tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33087098378776818432024-03-23T06:14:26.659-04:00Musings of a Mom, {Esq}.Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.comBlogger320125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-73940953834840416882018-02-16T06:00:00.000-05:002018-02-22T14:23:03.394-05:00Shaving with Harry's<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Winter is a great time to build fires, make chili, drink red wine, and wear tights. But despite the ability to covers one's legs for 90% of the season, every now and then you still need to whip out the old razor and actually shave. And since replacement blades are usually a fortune, I've hunted for a solution. Several years ago I got my hubby a monthly Harry's Shave Club subscription for his birthday, and hes been a huge fan ever since. Rather than hunt for the perfect female equivalent, I've just started using his <a href="https://www.harrys.com/en/us/products">Harry's razors</a>. They are affordable, cute, and of superior quality. The days of spending $20 on a pink frilly looking razor, only to have to shell out another $40 for replacement blades right away are over.<br />
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Its now February, and I feel like I almost forgot the proper way to shave. But some new Vineyard Vines capri workout pants have inspired me to take up the habit again, so here it goes. And despite my inclination to be lazy and grab some soap, this is actually a big mistake and leaves your legs dry, itchy, and prone to razor burn. So its worth the extra few dollars to invest in some shaving cream (and if you like earthy, masculine scents, borrow the boy's <a href="https://www.harrys.com/en/us/products/shave-cream?h_id=557&h_position=5&h_list=shaving-supplies">shave cream </a>as well).<br />
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So what better way to prep for the approaching dress season than with a new razor? (I also like the handle color choices since it always at least partially about the aesthetics.)<br />
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<img class="nopin" src="http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww307/LeslieFLambert/Sweetie%20Babys%20Designs%202/moamsig_zpse47e08b3.png" />Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-59195500405054361312018-02-01T06:00:00.000-05:002018-02-01T09:47:56.452-05:00In Review: Lipsense<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I do NOT sell Lipsense. I will never sell Lipsense (or anythign else). That's just me. I have been, however, super intrigued by this product popping up on my news feed, Instagram and everywhere else I look. And since I rarely pass up the chance to try a new beauty item out, I gave it a go and ordered a few from a social media 'friend', and one from Amazon.<br />
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So here's the deal. They go on in 3 coats, like paint, and you let it dry. You then seal the color with a top coat lip gloss. I have heinously dry lips, from constantly licking, peeling, and picking them. But despite this, the color still went on pretty well and lasted a long time. The caveat is you have to reapply the gloss a million times a day, but the underlying color itself only goes on once in the morning. You also need an actual makeup remover to get it off at day's end (I used olive oil as they recommended at first, but it didnt work too well, so I got Almay waterproof eye makeup removing pads and use these).<br />
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The cons: Not the easiest to apply the first few times, takes practice. Once its on, you're committed to that color for a full day, no changing your color for lunch or dinner dates (if, unlike me, your meals don't consist of you standing over the sink, washing down goldfish crackers with a glass of wine). And it takes a little bit of work to remove.<br />
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The pros: Doesn't budge. Doesn't transfer to coffee cups or wine glasses, teeth, or anything else. The gloss feels nice on, they say it moisturizes through the color but I have no idea if this is true or not. And at $25 per tube, its less costly than my favorite YSL which, at $37 a pop, has to be reapplied 100+ times a day, so it adds up. The gloss is $20, and really you'll need several to have on hand at all times. If you don't reapply the gloss, it gets tacky and will start to come off. But in my opinion, still better than having to completely redo lipstick.<br />
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So overall, a total hit for me. best colors so far are 'Roseberry' and 'Cappuccino'. I can see not wanting to wear this everyday, when I'm short on time, but generally I will stick with this when I'm going to a meeting, client meal, or the rare date with the hubs (or maybe even while eating those crackers over the sink for dinner to glam it up).<br />
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<img class="nopin" src="http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww307/LeslieFLambert/Sweetie%20Babys%20Designs%202/moamsig_zpse47e08b3.png" />Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-67448467544036017432018-01-24T06:30:00.000-05:002018-01-24T09:42:41.995-05:00Kitchen FaceliftDespite the fact that upon purchase in 2016 we oversaw all the renovation of our Connecticut home personally, being 100+ miles away in New York while the work was being done took its toll. For example, the cabinet color was wrong. What was supposed to be 'bright white' was, in fact, antique white. And when the custom made counter tops, finishes, furniture and back-splash were all ordered based on bright white, not antique white, you can imagine some problems arising. But being sensible (forcibly so, in the form of budget limitation, not because I'm actual sensible) we lived with it. Antique white worked well enough.<br />
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Until now. New year, new cabinets. (New cabinet knobs, pulls and kitchen faucet coming next month so stayed tuned!)<br />
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Lighting: Pottery Barn // Cabinet paint: Benjamin Moore Advance in 'Gray Shower' // Back-splash tiles: <a href="https://tilebar.com/mangata-satin-starlight-4x12-glass-tile.html">Tile Bar</a> 'Mangata Satin Starlight' // Wall paint: Sherman Williams 'Lazy Gray' // Counter stools: '<a href="https://www.target.com/p/dakota-26%22-adjustable-wood-seat-barstool---pewter---threshold%E2%84%A2/-/A-51521598">Dakota Adjustable Stool'</a> from Target (on sale right now) // Rug: Savafieh via Wayfair<br />
