However, in the last year I have found more and more products that don’t make me look like a fake bake gone wrong.

Here are a few that will be good at keeping you on the respectable side of bronzing:

I’m a huge Pixi Beauty products fan because they are all on the lighter side which requires layering for intensity. That to me is much more preferable to an intense color you have use very little of to not over do it. That’s why when I saw the Bronze Bloom Trio I knew that the layering of different colors allows anyone to make the bronzing affect as light or dark as they would like.

Benefit Cosmetics is well known for their ingenious way of making everyone look phenomenal with their products. It’s no surprise when I tried 10 I fell in love instantly with its shimmer on the bronze side, and the pink that can be used as blush. Definitely gets a 10.

Get the Benefit High Beam for a little extra glow. While this is not a bronzer per se the high beam gives a great glow when you want just a little bit of the summer dew look. It’s great above the cheekbone, and can be used under the eyebrows as well. This one is an all year staple as far as I’m concerned because it makes every look a little more glimmery (is that a word?).

Neutrogena Skin Blends Natural Radiance Bronzer is another phenomenal product from Neutrogena. I am a big fan of Neutrogena make up in general like their face make-up. This bronzer is wonderful for my skin especially because it has no yellow base to it, which many bronzers do. Although, I’m considered a neutral I prefer pink over yellow undertones, which is exactly what this has.

Physician’s Formula Magic Mosaic Multi Colored Custom Face is a good bronzer for the darker skin tones because it provides the ability to blend your own color to match you tone better. Although, I have not tried this one in particular, I would highly recommend any Physician’s Formula cosmetic because I’ve yet to be disappointed by their line.

Take it to a whole other continent with the Too Faced The Bronzed and The Beautiful French Riviera Edition. If you’ve never tried a Too Faced kit before stop everything and get yourself one, or better yet just get this one. As always Too Faced thought of everything when it comes to giving yourself the sun-kissed look. I mean not only are there different colors, but a tutorial on where to use each color for maximum bronzing. Who could ask for more?

NYX Tango With Bronzing Powder When Leopard Gets a Tan is the one I used the most last summer. I will say that I had to be very diligent and careful about putting too much on. A little went a long when it came to this bronzer, but despite that I liked the fact that it really had more of a copper tint to it. More bang for my buck too. I’ll admit it was the leopard print that was the reason I bought it. I couldn’t help myself I love leopard print, and it wound up being a favorite.

What’s your favorite bronzer or highlighter? Leave me a comment below with your favorite. Please feed my inane need to buy another beauty product.

]]> http://www.savvysassymoms.com/looking-sunny-in-the-shade/feed/ 0 http://www.savvysassymoms.com/ivillage-hot-dad-contest-im-a-judge/ http://www.savvysassymoms.com/ivillage-hot-dad-contest-im-a-judge/#comments Wed, 16 May 2012 14:50:35 +0000 savvysassymoms http://www.savvysassymoms.com/?p=24603

LAST CALL FOR HOT DADS!

Hey Moms, you have a few more days to upload a photo of that hot daddy in your life!  You have until Monday May 21, 2012  11:59 P.M. EST to enter him in one of the following 11 categories:

Military Dad, Newbie Dad (Baby Less Than 1 Year), Fireman/Policeman Dad, Tattooed Dad, Dad with Facial Hair, Single Dad, Teacher Dad, Blogger Dad, Dad in His 20s, Dad in His 30s and Dad over 40. To be eligible to win the grand prize, you must be 21 years of age or older, and be available to travel to New York City from June 11- June 13.

Once the picture is up let everyone know about your hottie and then a panel of judges including Rosie Pope, star of Bravo’s Pregnant in Heels, Rebecca Dube, senior editor of TodayMoms, Liz Zack, Editorial Director of iVillage’s Pregnancy & Parenting channel and Andrea Fellman, owner of Savvy Sassy Moms and an iVillage iVoice will review all the submissions and announce 4 to 6 first-round finalists in each category on May 22, 2012.

Then you vote on who you think should be crowned 2012 iVillage Hot Dad! You can vote once per category per day. The grand prize winner will be announced on June 12, 2012 on NBC’s TODAY!

(This picture gives me chills)

Check out my favorite picks from The Children’s Place and what I scored for my Savvy Sassy Kids this week!

