The Baby Junebug

Trick or Treat!

2011-11-02T07:22:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,
We certainly picked a dramatic moment to take you out in the dark for the first time. The fact that you go to sleep so early means you just never went out at night. But this night was certainly special. We went trick or treating at the Oaks with Alfie and Jagger and you went crazy. They close down the street and all the neighbors really go all out with the decorations... they try and make it as scary as possible but you weren't scared. You wouldn't even walk up to a house unless it looked like a scary mansion.
XO
Mommy

Is This a Treat or a Trick?!

2011-11-01T07:19:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,
We love getting invited to your friend Ledger's holiday parties... they are always so beautiful, full of detail and fun BUT since you've realized that all that "stuff" is actually CANDY it's become more of a "conversation" or maybe a debate between Mommy and Daddy about how much candy you are allowed to have. If it were up to Daddy - NONE. Mommy is a bit more pragmatic on the matter. I think you should learn how to eat sweets in a responsible way. In the meantime, just admire the decor, the design the time and effort Ledger's parents put into this Halloween extravaganza!!!
XO
Mommy

"I NO Baby, I Snow White!"

2011-10-31T22:11:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,
This year for Halloween we dressed you up in one of these store bought Snow White dresses. I was very upset by the fact that I didn't have time to get creative, maybe log onto etsy.com and dress you up like a handmade piece of shrimp sushi. I felt like a failure. But, the Snow White thing kinda worked out. You loved it and the dress works post-Halloween for dress up in your playroom. Since then, you've made Snow White your alter ego... the other day at the park some little kid said, "Be careful, baby" as you were climbing up the jungle gym and you said, "I NO Baby! I Snow White!"
XO
Mommy

Mommy Tips: Best $175 spent EVER!

2011-10-29T21:07:00.000-07:00

After June's second birthday, she was literally asking for a jumpy on a daily basis. Her Daddy got so tired of it, he went to Wal Mart and unbeknownst to him they actually exist and for not that much money. This one is made by little tikes, has it's own generator and blows up in about 45 seconds. It's been invaluable. She probably uses it on a daily basis. I have to say though, they do sell ones with a little roof on them for about $50 more which if I had to do it all over again, I would do that instead as this one can get a bit dirty. Seen here with her cousins, June having the time of their life which is of course: Priceless!

Big Girl Room Inspiration!

2011-10-25T23:42:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

I bought this rug for you at a flea market in Paris. After seeing Ruby's adorable little sate upholstered in a rug, I thought maybe this would also be a good place to start. What do you think?!

Mommy

Ruby gets BIG GIRL room!

2011-10-25T20:16:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

I remember holding Ruby as a brand new little baby and now she's in a big girl room! You guys are growing up so fast! It's no surprise the room is BEAUTIFUL, perfect for a modern day little princess. Ruby's Mommy did an awesome job on it. It has definitely inspired me to start thinking about yours!

Mommy

Pics: courtesy of Susan Anderson blog

Mommy Tips: Overtired and Cranky Bubble Bath!

2011-10-21T19:21:00.000-07:00

Last night Junie threw a major tantrum before bath time. This has become more of a frequent occurrence in the house which is quite shocking as bath time was never an issue with her before. As I started scrambling around the bathroom while my husband was holding her body down, the kicking, screaming in full swing; I came across a bottle of this California Baby bubble bath called "Overtired and Cranky" in the bathroom cabinet which someone must have given us as a gift. It's aromatherapy bubble bath which smells really calming and it also comes with a little bubble thing to blow bubbles. Voila! Magic! Within seconds of dropping some in the tub and offering the option of blowing bubbles, the tantrum came to an instant halt. I'm sorry I can't remember who gave it to me but THANKS!

Royce turns 3!

2011-10-20T19:25:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

You have a new friend called Royce and how excited were you for his Dinosaur Themed Birthday Party?! It was amazing... Piñata, Dinosaur egg hunt, jumpy... the works. And to make it all so much cooler, your Tia Ana was in town from Costa Rica so she came with us. Lately, you wake up on Saturdays and the first thing out of your mouth is "Birthday Party?" So lucky you, the invites keep on comin' !!!

Mommy

The Aliens are Coming!

2011-10-12T18:28:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

As you know, I travel a lot for work. You've been so awesome about it. When "Mommy goes on airplane" you just say "Oh, OK!" This makes it so much easier for me so appreciate that so much. Recently, I've decided to make more of an effort to see family when I travel to the east coast. I can't wait until you're a little bit older and you can come with me. Last time I was in New York I went to visit your little cousins, Abby, Ian and Eli. We had a lot of fun playing with photo booth on the Mac. We played like we were aliens!

Mommy

Mommy Tips: Finger Paint!

2011-10-01T19:41:00.000-07:00

This is one of the best things I ever did for my daughter... buy her some finger paint! I just threw on a little black onesie that I didn't care got ruined and let her go at it. I haven't done any research but I can only guess that this exercise is good for both her mind and soul! She got so excited when she saw her own artwork she was screaming and squealing! It was one quick trip to Michael's to find both the paint and these cute little plastic shell shaped plates where I squirted the paint; we used the left over butcher paper from her birthday party as the canvas. I highly recommend.

Red Carpet Arrivals!

