Views From a Treehouse

Retirement at 31

2007-05-28T18:36:00.000-07:00

After some thinking over vacation, I think the time has come for a retirement of sorts. It has been so much fun to share my fun finds with you all but with the twins on the run more than ever it just seems my time is more and more eaten up these days and I don't seem to have the time or energy I want to devote to researching my fun posts! Thanks for being such great readers and encouraging friends!

Out of the Office

2007-05-18T10:08:00.000-07:00

Views From a Treehouse will be on vacation until after Memorial Day due to our annual girls weekend and family trip to Palm Springs! Make sure to check back then for some fun summer finds!

Nifty Notepads

2007-05-17T06:47:00.000-07:00

As much as I love a handwritten note I don't always have the time to sit down and write a lengthy letter so I'm loving fun notepads of late where I can let friends know "I'm thinking of you" without having to fill an entire notecard. These adorable ones from Boatman Geller are at the top of my list!

Summer Reading

2007-05-16T08:54:00.000-07:00

Looking for some fun summer beach reading? I love bookstores but am always overwhelmed with all of the choices when I pop in to pick up a fun vacation book so was thrilled when I learned about Target Bookmarked which has great recommendations in a bunch of different categories. It's awesome for book clubers too!

Party of two

2007-05-15T07:10:00.000-07:00

I am a mom of identical twins and sadly I am guilty of calling them "the twins" and "the girls", dressing them alike and even saying "they are running or talking or pointing at things" instead of treating them like individuals. So I'm not perfect but I have to say the folks at Uncommonly Cute are making my life so much easier with these adorable twin onesies which show that each child is unique but still part of a pair. They have some darling gift ideas for the twins and singletons in your lives!

Sweet Sheets

2007-05-14T06:57:00.000-07:00

What a weekend it's been....house guests (the in-laws), graduation and Mothers Day. I'm exhausted and the week hasn't even begun! Thankfully our annual girls weekend to Palm Springs is coming up this coming weekend and I'll have plenty of time to relax poolside with a fruity drink and brainless magazine. In the meantime, I've found some sweet personalized stationery and a cute site called Rock Scissor Paper which always seems to make the day a little better!

Happy Mothers Day

2007-05-13T11:14:00.000-07:00

I am blessed to have not only a wonderful mom and mother in law (who is visiting, hence my shorter than usual posts) but an incredible array of fabulous, inspirational and encouraging mom friends. To all of you...thank you for being such a wonderful part of my life. Enjoy today and celebrate YOU!

Paper Paradise

2007-05-12T07:42:00.000-07:00

While I'm not planning on having another baby for a little while, I always love to see cute baby announcement, shower invites and of course cute holiday cards so when I found Tiny Prints I nearly died and went to heaven.

Hooray! Yipee! Woo Hoo!

2007-05-11T06:43:00.000-07:00

Just a short post to congratulate my darling husband on his graduation from the MBA program at USC today! We're heading up to campus to celebrate and while it's been a long journey over the past few years it's been one of the best things he's done and the girls and I are soooooo incredibly proud of him! Hooray!

Pottery Barn Entertaining

2007-05-10T15:32:00.000-07:00

I heard recently that Pottery Barn will be hosting complimentary classes on the finer points of outdoor entertaining at stores around the country on Sunday, May 20th. While I will be busy at our girls weekend in Palm Springs I thought it sounded like fun so thought I'd share the news....it sounds like all you need to do to RSVP is call your local store.

Super Savvy

2007-05-09T06:18:00.000-07:00

If you're like me you are knee deep in the midst of looking at preschools...it's wild how early you have to begin and how overwhelming the process can be. Whoever guessed there would be so many options and with so many different philosophies, etc....thankfully the people at SavvySource came along just in time. Their website offers great reviews on hundreds of schools and camps across the country making our lives a whole lot easier!

Perfect Plates

2007-05-08T06:30:00.000-07:00

As you know, I am involved with The Junior League of Orange County. It is quite simply one of my favorite organizations in the world and a place where I have met some of my best friends. The woman that creates these amazing plates, Timree is also a member so I feel cool just by association and adore her creations. I hope you will too!

redbox.com

2007-05-07T06:41:00.000-07:00

I was doing my weekly grocery shopping when I saw the big red vending machine at checkout. As a good former Coca-Cola employee, I see a red vending machine and my mind immediately goes to the great taste of Diet Coke or occasionally Barqs Rootbeer. In this case though, the box belonged to a company called Red Box which offers new release DVD rentals for $1 right from your grocery store or the local McDonalds...genious! I've been hearing great things about Freedom Writers and now I have my excuse not to see it as I can now pick up a carton of milk and my movie without having to make a second stop. To make my find even better I learned that if you log onto their website at www.redbox.com they will give you a code to get one movie entirely free! Beautiful!

UPDATE: We got and watched Freedom Writers and it is incredible! Should you be looking for a movie recommendation next time you are wanting a video, I highly recommend this!

Girls Guides

2007-05-06T06:51:00.000-07:00

This is such a cool idea I wish I'd thought of it myself. My darling friend CM in London recently introduced me to The Girl's Guide to City Life and I've had a ball checking out hot spots in various cities and planning my future (dream) vacations to all of these great locations!

Sugar Sugar

2007-05-05T07:36:00.000-07:00

I LOVE Sugar Paper's stationery so when I got word that they had created a new website AND were offering 20% off on all orders through June 15th it seemed too good to be true! Now in addition to darling paper goods they have great organizational items, baby things and gifts! Hooray!

