Chronicle 41: Decisions, Decisions

My hair is still falling out. I am doing all the right things: washing my hair every couple of days, using my special shampoo for women with thinning hair, pumping up the volume with thickening hairspray and mousse and getting light headed by blow drying my hair upside down. I'm even taking prenatal vitamins, still. Yet, my hair... it's not the same. It's growing back - there are uncontrollable, stubborn wisps adorning my forehead. The new hair is growing in straight and the bottom? Still curly and wavy and THIN.

I want my hair back. Weight loss and/or gain, humongous boobs, changes in skin, etc. can pretty much be controlled. But hair? Well, that's up to the hormones. I am afraid, no, make that petrified, that it will never come back. My son's pediatrician told me that it may keep falling out as long as I continue to breastfeed. So for now? Trying not to cry over spilt milk.

http://auntbubbiesfakefood.com/SpillsMelts.html

There is so much going on in my life that I have absolutely no control over, and it's proving hard to deal with. My husband is gone five days a week, and by the end of it will have been away from us for 6 months. Several people close to me are ill.  Sick in a way that may or not be cured. In a way where the only thing to say is, "We're praying. As hard as we can." Life seems cruel and bleak, and very unforgiving at the moment.

That just means that it is the time to put my energy into things that make me happy; things I can work on and better and be thankful for when I start feeling sorry for myself. Which brings me to the title of my post. "Decisions?" you ask (twice). "Can I help?!" OF COURSE!

When I first started having post partum hair loss, I had my stylist cut several inches off. That adorable cut has grown to my shoulders and is no longer... adorable. Because my hair is thin and is providing me with a few different textures, I am not going to grow it out just yet. Here are some of the haircuts I've been checking out:

http://www.hairstyle-blog.com/bobbed-hairstyles.html

1. Scarlett

I like the length of this cut, as well as the layers and the side part. Going too short would be disastrous on my round/square shaped face, so keeping it chin length or a tad longer is best! 

http://www.hotbeautyhealth.com/hairstyles/short-curly-hairstyles-get-celebrity-hair/

2. Charlize

The length of this cut is very similar to Scarlett's. The difference lies in the hint of a side swept bang...which would be a leap for me, because I've avoided bangs for awhile. Will bangs only emphasize my hair loss? I'm not sure. This cut also seems to have fewer layers, and is much softer than the first option.

http://www.bestcelebrityhairstyles.com/reese-witherspoon-hairstyles/reese-witherspoon-short-hair/

3. Reese

Love the long side swept bang, the short cut that's just shy of a bob if it weren't all choppy and sassy! This option compliments her fine hair and adds some volume by shorter layers at the top and middle, and leaving the bottom part one length, with blunt edges. This is a strong contender!

http://wedding-dresse-s.blogspot.com/2011/11/trendy-and-flattering-short-hairstyles.html

4. Brittany

I love this because it's fun and sexy. One piece in the front is a bit longer, which adds visual interest without being too quirky or odd. The side swept bangs and short, face framing layers do not add bulk to her face shape (a common problem with short cuts on round/square face shapes) . What do you think?

Last but not least... here's ME! That way you can kind of visualize what each may look like before helping me decide! My appointment is set for next week, so cast your votes as soon as possible!

Xoxo,

The Hot Mama

Chronicle 40: Say What?! Wednesday: Communicating with your Spouse

Well, here we are, more than halfway through the Say What?! Series and I am a little sad. Not like "Leave Britney ALONE!" sad... more along the lines of "There are two more Oreos left in the package and I'm about to finish them off" sad. Wistful-like. Because there is only one more post left in the series, I've been brainstorming and narrowing down topics. I want to hit the most important issues, what I think might be most helpful to YOU.

Oh, Mr. Gable!

Something that comes up time and again in any relationship with a significant other is communication (mostly lack thereof, if we're honest with ourselves). Never is this skill more important than when you're trying to nurture a little ankle biter of your own. 

