Color Me Whimsical

Motherhood: Breathing in the Simple

2013-02-04T06:30:00.000-08:00

A recent trip to the beach with my little guy left my heart strings bursting with love. Love for my growing baby boy, who amazes me each and every day with the new things he learns. Love also for a new appreciation and understanding of the beauty in the simplest things in life. Because, who are we kidding, life is a long string of simple pleasures over amplified in our memory boxes. And this first year of being a mother has taught me the immense joy that comes with reveling in the smallest of pleasures. Daily life with a small child can seem chaotic and crazy. But what I have found to be most true is that the moments slow down, allowing you to really take things in if you let it: breathing in the simple. Babies don't want you to buy them the most expensive toy, they just want your time. Sitting down on the grass with Maverick at the park, walking with him as he explores the neighborhood, listening to music together in the mornings-these are the simple things that get the biggest smiles and allow you to slow down your days a bit, making you better able to take in the now.

Motherhood is mirror into your soul, making you feel so vulnerable and naked. It really exposes your strengths and weaknesses. I have learned that I actually like to be going-going all of the time and have to be doing "something." I never really thought of myself as that type of person before having Maverick. Once I became a mom, my life slowed down. Bam! It hit me hard. I was not used to it at all. I clumsily navigated through the first months in a haze of disbelief: so much time on my hands to simply love on this tiny little being that my husband and I created? Yes! And, I slowly started realizing that I did not need to be doing something all of the time. Managing to get one thing done was a miracle and I finally started accepting this as reality. I learned to really enjoy my son and enjoy being a mom. It's a very simple realization really, but a tough lesson for me nonetheless.

Now that Maverick is an on-the-go one year old, I am falling in love with watching him explore the world around him. It is the best feeling to see his eyes and facial expressions when he figures out something new-lightbulbs hovering over his little head! Now, I absolutely cherish the slower moments of the day when we simply are-two people exploring the beach and the sand together, driftwood treasures and fat toes in the cool water. So one of the biggest things I have learned this past year as a new mom: be present and slow down, because seeing the world through the eyes of my son is what being a great mom is all about.

xo, B

5/52

2013-02-03T08:43:00.001-08:00

The 52 Project-"A portrait of my son, once a week, every week, in 2013."

Maverick: Always on the go these days, never standing still for too long, adventuring and exploring everything around him. Doesn't leave a stone unturned!

▼A little late joining The 52 Project, but I am so in love with the whole idea and can't wait to see Mav's growth over the entire year! Happy Sunday! Have you joined The 52 Project?

xo, B

Must Have: Wide Brimmed Hats

2013-02-01T06:30:00.000-08:00

Wide Brimmed Hat Love

Besides my ever-growing & unhealthy obsession with stripes and plaid (I think I need therapy), I have been called by a higher power to find the perfect wide brimmed hat. Dramatic. Yes, indeed. But, I have been looking for that perfect hat to add to my collection (I have a lot of hats). Hats are an essential accessory to any outfit in my opinion. In fact, I feel naked when I am not wearing one! I love them so! It takes a certain quiet bravery to rock a damn good hat, ya know what I mean? I totally made that up, but I love a girl in a hat. Sigh. I also have an image of the perfect wide brimmed hat that I am seeking in my head: felt or wool, maybe a little worn & roughed up from years of use, a thin leather band wrapped sweetly around the magical hat, a deep chestnut or dusty gray hue and a nice wide brim. End of story. I have yet to come across it on my thrift store jaunts and may have to pay a little more for one somewhere else-eek. My obsession with the wider brimmed hats is obvious if you follow me on Pinterest. Ridiculous and out of hand I tell you. The hats & the stylish ladies donning perfectly wide brims above are my current favorites. That blue one is dreamy! So, is a wide brimmed hat a must? Duh, of course! I'd love to know how you would style yours?!!

xo, B

Tomboy, Polka-Dots & Stripes #4

2013-01-22T06:30:00.000-08:00

TPS Winter

I am really feeling that girls style above-super classic basics (hello white collared shirt & fitted navy blazer!) paired with casual sneakers, bright red sweater and a chunky beanie. It's what I want to wear everyday when it's a tad chilly out (So-Cal winter).

