tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77928644070881488882024-03-13T13:12:01.476-05:00Lalu BeanChelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04343295643706565393noreply@blogger.comBlogger1263125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-25501295312634081372021-09-22T15:33:00.003-05:002021-09-22T15:34:50.702-05:00autumn watch list<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FExi9u4h4Io/YSrA1k1ltYI/AAAAAAAAFnI/qbM8tk97_N8_IJAuLkClSZ4hHXORSTw3wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1930/IMG_5946.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1930" data-original-width="1920" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FExi9u4h4Io/YSrA1k1ltYI/AAAAAAAAFnI/qbM8tk97_N8_IJAuLkClSZ4hHXORSTw3wCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/IMG_5946.JPG" /></a></div><br /><p>It's the most glorious time of the year. Fall is here! I'm picturing leaves crunching under my boots, cozy cardigans, pumpkin lattes and baking pies while binging a hallmark movie marathon about harvest festivals while lighting autumnal candles and painting my nails deep burgundy.</p><p><br /></p><p><i>Sigh.</i></p><p><br /></p><p>I have perfected a must save list of all of the perfect autumn movies and even a few tv shows too and it is too good not to share...</p><p><br /></p><p><b>First up, the obvious choices that no list would be complete without (for good reason)-</b></p><p>Hocus Pocus</p><p>You've Got Mail</p><p>Practical Magic</p><p>It's The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown</p><p>Harry Potter<br /></p><p>Casper</p><p>The Addams Family</p><p>The Nightmare Before Christmas</p><p>Halloweentown</p><p>Edward Scissorhands</p><p><br /></p><p><b>Some less obvious, but equally qualified classics-</b></p><p>The Craft</p><p>Beetlejuice</p><p>Caroline</p><p>Sleepy Hollow</p><p>Where The Wild Things Are</p><p><br /></p><p><b>And some more that we appreciate for their gorgeous fall scenery-</b></p><p>When Harry Met Sally</p><p>Dan In Real Life</p><p>Dead Poet's Society</p><p>Little Women</p><p>St. Elmo's Fire</p><p>Stepmom</p><p>Cider House Rules</p><p>Matilda</p><p>Stuck In Love</p><p>Autumn in New York</p><p>Sweet November</p><p><br /></p><p><b>TV shows that leave me feeling some type of way about autumn-</b></p><p>Gilmore Girls</p><p>Stranger Things</p><p>The Secret Circle</p><p>My So-Called Life</p><p>October Road</p><p>Bates Motel</p><p>Friday Night Lights</p><p>Charmed</p><p>Everwood</p><p>The Vampire Diaries</p><p>Virgin River</p><p><br /></p><p>And it goes without saying, the Hallmark Channel. Some of my favorites are Falling for Vermont, Harvest Love, A Harvest Wedding, Autumn in the Vineyard, Under the Autumn Moon, Autumn Dreams, Sweet Autumn and October Kiss.</p><p><br /></p><p>Happy autumnal binging friends! Xx</p><p><br /></p>Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04343295643706565393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-15706692397435439922021-08-31T10:28:00.000-05:002021-08-31T10:28:57.072-05:00hey hi how are you and back to school<p>Oh, hi. It took me roughly twenty minutes of answering security questions, text code verifications and resetting passwords to old email accounts to get here. But yes, it's me. This blog still registered and all. </p><p><br /></p><p>Two kids must be my threshold for maintaining a blog since my last post was approximately three months before Wyatt was born. Ha. My bad. You can usually find me on Instagram though, in between practicing spelling words, cleaning up poop, meeting work deadlines and you know, folding laundry sometimes.</p><p><br /></p><p>After a full school year of distance learning, we decided to send the kids back to school this fall. FEELINGS. It was a hard decision honestly... trying to weigh the pros and cons of their physical health as well as their mental health and education. Being a parent is always challenging, but navigating our world amid the Covid pandemic with young children has been excruciating. Ultimately we are just following our instincts and our hearts and that led us back to the classroom in person this year. Lorelai has just started second grade and Everett is in Kindergarten! MORE FEELINGS.</p><p><br /></p><p>In addition to the school supply lists and cute pencil cases, I'm sharing some of our favorite pieces for back to school. Each of these items we have personally purchased and are currently using so I can attest that they are good quality and hold up. Lorelai is a huge fan of pink and Everett of blue, you have been warned. I put together one for Wyatt too... just recent and/or favorite purchases because two year old stuff is too cute not too.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q5t3J4uRsTs/YSp-h6-z73I/AAAAAAAAFmo/SApgc4CNND86KXfdQPXXvl-VIOgcbCNrwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1920/Add%2Ba%2Bsubheading.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1080" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q5t3J4uRsTs/YSp-h6-z73I/AAAAAAAAFmo/SApgc4CNND86KXfdQPXXvl-VIOgcbCNrwCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Add%2Ba%2Bsubheading.png" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://twelvelittle.com/products/adventure-lunch-bag-lilac" target="_blank">sweetest little lunch bag</a> in lorelai's two favorite colors, pink and purple. it's the perfect size and has a short and long strap</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">roughly 90% of her wardrobe is from alice and ames. our latest fave is <a href="https://aliceandames.com/collections/rompers/products/the-skirt-in-circus-stripe" target="_blank">this ensemble</a> that can be mixed and matched with other pieces too</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.theeverco.co/shop/the-ever-co-starter-pin-set-8-pack-mwnpc-ptpfy-x2n5y-lj5ac-el3ax" target="_blank">theeverco pin collection</a> for her backpack</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">our favorite <a href="https://rstyle.me/+8soA3i0l9Dj0ToEfKse9aQ" target="_blank">kids water bottles</a> and we have tried toooooonnnss</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">lorelai has had her <a href="https://www.fjallraven.com/us/en-us/bags-gear/kanken/kanken-bags/kanken?campaignid=11855206682&gclid=Cj0KCQjwvaeJBhCvARIsABgTDM5p0mNxtYU0ndQi9WDaz3-N2TyG7iEKpN5oPcE_VYcu60J1V47EW9kaAibJEALw_wcB" target="_blank">pink fjallraven kanken backpack </a>since preK and they are just the best. simple, quality and hold up so well; they are worth the extra cost upfront considering how long they last. we like to personalize ours with pins, patches and keychains to keep it fun for the kids</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">the kids both picked vans for their back to school shoes this year (color me excited). lorelai picked the <a href="https://rstyle.me/+bnySksjOygkXSt6XigHNsw" target="_blank">pink vans sk8-hi zips</a> and ohmygosh cutest ever. they look so freaking adorable with her little twirly dresses (crying)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">lorelai is super into tie dye right now too and picked <a href="https://rstyle.me/+WAOz_yanZWt0kLXECcMPtA" target="_blank">this soft little hoodie</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">we have so many face masks, but <a href="https://rstyle.me/+THN3aFkY095wEGUh18uUow" target="_blank">these are a favorite</a> for sure. they are soft, affordable, fit nicely on the kids and they like their breathability a lot. come in several solid colors. we also have lots of fun ones to keep it exciting for the kids, but these are really good basic ones to stock up on</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div>cute little <a href="https://rstyle.me/+jLp8JWPh04A_cpIh8frGXA" target="_blank">barbie keychain</a> for her backpack</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DOEB6_dPrTE/YSqGoEVovHI/AAAAAAAAFmw/_bpc4kJaW_UxXvtO4p6NZHW2Q4UD5pacgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1920/Copy%2Bof%2BAdd%2Ba%2Bsubheading.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1080" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DOEB6_dPrTE/YSqGoEVovHI/AAAAAAAAFmw/_bpc4kJaW_UxXvtO4p6NZHW2Q4UD5pacgCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Copy%2Bof%2BAdd%2Ba%2Bsubheading.png" /></a></div>my kids are big into matching each other and i may have slightly contributed to this so yea, everett has the <a href="https://twelvelittle.com/products/adventure-lunch-bag-navy" target="_blank">same lunch bag in blue and green</a><div><br /></div><div>literally all the <a href="https://rstyle.me/+xKXArua-Uz_lAYqnlR6lLg" target="_blank">super mario shirts</a></div><div><br /></div><div>the <a href="https://www.theeverco.co/shop/the-ever-co-starter-pin-set-8-pack-mwnpc" target="_blank">halloween pin collection</a> too. they are so freaking cute</div><div><br /></div><div>everett's <a href="https://rstyle.me/+rG9-UBVli95Pg9ymxFofdQ" target="_blank">blue takeya bottle</a>. they carry these back and forth from school every day and upstairs to bed at night. staples in our household</div><div><br /></div><div>we just got everett's <a href="https://www.fjallraven.com/us/en-us/bags-gear/kanken/kanken-bags/kanken?campaignid=11855206682&gclid=Cj0KCQjwvaeJBhCvARIsABgTDM5p0mNxtYU0ndQi9WDaz3-N2TyG7iEKpN5oPcE_VYcu60J1V47EW9kaAibJEALw_wcB" target="_blank">blue & navy fjallraven kanken</a> for kindergarten but we expect it to hold up as well as our others</div><div><br /></div><div>can you even with the <a href="https://rstyle.me/+GK1SKMUA9x75rECXeH0ROg" target="_blank">checkerboard slip-on's</a> that he picked? (dead)</div><div><br /></div><div>james dean-esque <a href="https://rstyle.me/+uJyz7-Q5Y6DWpnUxNOGUOg" target="_blank">dark denim jeans</a>, rolled up. amiright?</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://rstyle.me/+THN3aFkY095wEGUh18uUow" target="_blank">favorite all in motion kids masks</a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.amazon.com/TOMY-Mario-Mocchi-Mocchi-Hanger-Mushroom/dp/B07D9XNKG4/ref=asc_df_B07D9XNKG4/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=532324306270&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=10248138578948856689&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9018404&hvtargid=pla-822371744155&psc=1" target="_blank">super mario mushroom keychain</a> for everett's backpack</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fM76-tOKSMQ/YSqKYHuxi7I/AAAAAAAAFm4/-PFcwGyC3LAmR2Y_Flz8hXMJpeJIZB_MQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1920/Copy%2Bof%2BCopy%2Bof%2BAdd%2Ba%2Bsubheading.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1080" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fM76-tOKSMQ/YSqKYHuxi7I/AAAAAAAAFm4/-PFcwGyC3LAmR2Y_Flz8hXMJpeJIZB_MQCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Copy%2Bof%2BCopy%2Bof%2BAdd%2Ba%2Bsubheading.png" /></a></div>we have a <a href="https://www.fjallraven.com/us/en-us/bags-gear/kanken/kanken-bags/kanken-mini?campaignid=11855206682&gclid=Cj0KCQjwvaeJBhCvARIsABgTDM7Q5DzRHho4ZmuJBQ5q8RowqMxu2iEB_VvnfyDrPaYAezp_bMIJ9IMaAgfOEALw_wcB" target="_blank">fjallraven kanken mini in brown</a> that <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BZZNsXIharq/" target="_blank">lorelai used</a> when she was a toddler, then everett and now of course wyatt. it's so so so dang cute<div><br /></div><div>i have already washed this <a href="https://rstyle.me/+Zk4dgjY-nrInQTYiLuVYqA" target="_blank">bowie tee</a> at least five times in two weeks because i <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CS5FDrSgVqI/" target="_blank">keep dressing him in it</a> ohmygosh</div><div><br /></div><div>pair it with <a href="https://rstyle.me/+gBoqIrP2Gv973-NafIEfVQ" target="_blank">light wash skinny jeans</a>, i can't nope nope nope</div><div><br /></div><div>i'm trying to save this <a href="https://moonie.eu/category/organic-bear/cappuccino-szumiacy-mis-z-lampka-copy-2" target="_blank">moonie bear</a> for christmas but i don't know if i'll make it. not only is it adorable and soft, but it lights up so delicately and plays pink noise<br /><div><br /></div><div>wyatt has <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CG0lVp_goVL/" target="_blank">been rocking</a> the <a href="https://rstyle.me/+fehoknumV7FnjSpN5NWtbg" target="_blank">adidas superstars</a> since he could walk. they're the best. a forever classic</div><div><br /></div><div>i should just go ahead and order this <a href="https://atnoonstore.com/collections/baby-sets/products/kids-smiley-face-patch-sweatshirt-and-shorts-set-1-5y-beige" target="_blank">smiley set</a> in the next two sizes up. maybe three</div><div><br /></div><div>we struggle for wyatt to drink much water, even in the sweltering summer (he only wants milk). thankfully the <a href="https://rstyle.me/+rG9-UBVli95Pg9ymxFofdQ" target="_blank">takeya bottle</a> comes through again... he loves it. that said, it is not spill proof for two year olds, lol</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>honorable mentions -- <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MQGYG9Y/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s02?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">bentgo containers</a> for inside their lunch bags, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08G9L4KR5/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">mask lanyards</a> to make it easier for them to take off masks for lunch and recess without losing them, little <a href="https://rstyle.me/+ZdWqYktLKzCY8zpgmCNl1A" target="_blank">welly first aid travel kits</a> for backpacks and of course <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01EIG6A4Q/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">stain remover</a></div><div><br /></div><div>can you even handle them with their matching backpacks, lunch bags, shoes, water bottles. i can't help it; it's the best ever.<br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I8XafS7vGGA/YSqUCVtxSEI/AAAAAAAAFnA/wMwR6uHl1_gSAlcG0L7XR5LcobsEYpOHQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/ACS_1572.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2045" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I8XafS7vGGA/YSqUCVtxSEI/AAAAAAAAFnA/wMwR6uHl1_gSAlcG0L7XR5LcobsEYpOHQCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/ACS_1572.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>Thank you for being here friends. I appreciate you so much. How are YOU???</div><div><br /></div><div>Xxx</div><div>Chelsea</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: x-small;">Some links are affiliate links. All items however were purchased by us. :)</span><br /><div><p><br /></p></div></div></div></div>Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04343295643706565393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-31645513290106593542019-03-26T07:07:00.003-05:002019-03-26T07:09:11.720-05:00spring + snacksThis blog post is sponsored by <a href="https://dolesunshine.com/">Dole Packaged Foods</a>.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Ahhh… Spring. While always glorious, I’m not sure I have ever welcomed a Spring as much as this one. Our winter was long and harsh in the Midwest this year and so we are fully embracing the thaw that we are currently experiencing. One of the kids’ absolute favorite things to do is munch on snacks on the porch swing, so this was a momentous occasion since winter has kept us from it for so long. We rolled out the porch rug and cozied up the space with some new throw pillows. Got all settled in for some fresh air, conversation with neighbors and of course, snacks.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Our latest favorites are</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://dolesunshine.com/products/snack-bites&source=gmail&ust=1553687147298000&usg=AFQjCNHbH0yhVj87ggN2g7_LaWa_FivD5w" href="https://dolesunshine.com/products/snack-bites" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Dole’s Snack Bites</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">, which I’ve been keeping stocked in my bag and in my car for on the go. Life is hectic with work, daycare, school, ballet, speech, swim lessons, appointments, etc etc so having these on hand is crucial, but they are also perfect porch swing snacks. Our favorites are the Dark Chocolate Blueberry Almond, Cran-Blueberry Nut Clusters and the Mango Strawberry Almond Rice Sticks. So yummy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Their full tummies and the fresh air inspired us to make a bucket list for Spring. Here’s what we came up with:</span><br />
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Lots of family walks with Louie</span></li>
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And visits to the park</span></li>
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A trip to the zoo</span></li>
