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My Simple Wild

a motherhood & simple living blog

July 13, 2017 / lifestyle, Motherhood

My 14 Summer Essentials 

Happy summer everyone! Can you believe that we are already almost halfway through summer now?? YIKES! I love Autumn, but I am just not ready for that yet.

I wanted to share my summer must-haves for both me and my preschooler. I’m listing some really great products and brands here that I’m sure you will love too!

Post contains affiliate links which means I get a tiny commission if you make a purchase through any of these links. There is no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting New Momma Survival blog ! One product was given to me complimentary of Influenster to review and give my honest opinion. All opinions are my own. Read my full disclaimer here. 

  1. The Honest Company bug Spray is a new favorite for us . This is the first year that it’s been “buggy” in Denver since I moved here over 5 years ago ! I still very very rarely get bit but my son occasionally does and so does a lot of the kiddos I babysit. This is an all-natural Bug spray with organic lemongrass , rosemary oil, geranium oil, peppermint oil, cedar wood oil, and citronella oil. I HATE deet. Besides the nasty chemicals used , the smell gives me a terrible headache. This stuff smells great ! Like fresh lemongrass! [amazon_link asins=’B015HTJ8E2′ template=’ProductCarousel’ store=’Newmommasurvival’ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’63b8a8ad-58f4-11e7-8adc-db2a666819cf’]
  2. Our go-to sunscreen for Liam was always Babyganics. Though I still love Babyganics, I have just recently discovered the BEST children’s sunscreen ever!! I let my friend Lyndsi try it out on her preschooler too, and she went and bought herself a bottle online, right then and there. So what is so great about this sunscreen anyways? First of all, it is a light non-greasy formula, which means it is easier and faster to blend into the skin. And I know I am not the only one that sometimes has to hold down my child just to slather on some SPF, so quick application is a must. The other great thing is that it doesn’t have a heavy “sunscreen” smell that I hate. It’s just a light and fresh scent that doesn’t bother me or my son. A little goes a long way so I know this bottle will last me all summer long. It is also gentle enough for my son’s sensitive skin. So this one gets five stars from me ! I am recommending this one to everyone.[amazon_link asins=’B01MR6N3PL’ template=’ProductCarousel’ store=’Newmommasurvival’ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’89447807-67d5-11e7-9d6e-65f40079a9ae’]

