I’m obsessed with this burgundy Vintage Chanel bag from Rice and Beans Vintage. It’s so chic and timeless! If you are looking to invest on a great vintage bag I highly recommend checking them out. Holiday savings is up to 35% off! Now I call that a great investment!
With three more days until Thanksgiving, I'm in holiday dress mode. Below are outfit ideas that allow you to stuff your tummy, drink cocktails, hug relatives, lounge all day, give thanks and look great while you're doing it.
I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving break! I will be celebrating with my family and friends. I'm sending my love and thankfulness to you this week. I'm so grateful for being able to share my life and style with you all. Hope it's a love and fun filled Thanksgiving for you, wherever you are celebrating.
Happy Thanksgiving!
// Nordstrom hat - Old Navy dress - Shoedazzle OTK boots //
// Target vest and booties - Sonnet James dress //
Click here to learn more.
"I don't take my life seriously, but I do take what I do in my life seriously" - A u d r e y H e p b u r n
She was our first everything. First pregnancy, baby, granddaughter to our parents, preschooler, kindergartner, and tween. It isn’t always easy having to be the one who goes first, actually I think it’s rarely easy, but what a fantastic little guinea pig she has been. Especially to me! When I brought her home from the hospital I almost can’t believe we survived the last nine years. I learned everything about being a mother from her, and she is the apple of my eye!
Thank you for being patient and loving and kind with me. I absolutely love being your mama. I hope the next nine years of discovery are as interesting and wonderful as the first. I hope I don’t make as many mistakes, but I’m sure I will.
That’s what happens to the first after-all.
Happy 9th Birthday Babydoll!
Tomorrow is my birthday and I thought what a better way to celebrate it by sharing my three easy semi-homemade cake recipes with you all. I always keep cake mix in my pantry for days that I’m craving for cake or when a neighbor reminds me that it's their birthday. Or when your mommy friend calls you for an impromptu wine play date. If you need a dessert for a special occasion, or are just looking for an excuse to make an awesome treat, these cakes deliver on both fronts.
Enjoy!
Tres Leches Cake
Prepare your cake mix. In a saucepan mix 1 can of condensed milk, and 2 cups of any milk you like (I used almond and coconut milk) over medium heat for about 10 minutes. Remove cake from oven and allow it to cool slightly. Cut into squares maintaining it in the cake pan. Pour milk mixture over top of cake. Make sure to refrigerate if you are preparing it ahead.
Here with a scoop of sea salt caramel ice cream. Yum!
Chocolate Cake With Chocolate Frosting
Prepare cake mix. For the chocolate frosting - 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa, 3 tbsp of any milk, 1 1/2 tbsp butter, 2 tbsp sugar. Mix all ingredients in a saucepan at medium heat until homogeneous. Pour the frosting on the top of the cake and dig in!
Over here I paired it with mint chocolate ice cream and topped it with chocolate syrup. Perfect for chocolate lovers!
Vanilla Cake With Mango
Prepare cake mix. Cut mango into thin slices. Pour half of the batter in to the baking pan. Add mangos on top then pour the rest of the batter on top. When it's done pair it with any topping you like. This cake is perfect for those who don't like frosting on their cake. Note: I got this recipe from my friend Christina who always make this cake for her daughter's birthday.
Perfect with a scoop of old fashion vanilla ice cream!
I'm so happy to introduce you to Fanny, my partner in crime. We met through our local mom’s club about 4 years ago. I remembered we both stared at each other and went hmmm… I like her style! Since then we have become BFF’s via our shared love of all things fashion, motherhood and shopping. She is also a total genius when it comes to makeup! She is a very hard working mom and always puts 100% in all she does. Love her upbeat personality and amazing style. Here she shares her beauty secrets and other thoughts on motherhood.
How would you describe yourself?
Loyal, indecisive, supportive
What do you do besides motherhood?
Founder of Monday Sparkles / Make up artist and wardrobe stylist
What’s the best advice you have ever received?