2011-09-30T22:37:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,
There was one very anxious paparazzi taking your picture on the red carpet at the 2011 TJ Martell Family Day which benefits Children's cancer and leukemia research. Oh wait, that wasn't paparazzi, that was Mommy! Well, regardless, I think pink vintage Lily Pulitzer with pink and white checkered one star converse sneakers was a wise choice and very age appropriate for "the carpet".
XO
Me

Photo of the Week: Junie and Cleo

2011-09-20T19:36:00.000-07:00

Mommy Tips: California Science Center

2011-09-16T19:20:00.000-07:00

Out of all the places to go in Los Angeles, I LOVE taking June to the California Science Center. It's fun because it's interactive, the people are friendly, it's diverse in its exhibits and it's easy to get to (Exposition Park just south of downtown LA). By far June loves the aquarium the best with it's diver show... the little mini tide pools are nice too where the kids can touch starfish and sea urchins, etc. Perfect for a Sunday morning.

Big Girl Tea Party!

2011-09-15T19:10:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

You felt so lucky when your big girl friend, Marly "Mawi" invited you over for a swim and for some tea. She put on the nicest spread for you... pretzels, muffins, cranberries and grapes. You wore your little Hello Kitty "baby suit" for the occasion. "Mawi's" Mommy said she made her tea pot at Color Me Mine. We should go make one for you too. It was beyond cute.

Mommy

Mommy Tips: Sand Toys

2011-09-04T19:00:00.000-07:00

Anytime you take sand toys out of the house; either to the beach or to the park; expect they are going to get mixed up with all the other kids' sand toys. They all look the same! My husband gave me a hard time for labeling June's sand toys but I've found that other parents appreciate it. Everyone wastes time trying to figure out who the sand toys belong to. So, don't think twice about it... it's not rude... it's polite. Grab a sharpie and label them, I do!

Best Labor Day Ever!

2011-09-03T18:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

This year we spent Labor Day with Susan, Ruby and Lola in Corona Del Mar. We had the best day EVER! We ran away from the waves and made sand castles. Lola just sat under an umbrella looking like a cute little chunky monkey. I was obsessing over how much I love my new Gypsy Style tote bag which was perfect for a fun beach day.

Mommy

Devin's Hello Kitty Party!

2011-08-12T17:42:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

We had such a fun Mommy and Me Day... just you and me. Before we went to see Katy, we stopped by Devin's totally fun Hello Kitty Birthday Party. Because Daddy wasn't around you got to eat your first lollipop! We also enjoyed crawling into the jumpy, eating watermelon and getting glittery tattoos. You got a dragonfly which was soooo pretty. Devin's looked like the cutest Birthday Girl in the whole world!

Mommy

All Access!

2011-08-11T19:04:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Welcome to Katy's world, where the cotton candy, lollipops and cupcakes are non-stop flowin. Maybe next time you'll be old enough to stay for the show. For now you were happy with an afternoon visit, getting balloons and raiding Katy's jewelry box uninvited!

Mommy

Photo of the Week: California Dreamin' Tour 2011

2011-08-10T18:57:00.000-07:00

Princess Dress!

2011-08-07T22:17:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

I can't believe your bestie, Ruby went all out and got you this gorgeous Princess Dress. It came with shoes, a crown and a wand. It's official now even though you've always been my Princess.

Mommy

Summer 2011

2011-08-04T22:12:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Is there anything better than getting together with friends, having a BBQ, putting on our baby-suits and jumping in a swimming pool?! I don't think so...

Mommy

Trend Alert: Electric Daisy Carnival!

2011-08-01T22:01:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

I hope you don't mind but I raided your closet. Mommy had to go to the Electric Daisy Carnival, the biggest dance festival in the country. The kids wear the hippest, coolest street styles. I knew this little knit panda bear purse your stylist, Katy recently brought back from tour in Japan would be PERFECT with my sparkly tank top, vintage Hawaiian print shorts, electric blue converse and nerdy glasses. I promise I'll have it dry-cleaned!

Mommy

A Little Prayer for Open Arms.

2011-07-30T21:45:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

My little prayer for you is that you always face the world with open arms. I pray God fills you with hope and faith. You stand before the ocean fearless, like anything is possible and as long as you let God hold your hand, you can stay that way. I am inspired by you to do the same.

Mommy

Passing the Princess Torch...

2011-07-21T21:34:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

While we were in Malibu, Ruby passed you the torch... well, it's actually the crown.

Now you are OBSESSED.

Mommy

Trend Alert: Seersucker Strawberry Floppy Hat

2011-07-20T21:20:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Your stylist, Katy, got you this hat when you were a teeny weeny baby. This summer it was a big hit. It's blue and white Seersucker with little strawberries. It goes with everything!

Mommy

Good Morning Dolphins...

2011-07-13T20:57:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Starting the day with dolphin watching, a fresh cup of coffee and you on my lap makes life worth living.

Mommy

Marley and Me

2011-07-12T07:30:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

You fell in love with Marley (Mawey) the first minute you met her. She's because your big girl friend and hopefully in a couple of years she can babysit! Mommy would love this!

Spend vs. Splurge: Striped Yellow Bathing Suit

2011-07-11T07:24:00.000-07:00

I recently spotted this genius little bathing suit at Lost and Found in Hollywood. HOWEVER, for $150 I rather just put Junebug in this $8 Circo bathing suit from Target!

Verdict: SAVE!

Babies and Boy Boy

2011-07-10T13:57:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Your obsession with babies continues and Ruby is the Queen of the babies. While we were in Malibu she let you have "Boy-Boy" which is the one baby the two of you have been fighting over for months! She's a good bestie!

Mommy

BEST WEEK EVER!

2011-07-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

This year we packed up and headed to Malibu to spend a week with your bestie Ruby, Lola, Auntie Susan, Uncle Timmy and Goldie the Goldfish. We had the BEST. WEEK. EVER. We are hoping to make this an annual tradition.