Peasant Top $10.00, Gauze Skort $8.00, Striped flip flops $3.00, Skull Trunks $10.00, Classic Polo $8.00, Embroidered Shorts $10.00, Pink Eyelit Coverup $10.00, Tiered paisley Dress $19.95

Look at all this cute, fashionable and affordable stuff

Disclosure:  I was invited to an editors/press event and was given $100 to shop the newest looks of the season.  I share this with you because these are incredible deals for Moms and their kids!

Most people like to give practical gifts at baby showers and for very good reason, you want to give something that the new parents will actually use!  A very popular baby shower gift is diapers, but that is not a gift to me, that’s a basic necessity.  Diapers sure don’t last very long and no one says oh yeah “Julie, she gave me those amazing diapers!”  Sorry, diapers are not exciting.

I personally like to give something that is stylish, practical and a huge help.  It is also nice to get something that both parents can use and appreciate.  Dads want in on some of this baby gear too!  The BabyBjorn Babysitter Balance is a gift that keeps the baby happy, comfortable, contained and it lasts for more than a year!  The modern design is perfect for urban living when space can be a challenge or for any parent that doesn’t want their home overrun with swinging monkeys and bunnies.  You can easily fold it up and take it with you too, in fact that just might be the best part…

5 places to bring along the BabyBjorn Babysitter Balance.

1.  Grandparents House – It is always smart to bring plenty of essentials when visting grandma and grandpa or when they are going to be babysitting your precious cargo.  You’ll leave your diaper bag and plenty of feeding supplies, but you may also want to bring a familiar place for baby to sit and relax.

2.   Home Office – It’s take your baby to work day!  If you or daddy work from home, this is a perfect chair for the home office.  Not to mention the sleek design will fit right in and looks very professional.  Look out there is a new CEB, chief executive baby in charge!  I bet you could even have a meeting or conference call without any interruptions, give them a bottle and you are goo to go!  (Tax right off?)

3.  In the shade at the pool or the beach -  Taking a baby to the pool is fun but if they are crawling and on the move you’ll need to be very safe and have a place where they cannot get away.  The BabyBjorn Babysitter Balance is a perfect place for an unobstructed ocean or pool view and for feeding and napping in the shade.

4.  The friends house without kids - Similar to grandma and grandpa’s house but scarier!  You know, those houses where everything is perfectly placed and looks like a Pottery Barn catalog.  When visiting family or friends that do not have kids it is always smart to bring along something that will help contain the child.  The last thing you want is a child on the loose in a non-baby proofed house.

5.  At the Park or a Picnic – When you travel with more than one child to a park,  family BBQ or picnic leaving the baby in the stroller can be hot and pretty restricting.  Let the baby be apart of the action by bringing the babysitter balance,  the baby wants to see the world and this makes him or her easily accessible to everyone who wants to see the baby.

Where to buy:  Diapers.com, BuyBuyBaby.com, Amazon.com

Disclosure:  This was a sponsored post.  All of my savvy thoughts and sassy opinions are my very own.  I share the product information and these helpful tips with you for the purpose of being a genuine resource for Moms.

Now those colors will come to life in Todd Oldham’s exclusive and affordable collection of art supplies and craft projects that will inspire imaginations of the young and the not so young (me) alike.

We love Todd’s book of crafting inspiration and are very excited to work with the new mediums that he has created exclusively for Target. And what better timing. I know that many parents love to have extra activity and craft ideas, projects and supplies on hand for the Summer months. Our crafting cabinet will now be full and ready!

My girls and I will probably be first in line on the May 20th to fill our basket with beautiful colors, inspiration and fun.

We are so excited about the amazing collection of duct tape! Have you tried duct tape crafts with your kids – oh you should! We love making little wallets and gifts for friends.

My 1st grader is anxious to work with some of the new jewelry making kits with some fun new beads and mediums.

Here’s a very cool video with an exclusive sneak peek from Target.

I know some of you may be cringing at the thought of florals, but I promise you they don’t have to look like your Grandmother’s couch! Take a look at my favorite floral items for girls this year that will not only look fresh during spring but will last them right through the summer season too.

Lily Dress – $64.00 Ella Moss

This dress combines two of my favorite spring trends: gorgeous mint green and florals. This with a pair of leggings and a sweet sweater over top in case of cooler weather would be a perfect spring look!

