Runaway time

Time, they say, can be a mighty healer. But on the other hand it can also be your cruelest tormentor. 

Have you ever wanted time just to stand still, even if just for a short time? Have you ever wanted time to speed up so you didn't have to endure the inevitable wait ahead to know everything would work out? 

I have, both, on seperate occasions. 

The time I have most wanted to stand still is surrounding the time we lost our Penelope. When they first ever told me she had passed away inside my womb, time for me seemed utterly irrelevant. But when I left hospital to return home with my little girl, to return in 2 days to give birth, all I wanted was time just to STOP! 

I didn't want to labour my beautiful girl. I didn't want her to be taken away from me afterwards. I wanted them to leave me and Penelope alone so that we may forever be together. I didn't want anyone else to touch her. Or me. I didn't want anyone to touch me, comfort me, tell me they understood. How could they possibly understand?! How could they even think to suggest that they even felt close to the despair and utter grief I felt?!

I didn't want to go through the funeral! How I ever stood on the other side of those doors after her funeral and not demand one final cuddle? Maybe she needed it as much as I did? 

I felt so alone in those days. I attended the funeral director appointments alone. I had my final chance to say goodbye there and I am so glad I did. 

I wanted so much for time to stop. Just so I could catch my breath. 

But the Jessica came along and all of a sudden I find myself wishing time away. Wishing the time away it took to fall pregnant again. Wishing the time away of my whole entire pregnancy. Wishing the time away of her birth, despite wanting it to be magical for us, just desperately wanting her to be here and safe and well!

And then 3 hours after birth, she was admitted to SCBU! I couldn't wish that time away enough. I wouldn't sleep, for 2 whole weeks! I'd wake at 3am and go round and visit until the sun rose just before 6am, then they would send me back to get rest and Id be back at 8.30 in time to see the on duty Dr doing his rounds. And just spent all my time next to her cot. 

The 20 minutes it took them to get round to administering the life saving medicine to see if it would work or not was awful. I wished that was whisked along faster. The moment they told me it had worked and would only get better from here on out, I collapsed in a heap on the floor in tears frantically thanking the nurse who delivered the news. Then rushing in to resume my place by Jessica's cot, thanking the Dr multiple times through sobbing tears. 

The longer than normal period that it took Jessica to come off the oxygen, that definately could have been whizzed please, especially some of the doubting predictions from the pessimists and the roller coaster feeling of then receiving predictions from the optimists. That wax tough. And the unwanted interference from a nurse who put our return home back at least a day! 

But now I'm back to wanting time to stand still again! Sometimes. My little girl is growing so so fast but then every day she grows stronger, and her character develops more with each day, and she learns new things and tries a little harder to progress each day. 

Now, you wouldn't even think that she was 4 weeks early. And that she had a rough start. Her development is on par with most babies her age (4 months old) and she has picked up weaning remarkably well with an ever expanding appetite. 

Both my little girls will always make me proud and right now, I'm happy with time plodding on. I will always have time to think about my Penelope. She never leaves my thoughts. 

Family Sunday?

Sundays to me are a family day. And I adore them! 

The only thing that is a bit pants is that it is the last day of the weekend but it is so much better to be positive about this day! 

I love the lie ins (which I only have several left of before Jessica arrives) and the housework, cooking the other halves favourite meals and really making a fuss of him and making sure he is ready and relaxed for the week ahead. 

It's not a totally selfless task though, he is very helpful on Sundays doing a dump run almost every weekend while I have been trying to get the house ready for our little bundle of joy. 

I can really make an effort with dinners on Sundays, you always feel like you have more time to yourself. I never do a full roast as that isn't really 'my thing' though. Am I the only one that thinks that roast dinners are a lot of hassle for not enough enjoyment? You're always sick of looking at it by the time you sit down to eat it. 

I'm very much looking forward to tonight's dinner, spicy chicken (the technique unashamedly stolen) and handmade chips that gives the other half the excuse to get out his horrid deep fat fryer from the cupboard! And a lovely big salad for my plate!!!! 

It's also a day for me to take stock and think about my week ahead and the tasks that must be completed and any little projects I want to try and get completed. 

