Mini Piccolini: Stylish while Nursing

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – fashion is not my forté. I struggled while pregnant and only really managed to pull it together a little at the very end.

And in my opinion, nursing fashion is even more of a challenge than pregnancy style. Not only are you probably not the size and shape you were pre-pregnancy (nor are you a size and shape you would want to shop for since you’re not planning to stay that way), but you might have a sensitive c-section scar to consider, your boobs might be huge (or at least huger than usual) and you need quick and easy access to them at all times. There is also a lot of spit-up and other goo to contend with when you have a newborn attached to you at all hours.

And though it seemed impossible just a few months ago, the truth is that there is one stage of life where the clothes you can buy are actually uglier than maternity clothes. I have yet to see any nursing clothes that I would care to sport outside of the comfort of my own home.

Needless to say, I am struggling a little.

On Friday we went to some close friends’ for an “Aprés Nursery School” get-together. It was rough and rainy out and I got caught off guard by how late it was in the afternoon and how little I felt like getting myself all dolled up. But in the end I found the perfect alternative to sweats:

1. A Jumpsuit. Mine is a black jersey jumpsuit by Filippa K that I have had for a few years. There are a ton of fun jumpsuits available and if you can find a strapless version and wear it with a cardigan, it’s actually very convenient to nurse out of. Mine has straps that you can just tuck into the top if you want to go strapless. It’s soft and comfortable and it was easy enough to just pull down one side of the jumper to breastfeed.
2. A Shawl-style Cardigan. Nice and warm and cozy for a chilly day, it is also the perfect thing to wrap around your baby like a blanket or to cover yourself while nursing. I have a BCBG hand-me-down from my ver stylish sister that I am loving so much right now.
3. A Good Nursing Cover. If you’re not comfortable nursing completely out in the open, there are some great covers available. I love my Hooter Hider in Camden Lock (though I could do without the ruffles). It’s pretty, it’s convenient, I can see down to Baby really well, it’s not too heavy and it gives us some peace and quiet for nursing on-the-go.
4. A Good-Looking Diaper Bag. I love my Kate bag from MZ Wallace. It carries everything I need but doesn’t look too mommyish.
5. Flats. After whining for months (here) about not being allowed to wear heels, I find that I’m not exactly dying to don my 3-inch favorites. On Friday I opted for comfy J. Crew ballerinas. Even for shorties like me who really should wear heels 24/7, there are so many great ballerinas out there now.

See how I navigated maternity fashion here. And click here to follow my Pinterest board Mum Style.
Click here to visit Mini Piccolini - all the best stuff for Moms, Babies, Kids & Families!

Have a long weekend!

Hope you have a nice LONG weekend! We’ve decided to be homebodies. I hope to finish up some projects, including moving my office to the basement & a DIY hook project inspired by #3 of this post.

I’ll share more next week! shari

Happy Friday!

When I got home from work last night I was greeted by my husband + 2 dozen red roses.
It was such a nice surprise! There was a conversation that went something like this:

Me: “why the roses?”
John: “because you think I only buy you flowers when I am in trouble!”

HA! The roses are so beautiful I thought I’d share them with you this morning. Hope you enjoy the weekend. I will be working on my Pinterest. I feel like I am the last person on earth to join & I am just starting to get into it! xo, shari

Your Weekend

photo credit

FRIDAY! It always feels so good to wake up on a Friday morning…

Today is Harper’s last day of summer camp. She attended a MWF morning program that included daily swimming lessons. I couldn’t help getting a little teary-eyed dropping her off this morning. I am so impressed with how much her confidence has grown in the water.

As summer winds down we are preparing for our end of summer garage sale this weekend. I have a busy afternoon planned –lots of stuff needs to be tagged and moved down to the garage. I am selling half of the stuff in my house! (Furniture, TVs, computer monitors, frames, wall art, vases/pottery, clothes, mirrors, lamps, shelves, etc!) I figure that it will be much easier when we move later this year, and I can start fresh with decorating! I cannot wait to see where life takes us.

Have a wonderful weekend. XO, shari

your weekend

I’m going to disappear a bit early for a relaxing weekend. There is nothing like a long summer weekend, right?

I was looking through photos yesterday and got a little teary eyed when I saw this picture of my daughter. She was only 2 months old here – I loved those sleepy days! Where did the time go? I can only imagine how it feels when they become teenagers!

a few more tidbits:

friendship bracelets – I dream of being a 12 year old at camp with my arms covered in these!

I love you J Crew, but who can pull off this look? Even your model looks a bit ridiculous!

if you are looking for some good reading material this weekend, check out the August issue of Entrepreneur Magazine. My husband’s 24 yr old boss, Ben Kaufman, is on the cover!

My new blog discovery this week.

Lucky Photo Booth

A building of hammocks! what a relaxing idea.

How sexy is the outdoor shower in this home?!

Fortune Cookie Coin Purses

One of my favorite homes… in Thailand.

One of my favorite weddings.

One of my guilty pleasures.

If you haven’t seen this video, it is fabulous!

Have a SLEEPY weekend!  xo, shari

forever 21 tops

Friday!

Inspiring Pictures

Yay, Friday! I am working from Starbucks today with a bit of a headache. It has been an exhausting week and I am going to take a long weekend to reflect on all of the good things in my life. I have somehow gotten stuck in a cloud of negative energy! Has this ever happened to you? See you soon, shari

your weekend

Happy Father’s Day weekend! Any fun plans? We are going down to the NJ shore to celebrate. I am thinking about oversized pizza slices and funnel cake! Here’s a picture of Harper’s card for her “daddin” this Father’s Day. I love that it comes with a bumblebee bookmark.

