Christmas Dinner Party

A peaceful and happy Christmas Day is so important. I find the easiest way to enjoy the holidays and see all my loved one is for us to "take the show on the road." We are going to spend the morning at my mother's house. She kind to have us over. After brunch we will head back home for a much needed nap. Then we will be spending the evening at a friend house. 

You want to dress up and be festive for Christmas but it is a long day, so you want to be comfortable. 

• For him: comfort is key, find a comfortable sweater, some slacks that are roomy, and comfy shoes. If he tends to get hot... wear a breathable shirt underneath, so that if you get to warm, the top sweater can come off. 
• For her: embellished sweaters are the best, they are warm and have sparkle. I love pleated metallic skirts, they are comfortable but at the same time fun. For jewelry, some sparkle dangle earrings and cuff bracelet are comfortable and still elegant. Shoes, D'orsay pumps with a low heel is both lady-like and wearable for a long day. (You can always slip them off under the table). 
• For the little guy: Oh to be young and not notice clothing. A button down plaid shirt, some blue slacks and a little sweater says polished but not snooty. 

As for what to bring. Always, always bring a hostess gift. Hosting is very expensive and time consuming, and a small token like a nice candle or stationary says that you understand and appreciate their hard work. I also like to contribute to the meal. If it is a breakfast a fresh pastry and some fresh squeezed orange juice is nice. At dinner, I usually try and bring a nice bottle of Champagne and a dessert. This year for Christmas Dinner, I will be attemping (cross your fingers) to make Nigella's Ultimate Christmas Pudding and a Jello Mold for the children. What is nice about both of these desserts is that they can be made a few days in advance leaving plenty of time for enjoying Christmas Time and the company of loved ones. Remember to send a Thank you note the next day and a phone call. Hostess and Host always want to be sure that their guests had a nice time. 

Italian Holiday Dinner

If you have a Holiday Dinner to throw and you have a budget and time constraints your best bet is to go Italian. To keep things easy and stress free, keep your menu super simple and mostly assemble course. You don't want to do a lot of cooking and fiddling in the kitchen when you have guests that want to see you and chat with you. 

When you assemble the key is to buy your quality ingredients from a really fantastic source. I love the Italian Store in Arlington.  The plan is to make the meat lasagna the night before. On day of, we are going to go to the Italian Store and picking up Anti Pasta Platter and some Italian treats to put on the table after dinner. I am also going to serve a Caesar Salad, but it is super easy. I use Trader Joe's pre-made bag, un-apologetically. Here is the menu: 

Appetizers

Antipasti Tray of Cheese, Olives, Artichokes and Bread Sticks

Served with Prosecco

Dinner

Lasagna with meat sauce

Cesar Salad

Chianti 

Dessert 

Italian Cookies and Chocolates 

Limoncello or Vin Santo 

Should be lovely. I can't wait. As always, much love, many blessings and happy hosting!

A Christmas in Washington DC Tradition

There are wonderful things to do in Washington DC at Christmas Time. But one of my favorites, is going to brunch at Old Ebbitt Grill and seeing Santa at the National Christmas Tree. I have been visiting the National Christmas tree since I was 12. I have only missed it a couple of times when I was in the Navy. Now, my son gets to visit every year. They have the best Santa. He has a real beard, and is super nice. The Christmas Elf Workshop is just darling, the National Park Service does a fantastic job.

This year we are expanding the tradition to include my son's grandparents and our good friends who always come are bringing their sister and her family. I can't wait! I pray it is just as nice as last year.

I am also going to dress us up a little bit. Here are the outfits of planned for the family...

It probably seems ridiculous to plan outfits, but I find it a real stress reliever to have at least an idea of what I need clean and ready, so we are not all running around like chickens 10 minutes after we are supposed to be at the restaurant... 

That's the plan. I hope whatever your Saturday plans are they are wonderful. As always, much love, many blessings, and Merry Christmas!

Christmas Cookies!

I am so blessed to have such wonderful friends, and sometimes your wonderful friends invite you to be part of their family. When I was in high school my best friend and her mom were always there for me, encouraging me to be my best self. They still are. I am so thankful for them and thankful for our annual Cookie Baking Extravaganza. 

This year we made Peanut Butter Blossoms, Fudge Crinkles, Cherry and Citrus Cookies, Chocolate Covered Pretzels and many many more. I thought I would share some recipes from our day. 

