Fashion – Parmesan Princess

20
Jul
2014

Family Photos: I Found You A Photographer…Now What??

categories: Around Pittsburgh, Fashion, Fun for Kids, Shopping

Family photos, what to wear? Should we all wear white or all wear black? Please don’t! Style your session, show your family members’ individual personalities, and watch them shine!
Our latest family photos were taken by the amazing Amy Wilson of Amy Wilson Photogrpahy www.amywilsonphotography.com. When I asked her what she wanted us to wear, she suggested a styled session.

I originally peeked at clickitupanotch’s styling tips!
http://clickitupanotch.com/2013/10/what-to-wear-in-family-photos-5/

Here are my top 5…

Styled Session Tips:

1. Choose the most colorful, patterned article of clothing and match other articles around that piece.

2. Don’t be afraid to use different hues of the same color.

3. Use different textures, they pop in the photos.

4. Use statement pieces- necklaces, earrings, or hair accessories to bring in a vibrant color.

5. Be comfortable! Uncomfortable models equals uncomfortable looking photos!

I let Bella, age 3, choose something she wanted to wear first because she is the most difficult! Ha! She chose a top by Pittsburgh Boutique Clothier, Miss Priss Kids.
https://facebook.com/missprisskids Bella chose her favorite Miss Priss piece, a swing top with different textures and beautiful patterns and colors.

Her choice gave us so many other color options! Blues, yellow, gold, white, purples... — Her choice gave us so many other color options! Blues, yellow, gold, white, pinks, and purples…

I chose a slightly darker pink dress with tiny navy polka dots for myself with a beautiful yellow statement necklace and a similar hue in my shoes. To even out the brightness, Brady, age 5, wore an adorable relaxed blue dress shirt and dark grey beach pants from H&M. The blues and greys complement the pinks and purples from the girls. Since Brady had a light shirt and dark pants, I alternated with Kevin, giving him a dark blue shirt and light tan shorts.

This outfit is totally Brady! Relaxed, stylish and handsome. He can pull anything off.

Amy captured our personalities, styles, and memories from this moment in our lives. She is an amazing, talented photographer!

Amy is so talented! Laying in the grass, in the weeds...she gets the shot! — Amy is so talented! Laying in the grass, in the weeds…she gets the shot!

See for yourself…

Thank you Amy Wilson Photography for the gorgeous photographs!
To see more photos visit Amy’s blog! And “Like” Amy Wilson Photography on Facebook!

http://amywilsonphotography.com/2014/07/the-dowd-family/

She will not be affordable for long! I promise!

Ciao!

03
Jul
2014

Clothes Mentor Girls Night Out! A Bargain Shopper’s Dream!

categories: Around Pittsburgh, Fashion, Shopping

Consignment stores are not really my thing. I’m not big on wearing a stranger’s old shirt. But when over half of the items still have store tags, sign me up!!
I met Bethany, www.saltyblonde.com, at the Girls Night Out party at our local Clothes Mentor to check it out.

Bethanny and I share a love for fashion and bargains! Oh yeah, and scarves!

I was greeted at the door with a chance to win a coral leather $458 Coach bag. So I filled out the ticket and started shopping!
Our first stop was a scarf wall!

The shoes were at the top of all the clothes racks and most were brand new! Vera Bradley flip flops with tags were $14! Brand name clothing items from Ann Taylor, Banana Republic, JCrew, Splendid, Paper Denim Co, True Religion, JBrand and even Tory Burch were hanging everywhere!

Cindy Martin, Clothes Mentor franchise owner, explained that they are very picky when selecting items to resell, and buyers appreciate it!

Clothes Mentor franchise owner Cindy Martin also owns the teen brand consignment store Plato’s Coset next door Bridgeville, PA

Cindy told me women love this store’s cash at drop off policy , meaning a consignor doesn’t wait for items to sell to get paid! Cindy explained that they accept all seasons all the time and items with store tags move quickly! Her Girls Night Out events have been a huge success.

Cindy offers customers an extra 20% off during GNO and a giveaway item of value!
While I was putting together an outfit I heard them announce the winner of the $458 Coach purse …it was me!

