You + Me and What We've Learned As a Family

Hunter and I went to run a quick errand yesterday, just the two of us.

As we got out of the car and started walking towards the store, I kept feeling like I was missing something or had forgotten something.

As I thought about it more, I realized it was because we didn't have kids in tow.

We were able to just get out of the car and walk straight towards the store.

No meltdown from Oaklyn about not wanting to sit in the cart, no trying to decide if we should use the cart or the stroller for both girls, no diaper bag, no snacks to keep them occupied... we literally just got out of the car and ran our errand.

We talked about how funny it is that everything becomes more difficult when you have kids.

The simplest things in life become the most challenging and suddenly everyday things require a whole lot more planning and thinking. 

Hunter jokingly said, "can you imagine how easy life would be if it was just me and you?" 

We both chuckled and continued on, but I thought about it some more.

Holy cow, it really would be WAY easier!

I would be able to work full time and therefore, saving for a house would be way easier.

We would get to eat dinner in silence and maybe even enjoy our meal, ha!

We would be able to go on date nights, any night.

We'd be able to sleep through the night, take more vacations, spend more time together, invest more time in hobbies, and probably have a little more sanity if we're being totally honest... 

There's a lot of life changes that come with a bundle of joy.

There's a lot of time and energy spent on taking care of them when you would much rather take care of yourself. 

There's a whole lot more hard moments and ten times more whining and crying.

Truthfully, life would be a lot easier without kids.

But, that doesn't mean it would be better...

Life as just me and you, was delightful.

It was carefree and fun, it was spontaneous and exciting, and it was a time that will forever be a happy memory to me.

But, we have added two little people to our family and have dreams to add more. 

They have brought challenges, that's for sure, but they have also brought more joy than we ever would have experienced had we not chosen to have them.

Children are supposed be challenging.
They're supposed to make you grow and think outside of yourself.

They are supposed to teach us what we need to learn to become better and stronger.

Caring for someone else who completely depends on you, is the absolute best way to learn the attributes of our Savior.

Hunter and I have probably lost a few brain cells since we have become parents, haha, but we have gained experiences and perspectives that no university or job will ever teach.

So to any newlyweds or expecting parents... one day you'll have a child or two or a few that change most everything. 

So cherish the time you have now and keep those memories of just the two of you engrained forever, but never lose sight of the importance of being parents.

The day to day life gets "harder" but trust me, it actually is better.

All my love,

Aleigh Joy

*Loving this dress from Pink Blush! I think the choker neckline is so cute and fun because I don't even have to accessorize! Check out Pink Blush for any and all cute maternity clothes or trendy women's clothes!

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Things You Should Never Say To A Pregnant Lady

Oh pregnancy, it's the best of times and the worst of times haha.

The swelling, the heartburn, the clothes that don't fit... it's all worth it to grow and bring new life into the world, but man is it challenging at times.

Just about every day I look at Hunter and say something along the lines of how done I am with being pregnant.

My pregnancy with Oaklyn had its ups and downs but mainly was a breeze, this time has just been harder all around.

The funny thing is, pregnant women are already going through so many emotional and physical changes, yet people still have the nerve to say some really well... dumb things. To put it politely ;)

I've decided to compile a list of all these rather annoying remarks to maybe shed some light on the topic, because really, just think before you speak people! 

"You must be due any day now!"

Okay people, just don't bring up a due date you know nothing about unless you are asking when someone is due. And when they tell you, just say something kind like "oh how fun!" When a 7 month along pregnant lady is walking through the grocery store, the last thing they want to hear is that they look like they are going to pop at any minute. It's a long process and every single body grows differently. Just let the body do its thing. Commenting on weight during pregnancy is a danger zone at all times. 

Just wait... 

Okay, ANY form of just wait comment is actually the worst. Just because something may have been harder for you does not mean it will be for the pregnant lady and even if it will be, they surely don't want to hear about it! "Just wait til the baby comes, you'll never sleep!" "Just wait until you have two to chase around, then you'll know how hard it is!" Just wait until you are in your third trimester, it's so much worse!" "Just wait until you're in labor, you'll be wishing you never got pregnant!" You guys, I'm not kidding I've had all of these said to me and I just wanna pull my hair out. It's just not kind to talk to someone like they are naive in the first place, but let's not freak out other moms either. Just let them be them and you do you.

