Motherhood: Nursing & The Vintage Honey Shop

I'm on my second round of nursing. I don't know if it's been the break between Kai and Titus that has thrown me off, but nursing this time around has had far more challenges than even I expected. Not to mention I did deal with several post-partum struggles that set me back (I.e. Intense anxiety, mild depression, and regularly feeling overwhelmed)...

However! An unexpected blessing came through a shop that I've admired, followed (via Instagram), and loved since I stumbled upon them a few years ago. The Vintage Honey Shop specializes in teething and nursing necklaces for the everyday mama AND awesome ones just for dads too! I know they truly are the bees knees (humor me, you'll feel the same way promise). 

A few months ago I was accepted as a brand rep for the VHS, which was pretty fantastic as I've had the privilege of watching this small business bloom by the hands of two phenomenal women. From receiving my first necklace to purchasing more, this journey has made my time nursing Titus much more intimate and precious than I could have imagined. 

 

Here are my top reasons why I love VHS nursing necklaces: 

1. They're durable | though made of fabric, they've kept up with Titus' tight gribs, yanks, and constant gnawing.
2. They're easy to clean! | simply soak your necklace is warm soapy water and air dry...that's easier than my regular daily loads of laundry.
3. They're beautiful | I'd even slip in versatile. I've received so many compliments from others whether I'm in the store or just walking along the street. The patterns are gorgeous and match practically anything. Did I mention they have solid colors too!!
4. They're handmade | If you've been apart of my blog for some time you know I love small shops and always will. 

 

In the moments where nursing is the last thing I've wanted to do, I'll be honest and say wearing my necklace calmed me and reminded me of the gift I have to share with Titus right now. It's not a miracle necklace...but it is one that reminds you to stop, pay attention, and don't miss this moment. Cause before I know it Titus will be running faster than I can catch him and we'll be into the next season of this beautiful life. 

Mama Style: Glasses.com!

Among the many things that are ever changing throughout pregnancy, I think the most surprises I have are during post-partum. I mean I know what to expect as pretty much every inch of my body is rearranged and overtaken by my temporary resident until the day of their arrival, but afterwards I feel like I have no idea who's body I am in. From hair loss to changes in eyesight - post-partum definitely is an adjustment I have to take in stride! This time around I had some help as I was just in need of a new pair of glasses!

I am rather old fashion and have always chosen glasses from my local optometrist, however, I was recently contacted by GlassesShop.com to give their online ordering process a try! So after my routine exam post baby (because of course my eyesight changed) I decided to give it a spin. So what do you think? It's so great to find prescription glasses that don't seem so frumpy and plain. From the TONS of styles I found this floral wayfarer pair was definitely a new look and just enough pattern to go with anything I wear. I secretly love floral patterned anything - I just never know how to make it work without looking like a secret garden.

What's even better about GlassesShop.com is that they not only have prescription glasses you can purchase, but also sunglasses as well. I of course will need a new pair of those to go with these and can't wait to order something for Mike too! He was a bit jealous that I didn't get him anything the first go around, so I will be interested to see which pair he chooses (he is very GQ in style).

I initially was concerned about cost since we've rearranged our budget once again and it definitely doesn't include a lot of name brand items if you know what I mean. But to my surprise all of the glasses are incredibly affordable - and I'm seriously not just saying that! To even sweeten things up, they are currently running a HUGE promotion: First Pair of Glasses Free! This means that all new customers can have a pair of free glasses and only need to cover shipping and handling! Yes that includes optical and sunglasses, so you've got no excuse not to find a great pair of cheap glasses for yourself as well! 

You can also use the code GSHOT50 to receive 50% off on eyeglasses and sunglasses with free lenses (sale frames excluded)! 

So go check out their selection and come back with what you found! I would love to know which pair you chose!

 

Shop Talk Feature: The Vintage Byrd

As the seasons finally change I am extremely grateful that new and wonderful small businesses are budding as well (see what I did there)! A dear Instagram friend has recently opened her shop: The Vintage Byrd filled with gorgeous one of a kind clutches and bags. I'm already a sucker for a great pouch or bag that I can compartmentalize all of the toys, snacks, and other items I carry regularly - so I could not help but share this shop with you all. From the maker to the product, read all about the beginnings of this shop as well as the awesome discount on the several new items just put up! I hope you enjoy and support this wonderful maker and watch this shop take flight.

