Ava Grace's Closet: August 2012
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Friday, August 31, 2012

Friday Fancies : Labor Day Love

Last summer long weekend.
Last weekend before back.to.school.
Labor Day Love
::for full outfit details follow me on polyvore::

We've got one last pool weekend and a birthday party on the agenda.
What are your labor day plans?
Linking up here and here
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Tuesday, August 28, 2012

Dreaming of Paris

...from Paris!
No, I'm not really in Paris but a girl can dream n'est pas?
And a lifelong dream it has been.
I dream of seeing the eiffel tower and not being at Paris, Paris in Vegas. 
Sigh.
I dream of sitting at a dreamy little cafe people watching.
A creperie might be even better.
And I would certainly be wearing a beret. And a striped long sleeve shirt with a black pencil skirt and pointy-toed flats. Cat eye sunglasses. Red lips.
Not that I've planned it out or anything...
There might be a little shopping and there would definitely be a stop at Laduree.
I have pinned more macaron's from this infamous bakery than any normal person should.
I just want one. 
One.
are you reading this my brother who may or may not be in France at this very moment? one.
And then there would be endless roaming of the streets.
Getting lost in the beauty that can be found in most european cities but that seem to be even prettier in the City of Light.
An apartment in this building would certainly provide some incredible views from all sides.
Anyone know a good agent?
I will get there. 
Soon.
Celia assures me there are flights every day.
I'm not sure what we're waiting for?

Monday, August 27, 2012

Hello High School!

I hate to be the bearer of bad news but, summer is officially "almost done". 
I know this because tomorrow, my baby, my original baby girl, is off for orientation at her new high school
Say what?
Apparently, they need my baby daughter there for the next couple of days to introduce her to all that is high school. There will be tours, schedule reviews, lectures, ice-breakers, snacks and a bbq lunch.
Sort of like my introduction to high school minus the tours, schedule reviews, lectures, ice-breakers, snacks and bbq  lunches.

I remember worrying something awful about how I was going to find my classes in what appeared to be a school 10 times as large as my elementary one. And being completely crazy worrying about what grade nine initiation was going to be.
My parents did not worry nor did I worry them about any of this.
First day went something like this...
"Here is your bus fare. Have a good day today!"
I then proceeded to walk to the bus stop, take 2 public transit buses and 1 subway to get into downtown Toronto, and then walk the 4 or 5 blocks to school.
I was barely 13 having skipped a grade. A baby.

Today, my daughter has never taken public transit other than once or twice for the "adventure" of it.
A school bus  will pick her up each morning a stone's throw from our house.
And this initiation talk? It is no more. praise God.
I am so excited for everything that is in store for her.
She claims not to be nervous. I'm not sure I believe her.
That or I'm just nervous for her.
I hugged her this evening and asked her not to leave me. I may have whined just little bit.
She said o.k.
I told her I could home school her.
She said o.k.
And then reminded me that we would need to move to California in order for all of this to be legal.
I said o.k.

I love you sweet girl!
All will be well. And if not, they will have your mama to answer to.

Friday, August 24, 2012

Friday Fancies : Road Trippin'

The last road trip we took was B.C. {before children} and it still remains one of my all-time favorite vacations.
My husband and I were a year or so into our relationship and he was itching to take me to California. He had been once before and never quite got it out of his system.
We flew to Los Angeles, rented a car and drove. And then we drove some more.
All the way up highway 1 to San Francisco and then back down to San Diego. Through the desert into Las Vegas {my favorite part} and then on to Arizona. 
I remember wearing a little floral dress. And jumping out of the car to snap a pic in front of every "welcome to..." sign we encountered.

Road Trip
follow me on polyvore for outfit details

I would love to go back to that time just for a day. 
Except wearing these boots. And carrying this bag. 
Linking up here and here

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Thursday, August 23, 2012

Me & My Girl

I take a ridiculous amount of photos. 
But very rarely get to have a photo taken with the kids.
I promised myself to do more of these.
Because of this girl and her brilliant weekly link-up.
look at that face! {and what is going on with that neck? ugh.}
awww mama...
it kinda tickles and i kinda like it!
the money shot
Disclosure: know that I may have had a margarita on the table during the taking of these photos even though yes, I am always this ridiculously happy.

Wednesday, August 22, 2012

What I Wore : Black Pant Love

I admit it.
I have more pairs of black pants in my closet than any normal girl should.
But these? These will quickly become my favorites.




Scarf Top - Zara | Necklace worn as bracelet - Ivanka Trump | Pants - c/o Lisette L. 
Clutch - Marciano | Shoes - Nine West
Why you ask? Oh, because they are dress pants that pull on. No zippers. No buttons. Just a smooth finish and more importantly, a fit at the tummy and hips that is not unlike that of a spandex legging. 
The Lisette L. collection is proudly made in Canada (yay!) and offers women a fit like no other. 
Ms. Kathie Lee Gifford is a fan and even endorses the brand as one of her favorite things here. Apparently, she too needs a little invisible nip.tuck. 
Who knew?

And that's what I'm wearing on Wednesday.


**Disclaimer: I was provided with a pair of Lisette L. trousers at no charge in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are strictly my own.

