Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Favorites...

Nordstrom is having the BEST sale of the year now through August 5th! (Are you tired of hearing about it yet) ;) It's SO amazing if you're a Nordstrom cardholder, which you def want to be, you can shop the sale before it becomes open to the public! Trust me - SO much is sold out by the time it's open to the public so you'll want to sign up for a card. It's super easy, I did it for the first time last year ... worth it! 

I wanted to share my personal faves ... and I'll continue to update it along the way. Also, follow me on Instagram and IG stories for quick "swipe up" options on my more of my faves! 

xx, Ashley 

Family Shoot...

We did a family shoot a few weekends back with our dear friend, Patty with Kivalo Photography. She has been a part of our biggest moments and captured our wedding, baby announcements, this maternity shoot and many others. I went back and forth on if I wanted to get photos done mostly because June was such a busy month for our family however, I could NOT be more excited about how these came out. Patty knew that we didn't have a lot of time and she captured this all in under 45 minutes with a rambunctious toddler, on a bright sunny morning (both which make for challenging photographs) She is such a pro and we just love her so much. I wanted to share some of our favorites, which was hard considering how many we loved! 

Thank you, Patty for working wonders! 

xx, Ashley 

Happy Birthday, London!

Our sweet girl is THREE in just a few days and we have been so busy getting ready for this move that it came ridiculously fast. I can't seem to wrap my head around it. HOW is our little 6 pound, 12 ounce little sweetie already this BIG amazing girl?! The time has literally gone by at lightening speed and I just want it to slow down.

London is truly a dream come true in every way and she's blossomed so much this past year. She's incredibly bright, witty, sweet, courageous, and BEAUTIFUL. People tell us all the time what a leader she is and how "no one will ever push her around" and it makes my heart so happy. We are trying our best to raise a world-changer; a champion for God, for what's good and right, and maybe for those who don't have a voice. I'm enamored with her in every way and there aren't enough words to describe my love; it's just overwhelming. She truly is my best friend and I'm so excited to see what this next year has in store...and how she will embrace her new role in just a few weeks! 

Happy Birthday, sweetheart! Maybe one day you'll see this and just know how OBSESSED I am with you...I love you BEYOND! 

xx, Ashley (Mommy)

All photography was done by Kivalo Photography

Fourth of July Inspo...

It's moving week for us - so it's been crazy hectic! It's hard to even imagine what our 4th will look like this year ... but I'm hoping we can steal away for a little bit and celebrate! I love this patriotic holiday - and REALLY love the red, white, and blue style looks! I'm sharing some cute options below that would be perfect for any BBQ, parade, or just going to see the fireworks! Hope everyone is having a great week! 

xx, Ashley 

Topshop Sale!

Happy Friday! Topshop is having a crazy 70% off sale that you totally need to check out! I'm sharing some of my favorites from the sale that you can shop below! I hope you all have a great weekend! Thanks for stopping by :) 

xx, Ashley 

Beauport Hotel Weekend Getaway...

Last weekend I whisked Chris and London off for a little getaway at the Beauport Hotel! We had been to Gloucester a few times to enjoy the beautiful beaches, but never had the privilege of staying at the Beauport and you guys, it's AMAZING. I feel like it's somewhat of a hidden gem in that it's only a few years old and the proximity to Boston is perfect (it only took us about 45 minutes!) The rooftop pool, delicious food and sweeping ocean views coupled with the standout service and amenities made this weekend one of the best family getaways we've had to date! I'm so excited to share the details with you all!

Our Room

We had the privilege of staying in one of the Beauport's oceanfront rooms and it was absolutely stunning. Our balcony overlooked the Atlantic ocean and we enjoyed the most beautiful sunset in the evening. Our room was really spacious, as was the bathroom, and had somewhat of a nautical vibe! The hotel provided bathrobes and slippers (even a pint-size robe for London - which was WAY too adorable) and the bath products were my favorite, L'Occitane. Housekeeping did a fabulous job of making sure the rooms were spotless and we loved the chocolate they left after turn-down service! We all slept so well in the plush queen sized beds and even though London was awake at 6:30AM, I was actually excited! I brewed a cup of Green Mountain coffee, which was provided in the room, and drank a cup while listening to the crashing waves. It was the most relaxing way to ease into the morning! 

