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September 2010

Kendi Everyday

guestblogging

I asked each blogger to pick a piece of artwork that spoke to them in some way. It could be famous, not famous, new, old. whatever piece of artwork they wanted and then to create an outfit inspired by the piece. I will be back to regular blogging on Oct. 4th.

Today I would like to introduce Kendi from Kendi Everyday

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4924171238/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4923577117/

Hi everyone! I’m Kendi from Kendi Everyday — it’s nice to meet you! I’m so excited to be guest posting for Jen as she and Kev prepare for their little bundle of joy. I think I can speak for all of us when I say — we can’t wait to meet her!
 
I loved Jen’s idea of taking a work of art and creating an outfit inspired from the art. Edward Hopper was the first artist to pop into my mind. An American landscape painter, Edward Hopper created beautiful depictions of life in the 40s and 50s. (You might know him from the famous “Nighthawks” painting.) One of my favorite works of his is the 1940’s piece called “Office at Night.” The painting depicts a man and a woman working late into the night. I love the imagery the scene creates as the woman (who I interpret as a secretary) looks over her shoulder, quietly wanting his attention and the man working at his desk, either too busy to be interested or too busy trying to ignore her.
 
This piece speaks volumes about women in that time, their place in society, workplace and in fashion. I especially love the silhouettes of 1940s fashion. Every woman looked put together and classic, just as the lady in the painting. She is still in heels, her hair still perfectly coifed, dress unwrinkled — even late at night. I worked as an administrative assistant (or a modern-day secretary) the year after I graduated college. In that way, I identify with this woman, like perhaps the woman in the picture was in a similar situation as I found myself in. Single but fully-educated and needed a job. Office work at a nice company, she’d be a fool not to take it, right? Now she is dressed up in heels and a dress, possibly dressed too nice to sit at a desk all day waiting for her next task. It’s so funny to me that it’s 70 years later and yet I know exactly how that woman feels.
 
My mother and I made the dress I’m wearing while I was living at home, working as an administrative assistant. At the time, I had no idea how 40s inspired the silhouette was, but it absolutely is. It’s modest, simple, and very feminine. It was my first dress to sew and complete with a lot of help from my mom. I was so proud of it; I couldn’t wait to show my co-workers. I remember wearing that dress to work, waiting for the compliments to roll in. But no one said a word to me. I sat at my desk, waiting for a compliment but it was just like any other dress I’d worn. Just like the woman in the painting, my co-workers were either very disinterested or trying very hard to ignore me and my pretty, new dress.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4923577423/
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http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4923576785/

Orchid Grey

guestblogging

I asked each blogger to pick a piece of artwork that spoke to them in some way. It could be famous, not famous, new, old. whatever piece of artwork they wanted and then to create an outfit inspired by the piece. I will be back to regular blogging on Oct. 4th.

Today I would like to introduce my dear friend Julie from Orchid Grey

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4944932039/
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“Frida Kahlo has long been a favorite artist of mine, in the boy’s club of the early-to-mid-century art scene she stood out as a pre-feminist hell raiser. A force to be reckoned with. I could not say when I first laid eyes on one of her paintings, but Kahlo’s highly charged self portraiture left a lasting impression both artistically and stylistically. She seemed to layer clothing like paint, color over color, necklace over necklace, building up an organized chaos of clothing.

One of the most meaningful gifts my fiance has given me in our six years together is the book I Will Never Forget You: Frida Kahlo and Nickolas Muray. The book explores the relationship between Kahlo and photographer Nickolas Muray through letters and portraits taken by the two artists, their complex relationship winds through their correspondence and intimate photographs like a twisted thread. I decided to use these photographs of the artist (Kahlo) by an artist (Muray)- rather than one of her own paintings- because Muray captures not just Frida’s personality but also her style. Her layers, colors, and textures are documented so well even in black and white.

To emulate Muray’s photographs and Kahlo’s style I concentrated on texture and tone. I layered a long vintage dress with a patterned scarf- one that is remeniscent of the wildlife that appears in Kahlo’s paintings- and lots of silver and turquoise jewelry. I used my hair as a texture as well, instead of pinning it up in the signature braids I let it hang loose.”

