Natural Maven is NOW Petals and Pumps

Reminder:

I have a New blog website & new name! 

Natural Maven is now Petals and Pumps

Please head on over to PetalsandPumps.com to continue reading about life as a blogger & mom.

Petals and Pumps shares tips on beauty, motherhood, baby products, health and fashion!

I'll see you on P+P!

Xx-Kristen

New Website, New Name!!

Hi Ladies,

Whelp, for a couple weeks now I have been working on taking my blog to new heights!

Although, I'm still tweaking a here 'n there (IT WILL BE A FEW WEEKS UNTIL IT'S FULLY COMPLETE), I'm ready to show you the changes so far...

A couple things to mention:  as you all know, my blog name was operating as Natural Maven, and due to stupid - technical reasons (I wouldn't bore with the details) I had no choice but to come up with a NEW BLOG NAME!

Natural Maven is now…wait for it…Petals and Pumps (PetalsandPumps.com).

TA-DAHHH!!

I will still be discussing topics on beauty, motherhood, fitness, fashion & health…Just under a new name. I hope you all understand. And whether or not you like the old name vs. the new name, I can't really do anything about that- sorry! It's still a girly blog with good topics!

I am switching/or have switched my Social Media to reflect my new website & name - PetalsandPumps.com. So stay tuned for that. If you see pictures/posts still up as the Natural Maven, that's probably the way it will stay so I don't loose what I have already done. But for the most part, I'm doing my best to switch as much as possible. I will be keeping NaturalMaven.blogspot.com up for a while so that it may help with the transition and/or any confusion.

You can also find the Social Media "buttons" in my website. When you "click" on them, it will take you directly to any of my social media accounts I have.

Thank you girls for your support and understanding! I can't wait to start blogging as Petals and Pumps!

Please comment with any ideas, topics, etc. you would like to see on P+P.

HEAD ON OVER TO PETALSANDPUMPS.COM NOW!!

Xx- Kristen

Friday Favorites: For the Moms or Moms-to-be

Ok ladies, It's my Friday round-up.

I chose these items more specifically for the mamas out there… & of course, these products were chosen with your health in mind! You know how I feel about products with a bunch of crap in them…pure & natural is the way to go when it comes to you and your baby!

This Honest Co. baby arrival gift set, is not only practical but adorable! 

If you haven't tried Honest Co. products for your little one, what are you waiting for?! 

This set includes 7 essential/full-sized pieces including: Shampoo + Body Wash, Face + Body Lotion, Healing Balm, Hand Sanitizer, Silicone Baby Teether, Wipes & a 7-pack of Diapers. 

 All items made with non-toxic, safe & natural ingredients. 

Isn't this Baby's First Book by, Rag & Bone Bindery so cute (and original)?!

Well they are handmade, beautiful books - perfect to start jotting down all your baby's first moments. 

Let your creativity flow! 

The two I own pictured here are: "Little Lions" & "Jungle Book."

I encourage you to check these adorable books out. I received both of mine as a gift from my sister -- LOVE them!

Each ribbon-bound book contains 24 whimsical, fill-in pages like: "Before you were Born","How we picked your name" and "Baby's World". 

 I love this page - Baby's Mementos. I put hospital bracelets in there, my labor check-in card & of course my son's belly button!

 ((And by the way these books were featured in American Baby, InStyle Magazine, Child, People Magazine, TotSnob, Parenting and more)). 

Drinking water is essential…well, ALWAYS! But keeping hydrated during & after pregnancy is SUPER-DUPER important! So why not hydrate using these chic water bottles by Bkr? 

You're probably thinking…"Ok, this is just a water bottle. What's so special about it?!"

Well, obviously >> If it's a cute bottle your more likely to remember to drink. 

But more importantly, Bkr bottles are made out of glass with a (colorful) silicone sleeve, 

have a food grade polypropylene cap, BPA-free, phthalate free & are 100% reusable + recyclable.  

During pregnancy, you may experience awful-itchy bellies! Just another lovely situation we have to deal with during this time. 