    summer essentials
    Liam approves!
  3. A good pair of shades is always a must as my eyes have always been extremely sensitive to light. Though I do have several cheap pairs of sunglasses, I prefer a pair that actually protects against UVA and UVB rays from the very strong Colorado sun. It’s also important to get good shades for your kiddos too but can be hard to find a pair that has real UVA/UVB protection. You can find some great ones on Amazon! Here are a few of my favorites: [amazon_link asins=’B071QWK9TM,B06W2LSL5C,B071RKB3DN’ template=’ProductCarousel’ store=’Newmommasurvival’ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’3e8453c8-5b6a-11e7-83f2-b59909f1d395′]
  4. I use to be obsessed with hats when I was younger and then randomly I felt I looked odd in hats… but my hat obsession is back and I am loving floppy straw hats to protect my face from the sun and to pull an outfit together! I’m loving these on Amazon [amazon_link asins=’B06WP55GNN,B06XMQXJM6′ template=’ProductCarousel’ store=’Newmommasurvival’ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’2ce582d5-58f5-11e7-ad7c-73dd6f8e9380′]
  5. Chapstick is everywhere I go ! I have one in each room … seriously . I usually have at least two or three in my purse. I’ve always had dry lips and I’ve learned that if I keep them everywhere I look, then I can remember to keep applying throughout the day. My favorites are… [amazon_link asins=’B005KG7V3I,B00PFXSN9M,B00HMDX1IQ’ template=’ProductCarousel’ store=’Newmommasurvival’ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’9dc8bece-58f5-11e7-982e-13034b1c4186′]
  6. Again with dry skin… do you see a pattern here ?? A good facial moisturizer is so important! Something with natural ingredients, preferably anti-aging and that smells fresh. My two favorites are …[amazon_link asins=’B01GCJ6L4Q,B00Y3CXA6C’ template=’ProductCarousel’ store=’Newmommasurvival’ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’0afe0c83-58f6-11e7-b92a-8dd05ec5e5c8′]
  7. For some reason, I only seem to get puffy eyes in the summer. I’m guessing it’s because of seasonal allergies but it also could be because I get way less sleep during the summer months. I adore The Body Shop Pomegranate Firming and Refreshing Eye roll-on to cool and de-puff my eyes. I will also keep a spoon in the fridge door to gently place under my eyes for a few seconds in the A.M. [amazon_link asins=’B00HCNX26M’ template=’ProductCarousel’ store=’Newmommasurvival’ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’340e7098-58f6-11e7-b696-175644068827′]
  8. I’m sure I am not alone when I say I am a bit more smelly in the summer … am I right ?😂 It’s hot, I’m running around and I sweat more. Obvious,  right ? Finding a natural deodorant that actually works can be difficult ! I used the Toms brand and Jason brand for years but had to constantly reapply throughout the day. I’ve discovered an awesome new brand called Humble and I was lucky enough to try both the lavender deodorant and the cedar wood . People- I am in love . It really works all day ! It Smells amazing (who doesn’t love lavender) and I really like that it doesn’t apply wet and slippery. It’s a dry , thick formula that seems to actually moisturizer my underarms without drying out. I have been telling ALL my friends about this stuff ! #winning! [amazon_link asins=’B0711SYJFJ’ template=’ProductCarousel’ store=’Newmommasurvival’ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’9bc50a0e-58f6-11e7-aa38-b5c97c96a3e3′]
  9. Since I live in sandals for long as possible, I always want my toes looking great. I always use Jamberry products whenever I can because the nail wraps seem to last forever on toes and the lacquers are 8 free (No Formaldehyde, DBP, Toluene, Formaldehyde Resin, Camphor, Ethyl Tosylamide, TPHP, Xylene) so I can feel better about what I am using. Especially when you have teething little ones that want to chew on your fingers! You can check out all that Jamberry has to offer here . (Nail wraps are buy three get one free too!) My favorite lacquers and nail wraps right now are ..
    She’s Lovely- I loved the mixed florals !
    Free Spirit- this one has been a favorite of mine forever
    Sweet Sangria
    Pink Lemonade
    Beach Please

     

    10. Speaking of sandals …. I may have more than a few pairs …. like, I am a bit obsessed. I wouldn’t say I’m a “shoe girl ” unless we are talking about sandals. I am all about comfort , style and how versatile they can be. I really hate wearing socks and I would prefer to just be barefoot whenever I can, and sandals is the next closest thing! The sandals I bought from Target for this summer are…

  • Jana Quarter Strap Sandals by Merona    
  • Karina Leather Braided Heeled Huarache Sandals
  • Jewel Thong Sandals-Mossimo
  • Prudence Footbed Sandals

11. A great big bag to hold all my junk. Every summer I always end up needing a huge bag everywhere I go. Trips to the zoo, park and pool mean I’m bringing snacks , sunscreen, a towel or picnic blanket, toys , water bottles , extra clothes and                    then of course all my things ! If you head to Etsy you can find some really great customizable diaper bags that are unique and super functional ! I found this beauty at https://www.etsy.com/shop/MyEthicalWardrobe. They have different styles and sizes but I have my eye on this one.

This bag features a section of a hand-woven, vintage, one-of-a-kind huipil of your choice and luxurious, locally-sourced, top-grain leather. It’s super customizable with additional side pockets, backpack straps, and a bunch of inside pockets!

 

 

Another great Etsy find is this shop called Bag Envy. Again, you can customize the bag to fit your needs and there are lots of cute fabrics to choose from!

