home organization

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January means different things for different people, but getting organized in some shape or form is usually on the list for most of us.  It may just mean organizing your holiday decorations before storing them (I bought this and 10 of these and LOVE them), or it may mean a full pantry/fridge cleanout.

I do have a fridge and pantry organization post here, but I can’t 100% attest that having a pantry or closet that this beautifully organized can not only be a happy hack (more about those here and here) but also prevent you from overbuying because you can actually see what you have.

Our kitchen is currently in a pretty decent place however my closet… is not.  It’s mostly because I have incorporated maternity stuff that I don’t really have room for, which has resulted in stacks of clothes on the floor.  And it does not bring me peace.  Not one bit.

I think drawer dividers like this and this are GAME CHANGERS.  I don’t ever wanna live without them.  I also bought a few kits like this when we first moved into our house and I love them so much.  Highly recommend.

Are you organizing anything in your house and if so, what?  After cleaning out my closet, organizing for baby #2 is next up.  I am both ready and not ready.

Thank you so much for reading and sharing!  XO –

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vision board example

all images via Pinterest

In late December 2019 I made a vision board for the first time for 2020.  I’ll be honest… it felt a little cheesy.  Almost like I was a jr. high girl clipping from YM magazine (who else remembers YM?).

I found images from google searching or pinterest-ing words, quotes and inspirational photos online and put them in a Photoshop collage.  You could also use Canva or even old school clip them from magazines and glue/tape to a sheet of paper or poster board.

I set it as the backdrop of my desktop computer as well as printing it and taping it to the back of my closet door where only I would see it.  And I’ll be damned if at the end of 2020 I didn’t look at that board and realize nearly all of it had actually come true.

So I did one for 2021, and about 80% of it came true.  And now I’m almost done with my board for 2022!  I found some example vision boards from Pinterest to share with you guys because mine are intimate to me and I don’t really show them to anyone (other than Christian, and I maybe only showed them to him this year – ha!).  But I create them each year with intention and the hope to “manifest” some of my goals.

If you’re a visual person – this might be more helpful than a traditional resolution list.  Or it might be something that’s worth trying to see if it’s more effective than a list.  I do think having it somewhere that you’ll see it periodically is helpful though.  Don’t just make it and allow it to disappear.  The visual reminder is a part of the process!

vision board exampleshow to make a vision board

The beauty is that this is entirely yours.  So you can create it however you wish – only images, words, quotes, whatever.  I usually try to hit a few categories – professional goals, family goals, relationship goals, personal goals, spiritual goals and sprinkle in a little long-term hope for the future.

When thinking of what you might want on your board, imagine your life if certain goals were already your reality.  Envision yourself living in the picture you chose and think about how you feel.  THAT is what goes on your board.

Comment with any questions you have and I’ll do my best to answer!  I’ve only done this for 2020 – 2022, so I’m a newbie, but it’s something that has taken place of a resolution list for me.  Once the year is closing, it’s pretty special to review your board and say… “wow, of what came true – that’s kind of amazing.”  And maybe what didn’t come true goes on your next year’s vision board too.

Thanks so much for reading!  Can’t wait to hear what you guys come up with – XO –

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Winter is here, my friends.  Even though this week is oddly warm in Georgia… like kind of gross warm?  BUT it is going to drop like crazy next week.  And we have some firewood to get through so I’m over here like… bring it!

Sharing some cold-weather favorites from Amazon right now.  I’ve seen so many girls who actually live in the mountains recommend cold-weather picks from there, so that makes me trust it in itself.  To shop, click directly on the item or find the associated number below the collage.

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I LOVE this coat and this coat, so cute. I saw a girl wearing this men’s vest as an oversized vest over a sweatshirt and it was super cute.

I have these fuzzy birks and I love them.  They are so great for a slipper style around the house that can also be worn for quick errands.  Took a minute for them to come in but worth it.  I’m also waiting on these to arrive.  They look extra sassy and FUN!

I don’t have these snow boots, but I’ve seen them on several others and they look so, so comfortable and cute. Pair them with these faux fur mittens… CHIC snow bunny vibes!

I do however have these leggings and obsessed is an understatement.  I need three more pairs.  They remind me of a lululemon dupe, especially considering the aligns are constantly sold out so how can one even get their hands on them if they wanted to!?  Geez!

Thank you so much for reading, happy NEW YEAR (inspo guide here), and I hope all of you will ring in the new year happy, healthy, hopeful and grateful.  Love you guys – XO –

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I wanted to share some of 2021’s top sellers from Amazon (and I plan to put together an overall list later!) that you guys have loved as much as I have.  And it has also reminded me to pull some of these gems back out because they really are that good!

