Desiree Carol - @Love.Marriage.BabyCarriages
  • BLOG
  • CONTACT

T-Ball Season Merch: Shop Our Look

6/19/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
Picture
0 Comments
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

Leopard Print Swimsuits: Shop Our Look

6/17/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
0 Comments
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

In Love with Lilac: Shop Our Look

5/17/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
0 Comments
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

My Day and Night Time Skin Routine

4/21/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
During the pandemic, I did what I feel a lot of people did and upped my self care game!!  I went through countless facial cleansers, washes, makeup removers, etc. and finally narrowed the best combo down to these magic makers! 
1.  Garnier Cleansing Water:  this stuff is so affordable and works so well at removing your makeup!  I even use it in the morning after a workout as just a double cleanser

2.  HelloBody Coffee Face Scrub:  I use this almost everyday, although the recommended is once to twice a week.  It smells so good and I like that it has a different texture than the rest of the facial products I use.  GLAM52 will get you 30% OFF :-)

3.  HelloBody Coco Fresh Face Cleansing Foam: This one is an everyday, twice a day cleanser.  If you do nothing else....use this!

4.  HelloBody Daily Face Lotion:  Don't neglect the neck!  All over your face and down your neck with this one!  They also have a night time version that is fabulous and goes on thick to moisturize overnight. 

5.  Revitalift Eye Cream:  I swear the bags under my eyes popped up over night and really started to bug.  I have been using this serum for about three weeks now and started seeing results around two weeks.  If they end up going away completely, I will for sure update this post!

6.  No 7 Dark Spot Corrector: These popped up after my second child (now almost 5 years old) and recently just started getting worse and worse, especially in the summer when the rest of my face would get tan, they would darken with it.  They started to really bug me, so I decided to try out new products.  I saw results with this one in only ONE week!  Swear by this stuff.  Have been using it for about three weeks now.  Again, if they manage to get rid of the spots completely, I will update the post.
Lastly, and not pictured....SUNSCREEN!  I have a tinted moisturizer with sunscreen in it that I put on for an everyday look.  If I do not wear makeup, I just put on a basic sunscreen.

This combo took quite a few months to figure out and nail down.  I know everyone's skin is different and reacts differently, but hopefully it helps some of you out!  Please tag @love.marriage.babycarriages if you end up trying out any of the products!
0 Comments
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

Spinning Into Spring: Shop Our Look

4/20/2021

1 Comment

 
Picture
SO much love for these floral print outfits!  Charlee's is perfect for running around.  It's a romper with a maxi dress skirt attached to the back.  Mine, is loose, flowy, and OOOO so comfy!  Mommy and me outfits from Target and Amazon! #liketkit @liketoknow.it Shop your screenshot of this pic with the LIKEtoKNOW.it shopping app http://liketk.it/3ds2x
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
1 Comment
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

Let It Snow: Shop Our Look

3/8/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
This was definitely an unplanned little photo shoot.  As we were headed out to lunch from our family cabin, it started snowing.  Had to stop and take some pictures with my minnie!  I actually got our beanies at CVS....I know....who would of thought!  If you look at them closely, they have the cutest little gold sparkles in them.  Our leather jackets are always a fan fav!  I am in LOVE with Charlee's jeans!  Amazon....where is the womens size?!?! Elastic waste, so super comfy for her.  There are little leopard print patches that peek out through the wholes in them. My pants are super stretchy and comfortable too.  Elastic waste as well....so more of a jegging than a pair of jeans but have the real jean feel and look. We wear our matching fringe scarfs all of the time....quite the steal at $6.99 each.
Picture
Picture
Picture
0 Comments
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

Winter Haul for the Family: Shop Our Look

2/24/2021

1 Comment

 
Picture
This was the year of snow clothes purchases.  LOL I always order the kids snow clothes two sizes up so they last for a couple winters.  Last year was borderline to small on them.  So, this year, I hit up Amazon for new snow clothes and joined in on the fun.  Here is what we got and LOVE.

Me: To be honest, I never really wear snow pants or boots.  Jackets, yes.  But pants and boots I normally just tough it out in a pair of leggings and rain boots and hope for the best.  I haven't boarded in years, so for sledding and snow play, it wasn't to bad.  However, now that the kids are a little older and we spend more time in the snow, pants and a good pair of snow boots were definitely necessary.  The ones I found on Amazon are AMAZING.  The pants weren't to baggy and they were fleece lined.  So kept me super warm and dry.  Boots as well, but also OOO so cute!  My jacket I got to match Charlee.  You know how much I love twinning LOL It is not a super thick, fleece lined, cozy jacket.  But....it did keep me dry.  We do all of our snow play in Big Bear Lake, CA.  So something lighter was actually better for me.  I figured I could always throw a long john shirt or even sweatshirt underneath if I needed to bundle up more. 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Charlee and Mason:  Charlee's outfit is the REAL deal.  I remember as a kid getting wet and being miserable.  Especially my butt.  When learning to ski or snowboard, falling is going to happen.  The kids did learn this trip, so I made sure to order jackets for them that were long and covered their booty's.  It seriously makes all of the difference in the world.  Neither one of them complained about being wet or cold the entire week.  And for the prices, I think the clothes are completely legit. 
Picture
Picture
Picture
And some more pictures and videos from our trip.....we had so much fun!
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
1 Comment
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

