– is this entire post going to be about my love of flowers? –
Early in the week I simply googled “how to make an orchid look expensive.” And from there my rabbit hole journey of trying to upgrade all of my orchids began. I’ve been considering making this topic its own post, but all of this time I’ve been thinking everyone is getting their fancy looking orchid arrangements from some magical location. Now I realize they’re just upgrading them with beautiful planters, moss and twigs from home. Totally attainable and an easy, inexpensive hack!
This week I revisited an old mindset of mine that is very freeing. Even when you’re busy (and not swamped busy, but just a full day), ultimately what’s most important will get done. So often I feel like, “one day when _____ is done, I’ll be able to relax.” But there will always be a laundry list of things to get done. It reminds me of one of my all-time favorite quotes from Alfred D’Souza:
“For a long time it seemed to me that life was about to begin — real life. But there was always some obstacle in the way, something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, time still to be served, a debt to be paid. At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life.
This perspective has helped me to see there is no way to happiness. Happiness is the way. So treasure every moment you have and remember that time waits for no one. Happiness is a journey, not a destination.”
Sometimes you just have to stop busy bee-ing and allow yourself time to do what you want. Not what you should be doing, but what you want to do. And this week that has been less cooking, more playtime and actually sitting down and flipping through, selectively reading my interior design coffee table books. Typically they just sit there, looking pretty and serving decorative purposes. But if you actually pour a cup of coffee, grab a Diet Coke or sparkling water and just enjoy the beauty of every page… so much inspiration is there for you!
And it has really brought my mood up. After such a sad and disappointing week in America last week, this week I’ve been on social media less and flipping through design books more. I would give it a 10/10.
Those are just a few things bringing me joy this week. And my sister is coming to visit us today for her first Georgia visit in a year, so we are so excited to see her! I hope everyone has a beautiful and cozy weekend. Hugs –
There have always been a few things on my personal home “I’ve made it list.” Some of those things are a double oven (got it!), two refrigerators (don’t got it) and a small, dedicated space for a mini gym (somehow… got it!). A few months ago we added a MYXfitness bike to our basement gym. It’s sleek (I love the white!), doesn’t take up much space and packs in a lot of workouts.
The biggest reason why I thought this would be the best stationary bike for us is because not only can you take instructor-led classes or scenic rides with road noise, silence or music, but you can also swivel the monitor 360 degrees and take an instructor-led mat class. Mat classes vary from yoga, pilates, core, HIIT to stretching and meditation.
Like most, during quarantine I started working out more often and then it slowly tapered off. But my goal this year is to remind myself that anything is better than nothing. Even if it’s just a 20 minute ride or a 15 minute core workout. It eventually adds up and most of all, it affects my daily attitude.
For price, dimensions and a full list of every class offered, check out the MYXfitness website. There you can also watch a short bio video on each instructor and see which classes they specifically teach.
Last week I asked you guys on Instagram to send in any questions you had on the MYX system. Thank you so much for taking the time to do that, below you can find my answers!
How are the classes? Do the spin classes have choreography or is it just biking?
I really enjoy the classes and have found myself actually take more mat classes than cycling classes, whereas Christian usually only takes the cycling classes.
There are a variation of rides – climb rides, HIIT and Interval rides, Endurance rides, MYX rides and warm up/cool down rides. You can also watch sample clips from rides on their website.
Does it sync with the Apple Watch?
The MYX mobile app connects with Apple Watch but the tablet app does not.
How’s the music?
There are different playlists for each workout, and you have the ability to skip a song should you want to. The music differs for every type of class, which means you can take the same class five days in a row and possibly never hear a single repeated song.
Lastly, there are separate volume controls for the music and coaches, which I really appreciate.
How much is the monthly membership after you buy the bike?
$29 per month for unlimited access to all content. Collectively they have hundreds of workouts and compared to its competitors, this is the best monthly membership cost.
How often do they upload new workouts?
New workouts are added weekly!
Do you have to have special shoes?
No, I just wear sneakers. But the pedals are made for both options, so if you have bike shoes and want to wear them, they’ll clip in.
Why MYX over Peloton or SoulCycle?
By far, the question I get asked most frequently. First things first, I don’t have a Peloton and have only taken one of their classes in a hotel gym a few years ago. I probably took less than 10 SoulCycle classes while I lived in California. So I’ve dabbled in both but truthfully am not super knowledgeable about either.
What I like about the MYXfitness is the wide assortment of classes and the 360 swiveling monitor for the extra classes including core workouts, pilates, yoga, kettlebell, etc. My favorite combo is to take a short 20 minute hip hop class and follow up with a mat workout.