My picks for polka-dots this week combine my love affair with beanies and Chucks. I wear one or the other almost everyday (I have a lot of bad hair days it seems). So two of my favs splattered with dots? Yes please!

Finally, the striped duffle/overnight bag is what I have been looking for in a weekend bag. It's simple and practical, but very stylish. It's a little out of my price range, but I am on the lookout for a bargain version. And I think the polka-dotted Converse sneakers could be DIYed!

Motherhood: The One Year Milestone

2013-01-21T06:30:00.000-08:00

When Maverick was born a year ago, I couldn't even fathom just how quickly the year would fly by. When I held his tiny, warm body in my arms for the first time, I never imagined how big he would grow. Big changes happen in a year!! As Maverick grew physically and made leaps developmentally, the Husband and I went through our own growth as new parents. It has been an emotional roller coaster and a steep learning curve. But, it was never impossible and we did quite well. I am proud of us! So, high five!
As the one year mark crept upon us, I really started taking long moments to pause and think about how important this first year of baby has been. It has truly changed us in so many ways. Our lives will never go back to the time before and I don't think I mind one bit. Sure, it is way harder and I get way less sleep. But Maverick was made to be in our lives right now & life pre-Mav is just a sweet memory. Life is so much more interesting and exciting with a little one in it! So, I wanted to share a few things I have learned as a new mama (and, I am always learning and growing!).

➢It's a little scary in the beginning to care for such a fragile little being! But, it really does get easier as the days roll on & you start to get in a rhythm quicker than you think!

➢No one, I mean NO one knows your baby better than you! This one was hard for me to get, but I soon realized that I was the best judge when it came to all things Maverick. Even a seasoned mama of five kids (hello, Nana) isn't an expert when it comes to my babe.

➢That being said (see above), it was difficult at first for me to take advise or try things that others told me might work. I was afraid of looking like a failure. But, sometimes older moms do have good ideas that work and can be life savers! Basically, it's ok to try something you didn't think of...it doesn't mean you are clueless.

➢Every once in a while I have a brief moment in which I sorta miss the spontaneity of my old life. Visions of dashing out the door for a late dinner or packing an over-night bag for an impromptu camping trip will dance in my head. But, as soon as the vision appears it vanishes. I think this is pretty normal. Right?

➢Now that Mav is a big 1 year old, I can honestly say that each day is getting funner and funner! I really like this stage. Sure, it is the most exhausting (maybe even more than the first few weeks) to run after a walking kinda-toddler who gets into everything! But his big personality really makes up for it!

➢Breastfeeding may have been one of the hardest parts of this whole year. I never felt so emotional, vulnerable and raw as I did as I learned to breastfeed my baby! Whew, it was tough. But, it also became like second nature eventually. Now, I can do it with my eyes closed. It's very weird how at one moment something is so strange & difficult but in a few months it is just part of the rhythm.

➢Don't google anything! It will be the end of you I promise! If you want to stay up all night worrying that your baby has some weird very rare skin rash, then go ahead, google away. It's all about the instincts! Truly. You'll see, they are real (I wasn't sure mama instincts existed, but I have them now).

➢Finding time for my relationship with the Hubs is challenging. But I am learning that it is important. I feel refreshed and happier when I have spent some quality time with him. It makes you a better mother when the love between your partner & yourself can shine. This is one will continue to work on.

➢Finally, having a baby is the hardest thing I have ever done. Duh! I never knew so many emotions could exist! I have felt them all this year. My whole being has changed-my body, my mind, my heart! None of them will ever be the same. And, for that I am grateful. Because I think I am a more complete person now that Maverick is here. I feel more sure and confident about myself as well. Having a baby can give you a courage and power you never knew was inside of you. It's pretty darn cool.

...there are loads more I have learned. I mean, I could go on forever! Basically, it has been a wonderful year spent watching a little human grow. Nothing is cooler than that! I am so very excited for this next year and all the wild adventures that await my family of three!

