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July 2, 2008 |
SOME LIKE IT HOT
El Monte Sagrado summons craving couples to the supremely sexy Kama Sutra Suite for a getaway sure to remind Mama and Daddy who we were before Baby emblazoned these monikers upon our hearts, souls and ... sensuous sides. The panoramic of Taos Mountain's towering peaks provide ample metaphoric imagery, but for less subtle suggestion, look no further than the foot of the suite's stunningly hand-carved bed for scenes requiring not much in the way of an imaginary stretch, though you may want to stretch first – Kama, Kama, Mama!
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June 25 2008 |
AT YOUR SERVICE...
Among the infinite litany of paradigmatic shifts parenthood brings, one of the swiftest sweeps is its propensity for making short work of even the most infinitesimal of free moments. Never is the theory of temporal relativity more evident than when gazing into our beautiful babe's twinkling new eyes -- time? What's that? Alas, the clock stops for no one, no matter how breathtakingly darling, making Sunday's services -- reservations, wake-up calls, bookings, reminders and such -- an absolutely invaluable addition to any new parent's arsenal of assistance.
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June 18, 2008 |
ROCK OF AGES
Tea for two -- to be sure. A bike built for two? Why not? But, a rocking chair de duplet? When Baby's breastfed, those final few blinks before bed are often Mama's mysteries to marvel, leaving the dregs of the day (like diaper duty) to Dad. In Thomas Oliphant's tandem take on the rocker, bonding balance is altogether achieved, as Mom and Dad can rock Baby to sleep as gracefully as one. Victorians may have originated the notion of the tête-à-tête settee to ensure exclusive exchange, but to rock-a-bye baby in caressing concert? Now, that's just twice as nice.
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June 11, 2008 |
SUMMER'S IN AND WE'RE OUT!
Greatroom in a garden, Girlfriends! Say goodbye to backyard gaudy and hello to haute-y with these über-plush pergolas from Fire Stone. Kicking up the concept of alfresco living to paramount places with completely coordinated Outdoor Greatroom packages, they’ve harmonized every facet of the outdoor habitat from its fabulous fireplace to the awe-inspiring island. With a finished "wow" factor sure to supplant even the most stunning of indoor spaces, isn't it just grand to be outside looking in?
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May 28, 2008 |
GO,GO, GADGET GIRLS!
One of my mama mantras is to evoke an enduring and perpetual passion for all things creative, from fostering a flair for fashion to kicking corporate convention to the curb. I’ve long pined for the occasion to bestow on my babe the gift of the lens-laden, but have heretofore noted a pathetic paucity in the tot-apropos. Pish-posh, proclaimed Polaroid, and introduced Pixie. With its near indestructibility and darling design, we can show our budding Ansels and Annes how to point and shoot. They’ll remind us just how much a picture can be worth.
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May 21, 2008 |
ROAMIN' HOLIDAY
When in Rome, some may seek a stay that's simply suitable as a place to sleep. Still others know that after treading the Trevi or tossing a confession (à la Gregory Peck) into the Mouth of Truth, nothing quite supersedes the thrill of coming home to palatial luxury, Roman emperor-style. Mamma Mia, why retreat to Hadrian's Palace in tiny Tivoli when the most wondrous and luxurious abode exists well within reach of Villa Veneto, Condotti and Borghese? The Westin’s luxurious Villa Cupola is immense and magnificent.
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May 14, 2008 |
DRESSING FOR THE OCCASION
Moda de Maternita' may have made its way from frumpy to fabulous in the past few years, but lest we forget the rocker mama-to-be -- where do her tiny band-emblazoned tees fall on the bump-bearing style spectrum of A-line skirts and flowing, romantic shirts? With Rockstarmoms' Slashed One-Shoulder Nirvana top, she can fully forgo the frill. After all, for some of us, being hardcore -- and hard-bellied -- is where it's at! Rock-a-bye, Baby!
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May 7, 2008 |
BIRTHDAY BASH-ING
Perhaps a birthday girl has but once a year to veritably relish in such a sobriquet, but shouldn't she feel this special the whole year 'round? With a birthday bestowal as superlatively frilly as the Kaiya Eve Pettiskirt, she will feel nothing less than the prettiest, prettiest princess. Watch in wonder as she whirls and twirls -- perhaps, even right past the cake table -- fluffing and ruffling her way to make-believe fantasies atop castle-clad clouds, all while wearing the most magnificent cloud of all!
