Georgia on My Mind

One of our favorite places in the US is Savannah, Georgia!

The charming streets lined with beautiful Oak Trees. Drooping branches covered with Spanish Moss. The charming accents. The southern hospitality. The food. Oh my goodness...the food! Need I say more?! 

Basically, we love Savannah and were so excited to visit again. 

My sister in law, Rindy, went to Armstrong Atlantic University in Savannah on a volleyball scholarship. It was incredible to watch her play. This past month, she was inducted into the hall of fame. We were so excited. It's a HUGE deal. We couldn't imagine missing it. 

Our bags were packed (Toddler Carry On Post Here). We were ready to go!! 

We lucked out and had 3 extra sets of hands on the way to Savannah...Pop Pop, Grammy, & Auntie! So not only were we loaded with bags of tricks, we had the best distractors in the business. Our flights were as perfect as they could be with 3 little munchkins. Only one meltdown all day...that's a win in my book!

After a long day of flying we were ready for dinner, drinks, showers, and bed. 

We hit the jackpot and stayed at the most beautiful rental (307 Huntingdon, Savannah, GA)! A newly renovated, charming brownstone with so much character yet modern, chic, and spotless! Literally my dream home. 

Thursday:

We started our first day in Savannah the ONLY way you can...with breakfast at Mrs. Wilkes. The best food in Savannah and despite the fact that there is always a line, we were the first table seated! 

My favorite thing about Mrs Wilkes is the family style seating and the tabletops loaded with platters of fried chicken, sweet potato souffle, black-eyed peas, okra gumbo, corn muffins, and biscuits. 

Low quality photo...high quality moment! 😂

Kids spent the afternoon puddle jumping in their rain boots and rain coats! That may have been their favorite part of the trip.

The evening was spent celebrating my sister in law. Dinner, wine, and banquet. 

"You did it, Kumie!" -Drew (3 yrs old)

Friday:

We spent what we thought was our last day checking out Rindy's old stomping ground...the gym! And reminisced on the good ol' days. 

We ended the day with a wonderful family dinner and ended the night with one of my favorite things to do in Savannah...a trolley tour! And this one was extra amazing because it was a Christmas Trolley. Christmas Caroled the entire time! Totally my jam. Christmas songs, a tour of one of the first homes in Savannah, and ended with Santa and a gingerbread competition! 

Saturday:

We were supposed to fly home but due to snow...we were stuck. That meant an extra day to relax and visit The Savannah Candy Kitchen...pralines, taffey, and chocolate! Oh my. 

Couldn't end up in City Market and not make a quick stop at Wet Willies for a slushie! Not sure who was more excited...Drew or his Kuma (godmother)?!

Sunday:

We woke up at 4 am and drove 4 hours to Atlanta to fly home. Luckily all 3 littles slept the entire way and we got some much needed alone time...not quite what we had in mind but beggars can't be choosers! 🤷🏻‍♀️😂

An absolutely unforgettable weekend. 

It was incredible to see my sister in law play and just as incredible to see her honored. 

So thankful we got to be there. 

New Year. New Me.

Happy New Year!

The exciting thing about New Year's is the hope and excitement each new year brings. 

I know it's a mental thing but...the new year is a fresh start. A chance to start over. A clean slate. A new beginning. 

2017 was an exciting year for our family...3 hilarious littles, lots of travel, and re-starting my blog. 

As I optimistically look forward to what this year has in store for us, I set a few goals for myself that I am blogging because, well... #accountability

Blogging Goals: Consistently post twice a week. 

Photography Goals: Take a class and finally learn how to use my beautiful camera. 

Reading Goals: I used to read. Like...All. The. Time. I ate books for breakfast. This year, I'm going to make time for myself...make time to do things I love, read.  

Fitness Goals: I may have been using the "I just had a baby" thing for far too long. I need to make time for those barre classes I love. Not every day but twice a week. What's an hour?!

I'm not good at making time. Is it hard for anyone else to ask for help or "me" time?? Going to work on that this year. No more #momguilt

And last but not least...

Wife & Motherhood Goals: Cook healthy dinners. Be more patient (with my husband, the kids, & myself). Be present.  Put my phone down.  Let the chores wait. And...enjoy the chaos because they are only this little for a short while. 