Bag Envy

2007-05-04T07:15:00.001-07:00

It was at music class yesterday with the twins that I saw the bag of the week - I literally seem to fall in love with a new purse or bag almost every week. Oddly it's from Lands End, a company that I haven't really ever been a shopper of but this has my name written all over it! I've already placed my order so will keep you posted!

Bittersweet

2007-05-03T06:37:00.000-07:00

I am so excited about tonights two hour Grey's Anatomy event. I have to say I am really rooting for Alex and Addison although I felt bad for McSteamy last week. Sadly I think I am a fan of Izzy and George too despite knowing what that does to poor Callie and her marriage. Rumors are that she is pregnant? Hmm....sounds like a total soap opera when you put it this way doesn't it? While I am counting down the minutes until 9/8c, I do wonder whatever I will watch once Grey's goes on hiatus for the summer. What About Brian is off and now this?

Pay Less

2007-05-02T06:52:00.000-07:00

I was flipping through my latest magazines last night before bed and came across the cutest pair of summer sandals. When I read the fine print and saw that they were from Payless I almost flipped...cute and cheap....how much better does it get? And to top it all off they are spring green and you all know how much I love green!

$0.31 Scoop Night

2007-05-01T20:31:00.000-07:00

For all of you ice cream lovers, you can thank my very in the know friend TK for this great tip....tomorrow, Wednesday, May 2nd is $0.31 Scoop Night at Baskin Robbins in honor of the National Fallen Firefighters Association. With such a worth cause how can you not participate? If you get my voicemail tomorrow, you know why!

What Not to Wear

2007-05-01T06:51:00.000-07:00

While I am the first to admit I don't watch a lot of tv these days, I do love What Not to Wear so was beside myself when I learned of their recent promotion which allows you to bid on a personal shopping trip in New York with Stacy London. Now the package includes airfare for two, hotel, a $1,000 Visa card and the list goes on. Sadly the bidding has already gone above my budget for such fun adventures but I'm hoping one of you can get it and will bring me as your guest. Wishful thinking?

Cuffed

2007-04-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

Moms are usually pretty easy for me to buy for...dads on the other hand often are tougher. I came across these great photo cuff links at Saige Nicole's and think I might just place my order and be done with it so had to share in case any of you all had the same problem!

Hat Head

2007-04-29T10:29:00.000-07:00

I recently got my haircut by a new stylist and am struggling with the cut to say the least. Let's just say he went a little crazy with the layers... with this said, I've been spending a lot more time with a baseball cap on these days so am very tempted to buy this cute, stylish, monogrammed option from Robin Carlton. For $18 it seems like a steal!

Jenny Journaler

2007-04-28T08:48:00.000-07:00

I kept a journal for years as a teenager. It's so fun to look back at them and read about how "tough" my life was what with the confusion about boys and what to wear to Friday nights football game and the like. Too funny! While I don't journal now I really would like to get back into it as I think it is such a great thing to do. These adorable suede journals from Monogram Market might just turn me into Jenny Journaler all over again!

Style Swap

2007-04-27T09:03:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, I love Girls Nights and Girls Weekends....there is just something so refreshing about that time with friends. Last Spring I hosted a Clothing Swap Party and we had a total ball. Now, according to my very in the know friend SG who works for Hearst in NY, Biore Skincare & Cosmo Magazine are hosting a similar event in various cities around the country and has even put together a great template for how to throw your very own Style Swap! It’s a great way to “spring clean” your closet of all that stuff you don’t wear anymore, while filling it with new fashion finds and of course fun time with friends!

Mothers Day Madness

2007-04-27T06:22:00.000-07:00

My sweet friend JS emailed a bit ago asking for some fun ideas for Mothers Day gifts. I gave her a few of my ideas from Red Envelope but thought I'd see if you all had any fun ideas for our moms and MIL's. Post away!

I heart tea (and the occasional Frappuchino)

2007-04-26T06:18:00.000-07:00

Although I do make fairly regular Starbucks runs I am actually usually a tea drinker (although the new Dulce de Leche Frappuchino Light is making this a tough decision for me). When I came across these adorable gift teas I thought they were too cute. The Spoon Sisters have an amazing selection of really unique gift items all categorized by recipient so shopping couldn't be any easier!

Flats + Notecards = Perfection

2007-04-25T06:51:00.000-07:00

I love flats - there are so many cute ones out there and they are so great for chasing the twins around the playground. And as you know, I love stationery. When a friend recently told me about Cassie Adams Designs and I saw this notecard I realized it had to have been made for me! They offer darling invitations, notecards, stickers, return address labels and the like...definitely worth a visit...

Headband Heaven

2007-04-24T06:57:00.000-07:00

I've always loved headbands but sadly I just dont have the head for them...for some reason they are always too big for me and make my hair poof out in a less than cute way however when I saw these adorable striped ones on sale for $3 I have to say I was tempted to try yet again. In the meantime, I figured someone out there would have a good headband head and might want to give them a whirl as well! Their seersucker clutch is darling too and seems like a steal at $10!

Lucy's Great Lengths

2007-04-23T07:35:00.000-07:00

My adorable Mother in law VR got me a great gift certificate to Lucy for my birthday. I'd never tried their clothes before but had heard great things about them from my friend JL so was thrilled when her gift arrived. I went last week to check out the goods and left with what is now my new favorite pair of workout pants. I got the low-rise style and it is so comfy and literally everytime I've worn them I've gotten compliments about how I look like I've lost weight...have to love that don't you? The coolest part is that Lucy makes their pants in 3 different lengths which is awesome because I always seem to have one of two problems: I look like I'm wearing floods OR my pants drag behind my 5'6" self making me wish more than ever that I was tall. Thanks to Lucy this is one problem solved!