Is is notoriously difficult for men and women to truly hear and understand what the other is saying. Women are talkers and sharers by nature and men are visual creatures who just want us to get to the point so they can offer a brilliant solution. 

http://www.zazzle.com/mr_fix_it_tshirt-235124752233411226 

I can't even begin to count the number of times I sat down and talked to my husband about my horrible day and spilled my guts only to encounter a glazed look or the "I'm pretending not to read what's on my computer, but I'm really rocking the hell out of my peripherals" stare. One of those moments where I truly considered extreme couch bouncing a la Tom Cruise craziness... 

There are books. And articles. And Doctors and therapists and couples counseling and churches, and and and. What it really comes down to is your willingness to LISTEN. By stepping back, turning off defensiveness and keeping an open ear. This is a constantly evolving skill... trust.

Here's what I know/try to keep in mind:

1. Talking scares a lot of men. They're afraid you want them to get emotional and share their feelings... and stuff. Plus, they are petrified you will yell or cry. This triggers a shut down in most men. (Trying desperately not to generalize, here!)

Instead: "Hey, hotness (bunny, lovebug, big strong man, etc.), I wanted to get your opinion on something. Can we set aside 10-15 minutes later? I'll bring the wine! 

Clink!

Why? 

-A limited amount of time is concrete. It means that there is a way out. It means that you go into teamwork mode and find a solution without a prolonged, emotional conversation. 

-Also, talking about ONE issue at a time may be frustrating, but it is a scientific fact that men cannot multitask. It's brain science. 

-Don't cause confusion by bringing up five different things at once, as tempting as it may be. If it helps, write down everything beforehand, just to simply get it out so it doesn't make an appearance during your "non-chat."

-Don't get drunk, or even tipsy. The wine is to help you loosen up, not lash out! 

2. Start SMALL. 

Why?

-Don't try to tackle a heavy, complex issue on your first try. Gradually increase the time limit as you and your spouse become more comfortable discussing more emotional issues.

-Starter topics: Projects around the house, weekend plans, a trip, your next big purchase, planning a date.

-Eventually you will dive into the sensitive topics: money, sex, family, raising your children, your feelings about _____ event/situation, etc. 

3. Be ready to swallow some pride. You may have an idea of how you want the conversation to go, but the goal is to really listen to your spouse. Remember that you cannot control their thoughts, words, or actions. Give them time to think and talk, without interruptions. Check out their body language.

Body language

Why?

-Interrupting or giving an emotional monologue says "I don't care what you think. What I have to say is much more important" (whether that is true or not). Your love should shine through, not your impatience. 

-Support is key. Creating a safe environment will encourage your spouse to talk and share. 

-You may hear something that you don't like or conflicts with your wants. Take a minute to mull it over  before you respond. A lot of times our initial reactions may be overreactions, which hinder any progress you've made!

4. When all else fails, agree to disagree, and re-visit later. 

Why?

-When either one, or both, of you gets too worked up, the conversation is over and stops being productive. Being upset does not lend to rational thinking.

-Take a day (or several) to cool down. Jot down thoughts as they come to you and bring them to your next conversation if it will help keep you focused. 

-Do not say something you will later regret. This will make it really difficult to revisit the conversation with a wary spouse.  

5. Last, but not least: Timing is everything.

Why?

-Read your partner's cues. Did they have a rough day at work, or at home with the kids? Not the best time to approach them with a sensitive issue. Glass of wine, maybe, but super chat? No.

-A person who is on-edge will not be prepared to listen objectively.

-Your convo should take place in a quiet, distraction free setting. Chaos begets chaos!

Take it to the houuuuse!

Xoxo,

The Hot Mama

Chronicle 37: A Mellow Way to Start Your Day

I fell in love with this band when I saw them open for Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeroes a few years ago. At first they reminded me of a much more chill version of the Eagles (which may or may not excite you), but now I think they have a sound of their own. Just a bunch of dudes bangin' out mellow music. Groovy.