Super cute bag! Thanks!

Here is the outfit I put together.

Pairing a bubble skirt with a wedge adds an edge to the feminine pump look.

These brand new Seychelles Los Angeles chartreuse wedges were a great fashion find and a steal at $13! The brand sells in LA shoe boutiques for $95-$150!

I will be taking a bin of clothing to Clothes Mentor soon to see how much money I am offered. Have you consigned clothing? Every been to a Clothes Mentor? I would love to hear about your experience!

Ciao!

19
May
2014

Stitch Fix Me, Please!!

categories: Fashion

Stitch Fix included this cute styling card to give dress up and down the items! To see them in outfits!

I hope I love it, too! My stylist: Darien!

I waited two long, excruciating days to open my first Stitch Fix so I could share this fun, new experience with some girlfriends!

Here are the basics:

What is Stitch Fix?
Stitch Fix is an online personal styling company for women!
1. You fill out your style profile online.
2. Your personal stylist sends you an assortment of items.
3. You try on at home and keep what you like and send back the rest!

What does it cost?
$20 styling fee.
If you buy anything the fee is removed! Plus, there are no shipping or return charges.

Keep the entire fix and get 25% off the total!!

I will use any excuse to have wine, good cheese, try new recipes, and laugh with the girls!

My first Stitch Fix was the perfect excuse to try some new recipes!! I made a garlic kale tomato white pizza, feta and onion mini fillos, and asparagus and bacon quiche!

And of course a spectacular cheese platter of Parmesan Reggiano and Parrano!

I have never had a stylist or anyone for that matter choose clothing/accessories for me. I style myself. I love to shop, especially a great sale!
So my expectation for Stitch Fix is to have someone choose clothes for me that I would never pick for myself and wow me!! My goal is to keep the entire box and take 25%off!!

I couldn't wait to hear everyone's opinions of the online service, my Stitch Fix stylist's picks, and if the items worked for me! — I couldn’t wait to hear everyone’s opinions!!So I opened the box!

[caption id="attachment_1241" align="alignnone" width="243"] We couldn’t believe the box was so small!! 5 items including accessories!

We couldn't believe the box was so small!! I am petite! And, it is 5 items and includes accessories! — I couldn’t wait to hear everyone’s opinions!!So I opened the box!

[caption id="attachment_1241" align="alignnone" width="243"] We couldn’t believe the box was so small!! 5 items including accessories!

Item #1
Kut From The Kloth
Marquis Striped French Terry Dolman Sweater

I have to admit I was totally bummed! A sweatshirt-y looking, big looking, jail looking striped top was NOT what I had in mind!!!

So I tried it on…

Super cute! I was totally surprised! I asked the girls "how much how much is it?" They decided not to tell me and make this more interesting. They asked me to make decisions to keep or send back with cost out of the equation! Ok, fun! — Super cute! I was totally surprised! I asked the girls “how much how much is it?” They decided not to tell me to make this more interesting. They asked me to make decisions to keep or send back with cost out of the equation! Ok, fun!

I put this top on the keep pile!

Item #2
Liverpool
Carolyn Colored Cuffed Denim Short

Pastel purple shorts? Oh, Darien... I only wear pastel purple at Easter. — Pastel purple shorts? Oh, Darien… I would only wear pastel purple at Easter, but I haven’t since the late 80’s.

Of course the girls loved the shorts! I couldn't get over the pastel purple. — Of course the girls loved the shorts! I couldn’t get over the pastel purple.

I put the purple shorts on the sending back pile.

Item #3
Collective Concepts
Esten Button-Up Sleeveless Blouse

Of course, I absolutely love it because I already own it!!

So, I put the cute top I already own on the sending back pile.

Item #4
41Hawthorn
Ivy Tulip Print Tab Sleeve Blouse

Love this blouse! I love this style of blouse so much I have 5 more just like it!!

I put the printed blouse on the keep pile because if it is inexpensive…I want it!

Item #5
Pomelo
Lydia Faceted Stones Long Necklace

Nope, nope, nope…no photo needed. Brassy yellow gold with big fake blue stones. I think my camera would have broken!

