Be Proud of Your Reflection

   

This entire week has been fully dedicated to 'me' which as a mom rarely happens. I've been miraculously  able to workout and make my post-workout smoothie everyday of this week. I shared the recipe today on my instagram after receiving dozens of questions about my preferred protein powders. I've been using  Orgain Organic Protein Plant Based powder (Vanilla Bean flavor) for years and I love it so much. Head over to my instagram to see the full recipe. 

This week has taught me that having a schedule/routine and sticking to it is key to a successful life. Often times we loose focus as life throws so much at us. It's important to return to a solid routine. I feel splendid and I know it's because of my commitment this week. I want to always be proud of my reflection. 

necklace: HRH Collection

Casual Styling

Casual style is all about comfort and ease. It's a relaxed, laid-back look that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

One key aspect of casual style is the use of denim. Jeans are a staple in any casual wardrobe and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. The same rule applies to a denim skirt. You can pair it with a button-up shirt for a more put-together look, or a t-shirt for a more relaxed vibe. 

Another important element of casual style is layering. Layering allows you to play with textures, patterns, and colors to create a unique and interesting look. For example, try layering a denim jacket over a hoodie or a flannel shirt over a t-shirt. Today I styled this denim skirt with a basic white turtleneck and straight fit navy coat matching my hat.

Accessories are also important in casual style. A great pair of sunglasses, hat or a stylish watch can elevate a simple outfit. For me is this soft cashmere hat from Garin. Additionally, a good pair of sneakers or boots can add a touch of personality to your look.

Finally, don't be afraid to experiment with different styles and trends. Casual style is all about finding what works for you and making it your own. So, have fun with it and don't be afraid to try new things!

Coat: N/A (similar here)

top: Felina

skirt: Vintage 

hat: Garin Cashmere

sneakers: Golden Goose

sunglasses: Celine

    

Everyone Can Code with Apple

By now many of you are familiar with coding. If you're not here's a little insight on what coding is. Coding is the process of using a programming language to create software, scrips, or instructions that a computer can understand and execute. Coding is used to create a wide range of software and technology, from simple scripts to automating tasks, to creating complex applications, video games, and even artificial intelligence. It is the backbone of the technology industry and is essential in the development of any computer-based technology. In other words, Coding is the future. 

I was recently introduced to coding for kids and was mind-blown at how easy Apple makes it for anyone to understand the complex language.   

Apple offers free in-store and online coding classes for kids called "Everyone Can Code." The program is designed to help children of all ages and skill levels learn to code using interactive and engaging lessons. The class uses the Swift programming language and is available in a variety of formats, including self-paced online courses and in-person workshops. The curriculum covers basic coding concepts such as loops and conditionals, as well as more advanced topics like building apps and creating interactive animations. The goal of the class is to help students develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills, as well as prepare them for future opportunities in the technology industry.

There are many reasons why children should learn to code. Some of the most significant benefits include:

1. Coding helps develop problem-solving skills and logical thinking.
2. It can inspire creativity and self-expression.
3. Coding is a highly valuable skill in today's job market, and learning to code can open up many career opportunities.
4. Coding can help children develop a strong understanding of technology, which is increasingly important in our digital world.
5. It can help children build a strong foundation for future learning, including other STEM subjects.
6. It can be fun and engaging for children, and can help them develop a sense of accomplishment.

Coding is important because it allows individuals and businesses to create software and technology that can automate tasks, solve problems, and improve efficiency. It also enables the creation of new forms of communication and information sharing through the internet and mobile devices. Additionally, coding skills are in high demand in today's job market, making it a valuable skill to have for career advancement. 

I believe now is the best time to teach our children these essential skills. 

Visit your local Apple store or Apple.com to view the class schedule and book your free class today.

Sushi Bake Cups

It's no surprise that 'Sushi Bake' is having a real moment right now. This viral dish is typically made in a baking dish but I like making mine in a muffin/cupcake tray. This makes the perfect little appetizers if you're throwing a dinner party or just having a few friends over. I've been having it for lunch these last few days and I'm obsessed! As they say, 'looks can be deceiving' because as small as these sushi-bake cups look they are very filling and very satisfying. 

I like making two different versions: a shrimp version and a salmon version.

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No sorprende que 'Sushi Bake' esté teniendo un momento real ahora mismo. Esta receta viral generalmente se hace en un plato de hornear, pero me gusta hacer el mío en una bandeja para muffins/cupcakes. Esto hace que sean los pequeños aperitivos perfectos si está organizando una cena o simplemente invitando a algunos amigos. ¡He estado almorzando esto los últimos días y estoy obsesionada! Como dicen, 'las apariencias pueden ser engañosas' porque, por pequeñas que parezcan este sushi es muy satisfactorio.

Me gusta hacer dos versiones diferentes: una versión con camarones y una versión con salmón.

World Premiere of Puss In Boots: The Last Wish

Last night my family and I were invited to watch the world premiere of Puss In Boots: The Last Wish.