You must want a *insert opposite gender here* so bad!

We're having our second girl. And guess what?? We are SO excited! This second baby being a girl could not be better for us. With Hunter still in school for a few more months, it is such a blessing that we can just reuse everything we had from Oaklyn. Also, it is so much fun having girls and Hunter is actually happy with having two girls! When someone is pregnant with another one of the same gender, it is actually possible that they are happy about it. And if they aren't it's probably best not to bring it up unless they do first...

Don't let your hands do the talking...

Some people could care less that random strangers come up and touch their belly... but most find it really really odd. I know I do. "Oh, is she kicking??" Uhm no, and even if she was I don't know you... It's just best to move along and keep your hands in your pockets people.

Opinions on labor choices

Here's the deal, we have several different choices and options when it comes to labor nowadays. There is no "right" way and that is a-okay. If you bring up labor, just keep your opinions to yourself. Your natural birth may have gone really awesome, but some just aren't about that. Your epidural may have been heaven sent, but some women just don't want one. Either way is just fine.

Asking baby's name

Okay, while it's not a bad thing to ask if they have a name picked out, don't pry if they don't want to talk about it. And if they do feel okay offering the name, you may not like it... but don't show it or say it. Our daughter has a "different" name, but we absolutely love it. I hated telling people her name because the reactions were all over the place. If the only names you like are the ones you named your children, it's best just not to ask this question...

Okay, that about covers it for now haha.

I'm sure I can think of more, but we'll leave it at that ;)

Pregnancy hormones are no joke, so let's just not mess with them.

Since pregnancy is such a difficult time for a lot of women it's always a plus to feel comfortable in your clothes.

I have been living in dresses and looser fitting clothes in general and PinkBlush Maternity has been heaven sent!

If you're pregnant and searching for something comfortable to wear, there is an amazing selection of cute maternity clothes on their website. 

I'm obsessed with this black lace up maternity shift dress because it is sooo comfortable and trendy!

I also will be able to wear it after the baby comes and that is always a plus in my book.

You are bound to find something you love from PinkBlush!

All my love,

Aleigh Joy

*Thank you to PinkBlush Maternity for sponsoring this post!

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I'm Gonna Pop Some Tags

Back in the day, (more like before getting married) I loved shopping at thrift stores.

Like seriously, I think I went once a week.

I love the treasures you can find in a thrift store and that they feel more "one of a kind."

Not to mention, nothing beats the price of shopping second hand.

With my style preference and wardrobe wants changing with every season, I can't justify spending hundreds of dollars every few months on the latest and greatest.

While I really enjoy a crisp new shirt, I might like getting "new" thrifted clothes just as much!

There's always such a sense of accomplishment when you find something you absolutely love, for pennies.

I haven't gone as much since having Oaklyn and moving to Utah because a) I couldn't find a thrift store I really liked and b) I just don't have much time these days.

However, that all changed recently.

A bit ago, I took a visit to the Uptown Cheapskate location in Sugarhouse, Utah.

I walked in not knowing much of anything about the company and left with a ton of beautiful clothes for an amazing deal, and a love for my new favorite thrift store. 

I'm so happy that I now know about this company because they have over 40 locations in the US.

Yep, you read that right!
The founders of Uptown are actually the children of the founders of another one of my favorites, Kid to Kid.
They are both opening franchise opportunities all over the US.

I was pleasantly surprised by their selection of clothes and I was seriously, beyond happy with what I found.

I tried on Hudson jeans, J crew sweaters, Steve madden shoes, Free People tops, and several other well known brands for over half off the original price. 

Everything was in great condition, no stains, rips, or tears.

It was also really organized inside which is huge for me, and the staff was more than helpful.

Seriously though, I had about 3 loads of at least 20 items I took into the dressing room and the guy helping me didn't even mind.
In fact, he was there to give me a second opinion if I wasn't sure about an item!

I got 5 sweaters, one cardigan, a necklace, and a pair of leggings for under $80.

Can you say score??

I'm so excited to go back and find more treasures!

