August was a good month for us. I started to feel more like myself, which was such a mood booster. For the past couple of months my skin had been getting progressively worse with breakouts and I couldn't figure out why. Add that to constant bad hair days because of a weird haircut and I was all sorts of messed up. As petty as it may sound, it really messed with my self confidence and it got to me. I got my hair fixed, started drinking tons of water, and realized that my Clarisonic was the culprit to the bad skin and talk about a game changer. My hair was back to normal and my skin was clearing up and ah, I was a different person after that!
My mom came to visit from Florida and it was really exactly what I needed. We went to Fair Haven Beach and Braxton got to go swimming, while Ava decided she wasn't a fan of the water and wanted to eat all the snacks I brought instead. Another day we went out to Ithaca and enjoyed some amazing Mexican food with the kids. My town doesn't have much to offer when it comes to authentic Mexican food, which is my all time favorite, so we tried that place and were pretty impressed. I'll definitely have to take Brian there coming up. Another day we drove out to a cute orchard and picked some flowers and peaches, where my mom then made a pretty awesome peach crisp for dessert. I loved watching my mom genuinely enjoy being with the kids and just having her here with me made me happy because she's my person. When it was time for her to leave, we were both crying like babies. Growing up we always argued, I couldn't wait to move away, but now she's basically my best friend. Funny how that works as we get older...
Braxton starts school in just 2 weeks and I'm getting so excited for him. His school has a pool where he will get to swim 2 days a week, he'll get to play in the gym 2 days, and they'll also have a music day. I'm a little anxious for the whole 5 days a week, full day each day, thing but I think we'll both do just fine. I'm looking forward to having some more one on one time with Ava, since I'm keeping her home with me. I think I'm going to sign her up for a dance class, more than likely a mommy and me class because I can't leave her sight usually.
I shared this picture on Facebook the other day because it's totally my life.
Chocolate is my favorite, forever, but I've been trying some chocolate from Chuao Chocolatier and it's been interesting. Last night I had this one that was practically chocolate flavored pop rocks haha.
Really having fun with FunBites.
Steve Madden boots that are both edgy and classic.
I'm really wanting to try this pineapple chicken recipe because it looks quick, easy, and healthy.
We didn't get as much painted as I would have liked last month but I'm glad because I found new kitchen inspiration from here, here, and here. White. Yes, I'm choosing white cabinets.
I made six loaves of banana nut bread because we had some bananas that were starting to go bad. Now what to do with all the extra loaves?
Parties from The Alison Show.
The red carpet for the VMA's last night were disappointing, as was the award show itself, but if I had to pick, FKA Twigs and Chrissy Teigen would get my vote for best dressed. Apparently I'm a fan of black see through and lace. Kylie and Kourtney looked amazing as well but those bangs on Kylie...not a fan.
The kids have been loving this kinetic sand kit but here's a DIY version that seems easy.
We went to Darien Lake last week and I rode one roller coaster. I party, obviously.
I'm eyeing this pretty little amethyst ring.
Not quite ready for fall but here is a good post for inspiration.
A cute print that helps others.
Ready for the giveaway?
Because I love them, I'm giving away a shirt from Honey and Lion. If you haven't heard of them before, it's an awesome small business created by two stay at home moms, based out of Oregon. Their focus is on making fun, printed shirts and they've been open for a little under a year now. They just launched a new selection of women's shirts and they're all so perfect. This new release is probably my favorite because they're now printed on women's tees, instead of the unisex tees a lot of other shirt companies use. My favorite thing about them is just how versatile they are. I can wear their shirts with jeans or tie it up and pair it with a high waisted maxi skirt. I love the relaxed look of them and they really are the perfect addition to your day to day uniform.
All you have to do is head over to my Instagram (@crystalrosee) and follow the directions on the latest post. It's super easy and I'll announce the winner next Monday evening!
