Juggling in Heels

Three

2013-05-17T05:30:00.000-07:00

What???!!!

Baby Girl, how did you go from this...

to this?

Tomorrow she turns 3 and I know this is so cliche but the youngest seems to get older the fastest.

She is independent, happy, determined, loving, and stubborn.
She loves clothes and refuses to let me get her dressed in the morning.
She cannot get enough of her brothers and absolutely loves to be with with them.
She is as tall as a 5 year old and tells people that is how old she is turning.
She walks around in my heels and carries as many dolls as she can.
She brings the spunk to this family and we all love her to pieces.

Happy 3rd Birthday Baby Girl!
XOXO

C. Wonder Sale

2013-05-16T05:30:00.000-07:00

I love a sale.

I love a sale even more when they give you up to an additional 75% off items.

That's right.

Until midnight tonight, C.Wonder is hosting a Flash Sale and offering major discounts on their already discounted merchandise.

It is sale overload.

Here are some of my favorite items but you would be silly not to peruse for yourself.

Remember, you only have until midnight!

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7

Merritt Charles

2013-05-15T05:30:00.000-07:00

On Monday I made a visit to one of my favorite boutiques, Bardot, to peruse their new merchandise and talk shop with Dana, the uber cool owner. One line that continued to catch my eye throughout the store was Merritt Charles. The LA based company prides itself in creating high end closet staples and it is apparent they are successful at it. Each piece I picked up was beautiful, simple and are items that would be in your closet forever.

If you are in the Orange County area, make a visit to Bardot to check out the available collection. Not in Orange County? No problem, you can shop online here.

all images via Merritt Charles

American Girls

2013-05-14T05:30:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I headed up to the American Girl Store at The Grove with Baby Girl, my mom, my sister and her daughter. Baby Girl turns 3 on Saturday and my niece (and Goddaughter) turns 4 on June 1st so it made perfect sense to celebrate both birthdays at once! We shopped, visited the "doll salon", ate lunch and enjoyed some girl time. I love that three generations of women were represented and look forward to making this a tradition. Now I am responsible for changing Baby Girl's doll's outfit a couple times a day. Apparently the doll likes to change her clothes as much as Baby Girl does.

Dots

2013-05-13T05:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday!

Indeed, it is a Happy Monday because, for the first time in 11 days, I am starting to feel human again. The meds are working and I am hoping this psycho cold is FINALLY getting pushed out. I have never had a cold/sinus infection take me out like this. It was brutal.

Mother's Day was incredible around here with breakfast from the hubby and kids, brunch with my entire family and then a quiet walk all by myself. I feel so blessed to have the people in my life that I do. I hope all you mommies out there also had a fabulous day.

The weather here in Orange County was also showing some gratitude with delivering heat in the 90's for the first time in SO long. It felt nice to sit outside and really feel like summer is approaching.

Dare I say we can pack away the sweaters and pull out our shorts?

I sure hope so.

Tank: Splendid / Denim Shirt: Madewell / Necklace: Stella & Dot / Shorts: J. Crew / Sandals: ASOS / Bag: C. Wonder

Friday...

2013-05-10T13:04:00.000-07:00

Well, what I thought was going to be a day or two of not feeling "that great" turned into an entire week of feeling "TERRIBLE". By Wednesday I was at the Doctor's getting medication and today I think it is starting to work. The hard part is that I know if I were to stay in bed for a day, drink a ton of fluids and get rest, I would probably feel better faster. Unfortunately, life as a mother doesn't work that way and I have been spending the week trying to balance rest with all the events going on for the kids. Yes they have watched more TV and played more video games than normal but you gotta do what you gotta do. It is what I like to call "survival mode".

Regardless of how I am feeling, this weekend brings baseball games, Baby Girl's Birthday Party and Mother's Day....YEA! I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend and all you fabulous moms out there have a wonderful Mother's Day.

And will I be back to my regular scheduled programming on Monday? I SURE HOPE SO!

Happy weekend Everyone.