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Easter egg hunt</span></li>
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Start building our back deck</span></li>
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Plant some flowers</span></li>
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Go on bike rides</span></li>
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Fire up the grill</span></li>
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Spring clean the house</span></li>
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Make a bird feeder</span></li>
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Use sidewalk chalk</span></li>
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Open the windows and let the fresh air inside</span></li>
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Let each kiddo fill a box full of toys or clothes they are ready to donate</span></li>
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Visit the farmer’s market</span></li>
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<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Lots of snacking and sipping on the front porch (of course)</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s pretty clear that my nesting this pregnancy is also coinciding with Spring cleaning, so things are about to go down over here. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We’d love to hear what’s on your list for Spring</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">xx Chelsea</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Dole Packaged Foods. All thoughts and opinions are my own.</span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-54717411901066371632018-09-07T17:07:00.002-05:002018-09-07T17:13:14.162-05:00Back To School<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nw5Pa4lUoZU/W5LypW_a5wI/AAAAAAAAkYs/eumcxot1zs4vPEP1zUO6nl6hNeAnmuIiQCLcBGAs/s1600/Photo%2BSep%2B04%252C%2B3%2B36%2B39%2BPM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nw5Pa4lUoZU/W5LypW_a5wI/AAAAAAAAkYs/eumcxot1zs4vPEP1zUO6nl6hNeAnmuIiQCLcBGAs/s1600/Photo%2BSep%2B04%252C%2B3%2B36%2B39%2BPM.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">This is a momentous occasion. My first ever blog post about going back to school, because for the first time since I was in school myself, my oldest baby is starting school! While I admit it is a bittersweet year for us because this means that our first little love is old enough to be in school (!!!) I have dreamed of this moment ever since I was a little girl. My whole life, I was always that child. You know the one…. school supplies meticulously organized and labeled, waiting perfectly in her backpack (weeks before school was to start, mind you). Outfits selected and neatly waiting to be worn. Stacks of books next to my bed forever and always. I loved school. I loved shopping for school supplies. I loved organization. And I still do love all of these things. So finally, eleven years after graduating from college myself, I finally have a legitimate reason to fall back in love with all things “back to school”.</span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G6MFiDIxwpI/W5LyjrYwwDI/AAAAAAAAkYc/9D3emGpcNpoLn7YvNC21G78Umw-FcvSzQCEwYBhgL/s1600/Photo%2BAug%2B27%252C%2B9%2B47%2B38%2BAM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G6MFiDIxwpI/W5LyjrYwwDI/AAAAAAAAkYc/9D3emGpcNpoLn7YvNC21G78Umw-FcvSzQCEwYBhgL/s1600/Photo%2BAug%2B27%252C%2B9%2B47%2B38%2BAM.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Lorelai Mabel, first day of PreK</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Some of you are probably thinking I’m crazy (you’re not wrong), but right now I am like a kid in a candy shop. Will this all lose its luster years from now when we’re still doing the same old song and dance this time of year for multiple kiddos and we’re busy and working and life is hectic…. maybe (probably not). But right now I am absolutely loving every detail. I get a mass email from the school district in the middle of the Target aisle and I squeal with delight. We go shopping for Lorelai’s school supplies and checking them off of her list filled me with pure joy. Attending preschool orientations, taking her school photo, meeting with her teachers, etc. etc. I could go on and on. Every detail has been long dreamed of and finally it is my reality.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Lorelai Mabel, School Photo, PreK</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">In preparation for our first year in the school system, we thoroughly prepared for everything we would need. Lorelai’s backpack has been hanging, waiting in her room all summer long. School supplies were thoughtfully purchased and labeled. She loved putting them all in her backpack the night before her first day. She picked all of her outfits for the first week and laid them out in her room. We picked snacks at the store for her to share with her classmates, something that the teacher has asked us to send twice a month. And we got some extras for the kids to enjoy once we get home; options that are healthy and easy to grab after our long days of learning and working.</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HjsYCEdUOCM/W5Lyqy_SUPI/AAAAAAAAkYw/A3XqvQ5oUSo6IgBctxDOEXx11pyGi8TZACEwYBhgL/s1600/Photo%2BSep%2B05%252C%2B5%2B31%2B32%2BPM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HjsYCEdUOCM/W5Lyqy_SUPI/AAAAAAAAkYw/A3XqvQ5oUSo6IgBctxDOEXx11pyGi8TZACEwYBhgL/s1600/Photo%2BSep%2B05%252C%2B5%2B31%2B32%2BPM.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Their favorite right now are the</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://dolesunshine.com/products/juice/canned-juice/canned-pineapple-juice&source=gmail&ust=1536443176920000&usg=AFQjCNGwDgB5wjtF2G6S_J4fBdeJmVJcPw" href="https://dolesunshine.com/products/juice/canned-juice/canned-pineapple-juice" target="_blank">Dole Canned Pineapple Juices</a><span style="background-color: white;">; they love picking out what straw they want to use because we have a big collection of colors and designs. Today it was beautiful outside so we enjoyed them on the front porch swing while Lorelai told us all about her school activities at the library and the drawing station and snack time. My heart could burst.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">To keep us organized this year, there are few things I’ve set up in advance in our household. For one, we have a box designated for the drawings and artwork she brings home from school. So typically the newest ones are displayed on the fridge for a bit before we move them to the box and replace them with new ones. Lorelai does this all on her own, choosing which ones she wants to display, family portraits that she drew and Rapunzel in her tower, of course. I designated a pantry cabinet to her school snacks so that we have them on hand for sending to school to share with classmates, after school snacks, playdates, etc. and stocked it with a variety of Dole Canned Juices and</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://dolesunshine.com/products/fruit-bowls/mixations&source=gmail&ust=1536443176921000&usg=AFQjCNHS1d_pnGVMEfnHbIQ9gkgD3MxyLg" href="https://dolesunshine.com/products/fruit-bowls/mixations" target="_blank">Mixations</a> <span style="background-color: white;">fruit bowls so that we have healthy, tasty, convenient options to grab on the go. She has a hook in the mudroom where her backpack goes, so that we can hopefully keep track of everything coming and going. We’ve already had book orders (do you remember those Scholastic book pamplets??) and school apparel purchases, both of which delighted me to no end. Her teacher sent home photos of her classmates so that we could practice their names (she almost has them all down), and she has her first assignment due next week to fill a bag with 4 items significant to her. Lorelai is so, so, so in love with her school and every little detail reminding me each and every day just how alike we really are.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">As a working mom it pains me that I am unable to drop and pick her up from school every day. But Brian and I are fortunate to have very flexible work schedules and we tag team it during the week between our work meetings and obligations. But Fridays…. Oooh, Fridays. I am usually off or maybe work just a bit from home on Fridays, so</span><span class="m_7704025010575113814gmail-aBn" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px;"><span class="m_7704025010575113814gmail-aQJ">Friday’s</span></span> <span style="background-color: white;">are MY DAY. We wake up and enjoy breakfast, brew the coffee, make sure her backpack is ready, brush teeth and get dressed, all the usual things. Everett gets settled in the stroller and sometimes we take Louie along too. Her school mascot is a bulldog after all. My girl with her jean jacket, her pink backpack and her bright blonde, stringy curls lead the way as we walk the short block to her school. (If I say dream again here, is that too much?) We say our farewell to her as she excitedly greets her friends and teachers and kisses us goodbye. Everett watches after her and wishes he was going to. “Buh byyeeeee Lola.” But I make it up to him. We start our short stroll home, chatting with some neighbors and other parents along the way, and stop at the corner coffee shop/bakery across the street. He gets a blueberry muffin, I get a latte and we stroll home. There aren’t words to explain the giddiness that I have</span> <span class="m_7704025010575113814gmail-aBn" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px;"><span class="m_7704025010575113814gmail-aQJ">on Friday</span></span> <span style="background-color: white;">mornings. This seems like such an ordinary day, but to me it is everything. I read this quote the other day, it says “somewhere there is a past you overflowing with so much pride looking at how far you’re come.” And I felt it so deep in my bones to be true. I cried at the words. I have waited for this.. every part of it. For many years at the start of our marriage Brian and I struggled with infertility. We lost a child in the process and ached to be parents with every breath. And now we are here. Since we moved in together ten years ago, we have yearned to live in the neighborhood that I was raised in, for our future children to attend the elementary school I went to and frequent the corner store that I did. Walking distance to my parents home, parks, everything we could ever want. And now, we do. I don’t ever want to take these seemingly insignificant things for granted that we once so deeply longed for.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: This post is sponsored by <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://dolesunshine.com/&source=gmail&ust=1536443176921000&usg=AFQjCNFMRMECHV6LIrHSOSE2MRdK9uWkgg" href="https://dolesunshine.com/" target="_blank">Dole Packaged Foods</a><span style="background-color: white;">. All thoughts and opinions are my own.</span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-85125165636324480812018-08-05T09:19:00.000-05:002018-08-05T09:20:06.161-05:00a cup for me, a cup for you<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">What is it about that first cup of coffee in the morning? It is sacred for obvious reasons, but also the comfort and familiarity it brings in those early bits of morning are beyond compare. Clumsily making my way to the coffee pot and counting my scoops even though I don’t realize I am while my mind is on other things. Waiting for the pot to finish, I usually tidy up the kitchen, get Everett some milk (he is my early bird), and maybe turn on some music. By the time the pot is finished, I am ready with my favorite mug, cream already poured into the bottom of the cup. And before the pot even has time to chime at me that it is done, my mug is filled and already blending to create my favorite cup. On the weekends this is what it is usually like. I sit on the sofa and write my to-do list for that day while enjoying every sip. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I might change a diaper or calm a tired bub, but I’m not ready to make a big breakfast yet or clean up any big messes or much of anything until after that first cup is gone. It is a good arrangement, I think.<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Some days I opt for porch swinging and pondering instead. If I’m craving fresh air or I’m just not ready to commit to that to-do list just yet. Is there anything better than pouring a cup of cold brew over ice on a warm, sunny morning. Like Chief Jim Hopper says “mornings are for coffee and contemplation” (one of my very favorite quotes).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">What I’ve come to realize is that as much as a working mother of two needs coffee (which let me tell you, is a lot) my love of coffee is also ritualistic. It is comfort, it is cozy, it is warm, it is home. It is the most delectable treat after a long night waking up to care for babies (and puppies) or getting lost in my own anxious thoughts. And while each first morning cup might look different depending on the day or the mood, it always brings me the comfort and rhythm that I crave.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And while I love to experiment with different flavors and blends of coffee, especially as the seasons change, I always come back to <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.cameronscoffee.com/highlander-grog-coffee-12-oz-1&source=gmail&ust=1533478898314000&usg=AFQjCNGRsdYM4LgemTQxYSHAAEU-zk5QiA" href="https://www.cameronscoffee.com/highlander-grog-coffee-12-oz-1" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Cameron Coffee's Highlander Grog</a> with a splash of French Vanilla creamer. It is my go-to, my old stand by, and it never disappoints.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">In fact, I am off to grab my first cup of the day right. now.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Cheers!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">xx Chelsea</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">This post is sponsored by Cameron's Coffee. All thoughts are my own.</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-80314789622198967212018-06-14T16:51:00.000-05:002018-06-14T16:51:49.162-05:00coming and going<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Summer is here again and I swear it can’t be real. The seasons fly by almost as fast as the days and I feel like I’m always a step behind. Trying to slow down and savor little moments in a hectic world that is always racing sometimes seems impossible. But I won’t stop longing for that slowness and working toward it. Today I took twenty minutes to myself to read a chapter in a book, sip on an iced Cameron's <a href="https://www.cameronscoffee.com/highlander-grog-coffee">Highlander Grog</a>, and admire the glowing sunlight filtering into my bedroom. <u></u><u></u></span></div>
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">And it was worth every crumb on my dining room floor and every unfolded piece of clothing still sitting in the hamper.<u></u><u></u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Self-care continues to be a struggle for me, but after my <a href="http://www.lalubean.com/2018/03/self-care-list.html">considerable realization</a> earlier this year, I have been making it more of a priority. I don't always have time to rush off to the salon for a pedicure, but twenty minutes in my favorite spot in the house with a good book and refreshing beverage, I can almost always make time for.</span></div>
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The changing of seasons always brings out a vulnerability in me too. I can't pinpoint why, because I love the change of seasons and can't imagine living without all four of them, but it almost always triggers a sensitive place in me that is unsettling. Making the extra effort to care for myself during these transitions is vital.</div>
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Since reading is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ideas of self-care on <a href="http://www.lalubean.com/2018/03/self-care-list.html">my list</a>, as we transition into summer and I have some time off of work, my current stack of books to read is really good and diverse. Here's what I'm currently reading or will be reading shortly:<br />
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Places I Stopped on the Way Home by Meg Fee<br />
The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway<br />
First Comes Love by Emily Giffin<br />
Me by Katharine Hepburn<br />
The Sun and Her Flowers by Rupi Kaur<br />