Mommy

Carson's Luau!

2011-07-08T08:25:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Your second cousin Carson graduated high school so we threw him a Luau! Mommy and Grandma Cynthia went downtown and bought Hawaiian prints for table cloths, some lai's and everything else that goes with it... we had fun with it. Your Uncle Kyle hung out with you all day at the Jumpy too, which is a nice break for Mommy.

I, Me Carry You!

2011-07-07T07:32:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

I understand the English language can be complicated. We are getting a huge kick out of you trying to work it out. If you got any of your Daddy's genes on this one; I'm sorry it might take a bit longer. I asked him about the fact that you can't figure out how to say "I want you to carry me" and you always say "I, Me Carry You!" and he said, "Don't ask me about consonants or anything like that". So there you go.

Mommy

Celebrating Papa Phil and Gaga Gigi!

2011-07-05T22:05:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Your Papa Phil and Gaga Gigi celebrated SIXTY FIVE YEARS of marriage! That's a BIG DEAL! So we celebrated and you jumped in to help. Who knew you could make poached salmon at 2 years old! I went to the flower mart with your Grandma Cynthia and handled the flower arrangements. Your Daddy was not too happy about you indulging in that chocolate cake but I guess this was bound to happen.

Mommy

The Glastonbury Look!

2011-07-04T10:38:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Music festivals are the big thing and every festival has a "look". By the looks of things, you are ready for Glastonbury in the UK! Maybe some day we'll grab our wellies and go together. I'm a cool Mom, I promise!

Mommy

Mommy Tips: Battery powered Butterfly!

2011-07-02T08:19:00.000-07:00

June's friend Ledger came over for a playdate and brought this! It's a battery powered butterfly that flies around in a plastic mason jar. It's incredible! What a great gift. June took one look at it and said "OH, WOW! Boo-Fly!" She thinks it's real... hell, even I thought it was real!!!

I Me Walk...

2011-07-01T08:14:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Look at you, big girl! This is you walking to your friend Alex and Maximo's house. Lately you have been very specific about not wanting your stroller and wanting to walk to your friend's house. Good thing you brought your Minnie Mouse backpack... it goes great with your Beastie Boys tee and seer sucker/strawberry floppy hat!

Mommy

I, Me Watch Elmo!

2011-06-28T08:07:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

It's so fun watching you trying to master the whole language thing. Clearly you are very anxious to talk and express yourself. You've always had a great vocabulary but grammar and sentence structure, not so much, atleast not yet. My favorite is when you say things like, "I, Me watch Elmo" translation: I'm going to watch Elmo. OR my other favorite, "I, Me carry you" translation: "Carry Me"... I guess derived from when people say, "I'm going to carry you". Either way, I'm not bothered. I actually like it and encourage it. I'm sure that's not the right thing to do as a "Good Mommy" but it's okay. You're going to have the rest of your life to speak correctly. So for now, "I, Me talk like a baby".

Mommy

Mommy! You Have Beautiful Baby-suit!

2011-06-25T07:45:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

It finally happened... you said your first sentence! We were swimming in Ruby's pool and you just looked at me and said, "Mommy! You Have Beautiful Baby-suit!"... I can't believe your first sentence was a compliment for ME! I will never forget it. And please don't ever learn how to say bathing suit. I LIKE BABY-SUIT!

Mommy

Mommy Tips: The Miracle Suit!

2011-06-20T14:30:00.000-07:00

So the tag said: Look 10 pounds lighter in 10 seconds and I said where do I pay?! With Summer here and no time to lose that last little bit of baby weight that won't go away, this is the PERFECT situation. They're not cheap but they're worth it. You can find them anywhere from Nordstrom to www.zappos.com. I attached the two styles I bought here but there are a million more to chose from. I feel so much more comfortable in this suit and yes, I'm in a "mom" suit! Oh, well... it looks GOOD!

Sunday Afternoons with Grandma and Grandpa

2011-06-19T19:51:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Stay close to your Grandma Helene and Grandpa "Apa" Enrique because they'll teach you a lot of valuable things in life. Most importantly, they'll tell you about having faith in God and they'll make sure you appreciate the simple things in life. We are so lucky to get to spend most Sunday afternoons with them. They take you to so many fun places. You especially love Descanso Gardens where you can see ducks, fish and flowers and play in the fountain. Maybe someday you'll share with me what "Apa" told you under that big gigantic tree!

Mommy

Hipstamatic Photo of the Day

2011-06-16T19:45:00.000-07:00

When Before Meets After: Orchid Edition

2011-06-15T19:34:00.000-07:00

What can I say? I'm the orchid whisperer... for real! Look at this before and after? My orchids are lasting anywhere from 6 months to a year now and the time that they go from nothing to full bloom is so rewarding. Sure, I can go buy a new orchid after it blooms but I wouldn't have this awesome "Before Meets After" to share with the world... Yes, I'm hooked on HGTV too.

Orchid Tips:

1. Keep them in a bright room but not in direct sunlight

2. Give them one ice cube a day

3. Be patient; don't give up

Mommy, will you accept this rose?

2011-06-03T11:19:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

We had such a lovely Mother's Day brunch with you and Ruby. How can one Mommy get so lucky?

Mother's Day Tradition

2011-06-03T10:59:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Every year you've given me a pair of Prada flats for Mother's Day. I like this tradition. And I'm excited because I've been coveting those striped ones for quite some time! Well done!

