M & J Monday

I am your parent;

you are my child.

I am your quiet place;

you are my wild.

I am your calm face;

you are my giggle.

I am your wait;

you are my wiggle.

I am your carriage ride;

you are my queen and king.

I am your push;

you are my swing.

I am your audience;

you are my clown.

I am your London Bridge;

you are my falling down.

I am your carrot sticks;

you are my licorice.

I am your dandelion;

you are my first wish.

I am your water wings;

you are my deep.

I am your open arms;

you are my running leap.

I am your way home;

you are my new path.

I am your dry towel;

you are my wet bath.

I am your dinner;

you are my chocolate cake.

I am your bedtime;

you are my wide awake.

I am your finish line;

you are my race.

I am your praying hands;

you are my saying grace.

I am your favorite book;

you are my new lines.

I am your night light;

you are my starshine.

I am your lullaby;

you are my peekaboo.

I am your good-night kiss.

you are my I love you.

You are My I Love You

Maryann Cusimano Love

Happy Monday!

The End of October Edition

October was really good to us. We saw, experienced and did so many great things, all of which I hope to share in dedicated posts in the very near future. We also did some fairly typical things that I'm not sure deserve an entire post, but I thought highlights of them would do the trick.

Today's post is a little hodge podge, but things I want to remember nonetheless.

To the randomness...

THIS CAKE

A few weeks ago we had our neighbors over for dinner. They're currently undergoing a kitchen renovation, so we thought they might enjoy a meal where a stove, oven, and running water were involved. I thought this BTS Cake would make for a lovely dessert. I wasn't wrong. It was unbelievably good. And, worth every single second it took to make and assemble.

RAIN

October brought a few days of light showers, sprinkles, and actual rain. It was awesome, and so very needed in our part of California. It makes both Marcus and me happy when we can pull out the umbrellas!

JULIA

Gah! This little lady is something else. She is full of personality and spunk and attitude. Not a day goes by where she doesn't given us a good laugh. I'm looking forward to sharing her 15 month (15!) update next week.

THE TIDE POOLS

Our afternoons can get kind of long. Finding ways to keep entertained around the house can often  become monotonous. Instead of riding bikes or scooters for the hundredth time of the day, we've been heading to the water to toss rocks and find sea creatures. I'm always on the hunt for urchins, Marcus likes to collect any creature that has a shell (he's partial to the snails), and Julia is content to just toddle around in the sandy parts of the beach. It's been a nice change in the way we end our days.

CANDY ALTERNATIVE

I know this is pretty irrelevant, time-wise, Halloween is already a distant memory. But I had to share.

Marcus' school had a Halloween carnival on Halloween, and each student was to bring a treat to pass out when it was time for their trick or treating. I'm guessing most kids probably made bank with candy on Halloween night, so I figured ghost applesauce would make for a fun alternative to candy.

That wraps up the end of October (and beginning of November)!

Have a great weekend!

Fall Scarf Exchange 2016

If ever there was a better accessory than a scarf to complete an outfit I have yet to find it. So, when Liz, Whitney, and Courtney announced the annual Fall Scarf Exchange I was all about it.

When I learned I was partnered up with Whitney I squealed with delight. Not only does she have the cutest little ladies around, her style is right up my alley. (I may also adore her for the fact that she loves proper grammar as much as me, but that's another post for another day.)

After some emailing back and forth as to what scarf trends we've been crushing on, it was time to shop. If you're curious to see what scarf I sent, jump on over and say hi to Whitney.

Words don't properly express what a knockout job Whitney did. Let's start with the presentation of her packaging.

I mean, how cute is this wrapping?!

Complete with a sweet note explaining a slight scarf scare.

And then I unwrapped not one but two of the most perfect scarves.

The neutrals! The textures!

I brought the beauties with me to a recent trip to the mountains where I knew they would get immediate use and complete a couple of outfits.

It wasn't until after I'd put on each outfit that I realized I was basically wearing the same thing, just a different scarf to complete the look. Ha!

