Friday, September 28, 2012

What's a good idea?

"Paris is always a good idea"
-Audrey Hepburn

I completely agree Audrey.
It is an even better idea when it is Paris Fashion Week.

Now if I could only convince the hubby to move there....

Cheers to a fabulous weekend!




Thursday, September 27, 2012

Military

My friend E recently asked me to help get her closet in order.  I jumped at the chance of cleaning out someone else's closet and shopping for them.  Who wouldn't?! 

First came the leopard print flats and then I found this military jacket that I thought was not only the perfect addition to her Fall wardrobe but an amazing price of $64 (which is why I bought it too.  I promised her I would never wear it when she did)!  We began discussing the challenges some women have to think outside the box and wear the same item a number of different ways.  I was instantly inspired and created two totally different looks, easily transitioning from day to night, with our her new purchase.


From Day to Night: The Military Jacket


From Day to Night: The Military Jacket by sarah-jih featuring yellow gold jewelry


The first look on the left is E's typical day of the week.  School drop off, running errands, pick up and practice.  You all know I love stripes so that is a no brainer and every outfit is just better when there is leopard involved.  Plus, the stripes and print add a little texture to the jacket, denim shorts and simple handbag and jewelry.  You all now know her early Fall uniform.

For the majority of people, this jacket is and would stay in the "casual" category but I actually LOVE the idea of mixing a little masculine casual with some very flirty feminine pieces.  A quick change to skinnies and any black stiletto, followed by the addition of a printed blouse, earrings and a sassy clutch and this jacket becomes the finishing piece to a great dinner outfit. 

Anyone else have an item they want some help with?  Send me an email and I will pull together some looks for you too!


Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Continuing to make a difference


I know that I have mentioned before that one of my sponsors, Deal Blade continues to support local charities when you purchase one of their daily deals, but I have yet to really highlight the charities they are supporting, along with the organizations they are developing new and creative ideas with to help support their cause.

Since launching in May, Deal Blade has supported the following organizations through sales on their site:

Not only has Deal Blade provided donations to these organizations, they have been working closely with them in order to help promote their causes while marketing Deal Blade.  The next step for them is to begin supporting fundraisers for local schools, providing students the opportunity to sell across the web instead of going door to door with catalogs, all the while raising money for their schools.

What I love about this company is that even though Deal Blade is focused on continued growth within the Orange County market place, they have not lost sight of their intention to give back.  I know I always say it but I truly do have a passion for giving to others and I appreciate that Deal Blade has incorporated this into their sales and make it easy for people to donate while shopping for themselves.  


It really is a no-brainer right?

If you have not signed up for Deal Blade yet, you can do so by clicking here.

Happy Shopping (and Giving) Everyone!  

Taupe

LOVE
LOVE
LOVE

That is all




Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Product Review: The Car-Go System


The SugarSNAP girls have done it again!

You may remember the product review I did on the SugarSNAP files back in March.  These files have made keeping my handbags, pool bags, park bags and diaper bags (yes, I use a lot of different bags) much more organized.  Who knew they could tops these!

The ladies over at SugarSNAP decided that all our bags are not the only things that need organization.  I am guessing they saw my car and realized I, and every other mother out there, needed some help in keeping their cars organized too.

Say hello to The Car-Go System.

This system takes everything I love about my files, everything I hate about the amount of items crammed throughout my car, and brings together a one-stop, everything I need, woops I forgot it but there it is, organization system that I cannot get enough of.

With school starting only a month ago, I have found that with three children, practices, games, classes, grocery shopping and everything else we are running around trying to manage, I am spending more time sitting in my car than anywhere else.  I have also found that with Baby Girl in tow the majority of the time, there are often things that I forget for her (extra diapers, toys, books, snacks.  You name it, I have forgotten it).  Thanks to the Car-Go System all these items sit in the back of my car, ready to be pulled out whenever I need them.  Plus, the mess that was all over my car is now perfectly organized in one spot.  Take a look.



One of the best parts of this system is that the files can be removed if you need to take something with you and my other files from the diaper bag can be put into the system so I am not doubling up on things.  Mixing and matching.  Just like my clothes.

