The Catching Up Edition

It has been so long since I've done one of these. This has been sitting in my drafts for... geez... two, three months?

I feel like there are so many things that we've done lately, but nothing that warrants a total blog post to itself. Plus, lately, each night after the kids are tucked into bed my energy to do anything is at about negative 27. So, to catch up on the happenings of life over here, I thought I'd lump all the randomness into one post.

A Skyzone Birthday Party

After a bit of questioning as to what Marcus would like to do for his birthday, he ultimately decided upon Skyzone trampoline park. Initially, it's hard for me to hand over the reigns to someone else when it comes to party planning, and decorating. But, at the end of the day, when I don't have to do any set up, clean up, and I send a dozen kids home tired? That's one hell of a successful birthday, if you ask me.
Naturally, I didn't think to take a single photo while any of the kids were jumping. But, then again, I'm positive that would have been nothing but blurry pictures. I did have enough wherewithal to snap a few while the kids were eating and hanging out.

The fruit punch mustashe, the sweaty hair, and that sweet smile. It spells out, "good birthday party."

I made the mistake of making two different colors of frosting, because it's frosting, and it all tastes the same. But, to a group of 5-year olds? Nope. For the record, blue frosting wins.

If it isn't obvious... by the end of the party Marcus was truly exhausted.

Scott told me the night of the party, after we'd tucked the kids into bed, that Marcus had said to Scott, "Today was a really good day, Daddy." And then my heart melted right into a puddle.

Climbing Gym

Some time ago now, Scott and I joined a rock climbing gym. Thought we can't go as often as we'd like, it's been the perfect weekend activity for us. I was super hesitant to learn how to belay, but once I got the hang of it I was hooked. Bonus points that Marcus enjoys climbing and Julia loves to jump, bounce, and flop around on the crash mats. By the end of a climb session we're all pretty spent. 

T-Ball
Marcus began t-ball a couple of months ago, and thus far is absolutely loving it. He has a ways to go with all aspects of the game, but so long as he's having fun (and burning up all that energy) that's all that counts. 

Just came out of the rabbit hole of photos I have stored, and came upon this forgotten one. Marcus selected jersey number 4 because that's how old he is. I wonder if he'll select his number based on his age every year? P.S. in two days he's 5. I'm curious to know if he'll realize his age no longer coincides with his jersey.

A post shared by Desirée (@desireemacke) on Mar 21, 2017 at 7:40am PDT

I'd like to think of Julia as Marcus' cheerleader. But really, she's probably more coach material. I think telling people what to do is more her style.

A post shared by Desirée (@desireemacke) on Mar 29, 2017 at 5:03pm PDT

Another Wednesday. Another game. Another night where the ring around the tub is surely going to be thick.

A post shared by Desirée (@desireemacke) on Apr 5, 2017 at 4:51pm PDT

Most practices and games I spend chasing Julia around and imploring that she not play in every dirt pile she sees, but that's neither here nor there. Hopefully all the time at the ball fields will spark a love of the game for her, and get her excited for softball (my all time favorite sport to play) in a handful of years.

I think that covers most of the tid bits that we just haven't had a chance to share.

Have a great weekend!

Wall Crawl - Redondo Beach

This past weekend was positively perfection in regards to the weather; sunny skies, temps tinkering in the low 70s. In the shade you could still feel the last bits of winter (or as much winter as we get in Southern California), but in the sun you could feel summer just around the corner. That left my crew ready and willing to get out of the house for a little urban exploring, which naturally meant I convinced them all to go hunt for walls.

We spent a majority of our weekend in one of my favorite beach communities - Redondo Beach. Many a days have been spent here, however, I'd never noticed all the street art until recently. 

To the walls/façades we found.

El Retiro Park and Library
(126 Vista del Parque, Redondo Beach)

The El Retiro Library is located within the same parking lot as the El Retiro Park. We've been to the park a few times, but I've never thought to actually get a pictures of the library's pretty wall. However, I do think "garden" and "library" should be swapped out for "coffee" and "wine," maybe toss in "nap" for good measure.

In the park there is this circular shelter/BBQ/picnic area, and the entire thing is covered in a beachy mural. I was only able to capture a few portions of the massive mural because the actual park was much more interesting to Marcus and Julia than sitting in front of walls.

Interior of the Parking Garage along the Pacific Coast Highway
(A rough address for this parking garage: 1814 South Pacific Coast Highway)

Pretend there isn't a horrendous glare on these murals from the fluorescent lighting in the parking garage. There was a third mural next to these, but a few parked cars hindered any good photos. I wish these would be moved to the exterior of the parking structure because there is so much potential! 

