Top 5 Tips to Enjoy this Season

Whether you're single or married, have children or don't, this time of year can be absolutely crazy!!  I know that when I'm not careful, I get so stressed out over little things and end up not enjoying the moments.  I've been making it my intention this December to not let myself get too caught up in 'everything else,' and to really be happy amongst the chaos.  It is so important that I enjoy this season of our little kids and the season itself.  I want to create positive and happy memories for our children, not having them remember how frantic mommy was this time of year.  For me, having one in preschool was a game changer.  My loosey goosey schedule is a thing of the past and we now have to work in a few outside activities.   I quickly got myself together and figured out ways to keep happy.

Here are my top five ways I am keeping my cool this Christmas season.



1.  Plan Ahead.

It's a must.  I wish I had planned out my meals for the whole month like my friend Cathy, but if you can't plan monthly then at least do it weekly.  I also am trying to get better about looking at my day ahead, so that I am not totally blindsided (like I was last week!)  What can you plan ahead?  Date nights, shopping trips, menus, "down time/family time"--yes, schedule it in, holiday parties, school functions, workouts, grocery store runs, time to wrap presents.  The more you map out what is left to do and when you'll be able to do it, it's so much easier.  My problem is that I have my phone, my day planner and the family fridge calendar.  I have to get better at making sure all 3 are lined up.  I tend to remember things more if I actually write them, so that is why I refuse to give up my written calendars.  "If you fail to plan, you plan to fail."

2. Stay present.

When I start getting all uppity and such, I realize I need to focus: family, faith, friends.  Maybe that means putting down my phone and picking up the big camera.  Take some good photos of the kids this size.  Or maybe it means put away all cameras and just be there, playing, singing, laughing, eating, whatever with them.   We didn't take a single photo of us decorating the tree; in a way I was sad, but I am actually happy that we all enjoyed that time together so much, a photo was forgotten to be had.  Don't allow yourself to worry about what is to happen; the cookies will get made, the toys will be wrapped, the shopping we get done.  Just breathe in the moment.   Don't let yourself slip down what should have happened either, that's not going to change or fix anything.  Just focusing on where you are at and being happy, will help you de-stress instantly.

3.) Ignore the noise.

What noise am I talking about?  Well there is the adorable noise of the kids trying to sing/scream all the Christmas songs, (I usually try to applaud from the next room over!) but I'm talking about that extra noise.  The noise of others who don't intentionally make you feel bad, but after seeing all of their perfect holiday cards, it makes you think twice about your cheesy iphone one.  The girl on FB who always gets to wear gowns and looks like a movie star every weekend at holiday soirees.  The mom with six kids whose house is always neat as if she has a maid.  The younger friend who is out having fabulous cocktails with all of her friends.  The Martha Stewart on instagram who bakes and coordinates every little detail that makes you want to run to the store and re-create so your house can look that cozy.  Do not let social media steal your happiness.  If you start feeling jealousy while scrolling it's time to put down the phone/tablet/computer and do something different.  We all share our highlights and there is no faster way to steal your joy than starting to play the comparison game.

4.) Have fun.

What is it about this time of year that makes you smile?  For me it's the childhood memories of baking cookies.  I remember my mom would have her girlfriends over and they'd make different cookies and swap.  I used to do a cookie party before I had kids, but then it got too big and having kids made it tricky.  I'd like to start that up again one day!  This year I have already made 3 different kinds of cookies with the kids and Brooke is having so much fun helping me.  I put on some Christmas music and we just make a big old mess and make some delicious cookies.  If you're not into baking, maybe it's driving or walking around looking at lights/decorations.  Maybe it's just listening to Christmas music.  Binge watch a few Hallmark movies (while you fold laundry or wash dishes!) Or if you're crafty, go to Michael's or checkout Pinterest for a holiday DIY.  The kids love getting creative and your house looks super cute.  What's the point of this time of year if you're not taking time to do what you love?  December only comes once a year.  Enjoy it!

5.) Be grateful.