I have been using my system for little over a week now and it has actually allowed me to carry less in my bag because I know it is already stocked in the car.  It has also saved me a few times thanks to forgetting to grab diapers and wipes.  Plus, my car is a lot more clean, which I did not think was possible.  I love, love, love this system.    

You can order this Car-Go system directly from their website here and, because they are so nice, if you use code JUGGLING, you will receive 20% off your purchase of any sugarSNAP products from now until October 31, 2012!

The next order of business is a new car.  Who would have thought we would outgrow a Yukon?!    

* Juggling in Heels did receive a complimentary Car-Go system to review but all opinions are 100% my own and I love it.

Monday, September 24, 2012

Popcorn Balls


As promised, I took some time this weekend to hunt around and find some new recipes to share.  Of course I need some new dinner options but the top of my list was to find some homemade after school snacks for the kids.  They come home extremely hungry and beyond the normal fruit, cheese and crackers, I have not had much around for them.

I had picked up the September issue of Cooking Light as one of my resources and came across a recipe called "Popcorn Balls" with a stamp of "kid-friendly" on it.  That was good enough for me!

I made them over the weekend and the first two words that pop into my mind are TASTY and EASY.  My boys loved them (sorry Baby Girl, no popcorn for you) and asked if they could have them every day after school.  They are made similar to rice krispy treats but I love the variation of pretzels, peanuts and popcorn.  And really, anything covered in marshmallow is good.  I added a stick to each one to create little lollipops and this made it much easier for the boys to eat.  This is definitely a recipe I will be making again.

Popcorn Balls
Cooking Light, September 2012
page 32

1 tablespoon canola oil
3 tablespoons unpopped popcorn kernels
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 1/4 cups mini marshmallows
1 cup honey-nut toasted oat cereal
1 ounce pretzel sticks, broken into pieces
1/4 cup chopped dry-roasted peanuts, salted

1. Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.  Add kernels; cover and cook 4 minutes, shaking pan frequently.  When popping slows, remove pan from heat.  Let stand.
2. Melt butter in a pan over low heat.  Add marshmallows; cook 2 minutes.  Remove from heat.  Add 3 cups popcorn and remaining ingredients; stir.  Cool 2 minutes.  Form into 10, 3 inch balls.  Cool 5 minutes.



For another kid-friendly snack, these granola bars are a hit too!

Friday, September 21, 2012

Weekend Time!

Friday,  
THANK GOODNESS YOU ARRIVED!

Orange County has settled into an extremely comfortable 85 degrees, the sun is shining, games are here and we have a BBQ with friends planned tomorrow.  

YEA!

I know that I have totally sucked at posting recipes lately so I am committing to digging myself out of that hole and finding some delish things this weekend for all of you to enjoy.  In the meantime, you should definitely try making this Curried Chicken Salad Wrap.  It was fab.

I hope you enjoy your weekend!

via
via

Thursday, September 20, 2012

Rainbow

This weekend, as crazy as it was, seems to have been the kick off of one of the craziest weeks I have had in a long time.  I need a little pick me up and nothing brightens a day more than a rainbow.  And in my world, that rainbow is delivered by Issa S/S 2013.


Doesn't this just make you smile?
I am feeling better already.

Photos via Style.com

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Stella and Dot + Alice by Temperley

Who loves collaborations?

It seems like everyone just cannot get enough of these collaborations and they continue to pop up among some of the best designers in the world.  And they do not seem to be slowing down either.  

The next collaboration about to launch is the ALICE by Temperley for Stella and Dot.  This is one I cannot wait to see.  Alice Temperley has been one of my favorite designers for a long time.  From the Duchess of Cambridge to Sarah Jessica Parker and Sienna Miller, Alice has dressed some of the most fashionable women in the world.  I love the glamorous feel she gives to her designs and can only imagine what she is going to create for Stella and Dot.

Here is a little clip of the collaboration, where the inspiration for the line came from and what to expect when it launches on October 1, 2012!


To shop the entire Stella & Dot line, click here!

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

What I Wore

Though I have not really embraced the whole "fashion blogger photos" yet, I am starting to have fun posting photos on Instagram (@jugglinginheels) of what I am wearing.  It started with Fashion's Night Out and I just kept going.  