P.S. This was my Mother’s Day card:

& BTW, I never give the kids cake!!

xo, Shari

your weekend

imgfave.com

Good morning! My favorite day of the week has come.

Thank you all for the advice you sent through Facebook and email last night. Rexford had a 101.5 temperature, and it is honestly the first time that either of my children have run a fever. I was a bit nervous about what to do.  John is in London, and you all really helped calm my nerves.

Rex was up every few hours and would start crying hysterically. It felt like having a newborn again. You get desperate and will do anything to get baby comfortable & back to sleep. At around 2:00 AM we went downstairs for a bottle and an animal cracker. That seemed to be the only thing that would calm him down. At around 3:00 AM Rex was hysterical again. Stella came upstairs and calmed him down. She licked his face and nuzzled him -it was so sweet! The two of them are such good buddies, and I was so thankful to have her to help me! Around 4:00 AM when Rex was crying we danced in the dark bathroom together for about 25 minutes. Rex was super into the glowing orange night light on the wall and this seemed to do the trick!

Needless to say, I am exhausted this morning. The good news is that Rexford’s temperature is back down -last I checked it was 98.7. I am sooo happy that he is feeling better. John comes back from London late tonight and all I want to do tomorrow is sleep late and lay in bed/read stories with the children all morning!

Do you have any tricks when your kids are sick? If so, I’d love to hear them!

P.S. Spearmint Wedding & Spearmint Kitchen should be live by the end of the weekend! THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU Jo Klima!

your weekend

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It’s been a busy, exhausting week and I am just getting the sushi out for dinner. Harper & Rexford are in bed, John should be home soon, and then we are going to turn on the DVR for some So You Think You Can Dance! Anyone else watch this show?

Hope you all have a nice, relaxing weekend. I will be working on a few things for the new blog (including ad sales!), Spearmintdecor.com. If you haven’t already checked it out, I’d love for you to visit and give your feedback.

XO, shari

your weekend

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Happy memorial day weekend! Do you have plans? We’ll be spending Saturday in northern NJ with friends, and Sunday we’ll go to a local festival with a yummy BBQ and live music. Hopefully I’ll get some good photos!

a few more tidbits:

Apple Cats

square watermelons

a darling baby head

summer dresses

who am i

just little things

I’m thinking that it may be time for a new diaper bag – hmmmm…

IKEA DIY

housewarming gift idea

a day after shoot

i love this download

in need of inspiration, sometimes I think about taking online college classes from onlinecourses.net. there are a lot of great choices

& blogging to pay the bills…are you?? if so, don’t forget to join in the Alexa Hop!

Have a LONG weekend!  xo, shari

your weekend

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To all of you wonderful mamas…
take some time to relax this weekend. YOU deserve it!

Do you have any plans? We are taking Harper strawberry picking if the weather cooperates. I think she is going to love it!

a few more tidbits:

McDonalds, McFancy!

for the love of bread

food truck wedding

Magic Milk Straws

paintlounge – wow, this looks like such a fun social activity. i wish there was one near me!

appetizers & summer salad

tiny polaroid magnets

thinking about stripes & succulents

illustrated maps…i could look at these forever!

mini felt buntings

& Alice in Wonderland… UNDERWATER!

Have a good one!  xo, shari

forever 21 tops

your weekend

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happy spring weekend! its been a bit of a stressful week for me. between the move to WordPress and Blogger being down for so long, i am looking forward to a weekend free from my computer!

my husband & i are going on a double date with his 24 year old boss and fiance.  i haven’t been out in a long time, and am really excited to meet them and enjoy a nice meal. we are going to Barclay Prime in Philadelphia. i am definitely ordering the east & west coast oysters from the raw bar, and hoping to have a dirty martini in the beautiful lounge before dinner.

a few more tidbits:

speaking of oysters, here is a 2 minute “how to” for your next dinner party.

do you have a money jar?

have you seen these photos from the Tour de France? simply amazing!

milk & cookies

i’m going to make a new cocktail out of this book on Sunday afternoon. hopefully the weather will be nice so i can enjoy it on the deck while the kids play in the yard.

fun clipboards, mini chalkboards & pretty writing utensils for getting organized this summer

a swedish wedding…the bride met her American husband when she was an exchange student at his high school in Oregon!

Pencil Vs. Ziploc Bag…will the bag leak?

The Power of Words:
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Have a good one!  xo, shari

your weekend

happy Friday! a year ago today i gave birth to my beautiful baby boy. happy 1st year, Rexford! our celebration will include lots of kisses and tickling. Rexford LOVES to be tickled. his tickle spots include his inner thighs, tummy sides, and armpits. there is nothing that makes me happier than to hear his sweet laughter.

a few more tidbits:

do you have a summer getaway planned? i’d love to find a cute cabin on a lake for a weekend getaway…maybe in the Poconos?

recycle an old tie for your little guy

such a pretty cake

birch vases for spring flower arrangements

my husband finally brought home one of Quirky’s Broom Groomers – only $9.99 on Amazon. sweeping the floor has become so much easier-i love the dustpan teeth for getting all of the dog hair and lint off the broom!

colorful, springtime kitchen linens

Detroit always gets a bad rap. i’ve never been there, but enjoyed the article, 36 Hours in Detroit. it would be fun to follow this travel itinerary for 3 days with my backpack & camara!

canine hero & the Osama bin Laden raid.

Papillionare Bicycles

Catherine Ledner animal photographer

DIY yard ideas

i am fascinated by people that wake up early Sat & Sun mornings for yard sales. i’ve been reading Yard Sale Blood Bath & kind of want to join in the fun!

Ha! have you ever been in a public bathroom without a mirror? it is amazing how awkward it feels not to be able to check yourself out!

my favorite throw pillows are on sale.
…here is one in my house.

a vintage bride with pretty feet

& huaraches back in style?? wow! i used to wear my white ones everyday in summertime/1980s.