You never know unless you try...
What’s your beauty routine?
My everyday consists of Sunscreen, Laura Mercier's Tinted Moisturizer, La Girl Pro Concealer (obsessed with this concealer), Blush or Bronzer, Lipgloss, Mascara
What’s your signature scent?
I have had the same 5 fragrances on rotation for the past 10 years. Depending on my mood. The ones on heavy rotation are Prada D'iris and Hanae Mori.
What can’t you live without?
My family!
How do you balance your life?
This question makes me laugh...everyday is a juggle. I haven't quite figured out this balancing act yet. But if I have learned anything, it is to make some time for yourself even if it's only a little bit. So if anyone knows the secret, I would love to know!
Who is your biggest role model?
My dad. He has a great work ethic, is compassionate, and has the biggest heart.
Do you have a family tradition?
My favorite thing to do is with my children at bedtime. We talk about the best part of their day, what they are going to dream about, and what they are grateful for. I always want them to end their days on a positive note. And oh..the silliest things they say they are going to dream about makes me laugh.
What makes a mom like that?
Any mom doing her thing!
5 quick questions:
Favorite restaurant: Luna Park
Favorite recipe: Slow-cook Asian Short Ribs
Favorite dessert: I LOVE dessert
Favorite drink: Bubbles
Favorite book: I don't have an all time favorite
Happy Friday! Have any fun plans for this weekend? I’m meeting my mommy friends tonight for some carnitas street tacos made of boar meat (I know… sounds amazing!), margaritas, and desserts. Then for the weekend we have a kid’s birthday party, world cup soccer championship for my oldest, and daddy has plans to put all Halloween decorations away and maybe skip Thanksgiving all together and put Christmas decorations up. I’m of course going to be part of all of the above, with may be a little online shopping (Old Navy up to 60% the entire store) and start reading this book. Have a lovely weekend, and here are some of my Instagram round-ups and outfit details.
I can spend all my money on flowers...
Army denim shirt from Madewell (similar here). Leopard pumps from Sam Edelman.
These chic suede booties are the most comfortable thing and they are from Target. A must have for your fall wardrobe.
This book is a must read and own. Here is another favorite.
Plaid vest from Target and knee high boots from Nordstrom (last fall).
Get your "Stay Connected" box today. Learn more here.
What a great week it has been so far! We officially launched Monday Sparkles on Monday and it has been non-stop. Thank you so much for all the support and words of encouragement. They mean so much to us! We are happy and proud of all the hard work, sweat and tears that went into this passion project. We hope you follow us on this journey and share it with all your friends and loved ones. The more girls we can reach the more impact we can make!
Get your “Stay Connected” launch box today!
Because I love #LoveStyleLife book so much I'll be giving away three copies to my followers. All you need to do is the following:
1. Follow me @momlikethat on Instagram
2. Tag a friend and make sure to hashtag #momlikethatlove in the comments section of this picture on Instagram
3. Winners will be randomly selected. I'll announce the winners on Thursday on Instagram
Tag as many friends as you like, to be entered multiple times in the giveaway!
This year, our oldest daughter chose her costume. Since she is entering her tweens she went for the evil costume. Daddy’s first reaction was “Is that age appropriate?” I laughed out loud and said “Yes dear it’s totally fine.” I can’t wait to see Daddy’s reaction when both of our girls are sixteen and go to prom. :-)
Our son was not feeling the festivities this year. Even though I tried to hype it up with some awesome costumes, he simply wanted to be a ghost. Not a fancy ghost with all the scary accessories, but just a white bed sheet with two holes ghost (three holes in this case). When this boy makes up his mind there is no way to change it. I guess that’s a virtue right? (Sigh….)
And this year my youngest daughter couldn’t wait to be Princess Elsa. All month she kept asking and talking about it. Sometimes she would tell a stranger on the street, “I’m going to be Elsa for Halloween!” before even saying hello! So we found an incredibly over priced and terribly made Elsa costume. Note to self: it's my fault for thinking that an Elsa costume will be in every store. NOT. SOLD OUT. Almost everywhere! We got lucky though and got the youngest to a happy state.
