Freebies: Baby Sling, Carseat Cover, & Nursing Cover.

Hey everyone! I hope you all are having a wonderful week. We also hope that you had a fabulous Christmas!

I received an e-mail yesterday about getting a free baby sling. All I had to do was pay for shipping! I thought it was worth a go, and ordered one. I ordered through sevenslings. I picked the sling called "Cyrus."

You basically just take a measurement from the top of your shoulder to the top of the alternating hip. I didn't actually do this, I just went off of the size chart that they have on their site. If you would like to get one, too, you can use the code "carseat" for 100% off.

When I purchased the sling, I got a code to order a carseat cover & nursing cover, too. I figured, what the hey, at least I can review them, right? Here is where you can get the carseat cover. And here is the one that I picked, called "reagan." Use the code "seven" for 100% off.

If you would like to get all three, here is the link to the nursing covers. They call them "udder covers," but I'm not sure I like being compared to a cow. Anyway, I picked "jordan." Use the same code "seven" for the 100% off.

I ended up paying about 30 dollars in shipping for all three. Do I think it's worth it? Don't know yet, but  I will once I receive them. I just didn't want you guys to miss out, if you've been wanting to purchase something like this anyway.  Hopefully one of you can take advantage of these promo codes!

Since it is New Year's Eve, does anyone have any big plans? I don't think we have anything special in mind, probably just hanging out with the fam. 

Have a great Tuesday! & Happy New Year!

December Birchbox vs. Ipsy Bag

Hey everyone. Yesterday, Kayla revealed what she got in her first IPSY bag. Well, I just received my Birchbox this month, and decided to do a little comparison for you. I also get the IPSY bag, and this will be my second month trying it out. I've been subscribed to Birchbox for over a year, so I feel that I can speak pretty well about their product.

First of all, here's how my Birchbox came this month.

It is called their Sparkle and Shine box. I'm not quite sure what is so sparkly and shiny about it, but there it is. I have tons of these boxes around my house. I use them for drawer organization and for regifting, but most of the time I throw them out.

And here is what I received in my box.

1. Elsor Introductory collection of face products. This has 4 little foil packets inside. A cleanser, an exfoliator, and mask and a lotion. Not much product to really test out, but I will give it a go.

2. A non-aerosol hairspray from High Performance Hair Care. I'm not sure that I will use this, but I have received a leave in conditioner from them before and really loved it. Maybe my husband will like this.

3. A teeny tiny Jouer lipgloss. It's kinda peachy and has some shimmer in it. I will probably throw this in my bag, but will probably lose it since it's so small. I do like it, though.

4. Midnight Monarch Hand Cream. I haven't tried this yet, but it's always nice to have a hand cream.

5. Fatty Sundays Chocolate Covered Pretzels. This has one little pretzel in it to try. I gave it to my husband. This is one of their "lifestyle extras." You get one in every box. Sometimes it's tea, sometimes treats like these, or a chapstick. 

Overall, not super happy with the box. Nothing is full sized, and it will be hard to really test any of the products out.

Now onto what I received in my IPSY bag.

I'm sorry my backround is so busy. I didn't really think about it until I uploaded these pictures. Okay, you can see that I received some different products than Kayla did. I think this is because you fill out a little questionnaire when you sign up. I selected a lot of classic beauty things, and Kayla did more natural. So, I got...

1. Pop Beauty eyeshadow trio in Smokin' Hot. It's basically 2 shades of silver, and a sparkly black. A pretty classic palette, and not colors I have a whole lot of. I actually wore it the day I took these pics, and really liked it.

2. Be a Bombshell The One Stick in Sunset. Kayla got this as well. She said she has tried it on her lips, and I've used it as a cream blush. Both seemed to work out well.

3. Some Salon Perfect fake eyelashes. I love that I got these! I hardly ever EVER wear false lashes, but they're nice to have for special occasions. I never think to buy them, so I'm happy I got them in the bag. Plus these ones are nice and natural.

