Tuesday, April 29, 2014

Essley's Birth Story


Essley's Birth Story // Bubby and Bean

Yesterday, Essley Morgan turned four months old.  This means that it has taken me four whole months to finally sit down and write out our birth story.  At first, I wasn't sure that I wanted to share it, because it was so intense and wonderful and scary and also, in many ways, private.  Then I decided that yes, it was all of these things, but it was also beautiful, and I love reading other people's birth stories, and ultimately, I wanted to tell our tale as well.  I knew that it was going to have to wait until Robbie had some time off from tour to help with the baby though, because it wasn't going to be one of those posts that I crank out in an hour.  So finally, here it is.  I also want to add that hundreds of thousands of women give birth everyday, and no matter how emotional (or dramatic) I may be in talking about my experience, the reality is that the reason my story is so special to me is that it's mine.  Each one of these women has their own story too - and each one is equally important.  I appreciate you wanting to take the time to read ours. 

A couple of weeks before my due date, I went in for my routine weekly OB appointment and my blood pressure was dangerously high.  Out of nowhere.  My ankles, feet, and hands had become swollen almost overnight, and I was feeling a little dizzy.  I was immediately sent to the hospital for monitoring.  My doctor was worried that I might have Preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication that can be fatal (for mom, baby, or both) if left untreated.  I was also told that I should probably contact my husband (who was in Mexico for work) and tell him to get on the soonest flight back, as there was a good chance that I would be induced that night.  I was terrified and completely thrown off.  I'd been labeled a "high risk" pregnancy because I was over 34, but I'd made it to almost full term without any issues.  The worst part was the fact that Robbie was in another country, and there was the possiblity of our baby being born without him there.  Thankfully, he and his tour manager worked some serious magic, and he was able to be on an airplane within a few hours of my call to him.  Even more thankfully, after a whole slew of blood panels and urine samples and other tests, it turned out that it was not Preeclampsia.  I was diagnosed with Gestational Hypertention and ordered to strict bed rest.  (Side note: Being told that you must adhere to bed rest a week and a half before Christmas when you are a business owner in the midst of your busiest time of year - and are also about to host your entire family for the holiday - may not be the best news when you're trying to improve stress and blood pressure levels!)  The doctor on duty at the hospital also recommended that that we schedule induction for that Sunday.  Despite all of the other craziness of that day, I think this may have upset me the most of all.  I didn't feel ready.  I'd only have just hit the 38 week mark on Sunday, and I really wanted to make it to at least 39.  For the safety of Essley (and myself) though, I hesitantly agree to make the appointment. 

A few days later, I ended up back in the hospital after another check-up (my blood pressure levels weren't getting better), and had all of the same tests repeated.  My regular OB, who I love, was on duty this time, and I voiced my concerns about inducing that Sunday.  He didn't think we needed to induce so soon and allowed me to cancel the appointment.  He did, however, reiterate the need for me to take bed rest seriously, and made an appointment to see him again on Monday.  He also prescribed me an at-home blood pressure cuff so I could monitor my BP at home. 

The following Monday (two days before Christmas), I went to my OB's office for my appointment.  Things hadn't worsened, but they hadn't improved either, and he said that I really shouldn't wait more than a few more days.  So that was that.  I was officially scheduled to be induced that Thursday, the day after Christmas, at 38 weeks and 5 days.  Essley was coming early.

I'll be honest.  I was incredibly disappointed.  I so badly wanted to feel labor naturally.  I wanted the excitement of not knowing when the contractions would begin.  I wanted to let Essley come when she was ready, not be forced out of me via medication that would be inserted in my cervix and pumped into my veins.  I sent out wishes to the universe, asking for things to start on their own before Thursday.  I bounced on my pilates ball. I ate a ridiculous amount of dates.  Anything I could do to make this happen on its own, I tried.  Unfortunately, it didn't.  And at 7 PM on December 26th, Robbie and I checked into the hospital.


