School Drop Off with LuLaRoe

Noah started school last week, which means we are back to the morning drop offs. Three mornings a week, I have to be out the door by 8:30 to drop him off, and then I have 3 hours to myself. Often, I use this time to myself to run some errands, meet a friend for coffee or a pedicure, or head home and work on the blog. No matter what I'm doing, I want to be comfortable. But even when I'm just going home after drop off, I still don't want to look like a total bum by staying in my pajamas to drop Noah off at school. That's why I was so excited when Jackie and Barb, who sell LuLaRoe out of Morristown, NJ, reached out to me. I had heard a lot about LuLaRoe from my fellow mom friends. They had raved about the leggings in particular, boasting that they were the most comfortable they had ever worn. So when another friend of mine hosted a LuLaRoe Facebook sale, I figured it was about time to try them out. And the verdict... my friends were right, they are so soft and ridiculously comfortable! 

In case you haven't heard of LuLaRoe yet, it is a modern line of comfortable, affordable, and stylish clothing for women and children. Their styles include maxi skirts, pencil skirts, a-line skirts, dresses, tops and leggings, with new styles constantly being released. LuLaRoe is not sold in stores, catalogs, or websites. It is only sold directly from consultants via in-home pop up boutiques, online through Facebook groups, or during live sales on Facebook or Periscope.

While I already owned a pair of the black leggings, I was very excited to branch out with some more colorful pieces this time around. That's one of the things I really love about LuLaRoe. There are so many amazing prints in each of the styles. I honestly had a hard time picking my favorite! I also appreciate that they are not mass produced. Each style is made in a variety of fabrics and prints. The prints are all limited... only 5,000 pieces are made in each print design, which is then split over multiple styles and sizes, and dispersed amongst the 35,000 consultants!

I ended up choosing two looks that I thought would be perfect for school drop off and any activity that I had during those 3 hours to myself.  The best part is, that while I look stylish and put together, I feel as comfortable as I would if I stayed in my pajamas!

First up, the Irma top and leggings.  While this outfit would be cute all on it's own, I couldn't help but add my quilted vest for an extra layer.  I know it will be the perfect addition when the mornings get a little chilly!

 Irma top & Leggings c/o LuLaRoe

vest | lace up flats

 Noah - shirt, leggings, sneakers

Next up is this green striped Carly dress.  This would be the perfect outfit to wear when I'm meeting a friend for coffee or have an appointment while Noah's at school. I am a huge fan of the length (the back is longer than the front) and how freaking comfortable this dress is!  It's pretty easy to forget you even have something on, it's that soft.  It is short sleeve, so it's perfect for that in between Summer and Fall weather.  Wear it on it's own now and throw on a denim jacket when it gets a little chilly.  It could easily be worn with sandals, but I'm loving how it looks with some ankle boots for the fall!  And Noah told me he really liked it, so now I love it even more!  

 Carly dress c/o LuLaRoe

denim jacket (old, new version) | necklace (old, JCrew) | bag (in white) | boots

And if you ever do get to have a few hours to yourself to simply read a book, you don't even have to change into something more comfortable... because you already are!!!

 Irma top & Leggings c/o LuLaRoe

cardigan | slippers

So now that you are convinced you need some leggings and a Carly dress, here's how you can get your hands on them yourself! 

First, you should join Jackie and Barb's Facebook Shopping Group: LuLaRoe Crazy Like A Daisy VIPs

Jackie and Barb are a best friend team located in Morristown, New Jersey. They struggled to find clothes that were comfortable, yet fashionable and affordable for their curvy bodies. When they discovered LuLaRoe leggings in April 2016, they were hooked! They loved the product and company so much, that they became LuLaRoe consultants in July 2016. They are very excited to empower others to feel more confident in their own skin by providing amazing clothing that is super comfortable and beautifully stylish. 

You can also contact and follow them this way:

Instagam: lularoejackiebarb

Twitter: LLR_jackiebarb

Periscope: LLR_jackiebarb

Email: [email protected]

***Jackie and Barb have been so generous as to offer my readers a giveaway... $10 off your first purchase!!! You simply need to mention the special code: "ADVENTURESTARTSHERE" during check out.***

There’s never any pressure to buy, but things can move quickly as women tend to buy what they like right away before they lose it.