All of this could is a lot more difficult than usual. With a little wriggly monster using my skin as a Pilates band with her feet and the SPD restricting me from doing a lot, I have a lot against me. Luckily for me I have been in nesting mode for months so I have been very pro active doing the things that I need to get done. And those things that I physically cannot do I have had some amazing support and spare bodies around to save me from my frustration. 

I have so much to do next week already! I've painted the box to hold all the special bits to serve as a memory box for Jessica and I want to finish decorating that. I want to finish the crochet blanket I am making for her. I would love to make some little cafe curtains for the kitchen which should only take an hour to make, including measuring up and I'm desperate for a new battery for my watch too before I have Jessica. 

Add on top of this 6 months worth of filing which I have to do and I have also decided to completely re do my filing system, and my wedding folder that I need to reorganise which will all help me with my housewife duties once little Jessica is here! 

I love Sundays, they always make me feel so good about the week ahead and give me and my other half a real chance to catch up and plan what we need to do the following week and this week we have a midwife appointment where I can grill her over my induction and a friends wedding reception to attend so I need to start fighting out what to wear!!!

What's your favourite thing about Sundays? I'd love to know! 

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Had a bit of a broken day today

34 weeks and 2 days. 

I thought this morning that I was going to have a wonderful day but my lovely pregnancy hormones got the better of me. 

It's always the smallest of things that set you over the edge isn't it? 

I got up bright and early this morning and had my usual breakfast of yummy coco pops. And obviously I'm blaming the baby for my coco pops cravings..... And felt really positive about all my jobs I had to get done. 

Our poor lovely Tigger needed to go to his vet appointment this morning cos he had a poorly eye which was making him very sorry for himself so I jumped (as much as a heavily pregnant woman can) into the shower. 

First progress barrier: no shampoo!!!!! Surprisingly, this got me quite upset and panicky. I dived out the shower, dripping wet long and thick hair, and delved into my back up box. No back up bottle!!!!! Now what? I got back into the shower in tears trying to figure out what to do. I couldn't not wash my hair so I ended up using shower gel and lashings of thick conditioner to try and rescue my hair. My hair goes brittle within seconds if I don't use the right thing on it. So, mega disaster narrowly averted. 

Then after getting myself barely ready, I got myself and my dog, Jimmy ready. I had heard somewhere in the past that it is best not to put a cat in a travel box until the last second as it is quite distressing for them. 

Little did I know that it would be more distressing for myself than poor Tigger! 

Second progress barrier: He wouldn't go in and he was sticking his legs out and pretty much screaming at me. 

I let go of him and just started crying!!!!

I called my other half and cried down the phone to him. I wasn't sure what he would have done, but I called him anyway. 

He suggested I call the vets to at least let them know I was going to be running late. 

I called the vets and asked if they had a sure fire way of doing this process stress free and they did, and it was magic!!!! 

She suggested I tip the crate on it's end so the open door was facing upwards, then grab Tigger by the scruff of his neck and lower him gently but firmly, back feet first, into the crate. 

It was incredible. He went straight in and off I went to the vets. 

My poor Tigger has got conjunctivitis! 

After this all happening before lunch I was so exhausted. I just wanted to stay in and chill out after that. I just managed to do some housework but I have also done a few minor bits in the nursery too. It has made me feel so much better about 'being ready' for Jessica. 

I've got just 11 days left until I'm being induced. 

Next panic: my hospital bags!!!!!!!!! 

Vintage Hostess Menu Planning

Small Afternoon Tea

Cucumber Sandwiches

Petal Tartlets 

Hot Fruited Teas 

Crystallised Ginger 

Salted Nuts

Cucumber Sandwiches

Cut sandwich bread slices into rounds; lightly cover each with soft butter (about 1/4 teaspoon) or 1 teaspoon whipped cream cheese. Fill each 2 rounds with a thin cucumber slice. 3 rounds (2 inches) per slice. 

Petal Tartlets 

Sparkling 'flowers' to brighten your tea tray. 

1/2 cup shortening (part butter or margarine) 

1/2 cup sugar 

1 egg 

3/4 teaspoon vanilla 

1 1/2 cups plain flour 

1/2 teaspoon salt 

1/4 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda 

Strawberry, cherry or apricot preserves 

Mix shortening, sugar, egg and vanilla. Stir flour, salt and soda together; blend into shortening mixture. Mix thoroughly with hands. Refrigerate dough for several hours or overnight. 