The Price Reveal:

My entire merchandise total is $240.00.
If I keep everything? $165.00

My keep pile?
$68 tulip printed blouse
$38 striped sweater

$106!! Just for those two items?
I didn’t LOVE them and LOVE the price so I sent the entire box back!!!
This experience cost me $20. It was so fun!

What we loved…

EVERYTHING FIT ME PERFECTLY!
This is bizarre, right?

What we hated…

The items didn’t go together. No outfits were created with these items.

The box is really only worth the money if you keep the whole fix and get the 25% off!

I hope you enjoyed sharing my first Stitch Fix experience with me! I will get another!! Darien figured me out! He sent me 2 items I already have in my closet!

I encourage you to totally try it! Why not? Worst case scenario is $20!
Here is the link:
Http://stitchfix.com/sign_up?reffer_id=3691311
Please share your experience, too!

The kids and I were shopping at H&M Saturday and look what I found for $17.95 What a coinkydink ; )

Ciao!

This Stitch Fix post was entirely the opinions of ParmesanPrincess and friends! Stitch Fix did not reimburse me or give me any free clothes for writing about their company!

16
May
2014

Coachella Mozzarella! Festival Fashion Meets Food!

categories: Dinner, Fashion, Recipes, Shopping, Sides, Travel

The boho chic Coachella style channels a modern Woodstock vibe with cutoff jean shorts, crop tops, floral and braided headbands. For those of you who don’t know, the Coachella Music and Art Festival is held annually in Indo, CA, and consists of two weekend-long concert line ups! Celebrities flock to the hip collision of music, art and food!!

Kendall Jenner, Selena Gomez and Justin Beiber Coachella- ing their way. Photo courtesy peoplestylewatch. — Kendall Jenner, Selena Gomez and Justin Bieber Coachella- ing their own personal ways.
Photo courtesy of peoplestylewatch.

Bella loves Coachella style! Ruffle bottom pants, halter tops and head wraps are her favorites!

Ok, What about the food? Well, I hope you aren’t thinking all hotdogs, hamburgers and funnel cake! Coachella food style is also chic, and like the fashion, trend-setting. “Foodie heaven” is the term used by the LA Times. The food vendors cover everything from vegan, kosher and gluten free to pop-up restaurant fare, fine dining and international staples.

Fried vegan, anyone? Photo courtesy of latimesblog. — Fried vegan, anyone?
Photo courtesy of latimesblog.

Papaya salad! Photo courtesy of latimesblog. — Papaya salad!
Photo courtesy of latimesblog.

The Coachella food trend we will see on hip and trendy dining menus are Arepas! Eaten daily in South American cuisine, arepas are a flat bread made with ground corn flour and are eaten as bread or stuffed with cheese, avocado, jelly or jam. The Coachella favorite? An arepa stuffed with mozzarella and grilled…a Venezuelan grilled cheese!

Arepas are already finding their place on high end restaurant menus in San Francisco, New Orleans and New York City! Bobby Flay likes his stuffed with octopus and lobster salad! Ok, let’s start simple.

Here is an arepa recipe adapted from Tyler Florence’s Food network recipe! I like this one because it is simple with only 4 ingredients and other than being lightly browned in a pan, the Arepas are baked!

Arepas are stuffed with meats and cheeses! Most popular in cafés and food trucks pork filling with avocado and salsa! — Arepas are stuffed with meats and cheeses! The most popular filling in cafés and food trucks? Pork with avocado and salsa!

Coachella Mozzarella Arepas
Makes 4

Ingredients:
1-1/2 cups Arepa flour (Precooked corn flour found in Latin American grocery stores or sub white cornmeal)
1-1/2 cups warm water
1 tsp. olive oil
1 tbsp. olive oil, for pan when cooking

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Mix flour and salt in a mixing bowl.
Slowly add water and tsp. oil and mix until dough forms.
Cover and let rest for 5 minutes.
Remove dough and knead, make sure the surface and your hands are moist with water.
The dough should be moist and easily malleable, but not sticky.
Separate dough into 4 balls.
Form flat round cakes 3-4 inches in diameter and 3/4 inch thick.
Add oil to the pan on medium heat and lightly brown both sides.
Place Arepas on a foil lined cookie sheet and bake 15-20 minutes or “until they make a hollow sound when tapped.”