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

A Makeover

By now, I'm sure you have noticed a few changes 'round here.

I am absolutely thrilled with the new look : I think it's cleaner and that it didn't sacrifice some of the elements that I loved in the original design including my beloved bust forms.
If you are currently swapping buttons with me and/or I'm sponsoring your blog, please grab a new button and let me know what you think!

I wanted to take a moment to thank my dear friend Christina from The Olive Tree blog for getting the new look together. Not only was she ridiculously patient but she understood the vision right from the get.go and she made it the easiest thing ever which is no easy feat for this html newbie.
Christina, I don't know how you do it all! And know that if you were closer, there would be cupcakes. Lots of cupcakes.

 If you are looking for a blog re-design, new button, labels etc...I am working on persuading Christina to open her mad skills up to the general public.
This girl is crazy creative and more importantly, ridiculously sweet.
Have a peek at her beautiful blog for a daily dose of inspiration.
And then beg. 
It worked for me. 

Enter to win a $50 Shabby Apple giftcard here!

Monday, August 20, 2012

Favourites

There are some things  a girl just can't live without and although I love to try out new products whenever I can, there are some that can never be replaced.
In no particular order, these are my beauty must-haves:

1. Crabtree & Evelyn India Hicks Island Living Collection Hand Therapy 
A friend from the office always used this and I would always steal hers could not get enough of the scent. I couldn't believe it came from a hand cream. I have used it ever since and have given it as a gift more times than I care to mention!

2. Eucerin Body Lotion
I cannot stand scented body lotion. This lotion is not cheap as far as drugstore brands go but a little goes a long way and it keeps my legs feeling moisturized all day. It also leaves a slight sheen without the stickiness which I love.

3. Seche Vite Top Coat
Many have tried, none have conquered. This top coat is worth every.last.penny. I don't enjoy getting my nails and feet done so other than on rare occasion, I always do them myself. This product goes on easy, is crazy shiny (love!) and helps your manicure stay put. My only complaint would be the strong scent but it is worth it.

4. MAC Lip Glass in Oyster Girl
I have been using this lip gloss in this particular shade for as long as I can remember. I like it on it's own AND over lipstick. The color is sheer and gives a healthy pink color to your lips. And best of all? It doesn't taste awful.

5. Boscia BB Cream
This is a fairly new addition and honestly, deserves a post all to itself! I received this BB
Cream from a close friend who always buys me a "must have" for my birthday each year. {usually, these items are the cult beauty items du jour and in past years have included Nars Laguna and Chanel Vamp} This year, was no different. BB Cream reviews have been in every major magazine and were touted as the envied asian woman's skin's secret weapon. I wanted a piece of that! I must say, for me, it lived up to it's reputation.
Boscia's version comes in only one shade making it work for everyone's skin tone. Bonus.
It goes on in seconds and although it doesn't look like it's doing much right away, in a few minutes your skin is flawless. 
You must try it to believe it. And it is ridiculously perfect for summertime when you want to wear less make up but still look polished.
Love.

6. Chanel Nail Polish 
What can I say that hasn't been said before? This polish is pricey at $25 bottle but I.swear.to.you it is worth it. Now, know that I use one.minute.manicure at $1 bottle almost daily and also really like colors by Essie and O.P.I. but nothing has ever come close to the consistency, staying power and shine that Chanel red provides. I have a few different shades and one is prettier than the next.

7. Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Gel
It's kind of funny. I will use any mascara from the drugstore...I'm sorry, but I really don't find a difference. In fact, I had eyelash extensions done this past summer and was thrilled to not have to wear any mascara at all! But, eyebrow gel? Not so much. I use it every.single.day 
I saw this brand at Sephora a few years ago and decided to try it even though it was pricey for something you don't really "see". That said, I often attempted to with less-expensive brands but always came back.
It is the best. period.


Sharing beauty secrets on a Monday. 

Love.
Tell me, what is your can't.live.without beauty item? 

Oh, and don't forget to enter our Shabby Apple giveaway! A $50 gift card is up for grabs.

Friday, August 17, 2012

Friday Fancies : Sensational Sunset

I love a good sunset.
A kick.your.shoes.off.watch.while.sitting.on.the.beach is my favorite.

Summer Sunset
For full outfit details, follow me on Polyvore 
The most breathtaking sunset I have ever witnessed was during a trip to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The group we were with rented out a private villa with a spectacular outdoor terrace from where we watched the sun go down while sipping a cold glass of white.
Pretty close to perfect.

Don't forget to enter our Shabby Apple giveaway! A $50 gift card is up for grabs.

Linking up here and here
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Wednesday, August 15, 2012

What Ava Wore : Tie-Dyed

You know those days where you wish an item from your babe's closet came in your size? 
Today is one of those.


Romper Baby Gap
"sparkly shoes" Tom's
the baby blogger bun - priceless
A one-piece tie-dyed romper? 
Yes please. 
Any items you're coveting from your little one's closet?

Enter our $50 Shabby Apple gift card giveaway here.

What I Wore : Maxis and a Shabby Apple giveaway!