So obviously, I no longer have an excuse to not buy secondhand with Uptown Cheapskate here in Utah.
Not only have I found a used clothing store I love, but I actually have time for this one!
When I think of a thrift store, I think of clutter and crazy.
As you can see by my photos, Uptown in Sugarhouse is very well organized and they make it so easy to find exactly what you are looking for.
I went to every sweater, shirt, and jean rack because those were the items I was searching for and was overall very happy with what I found!

So if you couldn't tell by this post, I give Uptown three thumbs up ;)
I was pleasantly surprised with how good of an experience I had shopping secondhand with Uptown!
Hope to see you all at one of their locations sometime!

All my love,
Aleigh Joy

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Guest Post: Off the Shoulder Dress

Happy Friday Everyone!
I'm so excited to have Annie on the blog today!
I'm really loving this entire look she put together because I've always loved white and I have thing for pairing it with a pop of red.
Annie's blog is darling and her family is even cuter!
Make sure to follow along to catch more of the cuteness!
Next week I'll be on vacation with my little family, but I still have some fun posts planned for you.
Can't wait!
All my love,
Aleigh Joy

I am The Real Housewife of Fresno; I am a wife, mama, Realtor, and lifestyle blogger.  My blog is about family, friends, food, fashion, and my favorite finds.  I was born and raised in Fresno, CA and I truly love this place I call home.  I married my high school sweetheart, Kevin in 2009 and we welcomed our first bundle of joy, Emily Grace in 2011 and our second baby girl, Madison Anne in 2014.  I wear a million different hats a day but typically love all my roles.  My obsessions include reality tv, anything sweet, high heels, handbags, arm candy, sunnies, lip gloss, buffalo chicken salad, hot tea (I hate coffee), Instagram, Pinterest, and a good book, a pool, and a cocktail!

Speaking of my obsessions, fashion and especially this look are on that list.  Don't think I'm giving you the cold shoulder in this look.  It's just my favorite trend of the season- the off the shoulder dress.  This dress combines so many of my faves- off the shoulder, crisp white, sweet eyelet, and flirty and fun.  Not only is it fashionable but it's also comfortable and it didn't break the bank; that's a triple threat.  This dress is perfect for a casual summer bbq or even dressed up for a charity event or fun night out.  What is your favorite trend this summer?

You know me I've always loved a pop of color and that hasn't changed for me this season.  My favorite pop right now is coral.  I also love a wedge especially with this look.  I found these coral wedges at my local Forever 21.

 It's all in the details....

Dress / Watch / Dot Bracelet / Bangle & Braided Bracelets / Alex and Ani Bracelet

Follow Me:

The Real Housewife of Fresno Website/Blog

Pinterest

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Buy a Bag, Help Save a Child | Barri Handbags

Happy Sunday friends! 

I am so excited to be talking about Barri handbags on the blog today!

As you all know by now, I am incredibly passionate about the cause, O.U.R (operation underground railroad), and doing all that I can to help support it. 

That's why I was so excited to learn about Barri, a handbag company that gives 10% of sales to OUR to help save children's lives!

Not only are these bags absolutely beautiful, but they are supporting the fight against the third most lucrative crime in the world.

How amazing is that??

I wanted to spread a little more awareness about Barri today, because their kickstarter fund is currently live and has 3 days left to go!

With your support and help, Ashley, the founder, will be able to produce these gorgeous bags and donate to O.U.R. 

With three days left, they have a little over $3,000 until the goal is reached!

If you've wondered how you can help end fight child sex trafficking, this is a great way to help!

Simply click here to go straight to the kickstarter fund and see the video where Ashley explains the mission and purpose of her company.  

I was able to test out and touch these bags on Saturday and I can honestly tell you that they are amazing quality.

They had awesome durability, the colors were gorgeous, and the hardware was very well crafted.

They are made of all high quality materials and are produced in fair wage factories. 

Ashley has tons of experience in designing handbags and after looking at them in person, it definitely shows!

So lucky for all of you, if you donate to the kickstarter fund you will receive 15% off your preorder purchase and be guaranteed a bag from the beautiful, b. brave collection. 

I loved talking to Ashley about her company and hearing how passionate she is about it. 

I absolutely know she is doing this with a purpose and doesn't want to start just another handbag company.
 She wants this one to be different and special!

Besides already deciding to support O.U.R, she also has a goal to support and uplift women everywhere.