Slice in half or cut a slit in one side and stuff with mozzarella while hot!

Enjoy!!
Ciao!

27
Apr
2014

Mother ‘s Day Is May 11, 2014! Give Her A Gift She Won’t Take Back!

categories: Fashion, Shopping

My eyes welled with tears as my new, unsteady walker Brady struggled to carry my Mother’s Day gift across the room. I was excited to see the recognizable jewelry store logo. A gift was completely unnecessary to me, my Brady was the perfect little present, but Kevin purchased something special this year. After all, I had been a stay at home mom for one whole entire year! Previously swearing this lifestyle was so “not me,” I think Kevin was showing his appreciation of my new found talents- homemade dinners, desserts, endlessly entertaining family and friends, etc. That year had definitely marked the birth of the Parmesan Princess!!

My tears of joy immediately turned into real tears as I peered at the contents that were so carefully placed inside the beautiful box. A pearl, sapphire and gold necklace blinded me with its overdone gaudiness and, pearls?? Bright yellow Gold??? How could God have let him be so off? Does he even know who I am??

My face said it all. Unfortunately, I’m not one of those people that can fake it. Kevin was devastated. Ok, there was still another box in the bag. Redemption time? Nope. My worst nightmare, matching earrings! With one shiny pearl dangling from each one! Poor Kevin, he tried! Massive, massive gift fail.

I ended up getting a great pair of diamond studs and we laugh about that Mother’s Day now!
What we have learned, I mean Kevin, of course.

1. Mother’s Day Best Bets are homemade, DIY gifts from the heart. From the kids!
2. Reserve jewelry, apparel items, handbags and shoes for birthday, Christmas, anniversary. Consult my best friend before purchasing anything.
3. A gift where I have mommy time sans the family, although I love them all dearly, is awesome!

That brings us to the Best Mother’s Day Gifts!

DIY
Painted flower pot, vase, trivet, drawings, paintings, helper vouchers, breakfast in bed…

Super cute Chalkboard necklace! http://www.henryhappened.com/diy-chalkboard-necklace-guest-gal-cat.html — Super cute Chalkboard necklace!
http://www.henryhappened.com/diy-chalkboard-necklace-guest-gal-cat.html

http://www.everythingetsy.com/2012/05/diy-ombre-painted-utensils/

Etched Dish by Make It Love It http://www.makeit-loveit.com/2010/06/glass-etching.html

Mommy Time
Spa certificate, Starbucks card and a book, hair salon appointment, enrollment in a special exercise or hobby class.

How about Grandma? Spoil her! How many times does grandma help with the kids so you can go out? And saves you a $60-80 babysitting fee? The grandkids will make something sweet, but chances are grandma would love a splurge! Buy her something she would never buy herself. A classic, beautiful handbag. Maybe a Tory Burch cuff bracelet or a fun Spring scarf!

http://www.toryburch.com/lucite-cuff/50005964.html

This cute Kate Spade bag is under $200! http://m.katespade.com/flatiron-nylon-maryanne/PXRU4224%2Cen — This cute Kate Spade bag is under $200!
http://m.katespade.com/flatiron-nylon-maryanne/PXRU4224%2Cen

Happy Mother’s Day!!
Ciao!

16
Apr
2014

Etsy in Wonderland…What a Talented World!

categories: Fashion, Fun for Kids, Party Time, Shopping

Carnival Party for two, please! My oldest is 5, sooooooooo this is probably the last time he will ever want a birthday party with his little sister. (Until he wants to hang out with her friends when they get older!) As soon as I have a theme, I search Etsy. Call it my Pinterest, I like browsing Etsy vendors first because you can click add to cart and buy it right there!

I love to do cupcakes for kids birhday parties! Super easy! No cutting/serving/forks nightmare. — I love to do cupcakes for kids’ birhday parties! Super easy! No cutting/serving/forks nightmare.