Paperweights

2007-04-22T08:05:00.000-07:00

As you know, I love things that are personalized and have fallen in love with these adorable paperweights from iomoi. They seem like they might be the perfect gift for the mom or mother in law who has it all and with so many darling patterns to choose from there is no reason you can't find one that suits even the hardest to buy for friend or relative!

Ribbon Fan

2007-04-21T06:34:00.000-07:00

It rained all day yesderday so the twins and I spent the day indoors. We had friends over, made muffins and attempted to clean out my craft cabinets. This last activity made me realize what an obsession I have with ribbon...I just love the stuff and have SO much of it. I'm really not sure what I save it all for but should you ever need some you know where to go. Would you prefer to search a real store, The Ribbon Jar has an amazing selection....even by my standards!

PS. Their "Ideas" section offers some awesome inspiration for crafty types too!

Calling All Moms

2007-04-20T06:17:00.000-07:00

I oftentimes think I'm a self-help addict....I literally cannot get enough of it. Are there any books out there for that???? Anyhow, my recent favorite is a book called MotherStyles and it's an awesome book that is based on the Meyers Brigg test and helps you understand what your parenting style is and why you do the things you do. For example, I'm an EFSJ - "The Happy Together Mother" and as I've mentioned before I live with a list in my hand. The book encouraged gals like me to actually write down fun time with my kids on my list to make sure that I make time for it...sounds easy enough but somedays I actually need the reminder that that time is WAY more important than having clean clothes or milk in the fridge. Hope you'll enjoy it as much as I have.

DecorateME

2007-04-19T06:31:00.000-07:00

I am in total decorating mode....me, the house, the list goes on. I would LOVE to be on What Not to Wear and have someone give me a total makeover but am not sure I really qualify at this point...maybe if I start wearing sweats everyday?!?!

With regards to the house, my sweet friends at girls night last night talked me out of the craziness that is white couches at least until the twins are a little older and aren't eating goldfish crackers and other equally stainable things! I did find some great new oil rubbed bronze knobs for our kitchen cabinets and am in heaven with the new look! Now just a few new accessories and curtains for the family room and I think I'll be feeling happier with everything.

One of the things that I'm dying to try but not sure I'm brave enough for are Wall Words. I have no idea what saying I like enough to look at everyday but think it's the coolest concept. I've tried to get the photo to attach about a million times but it doesn't want to cooperate (it's been one of those days already!) so you'll have to trust me on this and just check it out!

Sticker Collecting

2007-04-18T06:09:00.000-07:00

I had THE best sticker collection as a kid. I remember trading stickers and keeping all of my favorites in my hello kitty sticker book. Tell me I am not alone in this. Now that I've found Whitney English and her incredible collection of stationery, stickers, etc...it makes me hope that my girls will do the same just so I can take part in it! Her stuff could really blow a gals budget so be forewarned.

My new favorite tote

2007-04-17T18:09:00.001-07:00

Maybe it's because I'm wishing I was twelve all over again or maybe Pottery Barn Teen just has cuter stuff than ever. I'm totally in love with these personalized polka dotted tote bags among other things and had to share them with you all in case you were looking for a fun summer bag for your beach reading, towels and sunscreen! Can you tell our girls weekend in Palm Springs is coming up and I'm thinking beachwear?

Made with love

2007-04-16T07:28:00.000-07:00

My dear friend CN brought us a delicious homemade dinner on Friday after what seemed to be the longest week ever. I can't tell you what a fabulous treat this was! She totally puts Martha Stewart to shame and makes me wish I was even half as "together" as she is. Anyhow, the moral of this story is that I honestly think some of my favorite gifts are the things that are homemade....like this great dinner and my longtime love of mix tapes (yes, I know, I am aging myself here). Now thanks to these adorable cd stickers we can give thoughtful gifts of music that look stylish too. The to-do for dinners, those may come from friends other than me! :)

Happy Tax Day/Birthday

2007-04-15T08:23:00.000-07:00

Happy Tax Day to all and Birthday to me. It's the big 31 and I've already eaten more cake than a girl really should have! I promise a "real" post tomorrow after my suger high goes away!

For the princes and princesses in our lives

2007-04-14T06:30:00.000-07:00

I know I should give practical gifts but it's so much more fun to give things that we would never justify buying for ourselves or our kids. Some of my favorite gifts that the twins have recieved are things that seem totally over the top for one year olds but I love having (think bathrobes, mini monogramed chairs, Lily Pulitzer bathing suits, Ugg boots, Crocs and the list goes on). Anyhow, I came across Princess Linens and think that this might just be the best of both worlds - some practical but mostly very cute things. My favorite at the moment is this Crayon Keeper which I think is so great that I almost want one myself!

Tagged!

2007-04-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite bloggers at Suburban Cupcake got me thinking this might be a fun way to kick off the weekend so enjoy! TK and SG consider yourselves tagged!

Three things that scare me:
1. Roller Coasters
2. Fear of being alone
3. The idea of not completing everything on my list of things to do before I die/living a full life

Three people that make me laugh:
1. Twin A and Twin B who laugh at one another on an hourly basis and have me cracking up alongside them despite the fact that they know what they are laughing at and I'm just laughing with them!
2. My girlfriends and the amazingly strange situations we get ourselves into
3. Adam Sandler oddly enough

Three things I hate:
1. Peppers
2. Being stood up
3. People who are insincere

Three things on my desk:
1. Picture Frames with photos of my sweeties
2. The never ending to-do list which I couldn't live without
3. A copy of "Daily Candy A to Z: An Insiders Guide to the Sweet Life" - a birthday gift from my sweet friend AG last year

Three things I’m doing right now:
1. Thinking about things to add to the above mentioned to-do list
2. Listening to the hum of the dryer
3. Trying to come up with a third thing

