Perfect Picnic, Birthday Edition

It's our second year that Perfect Picnic has created the most incredible spread for Hank's birthday picnic! He is so loved and is the most selfless person. He is always giving all of himself for Chase and I and I wanted him to have a beautiful day to celebrate him!

And you can see why I chose Perfect Picnic - their attention to detail is flawless and they really know how to make your day special. I love their classic blanksets, and the pillows make the long hours spent at the park much more comfortable (something you wouldn't normally bring out to the park yourself). On this hot Saturday, you can bet their fans and umbrellas came in hand - they thought of everything!

This was a customized event spread that was ordered for 20 people in mind, we had close to 30 friends and family show up with plenty of food still! Perfect Picnic has all sorts of picnics starting as low as $10 for a Kid's meal, $15 for an adult's Grab & Go bags, to delivery boxes and catering. My personal favorites are the Soppressata with Spicy Dilly Green Bean baguettini, Kale Salad, and the Fig Spread. Though honestly, they're all amazing! The baguettinis are unique and explode with flavor - you might remember that they happen to be perfectly Chase sized from this image last year:

When I'm walking around Central Park I'll see beautiful engagement spreads on the weekends, or people having a relaxing lunch~ If you're interested, it's really simple to use. We arranged a date and time, showed up, enjoyed, and left! They set up and clean up everything for you if you choose to do a spread. Here is their site for more info - Happy Picnicking!

PerfectPicnic.com

1. Make your picnic selection.

2. Pick your date and time to enjoy.

3. Choose delivery or experience location.

A day in Dumbo

Fun Fact: Hank and I had our first date in Dumbo Brooklyn - we went to the art fair in 2010!

Over the long weekend earlier this month I spent a fun-filled family day in Dumbo Brooklyn with my husband, son and sister. We left the house without eating breakfast so I quickly yelped brunch spots, and came across AlMar. The Egg in a Cloud dish sparked my interest, but being a family friendly restaurant solidified our decision. The restaurant has high ceilings and the food was as tasty as it looks. It was an ideal brunch! Next time I'd love to try Atrium.

After lunch we wanted Chase to run around so we headed to the nearest playground which was at Pier 5. He loved the sandbox shaped like a boat. Dumbo is a residential neighborhood so here is an extensive list of playgrounds in the area~ 

Then to relax, we picked up some snacks at Peas & Pickles for a picnic at Brooklyn Bridge Park. The views are beautiful right by the river and the iconic bridges. We strolled to Jane's Carousel and Chase (finally) fell asleep in his stroller (he was too excited and stayed up way past his usual naptime).

We figured it's a good time to grab an early dinner with Chase napping, and it's not often we come to Brooklyn so we headed for their famous pizza! We figured the lines wouldn't be too bad considering it's a holiday weekend and everyone was out of town, but both Juliana's and Grimaldi's lines were still too long. So we headed closer to the water where we can always rely on Luke's Lobster. We ate outside and I love that you feel a bit like you're on vacation.

When Chase woke up, we needed to find a bathroom so we got some treats from One Girl Cookies. We got a sample of flavors though Chase ate most of them. It was right by the park so we picnicked again to change his diaper. It didn't feel right to leave without checking out the shops so we went to a bookstore we saw across the street from the cookie store called Powerhouse and then Shibu, a Japanese furniture store. Sadly, both were going out of business.. and almost everything was on sale. I got a blank textbook from Powerhouse to use as a sketchbook which I'm excited to fill with designs and ideas.

We grabbed one last strawberry smoothie for the subway ride back home. It's unfortunate that none of the subway stops in Brooklyn have elevators! I suggested walking over the Brooklyn Bridge but by the end of the day we were all pretty pooped!

Outfits wise - I wasn't planning on blogging the day when we left, so it's simply weekend casual in a white top, denim shorts, and my most comfortable sneakers.

P.S. We stumbled upon this amazing flower garden! It is located by River Cafe between Luke's Lobster. Nothing is more soothing to me than the sound of trickling water and there is a lovely little stream by the entrance to the garden. It's a sweet spot from the urban environment when the flowers are in full bloom!

