Happy September ~ Letter From The Editor

Anyone else trying to figure out how it has come to be September already? Whew! Summer sure did fly by. Last Wednesday when I was driving Harper to school, I couldn't help but to think that it seemed as if the summer never happened. Just like that I was back to the morning middle school commute grind. Anyway, it's good to have the girls back into a routine and back into the social swing of things.

September, here at the Jersey shore, is considered the "locals summer". Now that the summer visitors have gone home, it's our chance to enjoy the beaches...uncrowded and unspoiled. The weather in September is some of the best all year long.

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Happy August ~ Letter From The Editor

They say August is the Sunday of summer. Just as Sundays are a mad dash to get done everything you didn't get accomplished on Saturday, August is the same. We always seem to spend the month trying to squeeze in all the things we didn't do in June and July and then some. August always seems to be a busy month when it should be the month where we chill and enjoy the last bits of summer.

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Happy July ~ Letter From The Editor

Here at the Jersey shore, everyone loves to say that the summer flies by after the fourth of July holiday. I certainly hope not being that summer has really just started now that school has ended. But I have to say, there is some truth in that statement. My favorite season really does seem to go faster and faster each year. And it never fails that the more plans we have and the more we try to pack in to our summer, the faster it goes. So, here's to slowing it down and enjoying every moment of it.

This month on the blog, I'll be sharing my nightly skincare routine since many have asked me for it. It's fairly simple and doesn't include a ton of expensive products. So, be on the lookout for that. I'll also be sharing what's in my beach/pool bag including my favorite towel and sun protection products (for body, face, and lips) as well as what I'm reading. There will be a post tomorrow on festive cocktails to serve on July 4th as well as all summer long.

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Happy May ~ Letter From The Editor

Where did the month of April go? Can someone tell me? I blinked, and it was over. And now, here we are, sliding into the home stretch of the school year and gearing up for summer. This month, particularly this week, is a busy one. Emma's junior prom is Friday, and in typical Emma fashion, she's procrastinated and now we are scurrying to tie up loose ends. She's super excited for the prom and her 17th birthday on May 11th and her driving test a few days later.

We returned from San Diego a few days ago, and it was a whirlwind but wonderful trip. We covered a lot of ground, including a day trip to Santa Monica. We are already planning a girls' trip to return!

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Happy April ~ Letter from the Editor

April has finally(!) arrived, and I couldn't be happier. Although the weather this month is rather iffy with many days feeling like winter and very few feeling like spring, I can't ignore the simple fact that we are that much closer to summer. Speaking of summer, I need this dress for browsing quaint little towns.

This month on the blog, we'll be focusing on spring, of course. I'll be traveling to San Diego (my first time back to SD in 16 years) with my family later in the month, so some of the content this month will focus on family travel and my own personal travel favorites (think comfortable airplane outfits, must-haves for my carry on, and what and how I pack).

When I return, I'll share my picks for what to do and see in the San Diego areas, and a day-by-day recap of our trip. We are planning to cram in A LOT since it's the first time Emma and Harper have been to California. In the meantime, be sure to check out these favorite stories from March in case you missed them. 

Also, be sure to check out my weekly series Weekend Dispatch where I share some ideas for how to spend your weekend.

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It's almost beach season! Here are a few beach basics under $40 you'll need to look stylish on the sand this summer.

If you lost your motivation somewhere around the middle of February, it's time to get it back. These fab finds under $50 for your workout should do the trick!

Have you shopped Nordstrom Rack lately? There's so much good stuff that I rounded up the 10 items that I am loving right now from Nordstrom Rack.

Lavender is one of spring 2019's hottest colors. Here are some super cute ways to rock the lavender trend.

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APRIL MUST HAVES

Don't wait until June to start shopping for a bathing suit. The best ones will be out of stock and what's left is not likely to be your size. This halter monokini is ultra flattering on any body type/size, and it's under $30!

I'm looking forward to kicking off my ankle booties for good and slipping into spring-like shoes and sandals. I love these black and white mules for both dressier occasions or for dressing up a casual outfit. The black and white combo is so crisp and clean.

To survive spring's temperamental weather (at least here in the northeast), you'll need to master the fine art of layering. Start with this utility vest (safari chic is all the rage this spring) and go from there. For cooler days, wear it over a sweater or on warmer days, a light top or tee works with a pair of jeans.

Speaking of utility chic, camo is on 🔥🔥 right now. But this trend isn't appealing to everyone. How do you look chic without looking like you just steps off the battlefield? A simple camo tee will do. This one is under $15 and is a fun and inexpensive way to where the trend.


