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
When it comes to kitchen decor, keep an eye out for pieces that are both design driven and functional. With an all white kitchen, it’s great to add in lots of variations of texture and materials.
I’ve rounded up all of our favorite pieces that help to keep the kitchen bright and airy, but also add some interest.
One of my favorite pieces in our home is our kitchen light fixture. You can find it HERE and HERE. Another one of our “big ticket” items were the barstools. We went with these because they are super easy to wipe down with kids. No worrying about stains. You can find them HERE.
The rest of the decor items are extremely affordable.
Here are also some of the best kitchen gadgets and appliance that are too pretty to even put away.
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.
Georgie had a lot of his own ideas when it came to his “big boy” room renovation. He requested a “dinosaur theme” and blue walls. I am not a fan of anything “charecter-ish” and prefer a neutral color scheme. However, I wanted G to LOVE his new room and be proud of it.
It’s not quite finished, but I just couldn’t wait to share! We are waiting for this grey swiss cross rug to come in yet. It’s an indoor/outdoor rug which seems to hold up better for kids rooms.
I saw a similar picture in a Restoration Hardware catalog and ran with it. I knew it wouldn’t be possible to buy the entire room from RH because it would be super pricey. I purchased a few of the items from RH and then found lots of dupes!
When going with a theme room I suggest keeping the majority of the big items in a neutral palette. Then add “touches” of decor that have that theme. Kids outgrow what they are into very quickly, and this way you can keep the majority of the room and swap out detail decor items with whatever their new favorite thing is.
The bedding, dinosaur head, display book shelves and giant letters are all from RH Baby & Child. I was sure to link tons of dupes for these items as well that are at a much lower price point.
This dresser and headboard look nearly identical to the RH version. They are at an amazing price point!! I was super impressed. Note, you do have to build the dresser. (AKA Trey had to build the dresser..)
The fringe chandelier makes such a statement and is a really cool piece! It looks much more high end than it is. (It was under $300.)
Instead of using a typical nightstand we replaced it with a faux leather poof. This is a great option for kids that are switching to a “big bed” for the first time. If they happen to fall off it is a much safer option. This one works great because it has a flat top. You can easily put a tray on top to hold a cup of water or anything needed by the bed. (These are still on backorder as well, but I will update with new pics when these and the rug come in!)
Using mixed textures and mixed prints in a similar color scheme is my favorite way to decorate. The wallpaper was the perfect way to add a really interesting texture throughout the entire space. It almost looks like denim on the walls. I couldn’t be any happier with the way it turned out! It’s fairly affordable as far as wallpaper goes.
The line “it’s all in the details” is really true. The small little touches are what makes a space exciting and visually appeasing as well. One of my favorites were these tiny dinosaur footprints crawling up the wall. Georgie just thinks they are the greatest thing! (That’s what it’s really all about, right?!)
We are so happy with the way G’s dinosaur themed bedroom came out! He loves it, and I was able to keep it looking neutral. All is happy!
Earlier this year, a dear friend told me when referring to friendships and relationships, to think about a dinner table. Who shows up when you invite them? No matter if you are having a feast or only crumbs to offer. Who pours you water from their cup when you are out, and you will happily pour back into theirs? Nurture those friendships and feed them. She encouraged me to stop squeezing a chair in at tables you don’t belong, and be present at the one that you are at.
This year, I’ve really worked at that concept and I felt blessed beyond belief to sit at a beautiful dinner party with a table full of women who I am so proud to call friends. Women who care, show up, build each other up and offer nothing but love and support.
If you haven’t found your table yet, keep looking and focusing on those who come to dinner no matter what!
With that being said, I feel beyond grateful for my sweet friend Chelsea for throwing this beautiful boho garden party. She was able to do so on a budget and I’m going to pass on her tricks! P.S. She took all these pictures as well and you can find more of her work HERE. She’s incredible!
She found the perfect location at Natchez Glen House. It’s a lovely garden that you can have events in or go and pick your own flowers! (Hello most perfect date night….) I’m convinced someone needs to get engaged in the middle of this garden. Chelsea and I would love to help plan it! You can check out all Natchez Glen has to offer HERE.
The cake was by Copper & Whisk Cakes. Confession… I was never a big cake lover until I tried their cakes. It’s so much better than any other cake I’ve ever tasted. This one was salted caramel and so amazing!!!
This tablescape looked so elaborate and beautiful, but it can totally be done on a budget! Most of these items were found on Amazon and Target. The whole table can be re-created for around $100!
Here is Everything You Need For A Boho Garden Party Tablescape:
It’s that time of year again… the most wonderful sale of the year. The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is unique because instead of items that are going out of season, it is the current season on sale up to 40% off BEFORE they go to full price for fall and winter. It’s so much fun to shop, but can be overwhelming as there are over 10,000 items on the sale this year and things sell out fast! I’ve gone through all 10,000 and picked the best of the best!