Gatsby

2013-05-08T05:30:00.000-07:00

Though I am still feeling horrible (and perhaps completely drugged on cold and sinus medicine), I had to share my look from our event Saturday night. I have always been a huge fan of The Great Gatsby and am enamored with 1920's fashion. With all the Gatsby-inspired dresses that have recently been seen on the runway, I was itching for a reason to "dress up". This fundraiser was perfect. And even though the ocean weather was not accommodating to the curls in my hair, it was still so much fun to put the look together.

Dress: All Saints / Shoes: Pour La Victoire / Acceessories: CEEK / Headpiece: Nordstrom / Makeup: Sarah at Nordstrom

And here is another with our little pre-party group

Remember them from last year?
I am laughing at how different my looks are.

And now back to laying down, drinking tea and getting better!

Sick

2013-05-07T05:30:00.000-07:00

As hard as I was crossing my fingers not to get sick, by Friday it was clear that I had caught something. Instead of taking some time to rest I pushed through and attended three events over the weekend. This was perhaps not the best idea and what was a slight cold on Friday took a turn for the worst and by Monday morning, it was apparent that I better take it seriously. Commence massive cold and sinus drug intake.

What does the above eye liner have to do with any this? Absolutely nothing. I just wanted to share because this Trish McEvoy Intense Gel Eye Liner is my new favorite eye liner. It is SO easy to put on (this is coming from someone who ALWAYS has issues applying eye liner), stays on all day and is really, the perfect black. Black liner is a staple for me so finding this was a treat.

On a completely separate note, did you see this aticle from Today Mom's? I, along with many other moms, apparently win the prize for having the"most stressful number of kids". Yea us!

This is a random post and I am going to blame all the Sudafed on that one but I hope everyone is having a great start to the week and I hope to be back to me regular scheduled programming tomorrow!

What I Wore...

2013-05-03T05:30:00.000-07:00

Today kicks off 48 hours of events for us. From Los Angeles to Dana Point, we will be dressing up, drinking, dining and bidding (this usually involves my hubby watching me like a hawk as I peruse the silent auctions, followed by him taking my paddle during the live auction). I am really looking forward to it all.

Here are a few looks from the past two weeks. As the weather continues to shift I am pulling out more prints, white and dresses. It is actually feeling a little bit like summer here and I LOVE it!

Clockwise from top left:

Look 1: Shirt: J.Crew / Pants: Gap / Shoes: MICHAEL Michael Kors / Clutch: Kirna Zabete for Target

Look 2: Dress: Banana Republic / Sandals: Tory Burch / Earrings: Stella & Dot

Look 3: Dress: Comptoir des Cotonniers / Jacket: Vila / Shoes: Bass / Satchel: Cambridge Satchel Company / Necklace: Stella & Dot

Look 4: Dress: Prabal Garung for Target / Shoes: Madewell / Accessories: Ceek

Have a great weekend!

Staples

2013-05-02T05:30:00.000-07:00

Though I love dressing up, the last thing I am thinking about when my alarm is going off at 5:45am is getting fancy. Cheers to the women who must have gotten up at 4am to look the way that they do. I am impressed. Me, on the other hand, loves to thrown on staples that I will be comfortable in all day long. Plus, with summer fast approaching, there really is just no need to dress up on a day to day basis. Or, perhaps I am telling myself this just to feel better about myself. Either way, I love this look and I can be seen wearing it A LOT.

1. The Hooded Sweatshirt - Call me a High School boy but I still love the oversized hooded sweater. They are WAY MORE comfortable than putting on a fitted athletic jacket (they are ladies, you know it) and it feels like you are half way to laying on the couch rather than carrying a screaming three year old through the grocery store. I am currently obsessed with this Rodarte Hoodie but will easily wear my hubby's old hoodies too.

2. The GREAT T-Shirt - I am a complete t-shirt snob and have the hardest time finding shirts that are 1. long enough for my overly long torso 2. soft...I like soft and 3. don't shrink. My current favorite are Zoe Karssen, which I normally pick up at The Outnet or ASOS.

