Keeping up with Stella & Rubylou

Crazy Good Hair

2012-01-29T20:08:00.003-06:00

Who said that a 4 year old cannot have her very own hair stylist?

We have been going to Pigtails & Crewcuts (Glenview) for nearly 3 years now.

(You may remember them from my post back in Feb 2010)

They give amazing haircuts and best of all

Stella LOVES Theresa her stylist

and now Ruby does too!

They are so warm and caring and give the best cuts on the
Chicago's North Shore!

Check out Miss Stella and her perfectly coiffed hair.

Ready for the fabulous transformation of shaggy baby

To super chic baby

and a very happy mommy!

Pigtails & Crewcuts is also charitable!

They have generously donated 2 free cuts and haircare products

(total package worth $60)

for Stella's preschool Benefit!

How great is that?

Soooo if you are near Glenview, IL at all you have to go and check out the salon.

In March they are opening a brand new location as well at Ranhurst Mall in Mount Prospect, IL.

(They will be right next to Carters.)

That is what we did this weekend...

What did you do?

Calling All Etsy Shops!

2012-01-28T10:55:00.000-06:00

:: Dear Etsy Shops, KUWStella Friends, etc ::

Stella's preschool is holding a benefit for their school on February 25th, 2012.

"A Night at the Oscars" is the theme and we are in need of some more amazing items for our auction.

As official school blogger I am trying to utilize my connections to help obtain some great items out on the world wide web that are not just local businesses.

As part of the Chicago's North Shore our Preschool has very deep pocket and are a very desirable demographic for your business.

I would love the opportunity to put a item from your shop up for auction.

All proceeds from our benefit go to the School's Scholarship fund and would be a tax donation for you.

If you are interested PLEASE email me here.

I need to have item descriptions and value by WEDNESDAY, February 1st to make it into our bid book.

Many thanks in advance for your consideration.

xoxo Marla

LA MADE

2012-01-26T23:05:00.000-06:00

Its been over a week since I got the "Growing up Garnet Hill" kids catalog

and I cannot stop thinking about these shorts for the girls...

Knit Shorts

by LA MADE

These shorts just scream summer fun!

They are the type of shorts you know will be the favorite one in their drawer, just like that cozy tshirt we all go to first.

I have not purchased these yet because

#1 its January in Chicago and these will not be seeing the light of day til at least June 15th

and

#2 Stella is obsessed with dresses at at $36 per pair that is pretty steep to take a gamble that they will become part of the daily clothing rotation.

If only I could squeeze into a size 14 kids I'd snag all three colors for myself!

Doubtful.

Instead I share them with you and hope one of your little girls will get the pleasure out of these darling shorts.

Sending an a-SOS To All The Pregnant Bellies!

2012-01-25T08:00:00.015-06:00

While shopping at one of my favorite shops for ME Asos.com

I spotted some amazing maternity items that I wish I would have had

covering my belly when I was preggers.

ASOS Maternity

How cute are those?!?

Dresses were my while pregnant mainly because they were easy to throw on with a pair of leggings and I could be comfy cozy all day long- especially when I hit 30+ weeks and those days were LONG!

Many of the items above are part of their SALE right now and the prices are amazing!

I snagged 3 dresses myself for now and summer for under $100!

Hurry over and check out what ASOS.com has to offer!

And NO!

This is not an announcement about me having #3.

If you are waiting for that you will be so disappointed!

WE ARE SOOOOOOOOOO DONE!

xoxo

Tangerine Tango!

2012-01-24T09:49:00.001-06:00

I was catching up on some of my old favorite industry Fashion Pubs a few weeks ago
(did you know I went to school for fashion?)

and learned that Pantone's color of the year is Tangerine Tango!?!

I am super excited for this reddish orange color since its a good color for me and the girls!

Here is what Pantone says of their color trend for 2012:

“Sophisticated but at the same time dramatic and seductive, Tangerine Tango is an orange with a lot of depth to it,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “Reminiscent of the radiant shadings of a sunset, Tangerine Tango marries the vivaciousness and adrenaline rush of red with the friendliness and warmth of yellow, to form a high-visibility, magnetic hue that emanates heat and energy.”

One of my absolute favorite reasons that I love childrens' fashion MORE than womens' fashion is seeing how the current trends on the runway become pint-sized!

Check out the great Tangerine Tango inspired items that are out right now for girls!

I really think that Zara has hit the nail on the head with nearly exact matching
Tangerine Tango!

I am looking forward to seeing how other kids lines begin to add Patone's 2012 color of the year in their clothing collections as well!

What are your thoughts of Tangerine Tango?

Do you think its a color you'll be adding to your closet this year?

Be Mine

2012-01-20T08:32:00.002-06:00

Valentine's Day is just a little over 2 weeks away, how did that happen?

Here are some adorable ways to ask your loved ones to "Be Mine"
with Sarah + Abraham.

olliegraphic valentine return address labels

olliegraphic valentines

olliegraphic valentine labels

If you "Like" Sarah + Abraham on Facebook you'll find great discounts and occasional FREE Shipping!

Guess what... she's got one going on NOW!

Get FREE SHIPPING in the U.S. on all orders that include at least one Valentine's Day item!

Use coupon code VALENTINE at checkout.

This offer is good through 1/31/12.

The Smith Family 2012

2012-01-19T13:12:00.000-06:00

One of my favorite ETSY shops is lepapierstudio.

Vana, the shop owner makes the most elegant silhouette papers + accessories around!

Back in April 2009 I contacted the shop to create an 11" x 17" custom family silhouette print.

This has to be one of the most special pieces in our house.

It hangs in the "Red Room" aka our dining room and at every big occasion that we celebrate in that room someone new always comments on how much they love the piece.

Here is our original Custom Family Silhouette Print:

April 2009

Its been nearly 3 years since we had Le Papier Studio create the print and there is a whole new member to our "Smith Family."

Now that Ruby is 13 months (yesterday!) I knew it was time to get a new one created.

I submitted these profile photos of Ruby and Stella to update our family Custom Silhouette.

I decided to stay 3 years younger, (wouldn't you??) and didn't submit new profiles for Alton and me.

"Bibby Boopidy Boop"

(as Stella would say)

Here is our NEW 2012 Custom Family Silhouette:

How cute is Ruby and her little red bow?!?

I cannot WAIT to get the new print and get it up on the wall!

You need to head on over to this fab Etsy Shop.

There are so many OTHER great items at Le Papier Studio.

Here are some of my favorites:

Custom Silhouette Print From Your Photo

Silhouette Necklace - 3 charms - sterling silver pendant

Personalized Kids Silhouette Flat Cards-set of 16

Silhouette Calling Cards - Choose the Silhouette and Personalization
(I had these with Stella- so adorable!)

