raisingograce-blog

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3 Ingredient Apple Dump Cake

Who says you can't enjoy the taste of fall in February? Sometimes you're just not ready to let the season go and nothing speaks that fall flavor more than apples!  Well except maybe pumpkin, but we're not baking with pumpkins today, we're baking with apples.  I positively love this simple recipe. It only takes 3 ingredients and you can make it for less than 10 dollars. 

Here's how you get started: Ingredients

4 cups of chopped apples

3/4 cup of melted butter

1 box of yellow cake mix

Some additional ingredients to consider: cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, vanilla ice cream (for later! haha).

Directions:

Prep time: 15 Minutes |��Bake Time: 45 Minutes | Overall Time: 1 Hour

So this recipe is super easy and doesn't take much prep time. Maybe about 15 minutes or so. The most time is spent cutting the apples. 

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350. You will need a 9x13 pan and it does not need to be greased.

2. Wash and cut your apples into thick slices or square chunks. 4 cups is about 8-10 small to medium apples. I personally peel my apples because I think they taste better baked without the skin. 

3. Next melt 3/4 cups of butter in the microwave. I use butter spread, it's easier and melts just as well but faster (although halfway through making this I ran out of spread and finished with stick butter, it all works for this)

4. Spread your chopped apples evenly in the pan and dump the box of cake mix all over, covering the apples. Then take your butter and cover as much as the cake mix as you can, I find it works better if you pour slowly. This is the time to add any optional spices if you wish.

5. Pop in the oven for 45-50 minutes until appears to be crumbled on top. I baked my for 45 minutes and turned the broiler on for 2 minutes, it gave it a crisp brown topping. This dessert is best enjoyed as soon as its cooled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream

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My Top 5 For the First 3 Months

It amazes me all the "things" I have since Olivia came along. So much of the stuff I have for her now never even crossed my mind when I was making a registry or my own personal check list. Some things I must say I really don't need and don't use, but there are a few things I couldn't have survived the first three months without.  Here's the top five items I would recommend to any first time mom: 

1) Jeep Places and Spaces Backpack Diaper Bag 

Yes, that says Jeep as in Jeep Wrangler. Who would of known that Jeep made baby products, and who would of guessed it would be as awesome as this diaper bag. Two words, durable and spacious. There's so many pockets, they expand and they are deep! I can fit everything I need just in the pockets alone and use the actual backpack for toys and maybe two change of clothes and there's still more space! It also has stroller loops so you're not taking stroller space by trying to cram the diaper bag in there somewhere. It also has a wipe dispenser on the side, which I actually thought I wouldn't use but it turned out to be pretty nice. The other side is an insulated pocket for bottles and there's a pocket in the front that fits my cell phone and lip balm perfectly. It's not too expensive like some of the "fancy" diaper bags can get. It's only 50 dollars and has a warranty for any broken zippers or faulty pockets (which I haven't experienced). The bag itself as a backpack is comfortable. The straps are padded and it doesn't pull on my back. I can see using this as a personal back pack long after Olivia grows out of it. 

2) Graco Swing/Bouncer Combo

I am absolutely in love with this swing. My little angel is in it right now and I probably wouldn't be able to write this without it. This swing/bouncer combo has been a life saver. When Olivia was just three weeks she had a really horrible week of congestion mixed with reflux. Laying her down to sleep was nearly impossible and this swing solved everything. The seat itself reclines up or lays back completely flat. Being able to have this reclined while sleeping allowed all of her congestion to drain and for her to be able to breath without problems. It was also a blessing that the seat removed as a bouncer.  I could essentially take her anywhere with me. I gave her some toys and turned on the vibration switch then my showers got 5 minutes longer.  For distractions, sleep and showers, this swing and bouncer combo is awesome.