The Redondo Beach Pier
(121 W. Torrance Blvd, Redondo Beach)

 Ok, so this isn't technically a wall, but it's art nonetheless! And, each and every time I've ever passed these steps I've thought they were pretty. So, Marcus went up and down them a few times for me.

These tile works are along the strand, just north of the pier's parking garage. And, these also happen to be on the wall along the bike lane. We may or may not have had to dodge more than one bike to get these pictures.

I love, love, love the dolphin mural along the parking structure. When we first moved to California this was the beach where I first spotted dolphins off the coast, so this mural seems so fitting for its location.

 Just coming out of the parking garage we found this big fish. I totally made Marcus pucker up. He's going to hate me so much when he looks back on these when he's older.

Just imagine the horror and hysterics that were had when we discovered the ice cream shop wasn't open for breakfast this morning. Don't worry, the kids handled it much better than I did.

A post shared by Desirée (@desireemacke) on Mar 31, 2017 at 3:16pm PDT

All along the pier are all these bright façades. I will admit I was hoping the ice cream shop was open. The disappointment was strong when everything was closed up during our visit.

Outside one of the fish markets was this tile mural. There was a second mural on the opposite side of the entry, but I could convince Marcus to get in front of just one. 

I won't even pretend this mural didn't one million percent creep me out. Nothing about this seems like "FUN FACTORY" to me. Clowns are what my worst nightmares are made of. I had Marcus feign surprise in front of this creep show and then we kept things moving.

Hudson House 

(514 N. Pacific Coast Highway, Redondo Beach)

Confession time. I've been hunting high and low for a Bumblebeelovesyou mural. I know there are several scattered throughout the city, but I'd yet to find one. I was beside myself with excitement when I learned there was a mural in Redondo.

Magical Blooms

(1417 S. Pacific Coast Highway, Redondo Beach)

And then we had to explain to the florist why we (Julia) were picking the flowers from the potted plants. 🙊🙈😂. . . .

A post shared by Desirée (@desireemacke) on Apr 1, 2017 at 4:45pm PDT

We saw this gem as we were cruising along the PCH and I was like, "PUMP THE BREAKS!" Thank goodness Scott just kind of rolls with my crazy.

The Boy and the Bear Coffee Shop

(350 N. Pacific Coast Highway, Redondo Beach)

The prettiest latte I've ever consumed, and a wall with a hashtag. My new favorite place. .

A post shared by Desirée (@desireemacke) on Apr 2, 2017 at 3:35pm PDT

Not only was the coffee at this place top notch, the vibe was pretty dang spectacular as well. I'm hoping we can make this a regular weekend spot.

Redondo Barbershop

(220 1/2 South Pacific Coast Highway, Redondo Beach)

The weekend, take me back!! Also. I want to take Marcus back to this barber shop to get his hair cut just so I can see the interior of this place.

A post shared by Desirée (@desireemacke) on Apr 3, 2017 at 11:24am PDT

The gray and black with bright pops of red and antique toys on display. Be still my heart. Passing this up wasn't even an option.

Standing Room

(144 N. Catalina Avenue, Redondo Beach)

An open mouth as an ordering window? Which of my kids is going to cooperate and stand there long enough for me to snap a picture?!

The Bull Pen

(314 Avenue I, Redondo Beach)

I have seriously passed by this place hundreds of times and never noticed the mural along the back of it! Much to my surprise, Julia was the child cooperative enough to hang out long enough for me to take a quick pic.

Phew! Until now I had no idea Redondo Beach was filled with so many murals and street art.

I'm absolutely thrilled each time someone reaches out to me and says they've discovered a wall or a mural or a piece of art. It's pretty awesome hearing that the urban adventures Marcus, Julia and I go on have inspired so many others to get out and do a little wall crawling and exploring of their own.
Keep exploring!

M & J Monday

You belong among the wildflowers

You belong in a boat out at sea

Sail away, kill off the hours

You belong somewhere you feel free

Run away, find you a lover

Go away somewhere all bright and new

I have seen no other

Who compares with you

You belong among the wildflowers

You belong in a boat out at sea

You belong with your love on your arm

You belong somewhere you feel free

Run away, go find a lover

Run away, let your heart be your guide

You deserve the deepest of cover

You belong in that home by and by

You belong among the wildflowers

You belong somewhere close to me

Far away from your trouble and worries

You belong somewhere you feel free

You belong somewhere you feel free

Tom Petty

Wildflower

Happy Monday!

Fix #13

It's been a hot minute since my last fix! This fix actually came almost three weeks ago, and I've been meaning to get around to it, but, life...

