For the Kiddos

Sassy summer Mama

Even though it’s easy to start getting the ho hums about summer whizzing by (have you seen the back-to-school commercials?) the reality is that summer is most definitely NOT over. In fact, we have an entire glorious month to go! And since the kiddos are still hanging at home (and parents/babysitters are likely running out of ideas and inspiration to keep them entertained) I thought today would be the perfect day to have a Summer Inspired For the Kiddos post. So round up the lovely littles in your life, check out the goodies below and let’s make the most of this August!

* Paper plates have never looked so good!

I love doing craft projects with little kids, especially ones that they can easily execute on their own. These 20 paper plate projects from Spoonful are low maintenance, low cost, and absolutely adorable. Sounds like the perfect children's activity no!? Pin ‘em HERE or visit the full site HERE.

* Close by and Hands Free

This gem comes from the supermom of my adorable niece and nephew (aka my sister-in-law) and I think you’re gonna LOVE it. Have you heard of the Go-Pod? If you haven’t, this easy to pack, pop-up and use contraption is perfect for your littlest babes who just want to be nearby and have a great view for the family BBQ, evening at the beach, or picnic in the park. Sold everywhere, the Go-Pod just might become your go-to for the 4-months and up member of your posse.

* Stylin' Summer Outfits

There are few things more adorable than babies in rompers; but I think babies in printed rompers might be one of them. I absolutely LOVE the collection of prints from Winter Water Factory, like those little fishies above or these anchors or maybe sailing ships? And while you’re shopping for baby clothes, don’t forget to check out what they carry for adults because those really are some sassy/fun prints!

* Deliciously Adorable

Stop right now- we have to go and make these Star Fish S’mores… that’s right, they’re S’MORES!! And while I confess this recipe is a bit more detail-oriented than what I typically go for, I think all you Betty Crockers’ out there should do it while the rest of us get inspired to make a simpler version (dip star-shaped sugar cookies in chocolate and then use the exterior instructions from there?)

* Make mealtime more merry!

How adorable is that plate? I just discovered that Shutterfly now has an entire home décor section including these fun plates that you can customize for the entire family (they remind me of those draw-on then bake-in-the-oven plates I made for all my grandparents as a kid!) These would make an adorable gift or how about a picnic perfect gingham and stripes combo for your own family!?  Let your kids help pick their favorite pictures and I guarantee dinner is about to get way more fun!

* Tips for Travelling with Littles

Summer vacations aren’t always easy when you have tiny travelers to contend with, but thankfully the always cheerful Naomi of Love Taza has some expert tips for hitting the road with kiddos while ensuring summer fun. From the obvious notes (be flexible with your schedule) to fun insider tips (cough up the $$$ for a centrally located hotel room to maximize time spent out and about), click HERE for Love Taza’s full list of tips.

Do you all have any fun summer plans? What do you do to keep the kiddos entertained on hot summer days?!

The end is near.

See you later alligator. 

(Note: I DO have a gator float & I WILL be laying on it this weekend)

I saw something tragic yesterday… I’m innocently walking down 6^th Avenue when there it was - a window display for Gap’s new “back to school/fall line”.  Fall. As in shorter days, good bye flip flops and hello outfits that involve more than 1 article of clothing. *Grooooooan* Even though I actually find fall to be a beautiful season, I don’t like thinking about it. I am a warm, sunshiney kind of gal.  So to combat the inevitable end of summer blues, I thought I would compile a “to do list” for the rest of the GREATEST SEASON of them ALL (does this count as plans?). Whether you’re an NYC’er like me or far across the country, be inspired to soak up the sunshine! Happy Weekend!!

1. Swim in the ocean. This is just about the warmest it’s going to get all summer. Time to stop wading and dive in.

2. Visit Coney Island. No more “I really want to go to Coney this summer”
3. Be barefoot. As much as possible.
4. Learn to use my soft serve ice cream maker (or at the very least, eat more soft serve ice cream)
5. Shop the end of season sales. No better way to end the summer than sporting all the trends (for half the price!)
6. Picnic in the park.
7. Kayak (it must be the Olympics, I’m feeling inspired)

8. Eat more lobster (and corn on the cob and watermelon)
9. Make my own Sangria (because those pinterest recipes aren’t going to make themselves!)
10. Stargaze. Lay in the grass and stare at the sky while the crickets serenade you.
11. (One more for good luck) Do a running jump into a pool, lake or other large body of water (because it's FUN!)

California dreamin...

Peace out homies.

By the time you read this, I will be at 30,000 feet, en route to the Pacific Ocean between my toes and amazing music in my ears. Thanks to awesome friends (who think up awesome wedding gifts) I am headed to the Coachella Music Festival. I get 24 hours in Santa Monica and then 72 hours in the desert rubbing elbows with celebrities while listening to some of my favorite musicians (more on them tomorrow!) It has all the makings of an absolutely perfect weekend getaway.

Even if you aren't on vacation these next few days, that doesn't mean you can't find something awesomely out of the ordinary to do! Here are a few mighty fine suggestions to get your imagination going:

* Get Sporty. Baseball season is underway and you know you've missed your team. Grab some cheap seats and go eat a hot dog OR if you're feeling more like a homebody, the NHL Playoffs kicked off last night and there are ridiculous matchups going on all weekend long (and go "drink from the Cup" in Times Square through Friday!)

* Sing and Dance. Coachella isn't the only show in town... there's live music happening everywhere, all the time, if you know where to look. Sonicliving and Tourfilter are two great sites for finding out about upcoming shows in your area. 

* Get Creative. If you're in the NYC area, I highly recommend checking out the BUST Magazine Craftacular and Food Fair. That's right, crafts AND foods... be still my heart.

* Play Outside. Spring is my favorite season for picnics because the temperature is really perfect - no sweaty cheese or warm wine. Pack up some goodies (Dr. H and I LOVE our picnic backpack) and venture into the great outdoors.