You might know Puss in Boots first appeared in the film Shrek 2 back in 2004. He quickly became everyones favorite little kitty... so naturally he was in the following film Shrek 3 in 2007. Fans couldn't get enough of him so in 2011 Puss In Boots became a household name airing it's spinoff film produced by DreamWorks Animation. Two films later and an 11 year gap has brought us here today celebrating the third film with two of its original cast members: Antonio Banderas and Salma Hayek.

In this new film Puss in Boots discovers that his passion for adventure has taken it's toll: he has burnt through eight of his nine lives. Puss sets out on an epic journey to find the mythical Last Wish and restore his nine lives. 

 

One of my favorite things about this film was the diverse set of actors. Each brought their own talent to the film. We know and love Antonio Banderas as 'Puss in Boots' and Salma Hayek as 'Kitty Softpaws'... but wait until you see Harvey Guillen who plays 'perro', Florence Pugh as 'Goldilocks' and my favorite character Wagner Moura who plays the 'Big Bad Wolf'.  

Puss In Boots: The Last Wish is A must-see family film!

 

 

Back in full speed

A few days ago I shared with you guys that my son James wasn't feeling too well. Today, I'm happy to announce he's fully recovered and back to his old self. That also applies to the parent who's been sleep deprived throughout this whole process, which is me. We're both happy to feel great again. Thank God and thank YOU for sending messages and prayers which helped him very much. I know it did. I also know many of you might be going through the same thing with your little ones. So here are a few things that helped James recover from a terrible cold. 

1. Love and attention. & lots of it. This is why I took a few days off social to truly cater to him. No phones, no emails. Just us. Hugging, snuggling, watching his favorite tv shows. Drinking Pedialyte and giving him acetaminophen as needed. 

2. I noticed he was back to normal when his appetite kicked in. He asked for oatmeal in the morning and spaghetti and meatballs for lunch. I made it without hesitation. Soup also helps. You can find my good friend Rosie's soup recipe here. 

3. I like to avoid anyone in the house saying that he's sick. I kept telling him "you're fine". "You're simply not feeling well currently but you are getting better each minute that passes by". Words are incredibly powerful specially when it comes down to our children. Make sure they are learning something good from you. Always stay positive even when they aren't doing too good. What keeps us going is hope.

And last but not least is Prayer. 

This should be 1st and last. 

Happy Thursday!

Celebrating our 15th Wedding Anniversary

Last night, Moe and I celebrated our 15th wedding anniversary. A huge milestone neither of us saw coming so soon. It still blows my mind to see how we've been able to sustain our relationship not only as parents and friends but overall life partners. 

Typically, we go out to dinner to celebrate the occasion but this year we wanted to do something a little different. We hired a private chef to come into our home and cook a 5 course meal for our entire family. It was the best idea and I wish we would've thought about this sooner. 

Comfy in Mon Coeur

Another week, another big ol' smile!

Today, I wanted to introduce you to this brand that is truly making a difference in the kids fashion industry. Mon Coeur is a sustainable children's brand that was born out of necessity to save our planet. All the fabrics are made of 100% recycled content postindustrial recycled cotton, recycled polyester from upcycled plastic bottles and recycled Roica elastane. Along with making incredible clothes that are good for our kids and our planet, Mon Coeur also gives back with their philanthropy work. 

"We're dedicated to making kids clothing that lasts, so that our planet does, too."

Three of the most important things parents look for in their kids clothing is style, comfort and good price point. For me, comfort is thee most important aspect when buying items for myself and my family. This is something Mon Coeur does really well. James is wearing the Beige Cargo Pocket Kid Jogger and the Camo Sweatshirt. Both incredibly soft and super cozy. 

Toys"R"Us is back

Toys"R"Us has always been the place I'd take my family when they got good grades or when the Holidays came around. After it's closing many of us were devastated because we knew there would never be another place like it. Imagine aisle and aisle of toys and games for the kid in all of us. 

I'm so excited to welcome Toys"R"Us back and now in 400 Macys stores across the country. I had the opportunity to visit the iconic toy store located in Macy's Herald Square on the 7th floor sitting on a 14,000 square feet space. 

To celebrate its grand comeback, the chain is hosting a series of in-store events at Macy's Herald Square and all other Macy's locations nationwide throughout the month of October. Continue reading for details...

A Butter-full event with Kerrygold

Yesterday my family and I attended a fun interactive cooking experience with my favorite butter brand Kerrygold. 

If you're not familiar with this brand then you haven't tasted excellent butter. Kerrygold is a butter and cheese company that makes it's products with milk from Irish grass-fed cows. & you can taste the difference. Kerrygold has been around since 1962 and it's been a fan favorite from the get-go.

The event was in celebration of Kerrygold's latest launch, The Magical Pantry. A website that was created for parents and children to spend quality time connecting with each other. The idea is to involve the entire family in the cooking process and allow them to see how they can create delicious things with their own hands. All while enjoying story telling, learning recipes and creating memories. I'm all about involving my family in the kitchen and now you can too.

The Magical Pantry, designed to help families learn to cook together with delicious recipes and fable-like children’s stories. Designed for both desktop and mobile, The Magical Pantry allows young families to fully customize a character, pick from almost 40 recipes, and select one of 4 unique fables. Their character is then incorporated right into the pages of  the story – where hundreds of combinations of recipes and stories magically come to life.