Service

One thing I really wanted to mention about the Beauport is their service! Everyone was so warm and friendly to us during our stay. They were very sweet to London and went out of their way to make us feel welcome! The servers at the pool and the restaurant were extra attentive and even the bellman we asked to snap a family photo was enthusiastic! I can't say enough about the staff + how wonderful they were. 

Amenities

The amenities at the Beauport are a 10 out of 10! We were so impressed at every turn. First of all, complimentary valet parking...HELLO! I felt like there was such attention to detail and all hands were on deck when guests arrived. Our luggage was taken directly to our room while we went to check in so we didn't have to worry about a thing! We immediately made our way to the rooftop pool because London was bursting with excitement about going swimming. I'm not going to lie, when we stepped onto the pool deck the panoramic ocean views kind of took my breath away! I was worried we would be a little out of place with our 3-year old in tow, but was pleasantly surprised to see a handful of other kids there as well; it felt super family-friendly. The bar/tapas service at the pool was an added bonus! I enjoyed a (virgin) pina colada; a yummy way to cool down from the hot sun! There's also a jetted hot tub on the roof deck which was super relaxing! Not only is there a pool, but you can step out the door and right onto Pavilion Beach where complimentary beach chairs are provided as well as paddleboard rentals and service from the Beauport Beach Attendants! If you're one that can't miss a workout, there's an excellent fitness center that opens bright and early at 5AM. 

Food

Ok, in addition to the rockstar amenities - the food at the Beauport was REALLY impressive. I think overall Chris and I are somewhat picky - mostly because Boston has such an incredible food scene - but we were pleased with all three meals we had during our stay! To start, the staff brought a bottle of wine and a cheese/cracker + fruit board to our room as a little surprise. It was so sweet and not to mention, delicious! The1606 Restaurant, where we enjoyed dinner, breakfast, and lunch the next day is right on site and has an amazing oceanfront dining deck. I won't bore you with every detail of every meal BUT I will say, the portion sizes for all of the dishes we ordered were generous! I ordered the lobster roll for dinner and it was loaded with chunks of yummy lobster meat! I also really enjoyed their breakfast options as well. The fruit was very fresh and the waffle served with warm maple syrup made my pregnant dreams come true! It definitely exceeded our expectations!

I honestly could go on for pages about all of the things we loved about our stay! Chris and I just kept looking at each other going "this is awesome" and talking about how we can't wait to go back. I loved sharing it on social media too and seeing all of your DM's asking me about the hotel! I'd love to hear from you in the comments below if you have stayed at The Beauport before or if you have plans on going! Anxious to hear what you think! 

Thanks so much for stopping by! 

xx,

Ashley 

Father's Day Brunch + Area Four...

This month has already been super busy for us as a family! We celebrated our four year wedding anniversary just last week, we're currently planning Lo's 3rd birthday and also trying to gear up for our move on July 1st! I couldn't let Father's Day weekend pass by without planning something special to honor the best Daddy in the universe! I knew I had hit the jackpot in the husband department but found out pretty early into my pregnancy with London that Chris would dominate the "daddy department" as well! He doted on me the entire time and when Lo was born - he made the transition to parenthood look (annoyingly) effortless! Needless to say, I love that I get to spoil him on Father's Day weekend because he is always taking care of us first before himself! 

We started our weekend off on Friday with a little shopping spree. Chris NEVER buys anything for himself...so I thought it would be fun to take him shopping so he could pick out some new things for summer! Saturday kicked off with an AMAZING brunch at Area Four in the South End! We had been wanting to try it for awhile and it did NOT disappoint! The food was absolutely delicious ... and the cocktails (even though I couldn't indulge) looked so yummy. The staff showed off a few of their creations (you can see the "Malibu Beach Barbie" cocktail to the left!) and the presentation was super unique and innovative! The vibe is also really cool and artsy...with giant windows that bring in lots of natural light. Since Chris is a sports guy, he pointed out that it would be a really fun place to catch a game - and I couldn't agree more. 