Maverick on the move, just as he really took off walking-December 2012 Paso Robles, CA

♥

This That These: Winter Edition

2013-01-19T07:00:00.000-08:00

This That These: Winter Edition

Sharing some of my recent obsessions today. I am so smitten with all of the cozy beanies I see everywhere! But I am even more in love if the beanie has a poufy pom-pom adorning the tip top-such a sweet whimsical detail! I have also rekindled my romance with vintage (or vintage inspired) sweaters. I have dug through my closet to find a few of my dearest ones & especially like the ones that are a wee too small & have funny graphics. The Poler one above is a new fav, with such a great fit and color. I really dig anything that reminds me of camping or has camping references-perhaps due to my desire to find myself in Big Sur sometime soon. My other crazy obsession is day packs! I mean, my Pinterest is filled with rad day packs that I would love to own. Out of control! Day packs are such a lifesaver-fitting everything you need into one convenient and stylish pack. Sigh. I have my heart set on that kaki Poler one above!!

In other news, I still have an unhealthy obsession with anything Pendleton and socks. I am the kind of girl who would spend a lot of money on socks if you let me. So bad. And lastly, I am on the hunt for an awesome overnight/duffle bag. Traveling over the holidays made it very clear to me that my current travel bag situation is no good. I really like the new Baggu weekend bag. Any thoughts?

Ahhhh, it's good to get bloggin' again folks!

The BOY is a 1 Year Old Today!

2013-01-18T06:30:00.000-08:00

The Mister Boy is 1 today! Happy Birthday to my sweet jellybean, my one and only. I can't quite believe that a whole year has come and gone. My mind is still trying to process the whole experience of becoming a mom & watching this little human grow. All I can say is, high five to husband and I!!! We made it through things I didn't think we would-babies first cold, first fever, teething, car seat woes, wrestling match diaper changes, spit up everywhere, figuring out breastfeeding, pumping, going back to work, night nursing, and traveling with a baby. And even in our most exhausted moments, we knew the beautiful sunshine would come up the next day and we would all be tucked away together in bed safe and warm, ready to greet the dawn. Because those gummy smiles of Maverick's made life so much softer and filled with light. I thank him every moment for making me a mama. Best of all, I am his mama.
...i carry your heart with me (i carry it in my heart)
...you are whatever a moon has always meant and whatever a sun will always sing is you
...i carry your heart (i carry it in my heart)

I will hold him extra close today as I remember with all my might the evening in which, a year ago, Maverick Tobias Smith entered this world into the arms of his dad and unto my heart. Warm and powerful. It was dark outside but there was so much light in that room as he arrived and a love I never knew swelling up my soul.

xo, B

Tomboy, Polka-Dots & Stripes

2012-11-05T06:00:00.000-08:00

TPS: Layers

I am endlessly inspired by all of the super cozy autumn/winter tomboy layers I am seeing everywhere! Keeping it fresh, strong, classic and cool while adding just the right amount of wooly coats, chunky socks, leather boots, thick scarves and piled on cardigans. I dig this ladies slouchy beanie, which dresses down her chic camel coat and slick boots.

I am liking my polka-dots wickedly girly lately, with sweet feminine details like the lace collar and fuzzy cashmere above. Pair it with a motorcycle style boot and a felt hat and you are golden.

Finally, the striped bow tie is the perfect mixture of two of my fav style elements, combining tomboy prep with those luscious pops of stripes, to make your collared button-ups dazzle on those dreary days. This outfit is making me excited for those foggy and chilly days ahead! Our firewood is drying out & will be ready for a sparkling fire any day now-eeeeep!

Weekly Roundup...on Saturday!

2012-11-03T07:00:00.000-07:00

Last minute Halloween costume-Where's Waldo?

Some lovely things have been happening around the inter-web lately-too much to handle! I have been busy working and living, trying to enjoy each moment I have with my little family when I get home instead of trying to document everything. It has been nice and much needed. I was feeling uninspired and way too much pressure to blog everyday while working & mama-ing. So, I am just trying to let it happen naturally and write when I feel the groove.

