Thatgirl Photography by Cynthia That-Cacopardo

breakfast

2012-01-24T07:00:00.003-05:00

My friend Kristin is always posting such wonderful photos of tea with honey, pies, doughnuts with NUTELLA, shortbread and orange slices, etc. I don't know how often I'll do this, but this morning I felt the desire to photograph our late breakfast. Jbear and I sitting side by side on the bench enjoying our meal.

I found this quick cinnamon bun recipe: a little different but still so good.
Not pictured is the banana he wolfed down prior to this photo and the waffle in the toaster waiting to be spread with almond butter.

I love chai in any mug but this one makes me smile a lot.

Pieces of my weekend

2012-01-23T12:18:00.000-05:00

I have been attempting to make a huge album of J's first year: photos (oh the photos), early sonograms, cards, and some cute stuff kept during my pregnancy and his first year. I have to keep reminding myself that it can't be a scrapbook or it will never get done (seeing as his 1st birthday was over a year ago). It can't be anything fancy, just the materials I have on hand.

1/8th of the photos I have to sort through. I counted around 600 photos (and throughout his first year I honestly thought I didn't take that many photos.)

spinach and rice soup with some added cous cous. (it doesn't look appetizing but he ate it all up).

I finally made an album of all the photos Joel took of me during my pregnancy.

My sister in law made these awesome cupcake poppers!!

Jbear couldn't get enough of them.

We got a nice amount of snow this past Saturday!! It's an interesting concept to teach a toddler the wonders of a snow day where you curl up on the couch with hot chocolate and watch something other than Dora.

What did you do this weekend?

hello!!

2012-01-16T10:33:00.000-05:00

It's been a month and a half since my last post. I miss my space here and I am really looking forward to coming back. I have so many photos to share and some interesting as well as some very uninteresting stories to tell.

I hope you're having a wonderful 2012 so far!

grateful

2011-11-30T11:01:00.000-05:00

I look at this photo and I can't find the words. It's not a particular fascinating or overly cute photo, just one of me and my baby boy on the day we celebrated Thanksgiving. He looks so big and non baby like. He is drawing letters that actually sort of, kind of look like letters. He amazes me. And I get to be his mommy. I'm still in awe that I am someone's mother and that I get to spend my days with this crazy haired, abc singing, waffle and almond butter loving, boy. I am blessed.

thanksgiving 2010

morning magic

2011-11-22T18:51:00.000-05:00

It's been earlier mornings over here so I have been trying to bring Jbear to my room for some extra snoozing but it has never been successful. He'd rather jump around and read books than get some more sleep. Since we're trying to make a little craft nook in our bedroom there is a lot more open space which I guess for Jbear means "let me bring all my toys and books into mommy and daddy's room". Although hidden toys like to come out at night when it's dark so I can step right on them, it's fun looking around my room and realizing I've got a playful toddler.

Flour Power

2011-11-21T15:22:00.000-05:00

I feel bad for the parents but this is hysterical. However, I would rather move than clean this up.

via my husband who saw this on Videogum

it's the weekend

2011-11-19T07:51:00.000-05:00

I am on my way to visit my parents for an overnight stay and to take maternity portraits of this lovely lady! I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!!!

my cat loves acorn squash, apparently. This was the face she was giving me when Jbear and I were eating some.

Cookies!!

2011-11-14T12:34:00.025-05:00

Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies

I've had this recipe bookmarked for years now and just tried it a few weeks ago. Then I used it again last weekend for Jodi's shower and again yesterday. They are so so delicious (especially when I remember not to burn them and add more toffee bits).

Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

I am a bit obsessed with Sheena's recipes.

a fall walk

2011-11-14T07:00:00.001-05:00

We went for a walk the other day. It was a nice long walk although kind of a quiet one. I watched my boy walk around, stomp on leaves, grant me 1 or 2 looks towards my camera, pick up rocks, and lead me to a new path back to our house.

Acorn Squash

2011-11-13T12:31:00.000-05:00

I've been buying, making, and eating acorn squash regularly this fall. Jbear and I get to eat it all since Joel is not a fan. I've used this recipe before but wanted to try something a little sweeter.

I drizzled olive oil on the parchment paper, laid the squash pieces down, drizzled agave nectar all over, sprinkled with brown sugar, baked at 400 degrees for about 30 minutes (flipping the pieces once in between) and then ate it all up.

This past week.

2011-11-12T20:56:00.000-05:00

I've been trying to focus on where my time goes. I am terrible at time management and I'm sure a lot of people can say the same... but really I should say that I AM THE WORST with time management. I want to take care of my baby, teach him, and play with him. I want to have time to make good meals for him, take long walks (because that is what he loves), and also make sure that he is rested. I sometimes think I want to do the laundry but I really don't- I just know that my clean underwear will eventually run out. Sometimes I also think that the dishes have to be done right now or else they will never get done. Add in also wanting to be a good daughter and friend and trying to keep in touch with those I love.

On top of that I want to book more portrait sessions, work on said portrait sessions, blog about them, blog about anything else, and make up routines for a Zumba class that I someday want to teach. Then, kind of out the blue, I found a love for food shopping and coming up with meals that I feel my family will enjoy. I have always been a fan of eating but cooking or baking the food has never really been my strong point- I am hoping to change that a bit.

I know that there is only so much time in each day so I'm starting to focus on certain things on certain days/weeks- with taking care of my son being something that always take precedence, obviously.

I love The Little Red House and have enjoyed a couple of recipes from Sheena's blog. I made this acorn squash recently and Jbear loved it. This week I drooled over her chicken soup recipe and the accompanying photos. Mine looks more like pea soup but the chicken is just hidden. I used mustard greens instead of collard and regular white beans instead of butter beans. It was SO delicious... so much in fact that I couldn't wait for a reasonable soup eating hour and just had leftovers for breakfast.

J loves letters and numbers like crazy!! My sister in law suggested that I embark on an alphabet project where I teach each letter (phonetically) for a whole week. We talked about Captial A and lower case a using the chalk board, a huge piece of construction paper and crayon, a paper cut out of an A, and play-dough. He was excited to go onto B then C but we kept going with A a few days this week.

Now when he sees the play-dough he screams, "AAAAAAAAAA".

Tumbling class.

Bubbles!!!

So I'm aware that this post is random and all over the place but this was our week in review, kind of. I don't feel that I need to be everything, or do everything I just want to try. However, knowing myself I have to set some limits or else I'll just get overwhelmed and do nothing. The way I see it is like this- I'll always be me, a wife, and mother. Some weeks though I'll be a photographer, an aspiring Zumba intructor, a homemaker and a really great friend who calls you back within ~~a few~~ 24 hours. Somewhere in between the laundry will hopefully be done.

Jodi's Baby Shower

2011-11-11T17:19:00.000-05:00

I met Jodi through the world of flickr and through the years we've become good friends. She is no stranger to my blog and when she announced she was pregnant I knew I wanted to be involved with throwing her a baby shower. I contacted Elizabeth and Erin (who already had pinned the cake she wanted to make for Jodi) and the three of us set out to surprise Jodi with a sweet little baby shower.

It was such a lovely afternoon with some really awesome ladies. I wish I took more photos (hoping some more show up on flickr) but here is just a glimpse of the little party we had in Jodi and her belly's honor.

A headless Elizabeth preparing a yummy strawberry and mint spritzer.

The Arnold Palmer cake that Erin had always planned on making for Jodi. Oh my goodness, it was delicious and Erin's first try at swiss meringue buttercream icing (my fave).

Erin at the door, waiting for Jodi to arrive!

Surprise!!!

Jodi's reaction was so amazing and it made us all giddy that we pulled it off!!!

It truly was a great experience planning a party with Erin and Elizabeth. Erin put it best when she said that the three of us accomplished what we all wanted for this party but couldn't do alone.

Friday Lovin' Music

2011-11-04T16:34:00.000-04:00

I had no idea I was such a Beyonce' fan but I can't get over how fun this video is:

It took watching it numerous times to realize that it's part of a really great initiative.

I just saw Feist on Wednesday night and she was amazing!!! I was also blown away by the girls singing along with her- their vocals are crazy good.

I keep forgetting to bring non Zumba music with me in the car so I've been listening to the radio more often and this song plays non stop. I can see it getting on my nerves soon but right now I think it's sweet!

I just can't get over how amazing this song is, how incredible her voice is and how powerful it feels. It's just so personal and I feel kind of like a voyeur for listening to it. Here is an amazing live version too.

Have a wonderful weekend!!! Tonight we're going out for Sushi, edamame, and red bean ice cream!

Remembering

2011-11-01T17:35:00.000-04:00

My grandfather passed away 5 years ago today. Today I am celebrating him in my own way- wearing his belt that he gave me (my grandfather was pretty crafty with a needle and thread and shortened the belt to fit me) and baking (and eating) meringues since they were his favorite treat (and circus peanuts, but those are gross).

Dress: Old Navy, Belt: Pagu, Tights and Socks: Target, Boots: Madden Girl via DSW, Bangles: F21.

Now I'm off to my Zumba class to work off the ridiculous amount of sugar I just ate in 5 minutes. I have a problem and can't let anything I bake cool down. I ate 3 meringues before I even transferred them to a plate.

Don't forget to enter the Shabby Apple giveaway- it ends tonight!

Halloween-ish

2011-10-31T23:16:00.005-04:00

I thought I would be festive this whole weekend and wear some sort of costume-y get up while I was out and about, against Joel's wishes (he couldn't quite grasp the concept of a whole Halloween weekend). That all changed though once snow was on the ground and my mind was grappling with the fact that it was still indeed October even though it felt like January. However, an invite to a kid friendly Halloween party brought out the festive spirit again and the candy and orange frosted cupcake consumption began.

I usually think of good costume ideas on November 1st and forget them by the following year. This year I was pretty pleased with myself when I found a photo of a golfer costume online and realized that Jonah had everything (besides the argyle socks) in his closet. I got men's socks at Target and just cut off the foot for instant baby leg warmers.

We spent the morning visiting great grandparents and aunties at work and when Jonah went down for his nap I went about my normal routine.

Staring blankly out the window...

and doing laundry.

When Jbear woke up he helped carve the pumpkin.

And took a bite out of it.

My son had no interest in collecting candy, which is great because I would obviously eat it all, but he actually went as far as taking a piece of candy out of his bag and throwing on the ground.

I can't believe these next photos were exactly a year ago!

Jonah was a baby hipster or the youngest American Apparel employee. (I told you I can't think up costumes).

I am very aware that I do not use this blog to post flattering photos of myself. If you're okay with that then I am too. The wig I am wearing here was labeled as a sexy bob... ha... sexy... yeah right!

I hope you all had a fun Halloween!!!!

sexy bob wigs can be very itchy.

Friday Lovin'

2011-10-28T14:32:00.006-04:00

Chelsey from The Paper Mama is doing 50 DIY Days of Christmas. I can't believe I am already this excited for the Holidays this year.

I actually made one for Jonah after I saw this living room fort.

Chocolate toy cars.

I never realized how long 2 minutes can be.

Awesome Halloween wreath.

First I have to learn to dance like this then I can teach my kid.

I don't know what happened to me. For years I would balk at music on the radio and listen to Radiohead, Bjork, Ryan Adams, Feist (to name a few) and now I am in love with this guy and this song... and maybe even this song (mostly the spanish parts). What is happening here?!!!

Don't forget to enter the Shabby Apple giveaway going on now!!!

I can't believe this was just a little over a month ago and tomorrow we might be getting snow.

Have a great weekend! I still have to find something to wear to a Halloween party, but my prop box is coming in handy.

