The Lifestyle Lady
  • Home
  • Beauty
    • Hair
    • Makeup
    • Skin Care
  • Decor
  • Editorial
  • Family
  • Food
    • Baking
    • Meal Planning
    • Recipe
  • Lifestyle
    • Gift Guide
    • Health & Fitness
    • Organizing
  • Style
  • Travel
  • You tube
The Lifestyle Lady
  • Home
  • Beauty
    • Hair
    • Makeup
    • Skin Care
  • Decor
  • Editorial
  • Family
  • Food
    • Baking
    • Meal Planning
    • Recipe
  • Lifestyle
    • Gift Guide
    • Health & Fitness
    • Organizing
  • Style
  • Travel
  • You tube
Tag:

Pottery Barn Kids

DecorFamilyStyle

House Tour- Part 1 Little L Bedroom

by thelifestylelady November 3, 2017

Howdy Y’all

Today is a great day because I get to share with y’all the first room in our new home. If you have followed me for a while you will know I mentioned it was my intention to share areas of my home as the reached completion. The house is a labor of love, we purchased it back in March and after some hefty renovations we moved in June. If you have moved recently you will know what a time consuming project creating a home is. I bound into the house with lots of plans and ideas, after renting for an extended period. I couldn’t wait to choose colors and fabrics but at the same time was conscious not to make expensive mistakes. Choosing furniture that works and will stand the test of time is an investment. One thing I have learnt during my constant moving is the importance of getting the family settled. In my life this has meant always getting Little L’s room unpacked and surrounding her with the possessions she loves and that are familiar. With our new home this was no different. I wanted her room to be one of the first finished and I stuck true to my word and I share that with you today.

A brief synopsis to those of you who may not know, Little L is three and very nearly four. I was wanting her room to reflect a little girl and no longer a baby. A room which could adapt and grow with her as she develops. You will see in the below pictures she is not in a crib and we purchased her Jenny Lind toddler bed when she became two. It is our intention to change her to a bigger girl bed in the next year or two and I was conscious that the design of the room would have to be adaptable. The current need is for a pretty, creative, fun and imaginative space where she can play, relax, read and rest. I had such fun picking colors with her. I did give her carte blanche to choose the color of her room and I confess I was not disappointed with her choice. Little L loves pink and if you can not embrace that with full gusto when you are small when can you. We took the Benjamin Moore samples and decided on Elephant Pink. It is a very close match to Middleton Pink by Farrow and Ball and I was thrilled with the finish. I love the balance between strength of color and the light in the room. It is always important when choosing colors for your home (and I consider myself a semi-expert after the last few months) to consider the natural light in your home, its position in terms of how it faces and how much artificial light you have. These all matter to how successful a color will sit and suit your room, all this without touching on other textures and colors of the room.

IMG_7783

The finished room. A place where she loves to be.

You will see in the above photo, the finished room from her doorway. The beautiful window allows a plethora of natural light and I didn’t want to cover that with blinds, we found these linen Pottery Barn Kids drapes that we both liked. I was a little concerned at first about them being too pink but I knew that I would be changing her bed out in the long term which will be bringing much more white and textile to the pink. The linen fabric of the drapes softens the color and the bows add some texture and interest. My only bug bare is that they crease and I am forever steaming them!

IMG_7763

I am also intending when she progresses to a bigger bed to get another rug but for this short time, this works. It works well to define space for her and she knows this is her rest/sleep place. You will note the furry bean bag propped up against the window, one thing about a toddler bed is that they are not designed for comfortable story telling for the teller. In my and Mr L’s advanced years this provides some comfort for us. It is handy for her to lift and move around the room if she is playing in other areas. The book manger at the end of her bed is marvelous. We did originally have a book case and I often found she was more reluctant to go and explore her books or alternatively she would make a total mess pulling everything out. This has really helped. It holds some of her total faves and I often transfer books around so she always reads different things. It is a total LL love.

IMG_7764

A close up and you can see all the books she loves. Plus the shelf underneath is great for additional storage.

