Saturday 31 March 2012

Nail Tryouts

I always like to experiment with new hairstyles and beauty products on the weekend. This way in case I hate the outcome or simply haven't mastered it yet I don't waste time in my morning routine. Todays experiment consisited of dark nail polish. I never thought I could pull it off but my feelings are changing.
I opted for an dark blue, almost black shade by Zoya in Indigo which you can find on Amazon for around $8. It's a great price for professional polish. (If you are still paying salon prices get with the times!!) I was hesitant to go with such a dark shade but to my surprise I quite enjoy it! I'm not sure if I can rock this look Monday to Friday but I am glad I took the plunge and tried it!

**Mom tip** Save time without the risk of ruining your pretty polished nails. I waited until Hayden went down for his nap, did a couple coats and hopped on my elliptical. This way I knew I would be uninterrupted by the boy, yet I'm still accomplishing something while my nails dry!

I would love to hear about any fashion and beauty risks that you've tried recently?!
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Friday 30 March 2012

Functional Fashion

I need a new diaper bag but I am on the fence about making a big purchase as I'm secretly wishing Hayden won't be in them much longer. He's only 14 months so I have a while to go still! Realistically I know I will be toting half his toys with me for years to come. Before Hayden was born I did a lot of research but diaper bags was not something I really looked into. I have found the most amazing bags by Timmi and Leslie and I NEED one!
This is the Charlie Tote by Timi and Leslie and there is so much more where this came from. All their bags will carry over in your purse collection long after your are through with bottles and diapers. If anything it will make a great work purse or carry on. 
ALL of these diaper bags come with a change pad, bottle/thermos carrier, dirty laundry zipper bags, stroller straps, shoulder strap and personal clutch! Plus it is loaded with pockets. I think this needs to go on every mommy's must have list. Who says function and fashion can't get along?


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Thursday 29 March 2012

Mom Picks

I love finding great household items that save time, money and help keep my peace of mind. Here are a few kitchen essentials that I can't live without.
Lysol Disinfecting Wipes, Lysol Healthy Touch soap dispenser and Purell antibacterial hand gel. The wipes make for easy clean up when your in a rush or don't want to use a dish towel or paper towel. If I drip chicken juice I don't want to contaminate my sponge! These wipes kill 99.99% of viruses and bacteria. Over the past few years Purell has become common in most households, cars, offices etc. Not meant to replace hand washing but great for when your on the go. Last but not least is my new favourite.....Lysol Healthy Touch Automatic. This is a hands free battery operated soap dispenser that makes hand washing easy and accessible. I love the refreshing cucumber scent! The only trouble I have with this product is I find after I have "been soaped" I will put my hands under my faucet waiting for it to automatically come on! It is too funny!


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Saturday 24 March 2012

Saturday Shoes!

Monday to Friday my tired feet are adorned in glorious pumps and platforms. While I love my work shoe collection,  my line of work in the restaurant industry limits me to only closed toed options. When the weekend rolls around I become giddy with excitment over which pair of 'non-work' shoes to wear.

I know what your thinking...'giddy, really?'  My answer is....YES!
Peep toe, cork heel platforms by GUESS
Peep toes, mules, strappy sandals, espadrilles, mary janes, stilettoes, wedges....the list goes on and on. I will often select a pair of fabulous shoes and then build my outfit around them. With a dreary winter on the outs the options increase ten fold. I am so tired of skinny jeans with boots over top. A stand by look that winter often holds us hostage to. The sun is shining today and I'm going to take advantage of it!

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Friday 23 March 2012

Friday Night Freedom...Sort of

It is friday night and I am without my baby boy. He is sleepping happily in his crib at home thanks to the help of my wonderful mother in law. While my hubby and I didn't have date night we did get a bit of time to ourselves which is so important. I had an evening appointment which he took me to and we had dinner to follow. As much as we LOVE our boy, it is a rare to treat to eat a meal out without catering to Hayden's every need! We enjoyed an aray of sushi, our FAV, and now I'm headed home as my hubby has to work. Although we don't have a ton of family close by to help out, we have my sister and Mike's parents. They are both about an hour drive so when they make the trip it means alot! I also have an amazing sitter who I adore, which is hard to find.

Moral of the story.............Make sure you ask for help when you need it! The people we love will always lend a helping hand when they can, sometimes you simply have to ask. This post is in honor of those who help us busy Moms and Dads, we couldn't do it without you!

xoxoxo Pin It

Thursday 22 March 2012

Fast Nails #2

I have absolutely fallen for Sally Hansen Insta-Dri as shown here. I got a few more colours and decided

to glam up my super fast nails!  In this pic I'm wearing 'Snappy Sorbet' and I'm in love with the bright and happy colour. I added the Sally Hansen Crackle Overcoat in Fractured Foil on my ring finger as an accent. By only doing one nail I'm keeping up with nail trends while saving time! Another thing I love about the Insta-Dri is the petal brush. It is wider which makes for one stroke easy application. You MUST try this product! 
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Tuesday 20 March 2012

Food or Fitness?