Before we even ate at Area Four, I had heard that the cinnamon bun was TO DIE FOR. Well, I can now say from experience that it was without a doubt the best cinnamon bun I've ever had and my husband totally agreed! It made all of my pregnant dreams come true and now I'll be craving it from here on out; a price I'm willing to pay for that amazing-ness! The caramel-bacon frosting (yes, you heard that right!) is made in-house as is the entire bun itself. It was served on a warm skillet and you better believe we ate the whole thing! We were able to try a few entree's as well; the breakfast pizza, the "hot mess," and the breakfast sandwich - all of which were delicious! (You can take a peek at the brunch menu here!)

I can also say that the staff was super friendly and welcoming! They brought London a little doll and mini blow-up flamingo cup holder, which she just thought was the coolest ever. We were totally impressed from start to finish and can't wait to go back! There's another Area Four location in Kendall Square, Cambridge - so if you can't make the South End, check that one out! 

After brunch, we continued our Father's Day weekend celebration by heading North to the Beauport Hotel! A full review of that is coming soon! I hope you all had an amazing weekend celebrating the special Dad's in your lives! Thanks so much for stopping by!

xx, 

Ashley 

Red, White + Blue...

It's so close to July 4th which for us means, we'll be moving apartments (ugh!) but for YOU I hope it means vacation, bbq's, a beach day, or family time! Whatever you're doing, I wanted to share some patriotic inspo to get you in the spirit :) Shop any item directly below by clicking any photo! 

xx, Ashley 

Father's Day Gifts For The Stylish Dad...

Sharing some Father's Day gift ideas for the special guy in your life! Click any image below to shop directly :)

Thanks for stopping by!

xx, Ashley 

Bumpdate: 33 Weeks + Bloomlife

I can't believe I'm already at the time in my pregnancy when my OBGYN appointments are just two weeks apart! For some reason, knowing that just makes it all seem like it's going to go even faster! We are moving at the end of this month; so I'm hoping baby girl doesn't decide to come crazy early...mama needs some prep/nesting time :) I'm happy to report that my sciatic nerve pain is almost completely gone! I'm guessing the baby's position changed because I don't think it would have subsided otherwise! I was going to the chiropractor, icing, backing off from any sort of physical exercise and it was still bothering me at some points...so it had to be position! Either way, I'll gladly take it. I feel SO much better now that I'm not dealing with that. I still have a crazy amount of pelvic pressure but usually with some elevating of the feet and a little ice...I can manage that well. I have totally noticed more veins popping up this second pregnancy! By the end of the day if I've been on my feet (which I usually have been with a toddler), my leg veins are kind of swollen. Eeek! I'm praying they don't start popping out completely!

Now that I've hit the 33-week mark in my pregnancy, I'm starting to have some Braxton Hicks. I notice them more after I take a walk with Lo or at the end of the day. At my last appointment, the doctor checked to see if everything was ok and thankfully it was (aka cervix is closed!) Thank goodness! I was certain they were just Braxton Hicks and not the real deal because I started using my Bloomlife monitor! It's the world's first clinically validated wearable contraction monitor that detects all uterine activity, so I could see that my contractions were far too irregular to be labor contractions. I SO wish I had one during my first pregnancy! I feel like it would totally have given me more peace of mind and confidence when determining what my body was experiencing! The Bloomlife tracker comes with three parts; the app, a sensor and a reusable patch you can take on and off your body for up to a week. If you run low on patches more will be shipped to you at no cost! 

The Bloomlife app that I mentioned above can start tracking the frequency, duration, and patterns of your contractions! You can know: 1. If you are having a contraction, 2. Are the contractions regular or irregular, and 3. How far apart/how long does each last. So awesome, right?! Who actually has time to keep track of the time between contractions when you're working or you have a toddler running around! This makes it so much easier! (You can read more about how it works here!)

