On My Love List: Braids

Easy, quick, dress it up or down. 

Braids are back.

.

.

.

Loved this shot from John's phone....labeled "braid babes". 

love, kerry

On My Love List: Goodnight Moon

In the great green room

There was a telephone

And a red balloon

And a picture of-

The cow jumping over the moon

And there were three little bears sitting on chairs

And two little kittens

And a pair of mittens

And a little toyhouse

And a young mouse

And a comb and a brush and a bowl full of mush

And a quiet old lady who was whispering "hush"

Goodnight room

Goodnight moon

Goodnight cow jumping over the moon

Goodnight light

And the red balloon

Goodnight bears 

Goodnight chairs

Goodnight kittens

And goodnight mittens

Goodnight clocks

And goodnight socks

Goodnight little house

And goodnight mouse

Goodnight comb

And goodnight brush

Goodnight nobody

Goodnight mush

And goodnight to the old lady whispering "hush"

Goodnight stars

Goodnight air

Goodnight noises everywhere

September 7, 2011

September 7, 2012

On My Love List: THE Penny Sale

If you've ever been to my house, then you've seen first-hand my obsession with framed photos and personal art. (But if you haven't, you're welcome take a virtual tour here.)

I'd just SOOOOOOO much rather decorate clutter my walls with images of people and places that I love, and general "framable" tokens that mean something special. More personal, more fun. I truly enjoy looking at them, and reflecting on that moment EVERY SINGLE DAY. 

Side note: This is FOR SURE the best gift you could buy a new Mom... An all-time favorite of mine.  

However, I'll be honest, my love affair with frames and custom mattes can come between me and my organized family budget. 

But {John} it's ok, there's a solution... THE Aaron Brothers Annual Penny Sale!

I look forward to this shopping event more than Black Friday, more than Cyber Monday, and more {maybe} than even the holiday shopping season! Buy one frame, ANY ONE YOU'D LIKE, and get a second for just one cent! 

Makes cents to me. ;)

So, every July I take an inventory of items/photos I've filed for framing, make a list and hit the sale!

Today was the big day and although, to be honest, it wasn't the best (Audrey was more than a handful, the staff was less than friendly, they cut my custom matte incorrectly making me return to the store, etc) I'm still really excited about my new additions to this historical collection of framed amazingness...

Father's Day, 2012

From left to right:
Audrey's first-ever work of art. Learn more about it here.
A special note Audrey and I received last month from the bride-to-be, Amy. Learn more about it here. 

Now, where can I buy more wall space? 

love, kerry

On My Love List: Personal Art

Love, Love, LOVE that Mato and Amy painted these of each other.

So personal, so creative, so unique,
so lovely.


You two make a fantastic pair, and thank you again so much for sharing a piece of your Austin life with us!! We loved it!!



love, kerry

On My Love List: Mickey Mouse Clubhouse

At first, it wasn't just going to be about the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, a Disney Junior cartoon that we watch in the morning with breakfast. 

It was actually going to be about these children's board-book sets in general:

Audrey LOVES, LOVES, LOVES this toy. 

The set includes 12 mini- books that are the perfect size and length to keep Audrey interested. 

But, the box itself is so much of the fun. Audrey carries it around like her little purse, sits on her pink chair or the floor and pulls all the books out, plays, reads, then arranges them back in the box, and continues to carry it throughout the house, repeat, repeat, repeat. 

You can see HERE that Barnes & Nobel has a variety of set themes, and I think we've got almost all of them- Disney Classics, Disney Bedtime Stories, Disney Princesses, and the latest addition- 

Mickey Mouse Clubhouse.

Her love of these book sets goes back to about her 10th month when her good friend little-Beckett shared his toy one day at the office.

It was immediatley obvious that we were introduced to the latest must-have children's toy. 

And, she's been obsessed every since. 

But, more recently I've noticed- Audrey REALLY loves Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. 

She waves at Donald during the Show's intro. 

She dances the "Hot Dog" dance every time. 

She knows the characters, and the songs. 

She's a BIG fan.

.

.

.

Naturally, this was Audrey's pick at Barnes & Nobel over the weekend...

She ran right up to the book, all by herself, and presented it to me.

"Miiiiiiinnne", she said. 

.

.

.

Who could say no? 

Not me.

love, kerry

On My Love List: Apple

We are officially an Apple family. 

