Pure Joy Home: February 2016

Posted by Unknown / Monday, February 22, 2016 / No comments /

WE HAVE MOVED!!

WE HAVE MOVED!!

Hello, Everyone! Today is Launch Day on my very own new website! We've moved to something bigger & better, www.purejoyhome.com , fol...

Posted by Unknown / Thursday, February 18, 2016 / 1 Comment / RECIPES

5 Weeknight Dinners from Trader Joe's

Since I have literally no time most days and need to have something on the table at dinner, I am grateful to have Trader Joe's about two minutes away. We're not big takeout people, I always feel overly full and like I could have made that better myself afterwards. There are a few staples I know I can rely on for a dinner that takes me under 20 minutes from start to finish and for prepared food and a very affordable price, they are quite delicious.<br />
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I usually add chicken and extra soy-sauce to make these a complete meal. Big Brian LOVES it, I personally am not a big stir-fry person in general but this works in a pinch.</div>
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These already grilled chicken strips make for a super quick taco night. I also purchase their fresh salsa, tortilla, lettuce, mexican shredded cheese, and guac. Easy peasy! </div>
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<br />This is remarkably good for prepared sauce. Top it with freshly grated parmesan cheese over spaghetti and you're good!</div>
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We actually had this last night, and we both enjoyed it. I served it with Haricot Vert and an arugula salad and it was ready in under 20 minutes.</div>
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Love this pizza! It's so easy and I keep it stocked in the freezer for a quick dinner. I usually top it with fresh ingredients like arugula, a little extra parmesan, proscuitto, etc..</div>
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There you have it! Our super simple weeknight dinner low down from Trader Joe's. Give these a try when you don't have time or just don't feel like cooking a.k.a me every night. </div>
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RECIPES

5 Weeknight Dinners from Trader Joe's

Since I have literally no time most days and need to have something on the table at dinner, I am grateful to have Trader Joe's about two...

Posted by Unknown / Wednesday, February 17, 2016 / 1 Comment / FASHION FINDS

Spring Fling :: The Perfect Spring into Summer Dresses

Even though it's like 8 degrees outside, I'm totally in spring fashion mode. We've got some special events and weddings this spring and summer so I thought I would pull together a few of my favorite dresses to share with you. I've literally scoured the web and every dress I pulled is a shade of rose pink which is apparently the preferred color this season and in plenty of supply.<br />
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I think you're in good hands with this selection if you've got a special event you're shopping for as well. As I said, most of the dresses are rose pink with one black lace dress if you've got your heart set on black.<br />
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<span style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://bit.ly/1U7GZZa">1</a> / <a href="http://bit.ly/249ZNLz">2</a> / <a href="http://bit.ly/1nVnpmh">3</a> / <a href="http://bit.ly/1V7vPlv">4</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/1oJv2wE">5</a> / <a href="http://bit.ly/1QvbX7Q">6</a> / <a href="http://bit.ly/1o4yotC">7</a> / <a href="http://bit.ly/1QIwu92">8</a></div>
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Enjoy and have a glass of bubble on me :) </div>
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FASHION FINDS

Spring Fling :: The Perfect Spring into Summer Dresses

Even though it's like 8 degrees outside, I'm totally in spring fashion mode. We've got some special events and weddings this spr...

Posted by Unknown / Tuesday, February 16, 2016 / 1 Comment / DECORATING , FRIENDS WITH PRETTY HOMES

Coastal Charm in Wallacks Cove, Stamford

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I'm so excited to share with you today the beautiful coastal home of my long-time friends, Jenna & Tom Cingari located in the Wallacks Cove area of Stamford, Connecticut. This little gem of a neighborhood is tucked away between "the Cove" and Shippan, and boasts the cutest family-friendly streets with private beaches at the end of each block. Funny story, Jenna and Tom actually closed on their house while on their honeymoon in Hawaii, and it happened to be the same house Tom grew up in. Needless to say, Tom knew the house well and when it came on the market (sold by the family that bought it from his parents years ago), it was the perfect fit for he and Jenna and their soon to be expanding family. </div>
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I've been friends with Jenna since we were little toddlers at nursery school (the same school<i> our </i>toddlers will be going to in September) and I've always admired her sense of style. Jenna and Tom have taken a house that was in need of serious repair and turned it into a beautiful and stylish home that has just the right amount of coastal flair and a welcoming casual vibe. </div>
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Thank you to Jenna and Tom for opening up your home to us. You have done such a beautiful job and I'm so happy to be able to share it on Pure Joy Home!</div>
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DECORATING, FRIENDS WITH PRETTY HOMES

Coastal Charm in Wallacks Cove, Stamford

I'm so excited to share with you today the beautiful coastal home of my long-time friends, Jenna & Tom Cingari located in the Walla...