We were busy this week, with Halloween shenanigans (ours was pretty simple & last minute), a sick baby and a sick mama! Whoa. But, I am so happy it is November! I am anxiously awaiting Christmas because our nephew, Mav's cousin Dylan will be arriving in California for all of us to finally meet! They are only 2 months apart and we can't wait to see them together. Oh and Thanksgiving food is where it's at! Excited to let Maverick try all sorts of yummy eats at Thanksgiving dinner.

I will be relaxing, snuggling in a blankie, drinking hot tea, watching movies and maybe making it to the Farmer's Market for a new Beeswax candle this weekend. What are you up to? Here are my links to love this week!

DIY Kid's Tee-love this easy DIY from artist Oana (I simply love all that she does!)

The Perfect Autumn Scarf-I have loved Yokoo's scarves on Etsy for some time now. They are so breathtaking! This one is my fav, in Hazelnut. You can win one on the Design Love Fest blog!

Styled to Last-great post over on Baby Blackbird on hand-me-down styles for the kiddos. I appreciate any tips on recycled fashion, especially for the babes since they outgrow everything so fast!

Listen to French Music-a casual, Fall inspired Tomboy look over on One of Each's blog. I love me some classic plaid and I adore her 60s vibed out ponytail!

Trick & Treats-a beautiful post about my most favorite holiday...the light, the mood, the colors of these photos are so inspiring!

Boots & Pine-a breathtakingly glorious photographic poem to a few Toronto neighborhoods...just click, you won't be disappointed! Too much pretty to handle:)

Happy Weekend!!

♥

Model/Real Life: Autumn Overalls

2012-11-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

Model/Real Life: Overalls

Welcome November!

A dress? Overalls? It's both! And it's so 90s cool that I was taken back to my junior high days just like that. I found this great little dress at the Goodwill in Oxnard a while back and was instantly drawn to the autumn color pallet and funky tribal-like design. Then I saw that it was a dress that looked like overalls and had buttons down the side-totally whimsical details that I adore! Sold. Oh, and breastfeeding friendly to boot!

So the Hub, Mister Boy and I made our way up to Ojai one sunny & super warm Sunday to hit up their beautiful Farmer's Market. I threw on my overall dress, since it's such an easy piece to just throw on (those 90s pieces were oh so breezy weren't they?!!) and paired it with my newly thrifted leather lace-up boots (another 90s gem from Nine West-holla!). The boots added the perfect Fall detail while I kept pretty cool in the easy, breezy dress. The overall outfit ended up looking like a bohemian-90s-grunge-My So Called Life dream. Amazing!

Our day was great too, with yummy butternut squash bought to make soup and a baby who cooled off in a water fountain. Maverick loves the water and was so brave, just sitting right in the middle of the fountain and trying to climb atop of it! He was quite the little entertainer. I am so thankful for lovely Fall days spent outside under the warm sunshine.

A Few Things...

2012-10-20T08:34:00.001-07:00

Curious Creatures

I have been dreaming about cutting my hair again, stalking pinterest in search of the perfect short locks. This time, I am really considering a long, shaggy pixie with thick bangs in front similar to the one above. What do ya think? I adore short hair, so easy and freeing! With shorter hairs comes a chance to wear all my pretty earrings again. I stumbled upon the lovely Curious Creatures etsy shop via Kelli's blog and I am smitten with the simple beauty of their jewelry! I am especially considering purchasing the top pair, which would look so wonderful dangling next to my freshly cut hair. Dangling jewels like these are showcased perfectly with short hair styles so I am excited to find more interesting pairs of earrings. Any suggestions? Now, I just have to make my hair appointment!

Enjoy your weekend!

Weekly Roundup: Introspection & Links!

2012-10-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

The in's and out's of daily life have have been exhausting and wonderful. I find myself with not enough hours in the day to soak everything up and check things off my long to-do list. I know it takes time to get used to working and being a mama, and I am finally figuring out some balance in that department. Weekends have become a time to truly unwind, slow down and savor family time. This whole mom thing is a constant juggle and I am reminded daily of the awesomeness, beauty and transformative power becoming a parent has had on every ounce of my life. It's no joke.

