Rugrats + Royalty

Knee Deep in Foreign Waters...

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Tue, 05 Feb 2013 21:14:00 +0000

So much change is happening at the moment. Separation agreements, splitting of assets, selling my home, deciding where to live, buying a new home, organizing activities for the kids in this new city...wherever that may be. It's all so consuming. I'm trying to put the positive spin on it for the sake of the kids..."new" house, "new" rooms, "new" school, "new" friends. But I've acquired a {new} moniker that I haven't quite wrapped my head around yet...

--> --> --> --> --> SINGLE mom <-- <-- <-- <-- <--

I've been single before. That's not really new. But I haven't been single in {ages}. I was a long term relationship kinda gal so after the typical "teenage years boyfriends", I went out with only 3 guys from age 16 onwards. STBX (soon-to-be-ex) was (obviously) the last one + I started dating him when I was 19 years young. Add in the part about being a mom now (not to mention the whole 20-ish years later thing) + stepping back into the dating pool is like walking barefoot over hot coals...terrifying, enlightening + thrilling...all at the same time.

The perils of entering the dating world are multifold:

At this stage in life, most of my friends are married + are friends with friends that are married who are friends that are married...
For some odd reason, taking kids to a bar late at night is socially unacceptable.
Finding people to go to the bar with you when you do find an elusive babysitter can be as difficult as...well, refer to #1 {damn married people}
Those online dating sites are weird...case in point..."can I see your backstage?" was one message a friend received...{what does that even mean???}
Keeping up on current events so you don't seem like a dipwad when meeting someone is hard when you spend your days watching Caillou + Mickey Mouse Clubhouse
Those who you are interested in are already taken + those that show interest in you, you aren't attracted to
Those awkward moments when you don't know whether to "go for it" or if you're just feeling super lonely...ya...ugh.
The kids...yes, I am the {MOMfia}...I will go {ape shit} on you if you try to use the kids to make me like you more, cozy up to my kids + then disappear or do anything remotely asshole-ish around them
Have you seen Catfish? 'Nuff said.
You must go out all the time looking fabulous...yes, even to the grocery store...yes, to run to the drug store at midnight to get children's Tylenol...you never know who you are going to meet + just your luck that McSteamy will be at the drug store that night you decide to say "fuck it" + head out in your ripped yoga pants, baby throw-up stained shirt + curlers in your hair.

Don't get me wrong, I'm {sometimes} excited about the prospects of being wined + dined...I actually experienced, for the first time, someone holding open the car door for me {yay!} But I've also been to the same {circus} before + I am {not} interested in playing your carnival games...I'm older, I'm wiser + moms just don't put up with shit.

So, if any potential suitors are reading this...cut the crap...tell me you like me, take me for dinner, hold open doors + be polite...treat me like you'd want someone to treat your daughter...+ maybe we can navigate these rough waters together.

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Dreams

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 21:00:00 +0000

When I was thinking about an idea for a post, it came to me in the middle of the night. You see, friends, I am a vivid dreamer. I am, one of a few apparently, that has the terrific/horrible ability to remember my dreams. The one that I had that night was particularly vivid which hasn't happened to me in a while. I looked up the definition of dream on Wikipedia + found the following:

"Dreams are successions of images, ideas, emotions + sensations that occur involuntarily in the mind during certain stages of sleep."

This dream had everything in it...but the most dynamic portion of the dream was that I was crying throughout it + it was raining. So I looked up the meaning of both of the DreamMoods website:

"To dream that you are crying signifies a release of negative emotions. Your dream is a way to regain some emotional balance + to safely let out your fears + frustrations. In your daily lives, you tend to ignore, deny or repress your feelings. But in your dream state, your defense mechanisms are no longer on guard + thus allow for the release of those feelings."

"To see + hear rain falling symbolizes forgiveness + grace. Falling rain is also a metaphor for tears, crying + sadness. Alternatively, rain symbolizes fertility + renewal."

As I read the meanings, I nodded my head. That understanding moment when you just {get it}. All outstandingly fitting...all so true to life right now. It was still early hours when I awoke. I hadn't been asleep for more than an hour. But it resonated...it was {needed}. I think at that moment, things became more clear...that through the rain + the tears, I could see the sunshine...just slightly out of reach.

I fell back asleep quickly + it was a peaceful sleep. And I awoke the next morning feeling a bit more rejuvenated + ready to tackle...the early morning rush, the day at work + the wonderful new life that I am about to embrace.

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One Little Word

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 20:13:00 +0000

I discovered this phenomenon last year. I like it. I like that it isn't a nagging resolution always whispering in your ear but rather a change in the way you {live}. That each day could possibly become richer in meaning because of {one little word}. That I'm not sticking to a goal but rather a {change}...a change in perspective...a change in how I deal with others...a change in myself.