Xoxo,
The Hot Mama

Chronicle 34: Say What?! Wednesday: Breastfeeding

For my first edition of Say What?! Wednesday, I want to put forth my version of a DISCLAIMER. This is not a warning label, or Interwebz caution tape. It is merely a "before you read/keep in mind while you read" type...thing. So. Disclaimer: I do not endorse/prefer/judge those who do or do not use said method. I am writing solely from my own personal experience. So please, no snide comments or debates necessary, mamas. Thank you for reading the disclaimer. Please, read on!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/welfarestateofmind/4459735887/

When I found out I was pregnant (or, as I fondly referred to it, "knocked up"), I did a lot of research. I spent countless hours hunched over my ancient Apple laptop and poring through a worn copy of What to Expect When You're Expecting, charting every second of my pregnancy and what to do once the baby was actually born.

It wasn't until I was weeks away from delivering that I received a shock. Nursing, as it turns out, is NOT an easy thing to do. In fact, once I stumbled onto this tidbit, it became a train wreck topic (you know, can't look away...). First time moms were terrified, experienced ones assured us that it was hard, but it could be done. With lots of help. The La Leche League website became one of my most visited sites, until I finally added it to my bookmark bar.

http://www.lllofaz.org/yuma.htm

Why was I so utterly shocked? Udderly? Ha. Because! I literally thought that you just popped the baby on. And they drank. And then they were full and you patted their little backs until they let out an adorable "urp!" Maybe you got to breathe in their little milky breaths while you were at it. And my nipples? What about 'um? I did not give them a second thought. Even though I became terrified that I would fail at such a "natural process of mothering", I was so glad that I was prepared. Glad that I took the time to really find out what it was all about. That is why I want to help prepare YOU, so that when faced with this decision, no matter what it is, I can somehow make it easier for you.

There is a lot of information in this post, so bookmark and "read as you need" or take it in a few times so you are not overwhelmed.

After Delivery:
1. The hospital where I delivered G made it a priority for mothers to nurse their newborns as soon as possible after birth. Not only does this start the bonding process, but it gives you a snapshot of what nursing will be about for the first few months.

2. My son had a hard time latching, so my room nurse had the lactation consultant visit our room. She helped by correctly positioning my son in my arms & also provided a nipple shield. This helps the baby latch on and stay on. It also protects the nipple a bit more.

3. It hurts. I'm not going to sugarcoat it, because if you're prepared for a bit of pain, then it is easier to deal with. You may experience chapped, raw, bleeding or cracked nipples. It's not pretty, but it is for a relatively short period of time. Then they toughen up and you can't feel a thing. It's a bit odd.

4. I made sure to make another appt with the lactation consultant before we left hospital. There is so much to deal with at the hospital, and all the information comes fast and furious. It is ALWAYS a good idea to get the information again. Make sure to leave with a pamphlet that details local nursing groups and hotline numbers for urgent questions.

http://www.ivillage.ca/pregnancy/breastfeeding-immediately-after-your-babys-birth

At home:
1. I drank ALOT of water from the huge bottle given to me at hospital. I relaxed on the couch and my man refilled it (what a sweetie!). This jug holds up to 30 ounces, which I downed every few hours. It helps with milk production, and keeps you from becoming dehydrated.

2. I became constantly hungry, which was not a problem as nursing can burn an 500 extra calories a day. I just tried to snack on healthier options like crackers & cheese, fruit, veggies & dip, etc. Some days I had chips and candy. Balance is key.

3. There are several different ways to hold your baby as you nurse. I liked and stuck with the traditional cradle hold, which is probably what you think of first. It was easiest for me to prop little man on the Boppy pillow (a U-Shaped pillow that fits around your waist and supports your arm while nursing). Different holds include the cradle, crossover, reclining, and football, to name a few. This article outlines them all, and provides helpful tips.