Happy Mothers Day! xo, shari

summer dresses

your weekend

tumbler, original source unknown

good morning! i just dropped Harper off at preschool and it is an absolutely gorgeous day!! before i had children i was known to sleep through the entire morning, but nowadays i enjoy morning time so much. spring mornings are so refreshing when the air is still crisp, and birds are chirping.

John left for China again on Wednesday so we’ll miss him this weekend. BUT, i do have really exciting plans tonight…a date with my DVR for the Royal Wedding. did you see it yet? i am so anxious to tuck the kids in bed tonight. i’ve always loved the handsome princes and was a huge fan of their pretty Mama. i’m sure Diana would be so proud of her sons -if only she was here to see them all grown up and starting families of their own.

BTW: if you didn’t already know, 2 of our contributing editors have been nominated in categories on Circle of Moms:
Lauren of With Two Cats & Inessa of Diaper Style Memoirs. Please vote for them everyday.

a few more tidbits:

seriously, my idea of a perfect day.

a grass bedspread

if you have a little girl, is Barbie this much of a concern to you?

make colorful silverware
&
a colorful wedding isle

these sandals are so simple and cute, too bad i have wide feet!

Michelle Williams- she seems to reinvent herself every season. always flawlessly beautiful.

breathtaking horse photography. the one of the horse hidden behind the mossy trees is magical!

so sweet

Union Jack decor.

the cutest Girl + Bike.

personalized notes & calling cards- what would your’s look like? i think i’d be a girl with Ray-Bans & a bun.

spring flowers

the most beautiful cake

& bread bears

have a wonderful weekend. our’s will include ice cream! xo, shari

vi.sualize.us

summer dresses

your weekend

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yay for weekends! it is a lazy morning for us. Harper is on spring vacation so we all got in my bed this morning for lots of bouncing and jumping! after some toad in the holes for breakfast, the kids took a long bubble bath while i drank some coffee.

a few more tidbits:

if you are REALLY REALLY into Easter …& your iPhone!

soooo darling

pet beds

toy stories

purple martinis

a goat farm wedding

colorful afghans- i want to start collecting them!

lunch today, with a glass of chardonnay

a cute print!

an awesome spring DIY project that i am going to try next week.

for my purse. i always get blog IDEAS while on the go with my kids.
…& for the shower, HA!

a beautiful photoshoot with Reese Witherspoon. i can’t wait to see the movie.

mini muchachos

eggshells for seeds

do you have an ironing board cover?- i am thinking of the black & white chevron pattern.

hjerte egg

summer dresses

your weekend

therealshootingstar.tumblr.com

not much to say other than it is Friday & i am sooo excited. my husband is on his way home- he has been in China for 2 weeks and it feels like an eternity. we missed him sooo much. i can’t wait to lay in bed tonight and catch up on episodes of House, Amazing Race, Fringe, & Criminal Minds!

a few more tidbits:

i’m thinking about these shoes

loving this Easter basket idea

& this little guy’s outfit

obsessed with this April/May Issue

the most colorful 600 square foot house

a beautiful post from Malmö, Sweden. it looks like the most perfect stroll, perfect brunch, and perfect view!

another home with a killer view!

a crepe cake & cute breakfast toast idea

fun thrift finds! – isn’t that dust pan funny? i think that would make it a lot more fun to clean up!

this is beautiful. how sweet would it be for baby girl?

a romantic wedding photoshoot

this donkey made me LOL!

Easter masking tape stickers

polaroids by Andy Warhol. love that Dorothy Hamil pic!…& the OJ ((

a stroll through Bruges. it looks so charming. has anyone visited?

and finally, some yummy chocolate covered Matzo from my wonderful friend, Laurie:

have a wonderful weekend!
XO, shari

summer dresses

your weekend

ayaliciousss.tumblr.com

happy weekend! it was going to be a lonely one in our home since my husband is in China AGAIN. -but i just heard from my sister and she will be arriving tonight from MN. we are so excited!

i bought some NUTELLA at the grocery store yesterday and thought that it would be fun to serve toast like this ↑ on Saturday morning.

a few more tidbits:

the coolest slide

i just ordered this pretty spring dress (for under $20!)

a pretty (& YUMMY) shop

wallpaper for children’s rooms

a handy list for using lemons

cozy beds & convenient bookmarks

a DIY bunny pencil pouch- such a cute Easter accessory!
…& for those of you that don’t sew, here ya go!

ok, the last bunny link

pink cupcakes – guess how they are pink!

play clay

“her DAD” & her “MOM”- i just loved this!

something refreshing

& the cute couple of the week

see you on MONDAY morning.
XO, shari

p.s. a sneak peak at HQ’s new Kitchen. i’ve been coloring every night- and cannot wait to share it with her (& you) when i am finished!

your weekend

JenniPenni

happy Friday! anything interesting going on this weekend? there is more rain predicted for us unlucky ones in NJ

my husband & i lived in sunny San Jose before we were married and i feel like i should have appreciated the weather more while i was there!

in other news…i got a sneak peak at the new Spearmint Baby blog design last night! i can hardly contain my excitement!!! i absolutely cannot wait to share it with all of you.

a few more tidbits:

loving stripes for little boys

i’m envious of this road trip

make a vertical garden using a wooden pallet- wow, this is sooo creative and pretty!

gorgeous cakes & a cute couple

this little girl’s swimsuit is sooo sweet. (the little girl is darling as well!)

i love good packaging- & admit to buying things just because of the cute package. isn’t this adorable? i am pretty much obsessed with this blog.

cute snakes! these would be really fun on the shelf in the nursery.

