Essie Nail Polish ~ Summer Collection

I love to indulge in "me time."  Who doesn't?  I deserve it.  I work.  I have kids, a husband, and a house to take care of.  So my one regular indulgence that I partake in is getting my nails done.  

I am apparently addicted to pink nail polishes.  I swear I must own like 15 different shades of pink.  They range from light to hot to deep.  

I usually have my nails painted in a light pink, like Essie's Ballet Slippers.  I save the "fun" pinks for my toes.  For some reason, bright colors on my hands make me nervous and I tend to put them in my mouth (former nail biter...I admit it).  

Recently, I purchased Essie's Summer Collection.  It's a box of four mini nail polishes from a collection.  Mini is the perfect size in case you get aren't sure if you like a color.  

The colors for this summer have really cute names, as all Essie's nail polishes do.  Each of these new summer colors have a slight shimmer to them.  There's Sunday Funday.  This tangerine coral crush polish helps me to veer from my normal pink.  Naughty Nautical is a marine blue-green color.  Full Steam Ahead is a medium toned lilac shade.  And then there's The More The Merrier; it's a lime green color...so fun!

These colors are so bright and cheery...they totally fit my mood this summer.  (Fun and carefree!)  My plan is to pick a different one of these polishes each time I get my mani & pedi.   

I started with The More the Merrier.  COMPLETELY out of my comfort zone!!  I'm loving it though and definitely adding new colors to my repertoire! 

Are you a nail polish dare devil or do you stick to the same shade every time?  What's your favorite Essie color? 




Alexis

Pay It Forward Friday ~ Summer Travel Tips for Families

Kendra Thornton has been packing her bags and traveling the world since she visited the Bahamas at 3 months old.  She is 37 and a mother of 3. Before being promoted to the full time position of mommy, Kendra was the former Director of Communications at Orbitz where she was able to travel all around the world.  Kendra also appears regularly as a travel expert on ABC, CBS, NBC and CW affiliates across the country to share travel trends, tips and deals with millions of viewers every year.

To connect with Kendra, contact her via her website, Thornton PR or on twitter @KendraThornton

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Summer Travel Tips for Families

Whether you are looking to travel to Walt Disney World, the Grand Canyon, or New Orleans, you will likely want a vacation that all members of the family are excited about. Once you’ve settled on a destination, you can begin to do a bit of planning. With special attention paid to the needs of the kids, you can craft a trip that will leave everyone raving for years afterwards.

1) Eat Healthy Breakfasts

Because you will likely want to squeeze the most out of each day, you should be sure that your family eats a nutritious breakfast every morning. At Walt Disney World, many family-friendly Orlando hotels offer tasty breakfast platters to their guests. Even if you are staying at a smaller hotel, however, continental breakfasts will usually be available more often than not. Eating at the hotel will also stop you from gorging on theme park food, which can be quite expensive.

2) Research Your Hotel Options

 

Consider family-friendly hotels whenever possible. Indoor playgrounds, for example, will give the kids something to do during the evenings. Elegant suites will often have refrigerators, freezers, and microwaves. Having a miniature kitchen in your hotel room will allow you to prepare meals on the fly. The fridge, in fact, can be stocked with milk, juice, fruits, and vegetables. It’s great to read reviews before you make any decisions.

3) Set Aside Time for Adults

Though much of your energy will likely be devoted to showing the kids a great time, give yourself some time to relax with your husband. You might agree to watch the kids for an afternoon, for example, while your husband goes golfing. You might also hire a babysitter while the two of you crack open a bottle of champagne on the balcony.

4) Try Audiobooks

Audiobooks can be godsends in many ways. They can be easily downloaded to the latest electronic devices. For kids who have grown tired of listening to music, books are good alternatives. Make sure that you bring along some headphones so that others in the vehicle are not disturbed.

5) Bring Along Hygiene Kits

Planes, trains, and hotel rooms are not the cleanest places on the planet. By packing a hygiene kit, you can quickly clean airplane tray tables and hotel fixtures. Airplanes, in fact, are not typically given full cleanings until the end of the day. Sanitizing wipes can kill germs on contact. Hand sanitizer, meanwhile, can be used before meals.

