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Sunday, August 30, 2015

Pizzetteria Brunetti Review

Pizza is something that I could devour on a daily basis if given the chance.  My ultimate pie would feature fresh cheeses, sweet Italian sausage, garlic, and a generous amount of basil.  My mouth is watering just thinking about it.  Since you can enjoy pizza with so many different toppings and ingredients, your belly will never grow tired of the triangular treat.  When's the last time you enjoyed a fabulous slice of pizza?

Pizzetteria Brunetti is an eatery in the West Village of New York featuring brick-oven pizzas, small plates, and wine.  The restaurant only opened two years ago but it was something my heart was needing forever.  There is another location in the Hamptons that has been around longer.  Not only are you in the middle of the fabulous and trendy West Village, but the eatery is charming and features a great back garden to dine in.  What more could you want from a restaurant? 

Upon surveying the menu, your stomach is presented with such fabulous speciality pizzas featuring any possible topping you could want.  How about the San Gennero which features sausage, caramelized onions, mozzarella and ricotta cheese, and peppers? Feel free to sink your teeth into the Spezie pizza which offers broccolini, sautéed broccoli rabe, sausage, hot peppers, burrata cheese, and pepper puree.  Whichever pizza you choose, you'll surely be satisfied.

Prosecco, I love you

My husband and I dined here last night and truly enjoyed ourselves.  We started the meal off with a glass of chianti for him and prosecco for me.  Prosecco is my absolute favorite wine and I could drink it daily if given the chance.  

While we enjoyed our drinks, we ordered an appetizer of Arancini to share.  These large round balls of heaven made my stomach smile.  The outside of the rice ball features a golden brown crispy shell that  pairs perfectly with a fluffy and cheesy inside.  Once you break open the shell, your taste buds will be delighted with soft rice, cheeses, and porcini mushrooms.  The savory rice ball was in a bed of fabulous and flavorful cream tomato sauce that complemented the appetizer excellently.  You only get 3 per order and in seconds they are all gone! We couldn't get enough of the delicious Arancini and absolutely loved them.

Arancini, will you marry me?

Our pizza's came very quickly and I was surprised at how large they were for being personal sized.  My husband opted for the San Gennaro while I chose the Quattro Formaggi.  The four cheese pizza featured glorious cheeses like imported gorgonzola, fontina, ricotta, creamy burrata, and roasted garlic.  I was in queso heaven and there was no turning back. When you took a bite, the cheeses all came together and had a party in your mouth.  The level of cheesiness was out of bounds and just simply awesome.  My crispy pizza was cooked perfectly and I couldn't have been more pleased with it.  The crust had a wonderful grilled flavor as well.

Cheesy goodness, get in my mouth

Those toppings are large and in charge.

My husband absolutely loved his San Gennaro and said that all of the toppings were so perfect together.  When you pair sausage with caramelized onions and San Marzano tomatoes you cannot go wrong.  He mentioned that everything was cooked excellently and so flavorful.  The sausage and tomatoes were bursting with juicy flavor and left you wanting more.  He devoured the pizza in record time and was left full and satisfied.

Not only was the service fast, the waiter was attentive and came back regularly to make sure everything was to our liking.  As we neared the end of the meal, we decided to cap it off with something sweet.  The dessert menu boasts such picks as ricotta cheese, Nutella pizza, and tiramisu.


This round bowl of heaven would make any foodie happy

Tiramisu sounded fantastic and moments later a glorious portion of it was placed on our table.  The creamy ladyfingers paired with the strong coffee and cocoa flavor was the perfect ending to a fabulous meal.  Our spoons attacked the plate and our tastebuds were dancing.  If you have a sweet tooth, this dessert is certainly for you.  

If you have any plans to be in the West Village in NYC anytime soon, I highly recommend you check out Pizzetteria Brunetti.  You'll want to come back time and time again to enjoy their fantastic pizzas. Go ahead and treat yourself today.

*DISCLOSURE* Thank you to Pizzetteria Brunetti for providing me with a complimentary dinner in order to facilitate this post.  All thoughts are strictly my own.  