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Also worth noting this season.. the abundance of peonies in pinks and whites and purples, the satisfying refreshment of an iced cold brew, those perfectly breezy days with the windows all open and curtains billowing in the air and of course, the subtle art that is the perfect netflix binge during a thunderstorm.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YTNuBjIZ1Hg/WyLiz6C5AEI/AAAAAAAAkJo/tOiqnvWICmEvd4564I5OcbdFCELtc2ZFQCLcBGAs/s1600/Photo%2BMay%2B31%252C%2B6%2B52%2B46%2BPM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YTNuBjIZ1Hg/WyLiz6C5AEI/AAAAAAAAkJo/tOiqnvWICmEvd4564I5OcbdFCELtc2ZFQCLcBGAs/s1600/Photo%2BMay%2B31%252C%2B6%2B52%2B46%2BPM.jpg" /></a></div>
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Here I am summer.<br />
xx<br />
Chelsea<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Cameron's Coffee. All thoughts and opinions are my own.</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-28921955372986117032018-05-04T10:08:00.001-05:002018-05-04T11:36:19.304-05:00Coffee Talk<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YAwqr1QhD98/WuxurOUafCI/AAAAAAAAj_k/QDOwDkmQGsUWEfTYKNjDlxDTok26gbopACLcBGAs/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YAwqr1QhD98/WuxurOUafCI/AAAAAAAAj_k/QDOwDkmQGsUWEfTYKNjDlxDTok26gbopACLcBGAs/s1600/1.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Good morning, friends! Today I am making a list (you surprised?) of family activities to fill our spring and summer. But more importantly, I’m making this list very budget-friendly too. With more house projects and vacations on the horizon, and the ever-growing need to save, this year I am working to meet one of my </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.lalubean.com/2018/01/plans.html&source=gmail&ust=1525530126130000&usg=AFQjCNH8WixBjGlIsDZ_Yf_Rwktefd9o-w" href="http://www.lalubean.com/2018/01/plans.html" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">year-long goals</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> of spending less. I have a good start to my list so far, but I’m really hoping to bulk it up! Here's what I've got so far:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Visit the farmer’s market (we do this almost weekly in the summer)</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Picnic in the park or backyard or front porch</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Go on nature scavenger hunts (there are some really great templates for these on pinterest)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Go to the drive-in movies (our favorite summer activity)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Visit the zoo (so much to see and do and our closest zoo is free!)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Use the Chemex more (coffee shop quality that I can make myself; my favorite Cameron’s blend for pour over coffee has been</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.cameronscoffee.com/velvet-moon-coffee-10-oz&source=gmail&ust=1525530126130000&usg=AFQjCNHd9Y8SZG7G_dP8KARCASIucEd5mA" href="https://www.cameronscoffee.com/velvet-moon-coffee-10-oz" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Velvet Moon</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">lately)</span></li>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AeyTe9hySsg/Wuxur0h1QXI/AAAAAAAAkAU/hb6kg_DldA8WCs8zMuByTsC1i7CZc9U6ACEwYBhgL/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1598" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AeyTe9hySsg/Wuxur0h1QXI/AAAAAAAAkAU/hb6kg_DldA8WCs8zMuByTsC1i7CZc9U6ACEwYBhgL/s1600/3.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Take family walks often</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Grill out as much as possible</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Visit the park often</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Collect flowers and leaves to press (we have </span><a href="https://www.bonjourpetit.com/products/flower-press-moulin-roty-le-jardin?utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=googlepla&variant=3454289349&ref=adwords&keyword=&ref=adwords&matchtype=&device=c&campaign=796182708&gclid=Cj0KCQjwibDXBRCyARIsAFHp4fryuAUTlwzWbel1OLeasQxmU7lQoyb5erUUETEMVyUO1k1PaJ3P2scaArQyEALw_wcB" style="font-family: inherit;">this one</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> & this is one of Lola's </span>favorite things to do)</li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Go for a bike ride or pull the kids in the wagon or their <a href="https://www.target.com/p/little-tikes/-/A-51304791?ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&CPNG=PLA_Toys+Shopping&adgroup=SC_Toys&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=g&device=c&location=1015754&gclid=Cj0KCQjwibDXBRCyARIsAFHp4frjFe-cZ2BAhRGpJ8a3Jz4Aez-X8Pt2arSZgHiY_Xd8PIkiJwZ7sPcaAhvjEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">toy car</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Use sidewalk chalk</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Make a batch of</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.lalubean.com/2017/08/front-porch-reading-sippin.html%23more&source=gmail&ust=1525530126130000&usg=AFQjCNFmOO0gIZjIzoFhXad7_yfzajWiXw" href="http://www.lalubean.com/2017/08/front-porch-reading-sippin.html#more" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">cold brew</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">on the weekends to last me all week long (I need to invest in a cute dispenser for the fridge to make this super convenient)</span></li>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jpfyGTwVbYk/WuxusCshXOI/AAAAAAAAkAY/diB0OUhVH3gP-Ehwy8kUfW_LZoEvMAuuACEwYBhgL/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jpfyGTwVbYk/WuxusCshXOI/AAAAAAAAkAY/diB0OUhVH3gP-Ehwy8kUfW_LZoEvMAuuACEwYBhgL/s1600/4.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Plant vegetables and flowers and tend to them</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Have water balloon fights</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Color or paint (Lorelai is very into watercolors right now)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Go fishing</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Go camping (even if it's just the backyard)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Build a bird feeder or bird house</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Fly a kite</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Visit the library (thankfully we have a really great library; tons of books, movies, magazines, even CDs)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Watch the sun go down on the front porch (my personal favorite)</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Take advantage of local free events (museums, movies in the park, aquarium, nature hikes, outdoor concerts, festivals, etc.)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Blow bubbles</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Visit the You Pick Strawberry farm</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Road trip to the beach</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Set up a dining table in the backyard and eat dinner under the string lights</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Go swimming</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Read</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Backyard bonfires</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Have a lemonade stand</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Run through the sprinkler (we got the kids </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.amazon.com/Intex-Rainbow-Ring-Inflatable-Center/dp/B000KI111Y/ref%3Dsr_1_20_sspa?ie%3DUTF8%26qid%3D1525176261%26sr%3D8-20-spons%26keywords%3Dblow%2Bup%2Bpool%2Bslide%26psc%3D1&source=gmail&ust=1525530126130000&usg=AFQjCNGd9YPlR2F7rmEUAUM9ik6-8_-Z3A" href="https://www.amazon.com/Intex-Rainbow-Ring-Inflatable-Center/dp/B000KI111Y/ref=sr_1_20_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1525176261&sr=8-20-spons&keywords=blow+up+pool+slide&psc=1" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">this blow-up pool</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> for all summer long)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Build forts</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Netflix binge on a rainy day</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Rearrange furniture (not everyone’s cup of tea, but I love doing this; giving new life to a space just with things you have already and seeing it in a new way)</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Go to the splash park</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Make s’mores</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Catch fireflies</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Have a BBQ</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Play catch</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wash the car (right now I have a monthly plan at a local car wash for unlimited washes, which I love for spring time, but I think I will cancel this soon and teach the kids to wash the car instead)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Bake treats</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Visit the botanical garden</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Set up an obstacle course</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Attend The Home Depot workshop on Saturday mornings (Lola LOVED doing this last year)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Go thrifting (I love thrifting, but it definitely takes more time and patience than a quick online order; I’m trying to get back into this more though)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Play board games</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Complete puzzles</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Volunteer (local animal shelter, cleaning up parks, food bank, etc.)</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Clean out and organize our home</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Have slumber parties (we did this just last weekend, put Lola’s mattress on the floor in our bedroom and set up the pack and play for Everett.. they thought it was the coolest thing, so we plan to do this more often for a fun treat)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Craft projects</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Visit Grandma & Grandpa’s farm</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Go stargazing and look for constellations and shooting stars</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Have a tea party</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ride the trolley</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tie dye shirts or blankets</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I cannot wait to share all of these adventures with my crew this year. Please, please share any ideas you have that we can add to our list! Now, I’m off to go make myself one of these….</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Happy May!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">xx Chelsea</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Cameron’s Coffee. All thoughts and opinions are my own.</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-16058475795179962782018-03-30T13:50:00.000-05:002018-03-30T14:10:57.038-05:00spring, a love letter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I have a thing for stripes. And for lavender iced coffee. And for fresh Spring tulips. And for reading good books in my bed in the middle of the afternoon. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Spring is slowly waking up and it feels like our whole house is too. The late sunset, the windows cracked open just a bit, the fresh blooms poking up from the thawed ground. We've tucked away our snow boots, mittens and big, puffy coats in favor of denim jackets, shiny rain boots and umbrellas. While savoring the cool air from outside as my curtains waft in the breeze, I jotted down a new recipe for a deliciously scrumptious lavender honey iced coffee to share with you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">First, get your cold brew ready. You can learn more about cold brew </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.lalubean.com/2017/08/front-porch-reading-sippin.html&source=gmail&ust=1522186060113000&usg=AFQjCNFRrrKq2Frw3hRVH2YBUOkjosyRmw" href="http://www.lalubean.com/2017/08/front-porch-reading-sippin.html" style="color: #0563c1; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">here</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Then, you just have to whip up a lavender simple syrup. This time I also added in some honey. Just combine one cup of water with one cup of sugar and ¼ cup of honey in a pan. Add in two tablespoons of dried lavender (or more or less depending on your taste preference) and bring it to a boil. Once the sugar dissolves, simmer for about ten minutes. Once the syrup starts to thicken it is ready. Keep in mind that the syrup will thicken more as it cools. I pour mine into a glass jar and store in the fridge. I can’t speak to how long a typical jar will last because I tend to go through mine pretty quickly…</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Lastly, fill your preferred glass with ice and pour your cold brew coffee about ¾ of the way full. Add in your cream of choice and then finish it off with one tablespoon of your honey lavender syrup. Again, more or less depending on your taste preference. Give it a stir and you’re all set. It’s so sweet and refreshing, perfect for Spring if you ask me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i style="text-align: start;">"Spring: a lovely reminder of how beautiful change can truly be."</i></span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">This post is sponsored by Cameron’s Coffee. All thoughts and opinions are my own.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-67130867700663415972018-03-29T16:00:00.000-05:002018-03-30T14:05:46.001-05:00Lemon Curd Cupcakes Recipe<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 8px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Who doesn’t love a good Easter basket? </span><span style="color: #353535; line-height: normal;">Country Crock® </span><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">sent us this beautiful basket filled with all of the fixings for delicious Lemon Curd Cupcakes! We couldn’t wait to get started. I’m going to share the recipe here for you, step by step, so that you can enjoy them too. I’ve never made a cake batter with ricotta cheese before and it was absolutely divine. Plus lemon curd dropped inside each little cake, topped with homemade frosting with berries… what’s not to love?! Let’s get started!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Prep Time: 15 minutes</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Cook Time: 18 minutes</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Total Time: 33 minutes</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Servings: 12 cupcakes</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Ingredients:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Cupcake Ingredients:</span></span></div>
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<li>1 cup sugar</li>
<li>1 3/4 cups cake flour (not self-rising)</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li>1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder</li>
<li>1/2 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>1/2 cup Country Crock<span style="color: #353535; text-align: justify;">®</span> Unsalted Buttery Sticks (1 stick)</li>
<li>2 large eggs</li>
<li>1/2 cup ricotta cheese</li>
<li>1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract</li>
<li>1/4 cup whole milk</li>
<li>3/4 cup lemon curd</li>
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Frosting Ingredients:</div>
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<li>1 cup Country Crock<span style="color: #353535; text-align: justify;">®</span> Unsalted Buttery Sticks (2 sticks)</li>
<li>3 cups powdered sugar</li>
<li>6 ounces fresh raspberries (I used blueberries instead)</li>
<li>1/4 teaspoon lemon extract</li>
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Instructions</div>
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<li>Preheat oven in 350 F.</li>
<li>In a medium-sized mixing bowl, mix together sugar, cake flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<li>Add Country Crock<span style="color: #353535; text-align: justify;">® Buttery Sticks and mix on medium-low speed for three minutes.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GlfMRkV_pnw/Wrwq_ak-GxI/AAAAAAAAj0c/hbLm60DKfQU_TBsU8l08kxroyMoXq33hgCLcBGAs/s1600/Photo%2BMar%2B09%252C%2B3%2B23%2B41%2BPM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GlfMRkV_pnw/Wrwq_ak-GxI/AAAAAAAAj0c/hbLm60DKfQU_TBsU8l08kxroyMoXq33hgCLcBGAs/s1600/Photo%2BMar%2B09%252C%2B3%2B23%2B41%2BPM.jpg" /></a></div>
