Mom’s Day Off with Crocs

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As Mothers, we don’t often get time off to spend just on ourselves. We wear many hats and do so much in our home, at our jobs, for our families and friends. I know I am always going a mile a minute, and usually put myself last on the list of importance. Yet I clearly see a huge difference in my disposition when I take that extra time to go to the gym, meet my girlfriends for dinner or go shopping alone (I mean I even see a trip to the grocery store alone as a glorious vacation sometimes!). Giving myself a little extra love really does put a smile on my face, and just makes me feel… well like me! I notice that I’m more positive and this translates into my actions of every day life!

So I spent a little day off at the Fisherman’s Village in Marina Del Rey. I love going there as it is a one stop shop for a relaxing afternoon. I had coffee and ice cream, watched the boats roll by, and did a little shopping. All by myself, and in these cute, multicolored Crocs sandals. They remind of the jelly sandals I used to wear as a kid and they are unbelievably comfortable.


Every Mom deserves a day off! So I have partnered with Crocs to help give some lovely Moms just that with their #MomsDayOffContest. All you have to do is:

  •  Post a picture of what you would do on your “Mom’s day off” on any social media platform with the captioned hashtag #MomsDayOffContest to enter.
  •  All entrants must follow Crocs on social media to be in chance of winning.
  • Overall there will be ten first place winners who will receive $50 voucher for Crocs and $100 cash, as well as fifty runners up who will receive $50 vouchers for Crocs.
  • Find the Mom’s Day Off Contest Official Rules Here.
  • The Contest will end on May 6, 2016 at 11:59:59 p.m. EST

This is such an easy and simple contest to enter. I encourage all of you Chic Mamas to enter, and take some time to pamper yourself. You most definitely deserve it!

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Instagram Round Up

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I realized I haven’t done an Instagram round up in quite some time! I often post on Instagram (follow me HERE) as it is such an easy way to interact with you guys. For those of you that love Instagram you can easily shop all of my looks straight from your email on Like It To Know It.  I still get a lot of emails with questions about what I am wearing so I thought I would also post it here for everyone as well! You can shop these looks by clicking the links under each photo or scrolling through the images! Leave me a message or always feel free to email me about styles, who items may fit, or any questions you may have at thechicmamas@gmail.com. I hope you are having a wonderful week!

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Dress c/0 YMI Jeans (similar Light Wash HERE) | Bag c/0 Wet Seal (similar Yes Way Rose Tote HERE ) | Sandals (old, similar HERE ) | Sunglasses | Necklace, from my monthly Rocksbox, get your first month free with code: thechicmamasxoxo. (similar statement necklace HERE)

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Dress | Sandals (old, similar HERE) | Similar Bracelets | Sunglasses | Pom-pom Clip for Bag

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Bodysuit | Maxi Skirt | Lace Up Heels | Bag (old, similar HERE | Sunglasses

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I’m Not Like A Regular Mom Tee | Jeans |Lace Up Flats

Tame the Toddler Tantrum

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Dress | Sunglasses | Sandals


As parents, we love our children unconditionally, yet that does not mean that we don’t run into some daunting situations when our beloved toddler is on the verge of a major meltdown. Tantrums are at times inevitably a part of the growing pains in which your little one may not be able to articulate their needs yet or just have you in the mist of a straight power struggle. Let’s be honest, it is exhausting! Here are a few ways that I deal with my toddler’s tantrums that help keep my sanity on a day to day basis!

  1. Stay Calm

From the countless number of child development books I have read, and scouring the parenting chat rooms to gain knowledge from other’s shared experiences, staying calm is key. Your children act out for attention, and the kind you give them in the heat of a fit is really important, as they really don’t care if it is positive or negative. All they care about is that they are getting a reaction and/or attention from you. Which perpetually can cause them to continue to act out to receive that same attention. So I take a deep breath, use a normal tone and usually wait for Willow to realize she isn’t getting too much attention from me for her behavior.