Friday, August 28, 2015

I See Me Review

I'm no stranger to loving personalized items for Scarlett.  There's just something so exciting and unique about something made to order that you can't buy in a store.  Scarlett has personalized bibs, onesies, and even toys in her room! She is a lucky girl and I believe she loves the items just as much as her mom does.  If your child doesn't have anything personalized for them, it's time you order something special for them today!

I See Me offers an award-winning selection of personalized books for children.  The titles range from religion and special events to birthdays and being a new big brother or sister. Your child will be delighted to have a book dedicated to them, and they will want to read it over and over.  You have the option to have a personalized book cover as well as a dedication inside  The bright colors and story will have them wanting to read the book time and time again.  If you know a child with an upcoming birthday, a birthday book from I See Me would make the perfect gift.

As you know from reading my blog, Scarlett's first birthday is in December.  I have honestly been planning her big day since she was born.  Excited doesn't begin to cover how I feel! Her party will be winter wonderland themed and she even has a pink snowflake dress to wear.  I'm sure I'll post tons of pictures from her party too.  Since a first birthday only comes around once I wanted to give her something special besides just typical toys and dolls.  A personalized birthday book is something that she can enjoy now, and have as a keepsake as she gets older.  

I had a lot of fun personalizing her book with details such as a dedication from my husband and I, and a picture of her.  In just 3 short months, I'll be able to give her this book and I can't wait!




This book is so adorable and I truly can't handle it.  Inside you'll find Duck, Mouse, Turtle and Bluebird all helping to plan a party for Scarlett.  They are very serious about this party and want to do the best job possible.  The animals are not only lovable and friendly, but the colors are bright and inviting too.  What child doesn't want to read a fun story about them? I know I would have loved to have a book like this when I was a kid.  

Scarlett's first birthday will surely be a memorable time filled with happiness and joy.  I'm excited that she will have special book to remember this day from for years to come.  Every child should have a personalized book from I See Me on their bookshelf. 

*DISCLOSURE* Thank you to I See Me for providing me with a complimentary book in order to facilitate this post.  All thoughts are strictly my own.  

Tuesday, August 25, 2015

Glade Review

Home is the one place where you can rest, relax, and truly be yourself.  If you're like me, when you have others over you want your house to be as inviting as possible.  Candles, incense and wax melts make your home smell warm and welcoming.  As they say, scent is the most powerful form of memory and everyone would like to have their home associated with fabulous smells.  Why not introduce Glade into your home today for long lasting freshness?

Glade offers scented candles, oils, and gels to bring true-to-life fragrances wherever you call home.  Some of the products include oil warmers, room sprays, candles, and more.  There are a variety of scents for each product like clean linen, florals, fruits, spices, outdoors, tropical and more. The scent of Glade will bring your room to life and keep you smiling in delight. Any Glade product makes an excellent gift.  I'm most familiar with Glade's candles and Sense and Spray, which I currently have in my living room.  A new scent is always being introduced to keep their customers happy, which I can't complain about!

Two new fantastic scents were on my doorstep today which I couldn't have been more excited about! You can always find Glade candles throughout my home, and I rely on the brand for a long-lasting scent and hours of burning time.  

My living room was happy to accept blue odyssey and vanilla cupcake into the candle family. The blue odyssey smelled fantastic and its gorgeous blue color paired perfectly with my neutral walls.  That pop of color was certainly welcomed and noticed.  The vanilla cupcake candle made me feel like I walked into a bakery kitchen where they were whipping up batches of fabulously rich and sweet cupcakes! The perfect tan color resembled a vanilla cupcake perfectly.  Both candles are in beautiful glass jars which would make a perfect housewarming or hostess gift.  

Candle Paradise

I immediately lit the vanilla cupcake candle in my kitchen and the blue odyssey one in my living room.  Don't feel like you need a special opportunity to light a candle, take any opportunity you have to enjoy one.  The scent that they brought to each room was immediately noticeable and made me close my eyes and smile.  

The vanilla candle was like being in your Grandma's kitchen as she's baking fantastic treats on a Sunday morning. I couldn't get over how much it smelled like a real vanilla cupcake! There's no better place than the kitchen for a candle like this.  From the second you lit it, the smell was powerful and strong. The wick was easy to light and the flame danced wildly as the fabulous scent filled my kitchen.  Trust me, the candle smelled almost good enough to eat except I didn't want to go to the ER from third degree burns to my face and tongue!