John & Audrey playing with their new iPad!

John suggested that I take a photo with all of our Apple products together.
Their own little, family photo.

That, I will not do.
Sure, we have become an Apple family, but who isn't?

Apple products are the BEST. Period.

John's work has REALLY hooked us up this year! We got the BIG laptop, and the iPad (just this weekend) for FREE!!!!

We had the rest- a small laptop (from my work), the desktop computer, two iPhones (each), and an iPod.

We love it all, and honestly are things we use every single day (totally worth the money).
I. Will. Never. Go Back.

So, Apple- if you're reading this....We ARE your poster family. Call me, and I'll get you that photo (so long as it involves some free stuff).

Too far? Maybe.



love, kerry

On My Love List: The 5-Year Journal

 New Year, New Journal.

It was such funny timing, actually. A few weeks ago, I found this journalling concept here on Pinterest. I immediately knew it was PERFECT for me in the new year. I even found the PERFECT dish to keep my journal notecards in here at Anthropologie. I could have easily copied the idea, and made it my own with a few personal touches. But, let's be honest- it would have been yet ANOTHER project for me to take on, and my free time has been pretty maxed out lately. I kept putting it off, and January 1st just kept creeping up on me.

But, I LOVED the idea. 

Last week, John and I visited Old Towne Orange. It's a quaint, college town (home of Chapman University & very close to the UCI Medical Center) where antique and specialty gift shops, fun bars and cute restaurants line the streets around the "Orange Circle". We enjoyed appetizers, the sunshine, and our casual stroll with Audrey. And, we popped into just ONE shop.

It was calling my name from down the street- Hostess with the Mostess- a shop especially for those who love planning parties.

While inside- TWO crazy things happened.

1. John actually ran into people he knew! What?!?!?! We know people here? Just kidding. ;)
But really, John stopped and talked with a married couple, both 3rd year radiology residents.

2. And, I managed to spot this:

Mom's One Line A Day

A Five-Year Memory Book

It's so simple. So smart. 

Here you have one page for every day in the year. Each page is divided into 5 years, and gives you just enough space to write about two sentences about your day. 

A condensed, comparative record for five years, for recording events most worthy of remembrance. 

Also, a time saver. Add two sentences a day to my hectic schedule? Doable.

If only I was as committed to running as I am to writing...

This will be fun for me. I will enjoy {quickly} reflecting on the day each evening, and I can only imagine how fun it will be to read year-after-year. 

This makes me happy.

love, kerry

On My Love List: Advent Calendars

Let the countdown begin!

I don't remember a year when I didn't have an advent calendar. 

It's a Christmas must!

Right Mom?

Nothing sweeter than building suspense and celebrating each day leading to Christmas morning...except perhaps Audrey. 

........................................................................................

I know. 

This Christmas stuff is too much. 

JUST WAIT.

love, kerry

On My Love List: The "What to Expect" Series

I know what you're thinking. 

Yup, I found myself at Barnes & Noble on Saturday, and this was my must-have book. 

.

.

.

You understand. 

But seriously, I absolutely L-O-V-E these books!

Like most new moms, I was expecting when I met Murkoff and Mazel for the first time. 

They just make it so easy. 

What to Expect When You're Expecting is beyond helpful, especially if you feel rushed or uncomfortable asking your doctor every question in the book (pardon my pun) during your regular check-ups. It can be read cover-to-cover, or used as a quick reference on an as-needed basis. Whatever works better for you (and your schedule). 

Disclaimer: it IS possible to be TOO informed... Don't say I didn't warn you. 

Next in line on our home bookshelf- What to Expect the First Year. 

Questions about nursing and feeding- covered.

Sleep tips and tricks- provided.

Safety and developmental guide- outlined.

This book is a new mom, baby registry MUST. Period. Arguably more valuable than the expecting book.

Now, I've found myself with a 13-month-old running {literally and figuratively} the show in our house, and here I go again- addressing my new {thousand} questions to my old girlfriends- Murkoff and Mazel and their What to Expect the Second Year. 

My bible? 

Perhaps. 

Day One with the book, and 80 pages IN...

Now, I've got a preliminary plan for: 

reducing the scream,

handling behavior issues,

weaning from the bottle, 

developing language skills, 

and more...

Hallelujah!!

I love these books, and it's no wonder they made it on my love list. 

