April 2014 Favorites

Hello again! I have been bad about updating the blog but I have tons of good pictures of Zoe to share so look for new (Zoe) posts.

1. Tildon V-Neck Drop Waist High/Low Dress in Black- I originally tried on the lilac version of this dress first but when I saw the black I knew it would be more versatile. It is very comfortable and easy to move around in (a must with an active toddler). I love the built in slip and it's easy to dress up or down. I'm actually wearing it right now! I dressed it up with wedges this morning and I will be wearing with flats to lunch. The black is sold out but the lilac version is available. This dress is also very similar.
2. Birkenstock 'Arizona' Soft Footbed Suede Sandal in Billiard- I finally took the plunge and bought a pair of Birkenstocks at the end of March. I had been looking at them since last year so I figured I should just go ahead and get them. I actually didn't wear them for a while because I wasn't sure if I would keep them. I''m glad I started wearing them because they are soooo comfortable. I haven't done any major walking in these (like traveling or to a place like the zoo) but they have been comfortable when I have worn them. Even though I got them in a bright turquoise color they are surprisingly versatile.
3. My Singing Monsters- This is another game my husband got me hooked on. I had downloaded it randomly on my iPad but lost interest because I had no idea how to play. When I saw my husband playing it I asked a lot of questions and decided to give it another try. You basically breed monsters and they each make a different sound so it's like a monster symphony. I know, it's cheesy but I love it.
4. Method Pure Naked Moisturizing Body Wash- This is a product I'm surprised I never knew existed. I usually buy my body was at Sprouts but when I searched for this I decided to try 3 different scents (Magnolia and 2 of the limited edition summer scents). The bottle are quite large which is nice. I have only used Magnolia but I love it. It has moisturizer in it so my skin doesn't feel dry after using it. I have even used quite a bit in my homemade sugar scrub.
5. Method Daily Granite- If you can't tell I am trying out all of the Method products. I had been meaning to get more granite cleaner so I decided to try a new one. The previous brand I had was a wipe and this one is a spray. I think I like the spray better because I can use as much or as little as I want. This gives the granite just the right amount of polish without being too greasy.
6. Opti Fresh Replenish Rewetting Drops- My old eye drops had expired (and they were more for red eyes) so I tried this brand instead. These drops really help with every day dryness and irritation I get from my contacts (especially my left contact which is for astigmatism so I can feel the difference in that contact). I just wish the bottle was larger.
7. Nyx Butter Gloss- I finally decided to see what all the hype was about with the glosses. I'm really glad I did because you can't beat $5 a pop! I have 3 colors (Meringue, Creme Brûlée, and Maple Blondie) and I'm impressed with the formula on them all. They have good color payoff, the formula is not tacky, and they smell sweet.
8. Nature's Path Organic Frosted Mmmaple Brown Sugar Toaster Pastries- I believe I got these at Kroger (it was there or Target). I had really low expectations because I love the original Pop-Tart brand. I was pleasantly surprised because these taste exactly like the original! Even though I know they are totally bad for me I feel a little better that they are organic. At least that's how I rationalize junk food.
9. Little Cosmetics Beauty Set- I got this for Zoe a while ago but she just recently started using it. After many tantrums and meltdowns when I would not let her use my expensive makeup or brushes I ordered this on Amazon Prime. She still tries to steal my brushes but she loves opening the little compacts and pretending to put the makeup on her face. I wonder who she gets that from?

March 2014 Favorites

1. Kendra Scott 'Rayne' Stone Tassel Pendant Necklace- I have wanted this necklace for a really long time and when I saw it in a new summer color (Violet, which is Zoe's middle name) I knew I had to get it. It is very versatile and I've been able to wear it with a lot of my existing clothing. 

2. Madison & Berkeley Long Sheer Knit Cardigan- This was another Nordstrom find from the Savvy department. This winter was unusually long so it came in handy for those cold days. It is great for layering over short sleeved shirts or tank tops.

3. Essie Playdate Nail Laquer- I'm not sure if this is a new color or not but when I saw it I was immediately drawn to it. The pastel shade is perfect for spring and I love the name. It seems appropriate for a SAHM like myself.

4. Archer Farms Milk Chocolate Mocha Truffle Almonds- I saw these for the first time in March and I picked them up. The mocha texture is a bit dry at first but these are so good. They are a nice treat instead of the dark chocolate almonds.