My living room smelled like summer in a jar and I couldn't get enough of it.  The blue odyssey candle offers a rich blue hue that reminds me of crashing ocean waves and a clear blue sky at the beach.  Since summer is ending, I'm trying to soak in as much of the final moments of the season as I can.  I imagined myself siting in a beach chair drinking something fantastically fruity while spending time with my family.  There's nothing better than fun in the sun with your family. The wick was easy to light and I found myself deeply inhaling the glorious scent.  

I'm very satisfied with both candles and look forward to having them burn for some time.  They make me happy and bring a lot of joy into my life. 

As the holiday season drawers nearer and you begin entertaining friends and family, Glade candles will come in handy.  There's nothing like entering someone's house and being greeted by a fabulous and inviting scent.  

*DISCLOSURE* Thank you to Glade for providing me with complimentary product in order to facilitate this post.  All thoughts are my own.  


Saturday, August 22, 2015

Fall is On The Horizon!

As most of you know, I really love summer.  Who doesn't enjoy carefree days spent by the pool or beach? You can't forget tons of juicy watermelon, tart lemonade, and cool and crisp salads either.  As much as I like summer, I am excited for fall to start.  



Fall will bring new memories and traditions for my family. I'll be decorating my house for not only Fall, but Halloween too.  Scarlett's first Halloween is this October, and I'm beyond excited for it.  Please expect 10,000 pictures of her in her costume trick-or-treating.  I seriously can't wait!!!! 

The Fall season will bring hayrides, pumpkin patches, hot apple cider and cider donuts, and of course pumpkin flavored everything.  I hope Scarlett will develop a love for pumpkin flavored treats just like her mom. Of course we'll do plenty of jumping in piles of fallen leaves too.



Scarlett's Fall wardrobe is adorable and she has so many ridiculously cute long-sleeved sweater dresses and boots that are just waiting for her to debut them.  You'll die from the cuteness.  

Family is very important for me and I can't wait to make long-lasting memories and start new traditions with the people I love most.  
Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Ziploc Review and Giveaway

You can always find me in the kitchen whipping up delicious meals and snacks for my family.  I tend to cook in large batches because the leftovers are convenient.  When you have a baby like I do, you'll use any opportunity to save time and not create another meal! Having a lot of containers and storage bags comes in handy for keeping food fresh and organized in your fridge.  Ziploc is one brand that should be in kitchens all around the world.


Ziploc brand storage bags and containers allow you to conveniently store a range of items from food and craft supplies to tools and toys.  The brand's products include storage containers, sandwich bags, gallon sized storage bags, quart sized storage bags, and snack bags.  You can rely on Ziploc to keep puzzle pieces kept safely in a gallon sized bag while your famous chili sits in a round storage container in your fridge.  Every child has their school lunch in some version of a Ziploc bag.

This brand is famous in my home and one that everyone recognizes for quality products and results.  Ziploc was a brand that my parents always used when I was a child and you can guarantee my daughter will be raised on it as well.  I wouldn't trust any other food storage bag brand! If you don't currently have Ziploc products in your kitchen drawers, it's time to change that.

Ziploc was kind enough to send me a variety of their products including gallon sized bags, snack bags, sandwich bags, and storage containers. Storage bags are something I use on a regular basis, so they surely come in handy.  I'm definitely in Ziploc heaven and there's no turning back now! Your food will be kept safe and secure and you can give all the credit to Ziploc.  



When I stop to think about which Ziploc sized bags I use the most, it's hands down the gallon sized bags.  I'm always using them for marinating meat for dinner, or storing leftover salads for lunch the next day.  The storing possibilities are endless and thanks to their large size they are able to store almost anything. I love that you can depend on Ziploc to keep your food safe and protected.  That's something not to take for granted. 

The sandwich and snack bags are quick for using for lunch on the go or at work.  Throw a delicious turkey and cheese sandwich and some grapes in a bag, and you've got yourself a tasty and healthy lunch.   The easy open tabs that are on some of Ziploc's bags make opening and closing a breeze. With back-to-school season officially here, those bags will get a workout in your child's lunchbox.  