Don't forget to follow along on Instagram.

And Pinterest too!

Make it a great April! 🌷

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Happy March ~ Letter From The Editor

Just as expected, March came in like a lion. The first day brought a blanket of snow, and now we are expecting more snow this weekend. I can't complain. We've had a mild winter in terms of precipitation, at least here at the Jersey shore. So, I'll take it. But I'd be lying if I said I wasn't completely ready for spring. OK, let's just bring on the summer weather.

Next weekend Daylight Saving Time ends. While I'm looking forward to longer days, I'm not happy about the dark wake up calls, even though I know how temporary they are.

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Happy February ~ Letter From The Editor

Did January drag on forever or what? New Year's Day seems like months ago. Anyway, I'm happy to be closing the door on the month and moving on to February. Have you noticed the sun is rising earlier and earlier and setting later and later (yay!). Spring is coming. I promise!

This month, we have Harper's 13th birthday to look forward to. I'll have two teenage girls in the house now (oh, what fun!). For her birthday, she has asked for a new bed. A few years ago, she wanted a futon bunkbed, and we indulged her. Now she's ready for a queen-size bed. In addition to a new bed, we'll be making a few more grown up changes to her room, and I'll be sharing the mini makeover here on the blog.

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Happy January ~ Letter From The Editor

It's 2019! Let's do this! While 2018 wasn't a particularly great year, it wasn't the worst either. So when the clock struck midnight, I was ready to put 2018 behind me and move on.

Whether you are starting over, fine tuning what you've already got, or staying with the status quo, a new year is a chance for all of us to do some reflecting and re-prioritizing. This month on the blog, I'll be doing a lot of that with posts that focus on setting you up for a successful year. We'll also focus on positive changes in the new year including exercise, clean eating, and focusing on yourself and what you love to do and want to do more of in 2019.

I love how a new year brings a clean slate and a fresh start. I've been thinking a lot about the direction of Pieces of a Mom, and part of that involves taking a look at my most popular content in the history of the blog. I'll give you a little hint. Fashion, fitness, and food are big hits around here, and you can expect to be seeing more of that in the coming months. I'll be sharing my word of the year, my reading challenge for 2019, and how I stick to my exercise goals within the next week.

In the meantime, enjoy these popular stories from December that you may have missed in all the chaos of the holiday season.

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Happy March ~ Letter From The Editor

Who's ready for a new month? I certainly am. A new month is a fresh start. We could all use one of those, amirite? March is a good time to reassess the New Year's resolutions you made and determine how you'll move forward. Having two months of the year behind us, we can use March is a chance to set some reasonable and actionable goals for the rest of the year without being too hard on ourselves for not accomplishing everything we set forth to do at the beginning of the year.

Plus, it's time to start thinking about beefing up your spring wardrobe. It's always good to add a few pieces while tweaking a few old ones as well. And then there's spring cleaning...a dreaded task for sure. I don't really do a large scale spring cleaning. I try to keep my house "drop-in guest-ready" at all times, and I'll share a few of the ways I accomplish that. The spring and summer travel seasons are approaching, and I'll be chatting about packing hacks that I swear by, and some of my travel favorites from outfits to carry-on bags to on board entertainment.

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Happy February ~ Letter From The Editor

February is finally here! I have to say there were days in January that felt as if they were dragging on for weeks and others that felt like they flew by in an instant. Although I'm not fond of the February weather, I do love the month overall. It's short, which means spring is all the closer, and it's the month of my youngest daughter's birthday. So, we always have something fun to look forward to in the month.

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Happy January ~ Letter From The Editor

Another trip around the sun comes to a close and another revolution begins. Last year was a very successful year for me in terms of making some positive changes to my lifestyle. I, for the first time ever, became a regular exerciser. Yes! It's true. Without even making a concerted effort to do so, I became a full fledged gym rat. I also became a vegetarian (also without trying) and in doing so, cleaned up my diet for the better.

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Happy May ~ Letter From The Editor

First of all, where did April go? The month went by in the blink of an eye. Anyone else feeling it?

It was a very rainy, gloomy April here in New Jersey. I am happy to put that part behind me. I'm looking forward to sunnier skies and warmer temperatures. Both of which we had a taste of in Arizona and were sad to leave when our vacation was over.

But onward and upward, as they say!

