Made in USA
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JULIAN & Co. Favorites

 tiny heart/rings/constellation birthstone necklace/pyramid earrings

I am loving these four goodies from JULIAN & Co. Too late to order them in time for Christmas, but I think they make a great gift for any time! ;)

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The Perfect White Shirt... Is Heather Grey


Back in this post I was on the hunt for the perfect white T-shirt. I went with the Ryan pocket tee by Everlane, and it's a pretty fabulous shirt. The drape is great. The shape, cut, fit -- all are great. I realized, however, that while in theory a great white T-shirt is essential to any wardrobe, in practice a white T-shirt is just not practical. Especially a white T-shirt when you have a blueberry-loving Hunter at home. Especially a white T-shirt that has to be HAND washed and LINE dried. (Beware of rayon and its need for actual hand washing and not the "hand wash" setting of the washing machine! By the way, I went with size S and probably should have got the XS -- it has a very loose fit!)

Then, I decided to try the U-neck shirt by Everlane in Heather Grey, and I hit the jackpot! It's made in LA of super soft pima cotton. The drape, shape, cut, fit are also all great! Machine washable and dryer-safe! Best of all, the darker flecks of grey kind of look like on-purpose grease stains, so when I get an actual grease stain on the shirt, it blends right in! Hurray! OK, so it's just a T-shirt, but it's exactly what I have been looking for in a white T-shirt. Versatile: dress up or down. It goes with everything. You may think a T-shirt is a T-shirt, but I think the Dolman sleeve and high-low hem length make this tee perfectly feminine while maintaining a relaxed fit.

Best of all, I am a big fan of what Everlane is doing, which I briefly mentioned here. Not an Everlane member? Join now!

P.S. After seeing this blogger's post (she's also a big fan of Everlane), now I want to try the box tee!
P.P.S. How do you like our avocado-green door? It's a new improvement, along with the many changes around here in the last couple of months. I've finally updated our house renovation blog, if you want to check it out!

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Grandparents Day!


Whether you call them nana, mimi, grammy, tata, papa, or gramps -- one thing is for certain, it's beautiful to watch grandparents love on their grandchildren. When Hunter's nonni (Isaiah's mom) recently came to visit, it didn't take long for Hunter to wake up in the morning and start calling her name, looking around the house for her. Hunter's nana (my mom) is deeply in LOVE with her grandson. She's kind of crazy about him, actually. 

Many grandparents are number one babysitters (thanks Mom and Jim!) and other grandparents are a child's primary caregivers, so I think these guys deserve a little spoiling on their special day. Grandparents Day is coming up September 7th this year, and here are a few gift ideas from our partner JULIAN & Co. 

1. Shield Insignia Key Fob -- This beautiful sterling silver keepsake would be perfect for a grandparent with four grandchildren. One initial for each kiddo! $129
2. I heart you more necklace -- This necklace is great for growing families. Grandma can start out with the necklace and a birthstone charm after the first grandchild is born (or on the way!), and after each subsequent baby is born, you can add another birthstone charm or initial charm (just select "no chain" to get the charm only). $39 (necklace only)
3. Cuff Links -- Try these sterling silver cuff links for a grandpa who thinks being a grandparent is the best job in the world! $99
4. Monogram Cuff Links -- Try these sterling silver cuff links when you want to get something fancy for grandpa. $199
5. Rectangle Insignia Key Fob -- A first time grandparent would love this personalized key fob! $129

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Kendra Thornton Fashion Challenge

Miami Fashion Challenge



I am always up for a good challenge. Especially if it's one that I can do from my couch. Ha! Well, I recently received an email from a Ms. Kendra Thornton inviting me to participate in a fashion challenge. She's looking for one day and one evening look for an upcoming romantic getaway to Miami, so basically I get to play virtual stylist! Sounds fun to me! She's in PR, a travel expert, a wife, and a mom of three. Here are the details she sent me:

"I love using the internet to learn about places to go, things to see, and fashions to wear. I enjoy sharing and getting tips from other travel gurus concerning places to stay. Currently, I’m planning a romantic vacation with my husband, and I’m looking forward to getting fashion advice to make the trip a success. After discovering gogobot I found the perfect hotel for our stay in Miami. We’ll be guests in the Everglades Suite at the Biltmore Hotel. Built in 1926, this hotel is the only Florida hotel designated as a National Historic Landmark. The building has been fully restored and is popular with heads-of-state and other dignitaries visiting South Beach. Naturally, during a stay at a venue like this, I want to look timeless and fashionable. Any stay in Miami features plenty of succulent dining options. I’m looking forward to an evening enjoying delectable French cuisine at Palme D’or. When dressing for this evening of dining in, I want to look smart and elegant. I would love both one day and night look for this trip. During the day I want to look for sophisticated and at night sexy with a classic twist. I know I’ll enjoy my time there even more when I feel confident in the fashions I’m wearing. That’s why I can’t wait to learn what recommendations you have for my new tropical look!"