Cheers to 2018!

All photos are courtesy of my friend, Kaycee Castillo 🖤

Teacher Gifts

Before becoming a mommy, I had the 2nd best job in the world...I was a teacher. 

I loved my job. And I loved those kids. 

Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year...and the busiest for teachers and parents alike.

With the list of everything that has to be done in December, it was always so nice to be remembered by my students and their parents. I had the best parents and always felt loved, appreciated, and very spoiled!

Now I'm on the other side...I'm a mom with the best teachers in the world. 

A gift, no matter how big or small, is a way to say....

-thank you for everything you do in the classroom. 

-thank you for being patient because I know it isn't easy.

-and...I want you to know that I know you don’t get paid nearly enough for all that you do!!! 

This year, I have two teachers to purchase for...they are the loveliest people. Always with a smile and truly full of joy. They make every day merry and bright!

Teachers are definitely not in this profession for the big bucks. They teach because they love kids and want to make a difference. With that in mind, I knew I wanted to do gift cards. 

And...I love a good theme! 

Merry & Bright Teacher's Christmas Gifts:

-Christmas Books (Five Busy Elves & Don't Push the Button)

-Sharpie Markers (you could also do pens, highlighters, etc.)

-And...Target Gift Cards!

Kraft wrapping paper, ribbon, and Drew's special touch make these the perfect and most beautiful gifts. 😉❤️🎄

Christmas Gifts: Want, Need, Wear, & Read

I love Christmas and I love keeping Christmas simple. 

I know I've said this in previous posts but simple does not mean less special. It means feeling the magic and remembering what's actually important...the true meaning of Christmas, spending time with your family & friends, and making beautiful memories. 

Years ago when I was teaching, I came across an awesome idea that I knew I wanted to incorporate into our home one day...a simpler gift giving idea. 

Instead of a stack of gifts...each child receives 4 presents Christmas morning...one they want, one they need, one thing to wear, and one thing to read. AND...Santa brings each child a large gift and fills their stockings. 

It’s so simple. So meaningful. So perfect for us.

• Something you WANT: this is a fun gift. Something they asked for...or something you know will bring a HUGE smile to their face. For us...it's a toy. 
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• Something you NEED: this is something that your child needs...whatever that may be. It could be shoes, dishes, towels, bathing suit. We do shoes.  
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• Something to WEAR: This can be clothing, accessories, hats, shoes, backpack, etc. We are doing robes.  
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• Something to READ: this is always my favorite...books! I try to find interactive books that go with what they are into right now. Usborne has a FABULOUS selection of interactive and engaging books. 

I love how this method of gift giving brings a sense of intention...each gift is incredibly thoughtful, since you are only getting 4! There aren't any random things or trinkets you buy just because you need to get something. 

We want our little sugar plums to focus more on all of the joy and magic of the holiday season....not just the gifts.

In the wise words of Charlie Brown, "It's not what's under the Christmas tree that matters. It's who's around it."

❤️

In keeping with my December Christmas Song theme...closing with "I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas!" This is a family favorite and pairs perfectly with the idea of simple gift giving. 😂 Jk. 

Elf on the Shelf & The Elf Box

One of my favorite traditions that we have started in our own home is Elf on the Shelf.

In our home, Elfie comes on December 1st and leaves on Christmas Eve with Santa! I love the magic and joy this little elf brings. 

The Elf Box makes this so easy. It's a box full of props and a photo flip book to help stage your elf. The box is absolutely precious, captures the spirit of Christmas, and is just the right amount of fun and magic...without any of the stress. 

This box helps you kill it....Elf on the Shelf style.

I received The 7 Day Elf Box yesterday....

• Pizza Night...complete with an elf sized pizza box and pizza! 
• Movie Night...comes with popcorn and 3D movie glasses! 
• Hot Cocoa Night...comes with an elf sized coffee cup. 
• Superhero...complete with cape and mask. 
• Beach Day...comes with an elf sized beach towel, mini umbrella, and SAND! 
• Bowling...comes with little bowling lane, pins, and bowling ball. 
• Cookie Making Set...complete with dough for sugar or gingerbread cookies, elf sized cookie cutters, elf sized rolling pin, and flour. 😍

My favorite part about this is that each day you can incorporate a family fun activity to go with your Elfs visit....pizza party, Christmas movie night, hot chocolate and driving to see the Christmas Lights, superhero dress up day, family bowling date, and cookie making day!!! 

