Chanel Moving Forward

A modern lifestyle blog dedicated to the moments in between

Combating Dry Skin & Diaper Rash with Skinfix Inc.

Today’s post is sponsored by Skinfix Inc., but my love for their products are all my own!

Since Henry was about a year old, I started noticing small raised bumps on the back of his arms and thighs. Sometimes the skin would be red and sometimes you couldn’t even see them. However, I knew they were there because of the patches of rough, bumpy skin that covered his poor legs and arms. This dryness never seemed to bother him and would come and go as the seasons changed. I tried several different lotions and creams but it never went away. Since this clearly wasn’t bothering him, I honestly forgot about it and just chalked it up to him having dry, sensitive skin. Finally at his two year checkup I remembered to ask his pediatrician about it and he informed me it was Keratosis Pilaris, which results from the buildup of keratin (a hard protein that protects skin from infection). While this is not painful or dangerous, the thought of my poor babies skin being so rough really upset me. After all, I was a first time mother and worried a lot. Over the next few year I continued to experiment with homemade creams, lotions and body wash. Nothing ever seemed to work. buy venlafaxine online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/venlafaxine.html no prescription

While perusing in Target, aka my mothership, I picked up some of their Eczema Balm for Henry and noticed they also have Diaper Rash Balm (double score). Since Evelyn has been teething like crazy, she has been getting some pretty mean rashes to go along with her new teeth. The balm is tinted, almost like a concealer but it does not stain your hands or get on clothes. I always apply a heavy layer at bedtime to protect her skin since she sleeps through the night for 12+ hours. It has really made a diminished the amount of rashes she has had. buy viagra black online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/viagra-black.html no prescription

We have a nighttime ritual where the kids get to play in the bath for nearly an hour  with various toys. Henry gets to choose a new toy each night to take up with him (water safe of course) and I love seeing what he picks each evening. On this particular night it was mega blocks! After bath I lather the kids with lotion and spend a good hour trying to wrangle them into their beds. The Eczema Balm has really been a lifesaver for Henry’s sensitive skin. While it hasn’t cleared the Keratosis Pilaris (it will never fully go away) it has calmed the bumps and stopped them from becoming worse or inflamed. The balm goes on thick, but not greasy, and really works to moisturize the affected area. I apply the Eczema Balm before bedtime and immediately put his pajamas on so the cream can really dissolve into the skin. buy vidalista online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/vidalista.html no prescription

 

My favorite part about the SkinFix line is that they are fragrance free, paraben free and they use nut free ingredients. Be sure to head over to your local Target or CVS and pick up the Diaper Rash Balm, Eczema Balm, Hair & Body Wash and Lotion. (as if you needed another reason to go to Target, am I right?)

 

 

A Floral Themed Baby Shower

From the second I found out that my best friend was pregnant with her second daughter, I knew I wanted to throw her a beautiful shower to celebrate baby #2! The whole saying “April showers bring May flowers” came to mind since the shower would be in May. Once I had a theme in my head, I went to work on sourcing unique items to make the party special. Etsy was my go to, as usual, because I love supporting small shops selling adorable baby girl clothes and finding one of a kind items.
The dresser and vanity are from an antique store which I found over 6 years ago and have been hoarding ever since. I hoped one day that I’d have a daughter and use them for her big girl room. This is the first year where I have been able to add them into party decor. I love the feminine touches that paired with the theme so well. They also have not been re-finshed so they have a vintage look. That amazing blue couch was my mothers and I have used it several times this year. It makes for the prettiest back drop!
Any get together with a bunch of women should always include a mimosa bar. They are so easy to set up, inexpensive and are always the first stop guests make. All the juices I served were from Whole Foods and I reused the Mimosa Bar sign from Evelyn’s first birthday.
The food spread consisted of pasta salad, garlic shrimp, assorted cheeses & crackers, sandwiches and a vegetable platter. I made some blueberry & lime infused water and also had plenty of non alcoholic drink options for the pregnant ladies who attended. I used vintage napkins that were my grandmothers to wrap silverware in. This was my first time using cloth napkins for a party and now I’m hooked. (If you need me I’ll be scouring Ebay for napkin lots). buy wellbutrin online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/wellbutrin.html no prescription
Adding personalized touches to any party or event is key to make a wonderful lasting impression. The favors for all the ladies attending were mini Pinot Grigio wines with custom labels that had the mother’s name to be and the date of the shower. If you are looking for an easy way to incorporate the guest of honor, these are perfect. I also used Gardenia Labels for a friends 30th birthday party last month.
Stay tuned for a special giveaway on Friday for your chance to win all the items, plus some, in her amazing gift basket! If you are expecting a little girl soon, then I have all your floral themed needs covered 🙂 buy zantac online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/zantac.html no prescription
Photo Booth
Jumbo Balloon: Twigs & Twirls
Floral Wreath: Alison Michel
Flower Pennant Banner: Honey Crown
Ampersand Embroidered Hoop Art: The Kitschy Stitcher
Coneflower Embroidered Hoop Art: Udel Made
Small Floral Embroidered Hoop Art: The Cotton Thread
Small Floral Embroidered Hoop Art: ISewpose
Mommy to Be Pin: Beth of All Trades
 