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<img class="nopin" src="http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww307/LeslieFLambert/Sweetie%20Babys%20Designs%202/moamsig_zpse47e08b3.png" />Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-73538462481621225692018-01-10T11:46:00.003-05:002018-01-19T09:01:56.162-05:00Hit Reset<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Despite the big cliche talk of 'new years resolutions' and 'positive attitudes' the first week (or 9 days?) of 2018 were crappy. I felt like Tucker here, falling through a hole waiting to be rescued. On January 2 my husband blew out a tire and had to have the car towed (on the way home from Tucker's first indoor soccer clinic practice no less), no school on the 4th or 5th for snow, the baby broke out in an infectious rash on the 6th and had a double ear infection by the 7th, the basement pipes began leaking on January 8th, and today there is a client disaster at work.<br />
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But rather than despair (baby is still not sleeping despite my prayers and hopes for sleep in 2018), I'm hitting reset, both on the computer (because the internet is slower than a toddler getting dressed today), and on the new year. The tire is fixed, the pipe stopped leaking, the amoxicillin has kicked in, and Tucker loves soccer. And I've reevaluated the no wine on weeknights resolution...<br />
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<b>**Update:</b> As my karma for complaining above, since these events transpired last week, a few more have piled on. Husband gets massive tonsil infection and cant eat, hear, or swallow. Another snow day, school cancelled. Tucker sprains knee and needs a trip to urgent care at 6pm Thursday night to be sure nothing is torn. Baby's ENT appointment we waited forever to get is cancelled, news given to us after we arrive at scheduled appointment. Same car with repaired tire and tow on the 2nd now needs new 'blower' which costs $400 plus labor. SO I think I'm waiting until February for that reset.....<br />
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<img class="nopin" src="http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww307/LeslieFLambert/Sweetie%20Babys%20Designs%202/moamsig_zpse47e08b3.png" />Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-28544830709908279472018-01-03T10:01:00.003-05:002018-01-03T10:38:55.015-05:00Growing<br />
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My 6 year old came home from school yesterday, jumped down from the last bus step in his usual spring board like manner. He came running toward me, arms outstretched for a hug. We came into the house, back pack thrown to the floor, shoes kicked off in different directions. He grabbed the iPad, headed to the cabinet to retrieve a snack, and nestled into a counter stool for a few minutes of decompression before the tiresome after school routine (dinner, read, homework, bath, play, 5 minute warning 15 times, bed) began again like groundhogs day.<br />
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But something about my now 6 and half year old was subtly different today. I felt him get older, sitting there, eating crackers. It was nothing overt or outspoken, more like the way you can sense snowfall despite a forecast of clear skies. The air hangs heavy with a smell that you can feel in your throat when you swallow a deep breath. But just like that, I saw my tiny toddler melt away a little more that day, replaced by a taller, leaner being, capable of backtalk and words that, though he doesn't quite appreciate them yet, carry meaning. His questions are direct and not as easily answered, (why do we go to Church if God is supposed to be everywhere?), and his anxieties about his world (I feel embarrassed when the 3rd graders laugh at me on the bus, why do they do that?) not as easily explained away.<br />
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So as 2018 begins, and I smell the emergence of a new age, somewhere north of toddler and still south of teen, I'm trying to hold onto my parenting confidence which is still constantly rattled. Amidst a sea of year end conference calls and client crisis, I realized the baby still hasn't began to sleep through the night yet. And as his first birthday peeks at us from the calendar I'm reminded just how little I actually know about raising children (and how much I need to avoid baby blogs). Deep breaths, calm voices, and lots of hugs.<br />
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<img class="nopin" src="http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww307/LeslieFLambert/Sweetie%20Babys%20Designs%202/moamsig_zpse47e08b3.png" />Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-82562287101137917692017-12-19T06:00:00.000-05:002017-12-19T06:00:20.174-05:00#Shelfie <br />
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I cant tell you how much money I have saved since I discovered Kate Somerville products thanks to one of my favorite bloggers, Sabrina at <a href="http://thebeautylookbook.com/">The Beauty Look Book</a>. In the past I'd try a new wash/toner/lotion, find it to be mediocre, or decent at best, and a few weeks later, I would move it over to my husband's side of the bathroom shelf to finish, as I had lost interest.<br />
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I am 35, oily mixed with dry patches, mixed with occasional acne. (As you read this, I'm driving to New York (for the 4th time this month!) for a work meeting, so add to that I have huge under-eye bags.) The joy of finding the right products, ugh. But, I'm pretty sure I can now say I've found my holy grail. The best wash I have ever used to date is the <a href="https://www.katesomerville.com/acne-products-eradikate-cleanser-clear-skin">Eradikate</a> wash, which by some magic, dries up acne but does not dry out my skin. I follow with the <a href="https://www.katesomerville.com/skin-care-products-clarifying-treatment-toner-oily-skin">clarifying toner </a>at night, and then an <a href="https://www.sephora.com/product/high-potency-night-a-mins-tm-mineral-enriched-oil-free-renewal-cream-P389345?icid2=similar%20products:p389345:product">Origins</a> night cream that I don't think I can live without. The prices are reasonable for quality skin care (the wash is $38 and lasts forever, while the night cream is $44 with similar jar longevity since you only need a small amount). On two separate occasions recently, people I don't know have complimented my skin. The first time I chalked it up to my Tarte foundation, but the second time was after the gym and I was of course sans-makeup. So I think this new lineup is working magic for me.<br />