Family Tree - Personalized Silhouette Poster 11x14
(As Seen in Country Living Magazine)

Silhouette Plate - Holiday - Kids in Santa's Hat
Made from your photo

His and Hers Silhouette Napkin Rings
Set of 2

Boy Silhouette Accent Pillow

Girl Silhouette Throw Pillow

I'd love to own each and every piece!

Have you purchased from Le Papier Studio too?

Would love to hear and see what you got!

Bean Bag Delight!

2012-01-16T12:05:00.001-06:00

You might remember me mentioning Cocoon Couture from previous posts such as

Another Aussie Great

Do A Little Good This Holiday Season with Little Rue.

Cocoon Couture is a collection of children's bean bags and unique room accessories . This beautiful and diverse range features unique designs of delightful animal critters inspired by the treasures of Ingrid and Melanie's childhood.

I have been kicking myself for not buying the bean bags when they were last on GILT...

but today to my surprise AND delight they are back!!!

Hidden in the "Love-Inspired Decor and More" shop were the EXACT bags that I have been wanting to get for the girls. This time there was no hesitation on getting 2 of these bean bags.

At Cocoon Couture the bags retail for $99.95 WITHOUT the beans and $160 WITH beans!

At GILT today you can get the bean bags WITH beans for $79!

I've been stalking Pottery Barn Kids & Land of Nod for super discounted sale on their bean bags (my 2nd choice) but its been well worth the wait to get the bags I really wanted:

Little Deer in Watermelon $79

at GILT

We are also working on "redecorating" or "reorganizing" the basement/playroom and I have been looking for some cute wall stickers.

In that same "Love-Inspired Decor and More" shop at GILT today they had this adorable wall sticker:

Deerly Beloved by Wall Candy Arts.

Normal retail of $50 but GILT price $30!

Needless to say I feel like I totally scored BIG today on

GILT BABY & KIDS!

Belle & Boo

2012-01-14T20:54:00.001-06:00

I know you probably have see Etsy Shop Belle & Boo a million times at a million different blogs (including this one) but how can you not love the sweet little girl and her best bunny friend!

I just had to feature them again and several of their amazing items that are for sale at their Etsy Shop.

I swear I would buy everything if I could, but since I cannot, I wanted to share them with you in hopes they find good homes with one or more of you.

(If you buy something you HAVE to let me know what you get!!)

For your viewing pleasure I give you my top picks from Belle & Boo:

Boo Crimson Coat

Parade Birthday Banner

Small Donut Wall Decal

Ava Fine Art Print

I Grew This For You (Pink)

Large Dress Up Belle and Boo

Pirate Party Lunch Box

Shall We Skate Card

Boo Cushion

Miniz Hot Air Balloons Wall Sticker

I am having a hard time deciding between the donut and the hot air balloon for the playroom in the basement.

Which one would you buy...?

Let it SNOW!

2012-01-11T22:48:00.000-06:00

It is crazy that it is January 11th and today we had a high of 52 degrees and really have yet to see any snow!

Wild, right?!?

It is all supposed to change tonight...

Tomorrows forecast is high of 32 degrees and just the beginning of a potential 5-8" snow storm!

The girls are both totally prepared to fight the cold and snow in their super cute puffers!

We got Stella this cute one from Zara a few months back and she says its just perfect:

QUILTED FLEECE COAT

at Zara

Its on sale now for only $19.99- I'm going to have to get another one just as a back up at that price!

For Ruby, we originally got one of the Gap "Puffers" from last year, but it was SOOOO puffy I couldn't get her buckled into her car seat.

After a lot of research I went with this little cutie from  
The North Face:

The North Face Kids Reversible Perrito Jacket (Infant)
at Zappos

Now when I took it out of the box I was a little concerned on how "thin" it was.

Don't let this discourage you from purchasing this little jacket!

It will certainly hold up here in the Chicago winters despite is small size.

It has 120g of Heatseeker™ Aero insulation provides ample warmth for cold winter days.

Each time Ruby wears her coat she is toasty warm when I take it off.

It fits perfectly in her carseat and she moves around with no problem.

Best purchase I would say for Ruby thus far.

Looking forward to a little snow and hopefully getting Ruby out there for the first time!

Alton & Stella January 2011

Don't worry if we do get out there will be LOTS of pictures to share.

Whooo... Whooo... Hoot!

2012-01-10T22:59:00.001-06:00

At pick up from Pre-School yesterday Stella was SOOOO excited to get home and go "owling" with her daddy.

Owling?

What?

I was totally confused until Stella's teacher explained to the parents at pick-up that they had read Owl Moon by Jane Yolen.

Of course Alton was totally game for the fun owling outting.

The two of them left right after dinner about 6:30p with a bright camping lantern in hand.

It was already pitched black, but the moon was very bright, perfect right for their adventure.

They headed to a little park near out house that used to be a convent and is beautiful grounds.

Here is what I learned when they returned...

As soon as they arrived at the park Stella said over and over again to Alton as they were walking the grounds:

"Daddy just let me know if you see anything... just let me know... ok, Daddy... just let me know"

But the best part of their "owling" was when Stella saw the gazebo in the middle of the park lit up she asked Alton to dance...

Alton put Patsy Cline's "Walking After Midnight" on his iPhone and they danced in the moonlight!

Did your heart just melt?

I know mine did!

That is one of the moments that I wish I was in the bushes or someone could've videoed it for me to see.

They both came home on cloud 9.

When Alton recapped the story for me after I put Stella to bed all I could picture was Liesel from Sound of Music dancing around in the gazebo in that beautiful white dress with blue sash singing...

"I am 16 going on 17..."

But when I invision it, I see Stella floating around in this sweet number...

fancy dress

by flora and henri $296

To die for, right?!?

While Alton & Stella did not have much luck finding an owl on their owling adventure, I sure did!

Here are some adorable little Owl finds that will have you hooting!

Owl Granny Blanket

by AllThingsGranny

Hoots Hungry Girl

by cataandnenny

Nocturnal Nightlight
at Land of Nod

Búhos bebé Romper
by Tea Collection

Owl Bookends

by Skip hop

Sleeping Owl Beanie
by San Diego Hat Company

cool owl tee
at Crewcuts

Night, night all!

Whoo... Whoo.

Amoxicillin, Azithromycin, A fall down the stairs- OH MY!

2012-01-09T10:42:00.000-06:00

Woza.

This last week has been anything but smooth.

Ruby and Stella have both been under the weather fighting what I thought was just terrible colds.

Ruby has not slept through the night since 12/26...

I get up multiple times a night to rock her back to sleep as breathing has been hard.

Stella woke up Monday night with a 101 fever... that thankfully went away quickly, but that lingering cough has been with her for over a week.

Tuesday morning Ruby learned to open up the basement door.

Normally the gate behind the basement door is locked for just the occasion, but alas, it was garbage day and someone had forgotten to shut it after grabbing the trash...
I think you can see where I am going with this...