Peanut Butter Blossoms (Dave and Freddy's Favorite) 

48 HERSHEY'S KISSES 

1/2 cup shortening

3/4 cup Creamy Peanut Butter

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1/3 cup packed light brown sugar

1 egg

2 tablespoons milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

Additional granulated sugar (Christmas colored optional)

What you do: 

1. Heat oven to 375°F. Remove wrappers from chocolates (this is an excellent job for friends chatting, or little children, if you can get them not to eat all of them).

2. In your standing mixer, beat shortening and peanut butter in large bowl until well blended. Add 1/3 cup granulated sugar and brown sugar; beat until fluffy. Add egg, milk and vanilla; beat well. Stir together flour, baking soda and salt; gradually beat into peanut butter mixture.

3. Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Roll in granulated sugar; place on ungreased cookie sheet.

4. Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Immediately press a chocolate into center of each cookie. Don't worry the cookie will crack around edges. Remove from cookie sheet to wire rack. Cool completely. Makes about 48 cookies.

Recipe Source: Hershey

Fudge Crinkle Cookies (Leslie Cookies) 

1 box devil's food cake mix

1/3 cup vegetable oil

2 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla

Powdered sugar to roll the cookies in

Parchment Paper

What you do: 

1. Heat oven to 350°F. Set up your cookie sheets with parchment paper. In smallish bowl add the powdered sugar.

2.  In standing mixer or a large bowl, stir dry cake mix, oil, eggs and vanilla with spoon until dough forms.

3. Refrigerate the dough so it firms up, overnight is fine, or if you only have 10 minutes pop it in the freezer.

4. Scoop out 1 inch balls, or the small cookie scoop, and place on the parchment paper about 2 inches apart. Give these balls a chance to dry out a little.

5. Roll the chocolate dough balls in the powdered sugar and get into the oven just after the last ball is rolled on each sheet, or the powdered sugar will be absorbed.

6. Bake 10 minutes; cool the cookies on the parchment paper completely about 30 minutes.

Recipe Source: Betty Crocker 

Christmas Cherry Cookies (Belly Button Cookies)

2 sticks Butter, Soft

1/2 cup Sugar

2 whole Egg Yolks

1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

 Zest and juice of 1 Lemon

 Zest of 1 Orange or 2 Clementines

2 cups All-purpose Flour, Sifted Twice

 Candied Green and/or Red Cherries

What you do:

1. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy.

2. Add egg yolks, vanilla, orange peel, lemon peel, and lemon juice, and mix until combined. Use rubber spatula to scrape bowl, then mix again.

3. Add sifted flour and mix until combined. Place dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour, or until firm.

4. When ready to make the cookies, preheat oven to 300 degrees. 

5. Roll dough into small balls and set on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper or a baking mat. Gently press the cherries, into each ball.

6. Bake for 20 minutes, removing from oven before they start to brown.

Recipe Source: The Pioneer Woman (I HEART YOU, REE)

As always, much love, happy baking and Merry Christmas!

Going to see Santa

Going to see Santa by sandy-ibrahim featuring a black tote

HUGO pullover sweater
$260 - stylebop.com

Emporio Armani fitted coat
bysymphony.com

Lipsy cotton legging
$19 - lipsy.co.uk

Tory Burch boots
$715 - farfetch.com

Longchamp black tote
longchamp.com

J.Crew grey earrings
$70 - net-a-porter.com

Holiday Night In

I love Christmas Movies! White Christmas, Holiday, It's wonderful life... it doesn't matter. I love them all. In years past, I have always watched holiday movies by myself, early in the morning or late at night, while wrapping presents or decorating cookies. This year, I decided we would have a super casual affair, and I would come out of the closet for my Holiday Movie Love. That's right, sweat shirts, comfy leggings and cozy socks are the uniform for this girly get together. For the menu red wine of course, Domino's pizza, and Ben and Jerry's out of the carton. I'm not sure which will come first, ice cream or pizza, it will probably depend on the delivery man. Our feature of choice... it has to be Elf. Will Ferrell, you have my heart and you feed my soul. Suffice it to say, I'm excited, and we are doing it on a weekday... sort of the opposite of every other holiday fete. But, all the more wonderful to me. 

Hosting a Wrapping Party

Last year, I did most my wrapping in the wee hours of the morning or late at night... it was stressful, it was rushed, it was no fun... This year we are trying something a little different: a Girls Afternoon In Wrapping Paper Party. I love how when you leave your schedule open wonderful things magically appear. 

