Weekend Links.

TGIF! What do you all have planned this weekend? As a family, we are doing the usual rotation, work, birthday parties, skiing... but if I had my way, I'd really like to be doing a lot of lazying around, with my husband, now that he's feeling a little better. Really, it's what the two of us do best! I also have the new issue of Domino screaming for me to crack it open, so no matter what I'm winning this weekend. I hope whatever your plans are, that you have a great one! Here are a few fun links from around the web to hopefully keep you warm this chilly weekend. See you all Monday.

Mind Blown. For real.

This makes me want to spend the next week, re-watching every single episode. I wish I could say it would be the first time... ahhhhhhh life before kids.

2 brothers re-create old family photographs. It hurts how happy this makes me!

On the advice of the all knowing Lou, I'm trying this face mask out tonight. After this Winter, my skin is so sad, it can use any help I can offer.

On that same note, I randomly picked up this new beauty product earlier his week and I am loving it! It's like a BB or CC cream (I'm not really sure of the difference) but it has a powder finish. I am absolutely loving it so far, and it doesn't settle in to those fine lines and wrinkles. Score!

A thought provoking post that I've probably read about 10 times now. I am so guilty of putting a filter on everything, and then saying it would be nice to see how "real" people are. Makes you think.

Also, ever wonder what it would be like if you were photo shopped like a celebrity? A few women found out, and the results aren't what you would think.

Denim "rules" to live by.

I am in love with this line, Humaniod. I seriously want every piece in their new collection!

I think this is where I'm heading with my hair. Obviously, since I change my mind on any day that ends in a "y" nothing is set in stone, but I love the blonde blonde, with the shoulder length cut. For now ;).

I know Nina, and she is just about the nicest person you could ever meet, but I seriously had no idea how insanely talented she is! This spread in House Beautiful is so deserved, and I have to say I'm beyond inspired. The desk in the kitchen? Genius. Yep, I'm taking copious notes.

I don't think I can want summer to come any quicker than I already do, but this recipe has me dreaming of days where I need to throw something together quickly, because we spent way too much time running through the sprinklers at the park. Oh, and I need a garden in the worst way ever.

Speaking of which, how cool is this vertical garden.? I wonder if I get enough light to make it work.... hmmmmmmm.

Monday I think we are in for ANOTHER huge snowstorm. When it comes to getting dressed in the morning, this is the point where I throw up my hands and say "I give up!" For those of you who still are trying (bless your hearts) this is what the fashion elite do in this weather. Look at them, and then imagine the exact opposite... that's me!

Finally, Every Oscar dress, worn by every Best Actress winner. I was struck by how few there actually are. That's quite a club to be in! Will you be watching this weekend?  If I can get in 30 minutes of the red carpet in this house of boys, I will consider myself very lucky!

On Pain.

 I mentioned last week that my husband has been suffering from chronic pain, and I figured I'd share our story, as I'm sure we aren't the only couple/ family dealing with this issue. Over the past few months we have learned first hand how sometimes a seemingly small thing, can turn in to something so large, that it really turns your whole world upside down. I have no doubt that we will find a solution for our particular situation, but it's really made me gain such respect for those who are living with an illness, and for obvious reasons, their spouses who also live through the pain while also trying to maintain a sense of normalcy for everyone in the household. Such a balance is not easy, and I'm pretty sure this is why they insert "in sickness and in health" in your marriage vows. (Sneaky bastards ;))

For us, this all began about 7 years ago. Sometime during my pregnancy with the LM, my husband injured his piriformis muscle (which is located in the pelvis) during a yoga class. At the time it wasn't that big of a deal, nor was it that big of an injury. He did a little Physical Therapy, and for the past few years whenever it would flair up, he would do some gentle exercises that would pretty much keep the pain at bay. The muscle itself isn't our particular issue, but rather it's placement, which sits right next to the sciatic nerve. Up until October, the pain was totally manageable, and was something we rarely, if ever talked about.