​3) Kick and Play Piano

Right around 2-2 1/2 months Olivia started exploring the movements of her arms and legs. Tugging, pulling, kicking and swaying all day long. The kick and play was a great first toy for her. The overhead bar allowed her to use hand and eye coordination to reach for a pull on toys while at the same time she could kick away to a musical tune. It didn't take long for her to realize the her action of kicking had a reaction of music. On sleepy mornings (which is about every morning) I would lay her on the kick and play mat and she could entertain herself for 30 minutes to an hour while I took a moment gathering myself for the day. Its fits perfectly in the pack and play so I don't have to worry about keeping too close of an eye on her or the dogs getting in the way. I personally like the Fisher Price Kick 'n Play Piano. I first bought her a knock off version which was nice and the keys were actually padded but the quality wasn't as great. This one is a lot more colorful, sturdier, and its by far her favorite activity so far in these early months. 

4) Babies R Us Purely Simple Formula Dispenser

This is obviously for bottle fed babies, but it is a complete WIN for bottle fed babies. Most moms would only think of a formula dispenser for on the go, maybe a diaper bag essential, I know that was my first impression. Turns out I love my formula dispenser for the sake of a cranky baby and those late night feeds. This particular dispenser has four slots and is easy to fill, easy to clean, and easy to assemble. At first I turned my nose up at the idea of needing a container dedicated to formula.  I always packed Olivia's formula in Tupperware containers and packed the scoops. It seemed like a waste of money to do it any other way. It wasn't until I broke down and bought one that It dawned on me that I could make feedings more peaceful come midnight.  And 2 AM. And 4 AM. And always. I fill four capped bottles up with water,  fill the formula dispenser accordingly, and sit them on my night stand. No more dashing to the kitchen and trying to juggle a crying little girl while making a bottle one handed. 

​5 ) Munchkin Warm Glow Baby Wipe Warmer

Spoiled much? This wasn't on my registry, and certainly not on my radar. I thought it was over the top and unnecessary, until I seen my little angel for the first time and wanted to giver her the world. Nothing's too good for my baby! This was a gift from my mom about a week before Olivia arrived, and I'm glad I got it. It has made diaper changes great. I didn't realize how much I loved it until one day I forgot to refill it and I had to use a cold wipe. Talk about an unhappy baby. In addition to just spoiling your baby this has actually helped me relieve Olivia's constipation, weird right? After a week of no pooping and a whole lot of crying I tried just wiping her little bum a few times with the warm wipe, and it helped her relieve herself. Ive never owned another wipe warmer so I can't really compare but this one is cheap and works great. Less then 20 bucks, wipes are always warm and its quick and easy to refill. I'm pretty sure all credit is given to Olivia's enjoyment with the changing table, I could safely say its probably her favorite place to be. These are my five favorite items that have made the first 3 months as graceful as possible. Check back, I will update every 3 months what helped get me through parenthood as a first time mom. Comment below what your favorite go to products are!

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What happens to your birth plan?

Exactly 3 months ago little Olivia Grace entered this world at 3:32 A.M. What an amazing experience. When someone says words cannot describe it...words truly cannot describe it. I learned plenty of things that day, and many more since then, but one important thing I want to share with you is that you absolutely cannot plan a birth! Previously I posted about what I put in my hospital bag and I promised I would let you know what I actually needed after going through the big event. Well I'm holding true to that promise and here's what I actually used in the hospital bag...NOTHING! Kidding. I used some things, but I wouldn't even dare say I actually needed half of what I packed : 

Overnight Bag:

Slippers and warm socks NOPE

Two nursing bras NOPE (I barely left my gown, which was convenient)

4x Large underwear (to accommodate postpartum pads comfortably) YES

Comfy robe YES?? (I only put it on once, my last day)

2x Loose Camis NOPE 

2x Comfy pants (dark in color, in case of any leakage) NOPE

A brush and travel size toiletries (deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothbrush and toothpaste) YES (momma's gotta be clean)

Going home outfit (clothes that fit me right around 5-7 months) YES

Stretch mark lotion and a postpartum corset ( I chose this one from bellybandit.com) YES!!! (if you want to feel like a not-so lumpy human being again)

Tucks medicated cooling pads (highly recommended by a family member, mommy of 2) NOPE (although i personally recommend for after care at home)