• Photography by Deborah Chang and myself

Oasis in the City: 20 Ways to stay cool this summer

Summer has officially arrived~ It can get very hot and humid here in the city and everyone migrates to the park to laze under some shade. I personally get drained very quickly by the sun so I will grab a sun hat (with a wide brim), shades and layers of SPF before leaving the house. Here are more tricks to help beat the heat!

1. Wear loose fitting clothes
2. Wear lighter colors that reflect light, darker colors hold in heat
3. Wear cotton or linen
4. Tie your hair so heat doesn't get trapped around your neck
5. Avoid metallic jewelry
6. Keep your feet cool - wear breathable shoes
7. Iced beverage - don't wait to be thirsty to drink, drink every 15 mins
8. Put an iced bottle to your ankles, wrists, or behind the knees
9. Chrysanthemum tea lowers body temperature
10. Avoid caffeine and alcohol which dehydrate you
11. Avoid soda - your body will find it more difficult to store water
12. Eat frequent smaller meals instead of a big meal
13. Enjoy frozen snacks
14. Eat spicy foods: increases blood circulation and makes you sweat (which will feel cool as it dries)
15. Avoid meat - increases metabolic heat production (oops, I ate a hot dog)
16. Stay in the shade - feels 15 degrees cooler
17. Breathe deep, learn yoga's cooling breathing technique
18. Splash cool water on yourself - you can also bring a spray bottle
19. Use a cooling aloe vera aftersun product 
20. Plan ahead: 10am~4pm is the hottest time of day

Stay cool everyone!!

Packing: Beach Essentials for Mom and Toddler

My family and I just came back from the beach this weekend with my in-laws down in New Jersey. The water was still too cold for swimming, but the weather was perfect for beach bumming - breezy and not too hot. Now that summer is officially upon us I thought I'd share what I packed and hopefully save you some time & planning!

Let's start with this photo above of Chase's hands covered in sand and baby powder. For those of you who don't know this life hack: Baby Powder helps get sand off instantly! I learned this while packing last week and I'm thrilled to report that it really works. I started calling it "magic powder"! Chase would rub his eyes with his sandy hands which bothered him and all wet wipes did was waste time. I will never go to the beach (or sand box) without it from now on.

Many may brush off the 'First Aid Kit', but we did have a small incident where my husband cut his hand - so at minimum I suggest packing Band-Aids and Neosporin. 

Clothing wise, I forgot to pack long sleeves. I just thought 'hot beach hot beach hot beach'. Fortunately my husband was better prepared and I was able to borrow his during the trip. You will likely come across an air conditioned environment or a chilly night time, so it's best to bring a couple layers. Thankfully I managed to pack my toddler a hoodie and long pants which came in handy. While we are on the topic of baby clothes - pack double what you plan to! Their clothes are so small anyway, it doesn't hurt to be prepared for anything.

When we travel with our toddler I always bring a baggie and leave it out within reach. He tends to get nauseous quite easily especially if he just had a meal (he threw up twice on the bus ride home). If you plan on going on a boat or long car ride - you can salvage everyone's clothes and seat by having this and lots of wipes out.

Last note - sun protection. I love the sunblock that you can spray - it's so easy to apply (especially on kids that don't sit still or can't be bothered) and applies much more evenly. Don't forget to cover your ears and feet and reapply every few hours.  I also recommend a canopy if you are going with a family instead of lugging multiple umbrellas. Tip: I got Chase to wear his sunhat by telling him he can only play in the sand if he wears it! 

Save this Check List - It's a printable image I made just for you!

Napping tip: Chase sleeps best if he eats and drinks after play time. Change them out of their swim diaper and put on normal ones - Chase once got a diaper rash because we didn't know that swim diapers don't breathe. Find or provide shade, then sneak on sunglasses since there are no black out shades on the open beach for a longer nap. Your little one will appreciate a small pillow if you can manage one (I used my spare dress and his small blanket). Now you can really kick back and relax!

If you're packing food - this chicken wing recipe and corn will be a crowd favorite for both kids and adults! My sister-in-law Linda is an amazing home cook and of course she would find this! From Bonappetit.com, serves 4 - marinade altogether for at least one hour or overnight and grill for 15-20 minutes on medium heat.