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<img class="nopin" src="http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww307/LeslieFLambert/Sweetie%20Babys%20Designs%202/moamsig_zpse47e08b3.png" />Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-36751014820909041372017-12-13T06:00:00.000-05:002017-12-13T06:00:33.773-05:00Holiday Insta-Round Up<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5XfyGOAT_GFCkfyWc9YqBc58ANcyRPmNxaNWPeAp8rRNfLRrecyITe1R2QEsc2IvVz28dNd7UAIKlrOOZSxaLRby6NTrPmHRBDLEUiS5NzEipGi0ouCSywZaBlj5nDTl479CjeHnNf-qi/s1600/IMG_0108.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5XfyGOAT_GFCkfyWc9YqBc58ANcyRPmNxaNWPeAp8rRNfLRrecyITe1R2QEsc2IvVz28dNd7UAIKlrOOZSxaLRby6NTrPmHRBDLEUiS5NzEipGi0ouCSywZaBlj5nDTl479CjeHnNf-qi/s400/IMG_0108.JPEG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">gingerbread house workshop with my #1 bud</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfWgdFVEg9KsURyhEb9hN5pFdgJPco2BBKn_s0i_l9bFNXRsdjgumri1LHOdry0M6gQYe7f2bhTZ4k_f8zHFVcCxLVwGlG-A4ZWrdhDDrkB6v5yS4NI7qw_rzi0-GjJEzbWl7fIMuiB7Z6/s1600/IMG_9525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="481" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfWgdFVEg9KsURyhEb9hN5pFdgJPco2BBKn_s0i_l9bFNXRsdjgumri1LHOdry0M6gQYe7f2bhTZ4k_f8zHFVcCxLVwGlG-A4ZWrdhDDrkB6v5yS4NI7qw_rzi0-GjJEzbWl7fIMuiB7Z6/s400/IMG_9525.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">casual fall weekend wear</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEx9Zh5oVaJbx78M4vgPjMGYBL9FRNorytoTha7hOhqa-luXBUeMEIfjtfRZkKp1qfa71anrN3VSwgLFIYD-chAJ2ZUSurMKB_eEKpjEU8nFq-lkSoxBUtwwZae3Er3FxK2vxVrErbY9fG/s1600/IMG_9547.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEx9Zh5oVaJbx78M4vgPjMGYBL9FRNorytoTha7hOhqa-luXBUeMEIfjtfRZkKp1qfa71anrN3VSwgLFIYD-chAJ2ZUSurMKB_eEKpjEU8nFq-lkSoxBUtwwZae3Er3FxK2vxVrErbY9fG/s400/IMG_9547.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bloody Marys are the best!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSVrPK_QEF4cmJSv_OZifNfJlcmgQZqmuAzaZkLHKZ_r0lvgvM68EEUsk9Z4Ssoygy-H-4wtfVhv_rDrFP7-kfGnTWqYu1SxePcSda_OWOIMRuEMJl8x-Iv6YWy-989EMdXRl7tp395O2/s1600/IMG_9597.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOSVrPK_QEF4cmJSv_OZifNfJlcmgQZqmuAzaZkLHKZ_r0lvgvM68EEUsk9Z4Ssoygy-H-4wtfVhv_rDrFP7-kfGnTWqYu1SxePcSda_OWOIMRuEMJl8x-Iv6YWy-989EMdXRl7tp395O2/s400/IMG_9597.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welly Bear's first haircut!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW7oQSeJqd2DsLw6KrueEwQTlJ-qNAIufyNHsT2QEXSA6yxh0iukkMaxQ1QjVYy4MOx_9DhVnJT01CPTbOq43_PhvPqpum1YyEkeRhRaNEZihgsXxP2bOMKwFDy1P5q1ZxvMFG0lLn4Xba/s1600/IMG_9614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW7oQSeJqd2DsLw6KrueEwQTlJ-qNAIufyNHsT2QEXSA6yxh0iukkMaxQ1QjVYy4MOx_9DhVnJT01CPTbOq43_PhvPqpum1YyEkeRhRaNEZihgsXxP2bOMKwFDy1P5q1ZxvMFG0lLn4Xba/s400/IMG_9614.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Friendsgiving cocktails with some amazing friends who happen to be neighbors</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhii7qVbdWdUp4K4jSZ3VfRiJqNqeISO08g5bBeea3WxaUeB3akJRmWIUhKiEsI8f1rOwiSEkjSIQdJbFusWoJYgti-s4KdZy3tuPQOFCbMkvz2eYI1t-OXN08StRUXBHM1IyrburZ5M-QO/s1600/IMG_9636.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhii7qVbdWdUp4K4jSZ3VfRiJqNqeISO08g5bBeea3WxaUeB3akJRmWIUhKiEsI8f1rOwiSEkjSIQdJbFusWoJYgti-s4KdZy3tuPQOFCbMkvz2eYI1t-OXN08StRUXBHM1IyrburZ5M-QO/s320/IMG_9636.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">happy kids table on Thanksgiving</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLgzIau3QV2BVs4v6fexsIGyzYlZYx6h33flZjeaa5JsRAeIZP07FpDTB7GluDAOGPVoh_ak9Be23WD_lfYB7cG4kPvO3x9oE0FXNMUjL2N1p5RKMrjOv9r2TnPYdclVFyM_HYsSNtMm_f/s1600/IMG_9656.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLgzIau3QV2BVs4v6fexsIGyzYlZYx6h33flZjeaa5JsRAeIZP07FpDTB7GluDAOGPVoh_ak9Be23WD_lfYB7cG4kPvO3x9oE0FXNMUjL2N1p5RKMrjOv9r2TnPYdclVFyM_HYsSNtMm_f/s400/IMG_9656.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tucker made me do this....</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf6Jv9Lhrl6jXidjjI_SP4-r6eJDW5taMGRlSGXYRmVDlr-q393B_Ab6Y2qSWabct1zy3X0U_iBPaRvfqxfhSGYCw7fVfkEtk6Z4Q3qniA0nuObZjBULcRnUAPjBEmnyOiFK6SJdI4s8Xe/s1600/IMG_9681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf6Jv9Lhrl6jXidjjI_SP4-r6eJDW5taMGRlSGXYRmVDlr-q393B_Ab6Y2qSWabct1zy3X0U_iBPaRvfqxfhSGYCw7fVfkEtk6Z4Q3qniA0nuObZjBULcRnUAPjBEmnyOiFK6SJdI4s8Xe/s320/IMG_9681.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the extent of my #cybermonday splurge this year</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9kZHWigf2nQP5mykAcD35mxF0L4azmNgSgr2IrHDkeKAv0PMWowHBW5T4-KJZLrZE1LwVeggiDXRJ7m55Fpvz710oJrKzm8k_LEsx19_x_EJqQugQYaD_vYuLMzckexmvA7b8chllSRlB/s1600/IMG_9683.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9kZHWigf2nQP5mykAcD35mxF0L4azmNgSgr2IrHDkeKAv0PMWowHBW5T4-KJZLrZE1LwVeggiDXRJ7m55Fpvz710oJrKzm8k_LEsx19_x_EJqQugQYaD_vYuLMzckexmvA7b8chllSRlB/s320/IMG_9683.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas cheer brought to you by Tucker</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivDwzoH7nq18rXhmPbdaPVjhzsemqRg_SU97bOeDqS21s5AkHuoyW4tMZzX6UJ7ltS8yBwUofJ4u03f92uQshvZ_W016ktXhmK93F4_5DuuIOMqoN6PAYHtSYsFoXN2yn8d7BUvDK5yRCn/s1600/IMG_9493.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="572" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivDwzoH7nq18rXhmPbdaPVjhzsemqRg_SU97bOeDqS21s5AkHuoyW4tMZzX6UJ7ltS8yBwUofJ4u03f92uQshvZ_W016ktXhmK93F4_5DuuIOMqoN6PAYHtSYsFoXN2yn8d7BUvDK5yRCn/s320/IMG_9493.JPG" width="285" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Weeknight charity event</td></tr>
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<img class="nopin" src="http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww307/LeslieFLambert/Sweetie%20Babys%20Designs%202/moamsig_zpse47e08b3.png" />Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-68269764515454865562017-12-06T06:00:00.000-05:002017-12-07T10:06:59.090-05:00Closet Staples<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;">
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<a href="https://www.polyvore.com/closet_staples/set?.embedder=11486900&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=231724775" target="_blank"><img alt="Closet Staples" border="0" height="475" src="https://img2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=HrPPVBmoEkKGfn02cKr6Xw&id=qE6Ir6zW5xGHF_a-V2y1RQ&size=c600x475" title="Closet Staples" width="600" /></a></div>