5. BVLGARI 'Charms-Omnia Coral' Eau de Toilette- This is an old perfume that I have started wearing again. I usually don't have summer or winter perfumes but this one seemed perfect for warmer weather. I also like that it is in a smaller travel size. That way I can have more perfumes and not feel like the large sizes are going to waste. I'm no fragrance expert so here are the fragrance notes from the website:

• - Goji berries: sparkling-citrus allure.

  - Hibiscus flower: fresh, floral, fruity scent.

  - Pomegranate: sweet-tart aroma
  
  
  6. Method Gel Handwash Summer Limited Edition in Brambleberry Gelato, Orange Ginger Sorbet, and Vanilla Crème- I love it when Method comes out with new scents. As soon as I saw these in Target I snapped up all 3. We always need hand soap. Of course, I smelled them all before I got them and I loved them all. I have only been able to use the Vanilla but I will be ready to try a new one soon. This hand wash is great- foams just the right amount and the scent lingers for a little bit but is not overwhelming.
  
  7. Tanwise Dark Bronzing Sunless Mousse- I have tried so many sunless tanners and (so far) this is one of the best. My previous favorite is discontinued so I'm always on the hunt for a good and affordable self tanner. A few things I love about it: the consistency, the color guide (more dark olive green than orange), and the smell. Is does not smell like a self tanner! Things I don't like: it can go on patchy and it takes a long time to dry. So far I love the color it gives me and it is build-able. I applied mine on Sunday and Monday night and I don't have any fading or the dreaded patches.
  
  8. Bobeau Screenprint Shirttail Tee- As soon as I saw this I knew it was something I needed in my closet. I must say this at least 3 times a day while trying to pick out an outfit to wear. This shirt is slightly cropped so I like to wear it with a camisole or high waist jeans. It's very comfortable and because it is a neutral it's versatile.
  
  9. Wallykazam- This is more of a thing for Zoe's list but I think it's a really cute show. It's one that I like to watch too. For some reason Zoe thinks this show is hilarious and laughs so much when she watches it. It's educational (obviously!) and she is at an age where she can answer the questions correctly. It is definitely a show that keeps her engaged.

  
  1. Cherokee Necklace- I am always looking for age appropriate accessories for Zoe so I bought this for her at Target. It coordinates with a lot of her clothing and when she sees me wearing a necklace I can give her this one to wear.
  
  2. Cascadian Farms Fruitful-O's- I'm pretty sure this has been on MY favorites list before (they are delicious) but Zoe has recently been loving these. Not sure if she is going through a growth spurt but a typical breakfast for her is a banana, some berries (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, or raspberries), sometimes a pear or orange, milk, a few bites of whatever I'm having, and sometimes she will still be hungry so that's when I give her cereal. If we have morning plans I will give her a plate of fruit at home and then give her some cereal in the car. 
  
  3. Peppa Pig- Nick and I got this for Zoe for her birthday. She really loves this show ("more pig!" is what she says). So we got this because it's super cute and it talks when you squeeze it. She loves to hold it when watching the show. 
  
  4. Boon Animal Bag- Zoe has 4 billion stuffed animals and I was looking for a storage option that would also show off her collection. I came across this and it didn't seem like it would work and it was kind of expensive compared to the little hammock I also bought. It got good reviews so I ordered it anyways. Wow- I'm so glad I gave it a chance! The material is very high quality and soft. The zipper is also high quality and I have no trouble with it. I was able to fit all 4 billion stuffed animals into it with some room to spare. I keep it in the living room and Zoe uses it as a pillow to lounge on. Boon also makes a larger size that I have my eye on.
  
  5. Melissa & Doug Chloe & Zoe Magnetic Dolls- This was another birthday present Zoe received and she absolutely loves it. When she first got it she played with the dolls for almost an hour all by herself. She plays with the magnets on a daily basis (poor kid doesn't have any magnets because all our appliances are stainless steel) and is always carrying the dolls around.
  
  6. Play doh- I put Play doh in the goodie bags at Zoe's party and when I gave her hers to play with she went crazy for it. She wanted ALL the colors so I gave her two which she promptly mixed, took to bed with her, and it had hardened by the morning. I got some more tiny party sized tubs so she can have a little bit of every color. So far she just carries it around but I'm not surprised she doesn't like squishing it between her fingers.
  