4. The Big Lip Pencil in Red Rose. I really like this color. I love wearing reds, but not too often. This one is really nice and can be sheered out. 

5. A Mirabella Eye Blender brush. This is an awesome brush! I am so happy I got it. I have 2 other brushes that are quite similar, and this one is a lot softer.

Overall, very happy with my Ipsy Bag. I was very satisfied last month, too. I think I received a full size, mascara, eyeliner, nail polish, bronzer, and eyeshadow. 

It's sort of hard to compare the two. I think you receive more skin care type items in Birchbox, and it seems that they have really high end products. Where Ipsy is pretty much all makeup, with some less expensive brands. Depends what you're looking for. I think Birchbox is great for people who love taking care of their skin and finding new products. I've had several really great eye creams that make the box worth it, in my opinion-- because they're so expensive normally and I've never had to buy one since getting the samples. Ipsy is great for people who like experimenting with makeup. You get new makeup to try out every month, what's not to love about that?!  I also like that they personalize the products to you.

If you're interested in signing up for Ipsy, here is a link to their website. If you're interested in Birchbox, here is that link.

I hope you all have an awesome weekend, and thank you for all the kind wishes on my Pregnancy Announcement! 

December ipsy Glam Bag Reveal!

     First of all, I need to start off by saying how SUPER excited I am for Kenzie and Adam about their exciting news! I can't believe we are both pregnant. First marrying brothers and becoming sisters, and NOW becoming pregnant together, God has truly blessed us. We are so thankful! 

     Okay - so this is a first for me! This is my first ipsy glam bag and my first post about the products I received. For those of you who don't know, ipsy is a fun beauty bag that you sign up for. Each month, subscribers receive a beautiful Glam Bag with deluxe samples and full-sized beauty products. Members can watch and play along with the stylists with the same products that they are using. All for only $10 a month. There are other similar programs, such as the popular birchbox. Although I have never tried birchbox, I have heard that ipsy is a bit better. So far, I am pretty pleased with it. You take a quick survey when you sign up to help match the products they send you with your likes and style. You can find out more information about ipsy HERE!

You'll know your package has arrived when you see this pretty pink package in your mailbox!

This is the cute glam back this month. I love that about this program, that the products you receive are in a fun little portable makeup bag, that you can reuse again and again!

 Here is what I received:

1. Be a Bombshell

An all-in-one multiple stick with a smooth texture. Apply to eyelids, cheeks or lips for the perfect pop of color anywhere! 

--I am excited to try this one out, I received the "sunset" color.

2. Big Lip Pencil

The Big Lip Pencil is a hydrating and vibrant lipstick as well as a sculpting lip liner. 

--I am not much of a lip pencil gal, but the color is pretty - I may try to mix it with a simple chap stick or clear gloss.

3. Eye Shadow Trio

This palette of hues adds definition & intensity to lids, creating a broad range of looks that complements all eye colors.

--I was excited I received the "natural" shades, I tested them on my hand and they seem like pretty good quality.

4. Starrily Nailpolish

 Features a combo of yellow and black glitters in a clear base.

--I might try this one out for Christmas! I am pretty sure I will use a base coat and this polish to coat on top.

5. English Laundry

Charming, Delicate & Elegant. Signature opens with quince, complimented by white chocolate and jasmine petals at the heart. 

--I wasn't a big fan of this scent, and the fact that it came with a men's sample was a bit odd. But I do like the idea of getting perfume samples!

If you're interested in signing up or learning more about ipsy you can click this link HERE!

Let me know if you guys like these kinds of posts or not! Do you receive glam bags from ipsy, too? I'd love to hear what you got and about your experience with ipsy - leave a comment below! :)

We link up to these fun parties HERE!

Another Exciting Announcement!

It is with great joy that I announce that Adam and I are expecting our first baby! We feel so blessed and so humbled. Baby is due at the end of June 2014. We can't wait! I decided to do one of these question and answer thingys since Kayla is doing them. 