Ruby fell down all 12 basement stairs!

With a call to 911 and a trip to the ER luckily Ruby was fine, just bruised up...

At our follow-up on Thursday at our normal peditrician she said that Ruby's Cast Scan showed lots of fluid in her sinuses and upon further exam her right ear was showing signs of potential infection so Ruby was written a script for 14 days of Amoxicillin.

Stella, never one to go unnoticed, pipped up to tell the doctor about her fever on Monday and that she also coughed up a booger that morning.

With the addition of two well placed coughs the Dr. nicely suggested taking a listen to Stella... only to find that she had a mild case of pneumonia!

WHAT???!!!!

Stella was prescribed Azithromycin.

Of course I too had been feeling under the weather and headed to my MD.

Thankfully I am getting over a sinus infection so no meds were required.

But I did spend nearly the last 3 days in bed relaxing and trying to catch up on sleep that had been missing in my daily regimen.

Basically I spend a LOT of time on Pinterest and here are a few amazing images that I found...

via Iza G

via Crystal Armerding

via Heidi

aka Cherry Blossoms

Speaking of my girl Heidi of Cherry Blossoms, you HAVE to check out her latest post!

She did the most amazing birthdya party theme idea:

Friday's Party: Willy Wonka Birthday Celebration.

image from Cherry Blossoms

Gotta run for now...

Princess Stella is all about a photo shoot right now.

She is loving her new skirt from Target- it was $4.54!

Here is the denim version still available at Target.

Here she is:

Chasing Fireflies

2012-01-07T19:54:00.000-06:00

If you have been a long time reader of my blog you know I have a huge crush on the buyers at Chasing Fireflies.

I just got their Early Spring 2012 Catalog and once again it is FULL of "I gotta have this and that" items.

Here are some of my favorites:

Bunny Hop Dress

Black Bows Set

Connect the Dots Jacket

Butterfly Garden Dress

Pretty in Pink Dress

Scalloped Sequins Dress

Bubbly Pink Dress Set

Floral Stripe Dress

Navy Tie-Die Dress

Hello Kitty Frog Boots

Have you had any great catalogs arrive this week?

What are your favorites?

Thank Yous

2012-01-04T13:52:00.001-06:00

I just wrapped up the house from the crazy month of December!

I cannot believe how much stuff I had out to decorate the house this year!

Three GIANT tubs!

They were so big I could not carry them, I had to slide them to the basement stairs then push them down (gently).

Oy! I am tired.

As I was packing up as every year I go back through all my Holiday Cards to recap.

My absolute favorites were those who created their cards from Minted.

I am familiar with Minted, but have yet to buy from them.

I see a purchase in the future for sure.

I loved the antiqued but modern feel of those cards which is totally my style.

As Ruby continues to nap, I went and checked out the site to see what else they had.

I need to finish up some Thank You notes, but most of all I need to order some new ones for the girls since I used the last ones up last week!

Their selection of girls stationary is fabulous!

Here are some that I am loving for my girls...

(Note the boys stationary is equally amazing!)

I am also never caught with out my "mommy calling cards" and Minted has some really cute ones that I just might switch over to...

Have any of you ordered from Minted?

How was your experience?

SALE SALE SALE!

2012-01-03T08:18:00.005-06:00

I am a HUGE fan of Polarn O Pyret. So when I visited their site this morning I was super excited to see this on the homepage:

If you have not yet purchased a Polarn O Pyret item for your kid(s) now is the time to check out this fabulous Swedish clothing company which is full of MUST-HAVE staple pieces to fill your little ones closets!

I have several pieces from Stella that have worn so well that when I just packed them away for Ruby I was blown away as they still look brand new!

Here is a little look at whats available at the Fall/Winter Sale.

Get your credit cards out, they will be necessary at the end of this post!

:: FALL/WINTER ::

:: HOLIDAY DRESS WEAR ::

That is just a little taste of what is on SALE at Polarn O Pyret.

Hurry over!

I am sure with prices this low on this must have Swedish brand its not going to last long!

I know I've already snagged quite a few pieces for the girls!!

Forever Girls

2012-01-02T07:48:00.001-06:00

It is no big secret that I am not 21...

but Forever 21 continues to keep my closet busting at the seams with trendy items that will try and take this mama of two to a little bit of chic on date nights.

What I have been watching grow is the adorable Forever 21 GIRLS collection!

Starting at XS (age 6) girls can start to express their style in these ultra on trend clothing options...

And at those prices what mom could say no?!?

2012 Style

2011-12-31T22:53:00.000-06:00

I finally took the plunge and signed up AND ordered from StyleMint!

What is StyleMint?

StyleMint is he brainchild of fashion designers and style icons Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen and parent company BeachMint. StyleMint offers members a revolutionary online shopping destination with the unrivaled experience of a personal stylist. The best part? Members-only access to Mary-Kate and Ashley's exclusively designed and styled T Shirts, with new styles to choose from every month.

I have been very pleased with my first StyleMint purchase... the Newbury in White.

So much so I went back to get one in EVERY color...

Alas, they are pretty much sold out of all the colors I want in my size (boo hoo)

but I believe tomorrow Jan 1 there should be a whole new collection to choose from!

Hopefully a whole new stock of Newbury in White!!

Here is a special deal of the evening on a StyleMint 's Facebook Pag:

Kinda fun to add to your wardrobe, eh?

I am sure you are wondering about sizing, etc.

The sizing for me on my first purchase seems to be true to size.

If you keep up with the Facebook buzz you can find out whether or not to size up or down, but it seems like most items are true to the published size below.

If you fall between sizes just size up.

I ordered a size 1 (XS/S- 2/4) and it fits perfectly.

I normally wear a 2 or 4 on top at JCrew and Gap.

I did order just the other day the Melrose T in a size 2 since they were out of size 1.

According to the size chart its only an inch bigger so I figured it would be a good way to see which is better for fit the 1 or 2.

I'll keep you posted!

Overall what I love about my Newbury T is how soft and snuggly it is!

I really want like 5 of them in white and wear it everyday.

The only other tshirt that I have ever owned that I loved this much was made by Velvet.

Those Velvet Ts run you about $75-$100 so $29.95 for a tshirt that is that same amazing feel and quality is a no brainer for me.

I am hooked!

Membership at StyleMint is super easy!

Sign up is super easy!

To start you just answer their simple style quiz. (Click the photos you like best)

Then they will then give you your personalized showroom based on your style preferences!

Gotta love MK & Ashley!

Its too good to be true!

2011-12-30T06:48:00.007-06:00

Livie & Luca my absolute FAVORITE shoe for 2 and under is having their winter sale!

50% off all shoes with discount code: fall_50 at checkout.

You can get amazing shoes like these...