Shabby Apple Giveaway! CLOSED

2011-10-27T15:33:00.001-04:00

Guys, I'm so excited for you all today. I was given the opportunity to offer one of my very awesome readers a chance to win a beautiful piece of jewelry from Shabby Apple. Have you gone to their site? It's amazing and chock full of vintage-inspired jewelry and dresses. They also have a Shop by Body Type and Style Advice section.

The piece up for grabs is The White Rabbit's Time Keeper necklace. I think pocket watches are interesting and lovely. (My friend gave her husband a pocket watch when they were dating and almost 10 years later he still carries it around).

I love the details of this necklace.

I perused the site to see what I would wear this necklace with and came up with these two adorable dresses. I like the idea of a long necklace with a boatneck dress.

Snow Melt and Oh La La

I would also wear the necklace over a long sleeve scoop neck top with this particular skirt.

For a chance to win, The White Rabbit's Time Keeper you must visit and follow Shabby Apple on Facebook. (Leave one comment letting me know you Liked them on FB)

For bonus entries (leave one comment for each bonus entry):

1. Follow Shabby Apple on Twitter.

2. Visit and Follow the Shabby Apple blog.

3. Follow Thatgirl Photography on Google Friend Connect or Bloglovin'

4. Tweet about this giveaway linking back to this blog post.

That's 5 chances to win! ( Make sure you leave a separate comment for each entry)

Giveaway is open to U.S residents only and will remain open until November 1st (11:59pm EST). A winner will be chosen at random the following day.

(I wasn't given any compensation to write this post, all words and opinions expressed are mine. I am just excited to have the chance to offer you guys something really fun).

Congratulations Elizabeth!!

balm for a mom's (of a toddler) soul

2011-10-27T07:00:00.011-04:00

Did you want to get bombarded with photos of my kid? Because that is exactly what this post is. My once incredibly chill kid has suddenly realized he has wants and needs RIGHT THIS SECOND!!! Sometimes he can sit in his room and go through books for, what seems like, hours and then he's demanding I give him another banana or else my poor ears are going to pay for it. All that time spent, when he was a newborn, reading up on how to take care of an infant when I really should have been studying how to handle a toddler. I nannied for so many years, for many different families, that I thought I had toddlerhood in the bag. Not so.... not so.

These photos help remind me that having a toddler is a pretty fun adventure (~~some of the time~~- I'll write most of the time when my ears stop ringing).

I don't know what he is doing with his lips but it kills me anyway!

Come back later this afternoon for something super fun. Alright, I'll just tell you... it's a giveaway and you're going to love it!!!

Gina's Adorable Baby Bump:: Connecticut Maternity Photographer

2011-10-26T15:44:00.002-04:00

Even though these photos were taken just 3 weeks ago it feels like it's been ages because Baby A is already here!! I wish I could describe how exciting it is for me to reconnect with Gina. It's so amazing getting to see someone whom you've known since you were 12 years old become closer and closer to becoming a mother. Gina and AJ are going to be amazing parents and fill their baby's life with so much happiness and laughter.

Here is a sneak peak from our time together!

Gooses, Geeses (Forget about laying gold eggs-I want them to not scare me)

2011-10-25T20:00:00.004-04:00

You have no idea.. there were thousands of them... all of them hungry.

I drove past this pond accidentally and made a mental note that I wanted to go back there with my boys and a camera. However, when we stepped out of the car and immediately stepped in goose poop I knew it was going to be an interesting evening. Actually it wasn't that interesting I just couldn't believe how scared I was of all the geese. I kept screaming at Joel to get Jbear out of there because I thought one them might bite him thinking he had food.

Then I calmed down and proceeded to take way too many geese photos.

some ducks to break up the geese photos

taking a little break from all the squawking... possibly contemplating the meaning of his little goose life.

I did manage to take some photos of my child too.

So serious!

I honestly don't understand the silly hand gesture but the completely serious face.

This last photo reminds me of a pre-teen who doesn't want to wear his coat but keeps it half on when parents are looking. Is it already starting?? Which also reminds me... with Jbear getting close to 2 how many times can a mom hear something stupid regarding, "Terrible Twos" ?

Now I'm singing this.

we be picking pumpkins

2011-10-25T16:54:00.000-04:00

I don't know what it is about this particular autumn but I am going nuts for pumpkins, gourds, and potted mums. These photos are from our 2nd pumpkin picking outing. Last couple of years it was about cider doughnuts and apple cider but I haven't found cider doughnuts yet. Jbear fell asleep in the car kind of early but when I waved a cookie in his face he woke up and got excited when he saw the GooBaa (goat) hanging out a few feet from our car.

I love the papery looking texture of this pumpkin.

We got one (or two or three)

We ended the day at our little cousin's birthday party where they had a really awesome swing attached to a high tree branch. And my kid loves swings!!!

More photos coming, I think I am too sore to do anything else. My sister in law and I went to a Zumba class together last night and it kicked my butt.

something new

2011-10-21T15:41:00.001-04:00

I can never go wrong with this station on Pandora.

I can't wait to get this book. (link via Mighty Girl)

This recipe is so so good. I added pepper to the squash and some honey for the butter.

Mandy wrote up a week's worth of comfort food recipes. I definitely want to eat this and this too. Maybe I'll actually make them one day.

I just love Feist Jodi and I are going to see her live in less than 2 weeks (it's been over 3 years since the last time we saw her perform).

A S'mores bar!!! Check it out here and here.

I've mentioned my love for Zumba(tm) a few times. I've been so busy lately putting together routines, finding inspiration everywhere- I even have a Zumba inspiration board on pinterest. One thing is for sure, this Beyonce song is going on the playlist.

I definitely hope to get some more blog posts up next week. I have a whole weekend home and I'm looking forward to getting stuff done (bedroom cleaned up, photos edited, photos posted, convincing my sister in law to come to a Zumba class with me). Tonight, though, is date night but since I have a lot I want to save up for it's just a night in with some food shopping, Joel cooking me something delicious (I hope), ice cream and a movie from Redbox... or Grey's Anatomy on netflix.

Have a great weekend!!!

I knew it... but I can't take all the credit.

2011-10-11T12:51:00.001-04:00

I took maternity portraits of Gina a few weekends ago and I will be sharing some of those images shortly but her baby shower was just a few days ago and one image is begging to be blogged. Gina was a huge part of my adolescence in so many ways. The hours I spent at her house fill my mind with so many memories. Seeing her mom for the first time since graduation was so heart warming and there was so much excitement in the air because her only child is having a baby.

I asked mommy and grandmother-to-be to get close to one another for a photo and this is what they did. When I was snapping away I could just tell that this was going to be my favorite image. I told them to pose a certain way but this is what they did instead and I couldn't be happier.

I love every thing about this photograph!!!

cleaning up these tumbleweeds....

2011-10-10T15:08:00.000-04:00

It's not like I don't have stuff to blog about... it's nonsense mind you but I would still like to blog about it. However, my love for Zumba is taking over all my time. Right now it's all I think about! I am trying to work on my choreography and take as many classes I can and not feel like passing out. I really hope I can start teaching soon. Regardless so many other things are going on right now- good and bad but mostly good!

This weekend was great. Joel, Jbear and I drove to my college campus and walked around where I used to live when Joel and I first dated. I also went to a baby shower for a friend that I've known since middle school. A little photo location scouting was done and a 60th birthday celebration for one of Joel's uncles ended our fun little weekend.

This is what I wore on Saturday for our date to see 50/50. I wore the same thing to the baby shower minus the knee high socks and black wedges instead of my boots.

Dress: GAP, Belt: TJMaxx Tights: Target, Socks: Sock Dreams, Madden Girl boots: DSW, Feather Necklace: Buenos Aires, Bracelet: F21.

Every nice weekend I say that I want to drive around and find new places to take photographs but we never do it. Finally we did the location scouting part but not the taking photographs part. J and I snapped a few photos to check the lighting, etc.

I basically pretended that Joel was a little kid when I was taking his photo near this tree hence his really silly smile.

I have SO SO SO many photos to blog- I hope I get to them before the year is over. I also need to invest in a few more external hard drives- seriously so many photos!!!

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend!!

October 3 2001

2011-10-03T21:49:00.000-04:00

I was getting ready to go into the city to see Travis at Radio City Music Hall. The week leading up to this concert Joel and I had our first phone conversation and our 2nd and 3rd. In my heart I knew something was beginning but I think my head just wanted me to be realistic about it all. I was too scared to truly believe that Joel, the guy I instantly had a crush on the first time I met him, could like me in return. But this day 10 years ago was special- we spoke on the phone right before my train and it confirmed that we both really dug one another. He was going to come and visit me that coming weekend. He loved Travis too and wished he could be with me at the concert. In one of his emails he said to think of him if they played his favorite song, which was, Flowers in the Window.

I wrote down the set list, like a nerd, and couldn't wait to hear my favorites, especially Flowers in the Window. They started playing that song and while I was writing it down I decided to look at my watch to see what time it was. The time was 10:06. I wrote down the time on the set list (I've done that before when I saw Tori Amos and U2- I would write the time down when they played my faves). Then it hit me... Joel was coming to visit me on October 6th... 10-06. And the time now is 10:06 and they are playing his song. I still didn't know what was going to happen between us but I took this time/date coincidence as a sign. Three days later Joel came to visit me and indeed something started between us that day. 10.06 is our dating anniversary and when we catch 10:06 am or pm one of us usually shouts "TEN O SIX".

And on October 6 2001, our dating anniversary, (three days after I saw Travis in NYC) they played in Philly... the place where Joel and I would eventually move to, get married and have a baby. I love these coincidences. Oh and how cool is this? Joel and I had the opportunity to finally go to a Travis concert together years later and after the show we met Fran Healy (the lead singer). Like a nerd I tell him (as quickly as I can) this little story and he then told me a story, of his own, involving dates and numbers and weird coincidences. It was so amazing and a wonderful memory for sure.

Cement Slides= Seriously Awesome Fun!

2011-09-25T11:25:00.000-04:00

When we booked our tickets for San Francisco I knew I wanted to do as many fun toddler things as possible. Luckily for us, all the fun toddler things were fun for adults too. When I saw this link on A Cup of Jo I put cement slides at the top of our vacation plans.

They were AWESOME!!!! Apparently they are all over the city but we just went to two different parks to check them out.

Joel and the Jbear trekking up to the top and sliding down verrrrry fast.

I just realized the scared look on his fast but trust me he LOVED it. The second we got to the bottom he was ready to go back up again.

I also loved how there were signs that read: Adults must be accompanied by a Child! Woot woot... so happy we had one of those with us!

Crazy for Zumba!

2011-09-24T16:24:00.000-04:00

I can't believe it's been so long since my last post.

Remember when I posted that I took my first Zumba class? Well from the very first class I took in June I was hooked and I never wanted to miss a class. One day it hit me that I should look into becoming a Zumba instructor so I signed up for an Instructor Training course. I was excited but extremely nervous and wondering how I was going to last from 9am to 6:30pm dancing my butt off. Well the day finally came and it was AWESOME!!! I never sweat so much in my life! I still have so much more work to do before I actually become a Zumba instructor but I've got my certificate and I'm on my way! The training course was taught by Tanya Beardsley who is so incredibly talented, crazy gorgeous, and wonderfully sweet.

And here I am totally uncool with my goofy smile and showing Tanya how I can shake my booty.

Whenever I do teach my first class will you guys come take it??

an afternoon at the aquarium

2011-09-15T10:16:00.007-04:00

We drove down to the Monterrey Bay Aquarium at the beginning of our trip. I was SO excited to go because it's been ages since I've been to an aquarium and I was pumped about checking out the jellyfish!! Since our friends, Dan and Kathryn, had off they came with us.

An hour into the drive I look back and see this scene.

Nothing is in focus here but I still love Jbear's look of curiosity!