To be completely honest, I dropped the ball on the note to my stylist (hi, Raquel!). I basically left the note blank, with exception of a request for a moto jacket I must have mentioned upon checking out from my last fix. Thank goodness Raquel is seriously THE best, and she scoured my Pinterest board and pulled all sorts of inspiration from that.

So, let's just dive right into the goodies, yes?

Raquel knows the way to my wardrobe-loving heart. I was thrilled to see grays and navys and stripes peeking out from my box.

Le Lis || Towen Woven Detail Knit Top

I'm ready for all things spring and summer, tops included. When I pulled out this mixed media top I was really hopeful. I loved the idea of the floral print on the bottom. The knit top was super breathable and lightweight, the straps were wide enough to hide bra straps. But, the floral was sewn in to the knit top at a spot that just hit me all wrong, and I felt like it added more to my hips. And, ain't nobody got time for even wider hips than absolutely necessary. 

Verdict || Returned 

Colette || Chavez pop Color Cuff Knit Top

This top was so soft when I pulled it out of the box, I couldn't wait to try it on. Black and white stripes are just about as amazing as navy and white stripes, and that pop of bright yellow had me smitten with it before I even put the top on. I loved how it felt, I loved that it didn't cling to me, and it just seemed like a really good wardrobe staple. Since receiving this fix I've already worn this top no less than a handful of times.

Verdict || Kept

THML || Livy Knit Maxi Dress

Navy, stripes, embroidered detail, fun tassels, all in one super comfortable maxi?! It checked almost every box I use when shopping for clothes. I was THISCLOSE to adding this one to my closet. BUT, I have a navy and white maxi from Stitch Fix that is just too similar to this one to justify keeping this beauty. As much as I wanted to hang on to this piece I just don't have a need for two dresses that are so similar. 

Verdict || Returned 

41Hawthorn || Dawney Scallop Trim Blouse

Navy. Soft. Scallops. Perfect for almost any occasion in the summer. Just go ahead and put this one right on a hanger in my closet, please and thank you. Oh, and I have to mention that the bottom tapers in just a bit so it's fitted nicely and doesn't rise up when I move. I'm seriously loving this top. 

Verdict || Kept

Market & Spruce || Elissa French Terry Moto Jacket

I had the cutest little fashion helpers!

Market & Spruce || Elissa French Terry Moto Jacket
41Hawthorn || Dawney Scallop Trim Blouse
Kut From the Kloth || Dayna Skinny Jeans
Seychelles || Laser Cut Bootie 

THIS. JACKET. 

I saved the best for last. This is the moto jacket that I specifically requested, and I was beyond shocked and thrilled when I discovered it was in this fix! (I also happened to be wearing Stitch Fix from head to toe when we were out and about looking for pretty walls, so Liz kindly obliged in playing photographer for me while I stood in front of the #bleedinghearts wall). This jacket is literally everything I want and need in a jacket. It's not too heavy, so it's absolutely perfect for those days when the temps are cool, but don't require serious outerwear. It's so soft, so when I layer it with a tank top it's crazy comfortable. It's the perfect shade of gray, so it pairs well with literally every single thing in my closet. And, the zippers and buttons add the nicest little touch to bump up the character of this piece. I've worn this so many times since receiving it that I've lost count. If you don't have this jacket in your life you're missing out, and you need it. Request it in your next fix, stat.

Verdict || Kept

A 3/5! I consider that a total victory considering I gave little to no instruction to Raquel in regards to pieces I wanted. 

Thoughts? Did I keep the right pieces??

If you haven't signed up for Stitch Fix yet give it a shot and sign up here! 

M & J Monday

Grandparents are for stories

about things long ago.

Grandparents are for caring

about all the things you know.

Grandparents are for rocking you,

and singing you to sleep.

Grandparents are for giving you

nice memories to keep.

Grandparents are for knowing

all the things you're dreaming of.

But, most important of all,

Grandparents are for love.

If these photos don't accurately capture my children, none ever will. ;)

Happy Monday!

Marcus :: F I V E ::

To my kind, loving, sweet, sensitive, cautiously curious, silly, cuddly, funny, smart, little man:

I can't believe we're celebrating FIVE - that's a whole hand's worth of fingers. A half a decade! In a blink you've gone from my chunky little monkey to this little boy.

Often I find myself wondering how in the world I was so lucky, so blessed, to be your mom. Not a day goes by where I don't give thanks for the joy and light you've brought to this world.

