Happy Baby

Blair loves the view from her stroller.  Strolling makes her happy.

Introducing : Linkon Ashton

I finally had my chance to meet baby Linkon yesterday.  He is the firstborn of my dear dear friend Lacey, and her wonderful husband (also dear family friend), Ashton.  He was born on Cinco de Mayo - how fabulous is that!?  He was just a little thing, weighing in under six pounds, but a pure angel.  I had only texted pictures to reference until seeing him in person - but I had already decided he was darling and he had rockstar hair right out of the womb... so appropriate coming from his super stylist mom.

Ben, Blair and I drove down yesterday to meet him in person and finally get to hug and congratulate Lace and Ash.  First thoughts:  Linkon was asleep in his little lamby swing when we arrived, and he is the dreamiest little thing! So small (and made Blair look SO big) with the teeniest little features.  WHAT a cutie.  He awoke just in time for our dinner and was alert for a while after that.  Lacey and Ashton are already looking the part of well-adjusted parents - taking turns feeding/changing and rocking baby Linkon like seasoned pros.  Linkon's presence in their home felt so natural - it was wonderful to see Lacey fulfill the motherly role I always knew she would, and so beautifully.

Blair couldn't get enough of Linkon... she kept crawling over to him and climbing up the sofa, the swing, and Ashton's legs just to catch a glimpse.  When we were leaving Blair was allowed to get close enough for a kiss and she fussed when kissy-time was over.  "no, wait?  - where are you taking him?"  We can't wait to see them again soon and to kick off what will be 18 years of 'playdates' - until they'll start calling it dating.

My Little Inchworm

Does anyone remember that adorable little sidekick of Oscar the Grouch's?  Slimey - the tiniest muppet inchworm there ever was.  Once Blair started learning to crawl she reminded me so much of a little inchworm.  Her lower half worked before her upper half.  I thought it was too cute.  She also surprised me with poses and moves like "downward facing dog" and "child's pose" as well as a cute little bunny hop where her bum and knees bounced back and forth, very fitting as it was Easter time. She would also pause and lay on her side - kind of like a pinup.  Oh, and she pats.  I love her little pats. Where does she get this stuff? Now she is a crawling machine - so I want to document what came before.

How Big's the Baby?

 

A few weeks ago I came home from work and Ben told me Blair had a new trick.  He taught her "How big's the baby?"... "SOO Big!" in just a few hours.  Clever girl.  She now loves to throw her arms up at meal time (as this is when she first learned the game).  Not so much on demand or for a crowd, but just as she pleases.  And once she gets going, there's no telling when she'll stop. 

I took this video when we were on a lunch outing with mommacat who was laying over for a few hours between Montana and Mississippi.  We are lucky to live in a Delta hub city.  Blair and I LOVE meeting up with mommacat any ol' chance we get.  Blair took the opportunity to show off her new trick... luckily we were eating so it just came out naturally.

Summer BBQs

We are desperately trying to get out and enjoy the spring although this has been the wettest, coldest Utah spring I can remember. Well, it's like a Park City or Montana spring.  But where we now live in the valley it should be much warmer and brighter by now!  We have braved a few outdoor bbq's, nephews' baseball games, a bit of gardening and walks with friends around the neighborhood but I cannot wait until we can finally pack away those bulky sweaters and fleece-lined boots!  Tomorrow it's June 1st and today (Memorial Day) we woke up to a view of snow on the mountainside. Here are a few pictures from a recent family bbq.

St. George Getaway

How lucky were we to be invited to St. George to stay the weekend with some of our dearest friends from Park City?  Brandon and Michelle were wonderful hosts to us - and their three darling (darling!) kids were fantastic hosts to baby Blair.  Remember how I said Blair loves to watch little people... well, she was in observer's heaven for four days straight! We didn't capture enough of the fun, but these pictures about sum it up. It was the perfect pre-Easter getaway. Great friends, great late night cards, wonderful conversation and delicious poolside eats.

 We went downtown to a beautiful park with a splash area near historic main street. The weather was perfect the whole weekend.  No wind, no heat, no chilly nights. Perfect!

 Oh Blair Blair. She was a little wary of the chilly (chilly!) water - but she loved splashing from the side and of course, a chance to debut her swimwear. I was hosing her down with spf 60 every ten minutes. Heaven forbid I be responsible for burning that porcelain skin!