Three things I’d like to do before I die:
1. African Safari
2. Sit in the audience at the Oprah show
3. Design a house from the ground up

Three things I can do:
1. Type without looking at the keyboard
2. Make conversation with any and everyone
3. Walk the dog, push the double stroller, carry hot tea and talk on the phone all at once

Three things I think you should listen to:
1. Music? Are you serious? All we listen to these days are the latest CD's from Music Together the twins music class
2. U2 is always my best standby
3. Your mom

Three favorite foods:
1. CPK Salads
2. Vanilla Ice Cream with Chocolate Sauce
3. Pineapple, especially when in Hawaii

Three shows I watched as a kid:
1. Punky Brewster
2. Silver Spoons (LOVED Ricky Schroder)
3. The Facts of Life

Three things I regret:
1. Not keeping up with my Spanish more after living in Costa Rica. I was totally fluent and am not anymore. :(
2. Not being more committed to one sport in high school...instead I dabbled and am now so-so at a lot of things
3. That's it....I actually live a pretty regret free life thankfully.

Stamps & Embossers

2007-04-12T06:40:00.000-07:00

As you know, I love fun address labels but I have to say that embossed addresses on envelopes I love even more! The stamp and embosser options at Three Designing Women are classic, elegant and fun all at the same time. Now the question is, which to choose?

Hostess with the Mostess

2007-04-11T06:14:00.000-07:00

As you know, I love to entertain. I think it's the only child in me that likes having people around. I'm generally pretty casual when it comes to guests - make your own pizzas, sundae bars, bbq's, etc. but love to do cute invites, centerpieces and favors as much as the next girl. Now that I've found Hostess With the Mostess I'm in serious trouble...just check out all of the fun ideas and themes for parties of all sorts...Mothers Day Brunch anyone? Needless to say, I'm inspired. Let the planning begin!

Beach Lover

2007-04-10T08:12:00.000-07:00

When darling hubby and I moved back to SoCal a few years ago I decided that my house would become our beach house of sorts. Given that we live 7 miles from Laguna Beach we have lots of great inspiration here but when I found Snappy Turtle of Kennebunkport I fell in love with some of their nautical and beach inspired things! Our beach house is still a work in progress, but I really believe in the theory that a home can never have too many picture frames!

Monogram Heaven

2007-04-09T07:31:00.000-07:00

As I've mentioned before I love all things monogrammed and personalized. When I came across the website for Lauren Nicole I was overwhelmed with the great choices - from jewlery and totebags to baby items and blankets! What unique gifts for all the moms, dads, grads, etc we need to buy for in the coming months.

Resort Wear Must Haves

2007-04-08T06:40:00.000-07:00

It's been a drizzly Easter weekend in SoCal and since I've been dreaming of warm weather, I've also been fantasizing about my would-be resort wardrobe. I found some darling clutches and flip flops at Sara Langley Designs and it just makes me think Hawaii-bound! Might have to talk to hubby as I have reason to believe he's not quite on the same page :)

Design on a Dime

2007-04-07T07:18:00.000-07:00

I am addicted to HGTV and am in a serious home re-decorating mode right now which is always dangerous. I'm thinking I want to recover our family room couches in white cotten a la my girlfriend HP whose house is darling and I could move right into. Yes, I know I have two kids and a dog and a husband who likes to eat chips with salsa and other equally messy things in the family room but that's what bleach is for right? I do love the crisp, clean beachy look of white so I'll keep you posted. Anyhow, I've found another site that inspires me. Cath Kidston has adorable fabrics, kitchen items, bath items, even such fun things as cute ironing board covers and door stops...those things that I always say would make my chores more fun but have no idea where to find...search no farther...this is the place

Is intelligence or common sense more important?

2007-04-06T12:55:00.000-07:00

Appologies for the lack of posts. My poor sweet little twin A has been in the hospital for a virus and severe dehydration. Anyhow, thankfully we are home now and doing better....

Anyhow, I love board games...embarrassingly darling husband and I even took travel Scrabble on our honeymoon and I would choose a game night any night of the week given the chance. I'm dying to get this fun Table Topics Game which looks like its really more of a conversation starter than a game....just think of the fun discussions you'd have over dinner with friends! Wrapables has tons of other fabulous finds as well including home decor, pet goodies and all kinds of unique gifts.

Pink Loves Brown

2007-04-04T04:15:00.000-07:00

Talk about a cute company name! When I saw these too adorable book plates from www.pinklovesbrown.com I knew this was a site I would love and really as always when there is cute stationery involved how can you really go wrong? These are perfect for book lovers of all ages...maybe a fun thing to give the Mother who has it all come Mothers Day? I know one who would love them!

Madison Sloan

2007-04-03T08:46:00.000-07:00

I love all things personalized so while I don't typically use laminated placemats I thought these were great and could be a fun thing for small kids who love to see their names on things. Might make mom happy too because they still look stylish and match the decor.

Design Yourself

2007-04-02T06:46:00.000-07:00

The question has come up as to whether or not I actually buy or try all of the fun things I share with you all. Sadly my stay at home mom "salary" does not afford me the luxury of doing this nearly as often as I would like which is why your comments are that much more important when you have bought or tried things so please do share!

Here's something that you can buy or just have fun with...My friend SP told me about Design-her-gals and I've been having a ball on the site trying to figure out which "gal" I am....is it the one with the jeans, t-shirt, ponytail, double stroller and dog or the one with perfectly dried hair, pearl necklace, skinny black pants and pointy toed heels? Depends what day or maybe what hour of the day you ask I guess but the great thing is that when you DO figure out which version of yourself you like best you can have it printed on notecards, stickers, recipe cards, notepads and the list goes on...enjoy!