There's a lot going on this month on the blog. First off, I'll be sharing a book review this week. St. Martin's Press sent me It's Always The Husband (due out May 16th) a few days before we left for Arizona, and it proved to be very entertaining pool reading. Stay turned for the review, and I'll be giving away two books as well.

Speaking of our trip to Arizona, I'll be posting a recap of our trip including what we did, where we stayed, and the sights that we visited. I'm also working on a food diary from our trip, so you can see where and what we ate during our trip.

Here's a little sneak peek at one of the views from our hotel in Tucson. It was breathtaking in every direction you looked.

If you've ever wondered what I keep in my gym bag, you'll find out this month as I share the contents of the bag and the essentials I take with me on each trip to they gym. Plus, I'll have some recommended workout clothes and gear at every price point, and the ones that have held up particularly well for me through grueling workouts.

Don't forget to check out my SHOP MY FAVES page for all my current favorite items. I update the page weekly, so there's always something new to discover!

If there is anything specific you'd like to see featured on the blog, drop me a line at piecesofamom@gmail.com.

In the meantime, don't miss these popular stories from April.

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Even before we left for Arizona, I was obsessed with cacti. So much so that I devoted an entire post to a few of my favorite cactus-themed items.

Summer is on the way! Avoid long lines at the ice cream truck and shoppe by making your own at-home ice cream treats.

Summer means entertaining. This raspberry peach prosecco punch will liven up any party!

Have you jumped on the board the millenial pink train yet? It's time!

Statement tees are a great way to express yourself in a stylish way. Check out a few of my favorites.

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MAY MUST-HAVES

May's temperamental weather calls for stylish layering. This tweed jacket works for the office or the weekend.

If you recall, I've been obsessed with anything palm print. This tropical print sandal is so fun and a nice change from the black and brown ones everyone has been wearing.

I had never been one to splurge on sunglasses. I had a terrible reputation for stepping or sitting on them and breaking them. As a result, cheap ones were always a better option for me. Until I bought my first pair of Ray-Ban sunglasses two years ago. Every since, I've always kept them in a protective case. How cute is this flamingo glasses case? Also available in a super summer watermelon print.

I swear by my S'well bottle, especially now that it's getting warmer outside. I take with me on my outdoor walks and the water stays cold, and the ice doesn't melt. I own the marble one, but I've been eyeing up this Los Angeles-themed bottle.

FOLLOW ALONG!

On Instagram

And on Pinterest

Have a wonderful May!

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Happy April ~ Letter From The Editor

I've been counting down to this month for a long time. April always seems to mark a turning point in the year. It's the beginning of a new quarter and a new season. Everything is on the cusp of blooming, and it always seems to be a magical time of the year as life begins again all around us.

I am looking forward to warmer weather, sunnier days, bluer skies, budding trees, and blooming flowers. As much as I try to remain happy during the cold, winter months, I am always more positive and motivated during the warmer months of the year. Bring on the longer, warmer days!

This month on the blog, we'll be focusing on spring, of course. I'll be traveling to Phoenix and Tucson with my family later in the month, so some of the content around that time will focus on family travel and my own personal travel favorites (think outfit, must-haves for my carry on, and what and how I pack).

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Happy February ~ Letter From The Editor

The shortest month of the year is here. Anyone else ever feel like this is the longest month of the year? February always seems to drag on...and on...and on. I'm sort of dreading February for one reason: the weather. We've had a mild winter so far, and my biggest fear is that we'll get a ton of snow dumped on us this month, and cold temperatures to accompany the snow.

Keeping my fingers crossed that the month goes by quickly and uneventfully.

So, let's get to it. I keep a running list of blog post ideas and have lots to choose from this month. February is Heart Health Month, and I'll be sharing what healthy means to me and how I achieve it. At the beginning of the year, I decided to make January my "try anything at the gym" month. I took several classes that I've been wanting to take but have been making lame excuses not to. I am happy to report that I went to the gym 16 days in January. That's a personal record, and I'm hoping to beat it this month.

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Happy January ~ Letter From The Editor

It's 2017! Let's do this. While 2016 wasn't a particularly bad year, it wasn't all that great either. So when the clock stuck midnight this morning, I was ready to put 2016 behind me and move on.

Whether you are starting over, fine tuning what you've already got, or staying with the status quo, a new year is a chance for all of us to do some reflecting and re-prioritizing. This month on the blog, I'll be doing a lot of that with posts that focus on setting you up for an enjoyable and successful year. We'll also focus on positive changes in the new year including exercise, clean eating, and getting (and staying) organized.