4. When your milk comes in, you may become engorged which is extremely uncomfortable. Your breast tissue will swell and become inflamed and your supply will not be regulated. The baby can't drink enough at one time to relieve you, so you may need to pump. Word of caution: only pump until your breasts are soft again. Any more and you will encourage the production of even more milk! Don't let the milk go to waste, bag and freeze it for when you introduce the bottle.

5. Burping, spit up, and gassiness...oh, my! For the first three months feeding, sleeping, and pooping are going to be top priority in your life. Anything that disturbs those will be the bane of your existence. Enter burping that elicits spit up, and a hold that allows air to get into your baby's tummy which brings on gassiness. There are a few things you can do to help your baby get through these disruptions, but they are inevitable. There are Mylicon drops, which basically binds gas bubbles, making them easier to exit the body (either way). These can be found at drugstores and are harmless enough that you can give them multiple times a day. I always gave a bit before and a bit after feeding. This seemed to help the most.

http://www.newbornbabyzone.com/baby-care/how-to-burp-your-baby/

5. NIPPLES. Again, with the nipples! Lanolin is your new best friend. Use it after you nurse. Yep, every time. If you can find them, get petal gel pads. They are cool and soothe aches and pains. Also, putting a few drops of breast milk on them and letting them air dry after nursing works wonders. Get used to always having your boobs out. Once you're on a schedule, it gets better. I promise!

6. You will leak. Invest in some washable nursing pads to wear in your bra when you go out in public. There is nothing more embarrassing than leaking through your shirt. I would also recommend having a change of clothes with you at all times. Between leaking and baby spit up/poop/etc, you never know when you might need an extra shirt!

Schedule/After 3-4 months:
1. When you're out and about, be sure to wear an accessible shirt or dress. There's nothing worse than realizing you have to get completely undressed to nurse. I purchased a few nursing bras, but after awhile I realized wireless bras can just be pulled up, AND they cost LESS!

2. Breast feeding in public is tricky. I do not like to do it, although I did get a nursing shawl. I tried it once and it was just too much for me. People were staring, I was trying not to show the goods, and my son just wriggled around and pulled everything out of place. I usually try to find a restroom with a chair or countertop to sit on. Some places actually have nursing rooms, which is a huge bonus!

3. Take a lunch box with ice pack for a bottle of pre-mixed formula or breast milk during longer car rides or outings. If there is not a place to nurse or you are unable, it helps to have a pre-made bottle.

4. I DO supplement with formula for the above reason. Also, if someone is watching my son and they run out of frozen breast milk, it is nice if your child can accept formula from a bottle as well. That has worked well for our family.

http://www.greenkiddie.co.uk/Bottlefeeding.php

When older:
1. Teething prompts the return of sore/bleeding nipples. Reacquaint yourself with Lanolin cream, gel pads, bottles, and soft bras. Nurse from the "healthier" nipple until the other has healed a bit.

2. When your little one starts solids you will be nursing less. Your supply may decrease or even dwindle, or your kiddo may not be interested in nursing anymore. This decrease in supply may herald the return of your period, so be prepared! I wasn't and my husband had to make a midnight run while on vacation.

3. If you missed those lovely little adult beverages, now is the time to fit them back in your life. Make sure you pump or have formula available. One drink is metabolized in one hour, which means it is not stored in your breast milk. Better safe than sorry, mamas. Go with your gut on this one. And be prepared to be tipsy after less than one drink!

http://www.breastfeedingbasics.com/articles/teething-and-biting

After much research and consideration, I decided that nursing was best for me and my family, but that does not mean it was at all easy. It was a huge sacrifice, one that I decided to make because of the positive effects for my baby and myself. Would I do it again? Absolutely!


Xoxo,
The Hot Mama

Chronicle 33: Have You Heard this Bird?

I go through spurts where I hear a new band or singer that I like and just scoop up a batch of c.d.s on Amazon. I put her in my cart on a whim, because I was not impressed by her SNL performance. Glad I took a chance - Miss Lana Del Ray is unlike anything I've heard in awhile!