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<li><span style="color: #353535; text-align: justify;">In a small mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, ricotta and vanilla extract until smooth.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #353535; text-align: justify;">Add the egg mixture to the flour mixture and beat on medium speed until just combined.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #353535; text-align: justify;">Slowly add milk and mix on low speed until just combined.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #353535; text-align: justify;">Fill cupcake liners 3/4 full.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #353535;">Bake for 18 minutes and then test to see if done. They are done when a toothpick comes out without wet batter stuck to it. If they are not done, test again every two minutes.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #353535;">When the cupcakes are done, remove them immediately from cupcake tins and leave them on a cooling rack to cool.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #353535;">Once cooled, cut a small circle around the middle of the top of each cupcake, going down 3/4 of the way into the cupcake creating small cylinders. Remove the cylinders and set aside.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #353535;">Fill each cupcake with 1 tablespoon of lemon curd.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KrZo42jA2cY/WrwroYZdoDI/AAAAAAAAj0g/JlY5K2SmOEUhd9wYa-RWKFScdvh7f92fACLcBGAs/s1600/Photo%2BMar%2B09%252C%2B2%2B09%2B29%2BPM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KrZo42jA2cY/WrwroYZdoDI/AAAAAAAAj0g/JlY5K2SmOEUhd9wYa-RWKFScdvh7f92fACLcBGAs/s1600/Photo%2BMar%2B09%252C%2B2%2B09%2B29%2BPM.jpg" /></a></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #353535;">Remove the bottom half of each of the removed cake cylinders. Place the top halves back on the top of the filled holes. Don't worry if they don't perfectly fit as you will be covering them with frosting.</span></li>
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<span style="color: #353535;">Frosting Instructions:</span></div>
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<li><span style="color: #353535;">In a medium-sized mixing bowl, beat Country Crock</span><span style="color: #353535;">® Buttery Sticks until light and fluffy.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #353535;">Slowly mix in powdered sugar until fully combined.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #353535;">Puree raspberries (or blueberries) in a food processor or blender. Press through a fine sieve to remove seeds. Measure out 1/4 cup of raspberry (or blueberry) puree and mix into the frosting.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<li><span style="color: #353535;">Mix in lemon extract.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #353535;">Spread or pipe on cooled cupcakes.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-15IoflIfHlw/WrwsHRddxyI/AAAAAAAAj0s/SXjCK1Qn2s8AKFdjp-nG3KGrsDcsuc9ZACLcBGAs/s1600/Photo%2BMar%2B09%252C%2B4%2B17%2B16%2BPM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-15IoflIfHlw/WrwsHRddxyI/AAAAAAAAj0s/SXjCK1Qn2s8AKFdjp-nG3KGrsDcsuc9ZACLcBGAs/s1600/Photo%2BMar%2B09%252C%2B4%2B17%2B16%2BPM.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">And that’s it! This recipe truly couldn’t be easier for a treat made from scratch. The </span><span style="color: #353535; line-height: normal;">Country Crock® </span><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;">Buttery Sticks make it so easy because they mix right out of the fridge and you don’t have to wait for them to soften. Plus they are made with sunflower oil and have a soft, creamy texture with a country-fresh taste, making them the perfect choice for both cake batter and your frosting. Add cutting out those little holes to fill with lemon curd is such an unexpected surprise! </span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Top with fresh fruit or anything you feel like or nothing at all. We couldn’t resist adding a few more fresh blueberries.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Bon Appetit!</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you for the Easter Recipe Basket, Country Crock!</span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Country Crock</span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(53, 53, 53); color: #353535;">®</span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: inherit;">. A</span></span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">ll thoughts and opinions are my own.</span></div>
</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-90438975613795405882018-03-28T15:00:00.000-05:002018-03-28T17:33:15.333-05:00Easter Outfits with Janie and Jack<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Years ago when I was pregnant with Lorelai, my mother and I stumbled into a Janie and Jack store while traveling one hot summer day. Of course we were stopping a lot that day to check out itty little baby clothes, but something about the <a href="http://www.janieandjack.com/">Janie and Jack</a> store felt special to us. <i>Magical</i><span style="font-size: x-small;">. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I wanted so many wonderful things that day, but I settled on the sweetest little cream jumper. I remember purchasing it in newborn size even though I knew how unpractical that was, but I couldn’t resist because it was the sweetest little thing I’d ever set eyes on. I adored that jumper throughout the rest of my pregnancy, often holding it while wondering who the little person would be that would soon fill it. Ever since that day, </span><a href="http://www.janieandjack.com/" style="font-family: inherit;">Janie and Jack</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> has been a special place for me. I absolutely adore browsing through their latest collections and picking out the most special pieces for my babies for special events in their lives. This year, their spring collections are picture perfect. I mean… baby pink scalloped flats. Rainbow plaid suspenders. Cornflower blue bow ties. Heaven. We had such a fun time picking out the perfect outfits to celebrate Easter. I’m going to cherish these ones forever.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><br /></span>On Lorelai: <a href="http://www.janieandjack.com/item/girls-striped-bow-dress-100027859.html?dwvar_100027859_color=JJC084&cgid=girls-dresses-and-rompers#?start=22">Striped Bow Dress</a> | <a href="http://www.janieandjack.com/item/kids-scalloped-bow-flat-100027979.html?dwvar_100027979_color=JJV014&cgid=accessories-girls#?start=8">Scalloped Bow Flats</a> | <a href="http://www.janieandjack.com/item/kids-bow-sock-100013969.html?dwvar_100013969_color=W01&cgid=accessories-girls#?start=78">Bow Socks</a> | <a href="http://www.janieandjack.com/item/kids-bow-barrette-100015493.html?dwvar_100015493_color=O05&cgid=accessories-girls#?start=126">Bow Barrette</a> | <a href="http://www.janieandjack.com/item/kids-circle-straw-purse-100028010.html?dwvar_100028010_color=M48&cgid=accessories-girls#?start=138">Circle Straw Purse</a><br />
On Everett: <a href="http://www.janieandjack.com/item/baby-boy-poplin-shirt-100023035.html?cgid=baby-boys-tops-button-ups&dwvar_100023035_color=M48">Poplin Shirt</a> | <a href="http://www.janieandjack.com/item/baby-boy-seersucker-pant-100027584.html?cgid=baby-boys-pants&dwvar_100027584_color=M48">Seersucker Pants</a> | <a href="http://www.janieandjack.com/item/baby-boy-leather-oxford-shoe-100027928.html?cgid=accessories-baby-boys&dwvar_100027928_color=M48">Leather Oxford Shoes</a> | <a href="http://www.janieandjack.com/item/baby-boy-oxford-bowtie-100027379.html?cgid=accessories-baby-boys&dwvar_100027379_color=M48">Oxford Bowtie</a> | <a href="http://www.janieandjack.com/item/baby-boy-plaid-suspender-100027936.html?cgid=accessories-baby-boys&dwvar_100027936_color=M48">Plaid Suspenders</a><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m dying to place another order already. Check out <a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.janieandjack.com&source=gmail&ust=1522195440507000&usg=AFQjCNFBmEnx6JwLiDzx8T0lEXBnVIiQjw" href="http://www.janieandjack.com/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">www.janieandjack.com</a> and let me know what your favorite pieces are in the comments!<u></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">This post is sponsored by Janie & Jack. All thoughts and opinions are my own.</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-235577688402322662018-03-26T17:44:00.001-05:002018-03-26T18:01:14.593-05:00Our Bathroom Reveal<div style="text-align: justify;">
We finally, finally, finally gave our main floor bathroom a facelift! And boy, did it need it. Since moving into this home last May, we had been living with burnt orange walls and a really dark granite countertop. But this bathroom is so small, that it just felt like a dungeon. I am so happy with the light and airy result we accomplished in this small space.</div>
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Here's a look at the before:<br />
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Burnt. Orange.<br />
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Let's go back to what it looks like now...<br />
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So, so, so much better. We kept all of our updates pretty affordable, like keeping the existing vanity, and just painting the knobs a matte black and replacing the vanity top. We laid peel and stick tiles right over the existing tile just to freshen it up a bit. It made a world of difference! Plus we sold the old mirror, light fixture and vanity top on Facebook Marketplace to offset some of our new expenses. Score! So happy that this is done and I can walk past this room without cringing!</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">S O U R C E S </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Antique Brass Bathroom Sink Faucet - <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01H6B0S1G/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1">Amazon</a></span><br />
Antique Brass Bathroom Pop-Up Sink Drain - <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NNINJUO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">Amazon</a><br />
White Square Vanity Top - <a href="https://www.menards.com/main/bath/vanity-tops-accessories/vanity-tops/tuscany-reg-49-x-22-white-square-vanity-top/mc90376/p-1493619752923-c-8403.htm?tid=-142524307633258638&ipos=9">Menards</a><br />
Brushed Brass Bath Light Fixture - <a href="https://www.lampsplus.com/products/small-bell-30-inch-wide-clear-glass-brushed-brass-bath-light__1g860.html">Lamps Plus</a><br />
Black Wood Wall Mirror - <a href="https://www.overstock.com/Home-Garden/Benzara-Trendy-Black-Wood-and-Glass-Rectangle-Wall-Mirror/13041099/product.html">Overstock</a><br />
Linen Shower Curtain - <a href="https://www.overstock.com/Bedding-Bath/Ruffled-Washed-Belgian-Linen-Shower-Curtain/16000148/product.html">Overstock</a><br />
Black Matte Shower Curtain Rod - <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00WWBPU5A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">Amazon</a><br />
Matte Black Shower Curtain Rings - <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074W7JS35/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">Amazon</a><br />
Peel and Stick Carrara Marble Tile - <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/p/TrafficMASTER-Carrara-Marble-12-in-x-24-in-Peel-and-Stick-Vinyl-Tile-20-sq-ft-case-SS1212/206403338">Home Depot</a><br />
Antique Brass Towel Ring - <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ZUEXR4M/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">Amazon</a><br />
Antique Brass Toilet Paper Holder - <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LA3LYAQ/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">Amazon</a><br />
Hand Towel - <a href="https://www.target.com/p/heritage-stripe-towels-threshold-153/-/A-52862166?preselect=52822941#lnk=sametab">Target</a><br />
Bath Mat - Target (last year)<br />
Hamper - Target (last year)<br />
Framed Photo - <a href="https://www.framebridge.com/">Framebridge</a><br />
Terra Cotta Pot & Green Fantasy Fern - Lowes<br />
Gingham Sea Salt Vanilla Candle - <a href="https://www.target.com/p/gingham-plaid-glass-candle-11oz-sea-salt-vanilla/-/A-52784527">Target</a><br />
Wall Color - <a href="https://www.sherwin-williams.com/homeowners/color/find-and-explore-colors/paint-colors-by-family/SW0055-light-french-gray#/0055/?s=coordinatingColors&p=PS0">Light French Gray by Sherwin Williams</a><br />
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Yes, please!<br />
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xxAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-42416038397431489062018-03-03T09:17:00.000-06:002018-03-03T09:24:58.071-06:00Self-care: a list<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vU1VUf_vnSQ/WpqyEmhqaXI/AAAAAAAAjpk/x-ShvIXtHzIuWTiHNJyTqZP4qKn3o4TUQCLcBGAs/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vU1VUf_vnSQ/WpqyEmhqaXI/AAAAAAAAjpk/x-ShvIXtHzIuWTiHNJyTqZP4qKn3o4TUQCLcBGAs/s1600/1.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Self-care: it’s a thing. Admittedly it’s not a thing that I am very good at, but recently I have been working on this as it became very evident I was falling short in this area. For many, many years I have been either trying to get pregnant, suffering through miscarriages, nourishing pregnancies, carrying babies, delivering babies, breastfeeding babies, dealing with postpartum changes, tending to babies, raising small children and every teeny, tiny thing that goes along with this season of life. It is the best. It is my favorite. It is everything that I have ever longed for. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">However, caring for my body, my mind, my soul, my heart has not been my focus. My body was hard at work creating human life, my mind was steadfast ensuring all of our families’ needs were met, and my heart and soul…. well they filled to the brim, overflowing with love and fear and an unimaginable amount of happiness. I have been in it. Do you know what I mean? So deep in it, doing exactly all of the things I was meant to be doing. But right now, I feel like I’m taking a breath. Stepping outside for just a minute of air and observing all of my misgivings. I need me too. And I want to be my best self, for both myself and my family. So even when it seems unnecessary, I realize that taking care of myself is important. I don’t need a day away at the spa to be my best self (though it certainly wouldn’t hurt), but I can find 15 minutes to curl up on the sofa with a new book and hit my mental reset button. So I made a list, a working list, of small things that I am making a priority in my life. Things that bring me joy and tend to my needs, physically and spiritually. Things like making the time to schedule a haircut for myself, binging a netflix show instead of folding the laundry, seeking a therapist to ease my anxiety, listening to a good podcast. There is nothing ground breaking here; nothing earth shattering. But maybe, just maybe, you will read my list and recognize that you need to make time for yourself too. So I’m starting now. I’m brewing myself an entire pot of my current favorite blend from Cameron's Coffee, Toasted Southern Pecan, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">and I won’t feel one bit guilty for indulging in more than my share as I hit publish on this post and spend the rest of the afternoon lost in a book.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-variant-ligatures: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Self-care: A list.</span></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Take a walk. Whether it’s five minutes or two hours. Clear your mind and breathe in the fresh air.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Listen to podcasts. This is a favorite of mine because I can usually get some me time easily throughout my day, whether I’m running to and from in the car, at my desk at work or even folding laundry and cleaning the house. (Some of my latest favorites are Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard*, Babes & Babies, Coffee & Crumbs, Super Soul Conversations and any podcast dissecting Stranger Things episodes. Do you have any favorites I should add to my list?)