Girls’ Wildflower Top – $73.50 J.Crew

I love this airy wildflower top. I would pair this with a pair of jeans with the cuffs rolled up, a pair of brightly colored leggings (yellow or turquoise would definitely pop!), or a soft pastel colored skirt.

Gem Flower Short – $22.49 (On sale!) Gymboree

These are the kind of shorts I put on my little girl when we’re headed for a full day of outside play. They’re comfortable and easy to clean after a day in the backyard. Add a breezy tank top or cute tee and you’ve got the quintessential spring/summer look!

Girls Reversible Pinafore – $24.00 Etsy

This is such a sweet look for little girls! It’s made of 100% cotton, making it super comfortable, and the pattern is adorable. If you buy it a couple of sizes bigger, you can use it as a dress, and as your little one grows, pair it with some leggings, jeans or a skirt and use it as a shirt!

Bela Blouse – $49.90 Oilily

When I think of florals, this is what comes to mind. Tiny delicate buds in soft, girly colors. This is another item that doesn’t go overboard but still has a very fresh spring feel. A little jean skirt or leggings with a sweet pair of sandals would be perfect with this top!

Bijeaux Flower Headband – $13.00 Isobella & Chloe

My daughter is a headband queen, so we’re always on the lookout for a new one to add to her collection. I don’t think you can ever go wrong with a bold pink headband on a little girl. This could accessorize any outfit well!

Floral Capri Romper – $34.95 The Gap

Love the idea of a romper, but not too into trying it on yourself? Try it on your little girl! I LOVE the bright, happy pattern of this romper. A pair of white sandals and a jean jacket would be an awesome choice with this item. Perfect for a cool spring/summer evening!

Vintage Rose Print Leggings – $22.50 Pumpkin Patch

These comfortable leggings would be perfect to layer under a long tunic or top. You can be daring and mix two different floral prints (in complimenting colors) or layer them under a solid colored top. Either way, these are a unique way to liven up an outfit.

Pink Rose Raincoat – $69.99 Hatley

Spring can  be a rainy season, and I don’t think there’s a better way to beat those grey days than with a bright raincoat! Add a sweet pair of rain boots and you’ve got the perfect items for puddle-jumping.

Blue Pool Scooter Skirt – $36.00 Hanna Andersson

As the description says, it’s “all the twirl of a skirt plus the freedom of built-in shorts.” This is another item that’s perfect for a long day of running around outside. It’s made of soft, easy to wash cotton that will keep your girl cool but stay looking fashionable. A bright pink or yellow top would really make this outfit pop!

Cool Girl Flower Embroidered Purse – $15.00 Etsy

When I saw this little purse I HAD to include it in the florals round-up. I think every little girl will love the brightly colored buds. The strap is pretty sturdy and it’s the perfect size for their little treasures they like to keep with them or a little bit of spending money

Have you embraced the floral trend for your little girl this season? What are your favorite ways to dress your daughters in floral prints?

I am always conflicted in the swimsuit department.  On one hand I want something that is appropriate for my Moms status but I also want something youthful and kinda hot, I’m not dead people!  I refuse to wear a dreaded “Mom Suit”, it kinda falls into the same category as the Mom Jeans (not fashionable or flattering)  But I also don’t want to wear something that is meant for the 23 year old strutting their stuff in Las Vegas.  Moms can still be sexy!!  We all have our trouble spots for sure, and while we might not look like Brooke Burke, we can still rock a fun swimsuit and feel good about it.

So…. I was offered to try an Aerin Rose swimsuit and after looking at the choices, I happily agreed because these are some super cute swimsuits!

Now this is what I am talking about, something fun and trendy but still classy.  Aerin Rose still offers the itty bitty bikini’s but they also offer plenty of other options to help Moms conceal any problem areas.  From tankini’s, one pieces, to tummy control dresses and supportive underwires.  They have a great collection of swimsuits for every fashionable Mom no matter what your size.

I went with the kaelidescope halter top and bikini bottoms….because I’m a little bit sassy like that!

No those are not my boobs or legs. The swimsuit is so soft and very comfortable.  I usually struggle with finding swimsuit bottoms, either they are too little and creep up or are too big and look like the mom brief.  These bottoms were low waisted and fit me perfectly!  I do not have much to speak about up top, but the best part about these tops is that they have extra support for those that are larger on top.  Even this halter has a flexible piping just like an underwire, to really support you.