This has been a challenging year. A life changing year. A year that required a lot of perspective + reflection. I'm ready to move forward + I'm {excited} to move on + see what this {new} life has in store for me. Is it scary as all hell? Definitely. But I'm slowly beginning to believe that I am up for it...that I {can} do it. I'm determined to ensure that clarity is achieved this year in all aspects of my life. Since such a big chunk of my life + what I thought was important {to} my life became so unclear this past year that I'm intent on visiting {all} aspects of my life + focusing on what is important + what is not. So there it is...my {one little word} for 2013:

I will focus on the hunt for a new place to live + focus on making it a home for the {littles}. I will focus on making more time for friends + family in this busy life. I will focus on spending more time with the {littles}...playing, reading, listening. I will focus on sharing what I love to do + developing my business further. I will focus on {me}...making myself wholesome + complete after such a debasing year. Focus on living my life to its fullest potential. This year will be a year of change but I will not let it defeat me...in fact, I plan to come through this stronger...as a business owner, as a mother, as a friend but most of all, as me.

To celebrate + to help you on your journeys this year, I've created this free printable to share. Simply click on the link, print + enjoy:

Live life with focus!

Whatever your resolutions are this year, friends, I hope that you find ease in bringing them into your lives. Feel free to share yours in the comments section below.

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Christmas Musings

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Sun, 30 Dec 2012 04:05:00 +0000

Today has been a hard day friends so I thought "why not sit down with a cup of tea + a brownie + let the words escape onto the computer?" so that's exactly what I'm doing. First things first, how were your Christmases? My Christmas was good but it was also one that played heavily on my heart for many reasons.

This was my last Christmas in the Yellow Brick House + I love it so. This is the home that I brought my baby home to, in happier times, when the Rugrat was a fresh little. I have so many wonderful memories here + I love the cozy family room with its brick fireplace + the dreams that I had for this house. Still, I am trying to focus on the positive + am looking forward to moving to a new home + being able to decorate it the way that I want it to be. I'm dreaming of vintage treasures + a more monocromatic colour scheme. But it's still with a heavy heart that I know the Christmas tree won't ever have a spot in our gorgeous bay window at the front...I won't look out + see fresh fallen snow on our little bushes anymore.

This was our last Christmas as a "family". Traditional it wasn't, with everything that's going on, but we were all together. Christmases will now be dependant on what year it is...whether I have the {littles} on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. And that hurts my heart. Not because I want our family to be whole again...I'm way past that. But because I want life to stay as normal as possible for the {littles} + I know it will forever more be changed. And that hurts my heart.

I thought that I would be the bigger person + insisted to myself that I had to buy STBX (soon to be ex) a gift from the children. Because that was the right thing to do. Did we get him much? No. But we got him something to open on Christmas morning. In as much as this whole process has damaged me, I know that it has also made me stronger. But, damnit, did not another piece of my heart break when he didn't do the same for me. I would have liked to think that after 11 years of marriage + 16 years together that he would have been more thoughtful. His excuse was that I was hard to buy for + he promised me money {to which I've seen none but nevermind cause I don't want it thankyouverymuch}. Thank God for amazing parents who knew that STBX wouldn't come through + bought me two gifts to open from the {littles}.

So, this Christmas has been full of ups + downs, good times + bad times, full hearts + broken hearts. I'm trying to think of my "word" for 2013 + it's proving to be a difficult one. Something that I can really sink my teeth into because I need to be uplifted...I crave good in my heart. I've got a couple more days before I'll tell you what it is which is good because I need that time.

I hope that you all had good Christmases + that your hearts were full. Wishing you all nothing but the best for 2013.

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George's Cream Review

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 20:44:00 +0000

You know what I hate? In the winter when I'm digging on my favourite dark tights or leggings, looking all stylin betty...to look down + find "dandruff" on my legs. Double ugh. You know what I'm talking about...that dry flaky skin that actually horrendously makes its way through your tights to tell the World + everyone you work with that you are a scaly freak. Not so stylin betty. So let me introduce you to my new BFF:

Who is that guy? Well, friends, let me introduce you to George. George Doherty was asked by a dermatologist to make a moisturizing cream that was richer + more moisturizing than other commercially available creams. His challenge? Make it with less ingredients (less irritants), no lanolin or urea + fragrance free. Poor George spent countless nights in his kitchen creating just that.

"George's Cream + Moisturizing Lotion were created for lasting dry skin relief. Although there is no cure for many skin problems, George's provides relief from different types of skin symptomsand conditions. It works! That is why it is recommended by dermatologists, pharmacists and physicians. the therapeutic benefits of George's will provide immense relief for those suffering from many different conditions."