I certainly don't love the weather in January, but I love how it brings a clean slate and a fresh start. Lots of good things to come this year on Pieces of a Mom including a few new series, and my daughters are going to be taking on a larger role on the blog, sharing a few stories from the tween and teen trenches each month.

In the meantime, enjoy these popular stories from December that you may have missed in all the chaos of the holiday season.

If you're mad about plaid, here are a few of my favorite plaid picks.

Looking to get fit in the new year, but a full gym membership isn't in the budget? Check out these ways to exercise without the gym.

It's hot chocolate weather. There's no need to be plain Jane when you kick it up a notch with these twists on traditional hot chocolate.

Do you know your sleep personality? Find it here.

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JANUARY MUST-HAVES

This is the time of year that I crave comfort. Comfort food, a warm blanket, a cup of hot tea. Anything that warms me and keeps me comfortable. This throw blanket from Crate & Barrel is cozy but still light enough to toss over you as you lounge in front of the fire watching Netflix.

Speaking of comfort food, you can never have enough this time of year. What's better than comfort food that basically cooks itself? Nothing! The Slow Cooker Revolution cookbook will have you enjoying your comfort food and relying on your slow cooker a little too much this winter.

The harsh winter can do some serious damage to our skin. Get ahead of the game by moisturizing your face with Clinique's Moisture Surge Intense.

In the winter, I practically live in comfy cardigans. They are just so perfect to throw on when it's chilly or take off when it's a little too warm inside. This one from Gap is super soft and cozy. Perfect for layering over a tee, tank, or cami.

Don't forget to follow along on Instagram.

And Pinterest too!

Now go have a fabulous January!!

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Happy December ~ Letter From The Editor

It's the most wonderful time of the year. Depends on who you are talking to. This year I have vowed not to fall behind on Christmas shopping, prepping, etc. I'm already ahead of the game. I ordered our Christmas cards last night, which is two weeks earlier than I ordered them last year. Yay, me!

As I put together my personal calendar for December, I am also putting together the editorial calendar for Pieces of a Mom. December is a very busy month in the blogosphere. Between gift guides, sponsored content, and organic posts, December can be daunting for most bloggers. I am going to make every attempt to bring you great content without overachieving and stressing out.

This month on the blog, you can expect to see a few more gift guides. If there's a particular theme you'd like to see, please let me know (send an email to info@piecesofamom.com). I never know whether the gift guides are helpful or just clutter on the blog, so I'd love to give you want you want to see.

This time of year is made for parties and entertaining. I'll be posting a few cocktail recipes and entertaining ideas and short cuts to save you time, money, and effort this holiday season. We could all use a little help anywhere we can get it!

And after Christmas, we'll be taking a few days off to enjoy the holidays with family and friends. In the meantime, enjoy these popular stories from November.

It's party season, and that means you'll find yourself hopping from house to house. Don't show up empty handed! Check out my hostess gift ideas for inexpensive but meaningful gifts to give.

On a budget? I've got the solution and a bunch of gifts under $25 for everyone on your list.

Long gone are the days where I had what seemed like an endless amount of time to do my makeup. My 5-minute face is the way I roll these days.

One of winter's hottest colors is oxblood. Not sure what the color is or how to wear it? Here are my suggestions for the best ways to try the oxblood trend.

Last month we enjoyed a family vacation at South Seas Island Resort in Captiva, Florida. If you are planning a family getaway and are looking for a great place to take the fam, check out SSIR and my 7 reasons to visit.

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DECEMBER MUST-HAVES

Hats are the best way to trap your body heat. A pompom beanie that is both cute and functional is a must for December.

'Tis the season for festive clothes. But if you're anything like me, the closest I get to festive is a toned down plaid. But I do love a good red shoe once in a while. This red pointed toe ballet flat is fun and festive...and only $20!!!

Speaking of plaid. It definitely isn't for everyone, but it wouldn't be the holiday season without it. But If you want to jump on the plaid bandwagon in a subtle way, this plaid scarf is for you.

Remember when I talked about saving time and effort this holiday season? There's no better way to do that than with a cookie press. After years of wanting one, I finally bought one last year, and it had revolutionized my holiday baking. Seriously, treat yo self!

FOLLOW ALONG!

Are you following along on Snapchat? It's been my social media channel of choice lately where I post my day-to-day happenings. Scan the photo or add me: "piecesofamom".
Be sure to follow along on Instagram and Pinterest too!

May your holidays be merry and bright and filled with love and laughter. xx

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