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Epsom salt baths. I always have a bag of Epsom salts on hand for a soak. Or even better, bath bombs. I love the ones from Lush, but I also made some homemade ones for Christmas gifts and they turned out really well. I used <a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/DIY-Moisturizing-Bath-Bombs/">this recipe</a>. Light some candles and enjoy.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Meet your girlfriends for a drink.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Visit the library. This one is interesting because typically when I go to the library I take my kids because they love it so much. But you know what, so do I. I love to peruse the movies and pick out a few romantic comedies or documentaries that I’m interested in. I always have a hold list at our local library so that whenever I hear of or stumble across a book I’d like to read, I add it to my hold list and then when it becomes available I get an email and swing in and pick it up. It typically takes me a while to get through books these days, but I still enjoy it very much and almost always have a book with me. Also the music selection at the library is great too, I love to pick up a recent soundtrack I enjoyed or an oldie, but goodie that I haven’t heard in a while. And bonus, it’s free.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Netflix binge. To some this might not seem like a good one, but for me it’s one of the only true escapes that can completely clear my mind and take me some place else. Crawling into my bed with a drink, some snacks, peace and quiet and Netflix. Sign. Me. Up. Some favorites include <i>One Tree Hill</i>, <i>Gilmore Girls</i>, <i>Parenthood</i>, <i>Friday Night Lights</i>, <i>Breaking Bad</i>, <i>Dexter</i>, and many, many more.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Go for a drive. Sometimes by myself, just getting on the highway for a while and jamming to a good playlist. It’s truly shocking how much this helps. Bonus points if you have a sunroof open. But also even loading up the family sometimes and getting on the road. We have a favorite pizza place that is about half an hour away, and sometimes just loading the kids in the car, turning on some music and going for a nice long drive to pick up dinner can be so refreshing. I am particularly fond of this on days that the kids aren’t playing nice together. You know, just strap them into their seats so they can’t move and can’t touch each other. SOUNDS GOOD.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Crawl into bed with a cup of my favorite</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span class="il" style="font-family: inherit;">Cameron</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">’s blend and a library book is right up there for me too. I’m starting to sense a theme here....</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Stroll a museum or art gallery. They are filled with endless inspiration and I have found can pretty quickly leave me feeling recharged and energized.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Eat healthy. There is something to be said of a satisfying, nourishing meal of veggies and a lean protein. It makes you feel good inside and it feels good knowing you made a healthy choice. That being said, replacing your entire meal with a pint of Ben & Jerry’s would also qualify as self-care in my book.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Skip plans sometimes. You don’t have to be everything to everyone and while sometimes drinks with friends might be the self-care you are seeking, other times you may just need some alone time for reflection or just a nice, long nap. Listen to your instincts and give into yourself and what you need. Bottom line, it’s OK to say NO.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Use under eye cream. I can hear my mother scolding me for this one in my head. It shouldn’t have taken me thirty-three years to start using it religiously, alas here we are.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Buy some fresh flowers and spread them throughout your home. In the summer our farmer’s market sells the best bouquets for $10 each. I can spread that one bouquet throughout five or six vases all over my house and each one brings me such joy. A grocery store bouquet in the middle of winter works just great too! Or better yet, sign up for a flower delivery service that will automatically send you fresh blooms in the mail.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wear my glasses more/contacts less. Recognizing that I only have one set of eyes for my entire lifetime and should care for them well. The same could be said for many other things as well.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Go on a date. Not only is this good for your marriage or relationship, but I find it good for me too. We recently had our first date in a very, very long time and I just hadn’t realized how much I am always, always, always in mom mode. Obviously I should be, but gosh, to just be me and be in love with my husband was a recharge I desperately needed.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Stroll Target. Need I say more?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Seek a good therapist. This one is a loaded topic, but something very high on my current list of self-care. I struggle with anxiety, panic attacks and OCD. I have, in a sense my whole life, but really noticeably since college. Having kids has only amplified my anxiety and I have been meaning to seek out a therapist for years. I AM GOING TO DO IT. Since moving to our new house last May, my anxiety has peaked more than ever before and I notice my OCD tendencies right along with it. It just is not a way that I want to live my life and I have had enough of it. It affects everything I do… my sleep, my work, my children, my marriage, my quality of life. I need help and I’m not afraid to admit it. The hunt is on to find the right fit for me.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sit on the porch with a cup of coffee and take in the world. The people, the scenery, the weather, nature. Bonus points if you have a porch swing.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Get out on the water, any chance you get.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Get a hair cut. Seems basic, right? Wrong. I can never seem to find the time to get myself there, but feel like a million bucks once I do. Just make it a priority. As important as a doctor’s visit. It’s the only way that I can seem to make myself get there, even if I have to change my work schedule around it.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Work out. Another new one for me. I suck at exercising and of course, finding the time to exercise is very challenging. But we have a treadmill at home and I have a cheap gym membership and I’m just going to make my health a priority, even if that means I don’t get as much sleep at night and my house isn’t always clean and I have to skip <i>Fixer Upper</i>. It will be OK.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Take a dang nap.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Make lists. Maybe this is just specific to me, but making lists calms me. If I have thoughts in my mind that are jumbled and scattered I get stressed trying to organize it all mentally. Putting pen to paper and organizing my thoughts allows me to relax and focus on the tasks at hand.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Drink. Whether it’s a wine, beer, mixer kind of night. Meeting your water quota for the day. Or your favorite cup of coffee or soothing tea. My current favorite blends from</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span class="il" style="font-family: inherit;">Cameron</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">’s Coffee are </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.cameronscoffee.com/toasted-southern-pecan-coffee-12-oz-1">Toasted Southern Pecan</a>, <a href="https://www.cameronscoffee.com/caribbean-hazelnut-coffee-12-oz">Caribbean Hazelnut</a> and <a href="https://www.cameronscoffee.com/buttered-rum-coffee-12-oz">Buttered Rum</a>. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Enjoy and replenish your body.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Listen to music. I have a playlist for when I’m feeling stressed out here that I find very calming and grounding. You can find it <a href="https://open.spotify.com/user/alovelybean-us/playlist/1J7EY8r8CtC8Ee6s7ZTfuv">here</a>.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Go plant shopping. Plants are just good for your soul. They are fresh, they are vibrant, they are alive. Bringing a new plant friend into our home, finding it a perfect little cozy spot and tending to it as it grows is just rejuvenating.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Journal. Just let it flow naturally.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Watch a sunset. Or sunrise.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Bake a pie. Have you ever seen</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">Waitress</i><span style="font-family: inherit;">? Channel your emotions into that pie. Or crank up some music and just follow a recipe and don’t think for a while. The result will be delicious either way.</span></li>
<li>Always, always, always go to the beach.</li>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I hope this list helps you. A recurring theme for me, clearly, is finding the time to take care of myself. But I think it's also helpful to recognize that it doesn't necessarily take as much time as you might think. It just takes effort. And we should make the effort, because we are worth it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">*The Armchair Expert episode that Dax interviews his wife Kristen Bell is pure gold. Her outlook on life is absolutely refreshing and listening to her words on contributions to society, social media, comparisons, marriage, humanity, among other things, really struck me profoundly. I admire her so, so much.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "lato"; font-size: xx-small; text-align: justify;">Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Cameron's Coffee. All thoughts and opinions are my own.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-59776613879524977262018-02-02T13:59:00.000-06:002018-02-02T14:15:56.957-06:00perfect pour over<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">One of my goals for the new year is to use my Chemex more (see my blog post </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=http://www.lalubean.com/2018/01/plans.html&source=gmail&ust=1517684924053000&usg=AFQjCNGcee9kzhPtMP9pEC9rMx62qoK1YA" href="http://www.lalubean.com/2018/01/plans.html" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">here</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">). I loooooooove my Chemex, but since having kids I usually opt for the speed and convenience of my regular old coffee pot much more. But the coffee is so rich and flavorful using the Chemex, you just can't beat it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">My favorite blend right now is </span><span class="il" style="font-family: inherit;">Cameron</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">'s Coffee </span><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&q=https://www.cameronscoffee.com/highlander-grog-coffee-12-oz&source=gmail&ust=1517684924054000&usg=AFQjCNF0-zcIQ61KWbOgO7QsWCsw8ywDdA" href="https://www.cameronscoffee.com/highlander-grog-coffee-12-oz" style="color: #1155cc; font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Highlander Grog</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> and here is a step-by-step of how I brew it using a Chemex </span>coffee<span style="font-family: inherit;"> maker:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">First you'll want to preheat your Chemex and get your filter ready. I use the Chemex filters, though I'm sure others are fine too. You'll want to unfold the filter so that the side with three layers is on the same side as the Chemex spout. To create a seal with the filter and preheat the Chemex, pour some hot water through the filter into the Chemex. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Pour out the water when you’re done and then it’s time to add your beans. I measure out about 6 tablespoons of whole coffee beans, but I would aim for about 3 tablespoons of coffee per cup of water, depending on how much you want to brew and how large your Chemex is. 6 tablespoons of coffee makes roughly two cups of coffee (or one of my very large mugs full). You’ll want to freshly grind the beans yourself for the best flavor. I don’t have a coffee grinder, so I just use my NutriBullet. Probably not the best method, but it works for me and I don’t think I’m sacrificing much flavor. You’ll want the beans coarsely ground, similar to the consistency of kosher sea salt. It should look like this:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Now the water. For 3 tablespoons of coffee, I pour two cups of water into my tea kettle and get it heating on the stove top. I like to stop my teakettle just before it starts whistling so that my coffee is plenty hot, but not scalding.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">While your water is heating, pour your fresh coarsely ground beans into the filter and I give it a little shake to level them out. Now the fun part. Once your water is ready, slowly pour enough water to completely saturate the grounds. It will look like this:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Give it a little bit to work through and then you can add some more water. The key here is not to just pour all water in at once. Slowly saturate your grounds, let them work through and then pour a little more until all of your water is gone. The whole process doesn’t take more than a couple minutes. I like to slowly pour my water in a circular motion, making sure to “catch” the coffee that has worked its way slightly up the side of the filter, catching all of that goodness. It should look like this when the grounds are ready for more water.<u></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Once all of the coffee has drained from the filter into your Chemex, you’re ready to enjoy! I like to give my filter a little shake, loosing up any drops before tossing it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So, so good and truly very simple. A little extra effort here goes a long way as this brewing method makes such a wonderful cup of coffee.<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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xx </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Cameron's Coffee. All thoughts and opinions are my own.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-51612025681113483122018-01-28T18:17:00.000-06:002018-01-28T18:17:57.687-06:00plans<div style="text-align: justify;">
Plans. I'm a planner. And while I am not usually one for new years resolutions, I do appreciate any opportunity to step back and evaluate needs, desires and future goals. This weekend while we sipped our early morning coffee together, Brian and I talked about our vision for this coming year and some of the things we would like to do/see/experience/work towards/etc. It is nearing the end of January after all... what?! how?!</div>
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I always feel refreshed, recharged and focused after making a list like this one. No matter how trivial some of the goals may be, it makes me feel good to have everything in one place. I am quite happy with what we came up with. Typically lists like these tend to feel overwhelming and daunting, but this time I think we got it just right. I am looking forward to a year of nesting in our home, saving for our future, sending our firstborn off to preschool and savoring every last bit.</div>
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<li>Use our monthly budget spreadsheet every month || not rocket science, but surprisingly hard to do.</li>
<li>Build shelves into the bottom of our closet for additional storage.</li>
<li>Enroll Lorelai in swim lessons or ballet class || her choice, which changes daily.</li>
<li>Paint and decorate all of upstairs || we still haven't gotten to this since we moved in last May and I'm ready to decorate!</li>
<li>Build a back deck || this one is tentative since it does not align with our money-saving goals for the year, but if we can create plans that are budget-friendly we would like to DIY this with the help of friends and family.</li>
<li>Make healthy dinners <i>at least</i> four times a week.</li>
<li>Go to the drive-in movies.</li>
<li>Visit the zoo.</li>
<li>And the aquarium.</li>
<li>Small, budget-friendly updates to both bathrooms.</li>