For no reason at all, about 4-6 months back, things started to spiral out of control. At first I didn't pay much attention to the situation. My husband would complain about having sciatic pain, I would kind of ignore him, and he would say little else. I figured that just like before, he'd figure out a way to work though it, and just like with any injury, he'd be back to his old self in no time. Obviously, that never happened, and in late November, it became pretty clear that the pain was here to stay. Given that he is a doctor, and slightly crazy, my husband went to work on the Internet, and learned everything he possibly could about what he was dealing with. Apparently, this condition affects a significant amount of people, and almost 80-90% can be treated fairly easily and non-surgically. Well, my poor husband tried every single treatment he could find, and to our dismay, he just kept getting worse and worse. Because, it is so rare for someone to need surgery to remedy this, finding an actual surgeon who is comfortable operating near such an important nerve was pretty difficult, and now that we've found one, he isn't sure if it will actually bring any relief.

That has really been the hardest part of this whole thing, the uncertainty. Throughout this whole ordeal, I've tried to be really positive, but if I'm being completely honest, this has really taken a toll on my husband. An outsider probably wouldn't be able to notice the change, but from the inside it's glaringly obvious. One can only be in constant pain for so long, without any expectation of relief, and not get down about it, and that's really the challenge at this point. How do we keep his/ our spirits up, while we try to find a solution. We talk about it constantly, as a family, and alone, and I am the one that pushes the bright side like it's my job. This isn't cancer, our kids are healthy, we will find a solution, we all love each other so deeply... these are the mantras that I force in to every conversation. Of course, they are all true, but I'm not the one actually dealing with the constant pain, so it's most definitely a little easier to be the positive force. Last week, things were as bad as they've been, but this week with a steroid injection, and some intense PT, we are definitely in an uptick. It's crazy how obvious the difference is, and for everyone in our home. It's almost like the first warm day, after a long Winter. We are all smiling again, laughing, and talking non-sense. I'm not sure how long it will last, but it's definitely been a nice break from the norm.

As with most events, there has also been an incredible upside to everything we've been dealing with. As a family we've never been closer, and I barely even put in to words how strong this has made our marriage. We are two fairly independent people, but this situation has really shown us just how badly we need and rely on each other. Sure, it has been difficult to not have the help or support that I typically need with the kids, but on the flip side I have been able to really be there for my husband, and I feel like in the end that may be the silver lining in all of this. I also couldn't be more proud of the boys, who have been so incredible every day, and although they've been mostly shielded from the brunt of it, they certainly know what's been going on, and have shown what mature and awesome little dudes they can be when asked. I've also been able to see what an incredible support network I have between my in-laws, sister, family, and awesome friends, and I feel so fortunate that I have so many people to rely on. I feel like this is all I've talked about for two months, and having their insight, support, and shoulders to cry on has really, really, made the difference. So, thank you to all of you...

We won't really know how this is all going to play out until we see what happens with the current course of treatment. It would be so incredible if things keep improving, probably only comparable to winning the lottery. We've already been planning all of the things we want to do when he is pain free, and I can't wait to start crossing them off the list!!! I have no doubt we will get through this, and I'm really looking forward to having my sweet husband back, with his renewed lust for life.

Thank you all for your sweet comments  and emails last week. It really means a lot to us to know that so many people out there are rooting for us. I'm hoping to be back here, talking about all the not so important things in life, again, and on a regular basis. This blog and my kiddos have been a great outlet for me, and I don't plan on disappearing anytime soon.

Whoever said "health is wealth" nailed it.

Preach it.

In the weeds.

 Our little family isn't doing so well right now. My husband is in the process of scheduling a serious surgery to remedy excruciating pain that he's been having for months (more on this later) and we didn't get the exact news we were hoping for this morning. To add insult to injury, Gray came down with the croup on Tuesday, followed by what may have been the stomach bug on Thursday, and the LM is covered in head to toe hives, which he keeps getting because of the cold climate. There is still snow everywhere, and getting around town is difficult, and honestly I'm ready to throw in the towel. 

It turns out someone has to hold this ship together, and as luck would have it, that someone is me. By the end of next week, I'm hoping things will be looking a lot better around here, and I can report back with good news. So not to bore you with my complaining every day,  I'm going to be on a mini hiatus from the blog, just until everyone is on the up and up... fingers crossed by the middle of next week. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend. My SIL is coming up tonight from NYC, so already things are looking little better. 

Positive thinking.

Distressed Denim DIY.