I decided on an old fashioned carnival theme, red and turquoise for my color palate, and found the perfect invitation through CustomWrappers4U! I had Theresa create matching return address labels, thank you notes and favor tags. I received them in no time, they were in envelopes and ready to go! I have never experienced this kind of delivery speed and customer service with any other vendors!
https://www.etsy.com/listing/159363594/carnival-circus-tent-birthday-party-baby

Favor tags are easy details that add a nice personalized "thanks for coming " message. Yes, I still send a formal thank you note later. Remember, I'm old school. Many have told me it is outdated. (According to Emily Post, it is necessary!) — Favor tags are easy details that add a nice personalized “thanks for coming ” message. Yes, I still send a formal thank you note later. Remember, I’m old school. Many have told me it is outdated. (According to Emily Post, it is necessary!)

The address RSVP is cut off but these invites were perfect!!

Etsy vendors make the best custom kids party outfits! I found the perfect tutu birthday outfit for Bella on www.etsy.com/shop/taddletellshop !

Taddletellshop makes the fullest, most gorgeous tutus I have ever seen! Two sisters custom make these beautiful creations by hand! They carry a full line of birthday cupcake tutu sets as well as tutu Halloween costumes! I was wowed, totally impressed…and I’m a princess!

I wanted a matching shirt for Brady so I searched for a red and turquoise carnival theme boys shirt and found a circus tent shirt on GreatStitch! What a great story! Brenda’s great-grandma made a decorative, masterfully stitched coat for her mother out of simple flour sacks! This coat is Brenda’s inspiration along with her motto “cute kids need cute clothes!”

https://www.etsy.com/listing/166941070/greatstitch-circus-tent-birthday-shirt

I was lucky that they matched because I ordered from two different vendors. Usually a definite Etsy rookie mistake! Somehow, they were perfect! Thank you Jesus!

I love supporting small business! The talented moms and grandmas who create these masterpieces are amazing!

Next time you need a party outfit, flower girl outfit, a special personalized T-shirt or a new supercute scarf for yourself, check out ETSY! It has been good to me!

Thank you to CustomWrappers4U, GreatStitch and Taddletell for selling your wonderful products on Etsy for all of us to find and enjoy!

Coming up…the magician, the face painter, the decor, the menu! A carnival is a great party theme!!

Ciao!

30
Mar
2014

JBrand Jeans, Juicy Couture, Anthropologie, Splendid, Pier 1, Pottery Barn…Have You Experienced The Gabriel Brothers???

categories: Fashion, Shopping

I said “Yes, I got it at The Gabriel Brothers? Have you ever been?” And everyone laughed, “Gabes?!” Once a degenerate, damaged item discount store, Gabes has transformed itself into a mecca for thrifty fashionistas!

From Spring clothing must haves to amazing home items, you can find some great pieces at this store! Trust me I am a princess and I can’t get enough! Rule #1- You must be in a shopping/hunting mood and have zero expectations. Rule #2- You must not let some of the “crazy I would never wear that” attitude distract you from the task at hand. Rule #3- If you don’t succeed, try try again! One day you hit the gold mine and the next time, totally nothing.

Let’s look at my latest hot Spring fashion buys!!! Great day!!

First look: Graphic wide leg pant paired with a racer back tank!

Anthropologie :

This trend is huge THIS Spring!! So comfortable and effortless! BUT will it be around Next Spring???

Guess what I found at Gabes…

$12.99!! And I actually like this turquoise grey orange print better than the red/ navy!!

Next look: Casual, everyday tie front tunic dress or even swim cover up! Floral prints are in! Turquoise, coral, pastels are hot!

Anthropologie:

Guess what I found at Gabes…

$7.99!!! These colors pop!! Cute braided tie in front...I can wear it now with a brown legging and riding boots or flats and a cardigan!! — $7.99!!! These colors pop!! Cute braided tie in front…I can wear it now with a brown legging and riding boots or flats and a cardigan!!

Last look…Flirty, funky, floral minidress!

Anthropologie:

Guess what I found at Gabes…

$12.99!!! What???? I know , totally adorable!! Short and flirty and... — $12.99!!! What???? I know , totally adorable!! Short and flirty and…

Funky!!! The black crisscross strap detailing pops and adds and edge to this girl next door floral! I paired it will a strappy edgy open toed bootie!

