Ho Cho & Kitchen Renovations

Why is it that no matter what age you are, we all feel the need to ask the proverbial question: what did you get for Christmas?? Even as an adult, we still compare notes after the holiday. At work, my fiancé and his coworker compared Home Depot gift cards. My BFF and I discussed iPhones and coffee makers…a far cry from the days of Nintendo games and ‘NSYNC cd’s. Even though the gifts might change as we get older, the sentiment still remains: we want to make sure we got better gifts than our friends.

This year, we were thrilled to find that Santa brought us a Keurig coffee maker. It sure was a surprise considering neither my fiancé nor I drink coffee. But ever so thoughtful, Santa was sure to include Hot Cocoa! We were also lucky enough to get a minor kitchen renovation for Christmas, so we spent the last few days sipping hot cocoa in our beautiful new kitchen (the first finished room in the entire house). Please enjoy a look at the “original” kitchen. Last year when we bought it, this is the sad sight that greeted us. I’ll post pics of the “new” kitchen soon!

 

The Brothers Grimm

I have a slight obsession with books. Not just reading, but sometimes with the books themselves. If it’s pretty, I’ll probably want it. My house is full of chunky coffee table books, design books, cook books…and a healthy collection of kids’ books (or unhealthy depending on how you look at it). To me, books are like flowers in a room: they just complete the look.

It’s been 200 years since the aforementioned German bros published their first collection of folk tales. In honor of this anniversary, Taschen has created a beautiful collection of twenty seven fairy tales of The Brothers Grimm. Yes, after 30 years, Taschen has published its first kid’s book! This is one of the most beautiful kids’ books I’ve ever seen, so I hope they continue! The illustrations are killer.

Everyone needs a copy of this gorgeous book. Even Martha (the Queen) said so on her show earlier this year. It will be available at French Toast this Spring, but in the meantime, get it here (if you must).

Julia's Picks: Breaking Dawn Part 2

I’m not ashamed to admit that last night I went to see Breaking Dawn Part 2. Yes… I went to see it opening night. While the first movie remains almost unbearable to watch, I must report that the final installment was quite entertaining. Aside from a few campy moments (the love scenes, the “hunting” scenes, and every moment the Volturi were on screen), I was happy to see that Breaking Dawn didn’t take itself too seriously.

Since Edward and Bella become parents in the final chapter of the Twilight Saga, it seemed fitting to draw inspiration for a nursery. My personal fave is the modern crib. It would look perfect in the ultra-modern Cullen residence.

For the Walls: Anthropologie Woods Wallpaper $198|Enzo Mari, Uno, La Mela 1963 $550|Larry Keahey Seattle Print $188

Toys: Wolfpack $8 to 22|Rattle inspired by Bella’s Ring$85|Little Sapling Toys Wooden Blocks $28

Lighting: Antler Chandelier $1917

Furniture: Spot onSquare Roh Crib $1522|Nurseryworks Empire Rocker $800**

For Mom: Timi& Leslie “Charlie” Diaper Bag $159**

**Coming soon to French Toast

Thanksgiving Countdown: 7 Days Left!!

Well, we have a week to go before Thanksgiving arrives. I know people say this all the time, but I really can’t believe how fast the Holiday season has come this year. This year, for the first time, my fiancé and I are hosting Thanksgiving for my family. I’m pretty sure my Grandma (who usually takes care of everything) thinks we are going to fail since she keeps offering lots of help! With only six prepping days to go, I’m starting to think we are going to need it! Luckily, the mister loves to cook, so this will be a fun adventure. My contributions are usually more of the baking sort, so when I found these adorable mini pumpkin pies, I just had to share! Tiffany over at Offbeat & Inspired posted this adorable idea last month. Check it out here, for the full recipe and more great pics!

It's Election Day

Happy Election Day!! Or, for half of the country, it will be a not so happy election day. Well, whichever political side you fall on, why not celebrate voting with these adorable cupcakes! These delightful confections are created by the ladies over at Georgetown Cupcake. Don't forget to vote!

Devilish Devil's Food Cupcakes by Ambrosia

With only one day until Halloween, it’s never too late to start celebrating. If you’re like me, then the best way to celebrate any holiday is by baking! I stumbled upon this great post (with beautiful photography) by Nina on her blog, Ambrosia.  