Mommy

Mommy Tips: Puzzle Organization

2011-06-01T21:47:00.000-07:00

I can't stand having puzzles around with missing pieces. It became increasingly hard to find a place to store the puzzles in a way that didn't scatter the pieces everywhere so I think I came up with a good solution. I got this canvas picnic basket from Michael's for $15, took the puzzle pieces and put them into ziplocs; labeled them with a black sharpie and done. This also makes all the puzzles mobile to any room in the house. I'm really happy with the results!

Memorial Day 2011

2011-05-30T16:51:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Don't ever forget good friends are everything. Today, Cleo and Lucy came over to celebrate Memorial Day. We fired up some hot dogs, filled up the baby pool, blew up the bouncy, debuted that polka dot bikini and had a blast!

Mommy

Mommy Tips: Veggies Revolt!

2011-05-12T10:54:00.000-07:00

June became obsessed with the Sesame Street Episode called: Veggies Revolt. It's the one where the veggies go on strike and revolt because they feel downtrodden and disrespected. The one restaurant patron says something like, "What do you mean, I love vegetables" and the ringleader Broccoli with the bullhorn screams, "Oh YEAH? MR. TUNA SANDWICH, HOLD THE LETTUCE?!" It's hilarious... as a result, June loves watching this episode and eating her veggies, her favorite is "okie" (broccoli). Why is it not a surprise to me that she relates the most to the ringleader Broccoli character? She also likes "Anderson Cucumber" who's reporting on this situation for VNN (Veggie News Network).

Please note: to watch this episode just google "veggies revolt", comes right up.

Bouncing, Bubbles, Bugs and Bacon... It's a Wrap!

2011-05-10T21:47:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

I can only sum up your 2nd Birthday Party this way - it was inspired by Elmo's World where there's fun, learning, friends, family and in this particular case, all your favorite things - bouncing, bubbles, bugs and bacon! Everyone had so much fun... can't wait for next year!

Mommy

Mommy Tips: Party Crafts!

2011-05-10T10:02:00.000-07:00

Giving kids craft projects during a birthday party is the best. They stay so occupied and it's not hard to put together. I got these butterflies on a stick at Michael's as well as the paint stamps and jars of paint and markers. My mom xeroxed a ladybug image onto red construction paper and the kids were taught how to blot some black paint on each side, fold the paper in half and voila! Ladybug art! So cute. Bonus: we hung up the artwork on a grate at the park with clothes pins which looked really great at the party and Bonus 2: I've picked the best of the lot and going to frame them and put them on June's walls. Thanks for the free kids art, friends!

Trend Alert: Party Tattoos

2011-05-08T22:34:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Bug tattoos were all the rage at your birthday party... Thanks to "Mawi" (Marley) who was our temporary tattoo applicator expert!

Mommy

All the Fashions...

2011-05-07T23:44:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

For a second year in a row, your little friends wore their cutest duds to your shindig. I was particularly impressed with the boys this year... Finn and his classic black and white striped tee with fedora; Jagger wore this great rock 'n roll day of the dead tee with his awesome long blonde hair; little Max paired up Paul Frank with Toms and cool checkered shorts; also loved True's classic black and white checked shirt. The girls came out in their cute little summer dresses; Stella rocked the hipster anchor prints, Liv and Molly were vintage perfection; loved Madeleine's fairy frock and of course Ava and Mikaila brought the O.C. glamour with their racer back princess dresses and mirror shades (perfect little Daddy's girls). You looked all cute in a little jersey dress that Auntie Myla got you for your birthday last year. MVP Fashion Award goes to Taylor who was sporting the Katy Perry crackle toe polish for OPI. Baby Fashionistas!

Mommy

Mommy Tips: Ladybugs!

2011-05-07T11:20:00.000-07:00

Boy did I luck out when my friend Lisa told me about buying Ladybugs in bulk! I had no idea you could buy 1,000 ladybugs for 6 bucks! Given the Elmo's World and bugs theme of June's party it made perfect sense to tie 'em up with a ribbon and send some real live bugs home with the kids. I found these great little plastic storage containers at the 99 cent store. It did take about 2 hours to poke holes into all 40 lids and put a tiny bit of Easter grass in there along with tying the ribbon around the containers AND of course wrangling ONE THOUSAND ladybugs was not as easy as it looked. I had ladybugs in my underwear by the time I was done but it was worth it. The kids LOVED them! (except for maybe Ledger who looked a bit perplexed by the matter) It was fun and inexpensive to pull off.

HAPPY 2ND BIRTHDAY!!!

2011-05-06T22:15:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Year two was even better than year one! You are growing up so happy and healthy... we are truly blessed. How fabulous it was to watch you blow out another candle surrounded by all your little friends. Too cute!

Mommy

P.S. Elmo Cake by Jules Exum at Fat Gladys Bakery... it was beyond delish!

The Party Checklist 2...

2011-05-06T21:32:00.000-07:00

After last year's extravaganza I promised myself I would just order some Domino's Pizza and hit a public park but alas that all fell by the wayside. So I'm sharing all the elements that went into Junebug's Elmo's World themed 2nd Birthday...

- Lardon truck: Junebug loves some bacon. Who doesn't? Check them out at www.getyourlardon.com

- Balloons: Balloon Celebrations in Santa Monica can do just about anything and will actually refill your balloons for free; nice people... Kinda pricey though. www.ballooncelebrations.com

- Craft Table: get all your supplies at Michael's.