Marvel-ous Movie Nights

2/18/2021

1 Comment

 
Picture
If you follow me on social media, you know, Mason's love for Spiderman is NO secret.  I am actually a huge fan of Marvel movies.  Iron Man happens to be my FAV.  But to be honest, trying to cue in what happened in a past movie with one that was just released was a little challenging.  I knew I missed stuff!  So....Mark, Mason and I decided to watch all of the Marvel movies in the order of events.  It gives you a WHOLE new perspective of how fantastic they all are.  To be honest, I had not even seen all of them until we started doing this.  But of course, with the movies, comes festivities.  So I am put together this blog post filled with TONS of fun Marvel Movie Night ideas.  16 down, and 7 to go so far!  Everything will be up by the time we finish watching!  In the meantime, if you want to join us, here is the order of Marvel movies based on sequence of events:

Captain America: The First Avenger
Captain Marvel
Iron Man
The Incredible Hulk
Iron Man 2
Thor
The Avengers
Iron Man 3
Thor: The Dark World
Captain America: The Winter Soldier
Guardians of the Galaxy
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2
Avengers: Age of Ultron
Ant-Man
Captain America: Civil War
Spider-Man: Homecoming
Black Panther
Doctor Strange
Thor: Ragnarok
Ant-Man and the Wasp
Avengers: Infinity War
Avengers: Endgame
Spider-Man: Far from Home

Captain America:

This is something I will definitely be serving up at our next movie.  The kids love berries and they LOVE marshmallows.  Mason has always been the type to pay attention to the details, so I can totally see him appreciating the extra time to lay out this platter in the style of Captain America's shield. 
Picture
Marybeth over at BabySavers blog put together this Marvel Mix and boy does it look YUM!  Click here for the recipe!
Picture
Picture
Jesse with ArtfulLifeByJesse Etsy shop gifted Mason the coolest Marvel poster!  As we watched the movies, we would post it them on the canvas "Watched It!"  It has been such a great element to add to the decor of his room.  He has SO many different art pieces from Marvel, Star Wars, etc.  And he has offered my readers and followers a discount code

FAVORITESTORE10 to save 10% 
Picture
Picture
Picture
1 Comment
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

Free Downloadable Star Charts for Kids

1/26/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
My mornings are always better when my kids are in a good mood!  Don't you agree?!?  In fact, a bad day can quickly turn into a good day when they do exactly what they are supposed to be doing!  There were a couple of things that were in need of tackling with the kids in order to, well, make my life a little easier.  So I created these star charts and they work GREAT! 
Picture
Here is how they work! 
1.  I laminated my star charts so the kids can color in their stars with dry erase markers and wipe them clean each week. 

2.  Each day, the kids are expected to complete a certain number of star tasks from their star chart.  I leave the number open ended because I feel like the older they get, the more they should be expected to complete.  For example, as you can see below...my daughter Charlee, is having a hard time potty training while she is asleep.  She had a straddle accident about 6 months ago and was fully potty trained at the time, but now has accidents more than I would like her to.  Because this is a little bit of a harder task, I only require her to get five stars a day as opposed to 6 so she has a better opportunity to get a prize star! 

3.  When the kids earn the amount of daily stars they are supposed to, they receive a prize star!  I think it is important that they earn a prize star as regularly as possible.  That way, they stay engaged with the tasks of the chart.  Charlee is 4 years old and has to complete 5 out of the 6 star tasks in order to get 1 prize star.  I did not want to throw the day out if she happened to have an accident in her pull up over night.  She rarely has an accident both at night and nap time in one day.  So still has a pretty good chance of earning a prize star each day even if she doesn't start the day off with a dry diaper.  Mason is 6 years old,  and in my opinion, more than capable of earning all 6 star tasks per day.  So, he has to complete all 6 before he gets a prize star. 

4.  After the kids earn 10 prize stars, they get a prize!  All of the prizes I give the kids are around $10 in value.  So if you think about it, 10 prize stars would be 10 good days of your child completing all of their star tasks.  Ultimately, would you pay $1 a day for your kid to be on their very best behavior?!?!?! I know I would!

Picture
CHARLEE'S STAR CHART
Picture
MASON'S STAR CHART

There are so many awesome $10 toys on Amazon Prime.  A lot of which, Mason asks for and eagerly tries to earn through his star chart.  If he comes across a toy he REALLY wants (thank you YouTube) and it happens to cost more....$20-$30 normally....I usually offer him to earn as many stars as the dollar amount that toy is worth.  I admittedly cave at times for the big prizes once he earns the first 10 prize stars LOL

I also plan the "star tasks' based on the week ahead.  So if I know there is something in particular I need the kids to do on their own without begging for them to do it, I put it as a star task on the chart. 

