tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57639958928078765102024-03-17T23:03:42.717-07:00vanilla & laceabi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.comBlogger401125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-28491829111159857262016-10-21T09:30:00.000-07:002016-10-22T22:43:04.255-07:00Baby Wearing // My three favorite carriersSo baby wearing, it's a big deal these days right? I am a MAJOR fan and not just because it keeps your baby secure and close and all the hippy reasons (haha) but because it is actually just incredibly convenient, especially if its your second (third, fourth, etc) baby. I don't know how I'd go anywhere with a toddler and a little baby without some form of baby wrap/carrier... my back, arms and sanity are very thankful for mine.<br />
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There are not only a ton of carrier types but also many different companies within each type of carrier. I wanted to share my favorite three in this post (since people ask me about mine a ton!). But for more info on each type, check out this baby carrier guide on <a href="http://www.babycubby.com/baby-carrier-buying-guide">Babycubby</a>. It's chock full of info with pro's and cons and just all around super helpful.<br />
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Here's what I use:<br />
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<a href="http://sollybaby.com/">Solly Baby</a><br />
This wrap style carrier is one of my favorite, especially for those early tiny newborn days. It's lightweight and breathable but keeps baby secure tightly next to your chest. Once you get the hang of it, its really easy to put on and adjust. I adore my solly and highly recommend them over the other wraps like this on the market. They have so many gorgeous colors and prints too, I just want them allllll. I use my solly almost daily (at home, on the go, everywhere) and if anyone asks which baby products I use the most, a Solly is the highest thing on my list.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/29871235683/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="baby wearing"><img alt="baby wearing" height="480" src="https://c4.staticflickr.com/6/5716/29871235683_a156380007_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/30503265325/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="baby wearing"><img alt="baby wearing" height="640" src="https://c6.staticflickr.com/6/5822/30503265325_b6b0a6771e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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Linen Ring Sling<br />
I didn't have a ring sling with Beck which I actually regretted later so this time around I did some research and decided on making one myself. It took me awhile to get used to this type and I'd definitely say there is a learning curve with getting baby in there right and feeling comfortable with it. I had to watch a tutorial video for "threading" it like 100 times before I understood it but now its super easy. I like that the slings are quick to put on and take off and feel really secure. I also like that you can use them when baby gets older/bigger (and even with toddlers). It's also nice to sometimes have a wrap that doesn't completely consume your outfit, which may be a vain thing to think about but sometimes the wrap style is too much/not flattering with certain things I have. I based my sling on the dimensions of <a href="http://www.wildbird.co/">Wild bird </a>slings (and maybe <a href="http://sakurabloom.com/">Sakura </a>too) and followed a tutorial on Pinterest using 100% european linen.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/30503731745/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="baby wearing"><img alt="baby wearing" height="479" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5824/30503731745_2e0ec56857_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/29373727146/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="September 1st"><img alt="September 1st" height="427" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8489/29373727146_f59f720ef0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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<a href="https://store.ergobaby.com/baby-carrier/adapt/adapt-black">Ergo baby</a><br />
Last but not least, I use an ergo carrier. I like this for when I'll be moving around a ton (like hiking, etc) because its the most supportive, especially for the neck and head. It's also super quick and easy to put on so I keep it in my car for when I'm not carrying my wrap or sling. I also love that there is a head cover which protects from sun/rain/wind. I will say this isn't my favorite carrier for tiny newborn days but it is <i>essential</i> for later down the road and can be worn for years! I use the <a href="https://store.ergobaby.com/baby-carrier/adapt/adapt-black">Adapt </a>one right now but I have also had the original Ergo carrier and its great too. I didn't have a photo of me wearing this yet (oops!) but I'll edit later to include one.<br />
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And thats all I have as far as baby carriers! Like I said, I am a BIG fan of all of them and I don't think I can choose a favorite. They are all good in different ways. If you have any questions, leave a comment on my Instagram photo.<br />
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Be sure to check out the baby carrier guide on <a href="http://www.babycubby.com/">Babycubby</a> that I posted up there. It's an amazing website--not just another baby store but a great resource for parents (they are parents, they get it). They carry some of my all time favorite baby brands and they also price match anywhere (even amazon) so you always get a great deal.abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-65248636999443355852016-09-02T11:00:00.001-07:002016-09-02T11:04:07.517-07:00It's almost fall (...kind of)<span style="color: #000000;"><u><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/29119984690/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="September 1st"><img alt="September 1st" height="427" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8203/29119984690_443ab4bae0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></u></span><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/29120082780/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="September 1st"><img alt="September 1st" height="427" src="https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8092/29120082780_59ef93d19f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #000000; font-size: x-small;">(Sponsored by <a href="http://zps.to/bwLmRa8T">Zappos</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #000000;">Oh hey, long time no see! I took a few months away from blogging to, you know... have a baby and adjust to life at home with two littles. I'm looking forward to coming back to this space and picking up where I left off. </span><br />
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Funny story: Apparently when you're pregnant your feet can grow (among everything else that is growing!) but it didn't happen to me with Beck so I figured I was in the clear with Isla. Not so much! After I had her I went to put on my favorite pair of booties and it was like that scene in Cinderella where the sisters are trying to smash their feet into the glass slipper, my feet were absolutely not fitting into my booties any more. I was in a little bit of denial so I measured my feet and compared it to sizing online and discovered my feet grew an entire shoe size while pregnant. Kinda devastating!<br />
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Well, literally the next day <a href="http://zps.to/bwLmRa8T">Zappos</a> reached out and asked if I wanted to work with them and<a href="http://zps.to/bC6qT441"> Lucky Brand</a> shoes for their fall collection. I laughed at how perfect the timing was, it was meant to be! I needed some flats and some boots to replace the ones I could no longer wear. I picked <a href="http://zps.to/TqpmkB7">these strappy flats</a> shown in the photos (I got them in <a href="http://zps.to/ccRFXItt">tan</a> too) and also a pair of <a href="http://zps.to/llpkXOj">these booties</a> since fall is quickly approaching and it'll be rainy every day.<br />
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<a href="http://zps.to/bC6qT441">Lucky Brand</a> has an amazing selection of shoes that are versatile and extremely well-made, and even more importantly, they have a high standard for being <a href="http://www.luckybrand.com/about-us/social-responsibility.html">ethical in their factories </a>(some are even made in the US). And because <a href="http://zps.to/bwLmRa8T">Zappos</a> is the best, they were shipped overnight so I didn't have to wait long for shoes that finally fit!<br />
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Fall, I'm ready for you now!<br />
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p.s. Babies: the best accessory right?! :)<br />
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<span style="color: #0000ee;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/29299888982/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="September 1st"><img alt="September 1st" height="427" src="https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8330/29299888982_b1ef73ec81_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></span><br />
<span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/29373708346/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="September 1st"><img alt="September 1st" height="427" src="https://c3.staticflickr.com/9/8292/29373708346_0bd2041bc3_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></u></span><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-31711181675097832272016-05-20T11:02:00.001-07:002016-05-20T11:11:16.573-07:00A Well Kept House: My Weekly Cleaning Schedule<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/26843883210/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Clean and green."><img alt="Clean and green." height="427" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7720/26843883210_468c3c9a5f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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If you've been reading my blog for awhile my knack for cleaning should come as no surprise to you. I actually really <i>really </i>enjoy it, and even joke about taking up a side job as a house cleaner. I'm also type-a, organized (OCD) list maker so in order to keep up on keeping our house clean with a busy schedule and a messy 2 year old I have implemented a weekly cleaning schedule. Some people prefer to do the one day a week cleaning frenzy to do everything in one fell swoop but that didn't ever jive with me so this is what I've been doing for a couple years now and I love it. It keeps your home clean and tidy without feeling like you're spending 5 hours a day cleaning and it's easier to stay on top of general tidiness.<br />