But, I'm pretty sure after the second year, the series ends...At some point, Moms just figure it out without the need to reference a book with every question. At least that's the way it seems. Plus, each book in the series keeps getting thinner.

But, if I could just make a few recommendations...

How about: 

What to Expect When...

you're expecting a jealous big sister?

you're expecting a call from the Principal's office?
you're expecting jokes about the tallest girl in the class?

you're expecting a crush on the "bad boy" in school?

you're expecting the MVP award...again?
you're expecting IVY League tuition payments?

Just putting it out there.

love, kerry

On My Love List: Nod Chairs

Yay! Our birthday gift for Audrey finally arrived, and we are in LOVE! 

This ADORABLE chair is from Land of Nod, and she loves it! 

Super cozy for snuggling (I've tried it myself), easy to move around the house, and so cute...

Just like Audrey!

These Nod Chairs come in all sorts of fun colors, patterns, designs and most can be personalized. 

CLICK HERE to check them out. 

I also found this gem at Anthropologie. 

PERFECT birthday book, don't you think?

love, kerry

On My Love List: Professional Photography

You know me, I love getting my picture taken... ;)

And, go ahead and [insert tease here of me being obsessed with myself or something], but honestly, I just think professional photos are so important, and too often overlooked.

In my personal opinion, your photography should be among the biggest investments at your wedding. Period. The dress, the cake, the flowers, the favors...What do they matter if you don't have photos to remind yourself of that very beautiful day? I honestly couldn't even tell you off the top of my head what types of flowers I had in my own wedding bouquet, but I know they were beautiful and that a lot of thought went into picking them out. I'm really glad I have photos to refresh my memory, and that I can share with Audrey one day.

{Photo by Gina Munda}

And think about those old photos that you have and enjoy in your own life...

I love looking through-

My Grandpa's old high school football and police officer photos,

Mine and John's baby books,

My mom's old modeling portfolio,

Our families' old wedding albums,

and so many more...

And, I'd be so disappointed if I didn't have a photo to capture PERFECT moments like this...

{Photo by Gina Munda}

Or like this...

{Photo by Skye Snyder}

Or like this...

{Photo by Skye Snyder}

I actually didn't take photos like a crazy woman before Audrey...I will give you that. I made the commitment during my pregnancy that I would get professional photos of her every three months, just for the first year. Every mom I talked too while I was pregnant just went on and on about how much babies change in their first year...I wanted to capture as much as I could reasonably afford.

It's the photo journaler in me, I suppose.

And, I've really enjoyed all my pictures around the house too. In fact, one of my favorites is a 12-month frame that I bought at Pottery Barn Kids here. I update the frame on a regular basis (one photo for each month during Audrey's first year), and I'm amazed that it's about to be completely filled soon!!! I literally look lovingly, and in disbelief, every single day. Time goes so fast. (Great gift idea for any new mom you know, by the way).

So, I think I've made my point...Professional photography is something worth spending the time, effort and money on at least on an annual basis.

That said, to the purpose of tonight's post...I have Audrey's 9-Month photos from Skye Snyder Photography for your enjoyment, and I AM IN LOVE!!!

I should start by saying that Skye is a FANTASTIC photographer in Reno. She is such a kind person, so talented, and really captures the individuality and personality of the people she photographs. Her prices are fair, and I have trusted her to photograph some of the most important times in my life- my pregnancy, Audrey's one-week birthday, one-month birthday and nine-month birthday. She'll also be photographing Audrey's 1st birthday party next month. I highly recommend Skye, and encourage you to check out her website here, or to read her blog here. She's also always got fun contests, promotions and discounts on her facebook page here.

{These photos were taken in June, 2011 by Skye Snyder Photography at Bartley Ranch in Reno.}

love, kerry

On My Love List: Paper

Some of you are already laughing.

You know I have a real love for paper.

It's true.

I love note cards, stationary, pads of paper, single sheets, journals, notebooks- you name it!

I'm excited by fun paper weights, elegant finishes, interesting binds...

I love paper and stationary stores! My latest obsession- Sugar Paper in LA. Check them out.

And, well, who doesn't love a great greeting card? Be it Christmas, a party invitation, birth announcement, Father's Day card {refer to previous post for a real-life example}, ETC...

Greeting cards are great! Fun to pick out, assemble, mail, receive.

I love paper.

Ask my mom, it's always been a love of mine.