Posted by Unknown / Thursday, February 11, 2016 / 2 Comments / KIDS

KEEPING IT SIMPLE with VALENTINES

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Remember when our parents took us to CVS to pick out our valentines to hand out in class? We bought one or two packs, maaaaybe some candy to go along with it, and wrote in the names of our classmates one by one and hand-delivered them to each our friends. Brian isn't in school yet but the valentines I'm seeing from friends on facebook and all around the web are like blow your mind creative genius pinterest-wins, they are seriously awesome. Maybe it's because I'm really overtired this week, and let me preface this by saying you know I'm all for a good DIY and I applaud these super mommies' creativity, but sometimes I wish we could go back to the days when things were less pinterest-y and I hate to say it, but maybe a little overdone? I know it comes from a good place but it kind of stinks that there is this pressure to create these masterpieces for such a sweet little innocent day.  I wonder what our moms were thinking about for our valentines? I asked my mom this question and she said it was a treat for me to go to the local drug store and pick out my favorite disney character valentines. We would come home and I would write them out, package them up and be excited as heck to get to school in the morning with my red and pink outfit.<br />
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So, this year, we're keeping it simple in the Joy house and created these little watercolor cards. Brian had no interest in painting at the time so I did it, but I asked him what he liked about each of his friends and we wrote a little message on the back and I made him "sign the card".<br />
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They're nothing special, but kind of cute and definitely sweet. All you need are some white cards, a simple pack of watercolor paints and precious time with your little one.<br />
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Lots of Love,  Liz (and little B)<br />
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KIDS

KEEPING IT SIMPLE with VALENTINES

Remember when our parents took us to CVS to pick out our valentines to hand out in class? We bought one or two packs, maaaaybe some candy ...

Posted by Unknown / Wednesday, February 10, 2016 / 2 Comments / DIY , KIDS

DIY Gold Foil Letter Art

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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzMoDQWCh-azI-qXnS-auvls-emr8zAIsjx5Zbyv6i-RPtJ0LzUtl0fYY_tIPNfRq9T1NpWEG9QttLHywNDD1KLUu9ejErGvQQv-MRPfn62YcVijQZkVMDNFcsZI7_JKlgu_AsDu2O0lVj/s1600/IMG_9826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzMoDQWCh-azI-qXnS-auvls-emr8zAIsjx5Zbyv6i-RPtJ0LzUtl0fYY_tIPNfRq9T1NpWEG9QttLHywNDD1KLUu9ejErGvQQv-MRPfn62YcVijQZkVMDNFcsZI7_JKlgu_AsDu2O0lVj/s640/IMG_9826.JPG" width="512" /></a></div>
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I've had this image of a pink or blue and gold foil letter in my head for months and finally got it out the other day with the perfect <a href="http://bit.ly/1Q84dyC">$3 wooden letters</a> I found at Target. I bought a G and a B, some pink and blue acrylic paint, painter's tape and a paint brush, and Martha Stewart's gold foil and foil adhesive from Michaels. The craft is pretty simple, the painting easier than the foil, and a step you can incorporate your little one in on.<br />
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For the painting:<br />
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Place the painter's tape where you want the color to end. I wanted it to be 3/4 the way down the letter:<br />
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Paint away with any brush you have in the house. It takes a couple of coats to cover up the grain of the wood: </div>
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You could really leave the letters like this, they look kind of cool, but not as cool as with the gold foil:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIl70dKJK0Oj0_Ni5azg0XHIvy18NJ2Z2Hk_knhkD8KtmeGVF1NSrgpQSMW2xklsHSvb8Hu1s6byBgUlWlERXM97m_fM49d_X1AsTF2X_iBeoXNs2h5CDg3jGhfm8f6zuhH2EW3iuZx_o9/s1600/DSC_1180.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIl70dKJK0Oj0_Ni5azg0XHIvy18NJ2Z2Hk_knhkD8KtmeGVF1NSrgpQSMW2xklsHSvb8Hu1s6byBgUlWlERXM97m_fM49d_X1AsTF2X_iBeoXNs2h5CDg3jGhfm8f6zuhH2EW3iuZx_o9/s640/DSC_1180.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here we go with the foil:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6MYF0nm6ap4aiP3KGy0ILaMiSdqdEQGySNCp3gppOVc0KnZsEgI5CI7ptKfWxfYCFcY8T8TMumrmP8L0aZ4LakJT3-Y-2HtVrYVECJmZ5hUDupS0vet1PP0hY70naCSJibm8lyXPC1cc/s1600/DSC_1204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6MYF0nm6ap4aiP3KGy0ILaMiSdqdEQGySNCp3gppOVc0KnZsEgI5CI7ptKfWxfYCFcY8T8TMumrmP8L0aZ4LakJT3-Y-2HtVrYVECJmZ5hUDupS0vet1PP0hY70naCSJibm8lyXPC1cc/s640/DSC_1204.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Paint the adhesive where you want the foil to be laid. In hindsight, it's probably a good idea to cover the painted area with painters tape to create a straight line of foil, but I didn't know that at the time.  </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOAwtbWAMGJByFZPnIuffDz065ByKBSfEkHdJAKRNyrV46k-oPwotnlf8wVxF3aucqRZG42k4SdAwVil5lhnWiBXg3aDogX5QwbzSuTb90mtvI2HEFnoP8eo3GajyDiAjAVPcrID4W65CJ/s1600/DSC_1207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOAwtbWAMGJByFZPnIuffDz065ByKBSfEkHdJAKRNyrV46k-oPwotnlf8wVxF3aucqRZG42k4SdAwVil5lhnWiBXg3aDogX5QwbzSuTb90mtvI2HEFnoP8eo3GajyDiAjAVPcrID4W65CJ/s640/DSC_1207.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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place the gold foil face down</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKYdJclhPMk4A7M2SL9Uv_xvBuivU52x16r-nO2zAUqtVJv6C1n3Z-UIWe_pbER33hfj9NnHJkUScp825Rp8OKLwU6Sa-bfZWBi8eXHvyGdLUcAHE01GQsOG3-yVyQq6cH_RHNOgVoNGwo/s1600/DSC_1209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKYdJclhPMk4A7M2SL9Uv_xvBuivU52x16r-nO2zAUqtVJv6C1n3Z-UIWe_pbER33hfj9NnHJkUScp825Rp8OKLwU6Sa-bfZWBi8eXHvyGdLUcAHE01GQsOG3-yVyQq6cH_RHNOgVoNGwo/s640/DSC_1209.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Press it down and get all the air bubbles out by running your fingers over and smoothing it out. Once you feel like the foil is down flat, pull of the orange tissue paper up making sure the gold foil stays on the letter (some may come off and that's okay)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTSeYgFCF6zi4xeBEkoexaCmY7Kps1c9RhFItvBzrCikKTeoN_I6dYK81tpBElPEe6eaZhG0p4qMswYhhX7FJ_lY7Wk70PDY8KMJCqoXbFkBfxv4Mwf3qnxGMxQiAzdefzDM6aFfEahnF5/s1600/DSC_1212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTSeYgFCF6zi4xeBEkoexaCmY7Kps1c9RhFItvBzrCikKTeoN_I6dYK81tpBElPEe6eaZhG0p4qMswYhhX7FJ_lY7Wk70PDY8KMJCqoXbFkBfxv4Mwf3qnxGMxQiAzdefzDM6aFfEahnF5/s640/DSC_1212.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This part is a little tricky because the foil is sooo delicate. You really need to be gentle and thorough with the foil because it rips very easily. The good thing is if it rips off, you can go over it with more glue and foil to make sure it's covered in gold. Eventually, you'll get it and you can kind of tear it away on the sides to it's on the front surface only. </div>
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Here is how mine turned out: </div>
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Doesn't it look super cute?? If you give it a try, let me know how it comes out by tagging me on <a href="http://instagram.com/purejoyhome">instagram @purejoyhome</a>! Good luck!</div>

