Merry and Bright

Even though we always go home to the US for Christmas, we still like to get in the spirit at home and decorate the house a bit and I always send Christmas cards. We use Tiny Prints for our photo cards. Sometimes I have photos of all of us, but this year I chose two photos of the girls. I always find styles I like from their selection. This year we bought a small tree and put it on a table. It's just about the same height as Lois and fits our favorite ornaments perfectly. Lois actually carried it home herself! 

Melanie Barnes for 91 Magazine

A few months ago I had the pleasure of meeting Melanie Barnes of the beautiful blog Geoffrey and Grace when I went to shoot her cozy house and cute makery beach hut in Worthing for 91 Magazine. In addition to being a busy mom, Melanie is also a talented crafter who sews children's clothes and accessories from vintage fabrics. She also runs a shop with two other talented crafters out of their beach hut studio / shop named Margot.

Snapshots from New York

I had a GREAT time with my mom and sister in New York! Four days with no kids (as much as we love our kids, it's nice to have a break!), just shopping, eating, drinking and exploring.  I couldn't have asked for a better girls' trip! And New York during the holidays, well, it's just magical, isn't it?

Hello New York!

Tomorrow I'm going to New York where I'll meet my mom and sister for a fun long weekend in the city! I'm so excited to see my mom and sister but also because I'll be going solo. A tiny, lightweight carry-on-bag! I've dreamt of this day. No diapers, no wipes, crayons, markers, sippy cups, changes of clothes, snacks, snacks and more snacks, no headphones, no iPad... Just me and my gin and tonic with a book on my kindle and a few pretty magazines. WOOHOO! And I need to make a few more notes on places to go, so I'll be taking some time to look through my Herb Lester guides. If you don't already know of Herb Lester, they make some beautifully illustrated guides with maps to wonderful cities. I've also asked friends for recommendations and found some helpful info from Time Out. I've been to NY a few times, but it's been a while. If you have any recommendations or tips, let me know! (Image above from one of the Herb Lester guides.)