3. The Tank - A day doesn't go by that I do not have a tank on. Either by itself or under a t-shirt, sweatshirt, or sweater, I am ALWAYS wearing one. My favorite are by James Perse but I love Splendid also.

4. The Cut Off Jean Shorts - I love cut off's. They are perfect for the park, beach, running errands. You name it, they work. I have two ways of going about getting my pairs. The first one is simple. Go into your closet, grab a pair of old jeans, and cut them. These tend to be the best because the denim is already worn in, they are usually soft and stretched out, and when you had nothing to wear, you suddenly do. Instant gratification. Of course the other way is to buy a pair and I love Current/Elliott. I do not know how they do it but their denim is always amazingly soft.

5. The Satchel - I love my Cambridge Satchel and it goes with me everywhere. Amusement parks, sporting events, errands, vacations, date night. The list goes on and on. It is the perfect handbag to use when you need to be hands free. I have even tucked in the strap and used it as a clutch. And no matter how many times it gets stepped on, dropped, spilled on, etc, it still looks brand new. It makes the list as one of the top items in my closet.

6. The Sneaker - Because I am VERY bad at keeping up pedicures, sneakers are a must. I grew up loving my Jack Purcell's but have now given my loyalty to Superga. Not only do they run large, which allows me to go down a size and think that I have smaller feet, but they have a million colors to choose from. Oh yes, and they are comfortable too.

Diapers

2013-05-01T05:30:00.000-07:00

So cool.

At the beginning of April I used Facebook to invite some friends to "A Diaper Drive"

And for one month, friends dropped off boxes of diapers at my home.

And boxes.

And now, we are at over 3,000 diapers.

SO COOL.

To the friends that participated, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU.

It is amazing what a group of moms can do isn't it?

For our family's fourth month of giving back, I wanted to do something from moms, for moms. Perhaps it wasn't as focused on the children this time as it could have been but I had a good reason.

When my friend and I took the canned food from our February event to our local pantry, I happened to throw in a box of old diapers we had left over as well. The response when I pulled out the diapers was one of excitement as they rarely receive diapers and they are a HUGE need. As a mother, it was heartbreaking to hear, as we all know how important diapers are and how expensive they can be. It wasn't a question. Moms can support other moms. End of story.

And did they ever! Thank you again to all the fabulous women who participated. It is sometimes the little things that make the biggest impact. I cannot even imagine, if they were excited about receiving one box of diapers, how they will react with receiving this delivery!

Jalapeno Cheese Bread

2013-04-30T05:30:00.000-07:00

After spending the day inside on Saturday, I was itching to get out of the house for a bit and pull together a good meal for dinner. Whole Foods is one of my favorite places to go shopping and I casually roamed the aisles with a friend (yes, it was Girl's Day at Whole Foods), taking in my little bit of escape. One item I was grabbing ingredients for was Jalapeno Cheese Bread. When I came across the recipe it just looked too good to pass up and I was right. It was SUPER EASY to make and had so much yummy flavor. Served with filet skewers and sauteed kale, it was the perfect spicy addition to celebrate everyone being healthy again. Still crossing my fingers no one gets sick...

What you need:
2 Tablespoons Mayonnaise
3/4 cup shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese
1 jar pickled jalapenos
1 loaf sourdough bread
salt, pepper and paprika

Steps:
1. Mix mayonnaise, cheese and 1 tablespoon brine from the jalapeno jar; season with salt and pepper
2. Broil 4 slices of bread on a baking sheet until golden
3. Flip slices over and spread cheese mixture across
4. Top with chopped pickled jalapenos and a dash of paprika
5. Broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly, then cut each slice in half

* recipe courtesy of Food Network

Unexpected

2013-04-29T05:30:00.000-07:00

This weekend took an unexpected turn when Baby Girl got sick Friday night. Our plans of baseball in the morning and a trip to the beach in the afternoon were put to a halt and I spent all of Saturday sitting in our bedroom with Baby Girl. This was her first "real" sickness and I had forgotten how sad it was to watch a really little one cope with being sick and not understanding why they feel the way that they do. There was not an option of me leaving the room. She would not stand for it.

