Chanel Moving Forward

A modern lifestyle blog dedicated to the moments in between

Master Bedroom Reveal

I am so excited to share our master bedroom makeover with everyone today! We’ve have been working on this redesign since April and it’s finally come together after a few long months. I’m so lucky to have a husband who let me take the reigns on this one and was so open to all of my (sometimes) crazy suggestions. I had always envisioned a romantic and contemporary space where I could decompress and escape after a long day of kid wrangling and I am so happy that I have it now.
You know the feeling you get when you walk into a hotel room? The one that screams “vacation” because there isn’t laundry piled up or legos on the floor. That is the feeling I wanted to evoke when we walked into our room. I wanted to create a space that was calming, clean and clutter free. I chose white linens and accents to brighten the room since ours doesn’t get much light. The lamps from Kenroy Home give the room that touch of glamor and I love how sleek they are. A mirror was added above the bed to make the room appear bigger, the walls were given a fresh color, new blinds were installed and my grandmother made the window treatments and matching bed pillow. We kept our same bedding which we had purchased last year and it fit in perfectly. There is just something about white bedding that pulls me in, although I’ve seen some fantastic bedding with 3d designs that I’m tempted to buy! The picture on my husband’s nightstand table was taken about 20 minutes prior to us getting engaged and will always be my favorite because that was the real start of our life journey together. buy amoxil online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/amoxil.html no prescription
As far as accents for the night stands, I chose beautiful marble coasters, a candle and a diffuser for each side. The wood grain accents give just the right hint of warmth and really pop against the white end table. My husband and I are also diehard ceiling fan addicts and the original one in the room dated back to 1985 and was definitely in need of an upgrade. I chose this gorgeous brushed steel fan from Emerson Fans. The design is sleek and contemporary and despite being powerful it is also extremely quiet. The color mimics the silver accents throughout the room and ties everything together. buy anafranil online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/anafranil.html no prescription
This little reading nook may be my favorite part of the room. I’m not sure if I will ever have time to read here, but it’s nice to dream (while drinking wine of course). Here is a full vendor list featuring the amazing companies I worked with who helped give this bedroom new life. I will be sharing some before and after pics next week, so stay tuned!
Rug – c/o RugsUSA
Mirror – Home Goods
Chair/Blanket/End Table – Ikea
Flour Pouf & White Pillow – Target
Bedding – Ralph Lauren Home
Fabric for Window Treatments – Joann’s
I hope everyone has a fun & safe holiday weekend! buy arava online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/arava.html no prescription
xo,
Chanel

TMNT 4th Birthday

I cannot believe Henry is FOUR today! It feels like each year goes by faster than the last and it’s always so bittersweet. I usually spend the night before my kids birthday ugly crying and carb loading. Year three was our hardest as parents of a wild boy, but the last few weeks are showing some signs of change so we are hopeful that this threenager is behind us {fingers crossed}. When Henry told me he wanted a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle party my first thought was “How in the hell am I going to make this look cute?” Luckily it wasn’t as hard as I thought it would be. Our backyard is ideal for entertaining so we took full advantage of it this year. We already have a play-set, sandbox, water table and two power wheels. For the party we rented a TMNT bounce house which was a huge hit with all the kids and if you are having an outdoor birthday, I highly suggest renting one!
The set up of the party was a lot of fun and easier than previous ones. Since the entire party was outdoors, I only had 2 main tables: a dessert table and a goody bag/party accessories table which also doubled as the food table when the pizza came. When guests walked up to the party they immediately saw the table which had foam nunchucks, face masks and turtle shells for the kids to wear.
The amazing cake was created by Natalie at Cake Envy. She also designed Henry’s third birthday pirate cake and every year I get wowed even more.The cookies are also from another Atlanta local, Debbie, from Whimsical Designs. She is my go to cookie lady and I use her for all my parties and any party I’m planning for a client. You may remember her cookies from Evelyn’s first birthday and Henry’s second. I love that I can send both of these ladies a picture of what I am envisioning and they can bring it to life.
I have to give a huge thank you to Dominos and New Belgium Brewing for providing the pizza and beer for the party. The beer was so refreshing and a must when Dad’s are attending a party and everyone raved about how delicious the pizza was. Be sure to check them out when planning your next party or get together!
I loved seeing Henry have such an amazing time at his birthday. It makes all the long days of planning totally worth it. Since my kids parties are always a little hectic with a lot going on, it can be hard to remember all the moments from the day. This year I decided to have a video shot by a local videographer and I cannot tell you how much I am obsessed with it. Leila was so sweet and professional and the kids loved her, which meant she had no problem getting amazing footage. I don’t know why it took me so long before jumping on the video bandwagon but there’s no turning back now. I’ve watched the video probably 100 times and it’s so nice that I can share it with family who couldn’t make the party. Want to see the video? Click here!