Gus + Balloon! Gus is soooo adorable! XL balloon + a baby = great photoshoot idea.

Miu Miu Miniatures

sooo cute! & pink & green too.

an amazing place for a romantic getaway this winter?

the most delicious slice of chocolate cake.

& these guys are going to be really fun to eat too.

Jeff Bridges – seriously 1 of the best actors of all time.

and finally, a cute little story that i am dedicating to my husband

have a wonderful weekend!
XO, shari

your weekend

http://fotoalbum.ee

hi Mamas! what do you have planned for this lovely weekend? it is going to be chilly here, so that means puzzles, dot-to-dots, and my husband’s new project…teaching Harper the periodic table of elements he figures, why not teach her now?- while her brain is like a sponge!

in other news, one of my girlfriends is due to give birth to a baby girl this coming week. it is her first and i am giddy with excitement for her! is anyone else due this month? the last week of pregnancy is such an adrenaline rush.

a few more tidbits:

i LOVE statement rings. Neiman Marcus has some fun options for this spring. are you a gold or silver girl? (or both?)

thinking of Elizabeth Taylor…& 1 more pretty Liz

children’s clothing made from repurposed men’s dress shirts!

a ladybug experience! precious ))

i was really inspired by this portrait series. i find them fascinating. a good portrait = a window to their soul.

a pink house, & a 525 sq/ft loft

don’t you love reading blog posts that actually take you to a place? this post by Rachel (an Elk Biologist) did just that.

a cute DIY project. maybe a cool idea for a child’s room?

a funny poster…
& one that is educational. seriously, i may use this as a reference when cooking beef!

4 way rubber bands

“Dear” letterpress cards. more here

a no sew paper bunting – so pretty/creative!

wondering who will actually wear this t-shirt? maybe i am getting too old to “get it?”

if you could go back and serve cookies at your wedding, which ones would you serve?

the most economical (& beautiful) wedding venue

and finally, i am making this recipe for our Saturday night meal.

see you Monday
XO, shari

your weekend

LIFE: University Of Michigan Kissing Ban

hello, Friday! it is a beautiful one here in Southern NJ. on the way to preschool this morning we had the windows down and were listening to XM radio. holy flashback to the 1990s when the Real McCoy, Another Night came on! needless to say, Harper and i jammed out like rock stars

on another note, when was the last time you smooched your significant other and really meant it? not a kiss hello or goodbye, but a passionate kiss? once babies come into our lives we get so busy and exhausted that we start to neglect each other. what happened to the honeymoon stage? we should work harder and bring that back!

in other news, we will be having our first family dinner in our dining room this weekend! my dining chairs have arrived and i am thinking about something on the grill. PLEASE no rain on Saturday evening!!

a few more tidbits:

DONATE!

a beautiful food blog i’ve been reading this week. you will love this blog if you enjoy baking. it also has an awesome title!

i have spent way too much time trying to determine why you would need this? to smoke?…outside?…on the toilet?

shouldn’t every mama keep one of these in her purse

hello Chloe Cary Zipped Shoulder Bag – i love you!

…and speaking of bags, my husband emailed me yesterday to tell me that his 24 year old boss just bought him this Killspencer backpack – apparently his Swiss Army backpack wasn’t cool enough? um, did you see the price tag? whaaat??

last week i talked about mini air plants, but these are just too funny!

i found this post really funny too. maybe because i can relate?

spinach ice cream

a tale of a beautiful rescue dog.

2 of the best dressed babies on the internet. i HEART vintage clothing on children!

visiting NYC this spring? stop by the Big Gay Ice Cream Truck for a Choinkwich — chocolate soft-serve and caramelized bacon sandwiched between two chocolate cartwheel cookies!

cheese posts! i am OBSESSED with this series by Little Brown Pen.

1940s glamour on a train.

and finally, some giggles from my favorite little man:

have a romantic weekend )
XO, shari

your weekend

thisisnthappiness.com

FRIDAY, FRIDAY, FRIDAY- finally you are here! my husband has been in China/Hong Kong since Monday the 28th. he comes home tonight & we are so excited. it is going to be a happy weekend.

this morning while Harper was at preschool, my 23 wks pregnant friend, Dana, talked me into a body pump class. it was awesome! i feel stronger already and am going to try and do it with her every Friday.

i’m also going to ask my husband if he wants to do an early Sunday workout together. the babysitting room at the gym opens at 8 AM so no excuses do you workout with your husband/significant other?

(by the way, when i was 23 wks pregnant i was sitting around all day eating- not exercising. Dana is sooo inspiring! did you workout or are you currently working out while pregnant?)

a few more tidbits:

love this photography series – animal eyes

these clothespin dolls are so cute and colorful! i’m thinking of making some for Harper to play with.

really inspired by Liivia Sirola

i may go to London just so i can visit Melt. i am drooling over this Fresh Luxury Chocolate Box!