Is this your first pregnancy?: Yes.
When did you find out you were pregnant?: Positive pee test on October 28th, and positive blood test the next day.
Was it planned?: Had been trying a while, but had sortof given up at this point.
What was your first reaction?: Disbelief, shock, intense and overwhelming joy.
Who was with you when you found out?: My husband was just a room over.
Who was the first person you told?: Hubs. I had this whole thing planned out for when we finally found out, but I just ended up running down the hall and shoving the test in his face.
How did your parents react?: I made some shirts for our 3 dogs to wear when they greeted my Mom at the door. They said "I'm going to be a big sister!" She thought we put them in halloween costumes. Lol. But she finally got it and was utterly in shock. Adam's parents figured it out a bit quicker, but had just went through Kayla and Daniel announcing their 2nd baby. They were very happy and surprised!
How far along are you?: Just over 12 weeks.
What was your first symptom?: Very tired. In fact, Kayla and I were out and about one Friday and I was so tired I couldn't get out of the car at one point. And Kayla was probably about 10 weeks pregnant!
What is your due date?: Tentative date of June 30th.
Do you know the sex of the baby?: Not yet. Won't know until the end of February.
If so, what is it?: Hopefully healthy.
Have you picked out names?: We have it down to 1 girl and 1 boy.
If so, what are they?: We are going to wait to share once we know the gender. Maybe even wait until after the birth, since things can always change.
How much weight have you gained?: I've lost 3 pounds. But I've been so nauseous, it was expected.
Do you have stretch marks?: Not yet, but I'm sure I will since I'm prone to them.
Do you have any food cravings?: I could drink milk and orange juice all day, everyday.
Have you felt the baby move?: No, but I am so excited to!
Have you heard the heartbeat?: Yes! We just heard it this morning and it was the most beautiful and reassuring sound I've ever heard.

Also, here's a bump picture. People seem to like seeing these, though I find them extremely awkward. So, don't get used to it. Haha. :) I don't have much a bump to sport, and it may just look like I just ate a few too many Christmas cookies. 

I also want to note that Adam and I had been trying for quite some time. Not as long as many people do, but long enough for it to be very emotionally hard for us. Continually seeing negative pregnancy tests was heartbreaking, and I threw many across the bathroom in tears. I remember logging onto facebook and dreading seeing another pregnancy announcement. The last thing I want to be is that person for you. So, for that reason, I will not be posting frequently about our pregnancy. I will, however, be praying for any of you who are trying. I will pray that you will experience the joy of seeing that first positive test. Or that you will experience parenthood, whether by birth, or by adoption. Hang in there and keep trying. If you need to talk to someone, you can message me, or there is a great support network on a forum I found when we first started trying. 

Thank you all for being so kind and supportive already. It is a blessing to have a place like this to share such exciting news. 

Have a great Wednesday :) 

Check out the parties we link to by visiting our Link Party Directory.

Maternity Christmas Outfit Inspirations

Good morning, we hope you enjoyed your weekend. It's the middle of December and Christmas parties are in full swing. On Thursday Kenzie posted a Christmas Outfit Inspiration (you can read that HERE). I decided to try and put a few outfits together, but maternity style! I put together causal, comfy, and dressy outfits. Enjoy...Oh, and all of these pieces can be found by clicking the links below the pictures - (all from Target)

[[ ONE - TWO - THREE - FOUR - FIVE ]]

[[ ONE - TWO - THREE - FOUR - FIVE ]]

[[ ONE - TWO - THREE - FOUR - FIVE ]]

Which outfit is your favorite? Let us know what you think. Have a wonderful week.

We link to these parties, HERE!

18 Weeks: Pregnancy Update

Hope you guys are all doing well, just wanted to give you a quick update on how things are going! I am 18 weeks - things are going great, and we're almost halfway there. Actually, we'll see if I make it the full 40 weeks. Adeline was born 4 and 1/2 weeks early - so the chances of this baby being born early are increased. Anyway, here is the Q & A!

How far along: 18 Weeks!

Gender: Appointment is scheduled for January 13th, 2014 - seems like a ways away!