Dessert Table
Fabric Garland: With Love Event Decor
Cake Topper: At First Bloom
Cupcake Toppers: Grainy Day Creations
Isn’t She Lovely Print: Stop Growing Up Prints
Felt Flower Box: Sadie Bug Styles
Burlap Table Runner: Hot Cocoa Design
Balloons: Mod Party
Mimosa Bar Table
It’s A Girl Print: Garvin & Co. 
Felt Leaf Garland: Mint Envy
Custom Wine Labels: Gardenia Labels
Floral Paper Straws: Twigs & Twirls
Painted Milk Bottles: Oh Lola and Co
White Felt Flowers: Felt & Mason
Other
Invitation: KL Prints & Printable
Painted Rustic Mason Jars: Charming Tennessee
A special shout out to Sarah at Baker Blossoms for making all of the bowties and headbands for the party favors! buy zetia online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/zetia.html no prescription

The Godfrey Hotel, Boston

While in Boston we stayed at beautiful Godfrey Hotel, which is a new boutique hotel located in the Theater District. The vibe at the Godfrey can best be described as hip ,laid back, cool and welcoming to all. During our stay I saw people from all walks of life: young travelers, families with small children, professionals and large groups. The main thing that stood out during my time interacting with and observing the staff is that they were all polite, patient, helpful and professional to everyone. The Boston Commons and Public Garden are only a few blocks away and The Paramount Theater and Boston Opera House are only a few steps from the entrance. Public transit is also close by, making the Godfrey convenient to an array of attractions.

 

 

 

 

A plus side of staying in a newer establishment is that there is usually minimal to no wear and tear.  We stayed in the Executive King Suite and everything in our room was clean and new. All the decor and fixtures are modern and stylish. The carpet is a chic grey which compliments the plaid headboard and bedding. There is a large desk, wardrobe and two side tables. The room was the perfect size for my husband and me. buy zithromax online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/zithromax.html no prescription

 

Unlike most conventional hotels, the bathroom is equipped which a beautiful sliding door, which hides nicely along the back of the wall. The shower doors are floor to ceiling glass and the sink is a beautiful porcelain. All the minimalistic and modern accents throughout our room really added an elegant touch.
I loved that there was a mini fridge in our room which was empty, allowing us to fill with waters, juice and coffee creamer without having to take all of the mini bar items out. It was such a bonus to come back to the room after being out all day and having cold beverages to drink. A single cup Keurig is a must for any traveler. I was able to enjoy my entire cup of coffee warm in the morning without having to reheat it 10 times (#momlife).  The 55″ HDTV’s come equipped with the hotels Innspire, letting you stream movies and music directly from your phone. The WiFi is free at the Godfrey in all rooms and lobby which is an excellent deal since some hotels can charge upwards of $20+ a day. buy zocor online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/zocor.html no prescription
A beautiful breakfast spread was provided for guests every morning in the front lobby near the bar. Everything from juice selections, hot coffee, fresh fruit, yogurt and pastries were exactly what we needed to start our mornings off right. Since our days were pretty packed, having a quick bite fit right into our schedule. The bar area was really fun in the evening and extremely convenient for a nightcap before heading to bed. There is an amazing bartender who made some incredible cocktails and was always so friendly.

 

 

My absolutely favorite part of the hotel was the the original marble staircase and elevators which were both carefully restored to their former glory. The first floor of the building used to be a fashionable place to shop, now it’s a fashionable place to stay. I love when hotels keep part of the original architecture since it adds so much to the character of the redesign.

 

 

 

With only 11 floors and 242 rooms, the hotel was never overly crowded or noisy, which I appreciated. We never had a wait time and the staff was always on top of our needs as well as the other guests. Thank you so much to The Godfrey for having us and providing such a pleasant and enjoyable stay. If you are planning a trip the Boston soon, I cannot recommend this hotel enough. You definitely will not regret it!