DIY, KIDS

DIY Gold Foil Letter Art

I've had this image of a pink or blue and gold foil letter in my head for months and finally got it out the other day with the perfec...

Posted by Unknown / Tuesday, February 9, 2016 / 1 Comment / KIDS

Airplane Travel with Toddlers & Babies

Hola Chicas! I promised myself I would write a blog post on surviving airplane travel with a toddler and a baby because I see lots of posts from moms asking for tips and tricks for their upcoming vacations. We haven't flown too far with our kids, only from NYC to Florida, but we've flown a fair amount of times back and forth so I figured I would share what has been useful in saving us from disaster.<br />
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Grace has been 10 weeks and 5 months on her trips to Florida so far and Brian is now 2.5 but has been traveling since he was a babe as well.<br />
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We bring our double stroller (The City Select) ; bucket seat (The Chico Key Fit) that Grace is still in, and Brian's 5 point harness car seat (The Britax Marathon). You can check the larger car seat when you initially check-in (free) and the stroller and bucket seat at the gate (also free) which is helpful because you can strap them in while you're in the airport. I would suggest buying the protection bags for the pieces you check. I'm pretty sure whichever devices you use sell travel bags. We never actually used them and our stuff has been okay but I've heard of pieces coming back filthy and broken. Don't ask me why I haven't taken that step #hotmess. Also, check as many bags as you can so you can focus on lugging the kids and your carry-on (which will be heavy as hell), and not your suitcases which could otherwise be taken care of for you.<br />
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Packing List:<br />
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<b>Toddler </b><br />
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In addition to the everyday basics like diapers, wipes, bottles, formula, etc...<br />
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1. Benadryl in case of allergic reactions; tylenol and/or motrin for random bouts of illness like fevers, ear troubles, etc...you want to be armed in case things go south.<br />
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This is no time to prove anything to yourself or anyone around you, pull out the ipad and let your child get lost in whatever it is he or she likes. Sometimes the wifi doesn't work so download movies and shows and make sure they work in airplane mode. We don't usually have Brian use headphones, just kept the volume low, but that might be fun for them. Also, totally random but Office Max has this app called "ElfYourself" that allows you to snap photos of people and put their faces in dancing bodies. Brian was entertained with this for a solid hour and it worked with no internet so I would suggest downloading this free, ridiculous app.<br />
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Brings lots of snacks, his or her favorites and some new exciting snacks, non-allergenic of course. Peanuts are not permitted on planes anymore.<br />
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Hand sanitizer and wet wipes to wipe down the seats because chances are your toddler will be licking them by the end of the flight (how do they manage to touch every square inch of the dirtiest surfaces??).<br />
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If they have a security blanket and/or pacifier, obviously a must and pack back up paci's because they are bound to fall on the filthy floor.<br />
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Some new activity books, like the coloring ones with the magic white pen, sticker books, etc...<br />
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Some favorite books<br />
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Their drink of choice in a small cooler. Even though you're not allowed to bring water through security, if you have a baby or a toddler with you, you are permitted.<br />
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Hmm... I think that's it for toddlers.<br />
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<b>Baby</b><br />
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Grace has been an angel and has slept through most of the flights in the Baby Bjorn. I definitely recommend a carrier for the little ones so they stay close to you and away from the germs. Feed them on the way up and on the way down, the swallowing could prevent ear pressure. Other than that for the tiny ones it's really whatever keeps them quiet, watching their siblings, walking them up and down the isles, soft singing to them, bouncing, you get the idea. Have the medicine ready in case they need it as well.<br />
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And if you can squeeze it in, a Bloody Mary for mom and dad never hurt anyone ;)<br />
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Bon Voyage!!<br />
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If you have any questions or some tips and tricks of your own, please comment below!