Q: Who is the maker behind The Vintage Byrd?  

A: I have been sewing and quilting for about 10ish years now. I started out teaching myself how to do most everything. When I've come across new friends who are talented and willing to teach me their ways, I soak up their teachings like a sponge. My dream has always been to open a shop of some sort and sell some of the creations that I make. Over the past few months my husband and I have gone through a devastating loss and to keep myself busy i just started sewing again-and didn't stop. I have found it's where I talk to the Lord and have found peace through this whole ordeal. I started sending pictures to my mom and sister in laws and their responses were an overwhelming unanimous 'start selling your stuff!!!' So here I am...with my passion of creating.

Q: What is your creative catalyst?

A: I like to be different. So I try to make up my own patterns and designs to make the fabric that I use more unique and fun. That's really all there is. I don't use patterns-they trip me up. So everything I make is in my head and just comes out in the form of what I'm making. I'm always dreaming up new bags or ideas of things to sew and sell, so check in with me frequently to see what's new! I'm always open to suggestions and custom orders because they open up new creative avenues to explore.

Q: What has been your biggest seller?

A: So far my best seller has been the Lil' Bre. My sister in law really wanted a clutch, but wanted a smaller version of the one I was carrying (the sideways Azzey). So I whipped one up and she's loving it!

Q: What is your advice for small business owners? (Top Three) 

A: My advice to other small business newbies: {to quote Nike} JUST DO IT. Get your support system and go. Even if it fails, you need to try.T here's no sense in living the 'what if' life---that's just a waste of the beautiful brain the Lord has blessed you with.

You can find The Vintage Byrd on etsy as well as Instagram! For you, the shop has given each reader a discount! Use code GRANDOPENING10 to receive 10% off of your order until April 17!

Mama Bird Style: Eshakti

A little over a year ago I had written this post over at Love, Joleen about style after baby. I have always had curves and as I've gotten older I've learned to embrace them especially after my body did a significant 180 on me with the birth of our son. As much as I wanted and still do at times desire to fit into smaller sizes, I've put my focus on what flatters my shape most and I feel comfortable in! I recently was contacted by Eshakti to be a partner in their Real Fashion for Real People Campaign (follow them on Instagram to see more) - after seeing their vision I had to jump on board! Eshakti is the only online women's fashion apparel company offering sizes 0-36W AND custom clothing. Not only do they have flattering items for all shapes and sizes, you can customize your item from the hem length, sleeve style, and even pockets - yes I said pockets (which is a must have in my world!). 

When looking through the array of options, I had narrowed it down to three dresses - but had such a hard time deciding. I knew I wanted something versatile and definitely comfortable...something I could wipe any stain off and still keep the day going. This dress was a perfect fit - literally! The seams, the fit, and the sleek style are exactly what I need to still be able to chase after Kai and stand next to my husband at the church business meeting (which I did last Sunday!). Yes, I know that black is simple, but I am an old soul and have always loved a great classic piece in my closet. 

So just to keep it fun, I created three simple style options that I know anyone can use and reuse without having to purchase anything additional! So pull out your cardigans, blazers, or even jean jackets to add a twist to your item from this phenomenal company! I love simple details like earrings and even shoes to give each look a completely different feel. The dress came with a sash that I made sure to incorporate whether not wearing it or having it wrapped around to create a ruching effect. I hope you're inspired friends!!

Sincere beauty exudes from the place where you truly see your worth.

I am in love with the Real Fashion for Real People Campaign, because it was a much needed opportunity for me to reconnect with the person I desire to feel and see on a daily basis. Behind the uncombed hair or sticky clothes that I can't figure out how they got dirty, this is who I feel I am and what I love about myself. I hope that you are just as pleased with your shopping experience with Eshakti as I was. From their options to their speedy delivery, please tag them on Instagram and myself as well!

From now until November 7th Eshakti is giving A Blue Swallow readers 10% off their purchase! 

Use the code: theblueswallow

This code can be used MULTIPLE TIMES!! So shop away friends! 

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This product was provided by Eshakti.com, however, the opinions and photos are solely mine. Thank you so much again to Uplifted Photography for the photos!!