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4944931419/
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Dress: Vintage
Scarf: Vintage
Belt: Vintage
Jewelry: F21 & Vintage

Delightfully Tacky

guestblogging

I asked each blogger to pick a piece of artwork that spoke to them in some way. It could be famous, not famous, new, old. whatever piece of artwork they wanted and then to create an outfit inspired by the piece. I will be back to regular blogging on Oct. 4th.

Today I would like to introduce Elizabeth from Delightfully Tacky

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4968689438/
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“I decided to go with an Impressionistic inspiration. Even though Impressionism isn’t my favorite period in art history, it really speaks to what my outfits have been like lately. Very light, floral and ethereal. I drew inspiration from Claude Monet’s Dans la Prairie and Woman with a Parasol. I like the lighting in both, and they have sort of breathy airiness to them, which I tried to capture in my outfit and photos”

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4968080869/
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Boston Fashion Week Swap

So I may have missed NYFW this year and will be missing most of Boston Fashion week this week as well but there is one thing I will definitely be attending this Thursday evening…

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I am so excited!! My mom will be baby sitting and I got a brand new outfit to wear!! I just bought a beautiful mustard yellow wool pencil skirt from J.Crew. I can’t wait to see all my Boston blogging gals and have a great night. I hope to see all you Boston area peeps there that night!

Details of the event:
Bring all that like-new and gently worn clothing, shoes, accessories, and jewelry just taking up space in your closet and trade it in for a swap bag full of fashionable finds from your fellow stylish Bostonians.

Sip on wines from 90+ Cellars and Second Glass and chill out in the swap lounge, shop a carefully curated market of our favorite indie style-makers, and watch a runway show of created-on-site swap outfits from Boston’s best fashion bloggers. Plus, all the swap donations left over at the end of the night will be given to a local charity!

5 to 7:45 p.m.
Clothing drop-off and registration. Shop our Swap Shop of hand-picked indie vendors and other fashion-obsessed brands while you wait.

8 p.m. SHARP!
Doors open to the swap, and the good stuff goes early so be on time (or line up around 7:45). Sip on Second Glass and 90+ Cellars wine, the tasting lounges are now open!

9 p.m.
Boston Fashion Bloggers Runway Show, featuring outfits created completely from swap clothes!

9:30 p.m.
Raffle prize drawings and special announcements from our super-awesome swap sponsors.

$10 in advance / $15 at the door (with a bag of stuff to swap)
18+ with positive ID.

The Swapaholics will be hosting a Boston Fashion Blogger Mixer in the private balcony section of our Clothing Swap along with a runway show after the swap using the fashion bloggers (if you would like to model contact (amy or jen) as their own stylists and as their own outfit models — tasked with creating an outfit on the fly from mostly swap clothing. The bloggers will have a exclusive VIP birds eye view of the whole Clothing Swap and Fashion Show. As well as discounted tickets to the swap.

Buy tickets here!

Dear Baby

guestblogging

I asked each blogger to pick a piece of artwork that spoke to them in some way. It could be famous, not famous, new, old. whatever piece of artwork they wanted and then to create an outfit inspired by the piece. I will be back to regular blogging on Oct. 4th.

Today I would like to introduce one of the cutest babies on the internet the beautiful Everly Veda of Dear Baby in her very first style file…

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I may only be 8 months old, but I know a little about art. Mama and daddy are always carrying me to pretty galleries full of local artists here in our town of Raleigh, North Carolina. And a few weeks back, we even got to visit the Guggenheim in Bilbao, Spain. You should have heard me, squealing at the top of my lungs in the middle of Anish Kapoor exhibit. I wanted to reach out and touch EVERYTHING! But no matter how many artists I’ve seen – there’s really only one that I can truly call my favorite – my daddy.

He paints in the evenings and afternoons whenever I take a nap. I’m always mesmerized by the bright colors and textures and he promises me that as soon as I stop trying to put his paintbrushes in my mouth that I can help him on one of his projects. So in the very first fashion blog post I’ve ever written, I picked one of his recent paintings as inspiration for my outfit. I think I may be the very first baby with the honor of doing a fashion post on Jenloveskev – but knowing what a fashionable mama Mrs.Jen is, I can guarantee you I won’t be last.

Good luck and congrats to you guys on your brand new baby girl! If she ever wants to come hang out with me, I’ve got a few leg warmers and hair bows she can borrow.

