popcornopolis.

Fourth of July is upon us, which is hard to believe considering the late start to summer. The Fourth happens to be one of my favorite holidays. I love the parades, festivals, fireworks and bbq's, it really is the best part of summer. 

This year I've found myself the perfect fireworks snack, or really any time snack. Popcornopolis is made using only the freshest, all natural ingredients. They guarantee their popcorn is "the hallmark of quality from the first bite, to the bottom of the tin.." and I have to say, the popcorn is pretty incredible. It tops the list of any specialty popcorn I've ever had, and I'm a huge popcorn lover. So, this year, watch the fireworks and keep your mouth happy with your own batch of popcornopolis. Available in multiple mouthwatering flavors.

sunscreen towlettes.

Baby Silk has simplified sunscreen and the result is good enough to make any mom happy. Kids love to be outside and I don't know how many times we've been at the park and had to cut playtime early because of the sun.

Now I can carry sunscreen with me all the time in the form of a towlette. Small, compact, easy to apply packets that cover head to toe with just one towlette. The babysafe sunscreen towlettes are gentle, sweat-proof, broad spectrum SPF 30+, enriched with Vitamins E and B5, marine silk, aloe and oat to protect, sooth and moisturize and they're dermatologist approved. Available to purchase here

make your own popsicles.

I love the idea of making popsicles with my kids. I can control what goes into them, and spend time doing something that makes the girls happy. In the end we have a cool treat and happy kids! This recipe sounds amazing and I'm hoping to put it together this week.

Raspberry-Lime-Swirl Pop

16 ounces low-fat or notfat vanilla yogurt, preferable Greek yogurt
2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
8 ounces fresh or thawed frozen raspberries
4 Tbsp granulated sugar

1. In a blender or food processor, puree the yogurt with 1 Tbsp of the lime juice until smooth. Transfer mixture to a bowl.

2. In the blender or food processor (no need to clean), puree the raspberries with the remaining lime juice and sugar. Pass the puree through a fine sieve to remove the seeds; you should have about 1/2 cup.

3. Pour the yogurt mixture and the berry puree in layers in 4 large popsicle molds or 8-ounce cups. Using a wooden popsicle stick, swirl the layers together. Insert sticks, then freeze the pops for at least 6 hours, or until they're solid.

4. To unmold the pop: Run warm water over the bottom three-quarters of the mold. Let it stand for 10 seconds then gently pull out the pop. Serve immediately or wrap each pop individually in plastic wrap and freeze until ready to serve.

The popsicles will keep, wrapped and frozen, for at least one week.


photo and recipe via cookiemag.com

skuut.

Summer was a long time in the waiting this year, so when it finally showed up (just 2 weeks ago for us), we've taken full advantage. We can't get enough sunshine and outdoors which has loads of advantages. Instead of stickers, forts and storytime (how we survived a long winter!), we're kicking balls, jumping sprinklers and riding bikes.

Let's talk bikes because that's one of the first big purchases in the world of toddler and I found the perfect one. It's eco-friendly and the ideal starter bike for ages 2-5. Skuut teaches balance, steering and coordination making that transition to "regular bike" when the time is right so simple and nearly fearless.

It's wooden, simple and modern without all the bells and whistles. No pedals, no training wheels.. just a lot of "skuuting" on a fully adjustable seat for easy transitions. "Walk it; ride it; skuut it; glide it." (We're still practicing indoors.) Available here for only $89.99.

Extra Goodness: Tangled and True readers receive 10% off using code tnt081 in the promotional code box at checkout.

muffin tin lunch.

We tried something new for lunch, it's not a new idea, but we've never done it before, the girls were so excited when I brought it out to them, I was thrilled that they ate lunch with no complaining. For the most part it was healthy and relatively easy to put together! The possibilities are endless and it gives a good variety. All in all it was a great day for lunch.

baggu.

