Author Archives: laurenkahan

Sunset on the beach…

 This beach is kind of on the down low as far as West Seattle goes.  Compared to the much busier Alki Beach.  However…when there is a good sunset, not so much.  So…we had an audience when we were doing these, hence no shots of me awkwardly posing by myself 😉Blog Old Navy Swing Top Edyson Destroyed Skinny Birkenstocks-1 Blog Old Navy Swing Top Edyson Destroyed Skinny Birkenstocks-2A rock in one hand…a stick in another.  SO perfectly Maya… 🙂 Guess Romper Navy Converse High Tops-1Guess Romper Navy Converse High Tops-2Guess Romper Navy Converse High Tops-3Guess Romper Navy Converse High Tops-4Blog West Seattle Sunset-1Guess Romper Navy Converse High Tops-5Blog West Seattle Sunset-2On me…

Top- Old Navy (old)
Jeans- Edyson “sloan” deconstructed skinny  (thrifted, sold out, but similar here)
Shoes- Birkenstocks (20 years old, and still hanging in there!
On Maya…
Romper- Guess (thrifted, but love this for fall)
Shoes- Converse (thrifted)
Keeping it Real…
 So, here’s another look at my set up and a refresher on how I take the images of me and me with Maya.  I use that light stand with a stuffed animal at the top to focus on.  Once I’ve locked in my focus, I switch the lens over to manual focus, so it doesn’t change.  I mark where I need to stand, and run over to that spot with Maya.  I’ve got my camera on a tripod a few yards away.  I usually move the light stand completely out of the way, but messed up on this one 😉  Yes, I’m sure people think I’m completely wacko haha.  Oh, well!  One of these days I’ll try and take a video of how it all goes down…. Here’s Maya getting the hang of it all on her own!  And…here’s the original post where I talk about my set up (misses and all!)Blog Old Navy edyson Outtake
(all pictures taken with a self timer and tripod, except ones of Maya :))

dit-elle-Lauren

Paleo Chocolate Almond Banana Ice Cream Shake // Healthy Wendy’s Frosty!!

Blog Paleo Healthy Wendys Frosty Chocolate Almond Banana Ice Cream Shake-1I loved the Paleo Banana Coconut Ice Cream Pies so much that I decided to try another variation.  I’m not a big fan of chocolate all on it’s own, but I do like chocolate flavored things.  I decided to skip the crust this time, and just make the “ice cream” all on it’s own. Blog Paleo Healthy Wendys Frosty Chocolate Almond Banana Ice Cream Shake-2

I topped it with crushed almonds, shaved unsweetened coconut and fresh blackberries that Maya and I picked (ok, the ones SHE picked went directly into her belly as seen here :)).

Truth be told, I’ve made this twice in the last few weeks haha.  The first time, it got devoured before I could take pictures of it, so of course I had to make it again!!  The 2nd time I made it, I substituted some chocolate protein powder and convinced myself it was actually ok to have for dinner 🙂  It was just me and Maya because the Huz and the boys were out of town.  Sometimes I feel like I’m constantly saying “no” to Maya or telling her to not do things all day long.  This felt like a much deserved treat for being the sweet kid that she is.  Ok, I wanted it too 😉  For some reason the first time in the bowl, I thought it just tasted like chocolate soft serve, but as soon as I put it in a big glass cup, all I could think about was a Wendy’s Frosty!!  So delicious!Blog Paleo Healthy Wendys Frosty Chocolate Almond Banana Ice Cream Shake-3Ingredients (makes 6 Servings about 1 overflowing Cup  or 4 milkshakes :))

Ice Cream

  • 5 frozen bananas
  • 1 Tablespoon pure Cacao or Cocoa (or a scoop of chocolate protein powder!)
  • 1 Cup Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk
  • 2 Tablespoons Almond Butter (can use peanut butter if you aren’t Paleo)
  • 3 Medjul Dates (pitted)
  • Berries, crushed almonds, unsweetened coconut, or just about anything for topping!

Directions

  • Let the bananas sit out for about 5 minutes.  It helps make it easier for them to blend.
  • In a blender or food processor, mix all the ingredients until smooth and creamy.
  • This really is best served right away, but I bet you can freeze individual servings in Popsicle molds!!
  • If you only want to make 2 servings, it halves easily!

