Getting Real: Parenting a Toddler

In July my son turned 3.  And if you've ever been around a lot of children you can attest to the fact that the "terrible twos" really start before they're even two and last far past it. If there were ever a situation where the term "rollercoaster" would be perfect- it's parenting a toddler.  There are incredible highs and proud moments as they're constantly learning and growing and then suddenly they're having a screaming meltdown in Trader Joe's because he doesn't want to be done pushing his little cart. Yes....I apologize that was my son.

Every so often I get compliments on how well-behaved my son is and in my mind I'm rolling my eyes because "this stranger has no idea what I deal with every single day" and then one day as I was told this I had an epiphany.  He's a toddler and the fact that someone noticed enough even after watching him for an hour felt the need to mention it, should make me proud not only of my son but of myself! Parenting is hard work and I only have one...so when someone pays us a compliment, let's pat ourselves on the back!

print via // Tied Ribbon

If you follow me on instagram, I mention my son hitting some milestones lately.  This past year alone has been full of milestones and accomplishments!  Transitioning out of a crib, potty training, overcoming the fear of pooping in a toilet (something about that was TERRIFYING to him), wearing undies all night, learning to talk, counting, and abc's.  Guys- that's a LOT considering he was completely helpless just 3 years ago!  And it has to do with us- parents. Teaching them, being patient, getting down on our knees to talk and often pick our screaming child up off the floor of Target. (My apologies....again)

I recently found the words, "Clayton, you're so perfect!" escape from my lips before the inevitable tantrum ensued, but really- the good times are AMAZING and though the bad times are often terrible and humiliating, I gladly suffer those for the times of pride, overwhelming happiness and bliss of my 3 year old.

print via // brim papery

So as I often remind myself, I share this reminder with you parents...breathe & enjoy the good times.

Floral Baby Shower

Today I am so so super excited to share a special party I planned...It was a  baby shower for my amazing sister-in-law who is having a baby girl! I had such a fun time planning a floral pink themed shower for her & I was so pleased with how everything turned out.

Invites designed and printed by Stem & Leaf 

The beverage bar featured strawberry ice water, 2 flavors of Izze soda, San Pellegrino, and orange juice in clear cups. (found at Smart & Final)

 straws from DimeStoreBuddy via etsy // gold tape is Scotch from Target

 utensil holder & silverware Poppytalk for Target

Our build-your-own waffle bar was a huge hit!  There was raspberry, blueberry, caramel and chocolate sauce, homemade buttermilk syrup, nutella, cookie butter (from Trader Joes), sliced strawberries and bananas.

sauces/condiments holder Oh Joy! summer line from Target 

 Lining the back of the waffle bar were sizes of various glass jars filled with flowers from Trader Joes.

Necco Wafer Cake

Probably one of the easiest but cutest cakes you'll ever decorate. Frost a cake and stick on those beautiful Necco candies.  For an eclectic feel, leave the logo facing out or for a smooth "dots" finish, make sure they're all facing the blank way out.

Pattern or haphazard placement, you seriously can't go wrong with this cake!  I used 3 packages for this small cake to get all the colors I wanted.

It's almost too cute to eat! .....almost. Enjoy!

Happenings Lately

Well oh my goodness- these past few weeks have been full of friends, family, birthdays, delicious food, baseball games, the beach, a baby shower and San Diego!  So much fun and still feeling like summer (especially when taking the weather into account!) 

Hope you all have wonderful weekend!

Citrus Cake Topper

Here's a fun and summer-y way to decorate a cake.  I went out and picked a few stems of leaves and attached them to 2 bamboo skewers using twine.  Top the cake with a few of your favorite citrus fruit (fake or real!) and you're all set for your next fun summer gathering! Happy Partying!

The Best Protein Shake

Ingredients:  

1-2 Tablespoons Powdered Peanut Butter

1 scoop Muscle Milk (I use chocolate)

1 & 1/2 sliced & frozen bananas

enough Dark Chocolate Almond Milk to make smooth

Add ingredients in blender and gradually add Almond Milk to desired shake thickness. Enjoy!

Favorite Things: Food Edition

This could almost be called "Favorite Things: Trader Joe's Edition".  So if you don't live by a Trader Joe's...my apologies in advance.

1. Veggie & Flaxseed Tortilla Chips from Trader Joe's

2. Hummus (basically of any variety with above chips) from Trader Joe's

3. Cold Pressed Juice from Trader Joe's (same juice but less than half the price as brand juices)

4. 100% Juice Smoothies from Trader Joe's

5. Powdered Peanut Butter from Amazon 

6. Cookie Butter from Trader Joe's

7. Larabar (also in any variety)

Those are just some of what I've been buying on the regular lately.  I'm pretty proud most of them are healthy aside from the cookie butter! But we all need a little sweet treat to help us stay sane, right?!