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Here's what my weekly cleaning looks like, obviously its based on my home and you'd need to adjust it to your needs in your house (ie: vacuuming vs sweeping, etc)<br />
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<b>Monday:</b> Bathrooms <i>(Everything: Scrub toilets, sinks, bathtub, countertops and floors)</i><br />
<b>Tuesday: </b>Vacuum hall, bedrooms and furniture. And dust all rooms (including living room)<br />
<b>Wednesday: </b>Mop entry, kitchen, living/dining and wipe all kitchen cabinets.<br />
<b>Thursday: </b>All laundry<i> (usually two loads of clothing, one of linens)</i><br />
<b>Friday: </b>Deep clean or organize one area (the refrigerator, a closet, clean windows and mirrors in all rooms, etc) + catch up on any missed days.<br />
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And here are things I do <b>daily</b> to keep things tidy:<br />
-Sweep living/dining and kitchen<br />
-Dishes, countertops and table<br />
-Wipe down sink and toilet in bathroom<br />
-General tidy in all rooms (sometimes this requires vacuuming hall+rooms at least once more throughout the week)<br />
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I generally spend 30 minutes to an hour doing all of the above, which seems like so little time to trade for a clean and tidy house every day. Obviously this isn't rocket science and probably not any new information at all but I always find it helpful to see exactly what other people do to stay on top of it to get an idea for how to implement it myself. I promise this won't feel like you're cleaning 10 hours a day and never staying on top of it, it's SO easy to maintain the tidiness with a schedule like this.<br />
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A few other things that help me stay on top of tidying and cleaning:<br />
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-<b>Using disposable disinfecting wipes for quick clean-ups. </b>I don't use them for everything but definitely for a quick sweep through the bathroom during the week on the toilet and sink. And they also come in handy for the bajillion toddler messes like pasta that gets thrown on the ground or cleaning his highchair tray. We've been using <a href="http://bit.ly/1URyBy7">these ones</a> from Seventh Generation (plant-based and safe for kids!)<br />
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<b>-Letting your kiddos join in on the cleaning fun.</b> I always let Beck help with windows or mirrors, or wiping countertops (only if he wants to obviously, and he always does!). It keeps him occupied while I clean and he learns that cleaning can be fun. The only place I usually clean during a nap time is the bathroom since I'd rather him not "help" clean the toilet ;)<br />
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-<b>Have less stuff, tidy less. </b>This is just the tip of the iceberg for another post I've been working on but I can't do a cleaning post without talking about it for a second at least. The less things you have, the less you'll have to tidy up. If it takes 30 minutes to pick-up toys in your kids room, maybe they have too many toys. If laundry day requires 10 loads of laundry, maybe you have too many clothes (unless you have like 10 kids).<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/26529916563/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Green clean"><img alt="Green clean" height="853" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7371/26529916563_f8fb868043_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/27023600952/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Clean and green."><img alt="Clean and green." height="427" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7232/27023600952_49d5bcb48e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/27118095055/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Clean and green."><img alt="Clean and green." height="960" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7067/27118095055_47c4d9e59e_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/27084806536/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Clean and green."><img alt="Clean and green." height="427" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7651/27084806536_f58305b9ae_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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I'm a long time lover of <a href="http://bit.ly/21DD74l">Seventh Generation</a> products and have been using their cleaning products since I started buying my own when we first got married 8 years ago. I'll be working with them for a few posts so they sent me a box of house cleaners and products (hello... my dream package! I was actually giddy) to use and share about. I've been especially loving the <a href="http://bit.ly/1MgxZdi">natural glass cleaner,</a> <a href="http://bit.ly/1U3NTQ4">tub+tile cleaner</a> (a must in the bathroom!!!), the lavender<a href="http://bit.ly/1psQXse"> dish soap</a> (smells SO good), and the <a href="http://bit.ly/1psQXse">free and clear laundry soap</a>.<br />
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^ at 30 weeks and feeling like I'm going to pop already<br />
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One thing that has thrown me for a complete loop is how different this pregnancy has been compared to last time. Some great, some good, some bad. I'm not sure why I assumed it would be similar/easier but it's been quite different. I got bigger faster (and keep getting bigger...and bigger), my hip and pubic bone pain started earlier, boobs...huge, and I'm anemic this time so the fatigue has been crazy in the third trimester. Some things have been better though like no spotting (that was NOT fun last time) and no Irritable Uterus (basically contractions 24/7 that you have to get monitored to make sure it's not pre-term labor). I also just feel more confident and less fearful about everything my body is doing, and just all around more relaxed.<br />
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Even with the extra annoyances this time (more uncomfortable, more pain, feeling like a whale) it still blows my mind what my body is doing right now and I can't but help but have so much gratitude and be in constant awe that I get to experience it all again. This baby girl moves practically 24/7 and my hands are always on my stomach trying to figure out what limb I might be feeling and giving some friendly pokes back. Because 2nd baby or 10th, I don't think that mind-blown feeling of having a real, living and growing tiny human inside of you kicking around will ever wear off. I know in 2 years I'll look at her and think my body grew you, and you came out of me and now you're a toddler... what the heck??<br />
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I know this last stretch of time will fly by like crazy as we prepare for her so even though right now I'm not feeling so skinny, and I'm mega tired and I'll wind up with a couple more stretch marks I'm soaking in this dream-like time where the <b>only thing</b> this baby girl needs is my body. It's a crazy thing...<br />
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<br />abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-41077338638174872342016-04-22T16:45:00.000-07:002016-04-22T16:45:03.736-07:00Earth Day: Eco Friendly Toy Round-up<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/25981181443/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Eco and Ethical Toys"><img alt="Eco and Ethical Toys" height="481" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1701/25981181443_5095f827d9_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/26491589462/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Eco and Ethical Toys"><img alt="Eco and Ethical Toys" height="853" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1681/26491589462_5956596fa0_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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Hello and happy Earth Day (and month)! We just got this Sleepy Wakey Bambi from <a href="https://www.roseandrex.com/">Rose & Rex</a> and as you can see, Beck is obsessed. He's been carrying it with him everywhere (even though I originally got it for baby sis!) and sleeping with it. Rose & Rex have an amazing selection of eco-friendly and ethically made toys for babies and kiddos so I thought I'd do a round-up of my favorites for Earth Day.<br />
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I'm a firm believer in<i> buying less but better, </i>even for kids stuff. I'll be sharing more of our journey of that philosophy soon but for now, here's some amazing toys that will be special and even passed down for years. I love the simplicity of them all and all of them would be perfect for both little guys or gals.<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/26491489742/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Eco Toy Round-up"><img alt="Eco Toy Round-up" height="602" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1464/26491489742_e0da902306_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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1.<a href="https://www.roseandrex.com/collections/move/products/reclycling-push-toy"> Recycling Truck</a> // 2.<a href="https://www.roseandrex.com/collections/move/products/origami-bath-boat?variant=11507512645"> Origami Bath Boat</a> // 3. <a href="https://www.roseandrex.com/collections/move/products/candylab-taxi">Wooden Cab Car</a> // 4. <a href="https://www.roseandrex.com/collections/pretend/products/sleepy-wakey-bambi">Sleepy Wakey Bambi</a> // 5. <a href="https://www.roseandrex.com/collections/pretend/products/baby-girl-mouse-matchbox">Baby Mouse In Matchbox</a>abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-59031533055720242922016-04-11T10:00:00.000-07:002016-04-11T14:50:58.624-07:00Mother's Day Gifts // I ♥ FramebridgeSo for months my mom has been pestering me about wanting more framed photos of us (read: mostly Beck) to hang up in their house. I've been putting it off and every time a holiday comes around I swear I'm going to do it but then procrastinate and end up doing something else for a gift. Sorry mom!<br />