NOW…what variation to try next!?!

ENJOY!!

dit-elle-Lauren

Sunset walks…

I know that everyone who is around me probably gets sick of me always having my camera on me.  BUT…these next images that I asked the Huz to get of me and Maya on our evening walk?  Some of my most favorite.  We’d still have had these moments (as we do every day), but to have them captured that I can look back on?  Invaluable… I can’t stress enough how important it is for Mom’s to get in front of the camera with their families!  Do it!  You will thank me later 😉Blog French Connection Current Elliott Destroyed Boyfriend MaddenGirls Sandals-Blog French Connection Current Elliott Destroyed Boyfriend MaddenGirls Sandals-1 Blog French Connection Current Elliott Destroyed Boyfriend MaddenGirls Sandals-2 Blog French Connection Current Elliott Destroyed Boyfriend MaddenGirls Sandals-3But then let’s rewind to the beginning of the walk. With…Marty the zebra 🙂Blog Red Mexican Dress Blue Convese High Tops-1Blog Red Mexican Dress Blue Convese High Tops-2Blog Red Mexican Dress Blue Convese High Tops-3“Mommy, there’s an INSECT!!”Blog Red Mexican Dress Blue Convese High Tops-4Blog Red Mexican Dress Blue Convese High Tops-5And then, I kid you not, she just plopped down on these stairs happy as can be and had a moment with Marty 🙂Blog Red Mexican Dress Blue Convese High Tops-6Blog Red Mexican Dress Blue Convese High Tops-7Blog Red Mexican Dress Blue Convese High Tops-8Blog Red Mexican Dress Blue Convese High Tops-9Blog Red Mexican Dress Blue Convese High Tops-10Blog Red Mexican Dress Blue Convese High Tops-11Blog Red Mexican Dress Blue Convese High Tops-12On me…

Top- French Connection (ebay)
Jeans- Current Elliott (thrifted)
Shoes- MaddenGirl (thrifted)
On Maya…
Dress- Made in Mexico (thrifted)
Shoes- Converse (thrifted)
Keeping it Real…
(all pictures taken of me with Maya by the Huz:))

dit-elle-Lauren

Magical Fog…

 We’ve had the most amazing foggy mornings lately.  I guess that’s the first sign that fall is on it’s way.  It’s been even more nice because it ends up blowing over and we’ve had some gorgeous sunny days that follow.

As a side note.  This is the dress I wore to the hospital when I had Maya.  It’s not a maternity dress, but is made out of this super soft stretchy cotton.  Suffice to say, I am never getting rid of it 🙂Blog StyleMint Jacket T Los Angeles Dress ShoeMint Zandra-1 Blog StyleMint Jacket T Los Angeles Dress ShoeMint Zandra-2 Blog StyleMint Jacket T Los Angeles Dress ShoeMint Zandra-3 Blog StyleMint Jacket T Los Angeles Dress ShoeMint Zandra-4Blog Maya HM Purple Moto Jacket Three Little Trees Romper Xhiliration Moto Boots-1Blog Maya HM Purple Moto Jacket Three Little Trees Romper Xhiliration Moto Boots-2Blog Maya HM Purple Moto Jacket Three Little Trees Romper Xhiliration Moto Boots-3Blog Maya HM Purple Moto Jacket Three Little Trees Romper Xhiliration Moto Boots-4On me…

Jacket- StyleMint (sold out)
Dresss- T Los Angeles (old)
Shoes- ShoeMint “Zandra”
On Maya…
Jacket- H&M (sold out)
Romper- Three Little Tress (thrifted)
Boots- Xhiliration (thrifted, but similar here)
Keeping it Real…
I’ve been wondering recently if it’s bad that Maya and I spend so much time together.  Should I expose her to more playgroups and organized activities that don’t involve me?  But then I hear her giggle uncontrollably over some simple act I’ve done or hear her ask for hugs or cuddles, and I know there’s plenty of time for her to be around others.  The time we have that’s just us two is special, and I’m not letting that go anytime soon.  Selfish?  Not sure if I care…
(all pictures taken with a self timer and tripod, except ones of Maya :))

dit-elle-Lauren

Staying cool in dresses and overalls…

 I was never much of a dress girl, but am becoming one recently!  I think it’s because we are having such a warm summer here in Seattle!  Upper 80’s/low90’s is HOT for us, and dresses are so easy to throw on and COOL!  And by that I mean temperaturewise 🙂Blog Geren Ford Dress Nine West Suede Booties-1I was trying to pose on my own, and she kept running up to me.   Totally NOT complaining!!!  I mean…who really likes looking at me by myself?? 🙂

