Lovely to See You ATX

Last weekend, my Mom, Nicholas, and I traveled to Austin for a a little 4-day trip to visit family.  Nicholas has always done well in the car, whether it's short drives around town or much longer trips.  But I'm still always weary, fearing that this time is going to be the time he will have a major meltdown and I'll need to turn the car around and just come home.  But luckily for us, we can mark this trip as another success.  

Day 1 got off to a late start, not surprising since I hate packing and always leave it to the last minute (as in the morning of).  My Mom laughs at me and questions how I did it when I was in college and would come home for the weekends.  But it was much easier then.  I would literally just make sure I had the bare necessities - toothbrush, contact lenses & solution, glasses, makeup bag, & a change of clothes.  If I forgot anything, my backup closet at my parents' house would surely have something in case of an emergency.  But now with Nicholas, my packing list is more like - snacks, toys/books, baby shampoo, toothbrush & toothpaste, diapers, wipes, Desitin, pajamas, clothes, extra changes of clothes for emergencies, pillow, pack & play, crib/lullaby toys, baby monitor, and you can't forget those "what if" items like a thermometer, ibuprofen, bug spray, sunblock, and the list goes on and on.  Finally, we were on the road by about 2pm and were in Austin by 8pm and that's including a few pit stops.  I was pretty happy with our timing.
Days 2 and 3 consisted of making our rounds catching up and visiting family.  Because Austin is my old college town and ex-home of 5 years, I love to go back and try to squeeze in as many new places to see as possible.  Although I usually come back home with a list of quite a few places I wasn't able to fit in, I always tell myself that there will be a "next time."  
Day 4 came pretty quickly and I was sad to go but anxious to get back home to Jacob and to see all the progress he had made on the pergola (updated pictures below!).  After I made some "urgent" stops {Kendra Scott & Buy Buy Baby} we were back on the road at about 2pm again.  Nicholas and I are grateful to have had such a wonderful time!  We were able to get a lot done and manage to do it all with zero-stress which was fantastic!!  

1. Nick already digging into his Plum Organics snacks about 1hr into the trip  2. Pit stop at Whataburger  3. We made it!

My nephew Gabriel all dressed and ready for  his baptism

Top photo: my Mom, sisters, brother-in-law, Gabriel, and my nieces.  Nicholas was very excited for Gabriel and gave him a "high-5"

1. We just had to get some milkshakes from EZ's on our second night  2. Great view of the Capitol

 Nicholas was my lunch date at Jo's downtown in the 2nd Street District.  LOVE their Tuna Melt :)

Nick's Austin Children's Museum adventure with cousin Gabriel

Clearly the museum wore him out!  We barely had gotten out of the parking garage and Nick was already passed out!

1. Continuing our day at IKEA shopping for Nick's playroom  2. Of course I had to indulge my sweet tooth with the always delicious Tiff's Treats  3. Nick was finally out for the night

1. I couldn't leave Austin without stopping at Kendra Scott.  That place is dangerous!!  2. Food trailers on South Congress.  Too bad they weren't open for lunch yet

I gave Nick a little tour of my alma matter St. Edward's on our way out of town

1.  Nick debating what to eat for lunch at Chuy's  2. Back at home, Nick trying out his new circus tent...another fab find at IKEA :)

Thanks for a great weekend friends and family! Hope to see you again soon!

Pergola update:

It's almost done!!  Jacob managed to squeeze in the time to paint, cut, and nail (19) 2x6 beams in the scorching heat.  Amazing, right?!?  Pergola looks fantastic!

Thanks for stopping by!