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But this year I planned ahead... months ahead actually! I wanted to do framed photos for Mother's day but also set-up a time to take photos of her and Beck and have those framed too. So a couple months ago I told her I wanted to come up and take some fun pictures of her and Beck making cookies and hanging out "for a blog I'm working on" (which is true!). And they turned out even cuter than I could've imagined!<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/26310773831/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Framebridge // Mother's day gifting"><img alt="Framebridge // Mother's day gifting" height="853" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1613/26310773831_8806b067db_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
^^^ So adorable right???</div>
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I picked some favorites from that day plus a couple other Beck favorites and sent them off to <a href="https://www.framebridge.com/?utm_campaign=Vanilla%20and%20Lace&utm_medium=Collab&utm_source=blog&utm_content=&utm_term=">Framebridge</a> to be framed and give her for Mother's day. They are all so pretty and I'm constantly wowed by the stunning job Framebridge does on custom framing. I know she is going to loooove them (and maybe I had a photo of flowers printed and framed for myself... its Mother's day for me too!)</div>
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You can also send in artwork or photos and have original pieces framed through <a href="https://www.framebridge.com/?utm_campaign=Vanilla%20and%20Lace&utm_medium=Collab&utm_source=blog&utm_content=&utm_term=">Framebridge</a>, as opposed to doing digital uploads. So I had Beck paint a special picture (of a T-rex of course) and sent that in for framing too. I was a little indecisive about the frame so I didn't get it back in time to photograph but it'll be here before Mother's day, which is what counts!<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/26284501592/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Framebridge // Mother's day gifting"><img alt="Framebridge // Mother's day gifting" height="427" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1566/26284501592_ec4993c7ca_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/26284652712/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Framebridge // Mother's day gifting"><img alt="Framebridge // Mother's day gifting" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1447/26284652712_4ab4be3893_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/25772019804/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Framebridge // Mother's day gifting"><img alt="Framebridge // Mother's day gifting" height="427" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1531/25772019804_e75cd8ce08_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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If you use the code VANILLALACE15 you can get 15% off your first order (offer good until July 31). And be sure to order <b>before April 22 </b>to get your frames in time for mother's day!<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/26104005170/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Framebridge // Mother's day gifting"><img alt="Framebridge // Mother's day gifting" height="427" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1582/26104005170_9715682903_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">This post was created in partnership with <a href="https://www.framebridge.com/?utm_campaign=Vanilla%20and%20Lace&utm_medium=Collab&utm_source=blog&utm_content=&utm_term=">F</a></span><a href="https://www.framebridge.com/?utm_campaign=Vanilla%20and%20Lace&utm_medium=Collab&utm_source=blog&utm_content=&utm_term=">ramebridge</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "utopia" , "palatino linotype" , "palatino" , serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own. I'm thankful to get to work with companies I love!</span></div>
abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-9011679241673949622016-03-14T22:30:00.002-07:002016-03-14T22:30:51.304-07:00A little overwhelmed but a lot thankful.The last couple weeks of February and into the first few days of March we're absolutely insane... x 1000. I feel like I'm just now coming up for air and able to breathe on my own... you know those kinds of weeks? Lord jesus, never again please...<br />
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Josh left on a trip to Israel for 10 days and I was already a little overwhelmed at the thought of being pregnant and tired and keeping up with a 2 year old with no breaks for 10 days, plus a little stressed out that Josh was hello... in the middle east. Shouldn't I be nervous about that? Then the first day he was gone Beck and I both got colds, not too bad except they were what I affectionately called The Cold From Hell and Beck got so sick and tired that he wouldn't eat or drink and the pediatrician told me that it had been too long since he drank and if I couldn't get him to drink something within the hour I needed to go to the ER. So. stressful. But Josh happened to get wifi and call us on facetime during that hour and talked Beck into drinking juice and water... seriously a miracle.<br />
It was a week of exhaustion, mentally and physically. Then after a week I think my body was just so tired and depleted, my immune system tanked and my cold turned into a sinus infection. I'm not even joking when I say that the pain was leaps and bounds worse than any pain I had in labor. Sinus infections are no joke when you can't take pain killers or anything for sinus relief. But after 4 days of trying every natural remedy in the book (and mostly crying my way through the day) I got an antibiotic prescription on the way to get Josh from the airport... and thus concluded the most overwhelming and crazy difficult 10 days. We survived. And as hard as it was to take care of a lifeless 2 year old that wouldn't eat for 4 days (like actually literally nothing...) and then to be in severe pain myself and still keep up with him once he was well, I couldn't help but think how good we have it. We don't have chronic illnesses, my husband came home from his trip safe and healthy and it was really so miniscule compared to the battles that a lot of people face every day... I was not only thankful that those 10 days were over but thankful that isn't at all what our normal every day is like. We have it so good, even if life roughs us up a little from time to time.<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/25775921016/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Life lately..."><img alt="Life lately..." height="481" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1599/25775921016_391a9d402c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-14079758854034386032016-03-14T21:46:00.002-07:002016-03-14T21:46:27.317-07:00GIRL GIRL GIRL<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/25171056144/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Baby girl"><img alt="Baby girl" height="853" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1698/25171056144_1e4949f346_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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We had a 20 week ultrasound at the beginning of the month and got to see this little baby dance around in my belly. It's locked away as one of my favorite memories--Beck laying down next to me, pointing up at the screen and talking about baby, all 3 of us in a trance looking at her hold her hands up by her face and cross her feet. And I got a bit teary when the tech told us <b>we have a baby girl</b>.<br />
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People had been asking me all along if I had preferences or feelings one way or the other (which I actually think is a funny question...) but to be honest I just didn't. I was basically expecting a boy because that's all I know and could picture so I was like GIRL? You mean I can buy all those cute baby clothes? Beck had been calling the baby a "sester" for weeks, intuitive little guy!<br />
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So so happy! Time is already flying by extra fast with this pregnancy and I know I'll regret it if I don't document it at least a little bit so bump photos will be happening... like it or not. I'm also unapologetically in love with being pregnant (which is probably extra annoying if you aren't), but there's a person in there... how crazy is that? SO thankful I get to do this again, extra aches and pains and all.abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-52219004510862699942016-01-26T13:37:00.002-08:002016-01-26T13:37:58.826-08:00Hi.. Hello.<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/24335787070/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Hi...Hello."><img alt="Hi...Hello." height="640" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1668/24335787070_660204cdb9_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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I posted the above photo on Instagram yesterday but thought I'd give an update here as well. I will be doing a flash sale with some cotton + flannel baby blankets in the next week or two. I've had a bunch of this just stashed away but the prints are just too good to keep in my closet and not share. Plus I'm working on a little spring collection with some new things for my shop, so I needed to clear out some space! I'm really excited about this new stuff, I've got some custom printed fabric headed my way and I'm keeping the collection pretty small (but it includes baby stuff, my faaaavorite) so its only the best of the best (at least I think so!). As soon as I have more info, I'll post another update!<br />
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In other news, we're also in the beginning process of buying a house and house hunting. This year is going to be a crazy huge transition for us, one of the biggest is moving to a new city (even though its only 10 minutes north). I'm excited and nervous.. and nervous.. but mostly excited! Especially at the thought of finally having a house (and a back yard!) and not having gross apartment carpet. It's the important things.. you know? I'm hoping the search and entire process is more fun than it is awful, but we'll see! Wish us luck.<br />