Heat to 400F. Roll dough 1/8 inch thick on lightly floured cloth- covered board. Cut with 3 inch round scalloped cutter. Ease rounds into muffin cups. Fill each with 1/2 tablespoon preserves. Bake about 12 minutes. Cool a few minutes before removing from muffin cups. Set each tartlet on a washed green leaf, if desired. 

Makes about 18 tartlets. 

Hot Fruited Tea 

5 cups boiling water 

5 tea bags or 5 teaspoons tea 

10 whole cloves 

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon 

1/2 cup sugar 

1/4 cup lemon juice 

1/3 cup orange juice 

3 unpeeled orange slices, cut in half 

Pour boiling water over tea, cloves and cinnamon. Cover and let steep for 5 minutes. Strain tea; stir in sugar and fruit juices. Heat to just below boiling. Serve hot with orange slice in each cup. 

6 servings. 

So give the girls a call and get creating. This is an easy, no fuss recipe. And don't forget to pop over to our Facebook page and share your experiences of creating this fabulous afternoon tea. 

https://m.facebook.com/PenelopesVintageWorld

All recipes taken from Betty Crocker's Hostess Cookbook. First Edition. 1967. 

Vintage Fashion

Featured Vintage & Retro Fashion Retailer.   

Retro Daisy - Worthing, West Sussex & Online. 

So once a week I will be featuring a vintage fashion retailer of designer that I adore and this week, the first week I am doing this, I felt my obvious choice would be the fabulous Retro Daisy Vintage. 

This is a local shop for me and I feel so blessed to have the wonderful Shar and all her fabulous dresses so close that I can literally touch them! 

Shah is a massive Marilyn Monroe fan also which automatically makes her amazing! 

Her store is amazing, with fabulous stock. Dresses from Hearts and Roses, Collectif, Freddie's of Pinewood, Pin Up Girl Clothing and The Seamstress of Bloomsbury to name but a few. She stocks dresses, cardigans, handbags, shoes, hair accessories and even some men's rockabilly shirts! 

Some of the designers stocked at Retro Daisy Vintage, Worthing. 

You can even pick up your current issue of Your Vintage Life magazine! 

There is also a rail of some very exciting real vintage pieces for sale. 

Surely this is everything you could want from a Vintage Boutique?! 

Top this off with the friendly service you get every time you walk over the threshold, it truly is a space where you could return to over and over to, even for just a casual browse at the new stock. 

They are always adding new items to their website and Facebook pages too so you know exactly what is coming up for sale. 

Sales are taken in store at Warwick Street in Worthing and online via their website (please find details below). 

Also, they are currently running a competition to win a dress from the Hearts & Roses range. Please find the post pinned to the top of their Facebook page. 

Online store: http://www.retrodaisy.com 

Facebook page: https://m.facebook.com/RetroDaisyVintage

Instagram: @retrodaisyvintage 

Let them know who sent you. 

Lots of love, Fiona xxx

Find me on Facebook for updates of more posts https://m.facebook.com/PenelopesVintageWorld

I feel like I have finally bloomed!

Today I am 34 weeks and 1 day. 

Yesterday we had our date of induction confirmed for 9th July 2014. I am so relieved that we are not going over our 36  week threshold. We have been told to 'report' to the hospital at 10am on that day and to bring a bag as I will be kept in as an in-patient. 

Today I went for a bit of a pampering session at a lovely little salon in Brighton who also specialise in vintage hair and make up. I will definately be going back there for more treatments once little Jessica has arrived. I need a good excuse to go and try their skills out in vintage up dos and make up too! Their website can be found at Www.betty-Lou.co.uk and don't forget to let them know where you heard of them. 

I then went and had a lovely cup of tea with my wonderful friend Sammi and her little princess Leah and her nan was also there too which was lovely. It was so lovely talking to her nan, she is such a lovely lady with so many wonderful stories! Perfect end to my afternoon. 

I then accompanied my other half to the VW Heritage Party, whom he works for, at their new premises in Shoreham. 