I am also very lucky to have a husband who takes pride and joy in caring for our son. He showers him with such warm cozy love and always has hugs to give me too when I come home. Right before I fall asleep at night, I often think about how much I appreciate what he does for our family. We both have made sacrifices and manage to keep the laughs flowing.

The significance of this time in our lives is not lost on me-I hold the magic and power of this time close. And, this time of year always seems to bring much needed introspection and reevaluation. It's a time to take inventory. This time a year ago I was preparing for the arrival of Maverick, dreaming about his face. Now, I am dreaming about the future of our small family, aspiring to live a slower paced life filled with good things. Desiring a simpler life. Makes me happy to think about Mav growing and being able to teach him new things and simply be present for him-no need for big things.

Personally, I am always working on caring for my whole being and not being so hard on myself. The Hub and I have had a pretty rough few years with so much anxiety over the sale of my grandmother's house (in which we lived for a while), pregnancy and preparing for a baby while I was not working, sacrificing many things in order to pay for Mav's home birth (will never regret it), the blur of having a newborn, having to move with a 3 month old, and my job searches for the last six months. Whew! There were many a moment where we felt pretty helpless and oh so tired. In times like that it's easy to forget to care for yourself and pat yourself on the back for the wonderful things you are accomplishing, no matter how small they seem. Now, things feel so much more secure and on track. And even though I feel regret for the time I wasted on stressing out during my pregnancy, I have worked on moving on and feeling gratefulness for all the good times. That is why, when Mav turns a year in January, I will be overcome with emotions-for the loss of his baby-ness, but also for making it through the rough patches and doubts as a new mama.

So I am happy to welcome the changes this season has in store for us. I am excited about spending time with family during the holidays and taking time to savor these last few months of baby-hood. I am also hoping to get more comfortable at my new job and find happiness in that part of my life (it is still a bit murky at this point, but trying to be positive). I also want to enjoy meaningful time with good friends with good food and conversation. Just breath in all the spiced deliciousness that is Autumn!

Major link to love this week? The Color Me Whimsical tumblr, where all the above images are!

A few more links from this week...
▼I love Roberta's cozy chill out picks for the weekend! Makes me want to lounge around, sipping on hot beverages in between cat naps all day.
▼Still love the Milk-Friendly blog. As a breastfeeding and now pumping mom, I appreciate all the fun style tips (it really does matter what you wear as a pumping mom, unless you wanna strip down!)
▼I love Kelly's blog and I especially enjoyed this post-relates quite well to what I have been feeling lately! Beautiful words.

What's been inspiring you lately?

This That These: Sweater Round-Up

2012-10-17T06:56:00.000-07:00

Sweater Love

I have been dreaming about these lovely sweaters for a while now, even though the weather here in Southern California is confused. It's Autumn, by the way! Just making sure you know that, So. Cal. It's sunny, bright and warm here still-which I love and appreciate. However, I wouldn't mind a stormy cool day here and there. I enjoy layering up & became quite the master at it when I lived in San Francisco, so I would relish in a chance to put those spiffy skills to use.

These sweaters are the perfect Fall companion, right as rain (see what I did there) paired with skinny jeans and ankle boots for our version of Fall in Ventura. No need for scarves or beanies. Just an easy light sweater to throw on once the temps dip a bit. I am particularly smitten with that vintage pink polka-dotted one! Time to choose a cozy sweater or two to enjoy the Fall season in!

♥

Check my Pinterest for more stylish sweaters!

Words of Love

2012-10-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

Finding time and energy to devote to writing has been challenging lately sweet readers. I miss this special space and love the creative release it gives me. Work has been kicking my butt lately, made even more stressful by an extra long commute that I did not anticipate. I am kind of in limbo at my current job site as I await a transfer to a school that's a bit closer. The waiting and wondering has left me feeling drained and unable to get a good comfortable footing at work. I don't feel like I belong at the place I am currently and I just can't relax. It's not ideal. But I must just hang in there and I am trying to be as positive as possible.

Do any of you working mama's and bloggers have any tips on fitting in writing/blogging? What works for you?