Why not count on Ziploc's storage containers for holding baked goods and cookies for the upcoming holiday season? I use my storage containers for not only storing leftover pasta and rice but baking supplies too.  Their versatile use makes life so much easier.  

As my daughter gets older, I'm sure I'll be storing her toys and games in ziploc bags to avoid losing small parts and pieces.  

I look forward to trying the rest of the Ziploc products in the near future.  Until now, my kitchen is happy with its newest family members.  If you're looking to take your kitchen from a nightmare to a dream, Ziploc is here to help with all of your organizational needs.  




Monday, August 17, 2015

Acne Free Giveaway

Acne is one of the biggest skin challenges I face.  For years, I've had breakouts on my cheeks, forehead, and around my chin.  Not only does it look unattractive, it makes you feel self conscious too.  I've experimented with so many different acne products over time.  I've realized that some provide me with success, while some don't work at all.  Wouldn't it be nice to eliminate acne for good and get that self-confidence back?



The Acne Free 24 Hour Clearing System will provide you with the acne relief that you've been dreaming of.  Did you know that one in five women between the ages of 25 to 40 suffer from adult acne? It's time to disconnect yourself from that statistic.  This convenient daily regimen is composed of three steps; an oil purifying cleanser, renewing toner, and repair lotion.  The system features advanced micro-benzoyl which works fast and penetrates deep into pores.  The advanced formula continues to work even after you're doing washing your face--continuously releasing acne busting ingredients throughout the day to help you clear your acne! 



It's time to conquer acne for once and for all.  Kick it to the curb and have that self-confidence shine through.  First impressions are meaningful and it's time to make yours one that people remember for your personality, not your acne.





Sunday, August 16, 2015

iCoffee Review

There's just about a month left of summer and fall will be knocking on our doors before we know it. It's hard to believe, isn't it? When the temperatures drop, we reach for a satisfying mug of coffee, hot chocolate, or tea to keep warm.  I know a rich and sweet cup of hot chocolate is always on my agenda during the cooler months of the year.  Hot coffee goes hand in hand with entertaining this holiday season.  There's nothing better than fabulous conversation and coffee with your loved ones. 


The iCoffee brewer is a single-serve brewer that offers coffee fans the freedom of using any single-serve K-Cup.  With the patented SpinBrew technology, you'll be able to enjoy premium quality taste without having to sacrifice the convenience or speed of a hot single-serve cup of coffee.  This sleek and modern black machine would look perfect on anyone's kitchen counter.  Delight your guests tastebuds with a steaming hot cup of hazelnut coffee, or chamomile tea with a slice of cheesecake.  Since you'll be able to use K-Cups with the brewer, there will be endless beverage options for you to enjoy.  If you're looking for a birthday or Christmas present for a friend or family member, an iCoffee brewer would make the perfect gift.

My current single-cup coffee brewer was on its last legs.  It was performing poorly and making a cup of coffee each day was a struggle that I was growing tired of.  When the opportunity to review a new machine was presented to me it was perfect timing.  Since my last brewer took K-Cups I welcomed the fact that I wouldn't have to spend more money on buying a different version of coffee pods. I would be able to use what I already have which is convenient.  

This iCoffee Opus brewer belongs in every kitchen

Can you imagine anything more beautiful than the iCoffee Opus brewer sitting on your countertop? You'll surely smile every time you walk into your kitchen each morning.  Who wouldn't smile for a cup of hot and satisfying coffee though?

The black brewer is very compact and doesn't take up much room on my countertops which is great.  I had no issues setting it up and in minutes it was ready to brew a delicious cup of joe.  A sample pack of K-Cups came with my brewer and I enjoyed having some different options to try.  Yesterday morning I had a cup of Tim Horton's original blend coffee with a few splashes of hazelnut creamer.  Was it good? That was an understatement.  It was truly a fabulous cup of coffee and I have to remember to buy a box of those K-Cups! The coffee came out hot and steaming and the rich aroma blanketed my kitchen like a warm hug.  It reminded me of being in a diner on a Saturday morning and enjoying comfort food like waffles or pancakes with coffee.