When I think of Miami, I usually think of coral-colored tops, breezy dresses, linen trousers, and thong sandals. My personal style is evolving, however, and I am much more drawn to neutral colors these days. In years past, this post would have included lots of bright colors, but now, I am reaching for heather grey, black, beige, tan, and nude. So, Kendra, I am afraid there isn't anything very "tropical" about these looks, which are definitely heavily influenced by my personal style. I do enjoy pops of color, though, so that's why I added a colorful cuff bracelet and bright evening shoes. Also, the hat is actually more of a golden yellow, which is difficult to tell in the photo.

In Kendra's description of her weekend plans, the words that resonated with me were "classic," "sexy," and "sophisticated," so here's my rationale behind each look: First, I chose tops that I thought could transition well from day to evening. Day 1: A grey silk top with frayed denim shorts and classic black leather sandals for art gallery shopping. Then in the evening, change from shorts to black cigarette pants and crystal-encrusted heels for dinner at Palme D'or. Day 2: Nautical top with frayed denim shorts and black leather sandals for casual sightseeing. Then in the evening, change into black cigarette pants for a Cuban soul food dinner. I chose classic nautical stripes because I think tucked into the shorts with an elegant belt, it can be a clean, smart look. The frayed shorts make the outfit a bit more young, fresh, and on-trend. The retro-style sunglasses are a nod to the vintage accommodations. The simple leather tote is pure sophistication. The heels add that bit of sexy to an otherwise simple outfit. Finally, the Cartier trinity necklace is thrown in for good measure since this is a romantic trip for two ;)

I hope you enjoy checking out my ideas, Kendra, as much as I enjoyed putting them together :)

Details:
Silk Top -- Otte New York
Black Pants -- Michael Kors
Crystal Shoes -- Giuseppe Zanotti
Necklace -- Cartier
Leather Tote -- Everlane
Leather Belt -- Everlane
Leather Sandals -- Everlane
Striped Top -- Saint James
Denim Shorts -- Frame
Panama Hat -- San Francisco Hat Co. via Sonnet James
Sunglasses -- Stella McCartney
Handmade Cuff Bracelet -- Evocateur

(Clicking on the collage will direct you to Polyvore where you can access more information about each item. The photos of each item were taken from the various online retailers listed below my Polyvore set.)

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Baby Shower Gift Ideas

(All images via manufacturers' websites except for NoseFrida via Target)

In the last several years, I have attended numerous baby showers. If I knew the gender ahead of time, I almost always used to give a cute outfit. Then I became a mama and started paying closer attention to the registry. I definitely appreciated the gifts that came from my registry, especially because I personally put a lot of thought and research into what went on my registry, so I respect that new parents want things they need (or at least what they think they need). Of course I appreciate everything we received for Baby Freerksen, but I especially loved the gifts that either followed a cute theme or came from expert moms who gave me things they found indispensable as new mamas (hello, breastfeeding gear! bibs! socks! plain white bodysuits!). 

New babies get lots of clothes, cozy blankets, diapers, and burp cloths, but it wasn't until my baby was in my arms with spit up everywhere, I hadn't showered or dressed or eaten, that I would realize, "Gosh, I could really use X right about now." Also, eventually babies get sick of staring at your face and actually want to touch things and play with toys. Plastic food containers, cups, and wooden spoons are great, but there were a few times I wish I had had some toys stashed in the closet that I could break open on the spot. 

Without further ado, here are my ideas for baby shower gifts I never knew I wanted or needed until after I became a mama...

"Bath-time Fun" Theme: Some mamas use soap on their babies, and some mamas just use water. So I tend to stay away from those kinds of bath essentials. Instead, I like to think about bath-time fun. When Hunter was big enough to sit in the bath without support, it looked rather lonely in the tub. Luckily these stacking cups were on my registry, so I pulled those out. 
1. That cute Under the Nile frog washcloth is actually a puppet/mitt. The tiny washcloths I received are better suited for mopping up runny noses, but this kind of washcloth is actually one I'd use in the bath. I could be silly with the puppet and then give Hunter a quick scrub down. (Organic & Fair Trade. Made in Egypt.)
2.The Green Toys tugboat is both a toy and useful water scoop. It makes rinsing shampoo out of baby's hair so fun! Sort of. (Made in USA)
3. Bath toys in general like Sophie for the bath or this kit (including a classic rubber duckie) are great, too.