 

In the end, you will need to think outside the box a bit as you go about planning your vacation. By turning to audio books, hygiene kits, and healthy breakfasts, you can create a wonderful experience for everyone involved. The world, as they say, will be your oyster.

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As a way to share the blogging love and meet new bloggers, I have "Pay it Forward Friday."  This is where I periodically feature fellow bloggers with different interests and from new areas.  If you are interested in writing a guest post for "Pay it Forward Friday," feel free to send me a message!  I would love to feature you!!

Alexis

The Teacher In Me ~ Keeping the Learning Going

I'll admit it, when it comes to learning, I let go in the summer.  As a teacher by trade,  I know I should encourage my kids to keep their skills up so there isn't so much loss in the summer, but I'm just so exhausted from the school year, that the last thing I want to do is fight with my kids to do work.  So I slack off.  I'm such a bad mommy & teacher....

Not this year!  It's a summer goal of mine to keep the learning going.   
  


Reading:

This is an easy one.  Pick up a book and read.  

I base the time of reading around The Nag.  However long it takes him to read a chapter, that's how long Little Ricky needs to read.  (Not to mention that Little Ricky is like his mommy, once he starts reading, he doesn't want to put it down.)  

We recently cleaned out our home library.  We donated a bunch of books that the kids have outgrown to our school and to cousins.  Now, we have tons of chapter books left for summer reading.  Right now, the boys are working on The Magic Tree House series.  We also have plans to make it to the public library.  


Math:

The boys' teachers sent home Summer Math Packets for the kids.  They are essentially the math worksheets that the class didn't finish during the school year, so it's a nice bridge to the learning that will take place next year.   I have them work on 2-3 pages every few days. 

My husband also likes to ask them "hard" math facts (addition, subtraction, and multiplication) while we are in the car or eating a meal, so they can work on their recall.  Sometimes, if we are at a restaurant, we make up math problems for them on their "kiddie menus" for them to solve. 




Writing:

Another easy one.  We have marble notebooks that we use as journals.  We got them at the Dollar Tree.  I have them write a paragraph or two about what we did that day.  They also like to write stories from time to time.  Little Ricky just wrote a book as a gift for Father's Day.  (Totally his idea)  I also plan to work on their handwriting....it's awful!!


Science:

The boys LOVE science!  My plan is to do at least one cool science experiment every other week or so.  I also want to take them to The Miami Science Museum for the first time.  We are also planning on revisiting The Fort Lauderdale Museum of Science and Discovery.  These places should get those little scientific brains going!



I'm not saying that I'm home schooling this summer.  Just an hour every couple of days.  Mostly on the days when we don't have an outside activity planned or it seems they may just kill each other.  


What do you do to keep the learning going in the summer?  I would love more ideas!


Alexis

Summer Fun Ideas Found on Pinterest

Summer is HERE!!  A time of late bedtimes and no alarm clocks....total carefree living!  Days of shorts, swimsuits and flip flops. 

What happens when the weather doesn't cooperate?  We have been on vacation for 13 days and we've only had one pretty day so far.  If this keeps up, we are going to have a L-O-N-G summer!!

13 Days Down....74 More To Go.....

So what can you do to keep the kids entertained without spending too much money?  (Not to mention so they don't kill each other...or me killing them!)

I have been wanting to create flubber with the kids....I think they would like it and it's definitely a "boy" activity.  Since boys really like messy and fun things, it's right up our alley.  (oohh....bowling...that's another idea for another day)

Of course I went to the "almighty Pinterest" for ideas.  Now let's see if I can get off of it long enough to actually DO some of these things!!


Do you have any ideas that will keep these kids from killing each other??

Alexis

Summer Trends with The Children's Place

SUMMER IS ALMOST HERE!!  (Did I sound too excited about that?)  I LOVE summer!  No set schedule, lazy days & nights, pools, beaches, ice pops, etc.  Everything about summer is just awesome!