And don't forget that our First Day of School Memories linkup officially closes tonight.  So make sure to head over and link up any last minute back to school posts you have!  

I received the leggings, Irma top, and Carly dress for free in exchange for an honest review. All opinions and goodbye kisses are all mine!

*affiliate links may be used

Noah's First Day of School & Some Friday Favorites

Noah had his first day of school on Wednesday.  Last year, Noah was in a 2 1/2 year program and went two mornings a week.  This year he's in a 3 year old class and will be going 3 mornings a week with the option of extra enrichment classes.  Because of Noah's fall birthday, he misses the cutoff and though he's almost 4, he will have 2 more years of preschool before starting kindergarten.  To be honest, I'm relieved I get an "extra" year of him only going half days!  But since this was his second year of preschool, he was a pro and wasn't nervous at all!  On the first day, they have the parents stay for the first hour.  Last year, Noah was a little hesitant about us leaving, but this year he questioned why we even had to come and was like "see ya" when it was time for us to leave.  

While Noah was very excited for his first day, he was not as excited about the picture part.  To get these photos, we ended up bribing him with a new (but small) Octonauts toy.  And even with a bribe, we still got many of these...

He was definitely more interested in being goofy...

^^^ he's instructing me on how to fold my arms ;)

white jeans |  lace up flats | Noah's sneakers

And I couldn't resist sharing a side by side of Noah's first day from last year compared to his first day this past Wednesday!  Not only has he grown in size, but he's just so much more confident about starting school.  While he was pretty nervous last year, this year he was just very excited to get there!  

Now on to some of my favorites from the week...

One

I am a huge fan of Hanna Andersson pajamas!  Yes, they are a little on the expensive side, but they are such good quality, so soft, and hold up to constant washing!  While Noah is a huge fan as well, right now, he's an even bigger fan of mismatched pajamas!  He loves mixing prints, whether it's different color stripes, trains with space, or even two different construction prints, he just isn't a fan of wearing the pajamas the way they were meant to be.  Thankfully we have lots of pajamas so the options are endless!   We are currently trying to find these in size 110, and I told Noah that if we do, he's not allowed to mix and match them ;)

^^^ here we are taking our traditional US Open ticket photo and Noah had something to tell us.  I wonder what people driving by must have thought of his mismatched pjs with sneakers look! 

Two

Octonauts Gups.  We are still huge fans of the Octonauts and we seem to be on a mission to own every single Gup (there are probably 20???).  When we were gone all day at the US Open, my mom surprised him with a scavenger hunt that ended with him finding the Gup-K (which just happens to be remote control operated!).  In the show, this Gup is used when they are in the Amazon and it's good at chomping through fallen trees.  Noah and my mom of course had to make their own logs out of construction paper ;)  

Gup-K 

Three

Labor Day Sales.  I mentioned earlier this week that I got to do some solo shopping on Monday.  Loft was having 60% off sale items, so I couldn't help but look.  I instantly fell in love with this black polka dot top.  I figured it was perfect now on it's own and since it's black, I could easily add a blazer or cardigan and wear it in the fall/winter as well.  While not on sale, I'm also in love with these black jeans.  I often find I have an outfit that I think would look good with leggings, but want something a little more dressed up.  I'm waiting for a good sale at Loft and then I will be ordering them immediately!

top (sized down to Medium) | black jeans (size 30) | bracelets (similar)

Four

Loft was also having a sale on their new Fall pieces.  But since I know Loft has better sales, I'm holding out.  So I used this past trip as recon.  I tried on a bunch of things that caught my eye online, and I'm glad I did.  While they describe these three tops as tunics, I was surprised at how long they actually are.  First off, I'm long waisted, so things usually fall short on me.  Second, I sized down to a medium in these (usually a large), and they are still loose and long.  So here's my question, do we like the tunic look, do they look better tucked in (as shown below), or should I just skip this style completely?

chambray (Medium) | white plaid tunic (Medium) | plum plaid tunic (Medium) 

white jeans (size 12) | black jeans (size 30) 

Five

I've always loved photos of the sky and panoramics, but this one is just so cool to me.  We took Noah out for pizza and ice cream after his first day of school on Wednesday.  When we were leaving, we noticed that to our left, the sky was very dark and looked like it would storm at any minute.  But to the right, the sky was the prettiest shade of blue.  We were amazed at how different the sky could look.  If it had started raining, I wouldn't be surprised if we could find the spot where it was raining on one arm and dry on the other!