I was asked if I would like to receive a sampling of George's Cream to try at home + was then asked to write this review. I'll be honest...this is my first review + I was a bit skeptical. What if I hated it? And let's be real...it would take a miracle to turn this {daily scaly} into a {groovy smoothie}. I decided that what was best was to ensure that my readers were well informed whether I liked it or not...give the good or the bad. I have to tell you that I was pleasantly surprised by George's Cream! I received George's Light Special Moisturizing Cream that I used daily + used on the {littles} after their baths + George's Special Dry Skin Cream that I used on my daughter. Let me tell you the reasons that George is my new BFF:

George's Creams are made in Canada. Any time that I can support a business based out of my home country, I'm happy. It's important to sustain businesses based out of our own country to hold up our economy. And who isn't a sucker for a Canadian success story?

"George's products do not contain Urea, Lanolin or Parabens and have been specifically made to be hypoallergenic and fragrance free. Not tested on animals." As a mom, these points are important to me. The Princess is currently undergoing testing for allergies + we're having a hard time finding products that don't make her red, blotchy + itchy. One of the things that bothers her the most is that her feet become uncomfortably itchy after a bath {any ideas as to why from you, friends, would be helpful!} I'm happy to report that I put on George's Special Dry Skin Cream after she showered + there was LESS complaining about the itchy feet! Yay! It's like the Heavens parted!

I've eluded to my OCD tendencies before + applying cream is no different. Basically, I glob a good amount on my hands + then "dab" apply to each area + THEN rub it in. Know what I hate? When I apply it to my legs + put my leg down {to stand on} + it all runs down my leg...ugh. I'm pleased to say that George's Cream doesn't do this! They've saved the World! {Well, maybe not the World but definitely a pet peeve of mine!} George's Cream is thick but not gooey, sloppy thick. The "just right" consistency that doesn't run down your leg but doesn't leave you feeling like you're dripping in cream, know what I mean?

George's Cream is also very wallet friendly. Most creams that I've looked at that promise to be urea, lanolin, paraben free, hypoallergenic + fragrance free are super expensive! As a single mama of two, I'm pleased that George's Cream is affordable + safe enough to use on all 3 of us.

It works! Y'know those ~~not worth mentioning dry~~ skin flakes I talked about earlier? Using George's Light Special Moisturizing Cream daily, I found that they disappeared + my normally scally, dry, a man wouldn't touch me with a ten foot pole skin has been restored to a soft, healthy, smooth as a baby's bum texture.

Needless to say, I'm {very} pleased with the product + would continue to use George's Cream in our household.

George's Cream is pleased to now give YOU the chance to win some of their ~~save me from my scaly~~ skin creams! Enter below for your chance at winning a sampling of their creams to try. Contest closes on Monday December 10th, 2012. Please note that this contest is open to Canadian residents only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Dreaming Of...

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Thu, 29 Nov 2012 20:30:00 +0000

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...{sing along with me!} Christmas is my very favourite time of the year. I love the spirit of the season, the excitement of the {littles}, the arrival of our Elf, trimming the tree...everything about it! Lucky for me, being employed full time means that I have some holiday parties + dinners to attend. Today, I'm dreaming of these pretty pieces...a gorgeous sparkly outfit with pops of red...perfect for a Christmas party or even New Years Eve:

See the full look here: {ShopStyle}

Tell me friends...do you have a favourite holiday?

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What I Wore #4

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 19:46:00 +0000

Cardigan | T-Shirt {similar} | Jeans | Boots {similar} | Scarf {similar}

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A very personal post...

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Fri, 02 Nov 2012 14:48:00 +0000

This post is so very hard to write. It's so personal + daunting. I've prepared myself many times...sat down at my desk; hot tea in my mug, full of moxie + the words just wouldn't come out. I've resigned myself to the fact that it's happening but the pain of how if affects both the kids + I still lingers.

You see, my friends, my husband has asked for a separation.

The words came via text message on a lovely summer day in June. Yes, you did read that right...via text message. I was enjoying a day in Paris, Ontario with my kids + my parents when my world collapsed around me due to 5 words + the ability to hit the "send" button on an IPhone. My knees buckled, the tears started flowing + my Mom {love her!} whisked my kids into the ice cream shop to shield them from the visible anguish their mother was facing.

I won't lie + say that I didn't think things were bad between us at the time. We had just started seeing a marriage counselor to try + improve our marriage + from the first few sessions {we only had 2}, I thought we were both on the same page about trying to rectify things + had the rose coloured "but we still love each other + that will see us through" glasses on. We both had committed to repairing what was broken + the marriage counselor even seemed impressed at how "close" we were in our resolve to fix things. I've since, painfully, learned that those were all lies on the part of my other half + perhaps that's what hurts the most...that I was still in love with him but he wasn't with me...that I was too blind to see that.