I hope to get back to my schedule of posts here on the blog very soon. I have lots to share, with a mind just overflowing with stuff to chat about! So, bear with me and check back soon! In the meantime, listen to this dreamy song from a fav band of mine from childhood-perfect background music for writing or dreaming to.

This That These: Shades of Mustard

2012-10-04T06:30:00.000-07:00

This That These: Mustard (click here for all the details)

Getting happy for Fall with shades of mustard yellow, sweet hearts and cozy striped sweaters for baby and me! Let's take a moment to drool over those skinny baby jeans-like seriously, how cute are they!?!

♥

Motherhood: Having an Only Child?

2012-10-03T06:30:00.000-07:00

It seems that once you have a child, all you can do is dream about them day and night. You are overflowing with boundless love for them, bringing out your phone to share photos any chance you get. Talking with complete strangers about all of the awesome things they are doing. Relishing in their soft breathing as you tuck them in at night. Closing your eyes tightly, trying so hard to imprint all of these precious moments in your brain forever, so afraid they will slip through your fingers. It's a very wonderful, exhausting and strange thing-this new love I have for my small baby creature child. It's all I can do to hold it together, my heart constantly on fire about to explode.

This is why, when I get the familiar question (familiar lately, at least) "Are you going to have another baby?" I nervously smile and shudder a bit inside. The question elicits so many emotions for me, none of which I am ready to face only nine months post-partum. Sure, it has been a long nine months...but, it is truly a short time in the overall scheme of things. The thought of pregnancy (which, I did love!), birth and caring for another tiny, helpless babe makes my head ache! Makes my insides somersault with fear, anxiety and utter exhaustion. Maybe I am just weird. Maybe I am the only one who feels this way? Am I? Am I crazy?

I love my little one so much. I am a first time mama, and so I feel an over-kill sensation to do the best I can for him. I want to, simply, give my child the most that I can give. And, I am not sure my abilities are up to par as a mother to do this and have another child. Quite frankly, it scares the crap out of me to even think about having another baby (especially anytime soon!). I struggle inside with feeling this way: is it because it's way too soon to be thinking of another baby & that's why I am quick to say no way? Are my hormones still all wonky? Am I being selfish? Do I have to have another baby? What will people think? Is having an only child a bad thing? The over-analyization goes on and on.

My argument is this: there is no rule book that says all people must have more than one child. And, if I change my mind, we can try for another one. I am still pretty young-ish, right! I also keep telling myself that I have no reason to feel bad or guilty about this decision. It's what feels right for me and my little family at the moment. And, I support those families that have lots of children! I just do not want to juggle a toddler and a baby-not sure if I can (I'm sure I could if I had to and those mom's who do it are beyond amazing in my book!). I mean, I can barely remember to eat lunch or go the bathroom most days! I am craving sanity and taking deep breaths and caring for myself and loving on my only-child baby right now. That is enough.

I can't bring myself to look too far ahead right now. I can only take one day at a time. One step at a time, really. Right now I am content to devote all the love I have in my heart to my only son. It feels good to watch him grow and I am so excited for what each month holds. If there is another baby in our future (way in the future, thank you) I hope I will be ready and I know I will have a whole new set of fresh love to give. After I catch up on my sleep for a few years. Just saying.

What are your honest thought on this subject? Are you ready for another baby? Are you planning for one? Am I crazy?

xo, B

Tomboy, Polka-Dots & Stripes!

2012-10-01T06:30:00.000-07:00

TPS #2 (click here for item details)

Tomboy---I really dig preppy styles that are a bit messed up looking. And, those socks with those loafers are where it's at.

Polka-Dots----a simple, work-horse cardigan gets a little whimsy when you add polka-dots. I have a vintage Gap dotted cardigan that I wear with everything!

Stripes----basic flats in classic navy and white stripes are perfection with jeans and tees.

xo, Happy Monday!

Whimsical Weekly Roundup

2012-09-28T07:05:00.002-07:00

Hello lovelies! I went back to work last Thursday, therefore there was a bit of silence over here on the blog. It will take me a little while to work out the kinks, get used to working again, being away from Maverick (which I don't think I will ever get used to) and trying to schedule in blogging time. Whew! It's a lot to process!