We have a family vacation to Hawaii sneaking up on us! I can't help but shake in my boots at the thought of braving my bikini. This brings me to the dilemma of food or fitness? Many moms have a legitimate argument when it comes to working out, no time and I could plead my case also. However, I have found a happy medium. We have to eat right? Of course we do and by making healthy choices when it comes to diet we actually have more impact on our weight loss goals and can often afford to miss a workout or two. So the challenge begins to stick to a healthy & balanced diet.  This has always been a struggle for me as I have almost ZERO will power and I work in a restaurant! Talk about temptation! I have informed a few friends of my goals to keep me on the straight and narrow. Time to dust off the old elliptical to use while watching my shows and no more skipping meals. This isn't a fitness blog but I do believe in talking about what your set out to do as it helps to hold you more accountable for your actions.



Tomorrow I'll be back to all things mommy, fashion and so on, but tonight its time to work up a sweat! Pin It

Sunday 18 March 2012

Any given Sunday...

I am lucky to have a nice circle of friends all experiencing parenthood for the first time like myself! On any given Sunday one of us will throw out a play date invite and we all do our best to attend. I decided this week was my week as I missed my fellow Mommas and all their boys! (Most of my friends have boys)


In a last minute effort to be a good host I put on a pot of coffee and whipped up a batch of sugar cookies! Now I will be the first to tell anyone, I don't bake from scratch. I turn to the help of some of my trusted friends such as Betty Crocker and Duncan Hines. I stuck with the basic drop cookies due to my time limit but there are ton of fun and creative ideas here. I have a cupboard full of quick and easy baked goods in a box for times like today! Play dates are great for sharing parenting stories and tips while letting the little ones interact and develop their social skills. They can also be the perfect time for us busy mummy's to socialize a little ourselves! If you don't participate in play dates or a local mommy group already, it's time to start. 
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Saturday 17 March 2012

Coloured Denim...?

When I was 9 years old I had a pair of lime green Guess jeans that I lived in. I thought they were the coolest article of clothing on the planet. I never thought I would consider wearing coloured denim again...



That's the funny thing about fashion, it almost always comes back around full circle. While I don't see myself going for the lime green that I used to adore, I am warming up to the idea of a pretty pastel pair of skinnies. It is important to take fashion risks without going overboard. I haven't found the right pair just yet but the hunt is on. I'll keep you posted on my search for the perfect pair of coloured denim jeans as they are looking like a 'must have' this spring! Pin It

St. Paddy's Day Saturday

Rewind 5 years..........St. Patricks Day rolls around and what were your plans? I would have probably been working or going out! Decked out in head to toe green and pub hoping around town. How quickly time passes and things change.

With my husband away for work Hayden and I will be spending the weekend together at home. I do have a green dress perfect for todays celebration but nowhere to wear it! Wouldn't it be funny to get all dressed only to stay home and play with my son? With a large furniture order being delivered to the restaurant today I think I will go in to check on the staff and ensure everything goes smoothly. Maybe that green dress will work after all ;)

Happy St. Patrick's Day! Pin It

Thursday 15 March 2012

After dinner walk

Growing up there are always a few things that stand out in my memory. My Mother made roast beef and yorkshire pudding every Sunday. My weekend plans couldn't commence until the completion of my Saturday morning chores. We always sat together for dinner as a family and at least once a week my parents would drag my sister and I out for an after dinner walk. At the time I didn't understand or appreciate it but I can now see the value in this precious family time.

With the weather on Vancouver Island, British Columbia changing hourly these days it's hard to find a good moment to get out of the house. Tonight was the night! After dinner we got bundled up and walked down to the park on our street. Hayden enjoyed the swings and exploring the wood chipped park for the first time since he started walking. My husband and I took pleasure in watching him explore and have fun! It was a nice extension of our family dinner and good to get outside.

As the weather improves we look forward to doing this more often and if you don't already, try it too! Pin It

Wednesday 14 March 2012

Free Shape = free time


Many women believe having long hair takes a lot of up keep and maintenance. I don't find this to be true at all. I have had hair of all lengths and I find my long hair the most low maintenance. I have lots of options of how I can style it and unlike shorter styles my trips to the salon are few and far between. On average I get my hair cut twice a year! The only downside to long hair is the length of time it takes to blow dry.