GIRLS

I got the Haru for Ruby!

$22.50

BOYS

These are the best! I had them in black for Stella in both size 4 & size 5.

They are nearly impossible to kick off!!

BABY

MOM!

Sizing is easy too!

Print out their easy to measure size guide and order away!

Happy Shopping & Happy New Year!

Simply Charming...

2011-12-29T10:15:00.002-06:00

One of my most favorite pieces of jewelry that I remember from my mother's jewelry box from toddler hood was this charm bracelet that she had. It had a silhouette charm of a little boy (my brother) and a little baby (me).

I love how the charms had our names engraved on the front:

Back in 2007 when I had Stella I was on a mission to find one to represent her but to wear it on a chain.

I swear I searched and searched and FINALLY found a beautiful one at

Cocoa Crayon

I snatched up a little girl silhouette in GOLD and have loved it and received many complements on it.

When Ruby arrived last December, I emailed Lisa (of Cocoa Crayon) to order a second one for Ruby.

Alas, she did not have any gold ones left. ;0(

I patiently waited and waited checking Ebay and every where else I could think of, but unfortunately for me she is no longer carrying the gold girl due to the cost of gold.

Now that I am finally out of my sleep depervation stooper this smart mama realized I could go directly to the fabulous designer, Amanda Jaron's site!

With my fingers and toes crossed I went to A Jaron Fine Jewelry and

VOILA! There were the charms!!

Hooray!

I grabbed one more little girl in gold!

Now I have both of my little sweeties on my neck.

All I need to do now is go and get them engraved with their names on the back...

I am sure that will just take me another year... since Ruby has me on the run these days!

She has dropped her morning nap but giving me one good 2 hour nap in the middle of the day.

But look at this face... how could you be mad?

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T22:07:00.002-06:00

From Stella & Rubylou!

Happy Hanukkah!

2011-12-21T20:58:00.000-06:00

Tonight we were honored to be invited to our friends house for a Hanukkah Party.

Really it was Stella who invited herself over to her friend Audrey's house when she learned they had a Menorah and there would be Dreidels!

The school amazing school that Stella goes to as it is non-denominational and each week leading up to winter break they share with the kids all the different Holidays that are celebrated in December.

Stella very much was taken with Hanukkah!

I have been hearing this song 100 times a day since the first week of December...

I Have a Little Dreidel
I have a little dreidel
I made it out of clay
And when it's dry and ready
Then, dreidel I shall play.
Oh, dreidel, dreidel, dreidel
I made it out of clay
Oh, dreidel, dreidel, dreidel
Now dreidel we shall play.

Of course Stella cannot just sing the song...

When she "preforms" it she spins herself around like a dreidel.

She takes it very seriously.

I mentioned that I got the family a super fun gift... after visiting one of my daily reads, Sweet Southern Prep last week I learned of a new Etsy Store,

Charlotte & Mia.

Initially I went there because I wanted to get Stella this lunch box:

That is when I saw all the wonderful Hanukkah items in her store...

I especially loved the Personalized Wooden Dreidel:

How cute are those?!?

I immediately emailed Ericka, Charlotte & Mia's shop owner, to find out if I could get one made by today... She said YES!

Thankfully she lives downtown Chicago and I was able to drive down this morning to pick it up before the party!

YAYYY (thank you again Ericka!)

Here is the amazing Dreidel that I had made as a THANK YOU for Audrey & Andrew for sharing their Hanukkah tradition with us:

Now, here is a little peak at our first Hanukkah party...

Corey shared a few books with the kids

Then it was time for the Dreidel song...

Stella busted out her moves.

Time to light the Menorah!

Corey lit the middle candle which is called the "Shamash" then Stella got to light the first candle and the other 4 year old guest, Ben, got to light the 2nd candle.

Andrew was super excited!

The kids (big & small) all got gifts!

(Seriously Corey, you are too nice!)

Dreidel anyone?

Rubylou got way into it too!

I forgot to mention how well we ate too!

Check out the spread...

Hostess Audrey (3) with a happy FULL belly.

Host Andrew ( 23 months) guarding his plate of goodies

:: Guests ::

Stella & Ben the 4 year olds causing a bit of chaos.

Sweet Hudson (13 months)

Rubylou (12 months) helping clean up with the toy vacuum.

Thank you again to the Guenins for welcoming us into your home and sharing with us your Hanukkah traditions.

THANK YOU!

תודה

Blowing out the Candles- 2years Already?

2011-12-19T23:25:00.000-06:00

(Stella at her 2nd Birthday)

I cannot believe that I forgot!

Not only was yesterday Ruby's 1st Birthday it was

my 2 year anniversary at Keeping up with Stella (& Rubylou)

I know last January I announced that I was going on "maternity leave" for the entire 2011 year, but with 140 posts under my belt, I guess I didn't take that too seriously.

Thank you all for stopping by each and every post.

I enjoy your emails and comments and look forward to another year of talking kids fashion, accessories and more!

Wishing you all a very happy holiday season!

xoxo Marla

Ruby's 1 Today! AND Rue La La "Doing a little good" Winner

2011-12-18T01:03:00.000-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY RUBY!!!

I cannot believe it was one year ago!

Here is my sweet baby Ruby

one day old...

Sweetly Monogramed: Chenille at Tiny Prints

And here's my Birthday Girl...

It's My Birthday at Tiny Prints

____________________________________________________________

Now onto the WINNER of the

$25 Rue La La Giveaway!

In honor of Ruby's 1st Birthday we are awarding
the $25 credit to Rue La La to entry #1!!!

JAMIE10

jamie10 said...

My girls and I adopted a family and provided basic everyday items to this single mother of three kids.

I am trying real hard to explain to my children to be grateful for what we have and to support those who don't.
December 14, 2011 8:05 PM

Congratulations Jamie10!

Please email me HERE with your contact information so I can forward to Rue La La.

A HUGE thanks to Rue La La for the giveaway

AND
Thank you all who entered on my blog and on my FB event page!

________________________________________________

Meaningful Menorah: Navy at Tiny Prints

We have a crazy week to come...

There is no school for Stella for the next 2 weeks (eeeek!)

I have booked our days to the max with playdates, parties, and outings to the city etc.

What we are most looking forward to this week is attending our first Hanukkah party ever!

Our friends the Guenins have invited us to learn about their Hanukkah traditions!

Stella thinks she is already an expert since they have been learning about Hanukkah at school so this should be interesting...

I found the most amazing Hanukkah gift for Audrey & Andrew as a thank you that I will share with you on Thursday after the party.

I will be sure to add some photos of the girls attending their first Hanukkah party!

Happy Birthday Stella & Ruby!

2011-12-15T10:55:00.002-06:00

It has taken me nearly a week to get cleaned up after the birthday party on Sat 12/10/11.