To shop, click directly on the item or find it broken down below –

ivory turtleneck sweater | sleeveless dress | waffle knit set | navy blazer | halter dress | denim | tie shoulder dress | wrap dress | workout leggings

 

gold bangles | white statement earrings | champagne earrings | turquoise earrings | croissant ring | gold hoops | other gold ring | clear purse | ivory purse | purse strap | key ring | slippers | furry birkenstocks | braided heels | combat boots | loafer slides | sunglasses top to bottom: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

 

yellow dress | white top | strappy heels | sleeveless t-shirt dress | joggers

black dresses left to right: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4

 
Thank you so much for reading and if you bought any of these items this past year, I’d love to hear what you think about your purchase. Thank you so much for all of your support this year, you guys are truly the best. XO –

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ivory cashmere turtleneck

– last-minute wrapping in my cashmere-blend sweater and joggers –

flocked christmas tree

– and loving the instant gratification! –

delivery snacks

– the snack basket being heavily visited this year (yay!) –

christmas childrens books

– and loving this stack of Christmas books (bought this sweet one last year) by the glider all month long –

magnolia garland

– adding some holly from the yard to all floral arrangements –

It’s Christmas Eve, what a TREAT!  As always, I feel this month flew by way too fast.  I try to savor every moment in between the shopping for our 19 family gift recipients (!!), teacher gifts, employee gifts, coworker gifts, Christmas cards… I truly do love the season of giving but sometimes I do wish we could all dial it back a little and just enjoy.  Enjoy the meaning of Christmas.  Enjoy the holiday movies and treats and fellowship without as much of the buying, wrapping, exchanging, etc.

BUT, maybe that’s because my love language is acts of service and not gift-giving.  Does anyone else feel this way?

We are so happy to have my parents with us this week to celebrate the holiday!  They got here a few days ago and we have loved having them here.  Hudson has so much fun with them and I love how their time together is treasured.  It reminds me of spending time with my out-of-town grandparents.  The luxury when you don’t live in the same place as your grandparents is that they really get to spoil the littles when they’re together.  I remember feeling so special, like my arrival at Grammy and Grandy’s house was the highlight of the month.  So far I think Hudson feels the same way.

We are off to church today and plan to enjoy Christmas Eve with a few little activities, lots of games and movie watching and definitely some cooking.  Always lots of cooking.  But I got off easy at Thanksgiving, so now it’s my turn!  I hope all of you enjoy this magical day and weekend.  Embrace the time with loved ones and reflect on what the past year has brought.

Thank you so much for your support and love.  I treasure this little corner of the Internet.  I can’t even express how much I appreciate you.  By being here with me, you’ve given me my dream job.  MERRY CHRISTMAS and Happy Holidays!  XO –

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I know we haven’t yet hit Christmas, but that week between Christmas and New Years is so fast!!  So I wanted to go ahead and round up some sparkly options from Amazon, Revolve and Shopbop that you can get with super quick shipping (and returns).  Which when you’re acting less than two weeks ahead… is a priority!

To shop, simply click directly on the item or find its associated number below the collage.

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An extra something I just ordered are these fuzzy heels.  Sadly they won’t be here by NYE but for less than $50, how fun!?

I love a sweater dress like this and this for NYE because you might be able to get away without having to deal with a bulky coat or extra layer.

I’ve been considering this maternity slip dress because I feel like it would be such a great layering piece under sweaters and things.

A sequin top with classic denim is always a winning combo!  Pair with some of my favorite accessories like this amazing tennis bracelet dupe (I have it and love it), these stacked bracelets (I have two sets!) and this bag (just ordered last week).

I also think you could keep your outfit simple and go big on dangly earrings, a mega glam statement necklace and chic heels… with a manageable heel that you can really wear all night.

Some additional NYE outfit inspiration posts can be found here, here and here.

What are your NYE plans?  Christian will be working so I will probably be watching the ball drop in pajamas with a shirley temple.  Wild and crazy over here.  Thank you so much for reading and happy happy Merry Merry Christmas!  XO –

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top 10 best sellers

I have fallen off the wagon in sharing my monthly top 10, and I thought I would combine October and November into one post!  These were some of the biggest hits over those 8 weeks, many of which are products I truly love and use/wear all the time.

Like this sweater that I’m literally wearing as I type this.  Anyway, let’s dive in!