Heirloom Toys: A handmade wooden car, a classic pull toy, or wooden clutch toy are all gifts families would treasure and pass on from generation to generation. I like the wooden toys from HABA because they are made with high-quality materials under sustainable practices. (Made in Germany) These cloth veggies from Under the Nile are pretty adorable, too. 

Medicine Cabinet Kit: Some parents prefer homeopathic remedies, and I am one of them, but when my baby has a super high fever, I turn to Baby Motrin. These other essentials are items I wish I had had on hand.
1. The NoseFrida works a thousand times better than a regular bulb aspirator. While you're at it, pick up a Windi too for relieving gas. (Made in Sweden.)
2. I use a saline spray in conjunction with the Nose Frida to loosen up pesky snot.
3. Camilia teething drops by Boiron are a great alternative way to treat painful teething symptoms.

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Why Buying "Made in USA" Is NOT the Answer

images via hoodie/shoes/scarf/sandals

I've seen, read, and heard that making a commitment to buying only Made in USA goods will boost manufacturing in America. It will create more jobs. Your stuff will last longer. It's the ethical way to shop. And, I kind of drank that Kool Aid, for a while. 


 What can we do to help America thrive? This is the question I had been asking myself, and I thought the answer was to buy more Made in USA. Well, after several years of buying more Made in USA products, I have run into a handful of issues:

1. Not everything made in USA is of super-high quality. My Made in USA can opener sucks. My Made in China can opener is awesome. Cheap is cheap, no matter where it's made.

2. Not everything made in USA is produced ethically. There are sweatshops in Los Angeles, people. That's not cool. 

3. Some things I would like to buy are just not made by any manufacturers in USA. For example, I wanted to buy Hunter a locally made balance bike that didn't cost $300 -- impossible. Also, silk shirts might be sewn here, but I think there is like one silk mill left in the USA, so the fabric is most likely imported. I do love silk.

4. Buying ONLY Made in USA does not support the global economy, and like it or not, that's the world we're living in -- a global economy.

5. Sometimes the Made in USA options are just not as cutting edge as products made overseas. 

Now, don't think I've given up on buying Made in USA. I am still happy to support American manufacturing, and I will continue to purchase goods made here as much as I can. My focus, however, has shifted. 

The new question I am asking myself is, "Was this product ethically made and will it last?" "Buy Made in USA" definitely isn't the answer to my to new question, though I wish it were because that would make shopping so much easier.

Nope, now I am thinking more about buying less stuff that maybe costs a bit more but will last a long time. I honestly don't care where something comes from so long as I can figure out if it's made by a worker earning a fair wage and I can use it for many years. Not everything made overseas is cheap crap, and unfortunately the Made in USA movement is kind of banking on the idea that it is.

So, what is the answer? It's a complicated one. It requires some investigating and some trust. I don't have a definitive answer, but these are definitely some of my favorite resources and places to be an ethical consumer:

1. Everlane -- I want all the things in their women's collection. ALL THE THINGS. They work with factories in the USA, Spain, Italy, Thailand, Scotland, and China. Their thing is transparency. They strive to be transparent about how much it costs to make a garment and how much they mark it up. They also encourage consumers to "know your factories." On their site you can check out photos and write ups on each factory. In a recent email correspondence in which I asked for more information regarding the factories in China, a rep confirmed the following, "The factories we work with in China treat their workers well and take pride in improving wage and living standards. The employees work 8-5 and are paid 5x the minimum wage. They're also welcome to work overtime, but it's not required. Wages are increasing 10% each year and now China is actually one of the most expensive Asian nations to produce in."
Update 2/8/15: On Black Friday, they devoted a portion of their sales to improving free-time activities at one of the factories in China. By the way, the company has amazing Customer Service policies and reps!

2. IOU Project -- I have written about them before, so I will just reiterate that each one of their garments and accessories is truly a work of art. The madras is handmade in India, and on their site you can view photos of the individual weavers, who get paid double their normal pay when they work on IOU fabrics. The garments are sewn in Europe. Each finished product has a unique code that consumers can use to trace back to the original weaver. 

3. Flint & Tinder -- Two things I love: their 10-year hoodie and their transparency. Though I have yet to try their hoodie, I think it's awesome that it's guaranteed to last at least 10 years and includes free mending. The other thing I like is that they are upfront about when they use imported fabric, and you know what, I believe them when they say they are trying to get the fabric manufactured locally.
Update 2/8/15: Isaiah has the exact hoodie pictured above and loves it, especially the fit!

4. Fournier -- I love to give baby gifts from this small-scale company. The knitters are women in Bolivia, and the founder started this company as a poverty alleviation project.

