Tuesday, May 31, 2016

Our (Long) Weekend

It has been awhile since I posted a weekend recap, and for the most part, that's because our weekends aren't usually terribly exciting these days, so those posts can seem a bit redundant.  This past weekend though... it was a good one, so I felt it was necessary to share some photos!


Wednesday, May 25, 2016

Summer Celebrations

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser.  All opinions are mine alone. #DipIntoMeze #CollectiveBias

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With Memorial Day weekend quickly approaching, I've got summer celebrations on my mind.  I'm a party girl at heart, and I would never pass on an opportunity to entertain, but let's be honest, with three young kids, it isn't always easy for me to put together anything too elaborate.


Tuesday, May 24, 2016

DIY Painted Handle Spoons


You guys, it's been awhile since I posted a good DIY project.





I haven't had much time lately to take on anything elaborate in terms of craft projects, but this one is super simple and yields some great results.


These painted handle spoons are a fun way to make your utensils match your kitchen decor, and coincidentally they also make for great gifts.

What you'll need

Non-toxic acrylic paint (I like the Martha Stewart brand)
Wooden or bamboo spoons
Painters tape
A paintbrush
Sandpaper (optional)

How to:

-I used some sandpaper to rough up the ends of the brushes where I intended to paint. I'm not sure if this helps the paint to adhere, but figured it couldn't hurt (that's why this step is optional).

-Apply painters tape to the end of the spoon where you wish to paint.

-Get to painting. You will want to apply at least a couple of coats to get good coverage.

-Allow to dry.

-Remove tape.

-Allow them to cure for a few days, then spray with clear shellac spray to seal.

*** I never put these spoons in the dishwasher and always wash my spoons by hand.


See, super simple and super cute right!  Just the way I like a project to be these days!
xoxo

Saturday, May 21, 2016

Swoon Worthy

I have to confess, I get even more excited about weekends lately than I probably should.

This past week was a bit of a circus around here, much like the last few weeks. There were a few days where I actually felt like I had everything under control, and there were a few where I thought I was going to completely lose my mind.

So yeah, there's something about it being the weekend that just makes it seem okay to drink a little bit more coffee (and a little bit more wine), to stay in our pajamas a little while longer, and to say peace out to any form of routine!

I am however, sticking to the routine of sharing with you, all of things I've been crushing on this past week... So let's get down to it!




1.  Is there anything that says "welcome summer" more than some fun festive pineapples? I think not!

2.  Speaking of pineapple, how refreshing does this spin on one of my favorite drinks sound?

3.  We're big fans of Flora around here, so it's no surprise that we have to have this.

4.  Swooning hard over these sandals, especially at this price.

5.  This time of year I get the urge to cook everything on the grill, so this salad sounds like it fits the bill.

6.  Iong live peplum style tops!

7.  Out of all of the innovative and amazing inventions out there for babies, this one is my current favorite for sure!


8.  I'm addicted to infused waters right now. Strawberry and basil is my favorite combo at the moment, but all of these concoctions sound super refreshing.

9.  Once a Maine girl, always a Maine girl! Lobster prints will forever have my heart, especially when they come in the form of itty bitty swimsuits!

10.  Last, but not least, I am co-hosting an absolutely amazing giveaway on Instagram right now with some of my favorite fellow bloggers. If you're a mom, or soon to be one, you're definitely going to want to enter!

Have a fabulous weekend!
xoxo,

Thursday, May 19, 2016

Ella's "Big Girl" Bedroom

I have to admit... I was a little apprehensive at the idea of moving Ella into a toddler bed. Girlfriend has a bit of a wild streak, and life was good with her behind bars, but with her 2nd birthday approaching at the end of April, and a new little brother who would soon be needing a crib, it just seemed like the timing was right.

I had decided, months in advance, that I wanted Ella's birthday gift from us to be her "big girl' bedroom.  

I loved Ella's nursery, particularly the color scheme, so I just knew I wanted to stick with that palette.  I went back and forth for quite awhile on what type of bed to transition Ella into.  Max had gone straight from a crib to a twin size bed without any issues, but he was a bit older when that transition was made.  In the end, Mike and I decided to move Ella into a toddler bed.  The one we chose wasn't pricey, and left lots of room for her to play. Now that she has had it for awhile, and hasn't once tried to climb out, I feel as though we made the right choice.