Once it gets cooler outside, I'm going to experiment with different flavor options and make a cup of hot chocolate and add a little mint, or add cinnamon to my coffee.  It's always important to switch something up so you don't get tired of it.  Coffee excitement should be something everyone has daily!

I'm very excited that I now have a new brewer in my kitchen and can enjoy coffee at a touch of a button.  Everyone should have that luxury.  If you're looking to add some great taste to your mornings, it's time to introduce iCoffee into your life and your taste buds.

*DISCLOSURE* Thank you to iCoffee for providing me with a brewer in order to facilitate this post.  All thoughts are strictly my own. 
Wednesday, August 12, 2015

T-Fal Review and Giveaway

I have an unhealthy obsession with all kitchen items.  It doesn't matter if it's a muffin pan, a blender, or a spatula, I love everything equally.  I had more fun than most when creating my wedding registry. Seeing all of the kitchen items on my list made my eyes light up like the fourth of July!  I was truly like a kid in a candy store. Cooking is something I truly enjoy, and I'm always on the lookout for the newest and hottest kitchen appliances.  Having quality kitchen items and appliances in your kitchen is a must-have.

T-Fal is a manufacturer of non-stick cookware, small kitchen appliances, and housewares.  Their pots and pans provide quality results when cooking your favorite meals. If you're looking for small kitchen appliances, how does a toasters, deep fryers, electric kettle or pressure cooker sound?.  T-Fal makes high quality irons as well to keep your clothes looking their best.  Keep them in mind for your son or daughter's dorm at college for back to school season.  Whatever you need to furnish your new home with, T-Fal is there for you.

Back to school season is upon us.  I'm sure many parents are happy for the break and to have routine and structure back in their lives, but this time of year can be hectic.  You're shuttling kids around from one activity to the other while trying to balance homework and everything else.  It can be difficult to have the time and energy to prepare meals.  T-Fal is hosting a social media back to school photo contest from 8/10-9/7.  The brand encourages you to use the hashtag #TFalBack2School and take a picture of a room in your house that needs the most help getting organized for back to school season.  Share the photo across Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for a chance at a grand prize of T-Fal products and a Visa gift card valued at $1,000!  Five lucky runner-ups will receive T-Fal products to help them clean and organize their homes.  

Let's face it, my current pots and pans set has seen better days.  I mean it's really, really old.  It's been time to replace it for some time now.  I do a lot of cooking so it's important that my cookware set be at the top of its game. I've heard excellent things about T-Fal's pots and pans and have been meaning to try them.  I was very fortunate when a set of T-Fal's Excite 14 Piece Cookware came my way.  Not only was the set shiny and new but it was in a gorgeous berry color too!  I couldn't wait to try it out and make something that would make my belly happy.

Have you ever seen anything more beautiful in your life? What a work of art! This set includes one large sauce pot, one small frying pan, one medium sauce pot, one big frying pan, one small sauce pot, a set of measuring spoons, and an adorably small frying pan.  Not only do I absolutely love the color, but I love how lightweight each item is too.  Nobody wants to cook with heavy pots and pans that you can barely lift.  One awesome bonus about this set is that it's dishwasher safe! Most pots and pans would be destroyed if you put them in the dishwasher, but now clean-up will truly be a breeze.

My kitchen cabinets were very excited to meet their newest family members.  It was so nice getting rid of my old pots and pans and having a brand new set to put in its place.  I used the set for the first time last night and made a delicious pasta dish for my husband and I.  The large frying pan cooked the turkey sausage while the large saucepot was for the pasta.  The sausage cooked quickly and evenly and I was so pleased to see that nothing stuck when I was done.  Sometimes I have pasta stick to the bottom of my pot but this was not the case with this pot.  Everything came out easily and smoothly.  What a nice change from what I'm used to! The non-stick feature is life-saving and lets you enjoy every last bite of what you cooked.

Yes, it's okay to lick your screen.  Go for it. 

I'm very satisfied with the quality of T-Fal's excite line and am so happy to have them in my home now.  Once dinner was over, we put everything in the dishwasher and were able to spend quality time together instead of washing dishes.  What a change from our normal post-meal clean-up.  