Key Fobs & More

2007-04-01T07:01:00.000-07:00

I've had the same keychain for years...I can't even remember when I got it but I'm not one to change it out very often. However, if I was one to update the keys on a more regular basis Lindsay Designs is a place I'd definately look. Their affordable, cheery key fobs would make me smile everytime I got in the car and turned on the ignition. They have some really cute pet things as well...matching collar Holly? Oh and yes, there really is a Lindsay who by the way nicely offered 10% off on all purchases made before April 30, 2007 with the code "treehouse".

Calling all Parents

2007-03-31T06:47:00.000-07:00

My sweet friend SM introduced me to Lila Guide
and I'm hooked. It's an online (they have book versions too) resource for parents and parents to be with over 100,000 reviews from real moms on the best baby shops, activities and products! Talk about a great way to get the scoop on things to do at home or when traveling.

Photo Overload

2007-03-30T07:42:00.000-07:00

After the twins were born, any time I would be out and about without them (not all that often mind you) people would ask to see pictures of them. As a first time, sleep-deprived mom I didn't yet have my act together with a cute brag book and would pull out a single picture of them to share with the world. Because of this, I believe that every new mom should get a brag book upon checking out of the hospital but since that doesn't often happen, this one at Hable Construction would make a great gift for any new parent, grandparent or parent who is still pulling out that single picture from the bottom of her purse.

How can a site called Cocoa Crayon be anything but great?

2007-03-29T06:48:00.000-07:00

I discovered these darling sticky note page markers from Bobs Your Uncle at Cocoa Crayon and think they are such a great way to stay organized and have a little fun all at the same time.

Whimsical Wrapping

2007-03-28T07:35:00.000-07:00

I strongly believe I should have been born a Spelling as I love to wrap and would be in heaven in the Spelling families famed gift wrapping room. Until I am able to afford one of my own I have a ball doing my thing at the kitchen table. Now with the help of the darling papers from Whimsy Press I can have just that much more fun. And as with nearly every site I love, they too have darling stationery options.

Real Simple Travel Magazine

2007-03-27T17:42:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that I love magazines and I find Real Simple particularly great for all of it's wonderful tips and ideas. It looks like they have a new Travel magazine out on newstands and with this coupon you can get $1 off your purchase. Might have to check it out...would love your thoughts if you've already seen it!

Buckets Galore

2007-03-27T17:40:00.000-07:00

I love to entertain and found a darling corregated tin bucket that I put drinks on ice in so that everyone can help themselves and feel at home. I usually just tie a ribbon around it to help it coordinate with the color scheme but now that I've seen these from The Macbeth Collection I may have to rethink this all together. They have everything from buckets and vases to trays and even cute clipboards and file folders for organizing in style...definately worth a look!

Polka Dot Challenge

2007-03-26T19:57:00.000-07:00

Perfectly Pink did a fabulous post today on 10 fun polka dot finds under $50! She found some wonderful items and challenged anyone else who wanted to add to the list. So who am I to pass up a shopping challenge that involves polka dots no less?!! So here's my list and be sure to check out hers too! Anyone else feel free to join in on the fun!

1. Classic Bikini Top from Boden $34 (yes, I do realize that you'll probably need the bottoms too but that puts me over the $50 limit so humor me!)

2. Chocolate Brown Dotted Notepad from Lemon Tree Paperie. 2 pads for $32

3. Signature Dot Reversible Bucket Hat from Toss Designs for $19.95

4. Dotty Striped Chester Gift Labels from Expressionery. 80 Labels for $16

5. Preppy Polka Dot Calling Cards from A Touch of Whimsy. $12 for 30 cards.

6. Polka Dotted Apron from Sally Russell $44

7. Pink and Green Dots File Folders from See Jane Work. 6 for $11.95

8. Printed Jelly Flip Flops from JCrew $19.50

9. Dot to Dot Towels from Garnet Hill. From $8

10. Hot Spots Tinware Canisters from Kate's Paperie $4-$24

Toile

2007-03-26T07:23:00.000-07:00

What can I say? I love Toile. The twins nursery is pink and green and I just love spending time in there. When I came across Town Toiles it made me wish I lived in Chicago again just so I could have this great pattern! They have darling designs for San Francisco, Boston, New York and the list goes on!

Nifty Notecards

2007-03-25T07:31:00.000-07:00

I sure do love stationery so when my sweet friend BG introduced me to Erin Condren's adorable stuff I was sold. Not only are her designs bright and cheerful but she is the mother of twins! She also has darling gift labels which I think are a fun gift in and of themselves now that we are on the "birthday party circut".

Green Green and more Green!

2007-03-24T07:21:00.000-07:00

I love clutches and think they are such a fun way to add some pizazz to an outfit especially in the summertime. I'm also loving green this season so just might have to indulge on this fun one from Amici Accessories. I'm also head over heels in love with my new green Button-Tab Twill Pants from Old Navy. I've seen JCrew selling very similar ones for quite a bit more so am thrilled with my find and hope you'll agree that they are fun for spring/summer. Sadly they don't seem to have them online but I highly recommend checking them out next time you are there!

Beach Totes

2007-03-23T19:51:00.000-07:00

I love bags and these totes from Room Service Home have my name written all over them....they are so bright and cheery. I've been thinking a lot lately about using a re-usable bag for my groceries in order to help with the enviornment, etc...and these might just fit the bill and help me look stylish at the same time. Might even have to add them to my birthday list for darling hubby! For my fellow catalog lovers, RSH also has a catalog....more fun things to look forward to in the mailbox!