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April 30, 2008 |
MY MAMA TOLD ME...
Now, Mamas, 'tis one thing to forcibly enter the kinospheres of everyone we meet with pictures of our petite prides and joys, but isn't it another to just happen to gesticulatively wave an appropriately accessorized arm with such photographic evidence? T.J. & Co.'s photo charm bracelet transforms proof of our progeny's lovability into a striking conversation piece sure to capture the collective coos of mamas everywhere whose Mother's Day cravings call for a little something that flaunts photos with finesse, not force.
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April 23, 2008 |
EVOLUTION OF ECO-FASHION
Shelter. Food. Water. Most of us may be blessed with this hallowed trinity of human must-haves, but for one billion of Earth's inhabitants, an unquenchable thirst is a perpetual plight. With a single, crystalline drop suspended from a reclaimed-silver faucet, this necklace from Linda Loudermilk poetically poignates the fragility and exigence of fresh water. In honor of -- and with proceeds pro -- the Water is a Human Right campaign, Linda Loudermilk reminds those of us privileged with potability: Water, water may be everywhere, but for many, there's not a drop to drink.
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April 16, 2008 |
ESTATE PLANNING
In Mother Nature's perennial plea for egalitarianism on Earth, there exists a requisite for reciprocity amidst flora and fauna -- we inhale what they exhale, and for the pleasure to luxuriate in what they emanate, we are only asked to treat Mother with the respect she deserves. Carolyn Mendoza's breathtaking -- and giving -- Living Sculpture plants veritable virescence on our walls in sculpted steel sconces, making the occasion to both care for and enjoy foliagequiteopportune, even for the mostmetropolitan mama.
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April 9, 2008 |
FORECAST: FAMILY
Strolling in style is requisite, but this Limited Green Edition Pram from Orbit Baby transports our most precious cargo consciously and with supremely sustainable detail. This four-wheeled feat of eco-ingenuity wins the Syd Stamp of Admiration for all-natural, readily recycled elements -- organic cotton lining and Euro-wool exterior, to name a fabulous few -- and charitable contribution to the Nature Conservancy that make a mama smile and Mother Earth shine. Happy trails, happy babies!
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April 4, 2008 |
GIGGLE AS YOU GROW
Baby may not arrive pre-packaged with one, but do procure The Baby Owner's Manual beforethe big day when you bring your model home. These operating instructions may read like mere novelty for the nouveau, but the perfunctory prose serves a practical purpose, too. There's something endearingly essential about a parenting text so deftly written sans the subjectivity or sap. In need of opinion-driven advice on parenting? Oh, not to worry, Mamas-to-Be -- your models will come fully loaded with this as well.
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March 26, 2008 |
MY LIFE IN PICTURES
No one can prepare a Mama for the quickness with which her baby blossoms from bean to teen -- each birthday passes as a bittersweet reminder of how unapologetically fast time flies. Photographs are fabulous for documenting the day, but sans motion, can innocently forsake the darling details. Capture those miniature mannerisms each year with a Birthday Interview and stow it away as priceless proof of Baby's big days from birth until ... she makes you stop.
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March 19, 2008 |
VERDE-LICIOUS
Gone are the days when proper little princesses ushered in spring style with subdued hues of pastel pink and pale purple -- it's all polka dots for Skye this season with the Audrey Dress! Skye and I tumbled hat over heels for this perfectly unreserved party dress with beautifully bold accent designs compliments of Cath Kidston. Tie it off with a French grosgrain sash -- in stripes -- and spunky Skye screams "hello" to spring in apple green!
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March 12, 2008 |
SECOND CITY SLICKER
Foodies and oenophiles flock to Chicago from afar on palette pilgrimages. At Alinea, mad scientist cum chef Grant Achatz's 25-course tour de force transcends the expectations of cuisine aficionados with amalgamations of flavor served up like perfectly paired science projects, suspended betwixt skewers or atop petri dishes. By taking our tongues where none before him had yet dared to delve, Grant has garnered the praise of critics worldwide, making Alinea an absolute when the Windy City beckons.