The plan is pretty simple: friends, quiet house (baby nap time), black and white movies, Christmas carols, cozy fire, easy menu and wrapping presents galore.  

• Movie: I love having a old movie on mute on in the background. It gives you something to look at but doesn't interrupt the conversation or flow of the party. This time of year it has to be, "It's a Wonderful Life." 
• Christmas Carols: Does anyone pay for music anymore? I don't know. I love Spotify and Pandora. They have some wonderful Christmas stations. I am really partial to the It's Christmas Time with Bing Crosby and the Ratpack Christmas.
• Is there anything more homey than a fire in the fire place? We use JavaLogs or Natural DuraFlame logs. It makes setting a fire a breeze and clean up even easier since there is very little ash. 
• Easy menu: Since we picked a time in the afternoon when the kiddos would be sleeping, we don't really have a full meal. But I was planning on serving a Champagne Bar with various trimmings: Canton ginger liquor and candied ginger,  Framboise raspberry liquor and a raspberry, Pomegranate liquor and some pomegranate seeds, and finally Hibiscus flower pods in their juices. I was also going to have some cheese and crackers and some chocolate covered oreos. I will probably also put out some fruits and veggies... as is obligatory. 
• Wrapping presents: we all have left over tags, ribbons and paper that maybe don't match. A wrapping party is great time to recycle all of those bits of odds and ends. Also, you never know what your friends will bring over, perhaps their tags are perfect for the wrapper you bought last year on clearance.

I hope this idea inspires you to have a little more fun with your Christmas Chores and make a joyful afternoon. 

As always, many blessings, much love and Merry Christmas!

The true meaning of Christmastime

Like all working moms, with little kids and heart to share, I am usually overwhelmed by the month before Christmas. I am always trying to pack too many parties, cookies, niceties, traditions, and family outings into an already overloaded month. It is so easy to be just too busy to do any "heart work" or spiritual growth. This year, I am trying to be a little counter-cultural. I am loving my devotional The Greatest Gift: Unwrapping the Full Love Story of Christmas by Ann Voskamp. I love thinking of the Christmas tree as Jesus's Family Tree and learning more about Jesus and how He became our greatest gift. It has given me a completely new perspective on Christmas. Instead of rushing to run upstairs and wrap presents or write Christmas cards, I find myself stopping, to breathe and be thankful in prayer. Actually, I feel like my heart and mind are quieter, no to-do lists on repeat constantly burdening me. 

Growing up Orthodox, we always had a secular holiday celebration on the 25th of December and a religious celebration on 6th of January. We fasted, or chose not to eat meat before Christmas, as a mean of spiritual preparation. As a young person, I always found this fasting to be more of distraction than anything. But, now I find December to be an incredible opportunity for spiritual growth. It is so very simple, but I am truly astounded at how many years it took me to realize this. 

Don't get me wrong, there will be cookies, and parties, and celebrations, presents and more food than we know what to do with. But in the heart of me, my focus is different. Instead of trying to give the best gifts, or throw the best parties, I'm focused on learning ways to be quieter and kinder. I'm gifter, that is how I love. But this year, my focus is on showing kindness and affection in a way that is not focused on the materials but more gentleness and being present. 

If you are thinking about doing this with your family, Ann Voskamp also has a family read-aloud version Unwrapping the Greatest Gift: A Family Celebration of Christmas. 

Whatever your holiday preparations are, I hope they are joyful. Merry Christmas. I wish you and your family a peaceful and spiritual Advent.  

Thanksgiving Kids Table

I love hosting adults, the cheese plates, the wine, the no nap-time constraints. But if I am honest, truly honest with myself, I love hosting kid parties much better. Even incorporating kid elements into adult parties are my favorite parts. I thought I would share my kid table for Thanksgiving and share a few of my tips for getting kids to sit down and their menu. 

The kid's table 

My son is 3 and he loves reading his name and find it written on anything. So I took felt stickers and added the kids names to the jack'be'little pumpkins at each seat. I also wrote the kids names on the chalkboard labels on mason jars. I love the little mason jar lids. I stuck an upside down cupcake wrapper in a coordinating color. Each mason jar was held up in a pumpkin shaped cupcake holder. I made a turkey crayon holder out of some construction paper, googly eyes, and plastic cups. For the plates, napkins, and flatware I used disposable products from target. I just chose a color palate I liked and thought was appropriate for the theme. I covered the table in white butcher block paper, and then used printed construction paper as place mats. To make the table a little more exciting and to keep the place mats in their spot I added a few owl stickers.  

