CONEY ISLAND

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I haven’t been to Coney Island in yearssss. Our niece is visiting from Canada and exploring Coney was on her NYC bucket list so off we went on the N train with our bags packed with sunscreen, shovels, and snacks. First thing. THE CROWDS. Wow! I can’t remember the last time we were around so many people. Second thing. The colors. The people. Talk about intense yet awesome stimulation. We parked ourselves by  the kiddie sand park and spent about 2 hours on the beach before heading to the boardwalk. Lucas had a blast – especially when he joined in what seemed to be a day time trance/techno party going on by Luna Park. We finished off the day at the Smorgasbord with amazing french fries and mofongo (smashed plantain). We probably won’t be back this summer..with less than 4 weeks to go until baby makes her appearance it just does’t seem doable..but we will definitely be back during the fall and next summer with two little ones in tow.

A DAY AT THE FAIR

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A little late but last weekend we headed upstate for some downtime, a fair, and amazing food. What more could a pregnant lady ask for? I went to college in New Paltz, an amazing town with a vibe that can only be described as hippy meets AWESOME. It’s a breath of fresh air with open spaces, the best vintage and antique shops, and the friendliest locals. We love heading up at least twice a year and the arts & crafts fair was an awesome way to spend a Saturday. We didn’t buy much except for pickles, balsamic vinegar, and homemade fudge. Pregnancy cravings for the win!

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC PART II – SEA HORSE RANCH

IMG_0360Part of the excitement of our family vacation was the anticipation of the beach portion of the trip and getting to spend a few nights at Sea Horse Ranch through Kid & Coe, located in Cabarete with easy access to Sosua beach (Ivan’s favorite).

As some of you may know, I’m the community manager for Kid & Coe – an amazing site and service catering to family travel with some of the most beautiful properties around the world. To say I was stoked to finally get to experience booking and staying in a Kid & Coe property first hand would be an understatement!

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DOMINICAN REPUBLIC PART I – SANTIAGO!

IMG_9636 We just arrived back home to NYC from our family holiday to The Dominican Republic and this pregnant mama is achy, exhausted, and deliriously happy. My heart is content and I have a tan to boot. I mean, what could be better than that?

Ivan’s father retired to the DR about two years ago after working for over 40 years in New York. This trip was a special one because he was turning 70 and we wanted to share in the festivities. Not only that but Ivan’s birthday falls on the exact same day with his brother’s happening only days before. It was a Vargas birthday extravaganza if you will.

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A BEAUTIFUL EASTER

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It’s Monday and I’m still smiling – thinking of our lovely Easter day spent with family. We had a very low key morning. Bacon, egg, and cheeses  with iced coffee for breakfast and cartoons. My mom came over and while Ivan and Lucas played we quickly hid eggs and treats around the apartment. Lucas was thrilled and I caught some amazing and hysterical video footage (I’ll be sharing egg photos tomorrow ;). After the hunt the boys took a nap, I tidied up, and got things ready for our adventure to Brooklyn. We had a late lunch/dinner of sancocho with family and finished off the evening with strawberry shortcake. Perfection.

I went to bed with a full heart, a happy soul, and thanking God for all our blessings. I hope you all had a wonderful Easter!

DECEMBER IN FLORIDA

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We’re in Florida! Again! Can you tell we really love it here? We arrived Tuesday morning and were greeted by a house decked out in Christmas decor. My aunties know how to do the holidays right! Lucas is loving every bow, wreath, and blinking light. It has been such a pleasure relaxing on the back deck with just a light sweater and taking in all the sunshine. Sorry NYC. We all needed a break from the cold. Oh. Those wreath photos above? I woke up with this idea that I just knew would be perfect. Lucas poking his head out of a giant wreath? Adorable! Wrong. Total fail (especially the part where he flung the wreath across the grass..) but either way the photos still make me smile. We still have another week in the sunshine. Another week of thrifting, relaxing, more relaxing, and family time. The best. Happy Holidays from Clearwater! 

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

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I’m thankful for soft, squishy cheeks (see above), kisses, and love. So much love. My family, my boys who bring me infinite joy, and our health. From our family to yours, may you have a blessed Thanksgiving with loved ones.
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