5. My favorite fair trade certified companies: Oliberte and Under the Nile. Oliberte makes awesome leather shoes and accessories in Ethiopia. Under the Nile makes adorable organic cotton clothing and toys in Egypt.

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A Conscious Mother's Day


When I think of Mother's Day I think of two things: celebrating motherhood and pampering mothers. As I mentioned last year, there is no celebrating me without celebrating my son, and I think moms should be a little selfish that day, for sure, but I think it's also important to be conscious consumers that day in order to show Mother Earth some love and working mothers around the world (e.g. moms who work in factories) some respect.

Here are some ideas for a more conscious May 11...

Do:
1. Visit a garden as a family. Gather ideas for creating a drought-tolerant home garden or pick up seeds for plants that support butterfly populations.
2. Make cards or do a family craft using upcycled materials. Reuse illustrations or lettering from old cards as well as envelopes that haven't been written on. 
3. Stop at the farmers' market to gather local, organic ingredients and then cook a vegetarian meal for your favorite mama while she relaxes, indulging in her favorite blog/magazine/TV show.

Give:
1. Pajamas -- Nothing says "relaxing day" like a perfect pair of lounge pants. Try these pants from Punjammies or this set from Gaiam, both Fair Trade.
2. Jewelry -- A personalized locket necklace with baby's stats, like this one from JULIAN & Co., is a gift any mom would be sure to treasure forever. (Made in USA.)
3. Nail Polish -- If a mom in your life likes manicures, a gift certificate for a manicure at an eco-friendly salon is always a winner. If she's like me, though, and prefers to do her own manicures, splurge on a non-toxic polish like this one by Acquarella.
4. Sea sponge -- Replace that tattered washcloth with a luxurious sea sponge, which divers harvest using sustainable practices.

What are you doing for your mom this Mother's Day?

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Alternatives to Flip-Flops

images via top row/bottom left/bottom right

Let's just say that I have been riding the "I just had a baby" train for much too long, and it's time I get my behind off that train. I've decided that I am going to start making myself look a little more put together when I leave the house. I got a new haircut, which is actually a style I sported many years ago when I was 25, and when I look in the mirror now I feel 25, so that helps. Next step is to stop slipping into my flip-flops, even if I'm just running to the supermarket.

Here in San Diego, we wear flip-flops everywhere, not just at the beach. Whether they're the cheap rubber kind from a big box store or pricier Reef EVA-soled sandals from the surf shop, flip-flops always scream casual footwear. While I would like to feel casual, I don't want to look casual all the time. Does that make sense? I want a sandal that feels like I am slipping on my Reefs but looks a little more grown up. I think I've found some lovely alternatives.

First, we have the t-strap sandals and the ribbon sandals, both by Sseko. The ribbon sandal is fun because you can arrange the ribbons in a variety of ways, many of them slip-on style, which is great for wearing on the go. The t-strap sandal is a classic, but has interchangeable details that make this one pair of sandals feel like you have several pairs. Plus, they are made by women in Uganda working to pay for their college educations. 

Next is The Bleacher by Eliza B. Yes, it's a thong sandal, but not a flip-flop, in my book. The straps and soles are leather, and it just looks more elegant, I think. From what I can tell on their online shop, you customize the sandal by choosing the color of the leather straps and toe fabric from dozens of colors. Made in USA.

Finally, there's the the Avarca sandal. This is actually the sandal I went with, and I chose a nude color by Jeffrey Campbell (on sale in store at Nordstrom -- yipee!). The sandal shown above is by Binicoco, and oh my goodness, do they ever have some lovely colors and prints. They are handmade in Spain. Another great company that makes avarcas is PONS, which I mentioned in this post on Spanish shoes a while back.

What's your take on the flip-flop? Do you wear flip-flops anywhere and everywhere or only poolside or at the beach?


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Gift Ideas for Day of the Child

images via jewelry/moccs/bike

Did you know that April 30 is Day of the Child in Mexico? In fact, many countries around the world celebrate Children's Day at some point in the year. At the school where I used to teach, they celebrate April 30 because many of the students and families in that community come from Mexican backgrounds. It's a day to honor children and celebrate how special it is to be a child.