But I FINALLY found a product that really does deal with this problem -  NO MORE ITCHY BABY BUMP!! Hooray!

Zoe Organics, relieves the itchy skin and is a rich conditioner for stretching skin during pregnancy. Shea butter, along with other blends of organic oils, extracts and essential oils work to prevent and reduce the appearance of stretch marks. 

As busy moms, we look for quick and easy, right?! We're sleep deprived and on "the job" 24/7. 

So when I find something that makes life just that much easier, I just gotta share it!

If you're like me, your day-to-day makeup routine is pretty & basic. 

The CC+ product by,

  IT Cosmetics will become your BFF!!

This baby is a color correcting, full coverage cream & anti-aging serum WITH SPF 50!! 

It's a no-brainer girls! It's basically your foundation, moisturizer, serum, skin perfector & SPF 

ALL IN-ONE! 

I just upgraded to this bigger (and I think better) Classic diaper bag from PBKids. 

Going from one to two boys requires a bigger bag. I love it because it so roomy and it has 3 separate compartments. It has helped me organize a lot better, compared to my other bags. 

I also monogrammed it (of course) with my initials. That way, when it's no longer a diaper bag for the kids, I could use it as a travel or beach bag for myself! :)

Photo Credit: ZoeOrganics, Instagram

Tell me what your favorites are. I would love to hear them!

Xx-Kristen

Simple Pleasures...

You know when you need to go to Target for those few necessities?

i.e.: the laundry detergent, paper towels, candles & TP…

Then all of the sudden, your quickie "Targé" trip turns out to be a full-blown shopping binge!

Ya, you know what I mean --ha!

Well, the other day I enjoyed purchasing a few Simple Pleasures…

{ I'm a huuuge stationary/crafts junkie }

- colored Washi tape
- calligraphy pens
- note cards
- soy candles
- chalk pens
- Essie 'Mint Candy Apple' nail polish



What products can't you resist when your at Target?



Xx-Kristen

Take a Peek: What's in My Bag

What's in my bag? Well, I'll show ya! As a mommy of a 1 1/2 year old (and another on the way), my handbag is never my own anymore…unless I have date night with the hubby, then of course, my clutch is baby toy/diaper/snack free! ;)

{Rebecca Minkoff Tote, Kate Spade wallet, my "handy-dandy" notebook >> for those mom's out there, you know what I mean, Organic Wheat Grass single packet, 

Happy Yogis organic yogurt snacks for my little one, 

Ray-Ban sunnies, Sophie the Giraffe teether, iPad mini, Trina Turk cosmetic bag}

{Inside my cosmetic bag:  Daisy 'Eau So Fresh' rollerball, Tarte Airblush, BareMinerals 'Well-Rested' Face & Eye Brightener, Josie Maran Argan Creamy Concealer Crayon, Clinique 'Chubby Stick' Shadow, Clinique 'Chubby Stick' Lip Color Balm}

Happy Monday, Gals!

Xx-Kristen

Drink to Healthy, Glowing & Younger Skin!

As you all may (or may not ) know by now, I'm a LOVER of healthy smoothies & juices! Not only do they taste great, (they have come a long way in terms of taste & variety) I believe in all the wonderful benefits these ingredients could do to enhance your health inside and out. To get the benefits though, you have to be consistent.
Just like eating clean & going to the gym regularly to see results, same rule applies to drinking these Power House Tonics. Try making yourself a power house beverage at least 3 times a week. Not only will you see the difference, you will feel it too!

Here are some recipes to Healthy, Glowing & Younger Skin (from the inside---> out!)…


1. Tammy Fender's “Spicy Skin Saver Juice.” The cocktail contains radish and watercress to help build collagen, grape seeds to fight free radical damage and cucumbers for a burst of hydration. Drink your way to glowing skin with this juice!