I'm linking up with The Farmer's Wife and September Farm for "Oh Hey Friday" and with A. Liz Adventures for "Five on Friday"!

*affiliate links used

Don't forget there's still time to link up your back to school photos and posts!  This is the perfect linkup to share and receive lots of back to school inspiration!  You have until September 15 to linkup any and all back to school posts. If you aren't a blogger and want to join in, use #2016B2S (B2S = back to school) when you share photos on Facebook and Instagram so we can check them out. Additionally, use that same hashtag to share any photos of your family preparing for the new school year along with any posts you may have including the topic "back to school". Grab our button and add it to your side bar, social media sites and posts to spread the school spirit this fall!

An InLinkz Link-up

Our New "Back to School" Routine

In just less than two weeks, Noah will be going back to pre-school.  Last year he went two mornings a week, but this year he will be going three.  While Noah has no problem waking up early, we have gotten used to taking our time in the morning this summer... sometimes we don't even go downstairs for breakfast until 9:30!!!  Since we will need to leave the house by 8:30 on the days he has school, I figured it was time to make a plan on how we will get everything done in time without a lot nagging.  Next week will be the perfect time to ease into this new routine before the "live show".

Noah is a huge fan of Daniel Tiger and the "get ready" episode is one of his favorites.  In case you aren't familiar with the episode, it has a song that helps kids go through the steps of getting ready for school in the morning (as well as getting ready for bed).

Clothes on
Eat breakfast
Brush teeth
Put on shoes
And off to school

We've sung this song in the past and found it to be super helpful with keeping him on track.  While we may switch the order up a little bit and maybe add a few steps, I think the song is so catchy and worth using in our morning routine!  

When creating our new back to school schedule/routine, I worked backwards from when we need to be out the door.  And since kids can be unpredictable, I added a lot of extra time for each step to act as a buffer.  Here's the plan...

7am: While Noah is usually already up by 7, this is when I will have an alarm go off as a "just in case".  We both go to the bathroom and then head back into bed for some morning snuggles.  I may check some emails while Noah watches a show or two on his iPad or maybe read some books.  Anything to help us wake up slowly.  

7:30: Time to go downstairs.  (This is the step I need to stay on top of.  In the summer, we usually lose track of time and snuggle time lasts longer expected.)  I've decided to keep Noah in his pajamas until after breakfast just in case he has a spill.  I will let him watch one show while I make and we eat breakfast.  Once he's finished eating, it's time to get dressed.  While we are working on Noah putting his own clothes on, he still needs some guidance.   

8am: Noah gets to have some play time while I go upstairs to get myself dressed.  I imagine Noah will play with his magnatiles, do some puzzles, or draw some pictures during this time.  Some days, I envision him following me around like a shadow ;)  

8:25: Brush teeth and gel his hair.  In the past, I've had him go to the bathroom right before leaving the house.  But I want him to get used to using the school bathroom, so I think I will have him hold off and instead take him to the school bathroom right before entering his classroom.  

8:30: Put on shoes and grab his school bag.

And off to school!

Wish us luck with the "back to school transition"!

I would love to hear how you manage to get out the door on time for school every morning!  And for more back to school inspiration, make sure to check out these amazing school related posts (and link up your own)!  You have until September 15 to linkup any and all back to school posts. If you aren't a blogger and want to join in, use #2016B2S (B2S = back to school) when you share photos on Facebook and Instagram so we can check them out. Additionally, use that same hashtag to share any photos of your family preparing for the new school year along with any posts you may have including the topic "back to school". Grab our button and add it to your side bar, social media sites and posts to spread the school spirit this fall!