Another REALLY cool thing about the monitors is that you RENT them on a week-to-week basis. You can use it until the baby is born and then just pop it in the mail to return it when you're done! I started using mine this week and I’m definitely going to be using it until baby girl is born. I typically wear it at night after I put London to bed and I’m finally resting on the couch. I think it’s also nice for your partner to feel like they have a clue as to what’s going on with your body! When the contractions do start, both you AND your partner can see what's going on and it will put everyone's mind at ease.

If you’re interested in trying your own Bloomlife monitor, you can get 10% off using the code: AM10! If you’ve already tried it, let me know your thoughts in the comments below! Thanks for stopping by!

Xx,

Ashley

Stripes...

Sharing some of my favorite striped pieces today! I love all of the striped linen jumpsuits/rompers that are out right now so I included those :) Thanks for stopping by! 

xx, Ashley

A Letter To My First born...

My darling girl,

Where to even begin. 

It's taken me awhile to start this letter because every time I try, I get so emotional! I hope one day you read this, and you can feel my heart. Right now you're sleeping...and I've got the monitor next to me like I always do so I can peek at you periodically because I just love watching my little angel sleep.

You are my first born. The "chapter one" in my motherhood story and what a beautiful story it's been thus far. You completely changed my world that night three years ago and nothing will ever compare to the feeling I had pulling you up to my chest, all 6 pounds 12 ounces of you, holding you for the first time with tears welling up in my eyes. In that moment time stood still and it was just "us" ... Mommy, Daddy, and London Grace. I had absolutely no idea what was in store, but I'll never forget how overwhelmed I was with love and how instantly I felt so honored to call you "ours."

If only I'd known then how fleeting every moment after that would be. How quickly you'd go from that 6-pound bundle to my sweet, independent, bold, beautiful, and sometimes sassy baby girl soon heading off to preschool. You've grown so fast and while I feel so incredibly lucky to watch every part of that, it hurts my heart a bit. The truth is, I already miss "us." I've had days (a lot of them) where I find myself in tears...almost mourning the time spent where it's just Mommy + Lolo. Because whether we're adventuring to the beach, having a Starbucks date or just taking a walk to the playground - we always have the BEST time together. That doesn't mean it's always been easy. You are my first born after all, and with that has come a lot of trial and error. I've probably done too much worrying, stressed a little too much, and shed too many tears about things that don't matter much in the end. I have days where I feel worn down and like I am failing in so many areas as a mom, but your beautiful, loving soul always brings me back down to Earth. Your infectious personality and smile reminds me that while I'm far from perfect, I must be doing something right. Thank you for that. 

Soon, daily life for us will look a little bit different. It won't be just the three of us, and you will have to share mommy more. I want you to know that God knew I needed you first. That's the thing about God...He always gives us exactly what we need and He's the ultimate gift-giver. YOU are His ultimate gift to us and everything I ever imagined. This transition may seem a bit scary and overwhelming for both of us, but it gives me so much joy when I envision the ways our family is going to grow in even more love and happiness. I can picture you as a brave big girl ... eager to show and teach your little sister everything along the journey of life. She is the luckiest to have you. 

No matter how much our world changes, you will forever be my first child; the one who taught me the truest meaning of unconditional love, pride, happiness, and even heartache too. I love you from the depths of my soul...forever and ever, my sweet girl. 

With all my heart,

Mummy

Memorial Day Sales + My Top Picks...

This is an amazing weekend for shopping with brands like Nordstrom having their half-yearly sale through June 4th, Topshop up to 40% off, Anthropologie 20% off all furniture/decor, and (another fave) ASOS having a 20% off sale.

Here are some other brands to score major discounts plus you can shop some of my favorites below!

Abercrombie & Fitch: 40% off full-priced items; May 25-May 28

Ann Taylor: 40% off with the code: SOREADY

BaubleBar: Up to 70% off through Memorial Day weekend

Express: Up to 50% off everything!