All school year, my kids wear a uniform.  Summer fashion is a must in our house.  The kids can dress themselves and express their own fashion sense (or lack there of).  I like to keep mix and match pieces in their wardrobe so that it's a no brainer with items that go together.  This is especially essential with "Little Ricky" because he tends to put things together that just don't go!

That's why I love shopping at The Children's Place for their fashion needs.  All of the items are able to mix nicely so that I don't have to cringe at their outfit choices.  I would love for the boys to wear the layered look.  You know, a graphic t with a plaid button down and a jean jacket on top.  How cute would they be?  So trendy.  



In the world of boys, their biggest contribution to the fashion world is mesh shorts and a team t-shirt.  Fun. 

My favorite piece at The Children's Place is the elastic waist shorts.  They are so versatile and are really roomy for the boys.  The wide variety of graphic t's come in all the latest trends that the boys want. 

Did I mention the price?  That's another reason why I love The Children's Place.  I can get them great clothing for a great price.  Their sales are out of this world.  Jeans can be as cheap as $10 and sometimes you can get t-shirts for as low as $2.  






The Children's Place has the cutest accessories for boys too.  I mean, who doesn't love a mini fedora and some aviator glasses?  How do I get my kids to wear them?




What fashion trends are you most looking forward to for summer?  Will you shop at The Children's Place for all your summer kids' clothing needs? 



*Disclaimer:  Although I was provided compensation for this post, all opinions are, of course, my own.

 
Alexis

South Florida Finds ~ Summer Camps

Summer is almost here!  No more classroom, no more books, no more....well, you get it.  Teachers are excited to relax and unwind and recharge their batteries for the next school year, parents are excited to not have to argue about homework for a few months, and kids are excited to relax and have fun with their own agendas.

What kind of summer do you have planned?  Are you a stay at home parent who likes to be the "director" of your child's summer, or are you a working parent who needs a place for your child to be entertained and taken care of at summer camp?

As a teacher, I'm off, so my summers usually consist of relaxing for a couple of weeks and then the fighting begins.  My kids just seem to need a break from each other for a while.  So we like to put them in camp for a couple of weeks sporadically throughout the summer.  They are far apart in age that they are never in the same group, therefore they actually miss each other during the day so they play better in the afternoons.  (Not to mention they actually miss me too....so we all win!)

Here is a list of some South Florida summer camps:

*Zoo Miami ~ Zoofari Summer Camp
Ages 4-13 (Kindergarten-8th grade)
$195/week  $175/week for members
At Zoo Miami, the kids get close encounters with the animals at the zoo, educational themes that revolve around animals both tame and wild, visits and presentations from the zookeeper and Banfield Pet Hospital FutureVets program, arts & crafts, and water play.  Themes are based on the age groups' level of interest.

*Fit2Play, Green-It-Up Summer Camps
Ages 6-14 
$40-$90/week (financial assistance & scholarship available to those who qualify)
Miami-Dade Parks in partnership with University of Miami Health System offer this camp to teach children the fundamentals of living a healthy lifestyle through nutrition, fitness and exercise.  They also learn the health benefits of going green through recycling, water conservation, and other eco-friendly behaviors that help the planet.

*Miami Stone Crabs Lacrosse Camp
Kindergarten-12th grade 
$200 before May 8; $225 before June 8; $250 June 9-10
This is a one week camp from 3pm-7pm for boys and girls to learn the fundamentals of lacrosse.  Players must provide their own equipment.

*Miami Dade College Kids/Teen College Summer Programs
Ages 7-17
Approx. $110 per class
Miami Dade College offers a wide variety of summer classes for youth including dance like ballet, hip hop and zumba; etiquette courses; varied sports like soccer, tennis and golf; acting; cartooning; photography; and robotics using LEGOS.  

*School of Rock
All ages
$499-$999/week
Rock N’ Roll boot camps are 5 days of learning music, playing music, fun, band bonding and performance! Throughout the week kids go from zero to a full set of songs and performance at a local all ages venue. Group rehearsal, music trivia, song casting, one-on-one attention from all-star instructors, gear education, and band-related activities are all aimed at helping kids learn a set of songs and be totally ready to rock them by the end of the week. Whether you play drums, sing, shred guitar or bass or play keyboard -- you’ll have a blast.  