This one has a Convenient D-ring on the side for optional added messenger strap or stroller straps.
Vegan Leather Bottom and Vegan accents with
3 inside slip pockets,
double straps, Elastic bottle straps to keep bottle or sippy upright and a Snap closure

While I was in the mountains last week on a little vacation I found an awesome bag from a little store called The Mountain Gal in Grand Lake,CO. ( I am working on trying to find out the brand of this bag!) It has a funky print, long straps and its huge. The only thing missing is more pockets. There is only one little pocket, which is a bummer. But while on this trip I fit two rolled up beach towels, a swim suit, my wallet, a couple of toys, my cosmetics pouch and some snacks. That is what I am TALKING ABOUT! I also love that the lining in this bag is easily washable. I won’t be using this as my every day bag as it’s a bit too big, but it is the perfect bag for picnics and going to the beach.

12. Waterproof mascara is an essential ! I usually just wear it everywhere in the summer because I never know if we might head to the pool in the afternoon or have a spontaneous water balloon fight / slip n slide session. I love the Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara and CoverGirl LashBlast Volume Waterproof Mascara.[amazon_link asins=’B00PFCT036,B001MW8IVS’ template=’ProductCarousel’ store=’Newmommasurvival’ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’f5b01069-67d9-11e7-ba9a-99b83a92f9bc’]

 13. A refreshing facial mist is always in my bag . I recently made my own Rose water facial mist which you can read about HERE but if you aren’t much of a DIYr you should check out the Eau Thermale Avene Thermal Spring water and an organic          rosewater spray. These sprays are so great to freshen up your face and neck throughout the day, after a day at the beach or the gym, in the morning after washing your face …. it feels amazing to spritz a cool, soothing mist onto your face on a hot summer day ![amazon_link asins=’B002D48QUC,B00YMMENPK’ template=’ProductCarousel’ store=’Newmommasurvival’ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’ea883cc9-58f8-11e7-acbb-11c470b43bae’]

14. A good tinted moisturizer is a must for me when I am at the pool, camping, hiking, or even just running to the store. I don’t always wear foundation but I rarely leave the house without at least a tinted moisturizer. I like mine to be lightweight with medium coverage and SPF. My favorite right now is the Jouer Matte Moisture Tint Sunscreen in the color nude. It is oil-free,fragrance-free and has SPF 15. I layer this one over my regular facial moisturizer because my skin is so dry.  I love that it has a matte finish because most products like these I have to set with a powder to get rid of that shine. [amazon_link asins=’B009K71TJK’ template=’ProductCarousel’ store=’Newmommasurvival’ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’0101f125-67dc-11e7-a775-f97c131bf134′]

summer essentials

I hope you enjoyed my list of some of my favorite summer products ! Thanks for stopping by!

Have a beautiful day

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Comments

  1. Lindsay Fischer says

    July 13, 2017 at 8:15 pm

    That first diaper bag is EVERYTHING! 🙌

    Reply
    • Natalie Aubele says

      July 14, 2017 at 12:26 pm

      Right ?! ❤️❤️ thanks for stopping by Lindsay 🙂

      Reply
  2. Callie Wright says

    July 13, 2017 at 8:17 pm

    Thank you so much for this info! I will have to take some time out and check these products out.
    Thanks

    Reply
    • Natalie Aubele says

      July 14, 2017 at 12:25 pm

      Thanks for stopping by Callie !❤️

      Reply
  3. Renee S says

    July 14, 2017 at 1:49 am

    We love babyganics too!! But after reading a Comsumers Report article and their sunscreen being the absolute worst on the list, we decided to go with another brand too. Also, I’m doing a test run with Jamberry and even though today is only day two, I am really enjoying them!!

    Reply
    • Natalie Aubele says

      July 14, 2017 at 12:25 pm

      Oh wow ! I had no idea about babyganics ! And I love jamberry ! I use to be a consultant because I ordered so many of them 😂

      Reply
  4. Dani Brooks says

    July 14, 2017 at 6:05 pm

    I had no idea honest company made a bug spray! Definitely have to check that out! I’m also wishing I had a kid who liked to keep sunglasses on after reading this. It’s so weird to me when kids enjoy the sun glaring in their eyes! LOL

    Reply
  5. ohmummymia says

    July 14, 2017 at 7:48 pm

    nivea and big bag are my must have as well:) I can’t imagine summer without it

    Reply
  6. Samantha Kuzyk-Raising Twincesses says

    July 14, 2017 at 9:00 pm

    Great round up list! And omg I didn’t know honest company makes big spray! Crossing my fingers that I can find some here in Canada!