KIDS

Airplane Travel with Toddlers & Babies

Hola Chicas! I promised myself I would write a blog post on surviving airplane travel with a toddler and a baby because I see lots of posts ...

Posted by Unknown / Monday, February 8, 2016 / No comments / RECIPES

Homemade Valentine's Day Dinner - The Perfect Spaghetti & Meatball Recipe

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I'm a firm believer that one of the greatest ways to show your love for someone is by cooking them a nice homemade meal, and what's more romantic (and delicious) than a classic like spaghetti and meatballs? There are so many variations but this is the recipe I use...and nail every time. </div>
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For the meatballs:</div>
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<li style="text-align: left;">1 lb. of 85% ground beef</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 cup of either freshly grated parmesan cheese</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">2 cloves of finely chopped garlic </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 large egg</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 teaspoon salt</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">about 1/2 cup of the prepared sauce (read on)</li>
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Here is what you do:</div>
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<li style="text-align: left;">Preheat your oven to 350 degrees</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Mix all of these ingredients together and roll balls into whatever size you desire, and place on a parchment lined cookie sheet</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Place the cookie sheet in the oven and bake until the meatballs are cooked through, around 20/25 minutes</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Add them to your sauce (below) and leave in there until you're ready to serve</li>
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For the sauce: </div>
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<li style="text-align: left;">Two 28 oz. cans of either San Marzano plum tomatoes with their liquid OR Hunts plum tomatoes *I've tried many different brands and these are the only ones I like</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1 medium finely chopped onion</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">5-10 basil leaves</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">salt and freshly ground pepper</li>
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Here is what you do:</div>
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<li style="text-align: left;">Sauté your onion in olive oil until translucent</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Pour in tomatoes and blend to a sauce consistency with a smart stick (right in the pot you're using to cook the sauce. I use a Le Creuset dutch oven)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Season with basil, salt and pepper and let it come to a boil. </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Once it's boiled for about 10 minutes, lower the heat so the sauce can simmer until your ready to eat, at least 30 minutes. You can add the meatballs as soon as the sauce is boiled. Leave them in there on simmer until you're ready to serve</li>
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This dish would be perfect to serve on Valentine's Day with a simple tossed garden salad of romaine or spring mix lettuce, balsamic vinegar and oil, a little salt and pepper AND a nice loaf of rustic bread from your local bakery. Oh, and how could I forget, a nice bottle of red.<br />
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What a nice treat for your loved one, family, girlfriends, whoever! </div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">                                                                 Bon Apétit my friends!</span></div>
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RECIPES

Homemade Valentine's Day Dinner - The Perfect Spaghetti & Meatball Recipe

I'm a firm believer that one of the greatest ways to show your love for someone is by cooking them a nice homemade meal, and what...

Posted by Unknown / Friday, February 5, 2016 / No comments /

Weekend Things...

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So happy it's finally friYAY! Some things I'm looking forward to this weekend are:</div>
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Having my parents over tonight to celebrate my mom's 66th birthday! We're getting takeout because I can't handle much more this week but <i>I am</i> making this delicious looking <a href="http://pin.it/OEMXgEn">lemon cake</a></div>
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<a href="http://purejoyhome.blogspot.com/2016/02/thursday-thoughts-personal-day-for-moms.html">My 9-5 personal day</a>! I'm heading into NYC to wonder around, read <a href="http://bit.ly/1TJaaRW">this book</a> on the train, and meet a friend for lunch. </div>
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Spending Saturday night in with my boo</div>
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Having fun with family on Sunday, church, and then going to a friend's super bowl party! I'm thinking of making this ridiculously unhealthy and easy <a href="http://pin.it/tuxQktN">buffalo chicken dip</a></div>
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What are your weekend plans? </div>
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Weekend Things...

