PLAY: a new addition

It can't go without saying. Welcome to the world Diego Brantley Guzman. We are so happy you're here :) I can't wait to snuggle you!

PLAY: Curl up with a good book.

When I was teaching fourth and fifth grade, my favorite question from most of my students was, "Do you have a book recommendation for me?" These kids kept me up to date on my reading. Reading juvenile fiction, that is. Some of my students were absolutely voracious readers and would fly through several books in a week or two. They would catch me off guard if I had taken a break from my forays into middle school literature because they would almost definitely ask what I thought of the latest book by Christopher Paolini or Brian Selznick. And, they would be shocked if I did not have an answer.

Since I have been staying home with my son, I haven't made quite as much time for the latest novels. I have reread several of my favorites, though. If you're thinking that it seems a little odd for me to write about books that elementary and middle schoolers are likely to read, hold on! Most of these books are as well written as adult literature, don't contain questionable content or foul language, and are quick reads. I love the feeling of finishing a really good book, don't you? Well, here are some books that you are guaranteed to fly through:

Heartbeat by Sharon Creech

A touching, uplifting story written in poems. If you've ever felt a soul-freedom in running, you will get this book. I read it during my planning time at school one day (Don't tell my principal!).

City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau

This science fiction novel centers around the survival of mankind. The domed city where Lina Mayfleet lives is crumbling all around her and she seems to hold the key to discovering what lies outside the confines of dimly lit Ember. This is a story of adventure and courage.

Inkheart by Cornelia Funke

A fantasy novel that begins in our normal, not-at-all fantastic world. Meggie discovers that her father has the incredible ability to read characters to life from books. She will discover why he has hidden this talent from her all her life and will be swept away into another world to rescue those she loves most. (I absolutely adore anything by Cornelia Funke--you can't go wrong.)

Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson

This prequel to Peter Pan will have you holding your breath in suspense and laughing out loud. It is a charming adventure that moves quickly and leaves you eager to pick up the next book in the series.

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Perhaps you've heard of this post apocalyptic novel that has become a phenomenon. For a more mature audience than City of Ember, this novel will grip you from beginning to end as you watch Katniss fight for the survival of her family and life as she knows it.

Do you have a favorite novel from your childhood that you would love to reread?

PLAY: Bucket List

As fall is encroaching and the school year is getting started, I find myself longing for more long and hot days of summer.  I love fall, but I am always sad to see summer come to a close.

So, in an effort to keep the summer festivities alive, we have made a summer bucket list that I hope to complete and enjoy.  And even if the activities linger into fall a bit, it will allow the joy of summer to live on longer!

Bucket List:

1.) Enjoy ice cream cones...often!
2.) Go camping.
3.) Host a cookout.
4.) Swim lots more!
5.) And spend as much time as possible enjoying the warm sun on our faces.

What activities do you hope to enjoy before autumn settles in??

PLAY: hello summer, hello braids

I'm admittedly a summer addict. I love nothing more than a hot, humid day. And while I (will only sometimes) admit that I kind of dig fall once it starts happening, I dread the end of summer. It's just such a carefree season that brings me utter joy, it's hard for me to say goodbye for three full seasons.

This week at Anthropologie, I was buying my friend latte bowls. The girl working there was trying to convince me that I should get the brown, red and navy combination. She probably thought I was 90 percent insane, because I must have told her two or three times: I'm looking for something brighter. A little more summery. Less fall. No I'm not ready for fall colors. How about yellow? Do you have anything brighter? 

Finally, I got a nice teal, white, royal blue combination, which completely screams beach vacation, and walked away feeling only slightly panicked that this girl had already lost faith in summer. It's only August, and this is Georgia. I'm thinking more Lake Lanier and less brown cardis. 

And beyond boating, flings and ice cream, nothing screams summer more than braids. They're so carefree, youthful and happy. 

I recently found this tutorial on how to perfect the so-low-key-and-cute-that-I-look-like-don't-care-even-though-I-googled-a-tutorial-braid and am hooked. 

I love that the girl doesn't appear to have crazy thick hair, and yet the braid still looks very full. With a sundress, sandals, sunnies and sipsies in hand, I think it'd be the perfect look for a Labor Day darty. Which, btw, does not mark the end of summer. 