We spent many weeks...my parents, his parents spend many weeks...trying to get to the heart of why he was doing this...why he was so intent on breaking up our family...what we could do to repair it. There were deep conversations, yelling, screaming, crying conversations. And there were lies...so many lies told...ones that we couldn't fathom were even true + ones that we did not know were true until long after the final decision had been made.

In the months that have followed, I've been astonished to learn that my life was so much of a lie. In no way do I want this to be a husband bashing, his fault, fuck him because he's an asshole post {even though I sometimes feel like screaming that from the rooftops + as many social media outlets as I can}. I've learned a lot about my husband + the man that I {thought} he was. There have been far too many lies, almost a double life being lead + constant "jabs" for attention + trying to get "one-up" on me. He has become a different person, one that I no longer admire...not the man that I knew, loved + married.

To make matters worse, he still lives at home. With us. In the basement. He wants to leave our family but hasn't left the home. It's hard, friends...really hard.

What remains is a mother intent on shielding her young, don't deserve any of this, kids from the pain of divorced parents. I am strong in my resolve that I won't let this affect them...that the pain + burden of this split is only on my shoulders. I am the adult. But truthfully, I know that I can't. And that, friends, is what {makes me cry at night} + is making me tear up at my desk right now. I love those two {littles} so god damn much + I know that this will not be easy on them. Fuck, it's not easy on me so I can't imagine how confused + unsure they are.

I made him tell them. The Princess was acting "off" + starting to ask questions relating to divorce so it was time. I made sure I was there so no blame was put on me but more specifically, that I could hug them + kiss them + tell them that things were going to be okay. That {we} were going to be okay. The Princess took it hard. The Rugrat felt the pain of his sister + reacted as so. Times since have been confusing + some things have been done that I find deceitful, hurtful. I do my best to stop these things before they happen, constantly shielding those {littles} from all that I can. I know they aren't feeing the true extent of the separation as yet because we're both still at home; we're still a normal looking family. I know the worst is yet to come.

And what about me, you ask? I'm okay. I've resigned myself to the fact that the man I married is not the same + therefore neither is our marriage. I've resigned myself to the fact that I had to get a full time job because I have to be able to provide for the {littles} + therefore have had to put my dreams on hold. I've resigned myself to that fact that I will have to move from our home that I love so very much. I've resigned myself to the fact that our family of 4 will now be a family of 3.

It still hurts. The pain is still fresh. Some days are easier that others. I try not to dwell on it + let it consume me because I have to be strong for the {littles}. I know the pain buries itself a little more each day. I know, with each passing day, that I am better off without him. But, it still hurts.

I have been so very lucky to have the most amazing friends through this terrible journey. They check on me, they love me, they care for me, they listen to me vent. And I've said many times how blessed I am to have parents so close + so supportive. Without them, I am certain I would be wearing a straight jacket right now. I know it will be okay. I know that we will survive. I know that we will be {happy}. But those things often feel so distant, like I can see them but just.can't.grasp.them.yet. I'm learning self worth when so much of it was knocked out of me that dreaded June day.

And so I sit. At my desk, hot tea in my mug, full of moxie + hesitate to hit "publish".

*sigh*

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Trend: Black + White

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 17:27:00 +0000

Happy Halloween week friends! A little something that you might not know about me is that I love fashion {those people that know I sit around in yoga pants all day...hush!} You could say that I'm a "closet" fashion lover. My favourite thing to do is check out high end pieces {that I secretly wish I could run from shop to shop + buy a la Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman} + finding similar pieces that are more affordable for people like me {that's the yoga pant crowd *chest thump*}. So, for you, my lovely dear readers, I've picked some fabulous splurgeworthy + stealworthy black/white pieces.

Enjoy!

P.S. Click on any of the pieces that you like to take you to the website where you can {online} purchase your own!

Black & White Splurge

Following the black & white trend, these pieces are splurge worthy!

Day Dresses
Heels

Black & White Steal

Following the black & white trend, pinch your pennies with these pieces!

Blazers
Heels

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A Day of Recollection

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Sat, 27 Oct 2012 02:16:00 +0000

Dear Austin,

Today is your 5th birthday + I find it hard to believe that it has been 5 years since you entered my life. I remember your labour + delivery well as it was one of the hardest things that I have ever gone through but it ended with the greatest reward. I spent too long at home enduring labour that by the time I got to the hospital, it was too late for me to have an epidural (all things you will know about in time) + I lost it. To make matters worse, I had a doctor with no bedside manner whatsoever. It was a scary hard birth but hearing you cry + finally meeting you made all the hardship of labour + delivery so worth it.

As you’ve grown, you’ve proven to be a true boy. Your mannerisms + playtime were always so different from your older sister through the years. Your love for cars + trains became evident early on + you haven’t swayed far from this today. You love to run + have an adventurous spirit. You have a good mind to know when to push the envelope + when to play it cool.