Other than that one major change, we added some new bedding, curtains, and pillows, and we changed up the wall behind her bed a bit.  Target's Pillow Fort line had me swooning hard, so many of the newer pieces in her room are from that, and the rest is an eclectic collection of things from various places, mixed in with a bit of DIY.  I have linked many of the sources at the end of this post.

The end result is a bright and girly toddler bedroom, that she is totally in love with, and so am I...


Monday, May 16, 2016

Theo James | One Month

We celebrated Theo's one month birthday on the 11th, and as you can see, I'm a few days behind on sharing his monthly update. You can probably expect this moving forward, because well, #thirdchildproblems.


Saturday, May 14, 2016

Swoon Worthy


Ah, it's finally the weekend again.  This past week we were blessed with some beautiful weather and it felt so nice to get outside and enjoy it... We went on long walks, played in the yard, and had dinner and popsicles on the back deck.  It was pure Heaven I tell you.

As is typical here in the Northeast in the spring time, the weather fluctuates, and this weekend is going to be a bit cooler, but I just know those sunny warm days will be here to stay before we know it.

Things are still a little hectic around here, yet slowly but surely I'm beginning to get a handle on everything, even if that means that some days I just have to throw in the towel in regards to plans, and go with the flow instead.

There are so many things that I want to blog about at the moment, but my schedule just hasn't allowed for it, so I'm keeping a running list, and hope to start tackling some of these posts as it becomes possible for me to do so.

Thankfully my kids allowed me a short amount of time in front of the computer this week, and I was able to put together this Swoon Worthy post!  So, these are the things that I'm crushing on lately...

1.  You might think I was still pregnant if I told you how much I love pickles.  I stumbled across these  super convenient/healthy snack packs recently at Target, and I seriously can't get enough.

2.  Speaking of getting outside to play, our latest obsession is this form of sidewalk chalk.

3.  A friend of mine recently turned me on to this hair product line, and I'm so glad she did, because this stuff is my favorite!

4.  Super comfy maxi dresses will always be a warm weather staple in my closet... when I found this one, I had to have it!

5.  Now that gardening season is upon us, I figured it was the perfect opportunity to throw it back to one of my favorite DIY projects!

6.  My love affair with amazing small businesses that handcraft the most adorable items for babes continues... this boutique is one of our new favorites!

7.  I'm totally intrigued by this whole smoothie bowl fad.  I think I might have to try one this weekend!

8.  I'm pretty sure I've shared about these shoes before, but they are seriously my favorite for kids in the summertime.  Ella just got her first pair, and Max wears his religiously.

9.  Swooning over this pretty flowy tank (that also happens to be nursing friendly!).

10.  This blogger shares some of the most amazing recipes, but this one for iced chocolate mochas left me drooling for sure!

Have a fabulous weekend!
xoxo,


Wednesday, May 11, 2016

Beauty Faves For the Busy Mom


Busy is pretty much my middle name lately.  This blog post was literally written while one child slept attached to me (thanks to this incredible baby wrap), another napped in her bed, and my oldest asked me for a snack no less than 50 times.

Most days, I barely manage to get myself together, but in an effort to not come off as the hot mess that I am in public, there are a few products that are my go-to's when it comes to helping me look half human, with minimal effort.  They're all pretty budget friendly and can be found at most drug stores (or Target, which is pretty much the only place I shop lately besides online shopping).

Age Rewind Concealer-  This stuff is truly a lifesaver.  I haven't been getting much sleep since Theo arrived, and this concealer hides the dark circles under my eyes so well.  I love how easy it is to apply, and the way it feels.

Batiste Dry Shampoo-  Dry shampoo rules my world these days.  I love this dark version for my dark brown hair, but honestly, this whole line is awesome.  Bonus: If you're looking to add some volume to flat lockes, dry shampoo is great for that!

Garnier Micellar Water-  I learned about micellar water a few months ago, thanks to a fellow blogger, and I can't rave about it enough.  I love how easily and quickly it removes eye make up.

