{long distance loving}

hello, goodbye!

2017-06-27T22:47:00.000-04:00

It's been nearly seven years since I first posted here at {long distance loving}. So much has changed in the blogging world in those years. So much has also changed in my world. I was freshly married with two cats when I penned my first post, which seems like a lifetime ago as my two little ones sleep upstairs. With that in mind, it's with great excitement I share my new home on the internet: ali-v.com.

You'll find some of your favorite posts from {long distance loving}, along with new content that is aligned with the lady I've become. If you have favorite posts from over the years, please tell me in the comments below (or via email). I am only moving the best content! I'm planning to keep this blog alive for posterity's sake, but any new content will appear there. I also welcome any topics you'd like me to explore in the coming months, as I finally surface after these foggy first years of motherhood.

You can sign up for my email newsletter to start receiving posts from my new blog from the get-go, along with Bloglovin which I will transfer when everything is all set. Thank you for making this blog such a safe place to share my hopes, fears, wishes, and joys. I hope you'll all join me as I make this transition -- and step forward. I owe you my sincere gratitude for ALL that you've given me... and I can't wait to give you more when my new site launches next month :)

All my love -- and see you on ali-v.com soon! Alison

P.S. I worked with Ready to Blog Designs on my new site -- she created my amazing logo and site! -- and I cannot wait to show you how it all came together. I truly hope you love it as much as I do.

to my best friend, as she becomes a mother.

2017-02-12T21:40:00.000-05:00

This is a letter to my best friend as she prepares to become a mother -- and to my best friends who will follow on this path in the years to come....

When I met you, we were young and starry-eyed. We were full of hope in what the future would hold for us. We talked about cute boys, we traveled together, and we shared life's details we wouldn't even share with our own mothers. When we talked about the future, it typically centered around where we might live or who we might marry -- not necessarily about the days we would become a mother. Motherhood seemed like a distant reality. Believe it or not, that distant reality? It's here.

I'll admit: when I became a mother, I felt like I was on my own island. A few of my dear friends who were mothers tried to prepare me for what was to come. No matter how many questions I asked, nothing could have prepared me for the journey that is motherhood. I wish I could prepare you for what is to come, but unfortunately, there is no foolproof guidebook to motherhood that you can buy on Amazon. (If there was, I would have purchased it -- and already sent you a copy.)

I marvel at the mothers who "get it" from the early days. The ones who are brave enough to nurse in public from day one. The ones who shake off the blowouts. The ones who know every last piece of baby gear under the sun. Here's the thing... I've determined most of those mothers are second-time moms. If they're not, good for them. You have to find your own groove in motherhood. It may take you six months; it may take you two years. However long it takes, you can trust I'll be there to share my journey and give my side of the story -- without insisting it's the only way.

I won't judge if you do or don't breastfeed. I won't judge if you FaceTime me and haven't showered in days. I won't judge if you co-sleep. I won't judge if you choose not to sleep train. (Ok, I may judge if you make your own baby food -- but only because I don't have the time to do it myself.) If you haven't noticed, the theme of this whole paragraph is that I will not judge your journey to motherhood. I simply pledge to be by your side, every step of the way.

I can try to explain the feeling you'll get when you see your baby (YOUR BABY!) for the first time, but I can't. I can try to explain all the yucky parts of those tender postpartum weeks, but instead, I promise to answer your questions and keep the fear at bay for now. I can try to explain the exhaustion that comes with motherhood, but I will fail (read: it isn't like those all-nighters we pulled in college). I can try to explain the elation with seeing your baby's firsts, but until you witness that first smile or that first roll, my words won't mean much. You'll understand soon enough.

Truth be told, I cannot wait to see how your life changes once you have that baby (your baby!!!) in your arms. It sounds incredibly cliché, but it's true: it may not always be easy, but I promise it is always worth it. Our friendship will inevitably change once you become a mother. I am ok with that. Why? We will have a whole new facet to our late-night phone calls, text message chains, and frantic emails. It will no longer be about you and me -- it will be about something much, much more.

I don't want to lose sight of what brought us together in the first place, of course. When I signed on to be your best friend many moons ago, I signed up for this too. We still have so many memories to make! I can't wait to take tandem family vacations. I'm already excited for those rare girls' weekends, when we leave the boys with our brood and get a chance to relax. Most of all, I look forward to the days when we're old and gray, chatting about our grandkids and laughing about our early days.

I may not be your sister, but I am your best friend. Whether you realize it or not, you will be an incredible mother. How do I know? You're the friend I've needed in the lowest of the lows and the highest of the highs. You're smart. You're generous. You're thoughtful. You're compassionate. You're you. The only piece of advice I have is this: trust your gut. You've got this -- and you've got me right by your side, whenever you need me.

the classic cross body guide.

2017-01-31T21:30:00.000-05:00

When we were in Charleston at the end of December, I had a serious wardrobe malfunction: the strap of my trusty black crossbody bag broke while we were strolling down King Street. After nearly five years, it finally bit the dust. I got this bag in my pre-baby days and it had been an easy bag to grab over the years. It was my go-to when I made a quick trip to the grocery store or when we finally got a date night. I typically carried this bag when I didn't have my kiddos in tow. My now retired bag had a long life, so I'm looking to replace it with something which can serve a similar term. I don't want something too fancy or too boring, but I also don't want something which might not work in a few years. (I'm looking at you tassels...)

In preparation for this decision, I pulled more than 30 black crossbody bags which fit the bill below. I tend to do this when I'm deciding where to make my investment, so I've I hope you can benefit from this research too ;) I have done similar round-ups in the past, including fun leopard flats and chic diaper bags. I'm all ears if you need me to do some research on a different item on your behalf. I love the thrill of the hunt!

Do you have any favorites from this bunch? I'm still torn on my final decision, but this one and this one (on serious sale!) are my top contenders at the moment. Time will tell which one I actually choose. xoxo {av}

UNDER $100

BP. Foldover Crossbody Bag - $39

Topshop Quilted Crossbody Bag - $48

Street Level Suede + Faux Leather Crossbody Bag - $48

Sole Society Thalia Crossbody Bag - $49.95 -- a near lookalike of this Chloé bag

Danielle Nicole Mini Harlow Faux Leather Satchel - ~~$78~~ $46.80 (40% off)

J.Crew Rider Italian Leather Mini Bag - $98

Halogen Leather Crossbody Bag - $99

UNDER $200

Lauren Ralph Lauren Newbury Bailey Crossbody - $128

Lauren Ralph Lauren Dryden Caley Mini Saddle Bag - $148

Botkier Soho Chain Crossbody Bag - $160

Ted Baker London Kerstin Patent Leather Crossbody Bag - $165

MICHAEL Michael Kors Cindy Large Dome Crossbody Bag - $168

Lodis Small Stephanie Eden Leather Crossbody Bag - $172

Rebecca Minkoff MAB Camera Bag - $175

ZAC Zac Posen Earthette Crossbody Bag - $175

Rebecca Minkoff Mini Suki Crossbody Bag - $175

Rebecca Minkoff Small Love Leather Crossbody Bag - $195 (Larger Version - $295)

Kate Spade New York Mini Nora Top Handle Bag - $198 (Exclusive!)

MICHAEL Michael Kors Daniela Shoulder Bag - $198

MICHAEL Michael Kors Bedford Double Gusset Crossbody Bag - $198

Calvin Klein Envelope Turn-Lock Crossbody Bag - $198

Botkier Valentina Crossbody Bag - $198

UNDER $300

Tory Burch Robinson Camera Bag - $225

Kate Spade New York Emerson Place Harbor Leather Crossbody Bag - $248

Tory Burch Mini Saddle Bag - ~~$250~~ $200 (20% off)

Milly Astor Crossbody Small Saddle Bag - $275

Louise et Cie Jael Leather Crossbody Bag - $278

Louise et Cie Small Alis Leather Crossbody Bag - $278

Loeffler Randall Mini Saddle Bag - ~~$295~~ $177 (40% off)

Loeffler Randall Lock Clutch - $295

Kate Spade New York Cameron Street Byrdie Leather Crossbody Bag - $298

Furla Metropolis Mini Crossbody Bag - $298

Tory Burch Kira Clutch - ~~$395~~ $237 (40% off)

Tory Burch Robinson Convertible Shoulder Bag - ~~$395~~ $276.50 (30% off)

real perspectives with MassMutual.

2016-12-29T17:56:00.005-05:00

This post was sponsored by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual). All opinions are my own. I believe in their mission and chose to work with them on this campaign because financial savviness is key to long-term success -- for everyone.

Happy almost 2017! You may have noticed me talking about this financial savviness quiz over on Instagram or Facebook in the last few weeks. I have a different perspective than most in the financial arena because my husband works with numbers all day long. (I expect my 9 out of 11 performance on this quiz, though not perfect, is due to him.) The caveat is that we know we have much, much work to do with our finances. The last few years have been foggy with new houses, new babies, and new jobs. 2017 is the year we straighten up. Thanks to MassMutual, we've gotten a head start.

Whether you're 24 or 31, it is sometimes hard to envision life at 58 or 73. How are you supposed to know what you're saving for when you don't know what life holds? This was one of the most eye-opening parts of working with MassMutual on this campaign. Stowing away cash for the future isn't always easy when you have your eyes set on things in present day (like a new handbag or a hospital bill). I think millenials (myself included) aren't as focused on tomorrow, as we are on today.

We did a reasonable job of contributing to our 401(k) accounts in our 20s, thanks to working for companies which offered strong matches. 401(k) accounts are easy: with direct deposit, you never actually get your paws on the cash. Padding savings accounts can be much tougher, when you have those day-to-day expenditures in front of you. However, I wish I'd read this article in my mid-20s about monthly contributions to a savings account. Let's just say there is a VAST difference to starting your savings accounts at age 22 vs. 32. (My jaw hit the floor when I saw the numbers.)

Looking to read up some more? This to-do list for retirement is a must. 401(k) accounts are not the end-all and be-all; there are plenty of other options at your fingertips. It also provides an important guide to determining what your expenses could be in retirement. Though it feels light years away, I've learned in parenthood that years are fleeting. Remembering our children in this entire financial equation is fodder for an entirely separate post. It's not just me, it's not just my husband and me, it's US. We want to be able to provide so much for their future as well. Starting now is a much better plan...

If you haven't already, I really encourage you to take a peek at this quiz. Whether you get a failing score or a perfect one, your future self will thank you. The end of an old year and the start of a new one is the perfect time to re-evaluate. Many thanks to MassMutual for encouraging this shift in my thinking -- and for revealing the places where we can better our financial health for the years (we hope are) ahead of us. Here's to a 2017 with bigger and better goals! xoxo {av}

on the road again: running after baby.

2016-12-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

Greetings! A few friends have asked about my postpartum running journey, so I wanted to share my experience. After two babies in two years, I have some insight on the matter. What you'll find in this post is simply a window into my own return to running. I was monitored by my obstetrician throughout my pregnancy while I ran and followed the advice of my doctor once both of my children were born. As a disclaimer though, I am most certainly not a doctor, so please follow the guidance from your physician. Enjoy some snapshots from my pregnant and postpartum running days in this post -- the man you see in many of them is my dad ;)

A little background: I am one of those crazy people who ran up until the end of my pregnancies. With James, I ran 7 days before I went into labor. (I didn't run that week before thanks to a fall on some boxes during our move.) With Rosie, I ran 2 days before I went into labor. I can only imagine what the people in my neighborhood thought when they saw me waddling by their house. If you were to ask me if I loved every pregnant run, I would say no. However, I am really glad I stuck with it as I look back on those months.

Pregnant running is a whole new ball game. Running in the first trimester was rough, but it was manageable. I personally loved running in the second trimester best -- when my bump wasn't so big and I still had a reasonable range of motion with my legs. I decided that running in my third trimester was a means to an end, especially after week 34. I wanted to keep running, even though I wasn't always happy to get out the door. My OB once saw me running during the last six weeks and told me she was proud to see me "waddling". I wasn't speedy, but I was moving -- and that mattered most.

My first runs post-baby always coincided with a visit with my favorite running partner: my dad. Our cadence is nearly identical and we run almost always run in stride. (When we run races together, it's almost eerie.) These first runs were both roughly three weeks after delivery. In the hospital, I was given the guidance that I would know when I was ready to get back on the road. I was told to trust my instincts and that's what I did.

One important note about my return to running was when my little ones were born. James was a winter baby; Rose was a summer baby. Returning to running after Rose was a whole different ballgame than with James. With my summer baby, the frequency of my runs increased around six or so weeks postpartum. With my winter baby (who also happened to be born in the worst winter we've ever had in New England), I wasn't running more than once or twice a week until at least twelve weeks.

Here's where I get really real (so click away if you don't want the truth): my postpartum running hasn't always been pretty... or dry... if you catch my drift. I recently got a referral to a physical therapist for these issues, so I am hoping to make some progress in the coming months. I thought that running throughout my pregnancy would make it easy to come back, but I was dead wrong. I convinced myself that returning to running the second time would be different too. Nope. Dead wrong again. In my estimation, two things made running postpartum more difficult: nursing boobs (sorry to be crass) and relearning how to move without a big weight on the front of your body.

I know many people think women running with a bump is nuts, but I promise you -- it is not. A pregnant body does an incredible job adapting. Once a baby is born, there is every expectation that a mother will just magically be right back to where she used to be. Nope. There are a lucky few for which this happens -- and if you're one of them, rejoice. I had my first at 29.5 and my second at 31. Things just didn't fall right back for me. Breastfeeding is a wonderful thing a woman can do for her child, but it also requires constant awareness to one's hydration (which causes a joyous postpartum issue...) and one's supply. Exercising too much can affect the supply and drinking too much can cause really unpleasant running conditions. (cough)

Truth bomb: from my experience, running while breastfeeding could be tougher than running with a huge bump. My theory is that the bump gives your ladies something to rest on... suddenly, when your bump goes away, they're just there in all their heavy, hanging glory. Nursing boobs are a serious running buzzkill. They make getting back on the road much harder because you're carrying extra weight in places you didn't have it before -- and getting some new weird aches and pains as a result.

With James, I stopped nursing at six months. Rosie is six months and we're still on our breastfeeding journey. Breastfeeding is seriously miraculous, don't get me wrong, but I will say that I didn't rediscover my joy in running until I weaned James. It is a serious struggle for me to get out the door these days, partially because of the cold and partially because I just feel like a lug. I am one of those few people who can't wait for her ladies to return to their non-milk producing state, though I will keep feeding Rose as long as she's interested in what I have to offer.