There are SO many choices at different venues throughout Miami for many age groups and for any budget.  

What are your summer plans?

 
Alexis

Pay it Forward Friday ~ Fabulous Summer Bottoms: Dorothy Perkins Edition

Amanda is a South Florida based stay at home mom to a beautiful 15 month old girl.  Being an "AntiMom" is not a baby or mom hater, or all things “mom”.  But since finding out she was pregnant, she vowed to never become the type of mom that loses her identity just because she now has a child.  "I didn’t do things the conventional way my entire life, why would having a baby change that?"  You can check out her website The Anti Mom Blog or find her on Twitter @AntiMomBlog or Facebook The Anti Mom Blog. 


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Fabulous Summer Bottoms: Dorothy Perkins Edition

I know as a mom, we put everyone and everything before ourselves.  Along with this neglect, our fantastic children slowly suck the life out of us during the day, leaving us tired and covered in something sticky.  My mission in life, well since having my daughter, has been trying to find the balance between being a great mom and still being able to stay true to my pre-mom self.  One of those things for me is shopping. 

I have a slight problem/obsession, but I love fashion and the way a great outfit makes me feel.  Some might think of that as vain, but when you look good, you feel good...a trendy domino effect, if you will.

Now that summer is here and slowly melting us away here in South Florida, I like to keep up on deals and great finds for all the latest summer trends.  I came across this great website called Dorothy Perkins and am in love!  Fashion-forward trends for great prices can’t get any better than that!  

Since summer is in full swing, you have to have a few staples beyond a bathing suit.  A good pair of shorts or cropped jeans are a must.  Here are a few pairs of bottoms that everyone should add to their summer wardrobe and they are all under $50!

Jean Bermuda Shorts $39

Jean Bermuda Shorts
These are my absolute favorite this summer!  I wear mine practically every other day.  If you are chasing after kids or meeting a friend for lunch, these are perfect for any day of the week.  And if you want to go on a casual date night with your significant other, throw on a pair or cute wedges for that extra "oomph."

Colored Jean Shorts $27

Colored Jean Shorts
Along with the bolds, sweet pastels are making their way into the limelight.  Try a cool mint color or even a light peach.








 
Colored Jeans

Colored Jeans $39

Color is in and is everywhere you look.  They are showing fantastic bold and bright fabrics that can give an outfit that extra pop.  A great pair of colored denim jeans, like these blue ones, paired with a simple white tee will make a great summer outfit.  The white – well they are classic summer all the way!


 

Maxi Skirt – Striped $35

Maxi Skirts
I love love LOOOOVE these skirts!  You can dress them up or down with either a pair of wedges or cute sandals.  So breezy and cute…and beyond comfortable!


 

Rompers starting at $21

Rompers
It’s not summer without a cute romper!  I love these things and they are everywhere.  Great for cover ups or just a quick outfit when you are in a rush.  These 3 are great options.  Whether you like shorts or capri length, rompers are perfect for a relaxing BBQ or a fun summer party!

 



These great finds will help spice up your summer wardrobe without breaking the bank.  Double bonus!

I want to thank Alexis & all her fab Exhausted Mom readers for having me!  Be sure to come check me out over at The Anti Mom for more weekly fashion postings on the latest trends (next week will be the top 5 summery tops under $20!) and of course some other random shenanigans!




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As a way to share the blogging love and meet new bloggers, I have "Pay it Forward Friday."  This is where I periodically feature fellow bloggers with different interests and from new areas.  If you are interested in writing a guest post for "Pay it Forward Friday," feel free to send me a message!  I would love to feature you!!

Alexis

South Florida Finds ~ The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club

For Father's Day weekend, we decided to take a last minute mini-vacation to the west coast of Florida to Naples.   My aunt and uncle had just returned from The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club and couldn't stop talking about it, so we decided to go.  

WHAT AN AMAZING TIME WE HAD!!!

