THE PERFECT BACKPACK

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Sporting a diaper bag when you have a baby is a given, and the selection of bags has increased dramatically over the past four years. Baby registries are overwhelming and choosing the best product for each need can make you break a sweat. I spent hours of researching the best bottles, the best stroller and the best diaper bag before Elle and Levi were born, so let me make finding a great diaper bag easy for you.

First, some of the key qualities you want to look for are water resistance, size, pockets, style, cost and durability. You want a bag that is large enough to store your baby essentials, but not one that is so big you are going to hit people as you walk by them or get stuck on clothing racks as you shop. (Yes, that has happened to me several times. I have a tote bag that is perfect for carrying everything, but I have learned not to bring it to department stores). You also want a bag that is stylish enough that you don't feel like you have the label "mom" or "dad" written on your forehead, and an added bonus if you can find one that is gender neutral. These bags aren't cheap, but I promise you can also invest in a bag that stands the test of time. I've already been through two diaper bags before finding this gem.

It's by ONE DUO. They make the coolest backpacks that can convert into satchels. They also come with stroller straps that hook onto your stroller. Aside from the amazing functionality of the bag, their design is on point. Right now backpacks are "in" overall. It doesn't matter if you're a mom or dad, wearing a back is cool. Plus, this bag fits in with the minimalist trend from top to bottom.

I chose their black bag because I wear a lot of black. I love that the wax canvas makes it wipeable, and I'm hands free to chase after the kiddos. I highly recommend this bag to parents or to anyone that is looking for a great backpack. 

Photo by Rennai Hoefer; Bag was gifted to me.

MY NEW LOVE INTEREST & GIVEAWAY

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This post is sponsored by Carter’s; however, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

Ryan won my heart, but Levi has stolen it. Being a mom to a boy feels different than being a mom to my daughter. Not better, not worse...just different. I'm the first woman he has loved, and it feels so special. Moms of boys told me leading up to Levi's birth that it would feel special in this way, and they sure were right. So, I have started to take Levi on dates just like Ryan has taken Elle on dates for he past three years. And, to celebrate turning Levi turning nine months old, I have teamed up with Carter's to share with you what we love to do on our dates together.

Ryan and Elle always go on a date to Starbucks so she can talk to him all about her ideas, eat madeleines and drink chocolate milk. Levi, on the other hand, loves to eat and run (or shall I say crawl). So, our dates include good food and any place that lets him roam free and explore. I dressed him in a Carter's Little Baby Basics t-shirt that says "wild one," because he is sure is wild. He wore black and white striped pants and his mini Birksenstock style sandals from Carter's. I really want to get a pair just so we can have matching shoes. He is too young to be embarrassed by that, right. ;)

I took him to The Original Chop Shop for a cold pressed juice and a chia pudding parfait. His favorite part is pounding on the table and staring at new faces. While he is doing that I just stare back at him, and marvel at how nine months have already passed by since we first met. Of course, I strapped a bib on him because he is the messiest eater in the world. Somehow food ends up glued in his hair and eyebrows every time. I love that Carter's makes bibs that coordinate with their outfits too. 

When we play outside Levi wears nothing but a soft, breathable onesie because it's so warm in the summer. I love this cute outer space onesie. You don't see black onesies too often, so I liked that Carter's offered something modern and different. Plus, onesies show off those delectable baby thighs. (Can he stay little forever?!)

Being a fashion stylist, I thought dressing a boy wouldn't be as fun as dressing a girl. I thought wrong. I love dressing Levi because it's so easy and there are endless outfit combinations between the shirts and pants and onesies he can wear. Carter's makes dressing kids a breeze with all of their matching sets down to the accessories. I think everything in Levi's closet is Carter's just because it's also affordable. This kid grows like a weed. Did you know he is wearing 18 month clothes at he is only nine months old?! Holy smokes we have gone through a lot of clothes very fast! If you're in the same boat and you are looking for stylish, affordable clothes for your littles, look no further than Carter's. Carter's actually has a 20% coupon that you can use until July 4th. 

We finished our date with some exploration, chalk writing and kisses. I think next time we'll go to the splash pad or the zoo. I would love to hear where you want to take your daughter or son on a date. You can WIN a $100 Carter's gift card if you comment below before 5pm on Friday, June 10th with your date idea, and you can have additional entries by visiting my Facebook page or following me on Twitter. NOTE: In order to track ALL entries I am using Rafflecopter. See the widget below to enter. I promise you won't get any spammy stuff. It's just to make sure the contest is fair and square. The winner will be notified by email, and I will personally send the gift card to you.

Photos by Rennai Hoefer