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And heere's a fun mirror selfie (the worst kind-ha!) because I wanted a more personal photo for this post and I have nothing else. Yes, that's a sports bra hanging up in the background... I was taking photos for another insta closet sale. As for the blank stare, I don't know... I was sending this photo to a friend to show her my new bangs and my new foundation I fell in love with. Lots of exciting things here. Don't you want to be my friend now? (Where's the rolls eye emoji when you need it)<br />
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<br />abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-81926659957420799592016-01-20T11:19:00.003-08:002016-01-20T11:19:51.940-08:00A summer baby on the way!<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(I had this post scheduled for a couple weeks ago and just noticed it never went up. Old news!)</span><br />
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Here we go again! We have a summer baby on the way (mid-july) and I'd say we timed that pretty perfectly because I don't think we can handle another birthday in the fall/winter.<br />
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The first trimester was pretty rough (and MUCH harder than it was Beck) and I basically begged Beck to watch netflix all day so I could sleep. Not my finest parenting but sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do. Josh also happened to have a lot of time off at the end of the year which lined up perfectly, since that was the time I needed help the most. I'm feeling <i>mostly</i> back to normal now as far as energy and just so excited and thankful that I get to do all of this again.<br />
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Can't wait for my belly to get to growing big and for Beck to get to be a part of it all this time. He's not quiiiiite understanding what it means...he'll talk about the baby in mama's tummy but also points to the "baby in beck's tummy" too. It might click more when it looks like I'm smuggling a basketball ;)<br />
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Josh took this a couple days before Christmas and I thought it perfectly summed up my life the past couple months!<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/24364083235/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="A summer baby on the way."><img alt="A summer baby on the way." height="800" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1524/24364083235_981cef4a6f_c.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-71161502668492533612016-01-05T21:33:00.000-08:002016-01-05T21:33:03.158-08:00A snow day to start the year!<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/24204165055/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="New year snow day"><img alt="New year snow day" height="853" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1599/24204165055_2cf25a8cd9_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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On Sunday we got a surprise snow day and it ended up being one of the best days I can remember. It wasn't a huge amount but enough to play in and make everything look incredibly pretty. The last time we really had snow Beck was super tiny so this was his first experience taking it all in and he loved it. He just kept kicking it and running around like.. "what is this???"<br />
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Josh taught him how to catch the snow on your tongue. And tried to show him how to throw it but he didn't love getting his mittens in it.<br />
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The neighborhood was so dang pretty I could've walked around all day. By the next day it was pretty slushy and gross again but it was super fun while it lasted. And now that we have that out of our systems can winter be over?? I've decided I'm officially not a cold weather person (give me spring or fall year round). I'm freezing 24/7 and so ready to be outside more. Also, the darkness... I need more daylight in my life.<br />
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Anyway! Beck's first real snow day was a success. Looking adorable and smiling the whole time :)abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-27466659029648730382015-12-11T11:46:00.003-08:002015-12-11T11:46:50.507-08:00Blurb books: Beck's first two years<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/23572619022/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Beck's first two years // Blurb books"><img alt="Beck's first two years // Blurb books" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5708/23572619022_1c74eaf93f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
So for months (ahem, ten) I had been meaning to make a baby photo book of Beck's first year. I've been trying to get better at having photos you can actually hold in your hands but I felt overwhelmed at the process of getting them together and "creating" a book which is why it got left undone for so long. Now that he's two I thought I might as well combine the first two years into one book! <a href="http://www.blurb.com/">Blurb </a>reached out a couple months ago and I knew I couldn't pass up a chance to partner with them. I had seen their books before and they are STUNNING. The whole process was SO easy and fun, I'm kicking myself for not doing this sooner. It is super customizable—size, paper, photo placement, etc—and the actual process of uploading and inserting the photos in the order you want is a breeze.<br />
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When I got the <a href="http://www.blurb.com/">book</a> in the mail yesterday I cried. It is <b>so incredibly beautiful </b>(plus baby photos.. come on!). I'm so happy I finally did this, to have all these super special photos in one place is wonderful. I ordered extra copies for Christmas presents too! Grandparents, pretend you didn't see that yet. :)<br />
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For my book I got the hardcover 7x7 book with full page photos (no white frame) and matte paper. You can browse around and see all the options on <a href="http://www.blurb.com/">Blurb</a>. They have a ton of inspiring ideas. If you've been like me and have procrastinated forever, just do it already! You'll be SO happy you did!<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/23572619082/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Beck's first two years // Blurb books"><img alt="Beck's first two years // Blurb books" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/749/23572619082_8778657bb0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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This post was created in partnership with <a href="http://www.blurb.com/">Blurb</a>. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own. Thanks for supporting these companies I love!abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-61312279701977845482015-11-20T09:00:00.000-08:002015-11-25T18:51:14.126-08:00Keeping your house organized during the holidaysAs much as I am completely obsessed with the holiday season and all that comes with it (decorations, festivities, lots of company!) there's a teeny tiny part of me that gets a little anxious about how messy or disorganized or cluttered the house can tend to feel. Please tell me I'm not the only one! It's totally worth the added "clutter" but this year I was brainstorming some ways that I could avoid that anxious feeling. So today I'm partnering with <a href="https://www.cottonelle.com/savings-coupons/?WT.mc_id=COT|GoCommando15|EN-US|Influencer&ReferralCode=COT-GOCOMM-IN-VML-2015514">Cottonelle </a>to share what we'll be doing (we decorate tomorrow.. it's our tradition!)<br />
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<b>Put away most or all other decor</b></div>
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This may seem like the most obvious and certainly most people do it to some extent. We already don't have much when it comes to home decor and our walls are almost entirely bare except for a shelf or two but we'll be taking down what we can so even with the christmas stuff out, it feels like it usually does—decorated but very minimal. </div>
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<b>Purge more!</b></div>
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There pretty much isn't a time that I'm not going through stuff and getting rid of things. We just loaded up our car completely full today of stuff we've purged over the last couple months. I feel so much better in our home when I know there isn't a closet that is over flowing with junk or cupboards that are overloaded with things we probably don't use any more.<br />
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<b>Keep essentials stocked (and with easy access) for guests</b></div>
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This goes for everything from toilet paper to blankets. Keeping things that guests use and need in open places and easy to find. Our bathroom is all open-shelving so we keep things they might need really accessible. And the TP... we have 4-6<a href="http://bit.ly/MegaRoll3"> Cottonelle mega-rolls</a> out at all times. I never again want to assume we have another roll in the hall closet as I'm using up the last of the TP. Been there, done that. :)</div>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22767291179/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Home organization and the holidays"><img alt="Home organization and the holidays" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/747/22767291179_529dd5452f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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<b>Keep your house <i>mostly</i> clean all the time</b></div>
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I realize this sounds a little idealist, but hear me out. Half the reason that having guests can seem overwhelming is that I want the house to spotless when they arrive (ha!). So If I can keep the house <i>mostly</i> clean and tidy throughout the week, then it becomes much easier to get it to that guest-ready level. I'm not SUPER crazy about this but because of the way I'm wired it's easier for me to relax and enjoy guests if the environment is tidy and clean than if it isn't. It's way less about how people see our house messy/clean and more about how I can actually be focused on the people and not doing the dishes.<br />