Super distressed denim is all the rage for Spring, and this is one trend I stand behind 100%. I have a few pairs of jeans that I never wear, whether it's due to staining (thank you boys,) or a wash I'm not too crazy about, that I always think I would love if they just were distressed a little bit. After some  digging online, I found this great video by Free People which shows just how to distress your own denim. After watching it a few times, I can guarantee you I will never pay for a pre-made pair again! It really is just too easy to do yourself, and the best part is you can control how much or how little "wear" you want! Tomorrow I'm hitting the hardware store in search of a razor blade, and I'll be sure to report back if I am successful!

(Photo credit via Intermix)

Our 8 Favorite Kale Recipes.

Everyone knows that kale is a superfood, and that you should be eating it as much as you possibly can, so I'm always a little surprised when I talk to friends who are still a little hesitant when it comes to eating this incredible green vegetable.  Over the last few years, kale has pretty much found its way on to every menu, everywhere, and I had a good laugh yesterday when my mom texted me to let me know she was eating some on a sandwich. I was equal parts proud, and equal parts horrified that I've  become such a kale pusher.  It's just so good, and so good for you, that I just can't help myself when it comes to recipe swapping, to always bring up kale, topped with more kale.  As a family, we made the switch from basic red leaf/ green leaf lettuce about a year or two ago (right around the time my friend told me about the need to massage it before you eat it... mind-blowing!!!) and haven't looked back. I'd say we have it as a side at least 5 times a week, and without fail it is always one of the following 8 recipes. The kids aren't big fans of it yet, but I'm sill holding out hope that one day. they too will be converted. Until then... more for us!

Here are our 8 favorite tried and true kale recipes. 

Lemony Kale Salad

Kale Salad with Lemon, Almonds, and Pecorino 

Toasted Kale and Panfried Chickpea Salad

Lentil, Green Apple, and Kale Salad

Kale Cesar Salad

Kale, Grapefruit and Fennel Salad

Kale and Brussels Sprouts Salad

Fiery Kale with Garlic and Olive Oil

P.S. Eat your kale, don't juice it, and try to limit your consumption!!! I feel that eating it once a day as a side is probably harmless. This article is one I've shared with most my kale loving family. Yes, there can be too much of good thing.

P.P.S. If anyone is wondering what I want for my upcoming 35th birthday... this will do just fine. 

Weekend Links.

Happy House of Cards day to you all!!!!!!! Sure, sure, there is that other holiday, which I have to admit has been made much sweeter since I've had kids (see above) but really it's all about Robin Wright in this house on this days of days! Other than binge watching the show, all weekend long, our plans are pretty low key this weekend. A little snow Sunday guarantees the LM and I will be hitting the slopes, but other than that I plan on spending as much time under the blanket as I can! Is it EVER going to get warm?

Here are a few fun links that caught my eye this week. I'll be back Tuesday because, yes, it's another holiday Monday, and my kids will never have a 5 day week again (sarcasm, sarcasm, sarcasm.) Enjoy!

I am SO in to hunter green nails. Green is the new navy... mark my words.

Summer, Summer, Summer. 

This bike saddle bag is so chic! Love!

You guys, this is Janice Dickenson! Seriously!!! What a timeless look (sans the cigarette.) 

When I saw Jenna Lyons on GIRLS this week, I honestly jumped up and screamed out loud. Way to take it to the next level ladies!

Hahahahaha... we've all been there. 

These guys rule! I feel like this is something that would happen at the LM's school! 

... and yes, I'm shocked this wasn't one of my kids!

Jane Goodall. That is all. 

As a family, we made the switch to almond milk a few years back. This info graphic is pretty eye-opening.

Progress!

This salad looks awesome!

This bathing suit is adorable! This brand kills it!

Helmets. ALWAYS helmets. I will let the LM do practically anything so long as the kid has a helmet on. 

Finally, this is SO my husband. No, I'm not kidding. Is it wrong that it kind of makes me love him more? 

Hope you are spending the night with someone you love.. or Kevin Spacey. Either way, today, everyone wins!!!

Sweatshirt Chic.

Is there anything better on a cold winter day than your favorite sweatshirt? Days like today, when I am dreading even walking out the door, I'm really enjoying staying in something that resembles my pajamas as much as I can. Lately, I've been wearing my favorite ones with a plaid flannel shirt underneath, and either a fur vest, blazer or trench over. Best part? It makes getting ready for bed at the end of the day a breeze. ;)

Below is a little "sweatshirt chic" inspiration. 

Stay warm everyone. Only 34 days until Spring!

P.S. This one is my current favorite. 

