I have to admit, I’m ready for fall. I’m not usually one to rush through seasons, but fall is when the Cude household thrives. If we’re being realistic, we probably won’t be feeling fall weather here in Kentucky until at least October. Knowing that it will still feel like summer for a while, I’ve rounded up all the random items that have made my life more enjoyable this season. And that’s saying something, considering I’ve been pregnant all summer. Trust me, I’ve gotten pretty good at beating the heat!
Sonic Vanilla Coke with lime
Soda is one of my vices–so much so that when I got pregnant, I gave up all other caffeine just so I could still drink Coke. Add to that the fact that crushed ice has been one of my pregnancy cravings, and Sonic has been my best friend this summer. This flavor combo idea was suggested on their menu and let me tell you, it’s a game changer. It tastes like key lime pie in a cup.
Bath & Body Works Summer Boardwalk candle
The scent description lists “Caramel-Glazed Popcorn, Warm Taffy Apples, and Salty Sweet Cream.” Y’all. It smells so delicious. Andrew told me the first time I burned it that he wanted one for every room in the house because he wanted this scent to follow him everywhere he went. I love this candle for the end of summer because the caramel makes it a great transition to fall. I didn’t link it because it’s sold out online, but you can still find summer scents in stores.
Ocean Potion After Sun Aloe Lotion
I started using this lotion when I was in high school, back when I was actually outside for a good portion of the summer. I’ve used it every year since, and it wouldn’t feel like summer without it. It smells like a Dreamsicle, and it acts like an aloe gel after sun exposure. I also use it every time I get out of the shower. I used this for the majority of my pregnancy and I haven’t had any stretch marks. Part of that just depends on your skin type and part of that is because I am religious about putting on lotion every day. But I can definitely say this helped keep my skin from being dry and tight during pregnancy.
Simple dresses
I’m here to tell you, fellow preggos, maternity pants are not your friend in the summer. And I haven’t found a pair of maternity shorts that are really comfortable. Enter the shift dress. I went to Marshall’s and bought several of these plain, stretchy dresses in varying lengths. I am not exaggerating when I tell you these are all I have worn in the last several weeks. They are so comfy and easy to throw on, and you still look put together. Time will tell how long I continue to rely on these after baby has arrived.
New lip colors
I typically simplify my makeup routine for summertime, and I’ve especially done that while pregnant. I bought this lip balm because I usually just swipe on some Chapstick, but I wanted a little color. This balm uses your skin’s ph to change to your perfect shade of pink. I was a little skeptical at first, but it really does work! I was also inspired by one of my Southern Living issues to try a coral lip color. On the days I do a full face of makeup, I’ve been doing a more gold/bronze look. Just trying to play up that pregnancy glow! I chose this one from Loreal because it has a subtle shimmer.
What have you been loving this summer? Are you ready for fall or are you sad when summer’s over? Let me know if you end up trying and liking anything on this list!