Stella officially turned 4 on Sunday, December 11th and

Ruby will be 1 this Sunday, December 18th.

Many of you have emailed me asking to see the final photos and I am so sorry to just be getting to it.

Here they are!

DECOR

The outdoor decor welcoming guests!

Now the inside...

Sparkle's had a front row seat!

The amazing cupcake cakes & cupcakes my sister-in-law Nicole made

for the girls...

Yummy treats to start with

from Trader Joe's!

The gingerbread house Stella & I made together

at the park district.

The Dining Room

aka "The Red Room"

(Etsy Vendors included: Aedriel Originals , iammie, simplynesting, and snicklefritzandpj)

PARTY SHOTS

The Birthday Girls!

Santa's arrival...

The "Green Room"

aka. The living room

We took all the furniture out to accommodate all the kids

so they could all sit and visit with Santa.

Ruby was quite the life of the party nearly stealing Santa's thunder...

CAKE TIME!

We first sang to Stella...

Then again for Ruby...

Don't let this cute shot fool you...

Ruby barely ate cake at all!

She wasn't interested!

Can you believe it?

My friend Corey made these delicious cakepops in red & green!

They were a HUGE hit!

Stella double fisted with the chocolate cake topper

AND a cakepop!

The girls friends

those that could fit in the "Red Room"

My nephew Jackson enjoying the cakepops!

(His mom is the one who made the cakes!)

Sweet Audrey.

Could she be any cuter?

Eva & Oliver of Eva & Oliver

Santa signing Ruby's signature platter

The finished platter!

Gifts!

Stella passed out 20 minutes after all the guests left.

Wow! I'm exhausted just reliving the party through these photos!

Hope you loved the pictures...

If you have not already, enter to WIN $25 from Rue La La!

Giveaway ends Sat 12/17!!

I'll announce the winner on Ruby's 1st Birthday 12/18!

ENTER HERE

Tonight at 8pm CST, Be Good and SHOP!

2011-12-15T08:52:00.000-06:00

Tonight at 8pm CST you have to head to Rue La La for Little Rue's latest "Doing a Little Good"
boutique curated by the one and only Nicole Kidman!!

This Little Rue Boutique will be full of amazing items including products from Max Daniel, Kidkraft and Vintage Hermes.

All of the proceeds will go toward the Stanford Women’s Cancer Center, a cause that Kidman truly can stand behind.

What's more special for this exciting sale is Rue La La is giving away $25 in credits to one of Keeping up with Stella & Rubylou readers if you answer this simple question...

"How you’re doing a little good this holiday season?"

To enter to WIN the $25 in credit at Rue La La please leave your comment below between today, December 14, 2011 thru December 17, 2011.

You can see how Keeping up with Stella & Rubylou are doing good this holiday season in our post from yesterday.

I will announce the WINNER of the Rue La La $25 Credit on December 18, 2011.

The Nicole Kidman's “Doing A Little Good” boutique opens TONIGHT
December 15^th at 8:00 p.m. EST

With Love,

The Little Rue Crew

(aka Stella & Ruby)

::Sweeps Legal Information::

Prize Credits must be used within forty-five (45) calendar days after the Credits are deposited into the winner’s Rue La La account (the “Prize Credit Period”).

Upon expiration of the Prize Credit Period, the Prize Credits will automatically expire.

Company will credit the winner’s account within a reasonable time following written notification and winner information as requested by the Company (including winner’s name and email address) from Blogger (the “Winner Information”).

KUWS will provide the Company with the Winner Information within three (3) business days following the expiration of the Sweepstakes Period.

KUWS readers must leave a comment on Blogger’s blog comments section answering the question, “How are you doing a little good this holiday season?”

Do a Little Good This Holiday Season with Little Rue!

2011-12-14T12:54:00.000-06:00

Following the success of Courteney Cox’s boutique to benefit the EBMRF,
Rue La La's excited to announce their second boutique, curated by actress/mother Nicole Kidman which will include products from Max Daniel, Kidkraft and Vintage Hermes.

All of the proceeds will go toward the Stanford Women’s Cancer Center, a cause that Kidman truly can stand behind.

What's more special for this exciting sale is Rue La La is giving away $25 in credits to one of Keeping up with Stella & Rubylou readers if you answer this simple question...

"How you’re doing a little good this holiday season?"

I'll share with you how Keeping up with Stella & Rubylou are doing a little good this holiday season...

This Holiday Season is the first year that I am able to really share the importance of giving back with Stella.

Thanksgiving time was filled with giving THANKS to everyone with learning about gratitude.

This Holiday Season Stella and I went through our kitchen cabinets and pulled together a HUGE box of canned goods to donate to the Church Food Drive at Stella's School.

Another way we are trying to give back this season, Stella and I went through her gently used books and donated them to a local book drive.

Finally, I am helping Santa save time, money & hopefully a tree by using these adorable Santa Sacks:

Love Dove Sacks by Cocoon Couture

By not using wrapping paper and not adding so much extra waste is sure to help our planet this Holiday Season.

The Nicole Kidman's “Doing A Little Good” boutique opens on
December 15^th at 8:00 p.m. EST

Here are some items that you will find at the sale:

Limeapple Shape Black and Rose Jacket

Lucky Jade

Max Daniel

Pippa and Julie

Back to the giveaway for $25 in Credits to Rue La La

(Thanks Little Rue!)

Answer the following question:

"How you’re doing a little good this holiday season?"

Leave your comment below between today,
December 14, 2011 thru December 17, 2011.

I will announce the WINNER of the Rue La La $25 Credit on December 18, 2011.

Good luck to everyone and please make sure that you shop the fabulous
Doing a Little Good Boutique by Nicole Kidman tomorrow night 8pm CST!

With Love,

The Little Rue Crew

(aka Stella & Ruby)

::Sweeps Legal Information::

Shabby Apple WINNER!!

2011-12-12T08:49:00.000-06:00

Entry #10 was the WINNER of this amazing

LIGHT AS A FEATHER necklace from Shabby Apple!

LIGHT AS A FEATHER

Retail $48

Gold metal feather stamping suspended on gold chain.

Necklace length approximately 18”.
Handmade in the USA

Who was #10...?

Mollie from Mascara Meets Matchbox!

She really sealed her spot in this giveaway with taking advantage of all the extra credit including this POST at her site!

She had 7 entires total!

Congrats Mollie!

Thank you to all that entered!

On top of the great giveaway, Shabby Apple is generously giving Keeping up with Stella & Rubylou readers 10% off at shabbyapple.com for the month of December 2011!

Discount Code for Shabby Apple:

KEEPINGUP10OFF

**Note that this code is only valid thru December 31st, 2011**

I know you must all be wondering if I survived the girls joint party...

I did... but barely!

I'm working on getting all the photos loaded and edited so I will be posting something in the next day or so.