Tonight we met Ryan at the farmers market after work. It was the perfect ending to a stressful day. The sun was shining with a slight breeze and fresh yummy food, produce and flowers were in abundance. I was loving my baggu the whole time we were there. It was folded up flat and small in my purse to begin with and by the time we left it was bursting with basil, strawberries, cucumbers and baked goods. The handles were the perfect length, I could wear them over my shoulder or hold them in my hand. They felt comfortable and secure, and not that I'm biased or anything, but I'm certain it was the best looking bag at the market.

countdown to baby.

One of the hardest parts of late pregnancy is waiting for the actual day the baby arrives. norwood arts has put together the most genius of ideas: countdown to baby. It's like an advent calendar for the parents-to-be. The numbered boxes each hold a baby item, from onesies to baby shampoo to rattles. Giving you something to look forward to (and providing last minute essentials) each day of the final 10. 

mairzey dotes {winner!}

Thanks to Mairzey Dotes for their amazing giveaway. The winner is:

the comeaux family who said: LOVE the designer doggie set! Would love to have the beagle bib/burp combo for our sweet 6 week old bebe! We have two beagles here at the house - definite dog, baby and fashion lovers!!

Congratulations! Please email me by Monday morning 8 am with your shipping information and choice of blanket and bib/burp set.

BIN.GO

I have to say I am totally blown away by the new BIN.GO by Skip*Hop. We already know they are an amazing company based on their current line of products, but these top the list. If you're anything like me, no matter how hard you try to keep the toys, books and clothes in their designated rooms, somehow by the end of the day they are strewn across the entire house. The BIN.GO storage basket is the perfect solution..

"Our soft-canvas catch-all is strong and stylish: tough enough to hold tons of stuff, and chic enough to complement your playroom or nursery."

It is space efficient, holding anything from toys to shoes, it folds flat to store away when not in use and (my favorite part) it's large circle handles fold up for you to carry from room to room, the store or even to grandma's house.

Available in tabletop or large sizes and a variety of pleasing color combinations.

click clack moo.

One of our all time favorite books, Click Clack Moo by Doreen Cronin. It's been a favorite for Lily since she was two, and Stella has recently discovered a love for this humorous story about cows and hens.

Farmer Brown thinks it's odd when he hears typing sounds coming from the barn. But his troubles really begin when his cows start leaving him notes. First they demand better working conditions...and then they stage a strike. Doreen Cronin's understated text and Betsy Lewin's expressive illustrations make the most of this hilarious situation. Come join the fun as Farmer Brown's savvy -and literate- cows turn his farm upside town!  -Barnes and Noble

available to purchase here.

mairzey dotes.

There is nothing better than a company you already know and love coming out with something new. Mairzey Dotes has just introduced their new line of bibs and burps (which are amazing), they were already among my favorites in the blanket department with their vintage modern feel and super soft backing, but when I saw the new line I was thrilled. The fabric combinations are perfect, the design incredible and they have officially been added to my "next baby" collection. I love them.

If you've yet to discover their blankets you are really missing out. They are among some of my favorite fabrics, paired together perfectly. In my experience you can never have too many blankets and these are at the top of my list.

"They are made in the U.S.A. and are machine washable, because as a mom, I know there are some things that just cannot be "fashion before function."

Simple design. Colorful prints. Modern. Vintage. Luxury.

Today Mairzey Dotes is giving one of you the chance to fall in love with their collection. One winner will receive the bib and burp set and a blanket of their choice. Now the only problem is how you'll ever decide.

What design would you choose?

Would you like to win? be sure to

*enter a comment on this post - with your name

*answer the question above

*please only enter once

*entry will be open until 7 am Thursday morning (6/26)

*winner will be announced Thursday morning

note: winner must contact me by Monday (6/30) 8 am in order to claim their prize.

*This giveaway is now closed.

funktion.

I have a few favorite shops around the web. Layla Grayce has always been one of them, it's an eclectic mix of all things lovely. From children to women and even for your home. One of their latest additions grabbed my attention immediately. These aprons are definitely on the top of my list. I need one in every style and color, and already have them on my list of gifts for some of my favorite people.

infinitees.