Perast – i must visit!

new spring scarf

a beautiful family and a dreamy sunday afternoon! (wherever they are, i would like to be )

a frameable card

air plants & pretty chandeliers. i want both!

the sweetest vintage bear you have ever seen.

a cute print

an absolutely gorgeous wedding bouquet – i’d love this arrangement in a vase in my house.
…& the prettiest pink wreath.

my Sunday recipe + some shrimp cocktail. my husband makes the best cocktail sauce! (i probably would have married him for this reason alone

hope yours is a great one! see you Monday.
XO, shari

your weekend

how was your week? our’s was super busy! John left for China again on Monday. he’ll be there for 12 days, so we decided that it would be a good time for my parents to visit. they flew in from MN on Tuesday morning & left today. it was a short but sweet visit. Harper is really going to miss them each morning when she wakes up she wants to run down & see them!

i took advantage of free babysitting this week and was able to get a haircut and visit the mall (by myself!) i bought new sneakers and a sundress.

a few more tidbits:

i love this hand printed glass laundry bottle, but not sure that it would make it more than a week before broken!

my new Coffee Table book
this book is so gorgeous- a must have for any entertainer. (it is also the PERFECT housewarming gift!)
…
since i will be without husband this weekend, i’m planning a Saturday evening party for myself!…a special dinner, some real housewives on DVR, & a cocktail. i am thinking The Bradshaw will be perfect

mmmm, for xtra kissable lips!

new blog discovery this week = Ditte Isager. his work is so beautiful!

colorful, inexpensive sock monkeys for your nursery. this colorful rabbit is my pick! wouldn’t he be darling sitting on a white shelf?

one of my favorite home tours in Buenos Aires!

Le Sandwich- a charming article from David Lebovitz

vintage Wimbledon posters- if you play you will love these sweet reproductions.

a cute print!

DIY projects that i added to my list this week.

animal indexes to organize your bookshelf.

since i didn’t post any new weddings this week, revisit one of my favorite wedding photoshoots. (i should be back to regular blogging next week!)

see you Monday.
XO, shari

your weekend

image via Tumbler

this photo just sparked a memory- when i was little (5 or 6 yrs) i used to ride in the back of my dad’s green Chevy pick up truck. no seat belts and no one thought twice about it! can you imagine that happening today?

TGIF! it’s been a long week with very little sleep. the kids are still sick but i’m not as worried now that i’ve seen a doctor. Harper struggles whenever i attempt to give her her oral medicine. i’ve tried being funny, strict, bribes, etc- but she still says “GUCK!” and turns her head to the side.

i cannot wait to see my husband tonight. last night we were on the phone and he told me that we are going to plan a trip with the kids for August. we will have 1-2 weeks and can go anywhere. but what kind of vacation is doable with a 1 yr old and a 2.5 year old? any suggestions? we’ll be researching destinations this weekend. i can’t wait to rummage through my old issues of Condé Nast Traveler!

a few more tidbits:

my blog obsession this week: downtown from behind.

i’m going to plant some tulips on Sunday. did you know that you can plant tulips indoors any time of the year? check out this tulip time lapse video.

affordable, long-haired, Icelandic sheep skins. i want these all over my house!

concrete leaf end tables

do you read online magazines? i discovered Covet Garden this week and it is so charming!

Simply Breakfast = my new daily morning read.

love this blogging idea: random photo #1 = Sydney Bus Stop.

an awesome rental house in New Orleans.

a cute print!

since we’ve been on the subject of Alice in Wonderland, check out these porcelain tea sets? (click “work,” then “tea time.”) oooh, i want a set just so i can have a tea party.

doesn’t this seem like an awesome activity to make people mingle at a wedding party? sometimes small talk is so uncomfortable.

a rad bathroom makeover!!

have a wonderful weekend. please feel free to share family vacation ideas.
XO, shari

p.s. Dwell products on clearance:

the Gio Lemon Bottle Holder is perfect for new moms on the go. babies never finish their entire bottle of milk before falling asleep and this stylish bottle holder will keep your baby’s bottle insulated hot or cold! (reg price = $20!)

i love the Chocolate Dots Bundle Bag! it will keep your baby cocooned & cozy in a modern print. (reg price= $54!)

your weekend

image via my Trust Your Style

it is spring here in NJ! well, at least if feels like it. we went to school this morning in vests- no hats, or mittens! unfortunately it is not supposed to last

do you remember the vacant farmhouse in Princeton that i was talking about last week? well, we took a drive up to see it. as we drove down the driveway and daydreamed about living there, a bald eagle flew off of the tree next to us and swept down right over our heads! it was so so beautiful and maybe some sort of sign?? not sure that i believe in signs but it was such a spectacular moment. i had never seen one that close before and it was a HUGE creature!

a few more tidbits:

hoping for spring to arrive soon? i love this post- it feels so romantic and refreshing! (Sofia lives near Paris)

did you see this wedding i posted on Wednesday. it is fabulous, one of my faves!

Michelle Armas inspires me to paint.

a cute print

my husband had breakfast here on Wednesday morning. it sounded so yummy.

have you seen this video?

bunting stamps by Olive Manna

do you like Oysters? they are one of my favorite appetizers for a special occassion. i first tried them on a beach in Mazatlan when i was 19 yrs old. they were fresh catch from a local fisherman. there is nothing like a tray of oysters on ice and some good tequila! here is a video on how to shuck them. (don’t forget the lemon wedges!)
….
& a romantic dessert that you can whip up in a jiffy!

funny- the tea bag coffin. i kind of wish i was a tea drinker just so i could get one of these!

a dining table? …& a piano? this would be perfect for my house. (space is limited!)

a french villa if you are dreaming of sweeping views!

have a happy weekend. Monday is my anniversary so my husband and i have a date on Saturday. i’m not sure what we are doing but i am hoping for some good wine and conversation (and maybe even some oysters!)
XO, shari

p.s. the photo below was taken at Costco last weekend. it was Rex’s first time to sit up out of his infant carseat and he LOVED it. Harper did NOT love it and did not want him to touch her. she made a huge scene. it is so hard not to laugh at these moments. how do you keep a straight face??

via my iPhone

your weekend

Ngoc Minh Ngo

i’m looking forward to a relaxing weekend. the weather is actually supposed to be decent. if the sun is shining we are planning to take a drive up to Princeton to snoop around this old farm house! if it is warm enough we may even stop at Princeton University to take a walk with the kids. have you ever been to the campus? it is just beautiful! i’m also thinking about a bowl of potato leek soup at Olives.

