Gladiator

I just keep visiting these children's Primigi gladiator sandals at Garnet Hill.   I really love them. I have the perfect outfit to pair them with too.   I can't decide on pink or yellow if I do get them.  I love the velcro aspect......buckles would be out of the question with a five year old.

A Little Slice of Heaven In A Closet

I just sold my house.  Can I be happy I may be in store for some DIY projects in my new (old) home? {don't tell my husband...he's not the DIY type}  I'm not sad to be leaving my old (new) home. {sad to leave a few great friends, but they know who they are and we'll stay in touch ; ) } 

To put it simply, we are leaving new construction {lived here for three years} to buy in a great neighborhood with mature trees and lush landscapes in an older area.  It is funny what you trade in to know you get to start planting roots in the place you talked about settling, when you talked about getting married. Then, the "trade-in" doesn't feel like a trade-in at all.  It just feels right.

So back to the DIY aspect...what about that nasty built-in bookcase my husband's wanting to rip out?  Oh I've got plans for that!  The grand plan is spinning and rolling around in my head.....but it WILL take some time.  We will also be knocking down a main wall.....excited about that. 

So where in this little old, but new to me house of mine am I going to do this? {below}  We'll pretend I don't already have a new desk I really like, right?

And the wallpaper aspect.........oh how I love wallpaper these days! 

{photo by Country Living.com}
{I already own that rug!  Isn't it meant to be?}

People coming over and you've got a messy desk?!?  Just shut those closet doors.  Love it!

Rite of Passage-Crows Feet

 

One of my favorite parts about the Oscars is getting dressing up in PJ's with glam hair and jewelry.  Tennessee is old enough now to join me and her Grammie in this little tradition I started a few years back.  After all, isn't it all about the bling and the glam on Oscar night? 

I thought Cameron Diaz was particularly stunning.   I love the red carpet commentary as well.  I was watching her interview and I couldn't believe how her crows feet showed.  It seems no one in Hollywood lets that kind of business fly.  I actually see it as a positive thing because I decided this last year I love my crows feet.  I thought both she and Kate Winslet looked great, but a bit more "mature" in their overall appearance vs the "young" Hollywood in which we first met them.

Let me back up....when we had our first family pictures (as parents) and I got the proofs back I about died. {2005}  I couldn't believe I had crows feet.  I asked the photographer to Photoshop them best she could.  This last year, when I got my current family photo proofs, I was happy to see those crows feet.  

I think they represent a rite of passage.  In a world where wrinkles are stretched and covered up,  I want to celebrate my age, my trials that put those wrinkles there and both the good and the bad years that led me to where I am now.

One of the most beautiful women I ever knew died with a gorgeous face of wrinkles and remarkable silver hair.  She had raised 8 children on her own.  I once heard her say, "I have no money at all, but I feel like the richest woman in the world."  Her wrinkles were an outward path of the inner beauty she had developed throughout her life by being a great person.

Everybody Deserves A Free Pass!

 

Enjoying her free pass!

So I believe everybody deserves a "free pass" here and there.  One of my best friends gives her kids PTO {paid time off} days during the school year.  Forever I thought they were designated days the school granted each student.  I didn't know.  I didn't have any kids yet. 

One day I realized her daughter was home from school and I said, "I swear you said they have two PTO days a year and she used hers. Won't you be in trouble?"  She just started laughing and said, "I love it when my kids want to stay home, so I GIVE them a couple days a year so I don't let them stay home all the time, but they feel like they can even if they aren't sick or anything.

Today was one of those days in our home.  I thought she just wanted to keep watching TV.  I told her she had to still get ready and run errands with me and we weren't going to sit around the house.  I thought this would change her mind.  I even stopped by preschool to see if that would work.  She finally said, "Mom, I just want to take a "pass" today. I need alone time with you."  {we are always alone together : ) }

This picture shows her little spunky, delightful demeanor.  We got Jamba Juices, went to the dollar store, shopped, bought some shoes and laughed.  I THINK IT TURNED OUT TO BE MY FREE PASS DAY!  What a great kid.  I highly suggest you allow your kids to feel like they can ask for a free pass day.  You might just end up loving it yourself.

NILMDTS

 

A friend gave me a great blog link the other day and on the side I noticed a photography link.  

I'm a little obsessed with photography links because I love to take photos and I'm really picky, so I love running onto something different and unique.  I remember seeing some black and whites at a friend of a friend's house when I was 25.  She had taken them of her children and framed them like something out of a Crate and Barrel catalog.  I knew someday I would want to have a great camera and take photos of just the things that spoke to me.  Not as a job or anything, but of my family and those things I perceived as art.