I have been loving these tees for awhile now and am thrilled to be adding them to our summer wardrobe, I think it will be the perfect addition.

summer.

This summer, my husband and I decided that we were going to take advantage of living here in Utah.   Usually I am complaining to him that we don't live in a city with lots going on.  So the other day when I got an email to go to a Brian Kershisnik open house about an hour and a half away, I told Ethan we couldn't miss it.  Little did I know how cool it would be.  We got there and we were the only ones there.  Just us and Brian.  It was awesome.  He let us walk around his studio and check out everything he is working on.  He was so nice to talk to and his studio was inspiring.  I'm so glad we decided to go.

Here are my ideas for something to do when you think there is nothing to do:

1.  Check your local library for author readings and events.  Usually they have lots going on for children in the summer too.

2.  Get out and enjoy the fresh air.  Click here for ideas of where to go

3.  Sign up for your favorites authors/artists' email list, then you'll know when they are in town

4.  Check your town or nearby towns for summer fun festivals.  I know around here there are rodeos, carnivals and fireworks almost every other weekend in the summer.

5.  Go pick your own fruit.  My kids love picking strawberries from our small garden, I know they would love a huge field to pick from.  Find a farm here

thanks for having me here for a few days!  

~nat

PS. To those who commented about the apron in my baking post, the lovely Brittany made it for my birthday.  The pattern can be found here.

pillow talk.

Wouldn't it be fun to create a room around these pillows? I especially love the numbero one. I'd even be willing to re-learn the alphabet and my numbers just to have them. 

as seen on black eiffel via bloesom kids

baking.

Being a full time wife, mom and employee can be tricky at times but if you make the time for the things you love you can make it all work.  This took me a while to figure out but once I did, my life was so much happier.  I have found for me to be happy I must be creating something.  I like to bake and bring the goodies to work (Costco) and hear all the compliments.  A lot of times people will ask me how I have time to bake all the time.  My answer is easy, I enjoy baking so I make the time to do it.  

I love baking with my two children.  It is great to watch my 3 year old scoop the flour and level it off with a knife.  My 2 year old gladly volunteers to lick the beaters and scrape the bowl when we are done.  I like teaching my kids and watching them figure it out.   It is simple to show them that a few ingredients can turn into something delicious.  It's quality time that I love.  

Here are a few of our favorites:

Thick and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Just Tried For The First Time and Loved Chocolate Cake

(I found this recipe on a blog I love to read and the cake was a hit)

The Pioneer Woman's Peach Crisp

Mom's Applesauce Pancakes

~natalie

shoes

My children definitely get their love of shoes from their Dad.

I think they both have more shoes than I do and Ethan has more than all of us combined.

But there is one shoe that we can all agree on.

Vans. We all love them.

For the kids the slip-ons are our favorites.

They are easy to get on and dash out the door.

We also like the velcro closure for kids.

For myself, I prefer the lace-ups.

I know there are a lot of knock off's out there and usually I'm all for saving money.

But in this case, I do think the real Vans are worth the extra money.

They fit my kids better and I don't have to struggle to jam their toes into them.

Luckily for us, there is an outlet nearby and a store in the mall.

Here are some places where you can find the ever popular shoe:

here, here,

here and here

baby bean vintage daywear.

I was tipped off by my friend Tracey about this dress I had to have at a little boutique downtown. Well it turns out she was right. I did have to have it, and I must say I am pleased with the results (above, I don't normally post the girls, but with these photos how could I not?). A new favorite has been born. You better believe my girls will be outfitted in baby bean vintage from here on out (or until they grow out of it). 

Each collection is made from or inspired by true vintage fabrics, they are handmade and truly one-of a kind. I love the pairing of vintage fabrics with simple and modern silhouettes. It truly is clothing love.

house guest. {welcome nat!}

This weeks house guest happens to be a personal friend of mine, she loves baking, sewing, reading and spending time with her family, she's a perfect t+t fit!

