Music has been a big part of our children’s lives before they were even born. Trey would play Rockabye Baby! – Lullaby Renditions Of Guns N’ Roses via headphones over my pregnant belly. (If you’ve never heard of the Rockabye Baby! series.. it’s lullaby versions of your favorite music. Makes a really cool gift idea for expecting families too!)
Trey is in the music business and we hauled our babies (noise cancelling headphones on, of course) to shows starting at 6 weeks old.
We play lots of music around the house and always let them bang on instruments. It’s a big part of our lives, but luckily it’s SO great for kids too.
Exposing children to music early helps their emotional development, motor skills, literacy, language and more.
5 Reasons Music Is Important For Kids
It helps them calm down. Playing soothing music helps cranky infants, tantrum ridden toddlers and kids naturally relax.
Improves speech and communication. It’s easier for kid’s to learn new words and phrases via song. It’s an easy way to help increase their words and improve their communication skills.
Higher Self-Esteem and Boosted Confidence.
Helps Develop Cognitive Skills. According to Kinderland curriculum director Dr.CarolLoy, music can stimulate brain development by singing along to songs. This can enhance memory, concentrations, etc.
Family Bond. Strong family bonds are created in traditions and sharing like mined hobbies. Creating memories through concerts, sharing music tastes or even creating music together creates strong family bonds and lasting, precious memories.
Nashville is such a fun and vibrant city that I feel so grateful to call it home. It’s always fun to play tourist in your own city, but when it’s with Lindt Chocolate and a girl group it’s even better!
To say I was blown away by the Lindt brand would be a vast understatement. It’s so much more than just chocolate for them. They are determined to show that women can “treat themselves” on the daily. Whether that’s with full blown retreats or a simple minute alone with a LINDOR truffle. They are really an indulgent experience that can give you that special self-care any day.
I thought it’d be fun to walk you through our weekend in case you wanted to re-create it with some friends of your own! If you are visiting Nashville I would HIGHLY recommend all of these places.
First up, where to stay. There are so many hotels popping up in the city, but Vandyke Bed and Beverage is really something special. There are six rooms with different themes. There is also the cutest bar, great food and a fun little outdoor area. (Note.. if you aren’t staying here I’d still swing by for a drink at their bar.) The entire place is extremely “Instagram-worthy.”
We started by having mani/pedis at Poppy & Monroe. It’s an all natural nail spot that can also do super cute designs and nail art.
Following that we had a chocolate tasting and wine pairing with the Lindt Chocolatier. It would be fun to re-create this by buying some Lindt pieces and doing a wine/charcuterie board.
Dinner at Lockeland Table is always a memorable experience. It’s farm to table with an ever changing menu.
One of my favorite activities from the retreat was a yoga class at BlossOming Yoga. You can rent out the studio for private classes and it makes such a fun birthday, bachelorette, girl meet up, etc. We did the Hatha Flow. It’s a true mind-body experience. We all left feeling so amazing!!! I instantly signed up for more classes.
We did a chocolate and tea pairing next door at High Garden Tea. The inside transports you to a mystical place. It’s very relaxing and the highest quality tea that you will find in Nashville. Everything is organic and they source from the finest farms all over the world.
Brunch at Marche is a Nasvhille staple. Don’t miss out on the blood orange mimosas!
Pouring your own candles at The Candle Bar has become my go to for any type of event lately! They have drinks there as you make your own candles. They also have the cutest gift shop to stock up on gifts and home goods.
I read an article the other day saying that the average mother works 98 hours a week and spends about 6 minutes alone a day. (That could be in the shower…) We are quick to serve our families and forget about ourselves. It’s difficult to pour from an empty cup. I’m so glad I decided to take a day for myself. I encourage you to find a few moments for yourself so that you can perform at your highest level for the ones that you love.
P.S. If you are looking for a more rowdy weekend..I’ve got a full Nasvhille Bachelorette Party Post you can check out HERE.
**Through the end of September, if you purchase 2 bags of LINDOR (5.1oz or larger), you can get a free movie download. Give yourself the ultimate self-care night! You can find more here: www.lindtmovienight.com **
Photo Credits: Chelsea Rochelle & Evin Photography
We are in a day filled with screens and lacking personal interactions. The repercussions this is having on our children is HUGE, but there are ways to combat it!