After going over my now revised birth plan (which fortunately for us we'd written with the attitude that nothing may go as planned at all!) with the nurses, getting changed into a hospital gown and into bed and hooked up to all of the machines, the process of inducing labor began.  A nurse inserted the Cervidil, and I was told that mild cramping would begin within an hour or two.  I was only dilated a little over 1 cm, but the hope was that I'd only need this to get full blown labor started, therefore making the need for Pitocin the next morning unnecessary.  Robbie and I were both so excited and nervous, but we knew that staying relaxed was crucial.  We watched a movie on his iPad, then attempted to get some sleep.  Within about 20 minutes of shutting my eyes, the contractions started.  They began slowly, but soon felt like intense menstrual cramps that were painful enough to keep me wide awake.  I knew that I needed sleep in order to build up strength for labor and pushing, but it just wasn't happening.  The nurses were also coming in every half hour to check my blood pressure, which wasn't improving.  I was offered a pain pill and some Ambien, but I turned them down.  I figured that if I was going to have to have my labor chemically induced, I was going to be as natural as possible with the rest of it.  I tried my best to relax, meditate, and do the calming exercises that I'd practiced in birthing class.  I also crossed my fingers the entire night in hopes that I'd be more dilated when the nurse came in to remove the Cervidil wick.

Very early the next morning, the wick was removed.  I was told that I was still only dilated 1 cm. I couldn't believe it!  I felt a little defeated, like I'd spent the night awake in an uncomfortable hospital bed, in pain, for nothing, when I could have been at home in my own bed, preparing my mind and body for labor.  Robbie hadn't slept either.  We agreed that all we could do was try to stay positive, and vowed to do our best to appreciate the experience, regardless of the challenges.  I was really hungry, and because labor hadn't progressed, I was allowed to eat a very light breakfast.  I was so grateful for this!  After I finished eating, the Pitocin was inserted into my IV.  I knew that Pitocin was no joke, and that the truly powerful contractions would likely begin soon, so I asked if I could get up and walk the halls while things were still manageable.  I also knew that movement could help get things going.  I was given the okay, despite my blood pressure, after some mild begging.  Getting to move about and stretch was like heaven for my sore, pregnant body. 

Soon my sister and mom arrived, just as the contractions started to intensify.  We were told that they expected me to give birth by late afternoon or early evening, so Robbie's mom and dad, who were in town for the birth, came to the hospital as well.  Being surrounded by loved ones during labor is equal parts wonderful and overwhelming.   There were all of these people in my room, who love us and were doing their best to help.  There was also a constant flow of nurses coming to check my blood pressure and vitals, change my IVs, inject more Pitocin, etc.   My head was in a perpetual state of wanting everyone to stay with me and really needing some breathing room.  And in between the consistent poking and prodding were rushes of progressively painful contractions.  I have been 'blessed' with pretty agonizing menstrual cramps since my very first period, so I was sure I could handle labor contractions.  In reality though, nothing can prepare you for that level of pain - a pain that encompasses every inch of your body, takes your breath away, and leaves you fragile and powerless.  I was grateful for the breaks in between them, but the gradually increasing waves of extreme cramping were like nothing else. 


Throughout the course of my labor, my only relief was the birthing ball and a contraption that my sister Morgan had made by placing three tennis balls in a sock.  Whenever a new wave of contractions started, she was there, rubbing it up and down my back.  I need to pause and talk about Morgan for a minute, by the way.  My little sister was my MVP through this experience.  Seriously.  Although she isn't sure she wants children herself, she is obsessed with the concept of childbirth and would probably be an OB if she wasn't a teacher.  She was so informed and educated about the entire process - even more than I was - and acted as my doula throughout the labor (and after I gave birth as well).  I honestly don't know how I would have done it without her. 

Robbie was amazing too.  He rubbed my feet, over and over again.  He brought me vegetable broth on command (when you feel famished but are not allowed to consume anything but liquids, a styrofoam cup full of microwaved water and powdered vegetables might just be the most delectable thing you'll ever taste).  He held me and comforted me for hours upon hours.  He told me that I amazed him, and that he was in awe at my strength, and that I was giving him the greatest gift.

Truthfully, everyone, including the nurses, was encouraging and supportive.  For that, I'll always be grateful.

Afternoon arrived and I was only slightly more dilated, so my OB had to come in to break my water.  This was slightly thrilling for me, because I'd heard from friends who had their water broken that it really sped up the process.  I was crippled with exhaustion and the contractions were to the point where involuntary crying episodes started to accompany them, but I was still determined to do this without an epidural or pain medication.  Having your water broken is the craziest sensation.  It was bizarre, like a warm water balloon breaking inside you.  It did help though, and the contractions really began to increase in duration and frequency.  