Devilish Devil's Food Cupcakes
Cupcakes from Epicurious, Frosting from The Hummingbird Bakery Cookbook (available soon at French Toast)

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

1 cup boiling water
3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 1/4 cups dark brown sugar, packed
3/4 cup granulated sugar
4 large eggs, at room temperature

For the Frosting

4 cups confectioner's sugar
10 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
4 tablespoons whole milk
1-2 teaspoons vanilla extract (to taste)
red food coloring (Wilton gel colors)

fondant, tinted black (for decoration)

For detailed directions, visit Ambrosia Baking.

Open for Business

Its official…we are open for business! Last Saturday, we opened our doors for the first time, inviting friends and family to be our first shoppers and boy, did they deliver! Thanks to everyone who helped make our first weekend a huge success. The night before, we literally had no product on the shelves and nothing scanned into the POS system. It was a lot of work, but luckily, I have an amazing fiancé. Even though he once proclaimed that this project was “my thing” and didn’t want to be involved, he spent the night scanning in merchandise while I frantically created window displays and placed items on shelves. We have a long way to go, but it turned out pretty cute! Above is a picture of the main room. More to come!

If you don't live in the Spokane area, visit us online. We ship anywhere!!

Dwell Well

With the store opening in just six days, I am in full on panic mode. As it turns out, you can’t just go get a crib mattress anywhere in this city. Unless, of course, you want to sacrifice complete quality and standards (yes, I am a baby gear snob), or wait two weeks and pay for shipping. Since we won’t be selling crib mattresses in the store until next year, I was left with the task of finding a high quality, plush looking crib mattress to display some of the beautiful Dwell Studio bedding we have in store. Of course, I avoided this detail until the last possible minute and now I’m left with my fingers crossed hoping that it will arrive by Friday. Oh well, I guess I’ll just add it to the ever growing list I’ve titled “things I never dreamed I needed to know, but now I do.” In the meantime, please enjoy the first look at Dwell Studio bedding we have in stock now. Pictures of the store coming soon!!

Say Anything...

Alphabet bunting is here in the store!! Yes, it's been a while since I've posted, but I have a good excuse...the store is opening October 20th. We have been working nonstop painting, building, and unwrapping AMAZING products. One of my faves is this fabric bunting from Meri Meri. If you frequent Pinterest and Etsy, then you know that bunting is very much "a thing." For those of us who aren't super crafty, or if you can't find the time to make your own, Meri Meri has created this beautiful fabric bunting. You can customize your own banner! Whether it's "Happy Birthday," "Merry Christmas," or your child's name, these gorgeous fabric banners elevate any space or celebration. Personally, I love to tie them on gifts for an extra special touch! Check out the video below for some quick inspiration. Music - 'Humans' by Rozi Plain - www.roziplain.co.uk

Blake Lively: Hollywood's It Girl

Every few years, a new Hollywood “It” girl emerges, but very rarely does she also play one on TV. Five years ago, Blake Lively began portraying socialite Serena van der Woodsen on one of my favorite guilty pleasure shows, Gossip Girl. In an extreme case of life imitating art, Blake Lively’s career and personal life have become quite something to gossip about. Since taking on the role of Serena, Blake has made the jump to the big screen in major films, dated Penn Badgley, Leonardo DiCaprio, and as of yesterday, she married Hollywood “It” boy Ryan Reynolds!! She’s become the face of Chanel and now, Gucci (fragrance). Rumor has it; she donned Chanel for yesterday’s nuptials. Here’s to the new Mrs. Ryan Reynolds, Hollywood darling, Blake Lively. I think her A-List status is finally official!

Left: Sweater, Marc by Marc Jacobs; shorts, M Missoni; earrings, Miriam Salat; cuff, Oscar de la Renta.

Right: Cardigan, Tom Scott; shorts, Raoul; bracelets, House of Lavande; pumps, Christian Louboutin.

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Left: Blouse, bra, Stella McCartney; earrings, Miriam Salat; bracelet, Pono by Joan Goodman; ring, Lorraine Schwartz.