So, here is my weekly roundup...two weeks worth! Hope your weekend is restful and fun! All I want to do is sleep in or just sleep in general. See you back here on Monday with a new Tomboy, Polka-Dots & Stripes post!

❖I always enjoy Erin's weekly roundup of her fav outfits for the week...so good!
❖This post from We Three Pilgrims really hit the spot for me-right in my heart. Not only are the photos magical, but her words on "soul care," present and simple mothering are sentiments that I have been sharing lately.
❖I have quietly stalked knitter/blogger Tara-Lynn ever since I first started reading blogs...& I adore her beautiful knits! I am so going to purchase one of her perfect for fall knitted turban headbands!
❖Fell in love with these handmade mustache and bow tie onesies...it's more challenging to find stylish baby boys clothing & I have a baby shower to attend in a few weeks, so I just may be getting a few of these for baby-to-be!
❖A Farewell to Summer music mix...I will miss those long summer days for sure!

This That These...and Baby too!

2012-09-19T11:30:00.001-07:00

This That These...for baby too! (click here for outfit details)

Spicing things up for Fall and including Mister Boy on my This That These post today!

That beautiful chunky cardigan is a dream piece for sure because I could never afford it! Don't you just want to wrap yourself up in it and snuggle with a cup of cocoa in your hand? I sure do! I will be on the look out for a similar cardigan while shopping at the thrift stores. I am a little in love with wine colored denim right now and I almost bought a pair that I spied at the thrift shop, but they looked way too small and I can't kid myself anymore into thinking I can fit into a size 3. That lovely pair of Minnetonka El Paso moccasins are very close to being mine (they are affordable and last forever) and I want to buy Maverick a similar pair for when he starts walking (aren't the mini versions so cute!). Baby and children's moccasins are probably my favorite thing to drool over...Mav would have like 20 pairs if I didn't control myself!

The itty bitty striped sweater and polka-dot leggings are from this wonderful Etsy shop called Fable, where everything is handmade and so stylish! I love me some polka-dots, especially on a baby and even baby boys can rock them!

What Fall staples are you excited about, for you and/or baby?

Mister Boy: 8 Months Old!

2012-09-18T07:00:00.000-07:00

This handsome little one is 8 months old today! Once again, wow! Really, 8 months already?? We are getting closer and closer to the one year mark and it's scary! Each month does get better and better.

Maverick is still crawling up a storm, getting faster everyday. He pulls up to stand on everything and recently starting cruising a bit. He has yet to stand on his own, but he tries here and there. Still no teeth for this guy, but drool is dripping like crazy right now so who knows. He smiles and laughs all day and his big personality is really shining these days! We can't get enough of him! He also started giving kisses and loves to hold out his arms to cuddle-so freakin' wonderful! He has entered the separation anxiety phase, so we are being very patient and loving. He is also becoming a little weary of strangers. His favorite thing to do currently is ride bikes with papa!

I return to work in 2 short days and my heart is already aching thinking about being away from him for 6 hours! I will miss our mid-day park adventures and long walks to the ocean. Sigh! Before we know it, this little one will be walking-oh, my! Wish I could freeze time because everyone was so right when they said it goes by oh so fast!

Tomboy, Polka-Dots & Stripes #1

2012-09-17T07:00:00.000-07:00

Getting back into blogging has been so much fun! I have been working on what sort of things I really enjoy writing about and what features I want to make a regular thing around here. I am slowly getting my groove! I think that my posts on Motherhood, Model/Real Life and Mister Boy updates will all be regular features. As well as my weekly roundup on Friday's, I will also have my "This That These" post and my newest feature, TPS (Tomboy, Polka-dots & Stripes).

This feature combines two of my favorite style elements, showcasing my newfound love for classic, chic and comfortable fashion. It also includes my love for women who have the confidence to wear menswear or masculine-inspired women's-wear: adventurous & cool tomboys! I think this fun feature represents my aesthetic very well! Of course, I will always add a little whimsy! Enjoy!