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March 5, 2008 |
STARS WITH BOOKS IN THEIR EYES
Tucking away our own Sleeping Beauty after a marathon storytelling session, her daddy and I were struck with a most magical vacation vision: Surreptitiously sweep Skye out of bed and off her feet for a cross-Atlantic journey to wake up at Neuschwanstein Castle in the Bavarian Alps. This magnificent manse inspired dear Walt to build his famed Disney castle and is sure to inspire Skye, or any literature-lover, to create her very own happily ever after.
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February 27, 2008 |
LIP SERVICE
Designed by daughter of Sir Lips himself, these gilded oral abstractions beckon a rockin’ mama whose mouth craves more than just MAC. While Mick's mission to make a mama out of model-turned-stylist L'Wren Scott likely had little to do with the Rorschach-worthy shape of these neck-bound kissers, Papa Jagger's mega-mouth was undoubtedly something of an inspiration. Adorned with Jade Jagger's signature logo charm and T-bar closure, this ornament offers satisfaction and then some.
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February 20, 2008 |
ASCEND, DESCEND, TRANSCEND (REPEAT)
Why simply ski in to the après bar -- sashay into that chalet, sister! With these superlative skis by Indigo Freeriding, the mountainside is your catwalk, and you're so hot ... certainly too hot to give pinnacle-top pause for too long! The ever-undaunted designers at Indigo invite you to take your pick, from diamond-encrusted to gold logo-tipped, but I simply cannot resist the charms of their Boa snakeskin stunners for my next scarpside adventure!
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February 13, 2008 |
VIVA LA VALENTINE
Though the recipient is one you'll never meet, be someone's ultimate secret admirer! Donate your heart and extend yourself right on into and through another lifetime… Please, consider committing your most enigmatic organ in this supremely selfless expression of love for humankind, and make manifest all of those marvelous metaphorical meanings locked therein. Go on, give much more than just another little piece of your heart, now, baby -- you know you've got it, child, if it makes you feel good!
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February 6, 2008 |
TAKE A LOAD OFF, LOVELY
Ever the darlings of the design world, the Dutch dare to dance on the style spectrum embracing everything from pointedly pragmatic to uber-contempo. With this chest of drawers he calls "You Can't Lay Down Your Memory," Tejo Remy plots a new point on this gamut of gorgeousness: strikingly sustainable. Remy's masterpiece is comprised entirely of found or recycled material, making it truly greater than the sum of its parts: this is one Dutchie you won't want to pass!
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January 31, 2008 |
ALL THAT GLITTERS...
Bada-Bling! The marvelous Midas has caressed every corner of this posh party place -- the DJ even spins gold on decked-out decks. Resplendent in the club's namesake precious metal, GoldBar provides the penultimate experience for even the most discerning dancer. The hunks holding the gilded clipboards by the gold ropes at the doors of ore are unapologetically discriminating, so have your most fabulous foot forward as always, my dazzling disco queens!
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January 23, 2008 |
ECO-MAGNIFICO
Designed by a king and fabulous enough for a queen! If you're going to the glorious Golden Gate City, feeling the urge to don floral frippery in your locks, be sure to check out -- and immediately thereafter, check into -- Hotel Triton. Perfectly poised in Union Square, this golden palace has garnered quite of bit of precedent-setting attention for embracing every last going-green detail, from eco-conscious cleaners to water-conserving measures Neptune himself would praise.
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January 16, 2008 |
WARM AND COZY WINTER NIGHTS
Hot, hot, haute! The awe-inspiring ability to transform even the most mundane household objects into artful masterpieces of domestic desire is one pretty penchant Italians have wielded since Da Vinci was just a darling. With its seductive swirls, this gorgeous radiator cover could competently complement any decor, from Mission to Mod, and everything betwixt. Who knows? I might even be inspired to forgo the fire and strike a snuggle pose in front of this, instead!
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January 9, 2008 |
SPEAKING VOLUMES
My budding Botticelli creates amazing masterpieces every other minute or so. To keep pace with the proliferation of perfection, we have segued from reams of recycled paper to something even more environmentally friendly: the chalkboard table. With some colored chalk and handy erasers in the middle, this Skye-sized art station is an easy (to clean, to start over, to love) favorite in our house. It’s like digital versus film. If you don’t like it, you can just delete it -- without wasting anything.