- Tattoo Table: You can order hundreds of tattoos for just a few bucks at www.orientaltrading.com

- Bubble Guy: info TBA

- Bug People: info TBA

- Center pieces: Butcher paper, Mason Jars from Smart & Final in 3 different sizes, ribbon from downtown, flowers from the flower mart and crayons and chalk from the 99 cent store.

- Elmo bouncer: www.jollybouncers.com

- Parting gifts: ribbon box full of ladybugs. Plastic boxes from 99 cent store and lady bugs from Armstrong Nursery.

My First Barbie!

2011-05-05T10:50:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

So here's the deal... Barbie is really cool. She's got a body that makes no sense and she's way too beautiful compared to the rest of the world but it's okay, she's just a doll. She's not your role model. When I was a girl, I LOVED my Barbies... just loved them. So I decided to get you one for your 2nd birthday. You're not as into her yet as you will be soon. But this one's cool. She's got some jeans and she's just chillin.

Mommy

Mommy Tips: Theme B-Day Party Inspiration

2011-05-04T10:36:00.000-07:00

So after seeing Susan's amazing Yo Gabba Gabba Party, I set out to find inspiration for Junebug's "Elmo's World" party... this is what I found. Any of these items could make an Elmo party chic and cute. I found most of this stuff on www.etsy.com. Also, the best place to get fabric for tablecloths and things is downtown LA. You can find amazing stuff for 2 bucks a yard. A nice tablecloth always changes the vibe of things, doesn't it?

Mission Organization: New TV Room

2011-05-03T19:02:00.000-07:00

I've been obsessed with Peter Dunham Design and his fabrics for YEARS! I've been carrying around this tear sheet from House Beautiful since about 2007. I love it because it is so completely unexpected. He has a way of combining fabrics like no one I've ever seen. So I just decided to fully embrace one of my favorite sayings, "someday is not a date on the calendar"... I'm done saying "someday I'll have my Peter Dunham dream room". Someday is TODAY! Stay tuned for the before and after!

Mommy Tips: Healthy Toddler Snacks!

2011-05-02T22:10:00.000-07:00

Once I heard a story about how awful goldfish crackers are for kids so of course I became deathly paranoid of the day when June finally discovered them. Well, that day finally came... they're EVERYWHERE! So what's a Mom to do as an alternative to unhealthy snacks? Here are a few I've come up with:

1. Carr's Heart Shaped Water Crackers - low in calories, sodium, no fat = winner! (no grade)

2. Frozen blueberries - great in the summer, June loves frozen blueberries which is great because they don't go bad like fresh ones. (A)

3. Annie's Cheddar Bunnies - they looks like goldfish but are better for you. HOWEVER, look closely as there are two kinds. The good kind are the "whole wheat" (pictured here). The other ones are just as bad as the goldfish so STAY AWAY. (B)

4. Cheerios - good old cheerios... that's an easy one. (A-)

5. Graham Crackers - Health Valley Amaranth Graham have a good grade; stay away from the rest. (B)

Check out caloriecount.com for the grades as I've listed above. And instead of driving all over town for the specific crackers and bunnies I'm buying them on amazon.com

2 Years Old: Official Portraits

2011-05-02T19:32:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

You will soon learn that the fact your Daddy is a professional photographer doesn't always mean we get the benefit of any professional pictures around here... I asked him to do some "official portraits" to commemorate your 2nd Birthday but alas, it did not happen. Good thing your Uncle Travis (who's another professional) came to visit you on your Birthday, brought over his iphone and set it on hipstamatic. I love the results!

Mommy

Mission Organization: Chalk Wall

2011-05-02T18:53:00.000-07:00

I've been going back and forth on a chalk wall for June's playroom but I think I'm just going to go for it. And you know what they say, "go big or go home" so I'm thinking a full wall. Originally I was going to go with installing a chair rail and chalk wall on the bottom half but after doing some research, I think the full wall is the way to go. It's definetely a statement!

Mommy Tips: Theme Party at its Best!

2011-05-01T18:59:00.000-07:00

As I was planning Junebug's second birthday party, all kinds of ideas and inspiration were swirling in my head. But pretty soon I realized that they all spoke to ME and really didn't mean anything to the child. And then the horrible reality hit me... ELMO. I have to do an Elmo party. Crap. I don't want to do an "elmo party" but that's the one thing June loves most in the world and I knew it was the right thing to do. Thank GOD for my friend Susan who is a genius and had just thrown the cutest "Yo Gabba Gabba" party for Ruby's 2nd. She really put it all together to look cute and cool; not just slapping themed cups and plates from your local neighborhood party store on the table (GOD Forbid! LOL). So here's the take away:

1. Etsy.com is the BEST place to get unique themed party elements like those cute little handmade cupcake toppers.

2. Take advantage of the theme for your gift bags; these were ADORBS!

3. Use the theme for the baked goods... the cake, cookies, cupcakes.

4. Wear your theme! Ruby looked so cute in her little Yo Gabba t-shirt but of course pairing it with a like colored tutu and some converse just makes it FAB

5. themed paper cups and plates look great when you take the time to make a real table cloth. Susan chose red and white polka dots... between that and freshly cut orange roses... beautiful!

6. Balloons are another great spot to highlight your theme.

7. Great food keeps the parents happy which is a MUST

8. Once they turn 2 a bouncy makes the party

Oh, a Bye, Pweencees!