Three Years Ago Today

I remember exactly where I was, what I was wearing, and who I was with when I received the call that my Dad had passed away.  I remember everything about that horrible day in detail.  Just recalling all of this even brings back the same feelings of anxiety.  Jacob and I were at his brother's wedding and the ceremony had just ended.  Jacob was taking pictures and I reached for my cell phone to check the time when I saw a flood of text messages and missed calls from my sisters and cousins.  I didn't think much of it and just returned the first missed call on my list.  My sister answered and through her tears all I heard was "It's Dad, you need to come home now.  Dad died."  As I stood there holding my phone I remember everything going silent.  I couldn't hear anything, I couldn't feel anything, and I couldn't breath.  "How could this be?!" I thought.  "I just talked to Dad two days ago and he was fine...he wished me good luck on my job interview (that I was having the day after I spoke to him)...it's Saturday so he's working at the ranch like usual, this can't be possible...how did this happen...why did this happen...is this just a sick joke...what do I do"...I had a million things running through my mind.  I somehow found Jacob and tried to tell him what was happening but as I was saying the words out loud, none of it was making sense.  We rushed out of the wedding and to my apartment  but I remember just crying and not understanding any of it.  I didn't even know what to pack because I couldn't even bring myself to believe that I would be going home to attend my Dad's funeral.  I think I just grabbed whatever I could and threw it in a bag and we got on the road.  That drive was the longest 6 hours of my life.  I had a throbbing headache and my tears just kept flowing.  
Once we got to the funeral home we were told that my Dad suffered a massive heart attack while he was working at the ranch.  They told us that even if someone had been out there with him, there wouldn't have been anything anyone could do.  He died instantly. 
These past three years have been extremely trying on everyone in our family.  We lost the rock and head of our family - how does one rebound from such a tragedy?  Everyday I tell myself that my Dad is in a much better place and is smiling down on us.  I try to not get sad when I look at Nicholas and think how unfortunate it is that he never got to meet my Dad.  I can't help but imagine what could have been.  I know that everything happens for a reason and that God's plan for us is all a mystery.  One of these days all my questions will be answered.  But until then, I remember my amazing Dad and all of the great things he taught me.  I pray he's resting in peace and for courage and strength to understand all of life's heartbreaks.        

Left: family wedding   Right: my 24th birthday fiesta

A thousand times we needed you
A thousand times we cried
If love alone could have saved you
you never would have died
A heart of gold stopped beating
two twinkling eyes closed to rest
God broke our hearts to prove he only took the best 
never a day goes by that you’re not in my heart and my soul.

Source: Kimberly N. Chastain     We love you Dad and wish you were here with us every day.   

Cheers to Many More Years!

Today Jacob and I celebrate our wedding anniversary!  I'm usually pretty private about my husband, but since I'm so open about our activities with Nicholas and all the other aspects of our lives, I'm making an exception.
Jacob and I met on a Sunday afternoon on a Southwest flight that was headed for LA.  We were both on our way to California for work trips and didn't even notice one another until he sat next to me on the second leg of the flight.  His rather chatty co-worker was adament that the both of them move into the empty seats that were next to me.  I didn't mind as long as I didn't have to give up my aisle seat :)  For the most part, I was tuning them out as I kept to myself and my Jodi Picoult novel.  Little by little, Jacob kept trying to make small talk with me so I put my guard down and we chatted the rest of the flight.  As the plane began to make it's descent, I found myself not wanting the flight to end!  We really clicked!  I couldn't believe I had just had an amazing conversation with someone who was funny, educated, had a good job, and had so many similar interests as I did.  
Once the plane landed and everyone started making their way off the plane, I gathered my carry-on and we said our goodbyes.  I was feeling pretty disappointed that he didn't make an attempt to ask for my number or email address or anything.  As I walked off the plane I found myself getting annoyed with the whole situation and just told myself he was such a jerk - "this guy is such a loser! He's probably married or has a girlfriend and here he is hitting on me! The nerve of some men! Ugh!!"  I told myself to forget it all and to just enjoy my few days in California and simply concentrate on work.  As my co-worker and I were waiting at baggage claim, who do I see making his way towards me?! Yup, that's right, Jacob.  I thought, "Oh no! This is going to be so awkward!! Maybe I'll just keep my back turned and he'll stay away."  It's all so hilarious now....remembering it all....good memories.  Just like I had feared, Jacob came right up to me and just picked up our conversation where we had left off.  I didn't want to seem too interested but we somehow got to talking about the season finale of CSI Las Vegas (my all time favorite TV show) and how we couldn't believe that they would just kill off Warrick Brown!!...and the rest is history.
We didn't see each other again until about a week after we were both back in Austin and our whirlwind romance just continued from there.  From the beginning we knew what we wanted for our futures and our futures included each other.  We've endured quite a bit of hardships in our short time together - the loss of my Father, living 400 miles apart from one another for most of our engagement, criticism from people regarding our relationship, and being laid-off while I was on maternity leave - just to name a few.  We may not see just how strong we are in the midst of all the craziness sometimes, but I know there is no one else I would rather be going through it with.  At the end of the day, we have a roof over our heads, food on our table, a beautiful and healthy son, and God on our side.  We couldn't be luckier.  We may not be perfect as individuals, but we work together perfectly.  Cheers to us!!