PLAY: Just Tri

Some may argue, but I think a good workout fits just fine in our PLAY category. Now, Courtney and Whitney are runners. Serious runners. They do all kinds of crazy things--like running marathons. (Although, Whitney is currently sidelined.) I consider myself a lover of workouts, but no matter how much I try, running just hurts. That being said, it was a major accomplishment for me to complete the Bolder Boulder 10k after Griffin's birth. It was a sort of reclaiming of my body and identity to train for it and finish it. It may be a little strange, but as I near the end of this pregnancy, I find myself wanting to plan another physical feat...other than labor, that is.

Several of my friends here in Colorado are passionate about competing in triathlons. It has given me the inspiration to consider making that my post-baby goal. Seeing as I haven't swum competitively since high school and I've never biked in any sort of a race, it will definitely be outside of my comfort zone. I don't even know where to begin with my training--luckily I have quite a few people who can help me with that! But, I do know that a physical challenge does something good for the soul. So, while I will be exhausted from sleep deprivation and toddler chasing, I know that I will also find myself invigorated by the quest to "tri" something new.

Anyone want to join me?

PLAY: Party!

Our sweet Finn has just turned two.  It is hard to believe!

And as his birthday approached we wanted to be sure to make is special.

However, he is not a huge cake eater.

first piece of cake on his 1st birthday - gagging ensued.

So as we got ready to celebrate his 2nd birthday, I started to think outside of the box just a bit.  For as much as he does not love cake, he is thrilled by ice cream. We decided to have an ice cream sundae party.  We had several types of ice cream and all the toppings he could dream of.  He was able to create his own huge and sloppy sundae and he enjoyed every bite of it!

not only did the birthday boy have ice cream, but he started his day with a birthday breakfast!

In thinking about celebrating his birth, I started to dream up all of the different types of summer parties I'd love to throw.

Whit recently mentioned a melon party.  Wouldn't it be lovely?

I would also love to throw a grill only party.  We are fortunate to have a grill that has a burner on the side, and there are so many fabulous ways to grill appetizers, sides, main dishes and even desserts!  It would be fun to do all the cooking outside!  

Martha Stuart has some really amazing summer party ideas.  One of which includes:

A garden pitch-in!  Everyone brings a dish with a the star ingredient being from their garden.

For the last few summers, we have been invited to a "Redneck Crawfish Boil and Slip n Slide Party."  It has been a blast and has been a refreshing change from the average backyard party. 

Growing up, my mom used to let us have Scavenger Hunt Parties.  She would make a great list and we would go around the neighborhood until we found everything on the list.  It was always a blast and we ended up getting lots of exercise, too!

What are your favorite summer party ideas?

PLAY: laptop bag

We've all been there, lugging the laptop to and from work - trying to fit a few emails in between dinner and dessert. And, almost nothing it more unfortunate than the way the big black bag ruins my work attire. Nylon? For real?

I recently stumbled upon the Aleysa bag and I'm kind of smitten. It looks like a purse, but functions like a laptop bag. It comes in lots of fun colors, and has separate storage for cords, so they don't get tangled up with your other items. The best part is the shallow pouch on top for your keys, cell phone, etc. - aka the things I'm normally digging for outside my car.

If I got to carry this puppy to and from the office, I might be more inclined to work after hours more often!

PLAY: Get Fizzy

Courtney and Whitney have both mentioned their love for a glass of fizzy water with some fruit juice added. It's a great way to limit soda intake and curb a craving for a sweet drink. I jumped on the "fizzy water and splash of fruit juice" bandwagon this summer. And, my husband basically took it over. Seriously, I couldn't keep a bottle of carbonated water in the house. While it is not a great expense, I did begin to feel guilty about the number of plastic bottles I was recycling. As you know, it's best not to recycle, but to reuse.

In honor of reusing and reducing (as well as Father's Day), I purchased a Sodastream Genesis for my husband. We are hooked! The machine itself requires no electricity--no cord, no batteries. It's slim, taking up very little space on our counter. Since we're just carbonating plain water, it calls for very little cleaning. It comes with BPA-free, reusable bottles. They feel very sturdy. And, the best part is that it takes about twenty seconds to make a liter of fizzy water, including the time it takes to fill the bottle with water. It might just be the treat you need to get yourself through the hot, hot days of summer.