An InLinkz Link-up

School Paper Organization

When it came time to organizing the papers Noah gets from school, I wanted to have a plan set in action.  So last year, I started scouring Pinterest for ideas, and instantly loved Simply Kierste's method!   I immediately bought a file box, file folders  and labels and downloaded the labels she provides in her blog post.  While I love the label she added to the front of the box, and intend to add one to my box (eventually), right now it really isn't an issue since Noah is an only child ;)   It was super easy to put together and now I have a place to store all of those papers at the end of each year.  And the best part is, that if Noah wants all his school memorabilia when he's older, he can take the box and everything will be in one place.

labels | file folders | hanging folders

file box 

While I loved this method for storing everything after each school year ends, I wanted something I could have at my fingertips during the year.  I decided to create a school binder with some folders and page protectors inside for all those important papers that come home.  Right now, I have Noah's class list in the front folders as well as some paperwork outlining payment information and medical forms that I still need to submit.   The page protectors are perfect for storing (and displaying) notes sent home from the teachers and drawings that Noah makes (on regular sized paper).   As for the larger artwork, after I photograph it, I either display it in our kitchen or store it in this art box until I make my "art photo album" at the end of the year.

binder | folders | page protectors 

Noah still has a few more weeks left of summer, but once we get closer to his first day of school, I will have him answer some questions with our "first day of school questionnaire". I started this tradition last year and am excited to see how his answers (and writing) changes over the years.   You can download the "My first day of..." for 3 year olds and 4 year olds by clicking on the links below.  If you would like to use the printable but need it customized, just shoot me an email!

preschool - 3 year olds | preschool - 4 year olds

Want to pin for later?

I would love to hear how you keep all those papers organized throughout the school year!  And for more back to school inspiration, make sure to check out these amazing school related posts (and link up your own)!  You have from today until September 15 to linkup any and all back to school posts. If you aren't a blogger and want to join in, use #2016B2S (B2S = back to school) when you share photos on Facebook and Instagram so we can check them out. Additionally, use that same hashtag to share any photos of your family preparing for the new school year along with any posts you may have including the topic "back to school". Grab our button and add it to your side bar, social media sites and posts to spread the school spirit this fall!

An InLinkz Link-up

Back to School | First Day of School Memories Linkup Announcement

This September, Noah will going back for his second year of preschool.  Last year he was in the 2 1/2's class and went two mornings a week, while this year he's in the 3's class and will be going three mornings a week.  Noah absolutely loved school last year and is very excited to go back!  And while I love that he loves school, I am relieved we still have another 5 1/2 weeks before he goes back (the perks of starting after Labor Day!).  Not only do I want to enjoy the Summer for a little bit longer, but I also have a few things I need to do before school starts.    Last year, I found a "First Day of School" printable that I loved and created a questionnaire for Noah to fill out.  I need to update and print copies out for the 2016-2017 school year so that I'm all ready come Noah's First Day of School!  

Not only is this Noah's second year of school, but it's also the second year Stephanie, Liz, and I are hosting the First Day of School Memories Link-up.  I'm pretty sure I am not alone with the desire to document this exciting day!  So why not join in on this fun linkup, and share all about your back to school experiences!  

Details on the linkup

Starting today, we are looking for posts that include first day of school photos, interviews and play by play recaps of the special day. Looking for photography ideas, visit this Pinterest board that has 50 unique ideas.

{Click here for original pin and printable}

Who Should Participate

Moms to little ones starting school, MOPS or Mothers' Day out. We would love to celebrate this exciting time with you and the only way we can do that is if you share your posts and pictures with us. Are you a teacher with insight to how the first day of school really goes? Or have tips for parents? Share those posts and photos, too. 

Important Dates & Details

You have from today until September 15 to linkup any all back to school posts. If your children start school after the 15th and you want to participate, let me know and I can move the closing date back to fit you in. If you aren't a blogger and want to join in, use #2016B2S (B2S = back to school) when you share photos on Facebook and Instagram so we can check them out. Additionally, use that same hashtag to share any photos of your family preparing for the new school year along with any posts you may have including the topic "back to school". Grab our button and add it to your side bar, social media sites and posts to spread the school spirit this fall! 