i had to pull out Rexford’s baby book today. he started saying “dadadadada!” in fact he kept saying it all day long! he has no idea what it means, but i love to hear his sweet voice.

earlier this week i was changing one of Rex’s really stinky diapers and i told him “Pee-Yew!!” Harper heard me and all week she has been leaning down to tell him “Pee-WOO!” she just cracks me up

a few more tidbits:

pretty pencils for my office.

adorable Valentine’s Day bowls. (but i can’t justify spending that much on a bowl!)

sweet baby animals – are these even real??

i’m kind of LOVING the vintage web collection by Gucci. i can see myself carrying one of these classic styles even as an 80 year old woman! this bag is amazing although this one would be way more practical for me.

a sweet Valentine’s Day Wedding

twine hearts.

vintage pillowcases – i am thinking of starting a collection. Etsy is a fun place to browse

REALLY yummy pasta that i made for Harper on Wednesday. (she has been saying “more pasta” all week!)

dough hearts and romantic pancakes!

have a wonderful, romantic weekend! don’t you think Valentine’s Day should be a national holiday? a 3 day weekend with my husband would be nice
XO, shari

p.s. i thought i’d have to wait until Monday to get my Bachelor fix, but this just came in the mail today. the kids are asleep, so i am crawling into bed with my US Weekly while i wait for my husband to get home

your weekend

are you a coffee drinker? i am pretty loyal to Dunkin Doughnuts. i can actually walk there from my house. i just drink regular coffee with a lot of cream & sugar. this week i was at Starbucks twice. there are always long lines and i like to listen to the fancy drinks people get. when it is my turn i am almost embarrassed to tell them that i just want a plain coffee with some room left on top so that i can add half & half and a few packages of equal. i think i need a new drink. what is your Starbucks drink?

is anyone else still working on losing baby weight? i worked out this morning while Harper was at preschool. it was my only day this week, but i managed to lose another pound due to healthy eating. at the beginning of the week i roasted 2 lbs of brussel sprouts and have been reheating them with all of my meals. i would still like to lose 10-11 lbs more.

on another note, i am really craving a double cheeseburger from Mcdonalds. i’m going to see if my husband will pick one up on his drive home from New York tonight. he usually gets home around 8:30-9:00 pm Friday nights.

this week i found out another one of my friends is having a girl. it will be her 3rd girl! i have 6 pregnant friends all expecting girls. i swear the next friend that gets pregnant will be having a boy. if i had 3 girls i think i would run out of name ideas….here is one of my lists before Rexford was born. and here is a fun name game i played a while back

a few more tidbits:

i stopped in at Homegoods this week and picked up a few things for my office.

i’m loving this pink pillow from Jonathon Adler. (& it’s on sale…hmmmmm)

isn’t Heidi Klum stunning in this video with Elmo?

my weekend recipe.

my older sister and brother in law are on an exotic island vacation. it looks spectacular!

love this DIY pinata.

do you have blogs that you read everyday? i LOVE discovering new blogs. i could literally read blogs all day long if i had the time. this week i found tales of a junkaholic. Artemis blogs about her charming life in London. her blog literally takes me to another place. (and i want her shed!)

spearmint wedding updates were lacking this week, however i did discover tree slice cake stands which I absolutely adore.

your weekend

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i’m dreaming of an exotic vacation! why is it so cold this winter? we had another 16 inches of snow yesterday. by the time i got out to shovel (at 2 pm when babies were napping) my neighbor had already shoveled my driveway and the entire walkway! thank you for wonderful neighbors!
p.s. doesn’t the water look really shallow to be cliff jumping? or maybe it is just really clear water? or maybe i am just getting older & less daring!

are you going on vacation this year? if so, where? i’d love to go here or here- unfortunately no exotic vacations planned.

a few more thoughts:

a cute Valentine’s day card

using washi tape to create unique wall letters.

recycled canvas pillow covers. my fave is the big Union Jack!

how to make homemade truffles! (in 7 minutes!)…maybe a good V-day idea??

pretty fluffy footrests and cute clipboards that may actually motivate you to be more organized!

a beachy engagement session and a day after wedding jump in a lake photoshoot

a 400 year old french cottage renovation (warning: if you follow this link you may be reading their blog for hours!)

mini pies and blue cheese.

i was in 2nd grade when this happened. i still remember it like yesterday. where were you?

the book my daughter is currently enjoying!

a coupon code for My Wonderful Walls. enter “spmbaby” to get 20% off your purchase until the 31st.

have a super cozy weekend with your family!

XO, shari

your weekend

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a pretty thought to start your weekend. have you ever gone on a hot air balloon ride? if so, where? i have not, but i would love to go up for a ride overlooking a fantastic city like Paris (or wherever this photo was taken- looks like Paris, right?)

any plans this weekend? my husband is off today so he watched Rexford this morning while i took Harper to preschool. i was able to go get a cup of coffee with some girlfriends and it felt so strange to not have Rex with me! it is always nice to have a little time for yourself

a few more thoughts:

a cute father/daughter duet

the perfect place to hide out all day!

i’m thinking of purchasing a toaster oven. do you have one? how much do you use it?

do you like sweet potatoes? i’m thinking of making sweet potato french fries for toddler meals.

how to make an origami butterfly (or water bomb)

the rug i just ordered off of Ebay for my front door.

a pretty way to display single flower stems

Kelly Preston swears her children are more calm and peaceful because of her silent birthing techniques….i wonder if my kids would be more calm and peaceful had i given birth this way? –for some reason i don’t think it would have made a difference. i have NOISY kids )

i’d love to own a flower shop like this someday. isn’t it fantastic?

see you Monday, shari

p.s. i’m making Heart Shaped Pancakes
tomorrow!

