Wednesday, January 2, 2013

Happy New Year + A Resolution

I start every new year off the same way; with a mile high list of ambitious resolutions and good intentions that generally fizzle out by Jan 2nd. Probably because I set so many goals that I don’t even know where to start. So this year {as I compiled my expansive list} I realized that almost every item had a similar theme…GET ORGANIZED. The house, kids, meals, health, daily planning…they are all falling short because I haven’t developed a system to keep things organized.

So that is my resolution…and the good news is that it’s already Jan 3rd and I’m still on track! Fortunately I had a nice long Christmas break to get prepared.

My progress

I cleaned and organized my closet, junk drawers, office files and bathroom drawers and designated a drop box for all new mail/bills/items to be filed so that it stays in one central spot {instead of piling up in my junk drawers…to be lost in the abyss}. Throughout the month/year I plan to work my way through all of the cabinets in our home, clear the clutter, and get organized.

I also purchased a “Mom” planner that will help me plan out our weekly meals – both lunches and dinner. I can’t even tell you how often we end up eating take-out after work because we haven’t gone to the market and have zero food in the house. And don’t get me started on all the $$$ I spend eating out at lunch {not to mention the calories consumed}. I am hopeful that this planner will also keep me on track with working out, blogging, etc {maybe that’s wishful thinking, but at least it’s a start right??}

I know that there are probably more noble resolutions that I could have made, but the truth is that feeling out of control and just plain messy leaves me grumpy and irritable. I am a happier mom & wife when things are organized, clean and running smoothly. So here’s to a happy, organized New Year!

Organized Make-Up Drawer

My Planner {Amazon}

Organized Junk Drawer

Office Drop Box

Sorted Office Files

Closet!

Clutter Free Vanity

New Jewelry Organizer {Urban Outfitters}

Scarves in Order {Thank you Pinterest!}

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Halloween Recap - A catch up post



The Halloween Superstores love us. This particular Halloween store had it coming to them though. A shelf dedicated to electronic dancing mummies that play Michael Jackson's thriller? I mean come on...I had no reservations about letting my kiddos turn every single one of them on simultaneously...and taking up the entire isle dancing along. It was like a mummy dance party, DJ'd by a mummy chorus of the best Halloween song {if not the best MJ song} of all time. And not to discredit Jayden's killer dance moves, but pay particular attention to Gracie's little bootie shake towards the middle of the video. I'm so proud.  

And here's a few "catch up" pics from our visit to Oma's pumpkin patch in October. That place was incredible! In addition, Gracie got her first kiss from a {super cute} two year old in the hay maze. I honestly had no time to react before he plunked a big fat one right on her lips...fortunately Gracie didn't mind {should I be worried?}.





And finally, Halloween included the usual gathering of family at our house for food and bevvies {apple cider margaritas!} Jayden rocked a pirate costume and Gracie was the cutest little peacock in the neighborhood...until it all became a bit much for her {nothin a little sucker couldn't fix though!}






Monday, December 17, 2012

Kieren's Baby Sprinkle



My sweet little nephew was born on 12/12/12 {how cool is that?!}. He is a healthy handsome boy and I am anxiously anticipating his arrival for Christmas so that I can shower him with love and kisses. Jess, Jeff and Izzy...get your booties down here! :)

In September I hosted a sprinkle for the beautiful mama to celebrate Kieren's upcoming arrival. Both Jess and her husband Jeff love the ocean and surfing, so to compliment their nursery decor I went with a retro surf shower theme for the party. I get so stressed and anxious before hosting parties, but all the planning and preparation was definitely worth it! I am not the best photographer, but here are the details from the big day. You can see more "professional" photos from the sprinkle on Jess's blog here: http://thebakingbean.wordpress.com/2012/10/09/heavenly-sprinkle/

















Thanks to everyone who helped make this sprinkle special, and thanks Jess for letting me throw it for you!!

Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Gracie is One!

Last weekend we celebrated our little sunshine turning 1! We can’t believe how quickly one year flies {We officially have two toddlers – no babies!} I am so in love with this charismatic little miss…she really is our little sunshine J Thanks to everyone that celebrated this milestone birthday with us! 























Gracie really dug into that cake {after a bit of persuasion}…not that we had any doubts about this little piggy! Happy Birthday sweet girl!