A special thank you to my sweet friends Jessica & Kelly for snapping pics, my mom for watching Henry and my amazing husband for always helping with set up and prep for these crazy parties I throw. Here is a full list of all the incredible vendors, without which I could not have made this party happen.

Pizza – c/o Dominos
Beer – c/o New Belgium Brewing
Cake – Cake Envy
Bounce House – Jumptastic
Number 4 – c/o Swanky Party Box
Felt Pizza Banner – c/o Little Lion Lovelies Co.
Splinter Cupcake Toppers – Toad Hollow
Custom Pizza Box Labels – Type Meets Paper
Brick Back Drop – Amazon
Green Gable Boxes – Amazon
Raphael Print – Big Chris Gallery {I purchased the digital file & had them printed larger}
Turtle Shells – DIY Instructions here
xo,
Chanel

Pizza Nights are the Best Nights

A few years ago my husband got a pizza oven and ever since then we have been hooked on homemade pizza. Before Evelyn was born, we would have pizza night once a month with some friends, it was that intense. Now that Henry is older he loves to make his own pizza and add an array of toppings. Although we’ve had to refrain from letting him use candy, most of his creations are really yummy. I love seeing how he lays out the ingredients on the dough like a work of art. He’s really into putting things in rows so usually only half of his pizza has cheese on it 🙂

 

We’ve found that the best mozzarella is made by Stella® Cheese. Our favorite pizza to make at home consists of prosciutto, basil and fresh mozzarella. It’s so simple to make and always a crowd pleaser. Stella® cheeses are flavorful and combine old world craftsmanship with rich dairy heritage, dating back to 1923. From shredded to crumbled and sharp to sweet, the wide range of Stella® cheese products will infuse your meals with a hint of romantic flavor. Pizza nights are a great way to bring family and friends together for a laid back evening. They’re also a great way for young children to experiment with cooking and explore their independence. Henry loves to cook and is so happy when he helps daddy in the kitchen making pizzas. buy amoxil online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/buynoprescription/amoxil-no-prescription.html no prescription

 

 

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Many thanks to Stella® cheeses for sponsoring today’s story and encouraging me to try their Fresh Mozzarella! buy desyrel online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/buynoprescription/desyrel-no-prescription.html no prescription

Local Eats: South Main Kitchen, Alpharetta

In the past few years there has been a wave of remodeling of historic neighborhoods in the North Atlanta suburbs. Downtown Alpharetta is one of those amazing spots. They have a wonderful farmers market on the weekend, food trucks every Thursday, a brand new city hall with a huge green lawn, new sidewalks and plenty of shops and restaurants. One eatery that is sure to catch your eye is South Main Kitchen, located on South Main Street directly across from the new City Hall. They focus on the social aspect of dining with their farm to table atmosphere.

I love all the outdoor space that South Main Kitchen has. It really is the best place for a summer date or girls night out. There is an upper and lower deck, side patio and a few tables in front. Upon entering the original building that has been completely restored, you are welcomed with friendly faces and a laid back attitude. The members of the staff could easily become your friends by the end of the night.
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My husband and I sat on the upper deck since the weather was beautiful. For starters we went with Flo’s Sweet Fries with blue cheese dressing and the Meatballs with beef gravy, blueberry jam and watercress. Neither disappointed. Other small plates which stood out were the Brisket Tacos, Lamb Poppers and Kale Chips. Guests also swear by the Brussels Sprouts so I am going back there as soon as I can to order.
After sampling a few cocktails and sadly finishing our starters, we ordered our main courses. Whenever there are scallops on the menu, I cannot pass them up. This particular plate had sea scallops served in a tarragon and miso broth with red potatoes, snap peas, pickled mushrooms, watercress and basil oil. I am a huge vinegar fan but if you are not keen on that taste, this dish isn’t for you, being that the mushrooms are pickled. My husband chose the Filet Mignon which was served over a parsnip puree, quinoa, grilled asparagus, pickled mushrooms and a blueberry & peppercorn balsamic reduction. The plating of the entree was so beautiful and my husband said it was cooked to perfection. He isn’t a huge quinoa fan but he loved how this was mixed with all the other flavors. buy flomax online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/buynoprescription/flomax-no-prescription.html no prescription
Usually I never save room for dessert but as soon as I saw the Strawberry Shortcake I had to indulge. Served on a house made oat biscuit with strawberry balsamic jam and chamomile whipped cream, this Strawberry Shortcake was without a doubt the best I’ve ever tasted. My husband and I made room in our bellies for after dinner cocktails before calling it an evening. If you’re visiting this summer, you must try the strawberry & basil cocktail. Simply delicious! buy paxil online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/buynoprescription/paxil-no-prescription.html no prescription
A huge thank you to South Main Kitchen for having us. I cannot wait to return!
*This review was in partnership with South Main Kitchen. As always, all opinions expressed are my own*