Love,
Everly Veda

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4968687138/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4968079225/

Pink Onesie, Carters.
Knit vest, Baby Gap
Knit Legwarmers, Baby Gap
Knit hat, A handmade gift!
Yellow bow clip, kid-to-kid

About Everly Veda:
Everly Veda thinks that the word “no” is a hilarious joke and also that a camera may be permanently attached to her mother’s face. She likes dancing to Buddy Holly, listening to her dad play the Banjo and pulling her dog’s tail. Read more about her little family and their adventures in living life out loud by visiting www.dearbabyblog.com

Lola Miren Giveaway!

Before Rowan was born the lovely Chelsea of Lola Miren send us a beautiful Bundle of Joy set. I got to pick the fabric and gave her a hint by telling her the first initial so she could embroider an “R” on the items. When the package arrived at the door I was so freakin’ excited. It was beautiful!! It was hard to wait for her arrival to use all the pretty items. Everything is so well made and you can see all the love and time that was put in to each and every item. Lola Miren offers different size bundles to fit each budget but each one is special. They are the perfect gift for any expectant mother or even great christmas or birthday gifts for the little one in your life. There are some great fabrics to choose from too! Lola Miren would like to offer readers of jenloveskev…

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1. A chance to win a personalized baby blanket in the fabric of their choice. They can choose from any pattern offered on the website.

2. A discount for Jenloveskev readers. Lola Miren will be offering 10% off + free shipping (in the US only) for 2 weeks starting today until October 11th. They will refund the difference via Paypal when they mention jenloveskev in the comment section of your order

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To enter giveaway please visit Lola Miren and choose the fabric you would like to receive the blanket in and let us know in a comment below. The giveaway is open from now until Friday Oct. 1st. The winner will be randomly chosen and announced on Saturday Oct. 2nd.

For all things Lola Miren please follow along on their new blog:

What I Wore

guestblogging

I asked each blogger to pick a piece of artwork that spoke to them in some way. It could be famous, not famous, new, old. whatever piece of artwork they wanted and then to create an outfit inspired by the piece. I will be back to regular blogging on Oct. 4th.

Today I would like to introduce Jessica from What I Wore

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Hi! I’m Jessica Schroeder and my blog is called What I Wore. I’ve been taking photos of my daily outfits (almost) everyday for over three years. For my artwork, I was inspired by a painting by my younger brother, Dan Schroeder Jr. Each family member was given one smaller tree that makes up a larger tree when all put together.

I was inspired by both the color and the movement of the tree in Dan’s painting. I wanted to capture the windblown look the tree has, so I picked a lightweight skirt and scarf that caught the breeze passing by. A perfect outfit for one of the last days of summer.

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Hello Sponsors!

Now that I have lost the baby bump I can not stop looking at all the beautiful fall items I would like to have!! Here are a few of my favorites from Ruche and Modcloth

Ruche always has the most beautiful dresses. I love the rich fall color of this orange dress. How cute would it look with a nice cardigan over it or maybe this super sweet navy one?

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1. Home Sweet Home Gray Dress $40.99
2. Love is an Anchor Cardigan $36.99
3. Savvy and Mod Belted Sweater Dress $57.99

Did you know Modcloth is letting you Pre-Order from the BB Dakota 2010 Holiday Line? They have some of the most amazing winter coats. I think that is one of my favorite parts of the winter is getting a new Winter coat. Make sure you pop over and check them out. Get your pre-order in now before they sell out!!

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1. Mind Togglingly Cute Jacket $94.99
2. Cobalt Meme Coat $84.99
3. Tularosa Coat $129.99

Happy Fall!!

Selective Potential

guestblogging

I asked each blogger to pick a piece of artwork that spoke to them in some way. It could be famous, not famous, new, old. whatever piece of artwork they wanted and then to create an outfit inspired by the piece. I will be back to regular blogging on Oct. 4th.

