petit saint james | part un

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If you’re a devout Francophile like myself, chances are you’re smitten with Saint James. Their classic marinière (sailor) stripes are iconic French fashion. Made in France at their atelier near Mont-Saint-Michel, the brand’s history spans an impressive 128 years. I highly recommend reading their story, as well as this piece written by my friend Lindsey Tramuta. Needless to say, creating and sharing content on their behalf is an honor for me. I may have squealed a little bit seeing my children in their first Breton stripes – they wore them for Bastille Day and their fifth birthday, which happen to coincide! Henry is wearing the Minquiers T-Shirt + Marie is in the Coquillage dress…more photos below!

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the lantern fest – with kids!

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We had a magical family experience recently at the Lantern Fest – I’m so excited to share it with you. I’ve been wanting to attend some type of lantern festival for most of my life. Floating lanterns have a history throughout Asia, as well as many other countries, and are used for purposes like religious worship, to make wishes, and of course, for fun. I can’t remember when my fascination with them began, but it was certainly pre-Tangled era. Speaking of Tangled, many children are familiar with this concept thanks to the film, and it happens to be a kid-friendly event. Children of all ages are welcome, but I was glad that Henry and Marie are at an age (almost five) where they could really participate. There were many fun activities for kids, to include: bouncy houses, face painting, live music and dancing, and of course ice cream and treats. We ALL had such an enjoyable and memorable time…click through for more, including the breathtaking finale!

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little moments, big kids

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I’m trying to wrap my mind around the fact that my babies will be five years old soon. What feels like all of a sudden, they’re sleeping in “big kid beds”, telling me that they want to do it “by myself”, and wanting more independence. I know this is a good thing in the long term, but it’s so hard to swallow in the short. I’m somehow now the mother of two children. Not babies, not toddlers…CHILDREN. I’m holding onto four with all my might, with five approaching at warp speed.

The passing of time is never more evident than when you’re a parent, and yet simultaneously, so much more of a blur. The little moments (that are actually quite big) can easily get lost in the background of every day chaos. I’m doing my best to be more conscious of the bath time giggles, lazy mornings, and Sunday cuddles. We still have these moments, but they’ve evolved into “big kid” versions of them. No less special than before, but possibly…more treasured.

pajamas c/o burt’s bees baby, many thanks for being part of our journey all these years!

artifact uprising holiday cards

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We’re spending the Thanksgiving weekend assembling our holiday cards by Artifact Uprising – I’m thankful the kids are old enough to help this year! If only one of us had some calligraphy skills, we’d be unstoppable, ha. I chose a multi-image card, since we have a lot of little moments to share from 2016. With so many design-minded, eco-friendly, customizable options to choose from, you’re certain to find a card that feels right for you. I’m excited to send ours on their way to loved ones…please forgive the crooked stamps, incoherent scribbles, and fingerprints. It’s a family effort this year!

cards c/o artifact uprising

le papier studio silhouettes

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I just received my first gift of the season – custom silhouettes of Henry and Marie, courtesy of Le Papier Studio! Silhouettes of the kids have been on my wish list since they were born, and so you can imagine my delight when founder Vana Chupp reached out about a holiday collaboration. Creating heirloom silhouettes is a craft, and she has perfected it, specializing in a modern approach. From personalized print + paper artwork to jewelry, each item is crafted with love, to be treasured for years to come. Children grow too quickly, so preserving this moment in time is so important to me. I’m excited to be partnering with Vana to offer one lucky winner a $100 credit to her shop – enter to win on Instagram!

silhouettes c/o le papier studio, all words + opinions are my own