Boppy breastfeeding pillow YES 

Take home out fit for Olivia (onesie 2x, hat, mittens, socks, sweater) YES (I actually wish I would of packed more clothes for her)

2x receiving blankets YES

One warm fuzzy blanket (for debatable October weather) YES

Labor Bag:

NOPE

Nausea Candy (these we're a life saver first and second trimester)

Raspberry Leaf Tea

Mini Essential Oil Diffuser

Essential Oils (Lavender, Peppermint, Chamomile, Frankincense)

Crystals (Rose quartz, Unakite, Moonstone, Amethyst)

Rice Warmer Bag (aka comfort wrap)

Phone Charger

Uno cards! ( I've debated also on a book or coloring book and pencils, anything for distraction!)

So the labor bag was kind of a joke. I was in way too much pain for any of that stuff to be useful. They want you to get to at least 3 cm before coming to the hospital or they'll send you packing. By 3 -5 cm I was in over my head and none of those things could of calmed me down. My all natural birth plan was gone before we even left the drive way. I arrived at 8pm at 5 cm dilated and by 8:30pmI had gotten an epidural. Now don't get me wrong, everyone is different, the things in my labor bag may do you some good if you're expecting. If you want a natural birth I strongly encourage you to give it a try, just be prepared for changes, especially if you're a first time mom and don't know what to expect. If I were ever to be pregnant again I would pack the same labor bag and give 'er the old college try one more time. Babies come with no manuals, and labor comes with no plan. It's almost impossible to even expect the unexpected with birth, just know the unexpected is probably just around the corner, but so is your beautiful baby! Every momma is different, every pregnancy unique, share your experiences below! 

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From Breast To Bottle

Breastfeeding is always a controversal topic. You can easily be criticized for doing it in public and just as easily criticized for not doing it at all. Every mom wants to be the good mom, or needless to say the perfect mom and it isn't hard to get caught up with what other people determine is the "right" thing to do. It starts the moment your precious angel is resting in your arms for the first time, breast or bottle?

Whenever I was pregnant, I was overly determined to breastfeed Olivia. I spent most of my pregnant days pinning lactation smoothies on Pinterest and researching how long breastmilk keeps. I picked an overly priced "smart" breast pump and bought more boob accessories than you could count. I was ready to face night feedings alone, sore breast, and continuing to watch what I eat. Not to mention the bit of selfishness of me that knew breastfeeding helped that pregnancy weight drop much, much quicker. Needless to say I was quite disappointed when I made the decision to switch Olivia to formula. Three months ago I was hesitant about telling anyone I wasn't breastfeeding. If I did tell anyone I quickly added "only for now". I was ashamed of using formula, and I shouldn't have been. Being a good mom easily comes with a lot of hard decisions. I couldn't help but feel bad when I was only doing what I thought was best for my baby. Just last year it was common for 8 out of 10 women to stop breastfeeding, and how many of those do you think felt guilty?

When I personally decided to stop breastfeeding it wasn't a thoughtless decision. I couldn't bare to hear my baby screaming. Not in the annoying sense, but in the sense that her little newborn cries were heartbreaking.  In addition to Olivia's frustration my breast where extremely sore! I was cracked and bleeding and for the life of me could not get Olivia to latch correctly. I was still only producing colostrum (the nutrient packed fluid you produce before you milk comes in) and it just didn't seem like enough. All of this on only day three in the hospital when I asked the nurse for a bottle of formula. It made a world's difference in Olivia and also in my confidence as a mom. I had made my first decision for the well being of my baby. So why did I feel so guilty? It was because I spent 9 months researching breastfeeding and 0 seconds researching formula.