 Brocky J. aka "brockadile" is the ultimate character. The kids kept taking turns riding in our "space rocket" car.  Brock looked at me during his maiden voyage and asked, "Is this an '85?" Oh me. His poses from the backseat wearing Ben's 'racing' glasses were absolutely priceless, and completely of his own creation.

 

Blair was experiencing the water without actually being in the water. It looks refreshing but it was mighty "crisp" shall we say.

H&M

A little birdie told me that H&M is opening in Utah.  Not just in Utah. Less than a mile from my house. Can someone either confirm or deny?  I heard there is one opening at Fashion Place and the other up here at Station Park.  By the new Harmon's which opened yesterday.  If heaven were a grocery store...

Zanesville Visit

Last week my family took a few days off to spend time in Ohio.  My grandma passed away after a painful illness that lasted over three years.  Although knowing she was sick, I was still surprised by the news and so saddened to think that we wouldn't be seeing her again in this life. Grandma was such a sweet and loving influence on me. I have such fond memories of spending time with her while my family lived in Ohio years ago.  What a blessing to be able to travel back for her funeral and to be able to hug my Grandpa and tell him I loved him and Grandma too.

It was a very bittersweet experience.  It's hard to be too sad knowing that my grandma is no longer in any pain.  She lived a wonderful and long life full of tremendous acts of kindness and charity. She left a great legacy in her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. 

Dean, Blair and I flew in from Utah right after his semester ended.  We flew into Cincinnati to spend about 20 hours with Tessa & Duffy.  I hadn't been to their place (or Cincy for that matter) and it was wonderful to see where and how they're living. Oh I loved their place!  My little Tessie - a fabulous homemaker, crafter, designer and hostess.  She's all grown up!  Tess & Duffy took us on a wonderful tour of Cincinnati, what a great city. Of course we had to stop in at the Fountain Square Graeter's (world's best ice cream) that just so happened to be conveniently located across the street from where Tessa's building is (US Bank Headquarters).  How fat would I be if that were my office? After that we drove up to the top of the city and walked around Eden Park. Like a postcard.

Back at home, Blair was introduced to her first animal - Harper the dog. Oh he is so sweet and so gentle. Blair was wary at first but then her anxious kicks turned into excited kicks.  She was mesmerized by his movements, his tongue and all that furriness.

After a short stay at Easter church, we headed for Zanesville three hours away.  I didn't hear a peep from the backseat and turned around to see Dean holding Blair's hand while she slept. No words. As if I needed another reason to completely adore Dean. He's wearing his awesome glasses, the same pair that Jason Derulo wears. I have a feeling he might turn this picture into his new facebook profile pic.

I was trying to be a fun front seat companion for Tessa, but it turns out she thought I was rather boring!?  I've completely lost my touch I guess.  Some yummy trail mix would've helped.

Look at these baby cousins?  Born within seven months of each other - I can hardly stand it. Taryn left Reese back in Alabama after scheduling three all-day playdates for her and she brought Hudson to Ohio.  I wouldn't have met him for three more months and it was incredibly special to meet him so soon. Oh he is absolute heaven. Lindsey and Olivia took a long flight in and once together, Blair and Olivia were at it again.  Those girls!  They are just three months apart but pretty soon they'll be up to (and into) all the same things.  Blair can sit up, Livy is so close. Livy has sprouted a tooth, and Blair has none in sight. They did rather enjoy spending time together though. As I've mentioned before, Blair is fascinated by people closer to her size. Can you see what Olivia is doing here? Yes, sucking on Blair's feet!  We were all hysterical once we noticed what was going on.  Blair was content chewing on someone's iphone cover and hardly noticed what Livy was up to.

 

I LOVE my Grandpa.  He is undoubtedly the most kind, friendly, considerate and loving person I've ever known.  Not to mention his killer jokes and warm personality.  What a wonderful thing to introduce Blair to him. He told her jokes, he put on his accents, he danced with her around the kitchen. He's still the exact same grandpa I remember as a little girl.

 

We spent a lot of time catching up with cousins, aunts and uncles that we hadn't seen in many years.  Each one of my cousins were there - all of us - in little Zanesville (see picture above). The funeral service was something I will never forget. It was an incredible tribute to Grandma. 

