My mother-in-law often tried to shy away from the camera, and I am not sure why. She was a beautiful woman, both in and out. She had gorgeous blue eyes that lit up when she told me sweet stories...
I spent five Mardi Gras seasons away from New Orleans. Jealous I was not being able to enjoy king cakes on a weekly basis and celebrate the Carnival season alongside my fellow New Orleanians, I decided our first year...
Although my son is almost three, I still consider myself somewhat of a new mom. Each stage there's a learning curve. Right now, it's dealing with an independent toddler, potty training and healthy eating. I am learning as I go, asking...
It's not that I'm not crafty. I am, or at least I like to think I am. Granted, not all of my projects turn out to be Pinterest-worthy (I'm looking at you, Sesame Street cake pops!) But I enjoy...
This time of year, my Facebook feed becomes overtaken by an elf. The “Elf on the Shelf” has gained immense popularity the last few years. Mothers everywhere are strategically placing this little guy (or girl) in mischievous situations each and every...
Being a stay-at-home mommy has always been an aspiration of mine. My husband and I decided five years ago to not only start our family, but also that I would be the stay-at-home parent. I was elated! It was...
Meet Amanda
I was born in Metairie and grew up all over the greater New Orleans area. I headed to LSU, where I remained for 8 years to complete my undergraduate and graduate degrees. Yes, I bleed purple and gold....
Mom wants little Suzie to be involved in something, to find an activity she loves and can excel in. So-and-so from school belongs to this soccer team/dance class/karate dojo, so that seems like a good place to start. After...
If you are anything like me, you like to watch shows like So You Think you Can Dance or Dancing With The Stars. I'm fascinated in all the choreography, dance moves and, especially, the male dancers and how spectacular...
Being raised in a home speaking a foreign language and practicing different customs has brought bountiful enjoyment in my life. However, let's just say it was challenging at times while growing up. My name was unique: one "n," not...
During the summer as I was preparing for Stella's first birthday party, I was looking for an easy, inexpensive way to fancy up her party without breaking the bank or spending a small fortune on Etsy. I had been...
Of all universal toddler truths, we can agree on this one: all kids love to dance! They immediately bounce, jump, and wiggle the second they hear, or feel, music. We are lucky to live in a town that offers...
So the back to school fuss is over. Thank goodness. The uniforms are bought, the folders are labeled and the first day tears are behind us. It is now time for the routine and schedule to hit their stride...
A couple of weekends ago I attended a typical New Orleans baby shower for a cousin. The mother-to-be looked radiant in her brilliant blue dress, there were fleur de lis embossed blue mints, napoleons on the dessert table and,...