I truly believe the joy of Christmas is in making memories with those you love. I hope my kids' memories of this season are filled with laughter and joy. I hope they remember the magic and excitement of looking for Elfie each day.

And...if one day they become parents and choose to continue this tradition, I hope they have as much fun making this season magical for their children as I do every night while they are snuggled up in their beds. 

The Elf Box made our morning extra merry and oh so bright. If you could have seen the look on Drew's face...Christmas Magic at its best. ❤️

Be sure to watch my circle stories on Instagram for Elfie's daily adventures and check out The Elf Box for more fun!!!

Last Day to order 2017 Elf Boxes is December 17th!  

Pre-Orders for 2018 are 20% off and use code FREESHIP18 to waive the shipping fee. 

In keeping with December's theme, I'm closing this post with my little sugar plums' favorite Christmas song...."Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer!" 

*Disclaimer: The 7 Day Elf Box was gifted to me in exchange for a review. All opinions in this post are my own.*

These are a Few of My Favorite Things...Part III: For Him

The most challenging person to shop for on my list is Andrew, my husband.  

Whether you have a boyfriend or a husband, trying to find the perfect gift can be the BIGGEST challenge. 

Andrew tends to be minimalist and refuses to help me with a wish list. If he needs something, he gets it. And he's always content with what he has...while that's difficult when shopping, it also is what makes him a keeper. 

I think I have nailed a few gift ideas over the years. Here are a few of my favs and a few ideas for this year...

1. Headphones

We like to travel and these noise canceling headphones are heaven while watching a movie or taking a snooze! They are comfy, easy to pack, and really do cancel out the outside noise. 

2. Hydroflask

These have been a hit with Andrew. And...hydroflask has it all! Drinking tumblers and coffee cups to wine glasses and beer pints. 

3. Jord Wood Watch

This watch is the perfect piece...beautifully crafted, masculine, classic, and a must have every day staple. It's the perfect gift. 

Jord is offering my followers 25% off until December 19th!

4. Slippers (or 'House Shoes' as Andrew refers to them 🙄)

Slippers are the best for lounging around the house...and slipping through the house on cold hard wood or tile floors. 

5. Wireless Speaker

A must have...connects to your phone and despite the size is a party in a box! Andrew use his camping, at the beach, tailgating, and while we are out in the yard. 

Hope this guide was helpful! ❤️ 

In keeping with December's theme, I'm closing this post with another forever favorite Christmas song...."Baby, It's Cold Outside!"

Family Christmas Traditions

"These wonderful things are the things we remember all through our lives!" -Sleigh Ride

By nature, I am an insanely sentimental person and I love traditions...especially Christmas traditions. ❤️

When Amina and Drew were babies, I decided I wanted to create simple family traditions. Things that don't cost much but are meaningful and easy to continue even as my kids grow older. Traditions that they could one day continue with their own families. 

Simple does not mean less special. It means finding the magic in the little things. With the hustle and bustle of the holidays, I want to remember to slow down and enjoy these special moments, make memories, and cherish traditions.  

As a little girl, my favorite Christmas tradition was picking out our Christmas tree, playing this Kids Christmas tape we had, and decorating our tree. I loved looking at every ornament. I loved the stories that went with each one. We'd drink hot chocolate, sing, dance, and deck our halls. When I think about those moments in our little apartment, I get that warm fuzzy feeling inside. 

I want my little sugar plums to look back and be filled with the magic of the season and know they were so loved. 

Here are some of my favorite traditions with our little family...

• Christmas Tree
• Special Christmas Ornament Every Year
• Seeing the Christmas Lights
• Matching Christmas Jammies
• Elf on the Shelf

I wish you all a simple and calm holiday season...filled with special moments with those you love. 

In keeping with December's theme, I'm closing this post with another forever favorite...."Sleigh Ride!"

All photos are courtesy of my sweet and oh so talented little cousin, Kylie.