Weight gain: 2 pounds

Maternity clothes: definitely, a few pairs of jeans - and shirts from my last pregnancy

Stretch marks: I think old ones may be reappearing...boo.

Belly button in or out: In

Sleep: Not bad - besides a serious stuffy nose during the night!

Best moment this week: Hearing the baby's heartbeat - never gets old!

Worst moment this week: Hmm...honestly, I can't think of anything worth mentioning.

Miss anything: pretty content!

Movement: A few flutters here and there - can't wait to feel those kicks!

Cravings: Love me some cereal (cinnamon toast crunch, lately) AND chocolate, of course.

Queasy or sick: Nope, pretty boring - but so thankful.

Wedding rings on or off? On.

Happy or moody most of the time: happy, but still super emotional - like crying for reasons even I don't know. Lol.

Looking forward to: Christmas and family time, of course!

Click here for other pregnancy updates!

Have a great week everyone! If you like this post and other pregnancy/maternity posts be sure to check back on Tuesday for a post I am doing on Christmas Maternity Outfit Inspirations!

Check out all the parties we link up to HERE!

FREE Christmas Chalkboard Printables

Good morning guys, and happy Friday! I hope you have some fun plans for the weekend or have some time to just relax. I'm not sure what we'll be doing this weekend, but it is always nice to have Daniel home with Addie and I, so whatever we do, it will be good! :) 

This week I created some fun Christmas chalkboard printables for you all. This first one is actually in the size of a poster (24x36). And drum roll please...... wanna know an awesome and CHEAP trick? If you go to the 

Staples Copy and Print Website you can print off your FREE printable for only around $3.00! The above link will take you to the staples copy and print website - and the engineering prints section. 

How To Print 24x36 size printable for less than $4.00!!

-Download your FREE printable HERE

-Click the link above to the "Staples Print Website"

-Once there, click the 24x36'' option and click "design now"

-Click "begin" under Engineering Prints

-Add your file (MerryLittleChristmas)

-On the left-hand side change the media to the correct 24x36

-Just below that, change the orientation to Portrait

-Click Add to Cart!---That's it! :) [if you have any questions, please ask!]

Click HERE to download!

You can, of course, change the size if you would like as well, once you download the file.

Here is the next printable-this picture is the size of an 8x10

Click HERE to download!

All the templates are the property of Orchard Girls, and are for personal use only, THEY ARE NOT TO BE USED TO SELL, BUT please feel free to download, print them and share the link to these printables with your friends or pin them on pinterest! Thanks so much! :)

I hope you are all enjoying the CHRISTmas season. Have a wonderful weekend.

This is Addie has been enjoying the season...

To see a list of the parties we link to, please click HERE!

Christmas Outfit Inspiration

Hey everyone! I don't know about you, but I usually plan my outfits for Christmas events. Whether it is the day itself, or company Christmas party... I hope you find some inspiration from the 3 outfits I came up with. And as a plus, you can find all of the items at Target. 

1. A Casual Christmas (most likely what I'd wear to a casual event)

Here are the links: blouse, sweater, jeans, boots, bracelet 1, bracelet 2.

2. Comfy yet Festive Christmas (a little fancier, but still comfortable to wear)

Links: Necklace, sweater dress, sparkly tights, clutch, cutout boots.

3. Professional Christmas. (If you have a work party, or something a little nicer but not TOO fancy!)

Links: Necklace, gold dot blouse, lace cutout skirt, sequin clutch, strappy heels, red peacoat.

I hope these idea helped someone! I don't think I have anything festive going on this season, except for Christmas day- so I'm probably going to be in something comfy. Maybe snow boots if we end up with a White Christmas like last year! :)

Have a great Thursday!

Check out the parties we link to.

WWEW: Homemade Alfredo Sauce

Here is an Alfredo Sauce recipe that is from my mother-in-law and her close friend. This recipe is so delicious. It is a great alternative to store-bought sauce. Most of the ingredients are things you may already have on hand. It is called ZELDA'S FETTUCCINE!