We had some fun with poorly composed silhouette shots against the jellyfish tanks.

My son and I with our matching lower lips.

I won't ever tire of taking photos of Kathryn and Dan

Stopping for lunch in Monterrey. Seriously, my kid loves lemons! (well actually here it looks like he hates them but I promise you he continued eating that slice)

jumped off the plane to step out!

2011-09-12T16:04:00.000-04:00

Oh my goodness, San Francisco was a BLAST!!! It was a great time and I can't wait to share photos from our trip. But there are SO many photos!! I brought my new point and shoot camera with me and I snapped away like crazy.

We landed back home, dropped off our bags, snuggled Jonah into the pack and play at my parent's house, and then headed out to our friend's 30th birthday party. It was so fun to be able to celebrate Kellyn's birthday with her and dance into the night (we were still on west coast time so it didn't feel so late) . I can't resist a dance party, ever!!!

Top and Skirt: H&M, Boots: Madden Girl from DSW, Tights: Target, Necklace: F21
I honestly don't know what I'm doing in the 2nd photo. Joel said to twirl so I "twirled"?

I can't wait to catch up and see what you all have been up to!

the most random post that ever lived.

2011-09-03T09:00:00.001-04:00

I've been prone to googling, "how to cut my kid's hair and have him not look like a nerd" or "is it possible to trim my son's bangs and not have him look like a nerd?"

I've been thinking about trimming Jbear's bangs but was afraid to screw it up. I also didn't want to bring him to a kiddie salon because I was afraid they would just keep cutting and cutting. I love my son's curls but the front hairs are so straight. And I can't have my baby looking like an emo kid.

So I trimmed the teeniest bit of hair even though I gasped when I cut into his baby locks.

Now it just curls up and is out of his face. You can't even tell that he even got a little trim, it just looks like the curls started to bounce up a bit more.

So here we are at Trader Joe's and my kid is freaking out because the banana we gave him to eat is all gone and he wants more. It's impossible to pass by the bananas without having him see and scream, "BADA BADA BADA" so I usually cave and give him one while I peruse the trail mix section.

My kid has also become obsessed with apple sauce. I don't know how we made it out of the store without 5 packs of apple sauce.

These photos were taken the day before we were supposed to evacuate in anticipation of Hurricane Irene. I was feeling rather anxious and needed a distraction so we stopped and took some photos. Totally normal right? I have been meaning to go take pictures in this one location so with the light being so pretty it seemed like a good time.

These photos also showcase what I've been wearing the better part of the summer. In the morning I don't even think twice- cut off shorts and a t-shirt. I do love my skirts and dresses but I'm kind of obsessed with my cut offs this summer. I got these men's gap jeans at a goodwill for 8 dollars and kept cutting til I found the length I liked!!

And for some more randomness, here is the scrabble game we played when the power went out at my inlaw's house (they still don't have power). I am SO bad at Scrabble but I do ~~enjoy~~ kind of enjoy playing it

Procrastination is TOTALLY my middle name

2011-09-02T19:06:00.000-04:00

I really should be packing....

image by Jodi Mckee

Because we are getting ready for a trip to San Francisco!! Joel and I LOVE San Francisco although our love for the city happened separately (he used to go a lot with his dad and I have gone to visit family). Four years ago we took a cross country road trip for our honeymoon and spent 3 glorious days in San Francisco showing each other the pieces we fell in love with. And now we're bringing the Jbear and I am super excited. At first I thought Joel and I should just go by ourselves for a long weekend but at the time we purchased our tickets I had not been away from my son for more than 21 hours and 3 days seemed like a lifetime. After reading these posts on A Cup of Jo I became so much more comfortable with bringing Jonah with us. So now we're going for a week and get to spend much needed time with our wonderful friends who moved there last year.

San Francisco is the type of city that could make any visitor fall in love with it. It's so fun finding bloggers that have visited San Francisco- I love seeing how they chose to spend their time and what they chose to eat! Here are some posts that have gotten me extremely giddy for my upcoming trip:

Jodi from Jodi McKee Photography  Jodi even wrote a guest post about her ideal day in San Francisco.

James from Bleubird Vintage  The photos from her lunch alone make me want to hop on a plane.

Cara from i dabble  Each photo is like a singular love letter to a very photogenic city.

And these tips from A Cup of Jo have been deemed priceless as I prepared for our trip.

I will hopefully be back on, once I'm done packing, to post a bunch of photos that I've taken in the past week.

Come on, Vamanos!

2011-08-31T10:55:00.002-04:00

With my computer being the ripe old age of 3 it is needing a pick me up. I hopefully will have it back soon but in the meantime I can't post any new photos, I'm so glad I had a few things posted to flickr.

Even though I have the worst attention span for watching videos on blogs I do get a kick out of seeing them. This one is super short, which is a good thing because I am terrible at keeping focus.

Jbear's fave dance move is the bouncy bounce. Every dance party we have includes him bending his knees and just bouncing.

And this is my son watching an episode of Dora. I now go to bed saying, "I'm the map, I'm the map, I'm the MAP". Why does The Map sound like my jewish grandmother?

And don't forget to check out the Morris Hubbard giveaway going on!!!

Sibling Portraits: Max & Jessie

2011-08-30T09:00:00.001-04:00

Here is a super sneak peak of a brother and sister portrait session I did last week. Although I only spent a short time with Max & Jessie I really enjoyed myself. I loved watching them interact with each other, laughing about portrait sessions of their youth, talking passionately about creative projects, being silly around one another and just letting me capture bits of their relationship.

Don't they have the best smiles? You may recognize Jessie from this post.

I love so much about this photo!

GIVEAWAY:: Morris Hubbard

2011-08-26T13:05:00.002-04:00

Morris Hubbard is a lifestyle brand based out of Brooklyn, NY. My friend Kellyn is 1/2 of the Morris Hubbard duo and I'm so pumped for her and her creative partner Arielle. They are offering one lucky reader a sweat rag or schvitzing cloth, of your choice. Summer isn't over yet and wouldn't it be a bit more charming to wipe the sweat off your brow with a Morris Hubbard sweat rag. You can use it as a head scarf or give it to your man to wear as a dapper pocket square.

To enter just check out their etsy site and then leave a comment below letting me know which style you would choose and how you would wear your Morris Hubbard sweat rag or schvitzing cloth. (I purchased the Wilder and love it!!) Please leave me your email address too. A winner will be chosen, at random, on Monday!!

For 2 extra chances to win:
Like Morris Hubbard on facebook
Blog or Tweet about this giveaway providing a link
(don't forget to come back and comment if you do)

Due to the crazy Hurricane and my computer not working I'm extending the giveaway to Thursday!!

We have a winner! Congrats Kristin!!

girl power and glasses

2011-08-25T23:16:00.001-04:00

These photos make me smile so I wanted to share. I'm a sucker for little kids with glasses... so adorable! I was a little kid with glasses, and an eye patch. I was not "so adorable" not even in the slightest. Can you feel the girl power here? I can!!

I haven't processed a photo like this in a long time, but it felt sweet and summery to I went with it.

Oooh oooh, I have something fun for tomorrow! Stay tuned!!

lake houses, man... they sure are awesome!

2011-08-24T08:25:00.000-04:00

Joel's Uncle and Aunt own a lake house. They own a lake house and graciously let family visit all the time. We were there for a little over 24 hours and now I'm clearing my calendar because all I want to do is go back. It was a wonderful little getaway that instantly put you in vacation mode... where cookies become a pre breakfast treat, it's acceptable to drink wine before noon and the naps are some of the best you ever had.

I went out on the kayak a few times and loved ~~spying on~~ admiring other houses on the lake. Joel and I even took Jonah on a paddle boat but that kid didn't do anything but look cute while we were paddling against the current to get back to shore. He absolutely loved the lake, my little water baby.

Joel takes a lot of photos that I post on this blog. But these are some of my absolute favorites!!!

Joel's friends came down to hang out with us and they brought their dog, the most docile dog I have ever met! I wouldn't let my mom's cat get this close to my son (however my mom's cat is a complete psycho so maybe that isn't saying much).

sweet boy!

boy oh boy!

2011-08-22T07:00:00.003-04:00

This weekend it hit me (as waves of sentimentality usually do) that 2 years ago I was preparing myself to find out if I was going to have a boy or a girl. I have always been very open about wanting a girl because I obviously am a girl and have had the best time nannying girls and have dreams of barrettes and french braids and frilly costumes for dance recitals (so so cute). However, I know in reality that tons of moms can't even comb their little girls hair nevertheless attempt a french braid or Bjork buns. And I also loved the idea of having a son first... a big brother for (hopefully) the many kids Joel and I have... one day but now now, definitely not now. Regardless, this is just an ongoing ramble. I adore my son and am so happy to be a mommy to someone as kick ass as he.

Joel and I knew that we were going to find out the gender of our child. Joel said that our pregnancy was surprise enough so we were definitely going to find out as early as we could. However, I didn't want to hear the news while the anatomy scan was happening so Joel and I concocted another plan. I have seen so many creative ways to announce the gender of a baby but we kept ours simple.

I went in for my sonogram with a card and envelope. I repeatedly told the ultrasound technician NOT to tell us the sex of our baby but instead to write it down on the card I had. She took a million photos and gave them to us, none of which gave any indication in either direction. She handed us back our card and we sealed it up in the envelope.

We also took this photo for posterity.

I can't believe we were able to make the 3 hour drive to see our families without attempting to sneak a peak at what was written. I think it was harder for my mother in law to hold off until everyone arrived for the party. I was convinced she was going to MacGuyver her way into my special Gender Revealing envelope. Our families were soon all gathered- we even skyped with my sister in law who wasn't able to be there in person- and we cracked open our fate. My awesome nephew took this video for us.

I love love love that my nephew zoomed in on Joel's face during the end of the video. You can see his nervousness that this was all indeed real, but so much excitement for a boy. A boy we always knew we would name Jonah.

The photo mentioned and the reason I was laughing like a maniac:

I loved every aspect of finding out this way but I am curious, when we have another baby, to see if I could make it to birth day without finding out the gender.

I love my son for bringing this much joy to our lives even before he was even born.

today's post brought to you by swings and cheese face

2011-08-17T14:41:00.002-04:00

nature musings and my little nature baby

2011-08-16T14:08:00.004-04:00

To celebrate my father in law's birthday we headed out to a spot that Joel and his family used to go to years and years ago. These images are some of the scenes I hope my son remembers of his childhood. I could go here every day. I've been missing Philly a lot lately, wishing we could live there again but not have to be so far from our families. I also miss Long Island and my mom and wish I could live 5 minutes from her. This day at the lake was so wonderful- it definitely help start a love for where we live now.

I couldn't believe that bringing the pack and play actually worked and that Jbear napped outside under the trees.

He just couldn't stay away from the water.

I've daydreamed about places like this. It makes me think of summer camp even though I never went to summer camp (if there was an adult summer camp with time to make friendship bracelets and puffy painted t-shits I'd be there in a heartbeat).

My Affinity for Dates of All Kinds.

2011-08-15T15:29:00.001-04:00

I have a really great memory for dates (and what I wore) but not much else. Thank goodness for archived livejournal posts to help me remember everything else. So, yes I can remember dates and the days they fell on like nobody's business. It's like my party trick- so if somebody asked me, "Cynthia can you tell me which day of the week was August 12th 2000?" I would be able to reply (without looking at any calendars), "Why, it was a Saturday!" I bet you're thinking, "HOLY COW this girl knows how to party!!!" It's true, I do, I really really do.