When you know you are going to post a photo of what you are wearing, it makes you spend a few more minutes getting ready.  You think about how you can push the limits on what you are putting on and perhaps wear something in a way you may not have in the past.  Believe me, I am not crazy, but it is fun to make being casual still cute.

Here are a few recent "looks" that I have posted.  I promise I am not trying to hide my face.  The problem is that when you are 6ft tall, you do not fit into the entire iPhone frame and I want to make sure you get the shoes!
Birthday Dinner - Dress: T by Alexander Wang, Jacket: Vintage, Shoes: MICHAEL Michael Kors, Accessories: Stella & Dot, David Yurman, Brunello Cucinelli
Casual Sunday - Shirt: Madewell, Dress: Susana Monaco (similar), Shoes: DV by Dolce Vita
Date Night - Blazer: Banana Republic (similar), Dress: Anthropologie, Shoes: MICHAEL Michael Kors
Casual Weekday - Shirt: Sabine (similar), Cutoffs: old Rock and Republic jeans, Shoes: DV by Dolce Vita, Accessories: Stella & Dot
Fashion Show: Shirt: Madewell, Skirt: ASOS, Booties: DV by Dolce Vita (similar), Clutch: Club Monaco, Accessories: Stella & Dot, Ceek
Middle Man's Birthday Party: Top: I have no idea, Shorts: J Brand, Shoes: Sam Edelman, Ring: Ceek 

I am laughing because now that I have written this out, I apparently have had a thing for Michael Kors, DV by Dolce Vita and Stella & Dot right now.  Oh well! What are you going to do!

Monday, September 17, 2012

Little Gilt

As if I need another reason to shop on Gilt Groupe.

Today one of my favorite flash sale sites has launched their very own private label, Little Gilt, a collection of apparel and bedding for babies and children.  It is ADORABLE.  The initial sale launched this morning and is featuring 17 styles of baby apparel, ranging from onsies to two pieces gift sets and bedding.  Here is a look at a few of the items.

Prop Plane Kangaroo Romper
Striped Kimono Hoodie and Pant Set
Ruffle Kimono Jacket and Legging Set
Ruffle Kimono Romper
The entire line is extremely cute but my absolute favorite are the airplanes.  LOVE.

This sale will be active for three days and then will move to Gilt Kid's Baby Boutique, which will give members daily access to high quality essentials for the little ones.

Unfortunately (or perhaps fortunately for my wallet), baby girl no longer fits in these littles sizes but I CANNOT WAIT to see the upcoming youth launch.  

Not a member of Gilt Groupe yet?  Click here to receive your invitation!
  

This weekend kicked my a@s

Every now and then we have a weekend that seems completely unreal.  I tend to wake up on Monday morning with the question, "did all of that just happen?".  This past weekend was one of those weekends.

Friday was consumed with a minimum day from school, soccer practice and ending with dinner and a movie with the hubby and the boys to celebrate my birthday.  Saturday was filled with a fashion show, football game, soccer game and 100 degree heat.  The hubby and I were planning on a nice dinner just the two of us but ended up ordering pizza and drinking a bottle of wine because we were too tired to function.  Sunday came around and though we were hosting Middle Man's birthday party at the house, I figured that after all the running around for prepping was over, we could enjoy the afternoon with family and friends.  That came to a halt half way through the party when Baby Girl came downstairs screaming at the top of her lungs and I was off to the ER with her.  Her poor middle finger got slammed in a door while the kids were playing upstairs.  Three hours, four stitches and a broken finger later, we were home, it was 8pm and exhaustion had overcome the entire family. 

And here we are today.  Monday.  Back to school, schedules, practices and work.  All I want to do is sleep but that is going to have to come later.  I am thinking I will be able to catch up on sleep in about 18 years.

Do you ever have weekends like this when you just feel like you cannot catch your breathe?  

I must tell all of you that even though Baby Girl was in so much pain, she was such a trooper and handled the entire situation better than I would have.  In fact, this is a video of her singing along to The Sound of Music as they prep the room for her stitches.  It just makes me smile every time I watch it.




Friday, September 14, 2012

34

See you later 33.  Hello 34.

Yep.  Today is my birthday!

So does this mean I have to say I am in my "mid-30's" now or can I still hang on to "early 30's"?

What does 34 mean?