I was chatting the other night with a friend how we want to be intentional about our time with our kids. Now when you are a stay at home (and working!) mom… that’s a lot of time. No matter how much physical time you spend with your kids, quality is the key.
Showing them that you are present, listening and care can totally shape who they become.
The book, Hands Free Mama made a huge impression on the way I think about my time with my kids. All mamas…. run and order this book!
5 Ways To Be More Present With Your Kids
Wake Up Earlier.– Don’t hate me already on option 1. I’m not perfect at this one and it sure isn’t easy when the boys wake up at 6 am, but it makes a huge difference in your day. You can finish some small tasks before they wake up, set intentions for the day, work out, etc. When you spend a few minutes to yourself in the morning it helps to be more patient and present throughout the rest of your day.
Be where your feet are.- This piece of advice came from Christy Wright at her business boutique workshop and couldn’t be anymore helpful. When you are working, be there. Put your heart into and chase your dreams. When you are with your kids, be there. Don’t be thinking about e-mails that need returned or check marks needed on a to- do list.
Stop going through the motions. – Motherhood is exhausting. Plain and simple. It can be so hard to get caught up in dishes, diapers, laundry and tantrums. Making a mindful attempt to realize that these days are numbered and really diving into the sweet moments is so important. Your kids can feel when you are half listening and they care.
Set a block timer for play. This sounds silly, but ever since I started doing we have had so many special moments. Put your phone away and get on the floor until the timer goes off. They will be the precious moments you will remember the most. (I also use this for work. Productivity will sky rocket.)
Spend one-on-one time with each child. This makes them feel special and cared for. It also to help know what is really going on with them in their little minds. It’s amazing what they will tell you when they feel safe.
Whenever I stop and think about how fleeting these sweet moments are where we are our child’s whole world it seems silly to even THINK about wasting them on our phone. Will we remember laughing at a meme on IG or the sound of them laughing? Motherhood is hard, but so worth it. We should all strive to be exceptional and raise exceptional kids. Imagine a world like that?!
Outfit Details:
For my fellow mompreneurs, I have a post about some tips and tricks of balancing stay at home mom life with working mom life. You can read that one HERE.
Even though it is back to school time, the days are still hot here in Tennessee! I’ve got the perfect grilled peach summer salad that is SUPER simple to throw together on a whim, but also sophisticated and sure to be a hit with your guests.
This can be tossed together in less than ten minutes. (No joke!) I can hardly consider this a “recipe” because it is truly chopping a few things and tossing them together. It’s all about the presentation with this one too. My new Mackenzie Childs serving pieces work perfectly for this bright summer salad.
I like mixing classic serving pieces that you can use for any occasion like this pitcher and serving platter with more fun pieces. The bright blue check always looks so fun paired with bold colored summer foods.
If you do not own one of these stovetop grills, I highly recommend. It is so much easier for simple things like this, and great for when the temperatures are cold and you don’t want to grill outside.
Grilled Peach Summer Salad
Ingredients:
One Large Peach
Small Red Onion
Handful of Pecans
Feta Cheese
Handful of Blueberries
One Avocado
Three Cups Arugula
One Lemon
Dressing Ingredients:
Ok, this is how you can tell I’m not a real chef. Anyone can make these recipes! If you have “Garlic Expressions” salad dressing at your grocery store… pick it up and cheat! HA! It tastes sooo good with this salad and very sophisticated/homemade!
Or you can make your own:
Equal parts olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey and greek yogurt.
Directions:
Slice your peach and toss in a little bit of EVOO. Place on your grill for a few minutes on each side and set to the side.
Thinly slice half a small onion. Slice an avocado.
Line your platter with the arugula. Toss on a handful of blueberries and a handful of pecans.
Add your feta cheese to your liking.
Add on your onion and avocado.
Top with ground pepper and a bit of salt.
Add your peaches down the middle of the platter.
Top with just a bit of fresh squeezed lemon juice.
Serve with dressing to the side so it can be tossed fresh!
I’ve always wanted to get some beach family photos, but didn’t want the typical smiling at the camera wearing matching white shirts and khaki pants. The boys love the beach so much, and I wanted to capture their joy, innocence, and the pureness in their love right now.
