Napkin bow ties {DIY}

I was going to keep this post a little secret until the total unveil of a up coming baby shower, but I just loved them so much I couldn't wait.   I only needed forks for a tea party style shower, but you could wrap whichever utensils you need.  These are cheap and easy to make, I love the blue bow tie for a baby shower, but it would also work well for a child's birthday so kids can grab and go.

What you will need:
Cute mini duck tape or satin ribbon tape like these found at Wal-mart or Michaels
Square paper napkins- color of choice
Utensils to wrap inside

Step one: Start by cutting a few pieces of the tape so you have them ready to go

Step two: Place the utensil in the middle of the napkin

Step three: Fold the napkin in half, by bringing the top to the middle, then bring the bottom up to meet the top halve and then fold in halve again (see 2nd photo).

Step four: Pinch the middle of the napkin (no need to twist) and wrap the tape around securing tightly.  Be sure not to wrap to tight or the napkin will tare.

 Step five: Gently flare out the sides to make a bow tie look a like.

display next to dessert plates 

Each one may be slightly different but so are bow ties.  Hope you love these as much as I do.  More DIY to come....

XoXo
ML

Seattle {in 3 days}

It has definitely been the summer of travel for us here at Modernlyfe.  I love traveling to celebrate weddings, especially when they are hosted in fun cites.  The husband and I attended a rustic barn wedding outside of Seattle in July, we were able to play in the city for 3 days and really made the most of the fabulous weather they were having.  Are you heading to Seattle this year? Check out the must do's, see's and eat's below.  

Stay:

W Seattle- Great location, hip but also suitable for small families. We were able to walk to all sights and very close to Pike market. Enjoy a night cap at Trace lounge before heading to bed. To book a room visit here.

Transportation:

Seattle is very walkable (when it is not raining.)  We used Uber to and from the airport as well as into Ballard for dinner. 

Explore:

Chihuly gardens and glass- Located right next to the space needle.  Stroll around the museum and take in the vibrate colors of the twisted glass.  His work is famously displayed at the Belligo in Las Vegas as well as the Seattle airport.

In the gardens

Space Needle- A must for first time visitors but once you have taken in the view explore the city by foot. check out tickets here.

Nordstrom- Lets just say this is the location that started it all.

Pike Market- Check out the aisles of fresh fruit and colorful blooms.  If you time it right you might be able to catch a throwing of the fish demo.

Green Lake- Grab your sneakers and hail a cab.  Enjoy a walk or run around this lake with the locals, just 10 minutes away from downtown.

Don't miss:
Capitol hill and Fremont districts. Emerge yourself in the eclectic and historic areas of Seattle.  Grab dinner at one of the new hip restaurants- see eats-

Eats: 

Pink door- Classic old school Italian food, friendly service with a great patio.  Sit inside and enjoy the band of the night while admiring rustic antiques.  Explore the menu here.

Moorse coffee- Need an afternoon pick me up? stop into Moorse, best all around coffee with unique décor.  Don't be surprised if you get a cute design on top of your latte, that is what they are known for.

cutest latte ever

 Staple and Fancy- Ready to leave the tourist area and visit a “local” spot? Take part in the Chefs tasting menu, which consists of 8-10 small plates of off menu items.  Be prepared to relax, eat and leave overly satisfied. TIP* Go early and visit the attached bar next store.  Reserve a table here.

Café champagne-Don't be afraid to sleep in. Cafe Champagne is great for a late breakfast or lunch, enjoy fresh pastries and quiche that would make the French drool.

Biscuit bitch- Great for breakfast or lunch, we were there for breakfast.  Order at the counter and grab a seat, fast friendly service with gluten free options! So tasty I’m still craving it.

best looking gluten free biscuit 

Marjorie- Enjoy dinner on the cute patio, a local favorite with friendly service. *TIP try the non alcoholic  drinks.

Pike place chowder-Noted for the best clam chowder in town.  They offer many tasty chowder options.  Grab a table outside and rub shoulders with visitors and locals alike. It was 80 degrees when we were there and the patio was full that says something.  Don’t forget to get some sourdough bread on the side.

Crab sandwich 

Drinks:

Radiator whisky- Love trying unique bar/restaurants?  make sure to put this on your list.  They showcase unique bourbons and whisky's of course.  Go for the tasting and try 3 flavors, you will not be disappointed.  Located above Pike Market grab a window seat in enjoy the view.  Review the drink menu here.

enjoying a bourbon on the rocks

Purple wine bar- Very close to the W hotel.  Get the night started at the circular bar right in the middle with a flight of wines from around the world.

The tasting room- Great spot to taste local wines, they have games you can play while sipping.

Clearly we had a wonderful time and did not waste a minute, we finished the weekend just outside of Seattle in Cle Elm for Emily and Davids pinterest worthy wedding.

Hope you enjoy your stay.
XoXo
ML 

Summer Reds + Baby Bump Update {26 Weeks}

Where did July go?!  I missed my last update {24 weeks} because I was somewhere between Croatia, German and Portugal.  So here we are - already at 26 weeks!  I feel like I say this every post…but seriously you guys, it’s going by so fast. 