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I will not be buying 'holiday' pieces this year, but my calendar is still full of some fun events over the next few weeks. So I picked my favorite basics- a J.Crew cotton cashmere tunic (at least 3 years old) and a pair of J.Crew black Pixie pants (I'm not sure they still make this, but its likely some of you own it from several years ago, or some other version of a black legging style pant). Target has some great pairs too. Change the shoes, the necklace, the lip color, add a scarf, some earrings. You get the point. I've worn this look already one time to the baptism of my best friends baby last weekend (bow flats and plum lipstick) , and have it in the queue for next week's mom's dinner and a movie. Nothing says 'happy holidays' like not having to shop for a new outfit!</div>
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Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-83013420377139467172017-11-30T12:47:00.000-05:002017-11-30T13:20:36.001-05:00Less is More<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdLSa-zjl9z2W-L2nLOHEwQO89AiVLZUFV1aCq6TR4FOQuVtx0clXdXb_5Al5Cuxpr9fYkZrfBx1otkLBfucCuLFdFt39H9CbZbYBlJ1YAnk1kMGYix2NQUesL6DYlDInyDdQFzkQX0OGX/s1600/download.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="128" data-original-width="181" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdLSa-zjl9z2W-L2nLOHEwQO89AiVLZUFV1aCq6TR4FOQuVtx0clXdXb_5Al5Cuxpr9fYkZrfBx1otkLBfucCuLFdFt39H9CbZbYBlJ1YAnk1kMGYix2NQUesL6DYlDInyDdQFzkQX0OGX/s320/download.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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In the season of gifting, and the omnipresent 'SALE' signage, its tempting to shop, and shop (and shop some more). But in an effort to keep it simple, further the lessons of generosity we try so hard all year to foster in our children, and remain on that #budget, I am turning off my social media feed for a while (and updating who I follow).<br />
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I'm also getting rid of nearly everything non-essential in my closet. I read an article about a few working moms who took a challenge to wear nothing but a simple black dress to work everyday for 2 weeks. They could change up the accessories, the shoes, the lip color. But the outfit itself was the same (or a variation of the same black dress) every day. The result? Elation. Freedom. More spare time they touted. While I'm not running out for 5 black dresses tomorrow, I'm taking the lesson to heart. That $100 pattern blouse with bell sleeves and a fancy neckline? You'll wear it once. You'll promise to wear it again next year, but it will probably feel dated by then (because lets be serious- if Loft shows me one more cold-shoulder/bell sleeve/tie sleeve top, those loose sloppy layers and ties just begging to be dipped into my toddler's mashed carrots, or whatever else I may be eating myself- I'm going to lose my sh*t).<br />
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So the more 'special' something looks in the store, the less likely you'll actually get your money's worth out of it. A pair of black velvet pants? Sure- they are 1) black, and 2) can dress up any outfit making it 'holiday' on more than 1 occasion without being an obvious outfit repeat (which, by the way, I do all the time and have zero problem with). A plaid button down from J.Crew that every blogger is wearing in every staged Instagram shot and new outfit post? Sure- plaid is good for at least half the year on the east coast, and can be worn partially tucked into those black velvet pants with some nice earrings for a festive party. Go for it.<br />
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But put down the flow-y, peasant-meets-NYC drop sleeve, open shoulder, lace trimmed top and get something you won't groan about seeing in your closet 9 months from now. Too late? There's always the Salvation Army and local donation drives, which we frequent every month as the baby outgrows his adorable clothes.<br />
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So happy holidays, shop less, accessorize what you have more, and drink up. (I am not downsizing our wine supply).<br />
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<img class="nopin" src="http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww307/LeslieFLambert/Sweetie%20Babys%20Designs%202/moamsig_zpse47e08b3.png" />Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-43591917116586387922017-11-15T10:42:00.000-05:002017-11-15T10:42:11.409-05:00Thanksgiving Looks<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;">
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<a href="https://www.polyvore.com/thanksgiving_looks/set?.embedder=11486900&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=230062928" target="_blank"><img alt="Thanksgiving Looks" border="0" height="438" src="https://img2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=8NiCLhlXiuR2NZHU6UmUw&id=CqchtpK55xGoqSKIiWqlIQ&size=c600x438" title="Thanksgiving Looks" width="600" /></a></div>
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<small><a href="https://www.polyvore.com/thanksgiving_looks/set?.embedder=11486900&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=230062928" target="_blank">Thanksgiving Looks</a> by <a href="https://christina-villecco.polyvore.com/?.embedder=11486900&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger" target="_blank">christina-villecco</a> featuring <a href="https://www.polyvore.com/3_4_sleeve_tops/shop?query=3%2F4+sleeve+tops" target="_blank">3/4 sleeve tops</a></small></div>
Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-25694060933660510552017-11-08T06:00:00.000-05:002017-11-08T11:18:11.074-05:00Insta-Roundup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We sure do love fall around here. We made time for a date night, happy hour, pumpkin painting, multiple apple picking trips, stroller walks, cub scout outings, the brewery with friends, and much more so far, and fall is not over yet!</div>
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<img class="nopin" src="http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww307/LeslieFLambert/Sweetie%20Babys%20Designs%202/moamsig_zpse47e08b3.png" />Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-78762350662239717672017-10-30T06:00:00.000-04:002017-10-30T06:00:16.286-04:00Living Room Refresh<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;">
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<a href="https://www.polyvore.com/living_room_refresh/set?.embedder=11486900&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=230102381" target="_blank"><img alt="Living Room Refresh" border="0" height="441" src="https://img2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=qccjH983kt0oNihF2YXS4Q&id=8iPPM1K65xGH3ISrZRqEYg&size=c600x441" title="Living Room Refresh" width="600" /></a></div>