  7. Toddler table and chairs- This was another one of Zoe's birthday presents. She eats almost every meal at her table and she loves it. She also likes to play with certain toys and she likes to have tea parties (so cute) there. 
  
  8. Bo-Po Peel Off Nail Polish- I have had some Piggy Polish for Zoe probably since she was born but I quickly realized she would never stay still long enough for her nails to dry. When I saw this set at Nordstrom I wanted to try it. I love all of the colors and it dries SO fast! Like under 30 seconds fast. It's non-toxic and peels off very easily. Zoe loves it and she has learned how to hold her hands out when her nails are drying. Soon she will be ready to go get manicures and pedicures with me!
  
  9. Nordstrom 'Megan' Sandal- My mom got these for Zoe to go with a dress she wore for Easter pictures. They are great for warmer weather and can be dressed up or down. I really like that both straps are adjustable. The heel strap also has padding to make them more comfortable and the toe strap has tiny flowers on it.
  

How We Stayed Warm

Lately we have been having some intense weather. The trees were totally iced this morning! Other than blasting the heater we have been staying warm by keeping active (indoors of course). Unfortunately, my camera battery died so I had to use my phone at Kindermusik. But that is how we stayed warm. I had rolled my sleeves up by the end of class!

Zoe pulling the parrot around.

 Searching for treasure.

Zoe playing with her magnetic paper dolls from Uncle Will, Aunt Abby and Matthew!

February 2014 Favorites

My February favorites are pretty blah because 1) we were very busy this month, 2) I was sick the majority of the month and I badly injured a finger which actually made it hard to do a lot of things and 3) it's the shortest month of the year so there are less new things to try (if that makes sense). I will also add that as a personal goal I did not shop at Target (not even online!) for the entire month of February. And let's be honest, that's where a good 95% of my favorites come from. March is shaping up to be just as busy but, thankfully, I have my health back. As usual, some of these items have only been used minimally but I can tell they will be favorites.

1. No Nonsense Ultra Low Liner- I picked these up from Kroger because they were buy one get one free and who doesn't like free stuff? I'm so glad I did because they actually stay on my feet as opposed to all other no show socks I have. They even have a little padding on the back of the heel that helps the sock stay up. Oh and they are actual sock material and not flimsy like pantyhose. They were only 2-3ish dollars for a 2 pack (plus the free pack)!
2. Loft Striped Cotton Layering Tee- I'm so glad I got this shirt because I wear it all the time. I also got the short sleeved version. It is so versatile- it can be dressed up or down and it's very easy to accessorize. It's sold out on the Loft website but there may be some left in stores. I also snagged this on sale (I try not to buy anything at Loft unless it is on sale because they have them all the time).
3. Nars Lip Lacquer in Chelsea Girls- This is more of a sheer gloss than a lacquer. I still love it but the name is misleading. Anyways, this stuff lasts pretty much all day. It is a thick formula but not sticky or tacky. It comes in a little pot so you will need a lip brush unless you are ok with sticking your dirty fingers in it.
4. Benefit Erase Paste- Once you hit a certain age it's time to get some good under eye concealer and my drugstore usuals weren't cutting it. This concealer has a salmon tint which is good for those blueish dark circles. I love the formula because it is thick without looking cakey. It claims to be creaseless but it is not. It creases a tiny, tiny bit.
5. Pureology Fresh Approach Dry Shampoo- Can you tell I took a trip to Ulta? This was by the register (damn you impulse buys) and I had to try it. Just because I got tired of Pureology shampoo and conditioner does not mean I am tired of their styling products. This is your typical dry shampoo however, there is no white residue. There is a very strong scent to this (almost as strong as a perfume) but it fades after a few hours.
6. Bliss No 'Zit' Sherlock Breakout-Busting Rubberizing Mask- Another Ulta buy but this was not an impulse buy. Even though I have been using my Clarisonic AND a sugar scrub in the morning my skin was feeling just gross. I don't know if it's this crappy weather or what. So I was in search of something to purge my skin. I feel like I have tried every mud mask but this one intrigued me. It really does feel like rubber when it dries and it doesn't hurt when you peel it off. I will say I recommend using half a packet of powder each use. I used half a packet and it was more than enough for my face so I went back and put more in problem areas. The mask didn't feel particularly tingly or anything but did make my skin feel so soft and clean. It reminded me of using a Biore strip without the pain.
7. Jané Rider Stroller- This is actually something I won (and I NEVER win anything!) at the launch party of Bayou City Mamas. Like I said, due to being sick I have only used this stroller a few times but I love it already. It is so smooth and easy to maneuver. There are even little shocks on it so baby doesn't get jostled. The handle bar is adjustable (which is a must for us taller people) and the wheels are positioned so you won't constantly be kicking them. It came with a cool diaper bag that attaches to the handle bar as well as a clear, plastic rain cover. The seat can also face towards or away from you. I have already been looking at accessories for it- mostly the little stand so Zoe can ride standing up if she doesn't want to sit down. *Side note- if you are in the Houston area you should check out this group! The launch event was so much fun (we went to Build-A-Bear where we sang songs, played games, read, ate breakfast and mingled) and I'm looking forward to more. Everyone gets a little goody bag with the newest and hottest baby products and you are automatically entered to win giveaways.
8. Steve Madden 'Ecentric' Pony Hair Flat- I have been wanting these shoes forever! I finally took the plunge and ordered them online. I'm glad I did because they are so versatile and they go with almost everything. These shoes look great with boyfriend jeans and skinny jeans. I think they will also look cute for shorts when it starts to get warmer. They are great for me because I'm always chasing after a toddler. They are comfortable AND cute!
9. Drystyle Blow Dry Bar- I have been curious about this place for so long so I finally made an appointment. It's not like a regular salon where you can get color and a cut. You can only get your hair washed and styled (they also offer extensions and makeup). This makes it a very relaxing environment because you are only there for 30-45 minutes and someone else plays with your hair. Do you know what else makes it relaxing? Mimosas! My blowout is going strong at 4 days. I could probably stretch it another day but I won't chance it because I have plans tomorrow. Drystyle is located at 9727 Spring Green Blvd., Suite 700.