This pleated black maxi has just the right flow.
It looks equally good with a white-t shirt and flats as it does with a cute wedge.
I am full-on in love.


Tank Zara | Maxi Skirt Design History | Denim Jacket Club Monaco |Locket Necklace - Vintage
Gold Chain - Stella + Dot | Shoes - Bronx
{Please excuse my ashen appearance, I have been down with the flu for a few days and no amount of blush could help. These were quickly snapped, and back to track pants this girl went}

Now, for the fun stuff!

Shabby Apple has graciously offered up one of my readers an opportunity to win a $50 gift card to their amazing site.
I couldn't help but highlight this skirt that looks strikingly like the maxi I am wearing above.
I need itMy closet would then be almost complete.

enter via rafflecopter below : must have a U.S. shipping address to enter


Want to shop right.this.minute? Enter code AVAGRACE10OFF to save 10% now.
And that's what I'm wearing on Wednesday.

Monday, August 13, 2012

Things I Learned on Vacation 2012

Each year, I find our family vacation allows me to relax and enjoy my surroundings and my family more than I would otherwise.
And in doing so, am always learning new things which I began to capture last year.

My favorite coffee from McDonald's? Absolutely AWFUL in Florida. If this is any indication of what it is like in the rest of America, it is no wonder my blog friends couldn't understand this love. And, as if God knew how much I missed this cup of perfection...it was free coffee week last week. Yes, of course I went every day.

Ava may sleep better in a playpen. I am not sure what this says about her. Know that she could barely fit but seemed to be oddly content. It might have something to do with the furry Minny Mouse blanket contained in said crib. I really should have brought it home.

Opening a found coconut is not as easy as it looks. Even though I googled every.single.method and then some, I still wasn't successful. Boo.

John Frieda's Sheer Blonde Go Blonder Lightening Spray really does work. I was not paid in any way for this endorsement although, really, their people should call my people. Just look at these before and after's!
If a baby lizard gets into your condo and is climbing up your family room wall, do not try to use a glass to "capture" it. You will cut off one of it's cute little legs and feel really guilty about it. My father insists they grow back. Does anyone know? I did notice a lot of tailless lizards running around so my guess is not so much.

You can, {and I did!} eat your weight in ice cream, especially if it is of the not.available.in.Canada special edition coconut macaroon Haagen Dazs variety.
I would be lying if I didn't mention that I am thinking about it almost daily. 

Solo drives with your son? They will surely allow for some of the craziest (and funniest!) conversations ever. 
J: PacMan? You actually played PacMan
me: Yes, yes I did. Actually, I was the Queen of PacMan.
J: Wow. Wow, mom. 
You are old.
{shudder}

Seeing a mama duck and her babies can make for ridiculous, almost giddy excitement. For as long as I live, I will never forget how amazed we all were as we watched them make their way past us.
And lastly, and very importantly, if your 10 year old son asks you to play a game of "would you rather?"...always, ALWAYS, say no. 
You're welcome.

Happy Monday friends!

Friday, August 10, 2012

Friday Fancies : Gingham? Check!

Gingham is one of those things : I find you either love it or hate it.
I am, and have always been a huge fan. {and I hope I've passed that love along to my Ava who owns more gingham than one little girl should}.

Gingham Gorg
for full outfit details follow me on  Polyvore
Are you a lover of all things gingham? 

Linking up here and here

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Thursday, August 9, 2012

LeapFrog Leapster GS Review

I was super-excited to receive the recent news of my being chosen as a LeapFrog Parent by the Clever Girls Collective! 
 We've always been big fans of the LeapFrogs line of products :: I love any toy that is interactive AND educational. Bonus points for being indestructible. 
We received the soon.to.be.available Leapster GS Explorer along with 2 game cartridges. Julian was literally at the door daily waiting for U.P.S. to arrive. 
The moment it did, he was all over it; quickly learning how to navigate the device and all of it's many cool functions. The system is fairly compact and lightweight making it easy to bring everywhere and we did. It comes with a {non-removable!} stylus and there is also an option to use external headphones which is welcome in a household as large {and loud} as ours.
There are a ridiculous amount of fun downloadable applications available and the LeapFrog App Centre makes accessing all of these a breeze. There are also game cartridges available and I was happy to see that they aren't crazy over-priced. Julian got to try out both the new Brave game, as well as a Phineas & Ferb {his favorites} one. 
I really liked the fact that all of the games had an educational component...one even had him doing fractions! Nice.
Of all of the features available on this neat little device, we enjoyed the built-in camera and video recorder most. I can't tell you how many times my son has harassed asked me for a camera. Now, he has one in a sturdy and able.to.withstand.falls case.
Images can be edited on the go and you can easily create photobooks : honestly, hours of entertainment.
The system came equipped with the required batteries for immediate play, but a rechargeable battery kit is available as an accessory. I plan to pick this up pronto.
Overall, I would highly recommend the Leapster GS system as a first gaming device. It has everything a cool kid would want and then some.
We give it two thumbs up!
Are you a fan of LeapFrog products? 
Disclosure: I received the LeapsterGS and two game cartridges at no charge for the purpose of this review. All opinions are strictly my own.