A few tips to help kids sit down 

The most important aspect of any event is free, and it is timing. To help children sit down at the table we planned for the families to come over around 5 and that kids dinner would be hosted at 5:30 and adult dinner at 6. This gives everyone a chance to come in, get a drink, and take their coats off. The parents can mill about helping the children start their meal while they nibble on cheese and drink wine. 

I covered the table with "kid bait" to get them to sit down... i.e. a teaspoon of M&Ms and goldfish. It is not enough to fill them up, but it is enough to get them seated. 

I also had the kids seated close to the grown-up table and close to the television. I chose Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. It is perfect for a dinner party because the jazz music is lovely, it is interesting to the kids but the music and voices are not distracting. 

Kid's Menu

Roasted Turkey, diced and cooled

Steamed Carrots, cooled

Cheese Sticks

Apple Slices

Grapes, cut in half 

Cranberry Apple Juice cut with water

All in all it was a great kids party. They had a wonderful time, and they ate something too... 

Elegant and Simple Thanksgiving Menu

I think Thanksgiving is one of the few times in life when boring and traditional is exactly what you want. Nobody wants an avante garde Thanksgiving Menu. We do a very simple but elegant dinner and then have pie at my mother's home. Our menu is small but tasty, everything is made from scratch and relatively simple to prepare. Our menu for this year is: 

Dave's Smoked Turkey with Pecan Wood

Roasted Carrots and Parsnips topped by Pumpkins Seeds

Roasted Brussel Sprouts and Pancetta

Garlic and Herb Mashed Potatoes

Traditional Green Bean Casserole 

Apple Pie 

Pumpkin Pie

Whipped Cream

All in all is not large or complicated but just wholesome enough to make you feel like you enjoyed a proper Thanksgiving Meal. I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Our Thanksgiving Traditions

In our home Autumn is a super busy time of year, with all the Michigan Games and friends birthdays we don't have a free weekend all season. Which is the reason a calm and peaceful Thanksgiving means so much to me. Here are my family's top 10 traditions. 

1. Thanksgiving Day in the morning we go for a walk in the woods in a park near our house and do our "Wildlife Thanksgiving." We throw pieces of bread and bird seed as we walk around. We get to enjoy the scenery and send some love to the birds and squirrels. 

2. In the same park we are going to try to meet up with my brothers to throw the football around. Not that we are very good, but it is nice to get the blood flowing before a big meal. I also really like to run around with my three year old. He has so much fun and joy is just contagious. 

3. My husband smokes a turkey breast. He starts it when we get back from our walk. I think it is the best turkey you can eat, but I also love that it frees up the over for me so I can make all the fixings and of course... PIE. 

4. PIE... nuff said. My best friend growing up always had a thankful list on her mom's fridge. On it was "I am thankful for pie and more pie." So, without fail I will make at least two if not three pies. I have a super simple pie crust I use, and the fillings are really simple, but it is wonderful to make them from scratch. 

5. I can't say I have ever watched the entire Macy's Day Parade, but I love having it on in the living room while I cook, between football commercials... of course. 

6. While the pies are in the oven, the turkey is in the smoker, the baby is napping and the parade is on TV. Dave and I play board games usually dominoes and back gammon. This year we are super excited to introduce our little one to this tradition, we are betting on "Let's Go Fishing."

7. When we sit down to dinner, we eat off of Dave's Grandmother's vintage Mikasa Whole Wheat china. I love it. Truth be told, we eat off these dishes almost everyday, but it is particularly nice to have an heirloom to use on the holidays. I like to think of all the wonderful meals that have been served on these plates for the last 70 years. 

8. Our centerpieces for the table is really simple, just some nice yellow and golden leaves that we collected on our walk in the woods that morning. We have a song that we sing to my son every night called "golden leaf." It seems only appropriate that we would have some golden leaves on the table, as he is what we are most thankful for. 

9. After we eat our meal, we all head over to my mother's house. You would think that we would get dressed up like families do at the holidays, but we actually dress down. I wear a slouchy sweat shirt, leggings, and slippers to go over to my moms. We put my son in pajamas so he can go straight to bed. 

10. Last but not least, every year we set up my mother's Christmas tree, my dad's old nativity and my sisters little Christmas village. It is really the only tradition that we have. It is a cheesy tradition, but I love it. My mom has a huge artificial tree and more ornaments than any healthy amount. But it is a hoot, to have coffee and pumpkin pie and bring the dusty boxes from underneath the stairs. 