On their website, if you scroll down you’ll find a full graph with the differences between MYXfitness and Peloton in terms of size, workouts, weight, etc.
Do you feel like there are enough variety in the classes?
Definitely yes!
How long are the classes?
They range from 5-60 minutes with everything in between.
Do you have a discount code?
Yes! With the code KATHLEEN you can get $150 off your order and free shipping (valued at $250). AND the MYX and the MYX Plus are $100 currently, so that is up to $500 off!
Can you use other fitness apps on the screen? For example take a peloton class using the MYX?
No. You can ride with our without a MYX instructor and with or without music. The scenic solo rides are in locations like San Francisco, Costa Rica, Northern Italy, Hawaii and so on. The solo scenic rides offer road noise, music or you can silence both.
Does it track your performance?
The MYX bike comes with a heart rate monitor that allows you to track your heart rate in every workout.
Also, when you create your MYX account you’ll be asked a series of questions that helps create your custom heart rate zones. There is also a SmartMYX option that will tell you which workouts to take based on your specific goals.
One thing it does not do is track distance, which I wish it did.
Who are some of your favorite instructors?
Most of the classes I’ve taken are from Christina and Shaun.
How long is shipping?
Typical shipping is 2-5 weeks which is significantly faster than its competitors!
I hope that helped clarify some of your questions about this particular at-home system. If I missed your question, please leave it in the comments or check out the MYX Fitness website.
Don’t forget that with the code KATHLEEN you can get $150 off your order and free shipping (valued at $250). If you are a self-motivated person who will really use a machine like this for quick and frequent workouts, it is really, really worth it.
Thank you so much for reading and leave me any additional questions you might have! XO –
What a start to 2021. If you’ve turned on the television or opened any social media app, you are aware of what is going on in our country. So in hopes to give us a pleasant distraction, I wanted to stay in theme with this Friday snippet post and share five moments of gratitude from this week.
1. We finally got the Christmas trees in the attic (!!). And it wasn’t easy with two flights of stairs, so that’s a win.
2. All my shows are back with fresh episodes, loving that.
3. The frostbite on my outdoor plants is really depressing, however I’m happy to report my indoor plants continue to thrive. And that’s important because after my spouse, child and dog, they are my next of kin.
4. I discovered and ordered this vase on Amazon and trés chic!
5. I finally received this beautiful star for a tree topper for next year. It clearly took a very long time to cross the ocean and arrive… but I never think about holiday decorations until it’s holiday time. So at least I’ll be ready next year!
This weekend I have a little bit of work to do, but I look forward to some disconnect and playtime with my little guy. What were some of your moments of gratitude amongst the chaos this week?
In times like these, I do look for the joy and good. Sometimes we can focus too much on the hate, but there is always good. I hope you have a beautiful weekend – XO –
I’ve shared some of my top podcasts picks before in 2016, 2017 and 2018 (or you can find them by searching “podcast” on CBL). But it’s been a little while since I shared some new podcasts I love, so I wanted to spill the tea!
Celebrity Book Club | This is a new podcast to me but I honestly love the recaps to celebrity books I’m interested in but won’t necessarily read. It’s almost like a cliff notes!
Tom Brown’s Body | A deep dive into a 2016 disappearance of a Texas teenage boy.
Even the Rich | REALLY love these two girls and how they break down some of the most iconic historic families – JFK Jr, Princess Diana, the House of Versace, even Britney Spears!
Anatomy of Murder | This pod is relatively new but I need more episodes. It’s two former detectives discussing different murder cases and analyzing them.
Unlocking Us | Queen Brené Brown is here to save us all. Hallelujah!
Just B | You know I am going to listen to Bethenny’s podcast, but it’s actually really good. Per usual, she gets straight to the point and has a wide variety of guests.
If you have a favorite podcast right now, I’d love to hear! Thank you so much for reading – XO –
HAPPY NEW YEAR!! Wow, 2021 – we made it!! I think we are all excited about a fresh start this year. I don’t know if it will be that different at first, but I think the hope for a different summer, fall and winter is certainly there.
We spent our first Christmas in Georgia in our home and honestly, it was lovely. I think part of what made it feel so full was that Christian and I made little lists ahead of time. We each wrote some things we wanted to make sure to do – have a fire, hot chocolate and Christmas movies, a drive to look at Christmas lights, board games, Christmas Eve church service, watch The Nutcracker, bake and so on. I think making those lists kept us intentional with our time rather than just lying around.
I also didn’t expect Hudson, at only 13 months, to really be into the presents and so on. We only gave him a few but he really got into it more than we expected! The biggest hit was probably this trike bike from his grandparents. It’s for kids a little bit older than him, but he shocked us by hopping right on and getting the hang of it instantly. We even attached a little wooden crate to the front to use as a basket and I have to say… it’s adorable. Being a parent for the holidays does kind of make things extra magical.