My new favorite catalog

2007-03-23T07:31:00.000-07:00

So it's no big surprise that I love getting mail. In order to ensure that I get something fun ALMOST everyday I subscribe to a ton of magazines and order catalogs galore. My new favorite is from an adorable papergoods company called Swoozies that of course has great stationery but also has darling totes and party items from fun ice buckets to cute paper plates and napkins. It looks like they even have retail stores in Georgia, Florida, Texas, North Carolina, South Carolina and Arizona. Let's hope a Cali location isn't too far off!

Flip Flops, Wellies and More!

2007-03-22T20:03:00.000-07:00

While I do know that April Showers bring May Flowers I don't often have a chance to wear wellies in Southern Cal. However, if I did, I would certainly want these from Toss Designs. Luckily they have tons of other cute things from totes to bucket hats and darling makeup bags as well as these darling flip flops which for $14 a pair you simply can't pass up. They have some sweet pet things too!

Free Fun

2007-03-22T07:02:00.000-07:00

Free Fun Guides show you how to enjoy California coastal cities like Orange County, LA and San Francisco without breaking the bank. They include a great list of museums, concerts, films and festivals that are all free so you can save your money for fun restaurants and shopping! There is also a New York guide for my East Coast friends!

Precious Plates & Placemats

2007-03-21T08:25:00.000-07:00

I LOVE plates and platters and think that these personalized plates and placemats from Fontaine Maury are just adorable. Of course they have darling stationery too!

Lavender Gardens

2007-03-20T12:03:00.001-07:00

I love fresh herbs. There is something about Rosemary that makes me happy, I honestly think I could eat it in anything. I also find Cilantro to be about one of the best things ever - just so fresh and crisp tasting! And Lavender....it's amazing how a single scent can relax me so much. Needless to say when I saw this Mini Lavender Garden at Chasing Fireflies I thought it was the cutest thing ever. I should tell you that I have killed ivy and a cactus, both of which are supposed to be fool-proof so I am no green thumb but I do love the idea and thought this could be a great hostess gift. This adorable website also has tons of cute things for the babies and kids in our lives.

Cookies too cute to eat

2007-03-19T20:29:00.000-07:00

Some people are just harder than others to buy for. With Fathers Day in the not too distant future I'm starting to think about things I could do for the men in my life that they would actually enjoy. Rollingpin Productions might have just saved the day with their adorable custom cookies. Cute for showers, graduations, weddings, etc...too!

Photo Find

2007-03-19T14:29:00.000-07:00

It came to my attention at a recent girls night that not everyone knows about Costco's great photo store so here goes....as a Costco member you can upload your photos to their website from the comfy of home in your pj's and they will process the order and then send the finished photos to you free of charge. While I know the uploading from home aspect isn't anything new the free shipping is pretty nice. It certainly makes getting the mail more fun when I know I'll have a big shiny stack of pictures to look forward to and we can always use that money we would have spent on shipping for something fun like a new nailpolish (my favorite is Essie Ballet Slippers) or a fun drink at Starbucks.

Just Beachy

2007-03-19T14:21:00.000-07:00

Appologies for my recent lack of posts. The twins and I have been busy with our sweet friends BN and MN from Chicago in town and have been enjoying some fun girl time! Anyhow, this one is worth the wait. As you all know, I love Coastal Living magazine. I feel like I've gone on vacation whenever I get the latest issue (I know, I'm a cheap date!) and I save all of my old issues to look back on whenever I'm feeling like a little bit of beach. Anyhow, the website www.beachdwelling.com has Coastal Living written all over it! I fell in love with these starfish...what a fun accent on top of a stack of books or on a coffee table (one in a house without one year old twins of course!) or even tied to the top of a gift. They also have great furniture, bedding, bath products and the list goes on. More fun stuff to come tomorrow!

More cute stationery and on sale too!

2007-03-15T07:17:00.001-07:00

My sweet friend HM knows how much I love stationery so shared with me this darling set on clearance at Mountain Cow....what a great gift!

Fun Reading

2007-03-14T09:18:00.000-07:00

As a good Junior League member I had to check out the latest fiction book, The Devil in the Junior League, about the Junior League of Dallas. Having been a member of the Plano, Texas league I found the book particularly entertaining and thought it would be the perfect thing to toss in your beach bags for upcoming spring break vacations!

Itsy Bitsy Bedding

2007-03-13T14:01:00.000-07:00

Not that I'm having another baby anytime soon but I have to say I'm ready to decorate another nursery just so that I can choose one of Serena & Lily's gorgeous bedding sets. For those of you with a little bun in the oven and those who just want to see some cute things make sure to check out their website. They do have some fun things for the Twin-Queen bed size as well...wonder if I could get darling husband to downsize so we could have their sheets????

Just Call Me Kiki

2007-03-12T11:52:00.000-07:00

Should you have some extra time on your hands you might enjoy finding out what your Preppy name is. Here's mine....

Your Preppy Name Is...

Wellesley Eaton Swanee the Sixth
But most people know you as Kiki

What's Your Preppy Name?

Address Labels

2007-03-12T08:35:00.000-07:00

I love getting mail and it's even more fun when the note is on cute stationery and the envelope has a fun address label on it. Noteworthy Notes has a great offer in case like me, you need to re-stock! Now through the end of the month with any Dinky Designs address label or gift sticker order you'll get double the quantity at no extra cost! Happy shopping!

Piperlime

2007-03-11T07:31:00.000-07:00

So my search for the perfect flat is officially on. I need something comfy and cute that can withstand the wear and tear of trips to the park, racing around after the twins and will still look stylish. While I'm not sure these totally fit the bill I do think they are adorable and Piperlime, the new online shoe store from Gap is offering 15% off through March 18th with the code SKP2W03ZB8Q4 at checkout. Sounds tempting!