Below I have attached a couple of different charts in PDF form as well as some Amazon links to toys for boys and girls in the $20 and under range that my kids personally love.  I added Spiderman to Masons and Unicorns to Charlee's.....just to decorate them up a little.  The other Star Chart has blank sides, so you can easily add whatever character your child happens to be into at that time.  I hope you all enjoy!  Please tag me on Instagram in any star chart prints @love.marriage.babycarriages

You can download the Star Chart PDFs here ---->

star_chart.pdf
File Size: 72 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

marvel_star_chart.pdf
File Size: 150 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

unicorn_star_chart.pdf
File Size: 145 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
0 Comments
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

Leather Jackets, Jeans, and the Cutest Hats: Shop Our Look

1/18/2021

2 Comments

 
Picture
I have to say, I was pretty excited while piecing together these outfits.  It all started with these adorable hats and than just went from there!   They have adjustable strings on the inside so when tied it fits Charlee's head perfectly and I am a fan of the semi loose fit which totally worked for me as well.  And for the price.....can't be beat! 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
2 Comments
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

Cardigans and Comfy Boots: Shop Our Look

1/11/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
Its my favorite fashion season.....cardigans, leggings, comfy boots and beanies!  This has quickly become Charlee and I's go to look as things have cooled down here in sunny southern CA.  She is OBSESSED with leggings.  Refuses to wear anything else, and if I finally get her to wear jeans or another style of pant, she is quick to change right back into her leggings as soon as she gets home.  Her cardigan has little sparkles in it that you cant see very well in the pictures but she is in love with them.....yes, them, we bought in multiple colors LOL.  Shop our look and other favorites down below. 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
CLICK HERE FOR CHARLEE'S TARGET CARDIGAN!
0 Comments
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

My Favorite Skin Care Line and a 30% OFF Coupon Code

1/6/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Who doesn't love an everyday spa day?!?!?  I can not believe the positive changes in my skin after using HelloBody for just a few months.  Creeping into my mid 30s over here, and no clue what was going on but my complexion started looking like a high school kid in their prime of puberty.  NOT CUTE!  After using HelloBody for just a couple of weeks, I could already see and feel great changes in my skin.  So when the opportunity to be an  ambassador came about, it was a NO brainer.  A few months using their products now and I am so much more confident with my complexion.  So I thought I would share my morning and night time routine with you all as well as my 30% OFF Code = GLAM52

Picture
Picture

4 Different Skin Care Lines: 
They offer four different skin care lines to choose from based on your skin type. 
1.  Coco Pure Moisture for Normal to Dry Skin (this is the one I use)
2.  ALOE Hydra Glow for Normal and Dehydrated Skin
3.  Rose Pure Balance for Combination to Oily Skin
4.  Cara Strength and Protection for Normal and Sensitive Skin
I am in LOVE with the Coco line.  My mother in law drinks a lot of coffee with coconut creamer and that is exactly what it smells like!

Picture

Morning Routine:
1.  Coco Pure Face Scrub (I use this every other day)
2. Coco Fresh Face Foam
3.  COCO Day Daily Face Lotion
4. Coco Prime Shimmering Face Fluid (can also be used as a primer for your foundation or to highlight your face on top of you makeup)
5.  Hope & Joy Lip Scrub (this stuff is worth every penny!!!  Check out the change in Masons lips just after 3 days!)
6.  Hope & Joy Lip Balm

Picture
BEFORE
Picture
AFTER
This is not fake news! LOL If you follow me on Instagram, you would have seen me post a video using the scrub and balm on Mason for the first time with the left picture as a screenshot from zooming in on the video, and then three days later videoing his progress with the picture on the right.  I WAS IN SHOCK!

Nighttime Routine:
1.  Coco Fresh Face Foam
2. Coco Calm Soothing Face Toner
3. Coco Soft Night Face Lotion
5.  Hope & Joy Lip Scrub (this stuff is worth every penny!!!  Check out the change in Masons lips just after 3 uses!)
6.  Hope & Joy Lip Balm

Picture

About once a week I put on the Coco Clear Mud Mask for about 10-15 minutes.  It makes your skin feel SO good.  Everyone deserves some self care in their life!  Treat yourself!

30% Discount Code: GLAM52
0 Comments
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

25 Different Elf on the Shelf Ideas

12/26/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Elf on the shelf is one of the very many traditions our family partakes in during the holidays.  I mean, who doesn't want to say , "Your elves are watching", and have your kids shape up IMMEDIATELY and listen to you?!?!?!  I wish we had a form of these guys to us year round HA.  This year, our original elf, Buddy, brought his friend Sparkle to join in on the fun.  The kids get so excited to come downstairs everyday and see where the elves are hiding and what they have gotten into the night before.  If you want to see more of them dressed up as their two favorite elves, check out this blog post!
Picture
Picture
Picture
I wish I could take all of the credit for most of the scenes, but my husband is the mastermind behind the elves!  Our elves make their magical appearance the day after Thanksgiving.  (I know, I know, December 1st is the official date!)  I let the kids cuddle and snuggle with them until the 31st....and then off to the North