What do you think of her unique style?

Xoxo,
The Hot Mama

Chronicle 32: Cheers to the Freakin' Weekend!

Just some pictures & thoughts for the weekend. Have a wonderful couple of days, and I will see you Monday!

*Loving this simple and classic sheath for summer cocktail parties

http://pinterest.com/pin/100557004150138446/ 

*How gorgeous is Emma Stone?! I am leaning towards this haircut for my summer style. What do you think?

http://pinterest.com/pin/100557004150165756/

*Hilarious! I guess this goes along with all those workouts I've been pinning...

http://pinterest.com/pin/100557004149839004/

*One of the most important things we can teach our children and ourselves.

http://pinterest.com/pin/100557004150150328/

*A bit of humor that hits close to home these days! 

http://pinterest.com/pin/100557004150114756/

*Something yummy to try this weekend! Maybe with a Mike's Hard Lemonade?

http://pinterest.com/pin/100557004149973400/

Xoxo,

The Hot Mama

Chronicle 30: Say What?! Wednesdays

Ladies & gents, I have an announcement! I'm psyched to share with you the beginning of a new series on The Hot Mama Chronicles called Say What?! Wednesdays. Due to an enormous response (comments, e-mails, etc.) to my last post on New Mama Insider Info, I have developed a series of topics to discuss in-depth for new mamas, mamas to be AND future mamas to be. Something for everyone!

I will cover all the important stuff, like post-baby body, breast-feeding, your relationship with your partner, getting back into the swing of things, and much, much more! Look for the first installment next Wednesday, May 16th! I am so excited to hear feedback from you all!

Xoxo,

The Hot Mama

Chronicle 21: Truths & Discoveries

Do you ever have a sudden moment of clarity? As in, you've heard the same cliches over and over again, but it just doesn't ring true until it is relevant in your own life? Parenting is JUST like that. I feel as if I have a revelation every single day. Sometimes it is just an affirmation of a revelation I had the day before. Anyhow, I have compiled an even numbered list of these new truths and discoveries. Six, in fact. See? Even number. That's my OCD shining through. So lovely.

Six Truths & Discoveries of Parenthood:

1. Fear vs. Faith
My last post contended with a pretty heavy realization: I can either live each day in complete, paralyzing fear that something may happen to any of my loved ones, or I can have faith that every thing will work out the way it's supposed to. It sounds simple enough, but when I look at my son and try to grasp how much I love him, I pretty much fall to paranoid pieces. I've realized that it is time to let go of what I cannot control. Spending every waking moment worried that I'm going to get a horrible phone call will not stop it. I would rather spend that time enjoying my family and working on my happiness, instead! To read a more in-depth analysis, check out Chronicle 20: Fear vs. Faith.

2. You will cry...ALOT
I was a fairly sensitive person before I had my son. I might have cried at the end of E.T., or listening to my brother play a beautiful piece on his violin. Now I am an emotional mess. I have now cried at the following: a Geico commercial, a particularly moving episode of Sabrina the Teenage Witch, the thought of grocery shopping, finding an actual bra that fits (not a sports bra), Word with Friends, and every single stage of my son's development. I teared up just now writing about crying. I try to avoid certain movies, TV shows, and books because I know they will trigger a cry fest. I see every thing from a mother's perspective, and perhaps the hormones are still raging. It's just become a fact of life.

3. Everything has changed. Especially you.
Your friends are still going out and you're staying in with a teething baby. You may lose some of these friends. You WILL gain others. You would rather sleep next to your spouse than with them. You stop doing your own laundry and concentrate on the baby's. Your parents and in-laws call and visit much more often. MUCH more. People come to visit the baby, not you. You find yourself excited that the baby finally pooped, that your nipples are not as sore, that you can finally wear something other than pajamas and sweatpants. You settle for a good ponytail, rather than those "messy" beach waves. You are different. You are stronger. You are experiencing love that will never fade.