Interestingly enough, there were no husbands... we were just sisters, Dean and my parents again. And babies of course.  As much as we love our hubbies - I enjoyed the dynamic of the way we used to be. Three babies, seven people, five days and two hotel rooms.

Playdate

Blair is truly fascinated by little people, and I mean kids.  Or anyone smaller than the two people she is around 99% of the time.  She turns into an excited little observer.  So much to see! So much to learn! I can see the excitement in her face (and in her squeals and those hilarious ankle rotations). 

My fun neighbor Danielle's little girl is two months older than Blair - and is leaps and bounds ahead of her.  Eight teeth and counting, motoring all over the place and more.  I really enjoy when Blair gets to play with other babies and kids - I don't want her to be an isolated only child.  It's always felt strange to think that she'll forever be my 'oldest'.

I tried to take a few shots of them playing together - even with continuous snapshot mode most of the pictures were blurry.  The sequence of photos I found so appropriate - Sienna is running circles around Blair! The caption under the last picture would read Blair saying, "hey, where did you go?" (Sienna was already in the kitchen at her favorite tupperware hangout.)

Studio 5 : Five High - Impact Decorating Ideas

Great segment today.  I loved pulling this together because there are some elements of design that might be considered secondary... today we gave them front-row treatment.

You can watch the segment right here by clicking the window below, or click here to redirect to the video and article on the Studio 5 website.

Florals & Greenery

This time of year aren’t we all dying to bring some bright pops of color into our homes?  From picking up a bunch of tulips at your local grocery store to putting together a more lasting ‘preserved’ bouquet, both fresh and ‘faux’ arrangements add much-desired color and life to your space.  You don’t need a designer sourcebook … it’s easy to find flowers and plants in many shapes and sizes at your local market or garden center.  The best part is – you can customize your selection to fit both your personal style and color palette. 

Drapery

Valances and cornices are great, but I’m talking about floor to ceiling drapery here.  One of the quickest ways to add impact and drama to any space is by installing full-height drapery panels on the windows in a room.  They have an instant ‘coziness-factor’ and add a softness that can’t otherwise be achieved. This is one area where designers know – you get what you pay for.  Spend a little extra time choosing a luxurious heavyweight fabric (note: I didn’t say dark color) and make the smart choice to have them professionally lined and constructed.  You’ll never regret it.

Silver Accessories

While we’re on the topic of no-regret decorating… let’s talk about silver accessories and similar home-décor details. Metallics seem to be the continuing hot-trend, however, sterling silver pieces are like the dependable big brother and create a very similar look.  They are a classically traditional choice that will always be fashionable to display.  Think about collecting sterling silver frames and small jewel-box accessories to display together.  Consider adding eye-catching details like new polished nickel hardware on furniture or built-in cabinetry or shiny new bathroom accessories grouped on a modern silver tray.  Your eye will be drawn to the shiny hits of silver all around the room.

Wallpaper

Nothing creates more high-impact than wallpaper these days.  So often we see photos of stylish rooms designed with at least one wall devoted to some serious wallpaper patterns or similar stenciling.  Talk about drama! I think this trend is a much-needed replacement for the ‘accent wall’ of the 90’s. Do : wallpaper in small doses but maximize the impact by choosing a bold stripe, geometric or floral.  Don’t : wallpaper or stencil every room in your house just because it’s on-trend.  You’ll scare off the neighbors.

Paint

Re-painting any room is an easy and surefire way to add impact.  Paint selection is one of the most important decisions you will make when pulling a room together and can easily make or break any space in my opinion.  A well-chosen wall color makes everything in the room sing while the wrong color choice has a horribly negative affect on both the furniture in the room and the people who live there!  My tip here is test, test, test! Paint swatches on all four walls and check the color at all times of day and especially under lamp light at night.  Paint isn’t permanent, but it can be a time-consuming process so do your homework first.  Log on to Oviatt-Pratt & Associates’ Facebook page for six of my favorite foolproof paint colors.

Lacey's Baby Shower

This weekend was crazy.  Why is it that my social calendar is pretty much bare (embarrassingly bare) 99% of the time, and then I have ten events in one weekend? Well, not ten, but three. That is a lot for me.