2011-04-30T08:06:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

I'm starting to wonder if I made my first monumental mistake as a parent. I sat you down to watch the Royal Wedding between Prince William and Kate Middleton. Little did I know it was going to have such a royal impact on you! You were fixated on the TV and when the newly announced bride and groom descended from Westminster Abbey, waving to the crowds of millions waiting outside you started waving and saying, "Oh, a Bye, Pweencees! Bye!" And then I realized... you love her. You love the Princess Katherine. Well, what can I say? It's inevitable I guess that most little girls grow up fantasizing about being a princess. I had Snow White and Cinderella but you have a real person, Princess Katherine. Now everytime you see the TV, you point at it and say, "Watch. Pweencees!" Your Father is livid, as you can imagine. Just remember, Princes come in a lot of different packages... like your Daddy for example, he's my Prince in shining armor even though he walked in sporting a look that screamed something a bit more like punk rock meets homeless. Let's hope this obsession doesn't go wrong.

Mommy

Posh Easter!

2011-04-29T08:32:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

We were so excited when your friend Ledger's Daddy invited us to their big Easter bash! He's known to be just about as insane as Mommy when it comes to "details". Mommy couldn't wait to see the Easter decorations and all the cute kids. The party was all of that and more! Easter baskets, real baby chicks and bunnies, yummy food, candy tables, bunny ears and glasses... OMG, so F-U-N! Can't wait for next year...

A Hipstamatic Easter!

2011-04-28T23:15:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

I love looking at this little hipstamatic easter egg hunt. These pics look so timeless and classic!

Mommy

Mommy Tips: A Healthy Easter Egg Hunt!

2011-04-27T22:51:00.000-07:00

Here's a tip about easter egg hunts... making it healthy doesn't have to be complicated.

Step 1: Go old school and take some time to die some real eggs, the kids can always use a little protein

Step 2: Buy egg shaped chalk. Its fun to find and lasts the whole year long.

Step 3: Do not buy candy!

He is Risen!

2011-04-26T22:29:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

One of the best parts of Easter Sunday was taking a walk down to the Hollywood Bowl to join the congregation of Bel Air Presbyterian Church for an Easter worship service. As Christians we celebrate the resurrection of Christ; some of it is a bit complicated for you right now but I promise I'll do my best to fill you in as you grow up. All you have to know right now is that you are loved by both an earthly Father and a heavenly Father; both of whom will never leave you or stop loving you. Let's make Easter service at the Hollywood Bowl a yearly tradition!

Mommy

THE HUNT

2011-04-25T08:56:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

The Easter egg hunt played out more like an episode of Supermarket Sweep! You were running around like a chicken with your head cut off screaming "found it!!!", "eggs!!!", "oh wow!!!" As you can see in the pictures you were running so fast you caught air a few times. We had to hide the eggs about 7 different times because it was never enough. I guess Mommy was naive to think hiding 30 eggs would be enough. I guess I'll know better next year and I'll probably spend a whole day just hiding eggs!

Mommy

EASTER!

2011-04-24T06:24:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

The family descended on the house Easter morning for your Ama Cynthia's yummy brunch and the sights and sounds of Easter took over. Balloons, Baskets, Bunny ears... your Ama of course could not help herself and brought gifts for everyone, your cousin Ridley even made little gift bags and painted ceramic bunnies and eggs which she so sweetly gifted to all of us. This is shaping up to be one of your favorite holidays.

Mommy

Birthday Balloons - Oh My!

2011-04-21T08:43:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Your obsession for balloons has gone next level... Your Ama Cynthia has now brought you every kind of high end balloon to the point that you are a balloon snob! But aren't these cute?!

Mommy

Mommy Tips: Recycling Receiving Blankets

2011-04-20T21:13:00.000-07:00

When June was born we acquired a small stack of inexpensive flannel receiving blankets from Target. The more you wash them the softer they get but June doesn't use these blankets anymore. Instead of throwing them out I cut them up into small squares and I use them like little wash cloths. I use them every day when June sits down for a meal, I pack them in the diaper bag for any spills or accidents and they are also great when she has a runny nose; much softer than a kleenex and more eco-friendly!

Viva La Junebug!

2011-04-19T20:42:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Have any kids at the park asked you if you are a member of Coldplay? Just sayin.

Mommy

State of the Union: 24 Months

2011-04-18T10:20:00.000-07:00

Age: 2 years old

Weight: 26 lbs.

Height: 36 inches

Eating: switched to 1% milk, 16-24 ounces per day; still using bottle; using fork and spoon, eating variety of foods

Notes: excellent speech, learning colors, shapes, letters and numbers; checking out the potty

Grown 3 inches and gained one lb. in the last three months since last check up.

Need to transition out of bottle and into big girl bed.

Friendships take time...

2011-04-15T10:19:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Ruby gave you your first baby doll when you turned one but it's only now that you and the little baby doll have really grown close... at first, she spent a lot of time in the corner, it was very tough to get your attention but one year later you are inseparable. You eat with her, take her to music class, you read her books and teach her things. Maybe soon you'll let her put clothes on again!

Mommy

My Pee-PEE!

2011-04-10T09:43:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

You finally got your tee-pee up and running... you call it a Pee-PEE which throws some people off but once they see it, it all comes together. You've been drinking your baba in there, reading books and spending quality time with your plush loved ones. I hope you love it!

Mommy

My Adidas!

2011-04-08T19:19:00.001-07:00

Jordan turns 2!

2011-04-08T05:59:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

How lucky are you that Jordan invited you to her Under the Sea extravaganza 2nd Birthday Party?! You are really starting to like parties... especially those with a bouncy house! Don't you also love how the birthday girl always seems to be rocking a cutey-cute tutu? Mommy is all about the tutus AND pretending to be the little mermaid!

Mommy

Mommy Tips: Wrapping Presents!