Hope you enjoyed the photos and thanks for stopping by!
  

We Heart Hot Tot Haircare

Yesterday was just one of those days where I woke up in a blah mood.  You know, the ones where you feel like Bill Murray in Groundhog's Day - you feel like you're following the exact same routine for days on end: morning diaper change, breakfast, dishes, diaper change, laundry, Nick's nap time = office time for me, another diaper change, lunch, more dishes, another diaper change, play time, dinner, bathe Nick, reading time, another diaper change, put Nick to bed for the night, and then finally some DVR/me time and daily re-cap with the Husband when he comes home from work.  Plus add in trips to the post office to drop off packages and play dates and trips to the grocery store and the gym; the list goes on and on. But I digress, back to yesterday...it finally decided to thunder and pour like they had been forecasting and that just compounded my gloomy mood.  Well, in an effort to get me out of my funk, my mom decided to take Nicholas and I out all day to run some errands.  We had a few more things on our "to-do list" but I had to make a quick stop at home to drop off some leftovers from our yummy lunch.  As I hopped out of the car and ran up to my front door, what did I see?? My shipment from Hot Tot Haircare sitting there waiting for me!! (--- hey, I made a rhyme, ha!)  Seeing that beautiful cardboard box just made my day :)  You have no idea how excited I am to be able to carry this amazing all-natural professional haircare line for children.  

Don't you just love the packaging?! Talk about giving your little one the royal treatment!

Hot Tot was created by the very talented and sweet Megan Gage.  As a retailer, I can't tell you how great it is to actually speak to (in an email and over the phone) the real person behind the brand.  I was fortunate enough to have a conversation with Megan when I was placing my initial order.  I loved being able to discuss the product line and all the uses of each product.  Talk about amazing customer service!!  
I was sold on carrying Hot Tot when I sampled their products on Nicholas a few weeks ago.  Nicholas has a mix of my fine, straight hair and my husband's curly hair.  So he's been blessed with curly, fine hair.  Basically, that translates into a hot frizzy mess! But now, his gorgeous shiny curls have great definition with absolutely no frizz.  That's right, no frizz!  And that is all thanks to a combination of using Spotless Tot on his hair at bath time, followed by the Conditioning Detangler immediately after (those pesky curls on the back of his head get really tangled) and then once his hair is dry, I apply a pea size amount of the Sweet Pea Serum.  The best part about the Sweet Pea Serum is that it gives the curls great definition without being sticky or leaving the hair crunchy.  Nick's hair stays soft and touchable  while smelling terrific too! All the Hot Tot products have a mild baby-like scent.   

Nick's "before" pictures were too hilarious that I couldn't pick just one! Back to the matter at hand - look at his "after" hair...just gorgeous! His curls have so much more control and manageability all thanks to the Sweet Pea Serum.

Little stud Jake's hair product of choice is the Structure Whip.  Jake's mom, Sarah from newdaynewdeals.com, is able to  effortlessly style Jake's baby fine hair into a super cool faux hawk using this amazing Hot Tot styling product.    

To get a better understanding of this fabulous line, this is what Hot Tot has to say - "Hot Tot is the only professional line formulated for the physical characteristics of immature hair.  Created to improve the lives of little ones, our products aid in the development of a positive self-image.  Additionally, we employ eco-friendlybusiness practices and donate a portion of our proceeds to charities that benefit children."  How great are they?! I LOVE being able to buy something useful for my son that is going to yield great results while also being able to help other children in need.  
The entire Hot Tot Haircare line also is made using natural ingredients and no harsh chemicals, is lightly scented (signature scent was inspired by a Cabbage Patch Doll), made in the USA, cruelty-free / never tested on animals, and all products can be layered to intensify hold as needed on various ages of children.
Please browse my shop to see the entire line and feel to contact me if you have any questions about the products.  I love being able to connect with my customers and help out any way possible.  
Have a great day & thanks for stopping by!