These past few weeks have been interesting watching you turn from a little boy to a boy. You have become more quizzical on a number of things asking me about Santa Claus + your Grandpa Stu where babies come from. I love that you’re starting to ask questions about the way the world works + always remember that gaining knowledge is never a bad thing.

I love watching you play with your toys. Your ability to play independently has always amazed me + I particularly love listening to the stories you tell. It makes me feel proud seeing you switch between an action figure fight + a gentle cuddle with a stuffie because I know it mimics your adventurous nature + your warm heart.

You are doing so well in school. I know that it’s tough being one of the smallest boys in your class but you take it with stride + continue to be one of the most popular in the class. The willingness to stand up for yourself + the other small boys in your class when you’ve been wronged is admiral. You are not afraid to tell the teacher (or me) about any issues that you have + you must always remember to do this. You are important + no one should make you feel otherwise. The work you bring home from school shows that you pay attention + that you are indeed learning + growing just as you should be. I love that you retain the information + your pure joy at showing me something that you’ve completed. The pride you take in your work is amazing to see + I’m hopeful that you’ll always feel this way.

Where do I start about the relationship with your sister? You know how I feel about the fighting + stuff so I won’t go on about that. I also know that, deep down; you have a love + admiration for her. You must know that she adores you + loves you so much. She truly is a wonderful big sister + you will grow to know that in time. She lets you get away with things that other sisters wouldn’t + I do catch glimpses of how much she means to you. Time will grow this bond deeper + always remember that you have each other. It is an important relationship to cultivate + grow.

I love watching you with your Grandpa Stu. This is another one of those relationships that should be cultivated. I see the admiration that you have for him + he is a great example of a wonderful man. You are lucky to have him so close + to be able to spend so much time with him. As I’ve mentioned before, your Papa (my grandpa) would have loved you so much. I truly believe that you are kindred spirits + that he watches over you from Heaven. I see many aspects of Papa in Grandpa Stu so with the both of them watching over you, I know you will be alright.

Finally, please never lose your sense of humour. I love so many things about you but this is definitely top of my list. You have an innate sense of knowing when something is funny + you are not afraid to laugh out loud. Whether it be a tickle fight or trying on Halloween masks at the store, your laugh brings me so much joy. You take life with laughter + never take anything too seriously + more people should adopt such an innocent, joyful way of life.

I hope the laughter continues year after year + I wish you so much today. You are loved. You are special. You are growing. Most of all, you are my little boy + I love you with my whole heart.

Happy Birthday son.

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Recent Works

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Sun, 21 Oct 2012 03:39:00 +0000

Hi friends!

I'm able to pop in for a minute to share a few recent designs from Twisted Thistle Designs. I can't stay long but I certainly hope to be back soon!

Defining Moments Collection:

I also had the pleasure of working with this gorgeous bride + groom:

Stunning, right? This is one of my favourite shots:

It shows their love for one another + the complete joy that everyone attending felt at seeing these two become husband + wife!

When I was asked to help create their seating chart, table numbers + menu cards, I was not only blown away but jumped at the chance! We went very classy...black + ivory + sparkles...to.die.for. Here are the amazing results:

It was so fun! I hope I get the opportunity to do more weddings in the future.

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Back to School Survival Kit

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 02:40:00 +0000

Hiya! I apologize for my absence around these parts lately. So much has been going on here that I will be sharing with you lovelies soon, promise. My hesitation is that it is a hard post to write + truth be told, I've sat down many times to write it but just couldn't get the words out. I'll get there...soon.

In the meantime, I wanted to share with you the Back to School Survival Kits that we made for the teachers for the first day of school. My inspiration came from Bee In Our Bonnet, a fabulous blog. We got all of our supplies from Dollarama so they were easy on the wallet too! We simply filled the "holes" with things like paperclips, pushpins, Post It notes, Starburst + then created a label on the cardstock. Added some Washi Tape, cute ribbon + twine + called it a success!

You may have missed out on "back to school" but what a great gift for Halloween or dare I say, Christmas!

The teachers loved them + the {littles} were so proud to make something so special for their new teachers! Beats the age old apple!

Nifty + Thrifty:

Plastic container - Dollarama - $1
Office supplies - Dollarama - approx. $7
Cardstock - already owned
Ribbon + Twine - already owned
TOTAL - $8 (each)

P.S. We included {this} printable from Thirty Handmade Days + were pleased to get the info back from all three teachers! Makes gift giving even easier! Thanks Mique!

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Gift for the Greatest Grandpa?

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Wed, 15 Aug 2012 15:12:00 +0000

Happy August friends! How has the summer been treating you? We've been having lazy days around here...playing with neighbours, splashing at the local pool, spending time with grandparents. Nothing rushed, nothing stressful...just peaceful + lazy...a perfect summer. We are planning a small trip to the USA for back to school shopping at the end of August which should be fun as the littles always love staying in a hotel!