Regardless, here is Stellbelle yesterday on her official 4th Birthday.

She got those amazing Jessie (Toy Story) Boots from our friend Chelsea at Eva & Oliver.

To say she loves them is an understatement...

Happy Monday!

Shine & Meow!

2011-12-09T09:05:00.000-06:00

I got Stella a little early birthday present these super cute shoes from KEDS.

Mimmy H&L

I ordered them on Cyber Monday (11/28) and got 20% off at Piperlime.

What I did not know was they have a subtle sequin overlay (should have read the description!) that gives these Hello Kitties a little shine!

Of course this put Stella over the excitement meter when she opened the box!

Here they are...

LOVE LOVE LOVE...

Yesterday before school Stella, Ruby and I headed out to search for a dress at Old Navy that one of her besties at school had on the day before.

Stella HAD to have the gray sparkly tiered ruffle dress that of course is SOLD OUT every where. So sold out its not even pictured online anymore!

Prepared NOT to find the dress I got her into her pink & red stripped number from Old Navy and she insisted that Ruby wear hers...

This is the first time they have ever worn the same thing and matched!

It didn't last very long though... when 3 Old Navys didn't have the gray dress we headed to H&M.

Guess what we found...

Oh no... those are not polka dots...

those are HELLO KITTIES!!

It is a silky (polyester) party dress just ready for such a festive occasion!

It was perfect for her birthday party at school.

She was sure the belle of the school day.

Speaking of parties... the girls party is TOMORROW!

Our St. Louis family is coming today and we are gearing up for an amazing time!!

Cannot wait!

Today is the last day to enter to WIN the Shabby Apple Light as a feather necklace... click below to enter!

SHABBY APPLE GIVEAWAY

Party 3 Days and freaking out!

2011-12-07T21:44:00.003-06:00

Yes... only 3 days until the big party and I am pretty much freaking out knowing we will be hosting 26 kids (4 years and under) and their parents in our little 3 bedroom 2.5 bath house.

I tell myself every year since Stella's big 1st birthday (note we were in a 2bd/2ba condo in the city and had 16 little kids and their parents! Thank goodness for cocktails!)

"This is it! Never again!"

And yet here we are again for a 4th year and another big bash.

This year I mean it.

THIS IS IT!

The main reason for me throwing this bash is all for little Ruby.

I wanted to make certain that she in 10 years doesn't ask why she didn't get the big birthday bash and where is her signature platter for her 1st birthday.

Ruby, this one is really for you!

(Although, Stella really thinks its all for her...)

I thought I would take the time and really feature all my amazing ETSY finds that helped me get ready for the party.

I will showcase the photos of the official party next week once I have gained consciousnesses.

Ruby's Actual Signature Platter which is the whole reason for the party...
Monogram Plate Perfect for Signatures by Aedriel Originals

Aedriel is amazing!
We worked together to find the best platter for Ruby and I cannot be more excited! I cannot wait to see it filled with all the signatures and hang it in her room.

It really is one of my favorite things I did for Stella and now Ruby will have one too.

Then I got my decorating on with these amazing finds...

Cotton Pom Poms by iammie

I created my little pompom garland over my chandelier with these.

You can see the finish garland at
"Its Beginning To Look A Lot Like" post.

Tissue paper pom poms...5 pom poms & 5 pom wheels...Noel Noel Pom Pack...christmas theme by simplynesting

Ooooh!
I cannot wait for you to see how I added them to the chandelier that the cotton pom pom garland is already on...

Some may think its over the top, but I just LOVE it!

Then of course I made the Hot Chocolate favors as seen in
"A Fairy Merry Favor,"
but what I think makes our so special are the sweet fairy favor tags:

Christmas Fairy Party Favor Tags by snicklefritzandpj

That is it for my ETSY collection...
The rest of the decor was quite easy since it is Christmas time and with a "Christmas Theme" I lucked out by getting to use all that I already have for the season.

Extra bonus!
I have an amazingly talented sister-in-law (Nicole) who will be making 2 cakes (one for Stella & one for Ruby) plus 25+ cupcakes!

She is going to be making 2 huge cupcake cakes to look just like the girls invitation from Tiny Prints:

They will both look exactly like the cupcake above featuring a colored chocolate "peppermint" in hot pink & red!

Target also was amazing I got all the festive paper goods for only $2 per set.

I am using plain white for dinner but these cuties for cake:

They had a whole paper and melamine collection of this Santa and I just could resist -so plan to see him EVERY WHERE in the photos.

That is it for now... lots of cleaning of the house to do before Saturday!

Wish me luck!

In the meantime please don't forget to enter my amazing Shabby Apple Giveaway

HERE.

Little Snow Shoes

2011-12-05T14:16:00.001-06:00

Ruby has the worlds smallest feet!

I think she is taking after her Grandma who has a 5.5 women's shoe size...

OK, no, she and Stella are still sizing exactly the same.

The only difference is that when Stella was this age we lived in the city (Bucktown Chicago) where we were not out playing in the snow nor sledding at the local park.

After scoring an AMAZING Columbia snowsuit from my sister-in-law for Ruby I knew she would be needing some snow boots for this winter.

I tried and tried...

I think I sent back a total of 5 different pairs of boots.

All way too big or if they fit too stiff for Ruby to walk in.

Many of the ones that are Infant size 4 are not even for walkers and don't have hard bottoms.

Grrrrr....

During my searches, these little Croc boots kept coming up, but for some weird reason years ago I vowed I'd never buy Crocs .

Why?

Not sure, most likely bc they are so popular and in my mind not fashionable so I steered clear of them by supporting other brands like Puma and Native and their version of the Crocs.

Tired of trying I just bought these little boots from Amazon.com
planning to just send them back like all the rest...

Crocs Kosmoboot Littles Insulated Puffy Lined Boots

They arrived this morning.

It was a pleasant surprise!

I took them out of the box and was more pleased than disappointed.

1) They are super light weight.

2) They are hard soled, but flexible for my little walker to cruise in

3) Warm "enough."

Best part of it all is that Ruby really liked wearing them!

She had no problems running a lap in the house in them.
Additional bonus they were too hard for her to pull off or kick off!

Yay!

Now, would I purchase these boots for Stella too?

No.

I do not think they would hold up to a real toddler's activities.

While they are really light weight and lined with fleece (something like that) they are more like Uggs in that there is no way they would hold up on a day of sledding. Really cold feet and toes.

Perfect though for anyone that is 2 and under.

Here is Ruby with her new little Kosmoboots at home:

Here is Ruby giving them the once over...

YES! They passed the taste test!!

All in all cute for the little ones who may venture out to explore the snow, but not too long I would guess that their little toes will get wet and cold in these.

Great for cold days running errands, etc.

A reminder about my fab giveaway!!

One lucky Keeping up with Stella & Rubylou reader will win this amazing gold feather necklace!