The bump went through a little growth spurt since 22 weeks.  I went from people barely noticing I was preggers to people asking if it’s a boy or girl in a matter of days!  Luckily the rest of me stayed pretty much the same size and I’m still able to fit into cute non-maternity dresses, of course with a little stretch.

I wore this dress to dinner one night in Portugal.  Drop waist dresses don’t usually look great on me, but with this belly, somehow it works!  Unfortunately, I totally forgot the accessories I had already paired with this dress. The red goes so well with golds and turquoise accents bracelets and earrings.  It also gives it a more beachy, vacation feel.  

{ Dress: Here & Here // Shoes: Old Zara }

Scroll down for my 26 weeks baby bump update!

How far along? 26 Weeks

Baby Size: A Eggplant!  He's about 14 inches long and weighs approximately 2 pound!!  His eyes are forming, and will soon start to open. He's getting her immune system ready for life on the outside by soaking up my antibodies.

Total weight gain/loss: 12 pounds {Not much weight gain in the last month…must be all that walking in Europe)

Maternity clothes? Just jeans.  Still squeezing into my normal tops and dresses.

Stretch marks? Nope.  

Symptoms:  Occasional leg cramps at night and extra full & thick hair {it’s amazing!}

Sleep: Still pretty good.

Best moment this week: Finally finishing my registry!

Worst moment of the week: None.

Have you told family and friends: Yes!

Miss Anything? Wearing super high heels.  Naturally, the first thing I reach for is flats or flip flops these days.

Movement: YES, tons!

Food cravings: Lots of fruit!

Anything making you queasy or sick: Nope!

Have you started to show yet:  Yes!

Labor Signs: Nope

Belly Button in or out? In…although its definitely on its way out!

Wedding rings on or off? On

Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy.  There’s really nothing to complain about…I’ve been super blessed in this whole experience.

Looking forward to: Upcoming baby showers!  

Summer Happenings in OC

Its hard to believe summer is half way over.  There are still so much we want to do!  Here are some fun things happening in Orange County the next couple of weeks...even some kid-friendly stuff too!

1. 2014 Orange County Fair
If you're looking for fun rides and fried EVERYTHING, the OC Fair is the place to be!  They even have special events like concerts and wine tasting!  Last day of the fair is August 10th.  

2. 2014 Vans US Open of Surfing
Spend a warm day in Huntington Beach with the family and dozens of the world's most talented surfers.  Starts July 26th through August 3rd.  

3. Movies in the Park
I've always wanted to bring a picnic and watch a old class like Wizard of Oz.  Such as great way to spend a night with the entire family!  Check your nearest park for showtimes and availability.

4. 6th Annual Lobsterfest at Newport Beach
If you're a seafood lover, can't miss this event.  Maine Lobster is flown in and celebrated with various accompaniments and topped off with live entertainment.  Event takes place on Sunday, Aug. 10, 2014 from 3-8 p.m. at Newport Beach Back Bay.

5. Basic Beach day with a good book
What's not to love about a good beach day. Even if the Pacific Ocean is a bit too cold for your taste, the warm summer breeze and sunshine is bound to put anybody in a good mood.  Add a good summer read, and you're golden...

Happy summer!

Lemon & basil hummus

Hope you are enjoying your summer!  We have some great post coming soon. 

I love using seasonal ingredients and what screams summer more then fresh lemons and basil. I am not sure why I did not make this recipe earlier, maybe I just needed to perfect it.   It only takes 15 minutes to whip up! Enjoy it with snap peas, carrots or pita chips. 

1-15oz can organic garbanzo beans (drained)

5 Tbs lemon juice (about 2 medium lemons)

¼ Cup organic EVOO 

1 Tbs Tahini (sesame seed paste)

4 cloves of garlic 

3- springs of fresh parsley

3- springs of fresh basil

Pinch of sea salt

*Pinch of Cheyenne pepper (optional adds a little kick)

Rinse and drain garbanzo beans, juice 2 lemons and slice garlic.  Add all ingredients to food processer (garbanzo beans, lemon juice, EVOO, tahini, garlic, parsley, basil, salt and Cheyenne.) Pulse in good processer for about 3 minutes.  If it is a little chunky add more lemon juice or a small amount of EVOO. Dish out garnish and enjoy! 

XoXo

ML

Maxi options {day & night}

Maxi options {day & night} by modernlyfeblog featuring a jersey maxi dress

4th of July party

Hope you have a fun and safe 4th of July

4th of July party by modernlyfeblog featuring a wire bow headband

Outdoor living

We love summer! I mean who doesn't.  I love creating a fresh look for our patio.  Little details can be changed weekly like fresh flowers and add a pop of color to the space.  Succulents are the easiest flower/plant to care for and keep the setting simple and clean looking.  Repotting them in a accent pot adds a little fun to the space.

Outdoor living by modernlyfeblog featuring a wood swing

Running style

I love the weekends because it gives the opportunity to take time out for yourself.  Long Saturday runs have recently become a thing of the summer.  To stay comfortable from head to toe here are some of my favorite necessities.

weekend workouts by modernlyfeblog featuring a travel bag