2011-04-07T05:59:00.000-07:00

The best thing I ever did was start keeping ribbons and notions off of gifts to Junebug because it makes wrapping presents for other kids a lot of fun. When I go to wrap a gift for another kid I've got a huge box of all kinds of ribbon to choose from, every color in the rainbow and in this case - the rainbow! I also keep a surplus of wrapping paper on hand so there's never a last minute drama going to the store to buy wrapping paper; that is the worst and ends up being expensive. I bought this great polka dotted paper at Moskatels for 2 bucks! Winning!

BED HEAD

2011-04-06T05:59:00.000-07:00

GOOD MORNING, BED HEAD!

$$$$

2011-04-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

This is what happens when I turn my back on you for 2 minutes. You raid my wallet! After I found the scene of the crime on the floor of the bathroom I said, "Junebug, what did you take from my wallet?!" and you said, "Muh-ey!"... How the heck do you know about $$$? DADDY!

Mommy

Sophie Turns 4!

2011-04-04T06:20:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Sophie's 5th Birthday was all about "The Bubble Man"... the kids were going crazy over the pools full of bubble soap and the big rings and shapes that made HUGE bubbles! You had a great time on the swings and eating pizza. You finally understand singing Happy Birthday but Daddy still won't let you eat birthday cake. Maybe when you turn 18? Thanks for a great party, Sophie!

Mommy

My First Haircut... Baby Bob

2011-04-04T05:59:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

You did such a good job getting your first haircut. Our good friend (and professional) Tanya was kind enough to make a house call and take care of that little mullet situation that was forming... and the results were worthy of the cover of CUTEOVERLOAD.com! The cutest baby bob, ever! Thanks Tanya!

Mommy

Junie had a little lamb...

2011-03-29T08:08:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

What would you do without your little lamb pillow, who you call My-Me. It sleeps with you, naps with you, watches TV with you, observes your play dates and sometimes eats with you too! My-Me is your BFF and you are very protective of him/her. The other day when Ruby came over to play, she wanted to play with My-Me and it made you very upset; you still talk about it a week later! The reason why your lamb's fleece is not white as snow is because there's rarely a moment in a day when you can't be without it so Nanny can't sneak a trip to the washing machine. Oh My-Me!

Mommy

SAVE ME, NANNY!

2011-03-28T20:11:00.001-07:00

Dear Junebug,

We love Nanny so much... she takes such good care of you. She would even throw herself in front of this big, giant bear to save you! Who could ask for anything more?! Make sure you give her an extra hug and kiss/kiss tomorrow when she comes to work.

XO Mommy

photo credit: Grandma Helene

TEE-F!

2011-03-25T22:33:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Boy are you obsessed with brushing your "tee-f"! Every day you point at the "tairs" to go upstairs to Mommy and Daddy's bathroom. Then you point at the sink and demand "tee-f, tee-f!" Okay, okay... we'll brush our teeth! Then you start going, "Mama, Mama, pink, pink!" That's my cue to brush MY teeth with the pink toothbrush. While I appreciate your concern over Mama's oral hygiene, I haven't even finished drinking my coffee! OY VEY! The other day I tried to turn you onto a great thing called dental floss. That way, we can floss together and it won't ruin my morning caffeine routine. Cut Mommy some slack! Please? or as you say it, "o-pwee-ss"?

FUNNELHEAD!

2011-03-25T08:32:00.000-07:00

Mommy Tips: vegan cow hide rug!

2011-03-23T08:10:00.001-07:00

Cow hide rugs look so cute in a nursery but I understand why some people don't want the skin of a dead animal in their child's room. I saw this rug on West Elm and thought it was fantastic! It's fake, obviously... and looks soft!

HEY JUDE!

2011-03-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

We totally did not plan matching hoodies for your playdate with Jude... but you guys looked like such cute little twins.

Mommy

Mommy Tips: The perfect present for 2 year old boy!

2011-03-22T08:17:00.000-07:00

Stressing over what to get a two year old boy for his Birthday? Your troubles are over. Lucky for you, Junebug's Daddy is the king of Toys R Us and has mastered the art of gift giving for grommits. He purchased this fire truck and rescue set for Miles which was perfect! What boy doesn't want a fire truck, boat, helicopter and motorcycle? It's a good price point too around $50 bucks. OR if you REALLY want your friends to hate you, hook their son up with the Imaginext Big Foot. It's an electric monkey doll that does about 100 different moves by remote control. It's loud, obnoxious, perfect for your little caveman, oops I mean toddler. The price point on the Big Foot is a bit trickier. I've seen it range from $65 (amazon) to $85 (toys r us) so shop around if you can!

Miles turns 2!

2011-03-21T08:12:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Miles' Mommy went ALL OUT for his Fireman themed 2nd Birthday! They had a real firetruck, a funny, balloon-making fireman, an EXTREME slide, a bouncy house for the little ones, fireman helmets, a popcorn machine, yummy food and MORE! We had so much fun except for the fact that you wanted to go down that slide and Mommy would not allow it! Next time you come visit Miles, maybe his two big sisters, Peyton and Sienna will show you their playroom, it's like a Princess' heaven!

Mommy

Friends and Pancakes!

2011-03-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Spring is here... not that it makes a difference to us when it comes to breakfast on the beach! Like the mailman, we don't care about wind, hail, snow, rain... we need to see the ocean and eat some pancakes (or in your case, bacon) all year long! This week got a bit out of control when 9 grown-ups and 7 kids swarmed a table set for 8. I think Daddy gave the waiter an extra tip after we brought him to the verge of a nervous breakdown. Oops.