<li>Update the garage so that it is more functional.</li>
<li>Lake vacation house with our extended family this summer || YAY.</li>
<li>Go on a date at least six times || this might not seem like much, but as of this minute we haven't had a date since before Everett was born!!! Netflix and takeout after the kids' bedtime does not count. This is a really important goal for us this year and we already have our first date scheduled.</li>
<li>Enroll Lorelai in preschool.</li>
<li>Spend a long weekend in Minneapolis.</li>
<li>Host the Fourth of July at our home.</li>
<li>Repaint the kitchen cabinets || they are in surprisingly good shape, but a fresh coat of white paint would do them wonders.</li>
<li>Build built-in's in the mudroom || little cubbies and maybe a shelf or two for little coats and shoes and gloves.</li>
<li>Upgrade to a larger vehicle || we are outgrowing our beloved Rav4, but car shopping always stresses me out so I put this one off for a while. But I am happy to report that we just upgraded to a Toyota Highlander last weekend and we L O V E I T. So beautiful and comfortable, and so, so much room for us.</li>
<li>Eat out waaayyyyy less || we are cutting way back on this and as hard as it may be, it helps support many other goals on this list. Things like sticking to a budget, getting a new vehicle and eating healthy dinners.</li>
<li>Use my Chemex more || I loooove the rich flavor of my coffee when brewed with the Chemex, but I rarely take the time to brew it this way. </li>
<li>Build built-in bookshelves upstairs.</li>
<li>Build built-in seating in master bedroom.</li>
<li>Purge all the things!!</li>
<li>Organize the house and garage.</li>
<li>Put together our spare bedroom/guest bedroom.</li>
<li>Find a beautiful new front porch pendant light.</li>
<li>Get Everett's first haircut!</li>
<li>Prioritize family walks.</li>
<li>Visit the park at least once a week in the warmer months.</li>
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Many of these ideas are cost-effective and diy projects around our home, which is clearly a big goal of ours this year. I am working on compiling a more thorough list of budget-friendly family activities that I hope to share soon as well. </div>
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Here's to 2018! xx</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-19700857793404379122018-01-19T17:58:00.000-06:002018-01-19T17:59:50.891-06:00"waiting for papa" smoothies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I’ve partnered with Dole to share one of the many ways we are staying healthy this year, making smoothies with the kids! Not only do they love picking out what they want in theirs (you really can’t go wrong) and throwing them into the blender, I love watching them slurp down all those fruits and veggies. Smoothies are the perfect answer to that weird time in between getting home from work and daycare, but still hours before dinner time. It keeps their tummies full and they have a delicious snack while they wait for papa to come home from work. Today we mixed up some of the Dole pineapple peach apple mixations with a banana, almond milk, strawberries, a scoop of almond butter, some kale that I threw in while they weren’t looking and a splash of canned pineapple juice. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Some of our other favorite ingredients are celery, peanut butter, coconut milk, raspberries, blueberries, melon, flax seeds, chia seeds, spinach and apples. The great thing about smoothies is that you don’t need to follow a recipe, just toss in whatever sounds good. The combinations are endless!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Dole. All thoughts and opinions are my own.</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-19861575122599879122017-12-31T19:00:00.001-06:002018-01-02T16:16:25.385-06:00Two Thousand Eighteen<div style="text-align: justify;">
Well, here we are. Christmas has come and gone and a new year is upon us. It doesn't seem possible how fast time moves these days. Today we took down all of our Christmas decor and while everything feels clean and fresh and new, it's a bit sad too, so I'm grateful to have captured so many moments from this season.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Christmas 2017</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Christmas stories before bedtime</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">My little elf</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Afternoon naps by the Christmas tree</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">First snowfall</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Christmas Card 2017</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Twentieth <i>Family Stone</i> viewing of the year</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Snuggling up with a hot cuppa Cameron's <a href="https://www.cameronscoffee.com/peppermint-4">Peppermint blend</a> and a new Mary Oliver book</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Everett couldn't hang with Santa</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Watching the cars go by on a warm winter day</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Watching for the big guy</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">First Christmas in our new house</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Jammies and new toys for four straight days after Christmas</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Christmas Day 2017</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">It was a white Christmas!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I'm not sure who adores his Christmas jammies more..</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">New Christmas books by the "fire"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Enjoying a cup of <a href="https://www.cameronscoffee.com/cr%C3%A8me-br%C3%BBl%C3%A9e-latte-3">Creme Brûlée Latte</a> and watching Brian shovel</span></div>
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I was especially sad to finish my last bag of Cameron Coffee's <a href="https://www.cameronscoffee.com/cr%C3%A8me-br%C3%BBl%C3%A9e-latte-3">Creme Brûlée Latte</a> blend, so I figured what the heck and bought some more. I might not be able to leave behind this bit of Christmas for some time yet.</div>
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Words of wisdom sticking with me as we enter into this new year...</div>
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"And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don't believe in magic will never find it." -- Roald Dahl</blockquote>
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Happy New Year!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Cameron's Coffee. All thoughts and opinions are my own.</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-58150678703630734722017-12-31T19:00:00.000-06:002018-01-01T17:56:17.482-06:00Cheers to the new year!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8TvD-0hoZIY/Wkf2ci3j6DI/AAAAAAAAGuI/KEYQJ-VN00oCX5nUYwg9uoR3SqPOgQHyACLcBGAs/s1600/Blog%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8TvD-0hoZIY/Wkf2ci3j6DI/AAAAAAAAGuI/KEYQJ-VN00oCX5nUYwg9uoR3SqPOgQHyACLcBGAs/s1600/Blog%2B1.jpg" /></a></div>
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For the past few years, we have chosen to forgo the traditional new years eve celebration in favor of staying home in our pjs with the kids. I have to say, it is fantastic. We enjoy the "fake" countdown on Netflix with the kiddos and celebrate with them and then after they're sound asleep we veg out with sushi and champagne and tune into Times Square. This year we got the kids Dole Canned Pineapple Juice to toast with and a platter of leftover Christmas cookies. They were thrilled, to say the least.<br />
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Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Dole. All opinions are my own.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-6561730443054018682017-11-30T18:27:00.001-06:002017-11-30T18:37:40.071-06:00all things christmas<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">H</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">ello friends! </span><span style="color: #222222;">Can</span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> you believe it's </span>Christmas<span style="font-family: inherit;"> season? Here we are with November dwindling down and Christmas traditions are full speed ahead. We have so, so many cherished traditions in our family. And since I always love hearing how others celebrate this special time of year, I wanted to share some of our favorite, both tried and true and new, family holiday traditions and activities with you.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Beckman Family Christmas Tree, 2017</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">🔔 Pick out and cut down our tree at the Christmas Tree Farm on the day after Thanksgiving. Brian and I have been doing this ever since we moved in together, and it continues to be my favorite tradition we </span><span style="color: #222222;">share. We always stop for Papa Murphy's pizza after getting the tree, go home and put the pizzas in the oven while we set up the tree. I'm not sure how that tradition started all those years ago, but we love it.</span></div>
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🔔 <span style="font-family: inherit;">Watch <i>The Family Stone</i>, <i>The Holiday</i>, <i>Christmas Vacation</i>, <i>Elf</i>, <i>Love Actually</i>, <i>Home Alone</i> and countless Hallmark Christmas movies.<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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🔔 <span style="font-family: inherit;">String cranberries and popcorn for garland.<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222;">🔔 </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Trim the tree with our cherished collection of ornaments. </span><span style="color: #222222;">Almost</span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> all of them hold special meaning.. some from our childhood, </span>first<span style="font-family: inherit;"> Christmas ornaments for our children (including our bulldog), handprints, shells from beach vacations, even the teddy bear ornament </span>that<span style="font-family: inherit;"> I made my grandmother as a child. <u></u></span></span></div>
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🔔 <span style="font-family: inherit;">Decorate the house with wreaths, garland and lights!<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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🔔 Put together <span style="font-family: inherit;">Christmas Eve boxes for the kids. I started this last year, a sweet idea from the lovely Kerrie Moon. I fill them with one Christmas movie, one Christmas book and matching Christmas jammies for each of them and we enjoy them all day long on Christmas Eve! So simple and special!<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222;">🔔 </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">I love to wake up early on the weekends, brew a pot of coffee (especially my favorite Cameron's Coffee holiday blend, <a href="https://www.cameronscoffee.com/coffee?Format=All&RoastLevel=All&Caffeine=All&Family=Holiday">Creme </a></span><span style="color: #222222;"><a href="https://www.cameronscoffee.com/coffee?Format=All&RoastLevel=All&Caffeine=All&Family=Holiday">Brûlée Latte</a></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">), put on a Hallmark Christmas movie and wrap presents by the lights of the Christmas tree. Note: this also works late at night, after the kids are in bed, with wine. For me, savoring this slow, quiet time with glowing lights and wrapping up thoughtful gifts with a delicious cup of coffee and cheesy holiday movie in the background helps me to slow down and enjoy the little magical bits of this beautiful, but often hectic, time of year.<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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🔔 <span style="font-family: inherit;">Bake Christmas sugar cookies. Lola loves to pick out the cookie cutters. This year she picked Christmas trees and bells. Last year we did these adorable car cookies.<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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🔔 <span style="font-family: inherit;">Visit Santa.<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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🔔 <span style="font-family: inherit;">Go for a walk in the snow. We try to do this as often as possible and it never gets old. Everett catches snowflakes on his tongue, Lola makes snow angels on the ground. And almost just as enjoyable is coming back home, taking off our layers of sweaters, coats, mittens, scarves and boots and warming up by the heat vents (hey, we don’t have a fireplace), wrapping our hands around a hot cup of coffee or cider and snuggling up with each other to get warm again.<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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🔔 <span style="font-family: inherit;">Drive around looking at the lights and to our neighborhood park that lights up like you wouldn’t believe.<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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🔔 S<span style="font-family: inherit;">ledding of course.<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222;">🔔 </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">This year we’re going to try Snow Cones (recipe found in the </span><span style="color: #222222;">Winter</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"> issue of The Magnolia Journal).<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222;">🔔 D</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">rink hot cocoa every chance we get. I also love to mix half a mug of my favorite Creme </span><span style="color: #222222;">Brûlée</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"> Latte blend and half a mug of hot cocoa mix and milk. Top with some marshmallows. Delectable!</span></div>
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🔔 <span style="font-family: inherit;">Dance to Christmas music often. Our favorites are on <a href="https://open.spotify.com/user/buttercup1216/playlist/4aaOeeGOwIHAsVDELV24Yx">this playlist</a>.<u></u></span></div>
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🔔 P<span style="font-family: inherit;">rint and mail Christmas cards.</span></div>
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🔔 <span style="font-family: inherit;">Read The Night Before Christmas.<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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🔔 <span style="font-family: inherit;">Elf on a Shelf. Yes, we are those people. The kids LOVE IT. They are SO attentive and notice everywhere she goes (ours is a girl elf named Tinsel).<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222;">🔔 </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Make a snowman of course. Last year Lola named it Elsa, not to be </span><span style="color: #222222;">confused</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"> with Olaf.<u></u></span></div>
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🔔 <span style="font-family: inherit;">Light all the Christmas candles.<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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🔔 <span style="font-family: inherit;">Purchase, wrap and donate gifts for local children in need.<u></u></span></div>
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🔔 <span style="font-family: inherit;">Make gingerbread houses. This year I bought a kit that has four small houses in it, so we will each make our own. Should be interesting!<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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🔔 <span style="font-family: inherit;">We are terrible at keeping up with advent calendars, admittedly. Usually I pick a chocolate one up at Aldi, but this year I am just going to make one on the big chalkboard in our kitchen.<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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🔔 T<span style="font-family: inherit;">his year for the first time we are hosting Christmas Eve at our home with all of our extended family. Our home will be completely packed with family and presents and food and love. It’s going to be so good.<u></u></span></div>