I have to say, this has been the biggest help lately.  As soon as I'm having a rough day, I will try to snap myself out of the funk.  I make myself think of 3 things I am grateful for.  It's hard to be unhappy when you start to train your mind to think of all that makes you smile.  I really am trying to write them down in the morning or at night, but at the very least I say them out loud.  Sometimes it's when I walk the dog, so I don't have anything to write it down on...but I quickly become humbled and remember all that we have.  Right now, say three things you are grateful for today.

I am grateful for my cozy slippers, this time to blog and this delicious vanilla spiced tea with Rumchata.  Nothing crazy or fancy, but I am so thankful this is my moment right now!!  

Remember to breathe, catch those snowflakes on your tongue with your tot, and enjoy that piece of gingerbread cookie.  Of course, voice texting to your best girlfriends who get you it also quite essential, but that's just a given.  It is the most wonderful time of the year, so let it be.

Blog & Bling {Review and a Giveaway!!}

It's no secret on this here old blog that I love fashion.  I strongly feel that it helps us feel good, special and let's be honest, pretty!! From fun clothes to even more fun jewels, a little bit can go a long way.

A few weeks ago Shelby contacted me about doing a review of her Stella & Dot products and host a Blog & Bling Party, with a giveaway for my readers! First and foremost, I already knew the quality would be amazing, so of course I said yes!! I have purchased a few pieces throughout the years and I can tell you honestly that these are the pieces I always reach for on special occasions or when I want some extra sparkle.   The material is always top notch and I have never had any issues with anything breaking.  It's super high quality and it lasts!

I love that they have so many different styles of jewelry to choose.  You've got something with lots of bling and many different options--You could totally style this at work or layer it all for a special night out on the town with your love.  This Starlet Pearl Necklace is so versatile!  I think my favorite thing about a statement necklace is that you can take any color plain or graphic tee, sweater, blouse, and jazz it up!



Someone who may not love all the bling, but appreciates sophisticated with a touch of rock?  This is a true gem! This chic pearl & Spike Cuff Bracelet is to die for!



They also have a little girls' line, how adorable are these!?  Santa will be stuffing that upper right hand corner set {Izzie Necklace & Bracelet Set} into a little girl named Brooke's stocking!

Meet Shelby!



She is a super busy gal!! She started her business in September and has had some amazing accomplishments already, hello $800 in free jewels!! ::drool:: She just made Associate Stylist! Congrats girl! She works full time, coaches a swim team, and is an excellent stylist.  I asked her what her favorite part about being a stylist is, and she said, "Definitely the interaction with women.  Everyone's styles are so different and that's what makes it really fun."

Stay up to date with Shelby's styling tips by following her Facebook page: Stella & Dot With Shelby

If you're interested in becoming a stylist, she is the girl to go to! We have had so much fun talking and getting to know each other, I feel like I've made a new friend.  She's got me half tempted to embark on a Stella Stylist journey!

She let me choose my wishing bracelet, and I went with The Elephant Wishing Cord Bracelet.  I love when things have meaning, and here the elephant represents making your own luck.  It's my lucky charm!!

First of all, I was incredibly pleased and impressed by the simple, yet girly packaging.  This bracelet, ringing in at only $19, is the PERFECT gift to have on hand for friends, teachers, hairdressers, sisters, moms, whomever!! It'd make a great Santa Grab Bag gift or Secret Santa Exchange.

The packaging itself is so adorable, there's no need to even wrap!

I don't know about you, but this time of year, no matter how organized I try to be, it's awesome to have a little help in the gifting/wrapping department.  Stella & Dot has made this a breeze!

It can be worn alone and a little loose.



Or you can tighten it up:



I love that it can be worn either way! Plus, it's super easy to loosen/tighten, which can't be said for every bracelet I own!



And the back? So cute and still stylish! I think that because it's pink I love it that much more! For me,  I love this wishing bracelet because on a day to day, I can't wear tons of bangles and fun arm candy: read, I have a 10 month old who is teething and pulls everything: but this is not an issue!



The other item Shelby asked me to review were the lightening studs--LOVE!