So happy it's finally friYAY! Some things I'm looking forward to this weekend are: Having my parents over tonight to celebr...

Posted by Unknown / Thursday, February 4, 2016 / 5 Comments / WELLNESS

Thursday Thoughts :: A Personal Day for Moms & Dads

I contemplated writing this post because I'm sure 80% off my readers will either a. be disinterested or b. want to slit my throat for sounding like a brat but I'm going to anyway. Yesterday sucked as a stay at home/work at home mom. There was no break when I was at a breaking point so I did my usual, call my mom to vent, she wasn't available, so then I tried Brian, neither was he (in fairness, if I were them, I probably wouldn't answer either, who wants to hear a mom on the brink) so I resorted to screaming into a pillow! I've never done that before and my throat hurt afterwards but it did feel good to "get it out". Am I the only crazy person out there who does that??<br />
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Before I go on, let me preface this by once again saying (I've posted a similar "essay" before) that being a mother is the greatest privilege and gift I have ever been given and I 100% honor my role, but there are days... ohhhh there are days...<br />
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I woke up feeling tired as usual and not well. My entire face was hurting (it had been for days but I chalked it up to being tired) and when I pressed on my sinus areas the pain was real. So I called to make a doctor's appointment and they had an opening at 11. Brian's babysitter who lives next door (godsend) had an opening so I took it for the morning. I made coffee, got Brian off to the babysitter, fed Grace, checked emails, wrote a quick blog post, and took a shower with Grace sitting in the bumbo seat <i>in the shower</i> because she wouldn't take a nap.<br />
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I get to doctor in pouring rain and find out my sinuses are infected (what??) and my doctor tells me I'm probably worn down so my immune system isn't "up to par" and able to fight the infection. So she calls in a prescription for an antibiotic. Umm , okay I guess? I don't really have time to think about it but I will once I get two minutes to myself. Onward with the day, I pick up Brian, get home, feed Brian lunch, put him down for a nap with a whining overtired baby in my arms. Finally after an hour of trying to Grace down she dozes off. I lay down feeling like crap, ahhh peace, and then five minutes later "Mommy, I'm awake!!  - Brian. The day goes on and I'm frustrated as heck because all I want to do is rest my hurting face.<br />
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I've come to learn during my brief two and a half year tenure of being a mom that there really is no day off from being a mom. I love my kids to death, but I seriously need a day when I can leave the house in the morning and not come back until the evening, I need a 9-5 basically. This whole motherhood thing is f*cking tough, it really is. It's not all cute pinterest crafts, coo'ing babies, dance parties and yoga pants, that's like 10-20%.  The other 80% is spent shuffling the kids around to various activities, coming up with meals that they will actually swallow (I say "swallow" because Brian has recently starting chewing his dinner, and then keeping it in his mouth for upwards of an hour before spitting it out if he doesn't like it, #WTF???), calming the tantrums, trying to get them to go to sleep, taking care of them when they are sick, etc...Throw in trying to run a business from home and you're basically setting yourself up for a mental hurricane.<br />
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Is it me? Am I the only SAHM mom who feels like this? Like on the brink and in need of a serious break? Sometimes I feel like a schmuck for feeling this way, I mean I only have two kids, what about the mothers who have like eight?! And my kids are healthy, I can't imagine the pain and stress of being a mother to child who isn't well. As I type that I want to smack myself...Believe me, I thank God every single day for the life He has blessed me with, and for the life of these two perfect babies He has given me, so I guess what I'm really saying is, I just need a personal day.<br />
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Everyone needs a personal day though, right? I just think that since motherhood is not treated as a "job" there are no perks like "personal days, sick days, lunch breaks" that we all really need. The same is true for working moms. Sure, they get a break from their kids during the day, but it's not like they're taking that time to themselves, maybe if they're lucky, they get to take a quick lunch break? They wake up, get the kids ready for wherever they have to go, go to work, answer to people all day, pick up kids, get home, do the nighttime routine, and then do it all over again. I know... it's life, but it's hard. And more than anything it's beautiful and amazing. I digress, what I'm trying to get at here is that I think it's REALLY important for mothers AND fathers (sorry, I realize I've alienated the fathers this whole post) to step back and take some time for yourself, like not just a mani/pedi or quick solo trip to the store, but like a day's worth of time.<br />
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So now that I've dumped that on you, the silver lining is that I have learned that I need a 9-5 every once in a while and thankfully, I have a cooperative husband who is going to give me just that. Brian is giving me from the hours of 9-5 on Saturday and I going to sail off on a train to NYC to visit a friend and wander around. I'm going to get a book and read it on the train and I'm going to shop, maybe get my nails done, have lunch with my friend, and I seriously can't wait. I'll probably be missing them come 4 pm but in all seriousness, if you're reading this, and possibly on the brink like I was yesterday, think about it. Ask your husband for a trade, maybe you take one day, and then he can take another day. You may already do this, I know this is not a novel idea but everyone needs a reminder every once in a while, right? I also know that to a majority of people, I'm probably sounding like a crazy person so, I'm sorry you just had to read that. I'll get back to my regular upbeat posting tomorrow (spring break attire, woohoo!)<br />
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I'm signing off for now, Grace is sleeping so I can take a shower alone! PEACE<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thankful I get to spend my days with her</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLCKXl4HVacYRk3JhQXvHwzn2fAgfaSpX4KJr5dFnX7J_bTSiCr6SVaSYorz-tFMLHV14CU_ZjcyUMoYX_XvnUWZy6vlSKkQ-nX0Xxzwp4w7dvFLZPrQyeTHjO1V2CxGG2Pv3J9HV8zM0r/s1600/DSC_0844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLCKXl4HVacYRk3JhQXvHwzn2fAgfaSpX4KJr5dFnX7J_bTSiCr6SVaSYorz-tFMLHV14CU_ZjcyUMoYX_XvnUWZy6vlSKkQ-nX0Xxzwp4w7dvFLZPrQyeTHjO1V2CxGG2Pv3J9HV8zM0r/s400/DSC_0844.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">and this love bug</td></tr>
</tbody></table>