On a recent trip for a trim, my stylist recommended a time saving product that I have fallen in love with.  I LOVE my new KMS Free Shape! It protects your hair from heat while cutting your blow drying time by up to 50%! It used to take me 15-20 minutes to dry my hair and I timed myself yesterday after using Free Shape and it took 8 minutes from wet to dry! At around $14.00 I can't say enough great things about it. Who doesn't need 10 minutes shaved off their morning routine? Use your extra time to hit the snooze or enjoy a more relaxing breakfast!

Let me know what you think if you try it! Pin It

Tuesday 13 March 2012

Heading to the grocery store without a plan? Big mistake! If you are braving the weekly shop with the kiddies you better know what your doing or you won't be successful. Here are a few tips:

Hayden racing through the aisle in his push car!


Know your market - You have a good idea of what your partner and children's likes and dislikes are right? So don't go overboard experimenting with too many new foods and flavours if it's not going to get eaten. Don't get me wrong, I'm all about trying new things, but take baby steps. You don't want to waste your precious time AND your hard earned money!

Don't shop hungry - We all know this rule but find ourselves breaking it all the time. Why do we wait till there is no food in the house to go shopping? Select a day and time during the week that works for you and your family. Is it a family outing or do you do it best alone? Do you even have the luxury of shopping without the kids? If not, you need a proven strategy before strapping them in the cart. Bring a snack as this will reduce the infinite requests for anything and everything they see. If YOU can't avoid shopping while famished bring or buy a snack for yourself.

Have a list - Whether you write it out old school style or have it in your phone, don't leave home without it. Murphy's Law says if you forget the list you'll forget something on it. 'The List' also keeps your eye on the prize and presents you from straying.

Always remember to have fun! Happy Shopping!






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Monday 12 March 2012

Inspiration...my creation

Spring will hopefully be upon us soon and with a new season comes new fashion! Although a new wardrobe may not be in my budget I love trying to recreate outfits that speak to me. I have always been drawn to muted colours and simple pieces put together to create a polished yet effortless look.

Here is a look taken from Michael Kors Spring 2012 collection

























Here is the look taken from my existing wardrobe.



~ 'Ralph' Ralph Lauren sunglasses
~ Urban Behaviour cardigan
~ Banana Republic camisole
~ 'TRF" by Zara black slacks
~ Steve Madden heels
~ Gucci handbag



We all have plenty hiding in our closets that never gets to see the light of day. Challenge yourself to steel a look!








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Saturday 10 March 2012

1 shoe, 2 shoe...

As a self proclaimed shoe addict I was terrified of passing this expensive habit on to my son. Well, I soon realized he wasn't the one buying them, I was! I quickly learned to follow the advice of so many to not 'over shop' for growing babies. My husband and I found ourselves putting Hayden in outfits and shoes he hadn't worn and taking pictures of him as we both knew he we was quickly out growing his extensive wardrobe.

Tip  {Velcro K.Swiss are WAY easier to get on a squirmy toddler, but I do love the Nikes}

As a new mom I had to better understand my shoe inventory so I would make educated decisions when selecting shoes to wear. I will never sacrifice my heels because I am now toting a child and diaper bag on top of my purse. I will just wear the more comfortable ones when I'm in for a lot of walking!

These Madden Girl boots are my current fav as they are easy to get on and off, super comfy and stylish!


A great way to save $ is buy the junior line of your favourite name brands! Enjoy your Saturday and don't be afraid to strut your stuff in fabulous heels!



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Thursday 8 March 2012

In my bag...

Here is a look at a few items I'm currently toting to and from work.


~Lined, leather 'Lauren' by Ralph Lauren gloves. {It's still winter in BC}
~Bed Head TIGI After Party smoothing cream. {Again,great for static, winter hair}Find it on Beautybay
~Vintage business card holder with shoes on it, perfect for me. {A gift from my father after a promotion at work}
~Trusty umbrella!
~M.A.C Plushglass plumper in Pretty Plush. {I never was blessed with natural pouty lips}
~Quaker instant oatmeal ~ Apple Cranberry Almond. {An easy snack on the go that can double as a toddler emergency meal}



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Wednesday 7 March 2012

Green Goodness

Spinach is the easiest food to sneak into any meal, grown up and baby food alike. I always made my own baby food and even though Hayden no longer eats purées, I still make apple sauce and different variations on it. I resort to my trusty slow cooker for my 'green goodness'. Apple sauce is easy to make, simply peel, dice , place in slow cooker and add water. Cook for approx 3-4 hours or until soft and mash with potato masher. Divide into ice cube trays and freeze. When making spinach cubes I make apple sauce as usual. Take a bunch of washed spinach leaves and blend with water {I blend in my magic bullet}. Take fresh blended spinach puree and mix with apple sauce before portioning.


