things that make me happy and life easier.
this incense tray, palo santo stick, and these beach things.
this breastmilk boosting latte.
this yogurt bowl with this nut butter.
this lactation tincture (it is MAGICAL).
homemade granola.
There aren't many baby items that I have fallen head over heels in love with. But when I do, I promise to share the wealth. I am going to start with this sensory lounger. It is my absolute favorite baby purchase. I went back and forth about ordering one for Ila because it's a little pricey. And with babies finding an item they love and use can be hit or miss. After doing a few months of research, I settled on making the investment. I am a huge believer in investing money in things that are high quality and long-lasting. This Snuggle Me was beyond worth it! She naps like an angel in it, and it's so well made that we will most likely have it for our next babe.
Here's why I love it:
certified organic cotton
hugs baby well due to the center sling technology
hypoallergenic
keeps baby snug but safe & comfortable on her back
helps prevent the startle reflex
securely contours to baby's body
provides physical support all around
reminds baby of the womb from the
slight hug and security of the lounger
USA made
woman/mom owned company
I purchased the certified organic version which costs $140 and comes with a natural organic cotton cover. My only issue is that it isn't offered in a larger size (that's how much we love it)! I wish Ila could use this pass the infant stage, but I have a feeling she will have outgrown it by eight months or so. Nevertheless, we will cherish it while we can. She can nap comfortably & soundly in her lounger for well over 3 hours. Words cannot describe what a godsend it's been for her naps or when my arms need a break from holding her too long.
I cannot say this enough, the Snuggle Me is highly recommended.
If you want to try one for your babe, Snuggle Me Organic has provided me with a 25% off code to share! Head over to snugglemeorganic.com and use code ELLE25 at check out to receive your discount. The loungers start at $120. Take advantage of this sale while you can! It's incredibly generous; I may even buy another one.
Sometimes it is easier to make things yourself, not to mention it's a lot more fun. I've been steeping these magical herbs in olive oil for about 5 days in preparation for a salve. Using my hands and finding new ways to play with plants makes me feel like a magician. DIY alchemy at its best.
I used the oil in this salve. It smells and feels like a dream on my skin. I use it on my postpartum tummy after the shower.
Healing Oil Ingredients: 8 oz evoo | 2 tbsp dried lavender | 2 tbsp dried calendula | 5 cardamom pods | 2 tbsp plantain leaf | 1 tbsp castor oil | 15 drops of lavender e/o
Healing Oil Infusion: simmer on low heat for 2 mins. remove from stove and store in a mason jar for 5 days or more (the longer the better). keep in a cool dark place. do not overheat, it will burn the oil and ruin the infusion/healing properties of the herbs. when you're ready to use the oil, strain the desired amount. can be used in salves, body butter, or as is on cuts, scrapes, bruises, dry skin, etc.
Healing Honey Salve Ingredients: 2 oz healing oil infusion | 1tbsp honey | 1 1/2 tbsp coconut oil | 1/2 tbsp beeswax | 1 oz shea butter | 1/2 tbsp candelilla wax
Healing Honey Salve: in a double boiler melt together the ingredients. transfer to an airtight jar. allow to cool until solidified. use liberally.
Vanilla infused oil is my favorite. I am a vanilla bean junkie. Anything vanilla warms my heart! I wish I could bathe in this oil. Yes, it's that serious.
For this oil infusion, all you need is: jojoba oil (4 oz), 5 split + scraped vanilla bean pods, vanilla extract (15 drops), vanilla bean powder (optional), Peru Balsam essential oil (rich vanilla'y scent, thank me later). Mix all ingredients in a mason jar, let sit in a cool dark place for 2 weeks or more. Use liberally from hair to toe. Great as a massage oil, after bath baby oil, or facial oil.
Lavender and rose are by far my favorite things to use in skin care. This blend is easy to make and can be used for a variety of things from newborn umbilical stump cleaning to a facial toner for mama. Lavender Rose Mist is soothing, cooling, refreshing, and gentle for the whole family.
Lavender Rose Mist: .5 oz lavender hydrosol | 1 oz aloe vera gel | 2 tbsp witch hazel | .5 oz rose water