Now, maybe the cynics are saying, isn't every day the day of the child? I get that, but hear me out. I don't celebrate my child every single day. Do I show him love every day? Yes. Has my life changed since having a child? It's changed dramatically, but I wouldn't say that my life is ALL about him. (Mostly about Hunter, but not ALL.) I am not a mom who makes every day a Pinterest-inspired day of magical awesomeness because I think it's just as important to have ordinary days as it is to have special days. Sure, I went all out for Hunter's birthday party (which he'll never remember, but whatevs). We tried to make Christmas morning special by having a tree and some presents. When it comes to everyday stuff, however, we're pretty low-key. He doesn't really get toys outside of holidays (and if he got a new toy last week it's because I got it out of the closet from his birthday stash). I don't make kid-friendly food. (If he doesn't like what we eat, I offer him fruit or yogurt to get something in that skinny body.) I don't do preschool activities or crafts with him, yet. Sometimes we go to the park or the library. Sometimes we don't even leave the house. Most of the time we are in our pajamas or running errands. Hunter keeps pretty busy playing by himself and occasionally brings me a book to read to him. 

Well, I am all for celebrating Day of the Child because I think it's nice to have one day that's all about the beauty of childhood. Families around the world celebrate the day in a variety of ways, gifts or no gifts. I think the best gift we can give our children is our time, so this can be a day I devote to spending quality time with Hunter, especially since most days I spend more time doing things around the house than actually playing with Hunter. In my book, Children's Day should feel like a special day, one that my child remembers when he grows up (maybe not now, but you get the idea). This year, I'll prepare his favorite foods, squeeze in a trip to the park (because it falls on a Wednesday this year and there's that real life part of the day from 9-5), and work on some kind of toddler-friendly craft.

It can also be a day to get one really extra-special gift. Those with budget concerns may lament that just a week and a half before, we will have given the little ones Easter baskets filled with goodies, but a beautiful picture book can be just as special as a gift you splurged on. Here are some ideas for all kinds of budgets. You can never go wrong with something... 

PRACTICAL: Maybe your child needs a new pair of shoes or some clothing essentials. Splurge on some Freshly Picked moccasins or wrap up a package of new underpants with your little one's favorite characters (like these Star Wars organic unders from Hanna Andersson).

OUTDOORSY: If your little one complains about being cooped up in the house, give a gift that encourages being outdoors. Splurge on a LIKEaBIKE or encourage family gardening time with a Grow Your Own Pumpkin kit.

HEIRLOOM: I still remember the day my parents (probably mostly because of my dad's urging) got me my first ring, yellow gold with a little heart. It's a piece of jewelry I treasure and would love to pass down to a future daughter (or niece). Splurge on a keepsake ID bracelet (like this one with a heart from JULIAN & Co., also check out this classic one Hunter has) or a first ring (like the tiny stacking ring from JULIAN & Co.) or create a unique photo book or a handmade blanket.

Do you celebrate Children's Day? If so, what special things do you have planned this year?

*This post was lovingly written in partnership with our sponsor, JULIAN & Co.*

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Spring Favorites: Anchors and Stripes

images via baby shoes, sunsuit, tee, towels
I always look forward to browsing new spring collections. Whether it's clothes or home decor, it usually means a little or a lot of all things nautical, so basically my two favorite motifs: anchors and stripes. I will wear stripes any time of year, of course, but spring... well, just yay for spring!!!

Sailboat and Anchor Slip-on Baby Shoes by Cade&Co (handmade in USA)
Children's Blue Anchor Detail Sunsuit by Mini Rodini (company strives for sustainable practices)
Children's Striped Pocket Tee by Emile et Ida (Made in Europe, co. follows REACH standards)
Anchor Towels by Land of Nod (Made in Portugal)

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JULIAN & Co. ID Bracelet Review



You can personalize the front of the ID plate as well as the back with up to 10 characters, such as this one with baby's birthday.

ID bracelets are a pretty traditional baby gift, wouldn't you agree? In fact, an ID bracelet was my dad's go-to gift for a new baby in the family. If he were still with us today, Hunter would be wearing an ID bracelet from his Grandpa James, that's for sure. Well, you can imagine my delight when Tania of JULIAN & Co. agreed to create an ID bracelet for Hunter as part of our partnership. It may not be from grandpa, but it's certainly the next best thing!

Disclosure: Although we received this sterling silver ID bracelet courtesy of JULIAN & Co., all opinions expressed here are 100% my own.

PROS: The bracelet is simple and classic without coming across as too plain. My biggest complaint about other ID bracelets I've seen from big name stores is that they tend to look a little tacky, and when I search etsy, I find lots of ID bracelets with fonts and embellishments that are too childish for my taste. I think the rolo chain and the Futura font make this ID bracelet much more stylish than the others I've seen, so it's no surprise that Hunter's shiny arm party has already caught the attention of friends and strangers alike. I also like that this timeless bracelet will grow with my boy. 