She wants to create a community within Barri to help women know just how special they are.

Each bag has a metal plate inside to help you remember your worth, daily.

The plate reads: | b. inspired | b. kind | b. active | b. change |

Each bag also comes with a purse fob in front with the word "freedom" inscribed to always remind you of the cause you helped support with your purchase.

As you can see, a whole lot of time and effort were put into creating these bags!

If you have the means, please help support this awesome company with their kickstarter campaign! 

If you don't have the means, please share their facebook page, follow their instagram, or simply just tell your friends and family to spread the word!

All my love,

Aleigh Joy

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Taking It Back To The 70's

I have a little trend alert for all of you that I am completely loving!

Just bear with me on this one because I know what a lot of you are going to be thinking right off the bat... That's so 70's!

Just give them a chance though... because I think this trend is here to stay!

Remember my post about getting dressed every day?

I'm still a firm believer in it!

Especially now that the weather is warmer and I'm breaking out the brighter colors and thinner materials. It's like a whole new closet ;)

So, let's talk a little about why I'm adding this look to the #mymammastyle tag.

I recently found out about the cutest online shop called Ruthie Grace Boutique and I literally want every single thing in their shop. Seriously.

However, I couldn't get this Pride and Prejudice Top out of my mind after seeing it!

Something about lace details just gets me every time.

What really drew me in once I saw it in person though, was how flattering it is on!

I love looser clothing. I think a shirt with the right amount of flow is perfect for any postpartum body.

It gives it a whimsical and airy feel. Another thing I love!

Not only is this top looser in the stomach region, but it is also pretty flowy in the arm area!

I loved the way it looked at first glance and I know you all will too!

It is flattering on any arm size and adds a little extra flare!

And don't even get me started on how beautiful white tops are... I could go on and on about that!

Seriously, I have yet to meet a single person that doesn't look good in white. 

It's the perfect color!

Not to mention, white is one of Summer's hottest colors!

Let's talk about the wide legged pants now, shall we?

I get it, the immediate thought is "I can't pull them off."

Wrong!

I have such a hard time taking these cute things off and here's why!

 1. they are the comfiest pair of pants I own (leggings included)

 2. If you select a higher waist pant, it can easily hide your after baby muffin top... if you have one.

3. If you are a bit heavier on top, they will give your body a nice silhouette!  

4. If you're "pear shaped" they will draw more attention to your ankles and your hips will appear more narrow

5. They are great for shorter women like me! They appear to be very leg lengthening when they fit well at the top and pair so great with high heels.

Have I sold you yet?

If  not, I get it ;)

But it's worth trying a pair on in the dressing room!

I honestly think this shirt and these pants were meant to be.

I love everything about both!

I have searched high and low for these pants online and could not find them and I was so sad!

 But, I did find a similar pair I'll link down below.

Also, if this helps... I got them at Nordstrom Rack and the brand is Jolt!

Also, lucky for all you wonderful readers... I have a discount code for you to Ruthie Grace Boutique!

Use code: HAPPYDANCE at checkout to receive 10% off your purchase!

A little bird also told me, this shirt happens to be on sale right now, yay!

I hope you all have a fabulous week!

All my love,

Aleigh Joy

Shirt | Pants (similar) | Watch | Shoes (old, these are similar) | Hair straightener | Necklace

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Why You Should Get Dressed Every Day

I'm sure you always hear new moms, or even moms that have been doing this whole mothering thing for years, talk about how they find themselves lounging in a t-shirt and leggings 6/7 days a week. Because you know... You should probably get dressed for church... right? While I'm all for avoiding jeans at all cost... I'm going to tell all of you moms out there that getting dressed for the day, and feeling good about what you're wearing, is a whole lot more important than you think it may be!
Not only that.. but a whole lot more simple than you may think.

I was that first time mom... The one who was still in my pajamas when my husband came home at 5 pm. I still hadn't put any makeup on, there was a spit up stain on my shoulder, and it was a rare sight if my hair wasn't in a messy bun on top of my head. I'm really not trying to make the moms who still do this feel bad, because remember, that was totally me!