Day 1:

Picture
Countdown Calendars:  The grand appearance day of the elves.  The perfect gift on December 1st is a countdown calendar.  I found these two on Amazon a while back.  However, I think next year I will be ordering these sleigh ones...because I mean...look at them!!!  I fill each one with little candies, treats, or toys.  Sometimes I even add a little note in them.  The kids get to open them each day after school which gives them a little surprise to look forward to at the end of the day.
Picture
Picture
Picture

Day 2:

Picture
Each year, we buy the kids and ourselves matching Christmas pajamas to wear on Christmas Eve.  Last year, I decided the pajamas would be a gift from the elves.  I normally gives these at the beginning of Elf season so the kids get a couple of wears out of them before Christmas. 
Picture
Picture
My four year old was "helping" decorate the stair case the night before I had come up with this one.  She took all of my extra ribbons and one by one knotted them on every single one of our stair banisters.  She did NOT want me to take them down LOL.  So I left them, and the elves took them down to use as props.  It was a perfect plan!

Day 3:

Hands down the kids get MOST excited when the elves use their toys to create little scenes.  This scenes credit goes to daddy.  I had forgotten to move the elves and texted him to do so when he got home (LA City Fire Fighter...so he works 24 hour shifts).  He surprised ALL of us with this adorable setup!  Barbie table and chairs, LOL cups, and a couple of half eaten donut wholes!
Picture
Picture
Picture

Day 4:

Picture
Need a quick and easy idea?  This one is great.  The elves reminding the kids to take their daily vitamin!

Day 5:

The Quarantine Elf.  Because it's not quite 2020 without one.  I actually thoroughly enjoy creating these little magical scenes....and I think my husband does even MORE!  I could not bare the thought of having our elves in quarantine for a set amount of days.  Although, it is a great idea if you need to buy yourself some time lol.  But, my kids do get irritated with the restrictions the pandemic has on them.  So I decided to put a little positive spin on it and "isolate" the elves in lamp shades with  little face mask gifts and a note telling the kids to stay safe and hang in there!
Picture
Picture

Day 6, 7 and 8:

Over the top or showing up with a gift is not always an option.  I mean.....there is not always time! LOL So when there is not the time, I always make sure to just move them to a cute spot before I go to bed.  I always love including Christmas decor! 
Picture
Picture
Picture

Day 9:

This was a fun one.....and got the BIGGEST reaction out of the kids so far.  Pictures speak a thousand words.  Those pesky elves.  AND in the middle of a pandemic #wortheveryroll
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture

Day 10:

Picture
Ok ok...this one got me in a little bit of trouble! So I had an elf on the shelf mom fail....

I overheard Charlee (my 4 year old) tell Mason (my 6 year old) yesterday morning when they had seen the elves had moved the night before, that she touched the elves and they didn't lose their magic. Mason yelled at her and said she couldn't do that but neither of them knew I heard the conversation. So....this morning I set the elves up with medicine and things and wrote a note. First line....

We're not feeling so well, I think someone touched us and we're losing our magic.

Both of the kids jaws dropped. Mason said, "Mom, I did NOT touch those elves!" He hesitated to say, "but I think I know who did." Points to Charlee behind her back so she can't see him. Charlee immediately starts balling her eyes out. Mason started tearing up and asked me if the elves were going to die or stay at the North Pole and never come back. It was a disaster.

Last line on the note said if your extra good today, our magic may come back. We were already in full blown crisis mode for that to happen. Lol  Not a good way to start the morning with those two!

Notice the sock sleeping bags, medicine, and thermometer.  I even put pink lip gloss on their cheeks to make it look like they were really sick.  I honestly thought I was setting myself up to get a couple of REALLY good kids that morning. 

Day 11:

Mason is OBSESSED with dinosaurs.  I was pretty proud of this one and he was so impressed he had to call grandma and tell her all about it that morning. 
Picture
Picture

Day 12:

Picture
The kids play "The Floor is Lava" ALL the time and got a huge kick out of this one!  Immediately jumped on the couches as soon as I read the note.  Although, I would suggest revealing them closer to the front door....it took us a bit longer to get to school that morning bouncing from object to object.

Day 13:

Picture
When we knew we were going to spend the night at home watching movies, we thought it would be fun to play a game with the kids.  So why not have the elves introduce it to them! 

Day 14:

This one had my husband and kids rolling.....Dinosaurs for Mason, Barbie's for Charlee, it was the perfect scene!
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture

Day 15:

Picture
Masons room is a totally decked out Jurassic World.  We have netting and vines hanging from his ceilings.  He took it upon himself to hang helicopters and all of the different flying dinosaurs as well.  So naturally, I had to utilize the decor for a fun elf scene!  The note said they took the helicopter to the North Pole that night.  I could just see the kids imaginations running wild!