CONS: The name plate is already scratched up. I know that all silver jewelry scratches easily, so it was inevitable (and no fault of craftsmanship). But the scratches are not the normal wear and tear type -- these are from Hunter going crazy playing and crawling around on the floor. Luckily, the scratches don't take away from the beauty of the bracelet, and you could say that they give it a nice "loved" look. If this bothers you, my only idea to combat it would be to start off with a smaller bracelet (5.5 inches) for baby to wear from birth until she is not crawling as much, retire that one, and then get the next size up that will stay looking all shiny and new (maybe). 

Hunter's bracelet is 6 inches long (recommended for toddlers and little kids), and the rolo chain makes it easy to adjust the length. As you can see from one of the photos, there's plenty of extra chain, so it will last him a while.

What do you think about ID bracelets? Did you wear one as a child? Do your children wear them?

P.S. Don't forget to enter the JULIAN & Co. giveaway! You could win $50 to spend on your favorite JULIAN & Co. jewelry!

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JULIAN & Co. Giveaway!

all images via JULIAN & Co.

Back in January, I introduced a new partnership with JULIAN & Co. and told you to keep an eye out for a great giveaway. Well, it's here! I also thought I'd share a bit more about the awesome gal behind those tiny hands and feet. Click here for more about how Tania started her company, then read on for a little Q&A and details on how to win $50 to spend at JULIAN & Co.!

QS: What's your best-selling piece? 
Tania: During the holiday season The Tiny Nameplate Ring came in first for bestseller, and during Mother's Day it's The Birth Necklace Round Small. Throughout the year, all the pieces seem to sell pretty evenly.

QS: What inspires you to keep creating? 
Tania: Gosh, I don't know. Sometimes I see or think of a phrase or word and will be inspired to get to work. I'm a minimalist at heart, and I think my jewelry reflects that. There's a line I've been working on (on and off) for four years. It should be out by April, and although it's simple, I had to sharpen my metal-smithing skills, dust off the drill press, and learn how to bezel and flush set stones.

QS: What are you currently reading/watching/pinning/tweeting?
Tania: I'm reading A Wild Sheep Chase by Haruki Murakami, watching Walking Dead and The Following (I love suspenseful thrillers because they are captivating and help me completely unplug), I seem to be pinning a lot of new recipes I want to try and sewing how-tos, and tweeting? still getting the hang of that, but I do the happy dance every time I get a new follower.

QS: Who would you love to see wearing a JULIAN & Co. creation?
Tania: I love when I see anyone wearing a JULIAN & Co. piece. The standard new baby gift is our ID Bracelet, and when I see it being worn, I love love love it.

QS: Describe a typical weekend for you.
Tania: Julian is playing tennis now, so we do that on Saturdays... we most always hit the beach for a walk, catch up on cleaning and hanging with friends.

Thank you, Tania, for sponsoring this fantastic giveaway for Queso Suizo readers!

Now, to win, all you have to do is use the Rafflecopter Widget below. Good luck! (BTW, it's open to international readers, too!)

And with $50 to spend, may I suggest...

1 & 2: Stock up on classics with a pair of Hoop Earrings ($24) and 6mm Ball Earrings ($26), both in sterling silver OR
3: Get a little personal with a Tiny Signet Ring ($48, in sterling silver) OR
4: A sterling silver Sideways Bar Necklace ($49)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Pretty Ring


Feast your eyes on the Jordie Ring by Tarin Thomas, only 50 of a kind. It's unique, dainty, stackable -- all the things I like in a ring. The color pops and the brass, well, actually I will pass. Can I get this in genuine 14K yellow gold, please?

I found this little gem (hehe) over at of a kind. Do you know this site? It features lots of Made in USA indie labels that release limited/special edition products. I like that sort of thing :)

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New Sponsor: JULIAN & Co.


You may remember that I posted about JULIAN & Co. last year, gushing about my nursing necklace. Well, this past holiday season, my friends were good to me, and I got two shiny new JULIAN & Co. pieces: the tiny nameplate ring and the letter bracelet. Both pieces are just perfect, so dainty and feminine. I don't wear much jewelry besides my wedding band and occasionally some earrings, but these two pieces I wear every day now. They are subtle, just the way I like it. 

And by the way, I am pleased to announce a new partnership with JULIAN & Co. You'll be seeing some more of my favorite pieces from their collection throughout the year. Plus, they'll be sponsoring an awesome giveaway here soon, so you'll want to keep an eye out for that.

So why JULIAN & Co.? For one thing, their entire line is Made in USA. (You know I'm all about that.) And it's jewelry about love for families! (That's the company's tag line -- great, right?) I love that by wearing my nameplate ring with Hunter's name on it, I get to celebrate my love for him whether he's near or far. 