In the first picture you could not see perhaps my favorite part of the room which is to the right of the door and that is her teepee and dress up area. Little L much like her parents loves to read and this teepee provides a wonderful place to snuggle up with her favorite soft toys read and play. I am not sure how clear it is from my photograph but the inside is lined with fairy lights which are on a timer and add to the cozy feel. I placed a patchwork quilt on the base which breaks the color up and is dead easy to lift and wash which is necessary when having a tea party with the fairies (they love goldfish apparently!) I placed a variety of throw pillows in different shapes and sizes at the back and sides. This allows the tent to keep its shape and it is more comfortable. You can see from the picture that the Princesses and Peppa family are very comfortable.

IMG_7753

Under the flower garland you will see another of my crafty efforts where I made a dream catcher. This was simple to make and I think it adds a statement. You can of course buy these but I couldn’t find one I liked enough and I have been happy with the result. It works well in the room, what is not clear is that is also has beads and bells on the end which add some playful interest. The flower garland which again was made by Martha Stewart  me. It is a recent addition and I think it adds a little sophistication, color and texture to the space. I also adore flowers and this was a wonderful way to add country flowers that wont die or get spilt. I love that I could incorporate Roses in the project. Little L often refers to it as part of her fairy garden.

Next to her teepee is her dress up space. She loves to dress up and is a different princess every morning. I wanted a place where they were easily accessible, pretty, functional and organized and this has all bases covered. I really encourage independence and want her to do as much for herself as possible. There is plenty of hanging space a shelf at the top for crowns, tiaras, hats etc and she can reach it. Plus underneath a place to store all the shoes and other paraphernalia. I love the pretty design, I hate to compromise beauty for function. The mirror next to her allows her to get see herself easily and safely. Plus it all matches.

IMG_7754

I will let you into a little secret, I hide some of the ugly things behind her door. The two strings hold her hair accessories and this horrendous cheap shoe holder is on the back of her door and works very well for holding her Barbie dolls and her plastic toys. She also can reach and put them away herself.

If you remember from the first picture you will have noticed the most stunning dolls house which was a beautiful gift from a dear friend. I was very keen to get this up and off the floor and have enough space so that she could open and play with it. It also helps stop items from creeping on the floor. It looks beautiful in the corner and creates a lovely focal point.

IMG_7775

Below I share some other areas of the room.

Such cute babies which she loves having close to her own bed
This area is used for everything coloring to tea parties
How cute are these seat cushions? I love the texture. I had made some but they have been replaced with these.
A tea party fit for a British Princess
The best sleep clock ever! The lamp can be toddler opperated.

 

 

IMG_7767 (2)

This is such a special picture for me and I hope she will always have on her wall

IMG_7751

Another picture taken from her bathroom door. You can see her draws, I changed the knobs to make it look a little different

The most important thing to me is that I have a happy client, who loves to play in this room and I love to play with her. I will share the next phase of the room when she moves to a big girl bed next year. Hope you enjoyed it, any questions please get in touch.

Ta Ta for now

 

Kx

 

November 3, 2017 2 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
FamilyTravelYou tube

Toddler Travel Essentials

by thelifestylelady October 19, 2016

 

Howdy Y’all!

Happy Wednesday, Today I am traveling and so this seemed the apt video to post. I do not profess to be an expert in many areas but traveling with a toddler, both internationally and domestically I have down to a fine art (if Little L lets me!) This video does not relate simply to flying it covers essentials for all areas of travel. I filmed this just before our recent vacation. If you don’t have children this video may provide some interesting gift ideas for children in your extended life.

For those of you interested I wish you a peaceful debate viewing this evening (is that even possible?!)

Wish me luck.

Ta ta for now.

TLL x

October 19, 2016 1 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
BeautyEditorialFamilyGift GuideStyleTravel

Spring Break Essentials

by thelifestylelady February 26, 2016

Howdy Y’all,

Happy Friday!  You made it through another week.Yay.  So Spring Break is approaching and that for many (usually me) means sun, sand, swimming and Sangria. Unfortunately my family are on the move soon so any exciting tropical experience has been postponed. So to rub extra salt in my wounds I wanted to share with you all some ideas and essentials for that wonderful sunny beach experience. I may have to grab a few of these items so I can enjoy the Texan summer when it arrives.  Anyone going anywhere gorgeous? Do you have some great recommendations of places to go?

Happy Weekend

Ta ta for now

TLL x

image

  1. J Crew Panama Hat – Fashionable, elegant and practical. The hat is not too large that you find you are constantly removing it. Looks cute and you are protecting your face from the sun. Keep you looking youthful.

2. Brown Leather Sandals These are beautiful and practical. The color goes with everything.

3. Pretty Beaded Clutch  Love this! If you can not have something pretty and colorful when its very sunny and the sand is between you toes, when can you? In the evenings what do you need more than your room key and lippie? It screams holiday to me!

4.Turkish Towel Less bulky than a regular towel and so pretty. Such a variety of colors and take up less space in your case and beach tote. Win win.

5. Honest Sunscreen The most important item and I like to choose sunscreen which contains as few chemicals as possible. I trusted this brand with Little L’s skin last year and I will do the same with the family once again.

6. Beautiful Evening Sun Dress So many colors and styles to choose from, but every lady needs a killer evening dress for those evenings in tavernas watching the sun go down and for romantic strolls along the beach. This one is so pretty.

7. Cover- Up Kimono  All ladies need a great cover- up for walking to the beach/pool, eating lunch and covering up when the rays get too much. This is pretty and such a good price point. White and blue is so pretty and fresh looking, great for spring break.

8. A great book A holiday essential and this is one of my favs. While researching this for this post, I was elated to see that it was becoming a movie with none other than Micheal Fassbender playing the lead. Wow. Read the book it is a beautiful story.

9. Swim Suit A great one-piece is essential and I love blue, not a black gal (although I should be for slimming necessity!) This is classic but still has a sexy/youthful edge. Would look perfect in paradise.

10. A great tote  A fantastic bag is essential, whether it is to carry lots of items to the beach or for the flight, these totes are amongst the best. They are made from sailcloth which makes them strong and sturdy. They are functional and in such lovely designs.

11. Statement Earrings Earrings of the season and so pretty with summer hair styles. So many colors and styles to choose. A summer must.

12. Lifefactory Water Bottle So important to stay hydrated and stylish and this achieves both.

13. Sunglasses  Sun protection is so important and eyes are no exception. These glasses will have you looking cool and protecting your eyes.

image

  1. Shirt I am a sucker for a man in a check shirt and all men in shorts with a tan look good in them, regardless of age or stature. So many colors and designs but a good check linen shirt is a holiday must for the traveling gent.
  2. Backpack If your man is anything like Mr L he has to carry a briefcase style bag everyday and is looking for a less formal option when on vacation. This fits the bill, great color and size. It is also functional as it leaves your arms free, to help wrestle children and luggage.
  3. Towel Functional, large and manly.
  4. Shorts Can not go wrong with mens navy shorts.
  5. Sunglasses Like the ladies these are functional and beautiful.
  6. Polo Shirt A classic, variety of colors and styles.
  7. Beach Games When you are fed up with reading and want to play a little to work up a thirst. These beach games are great fun.
  8. Book I am not an expert in choosing literature for men but I find anything by John Le Carre is a hit with Mr L.
  9. Swim Shorts These are fun.
  10. Docksider Shoes Classic and comfortable and look great with shorts, a male staple.

image

  1. Playsuit I love this, so pretty, great for summer and the beach.
  2. Swim Suit I love the vintage look of this, would look great with a tan.
  3. Beach Towel The hood on this is great, such bright colors and you can personalize.
  4. Kaftan This tunic is super cute and works brilliantly to cover up your little one when they have had too much sun.
  5. Backpack I am a strong believer in “what you bring you carry.” So I like to encourage Little L to carry her things and these backpacks are fantastic. Lots of sizes and designs available.
  6. Beach Toys I bought these for Little L last year for spring break and she has loved them, reasonable price, lightweight and can be carried in your suitcase.
  7. Hat Protecting your little one from the sun is essential and a great hat is so important. I have found these work well and they come in a variety of sizes and patterns.
  8. Dress These are so beautiful and look wonderful on little ladies.
  9. Sandals  Little L had these last summer and I will buy her more this year. The quality is fantastic and so useful for the beach.

 

image

  1. Swim Shorts Love the color and style of these.
  2. Backpack Such an appropriate pattern for the beach. Let them carry all their junk in style.
  3. Polo Another classic which will never date and looks great on the beach.
  4. Shirt Smart and fun, told you I like check.
  5. Towel Such a fun pattern
  6. Beach Toys Just showing my Brit side with a cricket set. I had one growing up and it was so well traveled.
  7. Shorts Love these are the color. So fun.
  8. Sandals  Love these sandals in navy or brown for boys. Super functional and classic.
  9. Hat It is so important to keep their faces protected from the sun and this is so cute.
February 26, 2016 12 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
BeautyEditorialFamilyLifestyleSkin Care

Monday Links & Loves

by thelifestylelady February 22, 2016

Howdy Y’all,

I hope you had a good weekend? I was feeling a little under the weather but am now working towards fighting fit. The weather here was a little bleaker than the week, which makes me feel a little sympathetic for Mr L as the weekday weather has been superb.Lots of fresh air and park time.  I think most people who live in Texas will tell you they soak up as much of this time of year as possible before the heat of the summer arrives. I had to do a double take this morning when I saw the rapid speed at which we are approaching March and the early Easter. In the UK it is customery to give and receive chocolate eggs for Easter, a tradition which is less popular here, baskets are more of the done thing. I have to say I got Little L’s here and the selections are beautiful.

One of my NYR for 2016 was trying to read more, I am a Lit major so reading is in my DNA, although it is something I seem to do less and less of. I want to make a conscious effort to read in those five minutes before my head hits the pillow and sleep engulfs me. If you are a mother of an overactive two year old you will get my meaning. So this week I managed to read What Alice Forgot by Liane Moriarty  it was a page turner and easy read which is precisely what I was needing. I hear it is being made a motion picture soon. It was not as good as My Husband’s Secret, but worth a flit. On the reading front at the hairdressers this week I picked up Oprah’s magazine and actually was highly impressed. I was not expecting to be the intended audience (not sure why? Maybe because I had never seen her show!)  I found myself interested in many of the articles and recipes. So if your standing in the grocery line sometime pick it up and shoot a glance.

I can not believe that last week was Love Day (our name for Valentine’s which we stole from Daniel Tiger- toddler.) Mr L was very sweet and purchased me some lovely items. One gift in particular is beautiful and useful which is a win win in the Lifestyle Lady handbook. Tory Burch collaborated with Fitbit and produced some jewelry covers for Fitbit. I do not dislike the Fitbit standard bracelets when you are wearing workout gear but honestly I was not keen on it when I was in more smart/casual attire and this allows me to do both. I have had several compliments on it this week and wanted to share! Mine is the brown leather and gold, it is super pretty and there is no excuse not to monitor my steps now so thank you Mr L.

I mentioned earlier that the weather has been warmer here and therefore the big decision has been warm/iced coffee (champagne problems I know!) My dilemma is that I like my coffee black, espresso or americano and what appears to be happening is that coffee houses are placing warm black coffee over ice and calling it iced. If you have ever tried this don’t it is disgusting. So anyone have a good iced coffee recipe or shall I forever drink my coffee hot?

If you have read this blog for a little while (if that is you THANK YOU.) You will of course know it was Mr L’s birthday last week, one of the most interesting gifts he received was 23andME, what is that I hear you say? It is a genetic testing kit which will tell you all about your ancestry and health traits. Mr L is a science boff and this was right up his alley. He completed all the required documentation and sent back and we are currently avidly waiting the results to learn all about his ancestry. So interesting and fun. I want to try.

Mr L and I are restless at the moment trying to discover new TV shows to get our teeth into, any recommendations? We are watching Billions and although the cast is stupendous I am struggling a little. We also rented the movie Truth last night. Cate Blanchett is amazing isn’t she. Certainly worth a watch.

I have gone on to long. Happy Monday everyone.