I can't wait to use the cookware set in the near future to cook everyday favorites as well as trying my hand at new recipes.  I know that the results will not only be tasty but cooked excellently thanks to T-Fal.

If your'e looking to spice up your kitchen, it's time to bring T-Fal into your life.  




Tuesday, August 11, 2015

No Summer is Complete Without Mike's Hard Lemonade #MikesVIP

*DISCLOSURE* This post was sponsored by Mike's Hard Lemonade.  As always, opinions are my own.  

Can you believe it's already August? I definitely can't.  It feels like it was just the beginning of summer, and Fall is now around the corner.  Pretty soon we'll be wearing Fall jackets and summer will be just a fond memory.



Summer is certainly a magical season.  It's the one time of year where it's okay to be carefree and soak it all in.  Everyone is outside enjoying fun in the sun and happy to kick back at a pool or the beach.  Some of my fondest memories revolve around having pool parties in my backyard when I was a kid.

No summer is complete without the taste of a cool and refreshing Mike's Hard Lemonade though.  If you didn't know, the brand has recently launched their new Flavors of America variety pack.  This mouthwatering pack features lemonade, black cherry, peach, and apple flavors from across the country.  Black cherry sounds fantastic and I'd pick that flavor any day. When you have a Mike's in hand, it'll definitely be a memorable time. Whatever flavor you choose, your stomach will surely be doing a happy dance.

Most of our summer memories revolve around backyards.  Whether we're having a block party with our closest neighbors, entertaining family, or throwing a summer BBQ, it's true everything memorable happens in the backyard.  Set up the patio furniture and get ready for a night of fun and laughs! Who wouldn't want to be surrounded by delicious food, fun conversation, and Mike's Hard Lemonade? That's the kind of party I want to be at!

If you're thinking of hosting a BBQ or summer soiree in the near future, have you thought about what you'll serve? Start by grilling the juiciest steak and hamburgers that will make your guests drool.  Follow that up with hot buttered corn and pasta salad to delight your company's tummy.  You can't forget a decadent dessert to end the event either.  If you really want to get the party going, Mike's Hard Lemonade should make a prime appearance.  After all, it's not a true party without Mike's! 

My husband and I recently went on vacation to Cape Cod.  We packed a Flavors of America variety pack with us to enjoy while there.  When our daughter slept, we were able to sit outside of our hotel room and indulge in a delicious beverage while taking in a gorgeous view of the bay.  My husband loved the apple flavor while I partook in black cherry.  Having a tasty drink to sip with a gorgeous view in front of you was certainly one of the highlights of our trip.   Being able to partake in adult conversation is always a plus too.  That refreshing fruit taste can't be beat after a hot day in the sun.

Sit back and relax and let Mike's help you unwind

After Scarlett went to bed tonight, we decided to sit outside on our patio furniture and enjoy some chips and salsa with Mike's on the side.  What a winning combination, don't you think? That icy cold cranberry flavor cannot be beat.  We loved not only sharing a tasty snack and beverage but spending quality time together too.  That's what the summer is all about. 
A snack that will make your belly happy

The one and only

Since summer only comes once a year, it's important to make these special months count.  Don't worry, there's till time to get in a family trip or gather around the pool with your best buds.  However you do it, make sure Mike's is invited to the party! 

Monday, August 10, 2015

Using Period Pads in Untraditional Ways #RecycleYourPeriodPad


Most women who have given birth or are over the age of 30 have LBL, or light bladder leakage.  You might have to deal with it in uncomfortable ways such as coughing, laughing, or sneezing.  It affects more women than we realize and of course is one of those topics that we find embarrassing.  Most ladies think that they need to use period pads for their LBL, but in reality you don't.



Poise Pads offer bladder control liners and pads for when you need the most.  Poise doesn't want you to be ashamed of this condition and is there for you always. Why not head over to there website today to get a free sample? That will certainly come in handy.  Of course you may end up with some extra pads leftover, and I have some interesting and useful ways to repurpose them.