Picture
Picture

Day 16:

Hubs came up with this one.  His family has a tradition of making Worscterbroils (no idea how you spell it, but kind of like pigs in a blanket).  They get together about a week before Christmas every year and all make them together....guys and kids too!  So the day we were going to do that....the kids and I woke up to this elf scene!
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture

Day 17:

The kids baby cousin came over for dinner the night before and left the high chair behind for the holidays.  Those silly elves had to try it out!  Eating maple syrup and writing love notes in M&Ms.
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture

Day 18:

Picture
Ok this one got some MAJOR stuff done!  I told the kids that if they ate all of their vegetable soup (they eat NO veggies) that I would write a letter to the elves that they were extra good.  Soooo....as a double wammy, the elves wrote back that they were so proud of them...but if they also slept in their own beds without crawling into mommy or daddys before it was time for school....they would bring them something comfy and cozy.  After much success two nights in a row, they brought back matching pajamas!

Barbie bed, them holding the note we wrote them, and a blanket made of kleenex was a big hit with the kids. 

Day 19:

The naughty little elves getting into the booze!
Picture
Picture
Picture

Day 20 and 21:

I lumped these two together because they were pretty much the same idea.  I have to say, Charlee's favorite was the writing in lipstick on the floor.  Spa day, dress up, and makeup with the elves. 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture

Day 22:

This one got a good laugh and was so quick and easy to do! 
Picture
Picture
Picture

Day 23:

Toothpaste on the mirror.....sounded like a great idea.....but 10 days later....I still have toothpaste on the mirror LOL  Next time I will probably hang a note or piece of paper with the toothpaste on it. 
Picture

Day 24:

Credit to dad on this one!  Christmas Eve = a day of cooking!  No idea HOW he comes up with this stuff LOL
Picture

Day 25:

The Christmas morning surprise!!!! As we were putting the kids down for bed, we read them the Night Before Christmas and told them we were going downstairs to watch a holiday movie before we went to bed ourselves.  Mason replied, "If Santa comes when you are still awake, can you get a picture with him?"  So....those little elves tried to catch him for a picture, but were left only with his boots! 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture

Tips On Keeping the Magic Real:

I always try to include a note.  Sometimes there is no time.  But a personalized note that recalls stuff going on in real life.  "Mason, you did such a good job eating your carrots last night...maybe try broccoli tonight and I will bring you something special from the North Pole tomorrow."  "Charlee, good job on getting 5 green stars this week in class.  Remember, Santa can see you, even when you can't see him! "
Use props from around the house.  The kids are always SO impressed when the elves create little themes from the toys they have laying around the house or Christmas decor,  I can just see their imaginations running wild when they come down to see them.  Wondering how these little elves gathered all of these items to make up the cutest little scenes.  
Picture
I am always looking for new and fresh ideas!  Please share if you have put together any epic Elf scenes for your little ones!
0 Comments
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

DIY Elf on the Shelf Outfits: Shop Our Look

12/23/2020

1 Comment

 
Picture
When I told the kids we should dress them up like their elves on a shelf...stoked was a total understatement!  Mason kind of looks like him don't you think?  HAHA  Super simple, even for a Halloween costume!  Cut the felt into an 18 inch circle.  Cut the jagged edges into it.  And voila!  I also stuffed their Santa hats so they would spike up like the actual elves!
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
1 Comment
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

The Benefits of Blue Light Glasses

12/15/2020

5 Comments

 
Picture
No matter how hard we try.....these days we're all absolutely dependent on tablets and computers.  Remember when we used to restrict the kids to a certain amount of time a day on their tablet or computers?!?!  Well now that they are learning through them with school, the hours that they spend in front of the blue light is astronomical compared to before the pandemic hit!  A blue light glasses company called, Gaoye, reached out to me for a collaboration.  After doing a little research on the product and harmful effects of blue lights, I knew this was a product my family would use and stand by.  Not only are they a super cute accessory, but I feel better knowing my kids eyes are not being harmed by the blue light of their devices and TVs.    
Picture
Picture

What Are Blue-Light Glasses?

Blue light is found in cell phones, tablets, computers, some light bulbs and sunshine.  It can severely damage your retina, which could lead to vision impairment.  Blue-light glasses feature lenses that limit exposure to blue light.
Picture
Picture
There are quite a few benefits to wearing blue-light glasses:

They can relieve eye discomfort.

Excess device usage can lead to computer vision syndrome or digital eye strain. Glasses with blue light filtering technology can enhance your focus and reduce eye strain, resulting in making your eyes feel less tired and improving productivity. Another way to reduce eye strain is to make sure you take regular breaks from the screen.
Picture

Many believe people sleep better when they use blue-light blocking glasses.

Exposures to screen can negatively effect sleeping habits.  Blue light has a high energy frequency that can increase alertness.  Many say we should avoid using blue-light devices one to two hours before sleep. (As I lay here in bed....at 11:00pm...typing this blog...LOL)  This is where the blue light blocking glasses come in quite handy.  (And yes...I have mine on LOL)
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
5 Comments
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

Winter Pajama Haul

12/11/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
This time of year calls for cooking, decorating, Hallmark movie binging, and doing it all in your pajamas!  My 4 year old HAS to get dressed every morning.  She loves picking out outfits and changing twice a day (sometimes more).  My 6 year old son, Mason, and myself....prefer to lounge ALL day long!  We go from day time pajamas to night time pajamas.  Its the best time of year!  So I have put together some of our favorite pajama sets to share with you all!