Right: Sweater, shorts, Philosophy di Alberta Ferretti; earrings, Lorraine Schwartz.

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Top Left: Dress, Chanel Spring 2009; Lorraine Schwartz Jewels.

Bottom Left: Dress, Valentino; hat, Helen Kaminski; ring, Lorraine Schwartz.
Right: Dress, Marios Schwab; bra, Rituel by Carine Gilson; ring, Lorraine Schwartz.

Julia's Fall Picks: Anthropologie

Ahh, the leaves have started to fall. With Labor Day weekend behind us and the holiday season on the horizon, the transition to Fall seems to have happened overnight. Fall is absolutely my favorite time of year. Maybe it’s because the “school year” is forever ingrained in my psyche, but there’s something about Autumn that always feels new. This is the time of year that new TV starts, we get to indulge in warm, rich food (pumpkins & apples, oh my!) and of course, it’s time to break out the cozy sweaters, boots, and scarves.

I just got the new Anthropologie catalog in the mail and immediately found some new Fall faves!

Tartan Cropped Moto Jacket $278 | Embroidered Fountain Shift $178 | Sunblaze Lace Dress $328 | Tulipa Embroidered Skirt $128 | Stairways Mini Skirt $148

Julia's Picks: It's a J. Crew Birthday

So, last week I bid adieu to my early 20’s and now I’m staring down the barrel, looking towards the 30 end of this decade. The days of pulling all-nighters in college and surviving on junk food are long gone and have been replaced with a desperate need for eight hours of sleep a night and cravings for healthy meals. Not that I’m complaining. So far, 25 if treating me pretty great! I’m opening a storefront, having a blast renovating my house, and oh yeah, I got engaged! More on that later.

Thanks to my awesome soon to be Mother-in-Law who understands my J. Crew obsession, I picked up some great pieces this week to celebrate my birthday and kick start my Fall wardrobe.

Schoolboy Blazer in Festival Blue $198 If I could afford it, I would have a Schoolboy Blazer in every color offered. Wool flannel is super lightweight and always gets that perfect sleeve-roll that looks casual, but perfectly polished. This new shade of blue will punch up my current selection of J. Crew blazers (I’ve always opted for neutrals).

Colorblock Stripe Tippi Sweater $95 I’ll be honest, I’ve accumulated more J. Crew sweaters than I can count. I just have a weakness for them.

Downtown Field Jacket $148 Every year I tell myself I should get a great lightweight jacket. The Fall weather in Seattle usually calls for a raincoat or hoodie, so I never felt the need to buy just a jacket (no matter how cute). Now that I’m living in Spokane, the weather is much drier and somewhat more reliable. And, of course, a jacket is much more sophisticated than a hoodie.

Excursion Quilted Herringbone Vest $138 Ok, this is probably my favorite of my J. Crew shopping trip. Unlike other puffers, this one is thin and lightweight! I don’t feel like a marshmallow puff when I put it on, and the print is super chic. I’m so excited for the temps to drop, so I can wear this with my J. Crew Pixie pants, riding boots, and a chunky gold necklace.

1500th Pin!!!

Well, I’ve officially hit my 1500^th pin. I first saw these photos on an event planning blog last year. I had just decided to name my shop “French Toast” and was absolutely delighted when I happened upon these shots styled by Frilly Milly Events. We are planning a pre-grand opening event for friends and family, and I think these bite-sized portions are pretty perfect!!

(Lauren Blair Photography)

Coming Soon...

It’s official. After a year and half of planning, we are opening the first brick-and-mortar location of French Toast! For those of you in the Spokane area, we will be located at Steam Plant Square, right across from the restaurant. Be sure to visit this October when we open our doors, and for those of you who aren’t near us, check here often. We are getting great new items every day!

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London 2012: Brit Lit

If you watched the closing ceremonies of the London Olympics, or if you paid attentions during the opening ceremony, you know what they seem to prize most in the UK: music, fashion, and literature. Yeah, that newsprint that seemed to enrobe every part of the London landscape including Big Ben wasn’t just filled with tabloid headlines. Upon closer inspection, and thanks to some irritating commentary from Ryan Seacrest, I realized that they were the words of some of the greatest writers from the UK (and in history). Chaucer, Shakespeare, Keats… This got me thinking about my favorite Brit Lit. The UK has produced some AMAZING literature, but my favorite characters are those meant for children. Here is my top ten list of characters (or authors) from the UK.  