1. There has been no botox or fillers yet but my budget for skincare products has drastically increased.  

2. I have committed to doing a triathlon because well, I want to kick ass as I get older.  

3. My hair is now colored every 6 weeks thanks to those damn grays that are sneaking in.  

4. As much as I like to think this is not the case, I really am not that close in age to college graduates anymore.

5. I LOVE my 30's.  

So what is the plan for tonight?  My Oldest and Middle Man decided months ago that there would be no better way for mommy to celebrate her birthday than by going with them to see Finding Nemo in 3D.



Yes, in there mind, it could not have been planned more perfectly with the movie coming out on my birthday.  They even told me that since it was MY birthday, THEY could get ice cream and popcorn at the theater.  So, because they are so cute, tonight I am heading out on a date night with all three of my boys while Baby Girl is home with the sitter.  Dinner, Nemo, 3D glasses.  I know, you are all jealous.

Regardless of my kid friendly celebration tonight, I will be indulging in a great glass of wine and a HUGE dessert to celebrate that I am STILL in my early 30's.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend too!

    

Thursday, September 13, 2012

Firefighters and a Fashion Show

Want me to make it even better?

Firefighters IN a Fashion Show.

Check this out.


See, I wasn't lying.

This weekend Bloomingdale's will be hosting the Firefighter Fashion Show and Shopping Fundraiser in support of Children's Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) Glass Slipper Guild.  Firefighters strutting down a runway, champagne, AnQi, and 10% of your purchases being donated to CHOC.  Does it get any better than that?

I have a number of friends involved in the Glass Slipper Guild (a super motivated friend actually took on being the President...crazy lady!) and I always love to support their events because I truly believe in the cause.  I feel very fortunate that I have yet to need any services from CHOC for my children but I could tell you a number of stories of friends who's children are alive and healthy thanks to the incredible staff of Doctors and Nurses at CHOC.  No matter where you are, I am sure you understand the importance of supporting a children's hospital.

Sooo, here are a few things if you are interested in attending.  First, the RSVP deadline has been extended an additional day so I could share this with all of you (when your friend is the President, you have some leverage).  

Second, if you are unable to attend the Fashion Show, that is okay because you can shop all weekend and have your purchases count!  Perfect excuse to support a cause and perhaps grab those boots you forgot to pick up on Fashion's Night Out (not speaking for myself at all....)!

And finally, there will definitely be a follow up post on the event because I understand that many of you are not in Orange County and I would not want to deprive you from seeing Firefighters walking a runway.

I hope to see you there!

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Bellacures Laguna Beach


Last week I had another "First" with Baby Girl.  One I didn't expect.

I have always heard of these moms, but I swore I would never be one of them.

I am taking my foot out of my mouth now.

Baby Girl and I got manicures and pedicures together.... and I LOVED IT!

Bellacures Laguna Beach was kind enough to invite Baby Girl and I in for a lovely afternoon of girl pampering.  I was going to relax with the Mom-i-cure and Pedicure while Baby Girl was scheduled for the Kid-i-cure Mani and Kid-i-cure Pedi.  I was excited to visit this recently opened nail spa but was a tad bit nervous on how it would go.

The setting of Bellacures is much more inviting than many nail spas I have been to.  It is simple yet elegant and rather than sitting in big manicure/pedicure chairs, you were welcomed by a row of extremely comfortable sofa chairs that could have easily been in my living room instead of a nail spa.  It was so inviting in fact that Baby Girl did not even hesitate to sit in her own chair and get ready.  She was a natural.

Lucky for me Baby Girl could handle her own because I was then able to sit back, relax and enjoy the Mom-i-cure.  This was designed for the expectant mother to help ease the concerns many have with manicures while pregnant.  NO, I am NOT pregnant!  But it doesn't mean I cannot indulge like I was.  The entire manicure consisted of no soaps or alcohol, Karma organic nail polish remover, Karma organic cuticle remover, Cuticle Oil: 100% grape seed oil, Made From Earth lavender calm lotion with jojoba, sea salt exfoliant, and Ginger+Liz Base/top coat and polish.  From start to finish, everything was organic and extremely enjoyable.