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December 31, 2007 |
THEORY OF RESOLUTION
Remember when the just-for-fun photogs vanquished film to the realm of 8-track players and purchased digital cameras and memory cards with equal aplomb? They swore they’d be more organized and photographically efficient than ever before... But if you’re like many moms I know with pictures trapped in the prison of the PC, then set them free and share them with ease with Sharpcast. With no upload time, no fees, and no hassle whatsoever, this better-than-the-rest photo service is a no-brainer.
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December 19, 2007 |
MAKE MOBILE DAYS MERRY
Skye is old enough now to hold her own at a table for grown-ups, but this high chair from Maclaren is enough to make me wish she were wee again. Bold and refined, classic and modern, this saucy seat designed by Philippe Starck has all the required elements with style to spare. With removable legs and tasty color options including tangerine and vanilla, this travel chair is good enough to eat!
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November 21, 2007 |
OPULENT ABLUTIONS
Tantalize your tootsies and soothe your soul in a Jelly Bath. These tub-worthy treatments are made as foot or body soaks. I love the way these products thicken the bath water and retain heat, enveloping me in sustained warmth. They come in a variety of calming aromas to create a full-sensory bath time experience.
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November 7, 2007 |
GOLDEN SLUMBERS
For mamas and babies alike, there is something about rhythmic motion that makes you ready for repose. So rock yourself to dreamland in true fairytale style. The soft curves of the Lily Swing blend art and nature to lull you into somnolent bliss. Handcrafted from recycled metal, Lily is as eco-friendly as it is sculpturally striking. You’ll be swinging from the stars in no time, Sleeping Beauty!
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October 23, 2007 |
HUG THE TREE
The face framing collar. The leg flattering length. The gauzy (but blessedly black!) tulle underlay that reads as a present mid-open. It’s as if Alexander McQueen telepathically knew everything I was seeking in a knock-‘em-dead dress this season. The scooped neckline provides perfect access for my man to bestow those long-awaited and mistletoe-motivated clavicle kisses!
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October 17, 2007 |
RAKE IN RELIEF
Besides that little place on Skye’s neck just below her ear, nothing is softer than this Juliet Oversized Sweater. Enveloping and warm while simultaneously stylish, cozy cashmere is simply perfection on a crisp winter night. Not to mention, the forgiving shape is ideal for comfort food dining!
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October 10, 2007 |
SWEET DREAMS ARE MADE OF THIS
Leave those bright orange paper plates to the blue light shoppers, and immediately acquire a batch of these frighteningly fabulous Skull Little Porcelain Plates. Giving new meaning to bone china, these dishes come dressed for gift-giving in a black silk gift box with a black satin ribbon. Perfect for spine-chilling dining year-round!
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October 3, 2007 |
OF PETITE PLATES AND PALATES
My adventures abroad exposed me to Bento boxes years ago, and the trend is now soundly stateside. The classic little Japanese lunch boxes are just right for Skye’s lunch at school. She likes the variety (we’re currently working on nori), and I like the challenge of coming up with new themes to keep lunchtime interesting!
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September 26, 2007 |
CRAZY FOR THE CREATURES
Since the days of Darwin, the draw of the Galapagos Islands has been undeniable. Smithsonian Journeys has crafted an educational and extraordinary expedition perfect for our family. From the much-touted tortoise to penguins, iguanas and sea lions, the abundance of unique wildlife species is surpassed only by photo ops. We don’t depart until next June, but I’m ready to start packing now.
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September 19, 2007 |
RAISING A RENAISSANCE BABY
Being bilingual has helped me navigate new lands on assignment, so I’m teaching Skye different dialects at a young age. I’ve even had some extra help from her plush pal Lizzie. Skye squeezes her hands to hear over 25 words and phrases (both English & Spanish) in a child's voice. Lizzie introduces herself and her dog, offers greetings, counts to ten, chats about favorite animals and says “I Love You.” She comes with a translation booklet for reading along as she speaks, as well as a web code for playing language games online.
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September 12, 2007 |
FESTI-FALL
This October, Skye and I are packing our bags for the 24th annual “Cannes for Kids!” A film festival devoted to films for and by kids, the CIFF is the only Academy-qualifying children's film festival in the world! In addition to the fabulous kid-friendly films, hundreds of filmmakers, media professionals and celebrities attend the event to lead interactive kid’s workshops.
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September 5, 2007 |
GOODIES FROM YOUR GIRLS
Isabelle and Eliza like to say I partied like a rock star at Skye's shower. If my totally awesome invitation is any indication, I don’t think they’re too far off!
