On the move....

We're moving! Only 5 blocks away but we'll have more space and I get to decorate. Hip hip hooray!

The boys are less than thrilled about the move. They're losing a playroom (until we finish the basement) and they'll be farther from the park. They clearly don't understand my need for a master bath and a walk-in closet.

In an attempt to make the transition go smoothly, I plan to have their room decorated before we move in. Below is the idea board I've put together. I plan to accessorize with maps, an antique globe and airplanes hanging from the ceiling. We already own the Taylor Cargo Quilt pictured below (minus the batman shams) and monogramed chambray shams. I plan to put the madras quilts folded at the end of the bed.

Photo credits (clockwise from the top): Crate & Barrel Finley Pendant Lamp, PB Kids Kendall Bunk Bed in espresso, PB Kids Rugby Stripe Rug, PB Kids Taylor Cargo Duvet (no longer available), PB Kids Madras Quilted Bedding and IKEA Expedit Shelving

Sibling Rivalry

Are the kids at each other's throats?

Here are a few tips from the folks at Love & Logic to help with the madness:

1. Whether we do extra things for kids who are battling with each other.

It's perfectly reasonable for a parent to say, "This is such a bummer. I'm tired-out from listening to you arguing with each other. I don't have the energy to drive you to your friends' houses."


2. Whether we allow certain items to remain in our homes.

A friend of ours said to her kids, "This is so sad. Every time you guys play with that game you get in a fight. I gave it away so it wouldn't be a problem anymore."


3. Whether we allow their fighting to interrupt our responsibilities and time.

Have you ever noticed how kids tend to argue and bicker with each other when you are trying to do something that requires your complete attention such as trying to talk on the phone? If you feel secure that your kids won’t harm each other, it's probably best to say, "This is really draining my energy. You guys need to work this out or go your separate ways."


4. Whether we give them "bonding opportunities."

When your kids start to battle with each other, experiment with saying, "Sounds like you guys need some bonding time." Then assign them some chores to give them an opportunity to feel the love.

Relaxing at the beach

We spent Labor Day weekend at Seabrook. As I always say after a vacation on the coast, it is relaxing....so relaxing. This time was extra special because my in-laws tagged along and one of big kid's friends from school was staying in a house down the street. My mother-in-law and I bonded over a 1000 piece puzzle and the boys were content riding their bikes around town.

School started today (do I hear a hip hip hooray?). The kids were excited to be back and I'm thrilled to be back in the routine.

Stay tuned for new holiday card designs!!

Giveaway!

Check out my giveaway on Magnolias, Marriage & Manhattan. Hurry on over!

The boys in blue

The Blue Angels are in town and I get chills every time they fly overhead. Last year, we had the opportunity to watch their show from the Seattle Tennis Club. With cocktails in hand, we watched as the jets flew just feet above us. It was amazing!

Here are a few of the pictures I took last year....

This year, I took three little boys to a park to watch practice. Not quite as swanky as last year but the Blue Angels never fail to impress!

Supper Club

A couple of weeks ago, we hosted our Supper Club for a North Caroline BBQ party. Eastern NC BBQ was shipped in from my husband's hometown of Kinston. We provided the BBQ, cole slaw, Shrimp Shooters, Crudite and "Upsy-Daisy lemonade" and our guests brought side dishes to share.

You will rarely see a picture of me but here I am serving Shrimp Shooters

"Upsy Daisy Lemonade"

from Southern Cocktails book

PaperCourt Press straw flags

"go hog wild"

Crudite display inspired by Martha Stewart

I didn't have a metal planter so I improvised

MIA

Excuse my absence. It's been the full-time mommy show at the PaperCourt household. I'm squeezing in a little work here and there but that's about it. I've given up exercise, personal time, Twitter, etc. to make the most of my boys' summer.

I'll be back soon. Pinky swear.

In the meantime, I leave you with the Catalog Living blog. It is hilarious! Enjoy and let's chat again soon.