Along with my manicure, I also enjoyed my pedicure and I was extremely pleased with how great they were with Baby Girl.  Some how they even managed to get her to sit still and let her nails dry before running around again.  If only I could take them home with me.  It was such a great time and I now know Baby Girl will actually do this so I can keep up with manis and pedis again!  Hooray!!  Gross nails be gone!  

Bellacures has numerous locations throughout Southern California and I highly suggest you check them out, whether or not you are expecting.  
Thank you Bellacures from me and Baby Girl!



* Disclaimer: Juggling in Heels did receive a complimentary Mom-i-cure and Pedicure but my opinion is 100% my own. 

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Five


Happy 5th Birthday Middle Man!

I am still in shock that this little guy is turning five.  It is crazy town to me.  He has grown up in so many ways this past year and has overcome struggles that many young children do not have to face.  He is such a sweet boy and I hope I can keep this "mommy is my favorite" thing going for just a little bit longer (sorry hubby).  I know that they say life just keeps going faster and faster but it would be nice to put it on hold for just a little bit, right?

And though I am will always deem this day a celebration day for my Middle Man, I am very much aware that this is also a day that brings horrific memories and sadness for our country.  Today, all those who lost loves ones are also in my thoughts and prayers.  

Monday, September 10, 2012

FNO 2012

Last Thursday night was shopping's international holiday, "Fashion's Night Out".  I went back forth between celebrating at Fashion Island or South Coast Plaza.  Both locations were pulling out all the stops and it was a hard choice to make.  I finally decided on South Coast Plaza because I am a HUGE fan of Chloe and since they were hosting a fashion show that night, it tipped the scales for me.

Considering that on a daily basis South Coast Plaza is a shopping mecca for both locals and tourists alike, I was not surprised to find them take shopping to another level with Fashion's Night Out.  Over 100 boutiques within the mall participated in the event with live entertainment, gifts with purchase, cocktails, food, DJ's and special discounts.  Everywhere you turned, there was something going on.

I began the night at the Chloe fashion show and then made my way through the mall stopping at retailers such as DVF, Marni, Intermix, Tory Burch, Coach, Barney's, Bloomingdale's, Madewell and many more.  You never wanted to stay too long at one place for fear that you would miss the next event.  

Because I ventured out on my own (that won't happen again, next year, this is Girl's Night Out for sure), I did not stay too late but had I been there until 9pm, I would have attended the after party at AnQi, which I am sure was a fabulous time.
Did you participate in Fashion's Night Out?  If so, where did you go?!

Friday, September 7, 2012

Fall Under $100 - Shoes and Accessories

To wrap up my series on "Fall Under $100", I am going to finish with all of the finishing touches to a wardrobe, Shoes and Accessories.

Though I have ALWAYS believed in the importance of fabulous shoes, it is only recently that I have really embraced what accessories and jewelry can do to a look.  At this point, I cannot stop myself.  In the daily life of a mom, a pair of shoes, scarf, a few bracelets and earrings can take a t-shirt and jeans and completely transform them.  It just makes you look a little more put together.  Like I said, the finishing touches. 

This section could be HUGE but I am keeping this to 5 of my favorite items that you will be seeing me wear this Fall.
DV by Dolce Vita Lunna - $79


Paisley Hill Scarf - $52
Abigail Stripe Scarf - $49.50

Pyramid Tube Pendant - $17
Save 25% until 9/9 with code DPFWD


That is it!  I hope you enjoyed the series!  
Here are the rest of this week's "Fall Under $100" if you missed them.  
Have a great weekend!

Thursday, September 6, 2012

Fall Under $100 - Denim

Today I am going to focus "Fall Under $100" on Denim

Denim tends to be a year round trend but it has been fun to see all the new Fall colors and prints available.  I tend to lean towards skinny jeans the majority of the time but also love the look of a casual boyfriend cut.  If there is one pair that you pick up this year, I would have to say it is a black skinny.  They are an absolute closet necessity.


1969 Ankle Zip Legging Jeans in Mulberry - $69.95
The Legging - $68
Free People Ikat Print Crop Skinny Jeans - $78
1969 Sexy Boyfriend Jean - $69.95
See Thru Soul 'Fame' Animal Print Skinny Jeans - $52
Check out the rest of my "Fall Under $100" here!
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