Baby Girl watched Monsters Inc, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Toy Story while I caught up on all the magazines that have been piling up, fell for this really cozy looking padded sweatshirt, finally found the perfect Bubble Ceramic Sidetable for our family room and perused the DVF Loves Gapkids collection. I also took care of some Mother's Day shopping at the Tory Burch Friends and Family event. Let's just say that I am not one who should be left in a room all day with a computer at my disposal.

From left: Zara sweatshirt, West Elm Sidetable, DVF Loves Gapkids Collection

Baby Girl is now on the mend and the household is returning to normal. As always, I am just hoping no one else gets sick too. Fingers crossed, toes crossed, hair crossed.....everything crossed!

How was everyone else's weekend?

Friday...

2013-04-26T05:30:00.000-07:00

This was the first week in a long time that the hubby and I didn't have any evening events mid-week, which usually require a babysitter and late nights. It felt great being home with the kids each evening in our pajamas with no expectations to be somewhere. Even though dinners, parties and such are fun, nothing beats time at home.

If you missed it this week...

My Oldest had a special special moment...

I found my new go-to look for brunch and special occasions this Spring...

Kate Spade had some sound advice...

I made a delish summer treat...

If you are in Southern California and love museums, this deal is perfect for you (purchased one myself)...

I love these twists on a classic cocktail...

These espadrilles are perfect for summer...

Have a great weekend!

Lemon Bars

2013-04-25T05:30:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite childhood treats were Lemon Bars that my mom would make for dessert every now and then. For the chocolate lover that I am, it is very rare that I would veer off course, but these always seemed to hit the spot.

Yesterday was incredibly dreary here in Orange County, which just really didn't seem fair to me. Two days ago we were at the pool and here it was sprinkling again! To add a little sunshine to our day I decided to make these classic Lemon Bars. These were just like I remembered as a kid and provided the perfect bite of summer I was looking for. Now if the sun could actually return I would greatly appreciate it.

Words of Wisdom

2013-04-24T05:30:00.000-07:00

What did you say Kate?

Kate Spade "Eat Cake" Mug

Sound advice.
Sunday morning, I did.
And it was fantastic.

Happy Hump Day!

Simplicity

2013-04-23T05:30:00.000-07:00

On Saturday at my Oldest's First Communion, I wore one of my favorite looks so far this year. It was clean, simple, sophisticated and perfect for Spring. Though I love to layer, sometimes the simplest looks have the biggest impact.

Dress: Banana Republic / Heels: Tory Burch / Earrings: Stella & Dot / Lipstick: Nars

A Blink

2013-04-22T05:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was at my Oldest's Baptism.

And then I blinked...

And this little man was standing in a suit, all ready for his First Communion.

The person that told me the phrase, "The days are long but the years are short" could not have been more right.

I got tears in my eyes for how handsome he looked, how old he looked, and how special of a day this was for him. I also got tears in my eyes with the acknowledgement that life really seems to be going a bit fast for me. My little boy is growing up and sometimes I seem to forget to take it all in.

This was such an amazing day and I loved every moment of it.

The whole family was there, my Oldest was SO excited, and all we did was celebrate.

I was also able to get a photo of the five of us, which rarely happens.

(Yes, Baby Girl is not cooperating but I will take what I can get)

How was your weekend?

Friday...

2013-04-19T08:15:00.001-07:00

This week definitely kept us on your toes with three nights of baseball, a hubby who had some extremely late nights and a couple of events. I am so excited to spend tonight relaxing on the couch before our weekend begins. Mellow Friday nights are just heaven aren't they?

If you missed it this week...

This makeup line has become a favorite...

Juggling in Heels had a birthday...

I spent the afternoon with a classic...

This addicting song has become a video...

The Sartorialist read my mind...

Have a fabulously relaxing weekend.