What do you think of these Swimsuits?

I gave Aerin Rose Swimwear a like on Facebook, if you like them you should too!

The travel system. Your full-sized stroller has all the bells and whistles, a super cute pattern and the convenience of a matching child car seat to click into the seat. This is every new mother’s dream, isn’t it?  Unfortunately, the practicality of car seat and stroller combos wear off quickly when moms haul their stroller around with them doing errands. It quickly becomes huge, heavy and much too bulky, especially when there’s no room left in the trunk for groceries!

Many newly pregnant women have never delved into the world of baby products before, especially if they’re the first in their social circles to have a baby. Some don’t care much for the cutesy frilly patterns, and others just don’t know what other options there are that would suit their lifestyles so much better.

Why I Prefer Convertible Strollers

I approach this debate on the side of convertible strollers. Now don’t get me wrong, I do like some travel systems, and many strollers have available car seat adapters so it becomes a travel system. I’ve seen many Baby Jogger and BOB strollers with car seats in them!  But I love the versatility that convertible strollers give new parents. Here are my top reasons:

Removable Seat

Take off the stroller seat and place your car seat right on the frame for your own lightweight, yet stylish travel system. Far less bulk than installing your car seat inside the stroller’s seat.

Sophisticated Bassinet

Some convertible strollers like the Peg Perego Skate, UPPAbaby Vista, Quinny Buzz or
Britax B-Ready take a stylish bassinet in place of the car seat. Many parents advocate using a bassinet over a car seat because a newborn should lie down flat, instead of the semi-propped up position they have in a car seat. I like the bassinet option not only for the style but because baby can face you and lie flat at the same time, instead of lying flat in the stroller seat facing outward.

If you don’t want to purchase a separate bassinet that you’re only going to use for a few months, then you will love this bit. Some strollers have seats that convert into bassinets! I really like The First Years Wave and the new JJ Cole Broadway – both essentially the same stroller. The seat is removable and converts to a bassinet as well as reverses direction by twisting and spinning it around. No lifting and removing! The new Phil and Teds Promenade seat turns into a bassinet as well.

Front or Parent Facing Seat

Cherish those few months before baby is ready to explore the world. Maintain closeness and easy eye contact when your little one faces you in the stroller seat. I like that I can still recline the seat when my child is facing me, and I can attend to him instantly. I value those tender moments of bonding during our walks.

Then as baby becomes more adventurous, simply switch the seat around and it now looks like a “regular” stroller with a forward facing seat. Most convertible strollers have a molded single-piece seat so that when you recline it back, the entire seat tilts. The fancier brands also have adjustable leg rests so that when your child needs a nap, she can stretch comfortably.

Convert to Double

Here’s a huge benefit for owning one of these convertible strollers – you don’t have to buy a double stroller when baby #2 comes along! UPPAbaby Vista, Britax B-Ready, Baby Jogger City Select, Phil and Teds Promenade, and Peg Perego Skate all have the ability to add a second seat to the back of the shopping basket to turn your stroller into a compact tandem stroller.

While the initial cash outlay is expensive for these strollers, you will save money in the long run for not needing to buy a second double stroller and some parents feel badly when they have to give up the single stroller they have come to love so much. Now you don’t have to.

Have twins? I recommend the City Select because it has 16 different seating arrangements. The Vista has 14. The Promenade is also a smart choice for multiples.

Spread the Word!

Can you see why I prefer convertible strollers over travel systems? The good news is that prices for convertible strollers have come down now that more brands are offering this type. Competition is good for us consumers! You can buy a decent convertible stroller for less than $250 (not including a car seat) up to well over $1,000 if you choose to get bassinets and rumble seats.

It is my job to let as many of you know about this option as possible. I go to online forums where mommies everywhere still sign up for travel system strollers on their baby registry simply because they don’t know this option exists.

What do YOU think of convertible strollers? Had you known about them before you had your baby? Do you own a traditional travel system? Let me know your thoughts and questions.

Amy Tanathorn researches the best baby strollers at Stroller Envy, where she provides meaningful research and reviews of all-terrain, double, umbrella , jogging , and the best convertible strollers for a variety of budgets. Read in-depth descriptions enhanced with photos, video demos and detailed measurements. Discover actual consumer feedback and where to find the best deals. Make sure to follow Amy on Facebook and Twitter! 

