Lazy Days Barbeque

I'm taking part in a blog series to help you plan and throw the best BBQ this summer. Follow the below links for the all the tips, tricks, and recipes!

Step 1: Planning {Dawn of Joyful Scribblings}
Step 2: Decor / Tablescapes {Cathy of Creations by Cathy}
Step 3: Appetizers {Chelsea of Whatcha Makin' Now?}
Step 4: Main Dishes and Sides {Nicole of Daily Dish Recipes}
Step 5: Desserts!!! {Katie of What Katie's Baking}
Step 6: What to wear {Ginny of My New Favorite Outfit}

I. Love. Barbeques.  They are definitely one of my favorite things about summer and when I was asked to take part it this blog series I was super excited.  Barbeques are an awesome opportunity to get together with great friends, and also a great time to snap some family pictures.  It seems like in the craziness of our lives getting the whole family together and looking nice is easier said than done.  I picked some great clothes for you all that will not only be great for pictures, but also easy, comfortable and affordable too. 

When picking clothes, I always keep a few things in mind and I'd like to share those tips with you today:

1. Is it cotton?  Natural fibers like cotton are always a great breathable fabric for warm temperatures.  Steer clear of synthetic fibers like polyester when you plan to be outside.
2. What's the wrinkle factor?  There's nothing worse then putting on a cute outfit, only to find that sitting in it for a short time equates to an abundance of wrinkles.  Hate that.
3. Is there a pool?  Pick clothes that are easy (especially for kids) to change out of if swimming is involved.  Too much work changing is just no fun.
4. Keep accessories to a minimum.  Now, I LOVE jewelry but loading up on it might make you overdressed for the occasion, and give you some pretty interesting tan lines.  Keep is easy and casual, leave the fancy jewelry to another time. 

          

Shop these items:
Boy's look: Old Navy Rib Waist Linen Blend Cargo Shorts For Baby / Old Navy Plaid Shirts For Baby / Old Navy Canvas Slip Ons For Baby / Old Navy Logo Baseball Caps For Baby / Old Navy Sunglasses For Baby
Women's look: dress / t-strap shoes / Pendant jewelry / nautical rope bracelet 
Men's look:  Old Navy Mens Reversible Shorts 10" / Old Navy Mens Double Prong Belt / Old Navy Mens Lightweight Jersey Polos / Old Navy Mens Faux Leather Sandals 
Girl's look:  Old Navy Girls Chambray Halter Dresses / Old Navy Girls Embellished Sunglasses / Girl's Faux-Leather Capri Sandals | Old Navy / Girls Glitter Bow-Tie Headbands | Old Navy


Now that you have some ideas for how to dress, next comes packing a bag.  As I mom I know the importance of being prepared. You don't always know what the hosts will provide, so it's great to come ready to keep your kids happy and entertained, as well as make sure they are protected from the sun and pesky bugs.  Here are some things I think are important to have with you at any BBQ.

Shop these items: Sunscreen/  Crayola Outdoor 24ct Sidewalk Chalk / Tote Bag : Target / outdoor games at Target / mosquito repellent at Target / Bubbles 80 oz Miracle Bubbles

Choosing The Right Sunscreen

As I mentioned above, it's important to pack sunscreen. Choosing the right sunscreen can be tricky and overwhelming though, before going out and picking one, here are a few things to keep in mind:

SPF
The number on your bottle stands for sun protection factor, and believe it or not, a higher number doesn't equal more protection. The EWG recommends purchasing sunscreens with SPFs higher than 15 but no greater than 50. Studies show that sunscreens with an SPF higher than 50 don't offer greater protection, and many doctors argue that a higher number makes many people think a sunscreen lasts longer than one with a lower SPF, causing them to reapply less often, so they're more at risk for burns.

Broad Spectrum
UVB rays are responsible for burning as well as tanning your skin and are the main culprit responsible for skin cancer. And while UVA rays won't cause a sunburn, they penetrate your skin more deeply, leading to signs of aging including wrinkles, saggy and leathery skin, and sun spots. It's important to protect yourself from both types of UV rays, so look for bottles that say "broad spectrum" or "broad spectrum UVA/UVB."

Water Resistance
If your sunshiny adventures include water or sweating a lot, definitely choose a sunscreen that's water-resistant. Know that these aren't waterproof — they'll only protect you about 40 to 80 minutes in the water, so you'll need to reapply each time you take a dip.
Keep reading to learn which chemicals to avoid and to see a list of the safest, most effective sunscreens. (Source)

Here are some of the top rated sunscreens out there right now:

Best Overall Choice: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 30
Best Kids Choice: KidsUV Natural Sunscreen Lotion
Best Athletic Choice: Coppertone Sport Clear Continuous Spray Sunscreen SPF 30

Happy BBQing and don't forget to check the rest of these great ladies out!

Planning {Dawn of Joyful Scribblings}
Decor / Tablescapes {Cathy of Creations by Cathy}
Appetizers {Chelsea of Whatcha Makin' Now?}
Main Dishes and Sides {Nicole of Daily Dish Recipes}
Desserts!!! {Katie of What Katie's Baking}

Linking up with:

Yolo Mondays