It is a huge premises and already looks very impressive inside! They have a huge expanse of space for all their wonderful stock and it was so good to see where the purpose built workshop was going to be for my other half to work his magic in. 

They had on display some of the work that my other half has done to date which was really nice to see, aswell as some of the incredible vehicles of VW Heritage's staff and customers. 

Their Facebook page can be found at https://m.facebook.com/vwheritage they are also on Instagram @vwheritage 

I also met up with some lovely people I have previously met and some new faces too that work for the company or part of the 'extended family'. It really is a nice community to be around. 

I really had a good day today and it was made all that much better by the lovely compliments I got on my bump! Like I said, I finally feel like I've bloomed! People keep telling me how neat my beautiful bump is and that really makes me feel pleased that I haven't let myself go too much. So thank you to those who said something nice about it! 

Don't forget to go and check out the Betty Lou website and the VW Heritage page and Instagram account. There is already some photos appearing from tonight. 

Xxx

Crafting

Furniture Painting for the Nursery

So, it feels like quite a while ago that I acquired a lovely large piece of furniture destined to be turned into the changing unit for my baby (due in 2 weeks- eek!). 

It was originally in good solid condition but in desperate need of repainting. Especially as it didn't quite work with my colour scheme that I had in mind for the room. 

I had planned to have quite a vintage feel to the room with bursts of colour where I could also. In my mind I am still not convinced that I have achieved it but working to a budget it is quite difficult so I am proud of my efforts to date!  

I wanted four colours all in one room which consisted of yellow, pink, blue and green. I have painted all the walls yellow, the changing unit is pink with blue drawer  fronts and cupboard doors, the nursing chair is pink but I have come to a point where I am to fit a green into the scheme apart from the curtains and the carpet that already existed in the room. Do you think this us enough or shall I add it change something? 

The cot will remain white and the crib will stay unpainted, along with the chest of drawers and single bed which belongs to the landlord. 

Finished nursery photos to follow hopefully very soon!! 

Xxx

In need of sleep......!

Gestation. 34 weeks pregnant. 

Why is it when you are pregnant, everyone spends the time reminding you that this is your last opportunity to get any sleep and that you need your rest because 'when baby arrives, you won't get any sleep at all...'. Yeah, apart from the amount of hormones coursing through your body permit that from quite early on in pregnancy! 

Add on top of that the need to pee constantly, being woken by the most wonderful kicks, the odd dreams and horrific nightmares you experience and sleep is a distant known luxury, one you won't reclaim for yourself again for a long time to come. 

As for resting, how do you rest when there is always so much to do? I admit I have made it a particularly arduous mountain to climb as I have spent my whole pregnancy spring cleaning, throwing so much out, just to replace it with new, meaning my ever tolerant other half has done a dump run almost every week for the last 8 weeks so far. 

I have also had my living room, bedroom and nursery all repainted. I have employed the assistance of a dog trainer to help prepare my beautiful boy for the change in his life. I have cleared the garden and made it pretty with lovely flowers, nurturing the bees nest I have tucked away in the lower eaves of my house. 

I'm 2 weeks away from being induced now and now is the time for that last little push to get things done. 

I have just started to organise the items in the nursery now that has been painted, I need to sort my bags for hospital and ensure the rest of the house is ready. Sort the household filing, tidy away all my craft items and finish the crochet blanket for my little girls pram. 

I also think nerves are setting in a tad too around the birth. We hopefully find out the date that we are going to get booked in for our early induction this afternoon. Please keep everything crossed that it is a good date and we don't get put off again.....! 

Xxx

Hooking Mad!

It's been a week since I first picked up a crochet hook and now I can't put it down. 

I started small with some rows and started to try a little flower which surprisingly turned out very well! I found the YouTube tutorial soooo easy! I did have to start again twice as I kept getting a tad confused at the beginning but after it clicked, that was it! I was well and truly hooked and managed to make my first flower! 

This is the video I used to make it on YouTube. 

http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=dQeq7Hci_qU 

I then posted on the 'Sewfie Crochet Talk' group page on Facebook and shared my little flower and received so much lovely support and encouragement! I mentioned that I really wanted to try doing a granny square and I was told to just go and do it. 

So after watching another couple of YouTube videos, none of which I found entirely helpful on their own, I used two or three to get a general understanding of the pattern, I completed my first granny square in under 2 hours and here it is! 