10. Oliver Twist (1838): Charles Dickens second novel, it is the definition of a “classic.”

9. Paddington (1956): This beloved bear is always polite! Paddington will be available for sale in the store this Fall!

8. C.S. Lewis: The Chronicles of Narnia (1950-1956) can also be considered a classic. When I was very young, I watched a miniseries adaptation of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe on PBS. It sucked me in from the start, and now having read all of the books, I appreciate the magic of these tales even more.

7. Peter Pan (1911): Ahh, Peter Pan. What can I say? This book is full of so many magical quotes, I can’t even stand it!

6. Roald Dahl: The Gremlins (1943), James & the Giant Peach (1961), Charlie & the Chocolate Factory (1964), Fantastic Mr. Fox (1970), The BFG (1982), The Witches (1983), Matilda (1988). These are just a few of the stories penned by Roald Dahl. (Side Note: I was completely obsessed with and terrified by Anjelica Huston in the movie version of The Witches!)

5. Mary Poppins flew in on a gust of wind back in 1934. My favorite thing about this character is that she is such a classic, children today still reference this story without knowing that they are referencing it! The absolute definition of “staple” in children’s lit.

4. Lewis Carroll: Ok, a few years ago, I dusted off my old leather-bound editions of Alice in Wonderland (1865) & Through the Looking Glass (1871). I’m not going to lie, it was a trip. I mean, seriously, those books are totally weird. I will always love this story, but reading these as an adult uncovered more nuances and question marks than anything else I’ve ever read. Really, what was Lewis Carroll on when he wrote this??

3. Beatrix Potter: Peter Rabbit (1902) is so adored. The characters created (and illustrated) by Beatrix Potter will also be available in the store this Fall!

2. Winnie the Pooh (1924): I love WTP! I love this character so much; I don’t even know what to say! If you’ve never read A.A. Milne, I seriously urge you to find a copy or two of these stories. Pooh Bear might not seem like the sharpest tool in the shed, but believe me; he is very, very wise. Just go on Pinterest and search for Winnie the Pooh quotes. Really, some of them make me want to cry a little.

1. Harry Potter (1997): I’m sure many would disagree with putting this at number one. That’s fine…it’s still my #1. I picked up the first Harry Potter book when I was twelve years old and sped through it. Luckily, the next one had already been released, so I made my mom go buy it for me. I refused to go with her out of fear someone I knew would see me. Almost every year after that, I dutifully anticipated the release of the next book (or sometimes movies). Each time, I would get up much earlier than usual and accompany my mom to Costco, where I would casually slip a copy of the newest book into the cart. I was under the delusion that NO ONE else was reading these books and if someone saw me with one, they would think I was one of those kids who painted lightning bolts on my forehead or wore capes in my spare time.

I was a junior in college when the last book came out. I proudly stood in line at the University Village Barnes & Noble to buy my copy, and that night, I read all 700+ pages and sobbed uncontrollably when it was over (a fact that my boyfriend seemed to find perplexing and hilarious). Harry and I grew up together. We experienced death at the same time and grieved at the same time. I could write essays about these books and how much they have meant to me. In my experience, either you get this one or you don’t. For those of you who might not understand, all I have to say is this: J.K. Rowling inspired millions of kids and generations of fans to read. That in itself is incredible and can never be discounted.

Please, sir, I want s'more...

Just a day after declaring that I would finally get in shape, I find out that it’s National S’more Day. Apparently August 10^th is ALWAYS National S’more Day! Who knew? Oh well, I guess I’ll just have to work out twice as much today.

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London 2012: Keeping Track

I’ve got to admit, watching the Olympics is starting to give me an inferiority complex. Staying in shape will always be an ongoing battle for me.  If I were a tribute in the Hunger Games, I’d be picked off pretty fast. Well, I say this every year, but it’s finally time to get in shape. What better way to motivate me than to get a new pair of running shoes? I may not ever train like an Olympic track star, but at least I can work out in style. I’m slightly obsessed with these neon Nikes, and since my current running shoes are still stained with mud from a very messy hike in Hawaii a few years ago, I think I’m due for a new pair!