So, there you have it. My families top 10 Thanksgiving Traditions. I hope it helps you with yours. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

I heart Fall Tag

I don't know if you have ever heard about tagging someone but it is a pretty common occurrence in the blogisphere. Essentially, it is asking someone you know via blog to answer a series of questions. This set is based on a love of all thing fall.  I adore autumn, and I have shared a few things that I love about fall. 

QUESTIONS:


1. Favorite Fall lip product?

My favorite lip product of all time, not just fall is the Dior Lip Maximizer. It is a sheer gloss, it goes on easily, tastes delicious, is not too sticky and naturally enhances the shape and color of your lips. Anyone can wear it and it appropriate all the time. 


2. Favorite Fall Nail Polish?

I love Wicked by Essie. It looks like red wine on your nails, it is elegant and a little edgy. I also find it goes well with autumnal colors and neutrals. Which is what I wear this time of year. I also love how versatile the color is, it looks elegant with a suite at work and perfect with jeans and flannel on the weekend. 


3. Favorite Starbucks Fall Drink?

Yup, I am a card carrying member of the Pumpkin Spice Latte Cult. (#psl) I love it, I look forward to it all year, and it is one of the few treats I allow myself to get. For a make at home rendition, this recipe is amazing. 


4. Favorite Fall Candle?


I love Autumn  Wreathe by Yankee Candle. It smells like cinnamon, apples, pears, and fresh pumpkins. It is not too sweet, which I like also. I burn this from when I walk in the door to when I go to bed. It makes the house smell amazing and there is something so welcoming about having a candle on when you walk in the door. 

5. Favorite Fall Scarf or accessory

I have too many scarfs to mention. I love them all. I wear them all. My latest two favorites I got in my Popsugar Boxes: Marchesa Voyage and Tilo Scarves Modal Graduation in Raisin. But my favorite fall accessory is actual my pair of LL Bean Boots, which my husband calls my duck boots. They are awesome, I wear them all the time. They are warm, waterproof, and go great with jeans or leggings. I heart you LL Bean. 


6. Haunted house, haunted hay ride, or haunted corn maze?


I say none, I don't like anything haunted. I do love hayrides, and houses, but no thank you on the haunted parts. 

7. Favorite Halloween movie?

I am a complete wimp when it comes to scary movies. I have still have nightmares about a movie I saw in college... nonetheless, I love watching It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, Practical Magic, and Johnny Depp's Sleepy Hollow. 


8. Favorite candy to eat on Halloween?

Twix, Kit Kat, any cookie candy chocolate thing... 


9. What are you dressing up as for Halloween?

My son told me our family is all going to be puppies, I will wear the ears. 

10. What is your Favorite thing about Fall?

My favorite thing about Fall is sitting outback with a blanket, the fire pit going, and a nice glass of wine. My friends and I call this being European, and I love it. But I love lots of things about Fall, the excitement of the holidays, the beautiful leaves turning, going to the farm for apples and pumpkins, all the cozy sweaters and socks, the delicious comfort food. There is so much to love. 

Happy Fall everyone! And if you are reading this, tag your it... 

Apple Picking

I love fall, all things fall. I especially love apple picking. We have the best farm. Great Country Farms in Bluemont, Virginia. It is the perfect farm if you have children. They make it super easy on you. So often apple picking in Virginia is an extreme sport and you have to be ready for an all day, athletic event. But not so at Great Country. You don't need to bring anything... except maybe a sturdy bag to hold the apples (they have plastic ones.) I bring my Boat and Tote, because it holds a ton and it is easy to carry... and could I really go anywhere without. 

They have great set up for entertainment. The tractor pulled hay ride come about every 15 minutes. So you never have to wait long to get out there, or come back. The farm usually have live music and cider or apple butter demonstrations. There is an apple festival every weekend in September. My son loves the little barn animals and the huge playground. 

They also have a "Roosteraunt" where they sell amazing cider donuts and coffee for your morning fix. After you are done with the farm and apples you can grab a lunch outside the barn. They sell hotdogs and BBQ, homemade pies, and old fashioned glass Cokes. 

On your way out you can stop through their farm stand to pick up some fresh local produce, so you get some grocery shopping done. 

It is a working mother's dream for a family day: healthy, outside, quality time, and great pictures. I heart you Great Country.  