Diana's Bag

2013-04-18T05:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I spent the afternoon among an array of beautiful Tod's handbags while attending an event hosted by Tod's, in support of the Camino Center Auxiliary, an organization that I have been involved with for some time (remember the fashion show and Marni event?). Along with the famous "D-Styling" collection, in honor of Princess Diana, the estate was also adorn with many of Tod's signature handbags and shoes. All attendees sipped champagne, shopped and supported an incredible center. Not too shabby for a Wednesday.

Thank you Tod's for supporting such an amazing organization.

The limited edition bag created specifically for this event.

A Belated Two Years

2013-04-16T05:30:00.000-07:00

First and foremost, my thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected by the explosions in Boston yesterday. It is heartbreaking that these events happen here and around the world.

Through our crazy schedules around here, I completely overlooked that on April 6th, Juggling in Heels hit the two year mark. I cannot believe. I was never really sure what I was getting into when I started this blog and could have never imagined all that has come from it. The relationships, opportunities and fun have far surpassed any expectations I could have had. I was just hoping my friends would read it!

To all of you who have supported and read Juggling in Heels over the past two years, thank you so much. I cannot express into words how thankful I am that you give me a moment of your time each day to babble about whatever is going on in this head of mine. Your support means the world to me. Hopefully you are not sick of me yet because there is a lot more where this has all come from!

To celebrate these past two years I pulled together these Rhubarb Mimosas for a little cheers with the hubby. The flavor was completely unexpected and a tasty way to celebrate.

Cheers to year 3!

By Terry

2013-04-15T05:30:00.000-07:00

At the first Space.NK event I hosted, I was introduced to a line called "By Terry", a cosmetics line developed by Terry de Gunzberg. The line focuses on using the highest protective ingredients from botanical extracts, the latest technology, ultra-rare pigments and textures and delivered through "click-pens", making the entire application process and touch ups extremely easy. While hosting I was too busy talking to be able to sit down in the makeup chair and try the products but numerous attendees were raving about them.

Finally, a couple months ago, I was able to try the line out myself and have become a huge fan. These five items are my favorite and have replaced other lines that I have been using for years. The easy application allows me to throw the pens into my purse and touch up throughout the day without a mess. Of all the products, my two favorite are the mascara, which makes your lashes look a MILE long, and the Creme de Rose Nuit, a night cream that has an incredible rose smell and just feels incredibly decadent when you put it on.

1. Creme de Rose Nuit Firming Repair Night Cream/ 2. Velvet Creme Blush / 3. Touch Expert Concealer

4. Mascara Terrybly/ 5. Light Expert Foundation

The weekend...

2013-04-12T05:30:00.000-07:00

My two weeks of Spring Break are over.

It would have been nice to have two schools with coordinating calendars but it wasn't in the cards this year.

I have spent the last two weeks at the movies, petting zoo, beach, parks, nail salon, baseball games, malls.

If it is in Orange County, there is a good chance I have been there.

Monday will send all three kids back to school, deliver some quiet around the house and I can try and get myself organized again.

I am not going to lie.

Even though it has been fun having them home, I am looking forward to this.

If you have missed any posts this week, they were
a little shop I opened up...
some delicious french toast...
a day on the water...
black and blue...
what I have been wearing...

I hope you have a great weekend.

What I Wore

2013-04-11T05:30:00.000-07:00

Spring time has brought numerous events, holidays, Spring Break, LA Fashion Week, baseball games, dinners, field trips and basically, running around all the time. My wardrobe has followed suit with spending one day in cut offs and flats followed by the next in silk and heels. Here is a little look at what I have been wearing...

Black and Blue: Get the Look

2013-04-10T05:30:00.000-07:00

via

Black and blue and a little pop of color around the eyes.

I love this look for Spring because it brings in just enough color to get excited for warmer weather but with the long sleeves and black, it has not let go of winter completely. Put together with some great sandals, this is an incredibly easy look to wear during the day without feeling like you are still in the "same old" jeans.

Sunglasses: Kate Spade NY/ Cuff: Stella & Dot/ Sandals: DV by Dolce Vita / Sweater: Dorothy Perkins

Skirt: Love Leather/ Earrings: Kendra Scott/ Handbag: Bottega Veneta