Here are some great ways to #RecycleYourPeriodPad

1. Use as a duster.  Spray the inside of the pad and wipe away pesky dirt from your tabletops and surface areas.  You can also use a pad as a furniture polisher too

2. Clean up messy spills.  If you have a baby like me, having something to wipe up messes is always needed in my book

3. A must in a first-aid kit.  Keep a few pads in your first-aid kit for cuts and abrasions.  The pads also work well for using as compresses too.

What are some of your favorite ways to #RecycleYourPeriodPad? I bet you have tons.  Don't be held back by light bladder leakage! Also, don't forget to request your free sample either! 




Saturday, August 8, 2015

Scarlett 8 Month Old Update

Tomorrow, Scarlett is officially 8 months old! Can you believe it? In just four months, she'll be a year old! Time is flying by.

The last time I gave you an update on her was her 6 month update.  She's doing way more things now and is so fun.


Scarlett is crawling and can easily go wherever she wants to now and get into plenty of things that aren't for her.

She is teething and has two teeth coming in on the bottom.  They seem to be taking a very long time to come through her gums, but it should be any time now.


Scarlett LOVES to play peekaboo and will crack up whenever you play it with her.  You have to be careful because she gets so into it that it can be dangerous.  We were playing it in the bath the other day and she was so excited about it that she fell and hit her head.  It was a little ridiculous, but the girl loves that game!

Bath time is a favorite.  She loves to play and splash for as long as you let her.  We're big on bath toys and she also loves when you make her bath pink with the colored tablets.


We're on a schedule now.  For the past two months Scarlett sleeps from 7-7.  She has 3 solid meals a day and 3 bottles.  I'm SO happy to be done with night feedings!!!!!! She loves to eat but isn't big on trying things that she hasn't previously had.  For instance today, she tried hummus and hated it.  Sometimes it's just the texture though and if we try again she's fine with it.  

She's still usually a very happy baby.  When she's sad though she becomes hysterical.  

We're in the midst of planning Scarlett's first birthday party and I am beyond excited!

Halloween is approaching and I can't wait to dress her up and take her trick-or-treating.  She's going to be a pumpkin this year.  So fun!

Scarlett also loves to play with toys and spends hours playing in her playroom. She still loves her ballpit too.

I'll have another update for you at 12 months!




Thursday, August 6, 2015

Netflix #StreamTeam Alert August 2015: The Final Countdown

For many parents, the first day of school is here or quickly nearing.  I'm sure your children are eagerly picking out back to school clothes, along with school supplies too.  There's always a mix of sadness and excitement when summer ends.  Parents are grateful for the break and to have a routine again.



My eight month old daughter Scarlett won't be going to school for some time.  I'm happy to have her home and be able to spend as much time with her as possible.  I know that dreaded day will come where I'll have to drop her off at preschool, and then at kindergarden.  I'll be sad because she's growing up, but I'll also be proud of her accomplishments and future developments.  I've recently thought about how I can't picture having conferences with her teacher, or seeing her walk down a hallway with a backpack on, but I know that day isn't as far off as I think.



It wasn't too long ago that I was in school myself.  I remember shopping for back to school clothes and purchasing new binders and folders.  Of course no child wants summer to end, but school inevitably has to come.  Seeing your friends and catching up on their summer adventures was always something I looked forward to.  My fingers were always crossed that there would be no homework on the first day back! 

Netflix knows that parents let their kids get away with plenty during the summer break.  Once school is back in session, it's time to revv up that education! A little help from some fantastic Netflix shows and movies can help them ease back into the school routine while disguised as fun. 

I'm sure the older kids are dreading math tests and science reports.  The brand new Netflix original series; Project Mc2 which premiers on August 7th proves smart is the hottest back to school trend.  The show features four super cool teen spies who show how girls can use their science smarts and math problem-solving skills to save the world.  Bet those subjects aren't so lame now after all! 

Younger kids can let their imaginations soar and enjoy such programming as Reading Rainbow, Magic School Bus, and The Cat in the Hat Knows a lot About That.  These fun shows will get those noggins working overtime!

It's not always easy to transition kids into the back to school mindset.  Hopefully Netflix will be able to be that guiding light!