NYC Rooftop Party Styling

The hubby and I are off to NYC this weekend. His brother and fiancee are throwing a swank Rooftop Party in Manhattan. I wanted to go against the grain, and dress down, comfortable, but still pay respect to the hosts. 

When it comes to beauty, I think manners and kindness matter so much more than what you wear or who did your hair. Just being authentic and interested in others is what people will remember. Whenever I write a fashion or a beauty post, I always want to remind myself that the most important thing a woman can wear is compassion. 

For my dress, I chose this long sleeve black tee-shirt dress Velvet By Graham & Spencer, which I bought at Nordstorm Rack for under $150. I'm not going to wear any nylons, because it is not really worth hassle, as long as your legs are shaved. 

Accessories: I am going to go with a nude pump because they make your legs look fantastically long, my pair are from Sam Elderman. I love the D'orsay style because they fit my feet and you can stand and walk in them for hours, I literally do, these are my pumps I wear to work. I love my Moda Lux nude clutch with gold detailing. When you hold the clutch low, it has an elongating effect to your silhouette. To compliment the gold detailing in the clutch, I choose my gold Marc Jacobs watch and some understated but elegant Kendra Scott earrings. 

Beautywise, I'm not doing much. I am currently on a no makeup kick. I like my freckles and my tan, I don't want to cover that up. It took a lot of beer drinking in the pool to get it, and I am proud of that. I do love the way my hair feels and looks after a blow out so I am going to get my haircut and highlighted on Friday. Because, I think second day hair looks better. 

Scent, I am loving the sexy vanilla scent BYWAY eau de parfum. It is a sweet fragrance with warm notes of caramel, wild rose, vanilla candy, honeysuckle. To me it smells like amber moonlight, it is both fun and sexy. Also, it is made in the USA, which is exactly what I am looking for these days. 

More than anything, I'm just excited to celebrate a wonderful couple's engagement and a have a fun night out with the hubby. I can't wait! Congratulations Jeff and Cara! 

All Natural Beauty Treatment: Coconut Oil

There are easily over a hundred uses for the oil but I am practically evangelical about its beauty treatments. Coconut oil is a naturally anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal and it smells amazing. It is baby and pet safe and there are no harsh chemicals or carcinogens. You can pick it up anywhere, and if you choose you can get all natural, organic, cold pressed and bonus it is CHEAP!  Coconut Oil is an incredible beauty multitask-er, here are some of the uses I like the best.

• Natural Teeth Whitener - I have lately added oil pulling to my mourning routine. Oil pulling is essentially swishing a teaspoon of coconut oil in your mouth for about 20 minutes. I know that sounds like a long time but for me that is making lunch for my husband, breakfast for my son and emptying the dishwasher, or the time it takes me to drive to my vegetable garden. The hardest part about oil pulling is remembering not to swallow. Coconut oil tastes delicious, it is not painful unlike many mouthwashes and the benefits are pretty amazing. Oil pulling helps eliminate the harmful bacteria and viruses in your mouth to keep your healthy, remove plaque, help reduce mouth irritations and even help with tooth aches. Pretty awesome, Listerine and ain't got nothing on that. 
• Shaving cream - Coconut oil is probably the best shaving cream I have ever used. It goes on smoothly, allows for a close shave and it smells amazing. It has a few added benefits, the oil will keep your razors sharper longer, and because it is a natural deodorizer and moisturizer your underarms and legs will smell and look incredible. 
• Body lotion - Don't pay way to much money for chemicals, just use Coconut Oil, it will work better than any other moisturizer. The only caution is you don't want to stain your clothes so be careful and when you put it on and give yourself some time to let it soak in. 
• Cuticle cream - I have terribly dry hands and cuticles. It comes from being a mom and washing my hands a thousand times a day. A little rub and my fingers are baby soft. If you are painting your nails you can use q-tip and put the oil right on the cuticle, paint your nails and when they are dry all of the extra nail polish will just come off with oil... perfect manicure at home. 
• Scar and Stretch Mark Treatment - Coconut oil contains vitamin E, lauric, caprylic and capric acids which makes it  an excellent scar treatment, just rub the the oil in at least once a day but up to 4 times if you have the time
• Hair Mask - Coconut oil is one of the best essential oils for hair and scalp health because it contains healthy fatty acids and vitamin E. You can message about a tablespoon into your hair and scalp and leave on for about 30 minutes. Wash your hair out and you will enjoy healthy, glossy and moisturized hair.