Soft, light weight, subtle texture, and neutral tones. I could not have picked them better myself!

Whitney, thank you, thank you, thank you, the scarves are simply gorgeous and will be getting much wear during the cooler months ahead!

Halloween 2016

Eons ago when I asked Marcus what he wanted to be for Halloween he was quick to reply, "A football player!" Internally I groaned. A football player seemed so generic, and honestly, kind of boring.

As Halloween neared, I persistently asked if a football player was really the costume of choice. A resounding, "YES!" was always the answer.

For the first time in.... ever?... I purchased our costumes (usually my mom creates the most magical costumes). Marcus, the football player. Julia, the cheerleader. Scott (not pictured), the football coach. Me? I'm the referee. While not as creative as I was hoping, each costume seemed so appropriately representative of our actual roles in life.

Admittedly I initially had zero intentions of putting this post together, or using any of the photos I took. And all for a number of (selfish) reasons... For example, the photo above: Scott's not in the picture, the focus is completely jacked, Julia is probably distracted by a bird, and my hair is frizzy (like, woah). But, it's really the only photo I have of us, and I want my kids to remember.

And last night? Oh my gosh. Let's just talk about how much fun Trick or Treating was. At first I don't think Marcus really grasped the concept until we were sitting down for dinner and the doorbell rang. Once Marcus realized kids were dressed up, going to houses, FOR CANDY, it all clicked. He looked up from his dinner plate, his eyes wide and innocent, and said, "Mommy, after we're done eating can I go to people's houses and say Trick or Treat, and get candy, too?" Absolutely.

That's precisely what we did. We rounded up our neighbors and hit up as many houses as possibly in our little neighborhood. Marcus and his friends went door to door like old pros.

Meanwhile, Julia held her own. Like the big kids, she insisted on walking to every single house, carrying her own bag, and going up to each door. She'd proudly thrust her candy bag out for her treats. Near the end of the evening her bag got so heavy she had to resort to simply dragging it behind her. Several times we tried to help her, but she wanted none of that.

Please excuse the horrible quality photos, but last night there was just too much excitement and chaos to actually think about picture taking.

Let's pretend Marcus wore the shoulder pads and black eye strips that would have completed his costume...

After we'd made our rounds we came back home, where Marcus quickly resumed to roll of passing out candy to those who rang our bell. He was so proud to open the door, compliment costumes, and diligently pass out candy.

At bedtime we asked Marcus what his favorite part of Trick or Treating was. His reply, "Passing out the candy to other kids." He was so honest and sincere, and I was resorted to a puddle of mush.

Before I fell asleep I told Scott that this Halloween was the most fun one to date.

And while my photos aren't anything extraordinary, our Halloween most certainly was.

M & J Monday

The itsy bitsy pumpkin

rolled down a spooky street.

He passed a ghoulish ghost

and a stinky goblin's feet.

He traveled past a cornfield

among some bales of hay.

Then the itsy bitsy pumpkin

quickly bounced away.

The itsy bitsy pumpkin

didn't want to roam.

He tried so very hard

to find his way back home.

Luckily a passing witch

helped him on his way.

And the itsy bitsy pumpkin

was home by end of day.

The Itsy Bitsy PumpkinSonali Fry

Happy Halloween!!

Happy Monday!

October || Guys Behind The Blog

I'm thrilled to finally partake in The Guys Behind the Blog series. I never seem to have it together enough to remember to get these posts composed and posted. 

However, for the first time ever on the blog I sit down for a little Q & A with Scott. Enjoy!

This photo has nothing todo with the actual questions and answers. But, it's from this month, and it happens to (currently) be one of my favorites of Scott and the kids.

1 // What was your most favorite Halloween costume and why?
Oof. I think dressing like a G.I. Joe... Or whatever. Because it was fun and we [kids in his class] were always playing war, so I thought that was fun. Plus, that was my favorite show.

2 // Haunted Houses – love them or hate them?
Hmmmm. Waste of time. It's a waste of money.
(This is such a typical Scott answer.)