Book Buying

2007-03-11T07:20:00.000-07:00

As you can probably tell I love to read - fiction, self help, magazines, the WSJ - I am a reader. I am also an organizer and love Spring cleaning so decided recently that I probably didn't need to keep ALL of my fun girly beach reads. I discovered the site www.webuyyourbooks.com and was thrilled when I learned they bought used books. What a great way to purge books we won't read again AND help fund future book (or shoe) purchases. I now have plenty of open spaces on the bookshelf so let me know if you have any recommendations!

Paper at any price

2007-03-10T07:04:00.000-08:00

As you all know, I adore stationery. While I don't often splurge on letterpress stationery for myself it's definately on my wish list and this darling polka dotted variety from Sugar Paper is one of the first ones I think I'll get when that time comes! In the meantime, my favorite more reasonable stationery site is American Stationery. I just noticed yesterday with my sweet friend JS that this darling set from Jack and Lulu is on sale too!

Toile and Stripes together - Perfection!

2007-03-09T13:56:00.000-08:00

Since my mom wardrobe these days seems to consist of jeans and a t-shirt, I'm always looking for ways to dress my style up a bit. Thankfully with the great belt selection at www.preppypotato.com I'm halfway there! Next up, the perfect pair of flats! The search is on!

Raves

2007-03-08T13:36:00.000-08:00

I know Nordstrom is known for their customer service but I have to rave about an experience I had there today. I bought these darling Stride Rite shoes for the twins about a month ago and one pair wasn't holding up so I went in hoping to get a recommendation on where I could get them repaired. Instead they offered to replace both pairs and in the larger size since the girls are close to outgrowing their current pair. How great is that? And in an effort to support friends my dear friend KW used to work for Nordys in store design so in some small way we are supporting her too right?

My new favorite (sweet) treat

2007-03-07T17:59:00.000-08:00

With summer coming and me dreaming of beach vacations, I've been trying to watch what I eat so I can get one JCrew's darling new bikinis (I've got my eye on the seersucker collection). With this said, I have to tell you about my new favorite sweet treat after introducing you all to a less than healthy addiction with Flat Earth chips a few weeks back. Hostess has now introduced 100 calorie packs and what fun little treats they are! I've only tried the chocolate variety but so far I'm a fan! If you log onto their website www.hostess100.com you can even get a coupon for a dollar off. Sweet!

I love white t-shirts!

2007-03-07T17:47:00.000-08:00

I have a small obsession with white t-shirts. They are so crisp and clean looking. They look great with jeans and a fun belt/necklace/pair of shoes and best of all they make me look tan even when I am not! Lately, these two basics from Old Navy are topping my list. What t's are your faves?

Flip Flops for grown ups

2007-03-06T19:30:00.000-08:00

As a good Southern California girl I have tried my fair share of flip flops. Time and time again I continue to come back to Havianas. They are cheap, super comfy and just do the job. There are times though when I just want something a little dressier and now Lori Jack has come to the answer. Her darling flip flops have just the right amount of bling to make them the perfect thing when my plain Havianas aren't quite enough. They are a little on the pricey side but the company was started by my dear friend CM's friend and you know how I love supporting friends. Check them out at http://www.lorijack.com/

All She Wrote

2007-03-06T10:30:00.000-08:00

I love monogramed items and as many of you know thought long and hard about the twins names and initials to make sure they would have nice looking monograms. With this said, I hope you'll enjoy this fun site. Not only do they have fantastic monogrammed items but they also have darling paper goods and stationery...is this girl heaven or what? And to top it all off they have three storefronts in Chicago - the worlds coolest city - it doesn't get much better than that! www.allshewrote.com

My all time favorite ribbon site

2007-03-05T08:47:00.000-08:00

As you probably know from the 100 Things About Me, I LOVE ribbon, especially striped and polka dotted grosgrain and felt it would only be fair to tell you about the coolest ribbon website I've found. The site itself isn't anything spectacular but the selection is amazing. Check out this adorable pink and green number. To see all of their darling temptations visit: www.jcarolinecreative.com

My new favorite Mag

2007-03-03T07:53:00.000-08:00

I got my first copy of Martha Stewarts new magazine, Blueprint this week and am in heaven! You can check it out online at: www.blueprintmag.com

Comments

2007-03-02T17:18:00.000-08:00

So as a relatively new "blogger", I have to tell you all that I am having so much fun with this! Thank you for reading and for your great comments via e-mail! I would love to ask you to "comment" on items/posts that you like - things you've tried, etc...so that I know what you all are enjoying! Thank you, thank you, thank you for your encouragement with this crazy adventure!

Gifts for everyone on your list

2007-03-02T07:05:00.000-08:00

I love having a little rolodex of websites to visit when I need to find a gift quickly. www.laylagrayce.com is definately one of those places as they offer some of the cutest gift items I've come across. I'm in love with the pink and brown polka dotted apron which I'm certain would make me want to cook more! Their pj's and monogramed items for babies are darling too. It's a great place to look for hostess gifts or things for that friend who has everything.

Dog Heaven

2007-03-01T20:40:00.000-08:00

As many of you know the twins take after Dear Husband and are on the slender side. We've recently had a few inccidents with losing our pants in music class or around the house as we race off chasing the dog so we were thrilled when our thoughtful friend SL gave us some adorable ribbon belts from pet designer www.lolaandfoxy.com. Now we can keep our jeans on and look oh-so-stylish at the same time. While there isn't a belt section on the site quite yet, I had to share it for the cute collars and leashes. Now there is no reason our four legged friends can't be as stylish as the peanuts! The folks at Lola and Foxy were nice enough to offer 10% on orders by Treehouse readers!