Save your money for big classic items like a fabulous Louis Vuitton bag! Bargain shop the trends! You will be lucky to get one season out of them!

Check out The Gabriel Brothers! “Unbelievable”

Talk about trending, you can now follow Parmesan Princess on twitter @freshgratedparm!!

This post is dedicated to my #bargainbunnies #huntinghoneys #gabesgirlz #loyaltymemberloves #squeekycartsinners #Nikki #Kathy #XOXO

Ciao!!

11
Mar
2014

There Is Hope For Spring After All!! Miami’s Spring Style at Anthropologie!! Get your 2-3 must haves!!

categories: Fashion, Shopping

After a disappointing Elle magazine Spring fashion spread, I am please to announce that Anthropologie is giving me hope! The new arrivals offer everything Spring- bright colors, sexy softness, and flowing lines!

Miami had a jump on Spring style! What did I see? Flowy, graphic pants paired with fitted tanks, peplum tops with skinny jeans, and maxi dresses!

These pants were everywhere in Miami! Not to mention on the boat by the pool and at the beach! — These pants were everywhere in Miami! Not to mention on the boat, by the pool and at the beach!

Photo courtesy of Anthropologie! Bricollage pants and …they come in petite!!!

Do you find yourself always looking for a great sweater??

Anthropologie’s Sapphire Flame Cardigan has Spring’s hottest colors! Turquoise, orange, and a little royal blue! Dress it up with navy ankle dress pants and wear it to church on Sunday!

Statement earring? Yes! Can you imagine these paired with some gold bangles? Yes, please!!

I love a peplum top! It can really compliment any body type! The peplum top is slimming, hiding the muffin top and the pooch very well!!

Floral peplum top! Great with jeans on a Saturday night or for Easter with a pencil skirt!!

Love, love love a maxi dress!

Brushstrokes Maxi !! Colorful, airy...Spring! — Brushstrokes Maxi !! Colorful, airy…Spring!

At $117, $128, $178, these are too trendy to buy at Anthropologie! Too hip and now to be classic “spend your money on pieces” because they will only be around one or two seasons! Be a super sleuth!! Find similar items at TJMaxx! Be on the lookout and let me know what you find!!

07
Mar
2014

Be Perfectly Prepared! A Mom’s Stress Free Guide to Easy, Happy Airplane Travel with Toddlers!!

categories: Fashion, Travel

Our most recent trip to Miami was a total breeze! What?? Traveling with 2 and 4 -year- old monkeys can be easy??? Follow my top 10 steps for a tantrum-less, tear free, and totally fun trip the kiddos will never forget!

Let’s jump right in:

#1 We each only have 2 hands!!! Take a shuttle service near the Airport for a seamless luggage transition from car to airport and back! Here in Pittsburgh, we use the PIT Stop! They are awesome!! Traveling in the winter? Your car is waiting for you, clear of snow and ice, with seat warmers ON!!

#2 What to wear? Be happy with your choices!
When we look our best, we feel our best, and our attitude is best! No pajamas! Scary! Be comfortable but stylish and most importantly…layer!! Traveling cold to warm?? Wear your emergency layering jacket as your heaviest piece then go backwards!

What we wore:

Bella:

Miss Priss striped Capri pants, BabyNay sleeveless top, Circo jean jacket and silver sparkle TOMS.

Brady:
Relaxed fit Gap jeans, Gymboree polo, Gap windbreaker and Adidas tennis shoes.

Kevin:
Jeans, breathable Under Armour T-shirt, Adidas 3/4 zip-up and tennis shoes. (If anyone has to break a sweat, it is dad- Maybe loading the car or carrying a monkey!)

Me:
INC Skinny jeans, Kensie racerback black tank, Kensie oatmeal anywhere jacket and Lucky strapped island wedges. Wear silver jewelry that does not need removed in security!

#3 Always wear the largest heaviest shoes and clothing. (Notice we wore our jeans and biggest shoes! )

#4 Traveling cold to warm? Never lug winter coats through an Airport! Layer and bring a pashmina or scarf in case you need to wrap up a child!