4. Being a parent is like being in a club.
No, not as in The Viper Room. Like, the "You understand the bags under my eyes and the throw up on my t-shirt" club. You talk to random mamas at the park, in the grocery store. You have a new appreciation for the frazzled-looking mom shuffling her kids into a McDonald's because she's too tired to cook. You congratulate a new mom for merely getting out of the house (did that today at Victoria's Secret. Although I wonder what she was doing THERE. I'm just now wanting to step foot in that place...SEVEN months later.) You nod in agreement when another mama describes exactly how you've been feeling or going through with your babe. You can talk about bottle brands for hours and whether you like Babies R Us or Buy Buy Baby better (I prefer the latter). Stuff that may seem mundane to anyone else is fodder for mamas. Welcome to the club!

5. The little things become more important than the big things (for now).
Say whaaat? Let me put it this way. Big thing: lunch and shopping with friends. Little thing: Baby's nap. What wins? NAP ALL THE WAY, FOLKS. Because a cranky baby is a cranky mom is a cranky dad. We are even cutting Easter short this year because all of the activities fall around Baby G's nap time. The good news is that this is a sacrifice that will only last a few years. At this point, I need these naps as much as he does!

6. Your child IS amazing. 

I am the mama who is obsessed with her baby. Every single thing he does seems like a tiny miracle. He moves a toy from here to there? INCREDIBLE. He blinks? BRAVO! I used to be annoyed by parents that bragged about their child's seemingly mundane accomplishments, but now I GET IT. However, I'm not about to slap an Honor Student bumper sticker on my SUV. I'm content capturing these moments on video and film to share with people who show interest. Or, I will watch them myself!

What discoveries have you made since becoming a parent? What are some cliches that are now tried and true in your life? Looking forward to hearing from you!

Xoxo,

The Hot Mama

Chronicle 19: Spring (Fashion) has Sprung!

Even though my little part of the world seems to have skipped straight from winter to summer, I need some sort of transition. Trading chunky sweaters, jeans, and boots for shorts, little sundresses, and light cardigans just seems a little hasty...premature, even! I am ready, however, to dive right into the pool of this year's spring trends. Think cool, fresh mint, feminine floral prints, precocious polka dots, and pastels galore. Excuse the alliteration. I can't seem to help myself. (Side note: becoming a mom means that my nerd levels have literally skyrocketed. Best part? I don't care! Win, win.) Behold... a lovely graphic to demonstrate some of the prettiest examples of what you'll see out and about this season:

http://pinterest.com/pin/100557004149932519/

Please note that, although I have seen a lot of the 90s on the runway lately, the floral seen below is not channeling Beverly Hills, 90210 or My So Called Life. The prints are small to midsize, and mostly paired with a lighter color. Olivia Palermo has a way of making anything look chic, but she looks gorgeous in this floral dress by Zara with peachy lips and cheeks. Love it! 

I found this adorable alternative at Target, a flowy navy blue floral designed by Jason Wu. It's a perfect Winter-to-Spring transition, and I love the pop of gold. Navy is considered a neutral, so you can go crazy with colorful accessories! 

Also, I am currently obsessed with mint. It's such a fun pop of color. And it's so unassuming that you could either go big with mint jeans or a skirt, or subtle with jewelry or a cardigan. It's like purple; it looks beautiful paired with any skin color/tone. Paired with my fair skin and red hair, there is just something about it. I found this pretty cardigan at J. Crew Factory last weekend, which I paired with a  floral cotton shift for an afternoon classical concert.

Pink is another super flattering color, although it can be a bit tricky to find "your pink". I tend to use this rule: the lighter your skin color, the lighter the pink. Tan and darker skinned ladies can rock the bright pinks, and lighter skinned mamas should try and stick to softer, peachier pinks. I'm in love with this sheer pink blouse matched with the tangerine shorts. It's just so light and airy, with a touch of romance.

http://pinterest.com/pin/100557004149952402/

I have also been on the hunt for the perfect pleated maxi skirt. Pleats are super tricky. They need to be the right width (on the small side), and the fabric has to be light, rather than heavy. Otherwise you'd end up emphasizing areas that most of us try to avoid drawing attention to. This perfectly pink maxi skirt is by Halston Heritage, but it is, of course, out of my price range (this happens ALOT).