These days, it seems everyone has a great camera.  I have yet to make that purchase, but someday I will.  For now, my little digital point and shoot will do.

I was not prepared for what NILMDTS stood for.  "Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep."  It is a group of dedicated photographers taking photos of babies who are still born or about to die.  It is so very sad and so very touching.  

Finding this site was very timely.  Yesterday one of my best friends gave birth to a baby in her seventh month of pregnancy.  She knew his heart stopped the day before.  It is heartbreaking knowing you have to deliver a baby you will never raise.  My heart was heavy all day in her and her family's behalf.  At different moments of the day, the world stood still and I was so grateful for the blessings in my life.....especially my daughter. My desire to have more children deepens everyday, but I would much rather yearn for what I am missing, than miss what, or whom rather, I knew. 

My dear sweet friend is strong and brave and a wonderful mother already to three great girls.

Uplifting Messages

I am in love with these messages.  Great for adults and kids to stop and watch in the middle of a crazy day. 

Toms

 

While at a girls' lunch over the holidays with some dear old friends one of them received a gift from the other two. The gift was a pair of Tom's shoes.  I told them all I thought they were so cute, but 5'2" and not your ideal weight, does not work well with flats.  

My heart pounds for a good pair of flats, but I know I can't wear them.  It's not a poor self image...it's fact....from the girls here and the experts here.  It's not to say I NEVER wear flats, I just don't put good money into them.   

If I were over 5'5",  I would definitely love a pair of ballet flats from Ferragamo or in about any color of patent from any line. 

Anyhow, I love that I found out Toms are available for kids when I found a pair on the floor at my daughter's dance class.  Perhaps I'll get that bone extension surgery in my legs : ) and peel off some weight just in time for Spring/Summer.  {the ladder is more likely...some days!} 

Until then, I will adore them from a far.  I think the distressed navy or white is really cute paired with a cuffed denim capri as shown here.

NEVER, NEVER Leave Your Little Ones Alone In The Tub

 

Watch the story of his miracle recovery here. 

This sweet little boy was found lifeless in the bathtub.  His mother left him alone for just a few minutes.  He was pronounced dead at one point, but has made practically a full recovery.  

Doctors gladly allowed him to break policy to WALK out upon discharge from his hospital stay.

My Happy Place

THIS {a great gift made by a dear friend}

 

 PLUS {Last surviving flowers from my Valentine} 

MADE

 {This center piece for me to look at every time I walked by during my Saturday cleaning...and left over party decorations in the background}

 

WHILE LISTENING TO

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rUm_OwfF_bQ 

and 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1bWRlUFQSo4&feature=PlayList&p=E2EF534CB0900FB7&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=4

AND KNOWING

 

{My two favorite people}

were OUT HAVING FUN!

Love the New Store-HTG8

 

It's always a race to get things done during "preschool" time.  Although, I wish I was home changing a diaper or snugglin' a little one, I realize I am somewhat free until that time comes, so I make a mad dash to get things done sans a child. 

A week or two ago (I can't remember) I was reading on a blog about Forever 21's new kid's line, HTG81.  I am way to old for some of the styles at Forever 21, but I do have my flowing shirts from there I adore, especially for the price. 

So, since I needed to head down in the general area (about 45 mins from home....if I hurry),  I decided to check it out.  I found so many boys and girls fashions I loved.  Again, the prices offered in adult sizes transcend into the kid's line.  I actually even loved it more, because the styles aren't so "edge-ee" for kids.  Very sweet and comfortable.  Great dresses from $14.90 to $22.90.

I loved the options for boys in which the clothes are functional, but not your run-of-the-mill boy stuff. 

 

Sizes start at a 6, but there were some 6's that seem awfully small, so I think some of their XS's would fit a normal size 5. 

New Blog Format....I Need to Multi-Task!

 

J-J-J-J-Joseph!

So this is one of the posts (scoll down) of the good 'old days.  I love Donny!  Yes, I do!
Although I do love kids fashion, I really loved the overall randomness of my first blog. I remember how excited I was to enter into the blogging world when my friend encouraged me to start a blog.  It is more representative of the whole me and not just a small part. 

I've even thought about all the possibilities of SEO and social media and really making a business out of it, but the truth is, I always go back to my most important job..... BEING A MOM.   I LOVE it more than anything I do or .....could do.  And, this family only needs one entrepreneur.: )

I'm sticking with theswankyisis.com because "Isis" reminds me of a time in my life when I wanted to be right where I am today. I met the most beautiful woman named "Isis".  I was sure I'd have a daughter named Isis someday.....guess I forgot my husband MAY not share my passion for the name.