Beyond the chest department, there is serious shift in your center of gravity. I should have anticipated this would make things more difficult. Following both of these pregnancies, I felt like I had to relearn how to run -- even though I ran while pregnant. I averaged 3-4 runs per week during pregnancy, which was equivalent to my "normal" running days. (I cannot run back-to-back days because of stress fracture issues. My hope is to address this once we're sure we're done with children.) I'm currently averaging 3 runs per week -- Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday. I try fit in two shorter runs (5K - 4 miles) and one longer run (6 - 8 miles). I know that's not a lot in the way of mileage, but I'll get back there soon enough. I would say that I enjoy two of those runs a week, but one of the runs feels like I'm running in five foot deep water. I can never predict when a run will feel that way, until about mile 2... when it hits me like a wall of bricks.

All I can say about re-learning your rhythm is this: it takes time. Right as I got my groove back after James, I found out I was pregnant again with Rosie. (She was and is such a blessing, one which I'm not trying to bemoan. I'm just stating fact!) Because of better weather post-Rosie, I feel much better on the road speed-wise today than I did post-James.

Take this post for what it's worth. This was my experience. I started running at age 11 -- and have run consistently since, with the exception of a few months surrounding two stress fractures in my mid-20s. When my obstetrician encouraged me to continue what I had been doing pre-pregnancy, I decided to try it. I learned to really listen to my body during my pregnancies, many thanks in part to my running. I know, without a doubt, that running helped me get through both of my labors with much more confidence. I'm glad I ran during my pregnancies, but I also know it's not for everyone.

Coming back to running post-baby is no small feat. Taking it one day at a time is the best mentality, but these four snippets of advice may also help:

Set realistic expectations for your return. For example, I try to trim off 10-15 seconds per month on my overall average speed. If speed isn't your goal, add mileage gradually -- maybe a half mile a week, spread out across your runs.
Know your body will tire more quickly, but also know you WILL get it back. It just takes some serious dedication and understanding.
Only buy dark running shorts or pants for a long time. You'll thank me later. My cute pink running shorts are in my drawer for the time-being, as are my pretty light grey leggings. (If you're looking for options, I am especially loving these shorts and these pants for postpartum runs. The shorts run just a bit longer, so they do not get caught up in your post-baby thighs and do not cut into your midsection. The pants do an especially great job of holding in all your "jiggly bits" and masking other issues...)
Shake off the "bad" runs and know that better ones are ahead. Remind yourself that you got out there -- and that's what matters most. Better runs are coming.

If you have any one-off questions, I am happy to answer them. I am not an expert nor can I offer medical advice. (Always follow your doctor's orders!) I don't want to downplay how grateful I am my body allowed me to stay active during my pregnancies -- and to resume my running when I did. Whether you're a lifelong runner or a newbie, you can do it... just don't give up before you even start. I hope my honesty wasn't too scary -- and I'd love to hear if you have any other tips. xoxo {av}

a complete baby preparedness + registry guide (from a second time mom).

2016-11-09T21:47:00.000-05:00

I know ten million similar posts exist in the blogosphere, but I have a few friends who have asked for registry insight and I wanted to have one place to point them. This is the equivalent of about 12 blog posts in one, so forgive my wordiness. If you're not on the market for baby goods now, you might want to bookmark this post for future reference. Have a sister or friend who's pregnant now? Feel free to pass this along.

As always, these items were what worked for our family and our budget. Many similar items can be found, but I simply wanted to have a "catch-all" post for friends and readers who have asked for this resource. Some of these items have appeared on previous newborn survival guides I published (after baby one and after baby two), but I figured it was worth putting everything in one place. While pulling this post together, I realized this should really be deemed "everything you could possibly need for baby (and more)", not just what your registry should contain. Not all of these items will be used in baby's first year, so don't get overwhelmed. Remember: this is an exciting time -- and you just have to take it one choice / purchase at a time.

Last but not least, since you can't always refer to a blog post, I also made a PDF containing all the information you'll find below. Click here to provide your email and you'll receive a link once you confirm your subscription! It isn't a fancy eBook, but it is a thirteen page (!!) document which goes from soup to nuts. Download it to bring along as you register or just to share with your significant other. Enjoy!

Need to have:

Fisher Price Rock n Play Sleeper - Whenever anyone asks what to include on their registry, a Rock n Play -- as my phone knows as a RnP -- is always the first out of my lips. I don't care what color or version you get, but I do recommend it is one in which you can put batteries for the vibration. It's like the magic fingers I used to love at hotels in the late '80s ;) I'd never seen a fancy version like this, but in my research for this post I found it. I'm not sure it's worth the extra cash, but I figured it was worth sharing!
4Moms Breeze Playard - This playard isn't light on the wallet or biceps, but it is the easiest one I've seen to assemble. We've used ours for a myriad of things, from sleep to diaper changes. We kept ours on the first floor of our house in the early months as a changing station / nap location. It recently made the journey upstairs to our room as an in-between while we transitioned our son into a toddler bed to free up the crib for baby #2.
4Moms Breeze Sheets (Bassinet + Playard) - These sheets are made specifically for the Breeze, which means it fits snugly and leaves me worry-free if it's being used for sleeping. I also like that these sheets are waterproof, which is good for diaper changes ;) I recommend getting two of each size to have one when the other is in the wash. It doesn't come with any sheets, so if you don't buy these, it's not exactly comfortable for baby.
ERGObaby Original Swaddlers - When it comes to keeping your baby bundled, these swaddlers were our favorite. Both of our babies were little Houdinis, so I loved the pockets for the arms to keep the startle reflex at bay. If you live in hotter climates (I'm jealous!), but these ERGObaby Lightweight Swaddlers are the same -- just in a bit lighter material.
Halo Wearable Swaddle Blankets - We discovered Rosie liked her arms free after six or eight weeks. We tried one of these Love To Swaddle options, but we kept coming back to the Halo brand.
Aden + Anais Sleeping Bags (Options from Serena + Lily or direct from Aden + Anais) - Once babies start to roll, the tight swaddles are no more. These wearable sleeping bags are perfect over a footie and give just the right amount of warmth. I don't love the fleece versions because they're so thick; the cotton ones are what I prefer.

Nice to have:

Deluxe DockaTot - I'm in a few Facebook groups for moms and a DockaTot is consistently lauded for sleep success. I discovered them a few weeks after our second was born, but I never pulled the trigger to get one of our own. Though I can't speak from experience, I hear they are amazing for making the crib transition -- which is something worth noting! (You can find a few other designs here.)
Halo Bassinest Bedside Swivel Sleeper - This is another item I hear about frequently from my friends who are new moms. Whether you're breastfeeding or not, being able to grab at arm's length in the middle of the night would be clutch. This was the only downside for me of the Rock n Play. I wished it was taller, so I wouldn't have to bend down as far -- especially in the week or so after delivery.
Babymoov Lovenest Flat-Head Pillow - I found this when our second little one seemed to always sleep with her head facing the right. It may be a gimmick, it remains to be seen, but I felt better about her head when I used it. I discontinued using it after she was rolling around more.
3-inch Pack n Play Mattress - If we're staying somewhere besides our house and don't have our own Breeze with us, I always try and make sure to have one of these on hand. The crinkly sound and uncomfortable feel of some Pack n Plays make it virtually impossible to imagine a little one getting a good night's sleep. This mattress gives a little extra cushion and has proven to give us more sleep when we're not in our normal sleeping quarters. (Extra sleep on vacation = priceless!)
Marpac Dohm All-Natural White Noise Sound Machine - This was a more recent addition to our arsenal, but I'd heard people rave about this particular machine for ages. We run this puppy at night in the Jack n Jill bathroom, which separates their bedrooms -- in the hopes that one won't disrupt the other's sleep.

Of your own choosing:

Crib - This kind of goes without saying, but for full preparedness, I included it. The crib we got from Pottery Barn has since been discontinued, so don't always rely on it being around forever. Register also for the "conversion" kit if you want an easier transition to a toddler bed. Many cribs choices have this as an option.
Crib Sheets - I would recommend getting two (or three!) to ease your mind when that middle of the night blowout occurs. No baby wants to sleep in a sheet-less crib!
Glider - We haven't purchased a second glider for baby #2's room, but in some ways, I wish we had. I love the peacefulness that this chair brings. Choose whatever style you like. If it's available (and suits your style), try to find one which reclines. You'll understand why later.

Need to have:

Little Unicorn Hooded Towel Set (Available at Anthropologie and direct from Little Unicorn) - Whether you register for them or not, you'll end up with a ton of hooded towels. (People love babies in towels!) We received one of these towels when Rosie was born and I fell in love. They're beautiful and functional, the perfect combination!
Skip Hop Moby Bath Spout Cover - Perfect for boys and girls, this prevents run-ins with the scary, shiny, and hard faucet.
Skip Hop Moby Waterfall Bath Rinser - A close companion to the spout cover, this 'rinser' has the ideal design for kindly pouring water on baby.
Puj Tub - Here's a choice that depends greatly on your bathing set-up, but this is the infant tub we love. It folds up pretty compactly for easy storage -- and there is a travel version if you need it.
Boon Fleet Stacking Boats - After reading an absolutely disgusting article somewhere about mold found in baby bath toys, I swore off any toys which could somehow hide water. These stacking boats are ideal because they have no little crevices to grow mold. Win!

Nice to have:

Kyte Washcloths - Since babies have delicate skin, I'm an advocate of these extra soft cotton washcloths. They certainly aren't a necessity, but it is a sweet little luxury.
Munchkin White Hot Inflatable Duck Safety Tub - We used this tub when James made his way from the Puj to the actual tub. It's about to come out stoarge for Rosie's transition. Its pricetag and size make it attractive because it doesn't serve a purpose for a crazy long time. I think we used it for about a month while James developed stronger sitting skills.

Need to have:

OXO Tot Perfect Pull Wipes Dispenser - I may be in the minority here, but I decided my kids didn't need warm wipes to manage their messes. I love this OXO option because it has a weight which goes on top of the wipes and works with any brand you decide to use. The wipes stay wet, which doesn't always happen if the lid on a package isn't secure. (We've even brought one for each of our kids at daycare and their providers love them!)
Munchkin Waterproof Changing Liners - I've professed my love of these for years, but they're perfect for at home and on the go use. They have a waterproof barrier and can go on top of whatever cute changing pad cover you choose... because you won't be as upset to throw away a $3 changing pad liner as you would your favorite (and more expensive) changing pad cover.
Regal + Lager Dékor Plus Diaper Pail - Not going to lie, we have three of these in our house: one in each of our kids' rooms and another in our living room, where we spend the most time. I've NEVER ever had a smell issue from these. They're easy to change once they're full and even have a handy cutter on the door (which took us about 18 months to discover... oops?). There's nothing worse than walking into a house and smelling diapers. When there are two under two, I was worried it was inevitable. The Diaper Dékor is a miracle worker!
Munchkin Contour Foam Changing Pad - You really can't go wrong with a basic foam changing pad. Some people choose really posh, fluffy ones, but I don't see the point. You want something that isn't going to soak in every bodily fluid which might pour out... so waterproof is the way to go. You might want to buy a few anti-slip pads to hold it in place, depending on what surface you place the changing pad.

Nice to have:

Keekaroo Peanut Diaper Changing Pad - When we were on Nantucket for vacation in September, we used a rental company for a good amount of our baby needs. They had a Keekaroo in stock, so we gave it a try. Though I generally think it's kind of ugly, it worked beautifully for a tiny infant and a rambunctious toddler. I couldn't get over the aesthetics, but I definitely think it's worth a look for something "all in one" -- no liners or changing pad covers necessary.
Summer Infant Ultimate Flat Crib Sheet - One of my most seasoned mom friends swears by this crib sheet. We've used it from time to time, but I figured it was worth including since it came with a resounding endorsement from a mom of three.

Of your own choosing:

Changing Pad Cover - I would be sure to grab two or three of whatever you choose. #accidents

Need to have:

KicKee Pants Footies (On occasion, they will come up on Gilt and Zulily -- so that's often when I jump on them!) - I may sound like a broken record on KicKee Pants, but I can't get enough. They're so so so so soft, which is perfect for tiny little babies. I don't mind the snaps, but if you do, Magnificent Baby is always an option.
Goumikids Goumiboots + Goumimitts - Soft and sweet, these rather neutral booties and mittens are ideal year-round. The booties grow with them, thanks to the Velcro-like closure. The mittens protect their delicate faces from their razor sharp nails. Win win!
Little Unicorn Muslin Blankets or Aden + Anais Swaddles (Multiple options at Nordstrom and Bloomingdale's) - I feel like blankets count in the "wearing" category for those early days. You can never have enough of these in your arsenal. They also work as a nursing cover (tied at the neck) when you're in a punch. I also love the KicKee blankets for swaddling, but they feel totally different than the muslin.

Nice to have:

Zutano Cozie Fleece Booties - If this was just a winter baby registry list, this would be in the "need to have" category. As the name implies, they're perfectly cozy to prevent cold toesies. They now have non-skid bottoms, so I may even get a pair for our toddler this winter. I just wish they came in my size!
Freshly Picked Moccasins - Do you need these moccasins? No. But are they adorable? Yes.
Baby Bling Headbands - I swore I'd never put a bow on my daughter, but these Baby Bling Headbands taught me otherwise. They'll work from birth until they won't let you put a headband on them anymore ;)
Colonial Mills Wool Blend Hamper with Lid - Based in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, one of my closest friends introduced me to Colonial Mills just before James was born. They make classic rugs and house goods, one of my favorites being this handy hamper. We have a few to hold toys and clothes. They're well made and won't hurt if someone takes a tumble into them!
This is an older post, but here are some fun ideas on building a building a gender neutral baby wardrobe. I don't generally recommend putting clothing on a registry (since you're likely to get a ton of it unsolicted), but I wanted to put the food for thought in this post ;)

Of your own choosing:

Basic white onesies (short + long-sleeved) - There's nothing cuter than a baby in a basic white onesie. They're good for wearing under belly-baring outfits or just chilling on the couch at home.

