Ollie's Baptism Brunch

We finally Baptized Ollie and of course we would celebrate it! I wanted to make a Brunch and I had a super clear vision on the colors and what I wanted to do. I made a list of what I would need to buy and started preparing everything in advance.

The plan was: Food:

• Tomato, cheese in a skewer

• Cocktail shrimp 🍤

• Charcuterie

• Veggies and Dip

• Cupcakes 🧁

• Brie Cheese

• Mini sandwiches 🥪

• Granbanzo Beans Salad

• Fruit Salad

• Mini quiche

• Chicken and waffle 🧇 🍗

• Bagel Bar

Drinks

• Mimosa bar

• Berries, orange 🍊, mint etc to garnish

• Orange juice and cranberry juice

• Champagne 🍾

• Popsicles

Got the Flowers and drinks at Trader Joe's and I was so excited that I found exactly what I was looking for.

The day before:

I set up the table which helps me visualize where everything goes and I made the flower arrangements.

The next day, all I had to do was Place the food and enjoy!

How stunning is this flower arrangement???

The mimosa Bar:

A Winter Wonderland: Eating and Exploring in Sevilla, Spain

Winter in Sevilla, Spain? You bet! While most people dream of summer siestas and scorching sun, we decided to extend our Portugal trip (because WHY NOT?) and explore this Andalusian gem during the off-season. And let me tell you, Sevilla in winter is a whole different kind of magic. With fewer tourists, cooler temperatures, and an abundance of holiday cheer, it was an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, delicious eats, incredible wine and a few memorable missteps. Here’s a peek into our winter adventure in Sevilla, complete with tips on where to eat and what to visit.

Arrival and the Art of Walking

After a surprisingly smooth drive (we came from Cascais, it was about 4 hours and 30 min of Spanish guittar, Rosalia and Enrique Iglesias playing in the car), we arrived in Sevilla, ready to embrace the cooler temperatures. When we lived in Portugal a couple of years ago, we traveled often to Spain and Seville was always a favorite spot, so we already kinda knew our way around the city. The first lesson to be learned? You won't really need a car. Once we arrived at our hotel and parked the car, we never used it the entire time were there. Also, Spanish winters are a bit deceptive. Sure, it’s cooler, but it’s also sunny enough to fool you.

Where we stayed:

Located in the heart of downtown of Seville and only a 4 min walk to Las Setas, Casa del Rey Sabio was a hidden gem. For almost 8 centuries, Muslims occupied Spain. the Arab culture has left its mark through dance, food, and islamic architecture which is super present in the building’s arches and tile work dated way back to the 12th century.

Aesthetic minimalist design mixed with some organic elements, our apartment was perfect and had everything we needed, specially for traveling with kids. The staff was friendly and super helpful with tips for the best restaurants and attractions around. The only problem waswe couldn't stay longer. 10/10!

Where to Eat: Casa Carmen

We setled to go for dinner at Casa Carmen which was around 10min walk from where we were staying. Food was great, house wine was amazing. Totally recommend!

Where to Eat near Las Setas:

The first nght we arrived, we were so hungry that we didn't feel like walking too far, I wish I could remember the name of this Tapas Bar we stopped because everything was so good, specially the shrimp and the Patatas Bravas. Not to mention the insane view of Las Setas.

Where to have Breakfast: Bar El Comercio

If you're American, please forget about the traditional bacon and eggs for a few days and try your best to embrace the spanish culture of coffee and pastries, I promise you won't regret it. We got a recommendation from a friend to go to Bar El Comercio for the best Churros con Chocolate and it was delish! Needless to say that the kids LOVED it!

Exploring the City

Where to Visit: Las Setas, Seville

Visiting Las Setas in Seville is like stepping into a surreal, futuristic dreamscape right in the heart of this historic city. Officially known as the Metropol Parasol, this wooden structure boasts sprawling mushroom-like canopies that offer both shade and spectacular views. Wandering through its undulating pathways, you can marvel at the panoramic vistas of Seville from the observation deck. Don't miss the chance to enjoy a sunset from the top—watching the city's iconic landmarks bathed in golden light from this modern marvel is an experience that blends the old and new in the most delightful way.

Where to Eat: El Rinconcillo

For lunch, I headed to El Rinconcillo, the oldest tapas bar in Sevilla, established in 1670. The history seeps from the wooden beams and tiled walls. I ordered a plate of espinacas con garbanzos (spinach with chickpeas), which was the perfect warm, hearty dish for a winter’s day. Their selection of local wines didn’t hurt either.

Flamenco and Food Market

Where to Visit: Triana Neighborhood

No trip to Sevilla is complete without experiencing flamenco. We crossed the Guadalquivir River to the Triana neighborhood, the heart of flamenco culture. The narrow streets and colorful houses add to the charm of this vibrant area. I booked a show at CasaLa Teatro, a small, intimate venue where the passion and intensity of flamenco came alive. I might have attempted a few flamenco steps afterward. Let’s just say it’s harder than it looks.