So, speaking of August 12th 2000... That's the day I met Joel. I can't say that that is the day we met each other because he actually doesn't remember meeting me on that day. He thinks the first time we met was in February 2001. This was information I learned well after we started dating. I don't care I still remember that Saturday night fondly. Never would I ever imagine that going up to Connecticut to visit my friend Kellyn would lead me to meet the man I would one day marry, even if he didn't remember me.

Aaaaaand this is what I wore on August 13th- 11 years and 1 day after I met my crush, long distance boyfriend, no distance boyfriend, husband, father of my child (11 years and 1 day after the day he doesn't remember meeting me).

Cardigan: F21, Jeans: Urban Outfitters, Sandals: Vera Wang at Kohls

Joel rounded up some of his friends and their girlfriends and wives and we had ourselves a quadruple date with pizza and beers (although my beer was Foxon Park birch beer... I love it!!!). It was so much fun getting out and spending time with friends. I only whipped out a photo of the Jbear when asked.

Hey JBear... slow down son!!

2011-08-12T20:22:00.001-04:00

Jonah is closer to 2 than he is to 1. It's such an odd thing to think about (even though I do kind of think of those things for myself... but I'm a weirdo, this we know) but parents are constantly baffled by how fast time goes. And it seems apropos to continue to count the months (since SO MUCH happens each and every month) and to reflect the closer (or farther away) our child is from a particular milestone.

I once had a brand new baby and that's what I spent 9 months preparing myself for. Now, I have a kid who walks and "talks", knows what he wants, WANTS what he wants, chooses to listen or ignore me, and basically looks like this now:

It would be easier to handle my kid growing up if he didn't look 2x his age.

Exactly one year ago, he looked like this:

I held a 3 month old baby last night and kind of forgot what it was like to have an infant. I wonder if that happens with a lot of parents. One of Joel's friends (who has a 2 1/2 year old and a 6 month old) asked if our boy was eating solids yet- he was 13 months at the time, haha.

Oh yeah, I forgot to add that never did I ever imagine there would be a time that I would need to look this up

one track mind

2011-08-11T10:12:00.001-04:00

I have so much I want to blog... I know I say that ALL the time!! I have photos and stories and just nonsense to occupy this space but I have been obsessed... like truly obsessed with watching this video non stop.

They move like liquid, like liquid! I'm in awe!!

I am also in awe of this video:

It's so interesting to see the different styles of dance side by side- both amazing and beautiful in their own way.

And I've been dancing up a storm in my living room. Who would have thought that it would be so hard to find adult classes! I've been calling up dance studios but I guess since it's the summer it's a little slower. I just want to go take class after class. In the meantime I'll just keep playing Aaliyah and Missy and dance in the privacy of my own house.

Inspiration!! Dance!

2011-08-08T14:37:00.001-04:00

I want to talk about inspiration!! For years and years I would spend an obscene amount of time online just staring at photos, blogs, website layouts, knitting projects, recipes, etc. I would look and look and look for hours thinking that I was soaking in ALL this inspiration but I wouldn't complete a single task. I still look online and check blogs basking in what others are doing and the majority of the time I do think- "Oh, I'm not creative enough to do that" or "I'm not talented enough to get to that point".

But now, I'm trying to think a bit differently. When I look up dance videos and see people going nuts and just busting loose I try not to think, "I'm way too old for that, my body simply can't move that way" instead I push the couch and coffee table out of the way and go at it.

Here are some videos that inspire me like crazy.

I have so many more favorites but I'll save them for another post. Right now I need to take advantage of Jbear's nap and pretend I'm one of Justin Timberlake's back up dancers!!

This week I'm going to be talking a lot about my inspiration- photographers, blogs (and bloggers), style and more. I hope you'll join me and divulge what inspires you!

Have an Awesome Weekend!!

2011-08-05T12:33:00.000-04:00

Joel and I are off to New York to attend the wedding of my friend Mike, whom I've known since high school.

Mike and Hajeong from some of the photo booth pics from my party!!!

While we're in Long Island I plan to consume a lot of italian ices and maybe even some rainbow cookies!!! And hopefully hang out with my niece and nephews and go swimming! What are your plans for this weekend??

Fun Things (the good clean kind... maybe)

2011-08-04T14:33:00.001-04:00

I like having back-up. I don't usually do anything quietly or by myself. I can spend hours by myself without getting bored but when it comes to projects and ideas I am always talking things out and asking for support or just good 'ol fashioned back up. I recently posted that I am starting a month long project where I take 10 minutes EVERY DAY to dance! (Last night I felt so sick but I still found a way to add those 10 minutes of dancing in... well more like swaying, but I'm still counting it) Joel is joining in but I wanted to see if Kim wanted to try something for 30 days too. I suggested just doing something FUN each day for an entire month, especially since this is what inspired me to start the project in the first place.

Here are some (ridiculously silly and maybe a bit lame) ideas:

1. pick 2 different nail polish colors and paint alternating nails a different color.
2. wear a fancy dress and pretty shoes just to go food shopping
3. chocolate chip pancakes for dinner (Yeah, BRINNER)
4. bright pink eyeshadow
5. catch fireflies
6. photo booth pictures
7. practice making silly faces in the mirror with your baby (good practice for photo booth shots)
8. a drive down by the beach, windows down and the radio playing!
9. ice cream with sprinkles!!! (obviously)
10. go to the movies in the afternoon during the week
11. watermelon seed spitting contest (kind of gross but fun nonetheless)
12. play tag, hopscotch, simon says (with nieces and nephews, neighborhood kids, etc.)
13. have lunch outdoors. have lunch on the floor of your living room. have lunch in the back of your car. have lunch someplace other than the kitchen table.
14. make lemonade from scratch with lots of sugar.

Feel free to add: happy hours, getting together with the girls, dancing the night away, and adding vodka to that fresh lemonade.

Can you guys suggest some things that ooze FUN?

For the Love of Sprinkles... Yes, Sprinkles!

2011-08-03T23:53:00.002-04:00

Our last night in Rhode Island we went out for ice cream! As much as I love mint chocolate chip and butter pecan I can't resist soft serve ice cream with sprinkles. When Lily ordered a strawberry cone with rainbow sprinkles I knew I wanted the same exact thing! My friend Kate told me that the day after I left they had pistachio soft serve, my absolute fave!

Are you a sucker for sprinkles like I am? What is your favorite ice cream flavor?

When Life Gives You Lemons

2011-08-03T15:53:00.000-04:00

Just EAT Them!!!!

It doesn't hurt if you make adorable faces in the process!

So, I am not going to suddenly start writing all "Woe is me, boo hoo" posts but I just wanted to be a little more honest here. There is quite a bit going on in my life. My mom isn't feeling so well but I don't know how to get into it here so I'm not. She is definitely going to be okay... the question is when and how. I hope I don't sound rude in asking for you to not comment on the subject. I have complete faith that things are going to be okay.

I'm posting this because I just want to share that I'm choosing positivity. I am a pretty optimistic person and I don't want that to ever change. I will constantly choose to surround myself with positivity. I won't let anything or anyone bring me down unnecessarily. Life is just too precious to hold onto mistakes, faults, etc. I'm all for reveling in misery (hopefully for the shortest amount of time possible) and then letting it go.... moving on.

Plus, I've got a cute baby eating lemon slices to photograph. Jonah was being so cute that Joel and I captured him with my Fuji Instax, the holga, and Joel's phone.

My Jazz Shoes Are So Excited!

2011-08-02T09:37:00.002-04:00

I just read this on Mighty Girl's blog and I knew I was going to be inspired. She posted this video and I just knew I had to start!

Matt Cutts talks about 30 day projects and I feel like this is right up my alley. Yes yes I am still working my way through my 30 days before my 30th birthday list (which was in fact 4 days ago) but I am jumping on this now. I also kind of like that it's the 1st of the month when I'm starting this.

Okay, so a little over a month ago I posted this. I wrote a lot but was also kind of vague. So here it is: I want to dance... plain and simple. I love going out and dancing but what I really want to do is performance dancing. I used to dance when I was younger and although I wasn't very good I still loved it. My love would come back in tiny bursts, especially when I had the opportunity to photograph a dance theatre group's dress rehearsal. My two loves combined- dance and photography. I didn't have the dedication or the discipline to continue but now I definitely realize the mistake I made in stopping. However, I'm trying to focus on the whole "it's never too late" theory.

So, along with looking for dance classes to take in the area I am vowing to give myself at least 10 minutes a day to just dance. It can be in the form of a dance class or just busting a move in my living room while the Jbear naps. I hope this all leads somewhere but for now I just want to dance!!

Joel is doing a 30 day project too- he will be shooting film for 30 days. While he was out, shooting with our Canon A-1, I rolled up the rug and danced along to this song:

and this one

If you gave yourself 30 days to do something you've always wanted to do, what would it be?

Summer Playlist

2011-08-01T14:41:00.001-04:00

For the past two years I've made birthday playlists. It all started with wanting to hear "When I Think of You" on repeat on my 28th birthday. I just wanted to dance all morning, but I had to take breaks because I was about 17 weeks pregnant. I just started putting songs that I didn't mind listening to over and over again and songs that made me want to dance to or sing along to. So I guess it's tradition now to make a Birthday mix each year. Jbear and I listen to the mix I made last year all the time- he especially loves to shake his booty to "Daft Punk is Playing at My House" by LCD Soundsystem. Here are the songs I have been listening to on repeat as of late. I'm totally been inspired by my 90's birthday dance party as well as all the new music I've gotten this year and just some plain old favorites!!!

My 29th birthday last year

2009

And no!! I'm not ashamed that Mariah Carey's Fantasy is up there 2x or the fact that LaBouche's Be My Lover is on the list. Nope, not ashamed at all.

Please, still be my friend!

Weekend Recap (well really just Saturday, if I'm being honest here).

2011-08-01T09:10:00.001-04:00

This weekend was a pretty great end to birthday week. I have my party photos to share and still some items on my 30 things to do (the 30 days) before I'm 30 list so I'm not quite through with all the birthday talk. For now though I'm bombarding you with photos.

I've been missing Philly and my family in NY like crazy so I told Joel I wanted to go out and find some places in Connecticut to fall in love with. Although the drive was long, the sights I saw (and the food I ate) didn't disappoint.

I love this! It definitely resonated with me that afternoon.

I've been into ordering lemonade lately!!

dipping my feet into a stream and watching as they drive in seconds.

This rooster did not die after 100 years... the place just needs to update their sign.

Joel is giving his adventurer meets GQ face and I... well I have the longest face ever!

After our afternoon out exploring and getting ice cream (and doughnuts and lemon tarts) we ended up having dinner with my in laws. Then it was time for dessert again, but there wasn't any time for me to go home and put on some date night clothes.

Gray Tank: Target, Print Tank: H&M, Cutoffs: formerly Old Navy skinny jeans, Belt: GAP, Owl Necklace: Target, Bird Necklace: Uncommon Goods, Wristlet: Laura Bee Designs (a gift from my cousin Tam).

I just received this wristlet wallet the other day and already it's been with me everywhere. I totally love it!!

We went to Libby's Italian Pastry Shop in New Haven. I got a lemon and watermelon ice and Joel got lemon with orange. We split a cannoli and it was amazing, probably because I ate more than half. It was so crazy being there seeing as the last time I was there was the summer of 2001 and Joel and I were just friends at the time. Everything was just as tasty as I remembered them to be.

I hope you all enjoyed your weekend!! What are your plans for this week?!

The first day of my 30's

2011-07-29T07:00:00.003-04:00

Joel surprised me and took the day off from work even though I told him that I didn't want him to. I'm so happy he didn't listen to me because the day was so much more fun with him home with me.

It started off with a short dance party with Jbear in his bedroom and then I made pumpkin pancakes. I also went out late last night to pick up whipped cream. I had to have whipped cream!!