Meet Natalie:

Wife to Ethan, Mom to Kade and Addison

one word that describes you? 

creative

your biggest adventure? 

right now, working full time, getting Ethan through school, raising our two children and still being happy.

favorite travel destination? 

anywhere with a beach and a good book

your dream job? 

bakery/boutique owner

beauty fix? 

mac blush and clinique air kiss lip gloss

can't live without? 

Ethan (my husband) and my kids

what you're currently reading? 

the latest real simple magazine

most recent download? 

madonna - hard candy

kid friendly meal? 

Ethan's chicken fingers or quesadillas

summer dessert? 

peach cobbler, ice cream of any kind

date night out? 

usually at our favorite restaurant, Pizzeria 712 or the movies

orange.

The latest addition to my "must haves" is this orange cake stand. In fact I'd love to have them all. Aren't the colors great?

chicobag.

Continuing on with the reusable bag series, I'm loving the ChicoBag! My friend Natalie (an upcoming house guest on t+t) suggested them. They're designed to be unforgettable (mission accomplished), only five dollars, available in 10 different colors and complete with a carabineer clip that easily attaches to a purse, diaper bag or even your key chain.

view retailer locations here.

vbs #5 {winner!}

I am truly thrilled with the turnout for Tangled and True's 5th Virtual Baby Shower! It was seriously so difficult to choose a winner, so difficult in fact that I turned to trusty old random.org! Thank you to all who entered and to the amazing companies that made it all possible!

The winner is:

sarah btw who said: 7 1/2 months down, 6 more weeks to go. all this stuff would be great for the baby boy!

Congratulations Sarah!! Please email me by Thursday 8am in order to claim your prizes. 

nella designs.

It's hard to remember life before Etsy. It has turned into my go-to for paper, jewelry, kids clothes and so much more. I am continually amazed at the talent that is out there, and the never ending "good finds". My latest, Nella Designs.

It's no secret that I love paper. I'm obsessive about sending Thank You notes (I learned it from my mom), I always appreciate an "out of the ordinary" card in the mail, and try to send the same.

There are so many I love from Nella Designs (you really should browse through them all), but I'm sold on these birds. Their simple design, long legs, the colors, and square shape. 

And while I'm in the mood for birds, these address labels are brilliant. I've never been an address label person. I have this weird love of writing them all out, but these are inspiring me to change my ways and fully convert to labels. Don't you agree?

The paper goodness doesn't stop there, Nella designs has stationary, recipe cards, stickers and note pads. This week all Tangled and True readers will receive a free set of bird gift enclosures with every purchase. We're all about the birds today!

boon layette.

If you haven't seen the new layette from boon, it's definitely worth a look. My favorite feature? The built in bib, it's every mother's dream.

Make-Ahead Meals by Guest Blogger Stephanie

For many of us, our only chance at consuming a delicious dinner depends strictly on how much meal-planning is done in the morning...when refreshed, full of patience, time, etc. Cooking during the "witching hour" (about the 4-5:30 range) is not fun, which often means it doesn't happen. And who can blame us? This overwhelming feeling prompted me to start noting meals I could make almost entirely during the a.m. hours. It's amazing how quickly dinner prep goes when the hour of chopping required for the meal is completely taken care of already.


Here are a few of my favorite recipes including notes regarding make-ahead ideas:

Big Batch Vegetable {Beef} Soup
* I add 1 lb. of ground beef
* freezes nicely (in Ziploc bags) up to 3 months

Lentil Vegetable {Sausage} Soup
* I add 3/4 lb. good quality Italian sausage or Kielbasa
* can be made the day or night before

Mixed Mushroom Soup with Creamy Goat Cheese
* don't scrimp on any ingredients, including garnishes,
and don't use any substitutions on this one
* a favorite Crockpot recipe!