Now a week later I have decided my first simple project should be a baby blanket for my little Princess due in July and now have this little stack going on! 

And now this morning, I have been awake an hour and already half way through another square which will be number 8! 

It is truly addictive! I find myself waking up early to pick up my hook and yarn to make even more squares! And the best thing about all this that makes it much more satisfying? 

My nana would be proud of me!!!! 

Don't forget to like my page on Facebook for more updates :) Facebook.com/penelopesvintageworld 

New addiction: probably doing it wrong....

I've got a new addiction. CROCHET! 

Oh my god it's soooo addictive! And so adaptable! 

I did a rough practice 'thing' just messing about and was doing it until midnight last night, after all my housework and a bit of spring cleaning (pregnancy dictates I must space it out a bit) 

Look what I created. It's not very neat mind. 

I think my favourite bit about it is the frilly edge, it's so girly! 

This is what it looked like halfway through. 

At this stage it was really flat and I was thinking if making a large doily for my blue wooden garden table as the colour clash would have been amazing but then, for some reason, it started going up at the sides. (Must find out why) 

This was right at the beginning yesterday morning when I had not long started. 

Next project is a headband (that can be tied) and then after that I really want to make myself a belt that I can tie above my bump to pull in some of my looser, less flattering items of clothing. 

I might try a slightly different yarn material for the belt. Something that won't bobble like wool. 

And I think something a bit stretchy for the headband too! 

Does anyone know of any pages on Facebook or any websites and recommend some fab yarn for my next couple of projects? I'd love to share some love in my blog about my next projects about some lovely products. 

I tried a headband this morning when I woke up whilst the other half was still snoozing and just used DK wool which was actually recommended in the pattern. 

It's a bit of a messy look, I need to focus more I think :/ but I do love crochet, It's so relaxing. 

Might spend a few hours doing some knitting now. Were having a lazy Sunday today so I can just potter around. 

I've had a look at some patterns for some other items but it need to remember to start small for now. I need to smarten up the basics first! Lots of you tube research. 

Note: I got the pattern for the headband from http://pinterest.com/pin/425871708485863677/ 

Stay tuned for more crochet updates coming soon! 

If you have anything else you'd like to have discussed please email me at penelopesvintageworld@gmail.com 

Alternatively you can message me at my Facebook page Facebook.com/penelopesvintageworld 

New Trend Alert: Kitsch Poodles!!

Poodles everywhere is a seriously kitsch 59's trend that's making a serious come back. 

You can get them anywhere! You can have them everywhere! Take a look at all the lovely goodies I found on Etsy. Squeeeeee!!! 

Poodles 

How stunning would this poodle family Planter look on your patio? Filled with some beautiful blue flowers maybe? 

http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/103606795/vintage-set-of-3-white-ceramic-poodles?ref=sr_gallery_1&ga_search_query=poodle+kitsch&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery

I've just redecorated my bedroom in the most gorgeous pink and this Switch plate would look amazing! But I might have to wait for a while as my other half is still getting over the shock of the pink walls. Tee hee. 

 

http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/16339277/sassy-poodle-kitsch-1950s-vintage?ref=sr_gallery_2&ga_search_query=poodle+kitsch&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery

This Lamp is just sooooooooo kitsch! Look at the attitude on the poodles face too! Isn't she just wonderful? 

http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/185256695/amazing-mid-century-kitsch-spaghetti?ref=sr_gallery_10&ga_search_query=poodle+kitsch&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery

This fabric poodle Necklace is so bright and beautiful (i keep singing the hymn in my head when I see this!) if you want to go seriously 50's, wear with a buttoned up cardigan and full skirt! 

http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/184385635/pink-poodle-fabric-necklace-retro?ref=sr_gallery_15&ga_search_query=poodle+kitsch&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery

This Figurine would be the perfect addition to any self respecting vintage lovers work desk! Just looking at her face will inspire you to keep going despite how hard it may get. 

http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/169915995/vintage-napco-yellow-and-white-ceramic?ref=sr_gallery_29&ga_search_query=poodle+kitsch&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery

I adore these Hair slides! Whether you buy them to wear yourself or have a little girl who loves gorgeous and cute hair accessories, these are sure to be a crowd pleaser. 

http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/172679980/kitsch-vintage-rockabilly-inspired?ref=sr_gallery_71&ga_search_query=poodle+kitsch&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery

Gah! I need to buy me some of these fab Earrings! They also do them in black for those who aren't keen on flashing too much pink but I have found that pink and poodles seem to go hand in hand so throw your reservations away and go for pink! 

http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/151402505/pink-poodle-earrings-bubblegum-pink-cute?ref=sr_gallery_74&ga_search_query=poodle+kitsch&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery

This skirt just encapsulates the entire 50's trend of poodles perfectly! I can see this skirt being worn in Grease with ankle socks! 😍

http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/59894372/ladies-50s-poodle-skirt-teal-with-black?ref=sr_gallery_1&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=poodle+skirt&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_ship_to=GB&ga_search_type=all

I love this style of soft Baby shoes and the poodles just make these shoes just that little bit more cute. Baby moccasins are so dreamy!  

http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/165513103/robeez-style-pink-poodle-baby-shoes-crib?ref=sr_gallery_1&ga_search_query=poodle+baby&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=GB&ga_search_type=all

Look at this baby Planter! If you know someone that is expecting and loves vintage kitsch, this will be the perfect individual gift and might end up with you being god mother! Look how cute her face is! 

http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/185695499/vintage-pink-and-blue-baby-planter-with?ref=sr_gallery_31&ga_search_query=poodle+baby&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=GB&ga_search_type=all

So do you already have some poodle kitsch in your life? If you do pop over to the Facebook page to share at Facebook.com/penelopesvintageworld or email me details to add on an upcoming post at penelopesvintagewares@gmail.com 

Don't forget to give my Facebook page a like and if there is any vintage research you'd like me to do for you, let me know. 

Until tomorrow my lovelies! 

Xxxxx

My favourite maternity finds!

Sometimes when your shape is changing so much, it is so difficult to find a dress to feel utterly dreamy in. 

I think we should all embrace our beautiful bumps and go on the hunt for some of the most adorable spring dresses specially designed to accommodate our wonderful curves. 

Here is a few of my favourites. 

ASOS ❤️ http://m.asos.com/mt/www.asos.com/Asos-Maternity/Asos-Maternity-Skater-Dress-With-Mesh-And-Lace-Panel/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=3892947&cid=8343&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=50&sort=-1&clr=Cream

Etsy ❤️ https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/177728550/maternity-gown-photo-prop-stretch-soft?

Nautical beauty from notonthehighstreet.com ❤️ http://www.notonthehighstreet.com/bumpaliciousmaternity/product/nautical-striped-maternity-dress

This little gem is in the SALE at mamas and papas! ❤️ 

https://m.mamasandpapas.com/products.php?category=maternity-clothes/shop-by-product/dresses-skirts-tunics#product-S0011251

Jojo maman bebe. Perfect for a wedding! ❤️ http://www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk/sp+cream-rose-print-maternity-summer-dress-in-maternity-dresses+b4908

So what's your excuse? Don't sit indoors, sulking in your joggers! Get outside and embrace the spring season in some utter beauties!!!! 

Email me at penelopesvintageworld@gmail.com for my regular blog updates and to ask me any questions relating to any of my posts 

Lots of love. Xxxxxx

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Email me at penelopesvintageworld@gmail.com for my regular blog updates and to ask me any questions relating to any of my posts xxxxxxx

Feeling 'normal' whilst heavily pregnant

Us bumpy ladies are always struggling to feel a little bit normal when carrying around an extra stone or 2 of baby. 

The waddle kicks in, the bigger boobs and tummy make you feel off balance and you're tired and fed up! 

But there are small things you can do to help yourself try and feel a little less like giving up on showering altogether and just throwing on some joggers...

1/ Always wear lip gloss and mascara. Even if you don't have time to do your vintage cats eye's eye liner, a quick flick of mascara and your favourite lip gloss will always be an instant pick me up. 

2/ Ensure you stay well hydrated and are eating lots of fruit and veggies. The more water you drink, the better your skin will look. And the more fruit and veg you eat the healthier you will feel and you'll know ghat you're getting some goodness in for your little bubba. 