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An InLinkz Link-up

A Little Bit of This, A Little Bit of That...

Wow, this week flew by!  Whenever we go away for the weekend I feel like I have to spend a few days just getting the house in order and back into our routine.  My to do list is a mile long and I feel so behind on reading blog (which I love doing).  Thankfully we are staying home this weekend.  But that doesn't mean we don't have plans, it just means we will be sleeping in our own beds and still have time to do some home maintenance in between all of our family activities!  Hope you have a wonderful weekend... see you on Monday :)

One

In case you missed them, here's what I shared on the blog this week!  

My Month in Numbers | May 2016
A Weekend Full of Digging!
Shrimp Scampi | Summer Dining
The Kids Behind The Blog
Noah in June | The Picture Perfect Project

Two

Noah officially had his last day of school yesterday.  I feel weird saying last day of preschool since he still has 2 more years there before heading off to kindergarten (thank goodness), but nonetheless it's a big day!  I can't believe he has already finished his first year of school.  It just confirms that life goes by way too fast!  And boy was I surprised to see how much Noah has grown up when I put his first day and last day photos side by side!  He basically started as a baby and finished as a full grown boy!

^^^ I swear the similar outfits (green shirt, khaki shorts, and New Balance sneakers) was purely coincidental.  I gave Noah three options and he chose it!

Three

In honor of Noah's last day, I had him answer the same questions that he answered at the beginning of school.  He is obviously writing his name so much better and I love to see how all but one of his answers have changed.  But the part that had me absolutely cracking up was his reason for liking brown (because of poop) and choosing it to write his name with it because of that!  Oh three year old boys!  

Four

Father's Day!  Can you believe it's next weekend???  I hope you all have some gifts ready for the men in your life.  I've included a few wrappable gifts, but let me just say that I also love giving experience gifts.  I find this especially true for guys.  Guys are hard to shop for.  They aren't like women who want multiples of each thing.  If they have a watch, wallet, etc, they don't need or want another.  Below are a few things that Chris needs or already has.  

charging case | kid shirt  | dad shirt

blower | razor

A few months ago, I heard about this charging iPhone case and immediately ordered it for Chris as his Father's Day gift.  But then we were chatting about these kinds of cases (as our phones were dying on vacation) and he said he didn't like that they were heavy and harder to put in his pocket.  So I fessed up and he suggested I use it and then if he liked it enough we could order a second one for him.  So far I'm in love with it and I think Chris is slowly being sold on it too!

Noah loves to match Chris, and what better way to do it than with a super hero shirt!  Chris and Noah now have Captain America and Superman shirts... and it's so cute!  

Chris specifically asked for a new razor... so he's getting one.  He is so picky that I told him to pick out the one he wanted.  No surprise here!

And while this won't be his Father's Day gift, we just ordered this blower.  It's technically for me, but it will end up being a gift for Chris since I'll be able to clean off the deck and blow some leaves on my own, rather than waiting for him to come home and use the massive leaf blower.  A friend recommended it to us and said it's amazing!

Finally, when it comes to experience gifts, you can't go wrong (usually) with a sporting event. This year, Chris will be taking his dad to the Baseball Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony where Ken Griffey Jr. and Mike Piazza will be inducted.  I think it will be really special for them to do this together.  

Five

Our peonies finally bloomed!  We planted this peony bush last Spring... it was a Mother's Day gift :)  This year I was nervous it had frozen and wasn't going to bloom.  But then last Friday, as we were leaving for Ocean City, I noticed that one had started to open and the rest were right behind it!

We came home Sunday afternoon to some rain and our peonies!  I absolutely love seeing the little rain drops on the petals.  Since we were expecting a major thunderstorm and downpour that evening, I immediately clipped them and brought them inside.  After waiting all spring for these to bloom, I wasn't going to let them be destroyed by the rain!   Instead, I get to enjoy them whenever I walk into my kitchen :)

I'm linking up with The Farmer's Wife and September Farm for "Oh Hey Friday" and with A. Liz Adventures for "Five on Friday"!