I like to do one spinach cube to two apple cubes! Pin It

Tuesday 6 March 2012

The Art of Eating Out

I recently made a comment to a friend and regular guest of the restaurant I manage. I noticed she and her husband never bring their kids with them. They were quick to respond, saying they love eating out and want to enjoy it together as a couple. I couldn't agree more, however, our family loves eating out together also and we do regularly. Follow these tips to ensure a smoother dining experience ~



~call ahead to check for highchairs and change tables
~ come prepared with pre~made snacks
~order something for the kids first
~bring toys, books etc
~ dine slightly before the dinner rush
~have a movie or app on your phone as a last resort to keep kids quiet while you finish up {Try the Fisher Price iPhone Case with tons of free apps you can use with or without case! It's a must have in my opinion}
~try your best to keep the table somewhat tidy and quiet {nobody enjoys dining next to a screaming toddler throwing food}

While all these family outings are great, it is important to plan regular date nights for you and your hunny where you can truly relax!

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Monday 5 March 2012

Fast Nails

After over 10 years of acrylic and gel nails I got rid of them and have been rocking my natural nails for a few years now. There were two contributing factors in my decision to say goodbye to my chiselled nails. Time and Money. If I ever broke a nail it was devastating and a trip to the salon couldn't come fast enough. On top of that, I never enjoyed dishing out $50 + a month. So Needless to say, who has the time, much less wants to spend the $?
I recently purchased Sally Hansen Insta-Dri shown here. It comes in a ton of colours for around $5 and dries in 1 minute! After having Hayden I thought I would never have time for myself again, but not anymore. Now there is no excuse to have unpolished nails! I find paying attention to small details, like your nails, can contribute to your overall confidence while completing your look. Tell me how you like it?

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Sunday 4 March 2012

Work week prep

As the weekend comes to a close I find myself preparing for the busy week ahead. Although the majority of my wardrobe consists of business attire, putting a look together is easier said than done. My time saving secret is ironing a weeks work of blouses, skirts and such on the Sunday night prior. Once mouths are fed, baths are had and lunches made, I set up shop in front of the T.V. This way I can press my clothes while indulging in my favourite shows. My current Sunday night ironing lineup includes Desperate Housewives and Amazing Race. Lucky for me my hubby enjoys these show too, so it is time we spend together!

Ironing ahead of time eliminates the need to do it mid-week and shaves precious time off my morning routine. To save even more time try swapping out your iron for a steamer! This item is on my wish list!

Happy Sunday!
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Saturday 3 March 2012

An overnight stay

The hubby's are away this weekend so my dear sister invited me for an overnight get together. When your packing a toddler along this is easier said than done! With a few hours notice I was all packed and ready to go.  Since becoming a mother I have found myself forced to reduce the amount of items I pack as Hayden's stuff is now much more important! Once the car was packed, my sister Scarlett snapped this picture!


Don't be intimidated to take short trips with the kids as you may miss out on precious time with friends and family!
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Easy, healthy lasagna!

Lasagna is one of the best kept recipe secrets! It never fails to impress and is simple to make so if you don't already make it, start now. Once you have made it a few times it is easy to tailor the recipe to make it your own. Below is a sneaky one for picky eaters ;)

Ingredients:

1 pound lean ground beef (can be substituted for chicken, eggplant even tofu)
1 onion chopped
1 can of mushrooms drained
1 jar spaghetti sauce
1 large container of cottage cheese (or mix half and half ricotta)
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 eggs
1 package lasagna noodles
1 cup grated mozzarella
2 cups baby spinach leaves                                                           5 large carrots


Directions:

~ Steam carrots until soft and puree

~in large skillet cook ground beef well, add onions, mushrooms and cook until transparent. Add pasta sauce, carrot puree and 1 cup chopped spinach

~in large bowl combine cottage chefs, eggs and other cup of chopped spinach. Add salt and pepper.

~spread thin layer of sauce on bottom of dish, layer pasta, sauce, mozza, pasta, cheese mix, mozza, pasta, sauce, mozza {use only half mozzarella while layering}

~cover with foil and bake in oven pre~heated to 350 degree F for 45 minutes

~remove and top with remaining mozza and bake for another 15 minutes

~remove and let stand for 10 minutes



 The great thing about lasagna is you can portion and freeze for easy meals at home or lunch for work when there is not enough time!

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Friday 2 March 2012

Smell the Roses...

As I try to maintain order and organization in my day to day life I often find myself bored. We create routines that we feel obligated to stick to which can cause us to miss beautiful and simple moments. Every night my husband and I make dinner for ourselves and our one year old son and rush through cleaning up, bath time and preparing for the next day. We often forget to step outside and take in the beauty that surrounds us.

I am quite sure for myself this is a small case of the winter blues. A few nights ago I was reminded of British Columbia's breathtaking scenery while taking out the garbage. Although I cannot wait for spring and summer, this foggy evening was something to remember. I was quick to grab my phone and capture the moment before it passed.

Enjoy the little moments that take you by surprise this weekend!
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