Um, and her little bandaided elbow that is barely in the frame?  LOVE! Blog Geren Ford Dress Nine West Suede Booties-2 Blog Geren Ford Dress Nine West Suede Booties-4“Mommy, tickle me!??” Blog Geren Ford Dress Nine West Suede Booties-5And…more licking :{ Blog Geren Ford Dress Nine West Suede Booties-6 Blog Geren Ford Dress Nine West Suede Booties-7Blog Circo Tank Osh Kosh Overalls Pink Converse-1Blog Circo Tank Osh Kosh Overalls Pink Converse-2Not going to lie.  I was super impressed with her soccer skills!  Who knew!??  I’ve never even given her one to kick around (I will NOW!), and she was a pro with this deflated basketball haha.Blog Circo Tank Osh Kosh Overalls Pink Converse-3Blog Circo Tank Osh Kosh Overalls Pink Converse-4And then an epic game of peek a boo 🙂Blog Circo Tank Osh Kosh Overalls Pink Converse-5Blog Circo Tank Osh Kosh Overalls Pink Converse-6Blog Circo Tank Osh Kosh Overalls Pink Converse-7Blog Circo Tank Osh Kosh Overalls Pink Converse-8Blog Circo Tank Osh Kosh Overalls Pink Converse-9I want to eat her up!!!Blog Circo Tank Osh Kosh Overalls Pink Converse-10Blog Circo Tank Osh Kosh Overalls Pink Converse-11Blog Circo Tank Osh Kosh Overalls Pink Converse-12Shhh! 🙂Blog Circo Tank Osh Kosh Overalls Pink Converse-13Blog Circo Tank Osh Kosh Overalls Pink Converse-14On me…

Dress- Geren Ford (old, love this one here)
Boots- Nine West (thrifted, similar here)
On Maya…
Top- Circo (thrifted, but similar here)
Overalls- Osh Kosh (thrifted, but similar here)
Shoes-Converse (thrifted, but similar here)
Keeping it Real…
Not much to keep real.  Been having really good days 🙂
(all pictures taken with a self timer and tripod, except ones of Maya :))

dit-elle-Lauren

Playing on the beach…

 I really need to get one of those tide schedules, because low tide in Seattle is SO amazing!  Maya LOVES to run around in the water, and really….can you get a more beautiful setting??Blog Free People Crochet Crop Vintage Belt Levis Birkenstocks-1 Blog Free People Crochet Crop Vintage Belt Levis Birkenstocks-2 Blog Free People Crochet Crop Vintage Belt Levis Birkenstocks-3 Blog Free People Crochet Crop Vintage Belt Levis Birkenstocks-4Blog HM Striped Top Gap Denim Skirt Old Navy Skull Shoes-1Blog HM Striped Top Gap Denim Skirt Old Navy Skull Shoes-2Blog HM Striped Top Gap Denim Skirt Old Navy Skull Shoes-3And the shoes come off for both of us 🙂Blog Free People Crochet Crop Vintage Belt Levis Birkenstocks-5Another plug for thrift store shopping.  NO worries about getting down and dirty 🙂Blog HM Striped Top Gap Denim Skirt Old Navy Skull Shoes-4Blog HM Striped Top Gap Denim Skirt Old Navy Skull Shoes-5Blog HM Striped Top Gap Denim Skirt Old Navy Skull Shoes-6Blog HM Striped Top Gap Denim Skirt Old Navy Skull Shoes-7Blog HM Striped Top Gap Denim Skirt Old Navy Skull Shoes-8Blog HM Striped Top Gap Denim Skirt Old Navy Skull Shoes-9Blog HM Striped Top Gap Denim Skirt Old Navy Skull Shoes-10Blog HM Striped Top Gap Denim Skirt Old Navy Skull Shoes-11On me…