Sweater Pajama Look

Picture
This is my new FAVORITE look!  Cute, comfortable, and transfers so easy from a lounge outfit to a going out outfit.  Loose comfy sweaters and cable knit socks.  So nice to decorate or to do's around the house in, yet not embarrassing when a girlfriend pops by unexpectedly for a glass of wine! LOL  I even got some for Charlee. HOW CUTE IS THIS LOOK!  Check out my Oversized Sweater blog post to see how these adorable sweaters can transform! 

Satin Pajama Sets

Picture
Picture
Who doesn't love a comfortable satin pajama???  I know I do!  And so do my kids!  This particular set comes in all sorts of styles and colors. 
Picture
Picture
Picture
We had too much fun creating this little clip :-)

Family Pajamas

I am ALL about the family pajamas!  We get at least two sets for the four of us every year!  They make Christmas morning pictures that much cuter!  I am definitely into the more fall/winter sets then the straight Christmas sets....only because I feel like you can get more of a wear out of them. 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
And now its time to get cozy and pass out! LOL
Picture
Picture
0 Comments
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

Fun Wrapping Paper Activity for the Kids by FUN!WRAP

12/8/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
FUN!WRAP reached out to me a couple of weeks ago to introduce their product line.  They sent the kids each a package, Mason the dinosaur theme and Charlee the princess theme.  They colored their little hearts out, wrapped up a couple of Christmas gifts for dad, and put them under the tree.  How CUTE is this idea!  Not only did it entertain them for hours.....but I just know it will bring a little bit of extra appreciation to daddy's gifts when he opens them up on Christmas morning.  Made with love! 
Picture
CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT CHARLEES FUN!WRAP
Picture
CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT MASONS FUN!WRAP
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Some notes from their website on the product:

Welcome to LolliLiNK and thank you for visiting our store. Fun!Wrap is themed wrapping paper developed by LolliLiNK that lets kids personalize their gift for that special someone, such as a grandparent, parent or sibling. Anyone can go to the store and buy wrapping paper, but with Fun!Wrap kids get to create! Fun!Wrap paper becomes a unique work of art and makes a heartwarming statement for the receiver, created by a beloved grandchild, son, daughter, niece, nephew, or friend. Fun!Wrap is fun work and uses creative energy. Fun!Wrap gives children a sense of accomplishment and pride in what they have created. Matching gift tags let kids create a personal note to accompany their specially wrapped gift. Fun!Wrap is printed high quality paper stock to withstand lots of paint, glitter glue, markers, and whatever else your little Picassos imaginative minds can find around the house. Fun!Wrap can be a keepsake for grandparents, relatives, and friends. Our papers are designed with love and completely manufactured in the USA. This was important to us as we wanted LolliLiNK to be firmly grounded in the US. Put a smile on your gift and on a special someone’s face with a gift wrapped with Fun!Wrap!
Picture
Picture
Picture
0 Comments
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

Our Trip to the Christmas Tree Lot

12/3/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
0 Comments
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

A Christmas Tree Fit for a Princess and Another Fit for a Spiderman Lover

11/24/2020

1 Comment

 
Picture
It is just a few days before Thanksgiving and Christmas is in FULL swing at the Chavez house!  The kids asked us if they could have their own trees in their rooms this year.  This is something that my parents did for me and my siblings.  So to carry on the tradition, and to just make my heart even happier during this holiday season, we hit up Amazon for the cutest starter kits for each of their trees! 
Picture
Picture
This was our first flocked tree.  Although it is a little messy, it cleaned up easy and overall.....I am just obsessed!  It looks SO pretty in person and I am super impressed with the quality of this particular one for the price.  What a steal!  When I posted to Instagram, I got SEVERAL inquiries on the mesh that I add to both my trees and garland.  Here it all is linked below.  I also linked some other mesh colors at the bottom of this post that I have used in the past and love as well. 
What can I say about Mason.....the boy knows what he likes.  This year, from his Halloween Costume to his Christmas Tree, was all about Spiderman.  Tree, mesh, ornaments, and Spiderman Ribbons Linked below!
Picture
Picture
Picture
And finally, requested by popular demand....here are some of the mesh decor I have used in the past!  They come in all different colors than just the ones shown so click through the links to check them out!
1 Comment
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

Flannel Twinning: Shop Our Look

11/18/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Loving on these super comfy flannel outfits!  Links to ours and more below!
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
0 Comments
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

Pumpkin Patch Fun: Shop Our Look

10/23/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
This years trip to the Deluca Farm's Pumpkin Patch was awesome.  Inflatable bounce houses, hay rides, pumpkin picking, and some great shots with these cuties.  My dress and shoes listed below are similar but not exactly what I was wearing.  Unfortunately, they are no longer available.  The scarf was SUPER thick when I got it, so I cut it in half so both Charlee and I had matching ones.  Shop our look at the bottom of the blog!
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
0 Comments
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

Boo-zy Recipes: Halloween Themed Cocktails and Mocktails

10/23/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture


I'm here for the boo-ze!