Our Place Always Pan, post here

We have two of these and use them constantly.  Used them last night for breakfast burritos, in fact.  The best!

always pan

Our Place Perfect Pot

I’ve been waiting for them to create a pot version.  THRILLED to have this one!

pink perfect potour place perfect pot

Olly Knee-High Boot, 60% off, also available here

Got these last year, still think they’re such a great pair of boots and are marked down!

olly boot

Black Shirt Dress

I’ve had this dress for a year or two and it’s a great piece for non-maternity, maternity (14 weeks pregnant in photo below) or postpartum.  Love that it comes in lots of colors.

black shirt dressshirt dress

Spanx Perfect Tee

I have both colors and LOVE these! Run TTS and 10% off with code KATHLEENXSPANX.

Mama Faux Leather Leggings, non-maternity version here

Also being worn with the sherpa in the photo 2 down!  10% off with code KATHLEENXSPANX.

the perfect tee

Waterproof Combat Boot, also available here

I love these so much (being worn in photo above as well), that I bought a second pair this year in almond.  They are so comfortable.

laguna combat bootalmond laguna bootblack laguna boot

Batwing Sweater (Free People Dupe)

This sweater runs big but I LOVE IT.  I know so many girls who have bought it in multiple colors!  I ordered my usual size for the bump, but if I wasn’t pregnant I likely would have sized down.  I am 5’7″ and love that it’s long enough to cover my bum.  Perfection.

amazon turtleneck sweater

Asymmetric Hem Sweater

This was a recommendation from another influencer and I really love it.  I bought it in red also.  I can’t wait until I’m not pregnant and can French tuck it into denim.  I ordered my usual size for an oversized fit but some of the reviews say to size down.

amazon turtleneck sweater

$25 Turtleneck Dress, I sized up one size for bump

I love this dress so much I ordered it in two colors.  I even dressed it up for a black-tie event!  I sized up one size for the bump but think it runs TTS.  A great layering piece.

maternity turtleneck dressamazon turtleneck dress

And one extra – these 5050 Boots, also available here, here (25% off) and here

These are timeless and always chic in my book.  I also have these in black (33% off) and a heeled version.  Have been wearing them for almost 5 years!

stuart weitzman 5050

Did you happen to snag any of these pieces?  Would love to hear what you think!  Thanks so much for reading and have a beautiful weekend – XO –

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I get asked many-a-times about what to wear to a fall/winter/black tie/spring/summer/destination/etc. wedding.  I do have blog posts from years past that give some inspiration:

What to Wear to a Spring Wedding

What to Wear to a Summer Wedding

What to Wear to a Fall Wedding, as well as this and this

What to Wear to a Winter Wedding, also this

What to Wear to a Winter Wedding, II

But I wanted to round up some active links for winter wedding picks that are available on Shopbop and Amazon.  This means we are going to be hitting all the price points here.  We are high/low lovers on CBL.  I wore this $25 dress with a sequin duster (photo here) to a black tie event last weekend – high/low until I die-o. *Snap.*

 

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A dress like this is a staple.  It can be dressed up, dress down (combat boots or even sneakers) or bedazzled with the right jewelry.  You can’t go wrong.  I have this dress and it is gorgeous.  SO gorgeous.  I don’t have this dress but did a double-take, I mean… how FUN!?  Would love it for a winter wedding or cocktail party with a blazer belted.  Chic.

Amazon always kills it with lower-priced accessories like these strappy sandals, these gold earrings and these sparkly ones.  Love the thought of splurging on one item and saving on another.  Again, we love a high/low moment.

I’m not currently attending many weddings so I may be out of the wedding guest attire loop but we do have cocktail events and I try to always have fun with it.  Dressing up should be and can be fun.  Try to have fun with it!

Thanks so much for reading and you can find more Amazon picks under “Fashion –> Amazon Finds” at the top of this site.  XO –

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circular staircase garland

I’ve said this before, but each year I’m figuring more and more how to decorate our home for different occasions, and I wanted to share some of the holiday cheer this year!

A magnolia garland tutorial was shared two years ago (my mom actually taught me how to weave magnolia sprigs into faux greenery), and I shared a DIY ornament post (you’ll see some of them below!).  My favorite tablescape in this house was shared last year here.