He wasn't amused when I tried to put some whipped cream directly in his mouth but he loved it regardless.

Always playing with the phone while I check out all my facebook birthday lovin'.

These are the same faces that accompanied my 90's party decor!

Joel is aware that Joey sang that song. We are teaching our son to say Jordan Knight.

Shirt: GAP, Skirt: Target- a gift from Kim, Lace Shorts: F21, Owl Necklace: Target, Bird Necklace: Uncommon Goods.

I loved this idea of wearing all my favorite jewelry on my birthday.

Flowers in our backyard.

Once he woke up from his nap we headed to the park before my Zumba class.

All I wanted to do after my class was (take a shower) get some ice cream, put the baby down for bed, eat pizza and...

watch High Fidelity. I LOVE this movie!!!

It was a really great day and I still have the weekend to look forward to. And the roll of film from my new holga.

I'm Zack, You're 30!

2011-07-28T15:59:00.000-04:00

This is me today hanging out with Zack and Uncle Jesse (oh and Joel and Jonah too). So far, so good.... strawberry frosted doughnuts, pumpkin pancakes and a peanut butter torte... my 30th birthday tastes delicious!

Good thing I've got Zumba tonight!!

Elizabeth Takes Us Down Memory Lane!!!

2011-07-28T10:35:00.001-04:00

Elizabeth from She Likes Stripes is totally awesome!! She has been 30 for a whole week now so I most definitely look up to her :)

When Cynthia asked for guest bloggers to help her celebrate Birthday Week, I jumped at the chance, and not only because my birthday is a week before hers, and that we're both turning 30 this year.

Ever since I can remember, I have had a bit of a strange relationship with my own birthday. I LOVE it, but it has a history of turning me into a bit of a basketcase. I can remember very strongly spending the week or so before my birthday every summer thinking about all of the milestones... "This is the last time I'll ever ride my bike to town while I'm 12!" "This is the last time I'll ever eat ice cream as an 11-year-old!"

(1984, 3 years old and clearly VERY HAPPY to have received an impossible-to-find Cabbage Patch doll. I'm still not good at hiding my displeasure now.)

It's a little bit... ridiculous, but it happened, almost every year. I can remember gifts (like the lava lamp I received for my 13th birthday, the one I wanted so BADLY), celebrations... so many details. I have been a bit nervous, honestly, as I have gotten older and have been facing the stereotypical milestone ages.

So in the past few years, I have marked my own birthday by writing a list of things I wanted to do each year. I am certainly not the first person to write a Birthday To Do List, but I have SO enjoyed writing the lists and documenting my progress each year with photos and eventually mini scrapbooks.

I am not planning to write another list to commemorate turning 30, mostly because my 27, 28, and 29 lists have been so enjoyable and memorable. (And it's getting much harder to come up with new things every year!) But I would HIGHLY recommend writing a birthday to do list, at least once. It's important to achieve a balance - keeping things from being too specific ("go on a trip" on my 28 to do list, rather than saying to go to a specific place), but also keeping fun, frivolous things on the list ("go on a picnic" or "play mini golf" or "drink beer samplers" in with more serious things ("finish couch to 5k" or "try not to freak out about turning 30"). I'd also say that this kind of list is the perfect time to include simple things that you always have wanted to do but just haven't gotten around to ("get new glasses" and "get a tattoo" and eating at certain restaurants).

And most importantly is to keep it fun - or, don't feel bad if you don't get to some of the items. And to document with photos, keep ticket stubs, etc so that you can then turn your list into a physical memory that you'll always be able to look back on. I love the idea that I'll be able to hand these minibooks to my future children and they can see what I was up to when I was 27 or the year before I turned 30.

But most of all? I think we could all use a dose of Cynthia's enthusiasm when it comes to both birthdays and getting older. Since we're the same age, I've tried my hardest to take Cynthia's perspective (that things just keep getting SO MUCH better the older she gets) rather than defaulting to my childhood panic about no longer being 29 and now being 30.

Happy, HAPPY birthday, Cynthia, and I personally think turning a day into a week-long celebration is something we should ALL be doing.

Thanks girl for sharing all your birthday nostalgia, I love you that much more after reading this!!!
You can read Elizabeth's birthday posts here and here

Holga!!!!!

2011-07-27T15:04:00.000-04:00

I feel so ashamed that I had NO IDEA that Holgas that took 35mm film! My brother and his family got me this awesome camera for my birthday as well as an original (medium format) Holga. I already have one from years ago but this one is purple, and I love it. I can't wait to finish the roll and drop it off to be developed.

Jodi is kickin' it, Ronald McDonald style!

2011-07-27T11:01:00.002-04:00

Jodi from Jodi Mckee Photography is taking us way back and possibly bringing along some grade school birthday memories. Kid Jodi is the cutest thing in the whole world. Be prepared!!

While our lovely Cynthia is turning 30 this week, I do not have especially fond memories of my 30th. Not that I wasn't excited for it, because I do love celebrating my birthday, but because I had a terrible head cold and stayed home sick from work. Booooo! I did make it out to dinner with some friends, but it wasn't quite the party it could have been.

As a kid, my birthday fell around the same time as a friend of mine (that's her behind me in the cute dotted dress) at school. I remember that we often had to alternate years with having a big party. One year at her house, one year at mine. Or have the party a completely different weekend. That was sort of a bummer.

But one year, we had my party at McDonald's. And it was awesome. My memories include dropping straws in to cups as some sort of game, french fries, presents, cake and if I remember correctly, minty shakes. The healthiest option for a group of six year olds? No. But was it super fun? YES.

Happy, happy birthday Cynthia!!

Girl, you're the best! Thanks for sharing this adorable memory! I love celebrating birthdays with you!!

Beach!!!

2011-07-27T08:12:00.000-04:00

CURLS!!!!

Love, love, love!

We spent 2.5 days up in Rhode Island with friends and it was amazing! Another mark off on my list and it was done in the most fun way!

I have some more guest bloggers coming up. I am not away on vacation, I just love guest bloggers!!!

Erin from Pepperknit

2011-07-26T08:00:00.003-04:00

(ooops this post went up earlier than I thought)
So I asked some of my birthday loving friends to share a little something this week on my blog. I think Erin, who blogs over at Pepperknit, is so full of life and her excitement for food, friends, knitting, and photography is contagious!!

I approached my thirtieth birthday with nothing less than complete abandon. It was time to shed the baggage of my twenties (a long but unfulfilling relationship, a change of jobs for the much, much worse) and claim my adulthood. I started telling people who asked—and they always ask, when you have a girlish voice and youthful looks—that I was already thirty when I was probably just a few months past twenty-nine.

But even though I’d been “living” thirty for almost a year, it wasn’t mine yet. I hadn’t really been able to join all the women in my life (just a few years older than me) who assured me that their thirties had been their best years so far (these statements have proven accurate, btw). Even friends in their forties admitted that they didn’t really start feeling the kind of confidence and comfort in themselves that they currently exuded until they hit the “big” 3-0.

For the first time that I could remember as an adult, I decided to be demanding on my birthday. My ex had always said I was “too hard to shop for” and never really did anything special for me. I never thought to ask for more than the simple dinner out we would eat. But this year, without him, I was going to be with friends (it was Thanksgiving weekend, and we always did friends Thanksgiving), and they were asking what I wanted. They told me it would be all about me. So I told them.

“I want to go to the top of something—anything, whether a mountain or a building, but the top—and I want to take my picture there.” The details wouldn’t matter, for once in my life. The rest of the day was going to be, as they say, “cake.” (And it did involve a delicious cake!) But I had a vision for my thirtieth birthday moment, and the confidence and comfort in myself to ask for it.

They happily obliged, being more outdoorsy people than me who knew about local hikes and things in Portland, OR, where we all were. We climbed to the top of a mountain, and while taking the relatively challenging hike I realized that the top of a building never would have sufficed; I had had to EARN this achievement. It was cold, the altitude was thin. But as I stood there looking out over the Columbia River, I felt it.

Thirty.

It was mine. I was whole. I was ready.

Happiest of birthdays, my dear Cynthia. May your thirties be a time of wholeness and acceptance, and may they be the best years of your life.

Thank you so much Erin for sharing your 30th birthday adventures on my blog. Go check out Pepperknit for NY love, pretty yarn being knitted into the coolest clothes, and yummy food photos!

SO MUCH FUN!!!

2011-07-25T15:08:00.000-04:00

My party was a blast. I seriously had the time of my life spending time with friends and family and dancing the night away. Joel went above and beyond and got a photo booth from Ish Photo Booth Rentals! It was ridiculous and my excitement made me want to kiss everyone!

Yes, I had some drinks but with all my crazy dancing I have to say that I didn't get drunk at all. I also drink water in between each shot I take (it's my wonderful little secret) so I can enjoy tequila without the awful headaches the next morning. Dancing and sweating like a lunatic helps too! So what you see here is me the way I am surrounded by those I love like crazy. I can't wait to see everyone's photo booth shots. Once I get photos from my lovely friends Kim and Veronica, I will share those too.

My Gurl is Peacin' Out!

2011-07-23T11:33:00.002-04:00

Yvonne is one of my gurls! And she has been since 1997. But she is leaving on Monday to live and work in Germany and I am going to miss her like crazy!! There is just so much I could write about our friendship and maybe I will. Right now though, I just have to post these photos just to give you a glimpse of the hole that is going to be left with this girl gone. Whoa, I don't want to sound all morose but good times always follow with Yvonne around.

Yvonne used to come visit me at work and we would always have the best time while I was closing up. These are some of my favorite summer memories of 2001!! I remember going online after work and she would help me respond with something clever to Joel's emails (we weren't dating at that point).

Photoboothin' it up this past March.

Last night a bunch of us went out to celebrate her and this huge step she is taking. We ate, drank, drank some more and did lots of karaoke! I'll definitely post some photos when I get my hands on them. FYI- I looked like a caged mommy animal on the loose singing and dancing to almost every song.

We still have tonight though. And tonight is my birthday party!! Woot woot!! We'll be listening to this:

and this

and most definitely this

BECAUSE... It's a 90's Dance Party! I am beyond pumped. I don't want presents or surprises... I just want to dance and be with family and friends!!!

please forgive my terrible storytelling. I am on few hours sleep and in a whirlwind of excitement and anticipation.

Happy Birthday Elizabeth

2011-07-21T17:20:00.000-04:00

I met Elizabeth in 2008 through flickr or maybe earlier but we met in person in 2008 and I instantly liked her. It's funny because besides photography I didn't know what we actually had in common (she is into baseball and I am not, she appreciates beer and I do not). Then as the past few years went by we realized we both had a love for being crafty, cupcakes (wait isn't that ALL bloggers?) and just hanging out and talking. Elizabeth is one of the sweetest people I know. She sends me packages randomly filled with papery crafty goodness and music. She even crochet a super adorable hat for my baby boy.

When reading her blog I find myself thinking, "Oh my goodness, that is SO me". We have similarities, we have differences and my world feels that much brighter with her in it.

Happy Birthday Elizabeth!!! Go spread some birthday love her way!!!

The girl really does love stripes!!!

And with Elizabeth's birthday here it means that Birthday Week for me is just starting. I can't wait to share all that is going on over here!!!

cramming it in!!

2011-07-20T23:24:00.000-04:00

The countdown to 30 is starting!! And I still have many things to accomplish on my list.

First up is Have a Picnic with Jonah!

Lately I've been so bored with putting Jonah in his high chair so we've been having picnics everywhere- his bedroom, the living room, the park, our backyard...

even in the back of my car in a Walgreens parking lot.

Sending some snail mail out!

Plus letters and photos for my grandmothers (I still need to call them though).

I don't know about you but this week is going by so so so fast.