A Fatherless Father’s Day

If we’re friends in real life, or you follow me on Instagram, you already know that my dad passed away in April. I never expected his death to be this soon, just a month after his 56th birthday. I didn’t think I was at an age where I needed to worry about my parents dying. These past few months have been extremely hard, mentally, and I go through an emotional roller coaster daily. I still cry everyday knowing that he’s not here with us and that he doesn’t get to see his grandchildren grow up. I’m heartbroken to know that he’ll miss out on my brothers entire adult life. I carry regret around with me like a dark cloud. I’m constantly thinking about things I could have done differently. It’s been a tough couple of months and I know my journey of living without him has just begun. I hate that time has passed, because that is one more day since I’ve seen him last. People have stopped asking how I’m doing, which is no fault to them, it’s just a sad reminder that life goes on. Grief has become apart of who I am now. I’ll never be the person I was prior to April 2. I have always heard how the first year is the toughest. All the first holidays and first birthdays he will be missing is like a knife in the back, reminding me that he is permanently gone. buy priligy online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/buynoprescription/priligy-no-prescription.html no prescription
Dad –
This year will be my first Father’s Day without you. This weekend I will be flooded with emails like “How to Celebrate Dad this Father’s Day!” and a slew of social media posts of my friends with their own fathers. In case you didn’t know, I miss you like crazy. The thought of you not being here can send me into an emotional black hole. I wish I would have called you more, seen you more, made more of an effort. I wish I didn’t have to wish all these things and that you were still here with us. I still think about you multiple times a day. Often while trying to fall asleep. I try so hard to conjure up my memories of you so I can burn them into my brain and not forget. I’m afraid of forgetting you. I still feel like you’re going to call me anytime and tell me about the vacation you had just taken or say that you’ve been busy with work or that you’ve had a bad migraine the past few days. Sometimes my mind gets flooded with memories of you and I wish I could record them, like home movies to play back whenever I want. I still remember sitting with you moments before you walked me down the aisle and you, knowing how nervous I was, kept telling me corny jokes to make me laugh. I loved how you would say after every picture “How do I look?” I loved that always wanted a picture with me and I should have appreciated it more. Since I’m always behind the camera, I rarely get shots with my loved ones. You were such a wonderful father to Max and me and I wish I could tell you right now. I wish I could tell you one last time how much I love you and that I’m so grateful for everything you’ve done for me. I wish I could hear your voice and hug you. I know you are in Heaven with Papa and your brother Steve having a wonderful time. I can’t wait to meet you again. buy remeron online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/buynoprescription/remeron-no-prescription.html no prescription
I love you so much,
Chanel
If you are lucky enough to have your dad in your life, please be sure to give him a call tomorrow or spend some time with him. Tell him how much you appreciate him and most of all, say I love you. buy sinequan online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/buynoprescription/sinequan-no-prescription.html no prescription

Stylish Camera Bags

I am so excited to share one of the best camera bags I’ve ever come across. Shutter Totes makes stylish purses designed to hold cameras and lenses. What I love most about the collection is that they do not look like bulky camera bags that I’m used to seeing. Part of the reason I am hesitant to bring my DSLR places is because I don’t want to toss it in any old purse or my diaper bag and have it smothered in goldfish crumbs. Shutter Totes motto is “A camera carried is a camera used” and I could not agree more. In the past, I would keep my DSLR at home in fear of it getting damaged, but now I bring it everywhere. buy valtrex online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/buynoprescription/valtrex-no-prescription.html no prescription

 

 

I chose this camel colored bag because it’s neutral and matches most of my wardrobe. Let’s face it, I usually wear black most days and this purse adds a pop of color. The removable extra long strap is ideal for wearing cross body so I can have both hands free to change lenses, grab my phone or hold hands with my kids. All Shutter Totes are made of vegan leather and are extremely durable. From the zippers to the interior padded lining, there isn’t a detail overlooked. There are also two exterior pockets to store smaller items that you need easier access to. With over 100 styles to choose from, there is definitely a tote for every lifestyle. buy celexa online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/celexa.html no prescription