Need to have:

My Brest Friend Nursing Pillow (Black + White Slip Cover) - I know everyone thinks of the Boppy as the #1 nursing pillow, but I personally think My Brest Friend is superior. The buckle helps keep it in place and there is even a bit of back support.
Anita Seamless Nursing Bra with Underwire - Some people dislike underwire in their nursing bras, but I need it. It isn't bulky and pulls down over the ladies with ease. The straps are supportive and stay in place. I actually miss wearing it when I'm no longer nursing!
Milk Snob Cover - I wish I had discovered Milk Snob when I was nursing in public with James. It may be second mom confidence, but I truly attribute my Milk Snob to ability to nurse more comfortably in public. Available in some fun patterns and bold colors, this nursing cover can also serve as a car seat cover and as a shopping cart cover.
Medela Pump In Style Advanced Breast Pump On-The-Go Tote - I rented a hospital grade pump with my first little one, but I managed to get this more portable pump through insurance with my second. The letdown feature is key and it's relatively light for travel. I also purchased a battery pack, which makes it super easy to pump... anywhere (including a club in the Hamptons while attending a bachelorette party -- I'm speaking from experience! ha!)

Nice to have:

Le Mystere Underwire Nursing Demi Bra - This bra has a totally different feel than the bra I mentioned above. The cups are molded and it feels a bit more like armor, but it does feel a bit more "sexy" (as nursing bras come) than most.
Dr. Brown's Gia Nursing Pillow + Pillow Cover - I've spent a great amount of time with my nursing pillows over the last couple of years. I especially like that this pillow isn't so bulky all the way around. It has a more "shrimp" like shape, if that makes sense, and offers the right angle for baby. (More cover options are also available on Etsy.)
Medela Breastmilk Cooler Set - If you plan to travel while you're pumping, register for at least one of these cooler sets. It fits beautifully in the pump bag I mentioned above, but it also eliminates any extra wiggle room and quells my fear of #spilledmilk.

Of your own choosing:

Nursing Pads - 8 out of 10 friends (I'm guessing here) will have some leaky issues until supply is regulated. It doesn't really matter what brand you use (I'm brand loyal and used the Medela ones), as long as you have them. I didn't like the washable ones... because milk can be stinky. There, I said it. I just wanted to throw mine out after they were soaked, rather than needing to wash them.
Lanolin - This is something to have on hand, but be forewarned -- it can stain (even though it's clear!). A few brands exist, but they all work virtually the same. I used this one. I did learn that a few drops of breast milk (left exposed) work wonders on painful nipples.

Need to have:

Phil & Ted's Poppy Highchair - I'll admit I didn't do a ton of research around highchairs, but I chose this one because I didn't want a poofy cloth one which would be hard to clean. From those first days eating purées to recent days simply trying to keep James in one place, this one has served us well. It wipes down easily. The only thing I could possibly complain about is that I trip over its legs.
Boon Clutch Dishwasher Basket - These are an absolute lifesaver. Whether you give your baby formula or breast milk, there will inevitably be bottles to clean. It took me forever to learn that you could actually wash your bottle parts in the dishwasher. (Our dishwasher even has a sanitizing rinse cycle.) We keep this in the top level of our dishwasher at all time. It works for everything from bottle parts to sippy cup parts.
Boon Grass Drying Rack - Should you choose to wash bottles or other baby gear by hand, this drying rack is the way to go. I'll admit we also use it for washing delicate wine glasses ;) (If you're against the green, you can find it here in white!)
Dr. Brown's Natural Flow Wide Neck Bottles - We've been Dr. Brown's fans from the very beginning. If I'm being honest, it is also the only bottle I've ever tried with our little ones. Dr. Brown's claims to help reduce feeding problems like colic and spitting up, so it's probably why I like them. There are a few parts to their bottles, but I'm used to them and our little ones have never had an issue. There available in multiple sizes (here's the next size up) and they're virtually indestructible. (Everyone talks about Comotomo, but again, I've never tried anything else. Every baby is different, so you may have to give a few different bottles a try.)
Aden + Anais Burp Cloths - In the early days, these cloths work beautifully for draping over shoulders when burping tiny infants. They can also be snapped and provide lots of coverage once they're a little bigger. These Aden + Anais Snap Bibs are another cute option in the same fabric once babes have moved on to more regular bottle feeding and eating solids.
Green Sprouts Stay-Dry Infant Bibs - We sent these bibs with both babies to daycare. They're not particularly soft, but they do the trick and have a waterproof inner layer. This is great for particularly drooly or messy babes!
ZoLi Bot 6 oz. Straw Sippy Cup - We did a ton of sippy cup trials, but none scored well with our son until we found the ZoLi Bot. Some little ones do better with a straw -- and James is one of them. We bought a few in each size (here's the other - ZoLi Bot XL 9 oz. Straw Sippy Cup). One tip: buy only one color per size to reduce confusion which top goes with which cup. The straws are cleaned easily when placed in the open position in our Boon Clutch. They only leak when the lid isn't placed on correctly.
The Honest Company Formula Dispenser - Once James made the move to formula around 6.5 months, I lived by these dispensers. I could get ready to get out the door without having to lug the entire container of formula with me.

Nice to have:

Stokke Tripp Trapp Highchair - This attractive highchair was added to our seating arrangement around the time James turned one. It seems to work well for the slightly older set. We use it interchangeably with our Poppy Highchair. (Hello, baby stuff central!) In order to make it functional as a highchair, you'll also need to buy the Chair Tray and the Baby Set. This makes it a much less cost effective option. However, it is a little easier to swallow long term as it grows with them with its adjustable foot rests and removable tray.
Phil & Ted's Lobster Portable Clip-on Highchair - If you don't love using restaurant highchairs, this is a great alternative. Some tables can't accommodate it, so be aware it may not work everywhere. It packs up in a handy and non-obnoxious bag. In my opinion, it definitely falls in the nice to have, not the need to have category.
EZPZ Happy Mat Silicone Feeding Mat - You won't put this in the rotation until your little one is a bit bigger, but this feeding mat is fun for baby and easy to clean. Unfortunately, they don't work well on either of the high chairs I mentioned. It is great for those days when you allow your little one to belly up to the table. If you were willing to tote it along, it would be nice for eating out of the house. (One thing we always have on hand when we go out to eat? These Neat Solutions Neat-Ware Table Toppers. Great to create a clean surface on the go!)
KicKee Bibs - My beloved KicKee fabric in a big in cute solids and patterns? Sign me up.
OXO Tot Roll-up Bibs - Need an easy bib to toss in your diaper bag which wipes clean? This is your winner.
ZoLi Stuck Suction Bowl Feeding Kit - As we try to limit the mess in our kitchen and dining room, this suction bowl has helped immensely. It prevents cereal bowls from ending up on our little one's head... 98% of the time. (They do make good hats!)
OXO Tot Flippy Snack Cup + Munchkin Snack Catcher - Either one of these cups are handy for snack food on the go. (Think puffs, yogurt bites, and berries!) I like the Munchkin version for younger ones and the OXO version for slightly older babes.
Boon Pulp Silicone Feeder - Part teether and part feeder, this is a handy food delivery device. Put cold purées inside and it helps calm those painful teething gums -- and gives them a snack at the same time.

Need to have:

BabyBjorn Bouncer - When we purchased this for James at four weeks, I wished we had it a few weeks sooner. Thankfully, we had it from the day we got home from the hospital with Rose. Once they both hit about eight or ten weeks, this Toy Bar became a handy addition for easy entertainment.
Boppy Newborn Lounger - We didn't have this lounger with James, but I wish we had. I got it when Rosie was about two weeks old and I was glad I did. It just felt like a safe place to place a tiny baby without fear of rolloffs or rollovers. Once Rosie turned about ten or twelve weeks, it slowly made its way out of our rotation.
Skip Hop Farmyard Activity Gym - You can pick any activity gym you want, but you will definitely need one. It is wonderful for tummy time and can enchant little ones of many ages (including a toddler, who now likes to lay underneath of it with his sister). I chose this classic, very gender neutral set. It also has some coordinating toys, mentioned in the nice to have category!
Skip Hop Playspots Foam Floor Tiles - These super neutral floor tiles help make your house or apartment feel less like a daycare. They help soften the blow when little ones tumble as they start moving and shaking.
Original Sophie the Giraffe + Sophie the Giraffe Teether - They're worth the hype. That's all.

Nice to have:

4Moms Mamaroo - This is a much hyped registry addition, but it also comes with a bit of a pricetag. To save money, I bought ours on Craig's List. I'm glad I didn't pay full price because neither of our kids loved it. I did buy a Newborn Insert to help make it cozy. Some babies looooove it, which is why I included it -- ours just did not.
Pottery Barn Kids Fun on the Farm Stacker + Pottery Barn Kids Farm Animal Rattle Blocks Set - These match the activity gym I referenced above. They are well made and didn't show their age once James moved on from them.
Bumbo Floor Seat - Another perennial registry favorite, it gets my endorsement... but we didn't use it nearly as much as I expected we would. Once James and Rosie were beginning to spend some time sitting up, this was another stop on their activity rotation in our living room.
KidCo Go-Pod Portable Activity Seat - This came highly recommended to me by a dear friend and seasoned beach goer. For all intents and purposes, it's a portable jumperoo. It is handy to have for keeping babies in one place while on the beach (and off of it, too). It folds up smaller than a camping chair, so its slim size is also a selling point.

Of your own choosing:

Jumperoo - They're ugly and huge, but babies LOVE them. The giggles and smiles they bring help make their aesthetic ickiness more tolerable. The good news is that they don't need to stay in your living space forever ;)

Need to have:

Bumbleride Indie All Terrain Stroller - I fell in love with this stroller at a local children's boutique. As a runner, this is perfect for short jogs (probably not for speed work or marathons). As a mother, it's great because you can still be active and go over crazy terrain with ease. They also have an Indie Twin, to which we have now transitioned since we have two on board. A lot of people go for a BOB or something similar, but this has my ringing endorsement. It is American made and isn't as bulky as some joggers can feel. I would go test out as many as you can before you make your decision, but if you're like me, you'll always come back to Bumbleride.
UPPAbaby VISTA Carbon Frame Convertible Stroller - I wish we purchased this when we had James. It is an ideal stroller for two under two, allowing multiple configurations which fits both little ones comfortably. It also works really well for one baby, coming with a bassinet (which can actually be used as a place for the baby to sleep in the house!) that feels comfortable and cozy. There are ENDLESS accessories which you may need, like plastic rain covers and car seat adapters, but you should wait until you make all your gear choices before you buy.
UPPAbaby G-LUXE Reclining Umbrella Stroller - We were grateful to receive this portable stroller off of our registry. We like it so much that we may even pick up the double version in the future. It is the smallest of our strollers, but it still feels sturdy and has weathered many trips. I would also make sure to have the UPPABaby G-Series TravelSafe Travel Bag because UPPABaby will cover any issues on the spot, if their bag is in use.

Nice to have:

UPPAbaby SnugSeat Seat Inset - We didn't get this until Rosie was a bit older, but it is handy to have when newborns are SO small and it feels like they're falling out of their seats.
UPPABaby CozyGanoosh Footmuff - You won't need this if you live somewhere warm, but it is a fantastic option for babes in colder climates.

Need to have:

Maxi-Cosi Mico AP Infant Car Seat - As time moves on, baby seats get better. We've loved our Maxi-Cost Car Seat because its as light as they come. This is much more important than you realize as your baby goes and you're suddenly carrying a huge weight on your arm. It weathered 7 months with James and over 5 months with Rosie. I would certainly get it again. However, if we were going to get something new, I would consider the UPPAbaby MESA Car Seat (as it fits in our stroller system without an adapter) or the Nuna Pipa Car Seat (as it comes highly recommended by friends). This is a very personal choice, so go and feel them before you decide! Whatever you choose, be sure to get a second base -- because it is one less thing to worry about when transporting little ones.
Britax Boulevard Clicktight Convertible Carseat - Another very personal choice which requires your own research, we went with this Britax model after we did our own. We moved James to this seat because he was a BIG boy and I was tired of carrying the infant seat. I anticipate keeping Rosie in hers a bit longer because she's slightly more petite and because it's easier to wrangle a baby and a toddler that way ;)
Skip Hop Chelsea Diaper Bag Backpack - A fun spin on this classic diaper bag, I'm aching to own this one for myself. Backpacks are cool, I promise -- especially when you need one extra hand free. I include this here, even because I don't own it, because I trust their brand and their reviews. It's also not ugly in the slightest, so that's something, right? (You can also see a few others in a round-up I did before baby #1 was born!)
On the Go Sleep Sheep - Getting your little one out of the house can come with anxiety about crying and interrupting those around you. Thankfully, this sleep sheep (and others like it) help calm your little one and you as well.
ERGObaby 360 Baby Carrier - Baby carriers are another hot item, but this is the one which worked best for us. I liked that baby could face in during the early days and face out once they got a bit bigger. I always feel like the carrier is securely placed around my hips. It also works for my husband with just a few quick adjustments.
ERGObaby Easy Snug Cotton Poplin Baby Insert - This is an updated version of what the infant insert we have. This is ideal for carrying tiny babies without a worry.

Nice to have:

Bébé au Lait Love Muslin Car Seat Cover - While I love my Milk Snob cover, this is another wonderful (and breathable!) option.
Rebecca Minkoff Knocked Up Baby Bag - This is the baby bag I treated myself to during a Shopbop sale a few years back. It cost a pretty penny, but it feels less like a diaper bag and more like a normal bag I might carry -- without table top covers or toys or diapers inside.
Solly Baby Wrap - Another baby carrier option, this one is beloved by many -- including me. I didn't always have the patience to wrap it, but I always felt like my littles were cozy and warm while wearing it. Regardless of which one you get, it works for all-sized humans, which is also a plus.
Baby K'Tan Wrap Baby Carrier - The K'Tan was an early favorite of ours, which is less crazy to try and put on than the Solly (in my opinion). It is a sized option, however, so it doesn't work across families.