Jergens Natural Glow Firming Lotion-  This stuff helps make my skin not look so Casper-ish, but never looks orange... the fact that it also helps to firm makes my mom-bod happy too.

Maybelline Baby Lips- I own this stuff in pretty much every color.  It is in my diaper bag and my car, on my nightstand, and probably in many of my coat pockets too.  I love that it feels like a chapstick, but gives a subtle pop of color.

Maybelline Nudes Palette- This eye shadow palette has every color you need for day to day wear or the occasional night out.  I wear the lighter shades when I'm just hanging out at home with the kids and play around with the darker shades whenever we go out anywhere!

xoxo,


Saturday, May 7, 2016

Swoon Worthy


Happy Mother's Day weekend to all of my mama friends, and happy weekend in general to the rest of you.

This year, above all, I made sure to make all of my requests heard... you know, mimosas/breakfast in bed, perhaps a nap at some point.  What can I say, I'm a little high maintenance. In all seriousness though, I'm just looking forward to some quality family time with my babies to celebrate the holiday, and it's always nice when daddy is home, because having an extra set of hands to help manage the chaos sounds better to me then winning the lottery right about now.

Anyhow, whatever your plans are for the weekend, I hope it's a good one.

Now let's jump right into what I'm currently crushing on...

1.  Speaking of mimosas... these ones sound delicious.

2.  I treated myself to some cute non-maternity clothes for spring recently, and this gorgeous top is one of my favorite new things.

3.  We celebrated Cinco de Mayo the other night, with these amazing fajitas... and some margaritas of course!

4.  You guys, these candles remind me of something you'd see at Anthropologie. They smell amazing, and for the price you can stock up on every yummy scent.

5.  I'm pretty much in love with anything that has a tassel on it these days, these sandals included.

6.  Swooning over teeny tiny baby boy clothes as of late... this mini chambray outfit is just too cute!

7.  If you missed it, I shared this easy and tasty recipe recently.

8.  I'm totally in love with this sweater for spring/summer.

9.  Dreaming of warm weather and dinner al fresco... these acrylic goblets are perfect for outdoor dining!

10.  I love following this lady's blog and I'm a total sucker for a pretty book, especially one that includes recipes and DIY projects!

xoxo

Friday, May 6, 2016

Maple Pecan Granola


Now that I am no longer pregnant and allowing myself to indulge in anything and everything, I have been trying to eat a little healthier and get back on track in terms of diet.

My current addiction is yogurt parfaits... Vanilla flavored Greek yogurt, topped with granola, fresh fruit, and a drizzle of either honey or real maple syrup.  I eat this for breakfast, lunch, snack... you name it, and I've even gotten my husband and kids hooked too.


I was buying granola from the store, and though it was good, one day I decided to try my hand at whipping up a batch on my own, at home.  After researching countless recipes on Pinterest, I mixed and matched some techniques to come up with my own recipe, and since I'm pretty happy with the way it came out, I thought I'd share the details of what worked out to be some pretty tasty granola, here on the blog.

It's super easy to make, and aside from parfaits, could be eaten a number of ways.





I hope you enjoy it as much as we do!


Wednesday, May 4, 2016

Theo's Birth Story


For an arrival that was so anticipated, you would think that sitting down to blog about Theo's birth story should have been somewhat of an easy task, but 3+  weeks after he made his way into the world and joined our family, and here I am still struggling to juggle life with three, and to make time for the hobbies/work that I enjoy, blogging being one of them.

{boppy cover and swaddle c/o KB Cute Designs | pacifier clip c/o Loved By Sophia Claire | Hello Stickers | Pacifier}

Theodore James, or Theo, as we will be referring to him, arrived on Monday, April 11, 2016 at 4:59 PM, after I made the abrupt decision to be induced that morning.

When my 40 week appointment with our OB the previous Friday didn't provide me with as much progress in the labor department as I had hoped for, I agreed to allow my doctor to sweep my membranes to "move things along" (if you do not know what this is, google it... I'll spare you the details of my personal experience) and then I left with the hopes that our little guy would decide join us over the weekend. 