By evening, I was delirious.  My body felt lifeless and my brain was clouded.  I do have one very clear memory of this time though.  I was bouncing on the birthing ball, and I sneezed, and a huge gush of my remaining water came bursting out all over the ball and the floor in front of everyone in the room.  It was such an awkward moment that I fell into a fit of nervous laughter and couldn't stop.  It was actually really nice to be able to laugh like that for a few minutes - it was a great distraction, and a reminder that things could still be lighthearted despite how serious they felt at the time.


Soon after my moment of comedic relief, reality really set in.  And I started to panic.  I was in an indescribable place now - a foggy, sleep-deprived, emotionally draining abyss of confusion and misery and doubt.  Suddenly it hit me that there was no escape, and I felt paralyzed by fear.  This had been going on far longer than any of my friends' labors.  It was completely different than I'd anticipated.  It was so much longer, and so much more difficult, and there was no end in sight.  The pain was more unbearable with each passing moment, and I couldn't get out of it.  It was only going to get harder, while I got weaker, and unlike anything else, there was no stopping it or even taking a break.  I remember saying out loud, "I can't do this anymore.  I want to go home.  Please.  I can't do this."  My family tried to comfort me, but I couldn't see beyond the panic.  Eventually, my husband gently held onto my shoulders and looked me sharply in the eye, and promised me that it would be over, and at the end would be our baby girl.  Eye on the prize, Melissa.  Eye on the prize.  I had no choice.  I had to persevere. 

Now it was nighttime again.  Night number two of labor, and still no baby.  Robbie's dad had left and it was just our moms and my sister there with us.  As determined as I was, part of me still felt hopeless.  I was only dilated to 2 cm now, and the pain was excruciating.  I felt so beat up, and all of the excitement and bliss of birthing my little girl had been replaced with uncertainty.  I'd been working so hard and I just wasn't progressing.  I starting overhearing the phrase "emergency C-section" from the nurses.  And although I was okay with that if it was the only way (I had to get this baby out!), it brought about a whole new set of fears. Then, in the midst of yet another moment of feeling like I couldn't go on, a nurse named Carolyn came on duty, and I'm pretty sure she was my guardian angel.  I'd seen a good dozen nurses by this point, but this one in particular was so kind and gentle and patient.  Carolyn told me that Essley and I would be okay, no matter how we had to get her out.  She held my hand through my contractions and told me what an impressive job I was doing, and that she was so proud of me, and that I was so strong.  She made me feel safe, but also reminded me that I was a tough, independent, bad ass woman who was rocking this freaking labor.  It was exactly what I needed.

At 11 PM, after 25 hours of labor, I started to violently shake.  Then I vomited everywhere.  My angel nurse had been very supportive about me not getting the epidural, but at this point, she gently suggested that maybe I consider it.  Apparently, my body was dangerously close to going into shock, and there were instances where epidurals had helped womens' cervixes relax enough to dilate fairly quickly.  I initially refused, but then a contraction so intense that it caused me to let out the one and only scream of my labor changed my mind.  Also, if getting the epidural might prevent the emergency C-section (that I later learned had already been scheduled for 6 the following morning, just in case), then it was worth giving it a chance.  26 hours after labor began, I got the epidural.  And it was, without a doubt, the biggest physical relief I've ever felt in my life.

Getting the epidural that I so resisted ended up being the best decision I could have possibly made. I finally felt like I could sleep (after being awake for nearly 40 hours), so we sent the moms and my sister home for the night.  It had also helped me dilate - I was now at a 3 (7 cm to go!). Robbie and I both drifted in and out.  They still had to monitor my blood pressure every 30 minutes, and although they were infinitely less intense, I could still feel the contractions.  I told Essley that mommy was really, really ready to meet her.  Then, a little before 2:30 AM, the nurse checked my cervix, and I was a 6!  What?  I couldn't believe it - the epidural had actually worked in relaxing me enough to really dilate!  Robbie got up and got dressed. I remember asking him, in a haze, why he was getting up for the day.  I was legitimately confused.  After all, it had taken almost 29 hours to go from a 1 to a 6, and I assumed we still had a long way to go.  I was wrong.  Less than half an hour later, I was at a 9.  Robbie called our moms and my sister, the nurses called the doctor, and we prepared to welcome Essley into the world.