Here is a more affordable option for you hot mamas out there... be sure to bring out the shaving cream and razor before you show off your fabulous legs in this cute mini version! This can be paired with a tank, t-shirt, or even a slim wrap top, which would give it a ballerina vibe. Love!

Another trend that I've always been reluctant to participate in is polka dots. They just conjure images of Minnie Mouse for me. BUT... it seems that they are smaller and (maybe I've changed) cuter this Spring. I love the dress (from Topshop) seen below, and the way it is accessorized makes a world of difference. The hat combined with the layered bangles and watch take the polka dots from childish and whimsical to sophisticated and fresh. Reminds me a bit of Princess Kate!

This minty, polka dotted sundress is perfect for Spring when paired with a cardigan. In the summer, we can go without! This is the perfect hot mama on the go look when paired with a jacket or cardi, and flats or sandals. All you need to sass it up for date night is a killer pair of heels or wedges. Mint can be paired with a number of colors, and looks stunning with simple gold jewelry. Don't get too serious with your hair, either! Beach waves are the perfect compliment to this seafoam hue. 

So, that's my trend report for today! Did you see anything you love, or would be willing to try? What colors, prints, shoes, etc. are you obsessed with at the moment?

See you soon, my cherry blossoms!

Xoxo,

The Hot Mama

Check out the images above (and more) on my Pinterest board "Outer Beauty"! http://pinterest.com/OneHawtMama/

Chronicle 3: The Hot Mama Outer Beauty Philosophy

Confession time, mamas. When my little man turned around 3 ½ months old, I began experiencing postpartum hair loss. I’m sure many of you have heard of or experienced the same thing, and can identify with the flood of emotions that accompany it. Oh, I’d heard of it and was prepared for it to happen, but does anything really prepare you to deal with pulling clumps of your own hair out in the shower?

Day after day, I tried and failed to style my ever thinning hair. Eventually, I began to resort to ponytails and “THE CLAW”, which I had previously vowed never to wear in public (along with banana clips, scrunchies, and butterfly clips). The final straw was a haircut that I later deemed devastating: 5 inches of my beautiful red hair, GONE. I felt shorn and bald and hideous.

Now, I don’t need a face full of makeup or a fresh from the salon blowout to feel beautiful, but I do take pride in my appearance. Whether we want to admit it or not, we live in a very visual society and there are daily opportunities that arise from taking care of ourselves. I thought that losing my hair meant I no longer had any reason to do so. My skincare regimen went downhill, quickly followed by my makeup routine, and then of course it was a matter of time before I busted out the sweats, pizza, and chocolate. What a slippery slope! And what a pity party I was throwing for myself.

It’s a bit embarrassing to admit how something that seems so trivial undid me so completely. Speaking with other hot mamas about their postpartum woes finally made me realize how fast our little ones grow and how quickly time flies. This hair loss is just a passing phase, and I will always have my son. While I am still parting (haha) with my hair, the amount lost has lessened, and I’ve got new growth. These tiny little baby hairs that are growing just as fast as my son. Hope!

I’m back on track, and feeling better than ever. You know, it cracks me up when I watch What Not to Wear. Some of the participants have this wild notion that dressing well and taking care of themselves is this time consuming process that takes away from their personality and/or intelligence. This could not be further from the truth! There’s nothing more attractive than a person who has the full package: confidence, intelligence, and an outer beauty that reflects your inner beauty.

So, what makes YOU feel beautiful on a day-to-day basis? 

Xoxo,

The Hot Mama

Please check out my Hot Mama Pinterest boards at http://pinterest.com/OneHawtMama/ !