    Reply
  7. Lindsey says

    July 14, 2017 at 9:37 pm

    Honest Co and Burts Bees are two of my favorite brands. Great picks!

    Reply
    • Natalie Aubele says

      July 19, 2017 at 6:01 pm

      Thanks ! Me too 🙂

      Reply
  8. Rachel Catherine says

    July 15, 2017 at 2:30 am

    I love the idea of chapstick in there! You never notice how dry lips are till it’s too late!

    Reply
  9. Afra says

    July 15, 2017 at 4:41 am

    Love this omg! You have just given me a whole new shopping list hehehhe…love your sons name and I had no idea I should be putting proper shades on my kids, they are young though 2 And 4 years so maybe mainly
    For the elder one but I will definitely look for better quality shades 🙂

    Reply
    • Natalie Aubele says

      July 19, 2017 at 6:00 pm

      Awesome ! Haha yea that’s why my father never let us get cheap kids sunglasses growing up . He figured that if you’re wearing sunglasses and your pupils are then larger from the darkness of the glasses , letting in more UVA and UVB rays without actually any protection! I think it makes sense lol

      Reply
  10. Heyd says

    July 18, 2017 at 6:36 pm

    Awesome list!! I concur with having chapstick!!!

    Reply
  11. Jenette Martindelcamp says

    July 19, 2017 at 7:41 pm

    Wonderful blog post Thanks sharing it.

    Reply
  12. Niki @ Toot's Mom is Tired says

    July 19, 2017 at 10:56 pm

    OMG I love Jamberry! I’m wearing Cardinal lacquer currently. I had Dragon on last week.

    Reply
  13. Alexandra Nicole says

    July 24, 2017 at 5:42 am

    I totally need to try the Honest Company bug spray! We have mosquitoes so bad here in Memphis!

    Reply

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Welcome! I’m Natalie. I am a western mountain mama who just recently relocated to the coast! Here I share all things motherhood, homemaking, homeschooling, and slow living. I hope you follow along as we share this next chapter of our lives. I am so glad you are here! Grab a cup of coffee and stay awhile

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Happy Memorial Day ! Thank you to those who courag Happy Memorial Day !
Thank you to those who courageously gave their lives for our freedoms. 🇺🇸
Whew what a week ! Thank goodness for church and t Whew what a week ! Thank goodness for church and the good Word to renew and fill me with hope. Last week was a doozy and felt like it wouldn't ever end. Good & bad things happened, but more bad than I'd like. My grandma passed away and then we were in a stressful scramble for 2 days trying to figure out who could take care of our animals and dogs and garden & afford flights, a hotel and rental car to go to Chicago for the services(we ended up just having to book a flight for me & Liam and my husband and Theo will stay behind to hold down the homestead). We had a big playhouse we bought off FB marketplace delivered that Nate and Liam have been repairing and painting. It's turning out great ! I know many memories will be made in there, and I can't wait to share the before & afters. Though my poor husband has way too many projects going on at once again. 😬 
 My dog tried to eat baby bunnies. Twice 🤦‍♀️ Liam got some kind of poison ivy or poison oak rash all over and now today it has gotten pretty bad. His poor little cheek is all red and swollen and he's miserably itchy. Last night while driving home from a restaurant, I hit a coyote that jumped across the highway. Our brand new car's bumper is wrecked. 
The other day I went to the garden to find all the marigolds I planted next to my tomatoe plants died out of nowhere, and something is eating my pole beans. 🙃 
How I've been coping ? 
1. Finally cracking open a prayer journal I got for Christmas from my best friend and pouring my heart out. 
2. Spurts of intense deep cleaning that makes me utterly exhausted 
3. Trying to plan a couple fun things while Liam and I are in Chicago for a few days. Liam was SO excited it would just be us two going on this trip because we don't get much time just the two of us since Theo was born. I want to make the best of it and think it will be nice for the focus to be on Liam for a few days. 