At 3 AM, I was at a 10, and it was time to push.  I could only have two people in the room, so my sister stood at my left side and Robbie at my right, while our moms waited outside in the hall.  I'm not going to lie.  Pushing out this babe wasn't glamorous.  I puked.  I pooped.  I shook so hard I almost fell off the bed.  But after nearly 30 hours of labor, I can sincerely say that pushing was a piece of cake.  I also gave it everything I had you guys.  I mean, there was no complaining at this point, and no being a wimp.  I was a machine.  Essley's heart rate did start to drop which caused a brief scare, but they popped an oxygen mask on my face, and I kept at it.  Her little head, covered with hair, began to appear.  What a strange feeling that is - seeing for the first time that your baby is real.  No ultrasound can prepare you for that first glimpse of the little human who lived inside of you for almost ten months.  It's pretty surreal. 

Funny side story: My husband, who is the calmest, most laid back person I've ever met, and who so successfully convinced me during labor that we had nothing to worry about, started to pass out right as the baby crowned.  Some serious sleep deprivation combined with the reality of this setting in combined with a fear that something could go wrong - after watching so many of our friends' babies end up in the NICU over the past year - and he started to go down.  Thankfully a little grape juice saved the day and he was back in action after a couple of minutes.

I only had to push for 40 minutes, which after the endless, grueling course of labor felt like absolutely nothing.  And at the end of those 40 minutes, a sudden burst of energy appeared out of thin air like a shot of adrenaline, and I gave the push to end all pushes - which was followed immediately by a sweet, high-pitched cry.  Our baby girl was here.  SHE WAS HERE!  Essley Morgan Williams was born at 3:42 AM on December 28th, 2013.  She was 8 pounds 1 ounce, and 21 inches long.  She was covered in stuff and swollen and purple and had a cone-shaped head and was all sorts of funny looking, but somehow, to this new mom, she was the epitome of pure beauty.  This was love.

I don't remember many details after this.  I do remember them placing her on my chest, and helping me to get her to nurse.  I remember her tiny, wet hand clenching my finger.  I remember my sister and husband both crying, although I don't think I did.  I was too busy staring at my little girl, unable to look away.  I'm not going to sugarcoat things - I was terrified.  For months, I had pictured this moment, certain that I'd be thinking "this is the most perfect, miraculous thing ever and all is right with the world."  Truthfully, it was more like "holy shit, I have to keep this little creature alive and I have no idea what I'm doing."  But I also felt like suddenly everything made sense.  It was almost like there had been a void of which I was never completely conscious, and now that void was gone, and things were complete.


Within an hour, we were moved into the recovery room.  Sometime after this, the tears started for me.  I never really wept, but I do remember tears just streaming down my cheeks, because I was so incredibly relieved that Essley was finally here, and she was healthy (aside from a little jaundice that was easily corrected), and I was healthy, and the most physically agonizing experience of my life was over.  Now the real adventure could begin.

When you're expecting your first child, you're told by pretty much everyone that you're never going to sleep again, that your life will completely change, that you'll spend ridiculous amounts of money, that you'll have to sacrifice so much...  You're also told that you're about to experience a love like nothing else - something that is so powerful, it seems impossible.  Well, it's all true, to a degree.  I'm always tired now.  Everything really has changed.  Babies aren't cheap.  My needs no longer come first.  But all of those things are overshadowed by the pure, almost indescribable love you feel for your child.  It is a love so potent and mighty that you feel completely overcome and the rest of the world disappears.  My labor and birthing experience wasn't one of fairytales.  It was really, really hard.  It was the hardest thing I've ever done in my entire life.  But I'd do it again in a second for this kind of love.  In a second.

Essley, you are my universe.  Thank you so much for making my life infinitely more awesome.  Every contraction, every scare, every ounce of pain was beyond worth it, because in the end, there was you.  My greatest love.



And that's that.  The day Essley was born was the best day of my life, and it keeps getting better.  Thank you for letting me share our story with you.  If any of you have birth stories you've posted, please leave a link in the comments.  I'd love to read them.