Where to Eat: Mercado Lonja del Barranco

Saving the best for last. We came to this place once a few years ago when we were living in Faro and we loved it so much we had to come back.

Visiting Mercado Lonja del Barranco in Seville is a feast for the senses. Nestled along the Guadalquivir River, this beautifully restored 19th-century iron market hall offers a vibrant mix of traditional and contemporary flavors. As you stroll through the market, you'll find an enticing array of tapas, fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, and decadent desserts. The lively atmosphere, with locals and tourists alike enjoying their culinary treasures, is infectious. Grab a glass of local wine and some jamón ibérico, find a spot on the terrace, and soak in the stunning river views and the essence of Seville's rich culinary heritage.

Sevilla in winter is a delight. The city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and mouth-watering cuisine make it a perfect destination any time of year. From exploring ancient palaces to getting lost in tapas heaven, my trip was filled with unforgettable moments and a few hilarious mishaps. If you’re looking for a winter getaway with a touch of Spanish magic, Sevilla should be at the top of your list. Just remember to pack layers and an appetite!

¡Salud!

The Journey from One to Two: Embracing the Challenges of Adding a Second Child

As soon as we found out I was pregnant, my first thought was how was I going to manage Theo's transition from a single kid to a big brother? Transitioning from a family of three to a family of four is a journey filled with joy, love, and unexpected challenges. As parents, we often find ourselves navigating uncharted waters, balancing the needs of a newborn with the demands of an older child, all while trying to maintain a sense of normalcy. This transition is as rewarding as it is daunting, and it brings with it a flood of emotions and experiences that shape our family dynamics forever.

The Joyful Anticipation

When we found out we were expecting our second child, our hearts were filled with joy. The idea of expanding our family, giving our firstborn, Theo, a sibling to grow up with, and sharing our love with another little one was incredibly exciting. I grew up with 8 siblings and even though I would never adventure myself into that type of madness LOL I always wanted Theo to experience the wonderfulness of having a sibling. We imagined the laughter and love that would fill our home, and the bond our children would share. But as the due date approached, so did the realization of the challenges ahead.

Balancing Attention and Love

One of the most significant challenges was learning how to divide our attention and love between two children. Theo, used to being the center of our world, suddenly had to share our time and affection. It was heart-wrenching to see the confusion in his eyes, and we often found ourselves questioning if we were doing enough for both of them. Well, I'd say this was one of the good points of having a baby in COVID time, we were all at home all the time, which meant all hands on both of them, but also meant we wouldn't really be able to have outside help. Balancing bedtime stories, playtime, and cuddles became a delicate dance, and we had to constantly remind ourselves that it's okay to not be perfect.

Managing the Guilt

Guilt became a constant companion during this transition. There were moments when our newborn Ollie needed us, and Theo felt left out, leading to tears and tantrums. We felt guilty for not being able to give our firstborn the same undivided attention he was used to and for not being able to fully enjoy the newborn phase with Ollie. This guilt was overwhelming at times, but we learned to forgive ourselves and understand that we were doing our best.

Rediscovering Patience

With two children, patience became more important than ever. Sleepless nights with a newborn and the boundless energy of a toddler tested our limits. This right here was the most challanging thing. Theo as a newborn was "easy peasy", didn't really cry much, was never sick.. on the other hand we have Ollie, who didn't cry, but SCREMED instead. There were days when we felt exhausted, frustrated, and stretched thin. But in those moments, we discovered a resilience and strength we didn't know we had. We learned to take deep breaths, to let go of the little things, and to find joy in the chaos.

Witnessing Sibling Love

Amidst the challenges, one of the most beautiful moments was witnessing the bond between our children. The first time Theo gently held the Ollie, the way they started sharing their toys, and the giggles that filled the room made every sleepless night and difficult day worth it. Seeing their relationship blossom was a reminder of why we embarked on this journey in the first place.

Finding a New Normal

Transitioning to a family of four meant finding a new normal. We had to adjust our routines, our expectations, and our definition of balance. It was a learning process, filled with trial and error, but eventually, we found our rhythm. We learned to cherish the small moments of peace, to celebrate the victories, no matter how small, and to lean on each other for support.

The journey from one child to two is filled with ups and downs, but it is a journey worth taking. It challenges us, pushes us to our limits, and teaches us more about love and resilience than we ever thought possible. As we navigate this transition, we grow not only as parents but as individuals, discovering strengths we didn't know we had and finding joy in the beautiful chaos of raising a family.

Embracing the challenges of adding a second child is not about perfection; it's about love, patience, and the willingness to adapt. It's about finding beauty in the chaos and remembering that every difficult moment is a step towards building a stronger, more loving family. And in the end, it's the love and memories we create that make this journey so incredibly rewarding.