Steppin' Out (aka That Skirts Looks Mighty Familiar)

2011-07-17T12:06:00.001-04:00

Top: Target, Skirt: H&;M, Shoes: Macy's

Bird Necklace: Uncommon Goods, Envelope Necklace: Urban Outfitters, Bangles: F21, Belt: GAP

I seriously wear this floral skirt all the time (1,2,3)!! I bought it in March and have been pairing it with everything in my closet. Best $13 I ever spent!!

We are heading out to spend time with my very dear friend Kate, and her family, who live in Virginia. They are heading north for 2 weeks and we get to spend a few days with them. I'm already sad thinking of saying goodbye to them all and possibly another year going by. No, no, no... must think positively that we'll see them sooner!

Us and our boys (she also has a 3 year old daughter) last June. It's been over a year since I've hugged my best friend! Ahhh look at how little the Jbear was!

I am sure I will return with a million photos!!!

Refreshed

2011-07-15T17:56:00.000-04:00

Last week we headed down to Philly for a short trip. Joel had work to do so Jonah and I visited with friends we hadn't seen in awhile. It was a much needed break from the norm, ie. driving to get anywhere. I put Jonah in the stroller and we walked EVERYWHERE! It was glorious!!

This seriously adorable dude is 3 months older than Jonah and it was so fun watching them play together... like actually interact with one another. I can't wait to go back and meet his baby sister.

I can't believe this big girl used to be just a baby girl that I nannied for.

At 5 she is all about the silly faces but she still slays me with that stare. I love her, obviously!!

Baby Sis is the sweetest thing ever. She really loved using Jonah's sunscreen stick.

Sometimes you hear of nannies that take care of so many children and can't fathom having any of their own. Nuala was a dream child to spend time and I knew that she spoiled me with being so easy and all.

I can't finish this post because my heart is melting.

I feel like I still have so much to share!! Multiple blog posts coming up! I hope you are all enjoying the start to your weekend.

Celebrating Jbear's 1/2 Birthday!

2011-07-13T10:55:00.000-04:00

My favorite part about baking is eating the end result. Sometimes I think that I'm a really good baker but it's SO not true. I can NEVER get the cake out of the pan without half of it sticking to the pan or falling, in crumbles, onto my counter. However, I put 'celebrate Jonah's half birthday' on my birthday list and you can't celebrate without a half birthday cake!! Please don't take away my blogger card for posting the atrocity that is this birthday cake. It tasted delicious but WOW did it look funky!!!

I was wondering how singing "Happy 1/2 Birthday" was going to go since my kid is kind of strange when it comes to that song. I have never met a little person that doesn't like that song. Well, now I have and he belongs to me. I don't know if it's the off pitch voices, his mother pretending she can actually sing, or the loud cheering afterwards but my kid HATES the song!!

I love making my own buttercream frosting. Ever since my friend Lee told me that I don't have to use powdered sugar I started making swiss meringue buttercream. I go back to this recipe from Taste Goblet constantly. I also used raw sugar which gave it the caramel-ish taste and color. Dulce de Leche was added in with some frosting for the filling! Yum, yum, yum!!!

And this is Jonah crying to the dessert (before dinner) gods to let him have one more piece. Oh my goodness the kid is crazy for food. We could have given him the entire cake and he still would cry once it was all gone. I'm actually surprised that we didn't get this reaction whilst singing to him. If you're a mom, does your kid have any quirks like this? I mean really??? Happy Birthday??

Play with Sidewalk Chalk

2011-07-11T16:01:00.000-04:00

I found a huge (and I mean huge) bin of sidewalk chalk at Joann's the other day for half price and snatched it right up. It is on my birthday list, after all. Jonah and I went out for a bit this morning and played with a few pieces. He drew a little on the ground, some on the grass, and a lot on himself. I love this age, although I am constantly perplexed by his indecisiveness- he asks for "agua" but is annoyed that I bring him agua, then constantly asks for "agua" and the cycle goes on and on.

playing with Joel's work safety glasses, with a chunk of apple being chewed on.

How is this Monday going for you all? It is super hot by me so maybe an afternoon with the garden hose is in order. But plans to bake a cake are in order. Ahhh yes, nothing like an afternoon with a steamy oven heating up your kitchen.

mommy relaxation weekend

2011-07-10T20:12:00.003-04:00

Joel gifted me and Kim a spa sleepover for Mother's Day and we finally had a weekend to use it. It was complete with massages, chocolate covered strawberries, manicures and pedicures and good conversation. This is what we stepped out in for a fashion show at H&M and a sushi dinner.

Tank: Target, Jeans: Rapsodia (Buenos Aires), Shoes: Nine West, Necklace: F21

I loved Kim's shoes.

As much as we like to get together for any occasion we might try and do a mommy getaway every year!

The Hammer dance was totally done in the dressing room

Orange-ish nails! Another cross off on my birthday list.

postcard swap

2011-07-08T15:38:00.000-04:00

My friend Jodi hosted a summer postcard swap and it was a lot of fun! I definitely got stamp ink everywhere while I was making them and had to wrangle glue sticks out of toddler hands when somebody ::cough:: Jonah ::cough:: cut their nap short during mommy's crafting hour. Here are the ones I sent out:

I wish I dove into my paper/craft supplies more so I was totally up for some prompted creativity.

Have an awesome weekend guys!!!!

The Happy

2011-07-07T08:53:00.000-04:00

It's hard wanting to take your camera out when all you really want to do is exist in the moment when spending time with friends. But how can I miss that face? He saw the camera, tilted his head, and I died.

The awesomeness of best friends

2011-07-05T09:00:00.002-04:00

I had such a great time with these girls. Aren't they gorgeous? I am hoping that this will be a running series because it was seriously so much fun!!

I'm Stepping Out

2011-07-04T21:37:00.002-04:00

This weekend kept feeling like it was going by so quickly (as they usually do) but now being back at home, after a fireworks party, a short trip to see my folks, frozen yogurt with friends, a rainbow italian ice, a pit stop at my fave bakery for a rainbow cookie, a play date for Jonah, a bbq with my parents and then one more with Joel's, this weekend felt very fulfilling.

This is what I stepped out in on Friday night to Joel's hometown fireworks show and his friends' party.

Tank & Skirt: H&M, Sandals: Timberland, Stereo Necklace: H&M, Charm Necklace: F21, Belt: my grandfather's (he shortened it for me years & years ago).

My friend Denise from high school and her cutie pie son!!

I basically swallowed this thing whole, my semi dainty bite was just for show.

I am a hardcore italian ice girl. It's what my mouth waters for the second we get into NY. And I do LOVE rainbow ice.

As I write this I am watching the most awesome fireworks outside my window. I am instantly transported back to my childhood hoping and praying for just 1 more. Joel and I are getting ready for a quick trip down to Philly. I can't wait!!! I hope you all had a joyful weekend!

have the most stellar weekend

2011-07-01T17:07:00.001-04:00

A little catch up of some Jbear photos.

Cousins playing ~~together~~ in the same vicinity as each other.

Wildman is the coolest. He totally rules!!!

I'm baffled by my childs disinterest in popsicles.

Happy 4th of July weekend!!

simple

2011-06-30T22:06:00.000-04:00

Tank: H&M, Shorts: Calvin Klein from TJ Maxx, Belt: TJ Maxx, Shoes: Timberlands, Bracelets: F21, Scarf: Goodwill.

I was so excited to start the 30 for 30 challenge and I've been sticking with it but I haven't been keeping up with taking photos everyday of my outfits. Hopefully that will change.

I want to ask though- if you love a piece of clothing do you go out and get an extra just in case? Not in another color or pattern but the same exact item? I bought this tunic a few years ago and wore it endlessly that it got pilly and faded real fast. I ended up getting the same exact tunic because I couldn't bear to be without it. I just donated the old worn in one and still have the backup. I am seriously contemplating getting this tank top again because I could wear it everyday. I know striped tanks aren't hard to come by but I just love the way this one fits. I just hate when clothes start to get all pilly and just look older than they really are.

diner date with the bear

2011-06-29T22:00:00.000-04:00

I decided a month ago that I wanted to start going on weekly lunch dates with Jonah. Once a week we go to the diner- he has silver dollar pancakes and I get two eggs over medium with rye toast and home fries

This was a very easy cross off for my birthday list.

Jonah spends the majority of our date staring out the window looking at all the cars. He proceeds to say "Car" a million times even with a mouthful of pancake.

My husband knows me so well. While I was publishing this post he was lighting candles on this cake.

30 days til I am 30

2011-06-28T22:58:00.001-04:00

It's so late (well not really but I'm ready for bed) but I have to post this today on the 28th of June.

Okay, so for a few years now I have written lists for my birthday- 28 things to do while I'm 28, 29 things to do while I'm 29 and I have maybe done 3 things on each list. I write it in July and then sort of forget about it. I have written down a ton of easy cross offs but I never gave much thought to those birthday lists. So, I decided to change it up a little. I wrote down 30 things to do in the 30 days before I turn 30 and today was Day 1. The lists consists of things that can be completed in just one day although I hope to continue with some well past my birthday.

I obviously can't count because there are definitely more than 30 items on this list!

Today I took my first Zumba class. I have heard Zumba being mentioned but honestly had no idea what it was. I signed up for the class and then asked google to help me out. Let's just say I was the only dork at class with jazz shoes on. It was SO MUCH FUN besides the fact that I thought I was going to pass out. I haven't had a work-out like that in years- I can't wait to go back!!!

Just a lot of silliness to make this month a whole lot more fun!!

Total Gems

2011-06-28T16:44:00.001-04:00

I am finally posting my first outfit for Kendi's Summer 30x30 challenge. At least with these photos I have some sense that it can only get better from here.

Tank: Target, Skirt: Old Navy (I cringe at the wrinkled state this skirt is in), Belt: TJ Maxx, Shoes: taken from my mother, Necklace: Target.

I change my mind... these photos are total gems.

When Mamacita asks, she receives!

2011-06-25T20:35:00.000-04:00

These were not taken today, but my mother wanted to see more photos of her grandson. Today we arrived late to the farmer's market which was fine because we forgot to get cash anyway. Then it was a rush back home to give Jbear lunch and put him down for a nap. I napped too which was awesome. I might get a little crazy tonight though, maybe a trip to Barnes & Noble to read some magazines. I might even get a frappacino! I don't know yet, I don't know if it will be that crazy of a night.

I hope you all are living it up this weekend!!

it's a new day

2011-06-24T15:04:00.001-04:00

Do you have friends that are so completely inspiring? It's not how they portray their lives via photos or status updates but how they live and what they do (or maybe don't do). I have so many people in my life who inspire me in different ways but so many times I don't do anything with it. I get all pumped up and then... nothing. Nothing at all. I talk big but I feel like I might be living small. Living simply is not the same as living small. I live a simple life but it's not lived to it's full potential. I shy away from opportunities and just talk and talk and talk. I just don't DO. And I need to because I really want to. So I'm taking cues from my friends and grabbing everything I love about them to give my life some oomph.

My dear friend Kate is a stay at home mother and really knows how to spend the 24 hours we are given each day. She cooks & bakes, does fun activities with her children and takes time to sit outside and enjoy the sunset. She isn't on facebook and doesn't watch t.v. Jodi is the friend that never says no- she is always up for an adventure. She has rheumatoid arthritis and makes the most of the energy she has and has even started a portrait project bringing a voice to those who suffer from autoimmune diseases. My friend Yvonne is a teacher and loves to travel. She decided that she wanted to teach in Europe and has been working hard to make that happen. In a month she is going to be moving to Germany to teach at a school in Berlin. I could go on about all my friends but I want to get the part where I share how I've been motivated.