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Thanks in part to a new baby, and mostly to a rambunctious 6 year old, our relatively new couch looks well beyond its years at this point. And a saggy, stained couch really drags down the decor factor of any room so a little face lift for the family living space was in order. I am always drawn to grays, and lately I am loving mixed metal accents in bronze, gold and steel. While the room needs to be family friendly, it also has to reflect our taste so its an ongoing process. I love West Elm for mid century style pieces, with an industrial feel. These items seem to mix really well in the updated farm house aesthetic of our CT house.</div>
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Any new or favorite home decor sites I need to visit?</div>
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Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-39790025861695947572017-10-25T11:13:00.003-04:002017-10-25T11:33:51.376-04:00#9Months<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This bundle is 9 months old, and let me tell you- the joy is boundless. But don't be fooled- he still doesnt sleep, and refuses his crib. So alongside our joy sits chronic exhaustion, holding a forceful grip over mind and body, making certain daily activities sometimes enormously challenging (and causing me to feel extreme jealousy when I see mattress commercials featuring fresh faced people climbing into bed at night).<br />
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Wells has 2 teeth, eats almost exclusively homemade meals (as he began refusing pureed food in a jar after his first bite of my meatballs), stands up with little effort, cruises along furniture, climbs an entire flight of stairs, laughs hysterically when Tucker tickles his feet, crawls faster than most people run, loves the pool (happily we have an indoor pool with a family membership nearby), and loves his brother. He also enjoys finger painting, and saying 'dada' over and over at anything that moves (including the family cat).<br />
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<img class="nopin" src="http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww307/LeslieFLambert/Sweetie%20Babys%20Designs%202/moamsig_zpse47e08b3.png" />Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-51804068453064749932017-10-19T06:30:00.000-04:002017-10-19T06:30:18.151-04:00Fall Flats To Fall For<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;">
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<a href="https://www.polyvore.com/fall_flats_to_for/set?.embedder=11486900&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=228249803" target="_blank"><img alt="Fall Flats To Fall For" border="0" height="432" src="https://img1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=oQMlIIfLFf3S8DeCL1Lw&id=DE0lGEqa5xGQSN8zWGy1RQ&size=c600x432" title="Fall Flats To Fall For" width="600" /></a></div>
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I love new shoes, but since I work from home about 70% of the time lately and am on the pesky budget I've been talking about, a new pair will have to be both practical and affordable. I ma fairly obsessed with mules I've been seeing everywhere, and have picked up the pair above from target while on a diaper and formula run (in both black and silver, still under $50!) Leopard is a neutral, and is the easiest way to dress up a pair of jeans period. And Tom's are a personal favorite- not the classic slides but their more fashion forward yet still eco-friendly styles.<br />
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Any new finds I've missed in footwear?<br />
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Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-60860587369123730612017-10-17T06:00:00.000-04:002017-10-17T06:00:08.418-04:005(ish) Ingredient Crock Pot Meals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Crock Pot Turkey Chili</b></div>
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This is my family's favorite. We have it fresh the night I make it, leftover for lunch, and leftover again over a baked potato for dinner. Amazing also with chips as a snack while watching football.<br />
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You'll need:<br />
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<ul>
<li>2 lbs ground lean organic turkey</li>
<li>3 jars of your favorite salsa (try one spicy, 2 medium or mild)</li>
<li>1 can no-salt added black beans</li>
<li>1 large jar diced tomatoes (I like to dice 1-2 cups of fresh tomatoes, but a jar works well too)</li>
<li>2 tablespoons chili powder</li>
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Cook the turkey completely on the stove-top, drain the fat. Then sprinkle the chili powder over cooked turkey and let simmer for 2-3 minutes. Add cooked turkey to the crock, throw in all the other ingredients. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, leave it on warm until you're ready to eat. Enjoy!</div>
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<img class="nopin" src="http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww307/LeslieFLambert/Sweetie%20Babys%20Designs%202/moamsig_zpse47e08b3.png" />Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-46254719352711840322017-10-12T06:00:00.000-04:002017-10-12T09:43:55.129-04:00Fall SnapsLiving in Connecticut is great all year, and come fall, its simply spectacular. The foliage, pumpkin patches, apple orchards and local farm stands explode with produce that inspires my cooking, cocktailing, workouts (and outfits!)<br />
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<img class="nopin" src="http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww307/LeslieFLambert/Sweetie%20Babys%20Designs%202/moamsig_zpse47e08b3.png" />Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-12286771307974812392017-10-10T06:30:00.000-04:002017-10-10T13:04:41.519-04:00Stop Selling Me Stuff in a Box<br />
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I love reading my favorite blogs when I take a 15 min coffee break mid-morning, after the prior evenings emails are answered (half my job is based in CA where I can never stay awake long enough to respond same day), before I return the numerous voicemail blinking away on my phone. But lately, what the heck is with everyone peddling products? I have developed an actual aversion to boxes lately, for fear someone will try to sell me a subscription to one, filled with leggings, face wash, tea, weight-loss shakes (gag).<br />