Friday was Chelsey's wedding reception. She's a good friend from design school. I have no pictures but it was a lovely event. Cucina Nassi is a beautiful location and Chelsey's hand was in every last detail. So happy for her.

Saturday was my dear friend Lacey's baby shower. She is due in about five weeks with her first little one. A boy! When she found out what the sex was she announced to me, "A friend for Taryn's baby and a future hubby for Blair!" I have always loved the idea of a betrothal.  He is sure to be handsome and stylish (with great hair) and a sweetheart. What else would you get from a couple like Lacey and Ashton?  The shower was so great. I stuffed my face with all the delicious food and treats.  There were a LOT of people that came to shower Lacey with gifts... I'm telling you, they're a popular couple.  I am so happy for her and can't wait to meet their precious little one very soon.

I got to see Abby twice in two days! Her family grew up with Chelsey's. How fun to run in the same social circle with her. :) Saturday evening was the annual auction for the Mali charity that my mother-in-law co-chairs.  Such a great event and cause and super exciting to dress up and have a night out on the town with Ben (sans baby).  The Grand America is so beautiful and lavish - and always reminds me of Meghan's wedding.

Post-Baby Swimwear

One of the most scary things on my mind right now is the impending first trip to the pool and the inevitable wardrobe shift. Don't get me wrong. I'm excited for warmer weather. And I can't wait to introduce Blair to the pool.  With the way she kicks she won't even need lessons.  I'm gathering 'resortwear' for her (too fun! can't help myself) and I can't wait to see her in her swimwear.  Me in swimwear? Different story.

I remember Audrey and Michelle (PC friends) telling me having a summer baby was actually a good thing because you had almost a year before you had to be back in a swimsuit.  They were right. But now that 'almost a year' is here,  am I feeling pool-ready? Not so much. I'm pretty much over the idea of ever wearing any of my bikinis again. (actually, I'm saving them for some exotic getaway with Ben where no one knows me or gets close) I joke about having a bikini bonfire.  I probably should have one.  I thought it would be a few pregnancies before I completely morphed into a different body. Am I completely off base here?

To paint a picture of what I'm experiencing - please see objects "A" and "B". We could do a little game where you try to guess which was 'before' and which was 'after' - but let's not.

That's me completely blocking Lindsey from the camera's reach, she's pregnant here as well, for the record. And don't even comment on what I'm wearing. I can't be held responsible for it. It was hotter than Hades that day and yet I found myself not wanting to completely terrify the poor, unsuspecting people near me. The reason I left the umbrella's shade was to give my swollen feet a rest.  And to think I was trying to strike a flattering pose here! Let's laugh, shall we? Please. Otherwise I'll cry.

 

Presently I'm just somewhere in the middle. Neither +60 lbs. nor frolicking carefree on sandy beaches. Which leads me to my poolside dilemma.  Will I look like a complete moron wearing my husbands t-shirts and basketball shorts to the pool? What about in the pool?  When Tessa was visiting last month we came across this bathing suit online and I fell in love.  Nearly bought it but then realized that it was probably much more cut in on the sides than it appeared. And I don't need my 'wobbly bits' (ala briget jones) hanging out. Not pretty. But I absolutely love the pattern. Don't you?

black scallop suit

For a close second,  with twice the fabric and half the price tag, I ordered this one below. The color combo is even better in person. I like the way it has a bit of pattern to hide those mid-section woes but isn't too flashy.  The reviews said it ran big so I ordered a smaller size and we'll see if it works to my advantage or not. I could have used a bit more 'help' in the top portion of the suit but otherwise no complaints so far.

 striped suit 

I still have this bathing suit from last year.  It sorta fits if you count being able to pull it on 'fitting'.

vintage inspired suit

Anyway, welcome to my life. I am even more wardrobe challenged since having a baby. I struggle between wanting to dress fashionably for work and outings and needing to wear the comfortable pieces that chasing a baby requires! Not only am I a different size, but my shape is drastically different than it was before. Ben's grandmother summed it up nicely when she related what one of her friends said to her after having a baby. "I used to have an hourglass figure. Now, I still have an hourglass but all of the sand has gone to the bottom."

Any advice?  We are heading to SG in a few weeks for a mini vacay - I know that's not enough time for a total body transformation, but I'm open for suggestions for summer time.  Diet tips? Exercise advice? Fashion help? Anyone?