J.Crew: 40% off everything, including new arrivals with code: GETAWAY

Loft: 40% off all full priced items with the code: LONGWKND

Levi's: Take 30% off through May 30th

Macy's: 20% off with code: MEMDAY

Nordstrom: 40% off now through June 3

Shopbop: Up to 40% off new markdowns + free shipping

Wildfox: Additional 20% off all on-sale items

xx,

Ashley

Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale Picks...

Nordstrom is having their Half-Yearly Sale now through June 3rd, and you can save up to 40% off! This is totally the time to buy those sandals or slides you've been eyeing or that dress you need for a wedding or summer event! 

Currently I've got these slides in my shopping bag because, hello $23, these Levi shorts that were super popular in last years sale, and this dress because I LOVE the back (only $35!) I've picked some more of my favorites from the sale so you can shop below by clicking any item! Thanks for stopping by! 

Snag them fast before they sell out! 

xx, 

Ashley 

Beach Day Must Haves: Toddler Edition...

Happy Tuesday! 

London and I spent the morning at the beach yesterday, and it was just gorgeous. I'm trying to take advantage of any nice day to be outside, exploring with her because I know in a few months it'll be a little more challenging to get out and about. Lo makes everything more fun, but beach days are my FAVORITE with her. She loves to be in the water...doesn't matter how cold it is (it's absolutely FREEZING by the way), loves to explore the rocks and tide-pools, and loves to get sand in just about every single place on her body! Ha! 

 I wanted to put together a little "must have" list for parents with kiddos that are planning their first beach day of the year! Like a real rookie, I tried to lug my beach tent, two chairs, our lunch and two bags all while carrying Lo...and it was almost a disaster. Yesterday, I packed pretty minimally and it was SO much better. We were planning to spend just 2-3 hours ... so I didn't bring a tent like I normally would if we were spending the day. I will say, next time we do a FULL beach day - I'll have a beach wagon or cart to help lighten the load!

Here are some things I think you should def have...

1. Beach wagon/cart. THIS IS A MUST HAVE. I have been researching some on Amazon and plan to get one before our next full day. I've seen people with them in action and it looks like they make life a lot easier! The "all-terrain wagon" you see below seems to be pretty popular. I think I'll probably end up getting this one - I think it'll work great for all of our gear (and maybe Lolo too ;)

2. Umbrella or Pop-up Tent: Absolutely need this with kiddos - if you're planning to be at the beach more than a few hours! It's nice to get some reprieve from the sun - and good for them to take a rest if needed in the shade! We have this pop-up tent from L.L. Bean that we love. It literally sets up and breaks down in just a few minutes! It's so easy. I think for shorter beach trips (2-3 hours) an umbrella is totally fine, and I've got my eye on this one! 

3. Chairs; Not like you'll sit in them all that much - BUT it's nice to have the option ;) I have these from Target, but if you're feeling fancy, get the chairs with cupholders (this one is cute) and pour yourself a wine cooler (or two...one for me ;) 

4. The Proper Swimsuit: I'm usually chasing after Lo, carrying her at some point, and in and out of the water, so I prefer something comfortable (still cute), but that won't leave weird tan lines also! Last summer I bought a few one-pieces from J.Crew (shop it here) and I'm sure that's what I'll be rocking once baby number two comes. If you're looking for a bikini that's cute but also practical, this one is great and it's under $17! I would size up for sure! 

5. Sunscreen you can count on: I've tried a bunch of different sunscreens, but the one I feel works the best is Babyganics SPF 50 (under $10). Lo has never gotten a sunburn while using this...and it's super easy to apply as a spray lotion. We love it!

5. Beach-Friendly Tote: We love our mesh tote because it's super easy to clean/get the sand off from and it's big enough to fit our towels and lunch bag! I also love this straw bag because of the cute rope straps - that look super nautical. It seems like it would hold a lot too - love it. 