Being that stubborn is a personality trait that runs rampant in this family, that did not prove to be the case, however.

Both M&E were under 8 pounds at the time of their births, and when I questioned Theo's potential size at my final OB appointment, the response that I got from my doctor was, "I think we have a decent sized kid on our hands!". That statement, along with the fact that I was miserably uncomfortable and still trying to take care of two toddlers, provided me with just enough anxiety to make the decision to evict this baby once and for all after he didn't come on his own that Saturday or Sunday.

So off we headed to the hospital, on a chilly overcast morning, to be induced.


Upon arrival it was determined that not much had changed since Friday. I was only about 3 cm dilated and 75% effaced, and Theo was still sitting a little on the high side.

So, Pitocin was administered, and the waiting game began.

I can't even tell you how many cherry flavored Italian ices I ate throughout the day, and I have to admit, that it was nice to indulge in some daytime television besides Jake and the Neverland Pirates, but I was ready to meet our little guy, and even with the Pitocin, he still seemed to want to take his sweet time coming out.

Finally, at some point in the afternoon, things started to progress. 

One of my biggest concerns with the labor process, was that I wanted to be certain there would be enough time to get an epidural, but I also didn't want to make the decision to get it too early. Yet it seemed that the really intense contractions came on really suddenly and out of nowhere, and even though I went into labor with Max at home a few years ago, and had experienced true labor pain before, for some reason this time it became almost unbearable immediately. Kudos to those of you who have delivered without drugs... I admire you, and think that you are amazing (possibly a little crazy, but amazing none the less)! I consider myself to be pretty tough in general, but the pain I was experiencing with each contraction was like nothing I have experienced before, and I promptly requested a visit from the anesthesiologist.

The kicker... The nurse returned and delivered the message that it would take him at least 30 minutes to get to me... With contractions coming about every 2 minutes, the first thought that went through my mind was, "so I'm going to have to endure 15 of these contractions before I can get my epidural???". My poor husband and our nurse were being so supportive and tried their best to coach me through each contraction as they came, but truthfully, as I fought through the pain, I didn't want anyone talking to me or touching me, I just wanted it to end.

I managed to struggle through it somehow, I suppose because that's what women do, but it was like a scene out of a movie when the anesthesiologist finally arrived and got that epidural in... I sang his praises, told him that I loved him, and that he was my most favorite person. I'm sure he had heard it all before, but truly, in that moment, I meant it.

After all of that, I tried to rest for a few minutes because I knew that the time to push would be coming fairly soon... And sure enough, it did.

Sometime around 4:30 or so, I was finally fully dilated and it was "go time".

Just like my labor experience with Ella, it only took a few minutes of pushing, and before I knew it, a beautiful 8 pound, 8 ounce, 20.5 inch long baby boy with dark brown hair was placed upon my chest.




Now I know that it has been said, many times before, but pregnancy and labor are crazy... Hours before Theo's birth, I was whining and complaining about being hugely pregnant and miserable... During labor and throughout the painful contractions, all I could think was "I can't do this ever again!"... Yet as soon as this perfect baby was placed in my arms, all of those thoughts and feelings dissipated into thin air, and I'd be lying if I said I wasn't already thinking, just minutes after his birth, maybe just one more time! Babies make you instantly forget all of the pain, discomfort, and misery, and this my friends, is why women continue to go through it all, over and over again.







Our sweet Theodore continues to be stubborn, even out of the womb. He doesn't sleep great at night, wants to nurse the majority of the day, and constantly wants to be held... All of which can be frustrating at times, but I am mostly okay with it, because I have been down this road before, and I know full well that "babies don't keep", so I am savoring all of his newborn goodness, even through the sleep deprivation.






He was welcomed with open arms by his big brother and sister, who are showing him nothing but love. They are not jealous of him in the least bit, and only want to hug him, kiss him, and rub him.

The love that we all have for him cannot be measured, it is off the charts... And though he has only been a part of our family for a few weeks, it feels as though he has been here all along.


We love you to the moon and back Theodore James, and we're so happy you finally decided to join us, even if we did have to encourage you along a bit!




 
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