Today I would like to introduce the Tieka from Selective Potential

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Hi there, Jen Loves Kev readers! I’m Tieka from Selective Potential and I’m so excited to be guest posting on Jen’s blog while her and Kev prepare for and welcome their new baby girl! She asked us to do an art history style file – and I couldn’t wait to come up with something. I went to a small art college and it was required of me to take four classes of art history courses – but I honestly wanted to take more than that. I absolutely love art history. One of my favorite artists is Georgia O’Keefe. I used her painting, Purple Petunias, for my inspiration for this outfit! The thing I love most about Georgia O’Keefe is that she painted the small things – the little things we take for granted. She spoke of why she painted flowers, “Nobody sees a flower – really – it is so small – we haven’t time – and to see takes time like to have a friend takes time. So I said to myself, I’ll paint what I see – what the flower is to me – but I’ll paint it big and they will be surprised into taking time to look at it.” And although it’s just a painting of a flower, it has so much more meaning than that. Take time to enjoy the small things and spend your moments enjoying the beauty of life – just like I know Jen and Kev will be doing with their baby girl. Congrats to the both of them – they will be the most amazing parents!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4929433173/
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http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4930025892/

Lulu Letty

guestblogging

I asked each blogger to pick a piece of artwork that spoke to them in some way. It could be famous, not famous, new, old. whatever piece of artwork they wanted and then to create an outfit inspired by the piece. I will be back to regular blogging on Oct. 4th.

Today I would like to introduce the lovely Maria from Lulu Letty

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4927550364/
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Musician in the Rain by Robert Doisneau

Hello, lovely Jen Loves Kev readers! This is Maria, of Lulu Letty, guest blogging for the ever so sweet Jen while she’s on maternity leave. Jen had the amazing idea to have her guest bloggers pick a piece of artwork that we love and style an outfit inspired by said art. Here’s my interpretation of Robert Doisneau’s Musician in the Rain.

I first discovered the amazing photography of Robert Doisneau in a fairly pedestrian way. I was in my junior year of college and looking for some art for Cole’s and my apartment. I wanted something more sophisticated and vintage. There on the wall of your typical college poster shop was Robert Doisneau’s famous kissing photograph. I fell in love immediately and wanted to know everything about the mysterious, lip-locking couple. I didn’t buy the print that day, but received it as a surprise gift from Cole for my 21st birthday. So excited with my gift, I gave it pride of place and hung it on my bedroom wall. Eight years later and not much has changed – I still have the framed print and still dream about life in Paris in 1950.
“When I first started to take photos I’d …pull the black cloth over my head and feel totally secure in the knowledge that no one could see me”
– Robert Doisneau

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/5014190769/
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http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4926954059/

Vintage guitar & case, vintage pants and peter pan blouse: The Salvation Army
Vintage umbrella: Modern Millie, Salem, MA
Old trench coat: Banana Republic
Scarf: Burberry, gift from dad
Old beret: Urban Outfitters
Vintage Western bow tie: eBay
Vintage black and tan oxfords: Etsy, Vintage Shoe Lover


Robert Doisneau

Lulu Letty
Famous Kissing Photograph

Week One

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Well it’s been one week. It’s 4:08am right now (haha I started writing this Sunday Morning) and a week ago exactly I was up pacing our apartment listening to Frank Sinatra trying to get thru contractions and wrap my mind around the fact this baby was coming. In one week I feel like I am a completely new person. Looking back to that moment and where we’ve already come is crazy. This has been the hardest most challenging yet most rewarding week of my life. Labor almost seems like the easy part after you bring home your first baby. It is very, very hard but the amount of love that we have for Rowan is so great it engulfs our whole being. Rowan is the biggest blessing and even though it’s been tough we can not imagine our lives with out her now. We have a whole heck of a lot to learn but Kev and I are doing it together as one super hero team. Kev has been the most supportive husband and for that I am completely grateful. I would have had way more break downs this week if he had not been so strong and encouraging. I love him more now than ever and seeing him and Rowan cuddled together makes my life complete.

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I would like to share more about all this stuff but for now here are a few lists about this week…

Favorite Memories:
1. Hearing Kevs reaction as Rowan came out and then the moment when she was placed on my chest
2. Watching Kev and her together
3. Changing lyrics to songs to make them about Rowan & singing them to her while feeding
4. The little noises she makes.
5. The heart warming feeling you feel as she sleeps soundly cuddled on your chest.

