Crabs in Baltimore

If you are a Marylander, this is what you do! This is what your childhood memories entail! Crabs!!!

I am so happy to start passing down these traditions to my boys. I recently spent the day with my oldest, my sister and cousins by the water eating crabs.

This is what we call Bliss here in Maryland.

How to eat a crab. 

Hello, you beautiful crab, you!

He gets it! 

We ate at Captain James Crabhouse.

Art Jamz

We spent last Saturday at Art Jamz in DC. Art Jamz is a public art studio in Dupont Circle where you can go create your art while having a drink with friends. I loved the laid back yet creative atmosphere. It is perfect spot to visit for a date night, birthday party or just to hang out with friends. We were there for our little cousin's 10th birthday party! We all enjoyed. 

A Day With My Oldest

Aaron had a school field trip last week at the National Zoo in DC. My husband and I both decided to take the day and go with him. We realized when we left that we didn't take any pics of the animals but only of Aaron. He is 4 and we still look and him and can't believe he is ours! He is growing so much and too fast.

Shorts are from old Navy. Shirt is from H&M. Shoes are Chucks. 

I Can't Get No (Job) Satisfaction: Stephen Kellogg

Like many of you, I struggle daily with creating/maintaining my ideal "work-life balance". I have two young children and due to high cost of living in my area, I am not in a position where I can stay home. I am also not willing to move because my entire family is here and that support system is what keeps me sane.

When my kids are sick, or have school events, etc... those feelings of unhappiness with my job start to creep in. A friend sent me this video that was a great motivation to change my mindset while at work. I love the strategies that he presents. Take a look!


My favorite quote from his presentation:

"Climb Ladders Worth Climbing"

Scholastic's Summer Reading Challenge

I thought I would share this fun summer reading challenge launched by Scholastic!

Since our oldest just turned 4, we are starting thinking of ways we can prepare him for kindergarten. We have already experienced some hot and muggy weather, so this is great indoor activity to begin with when it gets too hot to go out.

The older Aaron gets, the more engaged he is with us in reading. His favorite book right now is Corduroy by Don Freeman, which is on the Summer Reading Book List. 

We are going to start by following step 1 of Scholastic's recommended steps to prepare for a successful summer reading adventure. We are going to do an inventory of our current library and donate any books our kids may have outgrown to make room for new favorites. 

For more information: 

2014 Summer Reading Book List

Scholastic Parents on Facebook 

Summer Reading Challenge Page

Boy Outfit of the Day: My One Year Old

My little guy looking like a gentleman and a scholar (my Office reference).

Jeans with suspended (SOLD out) Similiar -> Jeans / Onesie 

Car Organization

My car is always a mess and with 2 small kids, spills and messes are just out of my control at times. I could implement a rule of no snacks and drinks in the car but with our commute sometimes snacks and drink are my life savers and I am in survival mode right now so I can care less about practicality.

Car organization is a skill I lack and the mess in my car is one my husband's pet peeve.

I was so happy to find this video from WhatsUpMoms, if you are not following her, you should! She is hilarious! Her Mom's Car video motivated to attempt to do something about the mess in my car. I also sent to my husband with the subject reading: SEE! I am not the only one! ha! :)