6. Toys: Hit up the dollar store for some cheap toys perfect for the beach! Definitely a bucket and a shovel (this one is $2.99). If your toddler wants to build a sand castle, this set has everything you need and it's under $10! Lo is really into kites right now - and they're perfect for a windy beach day! 

7. Round Towel: I prefer a big round beach towel to a sheet or quilt at the beach. They're easy to brush the sand off and still spacious enough to sit yourself and toddler on. Here are a few cute ones...

xx,

Ashley 

Nordstrom x Nike: My Faves...

Shop some of my favorite Nike styles below! I love the dusty rose/pink color that's kind of taking over - and not only with the clothing, but also the sneakers (like these Thea's!) So cute! I hope you're all having a great week! I'm working on a "baby moon" post for you guys - and if you want to read about my pregnancy - check out my latest "bumpdate" here! 

xx, 

Ashley 

Bumpdate: 30 Weeks...

I can't even believe I'm 30 weeks now! Ahh!! It just doesn't seem real! I know these next weeks are going to FLY and before we know it we'll be adjusting to life with two babies. I'm feeling anxious and excited. We are also moving in a month so that's taking a lot of thought + planning as well. I'm really looking forward to getting settled in our new space and "nesting" a bit before baby comes. When I was 9 months pregnant with Lo we moved and I really enjoyed the process - to decorate and paint, etc. 

Physically, I'm feeling pretty good. I feel like my sciatic pain has subsided - since I've basically cut out any workouts other than going for walks! I still ice here and there as well. On days when I do walk, I notice that I still have SO much pressure and by the end of the day it's a little harder to move around. I miss running and feeling like I'm not going to pee my pants! Ha! I'm excited to get back to normal, but am trying to be present and cherish this beautiful time. I know I will miss this bump and feeling the little kicks! The cravings are still REAL. Just give me ALL the junk food and ALL the ice cream! I try to keep them at bay but sometimes - cravings win out ;) 

Chris planned a baby moon for me last week - and it was SO nice to relax together, away from the craziness. My parents watched Lo so we could steal away for a few days..and while we missed her SO much, it was important to us to have that time. We went to Lido Key in Florida and it was absolutely beautiful! Our resort was right on the beach and the room had a balcony; every morning began with breakfast overlooking the ocean and ended with a gorgeous sunset. It's amazing how just being near the ocean can make you instantly slow down, relax, and be still. I am so thankful to have such an amazing husband who took time out of his busy schedule to plan such a sweet getaway. Just love him! I'm going to share more pics and details from our babymoon, but here is one with baby bump on full display :) 

Hope you all have a great week! 

xx,

Ashley 

Spring Things...

Hi All! Sorry the blog has been quiet this week! My hubby surprised me and took me on a little baby-moon (which I'll share in a few days)! It was so sweet of him and nice to relax just the two of us. We missed London like CRAZY, but it made coming home to her even more special! 

I love all of the Spring inspo this year...of course florals are back, but there's lots of ruching and ties on shirts/dresses that's really cute - not to mention jumpsuits; there are SO many cute ones this year. I just wish they'd accommodate a growing baby bump ;)  

Anyway, wanted to share some cute "spring things" to kick off your weekend! Thank you for stopping by! 

xx, Ashley 

Pretty In Pink...

I hope these pink pieces brighten up your Monday! Enjoy!

xx, Ashley

Spring Shoes Under $100...

Hey All! 

I finally figured out what was wrong with my site...and we're back up and running again! Yay! Just in time for me to share some spring/summer shoe styles all under $100! I really LOVE them all, but here are a few favorites: these "ciao bella" espadrilles are super cute and I also love these slip-ons as well - the floral print is adorable. You all know how I feel about sneakers - particularly Nike Roshe's - and these pale blue ones are the perfect pair for Spring! (Plus, they're only $75!) If you're looking for a simple white pair of sneaks, these from Topshop are only $40 and would be cute paired with cropped jeans or even a sundress! 

Click on any pair below to shop directly! Thanks for stopping by :) 

xx, 

Ashley