The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club is nestled along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico in Naples, Florida.  It has an on-site golf course, tennis courts, a spa and fitness center, family & adult only pools, and 7 miles of soft sandy beaches.  Are you intrigued?   


There were different styles of buildings to stay in on the resort property.  We stayed in the Watkins building.  Our room was on the bottom floor and had a balcony that walked right out to the pool and beach.  It was HEAVEN!  Perfect for leaving our sand toys and shoes outside when we came in for the day.

Did I mention the awesome beach?!  The sand was so soft.  And since it's the Gulf, the water was so calm.  The boys had a ball searching for sea creatures.  We found many fighting conch and collected a whole bucket full of shells.

How can you not feel relaxed with this beach??

The resort thought of everything!  There was a "shell wash" station to clean your shells before taking them home and a sign letting us know what kinds of shells and animals that can be found on the "Paradise Coast."  The boys really wanted to find a star fish...just to say they've touched one, but we didn't have any luck. 

We had such a wonderful time at the Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club that we already want to go back!  Next time we want to go with more friends and family to share in the fun!

We had an amazing time!!

Until our next visit, we will have our pictures and memories to keep us relaxed!  If you ever find yourself in Naples, Florida, you need to check this place out...you WON'T be disappointed!

And the sunsets on the west coast of Florida are AMAZING!

Alexis

Naples on Dwellable

Thirsty Thursday ~ Strawberry Watermelon Cooler

Summer time and the livin' is easy.  Kids are swimming and the sun is extra hot.  

Don't you want to cool down?  What better way than with an icy fresh beverage with what else...RUM!

During the summer, fresh fruit is bountiful....especially strawberries and watermelon.  They are the inspiration for this week's drink! 

Strawberry Watermelon Cooler

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh watermelon, roughly chopped
• ½ cup fresh strawberries, diced
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 tbsp. agave nectar
• 1 cup ice
• 1 cup of white rum (I like Bacardi)
  

Directions:

1. In a blender combine watermelon & strawberries.  
2. Strain the mixture so that the seeds are removed.
   
3. Then combine the fruit mixture, coconut milk, agave nectar, rum and ice; pulse until smooth.
4. Divide between 4 glasses. You can optionally add one shot of rum or tequila to each glass. Serve with a straw and garnish with strawberry slices or watermelon wedges.
5. Serve immediately.
   

How's that for summer fun??  I hope you enjoy!!

Alexis

"Not So Mommy" Trends for Summer

Yeah, I'm a mom.  But that doesn't mean I have to LOOK like my mom.  

But since I AM a mom, I choose comfort instead of high fashion.  I need room to move when I'm chasing the boys from one place to another.  Not to mention I live in steamy South Florida, so I need thin fabrics that breathe.  

Here are some trends that work well with any mom's summer plans from staying home to traveling around.  All with the kids in mind!!

JCrew Camp Popover shirt $69.50

My go-to outfit for summer is a t-shirt and shorts or jeans.  I really love the look of a white t.  This top from JCrew is a nice alternative to the almighty t-shirt.  It also makes the look a little more "finished." 

A-line Maxi Skirt from Gap $49.95

I said that I love comfort and t-shirts, what better way to combine the two than with this maxi skirt from Gap.  You can pair these type of skirts with a simple tank or one with more pizazz.  Add flip flops or wedges to change the mood.

Utility jacket from Gap $79.95

Change your every day outfit by adding a jacket with color.  I LOVE this utility jacket from Gap.

Nautical Hobo Bag from Forever 21 $22.80

The nautical look is all buzz this summer! Try adding this piece to your wardrobe even if you can't make it to a boat.  It's also nice and roomy in order to carry your kids' needs as well.  

When looking for trendy accents, I like to shop at Forever 21.  The prices are just right that even my husband won't get mad.

Colorblocked Bangle Set from Forever 21 $7.80

Sam Edelman Gigi sandal $65

And no look would be complete without the right SHOES!  I love getting neutral shoes that I can justify by wearing them with many outfits.  These Sam Edelmans are just that...comfy and go well with everything! 



What are your favorite summer pieces?  How do you change your favorites so that you don't look so "mommy-ish?"



Alexis