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Monday, April 28, 2014

Under the Stars // A Camping Wishlist


A Camping Wishlist // Bubby and Bean
1. Camp Brand Goods Happy Camper Tank Top, UO  //  2. Opinel Folding Saw, Brook Farm General Store  //  3. Stanley Classic Thermos, Target  //  4. Coleman Green Valley Sleeping Bag, Target  // 5. Camp Get Enough Sandwich Maker, Modcloth  // 6. UCO Original Candle Lantern, The Clymb  //  7. Camp Chef Cast Iron Teapot, Kohls  //  8. Cascade Glacier Trail Crew Liquid Soap, Juniper Ridge //  9. Light My Fire 6-Piece Meal Kit, The Clymb  //  10. Trail Remix Radio, Modcloth  //  11. Alps Mountaineering Morado 2, The Clymb 


Although we're only a month into spring here in the northern hemisphere, and the weather of the midwest is only just beginning to climb into non-winter temps, I can already feel myself itching for a camping trip.  The art of camping, in one way or another, fills an almost infinite number of summer memories for me.  I remember sitting aside the lake with my parents in Door County, Wisconsin, maybe 3 years old, eating s'mores we'd just made on the fire, listening to the waves.  I remember on my first road trip to New York City spending a couple of days in a tiny tent deep in the Pennsylvania forest, cooking veggie burgers on a camping stove and making big city to do lists with my girlfriends.  I remember hiking deep into the Rocky Mountains on an impromptu midsummer Colorado adventure, and waking up in the morning to the sweet smell of sage after a night of barefoot dancing and the deepest sleep under a massive sky. 

Now that I have a four month old baby, I'm not quite sure if camping will play a role in this summer's festivities.  But that hasn't stopped me from daydreaming about being back under the stars - or perusing around online for gear and compiling this camping-themed wishlist.  I'm pretty minimalistic when it comes to camping, and although I like to be comfortable, I can usually make do pretty well without a lot of extras.  I do think that there are certain pieces of camping gear that can make or break your experience though, like your tent and sleeping bag. I'd love a small, high quality tent like #11 from The Clymb, and an equal parts practical/affordable/cute sleeping bag like #4 above, from Target.  And because I'm not one to turn down fun details in any experience, I've also included some more trivial goodies, like #1 from Camp Brand Goods, and #10 from  Modcloth.

Whether you're a seasoned outdoors enthusiast who likes to rough it or someone who prefers a slightly more pampered/less rustic experience, I hope that this little roundup inspires the summertime camper in you.


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Sunday, April 27, 2014

Come Be A Part of Bubby and Bean in May!


Come Be A Part of Bubby and Bean in May!

There are only four days left in April, which means it's time for the official monthly sponsor call here at Bubby and Bean.  If you have a shop, blog, Etsy store, or small business, I'd love for you to be a part of the blog in May!  A Bubby and Bean Sponsorship is an affordable, effective way to promote your brand to several thousands of interested people every single day.

Bubby and Bean works with companies big and small through banner advertising, sponsored content, product review, sponsored giveaways, and other means of custom collaboration through this blog and social media integration. For more information on our various advertising packages, current stats, press, and pricing, visit our newly updated sponsor page right here. You can also book banner ad spaces there directly in one click.  (There is currently a handful in each size still available for May.  All ad spaces are first come, first serve.) 

Have questions?  Feel free to contact me

Friday, April 25, 2014

April GIVEAWAY // Win Clothing, Paper Goods, Home Decor & More!


Big April GIVEAWAY at Bubby & Bean // Win Clothing, Paper Goods, Home Decor & More!

Happy Friday!  It's time for this month's big giveaway, which features some pretty amazing items from several of Bubby and Bean's April sponsors (and Bubby and Bean Art too!)  One lucky reader will win everything you see here, valued at $210.


1. A handmade POMPOM GARLAND from LITTLE KNITTY THINGS. $20 value. (Visit this shop.)

2. An ORGANIC DRESS/CIRCLE SKIRT (can be worn as either!) from GAIA CONCEPTIONS in your choice of color/fabric. $120 value. (Visit this shop.)

3. A $30 SHOP CREDIT from BUBBY AND BEAN ART. $30 value. (Visit this shop.)

4. One month LARGE AD SPACE from LITTLE TREE VINTAGE. $40 value.  (Visit this blog.)


This giveaway is open to Bubby and Bean followers/subscribers.  If you're a new reader, please make sure to subscribe first through GFC or Bloglovin' in order for your entry to count.
Then just leave a comment telling me which item you'd most like to win.