Spicy Skin Saver Juice
1/2 cup radish,
6 cups of grapes (preferably seeded)
1 handful watercress
1 cucumber
pinch of fresh ginger


2. Yerba mate tea:  Yerba mate tea, is packed with healing amino acids and has almost as many antioxidants as green tea. Antioxidants aid in preventing diseases as well as repairing cellular damage. Resulting in overall better health & slowing down the signs of aging. More benefits include: treating skin disorders like psoriasis, because of it's anti-inflammatory properties, decreasing puffy skin and even improve the appearance of cellulite due to the caffeine, weight control, improving cardiovascular health & aiding in better digestion.

These next three recipes come from my personal favorite gal, natural food chef & author of Superfood Smoothies & Superfood Kitchen, Julie Morris. I own her book & LOVE all the wonderful and delicious recipes in it! IT'S  A MUST-HAVE!
These smoothies contain ingredients that have significant amounts of "beauty nutrients."

3. Honeydew Maqui (read about maqui berry, the incredible anti-aging ingredient here):
3 cups honeydew melon, cubed
1/2 cup coconut milk
2 tsp. maqui berry powder
1 tbsp. flaxseed powder
1 tbsp. freshly squeezed lime juice
2 cups coconut ice (freeze coconut water in ice cube tray)
sweetener (I usually use 2-3 dates as sweetener), to taste (optional)
*Superfood Boost: Add 1 tsp. of wheatgrass (optional)

4. Toasted Coconut & Macadamia: >>pictured above
1/4 cup dried, unsweetened, shredded coconut- toasted in small skillet over medium-high heat, until golden (about 2 minutes). let cool.
1/4 cup unsalted macadamia nuts
2 tsp. maca powder
11/2 cups coconut water
2 cups coconut ice

Blend toasted coconut, macadamia nuts, maca & coconut water together into a creamy milk base. Once smooth, add the coconut ice & blend until frosty.
*Superfood Boost: Add 1 tsp. maqui berry powder for anti-aging antioxidants

5. Acai (With Beet): >>pictured above
If you're not particularly a beet lover, TRUST ME, you barley even notice they are there! This smoothie refreshing and delicious! Beets have incredible benefits- Try it!

3/4 cup roasted beets (but I substitute it with the organic ready to eat beets- LOVE BEETS)>>
2 oranges, peeled, de-seeded, and segmented
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
3 tbsp. acai powder
2 cups ice
sweetener (optional)
*Superfood Boost: Add 1/2 tsp. camu berry powder



Try these, and tell  me what you think!

Cheers, to your health & beauty!


Xx-Kristen


References: NaturalHealthMag.com, Superfood Smoothies, NavitasNaturals.com

Holy Summer Sales!!

Thank goodness for summer sales!!
In-store & online, it's a great opportunity to start enhancing your wardrobe. Some websites are even giving extra discounts--So start shopping!
Here are Links to some HOT SUMMER SALES…

1. rebeccaminkoff

2. katespade

3. splendid

4. macys

5. urbanoutfitters

6. piperlime

7. kendrascott

8. tartecosmetics

9. orchidboutiquebikinis

10. southbeachswimsuits

11. kayokokoswimwear

12. toryburch


Happy Shopping Ladies!

Xx-Kristen

Accessorize: Wallets, Headbands & Bracelets

Over the weekend, I got a few simple pieces. I needed a new continental wallet & another, compact enough to fit all my needs -- I could just grab-n'-go! I'm usually throwing my wallet from diaper bag to handbag, or just holding it if I'm running quick errands. So I thought it would be great to have a choice between both styles I chose. 

I also found some cute headbands to accessorize with during the summer. We get some steamy-UNBEARABLE HEAT here in Florida, (and being pregnant in this heat is terrible!!) so naturally, I want something to keep my hair out of the way or to "jooj" a pony-tail hairstyle when I want to.

And finally, My sister/bff/partner-in-crime & I went to our local Eberjey store yesterday, in Miami Beach. I found some really cute glass beaded bracelets (wear them swimming, in the shower, or at the beach & they will be perfectly fine!).   