WELLNESS

Thursday Thoughts :: A Personal Day for Moms & Dads

I contemplated writing this post because I'm sure 80% off my readers will either a. be disinterested or b. want to slit my throat for so...

Posted by Unknown / Wednesday, February 3, 2016 / 1 Comment / RECIPES

Hearty Winter Soup :: Sausage, White Bean & Kale

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I'm such a bad grocery shopper, I don't plan my meals ahead so I never really know what to buy. I usually just go in and buy an assortment of food groups that good at the moment and I luck out if I can make a meal out of it without having to go back out to the store. On my last trip I did manage to buy a few cans of cannelini beans, a package of sweet sausage and a bag of fresh kale and these three ingredients were the base of an amazing soup I'm about to tell you about.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvpmvxlbYCbi4kM85TgOEielblfff0cIUs39AvbEvvWeFASkbcisNIgEqkkyh4p5KuFbvcrbN2WXA_ipGNLtb97ne_fZJBCrSNFVgxSaOfRcTX7IYfVKrdPPZYnDw_VQvptoUvybH4QhYD/s1600/DSC_1202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvpmvxlbYCbi4kM85TgOEielblfff0cIUs39AvbEvvWeFASkbcisNIgEqkkyh4p5KuFbvcrbN2WXA_ipGNLtb97ne_fZJBCrSNFVgxSaOfRcTX7IYfVKrdPPZYnDw_VQvptoUvybH4QhYD/s640/DSC_1202.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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For this sausage, white bean and kale soup, you'll need: </div>
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2 cans of cannelini beans</div>
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1 package of sweet sausage (about five links)</div>
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A bag of fresh kale</div>
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1 12-oz can of diced tomatoes</div>
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1-2 quartsof chicken broth</div>
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salt and pepper to taste</div>
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This soup comes together in minutes and is arguably one of the best soups I've ever pulled off.</div>
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Here is what you do:</div>
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Take the sausage meat out of the casings and sauté it until cooked</div>
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Add the can of diced tomatoes </div>
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Add 1-quart of chicken broth</div>
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Let this come to a boil and then keep on a simmer</div>
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About ten minutes after, add the beans</div>
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Let this all simmer with the lid off so the soup thickens a bit </div>
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Taste it, add some salt and pepper to your liking</div>
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In a separate pot, boil some pasta to put in it when you're serving. I used mini-farfalle and they were perfect.</div>
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While the pasta is cooking, add a couple of handfuls of kale to your soup, not too much, you don't want it to be too "kale-y" so use your judgement here. </div>
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Let the kale soften until it reaches a nice consistency and then you're ready to serve. If you find your liquid evaporated too much and you want more, just add some chicken broth until you get it how you want it.</div>
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To serve, spoon out the desired amount of pasta and then add your soup on top. </div>
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Top with freshly grated parmesan cheese and some nice bread and mangia! </div>

RECIPES

Hearty Winter Soup :: Sausage, White Bean & Kale

I'm such a bad grocery shopper, I don't plan my meals ahead so I never really know what to buy. I usually just go in and buy a...

Posted by Unknown / Tuesday, February 2, 2016 / 4 Comments / DECORATING , FRIENDS WITH PRETTY HOMES