 

*This review was in partnership with The Godfrey Hotel. As always, all opinions expressed are my own*

 

Leotard Love

Is there anything cuter than a little girl in a leotard? The answer is no, there is not. Wearing leotards just for dance class is a thing of the past. Shops are popping up left and right that offer all kinds of options: flutter sleeve, tank, short sleeve, long sleeve, patterned, skirted, etc. There is an option for everyone and today I’m going to share my 3 favorite ways to style a leotard! My favorite shop for leotards is the Leotard Boutique. Their leotards come in every color, are adorable and fade resistant, and they are also 100% USA made! Orders ship within 2 days and their sizes start at 18-24M and go up to youth size 12. Here is the best part though: everything is under $20 which means you can order several styles without going into debt.
Option 1:
Wear alone and match with knee high socks (and preferably mary janes or moccasins). Perfect for a birthday party, lunch date or to just look extra cute. This soft mint color is by far my favorite.

 

 

Option 2:
Pair a leotard with jean shorts and jellies for those hot summer days that may include a trip to the zoo or a playdate with friends.

 

Option 3:
Wear laid back with some cotton shorts (ours are from Target and only $5!) and matching sneakers for a day at the park! Be sure to pair with a bonnet or hat to protect baby skin. This red is ideal for summer and all of the patriotic holidays. buy zoloft online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/zoloft.html no prescription
Outfit 1: Leotard // Socks // Headband
Outfit 2: Leotard // Shorts, similiar // Headband // Shoes
Outfit 3: Leotard // Shoes // Bonnet
Are you a leotard lover like I am? I would love to hear how you style your little ones! buy zovirax online https://medstaff.englewoodhealth.org/wp-content/languages/new/zovirax.html no prescription
*all leotards in C/O the leotard boutique. as always, all opinions expressed are my own*

Five Things Friday – Summer Sandals

If you follow me on Instagram (@chanelvanreenen), you may have seen these amazing yellow sandals that I took with me to Boston last week. I’ve been such a fan of Sole Society shoes for a while now and these are no exception. They can be dressed up or down, worn with jeans or a dress and are very comfortable.  Usually I would just throw on some flip flops before heading out of the house but there are so many great sandals out this season. Here are some I’m currently loving. Comment below and tell me which ones you are obsessing over. Have a great weekend everyone! xo buy abilify online https://salempregnancy.org/wp-content/languages/new/abilify.html no prescription

 

 

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Local Eats: Cinquecento, Boston