Right away I knew I would be smitten because again, I have a baby who loves to pull and yank, so the fact that these little studs are on my lobes are not appealing to little man!



I also have my hair up often, so it's nice to have something lightweight and a little different to show off in the ears!


Right now you can earn dot dollars too! Spend $50 and get $25 to spend later!! So you can stock up on your Christmas gifts now, and then treat yourself to some jewels come the new year.  You know, when the Christmas cheer has come and gone and you need a little sparkly pick me up!

Onto the Giveaway!

Rules: 

1.) Simply order through this link {here} from now until December 7, and you will automatically be entered into the drawing!! 

2.) Shelby will be giving away a wishing bracelet--and you get to choose!

There are quite a few to choose from!  

Who is one lady that maybe tricky to buy for?  We can help find a style suitable for your budget and style!

CYBER MONDAY

Yelllllo!! Happy End of November!! Oh my goodness, I have so much to do, but I just had to share a few of my cyber Monday specials I have found with you!! I am all about small business, helping other mommas out and sharing a good deal when I find one! Here is what I've stumbled across so far…

For the first time EVER, AdvoCare is having a sale on lots of goodies!!  If you're looking to try something new or just stock up/save, NOW IS THE TIME!! Check it out!

If you're looking to add some bling to your holiday outfits, or still looking for a gift for a girlfriend, Stella & Dot extended their Black Friday sale until today!  I totally scooped up a necklace and few other things, earned Dot dollars & will be styling for my holiday parties.  I'll be reviewing some goodies tomorrow on the blog, and be on the lookout for a giveaway! {hint, if you order from this link, you'll be entered into the drawing!}

$228 value for $61!!!

Skincare is so important, especially when the weather is turning cold and the heat makes everything dry!  I am loving my Reverse Regime that Megan is helping me out with.  I can tell you that my next purchase will be for my lips, because they are so dry and chapped! I am in need of some help!  Megan would love to assist you with any skincare questions, she can be reached here! 

She even has something for that hard to buy guy in your life:

With all of the photos we'll be taking, have you thought about your makeup?? Younique has a heck of a deal with buying this bundle! $99 and it's valued at $151! That lipstick looks to die for. Ann can help you out, feel free to browse these deals here!   They extended their Black Friday promotion as well.

And a not so small biz…

And for you coffee lovers, did you see Starbucks has a $25 off of $60 purchase, plus free shipping?  Who wouldn't love a fun coffee mug to curl up with on these cold days ahead?  Gimme all the coffee. Starbucks Deal

Please tell me some of the good deals you're finding today!  Share below.  Happy Holiday Shopping!

Holiday Survival Kit & Man Crates

With the holidays right around the corner, I am starting to really focus on what needs to get done!! Being super pregnant, my "survival" kit looks a tad different this year.

Holiday Survival Kit by jennifer-delle-fave featuring h&m leggings

1. Mac Book Pro- I love my laptop.  I love it even more, when I can purchase gifts online and not have to waddle around the mall wrangling my two year old.  I don't have a ton of people to buy for, but it makes life so much easier this way!  

2.  Cozy knit scarf. I have been running cold this pregnancy, so an extra layer to conveniently add or subtract is super helpful! If I do leave the house, my coats and vests don't zip, so a scarf helps keep me warm.  I love having one handy to wrap myself in, even if I'm siting in the living room too!  My mother in law made me a huge knitted blanket scarf, legit I can wrap myself, Brooke, Joe, probably Brad and myself in it! I love it! I will have to share that soon.

3.  SMILE.  I am making this my number one goal this season; I don't want to stress out and ruin the holidays for anyone.  I'm just going to sit back and watch my daughter's eyes and see the joy in her face in every new sparkly adventure!

4.  Winter leggings-because let's be real.  Pants are lame. That is all.

5.  Christmas mug- I need to find a cute one!! Whether it's holding my Spark, Coffeecino, or hot chocolate, I need something that is festive and fun.