Coconut Oil is really a wonder oil, a magical elixir that can make you healthier and more beautiful, you will be happy you tried it, I know I am. 

Fall Into Gorgeous Nail Colors

I love Fall. I always have. I love the changing of the leaves, the cooler weather. I love Autumn Harvest and the delicious soups and stews that come from all those squashes and pumpkins. I love the sweaters, and the layers, and the cozy nights with a glass of bold red wine and the fire pit outback. As I have gotten older, and more so since I started gardening, I do have a little bit of sadness as we wave goodbye to Summer. But as the sunburn on my hand will attest, it was a great summer. Time for some lovely trappings of Autumn. For me usually the first that changes with the seasons is my nail color. It is ridiculous, I know. I will change my dishes, my door wreathe, decorations on the mantel and our menus, but for some reason nails get changed first. Here are some of my favorites from this years new lines... 

• Essie's when i'm buttoned up, i always dress to kilt

• Nars

• Opi's Nordic Collection

• Butter of London Nail Lacquers 

Love Hate Running

Love Hate Running 

I run, I am not a runner, that is to say I run but I do not enjoy it. I run because my body hates running so much it is the only thing that motivates my post-baby, post-30 metabolism. I love running because it is fast, easy, requires no special equipment, I can do it anywhere, and I can do it early in the morning before the boys wake. I hate running because it is hard, it is mental, and I have terrible knees. I ran from when I was 16 until when my second trimester of pregnancy. Now, after many failed diets, too much money spent on trainers and on gym memberships, I am going back to what I know works, sweating it out to Nelly and Jay-Z every other morning at 4:30 am. There are few things that I use to help make running a little more fun and here are my crutches: 

• MUSIC - If I had to pick one thing that is an absolute must, I would pick music. I wouldn't make it six blocks without it. Even in the military we ran to cadences. You don't have to spend a heap ton of money on it either, if you have an iPhone you can download Pandora or Spotify for free and they have some awesome powerhouse workout stations. 
• Good Shoes - Shoes are essential. If your feet hurt you can't do much of anything. I have weird shaped feet and that makes it difficult, but there are plenty of running stores that will let you run in a pair of shoes or have special equipment that you stand on to help you get the perfect pair. For me, I love New Balances, I have been using them for 15 years. But, every body is different and every foot is too. 
• Hydrate or die - You can run hungry or tried, but you can't run dry. You have to drink water the night before and after. I have a CamelBak Glass water bottle that I use constantly. Somehow the straw makes it easier for me to hydrate. Try a bottle you like in your favorite color, put on your desk or carry it around the house while you are doing chores. You will be amazed at how much better you feel when you drink water. 
• Running App Coach- I love my running app. It tells me when to walk, and when to run, it lets me know if I am going to fast or not fast enough and when I have reached the halfway mark. You can try plenty of running apps for free. I love them. 
• Fuel - I don't eat before I run, I used to when I was running for time or with others and wanted to perform well. I eat after, and I am currently loving Larabar Protein Bars. I am on a Paleo kick and I really think it has improved my runs and my energy in general. They sell these at Whole Foods, Trader Joe's and, of course, Amazon.   
• Happy Workout Gear - You can run in any clothes you like, I spent a good chunk of my life running in BDUs and boots. But you should try and find some clothes that make you happy. Maybe its an old t-shirt, or your favorite old sports watch that doesn't work anymore. Whatever it is, wherever you get it, it should make you happy because you will need that little bit of umph to get out the door. 
• Mental Game - Remember that Native Americans used to run for hours across expansive distances, running is all mental. If you pray, ask for some extra power, if you mediate, visualize yourself at the end of the run. Think about attaining your goal and how you will feel when you do, just don't stop, it is all in your head. Your body will want to fight you to rest, but push through. You can do it. 

So those are my tips from someone who runs but does not enjoy it. All the best and happy work-outs. 

10 Tips for Toddlers at the Beach

I love the beach, I love the pool, I love all things summer. There is nothing about summer from the fireflies to the sandcastles that I don't find utterly enchanting. That being said, I remember the first time I went to the beach with my son, I was super anxious. I bought and brought (lugged) a thousand things to the beach that I really didn't need to. It the beach, the toy is the beach. But, I thought I would share some products and ideas that made our trip much easier. Here are my top ten: 

1. Try and park or stay as close to the beach as possible. Don't kid yourself, you will be carrying a lot, there will be steps, and that includes your kids. Paying a little more is totally worth it, when you love decides its time to potty. 