I felt very low most days with a newborn. I felt overwhelmed and discouraged. I felt like there was never going to be a moment of "alone time" again. I was afraid of hearing my baby cry. In my head, if she was crying, it meant she was unhappy. If she was unhappy it meant I was doing something wrong.
I hated that feeling!
Well, Oaklyn cried just about every single time I put her down. Unless she was in her bouncer and I was bouncing it with my feet. So I stayed in my pajamas most days and was really unhappy with my postpartum self.

When I began to realize that she would eventually figure out that she didn't have to cry every single time I set her down, I started to put her down more.
It was freeing to know that whining was okay and a few minutes getting ready every day would do an incredible amount of good for all of us.
Once I began caring about my appearance a little again, I noticed my postpartum world actually feel a whole lot brighter.

So... Here are  reasons why I believe you should get dressed every day.

1) It completely brightens your mood.
I promise, it really does! When I look good, I feel good. That goes for being healthy too. I feel a whole lot better when I choose a smoothie over a doughnut in the morning and I feel way better when I choose a blouse over a t-shirt. If I feel good in what I'm wearing I honestly feel happier and my day just goes a whole lot better. It boosts my self confidence entirely when I'm wearing a shirt I really like versus the shirt I woke up in and we all know, self confidence is actually one of the most attractive traits there is. And yes, there is in fact a difference between confidence and cockiness.

2) You never know who you'll run into
Though the only people that usually see me during the day are the strangers at Target or the grocery store, my husband, my daughter, and occasionally the mail man... I still love to dress to impress because there may be an off chance that you run into an old friend. While you're not actually dressing to "impress" them, you should dress to feel comfortable talking to them. No more avoiding someone from church at Costco because you don't want them to see you in your PJ's out in public.

3) You still need to "date" your spouse
But, you already married him, the dating is over, what do you mean "date" my spouse? I love when Hunter tells me I look pretty. It's an added bonus when he tells me he likes my outfit. I want him to always want me and I want him to always be excited to "show me off." Though you may not actually get to go on many dates any more because of the tiny person that joined your family, you can still date your spouse in other ways and one is impress him every single day. So if anything, get dressed for him ;)

4) It forces you to get out of the house
Raise your hand if you hate being cooped up all day... I'm raising both hands. I go completely stir crazy and feel like I got absolutely nothing done if I don't get out of the house at least once a day. When I get dressed and do my hair and makeup I feel so much more inspired to get out of the house and make the day a good one. That in turn completely brightens my mood.

5) It's a method of self expression
There's this funny astigmatism that you're "trying too hard" if you look good. I disagree entirely. Dressing well and how you feel comfortable is a way to express yourself and your personality. When I'm at a baby shower and I'm wearing a dress, it isn't because I'm trying too hard... It's because I feel good in a pink maxi dress and when I feel good with what I'm wearing I'm more inclined to meet and talk to people I've never met before. I love being social and one way to make you feel more social is to dress your best.

All of that being said... I would like to introduce to you a new series about #mymammastyle (two m's cause one was already taken on insta!)
I'm going to be showing you all some of my favorite mom styles out there in hopes to help you feel inspired to get dressed every day!

First, I'm going to start with this dress from WukoGals.
I'm obsessed with this company!
I love every single style of dress they offer and especially love how flattering they look on a woman's figure.
I chose this adorable sweater dress because it is perfectly modest and comfortable.
I have already worn it to church and I cannot wait to wear it on a date night out.
It has a little stretch mixed in with the perfect amount of tightness to hug your frame.
Why did I choose a form fitting dress to feature first?
Because I honestly believe that you need to love your postpartum figure no matter what it may look like!
I still occasionally have a hard time with my own figure, but each time I get brave enough to wear something form fitting again, I feel a little more comfortable in my own skin.
I would definitely start with this dress from WukoGals if you're wanting to try something form fitting!
If you're not quite ready for that yet, check out the rest of their site and I'm sure you'll find something (but more likely several things!) that you will just love!
I know that wearing dresses can be difficult for nursing mamas, but put one on for a date night out and you will feel great with how you look! Or just try something like this with buttons!
Make sure to check out WukoGals line of dresses and because I know you will find something you absolutely love... use code: MOORESWEATER at checkout for $15 off your purchase!!

Make sure to tag your photos on instagram with #mymammastyle to be featured on my blog!

All my love,
Aleigh Joy

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