SOCIAL MEDIA

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

#LovelyStyledLife Instagram Series



Lindsay and I are so excited to launch an Instagram series for the month of February.  We both love Instagram  and thought this would be such a fun idea to get some of our fellow blogger friends and their friends involved.  The series starts Wednesday, February 3rd - it will be done weekly on Wednesdays.



We would love for you to use the hashtag #lovelystyledlife on pictures you post that have to do with things that inspire you: home decor, fashion, cooking, food - anything!  Once you use the hashtag, tag a few of your friends so that they can play along!  We all get wrapped up in the mundane things in life, it's nice to have a reminder of the small things in life that we're passionate about and that make us smile.  We will also be featuring some of our favorite pictures on our Instagram accounts.



The best part about this series is that we will be hosting a giveaway for our friends that participate a $40 Target gift card - the perfect place to pick up a treat for yourself!  The giveaway will run February 17th-24th.  Entries will be taken on here and Lindsay's blog.



Don't forget to follow along on Instagram so you can participate on this fun series with us and and embrace the things that put a smile on our face and to be eligible to win the gift card!




We hope you'll all join in with us, happy posting!
Monday, January 11, 2016

2016 Survey | Your Opinion Matters



Good morning!


I hope you all had a great and relaxing weekend!  We had a nice one -  I even got a girl's night out, which is always welcome and so much fun!


Last year I conducted a survey on the blog and I loved reading the answers and hearing your honest  opinions about the blog.  I received some great suggestions on things you all wanted to see more of and was inspired  to step out of my comfort zone and try things that I otherwise wouldn't have.  I want Kids and Cabernet to be a place you all love coming to.  I love this space of mine and love writing and connecting with you all -  your answers mean so much. 


Here is another quick survey, it shouldn't take you any more than 2 minutes - I promise!  I value your time and answers.  THANK YOU so much for coming here, reading and commenting on all I have to say.  You all are the best!


Click here to take the survey



PS:  I've disabled the comments from this post because I'd love for you to leave any comments you have on the survey.


Have a great Monday! xoxo
Tuesday, January 5, 2016

2016 Goals

I honestly feel like I was just writing last year's goal post a few months ago - and here we are a year later and I'm writing my new post,  I don't believe in resolutions but we can all use goals.  This is when I start thinking about things I'd like to work on and improve and it's always fun to go back and look how I did once the year ends.



Personal:
  • Be more in the moment, really treasure this season in our life.  My kids are at such a fun age and before I know it, J will be in school too so I want to savor this time.
  • Stick to my cleaning schedule and laundry schedule or at least find a rhythm that works for me
  • Make an effort to cut down my screen time, it's a horrible habit
  • Make more attempts for our family to eat healthy and clean
  • Try new recipes and add some new favorites to our rotation
  • Take my vitamins/supplements daily - sounds dumb, but I'm so terrible at this and really have no reason to be since I'm home
  • Continue working on our home and making improvements here and there

Blog:
  • Get on a blogging schedule like I used to be.  I want to find my groove and stick to it.  I hate that some weeks I blog consistently and others I fall short
  • Comment and read more blogs - I'd love to discover some new favorites
  • Grow my Instagram and reach a wider audience - it's my favorite way to connect with readers and to get a sneak peak into others lives, even if it is staged!
  • Work on my photography to better my pictures for the blog - that means learning more about my DSLR and putting what I learn into practice
  • Attempt more style posts. While I'm no style blogger, it is fun to step out of my comfort zone and arrange some outfits and pose awkwardly ;)

Have you set any goals for this year?  What would you like to work on?


PS - Tomorrow there will not be a Wino Wednesday, we'll start back up the 1st Wednesday of February - that gives you another whole month to sip some vino :)

Have a great day!
Monday, December 28, 2015

My Favorite Posts To Write This Year | Kids and Cabernet Roundup

It feels like it's been FOREVER since I've blogged!  It's nice to be back.  I hope you all had a great few days off with family and friends.  It was a nice break and fun to spend it with my favorites.