Here are the ingredients:

1/2 cup butter 

1 T. flour

1/4 c. white wine

1 T. fresh lemon juice

2 cloves pressed garlic

2 c. nonfat or light sour cream

1/2 tsp basil

1/2 tsp oregano

salt & pepper to taste

3/4 c. Parmesan cheese

3/4  lb. fresh fettuccine

Melt butter; add flour, wine, lemon juice, garlic, sour cream, oregano, basil, salt and pepper and Parmesan cheese. Simmer 20 minutes. Combine with fettuccine and toss. Serve immediately. Serves 6.

Let us know if you give this recipe a try! You won't be sorry - its amazing! Enjoy :)

We link up at THESE parties!

Fun Holiday DIY Videos

Hey everyone! How is your week going? Mine is going pretty well. We've been just trying to stay warm around here, and thankfully it's supposed to warm up a bit pretty soon.

I just have a quick post today. I thought I'd share some videos that I've really been enjoying this month. And they're from MissGlamorazzi on YouTube. She's been doing a DIY video almost everyday. They're great quality, and she has some really awesome ideas. I encourage you to watch a couple. I especially want to try the Chocolate Hazelnut Puppy Chow that she made up to be really cute gifts.

Anyway, that's all I've got for you. My fingers are freezing as we speak, and I need to get into my room where the space heater is. :)

And oh, I don't know if you guys like doing online personality tests, but I do. Here's a really cool one from ipersonic. Personality studies really interest me, and I love doing little tests like these and then reading other people's results! I got the Good-Natured Realist, and Kayla got the Harmony-Seeking Idealist. Share what you got in the comments below!

I hope you all are doing well!

Free Printable: Cleaning Schedule

Happy Friday, everyone! Today is my cleaning day, and let me tell you, I am tired of doing marathon cleanings on my Fridays! This is usually the day I have off consistently, so I decided I would just clean on these days. Well, sometimes I'm too tired to clean the whole house. Like today. 

I used to use a cleaning schedule, and it seemed to work out well. It was for a different house, so some of the things have changed. I decided to make another cleaning schedule for this house, and I'm going to start it next week. Let's hope I stick to it!

I decided to make this a free printable for you guys, too. So feel free to download and print!

Click here to download

Thursdays and Fridays are usually days I have more time at home, so I have most of my time consuming chores on those days. Also, I hate cleaning on the weekends, so I always try to get everything done before then.

Anyway, I better get to it. We decorated for Christmas and I have exploding boxes to clean up and put away. Maybe next week I will share what we did :)

Have a great weekend!

Inexpensive Christmas Gifts: For the Whole Family!

Joining in on Kenzie's post series of "Inexpensive Christmas Gifts" Enjoy!! :)

these Burt Bees Party Lips / Lip Balm Set are great for the holidays (and all year round) It comes in a 2 pack and is 14.99 (which actually seems kinda pricey) BUT when you purchase them you get a $5 Target Gift Card! Sweet :)

DIY "DAD" picture art - this is a fun and very inexpensive gift for "Dad" see the details on how to make this project HERE

Girl - Set of Smooth Sphere Lip Balm Only $9.99 fun and cute gift for teen girls

Boy - HDMX GO Wireless Portable Speaker Great tech gadget that works with ipod, ipad, iphone, android, and MORE! for only $9.99

Girl - DIY Cupcake Gift Set Bag - I think this is such a cute and fun idea for a young girl add all the fun ingredients for cupcakes! Then get a bag and decorate how she would like it!

Boy - The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook (GROSS) Junior Edition This looks like a fun/funny gift for the boys to enjoy and for less than $10.00 (fun stocking stuffer idea, too)

Gender Neutral:

Busy tray - under $10 fun way to keep the little one busy!

First Blocks - Baby can sort and stack blocks and match shapes for only $9.99

Hopefully these give you a few ideas for family Christmas gifts! How is your Christmas shopping going? Are you already done, or not even close?

Check out our Link Party Directory to see where we party!