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It trickles down from celebrities on Instagram (Im looking at you Lisa Rinna) professing their love for magic tea to flatten your stomach, coordinating gym clothes, boxes filled with more crap you dont need that can be delivered to your door every month, or some other nonsense. But it seems to have infiltrated even the bloggers south of celebrity status, just average women, moms, fashion fans, trying to convince me I just need this {insert item no one really needs} for some innocuous reason and similarly middle market prices, which, over time, would actually accumulate to a significant waste of money.<br />
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A swatch of a new shade of lipstick and an honest review of it? Definitely. An artfully done flat lay of someones new fall fashion finds? Please. But I have a hard enough time buying formula and diapers at Target and trying to resist the craft, clothing and ever expanding stylish home accent aisle. I certainly don't need more crap peddled at me from all angles which I previously sought solace and a brief moment of pleasure from. I have un-followed several blogs recently, and think I need recommendations for sites with more cat videos.<br />
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<img class="nopin" src="http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww307/LeslieFLambert/Sweetie%20Babys%20Designs%202/moamsig_zpse47e08b3.png" />Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-595658330779287742017-10-05T06:00:00.000-04:002017-10-06T10:21:04.394-04:00Formal Wear Without A 'Formal' Budget<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoGY-7dLesdPVdmUNfE8HFED9blDlCAG-htuCQakcJp4pvqsH4QhRVNjZD0hWp5GqQEKHb1Rh2uj3K1lduAMPNg6Rr6SxfHdxDcJhgM3Ter6JwEcI32OEQtqz6lseFz-tbC8mtsNeKgZ7D/s1600/1_15_CLBBN_5758_EXT_F_1812x1875.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="874" data-original-width="845" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoGY-7dLesdPVdmUNfE8HFED9blDlCAG-htuCQakcJp4pvqsH4QhRVNjZD0hWp5GqQEKHb1Rh2uj3K1lduAMPNg6Rr6SxfHdxDcJhgM3Ter6JwEcI32OEQtqz6lseFz-tbC8mtsNeKgZ7D/s320/1_15_CLBBN_5758_EXT_F_1812x1875.jpg" width="309" /></a></div>
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Fall has generally not been as big a wedding season perhaps as June, but for us, our very best friends (and both sets of parents) celebrate wedding anniversaries this season. I think more and more couples opt for the cooler temps and colorful foliage these days, and enjoy the wider range of attire choices it affords. For me, fall and winter become our default formal season since my largest clients host annual fundraising galas, and I cant really pull off the same dress more than once (Tom is lucky enough to be able to recycle his Tux at least a handful of times).<br />
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In the era of online shopping, gone are the days where men must rent itchy, worn tuxedos from stodgy department stores. There are so many more options these days for<a href="https://theblacktux.com/tuxedo-suit-rental"> affordable, stylish ensembles</a>. The Black Tux is one of these choices and for me (since I'm generally in charge of outfitting the entire family not just on a daily basis, but also for special events) its become a first stop for me. I've mentioned before how important the at-home try on is, and the invariable #budget is a looming concern. This hits both marks for me.<br />
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<img class="nopin" src="http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww307/LeslieFLambert/Sweetie%20Babys%20Designs%202/moamsig_zpse47e08b3.png" />Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-49396732399053684852017-10-02T05:00:00.000-04:002017-10-02T05:00:16.833-04:00Diary of a Mom: Working Mom Guilt Edition<br />
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I'm practicing mindfulness, and trying hard to wake up happy even on mornings where I have slept less than 4 hours, have to bring the baby to daycare, have to drive to New York, blah blah blah. I know many working moms talk about the guilt associated with having to be at 'work' most of the day, but I don't find this to be my largest source of stress or guilt. Rather the effect that work can have on my patience, and my unfiltered reaction to my kiddos is where my guilt blooms.<br />
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When my darling 6 year old says 'mommy' for the 27th time in a 10 minute span, and I sigh audibly before answering him, this is guilt. Because he is trying to show me the track he constructed along the basement floor by himself, or recite a math lesson from school for me, or ask me which of the model trains he collects from the museum gift shop is my favorite.<br />
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That small wish I unconsciously make for solitude, for silence, for a glass of wine instead of holding a container of chocolate milk, that is guilt. Working all day at a job I enjoy, feeling proud to be an attorney with large scale responsibilities at a relatively young age, that is fulfillment and modeling hard work for my children, not guilt. The challenge to reserve space on that full emotional plate is what I work at, elusive at times, but most true challenges are. So deep breath, happy face, tight hugs.<br />
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<img class="nopin" src="http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww307/LeslieFLambert/Sweetie%20Babys%20Designs%202/moamsig_zpse47e08b3.png" />Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-12193755400449522522017-09-28T06:00:00.000-04:002017-09-28T06:00:18.673-04:00Lips to love<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;">
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<a href="https://www.polyvore.com/lips/set?.embedder=11486900&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=228487969" target="_blank"><img alt="lips" border="0" height="431" src="https://img2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=Y4FNkw1l8NrhEW6NAJMS5A&id=-Dn9hzCe5xGKThJImQc2pA&size=c600x431" title="lips" width="600" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">Please, oh please, stop with the matte lipsticks! Are these really flattering for anyone? They make my lips look like dried, shriveled prunes left out in the sun and feel like my son's school glue. I am all about smooth, hydrating products and generally opt for neutrals. But I do love a pop of color to brighten a look, and these picks are among my favs and stand the test of time.</span></div>
Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-84322330817851147942017-09-26T06:00:00.000-04:002017-09-26T06:00:05.749-04:00Wedding BellsSeptember is such a bittersweet month for our family, and the crisp air and low afternoon sun remind me vividly of our wedding 8 years ago today. We always take out the album and look through our amazing pictures on our anniversary, and open a bottle of wine a cut above a usual week night selection. Cheers to number 8 my love!<br />