Southwestern Salad with Shredded Chicken
* chop everything prior and place in small bowls covered with plastic wrap
* make dresses ahead and chill until needed in the refrigerator
* grill chicken prior, shred and place in container; OR place two chicken breasts in the crockpot with a can of salsa on low for 6 hours

Chicken with Morels
* make the entire dish, start to finish, ahead; then reheat according to recipe directions just prior to serving
* let it be noted this is a special dish and perfect for a dinner party

Slow Cooker Fajitas
* shred cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, etc. ahead (save avocados for just before)

Baked Ziti with Spinach & Tomatoes
* make the entire sauce ahead and place in Ziploc
* grate cheese and cook pasta and store in separate Ziplocs
* toss everything together before baking for 30 minutes


A good crusty bread would be the perfect accompaniment to many of the dishes noted above. I suggest heading to the best artisan bakery in your town (here in SLC that's Harmons & Liberty Heights Fresh) and stock up on several fresh loaves. Keep the bread in the brown paper wrapping and throw the loaves straight into the freezer, up to 1 month. When you want to serve the bread with dinner do one of two things:

1. Take one loaf out of the freezer during the late morning or early afternoon ensuring it is completely thawed by evening.

2. About a half hour before dinner, retrieve one loaf. Then sprinkle it on all sides with water and place it in a preheated 300 degree oven for about 15 or 20 minutes. You may have to check on it a few times because ovens react differently. In a matter of minutes you'll have a warm, crusty loaf that tastes as good as it did right out of the oven....the first time :)

Bon Appetit!

photo courtesy of Dale Anderson's flickr page

reader question {diaper bags}.

Hi Tangled and True! I am pregnant with my third child and am desperately searching for a sleek, hip diaper bag. I want one that tends more toward being a great "bag" than shouts "diaper bag", although it of course needs to be functional. Any suggestions?

thanks!

Lindsey

One of my first suggestions would be my royal heinie. It has been designed to organize all your diaper essentials including diapers, wipes and creams. The two best parts, a built in wipe dispenser giving you easy access (functional) and it is small enough to throw into the bag of your choice.

The Cosmopolitan Carryall by Petunia Pickle Bottom fits my description of a great and functional bag.

Vintage style meets current-day functionality for the sophisticated mom on the go.

Be Changed by Ju.Ju.Be. is a hybrid twist between a pad and a bag. It comes in the form of a messenger bag and if you're lucky you might even be able to convince your husband to carry it.

Last week a "reader tip" came in from Linda saying the Fleurville Sling Tote is all the rage at her local mom's group. The Sling Tote can be carried three ways, over the shoulder, as a messenger bag or attached to your stroller. Not to mention you can use it long after your diapering days since it doubles as a nice handbag.

And finally, all of you out there that are using or have used diaper bags, we'd love to hear from you.. what's worked, what hasn't and of course suggestions are always welcome.

Simple Metal Earrings

The earrings I love to wear most are simple and of some type of metal--usually silver or gold. They are more understated than their colorful counterparts and more timeless in appeal as well. Here are a few of my favorites:



Oval Egg Drop Earrings

Ball Hoop Earrings

Gold Marquise Earrings

Silvertone Duet Earrings

My Kitchen by Guest Blogger Stephanie

Brittany requested photos of my kitchen so I snapped a few today during a quiet moment called nap time. I live in a newer home so my kitchen doesn't have as much personality as many newly renovated kitchens or old charmers, but I do the best with what I have...and I'm grateful to even have a kitchen complete with a built-in dishwasher (a first for us!).

Adding a custom roman shade really "cozied" up
the kitchen and gave it more personality

This is essentially my dumping ground...everyone needs one
of these in my opinion! But, it also houses my personal correspondence
and stamps (metal box), our family toaster, a Snow & Graham calendar
that makes me happy everyday, my LobotoME MomME planner,
and metal containers holding things I always need {that are little}
like clips, pins, post-it notes, spare change, etc.