(I wish I could enter!)

LIGHT AS A FEATHER

Retail $48

Gold metal feather stamping suspended on gold chain.

Necklace length approximately 18”.
Handmade in the USA

On top of the great giveaway, Shabby Apple is generously giving Keeping up with Stella & Rubylou readers 10% off at shabbyapple.com for the month of December 2011!

Discount Code for Shabby Apple:

KEEPINGUP10OFF

**Note that this code is only valid thru December 31st, 2011**

Now here is what you need to do to enter to win the amazing Shabby Apple

LIGHT AS A FEATHER Necklace!

1) "Like" Shabby Apple on Facebook and leave me a comment to let me know that you did.

AND

2) Go to shabbyapple.com and leave me a comment on what is your favorite item.

EXTRA CREDIT

You will earn one extra entry for each of these below.

Leave a comment with each action.

1) Tweet this giveaway including @kuwstella and let me know your twitter handle.

2) Share this on your Facebook Page

3) Blog about this giveaway and send me the link. (5 extra entries)

Please note by the request of Shabby Apple, the winner must have a US shipping address.
There will be no exchanges for the winning piece of jewelry.

Giveaway entries will be accepted until next Friday 12/9/11.

I will announce the WINNER on Monday, December 12th.

Good luck to all!

ENTER TO WIN HERE!

Light As a Feather and in Beautiful Gold!

2011-12-04T08:51:00.000-06:00

I cannot tell you how excited I was when Shabby Apple reached out to me to host a GIVEAWAY!

I posted the original giveaway on Friday, but sadly I think its gone over looked!

(Only 3 entries?)

I cannot imagine anyone NOT wanting to enter to win this adorable necklace!

So enter to win below!

One lucky Keeping up with Stella & Rubylou reader will win this amazing gold feather necklace!

(I wish I could enter!)

LIGHT AS A FEATHER

Retail $48

Gold metal feather stamping suspended on gold chain.

Necklace length approximately 18”.
Handmade in the USA

On top of the great giveaway, Shabby Apple is generously giving Keeping up with Stella & Rubylou readers 10% off at shabbyapple.com for the month of December 2011!

Discount Code for Shabby Apple:

KEEPINGUP10OFF

**Note that this code is only valid thru December 31st, 2011**

Now here is what you need to do to enter to win the amazing Shabby Apple

LIGHT AS A FEATHER Necklace!

1) "Like" Shabby Apple on Facebook and leave me a comment to let me know that you did.

AND

2) Go to shabbyapple.com and leave me a comment on what is your favorite item.

EXTRA CREDIT

You will earn one extra entry for each of these below.

Leave a comment with each action.

1) Tweet this giveaway including @kuwstella and let me know your twitter handle.

2) Share this on your Facebook Page

Giveaway entries will be accepted until next Friday 12/9/11.

I will announce the WINNER on Monday, December 12th.

Good luck to all!

"Santa what's in your sack for me?"

2011-12-04T08:42:00.000-06:00

Are you a little overwhelmed with all the toy options out there?

I know I am trying to get past only buying Disney Princesses...

All my prayers were answered with one little visit to what is surely becoming my favorite spot online for the girls,

Little Fashion Gallery.

Check out the great collection of gifts to give this Holiday Season for babies to little kids...

There are so many MANY other great items to see at

Little Fashion Gallery too!

Have you entered the fabulous SHABBY APPLE Giveaway yet?

Enter to WIN this sweet Feather Necklace!

On top of the great giveaway, Shabby Apple is generously giving Keeping up with Stella & Rubylou readers 10% off at shabbyapple.com for the month of December 2011!

Discount Code for Shabby Apple:

KEEPINGUP10OFF

**Note that this code is only valid thru December 31st, 2011**

Head over to the original post for giveaway information!

Light As a Feather Shabby Apple

2011-12-02T00:31:00.001-06:00

You may remember my post back in September "Not So Shabby Apple", where I shared with all of you the adorable little girl dresses that I am loving for the girls!

My obsession continues!!!

Check out a few more girls dresses here:

What I don't remember from my last visit is that they have Preteen Girls too!

Loving this olive green GI Jane dress!

Just wish it came in my size.

While I traditionally post about little girls clothing, the main reason I go to Shabby Apple is for me!

I love their assortment of vintage inspired jewelry, killer shoes, and fabulous dress collection!

Here are a few things that I have pinned into my Pinterest

"What I Want Now" board:

Roses Mean Love Necklace

Adelaide Navy Blue Skirt

Lake Titicaca Navy Blue Peter Pan Collar Dress

I cannot tell you how excited I was when Shabby Apple reached out to me to host a GIVEAWAY!!!

And this time not even for something for the kids!

One lucky Keeping up with Stella & Rubylou reader will win this amazing gold feather necklace!

(I wish I could enter!)

LIGHT AS A FEATHER

Retail $48

Gold metal feather stamping suspended on gold chain.

Necklace length approximately 18”.
Handmade in the USA

On top of the great giveaway, Shabby Apple is generously giving Keeping up with Stella & Rubylou readers 10% off at shabbyapple.com for the month of December 2011!

Discount Code for Shabby Apple:

KEEPINGUP10OFF

**Note that this code is only valid thru December 31st, 2011**

Now here is what you need to do to enter to win the amazing Shabby Apple

LIGHT AS A FEATHER Necklace!

1) "Like" Shabby Apple on Facebook and leave me a comment to let me know that you did.

2) Go to shabbyapple.com and leave me a comment on what is your favorite item.

EXTRA CREDIT

You will earn one extra entry for each of these below.

Leave a comment with each action.

1) Tweet this giveaway including @kuwstella and let me know your twitter handle.

2) Share this on your Facebook Page

3) Blog about this giveaway and send me the link. (5 extra entries)

Please note by the request of Shabby Apple, the winner must have a US shipping address.

There will be no exchanges for the winning piece of jewelry.

Giveaway entries will be accepted until next Friday 12/9/11.

I will announce the WINNER on Monday, December 12th.

Good luck to all!

Fairy Merry Favor

2011-11-30T22:40:00.006-06:00

The big party is in a week and 3 days!

Panic set in this morning when I realized that I needed to get 28 favors done and I had no idea how hard (or easy) these favors were going to be.

Thankfully these adorable hot cocoa favors were SIMPLE and super fast to make.

Had Ruby not woken up from her nap 15 minutes early I would have had these all done in less than an hour and a half.

Here is what you need to make your own Hot Chocolate Favors...

HOT CHOCOLATE

Single Serve Hot Chocolate was cheaper than buying a big box of loose powder AND it was super easy not having to measure it all out.

DISPOSABLE DECORATING BAGS CLEAR

You need 2 bags for one favor so if you are making 12 favors you will need 24 bags.