First,  if you have any sunblock in your home that is open and older than a year,  you should toss them. Any sunscreen beyond that point, loses it’s maximum potential for protection. Here are some suggestions to replace those old bottles and sprays to replenish your supply for this summer’s outdoor activities.

For the person or child that doesn’t like the greasy thick feeling of sunblock there’s Neutrogena Ultra Sheer cream, which offers an SPF range of 30 to 100 and spray with an SPF range of 30 to 70.

It’s always a good idea to have sunblock in each of the bags you use most often because you never know where you’ll end up, especially when you have kids. There are a variety of sunscreen products that can meet those varying scenarios. For example, when you find yourself unexpectedly at the park,  pull out the California Baby Sunblock Stick SPF 30. It’s small, it’s unscented and it is easy to put on the kids before they run off to play. For me I keep the Neutrogena Oil Free Sunblock Stick SPF 30 in my make up bag in my purse due to it’s compact size.

Keep this sunblock stick in your diaper bag for baby – the Neutrogena Pure & Free Baby Sunblock SPF +60 is fantastic.

If your toddlers and older kids are squirmy like mine then head straight to the sprays. I know there are a lot of options, here are a few I like to use.

Once your baby is old enough to actually put sunblock on, you want to stay on the gentle side. A good one up to age 4 is Banana Boat UltraMist Baby Tear Free Spray Lotion SPF 50.

Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection SPF 55. I loved the way it went on, and I am a big Aveeno products fan. They keep the ingredients natural. For a baby’s skin you don’t need all of the superfluous chemicals. This happens to also be waterproof, which makes it a good all around choice for babies.

If  you’re looking for waterproof coverage get a sunblock that is labeled waterproof or sport. A good  spray version is the Coppertone Kids Continuous Spray SPF 50.

If you’re looking for a waterproof cream sunblock try Coppertone Oil Free Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30.

My last suggestion is a sunblock I loved to keep in the diaper bag, and that’s the Desert Essence SPF 30 Sunscreen Towelettes. When my youngest was in the stroller and the sun would suddenly hit her I would take a towelette from the dispenser and apply sunblock instantly. It’s a super quick way to make sure your baby is protected.

Do you have a go-to sunblock? What is it and why is it your favorite option? 

**Before applying or using any sunscreen, be certain you check the ingredient list and you are aware of what your children are sensitive to. If you notice a negative reaction, stop using that sunscreen immediately.

We remember well what its like to go through the ebbs and flows of being a new mom and all that it entails, so we’ve partnered with Babycenter and Diapers.com to offer you a special post full of information, including this great “momfographic”  just for you (pin away pin savvy friends!) complete with real information for moms like you. Below that you will find our Savvy Sassy thoughts on our Top 10 Must Have Items for New Moms.  Finally, we have a fantastic giveaway for $100 from Diapers.com – so don’t forget to enter to win!!

When it comes to being a brand new mom it can be simply overwhelming to decipher all the information out there regarding gear, toys, clothing and diapers. Well, we’re taking some of the guesswork out for you by providing you with a list of 10 must have items outside of your bigger needs like the crib, carseat,  and stroller options – we figured those might be a given.

So, what other essentials should you pick up? Do you really need a swing or should you just get a bouncer? What about that Bumbo thing – is that really useful? And what kind of video monitor should you pick up? Below you’ll find a list of potential options that we think you should consider.

