Our darling and sweet son turned two recently, and we celebrated with a special birthday party in his honor (just like his mama, he loves a good party!). He adores Curious George, and so it was easy to choose a theme! We hosted the party at Little Gym, his favorite place to monkey around, and boy did the little ones have a ball tumbling and racing around the colorful gym. Guests enjoyed brisket and chicken quesadillas from our favorite mexican restaurant, followed by a sprinkle studded vanilla cake from Susie Cakes (truly this cake is heaven on a plate!). Cheerful periwinkle, red, green, and yellow balloon bouquets filled the party room, and decor from Meri Meri’s adorable Toot Sweet collection completed the table setting. Keeping with the Curious George theme, each child received a Curious George book and balloon as a party favor. Our son had the time of his life, and seeing his joy that day made us happier than words can describe. Here are a few pictures from the party, enjoy!
Modern Manners: Lending a Helping Hand
Last spring, one of my closest friends had to be on bed rest for the last few months of her pregnancy, and it taught me so much about how to genuinely be there for a friend. Often, it’s the challenging times in life when you need your nearest and dearest the most. If you have a friend or family member in a similar situation (bed rest, recovering from surgery, an extended stay in the hospital, etc.), here are some tips on how to be supportive and helpful.
Quick Tips
Modern Manners: Lending a Helping Hand
•••Offer to set up a meal calendar, or if someone else already coordinated the calendar, sign up to drop off a meal or two.
Ask to visit them in the hospital or at their house. If you do stop by, bring them some goodies like a magazine, coloring book, flowers, lunch, or their favorite baked good.
Check in with a text or phone call to let them know that you are thinking about them and see how they are doing.
Send them a beautiful card to brighten their day.
Offer to help watch their little ones or pets, or help out at their house with laundry, etc.
Once they are home, welcome their baby home, recovered from surgery, etc., send over celebratory flowers or treats.
Preparing for Baby #2

Knit Coverall • Body Suits • Hooded Cardigan • Footie
Blanket • Bibs • Baby’s Age Blocks • Pacifiers
DockATot • Travel Crib • Monitor • Double Stroller
We are excitedly expecting Baby #2 in a couple of months (hooray!), and nesting mode has officially set in. Our son’s big boy room is almost complete (my mom gave him the most precious monkey printed teepee for his new room), and we are now focusing on preparing for baby brother. Thankfully, since this is our second child, we have most of the essentials, however there are still a few things that we need. Here is our must-have list for prince #2 (hopefully this helps any of you who are also expecting!), as well as some of our favorite baby brands. Enjoy!