TPS #1

1. Grandpa gingham never looked so cool rolled at the ankles & in such pretty colors! The cut-off tee is the perfect everyday, "I don't care" tomboy element.

2. Cashmere sweater in two-tone stripes-perfect fall colors and for layering.

3. Polka-Dot lace up flats can be worn seamlessly with boyfriend jeans & leggings (does anyone know the source for these?)

Which one is your favorite?

Link Lovin'

2012-09-14T12:03:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday! Well, it has been a whirlwind of a week over here! I have been cleaning up a storm and trying to de-clutter. I had one of those moments where I wanted to rip the house apart and get rid of everything! Ever feel like that? So, I am trying to streamline things as much as possible with my closet next up on the list of things that need shaking up! I have another good reason for cleaning things up (besides being crazy): this mama is going back to work!

I had a special interview last week that I was almost certain I would get but I didn't want to jinx myself. Well, I just found out yesterday that it is official and I will be returning to work faster than expected. I am a bit freaked out and excited all at once! What's really freaking me out right now is pumping enough milk for Mister Boy while I am working. I know I can do it though and am trying to remain calm and positive. Mom's out there, please send any working while breastfeeding advice/tips!

Ok, back to the fun stuff. Here are the things that made me say ohh la la this week!

➸Go check out Love Fox Vintage! Faith just started, so expect great things to come as she works it all out! There are some cute things in there right now and that blouse above is my favorite! I love the slouchy boho shape and bright colors that will enliven your fall duds!
➸➸I have become obsessed with beeswax candles, so I was delighted to see the DIY on Elsie & Emma's blog, A Beautiful Mess! It's like they read my mind!
➸➸➸Since I am newly in love with Instagram, I loved reading Sweet Thing blog's instagram editing process-so fun!
➸➸➸➸Have you seen this series? In love!

A Few Things...

2012-09-13T09:22:00.002-07:00

A Few Fall Things (click here for item details)

Just a few lovely things to make you cozy...

xo, Benicia

Model/Real Life: Ikat

2012-09-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

Model/Real Life: Ikat

A friend of mine told me that Ikat means "to bind" in Malay. I think this meaning is beautiful and I smile to myself whenever I see the Ikat pattern.

I found this amazing Ikat printed skirt at one of the downtown thrift shops and was instantly taken with the colors. I love the combination of the warm mustard and the deep plum. Perfect colors for Fall. This skirt has amazing texture and I was delighted to discover pockets once I got it home! I wore the heck out of it this summer, pairing it with woven sandals. Today I decided to test it out with my new favorite pair of boots. Ikat is a pretty bold print and a little goes a long way, so I downplayed my outfit with a basic tee and minimal accessories. I also included a very special model in this one!

After looking at these, I realized that this skirt might look even better hemmed a bit...what do you guys think? Oh, and please forgive some of the awkward poses and such, my husband thought it was funny to crack me up while snapping photos!

What do you think of the guest model?

The Details:

Vintage Skirt-thrifted

Boots-thrifted ($5!!)

Grey tee-thrifted

Woven Hat-belonged to Toby's Papa

Handmade Cigar Necklace-made with love by Faith

Soul Searching

2012-09-11T10:02:00.001-07:00

The season is changing. Although the weather does not indicate this change around my neck of the woods, you can feel it in your bones. When this change happens, I always seem to take inventory on my life; reflecting inwards and thinking about the days that have passed by. It's so important to take a moment to make new goals and dream. Each season is a gift.

And even if it will be a while until the leaves change color, I lit a beeswax candle to welcome the changing season. As I cleaned and de-cluttered I thought about how transformative this year has been so far, the challenges of a new baby and a growing love that makes my heart ache. Change has never meant more to me. The months that lay ahead hold so much wonder, with great new milestones to celebrate and a new life to help shape. In taking this time to reflect, I realized that it is the simplest of moments and things that have made me happiest. Simplicity is truly a state of mind, as well as a beautiful daily act that I hope to incorporate more into my families life. Slowing down, taking time to be present and appreciating my now are goals I have made for this new season.

The simple act of lighting a candle has made a big impression on my soul.