3/ try wearing your pre-maternity clothes for as long as possible. It's amazing how long your long line tops, stretchy waistband leggings, trousers and skirts and all your fabulous dresses that cinch you in right under your bust. I am 23 weeks and still fit in a lot of my pre-maternity clothes! 

4/ Try and get early nights during the weeks when still working, your body will thank you in the morning and your boss will thank you when you're not flagging by lunchtime! If you want to get stuff done then try spread them out during the weeks and set little goals of things to do. 

5/ Every morning and night remember to pamper yourself a little by doing your Cleanse, Tone and Moisturise routine. Also, twice daily, moisturise that precious bump of yours!!! 

6/ Finally, remember to not be so hard on yourself by setting goals that are unrealistic. You're pregnant and carrying the most precious cargo ever. If there is something that you can't do, then don't do it. There is so much you still can do within healthy limits. 

I hope you get some happy moments and reduced miserable episodes from my handy tips today. 

If you have anything else you'd like to have addressed please email me at penelopesvintageworld@gmail.com 

Alternatively you can message me at my Facebook page Facebook.com/penelopesvintageworld 

Me in non-maternity clothes at 22 weeks! :) 

Maternity Wear from your own wardrobe

So, what do you lovelies have stashed away in your wardrobe that you thought you couldn't wear with a bump? 

Some pieces are a little more obvious than others such as your stretchy body con dresses, who ever said that your bump need to be hidden away in a very 1950's way. 

What about those stretchy body con pencil or mini skirts? You can either wear them tucked under your bump or if you have a calf length pencil skirt, pull it up to just underneath your busy and wear a vest top tucked under the skirt for a cute little French look. 

All your dresses that are cut under the bust, you can still wear those! If they look a bit too short by being lifted up by your bump, team with a pair of good quality leggings or jeggings or a pair of skinny maternity jeans. 

Maxi skirts and maxi dresses are definately an easy one! If the skirts have a stretchy waist band and the dresses don't cut at the waist, you can wear these with or without cardigans and wear with your favourite flat sandals, definately no more sky scraper wedges with your lack of balance these days! 

Hmmmm what else.... Oh yeah! 

If you are a fan of vintage, go through your mums and mum in laws lofts! I have a fabulous button down Etam dress from the 80's from my mother in law and a fabulous abstract chunky cardigan that I rescued from her big clear out too which I absolutely adore! 

The best finds are ones that are right under your nose, get creative, save money even try customising something you already have like an old pair of jeans by adding in stretchy side panels at the waist!?

Overwhelming frustrations because of the weather?!?!?!

This weekend is turning into a glorious first spring weekend out lovely little UK is experiencing of the whole year, and all I want to do is cry!

I love spring cleaning but my house is in a state of complete upheaval! 

Firstly, I decided I wanted to paint my house, so I got my wonderful mother and step father over to help me paint my mammoth living room with its glorious double height cielings and open landing which I utterly adore but turns out you need some very long ladders and nerves of steel to paint that high up (cue said wonderful step dad!). 

Then we had ALL this lovely rain we've all experienced and my house decided it was thirsty and every weak spot that it had was affected, the rain fall was so much so that a normal build house could physically not withstand the volume of rain we were having. Considering this though, we are lucky and still have a home when so many people were rendered homeless after the rain we had! 

Then I discovered mouldy spores on the inside of my wardrobe, where all my clothes are! Luckily all my vintage gems were untouched and yanked out in enough time, I think I've probably lost one white pair of jeans but I'm not emotionally attached to them so they can be easily replaced. But I need to do something with the inside of the wardrobe before I can put my clothes back in and they all need rewashing before too so my mum has promised to come over to help me paint mould stop paint on the inside of the wardrobe and has even offered to wash all my clothes again for me so I don't have to lug it all to a launderette myself. 

The same also needs doing downstairs in the nursery but until my living room is finished, I can't move my things from the living room, out of the nursery to be able to get into the wardrobe to paint it. 

Not only all of that but I also now need to baby proof my home so selling a lot of my excess lovely pieces is now necessary. I want less clutter so it takes me a lot less time to dust everything when I will also have a baby to care for. 