Need to have:

Nest Security Camera - You have plenty of options when it comes to baby monitors, but this camera was the one which fit our needs. It is a positive for us, but for others, it is a negative -- it can be viewed from anywhere on a compatible phone or tablet. Call me a bad mom if you wish, but I don't have the monitor on at all times (except I do have it on once we go to bed). We have two cameras now with two little ones -- and both can be seen from the same screen. We're fans!
Beautycounter Baby Soothing Oil - Gosh, I wish I had this when James was born. It truly feels like a dream when you put this on baby's skin. It is lightweight and fragrance-free -- and doesn't stain clothes as other oils can. We use it right before bedtime to give Rosie a tiny massage. I wish I had that every night ;)
Beautycounter Baby Gentle All-Over Wash - This silky smooth wash is something I want to add to my routine. I feel confident knowing that it doesn't have unnecessary chemicals and it rinses easily to leave my little ones clean.
Beautycounter Baby Daily Protective Balm - For little eczema spots, this balm works wonders.
Braun Thermoscan No-Touch + Forehead Thermometer - You need one of these. They come from a variety of brands, so pick your poison. This is the one we have. I didn't spend much time on the choice. It works, though not perfectly -- but none of them do. The next item is a bit more precise...
Vicks Baby Rectal Thermometer - I know, I know. Who wants this? But I promise you'll want one around for better readings than a forehead thermometer can give.
FridaBaby NoseFrida Nasal Aspirator - It looks gross, but it is truly essential. This snot sucker will help you get some sleep back on those stuffy nights for your little one. You'll also want some replacement FridaBaby NoseFrida Hygiene Filters, some Little Remedies Saline Spray to help loosen the phlegm, and Boogie Wipes to clean up the mess without yucky residue.
FridaBaby Windi the GasPasser - I didn't use these regularly, but they did assist well when our kids weren't regular -- if you catch my drift ;)

Nice to have:

Em's Baby Earmuffs - If you're going to see fireworks or a sporting event with a baby in tow, this will help you feel more confident that their little ears are protected.
WubbaNub Pacifier Toy - Neither of our little ones were fans of pacifiers (weird!), but we received a few of these -- and I loved that they came with a tiny stuffed animal that babies could hold. Pacifiers are something nice to have on hand, but be prepared (like bottles) to try out a few brands.
ZoLi Buzz B. Electric Nail Trimmer - You don't need to spend a lot of money on a nail trimmer, as your teeth work just as well, but if you wanted one, this is a good one to get.
FridaBaby NailFrida TheSnipperClipper Nail Care Set - Need to cut slightly bigger finger nails? I like this FridaBaby option. You can see through the top to make sure you don't cut too far.

Under $25:

Milestone Baby Cards - I received these as a gift -- and I love them! They work with both genders and also make a sweet keepsake.
Junior Babiators Sunglasses - Get some laughs at a shower with this fun add-on to any gift.
JellyCat Stuffed Animal - No baby can ever have too many JellyCats.
Baby Lit All Aboard! Books - Along the same lines, no baby can ever have enough Baby Lit!
Little Unicorn Fruitful Bib Set - Don't know what bibs a mom might choose? These are an adorable (and mostly gender-neutral) option.
Angel Dear Blankies - James is obsessed with his "lalas". We have quite a few -- all in different colors and faces. A dear friend suggested to have a few extra on hand in case one goes missing, so they'd make a perfect gift -- because a little one can never have enough!

Under $50:

Chewbeads - Cute and functional, this necklace makes it possible for a new mom to wear jewelry again -- even if it is meant for their little one to chew ;)
Tooth Fairy in a Box - So much focus is placed on those newborn days, but giving something like this little tooth fairy guarantees your gift will keep on giving many years down the line.
Moulin Roty Childhood Treasures Souvenir Box - I'm a packrat, so I love this. It would be a wonderful gift for a sentimental mama.
FridaBaby Bitty Bundle of Joy - Instead of buying all the FridaBaby fixes individually, this could make a great gift. It's a one-stop shop for all my favorites (plus a few extras!).

Under $100:

Jennifer Ann Personalized Name Blanket - You will see lots of blankets below, but this one is my favorite by far. Chances are you have probably seen ours in my photos -- and it is sure to be a lifelong keepsake. The lead time to receive a blanket is roughly a month, so make sure you have that time baked in before you'd like to give this precious gift.
Little Giraffe Chenille Blanket - There are cult fans of Little Giraffe, so I'm sure this would be a gift that would be welcomed with open arms by babies and parents in need of some coziness.
Aden + Anais Dream Blanket - This starry blanket would be a dream-inducing and super soft gift to be enjoyed for years to come.
Welcome Baby Gift Set - Help new parents care for their little ones in comfort with this boxed set of all the best Beautycounter baby products.

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recent wardrobe + beauty finds: fall 2016.

2016-10-17T17:30:00.000-04:00

This pretty photo of buoys isn't related to this post whatsoever. I just decided it was prettier than any collage I could create on little to no sleep, so I hope you enjoy this vignette from my drive last week on Cape Cod. (Yay for the four month sleep regression!) This post is actually about what has been catching my eye or made its way to my closet or beauty drawer in the last few months. I am really rocking the mom bod these days, so give me a little grace in the 'lack of fashion forward choices' department. I am focused on function and wearability these days. Read on to see what is working for me...

BACK TO WORK:

-I picked up this silky wrap blouse in winter white for my return to work this fall. (I could also add this top under the "nursing friendly" category.) It comes in a number of other prints and colors, so you can always grab a couple of colors. Once it hits the sale rack, you can almost always find an additional promotion at Ann Taylor.

-Still at Ann Taylor (and still on sale), this dress is rather conservative and not that exciting, but it is a solid staple to add to your dress rotation. I have a ton of black dresses in my closet, but I liked that this was navy and black -- perfect to wear with some of my favorite black flats. (As I write this, I am realizing that my work wardrobe is pretty basic, so please don't judge. Showing up to work with the same pair of shoes can be a feat these days!)

-In total opposition to what I just said, I am lusting over this crazy dress -- because leopard is a neutral, right? It isn't exactly pumping friendly, but that's why I have my MilkSnob handy.

WEEKEND WEAR:

-For less than $35, you can add this cozy vest to your weekend wardrobe. I'm partial to the dark gray, but the camel and light gray are just as versatile.

-I readily admit that I am a lululemon addict, but my local store tolerates me coming in to try on a boatload of things from time to time. This top is one that I want to love, but I need to learn to embrace its blouse-y shape. It would be perfect to toss on when you don't really have any plans and you don't know what else to wear on a weekend morning. I tend to buy a 6 in lululemon, but I would definitely pick this top up in a size (or two!) smaller.

-Speaking of lululemon, they took my favorite top and made it a little less boobilicious in this crew neck version. I treat myself to one of these on occasion. I am just diligent with keeping it out of the dryer (and hanging to dry) to keep it living longer.

-This simple top + a cute pair of pants + cozy scarf + a pair of boot(ie)s? The perfect fall outfit.
-Splendid is one of my go-to's for relaxed yet polished tops. This top has an unexpected detail -- a long line of buttons on the back -- which make it more than just a boring striped shirt.

POSTPARTUM / NURSING FRIENDLY / "I'M IN MY EARLY 30s" FINDS:

-When I was pregnant last winter, I looked high and low for a coat like this but couldn't find it. Of course, I can find it now. That said, I don't hate the idea of getting it this year since I'm not loving the tailored coats I have in my closet yet.

-I only wish I discovered the ASOS Nursing section before I had James. This dress worked beautifully toward the end of my pregnancy with Rosie; it is still on heavy rotation now, 4.5 months postpartum. I can wear it and nurse through the available holes, keeping things rather discrete. It works well by itself in the summer, well with a cardigan in the fall and winter, and well with a jean jacket in the spring. You can just call me its number one fan...

-I have this sweater in the winter white from two winters ago -- and I've loved pulling it out each year. I might need to pick it up in the gray to toss on over some jeans or leggings for the next few winters. It hides those lumps and bumps because it's just the right kind of roomy.

-Though my postpartum belly doesn't fully disappear with this pair of underwear, it certainly helps the cause. I wear them when I just need to contain my situation a bit ;)

-Back during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, I discovered Spanx leggings. They're legit. I snagged this "leather" pair for a little edge. The jury is still out as to whether I'm cool enough to pull them off.

BEAUTY RAVES:

-I am downright obsessed with this tinted moisturizer. Over the last year, I had a few introductions to Beautycounter but I never made a purchase. I just wish I made the leap sooner. It took me going to their Nantucket Pop-up in September to bring home my first Beautycounter product. Not only does this moisturizer have SPF, it actually leaves my skin hydrated all day long and doesn't look cakey with the color.
-On that same visit to their pop-up shop, I also grabbed this rosewater mist. I have to admit I was skeptical, but it is a game-changer for my tired skin.
-P.S. I know it may sound like I've had a drink of the Beautycounter Kool-aid. I guess I have. Their mission is legit and it's made me re-think my whole beauty routine (so much so I'm now a consultant for them). Now that I have a daughter, I am thinking about her future beauty routine too. I want her to grow up with safer and healthier options. I'm not going to inundate you with products, don't worry, but I do plan on sharing my favorites -- which is what I've done since I started blogging almost seven years ago.

A few parting notes: I know this post is light on pants. Why? I'm still not really fitting into the pants I was before Rosie (or really before James). My body has changed considerably, so I need to take some time to mourn my pre-baby shape (#RIP). While I nurse, I hold onto weight rather than drop it. If I try to work on my diet or increase my exercise, it affects my milk supply. In other words, until I stop nursing, things are the way they are. I plan on taking some time soon to find some real solutions other than my beloved Align pants because, let's face it, I have to accept that lululemon leggings don't count as pants.

This post is also light on accessories. I could say "oops", but in reality, it is because I am not really wearing pretty things like necklaces or earrings these days. My 4 month old is grabby and I can barely remember to put my wedding ring on after I shower. I'll accessorize again when they're grown. Or something like that?

Last but not least, I wanted to open it up and see if there was anything special you'd like me to explore on the blog. I'm constantly thinking of ideas for posts, but I want them to resonate with you. (Example: If you're pregnant or a new mom, I'm also happy to take requests on round-ups you'd like to see. Email me and I'll start pulling it together.) I may not post as often as I'd like, but I still want to be a valuable stop on your procrastination chain on the internet ;) Have a great night! xoxo {av}

pantone color report: spring 2017.

2016-10-05T21:56:00.001-04:00

If you've been following {long distance loving} for any length of time, you will know I create a post every fall to illustrate Pantone's top ten hues for the next spring. With that in mind, it is only right that this is my post to say "hello, I'm going to try my best to blog again". So much has changed in my life in the last six months, but I'm determined to keep up my favorite little corner on the Internet. I may not be blogging every day, but I am certainly going to try my best to get all of the posts swirling around in my head out. I need some head space back! #mombrain

After looking through my previous illustrations from 2016, 2015, 2014, and 2013, I have to say that this year's report is rather vibrant. If I had to pick favorites, I would have to choose two of the three beautiful blues, Niagara and Lapis Blue. Don't hate me for being stuck in the blues: I promise my color choices don't reflect the sunny state of life in my world! It may not all be sunshine and rainbows, but I have never been as happy as I am today. I can't wait to give you more color (pardon the pun!) on life with two little ones. Lots more soon! xoxo {av}

Can you choose a favorite (or two!) from this year's Pantone Color Report?

a second time mom's guide to the first four weeks.

2016-07-14T14:09:00.002-04:00

It's been six weeks since Rosie graced us with her presence. (Insert all the cliché comments about how fast time is going... because it is positively FLYING.) Since this was my second rodeo with a newborn, I thought it might be useful to share what products I used with Rose that I didn't know about with James. For reference, here was my survival guide to the first four weeks after I had James. Much of what I mentioned was still in heavy rotation this time. I won't "reshare" the items from that first post, but I will share the new ones which we added to the mix. Take a peek!

SKINCARE:

WaterWipes have been the only real change we made to our diaper routine. (We are Honest subscribers; we have been since James was born. The sweet women who work at our daycare even comment on how well they work!) I love the WaterWipes because they work well with newborn diapers. Without getting too graphic, I like that they clean up wet messes without much fuss. I still like the Honest wipes for older kiddos like James, but these are a great alternative for little bums.

FEEDING:

While I could classify this as a miscellaneous item, this portable (and no plug required) LED lamp has worked wonders during late-night nursing and diaper changing sessions. It charges with a USB cord, but I haven't had to charge it yet! It allows you to dim or strengthen the light, without going too strong to wake the baby or your partner unnecessarily. I didn't have one with James and wish I had thought to buy one! I also like this headlamp, if you'd rather be hands-free. (It's also great for power outages, speaking from experience. ha!)

EXCURSIONS:

Having babies in opposite seasons has been an eye-opening experience. James was a winter baby and Rosie is a summer baby. I only wish I had discovered the Milk Snob cover before James was born. I had a few other covers that we used with James (this one from aden by aden + anais and the Carseat Canopy they send for free when you shop at A Pea in the Pod) that I still like, but the Milk Snob has multiple uses. I use it as a nursing cover, as well as an infant seat cover. It keeps those peering eyes from slowing down your grocery trip. (Truth: when you have a baby, everyone wants to get a peek! It's a kind thing, but when you only have ten minutes to get in and out of the store, your time is precious.) I love it's functionality for both: it provides full coverage for nursing and doesn't blow up when covering the infant seat. While I'm not as worried about keeping Rosie warm (like I was with James in the winter), I like knowing this adaptable cover will work in all seasons.

The Cloud B Gentle Giraffe was a gift to Rosie from a dear family friend. We had something similar with James, but it is nice for her to have some of her own things. (#secondchildproblems) Rose seems to benefit much more from white noise than James did. With its velcro straps, it easily attaches to her infant seat or her stroller. I don't even notice the noise anymore. (#tiredmomproblems) We only use it when we are out and about, but it is a lifesaver because Rosie has decided she doesn't like pacifiers. No one notices the white noise when we're in a crowded space -- and it keeps everyone around us happy.

SLEEP:

My love for KicKee Pants runs deep. If we are at home (and even if we are running errands), Rose is in one of their footies 90% of the time. Their footies (aka sleepers) are made from the most wonderfully soft bamboo-based fabric, which keep her cool in the summer and warm in the winter. The little mitts to cover her knife-like newborn nails are also magical. Their sale section is often packed with some great deals, but I promise it is worth investing in a few of these. If you're not a fan of footies, their coveralls are also a great option. I also love their swaddles, made from the same super soft material. You cannot go wrong with any KicKee!

As most mothers and fathers do, I worry about "flat head". I did some research and discovered the Babymoov Lovenest. I like that it holds Rosie's head in place when she is laying in her Moses basket or the bassinet in her stroller. This could be a bit gimmicky, but I appreciate the idea behind it. Is it necessary? Not exactly, but it does provide a little peace of mind. (As an aside, she received a great report on head shape at her last pediatrician's appointment. I can't give the Lovenest credit, but I can say it makes me feel just a little better.)