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<span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22767289129/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Home organization and the holidays"><img alt="Home organization and the holidays" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5762/22767289129_b39141bfda_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></u></span><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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Here's to hoping this helps me feel more organized this year! Even if it doesn't completely, every little bit helps and it is <i>the most wonderful time of the year</i> after all, so even if it's a little chaotic its still really amazing, right?<br />
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<i>This post was created in partnership with <a href="https://www.cottonelle.com/savings-coupons/?WT.mc_id=COT|GoCommando15|EN-US|Influencer&ReferralCode=COT-GOCOMM-IN-VML-2015514">Cottonelle</a>. As always, all words and opinions are entirely my own! Thanks for supporting brands that support this blog!</i></div>
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abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-45053992474744736702015-11-10T11:39:00.002-08:002015-11-10T11:39:37.023-08:00Clinique gift + trying new products!<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22912272062/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Clinique // Nordstrom Gift With Purchase"><img alt="Clinique // Nordstrom Gift With Purchase" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5814/22912272062_59b8a0d7d4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Hello hello! I have an amazing deal I wanted to share with those of you who like deals (ie: all of us). I've been on the hunt for a better moisturizer since my skin is SUPER picky about what it wants--drug store stuff just doesn't cut it and I thought I'd try one of the highest rated ones ever, Clinique's dramatically different moisturizing lotion. The infamous yellow bottle! It's been really great so far and to make it all even better, right now at Nordstrom they have a gift with purchase deal going on where you get 7 additional products (plus a zippered pouch) with any purchase of $29. It was like christmas came early! All of the gift with purchase items are pictured.<br />
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I seriously loved this offer because I'm always looking to try new products (especially higher end) but I don't always want to commit to buying before trying because I can be pretty picky. So this was an amazing way to get introduced to a few new items. I have completely fallen in love with this cheek stick and I probably wouldn't have discovered it had I not got it with the purchase. The color is exactly what I like and I prefer liquid/creme blush over powder any day of the week! Also, the soft matte lipstick goes on like butter on your lips and stays put for so long. I've already added a couple other colors to my wishlist, especially<a href="http://www.clinique.com/product/1605/31112/Makeup/Lipsticks/Long-Last-Soft-Matte-Lipstick"> this one</a>.<br />
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You can get the gifts with your purchase online <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/c/clinique-gift-with-purchase-details?cm_mmc=beauty-_-Clinique_Nordstrom_GWP-_-VanillaLace-_-partnerdigital1102">here</a> or at a local Nordstrom store (the Bellevue store is doing the event if you're close to Seattle!) It's seriously an amazing deal, you'd be silly to not scoop it up.<br />
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Thanks for letting me share! :)<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22899707156/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Clinique // Nordstrom Gift With Purchase"><img alt="Clinique // Nordstrom Gift With Purchase" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5742/22899707156_b43a20df3f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22304541183/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Clinique // Nordstrom Gift With Purchase"><img alt="Clinique // Nordstrom Gift With Purchase" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/709/22304541183_9d3a12421c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-90372771232447463202015-10-31T09:00:00.000-07:002015-11-01T22:17:53.471-08:00The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies... Ever!<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22078601473/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies Ever"><img alt="The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies Ever" height="480" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5818/22078601473_01e7087643_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
So my mom has been making this chocolate chip cookie recipe for as long as I can remember and it's become infamous. People beg me to make <i>"the"</i> chocolate chip cookies. There is something different that sets these 1000 times above the rest... I mean, a good cookie is a good cookie but these are better than the best. And I swear I'm not biased because I grew up on them, people hunt me down for the recipe after trying them!<br />
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The biggest difference between these and most other cookie recipes is that you <b>melt</b> the butter. Completely liquid. No softening or creaming of the butter for these. And I'm not a scientist so I don't understand completely how that affects the taste/baking process, but it does and it's a great thing!<br />
It also means you can make them on the fly, no waiting around for butter to soften.<br />
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Oxo reached out to me awhile back introducing me to the Cookies for Kids' Cancer campaign that they do and for every blog post dedicated to the campaign they would donate $100 to the charity. Obviously, I couldn't pass that up. So I finally have an excuse to share this amazing cookie recipe and help support this charity in one go!<br />
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These are gooey and chewy with perfect saltiness and brown sugary-ness. (Let me know if/when you make them!)<br />
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<b>THE </b>one and only... Chocolate Chip Cookies<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Makes 2 dozen</span><br />
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2 1/4 cups flour<br />
3/4 cups sugar<br />
3/4 cups brown sugar<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
1 tsp baking soda<br />
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1 stick of butter, melted<br />
2 eggs<br />
2 tsp vanilla<br />
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (more can be added depending on your chocolate/cookie ratio preference)<br />
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees.<br />
Mix the dry ingredients with a whisk until combined.<br />
Mix the wet ingredients together until the eggs are well blended.<br />
Add the wet ingredients into the dry and mix well.<br />
Add the chocolate chips and mix until well incorporated.<br />
Scoop heaping tablespoons onto cookie sheet and bake for 10 minutes.<br />
Enjoy :)<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22673764026/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies Ever"><img alt="The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies Ever" height="480" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5664/22673764026_9ffcd5b385_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22699775255/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies Ever"><img alt="The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies Ever" height="853" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5778/22699775255_823f7643c1_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22710949831/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies Ever"><img alt="The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies Ever" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/654/22710949831_6112beb586_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">- Cookies for Kids' Cancer is a recognized 501c(3) public charity duly incorporated under the laws of the state of New Jersey. Your donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent allowable by law. 100% of proceeds raised by Cookies for Kids' Cancer fund pediatric cancer research.<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">- <span class="il">OXO</span> will be donating $100 to Cookies for Kids’ Cancer for each blog post dedicated to this campaign in October (up to our $100,000 commitment*.)<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">- *In 2015, <span class="il">OXO</span> will donate up to $100,000 to Cookies for Kids' Cancer through product proceeds, bake sale matches and other fundraising efforts</span></div>
<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-46129959702271301692015-10-23T15:00:00.000-07:002015-10-23T16:57:24.225-07:00Mama Style 06 \\ Cozy fall day<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22431849541/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Mama Style 06 // Cozy Fall"><img alt="Mama Style 06 // Cozy Fall" height="853" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5797/22431849541_7bc4e501fc_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22394993286/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Mama Style 06 // Cozy Fall"><img alt="Mama Style 06 // Cozy Fall" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5647/22394993286_81f1cfa646_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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Happy Friday! I have one last collaboration with <a href="http://zps.to/csOQggbB">Zappos </a>to share, this time with <a href="http://zps.to/hpFMp1V">Clarks</a>! I love me a good pair of booties (especially cut-out ones!) but I've only ever had junky pairs that are super uncomfortable and wear out fast (I won't name any names...). As I've been paring down my wardrobe and thus my shoes as well, I've taken notice to how often you have to rebuy cheap shoes, it's kind of disturbing. It is SO worth it to pay more (and really not even much more at all) and have them last years and years and years. It's better on your budget in the long run and WAY better for the environment and all that good stuff. Buying high quality has become such an important value of ours over the last couple months, we want things that <b>last and hold up well</b>, especially shoes.<br />