6.  Lip gloss.  My lips get super dry and I just need a good gloss! Of course, I feel a lot more put together if I finish my look as well, so that's kind of necessary too. 

As for male shopping ideas?  If you have some tricky men in your lives, you know, the ones who have it all, perhaps check out this unique company Man Crates!  They have something for everyone.  I think the best part is that to open the actual crate, your man must do so with a crobar.  Wouldn't that be fun to get on video?  

What is in your holiday survival kit this year?  

Thanksgiving: Making Food and Memories

Thursday will be here in a jiffy, are you ready?  I absolutely love the holidays, no doubt.  One day I cannot wait to host my own Thanksgiving, with a big ol' turkey and all the fixings.  As for now?  I will respectfully attend my parents' house and bring what I can.  I just love being in the kitchen and cooking (and even baking) makes me happy.  I also know it's not easy to do with a tot who's not even two, and a bun in the oven.  I wanted to bring a few new items to share and some old standbys that are so engrained in our memories, that it is simply not an option to not have them be present at Thanksgiving.

We rotate my parents and Joe's parents, and this year we are at my parents.  It's a bit of a drive (45 mins) and I didn't want anything that required too much work at their house, since I know what the kitchen looks like as the main meal is coming all together.

We aren't going crazy with apps; you certainly don't want your guests to fill up on them!  But I know that it's important to have a little snack a few hours before sitting down to eat.

I'm not sure exactly what type of cheese I will use, but I want to incorporate grapes, a chutney, and some artisan bread.  I can't have goat, blue, or brie (any of the stinky delicious ones!) but I will figure it out.

I'm going to make a Fall salad because I do believe in the power of greens!! With all of the heavy foods, it's important to include leafy greens to help our systems digest everything properly.  I love the idea of pomegranate or orange slices in there to give it a festive spin.

Grandma's squash.  I wish I had written down the recipe, as for now it's all sort of taste and try to get it right.  I do know it was always our favorite and it was always piping hot; I'm talking, steam would be pouring off your plate because it was so hot!!

She used a buttercup squash, roasted it, scooped it out and then cooked it some more with something along the lines of, frozen orange juice concentrate, maple syrup, butter, and maybe even a little brown sugar.  Tastes like candy.

Grandma's cranberry bread.  I think us girls loved it so much because 1.  It's truly tasty and 2. We could help her make it very easily.  She always added fresh cranberries to the mix, which gives is an extra punch, which you can taste in almost every bite.  It may not be "homemade" but I make this every year, and only at Thanksgiving.  I make no apologies for this!

I already start to wonder what recipes my children will remember most about holidays.  Of course I cannot wait for some Turkey, stuffing, my dad's mashed potatoes and gravy.  Pumpkin and apple pie will be present too, I am sure.  I think the reason that food is so important with holidays, is because as life goes on, we don't have anything but memories.  Little bits of here and there; snapshots of what was, and what used to be.  I would love to have one more Thanksgiving, where Grandpa carves the turkey and Grandma makes her famous bread, squash and fruit salad--(my sister's got that covered).  But life doesn't work that way, and we must create new memories, with old traditions mixed in with new.  The most important thing we can do, is enjoy the time we have together and sincerely make the most of it.

I may have started listening to some Christmas music, and one line that gets me all choked up from Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, "Someday soon, we all will be together, if the fates allow."

Now, I am certain that it's mostly the pregnancy hormones I tend to blame a lot on them haha but in reality, this Thanksgiving, we won't see Joe's parents, so I know that's tough on them.  We won't see my mom, because she's down in S.C.  We won't see our step brother Tyler because he's in New Orleans.  So, really, we just have to make the most of the loved ones we can see and enjoy it.

As far as the food is concerned? One thing I've definitely learned is to taste just little bits, and I can always take home leftovers.  I don't really have much room to eat a lot being pregnant, but I know that you don't need to shovel all that food in, and make ourselves feel sick.  It's good to indulge every now and then, but more important to be honest with ourselves about when and what we are indulging in.  Just my own personal thought…

What are some of your favorite traditions, past and present?