Zoe's Second Birthday Party!

This weekend we celebrated Zoe's second birthday with a party at My Gym! Zoe had so much fun with her family, friends, and Mymo the monkey. The party was like a My Gym class but with pizza, cake and goody bags at the end. Of course, I picked the train and bubbles as our two activities because they are Zoe's favorite. After her party we went home (for a nap that never happened). That evening we opened the rest of Zoe's presents with family.

Today we had a lazy morning while Nick did yard work. Even though it was freezing and raining the three of us had dinner at Rainforest Cafe. The host tried to seat us by the gorillas but Zoe was not having it. So he put us next to a butterfly within sight of a leopard and elephant. Zoe was much more interested in the animals than eating. When it was time to leave Nick went to get the car and I took Zoe over to an alligator. As soon as it moved she backed away so I picked her up and she said bye to all of the other animals. "Bye giraffe! Bye elephant! Bye monkey! Bye butterfly!"

Our little baby is two and she is so independent, unique, happy and inquisitive. She lights up every room she walks into and has the most joyful laugh. She loves cats, dancing, music, trains, dinosaurs, walking on her tip toes, stashing toys in secret hiding places and doing things on her own. Happy 2nd birthday Zoe!  

Zoe's kitty cookie cake.

One of her favorite things to do- dance on the trampoline!

  

Zoe and Nicole jumping on the trampoline together!

Haylee getting ready to bounce Andrew. :)

Circle time with a special guest- Mymo!

Zoe riding the big swing while waiting for the train to be set up.

Haylee enjoying the train- choo choo!

Zoe actually loves the train despite the serious look on her face.

Aunt Madison playing peek-a-boo!

Zoe zip lining- she loved it!

Andrew watching the bubbles in awe while Zoe and Dristan go after them!

Haylee is ready to get those bubbles!

This is a really cute picture of Zac and Nicole playing with the bubbles. :)

BUBBLES!

Haylee sat down next to Andrew after the bubble madness- sweet girl.

The kids were very much into dancing on the mat!

Zoe's birthday parade with Mymo!

My only attempt at getting a picture with all the kids and Mymo because some loved him and some not so much. ;) 

Mymo giving Zoe a hug.

Zoe having her birthday cake after pizza (and 2 juices).

Zoe laughing at her reflection in her old car seat mirror.

Almost impossible getting a good picture of the three of us so I'll just post them all.

 

Zoe opening her custom Hello Kitty shoes painted by Aunt Carrie!

Zoe with her Cabbage Patch Kid Doll from Aunt Meg!

Zoe opening the rest of her presents from her birthday party!

My 2 year old eating breakfast at her own table.