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August 29, 2007 |
FROM GREAT TO GRAND
Who said a family tree has to be a tree? Take a stroll down Memory Lane and you'll notice cleverly placed words, graphics and icons that represent milestones, moments and memories. I included the place my parents met – on a tour of Tibet – and our first family pet, Peanut. They proudly display their print and it gives them something else (besides Skye) to brag about!
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August 22, 2007 |
DESIGN LANGUAGE
Traditional children’s rockers were putting a damper on my modern décor. Thanks to Keith Haring’s genius, I pinched a piece of pop art for my living room and Skye scored a ticket to ride. (Keith would be pleased to know he’s added a bit of baby-friendly graffiti to our home!) Skye rocks this baby as a spaceship, a school bus, a scooter…her imagination has no limits!
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August 15, 2007 |
GREEN DAY, EVERY DAY
What better way to showcase nature’s beauty than with organic fiber committed to preserving it? Truth be told, it was Amenity’s duvets and shams that caught my eye, and their new nursery collection that kept my attention. From turtles to trees, it’s like having your own forest habitat right on hand!
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August 8, 2007 |
STEPPIN' OUT WITH MY BABY
Bling has made its way from earlobes to belts, and now, to boots! But the gold chain and tassel aren’t the only frosting on this footwear; the delicious duo is made of sinful fudge suede. Thanks to her Juicys, Skye’s on her way to an A+ in fashion finds.
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August 1, 2007 |
IT'S A LANGUAGE WE ALL UNDERSTAND
I’ve exposed Skye to a multitude of musical genres, so putting the music (or mallets) in her hands was the next logical step. With this hand-tuned wooden xylophone bench, Skye can serenade her outdoor audience and I have a new resting place to read. The bench even comes with a songbook to inspire everything from simple childhood tunes to complex musical scores.
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July 25, 2007 |
WHAT I DID FOR MY SUMMER VACATION
Skye and Ben have different tastes. So when Eliza and I took our tots on a road trip, I made sure to bring a vast selection of entertainment. Enter Axion’s dual widescreen portable DVD, CD and MP3 player. While Skye watched a movie on one screen, Ben played games on the other. Now if only we could do something about all those bathroom breaks!
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July 18, 2007 |
START ME UP!
Music always adds some pep to my step. So instead of turning on the TV, I start each morning with a few cups of ear coffee. Thanks to miawolf's über-cool iPod Nano/Shuffle clip, my music is as mobile as I am (and doesn’t disturb Skye from her slumber like the stereo.) I can attach the clip to my clothing or bag and it protects my iPod from bumps and bruises.
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July 11, 2007 |
MAKING MATERNITY MANAGEABLE
When I received 1 In The Oven’s “Baking Mix” maternity starter set, I wore one (or more) of the “ingredients” almost every day! The comfy cotton pants, skirt and tee not only come in black, white, pink or blue, they complete the recipe for the perfect maternity wardrobe. Since I’ve gifted several baby shower honorees with this stylish set, I’ve strangely started to receive party invitations for expecting gals I’ve never even met!
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July 4, 2007 |
SOAKING UP THE SUMMER
Skye has her hands and toes in everything. The comfortable padding and non-skid sole on these colorful booties keep her “little piggies” from going “wee wee wee” after stepping on a stone! The flowers, sea critters, ice cream cones and friendly giraffes add a splash of style to this pool-practical footwear.
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June 20, 2007 |
SUMMER TEE PARTY
Okay, so I’m the one with the affinity for rock, but seeing Skye in this adorable tee adds the roll – rolling with laughter that is. My pint-sized punk rocker really does “rage” against the green bean…and the peapod…the celery stalk…the carrot. Thankfully, Allie passed along some interesting recipes for my picky eater. Who can pass up carrots when they’re in a cake?
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June 13, 2007 |
VIVA LA VACATION!
The B-52’s Kate Pierson had a cabin fever fantasy – one that inspired her creation of the Lazy Meadow Motel! The cabins have rock-your-socks-off décor complete with 50s-style kitchens and tchotchkes from Kate’s shopping sprees. In addition to the mod mid-century design, the local attractions – from the Woodstock Art Colony to the Hudson Valley Wineries – are fun for the entire family. I’m ready to hop in my Chrysler (it’s a big as a whale) and set sail for this rustic retreat!