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I picked up this<a href="http://zps.to/TH848O5"> pair </a>from Clarks--they are classic but with a little pizazz and I like that I'll be able to wear them through every season, not just fall/winter. Also, they are so comfortable which is crucial if I'll be wearing them all day chasing Beck through the park (which I do a lot).<br />
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<a href="http://zps.to/csOQggbB">Zappos</a> has carries TONS of Clark shoes, including the classic desert boots and these gorgeous <a href="http://zps.to/D6HmHMr">chelsea boots</a>. They've been around for quite some time and they know what they're doing when it comes to shoes and boots. And Zappos, well they have fast and free shipping (two things I love) and is always exceptionally easy to work with for exchanges or any questions.<br />
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Yay for a cozy fall day! I'm headed to the couch with a blanket and some tea to read now. Have a good weekend!!<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22407775632/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Mama Style 06 // Cozy Fall"><img alt="Mama Style 06 // Cozy Fall" height="853" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/763/22407775632_8dca170961_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22233030190/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Mama Style 06 // Cozy Fall"><img alt="Mama Style 06 // Cozy Fall" height="853" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/723/22233030190_c07710a247_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-43816978219774414332015-10-16T12:30:00.000-07:002015-11-25T13:27:59.301-08:00Purging and re-organizing our bathroom | Small space tipsWe've been on a major house/stuff/clutter/everything purge after reading a bunch of books on living more simply, minimalism, essentialism, or whatever you feel like calling it (I have LOTS more to say on this subject but more on that later). It's been an amazing journey and we're still working our way through the house, it takes awhile when you're only purging during nap time!<br />
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One area I really needed to take care of was our bathroom. We have very little storage in there and all of it is open storage so if it isn't tidy, it looks REAL bad. And when it gets real bad, I lose my mind so I needed to do something about it. Today I'm partnering with <a href="https://www.cottonelle.com/savings-coupons/?WT.mc_id=COT|GoCommando15|EN-US|Influencer&ReferralCode=COT-GOCOMM-IN-VML-2015514">Cottonelle </a>to share what I did:</div>
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<b>The first order of business was to go through and get rid of anything we don't currently use.</b> Sounds harsh but it's necessary. I'm a pretty organized person but I'm also frugal to the point of ridiculousness so the amount of hotel soaps and shampoos I was holding onto was just stupid. </div>
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The more stuff you have to "organize" the less your area will stay tidy and well... organized. Storage boxes and baskets don't always equal organized, it just LOOKS more organized and this drove me crazy. So I got rid of a TON of stuff. Hairspray, last years hand soap, lotions we haven't used in who knows how long, broken combs and brushes, face wash that didn't work for my skin, dull razors (why??) and LOTS more. </div>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22021996878/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Purging and Organizing our bathroom"><img alt="Purging and Organizing our bathroom" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/596/22021996878_35c3dc0c07_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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<b>I put cotton pads and cotton swabs in glass containers for easy access since we use them daily. </b></div>
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In this smaller basket I put larger items we use everyday like Beck's bubble bath and lotion. There's four things in there--easy to find, easy to put back and easy on the eyes.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22197034502/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Purging and Organizing our bathroom"><img alt="Purging and Organizing our bathroom" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5663/22197034502_9044c89f27_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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In the larger basket I put our hair tools--Flat iron, curling wand and blow dryer. Cords hidden but still easy to get to all three.<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22021995188/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Purging and Organizing our bathroom"><img alt="Purging and Organizing our bathroom" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5629/22021995188_678f6f7975_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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A portion of what didn't make the cut... SO much stuff we didn't use or don't need. Why did we still have this stuff?!<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22183660346/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Purging and Organizing our bathroom"><img alt="Purging and Organizing our bathroom" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/611/22183660346_03bf5960a0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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And here's the after shot (in our boring windowless bathroom)<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22197037592/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Purging and Organizing our bathroom"><img alt="Purging and Organizing our bathroom" height="853" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5647/22197037592_ebf9a7b5a6_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<b>I used a lidded box to store things we use but not often </b>like Sonicare chargers and new heads, new razors, and a neti pot. And I store toilet paper up top too--it doesn't need to be hidden or out of sight! The bigger the rolls the better, less to store and less times you have to change it out. The <a href="http://bit.ly/MegaRoll3">cottonelle Megarolls</a> are great-four rolls in one. Great for saving space which we desperately need!<br />
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Phew! So glad to have that done. It has already been so much easier to clean, find things and stay tidy. Hope you're inspired to do the same!<br />
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<i>This post was created in partnership with <a href="https://www.cottonelle.com/savings-coupons/?WT.mc_id=COT|GoCommando15|EN-US|Influencer&ReferralCode=COT-GOCOMM-IN-VML-2015514">Cottonelle</a>. As always, all words and opinions are entirely my own! Thanks for supporting brands that support this blog!</i><br />
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abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-31927939145363919012015-10-15T21:11:00.000-07:002015-10-15T21:11:07.537-07:00The rainiest day at the pumpkin patchLast Saturday we braved the rain (like we do here) and headed to the pumpkin patch with a bunch of people. It was coming down pretty good when we first got there but then it cleared so we headed towards the area where you pet and feed all the animals. Beck loves animals more than anything so he was in heaven. This baby cow.... I want to take him home. <a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/21587834793/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="The rainiest pumpkin patch"><img alt="The rainiest pumpkin patch" height="853" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/685/21587834793_74850c7b5a_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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Then we went in the muddiest (and most slippery) corn maze and got lost for an hour and ending up finding our way back out the entrance eventually. I almost face planted into the mud like 30 times and I was SO over the corn maze.<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22021035138/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="The rainiest pumpkin patch"><img alt="The rainiest pumpkin patch" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/706/22021035138_49a5d6c415_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22182709496/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="The rainiest pumpkin patch"><img alt="The rainiest pumpkin patch" height="853" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5754/22182709496_f291100dd9_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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It still wasn't raining so we took the hayride to the pumpkin patch area. Immediately the sky got dark and then started pouring, with no signs of letting up. I ran out and grabbed a pumpkin any way and got soaked. It was so windy it literally felt like a tornado and the rain was shooting sideways. It was so intense (and funny) and these were the genuine reactions to it... I guess Beck was frightened or upset ;)<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22020750010/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="The rainiest pumpkin patch"><img alt="The rainiest pumpkin patch" height="480" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5642/22020750010_9b2dfc25ed_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
Seriously, it was the hardest I've ever seen it rain here. We ran back to the car completely soaked. It was definitely a memory we won't forget any time soon!<br />
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Pumpkin patch, we're coming back for you when the forecast is slightly better!abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-91659596199126661852015-10-10T21:02:00.001-07:002015-10-15T21:30:59.448-07:00Mama Style 05 // Day to Date<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/21460415914/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Mama Style 05 / Day to Date"><img alt="Mama Style 05 / Day to Date" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5654/21460415914_51c2c96044_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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Happy Saturday! Today we actually spent the day at the pumpkin patch doing all the fun fall things like muddy corn mazes, petting goats and a hayride to the pumpkin patch (it was storming... we got soaked). I'll be back later with some photos from that but for now I wanted to share round two of my post for Levi's.<br />