Once you've completed the mandatory entry above, you can also gain one additional entry for EACH of the following.  (*Please put each extra entry in a SEPARATE comment in order for it to count).

This giveaway runs through May 2nd and is open to Bubby and Bean subscribers worldwide. The winner's name will be chosen randomly and announced shortly after.  IMPORTANT: Please make sure that you check back after the 1st and/or that there is a way to contact you through your entries in case you are the winner.  Thanks again to our April sponsors for contributing such fantastic prizes!  Good luck!


Thursday, April 24, 2014

1 Year Ago Today (+ A Lesson Learned!)



I just had to share the above image (terrible quality but with purpose) with you guys.  I posted it on my Instagram yesterday to announce that it had officially been one year since I found out I was pregnant with Essley.  In the caption, it said: "One year ago today we found out Essley was coming.  Now we've got a little best friend."  Immediately I started getting texts, comments, and emails from people who thought we were announcing another pregnancy.  Oops!  Once I looked at the image and caption I realized how confusing I made it.  No more quick posts to Instagram that involve anything having to do with major life events on days when my brain is working overtime!  Lesson learned.

All that said, it was one year ago (yesterday, technically) that we got our positive pregnancy test after many months of trying, and life was never the same again.  I love Essley so much it's almost ridiculous.  From finding out I was pregnant until now has been the most intense, amazing period of my life. I know I say this all the time, but I can't wait to see what comes next.

And that's it for today.  Short and sweet.  It's been a crazy busy week because Robbie is finally back home from tour for more than 48 hours (10 whole days this time!), so I've been frantically trying to catch up on work stuff while he and Essley have their daddy daughter bonding time.  I have a lot planned for the blog over the next week, including a huge giveaway, finally sharing Essley's birth story, and some style posts I'm especially excited about.  Enjoy your day!

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Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Skin Authority Sun Glow Duo Giveaway Winner!


Skin Authority Sun Glow Duo Giveaway Winner!

Thanks to all of you who entered the Sun Glow Duo Giveaway for a chance to win a limited edition exfoliator and sunless tanner set from Skin Authority!  The winner was chosen via random.org, and that lucky Bubby and Bean reader is...



Congratulations Stephanie!  Please contact me at bubbyandbean (at) gmail.com with your mailing address so we can get you your prize.


Many thanks to Skin Authority for offering Bubby and Bean readers such a great prize!  And if you haven't yet, don't forget to enter our current giveaway for a chance to win a custom selection of teas based on your personality from our friends at Traditional Medicinals.

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Tuesday, April 22, 2014

My Favorite Girls // Essley Morgan + Auntie Morgan


My Favorite Girls // Essley Morgan + Auntie Morgan

My sister Morgan came up from Indianapolis to spend this past weekend with Essley and me for Essley's first Easter.  I was a little sad that Robbie was going to be on the road, so Morgan decided to surprise me.  The three of us had so much fun.  Despite the fact that Essley admittedly had absolutely no idea what was going on in terms of the holiday (she's not even four months, after all), we raged an egg dying party, followed by an egg hunt party, and she may have received more Easter baskets than I probably did throughout my entire childhood.  My sister and I also took Ess shopping, ate delicious things like fondue and vegetarian sushi and excessive amounts of Easter candy, watched bad girly movies, and had a whole lot of play time with baby. 

Essley's middle name is Morgan, after my sister.  My sis is also Essley's godmother, and she acted as my doula during my labor and birth.  Morgan was in the room the entire time, rubbing my back, guiding me along, and greeting our sweet little bean when she arrived.  The two of them have a pretty incredible connection.  I can't wait to see how their relationship blossoms as Essley grows. (Also: Essley got Auntie Morgan's eyelashes.  I cannot put into words the amount of envy I feel over that one.)


I decided to snap some pictures of them during a walk we took in a local park on Saturday.  The lighting wasn't the best and there were some weird shadows happening.  And I wish I'd gotten more shots.  But at least in my mind, you can still see the love between them, which is what really matters anyway.  I am so grateful for these two girls. They're my absolute favorites.