Breakfast is Served.

I'm usually not a huge breakfast eater, but lately given my schedule, I can't always guarantee that I'll be having lunch at a reasonable hour, and to keep from getting the shakes at noon I've been trying to be really good about eating a healthy breakfast.  For a while I was eating chia seeds like they were going out of style, and then switched to sautéed garlicky kale, with an egg on top.  That tasted great, but was a little more than I wanted to deal with before my first cup of coffee.  Last week, I went to an event for the LM's school, and ordered an egg dish which was topped with greek yogurt.  At first I thought it would taste a little weird, but the greek yogurt actually complemented the egg so well, I almost found myself wanting to lick the plate! Ever since, I've been making this egg sandwich in the morning, and it turns out I'm not the only one who's a fan. See that bite mark up top? That's what happens when I leave Gray alone with my breakfast, while I grab my phone to take a picture! I'm sure you can figure out how to assemble, but just in case here's my recipe. 

Open Faced California Breakfast Sandwich

Ingredients:

1 toasted piece of bread (I've been using this flour free sprouted wheat bread lately)
1 Egg (poached or fried)
2 tablespoons plain greek yogurt
1 avocado halved and sliced
1 tablespoon chives
salt and pepper

Preparation:

Place 1/2 of sliced avocado on toasted bread, and season with salt and pepper. Layer with egg, greek yogurt, and chives. Top with a little more salt and pepper to taste.

It's that easy!

Do you all have a go-to breakfast? Please share!

The Best Snow Boot for Kids.

 As much as I'm trying to fight it, I think we need to talk a little more about snow.  Why?  Well, we have more coming later this week (really, really?!?!) and there are still piles of the white and not-so-fluffly everywhere that are taller than my kids. I guess it's just that kind of Winter. 

Up until this year, my biggest issue with the snow was finding the right snow boot for the kids.  Sorels don't really work because of the circular laces which always untie, and even then you have to get your kids (or you) to tie them in the first place.  We had traditional duck boots for a few years, but really they weren't that warm, and the kids would always complain about how clunky they were.  Last year, I thought maybe we could just get by with traditional wellies, but after a monster storm, the LM's toes actually turned blue from the cold in those things!  That night, I spotted a sale on Gilt for Rubber Duck Snow Joggers, and not only were they cheap, but they turned out to be awesome! I grabbed a pair for Gray at the beginning of the year, and now he wants to wear them more than his normal shoes. For a kid who refuses his jacket and hat, this is a very big deal! 

I was looking to pick up a larger size for them next year, and noticed that they seem to always be on sale on Gilt and from other retailers, so I had to share. If you are looking for a lightweight snow boot, that the kids can put on and off themselves, that is actually WARM... look no further. Oh, and they are also ridiculously cute. ;)

Since it always seems like the more prepared you are, the less likely it is for the snow to actually become a big event, so let's all get really, really prepared!!!

Deal?

Currently.

 After a non-stop, action packed weekend, I can't even begin to tell you how happy I was, last night,  to curl up on the sofa with my hubby, a fairly large glass of wine, and my new favorite show True Detective (are you watching? last night was insane!!!). When I woke up this morning, I couldn't believe it was already Monday again!  Where did the weekend go? Actually, where did January go?*  

Before I forget it all, here is a little of what we've been up to these last few weeks. 

The LM started playing hockey err skating at school. He tries so hard, but let's just say this is one things that does not come easy for him!

This guy got a "big boy" haircut, and is suddenly a big boy!

That might have something to do with the amount of shake shack burgers he's been consuming. Having one right around the corner is dangerous, very dangerous. 

The LM and I have been doing a LOT of skiing. 

Now, that he's found the jump park... I have a feeling we are going to be doing quite a bit more. 

We are still buried in snow. 

Which finally worked to my advantage last Wednesday when the kids were snowed in, and I had a baby sitter booked to take the LM skating. Cut to me and my sister running out the door for a viewing of Her (amazing) and afternoon cocktails (equally as amazing.) 

My Dad found this beauty on Craig's List for the LM, and he's already dreaming of all the things he will do on it, the next time we go to Costa Rica. I have a sneaking suspicion it is going to be hard to pull him out of the water!

Finally, these three... I love them so much. 

Let's just hope Friday comes as fast as Monday did!

* I am most definitely not complaining. The warmth of April can not get here fast enough!