Since 2015 is quickly coming to a close - which I still can't believe, this year flew by - I'm rounding my favorite posts from the year.

Thoughts and Tips on Instagram - I'm by no means an Instagram professional and my account is by any means perfect , but I have learned a few tips and tricks along the way and shared them for those that we're starting out accounts for their blog/brand.


While I wouldn't categorize this as a favorite post, it was a post where I stepped out of my comfort zone.  I was nominated by Nina to do a vlog and decided to go for it!  I mean, why not look awkward in front of tons of people, right?

One of my two most favorite posts to write was 30 Ways You Know You're a Mom - if you're a mom or have small kids in your family, I'm sure you can relate to many of the things in this post!

 
Look how little J was here - my heart breaks!

My second favorite to write was one I think most of you can relate to - You Know You're a Blogger When....  You have to admit, we bloggers are very unique and have a lot of similar traits, haha.


Many of us have gone through the dreaded Writer's Block, it's no fun.  I rounded out 20 different blog post ideas for those days when you just don't know what to write about.



Once E started school, I realized that a good morning routine was vital.  I wrote about 6 Easy Ways to Streamline Your Morning Routine.  These 6 things are a lifesaver for me and make the mornings way less stressful.

 


It's funny, most of these posts feels like I just wrote them.  What are some of your favorite posts you've written on your blog?  I'd love to go back and read them!


Have a happy Monday!
Monday, November 9, 2015

5 Things Every Blog Needs

Good morning!  I hope you all had a great weekend.  I totally intended to blog on Friday but was called into a meeting at my daughter's school for the upcoming book fair, so I wasn't able to.  I always love posting on Friday's so was bummed.



It's been a while since I've shared blogging tips, and why not share some tips on a subject you're passionate about?  I know all of these articles came handy when I was starting up, and there always nice to use as a checklist on your own blog.

I've rounded out 5 things that I think every blog needs in order to keep readers coming back. 

The first way someone is drawn to your blog or not is by your homepage.  In the first few seconds your reader decides whether they are going to stay on your site, or if they are going to click out.  Just like when you first meet someone, first impressions are important! 

Here are a few things to incorporate in your blog to keep your readers coming back for more:


1)  Clean design - This is the FIRST thing people see!  You don't have to spend tons of money on a design, but it's important to have something that's clean, has legible font and catches the eye.


2) About me - Every blog needs to have a page where they can learn about the writer and see what the whole blog is about.  It's so important for it to include a picture of you, your name and that it is written in your own tone.  You also want to add a description of things you'll be writing about and what you're vision is so you're audience knows what you're about and what to expect when they read your blog and they're able to put a face to your posts.


3) Contact -  Brands and readers should have a place were they can contact you if need be for any collaborations or questions they have.  I love hearing from my readers and potential brands!


4) Search - This is so important so that you're readers can search topics you've blogged about and easily find specific things.  You don't how how many times I've used this on other blogs, it's such a time saver and a lot of times leads to other great posts that you may have missed!


5) Social media accounts with same handles - this is a great way for your readers to be able to connect with you but also a way for brands to follow you and request to work with you.  When creating your handles you want to make sure they're all the same or as similar as possible so that you're easy to find.


What are some other things you love for people to include in their blogs that you feel are beneficial?
Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Sisterhood of World Bloggers | Tag

Sweet Michelle tagged me on the Sisterhood of World Bloggers Award a few weeks back (thank you) and I thought what a better week to play along than my blog anniversary week, right?



Here are the rules:

  • Provide a link and thank the blogger who nominated you for this award.
  • Answer the questions about yourself.
  • Nominate 10-12 blogs.
  • Provide links to these nominated blogs and let the recipients know they have been nominated.
  • Ask them ten questions of your own.
  • Include the award logo within your blog post.