3 // What is your favorite scary movie of all time?
I guess The Exorcist. It freaks me the hell out. 
(This is also my favorite scary movie, and I've made Scott watch the new show on Fox, The Exorcist, based on the movie. Scott is not nearly as enthusiastic as I am about this show.)

4 // If you had to attend a mandatory dress up Halloween party this year what would you go as?
Annoyed. Hahaha.
(He thought that was really funny, and laughed for a good few seconds to himself. I, however, just rolled my eyes.)

5 // Do you believe in ghosts? Why or why not?
Yes. And I believe there are spirits. Because I think there are lost souls out there. 

And there you have it, very literal, and 100% Scott.

Fix #9

After my flop of a fix last month I thought perhaps I needed to give Stitch Fix a little break. As everyone else in the world has been transitioning to Fall, complete with cooler temps and cute seasonal clothes, those of us in warmer climates haven't been as lucky in the weather department. BUT! As of late Mother Nature has gotten her act together, cooler temps have been making cameo appearances, and I figured it was time to see if I couldn't give the wardrobe a little freshening up for this season.

I put a request in for my stylist Raquel (hiiiii!) to once again put together my fix. I was fortunate that she was back for a seventh time. 

For this fix I mentioned the temps have been dropping (praise the Lord), I've been on the hunt for a cute vest, a good pair of skinny jeans, perhaps a flannel top, and booties to round out my closet. 

Raquel does THE best job personalizing every fix. She remembers previous requests, does a fantastic job sifting through my Pinterest boards, and over all does an outstanding job.

Raquel is good. But this time? This time Raquel NAILED IT.

As soon as I picked my package up (which arrived two days early!) I immediately knew by the size and weight shoes were in my future. 

Let's take a look....

BRIXON IVY || MISTRAL COLD SHOULDER TUNIC

This beauty has been an elusive unicorn of mine for some time now. I have it pinned (probably 50 times?), and while I try not to ask for specific items, this is the one top I've mentioned by name. Raquel tracked it down for me. The lace over lay, the cold shoulder, the adjustable straps. I truly just swoon over it all. 

Verdict || KEPT

I know Fall will be sticking around for a while, but I'm sure L.A. will toss out a few hot days every now and again. When that happens this will be the first thing I grab.

KUT FROM THE KLOTH || DARIO ONE POCKET TOP

MARKET & SPRUCE || JAHANA CARGO VEST

KUT FROM THE KLOTH || DAYNA SKINNY JEAN

SEYCHELLES || LASER CUT BOOTIE

This entire outfit looks like countless outfits I have pinned on my Pinterest board. I wouldn't be surprised if this exact outfit is pinned several times. 

The top! The flannel top is cut so well. I've tried on countless tops that seem to just hang like a sack. This one does not. It's not super heavy, which means it will get lots more wear in the warmer Southern California temps.

THAT VEST! I have been hunting for a vest to love for ages. This one has all my wardrobe dreams coming true. 

The jeans! I know I've said it before, but I have no idea how Stitch Fix manages to find the best jeans. These skinnies fit perfectly and have just the right amount of give to them. These will be on frequent rotation, no doubt.

The booties! The color is so versatile. The heel isn't high, which means I'll still be able to chase children around yet maintain comfort. The laser cut detail is such a nice touch, it really gives the booties a little boost of character. These will complete countless outfits, for sure. 

This whole outfit just feels like Fall, and I was beaming when I pulled it all together. 

Verdict || I KEPT IT ALL

My first 5/5, and I could not be more thrilled about my haul!

Tell me! What do you think? Did you love each piece as much as me? Anything you would have sent back? Drop me a line in the comments and let me know.

Are you a Stitch Fixer? No? *gasp* Let's change that!