You go with the flow, you follow the rules, you strive to make others happy all the time. You love sports, all of them. Snuggles are your specialty. And mac and cheese ever remains your favorite food. Next to ice cream, of course.

As far as big brothers go, you are truly the best. The patience you have with Julia is amazing. I honestly wish I was more like you.

Today is your day, and I hope five is just a special and wonderful as your are.

Happy Birthday, Marcus. Mommy loves you.

Wall Crawl - Venice {Abbott Kinney Blvd}

If I had to pick the most unique area of Los Angeles I'd gladly hand that award over to Venice. Everywhere you turn there's something that catches the eye, from wall art and murals, to publicly encouraged graffiti walls, to canals with the cutest walkways and bridges, to people watching. The place is jam packed with character, and a vibe that I've yet to find anywhere else in this city.

After Liz and I decided another wall crawl was in order I suggested Venice. I've seen several walls that have been begging for a visit. So, we did what any sane parents would do. We packed up our kids and headed to Venice to see what we could scope out.

Let's talk about Abbott Kinney Boulevard. Holy buckets, that street is just teeming with walls that scream "PHOTO!"

I had a few walls mapped out, because there is nothing I dislike more than zigzagging all over the place and wasting precious time when kids are in tow. However, we quickly learned that no map was needed because every few steps seemed to showcase spectacular wall art.

We started at 1420 Abbott Kinney Blvd. (Happy Socks) and ended at 1025 Abbott Kinney Blvd. (Casa Linda Mexican Grill). In that short distance we came upon so. many. walls (praise hands)!

Julia was most content cruising in the stroller and snacking rather than prancing around in front of the walls, so she makes a very brief cameo. However, the boys were more than cooperative with all of our requests.

Ok, on to the walls!

Even the plant pot is perfect!
Happy Socks - 1420 Abbott Kinney Blvd.

Marcus spotted this wall and said, "That's a pretty wall!" I asked if he wanted a picture by it and he said yes. Who am I to deprive him of a colorful wall like this? It also needs to be noted that Mason found perhaps the most colorful mailbox he may ever see! ;)
I don't have an exact address for this, but this is just down the street a bit from Aviator Nation (which is the blue wall below).

Hip! Hip! Hooray!
Aviator Nation - 1224 Abbott Kinney Blvd.

This wall actually displayed a massive rooster, but, birds creep me out. And the bird was on the corner of the building. I liked the two-tone greens so much better, and it was fitting for St. Patrick's Day.
Roosterfish - 1302 Abbott Kinney Blvd.

How sweet are these two?!
#bleedinghearts
This wall was recently changed to a black background. Before, the background was white with the colorful hearts.
1239 Abbott Kinney Blvd.

I love that Marcus played along with this one.
Intersection of Abbott Kinney Blvd. and Santa Clara Ave.

Real talk. This isn't my favorite wall find, but since we were in Venice it seemed almost mandatory to snap a quick pic in front of this one.
1146 Abbott Kinney Blvd.

Probably my third favorite wall. It was shiny!
1130 Abbott Kinney Blvd.

This piece was so much bigger than I could capture in one tiny frame. But, SO GOOD.
1118 Abbott Kinney Blvd.

A two-for-one wall!! AND, Julia's only appearance!
1025 Abbott Kinney Blvd. This one is tucked back behind the butterfly mural below, we had to access this from a side street, so we stumbled upon it while trying to get to the butterfly wall.

HANDS DOWN my FAVORITE of the day!!
This was also my inspiration for M & J Monday, yesterday.
1025 Abbott Kinney Blvd.

The Geometric Wave wall.
Intersection of Abbott Kinney and San Juan Ave.

This was our last stop along ABK, and we literally stumbled upon it as we were making our way to the car. The boys with the phones cracks me up every single time. And, I couldn't walk away from this spot without an actual selfie with my favorite little man.
Another wall I don't have an exact address for, but it's near Aviator Nation (the blue wall with yellow/orange/red stripes), along AKB. If you're looking for it you'll spot it!

We quickly headed down to the boardwalk for one last piece of art before calling it a successful wall crawl.

My second favorite wall of the day.
A massive van Gogh for the win!
1101 Ocean Front Walk

I mean, FIFTEEN walls in just about an hour. COME ON!! I think I told Liz no less than a dozen times, "This is literally all of my wall dreams come true."

Venice, your walls have my heart forever and ever and ever, amen.

Also, feign surprise if you see some of these pop as #latergrams. Thanks to Instagram and Chatbooks I have a couple of books in the works featuring all of our façade adventures. If you want to see all of our walls check out #mackewallcrawl!

No tell me, which Venice wall was your favorite?