We recently celebrated the birthday of my Dad. Now, I'll be honest, this is a tough one every year. What do you get this guy? He's retired, doesn't have any 'real' hobbies + you can't fall back on jewellry like I can for Mum. Then it struck me! Our local WalMart has a British section & they import all the goodies that he grew up with...Walkers Crisps, Tunnocks Snowballs & Caramel Logs, Walkers English Toffees + many more things that were childhood favourites. And it seemed so fitting seeing as the Olympics were being played in London (even though he's from Scotland). So, I grabbed a red bin & made a tag on the computer using the Union Jack as a background + created this:

The tag says Tastes of "home" treat basket + he LOVED it! Fist pump! Score one for most awesomest daughter in the world!

So, if you're ever stuck for a gift + you know the person has some heritage in a different country, why not head to your local international aisle + put together a thoughtful little gift basket?

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Summer Science Fun

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Thu, 19 Jul 2012 19:46:00 +0000

Do you ever have those weeks where it seems like your a posting maniac? Well, that seems to be this week for me...I don't think I've posted this much before but it's been a good distraction for me. As mentioned below, we have different activities for the days that we're home this summer...laid back, not kept to a perfect schedule...just fun activities that I think of loosely based on the guide below.

Lucky for me, this summer science fun came on a great day! Our neighbour was away for the day so the littles had no one to play with + they loved this activity!

And it was simple, friends! Holla! I bought the pans/turkey baster/baking powder/white bowls at Dollarama. I had the food colouring + vinegar so this fun activity cost me $4...uh, yes please! Add to that, a bit of a lesson on science + it was a perfect plan!

{the littles mesmerized!}

{I could just *die* they are so cute, my littles}

Want to try it with your littles? Here's the deets:

Ingredients Needed:

square flat bottomed pan
baking powder
vinegar
food colouring (optional - I found it bubbled + rose more as plain vinegar)
little bowls
eye dropper/turkey baster

Directions:

put the baking powder in the bottom of the pan as level as possible
add vinegar to each bowl + add a few drops of food colouring for fun
have the kids suck up the vinegar in the eye dropper/turkey baster + pour into the baking powder + watch the magic happen

Come back + share your pictures if you try this, won't you?

I participate in the link parties found HERE

Cinnamon Sugar Marshmallow Crescent Rolls

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Tue, 17 Jul 2012 19:40:00 +0000

I've been trying to keep the littles on a bit of a {summer schedule} with different activities scheduled for each day of the week...keeps their minds engaged + keeps this mama from going insane at hearing "I'm bored" fifty million times in the span of 1 hour! So we try & do something special every day following this example:

Monday - baking day
Tuesday - arts & crafts
Wednesday - scientist in training
Thursday - library
Friday - outdoor activity

This is definitely not a set schedule but at least we have "something" to do each day in case of the dreaded "I'm bored" for the upteenth time!

So, for baking day on Monday, I wanted something easy that both littles could participate in. I found this easy baking activity from Paging Supermom + it looked super yummy too...score!

Ingredients Needed:

Pillsbury Cresent Rolls
Mini Marshmallows
Cinnamon Sugar

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375
Line cupcake tin
Cut (premade) triangles from Crescent Rolls + place triangle over each cupcake liner
"Fill" with handful (5-6) mini marshmallows
Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top
Fold in Crescent Rolls so they make little pastries
Sprinkle more cinnamon sugar on top
Bake for 10 minutes
Let cool & enjoy!

They are definitely a bit rich + obviously not a healthy option but they were fun + easy to make + the kids loved them! I think they'd be delightful topped with some fresh fruit + whipped cream as well!

Let me know if you try them out!

I participate in the link parties found HERE

Freshly Pinned.

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Sun, 15 Jul 2012 14:00:00 +0000

(1) Ballerina Project via Rebeca L

(2) The Small Things Blog via Kendra M

(3) Urban Outfitters via Lindsay S via Amy G

(4) Kiel James Patrick via {my original pin}

(5) Design Editor via Lindsay S

(6) 52 Kitchen Adventures via Jennifer G

I participate in the link parties found HERE

What I Wore #3

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Thu, 12 Jul 2012 21:12:00 +0000

Friends, my apologies for not being here lately. Things at home have been less than stellar. I'm not ready to go into great detail about it but it's been difficult...let me tell you. I hope to one day be able to share my story in the hopes that it will help others but I'm just not quite there yet, know what I mean?

In the meantime, I hope to be able to get back to a more constant presence here on the blog + share things that we're doing throughout the summer. The littles have had quite the adventures so far & we're only a few weeks out of school. I'm back today with another {What I Wore} installment because, moreso now than ever, I'm trying to keep up with making sure I'm not leaving the house in my yoga pants + sweatshirt!

