Pregnancy in a Pandemic

 Hi baby girl!

Being pregnant in a lockdown isn't something I've experienced before. Amelia was a new baby when our first Covid wave hit last year, and that was hard enough. I missed my village, people missed her growing up, she missed out on having a Meet & Greet, a Christening AND a first birthday because of the constant outbreaks that popped up.

Now here we are, over a year later, and this newest outbreak is just as brutal, if not more. It's hard being pregnant with not a lot of support. Every visit alone. Every ultrasound alone. Feeling worried for the birth, for the restrictions, for the limitations. Seeing stories of new mother's birthing alone, away from their support partners. It's just brutal.

But every kick, every nudge, every wiggle... I'm so grateful for every single one. This is my last pregnancy, and I'm soaking it all up and so, so grateful to be here. Be safe and be well, friends. xx

elves in the wardrobe: a review

There are lots of baby and kids brands out there, and it can be hard to know where to start when you're looking to throw your support towards a small business. Elves in the Wardrobe is a one stop shop for organic clothing and accessories, and contain goodies from some of the most eco-friendly international and Australian labels. They're all about sustainability, ethical practices, and the softest organic cotton you'll find!

We have been gifted two beautiful items, and I'm thrilled to share them with you today.

This gorgeous Baby Rabbit Soft Toy would make the sweetest new baby gift or comforter - it's lovely and neutral, and oh so soft. Amelia took one look at it and claimed it as her own, now I don't have the heart to tell her it was a present for new baby! Made from natural, sustainable materials and organic cotton, it's the perfect size for little hands to hold. Isn't he sweet? 

Senger Naturwelt Organic Cotton Baby Rabbit

Speaking of new baby, this stunning Knitted Cocoon is absolutely exquisite. Made from 100% merino wool, it will keep your baby warm, safe, snug and comfortable without overheating. The Sand colour is perfectly neutral and it is designed to grow with your little one - with arms either in or out. Simply knot the bottom for a comfortable cocoon that will help keep your baby safe and sound from birth to approx 4 months of age.

Hvid Knitted Merino Wool Baby Sleeping Cocoon

I have my eyes on some more of their beautiful baby blankets and comforters, and I just know that you're going to love them too. Make sure you pop by and get browsing, but I warn you - there is so much to choose from, it might be best to grab a cuppa and put your feet up before you start!

You can sign up to the newsletter to receive 10% off your first order. Did I mention they have Afterpay available as well as free Australia-wide shipping for orders over $100? 

Breathe Gently was provided with a complimentary cocoon wrap and bunny toy from Elves in the Wardrobe for review - all reviews are my own. If you are interested in a product review appearing on Breathe Gently, please email me. #gifted 

You can also get in touch with me via my @mamajags Instagram page.

Redsbaby Connect Plus: A Review

We are thrilled to have been one of the first families in Australia to use the brand new CONNECT™ PLUS Baby Carrier recently released by Redsbaby.

This collection has been thoughtfully crafted to nurture a connection between parent and child, and is so comfy to wear. It has a versatile tri-layer system that keeps it at an ideal comfort level for both warm and cooler weather, the only carrier to seamlessly convert between three layers within moments and it's lovely and breathable. The padding is perforated to provide airflow and comfort, and it stops you from getting sweaty under the straps while baby-wearing. And... did I mention it has POCKETS? You can slip your hands in to cradle baby skin-to-skin and provide soothing/comfort as you're wearing them.

Can you spy the beginnings of a new baby bump here? :)

Best of all, they are endorsed and certified by Healthy Hips Australia, which as you know is very important to me with Amelia's ongoing Hip Dysplasia issues. They are ideal for babies both with and without hip dysplasia, as they promote the safe positioning of baby's legs in the M-Position.

The CONNECT™ PLUS can be worn until your child is 3 years old. It has four carry options (inward facing-newborn, inward facing, outward facing and back carry) depending on your baby/toddler's preferences. It suits Amelia now, and we can also use from birth when our new bay arrives later this year.

Make sure you check out the entire range of carriers, high chairs and prams on the Redsbaby website. We can't wait to come back and look for a newborn-suitable pram when Baby #4 arrives!

Are you a fan of baby wearing? 

Breathe Gently was provided with a complimentary Connect Plus from Redsbaby for review - all reviews are my own. If you are interested in a product review appearing on Breathe Gently, please email me. #gifted 

You can also get in touch with me via my @mamajags Instagram page.