For $20 a box, a personal stylist will hook you up with some fun, cute clothes. If you love what's sent your way, the $20 is then applied to your total. Don't love anything? The $20 is about the cost of gas to head to and from the mall. Toss in the mandatory Starbucks you grab while shopping at said mall, and you've easily spent $20. Not to mention, you get to have a little fashion show in the comfort of your own home (it is so awesome to be able pull pieces from your closet and jewelry box to see if they'll go well with a Stitch Fix item). Wins all around, if you ask me.

Give it a go! Stitch Fix is easily one of the most fun things I've done for myself, and each time I see a box at my door my day is made!
Click here to get started on your profile (pssst, making a profile is free - you aren't charged a styling fee until you receive your fix).

M & J Monday

Advice From the Ocean:

Be Shore of Yourself.

Come Out of Your Shell.

Expand Your Horizons.

Don't Get Tied Down.

Let Worries Drift Away.

Think BIG.

Live Deep.

Happy Monday!!

The Time We Did ALL the Fall Things Edition

This month has been busy, and hectic, and crazy, and fun, all rolled into one. Scott's had some work obligations that required him to travel for a couple weeks (we all survived unscathed, hallelujah), and Mother Nature has insisted on more than one occasion that summer weather is appropriate for October. With all that it's been a challenge to squeeze in all the Fall fun this month. So. We decided we'd cram everything into two days.

Let's begin with Saturday...

First There Was Soccer.

Soccer Saturdays have been going quite well. Marcus thoroughly enjoys soccer each week. Seeing him get so excited when he scores a goal is priceless. Keep in mind. There are no goalies during their games. 

It's been fun watching him grow into this sport during the short amount of time he's been playing. 

As long as he's enjoying it he'll keep playing it.

Then There Was a Halloween Party.

Photos courtesy of my friend, Julie.

We have some pretty amazing friends who really get into the Halloween Spirit. For the last four years we've attended their annual Halloween Party. Each year we go the best of times is had by all. This year was replete with trick-or-treating and a bounce house. Basically every kid's dream.

As with each Halloween, I try to coordinate our costumes. This year is no different. However, this is the first year Marcus has decided on his own what his costume will be. Gone are the days when I choose. We have a football player, a cheerleader, a coach, and a referee; all seem pretty fitting for our actual respective roles in life.

Followed Up With a Pumpkin Patch Trip.

Promptly after the Halloween party we changed from our costumes to pumpkin patch appropriate attire and headed to our favorite farm to pick our pumpkins.

We were not the only ones with the same idea. The places was positively swarming with people. I asked Marcus if he wanted to go a round on the hay ride, check out the animals in the petting zoo, and/or give the corn maze a go. Nope to it all. He was there for pumpkins and that. was. it. The boy was all business an on a mission.

 It took a bit to convince Marcus there was an entire farm of pumpkins to inspect and find the perfect ones. Marcus wanted every pumpkin he saw. But, he informed me that any pumpkin that was not orange was rotten. Just like that my dreams of a pretty display of white and pink pumpkins on our front stoop were dashed.

After a whopping 30 minutes we'd picked out our pumpkins, paid for them, and escaped the sea of people at the patch.

Then There Was Sunday...

And the Wheels Started to Fall Off the Fall Fun Weekend.

RISE.

After two years attending RISE of the Jack o' Lantern I didn't want to miss this year. This particular weekend was our only shot to see the intricately carved pumpkins.

Right after church we headed to the event.

After less than 40 minutes, and seeing less than one third of the exhibit, it was apparent the kids were 100% over it. But, what we did see was still pretty incredible.

After a chat with Scott it was clear I'd simply scheduled too much into such a short amount of time.

I have hopes that next year we'll have a few more weekends to spread things out so as to not exhaust ourselves doing all the fun things in less than 48 hours.

This weekend we are laying low, and rightfully so.

There's soccer, an open house for Kindergarten (KINDERGARTEN! *sob*), and a dinner date with our neighbors complete with homemade enchiladas and a tequila I'm told is only found in one specific place in Mexico. I foresee full bellies and rounds of delicious margs headed this way.

Sounds like my kind of weekend!

Cheers!