BATH:

Some sweet friends of ours gifted Rosie the adorable rosy hooded towel and washcloth set, made by Little Unicorn. (Anthropologie has two gorgeous options available on their site!) It is made to grow with your little one from infancy through their first few years. Its beauty and functionality make bath time better each time.

These Kyte washcloths have been a little luxury at bath time. If you're looking for a little add-on to a shower gift, these would be a perfect choice. They're ridiculously soft and work well on a newborn's sensitive skin.

MISCELLANEOUS:

As if we didn't have enough baby seats, I added one more to the mix when Rose arrived: the Boppy Newborn Lounger. This $30 pillow is not a Boppy to be used for breastfeeding; it is simply a soft pillow which gives baby an easy place to hang out. I don't often use it when our rambunctious 19-month old running around, but it is great in the afternoons and evenings when she is alert and wants to see more than just the ceiling. It has the perfect amount of incline to keep her comfortable and allows me the opportunity to be hands-free for a moment.

In the app department, I left BabyConnect behind and moved on to Glow Baby for tracking feeds and diapers. It is a much more visually appealing app, which is a trivial reason why I like it so much. I am not tracking everything as much as I did with James, but it is handy to help me space out my day. This ensures Rosie is not screaming of hunger when I need to go pick him up from daycare.

I didn't mention it last time, but we have used our 4moms Breeze Playard as a "changing table" of sorts when we are downstairs (so we're not running up and down the stairs all day). Rosie also hangs out there during James' dinner time, if I'm not nursing and flipping quesadillas at the same time. (This has happened.) I like the bassinet because it covers the full footprint of the playard, not just one side. It packs up quickly and easily, though it is kind of heavy. It gets my seal of approval.

Phew! I'll stop babbling now. As with everything baby related, everything is based on personal preference. The products included in this guide (and the guide I published previously) all served us well at one point or another. Nothing in this guide was sponsored, though some were received as gifts from our kind (and extremely generous) friends and family. Do you have any other products that you couldn't live without during those early newborn days? I'm all ears -- and I'm sure your fellow readers would be too! xoxo {av}

P.S. Need a newborn fix? Check out a few of the sweet photos my dear friend, Bree Hester, took back when Rosie was just shy of two weeks old. I will always treasure these beautiful photos of my tiny little one, though I may need to look at the date stamp because she looks so much like her brother ;)

there's someone new here!

2016-06-28T16:32:00.001-04:00

Knock knock! Who's there? It's me again with someone new sitting right beside me. On June 2nd -- the day before her due date, our daughter arrived. I still can't believe she's here... and it's been nearly four weeks! The 4D ultrasound at 30 weeks had me convinced we were having another boy because the babe looked exactly like James. It also meant that she was "baby girl" for the first twelve hours of her life because I was convinced we only needed boy names. We finally chose the name Rose Breton, which honors two of our grandmothers. Rose was the name of my maternal grandmother, who passed away 20 years ago this month but fought valiantly against Parkinson's for 30+ years. We hope her fighting spirit and kind soul will live on in Rosie. Breton is the maiden name of Chris' paternal grandmother who always made me feel at home. She loved her family fiercely and we hope her contagious smile shines on through her great-granddaughter. (I always love hearing how people chose names for their children, so thank you for indulging me in that story line!)

They always say each child is unique -- and this couldn't be more true with James and Rose. The day or so leading up to Rose's birth was light years different than the experience we had with her brother. (You can read his birth story here.) When I first found out I was pregnant, I thought I would deliver on June 1st based on my calculations. At my last OB appointment the week before, I'd made very little progress, so I was pretty certain I would go beyond my due date. On Tuesday, May 31st, we had a very normal day: I dropped James at daycare, went to work, and then ran a few errands before picking James up at daycare. We played a bit in the yard before starting our normal nighttime routine. I got a call from one of my best friends and we spent a good hour of that evening catching up. During the call, I started feeling like I *might* be having a few contractions, but I couldn't gauge their regularity. After we got off the phone, Chris and I headed upstairs to get ready for bed. I noticed a few things were happening when I changed into my pajamas, which kicked me into high gear to finalize my hospital bag and clean up around the house. We buzzed about for about 90 minutes before finally deciding to try and catch a few winks amidst the excitement. It felt like Christmas Eve!!

I woke up bright and early (and ready to take on the day!) at 5:15, so I hopped in the shower (where I had a good cry thinking of the excitement that was to come) and got ready before our normal alarm clock, James, woke up. Getting him ready for daycare that morning was especially tough, knowing it would never be the same for him (or for us). Chris and I drove him together to daycare, kissed him goodbye, and started the 30-minute drive to the hospital... for the first time that day. Things were buzzing at the hospital when we arrived, but I got ushered back to be checked to see if I'd be getting a room. I really thought I had made significant progress... but I was incredibly disappointed to discover I was still only one centimeter and not effaced whatsoever. They told us to come back after my contractions got closer and a bit more intense, even though they were pretty consistent at 5-6 minutes apart. (Truth be told, I was just petrified to progress too much at home and be too far from the hospital.) I felt totally deflated, but I tried to remind myself that this happened all the time. When James was born, my water broke -- so it was much easier to know that I needed to go to the hospital. Rose was a bit more coy with her signals ;)

Since we both had already called out of work, we decided to make the most of it and drive south to Newport. I decided I wanted Mexican for lunch (secretly thinking the spiciness could help!), so we had a memorable lunch on the patio at Diego's. After lunch, we did as we were told and went for a looooooong (and hot) walk on the Cliff Walk... which was a gorgeous distraction from the regular contractions I was having every 4-5 minutes. Around 3:00pm or so, I decided I wanted a shower and we made the call to head home. My mother-in-law had already arrived at our house to help watch James during our hospital stay. I squeezed in a nap, though I still can't believe I managed to sleep. James made it home from daycare and we enjoyed one more quiet nighttime routine with him. I teared up big time as we finished reading books before putting him down for the night. I hadn't fully processed the whole idea he wasn't going to be our only little one until reality smacked me in the face!

We made it back to the hospital around 8:45pm, when I had FINALLY progressed enough to be admitted. I was nearly fully effaced and over three centimeters, so those hours on the Cliff Walk (and the Mexican food!) did the trick. I got a room in Labor & Delivery rather quickly and decided to get my epidural shortly after I arrived. The epidural process the first time around was much less pleasant than this time. With this birth, I was focused and ready for the relief. I'm pretty positive the epidural went in around 11:30pm or so, after which they told me to try and take a nap. I managed to sleep from 12:30 until 4, when I woke up to a different nurse than the one who had been with us most of the night. Had our original nurse been there to greet me, I would have probably told her that I felt like I needed to use the bathroom... but I drifted back to sleep and I waited to tell her that until she came back around 5. She checked me and asked me to do one practice push but stopped me abruptly because she didn't want me to give birth then and there!

After more than two hours of pushing with James, I was prepared to push for another lifetime... but the Big Man Upstairs made it easy on me this time. The nurse gave us a couple of minutes to pull ourselves together before the delivery team came to join us. With two powerful pushes, a beautiful and bright cry filled the room. I saw her arrive (which was mind-blowing) and I saw she was a she before Chris even had the chance to say it out loud. We looked at each other in serious disbelief and I think I squealed "a girl!" before she was placed on my chest. We were both beaming from ear to ear.

My comfort and confidence with Rose was present from the start. The second child truly wins in that respect. The first-time-mom nerves (especially with breastfeeding) were nowhere to be seen: Rose latched soon after birth -- and hasn't really stopped eating since. Seeing Chris hold our daughter for the first time? I will never be able to get that sweet image out of my mind. While James had been extra sleepy after birth, Rose was so alert. Looking into those big eyes, I felt like I'd known her my whole life -- and yet that we have so much to discover together.

Seeing our family together for the first time? Mind-blowing. It truly brought home how grateful I was to be experiencing life through these eyes, alongside my best friend. My heart can barely contain itself at the thought of what memories we'll make together. As an only child myself, it makes me so happy to know James and Rose have each other for life. Though our journey to having children had a rocky start, we're living a life I only dreamed of a few years ago.

As an aside, I know not everyone has the chance to experience such a positive and peaceful birth. I count my lucky stars (and send grateful prayers) for this experience. I feel so thankful for the wonderful care I received from the minute I arrived at the hospital until the minute we left. In the ensuing weeks, we have been showered with love, prayers, and gifts, for which I'll never be able to properly express my appreciation. There are so many other things to share, but I will leave it there for today. Thank you for reading and for celebrating Rose's arrival with us! xoxo {av}

P.S. Looking for more timely updates? Add me on Snapchat or Instagram! My username is @ali_vinciguerra in both places!

#onalark: field guide (with a family in tow!)

2016-05-11T11:46:00.000-04:00

After a crazy week on the home front, our little family had the chance to spend the most relaxing weekend at Field Guide in Stowe, Vermont. Lark Hotels invited us to get away and experience another of their amazing properties in a new-to-me corner of New England. We took a half day off from work on Friday and made the scenic drive up to Stowe. Let's put it this way: it was love at first sight.

Much like my experience at The Break, the staff at Field Guide was on their game from the minute we walked in the door. They had everything prepared to the last detail, something I have come to appreciate from smaller, more intimate hotels. We were handed a pre-loaded iPad, chock full of ideas on where to eat and visit, which made our stay that much more enjoyable. (My sweet friend and seasoned Stowe visitor, Abby, also sent over a few of her favorite pit stops that she shared with The Everygirl.) I wanted to toss our bags and get going on our Stowe adventure, but the minute we walked in our room, I almost said we didn't need to leave...

Traveling with little ones in tow can make things a bit more complicated, but the master minds behind Field Guide definitely had this in mind. Our space (known as the Trail Suite) was well-designed to give the younger set their own space, while allowing parents the luxury of not having to tiptoe around a hotel room. This particular suite had a seriously cool lofted space (appropriate for older children -- as it does have a spiral staircase leading up to it), along with two other spacious bedrooms. These twin beds are up in the loft... you can't beat the rustic yet modern feel!

When we first arrived, this pregnant lady was a tad bit hangry. Thankfully, we didn't have to go far: we ate dinner across the street from Field Guide at The Bench. The atmosphere matches their food: cozy and comforting. (We loved it so much that we tried to do take-out the next night, but they only take seated parties -- not parties to go ;) I would definitely classify The Bench as family-friendly, with high chairs readily available and quick service for hungry and somewhat unruly toddlers.

Field Guide's on-site restaurant, Picnic Social, should be open any day, but until it is, they offer a complimentary picnic basket full of delectable breakfast treats -- like overnight oats and fresh fruit. It was such a treat to find this basket at our door! They also have a small coffee maker and refrigerator in the room, though I wouldn't classify it as a complete kitchenette. It worked beautifully for our needs -- a place to store milk, yogurt, and fruit that our little man demands on a daily basis.

We devoured this delightful basket of goodies and then ventured out to see more of the little town of Stowe. {cv}'s 'coffee beacon' landed us at the charming Black Cap Coffee in the heart of downtown. Even after all those treats at Field Guide, I made room for a cider donut and a hot chocolate -- because even early April in Stowe required a heavy fleece. Downtown Stowe was full of New England charm, though its old buildings are not always stroller friendly. You'll have to pack your muscles a bit to get in and out of some shops, but this is par for the course when traveling with little ones.

After walking the Stowe Recreation Path back in the direction of Field Guide, we ended up at Doc Ponds for lunch. It is also a hop, skip and jump from the hotel and offers a relaxed dining experience with delicious (and inventive) dishes. Much like The Bench, they were also extremely family-friendly. It isn't a quiet restaurant, so noisy peeps from little ones go unnoticed. Their menu was also one-year-old (and thirty-year-old) approved.

With naptime looming, we hopped in the car to explore a bit and hopefully let our little guy catch a few zzz's on the way. We eventually stopped at the Von Trapp Family DeliBakery to take in the views; {cv} also enjoyed one of their house-made brews. If you hadn't already noticed the gluttonous theme to our weekends away, we also made a beeline for the Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Shop. It's a serious tourist attraction, so you'll want to pack your patience. To no one's surprise, we all thoroughly enjoyed the ice cream. We didn't end up taking the factory tour with our one-year-old, but we saw plenty of other families attempting that feat. (More power to them!)

Running around for a good portion of the day (combined with the extra accessory {jv} was sporting) meant that, by dinner time, it was time to light a fire and enjoy our suite. {cv} grabbed take-out from Piecasso, a short drive from Field Guide. Ordering the pizza was quick and easy, so we settled right in for the evening. On Sunday morning, we indulged in another picnic basket of goodies before hitting the road.

Traveling as a family isn't always glamorous, but staying in a place like Field Guide made it feel like a serious vacation. I snuck away to grab a few photos of their gorgeous lobby. The best way I can explain it? Ski chalet chic to the very last detail!

If you go with children: Bring along your pack 'n play, as they are not provided (we love our Breeze from 4moms!). To be honest, I never find this to be an inconvenience because I'd rather {jv} sleep in a familiar space away from home. I bet I'm not alone ;) Be sure to check the hotel policies, depending on which room you choose, as additional fees may apply per person -- which includes infants and children. A few other positive points of note for parents: many of the rooms have beautiful tubs, perfect for your little ones (and you!). You can also park right outside your room or suite, which is fabulous for the influx of stuff you bring when traveling with children.

This trip only touched the tip of the iceberg on places to explore in Stowe, so I'm already itching to get back with our (even crazier) crew once baby #2 arrives. We seriously cannot thank the staff at Field Guide or the Lark Hotels team enough for their incredible hospitality. If you're looking for a stylish getaway -- with kids or not, there's no question that Field Guide should be your home away from home. Thanks for taking this little getaway with us -- and for not judging our caloric intake ;) xoxo {av}

NOTE: This post was written in conjunction with our stay at Field Guide in April 2016. I did not receive compensation, other than my complimentary accommodations. I was not required to write this post in exchange for my stay; I chose to write this post after an extremely positive experience.

when you're in it.

2016-04-25T17:15:00.000-04:00

On a particularly normal Wednesday morning last week, I had a strange epiphany about my current season of life. I spotted a woman -- maybe 75 or 80 years old -- who had just left her physician's office. Patiently waiting for her bus, she sat without a phone or anything else to distract her. She was very much alone. This is when the lightbulb proverbially went off. Bear with me here, as I explain...