• 4 garlic cloves
• 1/4 chopped fresh oregano
• 1/4 chopped fresh rosemary
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• salt, pepper
• 2 pounds chicken wings

Now have a blast and make lots of memories!! Thanks for reading!

Chase is Two!

My son turns two years old today! Over the two years I savored each day, each milestone, every giggle and every precious memory whole heartedly. I hate having to put into words how the experience has been because a few words won't do. I love (is there a stronger word?) - I LOVE watching him grow and develop into his own person, SO full of personality and expressions. It's insanely fun to interact with him on new levels versus simply taking care of him. Now that he is two - he is more self aware, opinionated, independent, and hilarious! It is definitely worth celebrating!

In Korean culture it's tradition to throw a huge celebration for a child's first birthday. (Chase is half Korean - I am). So this year, I was so ready to have a intimate party with just my husband and I's immediate families! Here's how we planned our party for 11 adults and 3 children. 

Macarons and Cake: Macaron Parlour

I just discovered them a couple weeks ago! (I can't believe there was a character macaron shop in NYC under my radar~) It was only a week before his party that I realized it would make the perfect cake! Not only were they kind enough to make a custom one for Chase, but everyone fainted at how delicious the luscious chocolate cake and buttery salted caramel icing tasted! 

There is a second flower cake pictured - it was also my sister-in-law's birthday a few days ago! I bought a simple vanilla cake and topped it with fresh tulips! (Tip: Take the macaron apart and stick the front half on the cake using the filling as the glue.)

Decorations: Oh Shiny Paper Co

They did such a fantastic job last year I had to go back for their tassels and balloons! They walked me through the DIY photo confetti process. I printed 1" circles of Chase's face, cut them out and rolled them into the clear balloons. I did the same with tissue paper to make the confetti. For the tassels- you can get creative with how to place them according to your space!

Food:

I was surfing google images and landed on Honestly Yum's blog post about her ricotta crostini recipes. I'm normally intimidated by so much variation, but once I took a closer look it was more simple than it appeared (especially with my husband as my sous chef). I scrapped the initial plan of "chips and guac" appetizer and replaced it with this beautiful finger snack. It's really delicious so plan to make more than anticipated! We had to make more during the party until we ran out of all our spare crostinis. Now that I've tried it I'll be making it on a regular basis for sure (even just for myself). My personal favorite is the lemon zest, olive oil, and sea salt topping. 

For the main, we cooked and ordered Italian - meatballs, pastas, salad, vegetables - family style!

You can usually count on a guest to bring dessert, and sure enough my sister brought some scrumptious pastries. Chase's care taker, Isabel, is Brazilian and made him a batch of the most delicious homemade caramel treats! Chase is so lucky to be surrounded by the sweetest people!

Gifts:

As he turns Two, Chase is really soaking in everything. So we asked our families for educational gifts and Chase (& Hank & I) LOVE the presents! He received a bit of everything he loves - trains, trucks, buses, animals and even the ABCs. The play-doh is great for his creativity and learning colors. (Tips: for messier projects, create a "one at a time" rule. We have a large roll of paper we use to cover our table for art time.)

Let me know your party tips so I can take notes for next year! :)

MilkBots in Bed

My friend has an amazing kids' shop that carries the chicest children's items called Milk + Bots! The items are cooler and more modern than anything I own for myself. If you met the owner you would understand why her shop is so charming and lovable. Their new bear duvet cover is to die for and gave Chase's room a complete "look and feel" makeover. We broke it in by playing in bed, which we do multiple times a day. It's our favorite way of bonding by rolling around and us parents can semi nap while the kids play! If you're lucky it will transition to a baby napping as well. Sure I don't wear lace to roll around in bed, but it's easier on the eyes for you guys than my oversized tee and sweatpants (Haha, you can see that on my Snapchat). Check out her shop and let me know what you got for your fashionable little one! 