Its not a true party without a themed cocktail menu!  So I gave some of our families favorite cocktails a festive Halloween twist.  Here are some Halloween cocktail recipes sure to empress your guests!

Screamsicle Shake

Picture
Picture
Picture
Makes 4 Shakes:
Chocolate sauce

6 Oreos finely crushed
1 qt. Cookies and Cream Ice Cream
Orange Food Coloring

3/4 c. milk
Whipped cream
Orange & black sprinkles
Make it Boo-zy: 8 ounces Vanilla Vodka


1. Dip top of cup in chocolate sauce and then oreos to rim the glass.  Drizzle chocolate sauce on the inside of the glass.  
2. Blend ice cream, milk, and vanilla vodka (optional). Pour into glass. 
3.  Top with whipped cream and sprinkles.

Monster Mash Margarita

Makes 2 Margaritas:
2 tbsp. colored sugar
2 c. ice
4 oz. silver tequila
2 oz. triple sec
1/2 c. lime juice
Red food coloring
Blue food coloring
Green food coloring
Lime slices
1.  Rim edge of glass with lime and stick into sugar sprinkles.
2. Shake remaining ingredients in a shaker and pour into glass.
3.  Garnish with lime wedge. 

The Perfect Apple Pie Martini

Makes 1 Martini:
4.5 ounces Apple Pucker (3 shots)
3 ounces Vodka (2 shots)
1.5 ounces Triple Sec (1 shot)
Graham Crackers
Caramel Sauce
Green Apple Slice
1.  Rim the edge of the glass with caramel sauce and dip in crushed graham crackers
2.  Shake puckers, vodka, and triple sec with ice in a shaker and pour into glass.  Garnish with green apple slice.

Pumpkin Pie Shots

Picture
Picture
Makes 3 Shots:
1 shot Fireball whiskey
1 shot vanilla vodka
1 shot Pumpkin Spice Baileys Irish Cream
Whipped Cream

1.  Combine vodka, whiskey, and baileys in shaker with ice. 
2.  Shake, pour and garnish with whipped cream!

Bloody Mummy

Picture
Makes 1 Bloody:
Bloody Mary Mix
Celery Salt
Montreal Steak Seasoning
Worcestershire
Tapatio
Fresh Cracked Pepper
Lemon Juice
Lime Juice
String Cheese
Garnishes
Make it Boo-zy: 1 Shot of Vodka
1. Rim the glass with a lime wedge and dip into celery salt. 
2. Line the glass with pieces of string cheese to create the mummy effect.  Stick in the microwave for 30 seconds to melt cheese to the glass.
3. Combine the remaining ingredients in a shaker with ice.  Shake and carefully pull into the glass. ***Everyone likes their bloodies a little different.  Add ingredients to you liking.***
4.  Garnish with the vegetables of your liking!

Bloody Shirley Temple

Picture
Makes 1 Shirley Temple:
Sprite
Grenadine
Maraschino Cherries
Make it Boo-zy: 1 Shot of Vanilla Vodka
1.  Fill a syringe with grenadine.
2.  Place ice, cherries, vodka (optional) and sprite into the glass.
3. Stick the syringe inside the glass.
0 Comments
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

Halloween Games and Activities

10/21/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture

Halloween Activity Kit

Masons FAVORITE Halloween Movie is Mickey's House of Villains.  You can download it on Prime video for $9.99.  This has been a hit at our house the last three years.  So this year, I put together a Disney Halloween Activity Kit for the kids to work on while they watched.  Download this PDF to share with your little one!  Filled with plenty of spooky activities to keep them occupied for an afternoon!  It started with putting together some simple learning games into a PDF, to creating my own Mickey Halloween Art on the ProCreate App to add some character to the packet.  Don't forget to subscribe to my newsletter at the bottom of the blog to get email updates when new kits hit the blog!
Picture
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD MICKEY HALLOWEEN PACKET
Picture
Picture

Pumpkin Bath

Simple enough.....and the kids LOVE it!  Before any pumpkin related activities, have the kids give them a good scrub!  Throw some baby bubble bath in the sink, some scrub brushes, and let them go to town on their pumpkins!  Charlee washed her pumpkin for almost an hour!  She loved it!
Picture
Picture
Picture

Paint, paint, and more paint!

What kid doesn't like to paint?!?! Mine do!  And there are so many different things to paint for Halloween. 

1.  Ghost Foot:  Trick or Treat Smell My Feet
2.  Potato Stamp: Carve out a pumpkin stamp into half of a potato, paint, and stamp away.
3.  Apple Stamp: Cut the apple in half, paint, and stamp into the shape of a pumpkin
4.  The classic pumpkin painting! 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture

Mummy Makeovers

This is a good one and got SO many laughs!  Put on the timer and grab a roll of toilet paper.  They have to wrap someone up in the TP for one minute.  The person with the best mummy look wins!  I folded the TP back up and use it as kleenex.  LOL Not like were in the middle of a pandemic right?!?!?! HAHAHA
Picture
Picture

Climb Through Mummy Maze

Before you fold that TP up, create a maze for the kids to crawl through.  If they rip any of the TP then they have to start over and try again.  Time them until they make it from one part of the room to the other. 