your weekend

vi.sualize.us

i love Fridays…my husband comes home from NY and we always have Wegman’s sushi for dinner! do you have a Friday night meal?

week 1 back on my diet has been a success! i lost 1.5 lbs this week. i’m using the Tap and Track iPhone app & it is so easy and helpful to monitor calories and exercise. i made it to the gym 3 days this week. the kids LOVE the bbsitting room. harper often cries when we have to leave!

i’m adding a lot more veggies to my diet, including roasted artichokes and spaghetti squash! but i will be making this recipe for my husband on Sat. night.

a few more things:

cute piggy banks for the nursery

a pretty quilt idea

children’s party dessert idea

yarn flowers

the home/church for sale near my house!

an easy DIY project to make your closet more fun!

unique and beautiful engagement photos, perfect wedding cakes,
…and pretty balloon bouquets (i want to do a photoshoot like this with my kids and colorful balloons!)

see you Monday, shari

p.s. Harper is at preschool, Rexford is napping, and i am relaxing with my Architectural Digest and drinking coffee this morning out of my Hidden Fox Teacup:

isn’t it cute? i just purchased one for my friend’s housewarming and had to get myself one too! check out the Owl, Bear, & Fox

your weekend

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excited for the weekend? we are sooo excited!! tonight my husband comes home. he has been in China and NY for the past 12 days. thank goodness for Skype because we have been Skyping every night before Harper and Rex go to bed.

yesterday we had our first snowfall of the year and i am kind of hoping for more- i wouldn’t mind being snowed in because all i want to do is sit by the fireplace with a stack of magazines, some peppermint hot cocoa, and a yummy homemade pretzel.

a few linky links for you:

something cute that my mom sent me yesterday. (you may need to download Adobe Flashplayer to see this)

impress you guests with yummy Christmas cocktails! (i’d go for the Candy Cane Martini..mmmmm….!)

…and if you are really ambitious, you can really impress them with this Christmas Cake!

for all of you preggos, this may satisfy your craving!

Strawberry Stamps –just because they are so cute!!

have you been to Fiji? these wedding photos are dreamy!

some of the prettiest Christmas decor ever!

if you have not yet read this story, have kleenex ready. stories like this really put into perspective what is important this holiday season.

hope your weekend is full of hugs, kisses, and cuddles! xo, shari

your weekend

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have you finished shopping yet? i am pretty much done shopping for Harper and Rexford. on Wednesday i wrapped 4 presents and i am just waiting for the rest of the things to come. i got all but 1 toy online this year. free shipping is a good enough reason for me to stay out of the stores.

Harper got a Tickle Me Elmo, Grover and Big Bird Puppets, 3 Sesame Street DVDs for the car, a Sesame Street potty attachment, a toy map of the United States that says the name of each state out loud, and a new convertible carseat. (i spent $130 because i had a credit from CSN stores for the carseat and potty attachment)

Rexford got a hand me down convertible carseat from Harper. i am going to get him a few little toys as stocking stuffers, and put some money into his college fund! (he is only 7 months so not aware of Christmas yet!)

a few posts you may have missed this week:

i’ve been trying new soups almost every weekend. this weekend i am making this one. (i cannot wait to use the acorn squash that has been sitting on my kitchen counter for the last month!)

i’m tempted to make this on Sunday morning, but it will really kill my diet. (i decided to start back up since i STILL have 12 lbs to lose

the perfect gift with personality for your best friend!

on Wednesday i made my tree skirt. (and i love these clothespins to display holiday cards!)

a Maldives photoshoot to drool over! check out this amazing hotel…the definition of paradise!

…and something about this winter wedding feels so cozy and wonderful to me.

a pretty treat for your Christmas party!

a wintry photo of The Great Wall since my husband is in China right now. it will be a lonely weekend without him!

flickr

have a wonderful, relaxing weekend! xo, shari

your weekend

Deviant Art

winter is on my mind! do you live in a snowy city, state, or country? i grew up in Minnesota and there was a lot more snow in the winter than in Southern NJ. i don’t miss it, but i do hope that i can make a snowman with my kids this winter!

a few winter weather posts:

a snowstorm and our deck last winter. (on Harper’s birthday.) her 1st birthday party was cancelled but we still enjoyed a delicious meal!

a winter wedding at the Chateau Lake Louise. (the bridesmaids wore winter boots!)

thinking of a goldfish for the holidays!

a pretty idea for your bed this winter.

i will be making this recipe for Hanukkah over the weekend. (my husband was raised Methodist, but he worked in a Jewish deli and LOVEs Latkes with sour creme!) also thinking of Spicy Sweet Potato Latkes…mmmmm!

Christmas treats that will make you smile

crocheted blankets and pillows. Rexford has a crocheted blanket (made by my Mom) in his nursery.

and…

cozy quilts on the wall in this nursery:

see the rest of the nursery here

and sticking with the cold weather theme, here are a few photos of my husband and i in Iceland a few years ago:

XOXO and stay cozy and warm this winter weekend, shari

your weekend

Chad Jackson

i cannot believe Thanksgiving will be here next week! we will be staying home in NJ. my husband will be off on Thursday and Friday, i cannot remember the last 4 day weekend we had together. are you going away? i have to say that i am relieved that we don’t have to fly anywhere. i have no desire to travel with 2 babies these days

a few other posts:

our football Sunday soup this weekend! it looks yummy, doesn’t it?

i am also going to make these. does anyone else have a brussel sprout recipe they recommend? i prefer them baked or on the grill!

one more recipe i recommend for your toddlers. (i go light on the butter!)

i just ordered these Drapery Panels and the Lazo Throw from Z Gallerie. i just made it to the 20% off online sale! they are going to go in the family room and kitchen that we just had painted!