Sunday, August 2, 2015

Cape Wind Resort Review

When I picture summer, I envision lazy days spent with family and friends.  The kind of days where you lounge at the pool with a tall glass of ice cold lemonade, or go on a family vacation.  Everyone enjoys being outside and enjoying fun in the sun.  I always feel that the best memories are made in the summer.  When's the last time you went on a family vacation? The summer isn't over just yet, go ahead and plan one today.



Cape Wind Resort is a beautiful, secluded waterfront resort in Falmouth, Cape Cod that overlooks the bay.  This is not an ordinary hotel by any means.  The well-mainained grounds are bursting with beautiful flowers with plenty of activities to do.  Enjoy a leisurely dip in the pool, or go kayaking in the bay with their complimentary kayak rentals.  The spacious grounds are perfect for kids and dogs to run and play in while you sit back and watch from a comfortable bench.  

Once you go inside, you're greeted by a large room with a kitchenette and ample closet space.  The backdoor access allows you to step outside onto the grounds to let the fun begin. You also get gorgeous views from the dock of the bay too.  The hotel is centrally located to everything you could need from restaurants and shops and even downtown Falmouth.  If you're looking for a wonderful place to relax and unwind, Cape Wind Resort is waiting for you.  

I'd never been to Cape Cod before, but had always heard wonderful things about it.  Going to a place that offers beaches and delicious seafood? Count me in! We decided to head to Falmouth on Friday afternoon to stay until today (Sunday).  From the minute my husband and I pulled onto the street for Cape Wind, we knew it would be an enjoyable stay.  The flowers lining each side of the street up until you pulled into the parking lot were gorgeous! I'd never stayed at a cape style motel before, but it was very charming.  There are 41 units and each are different, some have a kitchenette and some don't.  Also some might have twin, queen, or king beds depending on your preference. The cape style motel units are all connected and stretch into 3 different rows on the property.  They reminded me of something you'd see in a movie.  Their charm and character definitely was recognized.


All of the staff from the minute we checked in were very friendly.  Our room was adorable and I've never been in a hotel room with such ample closet space.  It was bigger than our closet at home! Inside the room was an extensive guide to the town with every activity, restaurant, and shop you could need.  There was a map next to it which was very helpful and came in handy during our trip.

Scarlett says, I made it to Cape Cod! 

If you're staying at Cape Wind for a week or so with your family, eating out can become very costly.  The kitchenette comes in handy and offers many cabinets for storing food as well as a stovetop, oven, and fridge.  I'm not sure I've ever seen an oven offered in a kitchenette before.  You can make some tasty meals in your room and save money for yourself.  Bowls, plates, cups, and utensils are all in the cabinets waiting for you to use.  Don't worry about where to sit as there are tables and chairs in your room.





Our room was very clean and well-maintained.  Our bed was very comfortable and cozy.  My daughter Scarlett enjoyed sleeping in her pack and play next to us.  The flat screen TV had every channel you could want and we watched some at night after Scarlett went to bed.  Luckily, we had beautiful weather the whole weekend.  


When you stay at Cape Wind, you're only a few miles from the beach which is very convenient.  My family and I went on Saturday morning and had a great time.  My advice is go early before it gets too hot and then come back to the room to shower and go check out the town.

My husband rented a kayak on while Scarlett and I took a dip in the pool.  He had a great time and said the water was calm and the skies were sunny.  What more could you want when you're kayaking? The water in the pool was cool and refreshing and Scarlett seemed to enjoy it too.  There was plenty of lounge chairs available for anyone who wanted to lay out.  




The backdoor room access in our room was great because it lead you outside to the main grounds.  Once you're outside, you have a full view of everything going on plus there are chairs outside to sit in.   The resort seemed to be very popular and there was always people coming and going and many cars in the parking lot.  I can see why it's a popular place! 

My husband and I really enjoyed our stay at Cape Wind and felt truly relaxed from our time in Falmouth.  If you're looking to unwind and enjoy the lazy days of summer, this is certainly the place for you.  I highly recommend it if you're in the Cape Cod and Falmouth area of Massachusetts anytime soon.

*DISCLOSURE* Thank you to Cape Wind Resort for providing me with a complimentary stay in order to facilitate this post.  All thoughts are strictly my own.