In an effort to manage my time more wisely, it also allows me to cut and paste posts for our private family blogs.

So, I will still be all about the kids fashion SOMETIMES, but feature many other topics as well.

  

George Washington...I Knew I Liked You

"Associate yourself with men of good quality, if you esteem your own reputation, for it is better to be alone,
than to be in bad company." - George Washington

A very wise, kind and talented friend of mine posted this on her FB page this week.  I love it.

What does this quote have to do with kid's fashion?!?  Nothing.....sort of.  The Swanky Isis is getting a bit of an overhaul.......stay tuned......or not! I'm going rogue on the concept behind the blog.......why didn't I do this from the start?!?

Rock N Rags

These are the types of clothes that make me pine for a boy more and more. I love the idea of this vest.  I think my favorite part is the corduroy. The texture adds a more dimensional look, yet there is none of the bulk and layering your little guy is not going to like. 

There are many twist out there for the embellished onsie look, but it seems most of them are for girls.  This Rock N Rags designer from Meza, Arizona {Jenn Petersen} has stepped it up a notch with the vest.  However, if you want just the tie look, she has a variety of materials available in that as well. 

 

Jenn describes herself a little bit skater and a little bit rock n roll.  I love that because my daughter is a bit that way too.  Check out more skater/rocker looks for your little girl like this guitar shirt. 

Again, just another All-American little boy look is her "Sheriff" shirt for boys.  The sheriff's badge on the front is a nice touch. 

I also have to mention I think it is fun both she and her husband have Etsy shops.  Check out his metal roses and other metal creations here.

A Diaper Cover After My Own Ruffle-ee Heart: By RaeGun

I have always been a fan of the diaper cover.   Add ruffles, and I'm in heaven.  I don't think I EVER let my daughter where a dress without a diaper cover. I was sort of OCD about it.  If you know me, this will not be shocking to you at all. I know...I know.  I would say 99% of the time even with tights, she wore a diaper cover.  ANYWAY.....

My point with all this is I LOVE RaeGun diaper covers. So adorable and so well made.  You can find these styles as pictured above, or even to-the-knee covers as well.  

I can't stop at the ruffle diaper covers though, because I have my eyes on the vintage Peekaboo Alice in Wonderland dress in brown gingham trimmed with baby blue rick-rac. I REALLY love it. {Yes, the talented Marissa Fischer, the creative mind behind RaeGun, knows I want it.}  I really hope Tennessee's brown  Sweetheart Salt Water Sandals from last Summer still fit.  I think they are the perfect style for this dress: 

 

I love the coordinating diaper cover!

 

I love the color combination, yet the style and fabric still maintain a very girlish feel.  I also love that this dress is so dang cute for my daughter, yet it looks like I could have worn it in the, um-hum....'70's.

Here are a few of my RaeGun picks, but check them out yourself at her Etsy store. Worth the click!

 

I do think the french fry outfit is a scream!

"All My Favorite Things" Birthday

 

  

This has been truly one of MY most favorite things to do with Tennessee in all of our five years together.  I can't believe she is old enough to help plan and make invitations for her birthday. 

Invitations are mostly out and we are anticipating her birthday and upcoming soiree.  Her special touch to the invitation was the inside lid.  We found embellishments together to match "A Few of {her} Favorite Things".  It was her favorite part.  It originally didn't say "making invitations" and she pointed that out to me.

The Theme:  "All My Favorite Things"

The Party:  Favorite game, favorite treats, favorite food etc.

I HIGHLY SUGGEST, party or no party, sitting down with your child to make a list of his/her favorite things.  My biggest surprise......favorite store: Barnes and Noble.  I had no idea and loved hearing that.  

Don't think my heart didn't skip a beat or two when she said favorite animals: "Can't decide between Zebra and a Giraffe."  So we did them both! That began our whole base and process of the invitations.  She was so excited to find the Giraffe sticker for the box and I, the zebra print template. Of course everything was a team effort and ultimately had to pass the "Tennessee vote".  

Birthdays are never just one day around our house.  It is usually a multi-day event.  Saturday started with a pankcake birthday party for a friend; then a pedicure with her best friend; topped off with birthday shopping with her Nana. 

 

Note:  I told her to choose an outfit to "dress up" to go with Nana.  So thrilled our Room Seven silk skirt from last Fall's line, blouse and tights still fit.  Love that outfit. Thank you to Darling Divas Boutique for all your great lines you carry.  Layered on top...a Target cardigan.