Questions that were asked to me:

1. How long have you been blogging and why did you begin?

I have been blogging almost two years (on the 15th).  I began because I loved reading blogs so much, and thought it would be fun to start one.  I'm a stay-at-home mom so I thought it would be a fun hobby and something that was for "me".  One that wouldn't take up too much time (ha, right!) and one that didn't require having a lot of supplies for - but I could still be creative.  I've also always loved writing, so I thought blogging would be the right fit for me.


2. List three words that would describe you?

Ahh, I'm horrible at talking about myself lets see... short, talkative and kind


3. How long have you been married?

I have been married almost 11 years - crazy!  Our anniversary is next month.


4. Where did you go on your honeymoon?

We went on a 7 day cruise that ended up being 6 days, it was cut short and re-routed because we got married during a hurricane.  Yup, you read that right - you can read more about that day here.  We went to Cozumel, Grand Cayman,  the Bahamas and another place in Mexico that I can't remember off the top of my head right now.  We had a nice time, we just both wished we were able to go to the original ports.


5. What is one household chore you dislike doing?

I think the two worst for me are folding laundry and cleaning out the refrigerator - they're pretty much tied.


6. Your best "chick-flick" movie is ...?

Do I have to just pick one?  There are two that are the best to me and I will always watch if they're on tv.  1 - When Harry Met Sally 2 - Sleepless in Seattle.  I love both so much and can talk out most of the lines when they're on.


7. What is one BEAUTY item you can't live without?

 Concealer- I'm a mom!  It's a necessity to cover up these circles! 

 

8. Where has your favorite vacation been so far?

My favorite vacation would have to be Punta Cana last year.  It was the first time we left the kids behind for more than two nights and we really needed it.  We enjoyed each others company so much and were able to relax and be our old selves again.  We weren't stressed, we could eat our food when it was still hot and have adult conversation without being interrupted.  We came back so refreshed and missing our babies!


9.  You're given $100.00 just for YOU, how would you spend it?

I'd probably go to Kate Spade and buy a new purse.  I want to get a smaller purse, now that the kids are older there's no need to carry around the huge purse I do.  I can never find anything in it!

 

10. Do you prefer reading books or magazines?

I prefer reading magazines.  I'm like a child haha, I love the pretty pictures!  I wish I enjoyed reading books more.


I nominate:

Who ever wants to play along.  You can use the questions above because frankly I'm terrible at coming up with questions :)

Happy Wednesday!

Monday, August 10, 2015

Blogiversary Week + Giveaway


This week marks my 2 year blogging anniversary.  I can't believe it's been two years since I started this little space.  I have learned so much in these two years and have been so grateful for every opportunity I've gotten.  

This space has become a passion of mine - it's a memory book, a recipe box, a place where I spill my thoughts and ideas, a place where I have made friends and built up the best bunch of readers.  I have loved every second of this ride and I can't wait for what the future holds for Kids and Cabernet.  It's crazy how something that was created on a whim has turned into something so special to me.



 Even more so, I'm grateful for all of YOU.  All of you who come everyday, read and comment on my posts - you all are the best!  To say thank you I've teamed up with some fabulous ladies for a fun giveaway.


Hosted by: Kids and Cabernet


The lovely co-hosts:





a Rafflecopter giveaway
Tuesday, July 14, 2015

20 Blog Post Ideas

We all have those days that writer's block hits and we can't quite figure out what to write about.  I hate that feeling and there's nothing worse than scrambling at the last minute to try finding something that's "blog worthy" so today I thought I'd share a few writing prompts that can get anyone out of the dreaded writer's block.


