Real Parenting

We had a taste of 'real parenting'. Jonathan has been an easy baby every since he was born - sleeping through the night right away, no colic, no ear infections or major spit-ups (thank God) and we've been spoiled. His bottom teeth came in without a cinch and we were thrilled. 

Fast forward two months and he was cranky, didn't want to eat from the spoon, constantly wining and wanting to be on hands. Once we realized that his top teeth are popping through, at least we could take some measures, stocking up on baby Tylenol and finger foods. As it would happen, hubby was working nights that week and I was alone holding down the fort. 

Jonathan had it rough with sleepless nights, bleeding gums and no solids. He didn't want the spoon because it hurt his gums, so he only ate the stuff he could pick up with hands. We were getting frustrated because he was practically living on formula, super cranky and needy. The teeth finally cut through and we were relieved to have the happy and easy-going baby back. He is sleeping through the night, eating as he supposed to and loving his independence again. 

Those hard times, sleepless nights and cranky baby really proved our marriage. When neither of us wanted to get up to get Jonathan in the middle of the night, when we were snappy and irritable, it took a lot more effort not to kill each other. Glad we didn't because I still kind of like this guy. Scratch that, I love him  and our life together. 

One Outfit :: Two Ways

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shirt: thrifted, skirt: Loft, vest: Land's End, booties: Old Navy
watch: Target, blazer: Banana Republic, hat: Gap

Who said you can't wear your favorite outfit more then once? Or twice? If I find a color combination or just put together an outfit that's perfect, I want to wear it over and over again. I've had this skirt and shirt in my closet for a while now but one day I put them together and whala! Wearing the same outfit by remixing it and making it look like a totally new one is a winner in my book! Plus changing up the hair adds that something special to each look. Thank you for stopping by and have a great weekend!

Look Book: Mad for Plaid

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This holiday season and all winter long, plaid is making a full come back. I'm loving the print and can't get enough of it. I wore my plaid sure more times in the last few weeks than in the entire year. Here are some of the best looks I found on Pinterest and really, can't wait to style and mix it up more. Have fun with it and enjoy your day! 

10 Ways To Get Ready For Winter

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Technically it's not winter yet, although it definitely feels like it.  Here in Northeast, we hibernate from October to March so warmth, comfort and peace of mind are very important. But no matter where you are, here are some things to consider before the cold hits ya.

1. Stock up on canned goods, snacks and cereal. You never know when a blizzard is going to force you stay home instead of going grocery shopping. Maybe there will be another Sandy (God knows we don't want one) but you won't be frantically running through Walmart, scouting for canned beans. It's wise to have things prepared for bad weather (especially if you are in north east)

2. Go through your winter wardrobe and make sure your winter clothes are clean and ready to be used with the first frost. If not, get your coats, and wool items dry cleaned.

3. Get a good lotion that isn't glycerin based as it tends to give more break outs with constant use. Winter months always leave my skin extra dry. I use pure, food-grade almond and jojoba oils, as well as Shea butter by NOW Foods. All of their oils are unscented so you won't get sick of the smell after a while. The almond oil is my favorite because it's thin, does not leave a nasty residue and absorbs fully.

4. Make sure you have plenty of accessories - things like gloves, mittens, hats and scarfs are essential during winter. They add stylish touch and keep you warm. Also, thick shoe inserts will help keep your toes warm, even if your shoe soles are a little on a thin side.

5. Set your thermostat (if at all possible) according to your daily schedule. Programming the thermostat will not only allow you to save money but make sure that you come back to a warm house every time.

6. Clean the vents, if you have forced air heat, and wipe the dust off radiators to make sure you have clean air. Plug in air freshers and maybe even get a humidifier to make sure that your air stays pleasant.

7. Prepare your vehicles. Get them inspected, rotate/change tires, get enough wind washer fluid. Besides that, ask your husband/boyfriend/father/mechanic for help.

8. Stock up on candles, because no matter how many you have, it doesn't ever seem enough. Nothing feels better then a cozy, warm house that smells like apple pie (or whatever you smell you like).

9. Get comfortable and warm everyday footwear with thick soles and low heel. Also, wool socks are absolutely amazing for those cozy winter nights snuggled up with a cup of hot coco. Your grandma will be happy to make you a pairs (or Land's End).

10. Last but not least, you want to make sure it's safe for you to walk outside your house. Get enough salt and the shovel ready for the ice and first snow.

Anything I forgot, please comment and let everyone know your ideas!

Been An Angel All Year (Smh)

top: H&M, jacket: LOFT, skirt: TJMaxx, booties: Guess

Every year around this time of year, I like to incorporate red, black and sparkle into my outfits. Also, I cannot stop listening to Christmas music (especially this) and smiling. Really, a yacht is not a lot ;-) Christmas time really is the best. It's all about spending time with family, eating lots of delicious food, going to parties and giving gifts. I love giving because when I have put extra thought into someone's gift and they like it, it's the best feeling in the world. And speaking of gifts, I'm all done with my Christmas shopping (talk about early) which makes my life so much easier from now on. Are you gifting or focusing on unworldly gifts? 

Thank you for stopping by and have a good day!