cozyUP This Season

It got windy and cold fast here in the last few days.  It took the last remaining leaves right off the trees and sent us all indoors for a few days.  Perfect weather for getting cozy and doing things like drinking endless funny coffee mugs of chai tea, baking ginger pumpkin cupcakes and curling up with a good book. Feeling cozy translates to what we are wearing too.  Whether you love flannel pajamas or comfy slippers lined with fur you feel nestled, warm and safe.  That means a lot these days.  Soft, fuzzy sweaters and booties pair well in this kind of world and weather.  Right now I'm loving nothing more than this look. You can also keep your clothes looking perfect with a steam iron from Laurastar. I picked up the red denim jeans from Old Navy at thredUP a few weeks back.  I … [Read more...]

Just Eat It

  Just Eat It by victoriamason  I probably say those exact words more than once a day when I'm dealing with my kids.  While I like to cook I often dread making family meals because in a family five with three kids under ten years old you just can't please everyone. And when this time of year rolls around with extra holiday activities and festivities I find that we eat out more and more.  Finding a place that satisfies us all is our next hurdle. Where to Go Source: ElCactus Facebook page We break it down into a category and go from there.  Am I meeting a friend for a girls night?  Then Bistro Du Coin is a good spot.  Is it date night? Mintwood Place offers up some deliciously good American fare that is sure to please both H and I.  Maybe we are meeting a group and kids may or … [Read more...]

2016 Fiat 500X Lounge AWD

Source: Victoria Mason "It's so cute!" I heard that phrase again and again as I posted pictures of the Fiat 500X Lounge on social media or when entering or exiting the SUV.  Yes, it is considered an SUV, but a subcompact one.  No one expected me to tell them that about this tiny car but it is larger than the you would think while still looking pint-sized and stylish. All new for 2016 the Fiat 500X Lounge AWD arrived at my door in all its 'Bianco Gelato' glory.  That's White Clear Coat for the rest of us but the Italian style must be mentioned and used. It's more fun to call the color 'Bianco Gelato', don't you think?  I loved its look instantly.  The smart black and red interior accents stirred up all sorts of excitement with anyone and everyone who got a look inside.  I loved the … [Read more...]

Saturday Nights in the ‘Hood

When we moved into our new home a few months ago it was the dead of winter. Sure, we liked the looks of the neighborhood but what about the people who lived in all those pretty houses?  We had no clue and hoped for the best. Fast forward through spring when a neighbor brought us cookies, many hours spent at the pool meeting new faces and doing something that is so rare for me- joining a committee, the neighborhood social committee (gasp! avert your introvert eyes!) and suddenly we were making friends and falling in love with a community and not just a group of houses joined together by a set of property lines.  Our latest get together was a Saturday night Cornhole tournament, something I've never done, but had a lot of fun helping set up and then playing. The right games make any … [Read more...]

5 Tips for Staying Motivated Exercising Indoors

Photo credit: https://www.ptpioneer.com I woke up to temperatures in the mid-thirties this morning and I just wasn't prepared. My outdoor run turned into an indoor sweat session.  It's totally perfect for today's guest post by fitness expert Amy Dixon who is offering up tips to motivate your own indoor work out. So what are those super tips for staying motivated – and fit – indoors? Set a goal (but be realistic) - Studies have shown that having a ‘prize to shoot’ for help us achieve better results.  What’s your prize?  Looking good for your wedding?  High School reunion?  Bikini season?  Setting a goal is the first step toward reaching it.  So what are the characteristics of a great fitness goal to set? Pick a buddy – Few things are more motivating than that pal that … [Read more...]

Talking with Very Busy Mama

Today I would like to introduce to María José from Very Busy Mama.  She's an IRL friend and bilingual blogger, spokesperson and actress with a killer sense of style and humor.  To say she is authentic or real doesn't do her justice.  Her videos are informative, funny and honest.  Once you read her you won't be able to stop.  She's the newest person in TMC's interview series. 1. Your blog, Very Busy Mama, focuses on motherhood, fashion, beauty, and family all with a dose of humor.  Is there one section that you wish you could focus on more?  Videos! With videos I can show more of my personality and I truly enjoy the creative process. On the flip side, it helps with my acting as I'm starting to write a web-series.  2.  What is the hardest part for you when it comes to keeping up … [Read more...]

The Oversized Poncho

One of the best things I have purchased this fall is an open front, oversized poncho from Old Navy.  I saw it one day while walking by the store and I knew I just had to have it.  It looked cozy, lightweight but warm and really versatile. I throw it on to take my girls to the bus stop in the morning, while out running around town or when I'm headed out for a date night. I add a belt to cinch the waist when I know I'm going to be wearing it for long periods of time or I just let it hang loose. Either way, it's a poncho, a big trend this fall, and I'm in love. SHOP THE LOOK Old Navy Open-Front Wool Blend Poncho/Old Navy Distressed Denim/Nine West Margot Heel/Coach Bag (old-similar)/Pearl Studs/Daily Look Button Down (similar) H and I went as Daryl & Carol or "Caryl" from … [Read more...]

2016 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring AWD

Source: MazdaUSA Refreshed and ready for 2016 the Mazda CX-5 comes at you in a fully engaged, fun way.  I admit I was hesitant to drive it for a week due to my lack luster feelings on the CX-9 last year but then I remembered that I loved the 2015 CX-5 so I was eager to see what had changed in the last year. Mazda calls the CX-5 an overachiever and I have to agree.  This SUV handles itself well in so many categories while still being a joy to drive.  First, the Titanium Flash Mica paint job on the exterior drew me to it. It has a depth in its subtle brown shade with a touch of graphite paint color.  When I opened the door I was fell in love with the interior color of black and parchment.  It was a nice touch to the car that felt inviting each time I climbed into it. Source: Victoria … [Read more...]

Whatcha Wear to the WAPA Rally

Last Thursday I finally crawled out from under my deathbed, finally feeling better (!) just in time to attend one of my favorite events of the year, The WAPA Rally.  WAPA is The Washington Automotive Press Association and I've been a member for a few years now. Each October we take to the roads and get to drive some of the newest, most luxurious, most fun and just plain awesome cars in the industry. This year was no exception.  I drove everything from a Mercedes-Maybach S600 to a F-Type Jaguar coupe, a Ford Explorer and Edge to a Volvo XC90 and a few more in between.  It was a glorious fall day and I was dressed to drive. In years past I have found that a mix of casual style with comfort is best for these events.  Last month it was a structured top with flare leg denim and nude … [Read more...]

Hyundai Genesis AWD 3.8

Source: 2015 Hyundai Genesis I cannot tell you how excited I was to drive the 2015 Hyundai Genesis AWD 3.8 this month.  My neighbor owns one in a light silver and I love the lines.  Mine came in a deeper gray called Empire State with black interior and wood grain throughout. Redesigned for 2015 this model boasts an upgraded interior and more room. It definitely felt spacious in the front and the back (3 more inches on wheelbase) and like the luxury sedan that it is. Since 2009 the Genesis has been showing buyers that a luxury car can also be sensible.  I'm looking at you 5-year/60,000 mile warranty on new vehicles and Hyundai's 10-year/100,000 Powertrain warranty. They both apply to the Genesis as well as 5-year roadside assistance and 7-year/unlimited mile anti-perforation warranty. … [Read more...]