NIKE FREE RUN+ 3 | NIKE FREE RUN+ 3 | NIKE FREE 3.0 | Nike Free RuniD

London 2012: Equestrian Inspired

I must admit, the equestrian events are somewhat of a mystery to me. Sadly, I didn’t grow up riding horses or playing with ponies like so many little girls. Unless you count My Little Ponies (GenerationOne), which no one ever seems to really remember. I’m pretty sure Bon Bon and Moonglow would dominate the Olympics BTW.

I stumbled upon these great pics over Kelly Green Interiors. I bet a million little girls out there (and women like me) would pitch a fit to have this wallpaper in their rooms! This lovely little lady looks like she stepped straight out of a Ralph Lauren ad. I wouldn’t mind having that saddlebag either…

Fashionable Mom: Victoria Beckham

She may not be competing for Team GB, but if being a fashionable mom was an Olympic event, it’s safe to assume Victoria Beckham would take the gold.

We all fell in love with her back in the 90’s when the Spice Girls and their “girl power” mantra infiltrated the world. I’m not ashamed to admit it…I LOVED the Spice Girls. I actually saw them in concert when I was ten years old. This was before my NSYNC phase. In elementary school, my friends and I would make up dances to their songs, each pretending to be one of them. I was always Posh. Partly because I had dark hair and wasn’t “sporty” at all, and partly because I loved her clothes! Even in the midst of sky high union jack platforms and hair horns, she was always the most polished.

Today she dons many more titles than pop star. She is a bona fide style icon, fashion designer, wife of an international soccer superstar, and most amazingly, mom to four (yes FOUR) kids!!

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Style Guide: Kids | Future Olympic Swimmers

This week at the Olympics, it’s all about the swimmers (and a little bit about the gymnasts). With Missy Franklin scoring the gold and Michael Phelps becoming the most decorated Olympian EVER, the swimmers have been making history!

As I get older (and less in shape) shopping for swimwear becomes less and less fun every summer. You know what is still cute though?? Swimwear for kids! While cheap, tacky swimsuits for the little ones overflow at discount stores, it can be difficult to find cute, stylish alternatives for kids. Sure, some of you are going to protest that kids grow too fast and there’s no reason to buy nice things that will just get ruined, but I don’t always buy that excuse. I hate the idea of buying “throw away” clothes for kids using reasoning like that when many women (and men) I know buy themselves nice new swimsuits every year without thinking twice!

Now, I am a self-proclaimed “toy snob,” but I’m also quickly becoming a kids clothing snob as well. When I stumbled across Marysia Swim, I just had to share it. Their “Bumby” kids collection is so cute, I instantly fell in love!

visit marysia swim

London 2012: Going for the Gold

Thanks in part to the girls of the USA Gymnastics team; the US is still topping the medal count. Medals are great, but let’s be honest…everyone covets the gold.  

Sadly, most of us are not among the elite. We will never get a chance to be adorned with a gold medal. Oh well, at least we can shop for all things gilded instead…

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Style Crush: Kate Middleton

Ahh, Kate Middleton. Last night she was seen in custom Christopher Kane, but back on March 15^th, Kate was spotted wearing this outfit when she met with the Team GB Hockey players.

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London 2012: Olympic Opening Ceremony

In about 45 minutes, the opening ceremony of the Summer Olympics will begin on the west coast. From the still shots I’ve seen online, it looks like a very long, Cirque du Soleil show. There are rumored appearances from nearly every person (or character) England has produced in the last century. Personally, I prefer to DVR this part so I can fast forward through the less exciting parts…like when all the athletes walk in. I know the Olympics are all about the athletes, but c’mon, do I really need to see them all aiming their cameras at the cameras??  

For the next 17 days, I will pay homage to the Olympics and the host nation in my own way, so stay tuned…

First up, these amazing poster illustrated by Paul Rogers.  

Five-colour screen print posters for Kemistry Gallery, London

Charlie's Picks: 4th Birthday!!