Love Languages

2007-03-01T10:22:00.000-08:00

I just finished an awesome book that embarassingly enough my mother in law gave Darling Husband and I for our 4th wedding anniversary (we are going on 7 years now). Anyhow, it's a fabulously easy read and has some really valuable information about how to love the people in your lives - most notable husbands, boyfriends and kids but I think it's really applicable to friends, etc.. too. It's called the Five Love Languages and it helps you determine how you like to be loved and how your significant others prefer to be loved. It probably comes as no suprise that I prefer "Words of Affirmation" and "Quality Time" so should you be in the mood to "love" me I hope that's helpful! You can see more at their website: www.fivelovelanguages.com

Darling Personal Calling Cards for Free!

2007-02-28T22:13:00.000-08:00

So the girls at girls night tonight convinced me that I had to share my brand new business cards with you all. www.vistaprint.com is offering 250 cards in a variety of cute designs for FREE - all you pay is shipping. I chose this one and am getting rave reviews so far! So much more stylish than a scribbled phone number on a napkin at the park! What a fun gift for a new mom!

Surf Divas

2007-02-28T20:47:00.000-08:00

With all of our rain and yucky weather as of late I've been dreaming of warm weather vacations. My dear friend KG just took off for Parrot Cay and it made me think of one of my all time favorite Girls Vacations - our Surf Diva weekend in La Jolla. The idea for this came during our annual Girls Weekend three years ago when the ever organized TB pulled her "list of things she wants to do before she dies" out of her wallet at dinner (for those who don't have such a list, I highly recommend starting one). Then and there we decided that there wasn't going to be a better time to try our surfing skills so off to San Diego we went. Surf Diva is the perfect girls weekend...we laughed, we sunned and we got some great pictures of us with surf boards! Most of all we were able to cross something off the list of things we wanted to try and now have actually done. Next up Oprah tickets and writing a book! www.surfdiva.com

Darling Decor for Kids

2007-02-27T10:20:00.001-08:00

My girlfriend EH found Litsy Designs at the Junior League boutique in Raleigh and has been raving about them ever since. Once you visit their website (www.litsydesigns.com) you will see why! They offer colorful, hand-painted canvases and wooden name plaques designed especially for nurseries, children's rooms, playrooms and bathrooms.

Life Coaching for Real Life

2007-02-26T17:37:00.000-08:00

My darling friend SH introduced me to life coaching years ago when we lived in Seattle. I was fortunate enough to engage a coach myself two summers ago and am now a believer in the process! My old coach, Jolie Steers is currently offering a phenomenal deal as part of an R & D Project she has going on.

Clients will recieve all the benefits and services that Jolie offers her full-fee clients in exchange for their permission to record their coaching sessions, a 4 month commitment and completion of a coaching evaluation at the end of the 4 months. The special rate for these R & D clients is $75 a month for 3 sessions.

The great thing about Jolie is that all sessions are done over the phone so it's super convenient and can be done from just about anywhere. As usual, I did mine via headset while driving in the car! :)

For more information, Jolie can be reached at 425-802-7021

Great Grosgrain

2007-02-25T07:17:00.000-08:00

As most of you know I love anything striped and all things grosgrain so when I saw these darling dayplanners from www.trulymom.com that had striped grosgrain ribbon as the primary feature I fell in love. They have adorable stationery as well and best of all the company was started by four young moms with a great story! They are also offering 10% off on purchases with the code "treehouse" at checkout.

Flower Power

2007-02-24T06:59:00.000-08:00

One of my dearest and hippest friends LM introduced me to the only flower shop I use anymore. www.bbrooks.com promises incredibly special, unique flowers in cities through the country which works out perfectly should you want to send an arrangment to friends in Newport, Nantucket or Nashville or anywhere in between.

Shoes!

2007-02-23T07:03:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't love shoes? Ann Roth Shoes just makes our attempts at wearing what we have before buying more that much harder. Check out the darling espadrilles in her Resort 2007 collection at www.annrothshoes.com

She was also sweet enough to offer $25 off any order with the code "25dollars" at checkout!

Now Discover Your Strengths

2007-02-23T06:59:00.000-08:00

I was introduced to the book Now Discover Your Strengths by Marcus Buckingham during my days with The Coca-Cola Company and it is still an all time favorite. It helps you determine what you are best at and encourages you to do more of those things and worry less about the things you aren't quite as good at but partner with people who are strong in these areas. The only bad thing about the book is that you can't share it or check it out from the library because you need a unique code on the inside cover in order to take the online assessment.

Merry Merry Day

2007-02-22T20:36:00.000-08:00

Meri Meri is now offering online e-cards as cute as their paper products. They are available at: http://www.merimeri.co.uk and are entirely free! What a great excuse to send a hello to a long lost friend!

I think I was a realtor in my past life

2007-02-22T20:30:00.000-08:00

As you all know I love all things real estate related. I love touring model homes, I love looking at floorplans, I love dreaming about remodels and anything on HGTV (especially the Dream House) and I love www.zillow.com. This site allows you to look up the value of any home in the country so you can get a sense of what things are going for in certain neighborhoods or just see what your house is valued at.

How much stationery does a girl need?

2007-02-22T13:50:00.000-08:00

Darling hubby continues to ask why I need so much stationery . What he doesn't understand is that when you find a website like Lauren Goessling Designs it's hard to choose just one! This is fabulous: http://www.laurengdesigns.com/.

Not only are her designs great but she herself is a doll and has offered 15% off to views from a treehouse readers on any purchase with the code Treehouse15 at checkout.