

Be present, practical, and forgiving. 

I know I won't remember this all at once, 
but I know the best thing about journaling 
or writing things down, is that I can always come back 
to refer and reflect. 
I’ll keep trying and as long as my blood is in their veins, 
I will do my very best. 

-xo Natasha 

Third Trimester Maternity Style

Finding things to wear in the end of the third trimester is a daily struggle. 

Even daddy’s shirts are barely cutting it anymore, and l want to be cute while l live out this preggo look, comfortably, before it quickly ends. 

This @shoppinkblush top is perfect for now, but also for later when l’m back to nursing again (multipurpose 🙌🏾 win) and a shirt from daddy’s wardrobe was not harmed and spared in the wearing of this top. 

The website offers several different colors: but this charcoal gray top will fit perfectly into my current and soon-to-be breastfeeding adjusted wardrobe. 

The chest area is very stretchy and able to be pulled down to nurse and then pulled back up with out stretch to its normal wear. 

I love how l have room to still grow in this top and l get to wear this later, all while trying to maintain 

my pregnancy style now. 

And I’ll let you in on a secret; these are my pre baby jeans, unzipped and free. 

Shhh, just let it fly (pun intended). 

What are some of your third trimester pregnancy style and/or maternity clothes favorites? 

-xo Natasha 

Tips on Packing for a [quick] family getaway.

We ended spring break with a little getaway as a family, but we couldn't leave without some packed bags! Even though the weather was playing tricks on us, packing light with all our essentials has become easier with practice, but is possible on a first try!

I actually like packing and checking off my list (Pinterest has countless, very helpful and even seasonal packing templates). The only thing I dread is unpacking. I can pack a bag in an hour, but then take a week to unpack it!

Here are some of my basic packing tips:

Always start with the basics!

-Underwear, pajamas and simple layering pieces 
(cami’s, tights/leggings etc. You know you need them, 
and they’re the quickest to grab).

Check the weather and be mindful of your destination!

-Pack two of any seasonal item you can rotate.

So for example: two bathing suits, two sweaters and then wear bulkier or heavier items whilst traveling (hat, coat/jacket).

-Don’t forget footwear as well.

Pack flip flops or slides and a nice pair of sandals.

A flat (you can dress up or down) and sneakers if you plan to do a lot of sight-seeing and then if the occasion calls for it, a dressy pair of shoes.

 Clockwise: Converse, Cat & Jack (Target Line) slides and rose gold glitter shoes, and Gymboree sandals.

Clockwise: Adidas Cloadfoam slides (comfort level = heavenly),  Dolce Vita for Target Animal print slip on shoes,  A New Day (Target Line) rose gold Gucci inspired slip on loafers, Chinese Laundry block sandals.

Top to bottom: Nike SB, Nike,  Gymboree strap sandals.

Top to bottom: Nike SB, Nike,  Gymboree strap sandals.

-Regardless of where I’m going, I’ll always pack a denim jacket 
or cardigan for myself and the kids. Denim jackets and cardigans can go with any outfit (dressy or casual), worn for indoor or outdoor traveling and can sub as a blanket if needed.

Left to right: Crazy 8 cargo jacket, Old Navy blush cardigan, Old Navy vintage denim jacket.

.

Pack light!

-Bring toiletries that can be shared or in small travel containers.

-Don’t over pack if it’s not necessary.

-Keep your wardrobe neutral with a few colors and prints to allow layering, interchangeable outfits and ease.
-Roll clothing for more room.

Bring your own snacks!

The airport snacks are always expensive, and the gas station doesn't always carry what you might be craving (and tend to be unhealthy)! You can easily knock off time by not having to worry about snacks every pit stop or while sitting on the plane, or before, with not enough to eat.

Children like to munch, and having a few of their favorite snacks already on hand will give you some peace and them pleasure. On a previous blog post, I mentioned the benefits of packing your own snacks and how economical it is!

I hope these quick packing tips can help you getaway a little faster with ease.

- Natasha xo