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🔔 <span style="font-family: inherit;">Cut paper snowflakes and hang them around the house.<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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🔔 <span style="font-family: inherit;">I’d like to try drying oranges to string up this year too.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So many memories...</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">And so </span><span style="color: #222222;">many</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"> exciting adventures to come! Already this season is shaping up to be the best one yet.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Christmas Card Photo, 2016</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: x-small;">Baking away... (note the photobomber, bottom left)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: x-small;">Sipping on that Creme Brûlée</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: x-small;">The kids excitedly watching on as we decorate the front porch</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: x-small;">Grocery list making is infinitely more enjoyable with a hot cup of coffee and the light of the Christmas tree</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: x-small;">Things are happening! Christmas, 2017</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">What are your favorite traditions, old or new, for this joyous time of the year? I would love to add to our bucket list! xx</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Cameron's Coffee. All thoughts and opinions </span>are<span style="font-family: inherit;"> my own.</span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-20802896654184243072017-10-31T20:00:00.000-05:002017-11-30T18:37:25.160-06:00pumpkin maple latte recipe<div>
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Cameron's Coffee. All opinions are my own.</div>
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It's no secret that I'm a huge fan of a good pumpkin latte. Oftentimes at home I'll brew a cup of pumpkin flavored coffee and mix with a simple caramel syrup and some milk for a pumpkiny treat. But if I have a little extra time on the weekends, I love to whip up a batch of this maple pumpkin mixture and add it to my pumpkin brew, topped with whipped cream for a seriously delicious fall treat.<br />
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In a small saucepan, whisk together two to three tablespoons of pumpkin puree, a tablespoon of pure maple syrup, one tablespoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1 teaspoon ginger, 1/2 teaspoon cloves, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg and two cups of milk or half & half. Heat until warm, while whisking continuously, but be sure not to let it boil. And be sure to whisk thoroughly so that it is smooth and not lumpy. If I'm feeling extra fancy, I'll pour some into my Ninja frother too.</div>
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Meanwhile, brew your favorite coffee blend, I love Cameron Coffee's <a href="https://www.cameronscoffee.com/pumpkin-spice-4">Pumpkin Spice</a> blend. I use my Ninja Coffee Bar to brew one cup in Specialty mode so that the coffee is more concentrated. Fill your cup about halfway with the coffee and fill the rest with your maple pumpkin mixture. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired. </div>
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And voila! Go cozy up on the sofa with a comfy blanket, some wool socks and a good candle. Or bundle up and enjoy the brisk air, pumpkins and colorful mums. Or at the very least gulp down as much as possible before your kids demand your full attention again.</div>
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Happy brewing. xo</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-40932188214397691232017-10-30T16:06:00.000-05:002017-11-30T18:37:50.516-06:00Picnic in the Park with Dole<div style="text-align: justify;">
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Dole. All opinions are my own.</div>
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The kids love a good picnic. Whether it's the living room floor, the front porch or their favorite park in the peak of fall. The weather has been fall perfection here in the Midwest and we've been taking full advantage. Including an impromptu picnic at the park the other day because the crisp breeze and falling leaves were too beautiful to neglect. We stopped for our favorite on the go snack, Dole fruit bowls, grabbed a blanket out of the back of the car and set up camp right on top of a glorious leaf pile.</div>
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It can be a struggle to get the kids to eat healthy, especially when they know the appeal of a good cookie. But thankfully these fruit bowls satisfy their sweet tooth <i>and</i> I can feel good about giving them naturally sweet, nutritious options. But most of all, they are convenient, quick and easy. Perfect for on the go. Which let's face it, is the most important thing when your days are as hectic as ours. xo</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-44146722889023871542017-09-29T08:01:00.001-05:002017-11-30T18:38:02.411-06:00don't forget your coffee mama<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Cameron’s Coffee. All opinions are my own.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Ahhh, the subtle art that is traveling with little ones. It definitely has it’s challenges, but with several family vacations under our belt, I’m here to tell you that with the right attitude, the right packing list and the right movies downloaded onto your iPad (I’m serious about this one), family vacations </span><i style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">are </i><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">worth the look of terror you will receive when boarding a flight with a stroller and a squirmy toddler (or two).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So, the packing. It can be really overwhelming, so I always make a list. Actually I usually make three different lists: what to carry-on, what to check, what to buy there. Because it will always seem silly to me to pay to check a bag full of diapers when you can buy diapers where you are going. Now, I realize there is always exceptions to this. Like for instance, our trip to Mexico last year.. I couldn’t risk buying diapers or formula on that trip. For many reasons like US regulations on these products and of course transportation to a store (we didn’t have any). So there are exceptions to these lists, of course. But today I’m going to focus on our trip to Florida this fall, in which we had access to a rental car and all standard resources in the United States (ie, Target).</span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="more"></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And, so…<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">A </span><u style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Carry-On List</u><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">: I like to keep this list simple, without missing anything of major importance. I have learned that there is such a thing as carrying on too much, which turns into more of a hassle to deal with and lug around. First I make sure to have all important documents with me at all times. I like to keep these in my personal bag. Things like boarding passes, IDs, passports (if needed), itineraries, birth certificates (I bring copies of each one just in case), accommodation confirmations, rental car paperwork, hotel receipts, insurance cards, credit cards, cash, etc. Sounds like a lot, but this would all fit into a small envelope. And a lot of these items can be stored digitally on your phone as well. A tablet for the kids to watch movies on in flight + headphones go in my personal bag too. And a book for me because of course I’m going to have time to read a book on this three hour flight with two small children, right?! And a binkie. Next up would be a small backpack for the kids. The perk here is that Lorelai is old enough to carry her own backpack, so I fill it with things for the kids in flight (except the tablet, that stays in my bag for obvious reasons like kids like to throw their bags around). Her backpack is filled with things like books, a few small toys, their favorite stuffed animals (you know the ones, mine each cling to their own respectable bunnies), a few snacks, a small blanket, a b</span>inkie<span style="font-family: inherit;">, </span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">a few diapers, a pack of wipes and in Everett’s case a sippy cup (that we bring through security empty and fill once in the terminal). Now again, I have to remind you that this list looked a lot different last year when we were still in the formula-feeding stages. I’m just focusing on where we are at in this season of parenting, with both kiddos eating people food and 50% potty trained. <u></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We have a nifty carry-on suitcase that we pack, bring with us, and store overhead during the flight as well just in case our checked luggage is lost and/or we need more room. We have <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071VG5N9D/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">this one</a> from amazon and it’s super handy; we love it. In this suitcase we pack a couple of outfits for each of us, phone + tablet chargers, a few extra diapers and wipes, a binkie and anything else that didn’t fit into our checked luggage since most commercial airlines allow carry-on luggage free of charge. This saves us from having to pay to check two large suitcases (usually). Or at least that is the goal.<u></u><u></u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">A <u>Checked Luggage List</u>: This mostly consists of our clothes. Admittedly, I do have a problem over-packing clothes for my kids since they tend to spill food, throw up, and poop or pee on things a lot. I’m kidding, but not really. Also because I have a weakness for kids clothes and want all of their cute stuff to come with us. The problem is that it’s all pretty cute, right? Honestly, for this trip we kept the clothes packing light since we have a washer/dryer in the house we are staying at (MAJOR BONUS for traveling with kids). Also in our checked luggage you will find pool floaties (if they can fit), sunscreen, bug spray, video baby monitor, sound machine, small blue tooth speaker (we like <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01B6ISUU6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">this one</a> for the beach), toiletries and makeup, crib sheets, laundry strips (just because I have <a href="https://www.target.com/p/dapple-174-baby-laundry-detergent-strips-fragrance-free-32-loads/-/A-51302160?ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&CPNG=PLA_Baby+Shopping&adgroup=SC_Baby&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=g&device=c&location=9018402&gclid=CjwKCAjwxo3OBRBpEiwAS7X62eu4qd5Hv4DMM9k0lY3efOnHmCdxZh2dRubG1FSbUdO3iW1xrL5V6hoCsd4QAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds">these</a> on hand and they are really small, otherwise I would buy there), glasses, contact solution + case, swim diapers, a binkie (are you noticing a theme here?) and coffee beans (I wouldn’t want to risk not having my favorite blend on hand for a long week of indulgent coffee drinking at my leisure; for this trip I packed a bag of perfect-for-beach-sipping <a href="https://www.cameronscoffee.com/highlander-grog-coffee-12-oz?gclid=CjwKCAjwxo3OBRBpEiwAS7X62QAFgV-RRSV0QQ4JzeBiOJxlfQLHY2n7gSYNcH_Ark-tXijEIM5WmBoCJhgQAvD_BwE">Highlander Grog</a>). Again, we try to keep this minimal because it isn’t free to check luggage anywhere anymore (is it?). We try to stick to one large suitcase to check, depending on the trip of course. We also gate check a stroller, which is free of charge on most commercial airlines. Be sure to look into this with your specific airline. For example, American Airlines charges a fee due to the (large) size of our stroller, we avoid them if possible. We’ve never had an issue gate checking our stroller free of charge on United or Frontier on previous trips. We use <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003554H9M/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">this</a> gate check bag from amazon, but have been known to use a giant black garbage bag on occasion. Hey, you do what you gotta do, right?<u></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And finally, a <u>Buy There List</u>: Since we will have a rental car and access to grocery stores and/or Target, our list of things to buy once we’ve arrived is more significant. We will buy groceries for the week (we have a full kitchen in the house we are staying in), diapers, wipes, pool floaties (if we can’t fit them in our checked luggage), cheap sand toys and a pack and play. We decided not to bring our pack and play because it is big and inconvenient and costly to do so. We researched in advance found <a href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/Graco-Pack-n-Play-Playard-Ashford/14707380">this one</a> for $35 available at a local Wal-Mart. Thankfully where we are staying, we are able to leave the pack and play in the storage closet for future renters, but even if you are staying somewhere that you are unable to do so, you are only out $35. Well worth the cost of having your small child contained during nap times and during the night. Plus I would much rather pay $35 than lug the pack and play on top of everything else we’ve mentioned. And of course, a lot of accommodations offer crib and pack and play rentals, so be sure to look into that before arriving as well. I’m sure that $35 could be put to much better use, like tequila, after flying all day with young children.<u></u><u></u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I’ll leave you with these takeaways.</span></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #222222;">Bring your favorite blend of coffee to ensure a morning on the beach with a big cuppa like this one.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #222222;">Traveling with a spouse is recommended, if possible.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #222222;">Sometimes not sitting together is a plus. I know this sounds crazy, but for our outbound flight we were unable to sit together, since we had to rebook last minute. By splitting the kids apart, one parent with each child, we found that they were actually very well behaved and not feeding off of each other's attitude. Interesting!</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #222222;">Carry on enough so that you don't have to pay $300 in checked luggage fees, but not so much that you can't physically carry everything you brought plus your kids. There's a fine line here.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #222222;">We always bring a tablet. Movies you are able to download and watch offline on Netflix are are game-changer. We download those at home before we leave.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #222222;">Don't have many expectations </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">and try to keep your cool. Your kids won’t always be perfect during a long travel day, but really how can we expect them to be? Traveling is grueling for everyone, just realize that they will make mistakes and so will you. Arriving safely at your destination is the most important thing. Allow yourself grace.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">Bring a lot of </span><span style="color: #222222;">binkies.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As I mentioned, this list looks a lot different depending on where you are traveling to and your accommodations. I hope that our recent experiences can help someone out there searching for helpful tips and tricks and fearing an upcoming travel adventure (that was me just a few years ago). You will do fine!!<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Xxxo<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Chelsea</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-28184665927892460172017-09-14T18:31:00.000-05:002017-09-15T09:46:57.945-05:00the story of you<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_7Y28Bi8kgo/WbsLpETIADI/AAAAAAAAGdc/ymwvagrJgAQNF4vTB0D12CqPc_1R7NC6wCLcBGAs/s1600/story%2Bof%2Byou.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_7Y28Bi8kgo/WbsLpETIADI/AAAAAAAAGdc/ymwvagrJgAQNF4vTB0D12CqPc_1R7NC6wCLcBGAs/s1600/story%2Bof%2Byou.jpg" /></a></div>