Favorite items of the last week:
1. Disposable knit undies from the hospital
2. Tucks & Motrin
3. Boppy pillow
4. Baby Brain iPhone app
5. My new super soft robe

Things I have had break downs over (yep most are over nothing and I mean like really sobbing over haha):
1. Kev asking if I had brushed my teeth yet one day
2. Opening a tiny beautiful necklace for Rowan from my Nana
3. A comment acusing me of not sharing Rowans name to drive traffic to my blog. (I am sorry but no one knew her name not even my mom)
4. Breastfeeding
5. Going to the bathroom (it’s very uncomfortable)
6. Everything. Its hard being a hormonal, sleep deprived momma

Things that have surpirsed me:
1. How hard the recovery from yourself is. I never even thought about having to take care of myself on top of baby.
2. How hard breastfeeding is.
3. The amount of love you instantly feel towards this new little person
4. How scared you are about everything. I am constantly wondering if I am doing things right. Its scary- you pop out a baby and then you are own your own to figure it all out. Its a little overwhelming at times.
5. How much closer it has brought Kev and I.

Kansas Couture

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4998399906/
I asked each blogger to pick a piece of artwork that spoke to them in some way. It could be famous, not famous, new, old. whatever piece of artwork they wanted and then to create an outfit inspired by the piece. I will be back to regular blogging on Oct. 4th.

Today I would like to introduce Katy from Kansas Couture

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4930026622/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4930026566/

When Jen introduced the challenge of styling an outfit inspired by a work of art, the painting Cakes (1963) by Wayne Thiebaud was the first image that popped into my mind. Ever since I was introduced to this piece in high school, it has stuck with me. It may not be emotionally charged, but it really speaks to me on an aesthetic level. At first glance, this collection of cakes feels decadent, frivolous and fun. Just as striking, however, is the way the cakes are presented. The carefully arranged rows and symmetrical shapes give it a feeling of orderliness and deliberate placement. I wanted to convey both of these moods with my outfit. The pastel polka dot shorts and pearl necklace create a whimsical feel, while the tailored blazer and strappy patent sandals lend structure and coordination.

Outfit details: Urban Outfitters top, H&M blazer, vintage shorts, Forever 21 necklace, Christian Siriano for Payless shoes

Painting image source: artchive.com

Guest Blogging Series…

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So,  in case you didn’t know I love art history. I decided to minor in it in college because I couldn’t get enough art history classes. I also met Kev in art history clases- 20th Century Art to be exact. I knew I wanted to take some time away from blogging when the baby came and I knew I wanted to ask some blogging friends to do some guest blogging, but I didn’t know what about. Then I came up with this great idea to mix fashion and art. I asked each blogger to pick a piece of artwork that spoke to them in some way. It could be famous, not famous, new, old. whatever piece of artwork they wanted and then to create an outfit inspired by the piece. It was so freakin’ fun to do this and to see everyones pictures and outfits to come in. I can’t wait to share them all over the next 2 weeks. I will be back to regular blogging on Oct. 4th. Can you believe how soon Oct. is coming?

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I decided to kick off the series with a post myself. My favorite period in art is the Renaissance. I think I surprise a lot of people when I say that but I could look at gold framed religious art from that time period for hours. I love the feel to them all & the history of each family who commissioned the paintings, they way they are painted, the mix of religion and mythology, and I love how everything has a deeper meaning. Each piece is like a puzzle that is waiting to be put together with all its different pieces.  One of my favorite pieces is “Primavera ” by Botticelli. It is also called the “Allegory of Spring” & if you go to the wikipedia page or do a little more research there is so much more to this painting then just what you see. I don’t want to start writing about it all because I will have a blog post that is a book, but I hope that if you are interested you will go read a little more about it.

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I chose to create an outfit based on the goddess Venus who is in the center of the painting. She is residing over the garden and I was really drawn to her as my inspiration. Venus is the goddess of love, beauty and fertility. I thought it was fitting as I am 40 weeks pregnant still in these pictures. I wanted to create an outfit that was overly romantic feeling with soft colors and fabrics. I layered a blouse under my H&M dress and belted with with a thick brown belt. I have been dying to wear this crystal headband from ban.do and had yet to find the right outfit to wear it with. It was perfect for this one though. I don’t think I would have thought to add my orange cardigan to this pale pink dress but I wanted something orange to match the picture and I actually really like the 2 together. It was so fun putting this together.