{The New Thing-ee On The Old Keyboard}

So I know I've gotten more personal lately with my posts, but is it just me or has the use of "{" and "}" replaced "(" and ")"?  I remember in 7th grade typing class thinking, "What is "{" and "}"?   I've seen it used more in the last six months than in my whole life.  Especially on blogs and websites...yet, still not in everyday life.

Must say.....I do love anything that is a little more foo-foo and/or frilly, so I am on the "{" and "}" bandwagon.  Let's be honest, it does add a tiny bit more life to what you are saying via typed phrases. {Whomever made up the use of the "open brace/close brace" filled with text, I want you to know I fully acknowledge I'm copying you.: ) }

just be......Amazed!

'

I Love, yes with a capital "L", Love just be.  It's all about the embellishments and ruffles these days, but I really feel like they were one of the very first to market in this genre of clothing, handbags and accessories. 

 The fabrics, textiles, designs.....are all pieced together so beautifully.  I think one of the greatest aspects of just be, is the ability to create so many amazing articles, yet each feels like a custom work of art.  I can spot designer Suzi Bates' line across the room at a boutique, but upon a closer look, you just see the individual genius intertwined through each. 

The pettiskirts.......so here is something I had yet to see.....well, until at a local boutique the end of November.   Total petti, but patterned fabric at the top instead of all that petti material throughout like you see EVERYWHERE. Do you die?  I have to say I go for the more chic, comfy look with the ruffled fabric and embellishment just be offers, but if you ARE going for petti, why not add the pazazz of the material atop? Love it!

Many just be pieces feature the "pom-pom" trim.  Look closely at one of the latest with the sweet black and white pattern.   Is that really a pram? Fun.

Ok, so I can't just feature kid's fashion. It was really icing on the cake when I discovered these skirts and handbags I loved could also be found in little girl sizes as well. 


If you are local to Northern Utah, catch just be and other local artists/designers/vendors at The Art Market, tomorrow, February 5th.  Also, why not become a fan of just be on Facebook?  You'll get up-to-date photos of their latest. 

 

I REALLY want this! (above)

 

For the more subtle

I had to take this off the just be website because I love everything featured in these pics! (above)

Keep creating just be! 

Not Too Shabby....Apple

I fell in love with Shabby Apple a few years back when I first saw this adorable black print dress.  

Now, as time has gone by, I just love seeing what they will come up with next.  I can't decide what makes me so drawn to the line more: the fabric patterns or the fact that little girls can look oh-so-stylish and feel comfortable at the same time.  

Every little girl I've ever seen sporting a Shabby Apple design, looks put together and like someone got them ready, but they feel free to run and play and explore.  I absolutely love that about this line. 

It seems Shabby Apple sticks true to itself, while still creating all the time.  I know they are really excited to release their "Central Park" line for Spring. Check out their blog for a sneak peak here and there of these inspired works.

I also adore this dress.

Can't wait to see more from this new "Central Park" line.   Be sure to check out what New York local bloggers have to say about their City via the Shabby Apple blog.

I also have to mention I have much love for their dresses for women.

Priceless Artwork

 

I have always loved art.  This isn't my time nor season for becoming a connoisseur of art, but someday I would love to pick it up as a hobby and really discover artists in depth and find the styles and genres I like.  I also feel like those "priceless" pieces are not in my reach right now.  Or so I thought.....

"PRICELESS" is relative.  I love this priceless picture by my in-house artist, Tennessee. 

We are placing our house on the market and I've been trying to find that special arrangement on the mantel in my family room to spruce up the room's appeal.  I think I've got it!  

I've commissioned a piece and she's agreed.  We are going to buy a large canvas this week.  

I did have her complete a small canvas a few years ago which sits on an easel in my husband's office.  However, I saw a segment on a local TV program this week in which a designer gave a client's children some paint colors in the hues of the room's decor.  They all painted self-portraits.  SO, upon purchasing the canvas, we will purchase paints.....some in her choice and some in mine (the rooms colors).  

I am loving all the metallic looks out there, so perhaps the background can be a combination of a metallic and base color paint. 

Excited for this!

Also have to mention she used her Smencils and erasers she collects before she did the markers.  She loves to show her friends her eraser collection.  {Thanks to our friend "Louisa" for introducing us to Smencils and decorative erasers last year} The best part is that these erasers really work well!

I think I love them as much as she does.  My favorite eraser is the garden bouquet.  Hers is the popsicle.   She's excited to have these be part of her swag at her upcoming birthday party.  (ala Fancy Nancy......swag is fun to replace favor right?)