I’ve teamed up with Shutter Totes to bring you a $50 gift certificate towards any bag in their shop! Entering is super fast and easy. See below for details. If you can’t wait for the giveaway to end, then you can use code gimme10 for 10% off your order. I am loving this blue and white stripe satchel with polka dot interior. There was only one made so I really hope someone snags it! (or maybe not so I can get it). Good Luck! buy citalopram online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/citalopram.html no prescription

 

*Shutter Totes provided me with this bag free of charge. As always, all opinions expressed are my own*

Making Mornings easier with Purina® Pro Plan®

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #PawsToSavor #CollectiveBias

 

It’s pretty safe to say that both of my kids get their love of cats from their mama. Evelyn is so infatuated with cats that her first birthday was cat themed (crazy cat lady in training). We have two cats, a dog and a fish so mornings around our house are hectic to say the least. They usually start before 5am when my youngest wakes the entire family. Of course, everyone is wanting something from me: the dog is whining to be let out, our fish is swimming a marathon in his tank so I notice him and our cats practically trip me down the stairs because they want their breakfast. Evelyn is screaming for “me-mow” (Mickey Mouse) to be turned on and Henry is asking for cookies. After too many days of this circus, I began to plan ahead to make our mornings easier. buy desyrel online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/desyrel.html no prescription
 

After everyone is in bed I try and prep as much as I can before the morning, which includes filling the cats bowls with their breakfast. We use Purina® Pro Plan® Savor® Shredded Blend in the Salmon & Rice Formula, made with real meat. Our cats love the fish and I love that it’s rich in antioxidants and omega fatty acids,  high in protein, and has vital vitamins and minerals, such as calcium for strong bones. I fill the kids sippy cups and even set the microwave for 40 seconds so I can easily pop in Evelyn’s milk. Once we come downstairs in the morning, I feed the fish, let the dog out and peel a few bananas for the kids while Evelyn’s milk is warming. Since we are in the process of updating our sunroom, the kids and cats love to spend mornings out there eating their breakfast together. They have such a great relationship and I love how they’re all so close. Living in Atlanta, we have to take advantage of the cool weather before the heat rolls in so spending some quiet time together before we take on the day is key.
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Being a parent isn’t easy and sometimes it feels like we’re spread too thin and are in constant state of stress, worrying about all of the things that need to be done. Planning ahead is key, when you are able to do so. I swear by tackling small tasks in the evening. Try spending 15-20 minutes doing these 5 things to make your morning routines easier. buy doxepin online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/doxepin.html no prescription
1. Load the dishwasher and wipe down the counters. Who wants to wake up to a sink full of dirty dishes and no clean sippy cups for the kids? While the kids are eating breakfast and watching morning cartoons, unload the dishwasher, brew some coffee and enjoy some temporary moments of silence.
2. Prep your coffee. If you drink your coffee warm, then fill the coffee pot with warm water and grounds so all you have to do is press the on button. If you love iced coffee, stock them in the fridge so you don’t have to wait for warm coffee to chill. Because not having your coffee within 15 minutes of waking up is like a nightmare for moms.
3. Cut fruit/fill sippy cups. My kids always have some sort of fruit in the morning. I cut and store in small containers so all I have to do is take them out of the fridge and put them on the table. Same with pouring juice and milk ahead of time.
4. Clean up on aisle living room. Doing a quick sweep of toys in your main play area will make your kids excited to play in the mornings (and hopefully let you drink your coffee). My kids hate coming into the living room and seeing all their toys everywhere. It automatically creates stress and overstimulation and that sets their mood for the day. When they walk into a clean space, then their imaginations are free to explore!
5. Write a short to do list. Before going to bed I always make a list of things that need to be done the next day and check my list from the previous day to see what tasks need to be rolled over. I very rarely accomplish everything, but having things written down means they’re not jumbled in my head and I don’t have to constantly worry about something I have missed.

 

Purina® Pro Plan® Savor® is available at your local PetSmart. The kids love visiting PetSmart because they can watch the dogs play at the Pet Hotel and also see the cats available for adoption. Not to mention all the fish, birds and hamsters. Just be sure to keep an eye on your mobile three year old who will try and open dog treats on the sly, thinking they are snacks for him. 

For those shopping at PetSmart, they have a wonderful deal going on now. SPEND $15 on any Purina Pro Plan product, 5/31-7/5 and SAVE$15 on your next purchase of 10.5lbs. or larger Purina Pro Plan Dry Cat or Dog Food or Liter by 7/31.

 

I hope these tips can help my fellow moms out there! I’d love to hear some time saving tips that you love. Leave them in the comments below so I can try them out!

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