1. Baby Bjorn Baby Carrier – Black/Brown Organic $171.99 – Baby Bjorn is a fantastic and quality brand that we love. This baby carrier will hold your baby snuggly to you as you run your errands or take that hike, and it will be an item that grows with baby from 8-26 pounds.
2. Boon Naked Collapsible Baby Bath $69.99 – The boon naked collapsible bath (not pictured)  is perfect if you’re lacking in space. Unlike the bulky plastic baths you might pick up otherwise, this one pops out when in use, and then flattens when you’re done to slide easily into or behind a cabinet. It’s also sleek and comes in bright colors which we love.
3. aden & anais muslin burpy bib pack of 2 $22.00 (not pictured) – Anything made from the light, airy muslin material is a win. These particular bips are made with four layers of the soft material for extra protection from those little spit-ups baby tends to make.  Swaddling blankets made in this same material are also great in the summer months so baby doesn’t get too warm but gets the benefit of the swaddle.
4. Burt’s Bees Baby Bee Getting Started Kit $12.99 – Burt’s Bees is a quality, all natural bath product company for both adults as well as children. This kit contains lotion, baby shampoo and wash, diaper ointment, baby oil, and buttermilk soap. The perfect starter kit for your baby bee.
5. Lamaze Mr. Whoozeit $14.99 – Primary colors on the front, black and white on the back and an adorable squeaky nose – it was all of our girls’ favorite first toy. It  has a velcro hanging ribbon for the car seat. It’s the perfect first toy.
6. Bumbo with Seat Cover  (Bumbo$39.99 + seat cover $15.99) – The bumbo is a great way to have baby with you around the house when they start supporting their own neck. The seat cover adds an element of aesthetic appeal for you savvy sassy moms who enjoy changing things up a bit with your baby gear. Bumbos also have tray options for when baby starts solids.
7. Bananafish Granada Tote Diaper Bag $119.99 – who wants a diaper bag that looks like a diaper bag? The  bag pictured above fits all of your diapering and baby needs and includes a changing pad, dry dirty duds bag and two side pockets for bottles and other essentials. You can look stylish while on the go with your sweet bundle.
8. Bebe au Lait Papillon Nursing Cover $35.00 – Chic “hooter hider” for nursing mothers are a must – style and independence does not have to be sacrificed for breastfeeding. What we love about these covers is they have  a boning at the top that pulls the cover away from your neck so you can see baby and baby can see you as you are nursing.
9. Mobi Digital Monitor $193.99 –  a wireless monitor that works in up to four rooms when you purchase additional cameras. This is an upgrade from your traditional monitoring system and believe me when I say it’s worth the investment. You will use this system throughout their infant, toddler and big kid years. Additionally, if you plan to have multiple children, you can monitor them all at the same time with this system. This is an area where your money is well spent.
10. Fisher Price My Little Lamb Swing $134.99 – Forgo the bouncy seat and go with the swing. You can always keep the swing stationary if you need a similar function at some point throughout the day. The My Little Lamb Swing has three different swinging positions offering variety for baby. Weight limit is 25lbs, so this will grow with your child through the first year.

Motherhood is one of the most rewarding as well as the most challenging journeys, so we hope that by providing you with some guidance in what you may need in the gear department, we’ve made it a little bit easier on you. And we look forward to providing one of you with $100 for some of that great gear, so be sure to enter our giveaway below!!  Happy Mother’s Day new moms!

Giveaway! Win $100 for Diapers.com

Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Diapers.com in conjunction with Babycenter Blog Network but all savvy thoughts and sassy opinions are my own.

Ricotta blueberry pancakes with Berkshire maple syrup. Photo courtesy of BLD.

BLD
7450 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036
323-930-9744

This West Hollywood eatery has a laid back vibe with a varied menu to suit every palate. As you might have guessed, the name stands for breakfast, lunch and dinner, but go ahead and go any time in between. They don’t take reservations, but you can certainly call about 30 minutes ahead and have your name added to the list. Their ricotta blueberry pancakes with Berkshire maple syrup are what keep people coming back for more.

Kay and Dave’s
9341 Culver Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90232

310-558-8100

If you’re looking to add some spice to your Mother’s Day, check out Kay and Dave’s. This Mexican eatery in the heart of downtown Culver City

Kay and Dave's Culver City Location. Photo courtesy of Kay and Dave's.

serves up inventive takes on south of the boarder favorites with super fresh, organic ingredients. If you’re in the mood for a margarita, go ahead and branch out with one of their signature cocktails like the cucumber mint or watermelon ‘ritas.

Perch
448 S Hill St, Los Angeles, California 90013
213-802-1770 ‎

Treat mom to a French inspired rooftop brunch at Perch in Downtown Los Angeles. Her champagne glass will never be empty. Try the French toast with banana infused Vermont maple syrup and brown sugared bacon or the filet medallions with eggs, rosemary potatoes, and wild mushroom sauce.  Take in the unobstructed downtown views or lounge by one of their fireplaces.

