Monday, April 30, 2012

Mint Green

Style Mommy: Evening Wedding

Just because you're a mom, doesn't mean that you spend every waking hour at the grocery store or park. Once in a great while, it is nice to be all dressed up with somewhere to go. When I watch my friends tie the knot, this is what I would like to be seen in.

Date Night

Mother's Day

Mother's Day is an interesting holiday. It's a major one because honoring mom is a big deal. However, I don't plan for it the same way I do for other holidays like Christmas, Valentines Day, and Easter. I always scramble at the last minute to get a gift and brunch plan together. This year, I'm going to be proactive and plan earlier for my Mom. She deserves it. Here's some ideas:
  • Mother Daughter Tea at Capital Christian Center- I've been going to this event for the past couple years and I love it. It's an opportunity to dress like a lady, eat yummy food, and enjoy listen to some great music. There is also an encouraging word given, so you always feel refreshed. Set your calendar for May 12th at 11am. Cost is $17.
  • Shutterfly.com- Who doesn't love a personalized gift? They will put a picture on anything from an iPhone case to a deck of cards to a blanket (yeah, a blanket). I've used Shutterfly.com several times and have zero complaints.
  • Brunch at the High-Hand Conservatory. Located in Loomis, Ca, this place is an absolute treasure. It is a plant nursery and restaurant combined, offering great dishes and beautiful views of the nursery. We had a phenomenal time taking my mom there for Mother's Day two years ago. Get a reservation quick; they go fast!
  • Memory Box- If your mom saves everything, give her a keepsake box for her photos and others cherished memories. You can spend an evening going through them with her.
  • Time. Sometimes it's not about the gift itself, it's more about the time spent together. As we kids get older and busier, giving mom an experience rather than stuff becomes more valuable. Maybe you can get pedicures together or be intentional about giving your mom your undivided attention and leave the phone in the car.
I hope these ideas inspire you to give Mom your best. If you're curious about the worst gifts for Mom, check out my blog entry, "Thanks for my Mother's Day gift...Now where's the gift receipt?"






Monday, April 16, 2012

It's a New Season

Last week marked the beginning of a new chapter in our family's life. My 3 year old, Gavin began his academic career. Yes, it was the first day of preschool. He had been ready to go to school. Armed with a new Thomas the Tank Engine backpack and school gear, he marched fearlessly into his classroom. He was a little apprehensive about us leaving, but adjusted quite nicely.  I'm the one having a hard time with this transition. My big boy is growing up!



As Gavin began school, I started a new part time job. I'm working with my husband as we launch a new ministry at our church. ONE is a ministry geared towards single adults. Our desire is to connect, grow, and love- both with God and each other. Check us out at http://onecapital.cc and spread the word!




Style Mommy: Lunch with friends

I'm starting a new entry called, "Style Mommy", where I create an inspiration board of what a mom can wear based on the occasion.

Below is a great outfit for lunch with friends.  Look bright and cheery in a pair of coral jeans topped off with some colorful accessories. If you're color-phobic, balance out your look with some neutrals like tan, cream, and gold.

Lunch with friends

Friday, April 13, 2012

I Want Candy!

Easter is over and you are left with a mountain of candy. What now? Below are a few ideas for what to do with all of that Easter bounty.

  • Throw a milkshake party. Buy a couple gallons of milk and ice cream and invite some friends over (they could bring their candy, too). Create a buffet bursting with different candy combinations for your milk shake. The possibilities are endless. 
  • Chop and freeze leftover candy. Throw it in your brownie or cake batters as you bake throughout the year.
  • Cut up your chocolate eggs into chunks and add them into your cookie batter. Chocolate "chunk" cookies always sound more appealing than chocolate "chip" cookies.
  • Make small goody bags of candy and give them to your kids as a reward for doing something good. If you're short of money, this is a free way to pay your kids when they complete their chores.
  • Make smores with Peeps. Your little sandwich will be so colorful and springy. 
  • Melt them down  your chocolate bunnies and make chocolate dipped strawberries or a fondue station. Check out, "Thank You Mr. Easter Bunny" for more details.
  • Warm your kids' belly with a mint hot chocolate. Warm some milk over the stove and add Andes Mints for a twist on a wonderful classic.
  • Place your jelly beans in a bowl and bring it to the office. If you can't eat it all, tempt someone else to do so.


Here's a glimpse of the boys' haul from Easter. Wow.