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<img class="nopin" src="http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww307/LeslieFLambert/Sweetie%20Babys%20Designs%202/moamsig_zpse47e08b3.png" />Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-37105314878600983362017-09-21T06:00:00.000-04:002017-09-21T09:02:15.893-04:00Autumn Accents<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;">
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<a href="https://www.polyvore.com/autumn_accents/set?.embedder=11486900&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=227915633" target="_blank"><img alt="Autumn Accents" border="0" height="504" src="https://img2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=uke1tzylkclOLK6cc6huw&id=jCTx96aU5xGL8vq7V2y1RQ&size=c600x504" title="Autumn Accents" width="600" /></a></div>
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I love to add seasonal decor elements to the house, but I'm not into large scale, overtly 'holiday' themed merchandise (the kind that lights up and blares a song at you when you walk past, and is more reminiscent of a trip to Chuck E Cheese than anything else). I also don't want to spend a bundle on things that are on display for a few weeks out of the year. </div>
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My 6 year old shares his mother's home decor genes, and loves to accompany me to Pier 1, Michael's and my other top stops for choosing (tasteful, budget-friendly) seasonal items. A few new candles in subtle fall scents set the mood (I love <a href="http://www.pier1.com/pumpkin-cider-apple-3-wick-filled-candle/3198950.html?cgid=fragrance#nav=left&start=1">this one</a> from Pier 1), and swapping my summer silver and white vases for some deeper, golden tones is a nice start. Sunflowers are an amazing and local choice for me, and another convenient excuse to hit the farm stand on my lunch jog with Wells. Adding a throw pillow cover in fall hues is simple and wallet-friendly, and easy enough to do in one main living space.</div>
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And there is no such thing as too much pumpkin!</div>
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Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-55176649905684061292017-09-19T06:00:00.000-04:002017-09-19T06:00:13.807-04:005 (ish) Ingredient Crock Pot Meals<br />
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I grew up in an Italian home (my dad being Italian only by marriage to mom at a young age, where her family influenced his ways before true adulthood). Food was always a production, weekend meals would be cooked all day (by my dad!) and a grilled cheese cooked on the stove top (with butter and real cheese) fixed everything from a cold to a breakup. My In-Laws don't cook. They love good food, but preparing, chopping, cutting, heating, it's just not their thing. And rather than see them eat prepared dinners from the market when I'm not making our weekly Sunday dinners, I sent them some of my super easy, no cooking involved recipes (and a link to a new crock pot. <a href="https://www.target.com/p/crock-pot-174-7-qt-manual-slow-cooker-silver-scv700-ss/-/A-12833835?sid=12S&ref=tgt_adv_XS000000&AFID=google_pla_df&CPNG=PLA_Appliances+Shopping_Local&adgroup=SC_Appliances_Slow%20Cookers&LID=700000001170770pgs&network=g&device=c&location=9022870&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI993r_vfo1QIVUz2BCh0ZOgzeEAQYASABEgKexvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds">This one</a> is about $30 from target). Genetic high-cholesterol is also an issue for my family and many others, so I generally lean toward vegetable heavy, lean meat options using whole foods when possible and minimal 'processed' ingredients. Several friends have also asked me to send meal ideas their way, so I'm going to start sharing my top 5 (ish) ingredient or less crock pot meals where you can literally throw it in, and press 'on'.<br />
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<b>Crock Pot Puttanesca</b></h2>
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you'll need:<br />
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<li>2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts (get a natural kind, no hormones, etc)</li>
<li>1 jar strained plum tomatoes or low sodium/low sugar pasta sauce (I like to make my own but this version is supposed to be for the cooking adverse)</li>
<li>1/2 cup diced organic olives</li>
<li>1/3 cup capers</li>
<li>1 tsp oregano</li>
<li>1 tsp minced garlic</li>
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Put it all into the crock, heat on low for 7 hours. Take out the chicken and shred it with utensils or your hands, put it back and stir it around and you're done. If you're not watching your waistline try it over pasta, or add the leftovers on top of mixed greens for lunch the next day.</div>
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<img class="nopin" src="http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww307/LeslieFLambert/Sweetie%20Babys%20Designs%202/moamsig_zpse47e08b3.png" />Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-50804488184696025512017-09-15T09:00:00.000-04:002017-09-15T09:29:41.429-04:004 Years Without Dad<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHUbNJ8-pmoBM5YggOdib2Sv2EwCxmkus8CrUmaYbHtTvyqtbckiBE1LmPQfwzO5jG1KRLEHhjpcAezYaDXV2Qsw0ENemFItkht8WtUYCcP2DwQP7gqEV4R3ej46HfTnpW2JAI-cPRzB3_/s1600/photo+%25284%2529.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1296" data-original-width="968" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHUbNJ8-pmoBM5YggOdib2Sv2EwCxmkus8CrUmaYbHtTvyqtbckiBE1LmPQfwzO5jG1KRLEHhjpcAezYaDXV2Qsw0ENemFItkht8WtUYCcP2DwQP7gqEV4R3ej46HfTnpW2JAI-cPRzB3_/s400/photo+%25284%2529.bmp" width="298" /></a></div>
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Hard to think that Sunday marks 4 years since my dad passed so suddenly, 48 hours after he sat on my couch drinking a glass of wine with me and Tom. Tuck was just 2 and a half, and his memories of my dad live now only in my accounts of past stories, pictures, and his precious model ships displayed proudly in Tuck's room. He has missed my biggest promotion at work, our move out of New York, and Wells. Each wedding anniversary, which occurs just days after his passing, is piercing in my chest as I think about how much joy he felt on September 26, 2009. After all, my dad is the one who chose Oheka Castle for our wedding, picked the champagne to serve, the wine list, and organized the jazz club and cigar bar after hours party in the library.<br />