TINY CLEAR HAIR BANDS

Get those tiny baby rubber bands for babies hair.

They are approximately $3 for 100.

TOPPINGS

Marshmallows or Chocolate Chips, Crushed Candy Canes, etc.

PRETTY TIES

Custom Favor Tags from Etsy Shop

snicklefritzandpj

Here is how you can make these yourselves...

STEP 1:

Pour your single serving of hot chocolate into the
1st decorators bag.

STEP 2:

Tie off the hot chocolate and trim
down the bag.

STEP 3:

Slide the hot chocolate bag into the 2nd decorators bag and tuck down the
top of bag #1 so you do not see the hair tie.

STEP 4:

Add your preferred toppings.

STEP 5:

With the 2nd hair band tie off the top of the
2nd decorators bag.

STEP 6:

Tie on the favor tag or ribbon and trim off the excess
bag to your preferred length.

VOLIA!

Super cute and super easy

Hot Chocolate Favors!!

Here is a video on how to make the Hot Chocolate Favors in 30Seconds...

(A tip I have submitted to 30Second Mom.)

Each favor ended up being only $1.27 each!

There is still so much to do for the party...

Wish me luck!

UPDATE my "Source"

I received a non-favorable comment about my favors

about and I wanted to address the claims that I have not

sourced where I learned to make these favors:

I did not steal any idea

or forget to source anything that I found. ;0(

I personally didn't search for any tutorials

on how to make these I figured it out

for myself by looking at

ones that were at Target.

YES! You can find inspiration at Etsy, there are over 181 to choose from.
Those do not tell you HOW to make them.

Here are some of them
ETSY:

I am not trying to re-invent the wheel but make a cute favor for cheap.

If you would like a source, then I source the Hot Chocolate Favors for sale at Target.
It is there that I saw how they were put together.
Made by Target's private label.

Why do people have to take something that is supposed to be sweet and fun and ruin it?

Sweet Feet

2011-11-30T09:51:00.000-06:00

Rubylou is needing a new pair of shoes and look at what Zara has to offer!

Little Bear Basketball Boot

I'm totally in love!

And for those chilly winter days at home, these adorable slippers

Slipper

Keeping up with Stella & Rubylou

Crazy Good Hair

Calling All Etsy Shops!

LA MADE

Sending an a-SOS To All The Pregnant Bellies!

Tangerine Tango!

Be Mine

Guess what... she's got one going on NOW!

Get FREE SHIPPING in the U.S. on all orders that include at least one Valentine's Day item! Use coupon code VALENTINE at checkout. This offer is good through 1/31/12.

The Smith Family 2012

Silhouette Necklace - 3 charms - sterling silver pendant

Personalized Kids Silhouette Flat Cards-set of 16

Silhouette Calling Cards - Choose the Silhouette and Personalization (I had these with Stella- so adorable!)

Family Tree - Personalized Silhouette Poster 11x14(As Seen in Country Living Magazine)

Silhouette Plate - Holiday - Kids in Santa's Hat Made from your photo

His and Hers Silhouette Napkin Rings Set of 2

Boy Silhouette Accent Pillow

Girl Silhouette Throw Pillow

I'd love to own each and every piece!

Have you purchased from Le Papier Studio too?

Would love to hear and see what you got!

Bean Bag Delight!

Belle & Boo

Let it SNOW!

Whooo... Whooo... Hoot!

Nocturnal Nightlightat Land of Nod

Búhos bebé Romperby Tea Collection

cool owl teeat Crewcuts

Amoxicillin, Azithromycin, A fall down the stairs- OH MY!

Chasing Fireflies

Thank Yous

SALE SALE SALE!

Forever Girls

2012 Style

Its too good to be true!

Simply Charming...

Merry Christmas

Happy Hanukkah!

Blowing out the Candles- 2years Already?

Ruby's 1 Today! AND Rue La La "Doing a little good" Winner

____________________________________________________________

________________________________________________

We have a crazy week to come...

There is no school for Stella for the next 2 weeks (eeeek!)

I have booked our days to the max with playdates, parties, and outings to the city etc.

What we are most looking forward to this week is attending our first Hanukkah party ever!

Our friends the Guenins have invited us to learn about their Hanukkah traditions!

Stella thinks she is already an expert since they have been learning about Hanukkah at school so this should be interesting...

I found the most amazing Hanukkah gift for Audrey & Andrew as a thank you that I will share with you on Thursday after the party.

Happy Birthday Stella & Ruby!

Tonight at 8pm CST, Be Good and SHOP!

Do a Little Good This Holiday Season with Little Rue!

Shabby Apple WINNER!!

Shine & Meow!

Party 3 Days and freaking out!

Little Snow Shoes

Crocs Kosmoboot Littles Insulated Puffy Lined Boots

They arrived this morning.

It was a pleasant surprise!

I took them out of the box and was more pleased than disappointed.

1) They are super light weight.

2) They are hard soled, but flexible for my little walker to cruise in

3) Warm "enough."

Best part of it all is that Ruby really liked wearing them!

She had no problems running a lap in the house in them. Additional bonus they were too hard for her to pull off or kick off!

Yay!

Now, would I purchase these boots for Stella too?

No.

I do not think they would hold up to a real toddler's activities. While they are really light weight and lined with fleece (something like that) they are more like Uggs in that there is no way they would hold up on a day of sledding. Really cold feet and toes.

Perfect though for anyone that is 2 and under. Here is Ruby with her new little Kosmoboots at home:

All in all cute for the little ones who may venture out to explore the snow, but not too long I would guess that their little toes will get wet and cold in these.

Great for cold days running errands, etc.

A reminder about my fab giveaway!!

Light As a Feather and in Beautiful Gold!

"Santa what's in your sack for me?"

Light As a Feather Shabby Apple

Fairy Merry Favor

Sweet Feet

Get FREE SHIPPING in the U.S. on all orders that include at least one Valentine's Day item!

Use coupon code VALENTINE at checkout.

This offer is good through 1/31/12.

Silhouette Calling Cards - Choose the Silhouette and Personalization
(I had these with Stella- so adorable!)

Family Tree - Personalized Silhouette Poster 11x14
(As Seen in Country Living Magazine)

Silhouette Plate - Holiday - Kids in Santa's Hat
Made from your photo

His and Hers Silhouette Napkin Rings
Set of 2

Nocturnal Nightlight
at Land of Nod

Búhos bebé Romper
by Tea Collection

cool owl tee
at Crewcuts

She had no problems running a lap in the house in them.
Additional bonus they were too hard for her to pull off or kick off!

I do not think they would hold up to a real toddler's activities.

While they are really light weight and lined with fleece (something like that) they are more like Uggs in that there is no way they would hold up on a day of sledding. Really cold feet and toes.

Perfect though for anyone that is 2 and under.

Here is Ruby with her new little Kosmoboots at home: