I Got a New Attitude!

Every year when the New Year comes people always ask "What is your New Year's Resolution?". This year I have decided to go against the norm and decided on a new way of life. I am living by give all or nothing! I have also vowed to expose myself to things I have always wanted to do but continued to put off. In saying this there are 2 things on my list for the new year. One is ice skating, I know I know, who hasn't been ice skating? ME! The second is going to the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, something I have been saying I am going to do and never have. So for all you other mother's I suggest you do the same, go out on a limb and do something you have never done!

Happy Toyadays I mean Holidays!

Being a mother you will know that this is one of the most hectic seasons of the year (besides your child's(ren) birthday). That being said any mother knows that once your children become a certain age they see the commercials and begin to plead for one of two things; Either the most expensive toy or the most popular. For example, I recall last year my son wanted the Wii, after searching everywhere I wasn't able to get it for Christmas (unless I wanted to pay $500 or more), and so I promised myself I would not land in the same predicament. I asked my 7 y/o months ago what he wanted for Christmas and he begin to write a list. I took this and found the top toys for 2009 so that I would be prepared, along w/ doing some Black Friday shopping on the more expensive items. Knowing the top toys for the yr helps when shopping for your or someone elses child. This way you're more likely to choose an item the child will actually want. Just to give you a glimpse I listed the top 5 toys for 2009:

- Go Go Pet Hamsters
-Bakugan Battle Pack
-Bendaroos Mega Pack
-Princess Peppas Palace
- Rip Racer

These are just a few of the top toys from one site, there are millions of websites that list the top toys of the year by age, and even type. So to all you mothers out there I say happy shopping and be sure to check the list to save yourself some time!

New Surroundings

Now that my youngest is getting older (7 months), I think it's time for him to move to his own room. With that being said I have to decorate it. I was thinking of going with the monkey theme since I call him my little monkey, or vintage cars so that he can have something he can grow into. Decisions, decisions, what ever I choose I know I will be using Dezign with a Z's wall decals. This company which I used for my older son's room, and had my office use to enhance our work space has some great wall decals. They have mirror images, lettering, scenery and wall clock decals ( how cool is that)! So I tell you all what, tis the season to be giving. If you follow me on twitter(twitter.com/chicmy) or our blog I will send you the code to get $10.00 off your order and a free mini decal! Just think about it you can decorate for the season with wall decals and receive $10.00 off and all you have to do is follow me on twitter or my blog!

Tis the Season

We all know that after Thanksgiving, Christmas is right around the corner! With that being said, many cities are beginning to have their tree lighting ceremonies. The tree lighting ceremony is exciting for the kids as well as the adults. Most times they will light the tree, along with having a hot drink (for me preferably cocoa) and Santa and Mrs. Claus on hand for photos and to take down the oodles of wish list that the children have come up with. Lucky for my son, along with the Tree lighting ceremony we are going to take him to a light show at Seneca Creek State Park! So check your local paper for tree lighting and light shows for the holidays in you area. Maybe I'll see you at the tree lighting!

Khod! DiaDiwan

I believe that as a person one should try to broaden their horizons. If you're unable to travel outside of the US or your state for that matter read up on what's going on in the rest of the world, especially when it pertains to something that you love. For me I would have to say I have become fascinated and overwhelmed by DUBAI. When I first saw them begin to build a few years back I was in aah of how this would be a man made island with such luxuries. With this being said whenever I come across anything dealing with DUBAI I read it with special attention. So yesterday I cam across a website whose editors are from dubai. This website, diadiwan, has everything from blogs and fashionista features to children clothing and bakery shops. Khod! (here you go) DiaDiwan, let me know if you enjoy the site!

Exit from Eczema

Now that winter is fast approaching I have been trying to find natural remedies to help soothe my 7 month old's eczema. Something that he has had since birth and I am being told will begin to subside as he gets older can be a pain especially in the Winter season. So I did what any chic loving mother would do, I hit the net!
Googling, blogging, and researching I found an article on parents.com where a mother went through all the things that could affect your child's eczema and cause it to flare up. Things that my well equipped pediatrician neglected to mention! So I am saving other mothers the trouble and you can get the info you need right here! Remember a few important key things, children with eczema should wear cotton (as opposed to wool, or itchy scratchy material), vaseline is always a good moisturizer to help lock in moisture, watch what your baby eats once they begin to eat solids some foods may flare up skin, and if you are like myself and give your child a bath twice a day in the evening put a little olive oil in their bath, it will help so the water is not so harsh. As always I would say consult your physician, but these are a few things I have found that have helped.
I know that when we think of our babies we think of soft, smooth skin, so let's help keep it this way!

I'M BACKKKKKKKKKKK!!!

So, I am happy to announce that I am back and in full affect. I have sooo many things to fill you all in on starting with the most important. That on April 13, 2009 my family welcomed our new addition Mier Jacquet to the family. By now at nearly 7 months he fits right in and I can see he and his big brother are going to give us a run for our money! Now as I have stated before I am a mother first and a DIVA second (hehe). With this being said I took time out to bond and spend as much time with my children before it was time to go back to work (BOOOOO!!!). But I am happy to report that I am back, a few pounds lighter, with soo many chic mommy tips and events! So I suggest you stay tuned and hold on because we are back on the scene with everything you need to know about being your version of a Betty Crocker Halle Berry (again I repeat "your version", hey if you don't think highly of yourself who will?)!

Smooches!

Mimi Jacquet

Margarita Anyone?!

In keeping up with my workout regime and healthy lifestyle I am trying Skinny Girl Margaritas. A recipe of low calorie Margaritas made up by Bethennny Frankel known from Real Housewives of NY and as a celebrity nutritional chef. She has come up with these oh so tasty margaritas that double as being good to you and for you. Most mix drinks have alot calories in them because of the added mixers that we put in them on top of the calories that are in the alcohol. So with Skinny Margaritas you sip well and don't worry about how many calories you're packing on, this way you can have more than one without feeling guilty! So be my guest, try one, they are oh so good, Skinny Girl Margaritas!

Hostess With the Apron

In style with the season I love to throw a soiree especially dinner parties. But with throwing them I often run into one problem, I may still be getting some food together while guest are arriving. So then I wonder while preparing for guest should I get dressed then finish cooking and take the chance of getting my outfit dirty, or should I cook and then have the guest entertain themselves while I get dressed? In doing some brainstorming I came up with a plan, I'll get dressed and wear a snazzy apron while I finish preparing the meal. This way I can entertain, look flawless, and finish the task at hand-cooking. And when I say apron I'm not talking about the apron your grandmother use to wear, I'm talking about a unique one of a kind apron. I found one I particularly am impressed with from frenchpresents.com, that is pink with ruffles, if your a little strapped for cash I would recommend purchasing this. On the other hand if money is no object for you splurge on the hautehostess apron's, they have a variety ranging in prices from $100-$300. Please don't feel silly while wearing them other mom's are wearing them, even on their talk shows i.e. Wendy Williams So feel free to check out these websites and others that have some chic aprons, and cheers to you!

FREE, A favorite of mine

Every now and then I stop in Starbucks to give me a little pick me up. So imagine my glee when I found out today if you purchase a beverage you get a pastry for FREE!!! So moms drop the kids off at camp or daycare and before you head into work stop by Starbucks. If you're on vacation grab a good book and head on down there and take the time to read and sip your latte while eating your danish. In today's time it's always good to take advantage of freebies. So go and enjoy, just make sure it's between the times of 5am-10:30am!

Assets of Accessorizing

So today my son had an appointment, and I didn't want to put too much into what I was wearing. It was one of those days where I just wanted to wear jeans and a t-shirt. So I went for the next best option, accessorizing to look FAB. I threw on some jeans, t-shirt and had my Mac golden lip gloss with my black Gucci satchel, black sandals, black Gucci shades, set off with diamond studs. Sometimes all we need as mothers are some accessories to make us look or feel a little better about our look. Right Banana Republic has a sale on accessories, and for the recessionista you can find some cute finds at PinkIce.

assesories by hmyown featuring Banana Republic accessories

In this particular collection the belt and ring are from Banana Republic, while the glasses hail from PinkIce.com
assesories by hmyown featuring Banana Republic accessories

All MINXED Up

Okay, now that it's summer there are 2 things that are a must, getting your hair and nails done. I think it's only befitting to want to have beautiful nails while out in the sun. So while looking for an eye popping color I came across Minx, the new nail rave in Hollywood. Minx is a nail color appalique that is eco friendly and stays on for weeks or so they say. So instead of having to try to squeeze a nail appointment in every 2 weeks you can go every 4 with Minx. Not only do you save time with Minx but your also being kind to the earth with using this product. So what are you waiting for, go onto minxnails.com to find a salon or nail tech that specializes in Minx nails. I know I'm going to get mine!

The Great Outdoors

For those of you who may be looking for something different to do with the family, or significant other you should try Screen on the Green. It offers an array of movies on different nights during the week to be watched out on the lawn on the big screen. You can bring lawn chairs, food, blankets, make it a date night for Dad as a father's day gift if you like. The great thing about it is they are showing all over the metropolitan area with different movies at the location. So if you live in the suburb you can have a night out in the city for FREE! I know I'll be catching a movie or two with the family.
http://dc.about.com/od/filmfestivals/tp/OutdoorMovies.htm

Picture That

We all know that as a proud parent there is nothing we love more than taking pictures of our kids. And seeing as though I am a new mother of another little boy I had to take my new bundle of joy for his first photo shoot (not really). So as always I went to my fav place, JC Penny Portrait Studio, in Gaithersburg, MD. Not only do they take exceptionally good photos but in today's time where one needs to watch their spending they offer some great packages. Check the website out http://www.jcpportraits.com/ and see what specials they may have, you never know this may be the beginning of your child's modeling career!

Hair We Go

Now if any mom is out there is like me, your hair is an ultimate part of who you are. With this being the case I get my hair done every other wk, and sometimes every week if there is an event coming up. Part of keeping oneself up is having your hair maintained. That being said, if you want a stylist who is professional, talented, and experienced I suggest you go to Salon Essence on U St. and ask for Ngina. Whatever the style she can do, and best of all if you want a new look she can give it to. Be sure to google her, or contact me and I can give you her info!

Chocolate is a Girl's Best Friend

I don't know if you all are aware but Equinox is back to doing their Chocolate Happy Hour (yummy). You can get chocolate cocktails and snacks during happy hour, and trust me you don't want to miss Pastry Chef Melanie Parker and her decadent desserts! You might want to catch this while it's going on because it only last till March 20, 2009 from 5-7pm. Hope to see you there!

Get your Free Cosmetics Here

Okay, so I just got the word this morning that numerous department stores are giving out free cosmetics due to a lawsuit that was filed against numerous retailers who were hiking up prices on cosmetics which is apparently illegal. Due to this fact they must now offer FREE cosmetics to the public between January 20-27, 2009 on a first come first serve basis of course. So ladies you know where I am heading after work! Keep in mind that this is only for 7 days and on certain items. For a list of department stores and cosmetics click on the link http://cosmeticssettlement.com/.

Good luck and Happy Free Shopping, there's nothing better!

Weather Outside is Frightful

I have 2 solutions to the cold, coat and Asos. Lucky for us this website has a ASOS Premium Wool Bow Back Tail Coat, $161.80 that is to die for, if I must say so myself. To makes things even better it has a price tag that won't break your pockets.

Out With the Old, In With the Old

With all the festivities going on with the Inauguration I completely forgot about this week's Fabulous Friday. With this presidential inauguration being such a land mark and falling on the day after Dr. Martin Luther King's Birthday there is a lot of talk about history repeating itself as far as there being an African American president and this being what Dr. Martin Luther King strive for so many years ago. We all know that when it comes to Fashion it's "Out With the Old, In With the Old", meaning that it reincarnates itself from a previous fad. So for this week Fabulous Friday (which is actually being done on Tuesday) I have decided to go with clothing that has been reincarnated and can be worn to happy hour. Although there are still a multitude of Inauguration galas going on many of us have to go to work tomorrow, get the kids off to school in the morning, or go back to school, whatever it is you may not wanna be out late this evening. In that case I have the perfect happy hour, or even home celebration party for you.

If you don't know already I love to SHOP, and I don't discriminate either, if I see something I like I will most likely purchase from the establishment, no matter where it is. Anyway I saw these items and thought they would make the perfect outfit.



Fabulous Mom Friday2 by hmyown


The top is an Adidas black racer back, but for those on a budget you can find the same top at Target, or Forever21. The black pyjama peg trousers are a fav of mine, Betsy Johnson heels, which are on sale and to die for, and top the outfit off with a mustard H& M bolero. The great thing about all of these pieces is that you can match them up with other items, and if you have a daughter save the pieces and they will be sure to come back in style in another 10 or more years!

Belli Protection

For me I think being chic is an all around trait. Meaning being chic in fashion, attitude, and skincare. I mean can you really care more about your shoe than your skin? So for those of you who don't know I am 6 months pregnant right now. And in being pregnant your body takes on a world of it's own. From horomones to dry skin, acne, stretch marks, you name it your body can go through it. So I have found a soloution for us moms! Belli, not only do I recommend this product, but many celebrity mom's have used it before. They have products for pregnant women, moms, and babies, and the best thing about this line is that it is one of the few products that is teratology screened. So go on give your Belli and the rest of your body the protection it deserves!

Opps I Did It Again

As a mom I know that my first priority is my child, and everything else comes second. But at the same time, I often wonder why can't I still look ravishing while pushing my stroller or at a recital. Where is it written that we mom's can't look as FAB as we did before the children. But wait a minute, now we have to worry about not only spilling things on ourselves, but the children spilling something on us.
Take this scenario, you have decided that you want to splurge a little on your self and actually buy that Lavender Label Vera Wang Foil Chiffon Sash Tank

that you have been eyeing since it first came out, now you waited and waited for it to go down in price and it has, so you purchase it. You decide to where it out on a night on the town, getting all sorts of compliments and stares you know you will have to rock this again when you and the girls go to Vegas for a girlfriends retreat. The only problem is when you get home the kids are still wired running around the house and BAAMMMM.....little johnny comes running to you with spaghetti hands and gets a spot on your incredible, to die for new shirt. What do you do? Don't panic, thanks to H&M ( a store that caters to fab moms on a budget) has come up with a section in the magazine that is designated on how to get all type of stains out. So instead of throwing that tank you waited for and loved so much away, just dabble some cold water to get the top stains out and use a spot of white vinegar to help lift the rest of the stains, and don't forget to tell johnny to wash his hands after eating!


Check out the other stain lifting techniques from the below link!
http://www.hm.com/us/#/eyemag/

FABULOUS MOM FRIDAY

For this week, let's go for the Hat Attack Hand Knitted Beret. Oh so chic, not to mention will also keep your head warm. Pair this hat with a nice white button up shirt, pair of jeans, and some boots, and your set for a girls night out or a date with the hubby! The extra kick is that this hat comes in various colors, so you can dare to be different