#5 DO NOT bring car seats! If your plane is going down, the car seats you brought for the plane will not save them! If your destination requires a rental car, you can rent car seats!

#6 DO bring a small, umbrella stroller! Inevitably, one child gets tired walking or needs a nap. You can check this stroller at the gate- which means use in the airport- and pick up as soon as you exit.

#7 Pre-plan and Pack Essentials in your Mommy Bag!

This trip I took my Tory Burch black Ella tote! (Yes, I am obsessed with TB right now!!!)
It is the ultimate travel bag because it is nylon and can handle spills, sand and water! Always bring our pashmina in your carry on- it serves a dual purpose it can also be a blanket if necessary on the plane!
What else is in my bag:
Hand sanitizer
Tissues
Snacks
Activity books with TONS of stickers!
iPads
Lip gloss
Valuables- my jewelry zip-up!
One set of pool gear for all- swimwear and flip flops! Which brings me to #8…

#8 Bring swimsuits and flip flops in your mommy bag! Going somewhere warm? Arriving early afternoon? Check-in times are usually late afternoon. Wow them with your planning and enjoy your first hours poolside with a cold beverage!!

#9 Be cheerful, easy- going, and upbeat. I know! Way, way easier said than done! Those of you who know me well already, know that I work on this every single day of my life!! As a perfectionist, I want anything and everything to be perfect! By breathing, putting on a smile, and relaxing, you will keep your husband and kids in good spirits no matter what the circumstances!

#10 Last, but not least!
Lollipop, lollipop, o lolli lollipop…lollipops go a long way !!! They give you time! It takes a child approx 4 minutes to get bored with or finish chewing a lollipop. Because of the sugars lollipops contain, they can easily settle an upset stomach (adults and kids), be the extra few minutes you need, or hold the kids over to the next meal! Never leave home without lollipops!

I hope these tips help you and/or give you the confidence you need to plan a trip with your little ones!! Do it!! We have been fortunate enough to travel to San Diego, Orlando, the Bahamas…and many other exciting destinations with our kids!
Don’t listen to other people, the kids will remember, it is fantastic bonding time with the family, and they get to see there is a world outside of your hometown! All great things for their learning and growing!
Ciao!!

Make special family memories they will never forget!

01
Mar
2014

Hot Looks for Spring 2014!! – With these winners you will be right on trend!

categories: Fashion

When I think Spring fashion, I think new, bright, vibrant, sleek, shimmer, pretty… As a busy mom who loves fashion, I look for the 2-3 must haves. In the past it has been a dove tail sweater, high-low maxi, a minidress, maybe a peplum top. Let’s just jump right in and let Elle show us what is hot this Spring!

Without further adieu, the first Spring trend is a white wide leg pant.

White wide leg pants from Dak’s Ready-to-wear collection. Ready to wear, where? To jail? A mental hospital? No, you are right, way too much material for a mental hospital.

In case that look didn’t wow you, they have also paired the wide leg white pant with a graphic jacket…How kind.

The caption states “White pants feel fresh in this roomy silhouette” Roomy??? You think??? I could fit all of my college roommates in this outfit! Was this jacket designed as the new TGIFridays line cook uniform?

Nope, here is the new cook uniform…

“As long as I got my suit and tie” Right?

Ok- next trend Fringe!! Has to be better!

Does she have patches of Easter grass actually hanging off of her sweater? Or is it real grass? The girl and outfit do look vaguely familiar from an episode of SVU I watched recently.

Gotta love Elle’s headline ” Fringe detailing gives spring separates a cozy feel!”

Cozy? Two words…Ugly Duckling

Next trend, Sheer!

A little sheer here and there never hurt anyone BUT…she obviously was hurt and Doc McStuffins fixed her boo boos with a big white bandaid???

And last, but not least…

Miley Cyrus needs her outfit back because she is totally naked hanging from a ball somewhere. Really, she is.

After scrolling through pages and pages of this Spring’s hottest trends, I will wear exactly what I have in my closet from last year. By adding a few bright scarves, flowy tops and maybe cute wedges, my go-to skinny jeans will get me through Spring. Today I am happy to live in Western PA where the Spring season only lasts about 16 total days!

Category: Fashion