  1. Share something special to you
  2. Write a Day In The Life post
  3. Show your makeup routine
  4. List 10 things under $10
  5. Share your last purchases
  6. Make a vlog
  7. Have a friend blogger guest post
  8. Share a childhood story/memory
  9. Share a favorite quote
  10. Make a "wordless post" of just pictures or eCards
  11. Round up your Instagram in a post
  12. Make a collage with your favorite colors
  13. Share a DIY project
  14. Re-share an old post
  15. Show us your shopping "wishlist" or what's currently in your cart
  16. Share something you can't live without
  17. Share your favorite recipe
  18. Write a Confessions post
  19. Share your favorite outfit
  20. Share any healthy beauty or eating secret

Anyone have any other ideas?  Where do you go to for writing inspiration?
Thursday, June 25, 2015

You Know You Are A Blogger When...

I think like with any hobby, there are certain things that set you and others that enjoy your hobby apart; things that only ones that enjoy the hobby as much as you can understand.  It's like your own lingo.  Here are 25 things that I think sets us bloggers apart -  things that we only understand!


  1. You refer to people as your "blogger friends"
  2. You feel like you know your "blogger friends" in real life
  3. Your family, friends, and spouses are used to taking action pictures of you
  4. You need to get a picture "just right" for posts aka staging
  5. Speaking of pictures - you know at what time the lighting is best in your house to take said picture
  6. You feel the need for your house to look spotless in all of your shots
  7. You take on DIY projects
  8. You think to yourself "this would make a great blog post"
  9. You know all abbreviations that bloggers use
  10. You've made friendships with people you've never met
  11. A friend or family member talks to you about something they've read on your blog
  12. You love getting comments on your posts
  13. You worry if you don't get a decent amount of comments - "did my post suck today?"
  14. You put on makeup/cute outfit just for pictures for your blog
  15. You speak in hashtags
  16. You stalk Pinterest and other sites for post ideas
  17. Your kids are used to you snapping pictures all of the time
  18. You don't eat your meal right away so to take a picture of your meal first
  19. You scope out places where you can take your next outfit post pictures
  20. Getting the perfect Instagram shot is imperative
  21. You know the ins and outs of Picmonkey
  22. You love creating your own images for posts.  Picmonkey + Canva = FUN!
  23. You check your email constantly
  24. You hate when people are "no-reply comment" and you can't answer them
  25. When you go to other blogs for advise rather than use good ol' trial and error

What do you think, did I leave anything out?
Thursday, June 4, 2015

The Best of Kids and Cabernet


It's hard to think that I've been blogging almost two years now!  Time has certainly flown and this has turned into such a fun hobby!  I love connecting with you all, and having a little something that's "just for me".

Today I thought I'd do a little recap of some of my favorite posts...

Life

Last May, I did a day-in-the-life post.  It was so much fun to do, and I think it will be cool to look back on in a few years.  I already can't get over how small J looks in these pictures.  I need to do an updated post soon!

Day In The Life - May 2014
http://www.kidsandcabernet-blog.com/2014/05/day-in-life-may-2014.html


DIY's 

I'm not much of a DIY'er even though I'd love to be, I have tried a few things on my own and have been pleasantly surprised on how they came out.

Rake Wine Glass Holder
http://www.kidsandcabernet-blog.com/2014/05/rake-wine-rack.html

Wreath Tutorial
http://www.kidsandcabernet-blog.com/2014/11/easy-and-cheap-wreath-tutorial.html

Spray Painted Gold Bottles
http://www.kidsandcabernet-blog.com/2014/09/spray-painting-bottles.html


About Me

ABC's of Me
http://www.kidsandcabernet-blog.com/2014/04/abcs-of-me.html

About Me and Why I blog
http://www.kidsandcabernet-blog.com/2014/08/about-me-and-why-i-blog.html

My first and probably last (?) Vlog
http://www.kidsandcabernet-blog.com/2015/04/the-golden-vlog.html


Tips

10 Tips for a happy marriage
http://www.kidsandcabernet-blog.com/2014/09/10-tips-for-happy-marriage.html

6 Habits for a happy home
http://www.kidsandcabernet-blog.com/2014/07/six-habits-to-happy-home.html

30 Ways you know You're a mom
http://www.kidsandcabernet-blog.com/2015/03/30-ways-you-know-youre-mom.html


Favorite Travel Post

Punta Cana
http://www.kidsandcabernet-blog.com/2014/11/punta-cana-recap.html


Hope you enjoy these as much as I enjoyed writing them!