We are ready to go trick-a-treating and we wish you all a wonderful Halloween!
Today is my husband’s birthday so I thought it’s appropriate to share many reasons I love him so much!...
He is unbelievably smart, and ridiculously funny
His laugh is infectious
He makes some kick-ass tacos
He is adventurous and loves to find new places to visit
He watches me eat a whole pint of ice cream and won’t judge
He reads the New York Times and The Economist (I know...very sexy, right?)
He makes me feel like I’m the most beautiful woman in the world. And pretty much rocked my world for the last 14 years.
He gave me three awesome children and then became an amazing dad to them.
In short,
Happy Birthday to my Mr. Awesome!
You are my favorite!
Love you so much…..
Today I'm honored to introduce you to my beautiful friend and cousin-in-law. I met Lauren in 2004 on my wedding day. Eleven years later we are both mamas with beautiful children. How time flies! She is one of the most caring and genuine people you can meet. I love how she always lives the fullest everyday and I admire her beauty style. Plenty of lessons can be learned just by being around her.
Enjoy and have a beautiful weekend!
How would you describe yourself?
Positive, Dependable, Trustworthy
What do you do besides motherhood?
I work within my community to inspire families to take control of their health and make better nutritional choices. I am a representative for a whole food nutritional product called Juice Plus+, which offers 30 different plants in a capsule or chewable. The benefits my own family has experienced in the last 2 years on Juice Plus have been invaluable, so sharing my health journey has become a true passion of mine.
What’s the best advice you have ever received?
“Don’t sweat the small stuff”
What’s your beauty routine?
I absolutely LOVE make-up, so I usually do a full face every day. I love to try new products and looks, but I do have it down to a science. I can do hair and make-up under an hour. I usually shower at night so it takes off time during our crazy mornings trying to get two kids out of the house on time!
What’s your signature scent?
I really love Chance by Chanel. It lasts forever, and it’s the perfect scent for day or night.
What can’t you live without?
Besides my hubby and my two children? Sunglasses, lip-gloss, and baby wipes! Must haves!
How do you balance your life?
I have to give credit here to my amazing husband. We are a great team, and make sure that both of us get time to sneak away for a quick work out or time with friends. A happy mama is a GOOD mama! Taking care of yourself will not only help with raising strong children, but your marriage will benefit too. Divide and Conquer! My husband and I always say, “You get drop off the girl, and I’ll get the boy??” Or vice versa.
Who is your biggest role model?
My mother Kate. She has taught me to be a strong, independent, compassionate and loving woman, and to appreciate everything. She is the first person to offer a hand, and the last to judge. She has been such a strong role model for my daughter as well. I am lucky to call her mom.
Do you have a family tradition?
As far back as I can remember, we have been serving lasagna for Christmas dinner (mom’s secret sauce), and my grandmother’s cherry tort for dessert. We also get bundled up, make some hot cocoa, and drive around to look at Christmas lights in our neighborhood.
What makes a MomLikeThat?
Having a great network of friends and a strong support system. That could be family, school-moms, or a long distant friend who you chat with occasionally. It really does take a village, and to know that we are all in this together makes it that much easier!
5 quick questions:
Favorite restaurant: Mikuni Sushi, Downtown Sacramento
Favorite recipe: My mother’s secret homemade spaghetti sauce
Favorite dessert: Banana Cream Pie
Favorite drink: Mommy Juice: A glass of Pinot Noir. N/A Drink: Iced Tea with Lemon
Favorite book: Carry on, Warrior by Glennon Doyle Melton
Here is an easy one step, all ingredients and one blender recipe for you. You can substitute banana with pumpkin puree or shredded carrots. It's gluten free as well. Eat responsibly.