M Street Kitchen
2000 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA
310-396-9145

If you’re on the Westside, M Street Kitchen is a must if only for their crispy hash brown eggs benedict.  The restaurant’s onsite bakery turns out fresh from the oven treats daily. Check their website for the ever changing selection. Gluten free options are available as are a variety of vegetarian dishes. This place makes a mean bloody mary – if you’re in to that sort of thing. Otherwise, they’ve got a full coffee bar offering lattes, cappuccinos, espressos, ice-blended drinks and more.

Campanile on La Brea. Photo courtesy of Campanile.

Campanile
624 S La Brea Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90036
323-938-1447

This place is really a stand out for their excellent food and top notch service. It’s the most upscale of the above listed restaurants, but definitely worth the splurge. The cooking is California/Mediterranean inspired and ingredients come from local, organic farmers.

Try the farm fresh egg white omelet, the Scandia beef brisket hash or the house made granola and yogurt. And for all you movie buffs out there, the restaurant is housed in Charlie Chaplin’s former office building.

Moms, where are your favorite Los Angeles brunch spots?

This past weekend I not only attended the Pregnancy Awareness Month kick off event, but I also hosted the VIP Blogger Tea before the event.  I was honored to be asked by Anna Getty and Alisa Donner to be on the advisory board this year for PAM and even more delighted to bring some of my blogging posse to attend and support this organization, now in it’s 5th year!  It could not have been a more beautiful day and the energy was contagious!

The VIP Bloggers, with Me, Anna Getty and Alisa Donner
Natalie from Hollywood Hot Moms, Courtney from Macaroni Kid Santa Monica, Laura Filipowicz from Bag Lady Promotions, Sarah and Yvonne from MomsLA.com , Jill Simonian from TheFabMom.com , Caryn from RockinMama.net ,  Laura Clark from LosAngelesStory ,  Christina from MommyLuvsCoffee.com.  A HUGE thanks to these amazing women!!

Check out the Moms in the Mix Video of the event (featuring yours truly!)

More Green Carpet Arrivals…

Ali Landry with her daughter

Anna and Alisa with Plum Organics founder Gigi Lee Chang

Catherine McCord from Weelicious.com, Ali Landry, Anna Getty, Alisa Donner

Anna Getty, Abbey Epstein and Alisa Donner

A pregnant Lisa Loeb

Me on the Green Carpet lookin’ all sassy;)

Alisa Donner, Dr. Alan Greene, Anna Getty

Alisa Donner and Jill Simonian

Sarah Auesrwald and Courtney Lewis

Yvonne Condes and Kate Wilkinson

Candice Khan from Birthing Hip and Christina

I enjoy pretty things.  I like fun and colorful accessories that can instantly wake up a wardrobe.  Getting a new wallet, gorgeous necklace or new handbag are my ideas of a realistic and perfect gift.  I don’t need 10 gifts, but rather just one nice gift that I will actually use is perfect.  I think Moms like to get things that maybe they wouldn’t necessarily buy for themselves.  Typically if given $100 most Moms would probably buy something practical for the home or clothing for their kids, we’re un-selfish like that.

So, when I was asked by BabyBjorn to pick out a Mother’s Day gift for a Mom Blogger, I was a little confused and thought “what was the catch”?  I had to read the email twice.  Yup, they were giving me $100 to spend for a Mother’s Day gift for an online friend.  Now, who I chose to buy something for and what I bought her is a secret and in time will be revealed…. But I thought this was brilliant.  The only catch was that they wanted to really see what Moms want for Mother’s Day and what they would buy for another Mom.

The Mom blogger I chose to buy a gift for is someone I have met in real life and I do know a little bit about her life, style and taste.  Not to mention if you go to her website you can get a sense for the kind of things she might like.  Sooooo I can’t wait to share what I bought and for who so stay tuned…..  I just hope she likes it;)

Disclosure:   BabyBjorn provided the funds for the gifts and that we wanted to see what real moms wanted for Mother’s Day- and what they’d give to another one!

I know I’m a total “baby” when it comes to an adult tooth ache, so I can’t even imagine the extreme pain babes go through when cutting a tooth for the first time. Yikes!

This cute gummy smile is currently working on a few new teeth and has recently been feeling the pain. It is important to me that if I’m going to use any pain reliever it is made of natural ingredients and free of any artificial dyes or flavors.