Even though life has been busy and crazy and sad, I still just feel incredibly grateful and blessed for what the Lord has given me and my family. I'm ready to be home and hug my family and celebrate the beautiful life of my Grandma Alice.
Do you have plans to go camping with your kids thi Do you have plans to go camping with your kids this Summer ? I have a blog post from a few years ago that has a free printable kids packing list. This checklist gives kids an easy to follow list to be independent and responsible for their own pack for a weekend camping trip. 
I don't know if we'll get to camping before baby gets here in July, but we plan to camp this Autumn for just short weekend getaways. 
Now that Liam is 3 years older since creating that checklist, I may even add a couple more things. A tick remover to be added to his first aid kit would be helpful, and having his own bug spray. 
Head ro the blog (link in my bio) to see the list and let me know if you'd add anything to it ! 😊 
Tell me about your camping trips this Summer ! I'd love to know ⛺️
Yesterday Bowie brought home a limp baby bunny tha Yesterday Bowie brought home a limp baby bunny that I'm guessing was about 10 or so days old. His eyes were barely open. I had to scoop him up and push my dog out of the way who was super confused as to why I was so mad at him. I kept him warm and he snuggled into my arm and belly and fell asleep 😭 Liam searched and searched the thick brush at the edge of the forest, and deep into a thorn-covered bush, there was the little burrow with a few other little baby bunnies. He snuggled right back in next to them. 
Bowie got into their burrow again today ! 😩 Liam was devastated, but I think they're alright. 
Then we realized a finch made a beautiful nest with 3 little eggs in our shed, so we have to find a new home for the sweet nest as we're having our shed moved soon on our property to use as a chicken coop and to make way for building a garage. Any tips on how to safely move a bird's nest? 😬 
And before anyone comes at me for not wearing gloves to pick this little babe up, there was no time. And it's a myth that a mama rabbit will reject their young just because they smell weird. We've had baby bunnies before and I'm guessing mama just gave them a good bath.
One of the most important people in my life made h One of the most important people in my life made her way up to heaven yesterday. My grandma Alice, my boy's GG, I imagine is slow dancing with Grandpa John and he's smiling with his blue eyes and saying "about time, Alice". My Grandma raised 5 children, was  devoted to her church, gave to charities that were close to her heart, had many friends, traveled all over the world, and loved her husband fiercely. She was an amazing mother and THE best grandmother. I never went to her house without a proper tea time complete with cookies and little snacks. She took care of my family when my mom was diagnosed with stage 4 acute Leukemia when I was just 3 months old. 
She was one of the first people I would call with good news, like when Nate proposed or I found out I was pregnant, or we were buying a house. She gave the best warm sincere hugs. Her laugh was contagious. I like to think my love for singing, roses, history, birds, and hosting comes from her. She made holidays so fancy and special. If I close my eyes I can hear the crackle of the fireplace at an Aubele Christmas party with a house full of Aubele's talking louder and louder with the smell of coffee and sweets in the dining room on the buffet. Laughter & warmth filling every inch of that house. I have always dreamed of a large family because of her. She was an amazing storyteller and often told me stories of our ancestors. And we have some pretty crazy family stories! She was proud to be Ojibwa and often reminded me to be proud as well. She was an amazing seamstress and made her grandchildren dolls & dresses & teddy bears. Family was the most important thing to her, and I knew at a young age that serving my own family someday was also what I wanted to do. 
Even though she passed yesterday, I have been mourning my grandma for over a year. Dementia took hold of my sweet Grandma Alice and I couldn't call her on the phone anymore. When I saw her this April, she had no idea who I was or who my Dad, her own son, was. I couldn't call to tell her I was pregnant with my 3rd son. I couldn't call to tell her I moved from MT to VA and that we bought a homestead. My grandma has been gone for some time👇🏼

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