Though {cv} and I just enjoyed a few quiet days away (courtesy of my in-laws), there are few moments when I am ever truly alone in this season of my life. The sight of this elderly woman helped me realize something rather profound and simple all at once: this crazy togetherness will not last forever. One day, if I'm blessed to live another fifty or more years, I will have many lonely yet peaceful days like this sweet woman I observed.

This is when reality hit in full force: I won't always have these early mornings with a giggling toddler in my ear. I won't always feel like a woman on a mission, trying to squeeze in a grocery store run before the daycare closes. I won't always be worrying what is next -- be it our next meal or our son's next milestone. Most importantly (and most poignantly), I won't always be surrounded by the people I love. I saw myself in sweet older woman -- many, many years from now -- as I drove by slowly that morning. I started imagining the treasure troves of memories still to be made between my 30-year-old self and a woman her age. It almost took my breath away.

So often, this season of life is filled with mundane moments, those everyday ones you are pretty positive will not exist in you memory bank when you're 80. Those 'mundane' moments, however, are precisely the ones I want to hold onto the most. Momentous occasions are almost always documented: first smiles and first steps to baptisms and birthdays. The everyday routine somehow gets the shaft. Some way, some how, I want to do a better job at writing those other moments on my heart.

This drive-by made me realize something more: this hectic and happy existence is exactly what I wished and prayed for in a different season of my life. I longed to be needed like I am today, something I know many others in my life pine for as they wait on this season to begin. Strangely, I know that many moons from now I will feel the exact same way. My children will be grown -- without their mother worrying about their next meals or milestones (though let's be honest, I will still worry). They will be focused on their own children, spouses, and careers. I want to wake up during those days, filled with gratitude that I lived those packed-to-the-brim years to the fullest.

To the outside world, our little family is really in it. By in it, I mean that there will never be another time like this in our lives: I'm waddling around with my basketball (or beach ball?) belly and holding the hand of my toddler, while my husband carts around the tremendous load of stuff we all require. One day, we will have free hands and a lighter load, only to reminisce on these days. These long, laughter-filled, sometimes tear-stained days. I will never be a perfect mother -- I gave up on that many moons ago. However, I hope I will look back and remember the littlest of things, like the way {jv} blissfully glided in his swing on a sunny Sunday morning -- and the smiles {cv} and I shared watching him.

Thanks for reading, friends. More soon. xoxo {av}

recent wardrobe + beauty finds: spring 2016.

2016-04-14T15:23:00.002-04:00

I'm baaaaaack! After a crazy few weeks (see Instagram evidence here), I can admit that real life took precedence to sharing trivial things like what goodies have been in my shopping cart -- though sometimes, it is a welcome distraction. From clothes (both regular and maternity friendly) to beauty products, you're about to get an eyeful. My novel awaits you...

STYLE: Dressing the basketball I smuggle under my shirt daily is no easy task. As this pregnancy winds down, I find myself hesitating to buy too many more maternity pieces. When I was pregnant the last go around (late March to early December), I purchased more in the way of summer wear -- though my "big" days of pregnancy weren't until the colder months. This pregnancy (late September to early June), I had to buy a few more winter weather appropriate pieces to help me get through the colder months. You'll find some non-maternity and maternity purchases I've made in recent months in the paragraphs below. My aim has been to find pieces which will be comfortable now and later, so I think the comfy factor works for everyone. (If you want some more specific ideas on how to build a maternity wardrobe you'll love, this post is for you!)

While J.Crew is rather disappointing for maternity wear, I have found a number of pieces at Madewell over the course of this pregnancy (and last pregnancy) that have worked surprisingly well. This dress (in my favorite cobalt blue!) worked well for me until roughly 31 weeks, when the only issue became the length. I'm looking forward to wearing it this summer after baby arrives when I want something loose and airy. This top has been perfect for work -- and for the rare date night -- as it is rather flowy and does have buttons up the back, which could give extra room if needed. Last but not least, I lived in pull-on shorts during my last pregnancy, so I was thrilled to discover they had a few pairs. I grabbed a pair of these basic shorts, but they also have a myriad of other solids and prints that are calling my name.
I discovered a few nursing-friendly dresses from ASOS which will be ideal for the summer after the baby arrives -- and still give me ample bump space for the remainder of this pregnancy. This scalloped dress (available with short sleeves or long sleeves) is pretty perfect, though it doesn't have the airy cotton feel that this maxi dress does. I wasn't a big ASOS Maternity gal last time around, but I definitely think their selection and their price points are tough to beat.
It's hard to quit lululemon while I'm pregnant, so I have just been a bit more creative in my purchases. I cannot speak more highly of the Align Pants. They have a slightly higher rise and literally feel like you're wearing nothing at all, which they call the "naked sensation". I know these will also be clutch in those early days post baby when I want to 'contain' myself a bit. I'm also a new fan of the super soft Pima cotton Trapeze Long Sleeve, which is comfortably harnessing my (almost) 33 week bump, without being skin tight. I may have mentioned them before, but I adore the Tracker Shorts whether I'm pregnant or not. They're the perfect length and are not constricting / muffin top-inducing. To combat a little chafing from time to time, I bought one pair of Speed Track Shorts, which do the trick. I purchased all of these one size larger than my "normal" size and haven't had any issues with accommodating my bump. If you want more fit pregnancy gear advice, take a peek at this extensive post from my last pregnancy!)
While I love Rent The Runway, it isn't necessarily the most feasible option when you're 33 weeks pregnant. It worked much better in the earlier weeks of pregnancy (up until maybe 26 weeks?) because my bump and "girls" are so unpredictable after that mark. Their bump-friendly section is helpful, but I would caution to really read the reviews to see about fit. While my final dress selection will be a game-time call, I did find a few fun accessories to help make me feel a little less "house-like" in these final weeks. I'm not a big pink fan (sorry, folks), but these fuchsia heels were too good to pass up. A fun pop of color can make anyone (pregnant or not) feel more confident. As far as jewelry goes, I had been on the hunt for a few special pieces outside of the J.Crew or Nordstrom jewelry section. After lusting on them for far too long, I gave myself these earrings and this bracelet at Christmastime -- and I'm so glad I did. They make a big statement and I know I'll wear both pieces for years to come.
This is totally minor, but I wear a Fitbit Charge HR and have always wanted to jazz it up a little bit. Cue this pretty (and not too committal) addition to my wrist. Now, I can try to be fit and fashionable at the same time ;)

BEAUTY: A few months back, I shared a look at my quick beauty routine, which has included a few improvements in recent months. I'm not a product junkie by any means, so when I find something I like, I generally stick to it. (This would probably explain why my curly hair routine hasn't changed in... 15 years.)

Six weeks ago, I upgraded to this undereye balm from Clarins. I loved this gel for years when I needed a quick and refreshing jolt after a long night, but I need a bit more help in the fine line department. They cost the same, but I feel the fine line coverage with the balm in a way I didn't with the balm. Word for the wise: don't be shy to ask for help at your Clarins counter (or any counter for that matter). I was in a hurry one day and took home this more advanced serum, thinking a bit more help couldn't hurt -- and ended up with a strong reaction because it was doing too much for that eye area. When I went to return it, they told me they typically recommend it for people over the age of 50. Oops...?
While we're on the topic of the undereye area (a lifelong battle in my corner of the world), I decided to make a few changes in the hopes I can make myself look a bit more awake. I always finish with this camouflage concealer, but I added this primer to help my cause. It doesn't crease and serves as a good base for my concealer. When I really need a pick-me-up, I also add this correcting fluid (in peach) to the mix. It helps even out my coloring and does a solid job of hiding those extra tired eyes.
I am desperately trying to get better about my nighttime beauty routine, so I'm taking small steps (like adding in a nighttime moisturizer) for a bit of restoration during my sleeping hours. Interesting fact: I used this years ago and stopped, mostly because I got lazy, but they've revamped it a bit in that time -- and I like this formula so much better.
This facial oil (found at Follain) is also a new and cost-friendly favorite. I will force myself to look past the price tag to buy this serum one day soon because I've heard such good things. Note: I don't use the moisturizer and the oil together. Some nights, the moisturizer has too strong of a scent and I prefer the oil -- it's all in how I'm feeling. Trust me: I know I need to work on this routine, but right now, I'm doing the best I can ;)
If you want to give some life to those cheeks of yours, this illuminator may be just what you need. Though the name is a little scandalous (cough Orgasm cough), I have long been a fan of the blush and the blush stick. This 'pretty potion', as I like to call it, in the same shade is quickly becoming my go-to for a little extra glow.

Since this post is already a novel, I'll save the new products that I've been loving for our little man for another post. I also owe you a few posts on our experience with daycare... I haven't forgotten! More importantly, I have another getaway post to share after an incredible weekend in Vermont; if you have a case of wanderlust like I do, you won't want to miss it. If there are any other topics you want me to explore, shoot me an email or leave a comment below :) Last but certainly not least, if you're still reading to here, THANK YOU. I know it was a doozy. Enjoy the rest of your week! xoxo {av}

P.S. If you want to exercise your right to vote, there's a little contest going on in the state of Rhode Island. Click here to add "long distance loving" to the Best Lifestyle Blog section. I'd be so grateful! (You can log in easily using Facebook to avoid any voting frustrations!)

#onalark: the break.

2016-03-09T07:30:00.000-05:00

At the end of January, I had the pleasure of spending a night at one of Rhode Island's newest getaway spots: The Break in Narragansett. Lark Hotels invited Kate (my Boston Bloggers partner-in-crime) and I to sneak away to this stylish new outpost, which opened during the summer of 2015. From the minute we walked in the door, it felt like we had escaped into a beachside oasis -- even in the depths of winter.

Upon check-in, they provide an iPad for you to explore the property and surrounding areas. While you can't keep the iPad (no surprises there!), it felt like you had the hotel (and Narragansett) at your fingertips. With only 16 rooms, the property feels incredibly intimate without feeling like you're on top of other guests. I always judge hotel rooms on whether you can hear other patrons... and let's just put it this way: I didn't hear a single peep from anyone else during my stay. Each room has a totally different feel, so I loved getting a peek in Kate's room too. No detail is spared throughout the entire hotel, which shows just how much thought went into the design.

At The Break, they have a convenient on-site restaurant, Chair 5, which is charmingly decorated and (more importantly) positively delicious. The staff at Chair 5 treated us to an incredible dinner with more courses than I could count. The grilled oysters with housemade sriracha and miniature s'mores ice cream sandwiches were some of my most memorable bites. Another important stop at The Break? Their bustling rooftop bar with the cutest buoy lamps. Kate sipped a cocktail and I enjoyed my mocktail there after dinner.

Beyond our delightful dinner, we also had two other amazing dining experiences: a private cooking class with the talented executive chef at Chair 5, Basil Yu, and a brunch buffet fit for a king or queen. He made even this novice of a cook (me) feel comfortable making a more intensive dish -- that beautiful lobster pasta dish you see above. Kate shared the recipe on her blog here. (Since I left, I have been plotting ways for my husband and I to get back for another private class.) Kate and I also went back for multiple rounds at the breakfast buffet, which is included in your stay. Perfectly instagrammable ;)

As an aside: A few years back, I ran a race on Ocean Road, which is right where The Break sits. I was able to slip out early that morning and run the beautiful route, up to the Point Judith Lighthouse. When beach season is in full swing, the proximity of The Break to all of the area beaches is a serious plus -- though they do make their heated pool available to guests all year long ;) Beyond the beach, their in-house iPad offers a number of other ideas on things to do and places to eat. You can also take advantage of the spa, located on the bottom level of the hotel. It is private, clean, and relaxing... just what the doctor ordered for a getaway!

If you go for a getaway: Book in advance and use The Break's website to pick your ideal room. I had the pleasure of staying in the Ocean Deluxe King with Balcony. While you're booking, be sure to reserve your table at Chair 5. The Break truly thinks of everything -- from "nightcap" cookies (as I deemed them) to the heated bathroom floors.

If you go for dinner: While they welcome spontaneous visitors, I would highly suggest booking your table in advance -- especially in the winter. As it is one of the few winter dining options, it does book up fast! If you stay for after dinner drinks, you'll likely be treated to some wonderful tunes being played up on the rooftop bar.

If you go with children: This is not an adults' only hotel, though we didn't see many children during our stay. Infants and children do count as guests, so there is an additional charge of $50/person. The king rooms only accommodate two guests, so you are required to book a king suite. They do not provide cribs or pack 'n plays, so be sure to pack yours.

I truly cannot thank the wonderful staff of The Break, Chair 5, or Lark Hotels enough for the much-needed 24-hour escape. If you're looking for a place to take a break on the Rhode Island coast, make the trip to The Break -- and I promise you will not regret it. xoxo {av}

NOTE: This post was written in conjunction with my stay at The Break in January 2016. I did not receive compensation, other than my complimentary accommodations. I was not required to write this post in exchange for my stay; I chose to write this post after an extremely positive experience.

this time around.

2016-02-22T22:37:00.002-05:00

Hello hello! It's me again... Every time I open my blog dashboard, I get that pang to pour my heart out. However, when I look at my watch, I am losing the battle to time and those words often stay bottled in my head. Real life takes priority, which is something I committed myself to long ago. That said, I miss my little corner of the internet and I promise to continue popping in as often as I can. Now onto the real point of this post: a little introspection on this pregnancy vs. my last pregnancy...

Chasing a toddler (or other children) was rumored to make subsequent pregnancies go by in a flash. I agree with this rumor 90% of the time. (The other 10%? The epic sick days which seem to last an eternity.) I remember back to this time in my pregnancy with {jv} and think of the quiet walks I'd spend dreaming of what life with a little one would be like. With this pregnancy, I certainly don't have the same amount of time for reflection. In some ways, it makes it easier: I'm not second guessing myself or worrying about things the way I did with {jv}. In others, I ache for the quiet to appreciate this extremely special time even more.

{cv} and I took advantage of the warmer weather this weekend and went on a long walk with {jv} down by the water, not far from our house. We made this walk a fair bit last summer -- and I anticipate doing this walk often once the new baby arrives in June. It reminded me of the days when I was pregnant with {jv} when we would stroll leisurely and catch glimpses of other parents pushing strollers. We would talk about what life would be like once we had our own stroller to push. On our walk this weekend, we had a similar conversation -- except it involved how life would evolve when {jv} becomes a big brother in just a few months.