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Headband: c/o ban.do
Orange Cardigan: NY&Co.
Ruffle Blouse: Swap via theswapaholics.com
Dress: H&M
Belt: Kevs
Wedges: MIA via DSW

Read More about Botticelli’s “Primavera” and see more images at wikipedia

A step back…

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So I think this might be my first of many middle of the night post as I sit with a cuddly sleeping baby on my chest. I am trying to stay positive and think “Hey at least I can get some work done that I didn’t have time to do during the day right? ” as the bags under my eyes grow darker and darker. hehe. Rowan hasn’t quite conquered the sleeping on her own thing yet. I won’t complain because she is just so adorable to hold while she sleeps. Anyways, last friday after my midwife appointment we found out I was 3 centimeters dilated and was given the impression that the baby was coming that night. I called my parents and being so excited they packed the car and came out our way to stay. I was a little nervous that they were driving out and getting a hotel when I really didn’t even know the baby would def. come that weekend, luckily she did, just not on Friday or even Saturday like we had thought. My parents and sister were staying in a hotel by the hospital and Friday night Kev and me couldn’t have thought of anything better than to make use of the hotel pool. Swimming and being pregnant are made for one and another. It feels so good. You don’t even feel pregnant!

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My sister is a super amazingly talented photographer. She has this perfect way of capturing moments that seem to be better than anyone I know. I kinda wish her job was just to follow Kev and me around and document our life.
Her are some of the pictures she took that night. I didn’t think they would have so much meaning when she was taking them but now I look back at Friday night as being very special. It was a night spent with my family and Kev as we eagerly and nervously awaited Rowan’s arrival. Kev played with our underwater camera that night. I am super excited to see how the pictures come out!

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So as you can see my first guest blogging post didn’t go up today. I decided to keep everything till Monday and start fresh then. On Monday I will be kicking off the series with a special style file myself explaining the project. Lets just say it has a little to do with my obsession and appreciation with art & art history… Stay tuned!!

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Two last things before I wish you all a happy weekend

1. Are we friends on Twitter yet? If not than we should be!!
and
2. If you had a spare second would you consider voting for us for Top baby blogs? You can vote once everyday.

Happy Weekend!!
Both my sisters are coming home this weekend to visit Rowan. I am so excited I could jump up and down and that is saying a lot when you just popped out a baby!! haha.

Introducing…

In case you hadn’t heard… We had the baby!!!! She arrived Sunday morning after what I can only say was the perfect and most amazing birth. So with out further ado I would like to introduce for the first time to all of you our beautiful little girl…

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Isn’t she the most beautiful little baby ever? I know I am bias but man she is gorgeous!! My heart melts into puddles every time I look at her. She has the softest chubbiest cheeks ever. I can’t stop kissing them. We will be sharing lots more photos and our whole birth story soon. For now we are going to be taking a little time off. Don’t worry though have I got a treat for you!! I have some fabulous guest bloggers lined up for the next week. Baby pictures I am sure will be popin’ up in between because I can’t help myself, but I am so super excited about the guest bloggers. I gave all my blogging friends a special mission to complete for their posts. I can’t wait to explain all the details tomorrow!

Here are just a few photos from the hospital…

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THANK YOU so much to everyone for being so overly supportive this whole 9 months. I have loved every comment, email, twitter and facebook message. They truly made my days brighter!! I love this blog and I love the community it has created around it. I can’t wait to share more with everyone in the days to come!! Thank you again for all the love and support!!!

Week 40 + 41

I had been saving the week 40 post from last week hoping to post week 40 with the baby but we all know she has not come yet and here we are today at week 41. I will apologize now and say I am sorry for all the “she is not here yet still” on the blog this week. I don’t mean to constantly talk about it but honestly it is all I think about. It consumes you. I try not to let it but you can’t help it. I know everyone says to relax and enjoy the time but you can’t. Sure you can go about your daily activities but that doesn’t mean that every hour of every day you aren’t wondering when this little baby is coming. Whoever thought you get to a point where you are wishing labor to happen to you. haha. It does makes me even more anxious though because you just think about it day and night. It is very hard to not be discouraged. I am trying. But it is hard.

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I always get a little nervous to show actual skin pictures of my belly. I don’t know why? Why have we made it weird in our country to see a pregnant belly? I always question wearing a 2 piece when we go to the pool or beach too. Were you like that when you were pregnant? I think pregnant bellies are beautiful. Its just so crazy that you have a baby, a real baby in there. It still blows my mind when I think about it. I gained a total of 30 pounds. It was a little more but I have dropped back down again because she is taking so much energy to grow in there. I am pretty happy with that number. I really feel like I ate super healthy and stayed really active this whole time, so I feel like that was just the number my body needed to make this baby. I am starting to get really excited for post baby clothes again and for exercise! ohh to go running again!!