Top- Free People (via ThredUp) similar here
Hat- Banana Republic (thrifted, similar here)
Belt- Vintage (thrifted)
Jeans- Levi’s 501 (thrifted, DIY cut off)
Shoes- Birkenstocks (20 years old, and still hanging in there!
On Maya…
Top- H&M (via ThredUp)) similar here.
Skirt- Gap (thrifted, but similar here)
Shoes- Old Navy (thrifted, but similar here)
Keeping it Real…
As a side note.  For those of you that are potty training your toddler or have a toddler that is trained, I HIGHLY recommend the Kalencom 2-in1 Potette.  It’s been a LIFESAVER when we are out and about either running errands or down at the beach/park.  It has legs that stand it upright, but it can also fold flat out to be put over a toilet seat.  I also bought this pack of these liners.  Super easy to use, and Maya loves using it.  It folds up pretty small, so I just keep it in my car, or I throw it in my beach bag.  Not really sure what the laws are about toddlers peeing in public haha, but that falls under the beg for forgiveness rather than ask for permission category for me 🙂
(all pictures taken with a self timer and tripod, except ones of Maya :))

dit-elle-Lauren

Lemon Almond Shortbread Cake aka…HEAVEN in your mouth!

Here’s another favorite from my childhood, before anyone ever uttered Paleo or Whole30 :).

It is in no way healthy, but again…worth every caloric bite.  I mean, what’s life without the occasional indulgence??  BORING 😉 Blog Lemon Almond Layer Shortbread Cake-3Blog Lemon Almond Layer Shortbread Cake-4Ingredients

Crust/Topping

  • 2 2/3 Cup Flour
  • 1 1/2 Cup Sugar
  • 1 1/2 Soft Butter
  • 1/2 Teaspoon Salt
  • 1 Egg

Filling

  • 1 Cup finely chopped almonds
  • 1/2 Cup Sugar
  • 1 Teaspoon lemon peel
  • 1 Egg (slightly beaten)
  • 1/2 Teaspoon Cinnamon

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 325 and grease a 9 or 10 inch spring form pan
  • Mix crust on low either in mixer or cuisinart til it forms a ball.
  • Divide dough in half.  Spread 1/2 in the bottom of the pan.  Put other half in the refrigerator.
  • Toss almonds in Cuisinart until finely chopped (or buy pre diced almonds).  Toss the rest of the ingredients in and blend.
  • Spread filling over crust to within a 1/2 inch of the edge.
  • Press remaining dough on waxed paper to 9 or 10 inch circle.  Place over filling and press into place.
  • Place foil underneath pan and bake for 55-60 minutes until edges get light brown.  It will leak all over your oven if you don’t.
  • Cool for at least 15 minutes.  It keeps really well, so I even make it the night before I want to eat it, and it’s still dense and moist.  YUM!!!  Serve all on it’s own, or with yogurt or ice cream and some fresh fruit!  ENJOY!dit-elle-Lauren

Good to be HOME + another entirely thrifted outfit!

 First of all…can I just say how GOOD it is to be home after being gone for 4 days??!  Having an anniversary getaway with the Huz was AMAZING, and I am SO thankful to my parents for watching Maya for us.  But…being gone from her for 4 days was tough!  They picked me up from the airport last night and as I got in the car Maya says- “MOMMEEE!!  Hi Mommy!  You’re BEAUTIFUL!”  Granted, it was dark haha, but still…MELT MY HEART!  Good to be home…

Now, onto our regularly scheduled program 🙂  I got this entire outfit one day while thrifting at Value Village with my 30% off coupon (Minus the belt.  I thrifted that on a different trip).  Total outfit cost me less than $20!!  Rarely do I find total outfits when I go thrift store shopping.  Usually, it’s a piece here and a piece there.  This was a total windfall day!