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May 30, 2007 |
BLINGING UP BABY
The pride with which my tiny traveler Skye sports her bedazzled Dior tee would make the Queen do a double take. The glitz and glam make her feel like royalty and are a welcome alternative to her traditional toddler tees. I suppose it comes as no surprise that this fashionable find came courtesy of elf Eliza this past Christmas.
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May 23, 2007 |
LITTLE LITERATI
With scenes from Lewis Carroll's memorable tale on the walls, New York City’s Alice’s Tea Cup truly is a trip to Wonderland. Skye happily slipped into her seat as if the Mad Hatter had personally invited her. And while I enjoyed an afternoon tea (there are over 100 to choose from), she read the available children’s books, munched on a snack and lived out her fantasy.
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May 16, 2007 |
THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME
After playing a nostalgic game of “Candy Land” with my niece – and hearing Eliza expound upon Madonna and Guy Ritchie’s in-house Scrabble date night ritual – Evan and I started a couples’ game night of our own. “Loaded Questions” tests our knowledge of one another through a series of clever questions such as: “Who is your favorite super hero?” and “If you were invisible, where would you go?" We’ve since learned a lot about our friends – and each other!
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May 9, 2007 |
THEY SAY IT’S YOUR 1st BIRTHDAY...
While I shudder at the thought of advertising my age via my apparel, Skye proudly announced her entrance into the terrific twos with this reversible dress (and the plastic tiara she’d been toting around since Halloween). The pom-pom fringe and shoulder bows accessorized her bubbly personality, and the cake she accidentally smeared on the front merely added her own fudge-colored flair.
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April 25, 2007 |
SPRING FORWARD IN STYLE
The cropped hem, three-quarter sleeves and oversized buttons layer this jacket with a trifecta of trends! The sunny hue is fitting for the warm days ahead; and the movement-easing slits at the cuffs make it comfortable too.
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April 18, 2007 |
HAPPY EARTH DAY TO YOU
Organic cotton is on the cutting-edge, but I’ve always been a fan of vintage fabrics. (I see my old curtains in a whole new light ever since they were made into an oversized handbag.) Skye’s tank dress – created out of an embroidered vintage pillowcase – takes conservation to a new level of cool. The beauty of this recycled fabric lies not only in the creation of less waste, but in knowing this fabulous frock has been enjoyed at least twofold.
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April 11, 2007 |
GROWING GRATITUDE
My new motto? Save the world one shopping trip at a time. I was pleasantly surprised when I purchased Laurel Denise’s glass pendant necklace featuring a hand-drawn illustration because 25 percent of the proceeds were donated to Nest’s micro-lending activity! Through the sale of creative crafts and trendy threads, Nest is committed to changing the lives of women in developing countries. While I give my credit card a workout, Nest’s global generosity helps a struggling citizen support a small business.
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April 4, 2007 |
DECK OUT YOUR DECK
Skye’s hand-painted backyard bungalow has recently played the roles of castle, fort, market and movie theater. I like that it gives her a place to play outdoors. She likes having a hideaway where she can be a pirate princess (complete with tutu and Jack Sparrow-esque hat). When it comes to her imagination, Skye lives up to her name. The sky really is the limit!
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March 28, 2007 |
CALLING ALL CAREGIVERS
Whether she’s pirouetting across the kitchen floor or shaking her baby booty, Skye has a style all her own. And her favorite time to move and groove is at Baby Loves Disco, an afternoon event where night clubs across the country are turned into child-proof discos with music spun by real DJs. My dancing diva loves the bubble machines and the chill-out room (complete with tents, books and puzzles) and, while she’s getting her groove on, I get a chance to relax and mingle with other parents.
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March 21, 2007 |
TABLE SETTING TOT STYLE
Some feasts aren’t meant for a fork, but introducing Skye to an array of unique dining utensils was an adventure in persistence and patience. After chasing several California rolls across the kitchen floor (they don’t call it a roll for nothing!), I had to call in reinforcements. The Chopstick Kids keep her chopsticks in line and her food floor-free.
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March 14, 2007 |
INVASION OF THE INFANT
After spending time away on assignment, the best table in the house is mine. After a recent return home, my sweet hubby had a delicious meal delivered directly to our door. That way we got to catch up over Crab Wellington without either of us having to lift a finger. The decadent meal was finished off deliciously when Daddy volunteered for dish duty.