2. Morning Beach Time is where it is at. Your kids are up, they are fed and well rested, go to the beach. In the morning, there are a lot less people, the sun is not as bright, and your kids are in a good mood. So, bring a travel cup of joe and enjoy the scenery. Plus lunch is a great time to go home, and you can always go back after nap. Bonus idea: pack your beach bag the night before so you can just go. 

3.  The Beach Bag.

• LL Bean Boat and Tote - There are lots of beach bags to choose from, this is my favorite. I use the large open tote with the long handles. It is perfect for throwing over your shoulder while you carry ... ehm children. It is incredibly crafted, sturdy, stands up, is light, and you can even get your monogram on it. It's ok, I'm from Virginia, we monogram everything. Bonus it is 10% because of Labor Day 2014.
• I love Turkish towels, they are light, thin, and super absorbent. It certainly makes packing a lot easier and lighter if your whole bag is not devoted to bulky beach towels. 
• Water... good old fashioned H2O. Don't bring a bunch of sugary snacks and drinks... yes, they may want a little snack and if you are going with other kids. I would have some goldfish and some gummies in your back pocket just in case. But the truth is they are at the beach, and you just fed them breakfast... don't mess about packing a picnic unless you are actually going to picnic. I love these Zoli Bot Sippy Cups for babies and these Life Factory Glass Bottles for toddlers. For grown-ups I find the most convenient and easy to use are CamelBak Glass Water Bottles. 
• Sunblock. Sweet sunblock, thank you Lord for sunblock, and the woman who invented spray bottles of the stuff. We use Alba Botanica Natural Protection for Kids. For Momma, I'm using Sun Bum, it came in my PopSugar Box and I love it... I heart the stuff.  Truth be told, I love everything that comes in my PopSugar Box. I think little angels bring it every month. 
• A waterproof bag with your: wallet, phone, camera if you are not using your phone, keys, any medication or epi-pen... if you roll like that. 

4. Floaties. If your little one is 6 month to 2 years-old I recommend the Baby Spring Float with Canopy. My son loved his little boat. I liked using it because it had a canopy to shield him from the sun. We used in both the pool and in the bay and in the pond. Now that my son is 3 we use the Puddle Jumper.  I like it because i don't have to blow anything up, and he loves it because he gets to swim without any one holding him and doesn't limit his range of motion. 

5. Easy Chairs. If you are not staying somewhere that has beach chairs, bringing beach chairs can be quiet bulky and heavy. Instead we opt for easy fold, light weight camp chairs. For my kid, he loves his Melissa & Doug Sunny Patch Giddy Chair. It is stinkin' adorbs. 

6. One bucket of toys that he can carry. The rule is, if you want to play with it, you have to bring it. My momma got these for my kid and we love it. Thank you Momma!!! 

7. What to wear. I have a moral requirement not to pay too much for children's clothing. We are very happy just using Old Navy toddler swimwear. I am practically Evangelical about rash guards. These t-shirts are such a blessing to a mother of fair-haired child. The trick is to buy a size up it in September so it is on deep sale and save it for the next summer. As for Mommas, I use Miraclesuites. They are wonderful, well constructed and make everyone look better. Daddies, I'm pretty sure my husband is wearing his old gym shorts from college... I am not strong enough. 

8. Cover that up. I know it sounds counterproductive to bring something warm to the beach. But I find the key to be warm but breathable. The water cools you down, and with the ocean breeze it can be a little chilly. I heart my monogrammed Columbia Bahama Shirt that I wear as a cover up down to the beach. For my little guy I put him in UV Skinz. They are little pricey but if you buy them big they last for years and they have built in sunscreen. My husband is over German decent and has never been cold a day in his life. But if he ever was he would wear a Michigan Long Sleeve T-shirt. 

9. Take care of the footsies. For little ones, these Panama Jack Water Shoes are awesome. They can go from street to sand to water without blisters or ouchies.  For Lady feet, I use my old Rainbow Flip Flops. My hubby wears Keens sandals, closed toe. What can I say he cray. 

10. Have fun and take pictures. Remember to have fun, this is your vacation too. You deserve to have a laugh, lounge a bit, play and laugh. Also, I know you are in a bathing suit and we can all be in better shape, but get in there. You will love the pictures and the memories. :) 

Have a great trip to the beach!