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Another simple outfit I wear all the time--<a href="http://zps.to/bOtcZIpN">Levi's black skinnies </a>(the 710's), a loose black t-shirt and a long-sleeve chambray. It's fall friendly (not too warm or cold), it's easy, it's comfortable. Black jeans are my fave because they can be totally casual, which is how I roll all day but easily dressed-up too--add some platform clogs, change your blouse and wipe the kid snot off your jeans and you're set for date night. They are like the classy version of leggings (but i'm not knockin' leggings, I love those too). I need my whole wardrobe to be versatile, everything goes with everything. Jeans are the glue.<br />
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I also love Levi's because they are one of the only jean companies that work hard to have ethical labor practices. It's a huge value of mine and something I've been spending a TON of time thinking about so yay Levi's!<a href="http://www.zappos.com/"> Zappos</a> even has a "Made in the US" category so you can search through all the Made in the US items for more ethical shopping.<br />
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This <a href="http://zps.to/bWv9AJsX">pair of jeans</a> is still less than $33, which is an incredible deal for quality jeans. If you're in the market, I highly recommend them. They fit super well (and true to size) but if you need something different Zappos is the easiest place possible to do exchanges or returns.<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22057081406/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Mama Style 05 / Day to Date"><img alt="Mama Style 05 / Day to Date" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/651/22057081406_af65b12882_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22083268515/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Mama Style 05 / Day to Date"><img alt="Mama Style 05 / Day to Date" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/659/22083268515_694092532e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22083272125/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Mama Style 05 / Day to Date"><img alt="Mama Style 05 / Day to Date" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/659/22083272125_08348f8360_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<i style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">This post was created in partnership with Zappos. As always, all opinions and words are entirely my own and I'm super grateful to have the opportunity to work with a company I love.</span></i>abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-4222954875550038162015-10-09T21:00:00.000-07:002015-10-09T21:00:01.634-07:00How we stay healthy through fall + winter // Thieves Roll-on<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22034221766/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Thieves Roll-on"><img alt="Thieves Roll-on" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5643/22034221766_84e928f9f1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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Thieves is one of my<b> very favorite </b>essential oils to use (along with the rest of the world) because of its insane immune system support. It's a blend of clove, cinnamon, rosemary, eucalyptus and lemon and together they have super powers when it comes to keeping your immune system up and running healthily. I roll it on our feet every night and if we need extra support (Beck in the nursery, after the zoo or other crowded area, or if we're around someone who is sick) then we roll it on twice that day.<br />
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There are TONS of ways to use Thieves oil, this is just one way to easily incorporate into your daily routine to stay healthy this fall + winter.<br />
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In my 10ml roller bottle I add 20 drop of Thieves essential oil and fill the rest with a carrier oil. My favorite is sweet almond oil or jojoba oil. Any liquid oil will work! This time I also added 10 drops of my beloved Frankincense at the last minute because it also has immune boosting properties! Double the power.<br />
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Thieves has saved us SO many times over the last year. I wouldn't be caught dead without it. If you're interested about essential oils or want to get some Thieves, shoot me an email and I'd be happy to help! (abi@vanillaandlace.com)<br />
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Amber roller bottles and dropper bottles are from<a href="http://www.abundanthealth4u.com/1_3_oz_Amber_Glass_Roll_on_Vials_with_Black_Caps_p/9166.htm"> here. </a><br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/21437569874/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Thieves Roll-on"><img alt="Thieves Roll-on" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5836/21437569874_3e7303ca47_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/21873511299/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Thieves Roll-on"><img alt="Thieves Roll-on" height="958" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5758/21873511299_b2ac958338_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/22047986732/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Thieves Roll-on"><img alt="Thieves Roll-on" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5646/22047986732_dab9812aa5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-44505980469229357042015-10-09T15:26:00.000-07:002015-10-09T15:26:05.067-07:00A quick getaway to the beach!<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/21335176654/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="October beach trip"><img alt="October beach trip" height="480" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5641/21335176654_655e6821c5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/21967680721/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="October beach trip"><img alt="October beach trip" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/683/21967680721_cd86178567_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/21945788202/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="October beach trip"><img alt="October beach trip" height="480" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5707/21945788202_45345c104e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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<span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/21769817640/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="October beach trip"><img alt="October beach trip" height="853" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5752/21769817640_15d5210184_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></u></span><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/21769816780/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="October beach trip"><img alt="October beach trip" height="853" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/621/21769816780_5ff48db23f_b.jpg" width="640" /></a></u></span><br />
<span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/21769814880/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="October beach trip"><img alt="October beach trip" height="853" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/658/21769814880_695271bd23_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></u></span><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/21957901325/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="October beach trip"><img alt="October beach trip" height="853" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5813/21957901325_5dd9b59518_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></u></span><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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<span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/21931733796/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="October beach trip"><img alt="October beach trip" height="853" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/637/21931733796_34b0c3c7e2_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></u></span><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/21769812290/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="October beach trip"><img alt="October beach trip" height="853" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/614/21769812290_b4b419b1b0_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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Last week we spent four days at the beach just the three of us hanging out with no agenda or plans. It was really fun and refreshing and relaxing. It was the first time Beck really got to play on the beach and he loved every single part of it--throwing sand, stomping in the water, chasing seagulls, finding shells, he was SO happy the whole time. We also had a heated pool at the hotel we stayed at and he loved that even more (and so did I). We rode the carousel in town like 4 or 5 times with him because why not? And when he went to sleep at night, we jumped in bed and read for like 3 hours straight. It was glorious.<br />
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It was a super fun and refreshing quick trip with some of the happiest memories of us yet.<br />
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(p.s. we stayed at <a href="http://www.ashorehotel.com/">Ashore Hotel </a>and loved it! We'll be back for sure)<br />
<br />abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-33857468596860721522015-09-25T16:27:00.000-07:002015-10-01T14:53:44.215-07:00Mama Style 04 : Everyday black skinny jeans<div>
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/21719240965/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Mama Style: Black Skinnies"><img alt="Mama Style: Black Skinnies" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5649/21719240965_d68c8c507d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