Ta ta for now,

TLL x

February 22, 2016 4 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

ABOUT ME

ABOUT ME

Welcome

Hi I'm Kate, Thanks for stopping by my small corner of the web, here at TLL I indulge my love of all things lifestyle, from cooking to travel and fashion to interiors, all served with a healthy dose of British sarcasm. So pour yourself a glass of something delicious, put your feet up and take a nose about. Enjoy Kx

Keep in touch

Facebook Twitter Instagram Pinterest Youtube

NEWSLETTER

Subscribe my Newsletter for new blog posts. Stay updated from your inbox!

RECENT POSTS

  • Covid 19 & School

    July 16, 2020
  • Social Distancing – What Does It Mean?

    March 14, 2020
  • Holy Hand Cream

    March 12, 2020

Instagram

I don’t really share much of my lovely girl but today a costume can speak a 1000 words. She was practically perfect as Mary Poppins. #marypoppins #internationalparade
Sending you love and joy for this holiday season. Merry Merry Christmas & may 2023 be full of good health, abundant blessings and brighter times. 🤶 🎄
Good Morning, please don’t let her words and the other female warriors who came before her be in vain. Don’t just remember her and others by watching the documentaries and passing platitudes, respect them in action. Women died, starved and were tortured so we could have a seat at the table. Some women are still fighting for the right! Let’s honor them today whichever side you fall. Vote!! #vote #vote2020 #suffragette #womensuffrage #election2020
#itsnationaldaughterday Best thing I have ever done, teaches me everyday. Is the world ready for this smart, kind, funny force of nature? She is ready to make her mark and I am her biggest supporter. #love #familylife #daughters #thelifestylelady
Gertie says “where is my drink? I rang the 🛎 ages ago” I think it’s a dogs life. She is taking advantage of the cooler weather after a weekend of storms and before the rain hits again this afternoon. #thelifestylelady #gertiethegoldendoodle #dogslife #takealoadoff #relax #relaxing
Today on the blog I get personal and share the dilemma which too many of us are facing and which is keeping me up at night, what to do when there is no clear direction? As mothers we are meant to have the answers, our children look to us for strength and guidance, what to do when we don’t? Please pop over to www.thelifestylelady.com and have a read and let me know what your planning to do. I know that we are all in this together. Keep safe K x #thelifestylelady #covid19school #school #momlife #schooldilemma #covidschooling
This sums it up. Keep going friends. 2020 has challenged every single one of us in ways we could never comprehend, for some we can’t see any light at the end of the tunnel. Events are demonstrating the best and worst of mankind, if like me your having to make tough decisions about school and what to do, you are not alone. I feel stuck between a brick and a hard place. What I intend to do is what I know, get up, keep going and throw on a bright lip! Keep smiling friends x #thelifestylelady #2020sucks #school
Yesterday we celebrated 10 years of marriage, no mean feat by today’s statistics. It was not the celebration or in the place where we had planned, but if Covid has taught me anything it’s that we are not in charge and can not control everything . It is not the bells and whistles that make the most sacred of memories. I am not one for big declarations of affection (sorry y’all,) I share simply this, I got lucky, I married a man I looked up too and respect. He doesn’t need to tell you what a good egg he is because he demonstrates it in his everyday unassuming way. He is a gentleman in all ways. Our decade has not been all plain sailing, we have moved more than some people vote, we have laughed more than we have cried and there has been reason for both. We had our beautiful daughter and although the path was not as easy or as we imagined we are a family. Life rarely goes the way you plan, case in point currently, but it’s a hell of a lot easier with a partner who is always you greatest ambassador and champion. Love like life is a journey and I am glad to do it with you. Happy Anniversary Mr L! #thelifestylelady #marriage #love #anniversary
With a summer where travel is looking impossible, you feel a little homesick, but Granny to the rescue is sending pics of her beloved garden. One of my favorite things about summer in Britain is the beautiful gardens and my mummy’s is no exception. She has always been green fingered, she will say she is not, but here are some highlights and everything has yet to bloom. Can you sympathize with my yearning for home? #grannysgarden #greenfingers #gardenofengland #gardening #home #thelifestylelady
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Youtube

© 2020 The Lifestyle Lady. All Right Reserved.


Back To Top
 

Loading Comments...