Before we moved in the builder wanted to charge several
thousand for a built-in desk. We couldn't believe it! We opted to forgo
the desk and make a little "station" on our own for only a few hundred.
I like displaying my cookbooks this way as I'm reminded to use them!

A very simple kitchen table with French bistro chairs. Words can't
express how much I love them. They are stylish and durable--making them
perfect for a family with young kids that still wants to have a cool dining set :)

For the Man Who Loves to Grill by Guest Mom Stephanie

My husband tells me time and time again this was {hands down} the best Fathers Day gift ever! I'd have to agree. It's a nice price point, it's made to last and definitely counts as a "toy" :)

Click here to view more details.

Affordable Art by Guest Blogger Stephanie

Raising a family has its challenges...we all know that. Creating an attractive living space for all to enjoy, while raising this family? Also a challenge. With my youngest child unloading everything within her reach (that's up to 2' off the ground) within minutes, I've quickly realized that if I want my living space to look somewhat put together, I should focus on adorning the walls {totally out of her reach!} with beautiful {and affordable} art. No one will notice the toys dotting the carpet, or the unloaded bookcase if you have something pretty on your walls :) Well, at least not immediately...

"Art" can be used fairly loosely here. When I say "art", I mean a pretty black and white photograph of your family, or a printed post card with a lovely painting on the front and the ultimate...a piece of bonified original art. I read once in Domino magazine to never underestimate the power of a professionally cut mat and frame. I understand now, first hand, that this is true. Frame anything, anything! and it will change the entire look of your room.

So, while you save up for that Picasso sketch, consider some of these "affordable art" options to beautify your own living space:

1. Exotic Paper

This one is fairly simple making it the perfect project for just about everyone. I assure you, even non-crafty types can wrap their heads (and hands) around this project. If you live near a Paper Source...lucky, lucky you. If not, check out their website. They carry a large selection of exotic papers from Italy, Japan, Thailand, etc. All you need to do is choose one or two sheets (depending on the size of your frames) and cut them to size. Perhaps try framing two complimentary styles, as this talented gal did below:


To glam it up a little use quality, sturdy frames. I like the simple Wood Gallery Frames from Pottery Barn. You can find those online, in their stores, and often on Ebay too.

2. Greeting Cards

When visiting Northern California one time, we stopped at one of our favorite artisan creameries in a little town called Point Reyes Station. Inside the creamery was a little gift shop featuring goods created by local artists. My eyes were immediately drawn to a set of 4 large blank greeting cards featuring some beautiful renditions of local scenery...printed up nicely on good quality paper. The set cost about $10.

I came home from the trip (remembering what I'd recently read in Domino) and challenged myself to create my own piece of "affordable art". I bought two Wood Gallery Frames and then promptly ditched the mats that came with the frames, opting for a professionally cut mat with more "gallery appeal". I was so pleased with the results and the changed look they gave to my living area. I became hooked. I'm a total sucker for a good deal :)


3. Original Art

We all know this is ultimate...and guess what? It is not out-of-reach for anyone. Let me expound a little...

Do you know about a fabulous website called Etsy? Well, if you don't, get thee hence immediately. It's amazing, it's addicting, and most of all, it's a one-stop shop for affordable, original art. That's right, for mere pennies you can be the proud owner of a first-rate painting, photograph, or drawing.

I recently discovered the work of Chad Wys. Not only do I love his overall style, I love his overall pricing too. He really strives to bring original art to everyone. His paintings start at $6. You heard me right...$6! Granted it's only a few square inches in size but it's original, it's beautiful, and with a nice oversized mat, it'll look straight out of an art gallery, without the art gallery mark up. Click here to view the painting below:


Those who reside in or near Salt Lake can also enjoy a local artist named Jodi Steen. She sells original paintings for under $100 here, many of them in the $50 to $80 range. I bought one and display it on my mantle. I love that I have one original painting (be it small) in my home and that it only cost me $80.