My entire family and I were lucky enough to all be together in Boston this past weekend to see my brother graduate from Boston University. It was such a special moment for all of us and I was so excited to have my husband with me so we could experience Boston together for the first time. We arrived late Thursday afternoon and had been up since the early morning hours preparing for our trip. Our dinner plans were taking us to Cinquecento in the South End and we had been looking forward to it all day.
The restaurant was very easy to get to. We walked from our hotel in the theater district and it only took about 20 minutes. The weather was beautiful and we loved sightseeing a little on foot. As a blogger and photographer I am always on the lookout for unique walls and backdrops. The brick walls leading into Cinquecento were so beautifully painted and definitely set the tone for what was about to come. The restaurant has a spacious outdoor patio and bar which was very busy, but not overwhelmingly crowded. It looked like a great place to meet friends for a drink or come let of some steam after work. It was also nicely shaded in between tall buildings which made for a more enjoyable experience. The decor and architecture inside Cinquecento stays true to their Italian namesake. Gorgeous industrial fixtures and glass pendants hung from the high ceilings and the rustic wooden tables provided wonderful ambiance and character. buy adalat online https://salempregnancy.org/wp-content/languages/new/adalat.html no prescription
Our table in Cinquecento was in a prime location: a corner booth in the bar area. The tall windows let the natural light pour in beautifully, making it the perfect spot for photographing food. blogger problems. The entire staff could not have been friendlier and went above and beyond to make everyone feel welcomed and taken care of. Our waiter was well versed in every aspect of the menu and knew his wines like nobody’s business. I am not a big wine drinker but he was able to pick out a few wines for me to sample throughout the night and I found a new white that I absolutely love: La Scola Gavi dei Gavi Bianco Secco. Definitely ordering a case of this as soon as possible. I also tried the Minuetto Cocktail which consisted of Prosecco, Vodka, Elderflower, Grapefruit and Lemon. It was also delicious with just the right balance of all ingredients. buy advair online https://salempregnancy.org/wp-content/languages/new/advair.html no prescription
For starters we had the Steamed Mussels with Red Onion, Basil and Spicy Broth. The broth was more delicious than the mussels, which were exceptionally prepared. Thank goodness for the bread they kept bringing because we soaked up every last bit of that broth. Being the carb lovers that we are, we also ordered the Ricotta Fresca: warm ricotta, olive oil and grilled bread. I’ve never had warmed ricotta but was pleasantly surprised at how enjoyable it was. At most restaurants I visit there are usually only a few appetizers which look appealing to me but at Cinquecento they all looked good. Bruschetta, Grilled Octopus, Oysters, Charred Beef Carpaccio … the options are endless and there is something for everyone. buy amaryl online https://salempregnancy.org/wp-content/languages/new/amaryl.html no prescription
My husband had the Bolognese (veal, pork, pancetta, beef and parmigiano) and our waiter warned him when he ordered that it could possibly be the best he’s ever had, and he wasn’t kidding. It was that good. My husband’s standards are set pretty high when it comes to meat sauce, yet he raved about this for the rest of our trip. I chose the Fettuccini Al Funghi E Tartufi: foraged mushrooms, truffle butter and basil. I’m a sucker for truffle anything and this didn’t disappoint. If you’re a fan of mushrooms, you have to try this dish. The noodles were so fresh and I could have drank the truffle butter sauce with a straw. The Brussels Sprouts were prepared to crispy perfection with just the right amount of parmesan cheese and pepper sprinkled throughout. Asparagus with cured egg yolk and parmigiano was so fresh as if it had been locally picked that day. We ended the evening with the Bittersweet Chocolate Budino (molten chocolate cake) with fresh whipped cream and Grand Marnier. Cinquecento really raised the bar for the trip and we kept comparing everything we ate to our first dinner in Boston.
If you are a current Bostonian or visiting this wonderful city, Cinquecento is a must. The food was out of this world delicious and the staff, dare I say it, was even better. Nothing makes me happier than having an all around wonderful experience. Thank you, Cinquecento for making our first night in Boston a memorable one!
*Our meal & drinks were provided by Cinquecento. As always, all opinions expressed are my own*

ZDough Review & Coupon Code

I am so excited to share a fun and natural play dough company with you today! This play dough is all natural and scented with essential oils. I’ve recently introduced my family to all the benefits of essential oils this year so
to see oils in the ingredient list was very reassuring. If you’re looking to experiment with essential oils, Buy neem oil online to start with. ZDough (named for the creators daughter Zadie) is made from all food-grade ingredients: flour, water, salt, cream of tarter, oil food coloring, essential oils, baking flavors and spices. This combination is much safer for your children than the ingredients in Hasbro Play-Doh which has 9 non food-grade ingredients, including fragrance (the worst)! If you are looking for a safer form of play dough for your children to play with, this is it. buy amoxicillin online https://salempregnancy.org/wp-content/languages/new/amoxicillin.html no prescription

 

 

 

 

There are 14 different colors and scents to choose from. The four I selected were
blueberry, eucalyptus, lavender and candy apple. They all smell amazing
and most importantly, they’re chemical free. They come packaged so cutely in their own little tin can with labels on the bottom. Henry and Evelyn’s named were hand stamped in the dough, which was Henry’s favorite part. He recently learned how to spell and recognize his name so anytime he sees it he gets excited. buy amoxil online https://salempregnancy.org/wp-content/languages/new/amoxil.html no prescription

 

 

The texture is very smooth and has no lingering chemical smells, except for the sweet aroma of the essential oils. Every ZDough has it’s own scent which is beneficial for kids exploring their senses. There was no residue left over on our hands (yes, even I took part in playing with the ZDough). It rolled out very flat and was easily molded into shapes and animals. Henry loves cutting out heart shapes with an old cookie cutter that was my mothers. buy anafranil online https://salempregnancy.org/wp-content/languages/new/anafranil.html no prescription

 

 

 

 

ZDough is celebrating their two year anniversary and offering a coupon code for 20% off all orders $20+. These make the best party favors, gifts or stocking stuffers and there are so many wonderful colors and scents to choose from. The sale runs until Sunday and enter code TURNING2 at checkout. Thank you, ZDough for coming out with such a safe product for my children to use!

 

Happy Friday the 13th, friends! Hope you have plenty of time to watch some scary movies tonight after you put the kids to bed 🙂
*ZDough provided me with the play dough. As always, all opinions expressed are my own*

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