Next week my adorable pup Charlie turns four years old! It’s hard to believe that it’s been that long since we brought him home. Here are some Charlie approved picks for this week.

Harry Barker’s Kennel Club Dog Bone: I bought one of these last year for Charlie and he loved it! It was small enough for him to carry everywhere and the fact that these are stuffed with hypo-allergenic, eco-friendly recycled fiber is a major plus!

Gold-Plated eiCrate by Peter Pracilio: This amazing dog crate can be yours for just $11,000. It’s available in other colors for a more affordable option. I’ve been coveting the white one for a long time now. Charlie loves sleeping in a crate where he feels safe, so why not have one that looks great in the bedroom??

Silly Buddy Bow Tie: I’m slightly obsessed with these handmade doggie bow ties. I came across this etsy shop a few months ago and fell in love. I can just picture dressing Charlie like a dog version of Chuck Bass every day.

Mungo & Maud Lead: Made from beautiful cotton canvas and leather!

Mungo & Maud Dog Bowl: I recently discovered that it’s hard to find cute ceramic dog bowls. Mungo and Maud have a good selection!

Mungo & Maud Igloo Dog Bed:  This is beyond perfect for this little guy. He loves burrowing under blankets and pillows, and can’t sleep unless his crate is covered! This igloo bed will make him feel safe and comfy all the time. It even comes with a drawstring bag so it’s easy to travel with!

Mungo & Maud Treats: 100% organic! After feeding him dry food from one of those big dog food brands (that shall remain nameless), Charlie got really sick. I researched and found that hundreds of dogs were becoming ill and even having to be put down after eating this food. Since then, Charlie only eats organic, corn and by-product free food.

Happy Birthday Charlie!

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Bunheads: Is Anyone Watching?

I fell in love with Gilmore Girls the second I started watching it. I saw so much of myself in Rory and identified closely with her relationship with Lorelei. When the promos for Bunheads started, I felt a mixture of excitement and hesitation. ASP (Amy Sherman-Palladino) has written/created some of my favorite TV, but let’s be honest…Bunheads is a silly name for a TV show. I didn’t even take it seriously until I heard that it was created by ASP.

After watching the last few weeks, one thing is clear: ASP has a knack for small town drama. She creates quirky characters and like Gilmore Girls, the show is full of fast talking, pop culture reference filled mini monologues.

So far, it’s almost like a copy of Gilmore Girls. I’ve counted 5 recycled actors in the first five episodes! You know what? That’s ok with me. This is the kind of TV that makes me happy. It’s the kind of TV that brings you a little joy every week and makes you sad when it’s over. It doesn’t need ridiculous medical mysteries, bombing/shootings, endless bed-hopping, or cheesy sweeps clichés (I’m calling you out Shonda Rhimes). I truly hope that ABC Family will give this show a chance, especially since Secret Life of the American Teenager (the WORST show ever created) is in season 5!

Anyway, as we all know, the black swan fueled ballerina trend has been over for a little while. Maybe Bunheads will bring it back! These are some of my favorite ballet-inspired accessories.

Alexandra de Curtis Box Clutch | Chloe Ecru Ballerina Flats | Lanvin Tulle & Pearl Necklace | Chan Luu Cashmere & Silk Scarf

Julia's Picks: Tattered Tapestry Journal by Grain Design

Months and months ago, I came across this charming journal at Anthropologie.  The second I saw it, I imagined taking it along on a great European vacation. I placed it in my online shopping cart, unable to stomach the steep price tag. Earlier this week, I discovered it was ON SALE, so I hastily placed my order without hesitation. It just arrived and it’s even better than it looks online!

Despite many attempts, I’ve never been patient enough to sit down and journal. I’m definitely more of a list maker than writer. I love the idea of filling the pages with inspiring snapshots, ticket stubs, restaurant receipts, etc. Someday I hope to fill shelves with travel journals like this, but until then, I’ll be daydreaming of roaming around Venice with this one!

Note: Since Anthropologie put this item on sale, it quickly sold out. I must have snatched up one of the last ones!

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Style Guide: Kids | Pinspired by...