Ingredients:
2-3 ripe bananas
1/4 tbsp of apple sauce
1/4 cup of agave
1/4 cup of coconut or brown sugar
1 large egg
1/4 cup of coconut milk (or any milk)
1/2 cup coconut flour (or any gluten free flour)
1/4 cup of ground flaxseeds
1/4 cup of almond meal
1/2 tsp of baking powder
1 tsp of vanilla extract
1 tbsp of vegetable oil (or any oil)
Dash of salt
Handful of dark chocolate chips for sprinkling
Preheat oven to 350F. Prepare cake pan with cooking spray. Combine all ingredients in the blender expect for the chocolate chips and blend until homogeneous. Pour batter to prepared baking pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the center is set. Sprinkle chocolate chips on top while the cake is still hot.
Enjoy!
Happy Monday! How was your weekend? I spent most of the weekend cleaning and tidy up the house. I’m glad I got it all done since I have a jammed packed schedule this week. Wish me luck!
In outfit related news, just when I think fall has arrived in the Bay Area, we’re hit with 80 degree. So yes, we’re still transitioning over here. Below are some outfits for your (almost fall) inspiration.
Forever21 hat // Anthropologie bottondown shirt // H&M faux leather pants // ANINE BING boots old
Nordstrom hat // ANINE BING plaid shirt // ANINE BING denim // Barney's New York Booties (similar here)
LV scarf (similar here) // J.Crew sweater // Gap skinny pants // Banana Republic pumps
1. Work on my blog
2. Reply to text messages and emails
3. Read blogs
4. Instagram
5. Read magazines and catalogs
6. Watch Korean Soaps. And yes, they are so good and addicting! Sign up with Viki
7. Ironing. It’s very therapeutic!
8. I knit. It’s my yoga
9. Eat chocolate. Current favorite
10. Paint my nails
A couple of years ago I took my kids to our annual pumpkin patch field trip with our dear friends from school. We talked about pumpkins (of course) and how we celebrate Thanksgiving. My friend Lorene told me that one of their Thanksgiving traditions is to make stuffed roasted pumpkin. I went home that day and told my husband that I would make this super amazing recipe for him and the family soon. Of course soon meant two years later! But hey… better late than never. Thank you Lorene for sharing this family recipe with me and all my readers.
Ingredients:
1 medium sized pumpkin
2 lbs of sausage (you can substitute ground beef or turkey if you prefer)
1 cup of celery, onions, and carrots
1 1/2 cup of minute rice (you can substitute with other grains)
1 tbsp of fresh thyme, salt, black pepper, and herbs of province (or any other ingredients you enjoy in a stuffing)
1 tsp of nutmeg
Enjoy!
Clean outside of pumpkin. Cut a circle around pumpkin stem in order to stuff. I'm super clumsy with knives but found this super handsome guy to help me (don't tell my husband).
Clean out inside of pumpkin of all pumpkin seeds and fringy, stingy stuff. Rinse inside.
Sautee your celery, onions, carrots, and sausage. Cook meat about 2/3 done. It will finish cooking in the oven. Add herbs, salt, pepper and nutmeg to taste. Once that is cooked stir in rice and remove from heat. Note: I used quinoa and I would recommend to cook the quinoa half way before you mix it with the stuffing.
Place stuffing in pumpkin.
The stuffing should fill pumpkin at least 2/3 to top. If there's not enough stuffing inside, the pumpkin will collapse while cooking.
Put top back on the pumpkin. Place it in the roasting pan. Cover bottom of pan with 1/2 inch of water (you can also put some beer in the water for flavor).
Cook at 350 degree for approximately 2 hrs or until meat of pumpkin is tender.
Half way. Check pumpkin frequently to be sure there is always water in the pan
To serve just scoop out stuffing and pumpkin meat. The pumpkin meat should easily peal back from the skin. It's FABULOUS! Must TRY!
Napa MomLikeThat Nicole Hughes is inspiring, thoughtful and giving. She's also a partner and founder in a cool new business named Olive and Poppy, a wonderful online boutique that captures stylish, wearable memories of the Wine Country. (Now, why didn't I think of this?!?!)