PLAY: Free

We recently attended a polo match at a local vineyard.  The backdrop was picturesque and the entertainment was wonderful.  It was the perfect way to spend a warm spring afternoon.  And the best part was that it was free!

I think we often get stuck in a rut of thinking that entertainment comes at a cost.  However, there are so many activities that can be enjoyed without spending a dime.

Some of my favorite local activities (that you probably have in your city) include:

- Going to a park with a picnic.

- Enjoying a hot afternoon at a spray ground.

- Going to the library with a list of books you'd like to read in hand.  And if you have kids, enjoying story time at the library.

- Our city pools have several free days each summer where admission is waved.  

- Going on a strenuous hike.

- Having a lemonade stand.

- Hosting a pitch in cookout or picnic. (Just a small cost if everyone contributes!)

- Enjoying farmer's markets.

- All comers track meets (these sometimes cost $1 to participate in)

- Join a book club!

- Going to local museum exhibits.

- Start or join a playgroup.

- Going to a beach, lake, or river for a swim!

- Many cities have free outdoor summer concerts.  We adore these!

This is just a small list that might give you some ideas of some inexpensive summer entertainment.  

What are some of your favorite free summer activities?

PLAY: Summer hostess gifts for under $30

Hostess gift ideas are abundant around Christmas, but what's a girl to do when she needs a fab summer friendly suggestion? Cookouts abound this time of year, and I always want to take something casual and sunshine-filled (yet on the cheap) for my friends, as they all really are the mostest.

1. Somebody's Mother's sauces: These treats come in a variety of flavors and add a whole lot of yum to any dessert (did somebody say ice cream?). And for only $10, they're perfect for the perfect hostess.

2. Swanson Vineyards wine: Nothing says thank you better than, well, merci. Lovely on the outside, and on the inside.

3. A Prokadima set: You suddenly look extra awesome, as you bring a gift and the entertainment. I assure you, you'll be the hit of the party.

4. Martinique lantern: Keep the fun going by providing light after dark. Cute and useful! Just like you.

5. Ice cream ball maker: Just like the Prokadima set, this gift is full of fun. Add your ingredients and toss around for 20 minutes - before you know it, you've got dessert. (You'll score major points if you pull Somebody's Mother's Carmel out of your purse at this point...).

Happy party hopping!

PLAY: You'll need your tennies for this party.

Summer has more scents that immediately transport me to my childhood than any other time of year. Honeysuckle, watermelon, and lilac to name a few. When I smell even one, I can feel the grass under my feet and the sunlight breaking through the leaves overhead. I can see my siblings and I running through the sprinkler in the backyard and my mom digging in the flowerbeds. Summer is being foot-loose and fancy-free; leaving your schedule and inhibitions behind.

In honor of summer, let's act like kids again. Now is the time to have a "games from your childhood" party. I'm not thinking board games. I'm thinking flashlight tag, sardines, or capture the flag. Of course, you'd need to be intentional about your guest list. Don't invite the friend who silently sits by while everyone else plays Balderdash. Do invite your fun-loving, active friends who aren't afraid of a little silliness. Plan the party at dusk. Freeze a batch of watermelon-jalapeno popsicles in these fun star-shaped molds. Mix up some sangria for the grown-ups. In fact, maybe this should be an adult-only party. Lay out chips and salsa; even order a pizza (it's summer...you don't want to waste time in the kitchen). Pick a game and make sure everyone knows the rules. And, let the evening unfold.

If you are worried that you don't have space to host a party like this, do not fear! Move the party to a local park. Sure, there will be other people around, but maybe they'll want to join in. You could even play sharks and minnows at your apartment complex or neighborhood pool. Just remind your revelers to bring their suits.

PLAY: Going to the Market.

We have a wonderful farmer's market in our city that I absolutely adore.

It seems so simple, but on a Saturday morning, going to the market is one of my favorite weekend activities.

We don't always buy things, but I just love being in the atmosphere of the market.
Everyone is always so cheerful.
The farmers are so happy to share their vast knowledge and are generous with offering samples of their goods.
The shoppers tend not to be rushed or grouchy.
The creativity flourishes and it always makes me want to go home and try to create something new.
And the food is just so very good.

Food just picked from the earth has such a wonderful taste.

And you feel good supporting local, small farms.

If you have never been to your local farmer's market, consider going this week.  For me, it is much more than a shopping trip.  It is something so enjoyable and holds so many teachable moments for our children.