Last week, {jv} cycled into his fifth ear infection of the season (paired with a nasty case of bronchiolitis). Having a sick child has a way of really making you feel like a parent. I watched his little chest rise and fall, remembering those early newborn days when I would do the same. For once, he was willing to snuggle and I felt the weight of his little body, so much heavier than it was 14 months ago. During these sick days, I found myself barely being able to focus on this pregnancy -- other than my daily prenatal vitamins. I certainly felt the baby moving and shaking, but my main concern was getting {jv} back to 100%. (A week into treatment, he finally seems to have turned a corner... or so we hope!)

If this pregnancy has taught me anything, it's this: I'm doing the best I can. Anticipating the new baby's arrival in June, I cherish the kicks and jabs from this new life. I feel just as connected to this little one as I did with {jv} but in a very different way. I have a better idea of what to expect this time around -- and feel more tied to this child because of it. This sweet baby is sure to bring his or her own light to our daily lives, just like {jv} did when he made his entrance. I cannot wait to see how he or she fits into our family (and how {jv} embraces his new role).

Nearly 26 weeks into this pregnancy, there are definitely fewer "bumpies". However, there are more board books to read, more diapers to change, and more milestones to appreciate. Because of the joy {jv} has given to our family, there is also much more anticipation of what's to come. My heart may actually explode, come June. Until then, I will treasure those moments when {jv} crawls in my lap to read a book before bed -- and I simultaneously feel baby #2 give a little kick, as if to say "we're all here". I cannot wait until he or she is actually here...

Here's to another week and hopefully some Trader Joe's tulips. xoxo {av}

eight treats for your valentine (or galentine).

2016-02-10T17:00:00.000-05:00

Clockwise from top left: Lofthouse Style Sugar Cookies via Cooking Classy / Heart Pancakes via Two Peas & Their Pod / Baked Chocolate Cherry Doughnut Hearts via Making Nice in the Midwest / Conversation Heart Cakes via Studio DIY / Double Heart Cookies via Baked Bree / Salty Chocolate Peanut Butter Hearts via Dessert for Two / Heart Skewers via Style Me Pretty / Conversation Heart Bark via Life, Love & Sugar

With Valentine's Day only a few days away, I have been searching for ways to bring some heart-filled cheer into our corner of the world. Whether you're whipping something up for your valentine (or your galentine), these eight options are sure to bring some smiles. From healthy options (like these heart skewers) to sweet treats (cookies, doughnuts, and cakes, oh my!), I made it my mission to find a little something for everyone. I know both men in my life would love these heart pancakes on Valentine's morning. I see lots of tasty goodness in our future...

Do you have any favorite treats on your menu for Valentine's Day this year? xoxo {av}

the great sconce debate.

2016-01-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

IMAGE SOURCES: TOP ROW: LEFT / MIDDLE / RIGHT | MIDDLE ROW: LEFT / RIGHT | BOTTOM ROW: LEFT / MIDDLE / RIGHT

Hello again! This post title is a bit melodramatic, but seriously: does anyone ever feel like they have these crazy internal debates about the most non-life threatening decisions? I know I do -- and I can't blame my pregnancy hormones. I'm a perpetual second guesser. It is still a wonder to me that I was able to make so many decisions for our house build while pregnant with {jv}. It is an even bigger wonder that I still love 98.9% of the decisions I did make. (I have a few minor things here and there, which is partially the source for this post.)

In case you were wondering, the "great sconce debate" arose recently... after one too many run-ins with the lamps under our living room windows by our crazy active 13-month-old. We have a large set of windows (two double-hung windows with a picture window in between) which basically run the length of our living room. These windows do not need window treatments (hooray!) because they face the rear of the house -- and we will never have neighbors behind us (double hooray!). I just love the natural light they bring in and how open they make the house feel. Here's a little peek at the room as it stands today:

PILLOWS: locally made at Fabric Connection with Jonathan Adler for Kravet Collections Fabric | COUCH: Pottery Barn | TOY BOX: Pottery Barn Kids | LAMPS: Pottery Barn | SAILBOAT: One Kings Lane (exact boat not available currently, but it does come up frequently!) | RUG: Dash & Albert

The layout of the room necessitates that the back of the couch is parallel to this "wall of windows". There is roughly two feet from the couch to the windows, in which we currently have two large floor lamps. I loved these floor lamps in our previous apartment. Aesthetically, they work well in our current space -- bringing out the oil rubbed bronze look on the finishings (like the knobs for our built-ins, etc.). However, they do not work functionally in the space with an on-the-go kiddo. In a post a few months back about kid-friendly living rooms, I never even thought to address lamps. I was clearly wrong. In trying to come up with creative solutions, I started searching for things like "lamps over windows", which led me to sconces.

It may be weird, but I have always hated the word sconce. I always thought they were kind of an antiquated way to light a space... until recently. I started to fall in love with the idea of a few sconces over the windows in the living room to replace the floor lamps which are like fire station poles to my toddler. The above inspiration photos are also fueling my sconce love. Even though we have recessed lighting in this living room, I love the warm light that lamps provide. I just need that warmth in a more kid-friendly way!

I'd love to hear your input -- or any other tricks you think could work -- for solving this great debate of sorts. Will sconces be too specific to fit the next homeowner's decor? (Does that even matter?) Would they still give off that warm light I'm craving on a cold winter's night? Can't wait to hear what you think! xoxo {av}

life lately.

2016-01-12T17:00:00.000-05:00

It's been a few months since my last life lately post, so I hope you might indulge me ;) I figured I would hit you all with one post, chock full of random bits of news -- rather than drag it out across ten posts. Quality over quantity, right? Without further ado, here goes...

-In my free time (aka the time after {jv} falls asleep before I fall asleep myself), I have been working on an exciting project with a Rhode Island-based jewelry company. The final product? A labor of love by the name of alexys ryan. While I did not design the jewelry, I did give the pieces a voice. The words and taglines which go with each piece were the product of late night, ice cream-fueled brainstorm sessions. The pieces are fantastic for everyday wear, but they also work beautifully for special occasions. It is pretty surreal to see something you've put your heart into available for sale at Nordstrom! I'm just honored to be one small part of this project -- and I love that it's designed here in Rhode Island. You can see all the goodies available by clicking here:

-I have become a huge fan of saving links on the go in Facebook. I see articles all the time which float around that I may not have time to read on the fly, but I go back to reference later -- when I'm not at work or tending to a hungry 13-month old. Here are a few which caught my eye:
---I've had a love affair with Paris for as long as I can remember. I was 7 or 8 when I first visited and was entranced from the minute we stepped into the city. I stumbled across this post, sharing color photos of Paris from 1914. As a history buff and a lover of photography, I can't get enough.
---When I was an undergrad at Georgetown (way back in 2007), the 'sleep when you're dead' mentality was in full force. I appreciated this look by a current undergrad at campus culture... and how not much has changed since I was there. I must have been a robot when I was in college because I. was. always. going. (Speaking of going to college in the 2000s, this Buzzfeed list had me cracking up. I'll never forget the day the star of the Georgetown basketball team held my Motorola Razr.)
---How crazy is this fact? The typical American lives only 18 miles from their mother. I loved this look from the New York Times about the phenomenon. Even more striking, only 20% of the population lives more than two hours from their parents. When {cv} convinced me to move to New England, it put me more than 15 hours away from my parents' house by car -- but thankfully, the distance doesn't seem so great with the help of things like FaceTime.
---Since I feel like I can never beat the growing pile of laundry we produce, I figure I might as well do it right. I loved this graphic to help decode those funny codes on the tags of your clothes.

-It only took 14 months, but this house of ours really feels like home these days. When we had {jv}'s first birthday party back in November, it was also a housewarming of sorts. The house had never been cleaner! There are a few rooms still to tackle, but we have made tremendous progress. We will need to outfit the new baby's room in a few months (waiting on the gender delays this process a bit) and we need to round out the furniture for our master bedroom. All the rooms which needed window coverings now have them (woohoo!) and I'm done with hanging about 80% of what will go up on the walls. I don't think it will ever feel done, but I'm very happy and content with how it has all come together.

-One place we haven't tackled at all is our basement. We have an unfinished basement (something I dreamed of having growing up in tornado alley!) that we would eventually love to turn into a play zone / man cave / exercise room / extra guest space. If you've tackled this project, I would love any advice in this department. Did you do it piecemeal or just do it one fell swoop? I'm hoping we can make that happen before the toys pile up to the ceiling in {jv}'s room.

-I don't know if I can get away with the baby header for much longer, if the picture above is any evidence. {jv} is an active little guy, who refuses to sit still for more than ten seconds. (I try, let me tell you, to snuggle that kid. Snuggling is not in his repertoire these days.) At 13 months old, our biggest triumphs are the new words he's starting to spit out (the makings of book, ball, dog -- which is what he now calls the cats, block) and the new skills he keeps attempting (climbing on EVERYTHING, doing his shape sorter, etc.). In the sleep department, we are adjusting to his jarring new morning routine. He falls asleep well and stays asleep, but when he wakes up, he lets us know -- and will not rest until he's been rescued from his crib. After taking him to the pediatrician's walk-in hours last week because I was convinced he had an ear infection (he's had a few), they just told us it could be new teeth or his skill development... but that there wasn't much else we could do. Each new phase brings its own set of challenges, so this (and the transition away from the bottle) seem to be his most pressing issues for now. We will survive!

-What they say is true: a baby bump appears much more quickly after you've already had one child. Now that my bump is starting to make itself known, I'm excited to rock some maternity clothes again. (I did these posts about building a maternity wardrobe and workout maternity wardrobe last time around -- and still refer friends to them.) I'm happy in most of the clothes I purchased when I was pregnant with {jv}, though my seasons are off slightly. I got away with more dresses last time for work because the weather was warmer. This time around, I invested in a few pairs of work appropriate pants, including these leather trimmed leggings and these ponté pants. I make it work (as Tim Gunn says) by pairing them with a big sweater or long tunic and cute flats.

-Speaking of links I save from Facebook, I would say 90% of them are parenting related. I won't bore you with them all, but here are a few of my favorites (some which brought me comfort, others which brought me laughs):

---I know some people have mixed feelings on Chick-Fil-A, but I am personally a huge fan. (I love it so much that we even had them cater {jv}'s first birthday...) The folks at CFA always seem to be so on top of things, from their handy "table toppers" (which can be found in their high chairs to place on the tables to keep things clean) to this new valet service they're planning to roll out. It's GENIUS.

---Even as we are joyful about this latest addition to our family, I know the journey isn't always so easy. I loved this perspective from a woman who has valiantly battled infertility. It's a reminder to think about the women in our lives who may be quietly fighting this uphill battle.

---A new study shows that self-esteem is established much earlier than they previously imagined. It makes me that much more aware of the day-to-day interactions {jv} has with others and what we're doing to set him up for success in the future.

---Here's a fun one to round out the post: a video on how two brown-eyed parents have a blue-eyed child. {cv} has brown eyes and I have green eyes, but we never thought we would have a child with blue eyes in a million years. Turns out we were wrong! {jv} has two great grandparents (one on each side) with blue eyes... that's all it takes ;)

Phew! To those of you still reading to this point, I applaud you. I told you it would be a long one! As always, I'm an open book if there's anything you'd like to see more of on the blog. Have a great week! More soon... xoxo {av}

a big update.

2016-01-04T17:04:00.000-05:00

our little family on the beach in Hilton Head

Happy 2016! I can't believe we've turned the calendar to another new year. Everyone says that the years tick by the older you get, but I don't think I believed them until now. I feel like I'm in a constant whirlwind these days, which is likely why you haven't heard as much from me in recent months. There's also another reason...

In case you missed it on Instagram last week, we shared some big news: we are expecting baby {v} #2 in early June! We cannot thank you enough for all the sweet comments and thoughts you've sent our way since we broke the news. I am almost halfway through this pregnancy -- and time doesn't seem to be slowing down any time soon.

Since I know you're doing the math in your head, I'll do it for you: there will be 18 months between the {v} crew. We know we're in for a challenge, but we are more than up for it. {cv} and I are so grateful to be given this chance to expand our family, especially after the loss we experienced prior to {jv}. We have our anatomy scan this week, so time is ticking along. Some people may think we're crazy, but we are waiting to find out the gender until I deliver -- just like we did with {jv}. It's the best surprise {cv} and I have ever experienced, so we definitely want to experience it that way again. For those who are interested, I'll give a bit more color on this second pregnancy in an upcoming post (one thing I've committed to doing more of in 2016).

a little bedhead after nap time

Mr. Blue Eyes is 13 months old this week. I'll never be able to tell you where those months have gone. It feels like a blink. He is growing like a weed, babbling up a storm, and keeping us busy from 6:30am (if he's nice) until 7:45pm (if he can even make it that late). {jv} doesn't walk anywhere: he runs! This makes his long distance running mama very happy, although having a baby on board can make some days feel like a marathon ;)

FYI: I have a slew of posts in my drafts about {jv}, but I don't want to turn into a full blown mommy blog. If you have specific questions, please email me or comment below -- and I'd love to tailor what you're seeing here to what you need!

back in the South -- and no, we're not moving back with the volume of bags

I can't claim to be a seasoned traveler with a child in tow just yet, but we are making strides toward getting our old wings back. This photo may look like nothing special, but it is: my husband is a serious rock star -- and I don't tell him that nearly enough. Here is {cv}... wearing a car seat and dragging two enormous suitcases, without complaining once. I always get nostalgic for our long distance days when we fly through Charlotte (since that was the hub of our three years apart), but seeing him in this new role in that old soft spot brought all the feels. I may have to frame this one.

taken in my best friend's gorgeous home in Charlotte

I know this has been a pretty random update, but my head is spinning with everything I want to share in this new year. I don't know how some bloggers manage to post daily when they have little ones in their arms or at their feet, but I will learn to juggle it all one day. Today is not yet that day ;) If you want more timely updates, Instagram and Snapchat are the best ways to find me -- I'm @ali_vinciguerra on both platforms. Thank you again for sticking with me -- through thick and thin. xoxo {av}

calling all procrastinators.