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I finally took some time to put together a baby book for Everett (I mean, he is only going to turn two this December). I am so, so glad that I finally did. I am gushing over this book from <a href="https://www.artifactuprising.com/">Artifact Uprising</a>, <i><a href="https://www.artifactuprising.com/photo-books/baby-book">The Story of You</a>. </i>It is really so much more than just your ordinary baby book; it is something that I will truly cherish forever. The book is bound in fabric and foiled with the words "Here begins the story of you". It comes with a special pen, adhesives and a set of photos to use throughout. I felt such a strong connection to the charming prompts throughout the book and simple, clean layout. It is beautiful in every way. I have everything neatly tucked away in here with little notes I want to remember, letters for him to read when he's older, hospital bracelets, itty bitty footprints and of course, so many photos.<br />
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Next up, I am going to order the pink version and reorganize all of Lorelai's first moments. And then find a special place in our home to keep them safe. Somewhere that I can catch glimpses of them often. Absolute treasures. I never dreamed that such a sweet book could exist. <i>The Story of You. The Story of Them. The Story of my Loves.</i></div>
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The kind folks at Artifact Uprising have so graciously offered a 10% discount off of <i>The Story of You </i>book's for my readers! Just enter code STORYxCB10 at checkout; good for one week.</div>
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Xxxo</div>
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Chelsea</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-70585338582909090132017-08-27T14:13:00.001-05:002017-09-16T08:46:35.487-05:00front porch readin' + sippin'<div style="text-align: justify;">
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Cameron's Coffee. All opinions are my own.<br />
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I am just soaking up this porch you guys. I mean, it was a huge selling point for us when we bought this little craftsman and I knew that we would love it, but even I am surprised by how much we use it. We sit out here every single day. No matter how crazy life gets, this simple and sweet retreat is always waiting for us. Whether it's a quick swing before bed time, adult beverages after bed time, an after-walk popsicle or a few minutes of alone time with a coffee and a good book. We have been living on this porch this summer.</div>
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Today I popped out for a quick break while the kids are napping. Should I be cleaning instead? Definitely. But you know, the mess will still be waiting for me after my break. Right now the porch is welcoming me with a warm breeze, birds chirping, friendly hellos from passerby's, an iced cup of <a href="https://www.cameronscoffee.com/gold-cup-house-blend-coffee-10-oz-1">Cameron's Coffee Gold Cup House Blend</a> and the remaining pages of a good book.</div>
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So today, let's talk about two of my very favorite things: cold brew and summer reading!</div>
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It's August and in the Midwest that almost always means it is HOT. I like to drink cold brew all year long, but it is exceptionally good in the hot summer months. Especially for front porch sipping. Admittedly I do not always have time for this brewing method, it's a weekend favorite for sure, but it's just so simple and delicious. </div>
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Scoop roughly three tablespoons of medium coarse coffee grounds into a large jar. Pour one and half cups cold, filtered water over grounds. Stir and cover. Let this steep at room temperature overnight. In the morning, strain into a new jar. I like to use a little handheld strainer with a piece of cheesecloth. Make sure you get all that goodness! Pour over ice and add whatever else you'd like. I always add some cream, half and half, or whatever little bit of milk from Everett's sippy I can scrounge up (true story). If I'm feeling fancy I will even add some caramel syrup. This usually makes enough for two cups for me. But you have the option to make a much bigger batch and store in the fridge for up to a week. The measurements do not have to be exact either, depending on your personal tastes and strength preference. You will find what you like best after a few attempts.</div>
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I love how simple this method is, because you don't need a fancy press, pour over or coffeemaker. Not that I don't have those things, because admittedly I do, but this technique is so simple, you just need a couple of jars and something to strain with. Easy as pie. I have even been in a pinch before and used a paper towel to strain. Not ideal, but hey it works! And anything that I can prep in advance to make mornings with the kiddos easier, I am all for!<br />
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This summer has been particularly busy for us, what with moving our family of four and all of our belongings into a new home and all. Not to mention, the usual summer craziness, vacations, getaways, appointments, life. It's crazy hectic, but it's wonderful. And as often as I get the chance, I am unwinding with a good book. So while my summer reading list is somewhat shorter this year, the books have been so good that they are making up for my short list!<br />
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<li><i>The Magnolia Story </i>by Chip & Joanna Gaines -- I read this book in about two days. I am such a sucker for all things Chip and Jo and this book was no different. What I didn't expect to find in their story was so many nuggets of wisdom pertaining to parenting and living your best life. Here are a couple of favorites:</li>
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"I always thought that the "thriving" would come when everything was perfect, and what I learned is that it's actually down in the mess that things get good. It was such a blessing to find myself thriving in the middle of the pain. Unless you find a way to do that, there's always going to be this fake illusion that once you get here-- wherever "there" is for you-- you'll be happy. But that's just not life. If you can't find happiness in the ugliness, you're not going to find it in the beauty either. I have learned that if you're looking for perfection in your house, you can get it. But as soon as you have it, you're going to sit on your couch and find you're still unhappy. You'll find yourself continuing to say, "What's next? What now? What do I need to do?" I worked hard to try to do it all, to try to live up to the Pinterest perfection that only leaves you discontented. I finally realized that life isn't found on the pages of a magazine- life is found in the glass of spilled milk and in the long, narrow hallway filled with socks and soccer balls."</blockquote>
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"I realized that my determination to make things perfect meant I was chasing an empty obsession all day long. Nothing was ever going to be perfect the way I had envisioned it in the past. Did I want to keep spending my energy on that effort, or did I want to step out of that obsession and to enjoy my kids, maybe allowing myself to get messy right along with them in the process? I chose the latter-- and that made all the difference."</blockquote>
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<li><i>Rising Strong </i>by Brene Brown -- I haven't made my way through this one yet, because I find myself devouring each page and my thoughts spiral in a million different directions. In a good way guys, this book is so good: </li>
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"Steve said, "I don't know. I really don't. All I know is that my life is better when I assume that people are doing their best. It keeps me out of judgement and lets me focus on what is, and not what should or could be." His answer felt like truth to me. Not an easy truth, but truth."</blockquote>
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"I want to be in the arena. I want to be brave with my life. And when we make up the choice to dare greatly, we sign u to get our asses kicked. We can choose courage or we can choose comfort, but we can't have both. Not at the same time. Vulnerability is not winning or losing; it's having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome. Vulnerability is not weakness; it's our greatest measure of courage."</blockquote>
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"It's always helpful to remember that when perfectionism is driving, shame is riding shotgun."</blockquote>
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I haven't finished these last two, so I'm not sharing any quotes from those in an attempt not to spoil myself. We have an upcoming beach trip and I look forward to devouring them in the shallows of the ocean.</div>
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<li><i>Commonwealth </i>by Ann Patchett</li>
<li><i>The Wonder </i>by Emma Donoghue</li>
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I hope to make time to dive into many more reads this fall, so any and all recommendations are very welcome!</div>
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Fall is amongst us y'all!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17303429480553005694noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-63218460291476695332017-07-22T09:18:00.000-05:002017-09-15T09:48:09.437-05:00new kitchen, new coffee love<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Cameron's Coffee. All opinions are my own.</div>
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Today I am so delighted to share that our kitchen renovation is complete! Well, roughly 95% complete because isn't that just the way it usually goes? I am going to give you a few sneak peeks today, which is the perfect time to announce my new partnership with Cameron's Coffee! My love of coffee is nothing new, but collaborating with a Midwest-based coffee company for the next year is a dream. Not only am I passionate about always smooth, never bitter coffee, but I am a huge advocate for brewing my own quality coffee at home, which is <a href="https://www.cameronscoffee.com/blog/why-camerons-doesnt-have-coffee-shops/">Cameron's specialty</a>.<br />
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For the past few weeks I have been taste testing about eight different <a href="https://www.cameronscoffee.com/">Cameron's Coffee</a> blends and each one is so unique and delicious. My favorite so far has been an indulgent <a href="https://www.cameronscoffee.com/search?Q=caramel+cream">Caramel Cream</a> flavored coffee on ice with a splash of whole milk. It's incredibly delicious and perfect for summer. But I already find myself longing for fall, for many reasons, one of which is curling up on the couch with a hot cup of <a href="https://www.cameronscoffee.com/search?Q=fireside+blend">Cameron's Fireside Blend</a>. I already brewed a cup with my French Press because I had to try it (I mean, that name!) and it did not disappoint. I just cranked my AC and pretended it was October for the moment to truly have the full effect.<br />
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Over the next year you can expect to see posts from me about why I love brewing at home (hello cost savings + convenience) and how I do so, what my favorite recipes and brewing techniques are, as well as my favorite Cameron's blends, my mug collection and much more.<br />
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I am completely over the moon thinking of the endless cups of coffee I will brew and sip in this little kitchen of mine. I hope that you will enjoy following along as much as I look forward to sharing with you!<br />
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PS. Full kitchen details coming soon!</div>
Chelseahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04343295643706565393noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7792864407088148888.post-28077938521003845612017-05-31T21:26:00.001-05:002017-08-25T21:10:05.640-05:00little baby basics<div style="text-align: justify;">
This post is sponsored by Carter's; however all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.<br />
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This guy is just so excited to check out every nook and cranny of our new house. He has to open every door, find every closet and test out the porch swing just about every day. Watching him explore his new world is such a joy. And while we still miss our old home tremendously, I can already envision our babies growing into young children here and bringing new babies home to this house, fresh from the hospital.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>A new baby brings so much joy into your home... like the scent of their baby soft skin, coos and giggles, smiles in their sleep and late night cuddle sessions. They also bring itty, bitty, little baby clothes. I love nothing more than washing and organizing a dresser full of fresh, clean baby clothes. Can't you just smell it? It is one of my favorite things to do when I'm pregnant and anxiously awaiting new little fingers and toes. Admittedly it is not quite as fun when that baby is one and a half and I'm constantly scrubbing away spaghetti stains and smashed on peanut butter, but still I wouldn't trade it for anything.<br />
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Something that has been really special for me as a mother the second time around is dressing Everett in his sister's hand me down's. We did not find out the gender for either of our babies when I was pregnant, so we have a surplus of gender neutral baby clothes. Watching him toddle around the house wearing a onesie that I so vividly remember cuddling baby Lorelai in just does something to my heart. It is so comforting and familiar. So special.<br />
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And while there have been so, so many differences between my two babies, my affection for simple, basic baby clothes has not changed. <a href="http://www.carters.com/?cm_mmc=SocialMedia_Carters-_-Blog-_-LBBLaunch-_-Story&cvosrc=Social%20Network.Blog.Story&cvo_campaign=LBBLaunch">Carter's</a> has always been our go-to for tees, bodysuits, jammies, you name it, because of their simplicity, style, comfort, and of course, darling designs. Their new <a href="http://www.carters.com/carters-little-baby-basics?cm_mmc=SocialMedia_Carters-_-Blog-_-LBBLaunch-_-Story&cvosrc=Social%20Network.Blog.Story&cvo_campaign=LBBLaunch">Little Baby Basics collection</a> is a compilation of some of our most well-loved styles, including the classic white side-snap tee, white onesies and sleeveless bodysuits (a summer must have). Plus tons of darling sleepers and outfits in the sweetest patterns.<br />
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Perhaps my favorite look is the Carter's classic white side-snap tee with a pair of jeans. I mean, it does not get any cuter than this classic look. I have similar photos of Lorelai at this age wearing this exact same outfit. Such a treasure. I love the comfort and familiarity that these clothes bring for us.<br />
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A new baby truly changes everything. And each baby brings its own beautiful challenges into your world. I love that I can rely on the comfort and simplicity of Carter's every step of the way. From that fresh-scented, cuddly newborn to a dirty, bruised, rambunctious little person.<br />
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<a href="https://www.carters.com/find-a-store?cm_mmc=SocialMedia_Carters-_-Blog-_-LBBLaunch-_-Story&cvosrc=Social%20Network.Blog.Story&cvo_campaign=LBBLaunch">Carter's</a> has generously offered a 20% off <a href="http://www.carters.com/LBB_PRKit_Bloggers_Coupon_060877.html?cm_mmc=SocialMedia_Carters-_-Blog-_-LBBLaunch-_-Story&cvosrc=Social%20Network.Blog.Story&cvo_campaign=LBBLaunch">coupon</a> for my readers! I hope you love and treasure these sweet, simple pieces as much as we do.<br />
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<a href="http://www.carters.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-Carters-Library/default/dw2fbaca78/images/coupons/LBB_PRKit_Bloggers_Coupon_060877.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.carters.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-Carters-Library/default/dw2fbaca78/images/coupons/LBB_PRKit_Bloggers_Coupon_060877.jpg" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="448" /></a></div>
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Now.... someone talk my baby fever down from the ledge, okay? :)<br />
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Xxxxo<br />
Chelsea</div>
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