Spider Web Climb

Create a spider web out of tape on the floor.  Sprinkle some fake spider all over the web and have the kids collect them all without stepping off of the tape.  You can add a timer to make it more of a competition.  I put little skeletons on the web that they had to avoid touching.  If they touched a skeleton, they got an extra 5 seconds on their time.  Best time is the winner!

Brighten Up Your Inbox

Join Our Newsletter
0 Comments
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

Little Ones on the Big Day

10/21/2020

0 Comments

 
      Since we are all kids at heart, this should be a fun one. Having kids in or at your ceremony can be a blast, both for you and for them. Don’t even get me started on the hype that they bring to your reception, it’s better than any DJ that you could hire. While this may seem like a daunting part of the day I promise that, if done right, kids can easily be one of the best parts and bring so much fun and joy to your wedding.
    As someone who is always thinking about every little detail, it’s important that I think of how to make the day great for everyone. Depending on the age range and how many kids will be in attendance, here are a few cute and super fun ideas :)
During the Ceremony…
    If you decide to have kids in the ceremony, there are a lot of different and special ways to do this.
1.  As a ring bearer
    I mean c’mon…
Picture
Click here to order this sign!
Picture
Click here to order this sign!
2.  As a flower girl
      Pretty self explanatory and always a show stopper.
Picture
Picture
PicturePhoto by Thomas Beaman Photography
3.  As a junior bridesmaid or groomsmen
     This is a great option for kids who are a little older and/or have a very special connection to the wedding. The junior bridesmaid or groomsman can also be a part of other wedding festivities like a bachelor or bachelorette outing depending on the wholesomeness of your wedding festivities (or lack thereof ;)
4. Include them in a first look
    One of my favorite and unique touches in any wedding is including the little ones in a first look with the bride or groom. The reactions are priceless.

Picture
Image by Martha Stewarts Weddings
5. Have them do a reading or performance at the wedding
    Whether they are reading a poem, a bible verse, an old love note or singing a song, adding this touch at any wedding will make for a very sentimental memory.
Picture
John Bosley Photography
Picture
Image via Wedding Chicks



6.  In the photos
    Kids are often the most photogenic, so don’t be upset when they steal the spotlight for a bit, but I guarantee you’ll love the results.
Picture
Image via Crazy for Us
Picture
Image via Mum's the Word
7.  The Reception
    At this point in the day, they kids may be a little tired or, on the contrary, ready to party! You should include options for both types of children. The wedding Desiree planned in Lake Arrowhead for Matt and Meghan had it all covered.
Check out this blog here!Personalized coloring pages, small snacks and photo booths are a sure way to keep the kiddos entertained.
Picture
Check out our Welcome Bag Blog Post here!
Picture
This is one of my favorites! A photograph scavenger hunt on disposable cameras. A great way to get candid photos, put the kids to work and capture some great memories. Image via Gift Spaces
Other ideas for entertainment include;
- Board games
- Inflatables
- Hiring entertainers like face painters, magicians and more!
Picture
Finger food is a must and such an easy way to elevate the look of a kid’s palette! The adults will be envious.
Picture
Any DIY food concept is a guaranteed way to keep the kids occupied with a smile on their faces! Image via Jen Loves Kev
Another important part here… FOOD. If kids are in attendance for the meal portion of the reception it can be smart to check for reduced cost kids’ meals. Some kids may be picky or not eat as much as an adult portion.  So if your looking to save a little mula and please the kiddos, this is a great question to ask your venue or caterer. 
Picture
Purchase this sign here!
Picture
Don’t want the party to stop, but have a few kids still around? A “No adults allowed zone” or a “Kids only” area/table is a great way to put aside some space for the kids for toys, activities and for a few pillows just in case they get a little sleepy.
Picture
Smiles,
Kelly Bean
0 Comments
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }

Black Lounge Wear....Shop Our Look

10/20/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
0 Comments
/* Blog sidebar ------------------------------------------------------------*/ .blog-sidebar { width: 335px; padding-left:30px } .column-blog { float: right; width: 335px; margin: 0; padding: 0; }
<<Previous
    Picture

    About / Contact

    Desiree Carol

      Brighten Up Your Inbox

    Join Our Newsletter
    Let's hang out!
    Picture

    LOVE

    These are a few of my favorite things....
    Picture

    MARRIAGE

    Desiree Carol real weddings and tips on all things bridal...
    Picture

    BABY CARRIAGES

    Mom life and all it entails...

BLOGS

Love
Marriage
Baby Carriages

WEDDING SERVICES

CONTACT

INSTAGRAM
© COPYRIGHT 2015. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
  • BLOG
  • CONTACT