P.S. You might be wondering why my letter bracelet has the letter "M" instead of "A" for Amanda. It's because my nickname is Mandy. Almost everyone calls me that! ;)

P.P.S. JULIAN & Co. is doing some awesome customer appreciation giveaways through February. Check out the details on Facebook. Plus, get 15% off when you sign up for their newsletter.

P.P.P.S. Want something from the shop in time for Valentine's Day? Order by Friday, January 31.

Follow the JULIAN & Co. blog here. 
Shop JULIAN & Co. here. 

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Last Minute Gift Idea: DIY Hot Chocolate Kit

First-time mom story: After giving birth to Hunter last year, I struggled a bit with breastfeeding and Hunter was dropping too much weight, so doctors had us stay in the hospital for a few days. One afternoon, my family asked if they could bring me anything, and I asked for a fashion magazine. What I should have asked for was a candy bar because I did not crack open that December 2012 issue of Vogue even once. In fact, I didn't get to read that magazine until six (!) months later during our camping trip to Lake Tahoe (because no, I do not let a Vogue go to waste). While reading that issue, I came across a fancy recipe for hot chocolate, and I said to myself, this would make a great recipe for a DIY hot chocolate kit. So here it is!

The great thing about a DIY hot chocolate kit is that you can make it as budget-friendly or as indulgent as you want. Go all out with organic and Fair Trade ingredients or make it easy-peasy with Kraft mini marshmallows.

For these kits I typed out recipe cards (printed on matte photo paper, which I prefer over cardstock) for homemade marshmallows and hot chocolate. I pre-measured powdered sugar (recommend: Wholesome Sweeteners) and baking cocoa (recommend: Equal Exchange) and placed them in tiny plastic treat bags. Then, I prepared a batch of homemade marshmallows, cut them into minis, and placed a dozen or so in each treat bag. I arranged all items inside a mason jar (Made in USA) along with a Green and Black's Fair Trade chocolate bar. I tied some tulle around the rim and attached these printable gift tags by Amy Moss for Oh Happy Day! and ta da! If I had been on top of things a bit more, I would have bought some mason jars with handles, but oh well. Enjoy!

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Perfect White Tee

all photos via Everlane
I have been on the hunt for the perfect white tee. I think the hunt is over. Now which one to choose? These tees are made in Los Angeles and the company is pretty transparent about what goes on in their factories. I like that, you know! And the price? Very nice!

1. Everlane U-Neck $15
2. Everlane Box Cut $15
3. Everlane Women's V $15
4. Everlane Ryan Pocket $25

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First Birthday Party: The DIY Projects

I decided that I wanted to go all out for Hunter's first birthday party. Although he will never remember it, I wanted the photo memories to reflect that it was a day to remember. Also, let's face it, first birthday parties are mostly for the parents, and Isaiah will argue that this party was for me. And maybe it was. 

It was farm-themed, and we had planned to have it at a local living history farm. That morning, we got rained out and moved the party to my sister and brother-in-law's lovely home. (Thanks, guys!!)

Well, as much as I wanted to go all out, we had to keep the party budget within reason -- enter DIY projects and the dollar store!

Piñatas (and Favors)
I got the idea to make mini piñata favors for the kids from Oh Happy Day, though mine were more like little baskets. I filled them with Bug Bites fairly traded organic chocolates and Old MacDonald farm stickers from Waddlin' Onion Designs, tied with kitchen twine. Party favors for the adults were small brown paper envelopes (Michael's) with fairly traded organic dark chocolate minis, sealed with personalized stickers from Pear Tree Greetings. For the babies, I bought animal board books from the dollar store and tied them with kitchen twine. To make the large number one piñata, I followed this tutorial from Oh Happy Day, except I fringed streamers (Party City .89/roll) instead of regular crepe paper. (By the way if you're looking for crepe paper in San Diego, Paper Tales carries a very small selection as well as Pigment.) The paper on my piñata didn't turn out as full as Jordan's, but it worked for me. We filled it with Made in USA and organic candy from Natural Candy Store. Total cost for mini piñatas and "full-size" piñata: $4 plus TIME

Paper Buntings
For the "Happy Birthday, Hunter!" bunting, I bought different sheets of scrapbooking paper from Paper Tales and cut them into 5-inch flags. I taped kitchen twine to the back to string the flags together. For the letters, I used classroom bulletin board letters left over from my teaching days. The photos of Hunter from birth to eleven months I mounted on pre-cut scrapbooking paper I had from my scrapbooking days, perfect for 4X6 photos. Again, I taped kitchen twine to the back to "string" them together. Total cost: $4


Cakes
Oh, cakes. They can be so expensive. Luckily, my mom is a hobby baker. I gave her this recipe from Rubies and Radishes for Hunter's baby-friendly (i.e. grain-free and refined sugar-free) smash cake. Because it didn't really "smash" like other cakes do, I had to stick my hand in there for him. For the guests, my mom made delicious vanilla and chocolate "pull-apart" cupcakes arranged in the shape of a tractor. I highly recommend taking a stab at homemade cupcakes, as they are much more inexpensive than a custom layer cake. Total cost to me: FREE! (Thanks, Momma!!!)


