5 Fragrances That Will Make the Perfect Mother's Day Gift

Mother's Day is just around the corner, and if you're like me, you might be scrambling to find the perfect gift for your mom. If you're struggling to come up with something thoughtful, why not consider gifting her a perfume? In my opinion, they're one of the best types of gifts out there – they're easy to find, and they always make the recipient feel special.

As someone who loves perfume and has amassed quite a collection over the years, I'm excited to share some of my favorites with you today. You can find all of these fragrances at Nordstrom, one of my go-to department stores for all things beauty. Plus, some of these perfumes even come with a "gift with purchase" – so you'll get a little something extra for yourself or your mom.

Here are some of my top picks for Mother's Day perfumes:

  

One of my absolute favorite perfumes is Delina Exclusif by Perfums De Marly. This scent has top notes of bergamot, pear, and lychee, followed by middle notes of Turkish rose, incense, and oud. The base is a warm and inviting blend of wood, amber, and vanilla.

What I love about this fragrance is how it strikes the perfect balance between being powdery and sexy, with an innocent and almost unintentional quality. My husband is also a big fan of this scent on me, which makes it even more special.

I've found that Delina Exclusif pairs particularly well with pastel-colored clothing. There's something about the softness of the fragrance that complements lighter shades and adds an extra touch of femininity to any outfit. If your mom loves romantic and sophisticated scents, I highly recommend giving Delina Exclusif a try!

Another fragrance that I highly recommend for Mother's Day is Aventus for Her by Creed. This is a classic scent that exudes power and confidence, making it perfect for the boss mom in your life.

The fragrance features top notes of Egyptian green apple, pink berries, Indonesian patchouli, and Italian bergamot, followed by middle notes of Bulgarian rose, Turkish rose, Indian sandalwood, styrax, and musk. The base notes include sweet peach, cassis, lilac, amber, and ylang-ylang.

What I love about this scent is that it's one of those fragrances that smells different on each person based on their natural oils. It's a scent that some people may think smells better on others, but in my opinion, it smells amazing on everyone. My daughter even has a small bottle of this fragrance, and we both agree that it smells great on both of us.

If you're looking for a luxurious and sophisticated fragrance for your mom, Aventus for Her by Creed is a great option. Whether she's heading to the office or out on a special occasion, this scent will give her the confidence and empowerment she needs to tackle the day ahead.

    

If you're looking for a fragrance that's both fruity and floral, Amyris by Maison Francis Kurkdjian is a great option. This scent is one of my most complimented fragrances, and it hits every note I love.

The fragrance features top notes of lemon blossom and pear accord, followed by middle notes of sweet pea accord and iris oil. The base notes include amirs oil and musky amber accord.

It's important to note that there is another version of this fragrance called Amyris Femme Extrait de Parfum, which features a different set of notes, including lemon tree flower, Californian orange, Jamaican amirs, Florentine iris, Haitian vetiver, and musky amber. So, make sure you choose the right one!

For me, Amyris is a fragrance that's perfect for special occasions. I always joke with my partner about renewing our vows and walking down the aisle wearing this scent, as it's truly memorable and one of a kind. If you want to give your mom a fragrance that's both elegant and unforgettable, I highly recommend Amyris by Maison Francis Kurkdjian.

If you're looking for a fragrance that's both delicious and edgy, look no further than Prada Paradoxe. This fragrance is my newest favorite, and I haven't stopped wearing it since I picked it up.

Prada Paradoxe features notes of neroli, amber, and musk, creating a youthful and rebellious vibe. It's the perfect fragrance for someone who wants to make a statement and stand out from the crowd.

Overall, Prada Paradoxe is a great choice for anyone looking for a fragrance that's both unique and captivating. It's a great gift option for Mother's Day or any special occasion, and it's sure to become a new favorite for whoever wears it.

Finally, I couldn't leave out Miss Dior. You might remember the original Miss Dior Chérie that was available from 2005-2011, which was my all-time favorite perfume. I owned two bottles and used it obsessively, so I was devastated when it was discontinued. But recently, I rediscovered the newer version called Miss Dior, and it brought back so many memories and nostalgia that I had to include it in this gift guide.

Miss Dior Blooming Bouquet is the ultimate definition of femininity and sophistication. It features notes of floral bouquet, centifolia rose, and tender woods. This fragrance is perfect for anyone who loves a classic, elegant scent. It's a timeless choice for any special occasion, and it's sure to be a beloved addition to anyone's fragrance collection.

Overall, if you're looking for a fragrance that's both classic and modern, Miss Dior is an excellent option. Whether you're buying it for yourself or as a gift for someone special, it's sure to impress.

No matter which fragrance you choose, I'm sure your mom will love it. And don't forget – the best gift you can give her is your love and appreciation. Happy Mother's Day!

On the move: On's high-performance shoes for kids now at Nordstrom

Swiss performance brand On has officially launched at Nordstrom, bringing its innovative and stylish footwear to the department store's customers. This is exciting news for fans of the brand, including my family, who have been eagerly awaiting the arrival of On for kids at Nordstrom.

On is a brand that has been making waves in the athletic footwear industry since its inception in 2010. Founded by Olivier Bernhard, a former professional athlete, and two of his friends, On's mission is to create running shoes that are not only functional but also fashionable.

What sets On apart from other athletic footwear brands is its use of unique technology. The company's patented CloudTec® sole technology features individual pods that compress upon impact and then spring back into shape, providing a cushioned landing and a powerful takeoff. This innovative design has earned On a reputation as one of the most comfortable running shoes on the market.

But comfort isn't the only thing On has to offer. The brand has also made a name for itself with its sleek and modern design aesthetic. On shoes are available in a variety of colors and styles, making them the perfect choice for little runners who want to look good and feel even better.

The arrival of On at Nordstrom is exciting news for anyone who loves stylish and innovative athletic footwear. Nordstrom has a reputation for carrying high-quality brands, and On is a perfect fit for the department store's customers.

As a fan of the brand, I am thrilled to see On available at Nordstrom. My family has been wearing On shoes for years, and we can attest to their comfort and durability. We love that the brand is constantly innovating and improving its technology, and we're excited to see what new designs On will release in the future.

Overall, the launch of On at Nordstrom is great news for runners and athletic footwear enthusiasts alike but even more for little ones who can now enjoy the quality of these sneakers. With their innovative technology and stylish designs, On shoes are sure to be a hit with little Nordstrom customers. And as a fan of the brand, I can't wait to see what the future holds for On and its partnership with Nordstrom.

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.