Adventures of a Toddler: Swimming Lessons

Today was Nicholas' first day of swimming lessons and to say he did great would be an understatement!!  I'm so amazed at his ability to try new things with excitement and hardly any fear.  I got into the pool first and then carried Nick in and he started smiling right away.  All we practiced today was blowing bubbles, quick dips under water, and kicking.  Clearly he won't be qualifying as an Olympic swimmer by the end of his lessons, but we will be proud to see him complete the class with the basic understanding of holding his breath under water....he is only 18 months old.

Did your little ones like their swimming classes? At what age did you first enroll them? I'd love to hear back from you guys :)
I hope you're enjoying your Summer because it sure is going fast!
Take care and thanks for stopping by!

Recipe Roundup: Breakfast Edition

Breakfast is probably my most favorite meal of the day, but since we aren't very early risers in our house, it's more like brunch.  I'm always on the hunt for quick and easy meals (that both us and our son can equally enjoy) and these two recipes are just that.
Stuffed Pancake Muffins

1.  I lightly sprayed my mini muffin pan with Pam so I wouldn't have a hard time getting the baked muffins out

2.  Then cut fully cooked sausage patties/links or fruit (I used banana and all beef breakfast sausages) and place in tin

3.  Prepare pancake batter per instructions on the box and then just pour it into the tin

4.  Bake at 375 degrees for 13-17 minutes.  Use a toothpick to check if muffins are baked - toothpick should come out clean.

5.  Serve with your favorite pancake syrup and voilà! 

These were awesome little treats for brunch - particularly a favorite for Nick since they're mini size and fit in his little hands.

Patriotic Stuffed French Toast

This was our delicious AND festive brunch on July 4th!

1. The "condiment" on these sandwiches is flavored whipped cream cheese. So you'll want to prepare that first - lightly whip your favorite cream cheese and add vanilla flavoring, honey or maple syrup to taste
2.  Spread on a layer of cream cheese onto slices of bread and add a layer of your fruit of choice - you can use fresh strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, peaches, nectarines, etc. and top with another slice of bread  
3.  In a shallow dish, lightly beat 2 eggs (or as many as needed) and carefully dip both sides of sandwich.  This might get a little messy because you want to make sure the fruit stays in the sandwich 
4.  Place sandwich in a heated frying pan or griddle and cook each side until golden brown and a little crispy.  You want to make sure the egg cooks.*  Again, when flipping these guys make sure you don't lose any filling
5.  Serve them up with extra yummy cream cheese, fruit, and drizzle with maple syrup. Deee-lish!!
*you can also cook the dipped bread as individual pieces first and then build your sandwich.  I think we liked the taste of the toast when cooked that way anyway - of course, that was my husband's brilliant thinking ;)
Let's see what else we can cook up in the next few days & thanks for stopping by!

The Perfect Solution

With the scorching heat in full swing, here's a peek at one of our favorite products stocked at   Royal Feather that is a definite Summer necessity - the 
Perfect Pouch set by Jaq Jaq Bird.

I know first-hand how important being organized is when it comes to staying sane!  Rummaging through your diaper bag to find your baby's snack or milk cup while he's wailing in the back seat as you're driving down the highway is not an easy feat.  Make your life easier with this extremely versatile solution to all your organization needs.  The Perfect Pouch Set is the easiest way to tidy up your diaper bag, car, or even your home.  Gone are the days of using harmful plastic baggies to store snacks, pacifiers, small toys, and even toiletries.  And with the temperature rising outdoors, make trips from the pool, beach, or lake an easy one by using the large Perfect Pouch to pack up your little one's wet swimsuits and toys.  
The Perfect Pouch Set comes in two distinct sizes and has a grown-up look thanks to their modern alphabet design and easy zipper opening.  Each set comes with (2) pouches and the size options are small (8"x8") or large (10.5"x12").  Not only is the Perfect Pouch a wonderful eco-friendly alternative to plastic baggies, but they're super safe for your family too because they are PVC, phthalates, and BPA-free.  Shop today!    
I hope you're enjoying your Summer as much as we are & thanks for stopping by!
xoxo,