These were taken by Chloe Bee Photography and if you are ever in the 30A area in Florida…. go get some done!!!
If you have children like mine that don’t pose and smile for a camera here are some “pose” ideas.
Also, when it comes to the outfits I kept a mostly neutral palette. You can play with prints a bit to mix it up and keep to the same color family. I love the classic look of neutral colors.
We have a special tree that we do a lot of our family photos at in Nashville. I’ve previously written a post there about coordinating family outfits. You can check that one out HERE.
Vail has been what we lovingly refer to as our, “happy place” for years. Trey used to live there after college, and we frequent it a few times a year. It’s as if you are walking through an Austrian village without having to cross the ocean. The Bavarian culture is evident in the food and architecture.
It’s the perfect place to “reset.” Breathe in that mountain air, stroll through the adorable village, eat wonderful food with a view and come back rejuvenated. We took the kids with us this time and it was truly magical to see them respond to the place that is so special to us.
There is plenty to do for kids and it is a great couple getaway as well.
One of the interesting things about Vail is the itinerary changes with the seasons. Most people think of Vail as a ski town, but there are so many incredible things to do in the summer as well.
Summer in Vail is especially beautiful. Flowers are everywhere you look. Posted in wooden planters of every window, hanging baskets on lamp posts, ivy flowing down rooftops. It’s breathtaking!
HOW TO GET THERE
There is a local airport, Eagle County Regional Airport. However, there are limited options in the summer. We fly into Denver International Airport and rent a car. It’s a very scenic drive and we love to stop in Breckenride on the way. (Pro tip… stop and get a Crepe at the Crepe truck!)
You can also take the Colorado Mountain Express ride shuttle.
Once you arrive in Vail everything is easily walkable. They also offer a free bus transportation service which can take you between Lionshead and Vail Village.
If you are staying at the Four Seasons (where we always chose to stay) they will give you rides anywhere throughout Vail at your request.
WHERE TO STAY
Without a doubt the best place to stay in Vail is the Four Seasons Vail . The location is walkable to the gondola, bars, restaurants, streams, etc. We have tried out everywhere, but this is simply the best. The staff is so friendly and they make every possible accommodation for you. They greeted our boys with a stuffed bear and set them up a tent in the room. The bar, pool, Flame restaurant, etc. are impeccable. One of our favorite things to do is get the “haute chocolate.” They slow pour the most decadent hot chocolate over a chocolate grid on top of an oversized mug. It melts in and is then topped with a homemade marshmallow. Drooling thinking about it. If you are not a guest of the hotel… still go get that hot chocolate!
WHAT TO DO
Ride The Gondola Up The Mountain- Our kids thought this was fun and once you get to the top the view is breathtaking!
Epic Discovery is also at the top of the mountain. It offers tubing, zip lining, a ropes course, a coaster, an animal discovery center, hiking trails, zip lining, mini golf, a climbing wall and more. Plenty to do for a full day on the mountain!
Vail Stables- They offer tons of horse riding options, but we loved that they also offer a pony ride for toddlers. It’s parent led, and not a typical around a dirt circle type either. Such a cool experience in the mountains!
Shop- There are tons of local boutiques, art, jewelry shops and more. Everything is so walkable that you can pop in and out of each one. The boys loved the toy store and the candy shop. (Shocking, I know. HA!)
Spa- The Four Seasons Five-Star Spa can’t be beat.
Visit the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens- The highest botanical gardens in the world! So beautiful and serene.
Streams- The boys loved playing in the streams. There is something healing about taking your shoes off and feeling the cool fresh water. They are looped all around the village.
Bike- We saw so many mountain bikers! The boys aren’t quite old enough for this one, but we will add it to the list in years to come.
WHERE TO EAT
Coffee:
Yeti Grind
Vintage
Lunch:
It’s always fun to ride the gondola up the mountain and have lunch at the top. You just can’t beat the view! (It’s very casual.)
The Remedy Bar- Located Inside the Four Seasons. Think really upscale “bar food.” They just hired a new chef and the food did NOT disappoint.
Garfinkles- You can sit outside and have a great view of the gondola and mountain.