Friends with Pretty Homes :: Coastal White in North Stamford

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I'm so excited to bring you a new series on Pure Joy Home featuring my friends' stylish and chic homes. The different homes I visit (mostly for playgroups with my little ones in tow) are all real, functional, lived in spaces with babies, kids, pets, you name it, and are all done on all different budgets and in all different styles. I always love a home tour (who doesn't?) and I thought it would be fun to share the homes that inspire me with you. I believe that your surroundings have a major impact on your overall wellness, have you heard of or perhaps read the book, <a href="http://bit.ly/1QEDh6f">"The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up"</a>? It was a #1 New York Times best-seller for a reason, people care! Keeping up a tidy and stylish home is something that brings a lot of pleasure to people and I'm so happy to bring that to you in the form of this fun little series.<br />
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My first home feature is of my lovely friend Stephanie of <a href="http://stephanieelliottphotography.com/">Stephanie Elliot Photography</a>. I met Steph when our now toddlers were only weeks old at a Mommy and Me yoga class and we've remained friends since. I've also had the privilege of watching her photography hobby develop into a full-blown flourishing business which has been so awe-inspiring for me as a fellow "momtrepreneur" / entrepreneur. All of her photography sessions are amazing, you can check out her portfolio <a href="http://stephanieelliottphotography.com/">here</a>.<br />
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Onto even more Steph amazingness, her home. She has translated her amazing sense of style and unique vision into a DREAM HOME located in North Stamford, Connecticut. It makes me want to take everything I own out of my home and start from scratch, with a can of white paint. Her style is sophisticated and tranquil achieved with neutral tones and timeless furnishings, but also hip and unique with a hint of Montauk/California surfer beach vibe mixed in which in my book = perfection.<br />
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Take a peak around Steph's home, and enjoy the eye-candy :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4hR3xw5ql8GGDaQnE9ptWMsmq19kDyP-Vp5NJVqmOtXCfN0WirEjL30BJnW4WXi4YSDEYDewm2t2zX7xCzS45G_jpa6QZKn16f_5jYfpKHkH4TTgy1SzSX3IiLFEhPoOYZXvYhpH3JVXW/s1600/desk_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4hR3xw5ql8GGDaQnE9ptWMsmq19kDyP-Vp5NJVqmOtXCfN0WirEjL30BJnW4WXi4YSDEYDewm2t2zX7xCzS45G_jpa6QZKn16f_5jYfpKHkH4TTgy1SzSX3IiLFEhPoOYZXvYhpH3JVXW/s640/desk_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdqgWdt40uNxyMbRFz9935EII7Wmglxq4kEDajR1OOUMuPSNRL4LsVnz6LWgiucHOLnJSVFVbpCpatjuwQMvA4nrlaU225fC0fVwPE9gCrkyj5D_LUbaDwDK1YT-KQTehuHRfCXfSdFAZH/s1600/desk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdqgWdt40uNxyMbRFz9935EII7Wmglxq4kEDajR1OOUMuPSNRL4LsVnz6LWgiucHOLnJSVFVbpCpatjuwQMvA4nrlaU225fC0fVwPE9gCrkyj5D_LUbaDwDK1YT-KQTehuHRfCXfSdFAZH/s640/desk.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaxFKrq34dvxxWmlproMrGnoMZ1fUqYr7ntJgdKVFtXoeJBuLl1EgzJx-Qoa5ie9A3GBaatVtk6ZqLSrqqflK3jwKaUsriLzl4k52DxZINFE7FiONYvh1zkEr8Mx4YZZ1LDzFaZgapvo9h/s1600/desk_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaxFKrq34dvxxWmlproMrGnoMZ1fUqYr7ntJgdKVFtXoeJBuLl1EgzJx-Qoa5ie9A3GBaatVtk6ZqLSrqqflK3jwKaUsriLzl4k52DxZINFE7FiONYvh1zkEr8Mx4YZZ1LDzFaZgapvo9h/s640/desk_4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPST6QcKAMFIkEBMtAg-nKxA_XuS92Pq75p2_9Kwr46MSBIlGfU-blJCuTZxJlquXdK7c_l69XbrRpzHMkf_g-fFKA74XBBFhXPP07cSS0WotUcNSUasA9Ne81XTzwOsuw5H_a-EAGd-Zq/s1600/desk_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPST6QcKAMFIkEBMtAg-nKxA_XuS92Pq75p2_9Kwr46MSBIlGfU-blJCuTZxJlquXdK7c_l69XbrRpzHMkf_g-fFKA74XBBFhXPP07cSS0WotUcNSUasA9Ne81XTzwOsuw5H_a-EAGd-Zq/s640/desk_5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYoyUYTXwnpkdXSNDUNZ653IvwsGbOrGXWE6cl_xEXXP-qinjhS3OUvlCxRzFj65_IcfMHIkzDq_2r6y8hX4IbQIF0lzZ-yWDjpIsg3vbK1zb7G_WqVeEpj7YsRPZWlW4bG5fWDpOjNLGc/s1600/home1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYoyUYTXwnpkdXSNDUNZ653IvwsGbOrGXWE6cl_xEXXP-qinjhS3OUvlCxRzFj65_IcfMHIkzDq_2r6y8hX4IbQIF0lzZ-yWDjpIsg3vbK1zb7G_WqVeEpj7YsRPZWlW4bG5fWDpOjNLGc/s640/home1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmbKumRR9h3En_WwlXvwafPz89UvL6xgPInQv43Xna_y25I0JfPWjyxra6UzmK8gS02MvWrTcDHO3YRc6FUaiTOYHFp6Onkbs9iK2rW8eI07utCxGoOTdck1Zf7o0rHf8JBDwbxqx0SaYT/s1600/home2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmbKumRR9h3En_WwlXvwafPz89UvL6xgPInQv43Xna_y25I0JfPWjyxra6UzmK8gS02MvWrTcDHO3YRc6FUaiTOYHFp6Onkbs9iK2rW8eI07utCxGoOTdck1Zf7o0rHf8JBDwbxqx0SaYT/s640/home2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0daFUT2LeIJHommxl9aBVzkb8NYBXkK82cFNuZZ7CXKkI2RO2hVedUZld8iPAzF6eEkA5u5_X_T3wXHPNDPVVVHw05lGENFyxwxjuvPuGznWstVOOFhWS3gbtq1XDwNhK1xvkocvmKfH3/s1600/home3-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0daFUT2LeIJHommxl9aBVzkb8NYBXkK82cFNuZZ7CXKkI2RO2hVedUZld8iPAzF6eEkA5u5_X_T3wXHPNDPVVVHw05lGENFyxwxjuvPuGznWstVOOFhWS3gbtq1XDwNhK1xvkocvmKfH3/s640/home3-4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU4AIOOpfmqkPQJuUIS_eu3wm2KRWidXhEbdHB8dC2pKbK9NJWO2VXvrn_EGI3H-tYtAPPKa8QXFPIkfv0riz0-D27TLNzovwe-vrB5nPw1-Z3iM93Cj_x47fPxFH9xnRvDnOBCJy7tJp6/s1600/home4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU4AIOOpfmqkPQJuUIS_eu3wm2KRWidXhEbdHB8dC2pKbK9NJWO2VXvrn_EGI3H-tYtAPPKa8QXFPIkfv0riz0-D27TLNzovwe-vrB5nPw1-Z3iM93Cj_x47fPxFH9xnRvDnOBCJy7tJp6/s640/home4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiElcxG-sUqZXenr2ZIlny89qmCYoIh56eAApEENJZsOc9lQaajMgWXakvlBEK4pleNP3Qrov4cOsDjXbXtEyet0Xaz4fl_inNuYylLF1PKZUNR6XnuYo2pMn8RI1FLGn0ynHG996WOxMH/s1600/blog4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiElcxG-sUqZXenr2ZIlny89qmCYoIh56eAApEENJZsOc9lQaajMgWXakvlBEK4pleNP3Qrov4cOsDjXbXtEyet0Xaz4fl_inNuYylLF1PKZUNR6XnuYo2pMn8RI1FLGn0ynHG996WOxMH/s640/blog4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Aren't you in love? Thank you, Steph for opening your beautiful home to us and inspiring us with these photos, you've done an amazing job! </div>
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FYI:</div>
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Paint Color: Glidden's ICI drifting snow</div>
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Pillows: <a href="http://bit.ly/1KnyPJM">Pottery Barn</a></div>
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Baskets : Homegoods</div>
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Fireplace Decoration: Vintage</div>
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Couches: Ikea</div>
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Baby Brighton's Mobile : <a href="http://bit.ly/1QEFejc">Fleur Lux on Etsy</a></div>
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Ottoman: Tufted Coffe Ottoman from Restoration Hardware </div>