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He would LOVE the enthusiastic, little history buff Tucker is at age 6, and marvel over how much Wells looks like his older brother. He would have been my first call as I opened the letter congratulating me on my acceptance to the Connecticut Bar last fall, and he'd be disappointed that I ever doubted myself as I worked these last few years. He'd be proud of how much both Tom and I have accomplished collectively as we mire through the weeds 24 hours a day lately, and he'd surely have bought us some better wine than the bottles we squeezed in on our (measly) budget recently. Sunday we will drink something he'd approve of, worthy of a toast to a magnificent man.<br />
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<img class="nopin" src="http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww307/LeslieFLambert/Sweetie%20Babys%20Designs%202/moamsig_zpse47e08b3.png" />Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3308709837877681843.post-56721891056154001702017-09-12T06:00:00.000-04:002017-09-12T06:00:19.021-04:00Where to Shop on a Budget<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlu4xHOrNW2Wixl7_tJaAqcio8-mHUJSsCrjzkBSvM35ZvBEjptb3pAnOCsyINuJxOkpnuFJJAAjK8jHzbojgUW3uWO0KoKIW81Osk60nAG14niAejHQPmc28lxPiaXlO9rmZD0o89gx_7/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="122" data-original-width="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlu4xHOrNW2Wixl7_tJaAqcio8-mHUJSsCrjzkBSvM35ZvBEjptb3pAnOCsyINuJxOkpnuFJJAAjK8jHzbojgUW3uWO0KoKIW81Osk60nAG14niAejHQPmc28lxPiaXlO9rmZD0o89gx_7/s1600/download.jpg" /></a></div>
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Part of the impetus for our move from Long Island to CT last summer was the ever expanding cost of living. Simplifying everything was a top 5 on the priority list, and its been a work in progress. Inevitably there are months where we go over what we budgeted, and some things seem impossible to cut out. So with the invigorating fresh fall air comes a renewed sense of paring down to the essentials, so there is something leftover for the 'wants' after the needs are accounted for.<br />
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I love clothing, wine, food, home decor, and coffee. Yes, we all know this. So I've narrowed down the list of where I get these necessary items without busting the budget by the first week of the month.<br />
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Clothing</h3>
I love Nordstrom for everything possible, from clothing and my athleisure to skincare to holiday candles. The free shipping with zero minimum is not to be understated- this saves a lot of money when you are forced to do so much online shopping (#suburbs and #workingmomlife). I have also given up my Lululemon addiction in favor of more reasonably priced and super functional brands like <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/c/all-zella?cm_mmc=google-_-search_acq-_-761960785-_-39042731886_bfb0b0c8-903a-4305-94f2-e3096c27ccaf&cm_mmca1=dsa-43374218100_b&gclid=CMr9stDCjtYCFZy6wAodvtEM9w">Zella </a>and <a href="http://athleta.gap.com/?tid=atps000797&kwid=1&ap=7&gclid=CIvKlNrCjtYCFQsLaQodC_QNiw&gclsrc=aw.ds">Athleta</a>.<br />
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I get the other half of my wardrobe from <a href="http://j.crew/">J.Crew</a>, and I only do so from the sale section. If you watch the items you like, they will generally become sale merchandise within 4-6 weeks of their initial appearance on the shelves. Then they run POS (percentage off sale) and that's when you can score huge. (Starting my career as a buyer for Ann Taylor in 2005 still has its advantages.) The Factory diffusion line of J.Crew's classics is not my favorite, as the quality is definitely not the same, and I'd rather have one amazing pair of jeans than 3 mediocre pairs that won't withstand afternoons filled with kneeling for tummy time or 200 hundred trips and up and down the stairs a day.<br />
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I buy most of the boys' clothing from Gap Kids and Baby Gap, which costs more than Old Navy or Gymboree, but lasts much longer. Now that I save Tucker's things for Wells, I care about longevity. Gap runs constant promotions on line so its pretty easy to wait for one to make a purchase.<br />
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Wine</h3>
One of our favorite times each month is when the door bell rings and the friendly FedEx delivery man hands over our box of wine from <a href="https://www.winc.com/home">Winc</a>. We have belonged to this California based wine club for several years, and with many bottles priced around $13 and free shipping with 5 bottles, its the most convenient and wallet-friendly way to try new wines. Give it a try, there is also no fee or monthly minimum.<br />
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Home Decor</h3>
So this is admittedly a money pit of sports for me, since I rarely can leave a store without something new for the house (yes, even in the grocery store- did you know Stop and Shop sells the cutest woven storage baskets?) But when I'm being judicious with my spending, I stick to places that run specials and seasonal deals, and for this you really can't beat <a href="http://www.pier1.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-pier1_us-Site/default/Default-Start?s_cid=cpc%7cGoogle%7cPier1%5EPPC%5ETrademark%5ETrademark%5EB%5EExact%5EUS%5EEN%5EDesktop%5EX%7cTrademark%5EMisspellings%5EX%5EX&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIpeD178CO1gIVVTVpCh3I-gfzEAAYASAAEgJ_PPD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds">Pier 1</a> or <a href="https://www.michaels.com/home?&mkwid=sxQfbNK40|pcrid|193432916104|pkw|michaels|pmt|e|pdv|c|prd|&cm_mmc=zadv_SearchBrand-_-google-_-B-Brand-Trademark-Head-E-_-Michaels&gclid=CPK3zP3AjtYCFQJufgodHjoP7g">Michael's</a> (behind the oodles of crafts there are actually super cute home items). Larger stores like Home Goods are fun, but I find the mass amount of items and unorganized shelf displays to be too chaotic when I'm tight on time, and things sold in sets are often missing their pair (I still feel deeply sad when I think of the anchor bookend I found in my local Home Goods last yer with no mate- one bookend I tried so hard to make work but they are called 'bookends' for a reason. #firstworldproblems).<br />
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<img class="nopin" src="http://i730.photobucket.com/albums/ww307/LeslieFLambert/Sweetie%20Babys%20Designs%202/moamsig_zpse47e08b3.png" />Christina, Esq.http://www.blogger.com/profile/04690143212031761892noreply@blogger.com2