I met Nicole through our children's school and we instantly clicked. I love her style, personality and energy. I hope you’ll enjoy reading about her just as much as I enjoying having her as a friend! Thank you Nicole for taking the time to share your thoughts below.
Have a wonderful weekend!
How would you describe yourself?
Dependable, loyal, open-minded
What do you do besides motherhood?
I own an online retail business called Olive and Poppy with my business partner, Anne Siegel. We launched last year with a mission to modernize wine country keepsakes. I also do some independent consulting on brand development and marketing for winery clients.
What’s the best advice you have ever received?
You get more bees with honey! It always pays to be nice.
What’s your beauty routine?
Oh gosh, not much. I’m a bit lazy in that area. I wash my face with “Yes to Carrots” and moisturize with “Dermaquest Zinclear” which has SPF. That’s about it.
What’s your signature scent?
I stopped wearing perfume when I started in the wine biz. I do love the smell of anything magnolia though!
What can’t you live without?
My kiddos and husband, of course. I mean, sometimes I can’t live with them either, but you know how that saying goes …
How do you balance your life?
I’ll tell you when it’s balanced! I have been trying to be more disciplined about my time: when I’m working, I’m working, and when I’m with my kids, I’m focused on being with my kids. Things go really wonky when I try to do too many things at once.
Who is your biggest role model?
My mom. She’s endured a lot, and she’s still the most genuinely kind and selfless person I know.
Do you have a family tradition?
I love traditions! We have a few. We always play “high / low” at the dinner table, which involves everyone saying the best and worst part of their day. And at the holidays, we always pick one night to surprise the kids and load them in the car in their PJs with hot chocolate to drive around and look at lights.
What makes a mom like that?
We’re all doing the same thing: trying to be our best selves and mothers and partners. It’s exhausting and gratifying, but knowing we’re in it together makes the journey a lot more fun!
5 quick questions:
Favorite restaurant: Farmstead in St. Helena
Favorite recipe: Chicken and Dumplings
Favorite dessert: Anything with coconut
Favorite drink: Rosé, rosé, rosé
Favorite book: I Know This Much is True by Wally Lamb
This girl is full of life and sass! She is such an imaginative, curious, beautiful, intelligent and happy little being. Leah is my baby who's not so much a baby anymore, but a real big girl. A girl who will tell you she's big now, but who still wants to be held and cuddled by her mama once or twice a day and get cozy with daddy on the couch. She started in the transitional kindergarten at the same school as her brother and sister this year. She couldn’t be happier and is stoked everyday to be there. She enjoys painting, making new friends, and singing "her songs" and reading “her books” of which she has about ten.
With each passing day I find myself echoing those dear grandmothers at the market who remind you that, yes, it does go so fast. I want her to know that at this young age she has taught me more about life and myself than I have learned from any school or lesson. She has helped me to be more patience, and has given me countless moments of happiness.
Fall is one of my favorite seasons of the year! Below are some of my current favorites. Make sure to follow me on Instagram @momlikethat for all the latest posts.
Happy Monday everyone!
Simply roasted artichokes recipe here
Can't put this book down. Such a wonderful story and very well written.
Basics with a tweed jacket for a day trip in San Francisco. Jacket (last fall) is from Nordstrom, tank top and jeans are from ANINE BING, booties (last fall) are from AnnTaylor.
I can't live without my green smoothie! (please ignore my chipped nail)
Orange happiness!
Love this chic and effortless look. Wrap from Nordstrom (in store only), button down from Old Navy, pumps from Banana Republic, and ripped jeans from Forever 21
Love all different types and shapes of squash.
My favorite combo: a glass of excellent white wine and Bistro Jeanty.
My weekend casual look with Sonnet James dress. Boots are from Target (last fall), utility jacket (last fall) from Abercrombie, and purse (last fall) from Forever 21.
These boots are my absolute favorite. They are well made and super comfortable. Check out more styles here.