Ps-Maya is sitting in the car next to me eating her sandwich 😉Blog Abercrombie and Fitch Boho Top Citizens Of Humanity Carlton Retro High Rise Jeans Sam Edelman Petty Suede Booties-1These jeans are technically high waisted, but on my jumbo torso, they look more like a mid rise. Blog Abercrombie and Fitch Boho Top Citizens Of Humanity Carlton Retro High Rise Jeans Sam Edelman Petty Suede Booties-2 Blog Abercrombie and Fitch Boho Top Citizens Of Humanity Carlton Retro High Rise Jeans Sam Edelman Petty Suede Booties-3 Blog Abercrombie and Fitch Boho Top Citizens Of Humanity Carlton Retro High Rise Jeans Sam Edelman Petty Suede Booties-4 Blog Abercrombie and Fitch Boho Top Citizens Of Humanity Carlton Retro High Rise Jeans Sam Edelman Petty Suede Booties-5I’ve mentioned before my love of shoes and taking pictures of shoes.  These next three might be my all time favorites of the ones I’ve taken!!! Blog Abercrombie and Fitch Boho Top Citizens Of Humanity Carlton Retro High Rise Jeans Sam Edelman Petty Suede Booties-6Um, the little foot cross??!!  Like I could even TELL her to do that.  And the sippy cup that I didn’t quite move out of the way completely…LOVE!! Blog Abercrombie and Fitch Boho Top Citizens Of Humanity Carlton Retro High Rise Jeans Sam Edelman Petty Suede Booties-7And lastly…because this is how I keep Maya occupied while I take pics haha.  Seemed appropriate to document it 😉 Blog Abercrombie and Fitch Boho Top Citizens Of Humanity Carlton Retro High Rise Jeans Sam Edelman Petty Suede Booties-8She’s always loved to sing.  We do this thing now, where I imitate her for a few bars until we end in a crescendo! Blog Abercrombie and Fitch Boho Top Citizens Of Humanity Carlton Retro High Rise Jeans Sam Edelman Petty Suede Booties-91Abercrombie and Fitch Boho Top Citizens Of Humanity Carlton Retro High Rise Jeans Sam Edelman Petty Suede Booties-9 Blog Abercrombie and Fitch Boho Top Citizens Of Humanity Carlton Retro High Rise Jeans Sam Edelman Petty Suede Booties-10Maya has been wearing this top for aver a year.  It started off as a tunic, and I’m sure I’ll keep having her wear it when it’s a crop top haha.  I LOVE it.  And yes, her entire outfit is thrifted too.  I am fairly certain the entire outfit cost me less than $10 🙂  These Joe’s Jeans are size 18 month, but I scored them for $2.50, so I thought I’d give them a try.  I think they make the cutest capris!  And because they super stretchy and are made for a diaper but, they totally fit her comfortably 🙂Blog CrewCuts Ruffle Top Joes Jeans Acid Wash Cherokee Booties-1Blog CrewCuts Ruffle Top Joes Jeans Acid Wash Cherokee Booties-2Blog CrewCuts Ruffle Top Joes Jeans Acid Wash Cherokee Booties-3Blog CrewCuts Ruffle Top Joes Jeans Acid Wash Cherokee Booties-4On me…

Top- Abercrombie & Fitch (thrifted, LOVE this here)
Jeans- Citizens of Humanity “Carlton Retro High Rise” (thrifted, sold out, similar here)
Belt- Vintage (thrifted)
Boots- Sam Edelman “Petty Suede Boots” (thrifted for $8.40!!!)
On Maya…
Top- Crewcuts (thrifted, but loving this here)
Jeans- Joe’s Jeans (thrifted, but similar here)
Shoes- Cherokee (thrifted, but similar here)
Keeping it Real…
Nothing to keep real.  We were away all weekend in Napa to celebrate our 5th wedding anniversary and my 40th birthday.  It was a magical weekend filled with wine, food, relaxation, and fun.  Coming home was pretty fantastic too.  Only bummer is that the Huz got a last minute apt and had to stay behind in San Francisco 😦
(all pictures taken with a self timer and tripod, except ones of Maya :))

dit-elle-Lauren

Happy Anniversary to us…

I got married 5 years ago today.  I can honestly say it was the best and most FUN day of my life.  The advice I give every bride who’s wedding I shoot?  Forget everything once the day arrives and enjoy it for what it is.  A great big party with all of your favorite people there to celebrate you marrying the one you love.  It’s as simple as that.  And that is what we did…