Theme Gift: Picnic

Hi!!

I hope you're all enjoying the final weekend before Christmas; eep!  We have a few birthday parties to attend, presents to still wrap, and then we will be ready for Christmas.  I cannot believe how quickly the time went from Thanksgiving until the big day.

My friend Alison {whom I blog about often!} and I exchanged gifts already.  She seriously gives such thoughtful gifts, I almost stress out about what to give her; I kid...sort of! Ha.  Anyway, I just LOVED my "25 days of Christmas gift" last year---each day I had something to open from her.  It was so thoughtful and sweet, and my prego self really enjoyed looking forward to something to make the time pass.

Speaking of, gosh! I keep getting such waves of emotion and memories of this time last year.  I remember soaking up every last minute with my husband and knowing it was the last Christmas just us two.  I also kept hoping she would be here last year and we would have her for last Christmas, but she took her time and came a week late.  January 11th.

Looking back, it was perfect.  And now? Our first Christmas with our little girl is already so magical.  I love watching her smile each morning when I plug her pink Christmas tree in.  We have so much fun giving in, and watching her carry around a gift and then ever so slowly start ripping it open.

Anyway [whoa sorry for the tangent!] I wanted to share her gift THIS year, in case you're still in need of a something special for a friend.  Over the sumer, we'd get the kids together and go to the beach or the park.  She had this awesome blanket that zipped and was just so handy and sturdy--I loved it!  Well, she remembered that.  She also knew how I always want to go on a picnic with Joe and Brooke, but we didn't really have any of the "picnicking necessities".

Voila.

Such a cute idea, right?!  I cannot wait to bust this out in the Spring!  Heck, I've already thought about packing it up and having a picnic in our living room!  But really, I love that I have this awesome set up all ready to go, and it will be like a "new" gift come Spring.

Thanks so much Al!!  You know we are gonna have to go on a picnic now too!!

And can't forget the baby. Thanks for these fun books!!!

Spreading Holiday Cheer

I stepped out quickly to run some errands this morning; one stop included the post office.  It's normally fairly crowded, and on the Friday before Christmas, just before lunch time, I figured it'd be interesting.  The line was almost to the door, there were three postal workers and a bunch of people in a hurry.  I stood there holding my package, and took it all in...

The frazzled lady at the first clerk's station, was upset that the box she just purchased to ship her goods in, did not come with packing tape; she was even more enraged when the clerk said she could not tape it for her, but she could come back with it all taped up and then mail it.

The second clerk had a lady with a box of, I'd say 100 Christmas cards.  Some were over-sized and so they needed extra stamps.  The customer proceeded to put the stamps on every.single.card.

The third clerk was the man who always (no matter what the conditions) had a smile on his face.  Just as usual, he was smiling away helping an elder lady send her grand-daughter some mail.

The lady behind me in line, had a roll of packing tape.  She bought a bubbled envelope and printed out the address for its recipient.

I noted the packing tape, and glanced back up at clerk one and her impatient and frustrated customer; "I just want to mail this out now, and not have to come back, this is ridiculous!"  And the postal worker's face remained calm, her voice wavered just a little and she repeated that she was sorry, but it needed to be properly taped.

I thought about what I would do, if I had the roll of tape.  Part of me didn't like the way this lady was being rude and impatient, but I don't know her story.  I gave her the benefit of the doubt and knew that if I had tape, I would share it.

I looked to my right and smiled at the lady with the tape, looked down at her tape and looked back up at the clerk.  She muttered something to the man behind her, and then said "Here, I've got some tape for you-- Merry Christmas!!"

I wanted to break out in some carol, just because...but I refrained.  I will admit that "We wish you a Merry Christmas" may have played in my head.

As the scattered and grumpy lady thanked the lady with the tape, and walked off, I thought about the slip of paper I just received as I made a bank deposit.

While the lady with the tape was nice and did a nice deed by sharing it; I hoped that helping the other lady out was a good enough reward.