It is true there are many benefits of breastfeeding and thats why many mom's set off with the intentions of being breast only. Not only is it a wonderful bonding experience for mom and baby, but it also protects your baby from infections. Your breastmilk is able to adjust itself to your babies needs, your body is amazing! Breastmilk is beneficial but formula has many benefits for your baby as well as the mother. There are many reasons mom switch to the bottle. Pain while feeding, not enough milk supply, help with care and feedings of newborn, or returning to work. Do not feel bad if part of your decision to switch involve your own needs! Happy mom means happy baby, especially when the first few weeks you will be fighting that postpartum depression. If you're a mom thinking about switching to formula, heres the benefits for both you and baby:

​​ 

Formula is meant to meet your babies nutritional needs

Some offer extra vitamins, such as iron, or Vitamin D which is important in the first three months

Both you and dad can bond with baby while bottle feeding, and you can also share responsibility of the night time feedings

It is much easier to monitor how much your baby is eating to maintain a healthy weight

You no longer have to be careful about what you eat or drink, enjoy that glass of wine!

It is known that some formulas contain healthy probiotics that help prevent the risk of colic and food allergies

There are many different types you can choose from to adjust to your baby's needs wether it be gas, spit up, or milk allergies (formula is typically made from cow's milk or soybeans)

You don't need to fit pumping into your daily schedule, which is beneficial if you're going back to work

Formula is more filling for your baby, she will eat less often, usually 3-4 hours between feedings

You can still do skin to skin with your baby while bottle feeding

You can supplement with formula rather than stopping breastfeeding completely

These are some of the things I found useful to know after I made the switch. I definitely don't doubt the benefits of breastfeeding your child. It is said that breastfeeding the first 6 months is optimal, so I say go as long as you can! I quit before the race really got started and honestly I wish I would of lasted longer, but I absolutely do not regret my decision. Olivia and I are both happier for it and just as healthy. It's normal to feel guilty when being a good mom, but remember you're still being a good mom. The tough decisions are just getting started, don't make the debate between breast and bottle be one of them. 

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Packing A Hospital Bag

38 weeks (and 2 days) today! Boy, am I exhausted. Nothing like having a baby find comfort underneath your ribs! With two weeks until Olivia's due date things are just a waiting game. Nursery's done, clothes are washed, car seat is ready....and my hospital bag has been packed since August. No mom (whether a first time mom or experienced) wants to be running around with contractions trying to find things she needs for the hospital. I personally did something a little different, I packed two bags! I know what you're probably thinking, "you're definitely over doing it". Let me explain! I have myself an overnight bag, about the size of a duffel, and what I call a labor bag, the size of a purse.  Here's what I got packed:

Overnight Bag: 

Slippers and warm socks (hospitals can be cold!)

Two nursing bras

4x Large underwear (to accommodate postpartum pads comfortably)

Comfy robe

2x Loose Camis

2x Comfy pants (dark in color, in case of any leakage)

A brush and travel size toiletries (deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothbrush and toothpaste)

Going home outfit (clothes that fit me right around 5-7 months)

Stretch mark lotion and a postpartum corset ( I chose this one from bellybandit.com)

Tucks medicated cooling pads (highly recommended by a family member, mommy of 2)

Boppy breastfeeding pillow

Take home out fit for Olivia (onesie 2x, hat, mittens, socks, sweater)

2x receiving blankets

One warm fuzzy blanket (for debatable October weather)

Labor Bag:

Nausea Candy (these we're a life saver first and second trimester)

Raspberry Leaf Tea

Mini Essential Oil Diffuser

Essential Oils (Lavender, Peppermint, Chamomile, Frankincense)

Crystals (Rose quartz, Unakite, Moonstone, Amethyst)

Rice Warmer Bag (aka comfort wrap)

Phone Charger

Uno cards! ( I've debated also on a book or coloring book and pencils, anything for distraction!)

And that's it, haha! Seems like a lot now that I have it all written out. The plan is to keep the overnight bag in the car until the switch from labor and delivery to the maternity ward. The labor bag is something small to take a long to help me along. So far this isn't a fool proof list since I'm a first time mom and she's still in my tummy! Definitely expect an update with what I missed and what I could of left behind. My favorite part about this pregnancy prep step was it gave me an excuse to go to Target and buy a new bag, haha! So tell me, what's in your bag??