Shoes: Winners - $10

Skirt: Winners - $20

Shirt: can't recall - approx. $10

Chambray Shirt: Old Navy - $30

Scarf: bought as a gift

Bangles: thrifted - approx. $2-4

I have to tell you this has become one of my favourite outfits...the grey skirt + chambray skirt. I use it with different shirts underneath...with + without scarfs...I also have a similar black skirt that I use as well. However, I should mention that my hunt for a maxi DRESS has been pffffffffffft. Let me know if you have any suggestions friends.

I participate in the link parties found HERE

Instagrammed

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Thu, 31 May 2012 14:00:00 +0000

I participate in the link parties found HERE

What I Wore #2

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Wed, 30 May 2012 02:23:00 +0000

Hello friends! How is your week moving along? I hope that you're enjoying the beautiful weather like we are! Here's another look at {What I Wore} recently:

I'm wearing a grey & white thin striped shirt, cable knit black shirt, black leggings, jean jacket blazer, black boots + pink pashmina. I, unfortunately, can't give you a lot of details on this outfit as I've had the pieces for some time. I only remember where I got the leggings + boots + they are the same ones as I wore in {What I Wore #1}.

I hope that you have decided to join me on this being more accountable journey...if you have, I'd love to see your posts...please share your links in the comments below!

Sending you all a giant squishy hug!

I participate in the link parties found HERE

What I Wore #1

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Thu, 17 May 2012 02:56:00 +0000

We have a snail in our house. The littles have decided that we need a pet + apparantly, our cat isn't good enough for them. They found said snail after a rainstorm + immediately insisted that I take him in. His {?} name is Cuckoo meanwhile, I'm thinking I'm the one that's cuckoo for letting this creature into our house. Every morning the kids check on him to make sure he's okay + every morning I check on him to make sure he didn't escape from his house. While I'm not happy with Cuckoo living with us, to see the littles so excited about him makes me smile.

I'm going to let you in on a little secret...I'm exhausted. These past few weeks have been completely nuts! My "real" job has been crazy but I've certainly been getting a lot of hours which pads the bank account a bit more. Have I mentioned there's a SNAIL in my house? Twisted Thistle Designs has been blowing up {thankfully!} + I absolutely love being able to provide for my family doing something that I enjoy so much. It has been a blessing in my life + I hope to be able to bring people joy through my work for some time. On top of all that, I've frantically been trying to find + secure a recital location for the dance studio. I'm hoping that things slow down soon.

I made a {big girl} decision in the last few weeks. I want to like myself more. So often, we, as women, beat ourselves up over the smallest things...my nose is too big, my cooking sucks, I need to get rid of this Buddha belly {that's mine}. So I've decided to give myself {permission} to like myself. To help with this, I also want to be more accountable for what I look like. Too often, I'm sitting at home wearing yoga pants + my favourite comfy sweatshirt {like now!} And let's be honest...what woman doesn't like to look good because that simply translates into feeling good. To help in facilitating this "being more accountable" thing, I will be periodically posting pictures of when I feel I'm looking pretty good...it will be a new posting series called What I Wore. I'm also a shopper on a budget, so I'll let you know where the clothes are from + the cost {if I can remember!) So here's the first one:

Sweater: Ross Dress for Less - approx. $8

Shirt: H&M - approx. $7

Leggings: H&M - approx. $10

Boots: Ross Dress for Less - approx. $16

Bracelets: thrifted - approx. $5

Friends, what has been going on with you? I've missed you all so.

I participate in the link parties found HERE

Summertime Favourites

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 14:00:00 +0000

The past few days have certainly been dreary around here...lots of rain + grey skies. I'm longing for the warmth of the sun + wearing sandals again so today I'm showing off some of my favourite things for summer...most pieces are under $50 too so chic on a budget!

What do you think? I'm particularly loving that anorak + those shoes so I think I need a trip to Buffalo soon to visit Kohl's + Target!!!

Source Guide --- Nail Polish - Bangles - Shoes - Anorak - Dress - Tote

I participate in the link parties found HERE

The latest...

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 18:36:00 +0000

Whew! Glad that I finally caught a minute to get on here + catch up with all of you! I've missed you so + writing for myself...it's so cleansing for my soul. My new business is off to a booming start {hurrah!} + I am so pleased that people like my work! I have such fun designing them + I love days like today where both littles are in school, hubby is at work + I can sit up in my office + create.

You will have to excuse me if you're visiting some of my old posts + the pictures aren't there. I logged on to my trusty Photobucket account today to learn that they recently inked a deal with Pixlr + got rid of FotoFlexer...I'm not pleased. I find the new Pixlr editor difficult to figure out + it seems to run slow on my computer + I'm frustrated so I've had to organize some blog photos from the past to better store new ones on my computer so into the "delete" pile they went. If anyone has a great photo editing/online storage system please let me know! Right now for editing I'm using Pic Monkey which I love for ease of use!