It's officially fall! Hopefully the weather is cooling down where you live and everything is starting to get that cozy feel that fall brings. I packed up my spring/summer clothes and got out my fall/winter stuff and I know I shouldn't be shocked but I had to laugh because it is literally all black and grey except 3 things (beige sweater, white sweater and a white t-shirt)... haha! I'm not exactly the adventurous type when it comes to clothing I guess!<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/21096538674/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Mama Style: Black Skinnies"><img alt="Mama Style: Black Skinnies" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/771/21096538674_18ab0c7f66_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/21531312560/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="Mama Style: Black Skinnies"><img alt="Mama Style: Black Skinnies" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5777/21531312560_99d3d917e6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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That said, black skinny jeans are my bread and butter. It's what I wear most days of the week so I need them to fit good, be comfortable and be well-made so I'm not buying replacement jeans every 6 months. Levi's just recently relaunched their 700-series jeans for women and I was a little giddy when they reached out to see if I would help them get the word out. I have the <a href="http://zps.to/bWv9AJsX">710's (Super skinny)</a> and love them to pieces. They are flattering, durable and all the things I require in jeans (which is super rare!) and since Levi's knows a thing or two about jeans you are guaranteed to find a pair that fit your body type perfectly!<br />
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I have always hated jean shopping (can I get an amen?) because I felt like it's impossible to find the perfect fit---too baggy in the knees, too tight in the waist, too long, too low-rise, etc. Levi's has plenty of shapes and fits to choose from and make the whole process easy to understand and find the right fit. If you're a skinny jean only kind of girl, get the<a href="http://zps.to/bOtcZIpN"> 710 skinnies</a> (and they are only $33)! You'll thank me later.<br />
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I ordered mine from Zappos and ended up having to exchange for a different size but the whole process was still so much easier than trying on a million pair at the store. Returns/exchanges from zappos are seriously so pleasant and easy, every other company could learn a little something from them. Insider tip: always listen to the joke of the day when you call zappos. :)<br />
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From one jean-hating shopper to another, Levi's + zappos = the most painless jean shopping experience ever.<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/21719217685/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Mama Style: Black Skinnies"><img alt="Mama Style: Black Skinnies" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/757/21719217685_f2d6f8210d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/21098245253/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Mama Style: Black Skinnies"></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">This post was created in partnership with Zappos. As always, all opinions and words are entirely my own and I'm super grateful to have the opportunity to work with a company I love. </span></i>abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-29853615754310682662015-09-21T22:20:00.001-07:002015-09-21T22:22:09.391-07:00Out of the woods<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/21429511679/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="September"><img alt="September" height="960" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5751/21429511679_766d26ae6f_b.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
We're coming out of what was one of the longest weeks we've had in a long time, not bad.. just long! Josh was working but also recording a record with his band which meant he was gone 15-16 hours every day last week... phew! We all survived and it actually wasn't nearly as bad as I anticipated. Beck and I hung out with friends, went to the park a lot and tried to keep busy eating snacks (and maybe there was an episode or two of Yo Gabba Gabba every day). <br />
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I watched a few netflix docs in the evenings and<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sharp-Objects-Gillian-Flynn/dp/0307341550"> finished a book</a>. Not too bad if you ask me! I've actually read a few really really great books in the past month or two, it might be time to do another recommending reading list again soon (if I don't discuss them in detail soon I might explode). </div>
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Also, we're headed to the beach next week for some much needed rest time as a family. Books and playing in sand and sleeping. Cannnnnot wait.<br />
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And on a completely different note, I haven't stopped listening to the Ryan Adams cover of 1989 (hence the title of this post) all day. Two of my favorite musicians colliding. If my ears could drool, they would be drooling. Sooooo goooood.</div>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/20993624794/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="September"><img alt="September" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/753/20993624794_cdd4458b5f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div>
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p.s. Amazon Prime Now just started up in Portland and so naturally we had to try it out, just for fun. We got a bunch of really random stuff we needed and in an hour it was in front of our door. We probably won't use it again (or very rarely) since I don't mind walking the 5 blocks to the store ;) but it was a neat to try!</div>
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/21625351871/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="September"><img alt="September" height="427" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/676/21625351871_c8920631d2_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div>
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(Most random and cluttered blog post ever. Welcome to my brain)</div>
abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-83073144999976008672015-09-11T21:13:00.000-07:002015-09-11T21:19:43.260-07:00A post I forgot to post...I had this quick little blog post ready to go over a week ago and somehow it fell through the cracks and didn't get posted, ha! In the beginning of it I was talking all about how we've been having the dreamiest overcast and rainy weather lately (After a super hot summer) but now we're back in the 90's so blah, so much for all the things I was looking forward to. I have a feeling there will only be a few more hot days before we enter the 8 months of non-stop rain... so I'll try to appreciate the days where the slides aren't drenched at the park while I can. :)<br />
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Here's what we were up to the beginning of September:<br />
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Lots of zoo visits. We went on a Sunday and it was drizzly which meant no one was there and it felt like we had the place to ourselves. Seriously, I think we saw less than 10 people the whole time we were there. Beck is quiiiiite obsessed with animals so the zoo is so much fun these days. He also stomped in lots of puddles as we walked... of course :)<br />
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Donuts and coffee at Pips on a day off. It's usually insanely busy when we go so we always just stroll the neighborhood while we eat and drink. Beck brought his snake along. I don't know that we can ever leave the house without at least one animal in each hand...<br />
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vanillaandlaceblog/20992063740/in/dateposted-public/" nbsp="" title="This week // google photos"><img alt="This week // google photos" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/674/20992063740_174c8ae456_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br />
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This age is so intensely fun. He's a chatterbox, so friendly to everyone he sees, wants to hug/kiss/snuggle 500x time a day, and sleeps like a pro. Of course some days aren't so fun and I'm counting down the seconds till bedtime but for the most part we're having a blast all day.<br />
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Lastly: Ok Portland, can we officially be done with the hot weather now??abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5763995892807876510.post-91182255432540346032015-09-05T19:00:00.000-07:002015-09-18T10:59:59.327-07:00Free tacos and google photo!Last Saturday Google invited me to be a part of their #paywithaphoto campaign which meant we all got free tacos from the infamous Koi fusion food cart just a few blocks from us! We walked down there, played the game (and both won!) and ate delicious tofu tacos. It was glorious. They are out on tour promoting the new google photo app which I've been using and loooove. If you're an organized freak or just take tons of iphone photos, you'll love it too. There's a search function on the app and it's freaky how well it works. You can type in 'plant' and it'll bring up all the photos of plants in your phone. I typed in 'asphalt' and it brought up any photo on my phone that has the street in it, and when I typed 'baby' every picture of Beck came up...what?? so crazy! This feature kept me entertained for a LONG time.<br />
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You can also create Gifs and put together videos and slideshows. I'm a major google fan already—google mail, maps, drive, calendar, docs, and blogger of course—so this app kinda rounds out my obsession.<br />
If you're curious, you can see more about what the app does on the <a href="http://www.google.com/photos/about/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Google Photos website!</a><br />
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Oh hey cute boys!<br />
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<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>abi porterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03608148531459665056noreply@blogger.com0