  

{Kate Spade NY 'Cherry Lane' wallet, Hobo 'Alice' wallet}

{Top-Bottom: Cara 'Denim' 3-in-1 Head Wrap, L. Erickson Interlock Turban 

Headband, 

Cara 'Aloha' Head Wrap}

{Glass Beaded Bracelets from Eberjey, Miami Beach}

What do you think about what I found?

Xx-Kristen

Must Have Monday: My Picks From Piperlime.com

Happy Monday, Girls! I hope you all enjoyed your weekend!
This weekend, I was searching the internet (as I naturally do) to find some summer styles.
When I made it to Piperlime.com, I found so many things I wanted to share with you!
Here are a few of my picks for this week…

APPAREL

{Pim+Larkin, Madeline Skirt}

   

{Eight Sixty, Swingy Cami} 

{Splendid, Indigo Dye Dress}

               

  {Hive & Honey, Easy Print Soft Pant}                 {Current/Elliott, The Fling Jean}

SHOES

{Steven by Steven Madden, Anibell}    

{Carrano, Emily sandal}

{Joie, Roxie}

 HANDBAGS

{DVF, 440 Envelope Clutch} 

{Clare V, Foldover Clutch}

{Rebecca Minkoff, Quilted Mini Affair}

 ACCESSORIES

{Kate Spade NY, Varadero Tile Drop Earrings}

{Sabine, Three Faceted Necklace}

What summer looks are you into? 

Xx-Kristen

Friday Five

Happy Friday, Gals! Here are my pick's for this week…

{Mark & Graham Graphic Rectangular Acrylic Tray

& of course, Personalize it!}

This week, we re-painted my sons room & I purchased this nautical inspired wall décor. 

{Wood Shark from PotteryBarnKids, Ship Wheel & Anchor both from HomeGoods}

Loving this Chloé Handbag! Not too big or too small. Just perfect enough to carry mom essentials, for traveling, or just if your a bigger-handbag-kinda-girl. 

And this Cashmere Gray color is perfect all year round! 

{Chloé "Medium Marcie" Leather Satchel}

I'm trying out this lip tint this week.  

{Tarte "Energy" LipSurgence Lip Tint: The formula in this lip product responds to your skin’s natural pH, giving you a personalized tint that is truly your own shade of pink.} 

I found a new piece to hang in my family room. This mirror is beautiful & stylish! It's made out of wood & it is very solid & heavy piece - all just for $150 (SCORE!) at my local HomeGoods store.


Photos: MarkandGraham.com, Nordstom.com

What are you favorites?

Have a great weekend!

Xx-Kristen

Monogram Etiquette: The Basic Rules to This Wonderful Tradition!!

Just in time for Wedding season (and baby season too)!

I have a slight obsession with monogramming! I love personalizing something- making that piece that's important to you & giving it that "stamp," makes it your own. That's why it feels so chic.

What does history tell us about this age old tradition? 
The history of the monogram dates back to ancient Greece & Rome. Royals created this passion for the monogram, marking coins with the ruler's initials to authenticate & legitimize them.
During the Middle Ages, artisans began to sign their work. In the Victorian era, monograms became a symbol of status. They began to adorn their personal & household goods with monograms. During this period, monogramming was a sign of prestige & class.

Things to Personalize:
jewelry, pillow cases, throws, towels, napkins, bags, journals, accessories…"And a Partridge in a Pear Tree"…Anything that is important to you, get it personalized!

MarkandGraham.com (one of my favorite spots to shop for personalized items), lay down the rules and basics perfectly:  What is a monogram? A monogram tells a story. It suggests who we are or want to be, puts forth our views on marriage, tradition, and individual identity not to mention the wonderful things it does for linens, stationery and silverware. A monogram consists of a person's initials — usually a variation on the first, middle, and last name—and much has been written about proper monogram etiquette. married couple monograms. Below, are a few examples of traditional guidelines to monogramming {for more examples, head on over to http://www.markandgraham.com/resources/mark-it-guide/}.