i am still debating the light fixture for the dining room.

here is the table i am refinishing. i hope to finish it this weekend. someday i will have a big dining room with a long farm table like this

i’m also still looking for a suzani bedspread…does anyone have one? my sis just got back from Guatemala and is possibly passing through Mexico so she will be keeping an eye out!

do you have an old beat up chair that stands out like an eye sore? i love this idea!

i LOVE this painting:

see 2 more of my faves by Heather Williams here

i only put 1 new wedding up this week since i was so busy with family in town! but i LOVE the vintage printing blocks…(i am also addicted to rubber stamps right now)

next week will be full of Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, and Christmas decor ideas! (we celebrate all of these in our home!!)

your weekend

beautyineverything.com

it has been a busy week for us. we had our entire main floor and upstairs hallway painted. it was not easy keeping 2 little ones cooped up in my master bedroom! …but i am soooo happy with the results. all of the trim, doors, and ceilings were painted white (previously they were cream.) the walls are a very subtle grey. (City Loft by Sherwin Williams.) get a peak into our newly painted family room

a few other posts:

my new throw pillows from West Elm. so far i have 2. not sure how many pillows i want to have on the couch- i am thinking 2 more on the other end. and i hope to get a fluffy white throw too! how many throw pillows do you have on your couch?

not much cooking or thoughts of cooking this week, but i did pick up this nifty gadget. (a bargain at Neiman Marcus of all places! HA!)

i adore these bridesmaids’ dresses. so gorgeous!

eat dinner in the trees in Thailand. (you have to zip line to get there!)

Cake buntings are so hot right now. have you made a cake with a bunting? i may try for Harper’s birthday. last year’s cake should be submitted to Cake Wrecks!:

a chic hotel in Switzerland. i’m loving the big white tub.

i’m already thinking that i am too tired to cook this weekend. i’ve been sick all week and i just feel like doing NOTHING! maybe just this appetizer for the game on Sunday.

your weekend

by French designer madiju

something cute for you this Friday! any plans this weekend? my sister is coming to town today. i’m excited for her to see the little ones. i also have to prep the house for the painters. they start the main floor on Monday and i really hope i like the color that i picked out (it is called City Loft). pics to come next week!

if you are new here, some oldies you may enjoy:

i just bought some polka dot washi tape and am thinking about this holiday washi tape.

i made these fall sugar cookies in September and am going to use the same recipe for my Thanksgiving cookies!

i love martinis! check out this fun Martini Bar from Sunday Suppers.

i’m looking for some colorful chevron striped pillows like this brown and white pillow.

my husband and i lived here when we first started dating. i miss the weather, but am happy to be on the east coast now!

a trailer park on the rooftop of a hotel. so so cute!

i’m thinking about these sushi boards for the holidays

a camp wedding and a pretty picnic style wedding

don’t you love these biscuit bunnies.

does anyone have baby converse for their little one? i am thinking of getting harper some big girl converse tennies!

don’t forget to enter this contest

your weekend

photo by Paper Pastries

happy halloween weekend! do you have fun plans? trick or treating with your kids? we will be going over to Johnson’s Farm for some fall activities. harper may enjoy a hayride. i’ll try and get some good pics of the kids in costume.

a few posts you may have missed:
a whimsical outdoor wedding photoshoot with famous Great Danes! (they were in the Lady Gaga video)

a nutritious toddler recipe i will be trying this weekend.

a cool place to sip a dirty martini!

this infinity pool goes frighteningly close to the edge! YIKES!!

a delicious Pan de los Muertos recipe for Dia de los Muertos! Celebrated on Nov 2nd, the holiday focuses on gatherings of family and friends to pray for and remember friends and family members who have died. Traditions connected with the holiday include building private altars honoring the deceased using sugar skulls, marigolds, and the favorite foods and beverages of the departed and visiting graves with these as gifts. Due to occurring shortly after Halloween, the Day of the Dead is sometimes thought to be a similar holiday, although the two actually have little in common. The Day of the Dead is a time of celebration, where partying and eating is common. (Wikipedia)

Stockholm may be the most charming city ever! check out this cute apartment.

do you enjoy red beets? they are said to help prevent heart disease and certain types of cancer, especially colon cancer. they are also rich in B vitamins, including folate, which is recommended for pregnant women to help lower the risk of birth defects. a red pepper beet soup recipe and some Ukranian Borscht for you to try!

the place we stayed the night before my wedding.

FUN FOODS: yummy asparugus cake and indian corn cupcakes

don’t forget to enter these contests:
*$75 gift certificate
*$35 gift certificate
*choice of print
*$100 gift certificate, iPod Nan0, Flip Camcorder
*$25 gift certificate
*$40 gift certificate

your weekend

photo by wallcoo.net
do you have any plans this weekend? i am hoping to finish some pretty hangers i am making for some of my favorite dresses. i will share them with you as soon as they are done. on Sunday we will be sitting around all day watching football. ***praying for a Viking win!
a few posts you may have missed:i will be making this recipe on Sunday afternoon
my husband and i are searching the east coast (from New Hampshire to Maine) for a large piece of land with a small house or cabin like these
2 fun uses for mini pumpkins: soup and pancakes
i heart these adorable mix and match bridesmaid dresses
i am thinking about making one of these lights with coffee filters and a paper lantern!
i think this villa in Greece is my dream vacation house!
a fall wedding to enjoy
patiently waiting for this sold out cutting board to come back in stock!
one of the prettiest pink cakes ever. in fact, this bridal shower may inspire you who are hosting baby showers!
don’t forget to enter these contests for a chance to win gift certificates, an iPod Nano, and flip video camcorders….perfect for the upcoming holidays!