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March 7, 2007 |
IN THE SWIM OF THINGS
When anything and everything goes into your beach bag, this reversible sling is the one to take! Between my sunscreen, shades, waterproof camera and the inevitable handful of sand, I’m toting enough beach booty to declare myself a full-fledged pirate target. (Could someone please let Johnny Depp know?)
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February 28, 2007 |
KIDDIE CONNOISSEURS
Skye undoubtedly possesses my appreciation for art, whether transmitted directly via DNA or from our enthusiastic museum visits, especially to the wonderfully kid-friendly Art Institute of Chicago. And while I’ve been able to experience different people and landscapes on my photo shoots, Skye has already sampled world cultures at the Art Institute’s “Faces, Places, and Inner Spaces” children’s exhibit.
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February 21, 2007 |
HERE'S LOOKING AT YOUR KID
When I started having trouble locating the handle to my refrigerator, I knew Skye's crayon creations needed a special showcase. Thanks to Little Kids Big Art, my little Picasso's finger paintings are transformed into museum-quality, framed canvas masterpieces.
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February 14, 2007 |
KIDDIE COUTURE
This season, the racks are packed with fabulous girl garb. Tea Collection's kimono neck dress not only reminds me of my trip to Tokyo, it keeps my ultra-cool cutie on the cutting edge.
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February 7, 2007 |
IN VINO, VERITAS
Dry. Dull. Dreary. Accurate descriptions of my sentiments toward tax season - not my skin. Thankfully, February's treatments from the vine are twofold. A glass of wine during tax time is my tried and true tradition; and my Cabernet scrub's crushed grapeseeds, brown sugar, pure Gironde honey, and organic oils take the stress out of skincare, protecting my supple summer skin from winter's worst.
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January 24, 2007 |
LOVE ‘EM AND LEAVE ‘EM
Even when a sitter comes highly recommended, I still want to review their resume. With SitterCity.com the qualifications of sitters in my area are prominently provided - from reviews and references to a personal statement and photos. And if I want to simplify my screening, I can post a position. It’s secure, safe, and (gasp!) surprisingly simple.
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January 17, 2007 |
FERTILITY GODDESS
I prepared my body for my baby. Prenatal exercise. Proper nutrition. Finding fashion for the fertile. But journaling my thoughts and experiences is what prepared my mind for mamahood. And thanks to this savvy software, my handsome hubby could dish about daddyhood with personal letters to unborn baby, Skye. (There's a version for big bro/sis too!)
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January 10, 2007 |
NOTES ARE NICE
If French is the language of love, what better language is there to express your thanks? These note cards remind me of the architecture of my favorite café in Paris - a memory that has inspired me to creatively credit many praise-worthy presenters this holiday season.
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January 3, 2007 |
SURVIVAL OF THE FITNESS
I just love my BOSU Balance Trainer - a favorite workout of mommy of two (and soon to be three!) Brooke Burke. While it targets my core muscles, quite frankly, I think it also activated some spots that have been on siesta. I'm ready to ring in the New Year ab fab, not with ab flab.
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December 27, 2006 |
THE BEST FETE YET
I delight in the details. Napkin rings. Personalized place-settings. Stockings hung all in a row. Ordinary salt and pepper shakers just won't do when Santa and I are serving salmon. This silver shell salt dish and cockle pepper dish are trendy trimmings for my tabletop.
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December 20, 2006 |
YULE BE GLAD YOU DID...
When I need a moment of me-time, I take my ticket to tranquility - my robe lined in plush terry - and cruise into comfort. Add a book, a cup of tea, and a peaceful nook and my excursion to euphoria is underway.
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December 13, 2006 |
OUR HERO: (UN)CAPED CAUSE CRUSADER & DEVOTED DAD, GREG GRUNBERG
This rocker’s rendering is the perfect holiday card.
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December 6, 2006 |
WINTER WONDER-WEAR
This season, I knew I wanted a dress that was mysteriously elegant and (gulp) comfortable. When your arms are one present away from overloading, comfort is key. And since my elegant entrance doesn't involve toppling over in my hot new heels, I know this is the chic sheath for me. The gathered sash extends from bust to balloon-bottom hem, obscuring imperfections and playing up a pleasing physique.