DECORATING, FRIENDS WITH PRETTY HOMES

Friends with Pretty Homes :: Coastal White in North Stamford

I'm so excited to bring you a new series on Pure Joy Home featuring my friends' stylish and chic homes. The different homes I vi...

Posted by Unknown / Monday, February 22, 2016 / No comments /

WE HAVE MOVED!!

Posted by Unknown / Thursday, February 18, 2016 / 1 Comment / RECIPES

5 Weeknight Dinners from Trader Joe's

Posted by Unknown / Wednesday, February 17, 2016 / 1 Comment / FASHION FINDS

Spring Fling :: The Perfect Spring into Summer Dresses

Posted by Unknown / Tuesday, February 16, 2016 / 1 Comment / DECORATING , FRIENDS WITH PRETTY HOMES

Coastal Charm in Wallacks Cove, Stamford

Posted by Unknown / Thursday, February 11, 2016 / 2 Comments / KIDS

KEEPING IT SIMPLE with VALENTINES

Posted by Unknown / Wednesday, February 10, 2016 / 2 Comments / DIY , KIDS

DIY Gold Foil Letter Art

Posted by Unknown / Tuesday, February 9, 2016 / 1 Comment / KIDS

Airplane Travel with Toddlers & Babies

Posted by Unknown / Monday, February 8, 2016 / No comments / RECIPES

Homemade Valentine's Day Dinner - The Perfect Spaghetti & Meatball Recipe

Posted by Unknown / Friday, February 5, 2016 / No comments /

Weekend Things...

Posted by Unknown / Thursday, February 4, 2016 / 5 Comments / WELLNESS

Thursday Thoughts :: A Personal Day for Moms & Dads

Posted by Unknown / Wednesday, February 3, 2016 / 1 Comment / RECIPES

Hearty Winter Soup :: Sausage, White Bean & Kale

Posted by Unknown / Tuesday, February 2, 2016 / 4 Comments / DECORATING , FRIENDS WITH PRETTY HOMES

Friends with Pretty Homes :: Coastal White in North Stamford

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