As I set my package on the scale and the postal worker told me how much I owed etc. I thought that in this crazy busy time of year, not many people probably do a random act of kindness.  So after I paid for my shipping, signed my receipt, I pulled out a Starbucks gift card my husband had won.  I slid it onto the receipt and wished her a Merry Christmas.  She looked at me like I was crazy, and I walked off.  I think she may have said thank you, but I didn't stick around.

No need.  She had many more hurried customers to wait on...

But I do hope she enjoys a small token of "thanks."

Human beings are interesting; we tend to be very much into ourselves and believing our problems are the worst.  I will admit when the lady at the bank handed me that slip I was like, Pssshhh OK. Way to waste some paper. Like I'll find someone random to do something nice for...

A small chain of events, and a few seconds of realizing what this time of year is all about.  Helping others when they need it, and not expecting anything in return.

As you're out and about this weekend, seek out these moments.  Instead of being mad or frustrated {or playing on your phone} be a part of this beautiful thing called life.

Have a Happy [and Healthy] Thanksgiving!

Hi friends!!

I am hoping all of you enjoy this time with loved ones.  Whomever you are with, and whatever it is you're doing, take a step back, and enjoy it.  Maybe you're enjoying a "first" with someone; be it a new friend, husband, wife, boyfriend, girlfriend, in-laws, or even a baby like us!!

Cherish the time you are able to spend with people, and enjoy it for what it is.  As always, enjoy the food that comes with it too!  I made quick "Tips Video" when it comes to holiday eating.  Just a few things I have picked up these last few days, and I wanted to share with you.  

I wish you and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving!!

Holiday Advice for Couples

This is a post I shared last year over at
Holly's blog
I figured with the craziness approaching, it's a nice reminder!

We made through round one of the holiday season...
Woooooo

Another successful Thanksgiving as a married couple.
As soon as the first holiday rolled around, my then boyfriend, now husband,
and I made the decision to spend them together.
None of this, I'll go here, you go there.
He was my family, and obviously still is.
 We knew no matter who's family we were going to be spending the day with,
we'd be spending it together.

So here are some {first hand experience}
tips to make this upcoming holiday your least stressful yet!

Do not:
try to make everyone happy.
There is no way that every person in your life will be pleased about what you're doing.
{Apply this in every day life too.}
You will make family members unhappy, or at least a little miffed,
 if you can't spend that actual holiday with them.
You can't blame them though, you are fabulous, aren't you??
Well alright then, of course they want to be around you!
 It just may not be humanly possible to be everywhere, at once.
 Remember this: the only person you can truly make happy is you.
 Period.
 If you're happy, then yay!
You're well on your way to an awesome holiday!!

Do: 
Begin by asking, what will make you happiest on Christmas Day?
Is it waking up at your parents house?
How about his parents' home?
What about your own home, making a fire in the fire place and having a quiet, serene morning
 {sans kids yet!} and enjoying that simplicity {for now}?
 Whatever it is, talk about it with your significant other and make it happen.
 This is about your life.
**This year we are planning on just staying home.
We are not sure when baby girl will arrive, so we very well may be
celebrating Christmas in the hospital?
We will see!!**

Do not:
try to be superheroes.

We tried to eat a full Thanksgiving dinner at my parents and then his parents our first year together.
We were so full and rushed, it just was just not a great combo.
Nothing ever seems to go as planned,
so be sure that you allow extra time,
{for let's say, certain happenings, such as someone putting the turkey in the freezer,
not the fridge a few days before Turkey Day.}
Dinner took a little bit longer that day!
Christmas brunch with my dad's side ran a little late one year
and by the time we made it an hour back to our house,
 people were already waiting in the driveway for us to make Christmas dinner!
{Stressssssful!}

Do: 
Compromise.
We have started alternating holidays.
 One year with his parents, one with mine.
It does make it tricky with divorced parents, or family far away.
 Simply rotate each year,
and still make time for family gatherings even if it's not "Christmas Day,"
it's still time together, which is most important.