Today I am claiming my new day. I called on Kim to help keep me on track with these new plans and I just can't describe how excited I am. I am digging deep for the motivation I used to have and I am going to pull it all out- or else Kim might beat me up. In time I will totally share but I just wanted to blurt this out. Once I figure out how to put my ideas and plans into writing, I will. I can say that I am going try my hardest to use my time more wisely, go after what I want and say YES a lot more!!!

So, this song played the other night when I was out celebrating my brother's birthday and it has definitely inspired me in a few ways. I'm such a sucker for the 90's!!!

To Joel

2011-06-23T11:21:00.000-04:00

You are an amazing father, but I always knew you would be. I know that your own amazing dad has helped shape you into the man you are today but so much of it is just you... the way you are. And I love the way you are.

I look at our son and feel so happy that he gets to have you as his dad. I thought I knew how awesome you would be before Jonah was even born. I thought of the camping trips and hikes you two would go on (while I stayed home comfortably with AC and my comfy bed) and the grand adventures you would experience as father and son. What I see is SO much more than that. It's the little things of the everyday- the songs you sing to the Jbear, the nicknames you give him, the way you play, how you can get him to say so many words, bath time, your mornings out together and the way our baby boy looks up to his dada.

I don't need to dream up all the things I think you will do as a dad. Right now, today, you are the greatest father and all of Jonah's laughs and smiles when he is with you lets me know he feels the exact same way. I, however, love you so much more than bananas. Happy (belated) Father's Day.

A Surprise Party

2011-06-22T23:10:00.000-04:00

My brother's girlfriend threw him a surprise party and it was a really really fun night!! It started at Nonna's LES Pizzeria where we took up the entire place. The pizza was amazing and I can't wait to go back to try different slices.

Jenn made masks of my brother's face and it was the greatest yet creepiest thing I have ever seen.

Imagine walking into a room where everyone looks like you. It reminded of something out of Being John Malkovich.

Surprise face

My brother loves surprises but has never had a surprise party. I'm so happy that he found an awesome girl to through him one!

Joel had the idea to take a bunch of Jeff masks and place them all over.

And this is me after 2 girly drinks!! I obviously don't get out much.

The flash decided to play up my paleness to it's full potential!!

Happy Early Birthday Jeff!

Summer is Here!!!

2011-06-21T13:55:00.000-04:00

I have so much more that I want to share but I need to take advantage of nap time and clean my house, especially since my friend Kim is coming to visit for a weeknight sleepover. Or at least clean parts of it and then relax with some lunch and episodes of Glee! Have I mentioned how much I LOVE that show?!!!

Father G

2011-06-17T16:02:00.001-04:00

There is no denying the father daughter mega style going on here! Oh my dad!!! The words don't flow as freely because you really really just need to know him. I am so so so much like him and maybe that's why we fight the way we do. Yes, I'm 29 and still have it in me to fight with my father. But I love him like no other. Seriously, I actually tell him ALL the time that I must love him SO much more than my brothers do. I probably frustrate him just as much though. My dad jokes that I'm more of a nagging wife to him than my mother is. Wow, I'm really painting the worst possible picture of me, aren't I? I just want his life to be the best, hence all the annoying nagging about eating right, exercising, etc.

My daddy is a pretty cool dude and I must say that his style has gotten so much cooler since this photo was taken, 19 & 1/2 years ago. While here I am WISHING I still had that sequined jacket and that scrunchie, although I totally pass on the frizzy mess that was my hair.

I love you Daddy and am so grateful for all your advice and what you've taught me through the years (so feel free to stop now, haha). Thanks for being a really great Zeide to my son and for continuing to make me the most kick ass sandwiches! Happy Father's Day!

P.S. no one reads bedtime stories quite like you! Thank you for that, too!!

what girl, thatgirl!

2011-06-14T14:41:00.004-04:00

I haven't had anything to post lately... so that's why I haven't! I go back and forth on what I'm doing with this blog and it's confusing even in my head. I started this blog because I didn't have a website yet and I wanted to post my photographs somewhere. I got a little personal when I would post photos of the girl I nannied and some random photos of myself. Then for a little while it was just portrait sessions. Thatgirl Photography went on a little hiatus while I was busy being a new mommy and then at the end of the year we moved from Philly. I never thought about blogging for the heck of it. The concept of mommy/baby blogs was so new to me and I'm embarrassed to say that I had NO idea style blogs even existed til just recently.

I honestly don't know who is actually reading my blog, but I'm happy you're here! For so long I hesitated putting this stuff up because it's just so goofy and weird (it just seemed more acceptable to keep them semi private on flickr). However, I feel that these photos will give you a better glimpse into my personality. I truly don't know how to portray myself with the written word. When I speak I go off on tangents and there are stories within stories. So this is a way to cut to the chase. These are all self portraits except the one with the red wig.

When I was a nanny I often took photos during nap time! (feb. 2008)

Joel took this at Red Rock Canyon. Yes, I packed a wig when I went to Vegas!! (feb. 2009)

I also like masks and using my curly hair, brushed out, as a prop. (jan 2009)

(feb. 2008)

(oct. 2008)

the majority of my pregnancy photos were pretty and I wanted to do something offbeat. 35 weeks pregnant. (dec. 2009)

(sept. 2010)

just hanging out in a cat door (sept. 2007)

listening and dancing along to this song (feb. 2008)

I signed up for Kendi's summer 30x30 challenge and I will start posting that once I actually do laundry.

stripey fun

2011-06-09T19:30:00.000-04:00

Top & Skirt: H&M, Cardigan & Necklace: F21, Belt: gifted, Shoes: Timberlands from Mama That's closet.

My friend Elizabeth LOVES stripes... like really loves stripes. Her blog is called She Likes Stripes! When I was putting together my items for Kendi's 30 for 30 challenge I maybe had 1 striped top and was thinking how Elizabeth would be shaking her head. Recently though I have acquired a few more striped tops and cardigans so Elizabeth gave me the in on STRIPE MANIA over at Decor8! My new favorite thing is paring stripes with all different patterns especially floral. And this skirt has been my favorite since the moment I bought it.

So now TAG you're it!!! That obviously means you, Elizabeth!!!

watery wordless wednesday*

2011-06-08T13:18:00.000-04:00

*yes I know... I'm a nerd.

and... I'm home!

2011-06-07T15:12:00.000-04:00

It's super easy to get used to beautiful beaches, aquamarine water, pina coladas and deciding between the pool or snorkeling. Taking a cruise down to Bermuda is by far the most relaxing vacation I have ever been on even though I got the least amount of sleep (Jonah noisily tosses and turns SO much when he sleeps). I don't really have that many photos because my dslr camera is so big and my point and shoot is totally crappy (it kicked the bucket when it slipped out of my pocket and down to a lower deck on the cruise ship). I have no rights calling myself a blogger- maybe I'll steal some photos from my sister in law. Here are some of the photos that were actually taken in between eating, getting "tan", going to the beach, drinking frozen drinks, eating some more and deciding how embarrassed I should be going back for my 3rd ice cream cone of the afternoon.

I loved how dark it was in our room and them when Joel opened the curtains the most amazing light poured into our cabin.

The Jbear checking out all the "agua".

I packed a light as I could for a 7 day cruise and I still didn't wear everything I brought. My bathing suits got the most use! I did wear this shirt & skirt twice though but not together.

That light again!

Jonah's first trip to a beach was a salt water taffy run to Atlantic City but we didn't stay long or go in the ocean. Lucky kid to have his first dip in the ocean in Bermuda.

his swimwear matched the water perfectly.

This cell phone is our secret weapon. As much as my kid LOVES books he loves his cell phone, but we only busted it out when we really needed it (squeezing in a few more minutes at the beach, finishing up dinner, packing up, etc).

On a ferry to Hamilton, which is considered the city in Bermuda. This was our actual anniversary and we were going out for a delicious dinner. I just have a sour face on because I didn't leave myself enough time to get all pretty for our special night out.

5:20am sunrise pulling into the port in NJ.

P.S. THANK YOU so much to Jodi, Elizabeth, and Rebecca for keeping my blog company while I was away.

4 years!

2011-06-02T13:06:00.000-04:00

photography by Angelica Glass

Happy 4 years, my love! Thank you for loving me and my horse teeth. I love you to pieces and pieces...

There is no doubt that we'll be dancing to this song tonight:

The coolest shoes I own!

2011-06-02T09:02:00.000-04:00

and the most sentimental! Joel and I wore converse on our wedding day and we pull them out every year for our anniversary!! This is what I'll have on my feet today.

Guest Blogger: Rebecca of MinnChic

2011-06-01T12:00:00.000-04:00

Hi Thatgirl Photography readers, this is Rebecca from MinnChic. I'm a personal style blogger from St. Paul, MN.

When Cynthia asked me to do a travel-related guest post, I thought it would be fun to write about my typical travel outfit.

For most of my trips I stick to a travel uniform; a colorful cotton dress, a neutral cardigan, super comfortable shoes and a huge bag. Tights get packed too, especially if it is going to be cooler during my vacation.

My typical travel outfit is super comfortable. It makes packing a snap, and I can wear it to a museum, restaurant or baseball game without looking out of place. The big bag is key to traveling for me, because I can use it to store my sweaters if I get warm, and I also can carry guidebooks, water and sunscreen.

Outfit Details:
Dress and Tank - Old Navy
Sweater - Gap Outlet
Tights - Target
Shoes - Born
Bag - Vintage Samsonite

Here are a few shots of my travel clothes in action:

In New York City

On the North Fork of Long Island, NY

In Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Rebecca, it was so awesome to have you here! I LOVE your bag! Check out MinnChic for Rebecca's fun and classy style (too bad it's getting warmer because she has an awesome collection of tights).

Guest Blogger: Elizabeth of She Likes Stripes

2011-05-31T11:29:00.000-04:00

Hi folks! My name is Elizabeth and I'm super excited to be blog sitting for Cynthia today. I met Cynthia through the magic of flickr, and I think it's pretty safe to say that we've graduated from internet friends to real-life friends. As for a little about me? I like stripes, tea, books (I'm a librarian so this probably goes without saying), baseball, photography, things that are brightly colored, and crafts. My blog is shelikesstripes.com.

When Cynthia asked me to write a guest post for her, I wasn't really sure where to start. I was thinking of writing about how because of Cynthia's (and our mutual friend Kim's) outfit posts, I actually bought and WEAR skinny jeans (I even bought gray ones! And I love them!) AND I have skinny belts that I wear on TOP of cardigans. This is big news for me. But truthfully, I don't think I could take a whole-outfit photo to save my life, so instead I'm going to talk a bit about crafts. I'm currently working on a project called Handmade52, and the basic idea is that I'm going to craft, bake, or make something every week for 2011. So I'm always on the lookout for crafty inspiration. (Otherwise, I'll end up with 52 hats at the end of this project.)

A few weeks ago, I found this tutorial for how to make earrings out of vintage buttons, and was pretty intrigued. And then over the weekend, I saw Bridemaids (HILARIOUS. Seriously. Even my boyfriend loved it. Also gross. Also, I need to dig up my Wilson Phillips cd.). Kristen Wiig's character, Annie, has an amazing wardrobe in the movie; it's all blazers and tshirts and boots over jeans and cute dresses. But what caught my eye was that she wears different pairs of studs in every scene - brightly colored hearts, circles, flowers... and they don't necessarily match her outfit. (Like, a blue pair of heart-shaped earrings with a red dress.)

(photos all screencaps from the trailer on imdb)

So then I was obsessed.

I bought a few sets of super cheap buttons, and a tool to remove what I now know are called shanks (the little hook on the back of a button), plus some earring backs. I also figured this would be a great opportunity to try to fix the red flower earrings that my sister gave me for Christmas a few years ago.