• Duvet cover, pillow case, plate, tea towel, cloud pillow and Chase's outfit from Milk + Bots

Play Date with H&M

Behind the scenes for blog post on Cocotrish.com

• Everyone is wearing H&M
• Locations include: The Standard Hotel, Sugar Factory, High Line Park, Whitney Museum

Nancy and I have been friends for many years. From being single girls and going on memorable trips, to entering the new world of motherhood, we've had a lot of adventures! I've learned that the best kind of friend to have is one that wants the best for you. Nancy is that friend. Even if it's something I may not want to hear, she will always give me her genuine loving advice. She's someone I can count on, which is priceless. I hope that Chase and Charlotte will grow to be best friends! They're well on their way!

1) What do you love most about your friend?

Patricia says about Nancy: Her ability to have a conversation with anybody she meets. I admire how much respect she has for others.

Nancy says about Patricia: She's so fun to hang out with and talk to - its always a good time whether we are just sitting around, chatting at home or going out on the town!

2) What do you think she appreciates most about you?

Patricia says about Nancy: Keeping it real.

Nancy says about Patricia: That I am always here for her to talk to and will always give her my honest advice/feedback.

3) Her favorite thing about you is?

Patricia says about Nancy: I will understand and always be there to listen.

Nancy says about Patricia: Perhaps same as above (#2).

4) Best memory of you and your kids together?

Patricia says about Nancy: The fact that they have met since birth.

Nancy says about Patricia: When we took the kids to Freedom Tower.

5) How are you parenting styles different?

Patricia says about Nancy: By default, Nancy is a working mom, and I am a stay at home mom.

Nancy says about Patricia: Patty is a whole lot more creative and artistic and those qualities manifest in her interaction/play with Chase.

6) Best piece of parenting advice she's given you?

Patricia says about Nancy: Too many! I love how much she sings to the kids, so I sing more at home.

Nancy says about Patricia: That they'll be fine!

7) How would she describe herself in three words?

Patricia says about Nancy: Elegant, well rounded, loyal.

Nancy says about Patricia: Creative, lovable, business-savvy!

8) How does she react to her kids tantrums?

Patricia says about Nancy: Haha, she hides her stress well and uses a calm voice.

Nancy says about Patricia: She's very understanding and loving.

9)  Name her favorite tv show? Favorite guilty pleasure tv show?

Patricia says about Nancy: Oh gosh! I can't say that I know. We watched an episode of Odd Mom Out together once.

Nancy says about Patricia: The Bachelor and Real Housewives

10) Funniest thing she's ever done?

Patricia says about Nancy: I don't think she would want me to repeat it! She has probably said the funniest thing I've ever heard a friend say.

Nancy says about Patricia: Back in the day she would ride her scooter every where, even while wearing designer dresses and heels

11)  If you spend a date together with your kids, what would she want to do most?

Patricia says about Nancy: Go eat at Ootoya (a Japanese restaurant) and then go to a playground.

Nancy says about Patricia: Picnic in Central Park.

12) If your friend could take a trip anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Patricia says about Nancy: Paris. It never gets old for her.

Nancy says about Patricia: Currently, maybe Morocco or Greece.

13) Most perfect day for your friend  “sans kids”?

Patricia says about Nancy: The spa and shopping.

Nancy says about Patricia: Enjoying/exploring the city with her girl friends!  

14) What's a guilty pleasure that she wouldn't want to admit?

Patricia says about Nancy: Shopping!

Nancy says about Patricia: Bonchon chicken.

15.) If your friend could have one wish what would it be?

Patricia says about Nancy: To go to Paris with her husband on a whim.

Nancy says about Patricia: Being the sweetheart that she is, for her husband, son, sister, parents and closest friends to live happily ever after alongside her!

16.) Who is your friend's style icon?

Patricia says about Nancy: Anyone with elegance.

Nancy says about Patricia: Lena Perminova.

17.) If she could be anyone for a day who would it be?

Patricia says about Nancy: The President.

Nancy says about Patricia: Angelina Jolie or other style icon/celebrity of equal status.

• Photography by s o k o p h o t o s
• Video footage by Connie Kim
• Styling by Nancy Kil and myself in partnership with H&M and HeyMamaCo

Shop my favorite H&M looks

Head over to an H&M store or shop online at HM.com

Join Us!

I'll be co-hosting this event and would love to meet you this Sunday!