It’s no secret that Pinterest is a source of endless inspiration. The pic on the left has been making the rounds, so I thought why not start a new series? I’m calling this “Pinspired by…” I know what you are thinking: with the countless Pinterest puns, that’s the one you settled on?? Yes, it is!

This week, I was Pinspired to turn this wonderfully styled shot into a coordinating outfit for a little fashionista!  

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Mom to Be: Adele

Is it just me, or does it seem like every celeb is expecting?? Between Twitter announcements, morning shows, or even those who won’t fess up (I’m looking at you Megan Fox), it can be difficult the keep up with the celeb baby bumps. Since I get most of my news from E!, I am almost always up to speed on  who’s preggers in Hollywood…or across the pond. Adele is among the latest to announce an impending visit from the stork. With her timeless style, it seems apropos to share some of my favorite “classic” baby essentials.

Sophie the Giraffe, Diaper Bag Clutch, and adorable Stuffed Rabbit available at French Toast this Fall!

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Summer Movie: Ted

Last weekend, I was among the droves of people who flocked to the theater to see Ted. This uncouth, vulgar, yet adorable teddy bear made me laugh for almost two hours! It was a fun movie…for ADULTS. I was shocked to see a very young boy with his mother come out of the theater behind us. Now, I watched my fair share of R-rated flicks as a child so I’m definitely not here to judge, but seriously? Anyone who has seen the previews can gather that it’s not just foul language that earned the R-rating.

Anyway, here are some more kid-friendly teddy bears. They might not hug you back, but at least they don’t swear…or do drugs.

All teddy bears available at www.frenchtoastonline.com this Fall.  

Photo: Universal Pictures

1000th Pin!!!

It’s official: I’m addicted to Pinterest. As of July 2^nd, I’ve pinned 1000 images. Here is lucky number 1000! Yes, I know its July, and I pinned a gingerbread house…it’s just so cute! I’ll be happy I saved this image when the holiday season finally arrives.

Style Guide: Kids | 4th of July

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Great Inspirations: You've Got Mail

You’ve Got Mail is one of my favorite movies of all time. I’ve seen it more times than I can count. It’s hard to believe that movie was made 14 years ago. Aside from the fact that no one uses AOL anymore, this film is still completely relevant. The Shop Around the Corner is the ultimate little children’s store and Kathleen Kelly is the perfect shop owner. She’s invested in her customers, her community, and her loyal employees. Even though she eventually goes out of business, her delightful business has always inspired me! I can think of no greater tribute to the late Nora Ephron, than to keep watching her films and to keep being inspired by them.

These are some of my favorite things inspired by one of my favorite characters, Kathleen Kelly.

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Julia's Picks: Snow White and the Huntsman

When I heard that Hollywood was releasing not one, but two Snow White movies this year, I was pessimistic. Do we really need two? My disdain only grew when I found out Kristin Stewart was cast in the title role. Lily Collins is adorable, but really? Bella Swan as some bad-ass Snow White… Since I saw Mirror Mirror, it only seemed fair to give the Huntsman a chance. These two versions could not have been more different.  While Mirror Mirror was bright and colorful, the Huntsman was dark and practically colorless. I’ll give KStew some credit; she did a good job…even though I kept waiting to see Edward running around in the trees in the Dark Forest.  

Anyway, I have to imagine if Queen Ravenna was out shopping, these are some of the things she might pick up…

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Julia’s Picks: Mirror Mirror

With this year’s multiple retellings of Snow White, it only seems natural to draw a little inspiration. Rather than duplicate Disney’s classic red, blue, and yellow palette, the makers of Mirror Mirror created ornate sets and lavish costumes that pay homage to the 1937 classic, but have something all their own. As I watched this adorable movie, I couldn’t help but think that Lily Collins was born to be a Disney princess, even though this film was not made by Disney (gasp)! Yes, shocking. Here are some of my picks for your home inspired by the film Mirror Mirror…

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No More Katniss Braid…

It’s been over a week since I sat down in the chair and told Matt, my hair stylist, to cut it all off. Now, when I say “all” I’m being slightly dramatic. It’s not like I got a pixie cut or anything, but for those of us who have had a long wall of hair to hide behind, losing 12 inches seems unfathomable. I made the decision months ago that I needed a change. I’ve had essentially the same long hair since elementary school. Aside from an ill-fated attempt at bangs a couple of years ago, I’ve never wanted to change it. My long, flowing tresses have always been one of the few physical attributes I actually take pride in. A coworker once commented that I had “Disney princess” hair…a thought that still makes me smile. With all the changes in my life over the last year, it only seemed natural to do something drastic.

