Happy 2nd Birthday to P + P

A birthday cupcake with two lighted candles.
While I was down for the count last week, my little here blog turned TWO.  It’s been a lot of fun having this little creative space, and although I’ve had less time for blogging this year, it’s still just as enjoyable for me.  Thanks for continuing to come back here day after day to read and comment and share.  Truth is, I blog for myself, but I would be lying if I said I didn’t love all the support.  It makes taking the time out for a post even more worthwhile.  I would love to hear any feedback you have for the upcoming year of p + p.  If there are particular things you like or dislike, what you want to see more of, if there is something I haven’t touched on that you are interested in, etc.  Comment below!  Now, I have put together a recap of some of your favorite posts from the past year:

You enjoyed Nico’s Nursery photos:

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As well as the DIY Nursery Letters Tutorial:

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The first family dinner out after having Nico:

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A very formal affair in which I was proud to be a bridesmaid, and our first big event as a family of three:

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The time I regretted wearing white:

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But I clearly kept on wearing it anyway…like when we traveled to San Fran:

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I wore this pastel coat:

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Pops of Spring with Stella & Dot:

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I got these fantastic red rain boots from the hubs and wore them on our trip to New Hampshire:

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Spent my first Mother’s Day in Coney Island with my new Love, Lori Michelle necklace made with Nico’s initial:

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I rocked these amazing hair extensions from Irresistible Me:

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My baby turned ONE:

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And here is all the gear that got us through:

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Lastly, saying goodbye to summer (sadly):

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And there you have it folks…you’re favorite posts from the past year.  Looking forward to what the 3rd year will bring for p + p.

Speaking of birthdays…since I have been so terrible at remembering them this year (my sincere apologies to those of you, you know who you are!)…I’m taking advantage of the fact that I remembered this one today…and I want to wish a Happy 30th to my cousin and half brain, Misa.

Hope you are all enjoying the week so far!

XO,

Gina

Pastel Pop

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Mint Coat: Goodnight Macaroon (runs small – now on sale!) / Polka Dot Sweater: H&M / Pink Tank: Old Navy / Denim: Rag & Bone / Sparkly Loafer: Seychelles (on sale!) / Necklace: Flair Accessories / Sunnies: Vintage / Watch: Michael Kors / Bracelet: Henri Bendel / Lip: MAC Snob

Pastels are all the rage this spring, but it can be tough to pull off the look without looking like an Easter egg.  My strategy here was all about balance!  (or maybe you do think I look like an Easter egg in which case, I have failed miserably).  The mint coat is a bold pastel statement, so I paired it with a darker hue & polka dot print to balance out the look.  As always, I also like to add some fun accessories to the mix.

What is your strategy for wearing pastels this spring?  Totally avoiding it, or jumping on this trend?

Hope this week is treating you all well.  I am enjoying the sunshine and warmer weather!

XO,

Gina

Easter Favorites

In celebration of Easter this weekend, I wanted to share some of my favorite things about the holiday.

1. Dyeing Eggs:

Nothing like the old school dye tablets in the vinegar.  My family has been dyeing our eggs with Paas since before I can remember.

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2.  Peeps

My absolute favorite Easter Basket treat.  My trick for getting them to stay softer longer is to keep them in a ziplock bag.  Of course, you can always pop them in the microwave to warm them up.  Just make sure it’s only for a few seconds or else they blow up!  Oh yeah, and the chicks are my favorite.

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Photo Credit: The New Forty blog

3.  Potato Salad

This dish is served at our Easter table every year, and it’s something I look forward to.  It’s simple, yet delicious!  Here is a recipe I found on Pinterest from Key Ingredient that is most similar to the one we use.  This one only serves 4, so you’ll have to pump it up if you have a large gathering!

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4.  Floral Dresses

My sister and I used to get dressed up in the most frilly floral dresses for church every Easter.  Although some years it’s tough because of chilly weather, I still love to put on a floral or spring-like dress to celebrate the occasion.  Here is a gorgeous vintage style floral dress I discovered on ModCloth:

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5.  Pastel Polish

Easter is the perfect time to switch up your polish from darker hues to pastels.  Essie is my favorite nail polish brand, and here is their Spring 2013 Collection for sale at Kohl’s:

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What are your Easter and holiday favorites?  Would love to hear what you have to share.

Wishing everyone a Happy Friday and a Happy Easter this weekend!  For those celebrating Passover, I hope you are having a great holiday as well.

XO,

Gina