Thursday, March 5, 2015

Thoughts and Tips on Instagram


One of my goals this year was to learn more about blogging and become a better blogger.  This blog was created on a whim a year and a half ago; I didn't know where it would take me (and I still don't) but I knew I loved reading blogs, loved writing, and thought it would be a fun way to use my creative energy and have something that was for "me".


As I've read articles on blogging, one thing that is almost always mentioned is Instagram.  I love Instagram - it's a way for readers to get to know you better behind the scenes per say.  I also attended Dean Street Society's Instagram With Intention webinar where we were shown ways to improve our Instagram profile, account and following. The webinar was super informative and made me realize what a big phenomenon Instagram has become and how pictures can really help grow your brand.



Between the articles and the webinar, I've taken away a few points:
  1. Your pictures should have a certain flow 
  2. Similar filters should be used
  3. Pictures should be of similar subjects so as to tell a story about you
  4.  Using natural light is best 
  5. I've also learned that a good caption helps your followers relate to the picture and to comment


I've tried to become more intentional about my pictures, but lets be honest - I'm not a photographer, and with the kids constantly around and needing me, there's no way in hades that I can have a perfect picture with paper clips arranged just so to make the picture look gorgeous.  I don't have the time, and I think it would be a bit overwhelming for me.  I am in no way hating those that have the time to dedicate to make their pictures look gorgeous because I love me some eye candy and I enjoy those pictures!

I do like for my pictures to look nice.  If I'm sharing something that I enjoy with my readers, I want to make it look pretty!  I have found an app that has made a world of a difference for my pictures called Afterlight - it's the best $1 you'll ever spend on photo editing.  I am able to make some extra changes to my pictures that Instagram doesn't provide and I think it has helped my pictures look more crisp!  Another thing I've been doing (when possible) is taking the suggestion of snapping pictures when there is a good amount of natural light, it really improves the look of the picture and makes the colors pop.




How do you feel about  Instagram - do you use the same filters to create a certain flow?  Do you style your pictures?   Have you learned any tips/tricks along the way?  I'd love to hear!  You can follow Kids and Cabernet on Instagram here.


PS - Have you entered the Kate Spade giveaway?


 
Thoughts for Thursday
Linking up with Meagan too

The Deliberate Mom



Thursday, January 22, 2015

Your Thoughts...

Yay for Thursday - only one more day until the weekend! 

I've been seeing blog surveys going around lately and I think they're a great idea to find out what's really in the mind of your readers.  With that being said, I wanted to change things up a bit today and provide a very short survey.


I'm so happy (and flattered really) that you take the time to visit my blog, read and comment every day.  I want you to love this space as much as I do and want  to make sure that I'm providing you all with material/posts that you like to read.  So if you would please be so kind and take this anonymous survey - I promise it's only a few questions, your feedback would mean the world to me.  I've disabled the comments so that you can leave me your thoughts and ideas on the survey :)


Thank you and I hope you all have the best day! xo


Linking up with Annie and Natalie
Tuesday, December 2, 2014

Lovely Blog Award

Happy Tuesday!

I was nominated by Michelle {Keeping Up With The Cullens} and Mia {Make Me Up Mia} for the Lovely Blog award - thank you!