I was excited when asked if I would review Baby Orajel Naturals because they now make homeopathic teething tablets that are alcohol free, paraben free, benzocaine free, and belladonna free.

I used it on Mr. Gummy Smile and I am happy to report it worked and relieved his discomfort. Sweet baby went from a grumpy face back to super smiley in just a few minutes after dissolving two tablets under his tongue. They were easy and natural and that’s all you can ask for! Definite two thumbs up from this Savvy Sassy Mom.

We are giving away two packages of Baby Orajel Natural tablets and a BabyCenter tote bag to one lucky winner!

Yes, that’s a watch!
St Tropez Chandelier Crystal Chain $180.00

Brazil Beach Stones Chain Wrap  $185.00

 Mushroom London Fog Wrap $125.00

If you are not feeling those take a peak at these…..

Tangerine and Neon Orange Layer Wrap  $96.00

Palm Springs Vintage Charm Watch $92.00

Mint Snake Odyssey Wrap  $92.00  (I have this one)

Black Odyssey Multi Chain Wrap $120.00

I know, they’re so beautiful it hurts, so I’ll stop.  But I could go on….

Birchbox.com, $22.00

If you are into nail polish you are going to want the Zoya Blogger Collection by Birchbox.  This gorgeous set of 3 on-trend and limited edition shades are perfect for Spring and Summer! Each is a jelly polish and can be worn sheer or layered for a brighter effect.

DolceMiaStore.com, $8.00 – $22.00.

The lovely lotions and soaps of Dolce Mia deserve a spot on your wishlist for two reasons: the pretty packaging with a vintage feel and the natural ingredients.  There is sure to be a scent and a theme to match your tastes and personality!

Sephora.com, $68.00

Celebrate the Color of the Year, Tangerine Tango, with a scorching hot set of six products to add that pop of orange to your lips, eyes, or cheeks.  The Sephora + Pantone Universe Color of the Year Collector’s Edition set will not disappoint!

Crabtree & Evelyn, $55.00.

Indulge and enjoy the latest fragrance with the Wisteria Essentials from Crabtree & Evelyn. This luxurious gift set of full-size bath and body products (includes carry bag) will help you lather up, stay moisturized, and smell glorious!

 Sephora.com, $98.00.

Nothing short of sexy and seductive, Burberry Body is THE fragrance you need right now.  This must-have scent will have you (and your loved one) sniffing for more and you can’t go wrong with this trio.

Which one of these gift ideas suits you the most?  Are you into nails, makeup, fragrance, or do you need it all?

Click the small arrow to go to see next bag.

Roberta Roller Rabbit beach bag $85.00

Lands’End Linen and Leather Tote  $149.99

LOFT Dip Dye Tote  $69.50

Lands’End Rope Tote bag  $60.00

Payless Ikat Shopper  $19.99

LuLu’s Beach Bum Brown Tote  $38.00

Shop Suey Yellow/Blue Tote  $58.00

Rosanna Ikat Orange Bag $40.00

R&Em Runway Tote  $95.00

H & M Tote  $14.95

                                        Eggs in a Basket from Inspired Edibles

This uber-healthy dish requires only a couple of ingredients and is also very filling.

             Salmon Spread Recipe: Salmon Rillettes from David Lebovitz

This healthy appetizer can be served with pita chips or sliced baguette. I love that you can used canned salmon since it’s so much more affordable (and healthier than farmed salmon).

                                              Salad Sicilia from Delicious Days

This gorgeous salad has an abundance of colors, flavors and crunch, not to mention a boost in antioxidants. One serving of this salad – and you’re covered for the day!

                            Cheesy Quinoa Veggie Bites from Busy at Home

These savory little bites are a fantastic way to sneak in some protein, plus if you end up with some leftovers, you can throw one or two in your kids’ lunch box.

              Chicken Legs Roasted With Mustard from The Wednesday Chef

This super-easy recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and the little ones will love the drumsticks!

                   Strawberry Crisp from Culinary Concoctions by Peabody

Now that the weather is warmer strawberries are in season and are sweet and affordable. This crisp is so easy to make I’m almost tempted to make it right this minute.

                               Nutella Blondie from A Food Lover’s Journey

Here’s a perfect chocolatey finish to what will, hopefully, be a perfect day. Happy Mother’s Day!

What is your family’s go-to brunch dish?