**You can click on any of the items in the collage to shop that item.**
Still In Stock & Worth Shopping
Best Of Women’s Clothing
These faux leather commando leggings are the best! I have them and got a TON of use out of them last year. Under my Instagram highlights there is a Spanx faux leather leggings vs Commando Faux Leather leggigs and (Spoiler Alert!) these WIN! If you are in between sizes, Size up. They are on the sale for $65 and normally run $100.
Faux Leather Snakeskin Moto Jacket by BLANKNYC is one of the best finds of the entire sale! I can’t believe it’s on sale for $65. It looks much more high end than that!! Every year they have a few jackets on the sale and they are the first to sell. Make sure you get yours fast! They have a suede jacket that is incredible too. It comes in grey and tan. You can shop that one HERE.
This https://rstyle.me/n/dpifj7bz57x is the kind that you will keep in your closet for YEARS. Such great quality and can be worn in all seasons.
This lace trim satin cami is the perfect layering piece and comes in lots of colors and patterns. This polka dot version reminds me so much of the Anine Bing designer version. At $25 it’s the perfect piece to stock up on.
Digging all the animal print this season. You can’t go wrong with this affordable leopard print slip dress. You can dress it up or wear a t-shirt underneath with sneakers and make it casual.
Free People items always go fast on the sale, and these busted knee jeans are at such a good price point these are sure to go fast. I have these and absolutely love them.
The hem on these black Frame jeans is so interesting and fun. I always stock up on my designer denim because it is very deeply discounted and will be worn over and over.
So many great black jeans on the sale, but these classic Levi’s are great. Be sure to size up, they run small.
This white trench coat is one of my favorites from the whole sale. It’s a classic, but a bit more interesting! It comes in a similar drape version as well that you can shop that one HERE .
The Slip Pillowcases are amazing for your hair and skin. I love them! If you aren’t quite ready to pull the trigger on the real deal, there is also an awesome Amazon dupe of them HERE.
This Supergoop hand cream trio set sold out in 2.2 seconds last anniversary sale. It’s SO good. I read this article on how you can really see your age in your hands. So many people don’t apply sunscreen their. It’s such a great way to protect them from the sun. Their sunscreen is great as well and they have a set with three mist on the sale. You can shop the sunscreen HERE.
Recently I’ve been using this NuBodyand loving it. It’s on mega sale and helps to firm and tone your skin! (Perfect for summer season…)
I have and love my T3 curling iron and blow dryer and use them daily. ( I have shared them lots on my IG because they are so great!) They are part of the sale in the grey color and the perfect time to snatch them up if you have been thinking about making the investment.
Best of Shoes & Accessories
One of my most worn buys from last year were these nude Vince Mules. They are back with just a tiny change and also available in a snakeskin, black and nude. The leather is super soft and they go with everything.
Loving this chain necklace for everyday wear and to layer with other pieces.
So many great sunglasses on the sale last year. These affordable cat eye sunglasses are a must have. There are two pairs of Givenchy sunglasses this year. SO. DANG. GOOD. You can shop the aviator pair HERE and these fun thick exaggerated cat eye ones HERE.
Typically the bags don’t impress me, but this Rag & Bone Bag is made of the softest leather and it’s SO roomy. (Perfect for mamas to carry ALLLLL the things. This AllSaints crossbody bag is the perfect size, a great price point and comes in several color options.
Some great hats on the sale this year as well. Brixton always fit so well and look more high end. There’s a classic black one this year that you can shop https://rstyle.me/n/dpixdkbz57x and a camel version HERE. They look JUST LIKE the Lack Of Color ones that are more than double the price. Also loving this tan one with a snakeskin band.
Best of Home
First and foremost…. BAREFOOT DREAMS! If you haven’t been converted yet, it’s your time to try. I’ve never felt anything this cozy and soft. The boys LOVE them too. I’ve never seen them go on sale this great in the prints. I snagged this neutral camo one. They also have the leopard ones and ribbed throws. Can’t recommend these enough! The leopard is one of my favorite things I own. They sell out every time they become available at full price so these are sure to sell out super fast!
Another blanket that we absolutely love is this Giraffe at Home Snow Leopard blanket. This is insanely soft. Georgie sleeps with this blanket every night.
Picked up these joggers for Trey. Love the marbled grey look.
These black Frame jeans are great deal for designer denim. A tiny bit of distressing and the jet back color makes them super modern. These are a great quality too!
This Kiehl’s face wash is the best for men. You can stock up for such a long time with this one.
Tumi luggage will last you forever. This carry on luggage is a great deal.