Party Hat
I made Hunter's hat following this tutorial. Total cost (including felt glue and Stiffen Stuff spray, which are products I can use on future projects, though I wish I had gone with the pricier Fabri-Tac since the cheaper stuff I got didn't work all that well...): approximately $10

Leftover cake on his actual birthday. Reused dollar store candles. Oh yeah.
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Baby Booties

photos via 1 2 3 4
Hunter has spent most of his life barefoot. A little over a month ago, I finally got him his first pair of "shoes" from an awesome Etsy shop that Krystal mentioned. They're little corduroy booties, and he's worn them nearly every day, crawling all over the house and sometimes outside. Because of all that wear and tear, he's worn down the big toe area so much that now each shoe has a little hole there. As cute as those booties are, what I need are leather booties, material that will withstand some outdoor fun (because this is San Diego and in December he is still crawling around outdoors). Robeez are cute, but I am thinking of something a little more stylish like these lovelies I found on Etsy. Plus, I think handmade is so much more special. yup. Love me that Etsy!

1. Oh my! Loving the stars on these booties from MadKouch, and the long sock part is especially for mamas who love to wear their babies. Baby's pants usually ride up while in a carrier, but you just pull the socks up to keep baby's legs warm! Made in France. 
2. Fantastic design on these lime green booties, but I am crazy for everything at the Pici Papucs shop. Hands down the most beautiful handmade baby shoes I've ever seen. Made in Australia.
3. Made (in USA) of recycled wool and suede from Woolby, the leather on these booties are just where I need it to be -- at the toes! For every sale, creator Voneen donates $2 to Autism Speaks.
4. Cute TOMS-inspired, but more baby-friendly with the soft soles, these booties from Crafts by Krysta are are made in USA. Plus, 50% of proceeds go to charity!

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10 Months


This little man melts my heart. I just love discovering all the ways of his personality. Oh, and folks, we have a screamer. I want food. Scream. I am done with my food. Scream. How am I ever going to teach this boy manners? We've started signing "please" and "all done" more and more this week, but gosh do I wish I had started when he was six months old...

He can crawl at lighting speed and still loves to pull himself to standing. He can also shake his bootay, especially to this Pocoyo Ganga [sic] Style video. Two more teeth on the bottom are starting to emerge, which will make a grand total of 8! He smiles from ear to ear when he sees momma and poppa smooch. He lights up when either one of us walks into the room but has started making a shy face when he sees abuelita (my mom), even though he knows her. It's so cute. He really understands "no!" because that bottom lip quivers when we say it. Is it mean that I also think that is cute?

P.S. This outfit is by Mabo. Made in USA.

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5 Gift Ideas for the First-Birthday Baby


Over the past couple of years, I have attended a handful of first birthday parties. My go-to toddler gifts are a bag of Mega Bloks (Made in Canada), a Green Toys truck or airplane (Made in USA), or picture books. Well, this December it's my little boy's turn, and these are the goods that have caught my eye. (Though, I think we could give him a cardboard box for his birthday and it would be the best. present. ever.)

By the way, although I have my eye on these for Hunter, they are certainly gender-neutral gifts!

1. Vilac Birthday Race Car -- Hunter already has one small wooden car from this French company. Great design and quality.
2. Project Pomona Little Hipsters -- These diaper-friendly, adjustable jeans come in three sizes. A more petite 1-year-old could probably wear size two (9 months to 18 months) for a while. Made in USA.
3. Green Toys Shape Sorter -- Made of recycled plastic milk jugs in San Francisco, CA. Hunter has a tugboat and stacking toys by this company. Great colors and lots of fun!
4. Baby Bug Magazine -- The target age for this magazine is 6 months to 3 years. I spotted it at the local library and love how you can expose baby to a variety of literary genres in each issue, like poetry and non-fiction. Now available in Spanish! (For you grandparents, use code GRAND at checkout to get 35% off a one-year print subscription.)
5. Uncle Goose Spanish Alphabet Blocks -- The target age for these blocks is two (because even thought the paint and wood are non-toxic, they don't exactly encourage babies to gnaw on them), so I would totally display these in Hunter's room until he's past the put-everything-in-my-mouth stage. Check out the other languages, too. They're beautiful! Made in Michigan.

Do you have any go-to kid birthday gifts?

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