2. Diversion

Small children usually have small attentions spans. This is a hidden gem when your toddler decides to have a complete meltdown because they can’t hold that death trap of a knife, or climb over the railing of the stairs. Reasoning with Willow usually does not work for me with Willow when a tantrum is brewing. Diverting her attention to other items in the room or asking her questions about different topics until something sticks is how I avoid the screaming and the crying. If we are in the store, I try to distract her by asking her to help me pick out apples, or take her to the sushi counter to let her see the Chef make some rolls. It isn’t 100% effective, but it definitely helps me avoid a major scene.

Oh and let’s just talk about that scene! I read somewhere once that laughing it off, while your kid flails around on the ground is actually a great way to deal with tantrums. It doesn’t give the kids the attention they want. Yet  most parents got nervous about what others would think about their child’s behavior to have that mentality. Interestingly enough, studies have shown that people do judge parent’s reaction to the meltdown, not your child’s actual tantrum. So laugh it off if you can, calmly wait for your child to come back around to reality, pick them up, hug them, talk about the crazy rant after the fact, and pat yourself on the back for being awesome (a glass of wine doesn’t hurt either).

3. Hug It Out

Finally, after your tiny human being returns to their adorable self. Hug it out and breathe a sigh of relief that we made it through the storm! I usually make one comment about how that wasn’t very fun, and try to positively reinforce her good behavior. I really think Willow shows her anger at the beginning of the tantrum, and then I see it go away when she starts crying because I honestly think she feels herself losing control of her emotions. At times this can be a lot for a 2 year old, and if I really take as step back to look at how adults go through life, we still have meltdowns too! Remember these are milestones in your child’s development and they will pass. So even after that wailing, flailing, screaming and God knows what else, you still love them and its best to show it.

 

These are ways that I deal with my daughter and her ever-growing, independent self. How do you deal with your toddler’s emotions?? I would love to hear!

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Photo Credit: Kate Hauschka Photography

5 Ways to Wear the Pom-Pom Fashion Trend

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Dress (c/0 The Stylist LA or Buy | Sunglasses | Clutch (sold out-similar HERE) | Shoes

Spring’s most playful fashion trend has got to be the adorable pom-pom trim found everywhere from rompers, to heels, hats, bags and jackets. These cute, fluffy puffs are the perfect touch to complete any outfit. I constantly get compliments when I add something with pom-pom’s to my outfit. Here are 5 easy ways to add pom-poms to your wardrobe:

  1. Hats:

Pom-pom beanie hats, like THIS were all the rage this winter. Hopefully beanies are slowly transitioning out of your wardrobe, and you are experiencing warmer weather. In that case sunny days and vacations are on the horizon. Stay in style with these pom-pom adorned hats.

 

2. Dresses, Rompers and More:

This is one of my favorite looks for spring and summer.  The pom-pom trim adds a punch when paired with any piece of clothing. Whether you’re on vacation or just going for a casual day look, pom-poms will spice up any outfit.



 

3. Shoes:

Pom-pom shoes…need I say more. THIS pair is currently on my Wishlist! Pair pom-pom adorned heels or flats with any neutral outfit, and let your feet do the talking! You will most certainly be leaving your girlfriends with a serious case of shoe envy.

 

4. Bags

Want to stick to a more subtle pom-pom accessory? Skip the statement jewelry and try bags adorned with these little cuties. If even that is too much out of your comfort zone, then grab a POM-POM CLIP to add on to your bag or keys.

 

5. Jewelry

I adore a great statement earring or necklace. They can really make or break any outfit. The pom-pom trend keeps going strong in the accessories department as well! Add a little flare to your outfit with these trendy items.

Photo Credit: Kate Hauschka Photography

 

Positive Potty Training with PoGo Potty Panda + GIVEAWAY

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Potty training can be a huge feat for any toddler. There are tons of tips and tricks that different parents use to get their little ones diaper-free. I recently found this cute potty training system, called the PoGo Potty Panda Training System. Created by a licensed psychologist and mother of twins, the PoGo Panda reminds your child to use the bathroom at regular intervals, with simple phrases like, “Let’s go potty” and “It’s Time to Go Potty”. The training system centers around the principle of positive reinforcement aimed at fostering a child’s self-esteem and self-efficacy with the PoGo the talking Panda, a book to reinforce going to the bathroom and a sticker set for your little one.