Mommy

Spring is Here!

2011-03-19T12:28:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

What better way to usher in Springtime than a family visit to one of my favorite spots - Descanso Gardens in Eagle Rock. It is such a magical place especially when the camelias are in full bloom and the bulbs are starting to sprout from the ground. In a couple of weeks, the rose gardens will be exploding... can't wait to go back! Let's not forget to bring your "apa" though because he's always up for carrying you around the whole property and will give me a much needed and deserved break!

Mommy

The Meltdown Solution...

2011-03-18T08:22:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Everytime Mommy goes out of town on business Daddy takes over. He does a very good job and you are usually a very good girl but sometimes you "meltdown" as he calls it. But he's come up with what's called the "meltdown solution". I'm not really supportive of calming you down with material goods but you do get pretty excited about going to Universal City Walk and getting this Elmo balloon. I guess the day Daddy bought you these ridiculous blinged-out Elmo sneakers from Skechers AND an Elmo BRIEFCASE you must've been particularly loud.

Carry on.

Mommy

Morning Coffee...

2011-03-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Holding hands, watching Sesame Street... The only way to start the day... Heaven.

Working Mommy, Working Baby...

2011-03-17T05:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

Thank you so much for understanding that Mommy works. I know that it cuts into the amount of time we spend together but I'm hoping and praying that it's also teaching you about being a strong, independent woman. Sometimes Daddy brings you by the office (or as we call it, "the house that Frank built") on the way to the park which means so much to me. Maybe you'll want to follow in my footsteps someday and become an executive... that would be sweet! But you are welcome to become whatever you want to be... I will support you, no matter what! (well, there are a couple of things I won't support but we don't have to get into that here).

Mommy

Mommy Tips: Hipstamatic!

2011-03-16T08:20:00.000-07:00

Ever tried the hipstamatic app on your iphone? My husband uses it all the time and it creates a look that makes the most mundane activities look 70's, old polaroid, uber-HIP and cool... Check out Junebug on one of her daily outings with Daddy to the park. Hipster Baby Cute!

Product Test: Video Monitor

2011-03-15T07:25:00.000-07:00

When you see the price tag on the Summer LED video monitor, it might sting a bit at first because it's about three times the prices of a regular audio monitor. BUT I'm telling you, invest in the video monitor! It's the best. It will save you so much stress and give you peace of mind. We started using it when June was about 3 months old and still going strong. It's been especially helpful these days because she's trying to crawl out of the crib which is dangerous. An audio monitor won't tell you that!

Mommy Tips: Friends and Family CPR Class

2011-03-14T07:00:00.000-07:00

Big Thanks to Auntie Susan for pulling us all together for a CPR class! We learned CPR and Heimlich Maneuver for infants, children and adults. This should've happened when Junebug was first born but better late than never! The main thing now is don't forget what we learned! Here's Uncle Timmy doing his best chest compressions on an adult victim and helping an infant who is choking... I was particularly good at smacking the babies on the back. Susan looks so happy to have saved her plastic baby!

CONTACT the American Heart Assocation to find a class near you - www.americanheart.org/cpr or 877-AHA-4CPR

Mission Organization: Inspiration!

2011-03-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

I'm drooling over this one...

Lost in Translation...

2011-03-13T07:55:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

While there's lot of recognizable words coming out of your mouth, there's a WHOLE list of others that need a little translating. Here's a cheat sheet to some of your inventions and some of your Spanglish:

Emo = Elmo

Peen-cees = Princess

A Pwees = Please

Maw-sh = Mouse (Mickey)

Mimi = Minie Mouse

Caca = Vaca = Cow

Agua = Water

Amals = Animals

Mimis = I want to go to sleep

O-Push = Octopus

Yaya = Dog

Kai = Carly (our dog)

Kay = Katy Perry

Feeee = Feet

Key = Hello Kitty

O-Key = Cookie

Mo = More

Kah = Car

Bo = Dog Bone

Duh = Duck

Pan = Bread

A-Pay = Airplane

Baba = Bottle

Moo = Milk

A-moo = Moon

Say = Stay (dog command)

Ama = Grandma

Apa = Grandpa

Moll = Mall

Shock = Shark

Meer = Come Here

Checho = Sergio

Weebee = Ruby

Pee-yaya = Pajamas

Poo = Swimming Pool

Efant = Elephant

Fowersh = Flowers

Offee = Coffee

Avo = Avocado

Noosh = Noodles

Nanas = Bananas

Boojsh = Balloons

Geen = Green

Boo = Blue

Ping = Pink

O's = Cheerios

Burr = Bird

Fw-y = Butterfly

Wee = Swing

Side = Slide

Side = Outside

Look Who's Talking!

2011-03-13T06:11:00.000-07:00

Dear Junebug,

One of the most common questions I hear when people inquire about you is, "is she talking?" I guess inquiring minds want to know! Your "Ama" Helene was shocked and astounded that you counted to TEN this week! I've started keeping track of some of your words, and here they are:

Down

Purse

Off

Babies

Bubbles

Ball

Phone

Oh Boy!

Oh, Man!

Eyes

Nose

Mouth

Ears

Cheese

Apple

Fish

Turtle

Coat

Noodle

Cute

Yeah!

Ummmm

Newt

Mama

Yay

Papa

Nanny

Push

Alfie

Shoes

A,B,C

1,2,3-10

Poo Poo

Pee Pee

Frog

Wow

Box

BIG!

OUCH!

Magic

Keep it up!

Mommy