Today is a perfect day to do all of that and nothing can be done until next weekend now...... Apart from maybe a dump run with things I know I don't want and I know I won't sell.....

Now to wake the Mr up.............

Second Trimester Niggles

I don't really know why everyone says that the second trimester is 'plain sailing'? 

In comparison to the first trimester sickness and the third trimester indigestion and heartburn I can kind of see why it is the lesser of all three evils BUT I kid you not when I say the second trimester brings with it it's own trials and tribulations! 

I am no longer throwing up multiple times a day but I am suffering with relatively severe SPD, chronic daily headaches, exhaustion and a new one for this week again......crying!!!!!!!! 

I feel like a bag of nerves! 

I come into work to 'discover' my chair has left me for for a slimmer owner, and my cool and collected reaction was to slam my bag on my desk and hurl my coat under my desk. Then I turn round, grab the spare behind me and crack on with my day feeling very aware of my mild over reaction. 

I have felt so confused at work that I am second guessing myself and when proof reading and checking work I am making sure that I'm not being over zealous or too flippant. 

The stress of the simplest of things like adding a new printer is just beyond me and has me flying out of the office in an over emotional blubbering state. 

I don't know what's happened to me! I was so calm, blissfully happy and relaxed and now I am tearful, scared to say or do the wrong thing, or even stick up for myself! I want me back from 2 weeks ago. I can't deal with people as a general thing, I have a short list of my lovelies that have a mutual understanding of my sensitivities and know exactly how to cheer me up or keep me on at least a level playing field, and for those I am eternal grateful for. 

The best thing about the second trimester is when you start to feel your precious bundle wriggling and squirming around inside you! For first pregnancies that is unfortunately a few weeks after consecutive pregnancies BUT every wriggle, every kick, every delicious tumble is what reminds me that I am an incredibly strong person! 

I have done all this before, and please don't tell me it will all be worth it in the end, that's what they said last time and I never got to bring my Penelope home, never got to change her bum, feed her, dress her in the prettiest dresses. But I have waited and fallen again and been blessed with my ray of sunshine from my beautiful angel as a Christmas gift! And I am doing all of this all over again! I have to feel the gentle kicks of my second daughter knowing she will never meet her big sister! 

This is my pregnancy and I will be putting myself and my little girl first, over and above everything else in life. 

My rules. My Princess. ❤️ 

My clothing dilemma

Now, everyone that knows me well, knows I have a very healthy shopping habit. 

My 4 door wardrobe is so full up the doors barely close and I have other units full of clothes besides. 

I'm almost 15 weeks pregnant and already have quite a noticeable bump but I want a new dress! I'm feeling fed up so feel like I NEED a new dress, I'm sure others understand where I'm coming from? 

And I really want a lindybop retro style dress, I have a couple of their swing dresses already and utterly adore them but this time, I have spied a lovely land girl style tea dress which I think would be the right style to skim over a growing bump? If like something non maternity but light material for the slightly warmer weather that I am sure will creep up on us any day now. 

I'm sick of wearing jeans every day. I'm in a massive rut with my clothes. Who wants to wear a dress in this weather? No one. But when there is sunny days breaking through rainy nights, you can't help but to feel slightly positive about the arrival of spring, can you? 

I feel old but like I have witnessed a true revelation....

Airbrushing. 

On my phone. 

It means that you can be utterly vain and present yourself as the person you wished you could be. 

Only problem is, I need this to be more of a reality. I'm getting married later this year! 

I suffer with awful acne, have done since I was 13 and now I'm almost 28! I used to be on medication to 'try' and control it but as a pregnant woman, the risk of the harsh acne treatments is not worth the risk to the baby. 

So, aswell as inevitably getting fat and gross, I have very painful SPD so any kind of managing the house for my hard working other half is difficult, and I have this acne to try and get over too! 

Time after baby will be washing my face at least as showering daily might be difficult and throwing on some jeans and the baby in the sling and the dog on his lead and going for lovely brisk walks in the shade together. I'll have 5 months to fix my face and make sure I'm conditioned enough to get in the beautiful wedding dress I have chosen. 

I hope you'll all be there to support me in my journey and offer some fab tips for me to test out. 

Love Fi xxx

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My lovely airbrushed photo...........