To see a little video walkthrough, check out a short 60-second reel on Instagram.

magnolia garland

staircase b&w frames | chandelier | table – antique, also love this one | ottoman | vases | similar moss balls

king of christmas tree

Christmas tree | Christmas star | nativity set | acrylic frame | sconces | room details

bronze baby shoesblue tree stockingbaby silhouette ornamentsarah thorne art

silhouette ornament | bauble stockings | handpainted ornament trio

9 ft flocked treestriped maternity topgreen velvet stocking

stockings | nutcrackers | similar candlestick holders | similar curtains here and here

nutcracker pillow

moss pillows | silhouette pillows | naughty/nice reversible pillow – eBay find | full den post

velvet christmas stockingsewing down south nutcrackernaughty or nice pillowmackenzie childs checkmate wreathcheckmate wreath

checkmate wreaths | breakfast room post

picture snow globeblack floral wallpaperchristmas caroler figurinesannieglass plate

cedar wreath charger | linen runner | candlestick holder | vases | room details | Christmas Carolers

santa caroler figurinelittle people nativity set

nativity set | table & chairs

mixed garlandlantern christmas bowmackenzie childs ribbonchristmas window wreathsmackenzie childs nativity

nativity set | shelter | nativity star

For more holiday-themed content, check out the “holiday” drop down tab under “gift guides” at the top of this site.  Thank you so much for reading! XO –

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The thing I ALWAYS seem to forget about… is filling the stockings.

We all think about the gifts and writing to Santa, but stockings always end up being an afterthought.  So I’m here to help you think ahead!  Below are some stocking stuffer ideas you can add to your Amazon cart (some are fancier than others).

To shop, click on the icon on the item or find its associated number below the collage –

 

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I have these clips and these pearly clips – love and use both often.

I bought this phone stand for recording beauty/skincare/hair videos in the bathroom, but honestly it would be great for a lot of things.  Car GPS, watching a video/show while getting ready, taking a photo with someone, etc.

I have these earrings in gold, the larger size, and they are so lightweight and inexpensive – a great buy.  After many wears they start to turn a little bit (you get what you pay for), but I’ve yet to toss mine because they are so comfortable.

I just discovered these gorgeous slippers that have over 5k reviews (!!!), and I can’t believe they’re only $25!  Such a great stocking stuffer that also takes up a lot of space.  I call that a win-win.

These slippers might take up a little more space, but they are also super cute and cozy and perfect for someone who is a little less girly.  Not all the ladies in my life are into faux fur pom poms, and I get that.

Thank you so much for reading!  For more holiday-related content, click on “Gift Guides” at the top of this page.  XO –

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boden overalls

I prefer not to take many collaborations that involve Hudson now that he is older because it honestly… it just harder on everyone.  Making sure he’s in a happy mood, that it feels like fun rather than work, taking 3x more photos and then going through all of them to make sure we have enough where he is looking and participating, etc.

But every now and then a brand opportunity crosses my desk for him that feels so perfect that I can’t say no.  I felt this way when Boden approached us for their holiday sweater campaign.  The pieces are SO adorable, and I loved how happy and joyful the colors were.  And I think Hambone Hudson was feeling himself!  Christian photographed us together and I love these photos so much that I wanted to share more of them here.

I always split the sponsorship rate with Hudson so he can “earn” his own savings (even at 2!), which makes me feel like he’s less likely to be upset with me as a teenager when he realizes his photos are on the Internet.  I consider it like a little job that he doesn’t currently realize he’s being paid for.  And based on how he showed up the day we shot this campaign, he earned every penny.  Gold star for Lil Hud!

toddler christmas sweaterpink corduroy overallschristmas sweaterwomens overallsgreen zip up sweaterboden toddlersmama and toddlergreen zip up sweatertoddler kedspink overallstoddler corduroys

photos by Christian Barnes

my sweater | corduroy overalls

Hudson’s sweater | blue corduroy pants | red keds

Thank you so much for reading!  Some easy Amazon stocking stuffer ideas coming tomorrow –

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I rounded up some pajamas and loungewear that are almost entirely from Amazon, most of which are festive and fun for the holidays. I can’t really explain why, but holiday sweaters and pajamas truly bring my soul joy.

I can’t explain it.

But it just does.

To shop, click directly on the item or find its associated number below the collage!

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This pair is not from Amazon but we have them for Hudson and they are the cutest ever. I love this brand!

We have these in both colors – red stripes and green stripes.  Both are adorable and so soft, love ’em.  This pair is also so soft and stretchy.  The pattern is ADORABLE on.

For men, I really love these and these – would make a great holiday gift!  Chic, polished and still work great for travel pajamas.  Every man  needs a good pair of travel pajamas in my opinion.

For the ladies, it doesn’t get classier than these and these.  I love them, and wish I could fit in either pair because they are pajamas I would proudly walk outside to get the mail in.

Thank you so much for reading!  For more holiday-related content, click on “Gift Guides” at the top of this page.  XO –

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