So, what does this award tag entail?  Sharing 7 facts about yourself and tagging 7 other blogs you love to continue it.  Ok, here we go!


one:  I speak Spanish fluently.  In fact, Spanish was the first language I learned.  I didn't learn English until I was about five years old.


two:  I choose salty over sweet - always, unless it's a mix of salty and sweet - then I'm all over that!


three:   My dream is to move to the Carolina's one day.  Not sure if it will happen, but a girl can dream.  I love the homes, and the quality of life seems perfect to raise a family.

via 

four:  My other dream is to be an event planner, I enjoy planning parties and I love how it allows me to be creative. It's always so fun to see how everything comes together after all of the planning. 

via 

five:  Like Mia, If I could meet one celebrity it would be Giuliana Rancic.  She seems to be so fun, down to earth, and could teach me a thing or two about fashion.


six:  I could eat Asian food weekly - Chinese?  Sushi?  I'm your girl.  It's one of my favorite foods and I rarely ever tire of it.

via 

seven:  I'm a bit of a purse addict.  I have so many that I barely use because as a mom it's too hard to switch purses to match my outfit.


Who I'm tagging - if you'd like to participate of course:

Lindsay | Pink and Fabulous
Shelby | Recent Somethings
Biana | B Loved Boston
Kate | Green Fashionista
Caitlyn | Coffee With Caitlyn
Jillian | Cornflake Dreams
Amy | Baby Mama Juice

Wednesday, October 1, 2014

Wino Wednesday {Linkup} and Tour Around Blogland

Well, hello October!  I know everyone is saying it, but this year has really flown by!

Now that it's Fall, what a better time to break open the reds!  I've had the Marryhill Winemaker's Red a few times and it doesn't disappoint.  The Winemaker's Red is a blend of  Merlot, Cabernet Sauvingon,  Syrah, and Cabernet Franc.  It's very easy to drink, it's smoky but also has a slight sweetness to it.  This is a wine my sister-in-law got while in Oregon.  I'm not sure how easy it is to find on the east coast, but I know it's available on the west coast since it's a Washington wine.


The winemaker's describe this wine as "Layered with jammy, rich, red fruit flavors, lined with hibiscus, tar and sweet cedar notes. Pleasing, balanced finish".

If you see this wine, pick up a bottle - I'm sure you'll like it as much as I do.


Last week, the sweet Caitlin from Coffee With Caitlin asked me to participate in the Tour Around Blogland.   I of course agreed to participate because it's a fun way to learn more about blog authors and find out how they write their blogs.

1 -- What am I working on?
Lately I've been into trying a few DIY's.  Yesterday I showed my spray painted wine bottles, I have a wreath in the works and I'm also thinking about doing a house tour in the near future.

2-- How does my work differ from others in its genre?
I think the one thing that sets my blog apart is my love of wine.  I love trying new wines and look forward to writing reviews (not that I'm an expert) and sharing them with everyone.  Also, I feel like my blog covers a wide variety of things and is truly a "lifestyle blog".

3-- Why do I write/create what I do?
I write what I do because I feel like this is MY little corner.  As a stay-at-home mom, I am always so focused on the kids and the house all of the time.  It's nice to have something that's for me, something that allows me to be creative and write about whatever is on my mind.

4 -- How does my writing/creative process work?
It really differs, sometimes I have weeks of posts planned out (I use a calendar on my iPhone so I can jot down ideas) and other times, it's very last minute and I just write about whatever is on my mind at the moment.  I much prefer when I have a week or two planned out, but that doesn't always happen.

Thank you Caitlin for nominating me! 

Now it's your turn to link up for Wino Wednesday!




Thursday, August 28, 2014

About Me and Why I Blog

Sick of these posts yet?  I hope not - they have been some of my favorites to read, so I thought I'd join in the fun!!

Name/Age/Location
I'm Amanda, 30 years old and I live in South Florida.  I've lived in FL since I was 5, before that I lived in Bronx, New York where I was born.  I had the cutest little NY accent as a kid, and now of course it's gone, although when I visit my husband's family in Oregon, they always say I sound very "East Coast" - whatever that means ;)


Family
It's just us:  me, hubby, and the two kiddos - oh and our cat Reesee.