Except the super-cheap wire cutting tool I bought at the craft store? Totally wouldn't cut through the buttons. So this craft is on hold until I can get myself a better tool... but I can't wait.

I tried googling Kristen Wiig's earrings and didn't really find much, but etsy saved the day. A basic search for heart/flower/star stud or post earrings turns up quite a lot of incredibly cheap options. But I found a few shops that have lots of great options:

(photos from their respective etsy shops)

Acute Designs - mostly flowers but great color choices

Pink Flower Cube - hearts, stars, lots of other shapes

Paper Biscuit - hearts, circles, rainbows

I can't promise I'm not going to go buy a pair in every color as soon as I finish writing this... but I will follow through on trying to make my own, because buttons are super cheap. I just love this look. Next on my list? Growing my hair a few more inches so I can make it look like perfectly wavy Kristen Wiig's. (Love!)

Elizabeth, I can't wait to see how this project pans out! Thanks so much for coming over to my blog. Please check out the rest of Elizabeth's craftiness at She Likes Stripes.

Guest Blogger: Jodi McKee

2011-05-30T13:00:00.000-04:00

Hello! I’m Jodi from Jodi McKee Photography and I’m so happy to be filling in for a day while Cynthia is on vacation.

Over the past two months, I’ve been lucky enough to travel to Austin, TX, San Francisco, CA and Washington, DC. I thought it might be fun to give you my favorite things to do in each city.

First up, Austin. If I were only there for one day, I would be sure to have at least one meal at Torchy’s Tacos and take a nice photo walk up and down South Congress.

Delicious tacos at Torchy’s

Bottle cap art in a gallery on South Congress

A brightly colored wall on South Congress.

Just one day in San Francisco? Man, that’s a rough one.

I would start by heading over to the Exploratorium. It is possibly the most fun museum EVER. Highly recommended. Stop for a drink and a bite to eat at Liverpool Lil’s and then take a drive through Golden Gate Park. Be sure to get out and stop a lot along the way. It is a seriously beautiful place. Finally, as the sun begins to lower in the sky, be sure to make your way to China Beach. It is a magical little spot. Not to be missed.

Fun for all ages at the Exploratorium

Liverpool Lil's on Lyon Street.

Pretty California poppies in Golden Gate Park.

Dusk on China Beach

One day to spend in Washington, DC?

Start off with a tour of the U.S. Capitol Building and then take a stroll past the White House. Grab a bite to eat at Logan Tavern
on P Street and then walk over to Logan Circle
to admire all of the gorgeous homes. And while you’re in DC, be sure to take a
ride on the Metro. It always feels so futuristic to be down on the platform there.

The majestic dome of the U.S. Capitol building.

My dream house on Logan Circle.

The space-age DC Metro

Hope you enjoyed my picks! Thanks again to Cynthia for having me over.

Thank you so much Jodi!! Check out Jodi's site for more of her kick ass photography.

Dance Party Monday: Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

2011-05-30T08:30:00.000-04:00

I'm out at sea while you read this hopefully sleeping in to the sounds of the ocean. But most likely my J boys and I will up and dancing to this song. I heard Home the summer I was pregnant with the Jbear and fell in love with it instantly! I got the entire album and played it on repeat. This version is slightly different from the album and it's what I listened to before I got their album Up From Below.

The lead singer Alexander Ebert released his solo album in March and it's so awesome.

I hope you all had a great weekend with bbq's and the promise of kick ass summer plans!!

Stay tuned for my first guest blogger- I am so excited!!!

Bon Voyage!

2011-05-29T12:00:00.000-04:00

We're heading out on a cruise ship! I wish I could say that I will come back with a killer tan, but really I'll just get red and then go back to being pale pale pale. My freckles will be fiercer than ever though! Have a great week. I have some friends stopping by while I am gone. See you all soon!!

Rooster Hair

2011-05-27T08:37:00.000-04:00

Jess of IROCKSOWHAT just posted some photos of her son with hair in his eyes talking about first haircuts. This is the hair that has been happening here these days. I don't know why his hair decided to fly over to the other side. So we're rocking rooster hair these days. And still I refuse to cut it! It's just that some days his hair reminds me of how I wore it in 1990.

singing, dancing and glee watching

2011-05-25T14:31:00.000-04:00

I have so much to catch up on! When I saw Season 1 of Glee streaming on netflix I immediately put it in my queue. Oh my goodness, I knew I would LOVE the show! Even though it's fun to be able to watch an entire season at my leisure I kind of wish I watched it while it aired. I love every single character but my favorites are Artie and Kurt. I think the actor Chris Colfer who plays Kurt is so amazing, I absolutely love every single scene he is in. I kind of want to talk more about this show so expect lots more Glee chatter.

My new obsession led me to miss Dance Party Monday because every free moment was spent watching a new episode. This week so far has been chock full of dance parties in Jbears room. I don't know what is with this particular week but every song has got my boy dancing. Even if I just sing this song to him he will stop what he is doing and just start moving his feet.

Maybe its all the time I've spent watching Glee this past week because on top of dancing it's like karaoke central over here. There has actually been a lot of The Farmer in the Dell (even though I can't stand that song) going on but also:

Holiday- Weezer, Bad Romance- Lady Gaga, If You Want To Sing Out, Sing Out- Cat Stevens. My poor son, I have a terrible voice! However, he does seem to enjoy my hip hopera version of The Itsty Bitsy Spider.

The sun finally decided to show up but it was so gray for so long. We were stuck indoors for way too long. I am still learning about where we live and what's available for toddlers. What do you guys do when it's so wet and gray outside? What do you do to keep yourself from going batty indoors?

Holla!

2011-05-21T22:30:00.000-04:00

The sun came out! You have no idea how much rain we've been getting... or maybe you do because you live in the northeast too! It was non stop over here and it was getting to be a bit much, even for this home body.

The Jbear was with his grandparents for most of the day while Joel worked in the backyard and I did a few loads of laundry and tried to sort through the mess that is called our bedroom. I also took the longest shower since I became a mother. It was glorious and I think that is what I am going to aim for more often... time to take a long shower complete with shaven legs. I don't want to jump ahead but it might be time to put away the colored tights. The rest of the afternoon was spent going out to eat for some yummy Irish food and playing at a pretty dope playground.

But first I want to show off my "new" summer skirt! I got this skirt in 2007 but haven't been able to wear it since early 2009 because I was pregnant that summer (and last summer I was still carrying tons of baby weight). I almost got rid of this skirt last year because a. it didn't fit and b. I couldn't find non boring tops to pair it with. However, armed with the "anything goes" attitude I'm excited to find new non matching tops to wear with it!

Top: F21, Skirt: Cato, Shoes: Naturalizer from TJMaxx, Belt: Target, Necklace: F21

Twirling and twirling! Being a dress and skirt loving nanny taught me to always wear shorts underneath! No peep show was had!

Joel said I wouldn't be able to climb the spider web thingy in the shoes I was wearing. I proved to him that my super comfortable wedges could do anything! It's my non existent upper body strength that's the issue.

I hope you all are having a great weekend!!

it feels like ages ago

2011-05-20T23:50:00.000-04:00

I never blogged about my pregnancy. At the time I tried to keep things more about my photography, but now I just want to share. Since I just wrote about how we found out I was pregnant I thought I would share some photos that Joel took of me during my pregnancy.

I really enjoyed being pregnant. During the end it did get hard because I got SO big (in fact I had people ask me numerous times if I was having twins. One lady didn't believe me when I said that it was just ONE baby in there) but Jonah was easy on me (except those weeks that everything smelled like bologna, yes! everything smelled like bologna and I seriously do not like bologna). I kind of felt the prettiest I have ever felt! I didn't take weekly photos but Joel did a great job of documenting my belly's growth. I have a bunch of photos but here are some of my favorites!

20 weeks

25 weeks

26.5 weeks

28 weeks

33 weeks

37 weeks

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-18T14:10:00.001-04:00

I finally got a Fuji instax camera! And I have the cutest subject to use it on!!

Bathing Suit shopping. In other words HELP!!!!!!!!!

2011-05-17T13:31:00.000-04:00

I briefly mentioned that I needed to do the most fun thing in the world- post baby bathing suit shopping. I did wear a bathing suit last summer but it was for Jonah's swimming lessons and I certainly wasn't hanging out on a beach. The last time I went shopping for a new suit was in 2007, right before my wedding, and I was 15 lbs lighter than I am now. I went last night and honestly it wasn't the worst thing. I went into the dressing room smiling feeling positive and I guess the fake reenforcement worked, at least in keeping my mood up. I walked away with an idea of what I want. Everything was either too short on me or lacking in support. I love being tall but I can't stand having a long torso. Remember when those ribbed tanks from the Gap & Old Navy came in a longer length? They were just hitting my waistband. When I was pregnant I couldn't use maternity tanks because they were still short and just ended up using tank dresses from H&M (as a top).

Anyway, back to swimsuits. I tried on this one:

It's by La Blanca and I really liked the overall fit and how it disguised my belly but for $93 just for the top I couldn't justify it, especially since it didn't support me on top too well and was a tad too short.

I loved how the bottoms fit and the ruching on the top.

Then I tried this one by Jantzen because I loved how it looked online. In person it was incredibly short and if I yanked it up any higher I would have given myself the most unpleasant wedgie! Wait, wouldn't any wedgie be unpleasant. Moving along...

So now I'm back online looking for something that will give me the support I need on top and something that isn't too incredibly boring. I think it's inevitable that I need a tankini because one piece suits will probably always be too short on me.

I saw this one from Land's End but thought the boobie cups looked weird and wished for something around the midsection. I also read that it runs a bit short.

And then I came across this other one from Land's End but they only have it in black. I don't mind black but I am just SO pale.

Can anyone help?!!! Anyone have a tankini that they LOVE? Or a one-piece that doesn't cut off circulation at the legs?

Dance Party Monday: Keep The Car Running

2011-05-16T15:29:00.000-04:00

I wish I knew a lot of newer songs to post on Dance Party Mondays but right now I am going through old playlists. Every morning I put on some music for Jbear and I to dance to. Sometimes it's not some rocking song it's more like music to sway to. For the past couple of days I've been putting on the playlist that Joel made for our hospital stay right before Jonah was born. This song has been playing on repeat during our dance parties.

Arcade Fire are just so so so good! The Suburbs gets played quite often in our car.

I hope you all had a great weekend! I am going to have to find different things to do this week because it's supposed to rain all week. My kid is obsessed with being outdoors now and my 45 minute blow out hair doesn't agree. I also have to find a bathing suit. Post baby bathing suit shopping... c'mon what's more fun than that?!!!!

So, today is the last day to vote! Thank you so much for voting for me and this blog of mine.

new love and sticker hearts

2011-05-15T19:39:00.000-04:00

Part 1 of this story

I woke up on the 15th (may 2009) touching my belly feeling overwhelmed (ha, that's part of the song To Zion- "... I touch my belly overwhelmed by what I have been chosen to perform") and so incredibly blessed that this was happening. Although I couldn't walk 2 blocks without seeing a baby and giggling to myself (or to Joel) like a baby crazed woman, we were not trying to get pregnant. But here I was looking down the road ahead of us knowing that it was time, this was our new plan.

I knew I wanted to take a photo that morning. I wanted to stop time and record the swirls of feelings going on in my head.

At that time I had just discovered the blog Color Me Katie and was totally digging her joyful & radiant quirkiness. I think that kind of influenced the purple sticker on my cheek. When I posted that photo on flickr I added the lyric- "I've never been in love like this before", however no one but Kristin and my best friend Kate knew what was going on.

A year later I decided to include the boy (4 months at the time) responsible for all this craziness.

Two years later, the boy is still amusing me with my silly antics.

dorky moms love votes too!