Lots of people have asked me about being induced. The truth is I do not want to be induced unless my midwife tells me its time. I know some people will get induced right away and that is totally their choice but for me I really want to try to have a natural birth (yes I know this can change and I am open to that but…) being induced can make that a little bit harder for myself. I have a midwife appointment in well 30 mins actually and will see what they say. I have to get another Non Stress Test done to make sure she is happy and healthy in there still. Hopefully I will have some news to share later this afternoon.

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Dear Baby Girl:
We are waiting for you! Daddy keeps telling me that I have made such a good home for you in there and that is why you don’t want to come out yet. But we have made a really good home out here for you too- I wish I could show you ’cause maybe you would pop right out. Mommy has been waiting and waiting and waiting for you. It has been really hard. We want you to be here so badly. I have been having bad dreams lately that you come out and you are already a toddler and you don’t want to cuddle me. Oh course I will love you when you are a toddler but I want you to be a baby too. I know they are just silly dreams but I don’t like them. We miss you and we haven’t even met you yet. I know this is all for a reason and I am trying to understand that. We are just so eager to see you, and hold you and kiss you. We really can not wait to meet you! Please come soon!
With all our love,
Your Mommy + Daddy

haha that first picture of Kev’s head and my belly cracks me up. I am either having a baby or an adult head. They seem to be the same size.

If you enjoy reading jenloveskev would you be so kind to click the banner below and vote for us on Top Baby Blogs. Maybe it would make this baby come a little faster? haha ok maybe not, but just maybe…
Click To Vote For Us @ Top Baby Blogs Directory!

Style File 09.09.10

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I was hoping last week would be my last week of style files till after baby, but here we are Thursday 41 weeks, there is no baby and I haven’t done a style file all week. I woke up this morning and figured I should get out of my pj’s and actually get dressed today. Kev and me went out for lunch, so I thought I would put on something cute and sort fall like. It is a very moody and chilly day out. Its nice. My sandals almost felt loose on my feet because for once they weren’t super swollen. I really like this outfit. I think I will even still wear this afterwards. I am kind of obsessed with ruffles!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4974376961/
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Leather Bomber: Zara
Blouse: The Swapaholics.com
Maternity Skirt: H&M
Volcom Sandals: c/o Pac Sun

Also someone super, super nice nominated me for Babble’s list of favorite Twitter Moms. Its not a contest or anything I dont think, but if you follow me on twitter and enjoy @jenloveskev then you can head over to babble and hit the thumbs up next to my name if you want (You can find me alphabetically under jenloveskev not @jenloveskev)

Etsy Shop Update…

Ugh! Still no baby for those of you that are wondering. Sorry to keep talking about it but its all I can think about every minute of everyday! If you have been late or if you are late when you are pregnant you will understand.

To keep my hands and mind busy I have been sewing and crafting things these last few days to put up in my etsy shop. I made one of these adorable dolls for our little girl and thought they were just too cute to keep to myself. So I made 3 more to sell. Snatch one up if you like them. I only made 3.

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I also made a couple crazy cats. I love how funny they are and how cute the vintage fabric is!

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and because fall is around the corner I made a few Grey Tunnel Scarfs. I seriously can not wait till I can wear mine again. It was my favorite thing last year. I wore it every day all day long (I would give myself dreads because my hair would be wrapped up inside it all day long). They are just too cozy to not wear all the time! I also made this cute headband. I love the different fabrics and flowers grouped together.

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Head over to my shop to check out more pictures and details of everything listed!!

Also to help pass time I finally signed up for a formspring account. Have a question you would like to ask me?? Here’s your chance…

Fall, Fall, Fall…

I am so ready to wear tights & sweaters & layers oh my! The taste of fall this past weekend made me happier than I can say. There has been lots of Fall inspiration popping up all over the blog world lately. I have been saving a whole bunch of pictures and placing them in my clothing inspiration folder. I keep folders on the desktop to place pictures in that I use for inspiration when I get dressed. I cant afford all kinds of designer goods, but you can use pictures for inspiration to put together a similar outfit from your own wardrobe or to look for items at thrift stores & stores you shop. Its not about copying but using it as a starting point and making it into your own style.