Work
I am a stay-at-home mom to our 4 and 2 year old.  Before becoming a SAHM, I worked for a hospital where I was a Trainer - I trained hospital staff in classrooms and one-on-one on computer systems.  I also spent my time writing curriculums, user manuals and did many power point presentations.  I loved my job, but always knew when we had kids I would want to stay home.  So now, I'm "mommy"and I relish in my role.

Hobbies
I love blogging, hanging out with friends, eating out, walking on the beach, Pinterest and going to Home Goods (that's a hobby, right?!)

Favorite Food
Hands down, crabs - specifically garlic crabs, close runner ups include: pasta, sushi, Chinese, and Puerto Rican food



Favorite Color
Seafoam green - I love anything in seafoam green.  My favorite color to wear is grey... and anything with stripes, but stripes aren't a color ;)



Standard Coffee Order
I love caramel macchiatos at Starbucks.  If I'm at home, I brew light roast coffee, and use flavored creamer along with half & half - I don't like my coffee too sweet.

Standard Bar Order
I get wine most times we're out (are you surprised?), but I do enjoy martinis, lemon drops, gins and tonics and champagne - I like a refreshing drink.

Places I shop
Target, Express, Loft,  The Limited, Home Goods and Ikea

Bedtime/Wake Up Time
I'm in bed usually by 12 and awake around 7


Beauty Product I Can't Live Without
Concealer and mascara - must haves for a sleep deprived mom!

What I Blog About
Mommy-hood, fashion, decorating, life, and food

First Blog Reads
The first blog I ever read was IHeart Organizing and Honey We're Home  - I still read them to this day, their organizing posts make me happy!

How Did I Start Blogging
I started blogging as an outlet to document things, and talk about whatever was on my mind.  I've been surprised and very grateful for the opportunities I've gotten, the few extra dollars I've earned, and the awesome girls I've met writing my blog. Part of me is a little leery of the internet, and it's why I keep my kids and husband's name private.  I don't know if my decision to keep their names private will ever change, but for now I like it that way.  I do love this blog, it has turned into a passion of mine - I never thought I'd love it as much as I do, so thank you all for always reading - it means so much!


Wednesday, August 13, 2014

Life via The Camera Roll...

Flipping through my phone and seeing all of the pictures of times that have stuck out to me is one of my favorite things to do.  So my friends, prepare yourself for a photo dump!


 A little over a week ago my "mommy friends" decided to meet up for food, drinks and cupcakes - amazing right?!  We went to one of our newer outdoor malls in the area and had the best time talking laughing and eating!  I love these girls!


E and I always look forward to painting our nails.  She always picks her colors and what nail stickers she wants and then I paint them for her.  We always have so much fun, and on this particular day, my toes got some love too!  The color is Watermelon by Essie - one of my favorite summer colors.


This little guy loves to take silly selfies!  He's getting to be so much fun, and such a handful -man, are boys different than girls, phew!


We visited the pet store a couple of days ago, and E fell in love with these kittens.  I must say, I think I'm more of a cat person. Don't get me wrong, I think puppies are ADORABLE and so cuddly! But... I love how independent cats are, not to mention they don't chew on anything, there's no potty training involved and they are much quieter, although sometimes a barking dog is a good thing!


After the pet store we went to a plant nursery, it was a hot day and the owner overheard J say he wanted ice cream, so he gave both kids icee's.  They were in heaven!


Hubby and I.. not much to say about this pic, sometimes I just get the urge to take picture even if there's nothing going on. Side note: I'm getting wrinkles by my eyes and why is it that hair color doesn't last more than a month before the grays start popping out again?!


Little guy sat in a big boy chair for the first time yesterday at dinner.  He did great and made less of a mess than when he ate in the high chair!  I'm so happy to get rid of that chair, it was starting to gross me out -  the seat itself was such a food trap and took forever to clean!


By the way - have you entered my Blogiversary giveaway? There are so many cute things to win!

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Linking up with Ashley & Liz