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Willow loves pushing all of the shapes that make the Panda talk, it has great sayings to help praise her when she uses the Potty, like “I’m so proud of you!” and “You’re a superstar”. We consistently read the book everyday to help positively reinforce going to the bathroom. The Pogo Potty System has a great site and newsletter that shares multiple tips for helping you to potty train your little ones (Tips and Newsletter Here). Willow has even started to tell us when she has to go! It has really been an amazing tool to help her be more independent and have control over going to the bathroom. 

Here is the best part! We have teamed up to gift one lucky follower/reader of mine a PoGo Potty Training System to help you start your little one on their way to big kiddo undies! To enter is simple:

  1. Follow @pogopottypanda and @thechicmamas on Instagram.
  2. Tag a parent who love some help with potty training under the Giveaway photo on Instagram.

Giveaway will run until Wednesday, March 30, 2016 at 11:59pm. Winner will be announced on Thursday, March 31, 2016, once all entries have been checked. Good Luck! xoxo

Nordstrom Mark Downs

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If there was ever a reason to shop at Nordstroms, it’s for their continued mark downs on top brands. They price match, have free shipping and are offering up to 40% OFF on some amazing items (like this Floral Dress pictured above)!

 

Click on the images below to shop my top picks from the sale:

Dresses:

Denim:

Shoes: (Now is a great time to buy boots/booties!)

Handbags and Accessories:

Happy Shopping! XOXO

Finding Your Perfect Scent with Me Fragrance

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Finding a great scent is no easy task. Once I find a decent one, I usually stick with it for a while. Yet that can be quite boring, and it is mostly because I have a hard time finding that perfect scent. Enter Me Fragrance!
Me Fragrance makes creating your own custom perfume a reality now. They have a large inventory of essential and fragrance oils, that help you create a one of a kind signature perfume. They also have an amazing tutorial to help you get started in creating a custom scent for yourself. I designed one that made me think of Willow, with these signature ingredients : Coconut, Lavender and Baby Powder. It’s so soft, sweet and makes me think of her snuggles. They also give you the option to make your scent into body products, reed diffusers, and soy candles.
I always love having candles lit around the house, so I made a Spring Breeze scent with Jasmine, Vanilla and Orange for during the day. Of course I couldn’t stop there, so I then made a Calming Vanilla scent with Vanilla Bean, Lavender and Sandalwood to help me relax before bed. I’m obsessed, and they have the cutest packaging. You can start making your own scent for as low as $3.50 and save 12% off your first order.
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Photo Credit: Kate Hauschka Photography

Spring Sales Happening Now!

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There are so many big sales happening this weekend! Scroll through the images and links below to start shopping some major deals. Remember to pay close attention to the discount codes so you can get the full benefit of each sale! Happy Shopping!!

Shop Dresses:


Shop Denim:

Shop Shoes:


Shop Bags and Jewelry:



NORDSTROM: 40% off select styles

JCREW:25% off with code:SHOPNOW

MADEWELL: 30% off sale styles with code: SOCLOSE

BLOOMINGDALES: up to $300 off purchases

DVF: 15% off with code: IWD15

H&M: up to 60% off

JBRAND: 25% off with code: JBFF25

MACY’S: up to 20% off with code: VIP

ANN TAYLOR: 40% off with code: FRIENDS40

EXPRESS: $100 off with code: 1222

BANANA REPUBLIC: 40% off with code BRCFIT

SAKS FIFTH AVENUE: 25% off with code: DRESS16

WEST ELM: up to 30% off

JONATHAN ADLER: up to 25% off with code: FURNITURE

GAP: 30% off $100 with code: DOCTORISIN

CRATE & BARREL: 20%  off wine glasses + dinnerware

LORD & TAYLOR: 20% off with code: SIGNATURE

Spring Is In The Air

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Spring is just around the corner, on March 20th to be exact. The problem is our weather has yet to figure out what it wants to be. One day it’s 90 degrees and the next day it’s freezing with crazy wind. Weird weather makes for confusing wardrobe choices at times. After mulling over my closet, I finally paired this lightweight midi skirt, with this soft, cropped knit shirt. I loved the end result, and was super comfortable for the day. Cropped sweaters, like this one, are great transition pieces. Remember…layers are your friend. Happy Monday!