And I just love it so much!

Here is a link to farmer's markets across the US.  Happy shopping!

PLAY: water

As the sun is getting hotter and the days are getting longer, I just can't stay indoors. From long runs to reading on my patio, I'm itching to be in the fresh air. 

With this change, I've also found myself dying of thirst at night. Although I consider myself to be a very avid water drinker, it's amazing how much more I need when it's warm. As I aim to transition to summer-worthy consumption levels, I've decided to get a little more creative with my H20.

Courtney has recommended that I add a little seltzer and fruit (or a tiny splash of fruit juice) to my water, which definitely helps around 3 pm, when I am yearning for something sweet (like iced coffee). My favorite combinations are either grapefruit juice, or citrus fruits, best when shaken, not stirred, in my water bottle.

I've also heard that freezing fruit into ice cubes really jazzes things up. This is less portable and not an option for me during the workday, but I think trying it on the weekend might make for a lovely activity.

Another option, which is great for those who are prone to stomachaches is to add ginger, cucumber, lemon and spearmint, which will soothe your tum and feel like a poolside cocktail sans calories.

If you can't quite bear the thought of adding things to blissfully simple water, try switching up your routine. Throw in a straw, buy a fun new glass, or switch to a water bottle.

With bonuses like boosting your metabolism, clearing up your skin and keeping you regular, I'd say it's definitely worth it to make yourself a little hydration station.


images via fitbie

A Tisket, A Tasket

Easter is joy and hope. It is a beautiful day of celebration, prayer, and family time. Whether your family is spread out across the country or is a group of friends who have become family for you, this weekend is a perfect time to show them you care.

If you have a friend or family member who doesn't regularly attend church, Easter weekend is an excellent time to invite them to come with you. Maybe you haven't been to church in a while either. Easter is such a welcoming time in most churches and their will be plenty of newcomers there. You or your friend won't be the only one who doesn't know exactly how communion is done or where the best seats are.

Whether or not you have kids in your life, make an Easter basket for someone this weekend. Wouldn't your church buddy be delighted to find a basket of treats on the car seat when you pick her up? I've made baskets for my husband and son and I for Easter even though my son is way too young to appreciate it. I love the idea of starting traditions early in our family's life. I'm definitely going to coerce my husband into decorating eggs with me on Saturday night. There are so many thoughtful and inexpensive gifts you could place into a basket for a friend: fancy chocolates, a headband, vegetable seeds, a potted pansy, tea, a small prayer journal, or some fresh fruit.

Happy Easter!

A Night Out

We have devised a brilliant way to give and play simultaneously with our neighbors.

They have two children and we now have three.  And about twice a month we serve one another by babysitting.  

The way it works is that they will tuck their sweet ones into bed and then either my husband or I will go over to hang out at their house and keep an eye on their kids.  And they go out on a date without having to pay for a babysitter.  Then a few weeks later, they reciprocate and one of them will watch our kids while we go out on a date.  

It is such a simple way to give to one another (and also receive a gift of a free date, too!)  

Ryan and I very much look forward to our nights out when they babysit and I know they feel the same way.  

Do you have a neighbor or a friend you could arrange a babysitting swap with?  I guarantee you will enjoy it!

wrap away

Although I’ve been told I’m the world’s worst gift wrapper, I still love cute wrapping paper. 

However, I see why people tend to think it’s a touch wasteful to spend billions on paper that is almost immediately thrown away…

If you’re in need of cute, ecofriendly wrapping ideas, consider these options…

• Use an old map. My personal favorite, as it adds a touch of culture. That Paris charm from Wednesday? If you wrap it in a clearly well-used map of France, you’re guaranteed to make them believe it’s authentic.
• Wrap your gifts in fabric. This year for Christmas Ashley sewed amazing gift sacks out of old cloth. So crafty! And in Japan, people wrap their gifts in scarves or towels, which become part of the gift. So efficient!
• Try out an old potato chip bag. Cut the bag along its seam, wash it with soap and water, and wrap away! Your gift will have a nice, retro feeling.  
• Use your kid’s artwork. It’s inexpensive and sentimental.
•  Or, of course, the old stand bys: newspaper and shopping bags. While they may be slightly overdone, no one can dispute a classic.

via martha stewart