What inspires you? and how to you use it to create your own ideas?

I have fallen head over heels with the Winter Collection from Secret Squirrel!!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4968101683/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4968709006/

and of course the J.Crew catalogs are always my favorite to look thru. Everything is just so beautiful! I have 3 J.Crew gift cards burning holes in my wallet right now. I am trying to be good though and wait till I can actually try something on post pregnant belly.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4968709182/
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What are you most looking forward to wearing this fall?

Labor Day…

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It’s a little funny today is Labor Day as I sit here waiting for labor to start. I won’t say it’s not very very hard to wait but today has been lovely. I woke up this morning and decided I was going to enjoy the day and value every moment I had left with Kev being just the 2 of us.

We went out for brunch and then headed to Peebles Island for a hike. I love it there. We had the best time walking, holding hands, talking and sitting on a cliff overlooking the Mohawk River with the beautiful fall breeze blowing. Being on the verge of such a life changing event, I know it will be a moment we will not forget anytime soon.

Happy Labor Day!

What I Wore Guest Post

Hi Guys. No Baby yet.
But, I Just wanted to let everyone know I had the pleasure of guest posting today over on What I Wore. Jessica is off getting married this weekend!!! so I jumped on the chance to help her out with a little pre-baby date night what I wore outfit post. Head on over to see all the pictures and say Hi!!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4927421270/
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We will be tweeting as much as we can if anything happens this weekend!!
Follow along if you would like: @jenloveskev
Or if you don’t have twitter make sure we are friends on facebook!!

Fingers crossed for baby’s arrival!!

Plus tomorrow is my Birthday!! If no baby comes we are headed to the Scottish Games in Albany. I could not be more excited (well in perspective of a coming baby). Bagpipes are like my favorite thing ever. They have bagpipe competitions, Highland games, dancing, Scottish breed Dog shows, Highland cattle, a Petting zoo + more!! It sounds like an all around fair of fun. I am pretty pumped!

Happy Weekend Everyone!

Oh yeah, The winner of the blabla kids giveaway is…

winnerblabla

Week 40 Style File 09.02.10

Well, we just got back from our week 40 mid-wife appointment. Our official due date is tomorrow! I know she is not late yet but I am sorry, it is really hard waiting for such a huge event when it could happen anytime and you are totally out of control of it. She said everything is going good. Her head is real low, I even had a contraction while we were there with her. It was kind of funny. So we are trying to carry on with life as normal as possible until she arrives. So here we are 40 weeks pregnant still doing style files…

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haha. I have to give credit to this whole look to the lovely Keiko Lynn. For 1. its her namesake dress from Modcloth and 2. I know she also has these shoes. Well, what can I can she is fashionable lady and I just can’t help myself. I added a little brooch that was my Grandma’s and a silver cuff that was given to me by a special family friend. If I do say so myself, I think its a pretty good otufit for being 40 weeks pregnant. hehe (trying to stay positive here are I feel like I am about to burst!)

Keiko Lynn Dress: c/o Modcloth
Brooch: My Grandma
Cuff: Gift
Calvin Klein Heels: Thrifted from Clothes Mentor

Fingers crossed we have some baby news to share soon!!

Favorite Pregnant Style Files…

Hey Guys! It’s like a million degrees out today, so to save my poor swollen ankles and fingers, I am staying inside, in our air conditioning, in my pjs. I decided since we are near the end of my pregnant style files, it would be fun to look back at some of my favorite looks. I picked out 12 of my favorite pregnant outfits from the last 40 weeks.

Which Number is your favorite?

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1. http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4903818161/
2. http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4876832116/
3. http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4819296177/

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4. http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4819294571/
5. http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4808919675/
6. http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4769498620/

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7. http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4728063072/
8. http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4686812614/
9. http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4637728582/

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10. http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4553229830/
11. http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4513329280/
12. Right after I announced to everyone. http://www.flickr.com/photos/jenloveskev/4469499453/

Hi, I'm Jen!

Welcome to my personal lifestyle blog. It features topics such as motherhood, family life, fashion, cooking, and all sorts of adventures. I hope you enjoy what you find!

Jen Loves Kev
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