Here’s how the process went:

Step 1: Tell everyone that I was going to donate it. There’s no going back once you’ve made people think you’re so selfless…

Step 2: Freak out about the details. I went online to read about the donation process: 10 inch minimum??? Send it in yourself??? Does that mean I have to carry my hair around in my purse while I look for a mailbox? Ok, I’m having second thoughts now.

Step 3: Have someone else drive me to the salon. I can’t be trusted to make it there on my own.

Step 3 1/2: Start to have a panic attack in the car. Being on the verge of tears over something that grows back might seem silly to some people, but nevertheless, that’s how I was feeling.

Step 4: Cut it off! After assuring me that I wouldn’t have to tote my hair around all day in my purse, Matt made the first cut. Instead of crying, I actually felt ok seeing the copious amounts of hair falling to the floor.

Step 5: Embrace the change. It’s taking some getting used to, but letting go of my safety blanket of hair has felt good…and so did donating it.  

Even though I feel a little bit braver, I must lament the fact that I can’t braid my hair anymore! I guess that means I can’t be Katniss for Halloween this year…  

(photo source)

WFT?! Why French Toast?

No, that’s not a typo. And no, it doesn’t stand for some salacious acronym. From time to time, I get asked why I named may shop French Toast. I suppose it’s an odd name for a children’s store. Perhaps some generic name like “Baby Boutique” or “A Child’s enter generic item here,” or even “Once Upon a Time” would sit better with everyone. Why don’t I like names like this? Because they are a dime a dozen! Completely forgettable.

Right around the time I started thinking I could open my own shop, I was introduced to an amazing toy company called Moulin Roty. Based in France, this company makes charming toys and décor for young children. There’s a quality in their products that I can only describe as magical. So magical in fact, that it helped spark the idea of the “French” theme for my own store. I started running through all sorts of French words/phrases on Google translator. Finally, someone asked me what is my favorite thing that is French? The first thing that popped into my head was French Toast!  

While I was madly researching all of my favorite children’s products, and obsessing over the name French Toast (which I kept secret for MONTHS!), I attended a production of Cinderella with one of my closest friends, Emily and her lovely parents. As we were watching the production (which I like to call the Brandy and Whitney Houston version), I couldn’t help but think about the opening lines. The opening dialogue explains that the story of Cinderella has been told throughout time in every kingdom and country in the world. While that may be true, the most popular version we know was written by Charles Perrault. Perrault (who is a French literary icon) practically invented fairy tales. This got me thinking, all of my favorite fairy tales are rooted in French culture. Perrault not only penned Cinderella, but also Sleeping Beauty, Little Red Riding Hood, and Puss in Boots. Thanks to Disney, we all know that Beauty and the Beast originated in France. Some of my favorite contemporary children’s stories are set in France: Madeline, Anatole, Le Petit Prince, Babar. Even Eloise took a break from the Plaza to go to Paris!

So, now that you’ve made it to the end of this verbose blog post, you now know a little more about the French Toast story. For more French inspiration, check out my upcoming series French Toast, where I’ll post some of my favorite things inspired by my favorite stories!  

Where the Wild Things Are

Two of my favorite things are children’s books and beautiful tablescapes. You can imagine my delight when they are combined. A little while back, I came across an amazing homage to one of the most beloved children’s books of all time, “Where the Wild Things Are.” In light of the recent passing of Maurice Sendak, I thought it particularly apt to share this amazing birthday party from Nikki!

I particularly love the green “fur” table topper, which also lined the back of the invitations!

Max's crown cake pops!

Guests took home "wild things" cookies...and these awesome twig colored pencils that I've been coveting at Anthropologie for a long time!

For more details about Nikki's party and lot's of inspiration, check out her blog!