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November 29, 2006 |
SEASON'S HEATINGS
I've explored the Andes. Toured Tahiti. Perused Portugal. Now it's time to cure my cravings for celebration and relaxation! Next stop - Maui - for some seaside surf, sun, sand, and a spa. Between snorkeling with sea turtles, whale watching, and sampling tropical treats at the luau, I found plenty of time to relax with a traditional Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage and sand art with Skye. Consider my mojo mended.
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November 1, 2006 |
DERMIS DIVINE
While exploring the earth for the ultimate skin survival secret, I discovered a cure to calm this season's stormy skin. My strategically sleuthed find is Scrub Your Butt Soap Company's Ash Wash made with sterilized volcanic ash. It gently exfoliates my skin, leaving it feeling soft as a baby's bum.
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October 25, 2006 |
MASSAGING MOTHER EARTH
Planning an eco-friendly family trip with a tot in tow was a big no-no until I found natural eco park Xcaret in the heart of the Riviera Maya. Skye swam with the dolphins, traveled through time in a Mayan Village, and giggled her way through a game of splashing her dad in the natural pools.
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October 19, 2006 |
NEST NECESSITIES
Need to maximize your mojo and soothe your senses? My Patina aromatherapy heatwrap is a one-way ticket to tranquility! I just pop the lavender-and-flaxseed insert into the microwave for a minute, put my feet up, and indulge in the lush, fragrant heat.
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October 11, 2006 |
HAUTE HARVEST
Vegetables don’t merely decorate my dinnerware. My hand-shaped veggie parchment bowls from natural sculptor Margaret Dorfman transform vittle to visual. (They’re built slice by slice from fresh produce!) I like to place a votive candle inside to illuminate the hues of the harvest.
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September 27, 2006 |
FOILING THE FRAZZLE
"Start Me Up" rings in my ears, my cross trainers pound the pavement, and Skye breathes in the crisp autumn air. Whether we're walking to the Wiggles or jogging to Mick's melodies, the Stroll-a-Tune stroller stereo lets me tune into my favorite music from my iPod without tuning out the world around me.
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September 20, 2006 |
VIVA LA VOGUE
My perfect fall afternoon starts with a hot cup of cocoa, a good book, and a cozy cardigan. The sky may be cloudy, but this ribbed sweater from Anthropologie keeps me soft and warm with its sunny hue.
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September 13, 2006 |
MOMMY MASTERMINDS
All kids are born rockstars. My cool crooner Skye is sure to steal the show when I send out these rockin’ invitations for her birthday. Let mom-and-dad duo Ryan and Andrea help you promote your star’s gig with personalized announcements and posters.
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September 6, 2006 |
PENCIL ENVY
Don’t get me wrong, a picture is worth a thousand words, but a savvy traveler also never leaves home without her journal. This personalized, distressed Italian leather journal contains paper thick and rich enough to put my afternoon espresso to shame. Say goodbye to writer’s block and hello to Tuscan inspiration.
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August 30, 2006 |
STROKING THE SIBLING
I can’t remember when the brother and sister relationship has been explored with such sweet simplicity. You know I don’t like to compromise when it comes to good taste and with Stella you don’t have to - the fresh dialogue is as engaging as the dazzling illustration.
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August 23, 2006 |
PRET-A-PLAYGROUND
E tells me all the celeb mamas shop at LaLaLing, but what’s more important is that Skye learned the days of the week by wearing Paul Frank’s Fundies!
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August 16, 2006 |
READYING THE ROOM
This little chair is a bit pricey but really it's three items in one. Two chair sizes/styles and a toy. Plus, you can use it indoors or out. Multi-tasking rocks.
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August 9, 2006 |
HOT SUMMER NIGHTS
Makes those days when you decide to leave your jammies on a lovely - not lazy - choice.
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August 2, 2006 |
GIFTING THE GALS
Awareness has never been so beautiful. Help fund vital research for breast cancer by purchasing a bouquet of cookies for your hostess with the mostest.
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July 26, 2006 |
ROCK-A-MY-BABY
Never hurts to give your sweetie a little KISS.
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July 19, 2006 |
FLAT-TERING
When I'm enjoying life state-side, my el raval flats' little earth-like gems remind me of my globe-trotting travels. Thank you Anthropologie!
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