Now that all that is explained, how was your Easter, friends? Ours was simple + low-key...just the way that I like it. My parents came over on Saturday as they were leaving Monday for Britain + brought the littles some treats. The Easter Bunny found our house on Sunday morning + left a few chocolates + a few toys...nothing overly extravagent as in past years. I did do something creative for the children...I made these:

Meet Stripes + Blargyle {my names for them...the littles definitely changed them!} I found the instructions on how to make them {so easy!} on Lil Blue Boo. First of all, if you haven't hopped {pun intended} over there to read Ashley's story, you must. She's inspiring, courageous, gorgeous + talented...she's a pretty amazing gal. Please head over + show her some love! The littles loved their sock bunnies + they currently perch inside their beds for easy cuddling!

We've also been at the park numerous times:

Our weather has been unreal {minus the called for 3cm of snow today...huh?!?} + we all love getting outside!

Finally, the Rugrat has had some pretty big milestones this month...we finished off swimming lessons:

He's definitely become a fish! The complete 180 he's done from being petrified, crying + shaking on Day One to the underwater, sliding down slides, jumping off the edge, swimming from one end to the other fish has made me proud + a little teary. He also lost his first tooth {that didn't have to be pulled out by a dentist} + first visit from the tooth fairy.

It's been busy here, that's for sure! I've got a few new posts coming up sharing some summer favourites + a guide for teaching your littles the value of money {works for us anyway!} so stay tuned!

I participate in the link parties found HERE

Happy Easter + Happy Me!

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Sat, 07 Apr 2012 03:34:00 +0000

How are you doing, dear friends? I hope that things are going well for all of you. I must apologize for my absence lately. Things have been crazy here in the yellow brick house but I couldn't be happier!

The Princess + the Rugrat are doing so well...they are both absolutely loving + thriving in school, they are both little fishes at their swimming lessons {so sweet!} + we've had glorious weather that has allowed us to get outside + relish in some Vitamin D!

As Easter is upon us, I am so thankful for all of this. I love the renewal that Spring brings...bike rides, longer days to play, less bundling up + more giggles before school.

I also started a new business, Twisted Thistle Designs {I hope you'll become a fan!} You can also find examples of my work there if you are interested. While the design aspect makes me giddy, it is the friendships that have occured that have surprised {+ delighted} me more! Strangers are emailing me with love for my new business, even offering to advertise for me! The kindness of other female/mom entrepreneurs has made my heart swell! I have also been blessed with many customers in the first few weeks of officially launching + I have loved designing pieces for their homes!

I do hope that you'll check out my page + become a fan too but more than that, I hope that you all have a blessed Easter weekend + are feeling the joy that I am this holiday weekend!

xoxo

I participate in the link parties found HERE

Instagrammed

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Sun, 11 Mar 2012 20:00:00 +0000

The sun peeking through the clouds…what a glorious “winter” we’ve had!

Fun lunches for Valentine’s Day…

Crazy hair day for Spirit Week at school

Getting in a scrap with the tree branches in the front garden…poor wee fella…

The sun peeking through the trees at the end of the day…

I might be MIA for a couple of days this week...it's March Break + my brother's family is visiting from Ottawa. I'll be tangled up with squishes from my gorgeous niece + nephew!

How are you spending your break friends?

I participate in the link parties found HERE

J’adore…lace crafts!

noreply@blogger.com (Caroline @ Rugrats + Royalty) — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 17:00:00 +0000

As promised, here is a round-up of some of my favourite lace craft projects. They are all so darling...please pay them a visit friends + share the love!

Lace Princess Crowns by girl. Inspired

Double Strand Lace Headband by Elisa McLaughlin Designs

Lace Paper Envelope by welovelaughkiss (originally found on Oh The Lovely Things)

Lace Tiles by Martha Stewart Crafts Dept (think beautiful coasters…)

Spray Painted Lace Lamp Shade by Add Some Paint (originally found on Stay At Home Artist)

There you go! A little lace lovliness for this fab Friday! Hope that have a wonderful weekend friends!

I participate in the link parties found HERE

Rugrats + Royalty

Knee Deep in Foreign Waters...

Dreams

One Little Word

Christmas Musings

George's Cream Review

Dreaming Of...

What I Wore #4

A *very* personal post...

Trend: Black + White

A Day of Recollection

Recent Works

Back to School Survival Kit

Gift for the Greatest Grandpa?

Summer Science Fun

Cinnamon Sugar Marshmallow Crescent Rolls

Freshly Pinned.

What I Wore #3

Instagrammed

What I Wore #2

What I Wore #1

Summertime Favourites

The latest...

Happy Easter + Happy Me!

Instagrammed

J’adore…lace crafts!

A very personal post...