Shop This Look Here:

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Cropped Sweater | Midi Skirt | (old) Similar Lace Up Heels (on Sale!)| (old) Similar Bag (under $40!)| Sunnies 

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Photo Credit: Valorie Darling

5 TIPS FOR TRAVELING WITH A TODDLER

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Everyone knows traveling with small children can be an anxiety ridden adventure (or let’s be honest, a total nightmare). It’s difficult to be stuck at 30,000 feet trying to console your children while random strangers stare at you! So to avoid some of those feelings, it’s a great idea to really prepare ahead of time in multiple ways to get your family ready for any trip. Hopefully some of the tips I share below will help any parent avoid a tantrum in flight, and instead having you sitting pretty (maybe even with a glass of wine). Here are my top 5 tips to help you all have a stress free journey.

      1. Help Your Toddler Prepare For Travel. Prep your toddler with the news that you will be flying to some amazing place (like Nana’s house, lol). The last time we flew with Willow we explained to her that we were flying to see her Nana, and that we were taking a magical airplane. I went and bought her a toy airplane so she could see all the parts of the airplane. Toddler’s minds are extremely literal, so referencing all the parts of the plane (such as, “this is where the captain sits”, “here is the door we will walk through”, “you can see out of all of these windows”, and “here are the wings”). We brought her airplane with us and she had so much fun pointing out each of the areas of the airplane when we boarded.

    1. Plan Activities Ahead Of Time. As we all know from experience small children have a small attention plan. Someone once told me to plan my flight in 30 minute increments with a new activity each half hour. So for my 3 hour flight, I had 6 activities for Willow. I brought old toys and some new toys (just for the element of surprise, knowing she would be more occupied with something new). I also put her toys in a  small rolling backpack, so she felt like part of the grown ups walking through the airport rolling her own travel bag. She has one similar to this ONE. I packed her coloring books, stickers, small puzzles, dinosaur figurines, reading books, etc.

  1. Bring the IPAD/DVD Player. Yes, I know, don’t judge me just yet. I am not saying stick your kid in front of an IPAD all the time to keep them entertained. What I am saying is that flying is an exception, and if all else fails it is better to have some movies and apps downloaded already to keep your little one entertained. It also saves you from trying to bring your entire toy chest with you to keep your toddler distracted.
  2. Hand Sanitizer/Wipes/Essential Oils. I usually rarely use hand sanitizer on Willow and always prefer soap and water. But I always take these with with me when I travel, to help avoid catching nasty bugs. I mean who knows who was in the seat before you and what they did on their flight. So I always try to wipe down the seats, arm rests and tray tables with sanitizing wipes before we sit (this is what pre-boarding is for!). I also have Willow use hand sanitizer prior to eating on the plane and as needed. I add this Immushield on the whole family, it has 8 essential oils to help boost the immune system.
  3. Be Seriously Organized! I like to keep separate pouches to organize items I will need on the plane, like these Mommy and Toddler Things bags. They have a large label, and allow me to easily pull them out when needed. Here is what I always recommend bringing/doing:
    1. Protein Filled Snacks (thinking mini PBJ, nuts, bars)
    2. Sippy Cups, Bottles
    3. Suckers (if your child is old enough for take off and landing to help with ear pressure).
    4. Medications you may need.
    5. A change of clothes in case of accident (for you and your little one, plus a baggy for any soiled linen)
    6. Check if your airline has pre-boarding (trust me some don’t) and let the airline staff at the desk know you would like to pre-board, and then be ready at the desk when boarding starts.
    7. A pillow or soft animal your child can use to comfort themselves.

Good Luck! I hope this was helpful and it’s smooth flying for you all! If you find your self stuck in a full on tantrum, remember breathe deep, know that this flight WILL end, you WILL exit the aircraft and most likely NEVER see any one of those people ever again!

XOXO

Photo Credit: LiveStyled Shop