M+G monograms EVERYTHING! They have a great selection online for that hard to buy man in your life. Things he'll actually like!

married couple monograms

married woman, hyphenates last name

example: "LILY FRANCESCA NEWMAN" and "DOUGLAS RICHARD KEANE"
• 
  INITIALS,
  CENTER LARGER
  { wife's first, married last, husband's first }
 
• 
  SINGLE INITIAL
  { married last }

married woman, keeps maiden name

example: "LILY NEWMAN KEANE"
{ for personal items, stationary, bed linens }
• 
  INITIALS,
  SAME SIZE
  { first, maiden, last }
 
• 
  INITIALS,
  CENTER LARGER
  { first, married last, maiden }
 
• 
  SINGLE INITIAL
  { married last }
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Just a few things I got personalized: {PotteryBarnKids.com  "Harper" quilt and sham, MarkandGraham.com "Rustic Leather Card Box," for my hubby}

A couple other original places that monogram are:

1. StacyBrownDesigns.com, has the cutest Hand Painted personalized bangles. 

2. ShopDandyNow.com, has adorable pieces!

Photos: shopdandynow.com, stacybrowndesigns.com

Now, go get something monogrammed! ;)

Tell me about some of your favorite pieces you've had monogrammed.

Xx-Kristen

Must Have Monday

I came across these products over the weekend. 

I think some are perfect for mom & baby, or for the summer!

{Clockwise L-R}

1. Adorable Moccasins for your little one & a matching carryall bag to match! 100% Genuine Leather. 

{Pictured in Radiant Orchid, Rose Gold & Camo by:  FreshlyPicked.com} 

2. With baby showers in "full bloom" this summer try, BabyList:  A universal registry service. Add any products from any online store. Cool huh?!

3. Create the perfect red carpet updo, low messy bun, or trendy top knot this summer with 

The Wrap Up {by:  SarahPotempa.com} 

4. These chic "Taylor - Oil Slick"headphones are a must for your traveling & lazy beach days! 

{by: Frends.com, also purchase at Nordstrom.com}

5. Ditch the harmful rays & get your faux glow on! I personally LOVE the Maracuja Self-Tanner & Application Mitt, infused with pure maracuja oil to replenish skin, brightening vitamin C, and essential fatty acids. Formulated without the crap other brands may have.

 {by: tartecosmetics.com, also purchase at QVC.com & Sephora.com} 

Have you tried any of these? Let me know what you think!

Photos: Freshlypicked.com, BabyLi.st, SarahPotempa.com, Frends.com, Qvc.com

Xx-Kristen

Friday Five: For the Nursery

My inner "interior decorator" side has emerged this week! I've been busy clearing out our 2nd guest room to turn it into my sons nursery.  So I've been inspired this week to share some nursery decor finds, perfect for brining home the baby! Here are a few of my favorite things…

Favorite Nursery Bedding for Girls {Fiona Collection bedding from Serena & Lily:  gorgeous pattern, with wispy wild blooms in gorgeous embroidery. The look is current and vintage all at once!}

Favorite Moses Basket {Sausalito Moses Basket – Flax For Boy from Serena & Lily:

Functions as an extra sleeping and resting spot for baby, but it also transforms into your favorite toy storage bin once your child is older. Made of heavy-weight cotton duck with nautical detailing. Includes canvas basket, mattress, bumper, and fitted sheet. Ideal for ages 0-4 months.}

Favorite Bath Wraps {Nursery Critter Wraps from Pottery Barn Kids}

Favorite Diaper Bag {Aqua Classic Diaper Bag from Pottery Barn Kids: This color is perfect for a girl or boy! It includes a changing pad, a detachable shoulder strap and plenty of pockets.

17" wide x 7" deep x 13" high}

Favorite Bassinet {White Hand-Woven Baby Bassinet from The Land of Nod: Bedding comes in Green, Navy & Pink. Bassinet also comes in Mocha.}

Any of these items would make perfect gifts for the expecting mom! 

What are your favorites?

Xx-Kristen

Photos: SerenaandLiliy.com, LandofNod.com, PotteryBarnKids.com