OR 

Just host and invite everyone.
Whoever wants to show up, will!
 {We may do this next year, as I'm ready to cook my own turkey!!}

Do:
 remember that family always loves you and thinks of you no matter what.
A specific date on the calendar makes us all a little crazy.
If we can't be in several spots at once,
just stop by a day early and drop off a small gift
{bread if you can bake, a craft if you're creative, flowers, anything!}
 To me, family is more than just being related by blood.
Friends whose hearts are warm and deep,
are often times closer than any of our relatives.
 Make time for them too!

Do:
Start new traditions.
The holidays are a time for old traditions,
 but they all start form some place.
 Find what works for you, and run with it!
We invited his family and some friends over for Christmas dinner one year and I cried I was so happy.
  I finally felt like I found "Christmas" again after many years being single
and working through my parents' divorce,
I'll never forget the magic I felt with a house full of people,
a table full of food, holiday cheer, Christmas carols playing,
 and presents being unwrapped.
I won't let go of that now that I've started!!
 I love love love Christmas Day dinner!


Do not:
Remotely or completely freak out if things don't go as planned.
Life happens and it's not always perfect!
If you burn the main course or if the smashed potatoes are still cold, is it worth tears and frustration?
I'm sure you had a half a dozen other sides or snacks that most people won't hardly notice.
Don't blow minor mishaps up into negative memories.

Trust me, I want everything to run perfectly 100% of the time,
 but setting a bar like that is ridiculous.
Now, my main goal is to be sure that I'm having fun & not stressed.
 If I'm good, I've noticed others are too!
 Focusing our energy like that does wonders for one another.

Do:
Laugh it off.
 If something happens, just laugh.
It's the best reaction.
If you haven't seen the movie
 Four Christmases, I highly suggest you rent it! 

And if none of this advice works, then simply go away for the holiday.
Seriously.
Our first Easter together, we were so stressed out over who's house to go to,

which restaurant, who's turn, bla bla  bla.
We went to Toronto and had a ball!  That was 2008.
Since then we've spent Easter away, just the two of us.
Two years ago we were flying home from our cruise.
 Last year we flew home from Charleston, SC.
I understand Christmas is a bigger deal,
but don't lose sight of what's most important in life: spending time with loved ones.
Don't wait for the man in the big red suit
 to remind you to have a meal with people whom you love.
  Make it happen all year round.
Happy Holidays!

Week of July 4th Festivities

 The week of the fourth my mother & her boyfriend came up from Charleston, SC.

I prepped by getting my nails did a purdy firecracker red...

and tried to stay cool in this 80-90+ degree weather!

I cannot imagine being more than 3.5 months prego in this heat,
I feel for my other pregnant mamas out there!!

We tried to stay cool by playing with the water

on July 4th.

My niece learned how to spray a water gun!!

 She loved getting Uncle Joe!

 She's so cute.

 My mom's boyfriend Mark & his grandson,

Aiden.

 Adri & Aiden were very good friends!

They loved the organic grilled chicken wings & organic juice boxes

My prego pose

loving our new hangout spot!

 It was a relaxing day full of good times and lots of yummy food!

The next day we took the wee ones up to Niagara Falls.

Stopped for a Timmy Ho's doughnut of course...

{I snuck the pix from my driver's seat!}

 Walked through the aquarium and saw the cool sea lions!

 We had lunch at Hard Rock & looked over the falls.

And while I haven't gotten into much detail about my  mother's and my relationship,

I can say that we have worked through many of our differences and

I am very thankful that we can be a part of each others lives.

Life is short and full of lots of turbulence;

you can make the choice to forgive and move on

or you can wallow in your own self-pity and hurt.

I choose happiness above all else.

After my mom & Mark left, hubs finally had a whole weekend off.

What'd we do?
Took a long, long drive...

listening to country songs,

stopping to get drinks & snacks at gas stations,

and eating at a small town sub shop.

 We ended our hot day time date,

by walking on the beach and putting feet in the water.

It was a fabulous week and I am still recovering from all the festivities!
This prego hadn't done so much in a long time.

I am such a summer girl,

and so very happy to be spending it with people I love.