In fact, I think she has this very picture of me, at the same age, playing with paper...

{uninterested in all the fun, real toys around}

Audrey takes after her mommy on this one....

Paper's great!

It's really been on my mind lately as I plan for the most important birthday party of my life-

Audrey's 1st Birthday Party!!!!

I've sent some good cards in the past...

You may have seen some of my work.

So, this card's really gotta be something.

And, it will be no matter what, obviously.

But, still.

.

.

.

.

.

Audrey, what do you think?

I know, it's tough.

The quest for the perfect card...

I'm always searching.

And now that I'm a "blogger", or whatever, I have the PERFECT platform to share and recommend my favorite online paper and stationary stores with you!

Kinda fun.

On My Love List:

Tiny Prints

Minted

Paper Culture

Paper-Source

Pear Tree Greetings

Cocodot

Polka Dot Design

You're welcome, and happy paper purchasing and card creating!

love, kerry

On My Love List: Coupons

Who doesn't love a good coupon?

Today- $9.99 Pampers Jumbo Pack, 10 for $6 Yoplait, and BOGO Ready Pack Salad Blends.

Tomorrow- we shall see!

I'm fascinated in a way by coupon clipping. People still do it! That's really the shocker. In this age of technology, the good'ole newspaper still serves a purpose darn it! And how about the bulk junk mail? Thank you! Now, I'm sure there's an app that would likely simplify/clean up the process for me, but it's the act of clipping coupons that's so fulfilling. Feeling like you worked for that discount. You earned it.

There's a bit of gambling in coupon clipping too. Is this, in fact, the very best deal? Will a coupon publish tomorrow that's even better, or do I accept this discount and make my purchase? I'm sure the odds are still with the house.

But, I do tend to shop based on need, not just the best deal I find. I feel that's the best approach, and it keeps the control and power with me. The stores win if you buy just because you feel like the deal was too good to pass up. Rule of thumb: if you wouldn't buy it full-price, don't buy it on sale.

Speaking of, John's not buying any of this post so far... If he's even reading it...

But, it's true. ;)

And, don't even get me started on frequent buyer/loyalty cards! LOVE those!!!

I have to thank my good friend, Jill for this amazing coupon organizer. It was such a thoughtful gift, from someone who knows me well.

I'll have you know that fellow Albertson's shoppers notice it, and are jealous.

They say to themselves,

"she's saving money, and in a chic and stylish way"

Brilliant! I love when people are jealous of me. Just kidding...

Ok, so I feel like the ultimate "mommy-blogger" right now, talking about coupons for God's sake. Not exactly the direction I want to go on love, kerry, despite the fact that I AM just that-

a.

mommy.

blogger.

But, thanks for stopping by and if you haven't already seen it- watch Extreme Couponing and think of me.

love, kerry

On My Love List: Skype

I love this picture!!

And, I'm really loving Skype too!!

It's only been a few days, but the calls we've had so far have been so great! We've been given a tour of Mato and Amy's new house in Texas; we've played silly games with Ian and Cole and met their new pet, Henry; we've visited with little 6-week-old Beckett and his Mama; we've caught up on work projects and with friends...

Why didn't I figure all this out sooner?? Audrey LOVES it too, by the way.

Looking forward to Skyping with you too!

love, kerry

On My Love List: Peanut Estelle

Last week I got my first Peanut Estelle package in the mail. My talented and stylish future (sooner than later, Mato) sister-in-law recently opened an Etsy store, and is selling her very own unique, handmade jewelry and accessories. I was so excited to order my first piece- the necklace I'm wearing here, although hard to see- and I am still beyond impressed by the designer's creativity, style and initiative to start an online store in the first place! I got so many compliments today on my necklace, and I felt extra special to be able to say it was made by someone close to me. Nice job Amy!!! Thank you for both my beautiful necklace, and the matching earrings! You are amazing, incredibly talented and I know your store is going to be a hit!

Happy shopping!!

Here's the URL to check it out:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/peanutestelle

love, kerry

On My Love List: Tiny Prints

These personalized Father's Day cards were a hit!!! So adorable! I'm loving Tiny Prints right now, and they literally have a card for every occasion/holiday you cant think of!

Happy Father's Day to an amazing group of men in my life- John, Grandpa Al, Mike, Steve, Grandpa Dan and Uncle Jason!

love, kerry