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Monday, April 21, 2014

Our 6th Annual Earth Day Project


The 6th Annual Earth Day Project

Some of you may remember from last year that in celebration of every Earth Day for the last 6 years, my earth-friendly clothing line Mountains of the Moon has put together something called the annual Earth Day Project.  In honor of Earth Day, we offer our customers a special discount, and then team up with American Forests to plant trees.  Last year, I decided to include Bubby and Bean Art (my line of art and greeting cards, which features eco-conscious papers and cardstocks), in on the fun.  I'm happy to announce that it will be participating in the project again this year as well.

In both shops, by using the coupon code EARTHDAY2014 today and tomorrow (Earth Day!), you'll get 30% off your order and 30% will be given to American Forests, who will plant one tree for every dollar we donate.  If you're looking for a sweet new organic dress for spring, or some 100% recycled greeting cards for Mother's Day or graduation, now is your chance to make a difference through your dollar - and save some dollars for yourself too! 


Do you do anything special in honor of Earth Day?


*Coupon code is valid through 04/22/2014 only. May not be used toward the purchase of gift certificates, or combined with payments made with gift certificates or store credits. Coupons cannot be applied after purchases have already been made.

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Friday, April 18, 2014

GIVEAWAY // Share Your Plant Personality + Win a Custom Tea Set!


Share Your Plant Personality and Win a Personalized Tea Set from Traditional Medicinals and Bubby & Bean!

Ever since I was a little girl, I've been interested in plants and herbs and their relation to wellness (thanks to my mom, who grew herb gardens since before I was born).  And equally as long, I've been a huge fan of Traditional Medicinals teas.  Sleepy Time has been my go-to comfort tea at night for more years than I can remember, and their organic Peppermint tea helped with the queasiness I experienced during my pregnancy.  They're also the kind of company I like to support.  For over 40 years (!) they've been focused on harnessing the power of plants, with a commitment to using high quality herbs and embracing ingredient purity, sustainability, and social and environmental activism. 

Recently Traditional Medicinals released the coolest little project called the Plant Personality Quiz, where you can answer a few questions and your unique 'plant personality' will be revealed.  In less than two minutes, you find out a the exact combination of plants that reflect your nature, provide insight into your personality, and highlight your 'plant allies' that may harmonize, balance, and complement or support your overall wellness.  Pretty cool, right?  My Plant Personality is Echinacea Ginger Passionflower (you can see my specific results and the meaning behind them right here).  My custom corresponding teas - all of which are certified organic and non-GMO verified - are Echinacea Plus (supports the immune system), Ginger Aid (promotes healthy digestion), and Nighty Night (relieves occasional sleeplessness).  I've been especially enjoying the Ginger Aid - it's deliciously spicy and sweet, and soothing on my tummy after mealtime.


It was so much fun to take the quick quiz (which is also aesthetically quite lovely), learn my results, and then receive a custom package that included the teas that coincide with my quiz results.  And now 3 of you are going to get to do the same - because Traditional Medicinals is giving 3 Bubby and Bean readers each a personalized selection of teas that match your unique Plant Personality!



To enter, just take the Plant Personality Quiz, then leave a comment below telling me your plant personality! 


Once you've completed the mandatory entry above, you can also gain one additional entry for each of the following.  (*Please list each extra entry in a SEPARATE comment in order for it to count).
  • Like Traditional Medincinals on Facebook
  • Follow Traditional Medicinals on Twitter
  • Follow Traditional Medincinals on Pinterest 
  • Post the top image from this post to Instagram with the following caption: Share your plant personality & win a custom tea set from @bubbyandbean & Traditional Medicinals! Repost for 1 entry. #bubbyandbeangiveaway #giveaway
  • Tweet this: Enter the Bubby & Bean and @TradMedTea GIVEAWAY to win teas based on your Plant Personality! via @MotM_EcoFashion http://bit.ly/1lfM7ek
  • Follow us on Instagram
  • Pin the top image from this post on Pinterest 
  • Click the Facebook 'Like' button below to like this post on Facebook 

This giveaway will run through April 24th and is open to all Bubby and Bean readers. The winner will be randomly chosen and announced shortly after. (Important: Please make sure to check back and/or leave a way to contact you in your initial entry.) Good luck!


Thank you to Traditional Medicinals for providing the prizes for this sponsored giveaway.

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