Dinner:
Mountain Standard- The Colorado River Trout is insanely good. A local favorite.
Sweet Basil- We first found this gem during Taste of Vail. It’s a farm to table place with really fresh ingredients. Ask to sit out on the patio.
Almresi- The owners started this in Germany and it’s very authentic and unique. There are authentic Austrian dishes on the menu and it truly makes you feel like you are in another country.
Matsuhisa- This place is incredible! It’s a great sushi spot, but the 72 hour marinated miso cod is where it’s at!!
Flame- Located inside the Four Seasons. You can also sit outdoors and overlook the beautiful pool. It’s a really great steakhouse. I highly recommend asking for “all the sauces.” They make several different styles of steak sauces in house. All incredible!
WHERE TO DRINK
Vail Brewing Co.- It’s always fun to find a local brewery and this one has a laid back casual vibe.
The George- Fun fact… Trey worked here 20 years ago checking ID’s. HA! It’s the local hang out.
Bully’s Ranch- We have made it a tradition to grab a mudslide at the bar here. It’s got the true mountain decor and is always festive.
Root & Flower- They offer over 50 by the glass pours of wine, an extensive bottle selection, and lots of fun craft cocktails.
As a long time subscriber and Garden & Gun fan, I was elated when they reached out to collaborate on a romantic weekend getaway to Columbia, South Carolina.
Trey and I had never been, and were thrilled to escape for a few days and discover all this charming town had to offer.
Be sure to pick up your copy of Garden & Gun (Feb/March) issue to check out our stay in print. You can also see the article on their website… HERE! (Eek!)
We were so impressed with the historic town, and how much it’s been rejuvenated in the last few years. It was a super quick flight from Nashville (totally drivable as well!) If you are looking for a unique and fun getaway, you’ve found it!
This hotel was southern hospitality at it’s finest. We were greeted with our choice of sparkling rosé or local beer (CottonTown Brew Lab’s TropiCarolina.) From that first special touch to the time we checked out, no detail was missed.
The decor was so dreamy! It was quirky meets charming, in the best possible way. We loved having a kitchenette in our room and the exposed brick were beautiful. Don’t miss all the unique artwork and photography throughout the building.
SHOP
Devine Street and Saluda Avenue
There were tons of funky little locally owned and operated shops that we loved popping into. While we were going from shop to shop we stumbled upon the coolest coffee shop, Drip. They had a backroom with tons of records that you could play and they used the drip method to make your coffee. We listened to music while we waited, and took our coffee to go while we shopped.
This is renovated engine supply building from the late 1800s, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. They serve up local, fresh ingredients with the menu changing daily. We absolutely loved the spin on southern classics, and the drinks were fabulous as well!
Local, hand crafted and small batched ice cream. The zucchini bread ice cream was one of my favorite things I’ve ever tasted! They had so many unique flavors, and it was the perfect spot for an afternoon sweet treat.
A Columbia staple. They are famous for their chicken salad, but we were really loving the mimosa kit (shocker, I know) and the charcuterie board with local cheeses. They also have lots of gifts, wines, cheeses and cigars to go.
This whiskey bar and Cajun-Creole restaurant located right next to the South Carolina Capital Building. They boast the biggest whiskey list in South Carolina. Since Trey’s family is from New Orleans, he is pretty picky with his cajun… this place held it’s own!
We had some amazing food, but the drinks were so spot on too. Order the “Heart of Darkness” drink. It comes out with smoke and is so cool and delicious!
This might have just been the highlight of the trip. It really captures the charm that is Columbia. We sat with the owner as we sipped on organic, carefully curated wines and he explained the history of the place. The historic building had recently been renovated, but had formerly belonged to the gathering place’s namesake, Lula Drake, a woman who paved the way in the 1920s for female business owners. A trunk filled with her business cards and documents inspired the decor and logo of the wine shop.
This one could also totally go under, “Eats.” We had some late night bites. The truffled pasta dish with crème fraîche, black pepper, and lemon zest was out of this world. Yum! I still think about that meal!
Head out to the cute patio with string lights and grab a fun drink! They had some great classic apps to bite on as well. We also loved their hot sauce! You can buy it and bring it home…highly recommend!