We got married at the San Juan Vineyards, and went with a local photographer, James Krall.  He didn’t have a blog or a fancy website, but I loved the way he captured people.  Loved the way he captured us…

I did my own bouquet from wholesale flowers.  My dress was a designer sample (no tag, so I don’t know who it’s by) from Belltown Bride.  It was exactly what I wanted, only better. Kind of like the Huz 😉

Here’s a few images from that amazing day.Blog Our Wedding 8-8-09-1 Blog Our Wedding 8-8-09-2 Blog Our Wedding 8-8-09-3 Blog Our Wedding 8-8-09-4 Blog Our Wedding 8-8-09-5My Mastiff of Honor…I still miss her every day. Blog Our Wedding 8-8-09-6 Blog Our Wedding 8-8-09-7The little chapel on site held a maximum of 50 people, including us.  I LOVED IT!  It was so intimate and exactly what I wanted.  We had a larger reception at the covered pavilion with more family and friends.

LOVE how excited the boys look up at the altar with us haha.Blog Our Wedding 8-8-09-8 Blog Our Wedding 8-8-09-10I was trying to think of something eloquent to write, but writing isn’t exactly my forte.  Precisely why I take pictures.  Those tell my story for me… Then, I went to reread our vows.  They said it all then and I can honestly say that they say it all now….

 From this day forward I promise you these things.
I will laugh with you in times of joy, and comfort you in times of sorrow.
I will share in your dreams and support you as you strive to achieve your goals.
I will listen to you with compassion and understanding, and speak to you with encouragement.
I will help you when you need it, and step aside when you don’t.
I will remain faithful to you for better or worse, in times of sickness and health, through the pressures of the present and the uncertainties of the future.
You have shown me what love feels like and for that I thank you.
You are my best friend, and I will love and respect you always.

I found my other half later in life, and it was sooooo worth the wait.  He doesn’t read this blog, but…love you Huz! 🙂dit-elle-Lauren

An acceptable outfit that feels like pajamas? I’m IN!

 I got these pants during the last “Clear the Rack” sale at Nordstom Rack.  I had meant for them to be to wear to shoot weddings.  I kept meaning to test them out first (an all day wedding is NOT the time to try something new!), but just remembered about them last night.  It’s been in the upper 70’s to mid 80’s lately, and these were PERFECT!  They are super light weight.  The flat front is flattering, yet the elastic back makes them super comfy.  I originally meant them to be dressy, but threw on loose T and sandals instead.  Basically, I felt like I was wearing pajamas all day.  LOVE THAT!  Pretty sure I will be living in these from now on haha. Blog Zara Tee Free People Easy Pleat Pant ShoeMint Zandra-1Blog Zara Tee Free People Easy Pleat Pant ShoeMint Zandra-2Blog Zara Tee Free People Easy Pleat Pant ShoeMint Zandra-3Blog Zara Tee Free People Easy Pleat Pant ShoeMint Zandra-4Blog Zara Tee Free People Easy Pleat Pant ShoeMint Zandra-5Oh, wall art?  Don’t mind if we do haha 🙂Blog Zara Tee Free People Easy Pleat Pant ShoeMint Zandra-6Blog Zara Tee Free People Easy Pleat Pant ShoeMint Zandra-7“Maya, can you go stand under those wings?”

“They’re not wings…they’re EARS!”

Ok, then… 🙂Blog Red Gap Romber Zebra Converse-1Blog Red Gap Romber Zebra Converse-2Blog Red Gap Romber Zebra Converse-3On me…

Top- Zara (from ThredUp)
Pants- Free People (Nordstrom Rack)
Shoes- ShoeMint “Zandra”
On Maya…
Shoes- Converse (thrifted, but similar here)
Keeping it Real…
I love, love, LOVE that Maya is getting more adventurous!  I’ve mentioned before that she’s been kind of a scaredy cat when it comes to the playground.  Admittedly, it’s a bit of a catch 22.  Part of me loves that she’s so scared and I don’t really  have to worry about her doing anything dangerous, but part of me is so proud that she’s starting to climb more and take some risks.  Go Maya!!
(all pictures taken with a self timer and tripod, except ones of Maya :))

dit-elle-Lauren