2015-12-15T21:11:00.000-05:00

FIND THESE GOODIES: Striped Blanket // Tropical Candle // Boxwood Topiary // Framed Instagram Print // Foil-Stamped Photo Art Print // Refreshmint Scrub // Gold Tassel Earrings // TSA Pop Gift Set // Customized Copper Mugs // Sugar Lip Treatment // Gold D'Orsay Flats

Last year, {jv} made his appearance less than three weeks before Christmas. If I was a normal person, I would have done my holiday shopping before he was born... but then again, we had just moved in our new house. (In other words, I was not a normal person last Christmas season!) This year, I have made good progress on my list, but working full-time and chasing a toddler around have made the process a bit more chaotic.

Since I still have a few people on my gift list, I decided to round up a few of my favorite gift ideas and notoriously quick retailers. I also included any promotions they may be running and what the last day for shipping is. Sometimes, if I give myself a deadline, it helps ;) If you've procrastinated a bit like me, never fear -- there are still plenty of amazing options to make the folks on your gift list very happy. I hope these ideas give you the boost you need to get everything wrapped up (literally and figuratively!). xoxo {av}

Birchbox: Gift Subscriptions ship straight to recipients, beginning in January

Design Darling: Last day for ground shipping: Wednesday, December 16th; Free shipping on orders over $200

Follain: Last chance for guaranteed Christmas delivery with express shipping: Sunday, December 20th

Framebridge: $39 Instagram framed Instagram prints; Last chance for guaranteed Christmas delivery: Tuesday, December 15th
Gap: 40% off your purchase through Tuesday, December 15th with code: COZY; Last chance for guaranteed Christmas delivery: Monday, December 21st (free shipping over $50)

J.Crew: 40% off select items; 30% off your whole purchase through Tuesday, December 15th with code: GETGIFTS; Last day for free ground shipping: Monday, December 21st

lululemon: Last day for free standard shipping for most: Saturday, December 19th (some can get away with Tuesday, December 22nd -- see here for more details)

Madewell: 25% off through Thursday, December 24th with code: YOUGOTTHIS; Last day for free ground shipping: Monday, December 21st

Minted: 15% off art gifts and stationery through Wednesday, December 16th with code: GIFTS2015; Last chance for guaranteed Christmas delivery: Friday, December 18th (see more details here)

Nordstrom: Last day for free standard shipping on qualifying merchandise: Wednesday, December 23rd (order by 12:00pm EST)

Sephora: Last day for standard shipping on most merchandise: Monday, December 21st -- fragrances must be ordered by Wednesday, December 16th (click here for all the shipping details)
Shopbop: Extra 25% off on sale items through Thursday, December 17th with code: BONUS25; Last day for free shipping Sunday, December 20th to ensure Christmas delivery + Amazon Prime Customers get free two-day shipping

Splendid: 25% off through Tuesday, December 15th with code: GIVING; Last day for free guaranteed ground shipping: Thursday, December 17th.

Zappos: Last day for free two-day shipping: Tuesday, December 22nd (see all the details here)

how to make a holiday cheese board.

2015-12-02T22:18:00.002-05:00

Hello, friends! Remember me? I know it's been a few weeks, but I'll blame it on the craziness of the holidays. We also celebrated {jv}'s first birthday a couple weeks early, so I was nose deep in primary colored balloons and decor for most of November. Speaking of entertaining, I'm so excited to be back to share a little collaboration I did recently with Sid Wainer & Son® in the spirit of the holidays!

Based less than twenty minutes from our home in Rhode Island, Sid Wainer & Son® is a top-notch local supplier of specialty food, cheese, and produce. (I legitimately see their trucks outside all of my favorite local restaurants!) Since 1914, they have worked with the best New England farmers to create a unique and diverse line of products. They also ship many of their tasty goodies nationwide, so thankfully, you're only a few clicks away from having these delicious treats on your table. Read on for a few tips I pulled together on making your own holiday cheese board!

Cheeses from left to right: Kilchurn Estate® Mustard and Ale Cheddar Cheese, Kilchurn Estate® Sage Derby Cheese + Kilchurn Estate® Krystal Pure Cave Aged Cheddar Cheese // Meats from left to right: Jansal Valley® Spicy Sopressata + Jansal Valley® Cacciatorino Salami // Extras: Jansal Valley ® Dried Black Mission Figs, Jansal Valley ® Huckleberry Spreadable Fruit + Jansal Valley ® Cranberry Honey

There are many schools of thought about what makes a good cheese board. A curated mix of flavors and textures is crucial to concocting a crowd-pleasing display for your next party. When Sid Wainer & Son® sent over these treats, it took everything I had not to eat it all before I took the photos. In no particular order, here are a few thoughts that were swirling around in my head on the topic...

Some people simply place a block or wheel of cheese on their cheese boards. If the cheese board you're making is for a small group of people (who are familiar with one another), I think that is perfectly appropriate. However, if you're creating a cheese board for a larger crowd, cutting the pieces in advance can make a big difference. There is less pressure on your guests to cut perfect slices. More people can also cycle quickly through the cheese board.
Make it your goal to include a diverse set of flavors that work in concert. I loved that the folks at Sid Wainer & Son® included cheeses with different flavor profiles. You want to make sure you have something for everyone. (Speaking of which, check with your guests to accommodate any food allergies or situations -- your pregnant friends can't have some common cheese board accouterments and neither can your friends who adhere to a gluten-free diet. You can easily make some substitutions to fit everyone's needs.)
If your cheese board can't accommodate all of your treats, pull out a few small bowls which can swoop in and save the day. Along with a few sliced figs, I placed crackers and almonds in other bowls to keep it all organized.
Even though winter is almost here, my rosemary plant is still thriving. I cut a few sprigs to use as a garnish in those small bowls and on the cheese board itself. If you don't have your own plant, you can easily snag them at your local grocery store -- or a large bundle from Sid Wainer & Son® here. Not only are they wonderfully fragrant, these sprigs add a pretty pop of green to your cheese board. (Fun fact: I love rosemary so much that I asked to include it in my wedding bouquet. It is a symbol of remembrance. My grandmother's name was also Rosemarie, so it has extra significance for me.)
I placed the Jansal Valley ® Dried Black Mission Figs, Jansal Valley ® Huckleberry Spreadable Fruit + Jansal Valley® Cranberry Honey on a separate cheese board to keep the mess at a minimum. As your guests are assembling their bites, they can add a fruity finish without disrupting the flow of others around the cheese board.

While my tips aren't necessarily groundbreaking, I hope they give you a few new ideas for the next time you pull together a cheese board. Thanks again to Sid Wainer & Son for spoiling me with these delicious goodies. Now that I know they ship nationally, I know a way to make someone's day this holiday season. I mean... who wouldn't love a care package full of cheese? xoxo {av}

This post was sponsored by Sid Wainer & Son®. I was provided with the products shown above, in exchange for sharing this post with my readers. All opinions are my own -- and I carefully curate which brands appear on {long distance loving}.

minted art print giveaway.

2015-10-27T08:30:00.000-04:00

When we moved into our house nearly a year ago (where does time go?), I always knew I would have some trouble filling certain "holes" in our decor. One such hole? The large space above the tub in our master bathroom! It took me months to finally decide upon a solution. With the help of Minted, I was able to fill this blank space with something beautiful and perfect for the space!

In case you didn't know, Minted now offers large scale art prints which help make those mysterious voids in your decor history! The print I chose (Savannah Lands by the uber-talented Emily Jeffords) was the ideal solution to our window-less master bathroom. Since much of our bathroom is gray and white, I needed a pop of color without completely overdoing it. I couldn't be more pleased with the final look! (FYI: I chose the 54" x 40" framed print, which filled the space without a hitch.)

Minted is incredibly generous and is offering to give one long distance loving reader an art print of their choosing. The winner will be able to choose one framed print of the size and scale that will fill their "hole" on their own wall -- up to $325! From photography to modern art, there is truly a print for everyone. See their complete collection of fine art here.

To enter the giveaway, hop over to my Instagram for two easy ways to win! Best of luck! xoxo {av}

Please note: This giveaway is only open to residents of the United States, 13 years old or older. Entries will be cross-referenced. The giveaway will end promptly at 8:00pm EST on Sunday, November 1st. The winner will be shared on the original giveaway post on Instagram. Should you have any additional questions, please email me.

This post was made possible by Minted. In agreement with sharing information about their brand and promoting their products, I was provided with this art print. As always, I only share about brands I truly love and support on long distance loving. Thank you!

give yourself grace.

2015-10-21T17:30:00.000-04:00

316 days ago, I met my precious {jv}. It feels like yesterday and a million years ago at the same time. Over ten months into this motherhood journey, I have found myself reflecting quite a bit in recent days. I ordered the invites for {jv}'s first birthday this week, though it hardly seems possible that he is any shade older than three months. It is cliché to say that time passes in a blink, but his smiling face is proof it does.

I have written this post over and over in my head for months. It has had a myriad of titles: ten things I would tell my pre-baby self or what I would tell my friends without kids. None of them stuck. If there is anything I have learned in the past 316 days, it is this: every experience is unique, but in some way, shape or form, they are also all the same. Every delivery has a story, but the end result (99.999% of the time) is a happy baby. Some of my friends have had tremendous success with breastfeeding; others couldn't manage it, no matter how hard they tried. Certain babies roll over at eight weeks, but some take five months. Whatever the tale, the experiences are shared.

I went back to work when {jv} was 14 weeks old. Now, when I look back on my maternity leave, I barely remember how I filled my days. In a strange way, it is a sort of blissful unknown. Most of the late nights (and early mornings) all fade together. Around five months, a switch clicked and we got into a much better rhythm. While we still don't have a perfect routine, I try to be out the door with {jv} at 7:30am. We typically walk back in the door together around 5:30pm. I cherish those two hours before he goes to bed. During those hours, I ignore my phone, my work email, and everything else. They can wait. When I am with {jv}, I have made it my mission to be all in. While I may not get as much done as my pre-baby self, I know I am investing my time in the right places. I am far from perfect (and still have a lot to learn), but I am getting there.

If I could go back and tell myself one thing, it would be this: give yourself grace. As a perpetual perfectionist, I figured I would bounce back and be my old self in no time. (Breastfeeding burns calories, right?) I gained weight with the pregnancy I lost before {jv}, which I didn't lose between pregnancies. It took me a full nine months to shed those pounds, plus those I gained with {jv}, and really feel (almost) like myself again. Even though I ran until the week before I delivered, I am still slower than my pre-pregnancy self. I am definitely a work in progress.

A few weeks ago, I got an email from a sweet reader who said she missed my posts. It made me happy and sad all at the same time. I miss blogging, but pulling back has been a necessary evil since I went back to work full-time. My blog has always been a respite for me: a place to express myself and a place to find clarity. While I have given myself grace in other areas of my life, I haven't here. I am not going anywhere, I simply have made the choice that my family comes first. It is hard to see others rocket to blogging or Instagram fame, while I hover at the same numbers for a month. However, I have to remind myself that 5, 10, 25 years from now.... none of that will matter. My family will.

Whether you are a parent or not, give yourself an extra dose of grace today. As a queen of to-do lists, I know it isn't always easy to put them aside. Ten years from now, we won't remember the deadline we missed -- but we will remember the moments we shared. (I'll step off my cheesy soapbox now.) Thank you for sticking with me, through thick and thin. xoxo {av}

pantone color report: spring 2016.

2015-09-25T17:00:00.000-04:00

Happy weekend! I know it has been a hot second since my last post, but I promise it is because I have a lot of great stuff coming your way very soon. I have also been giving myself the time I need to adjust to this whole working mom gig, without feeling like I always have a computer in front of me when {jv} is asleep. Thank you for bearing with me ;)

It has become a bit of a tradition for me to illustrate each spring's Pantone Color Report. I like to see how the colors all work together, as well as how they vary from year to year. (See for yourself -- here are the reports from the last three years: 2015, 2014, and 2013.) While Pantone hasn't released the color of the year yet (I'll update this post when they do), I don't see any runaway surprises like last year's Marsala. I think this year's top ten colors are a solid mix. Some years, the colors are all very muted or extremely bold. I actually like that there is a little of both for Spring 2016.

What are your favorites from the bunch?

I'm loving on the classic blue with a muted finish, Snorkel Blue, and the bright and bold red, Fiesta!
Lots more soon! xoxo {av}

easy + homemade sweet potato chips.

2015-08-28T21:55:00.003-04:00

Last Sunday, I posted a photo of a tasty tray of homemade sweet potato chips on Instagram. We are currently in our third week of the 21 Day Fix -- and I was in desperate need of some "snacky" foods. We referenced our handy Fixate cookbook and decided to try our hand at homemade sweet potato chips.

I am not a Beachbody coach, but I am trying hard to follow the 21 Day Fix Eating Plan. As a notoriously picky eater, this has proven to be a difficult task. However, seeing the results (only 2/3s of the way through the program) are encouraging me to keep going. When I say I needed a snack, it wasn't because of hunger. It was simply because I missed some crunchy afternoon goodness. (You're talking to a reformed carb addict.)

We adjusted the Fixate recipe ever so slightly by adding a few shakes of cinnamon on the finished product. On a different tray, we tried cayenne pepper. I preferred the cinnamon, but it was nice to have a little something spicy too. The possibilities are truly endless for this 21 Day Fix-approved recipe! I plan to make these long after the program is over -- not just because they don't break my calorie bank. The delicious snackability makes them the ideal treat for upcoming Sundays spent watching football with friends and family.

SWEET POTATO CHIPS*

2 medium sweet potatoes (we used only one large + it filled two full trays!)
2 teaspoons of extra-virgin organic coconut oil or olive oil, melted (truth: we added a touch more than 2 teaspoons-- which deviates a bit from the 21 Day Fix official recipe)
1/4 teaspoon of sea salt
desired spices (we used cinnamon + cayenne -- separately!)

Preheat your oven to 200 degrees F. Cover two baking sheets with parchment paper. Use a mandolin to slice sweet potatoes very thinly. Place the sweet potatoes on lined baking sheets in a single layer. Brush with oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 2-3 hours, depending on desired crispiness. Remove from oven and shake a bit of your desired spices on top of the finished sweet potato chips.

If you follow the recipe strictly, it is equivalent to half of a yellow container and half of a teaspoon on the 21 Day Fix program. A serving equates to roughly 75 calories. This recipe serves 4, requiring 10 minutes of prep and up to 3 hours of patience for the baking chips.

I have to admit I'm entirely obsessed -- and cannot wait to make these chips again! If you make them too, be sure to tag me on Instagram. Have you tried the 21 Day Fix? I'd love to hear your experiences! xoxo {av}

*Recipe adapted from Fixate