I’ve taken down all of the holiday decorations outside of the empty Christmas trees. When it’s so cold outside, I love the “naked” tree in its beauty for a little while longer. I know many leave theirs up until January 6th for religious reasons while others like to start the New Year with less on their to do lists. Whatever works for you!
I hope all of you have a beautiful start to 2021 and if you haven’t made a vision board or some affirmations for the year, I would encourage you to do so. I did this last year for the first time and despite 2020 being such a wild ride of a year, when I look at the vision board I made, more came true than I would have expected.
Ask, believe, receive! Thank you so much for reading – XO –
similar turtleneck here (60% off) and here ($25 off) | blazer | similar joggers here and here (have and love these, I ordered my usual size) | heels
What is the best gift you’ve ever given and received?
What a fabulous question!
Given – Christian’s watch from Paris on our babymoon.
Received – A Chanel bag on my 29th birthday. Although this year I bought myself this air fryer that I found at a store in town on sale for $40 and it might be rivaling my handbag because I am obsessed.
What did you ask for this Christmas?
A carpet cleaner. This personalized bag. And for Christian to repair the broken plantation shutters in our house (seriously though).
What is your favorite childhood memory?
Going to our church’s Christmas Eve service (the church is over 150 years old) and singing Silent Night by candlelight.
How often do you clean out your closet? And how do you get motivated to do it?
Usually at least 3x a year. When I’ve run out of hangers, that’s when I know it’s time to start sifting.
I’m motivated to do it when my closet doesn’t inspire me. It should get me excited about getting dressed, not dread it!
How do you keep them clean since they are made for the outdoors?
We have a large covered patio with curtains and furniture (peek here) and because of the design, somehow we don’t really get anything other than some leaves on our patio.
So after having outdoor furniture, throw pillows and a rug for a year, they are all still in great shape. So I don’t worry about the cabinets, but it’s also why I don’t spend a lot of money on outdoor furniture. I’m more willing to splurge on interiors and I don’t want to feel bad if I need to replace something after a few years outside.
How do you care for your cashmere? Dry clean? Wash?
Depending on the item, I’ll dry clean, hand wash or machine wash in a mesh bag on the delicate cycle.
I’ve noticed your lashes looking longer lately… different mascara?
I’ll take it! I use R+F eyelash boost a few times a week and bounce between this mascara and this one. One thing I have stopped doing lately is curling my eyelashes… I wonder if that has helped less fall out?
What is the air fryer you bought?
I bought this one because I stumbled upon it in a store on sale for $40. So far I am loving it. Some of the things I have used it for: chicken tenders, root vegetables, fries, carrots, brussels sprouts, red potatoes, fried pickles, salmon and shrimp gyoza.
Where is the personalized tote bag from that you received for Christmas?
I wrote a blog post on this back in the day that you can find here.
How often are you actually live/pre-recorded? Honestly just curious.
I’m always live unless I’m sharing sponsored content. Sponsored content requires the brand to review and approve it before I can post it, which is the only reason it isn’t live.
I wish I could always be live!
How do you rest during your busiest season? What does your self-care look like?
Um… if I’m being honest, I don’t really. I’m a workhorse and it can be a weakness. Now that I have a child, I don’t have the option of when my work day ends. So when I’m busy busy, which has been all of November and December, I shut my computer at 5PM and open it back up at 8PM once he’s asleep and I’ve had dinner.
It’s not great. I’m working on it… hence hiring a “House Manager” to help me with day-to-day tasks so I can allow myself to actually relax more.
Do you use anything on your neck and décolletage to help prevent wrinkles?
I try to expand my serums and moisturizers down my neck and I use a body lotion on my arms and décolletage every night.
Do you get regular facials? Use retinA? Retinol? Lash serum?
I don’t get facials. I use retinol sometimes but not regularly. I do use this lash serum.
I religiously wash my face morning and night with a gentle cleanser and use any combination of an essence, serum, moisturizer or facial oil and under eye cream. The lineup typically depends on how much time I have!
What is your makeup routine? Everyday makeup tutorial?
I don’t really have a set routine because I wear different products almost every day. A part of my job is to try new products, so I’m mixing it up pretty regularly.
I don’t know how to do a makeup tutorial you guys… I don’t know that it would be helpful. I should try to figure out filming-wise how to do a good job.
Haircare and styling? Curling iron?
I keep my hair routine pretty minimal. I wash it 2-3x a week, switching shampoo/conditioner fairly often to avoid buildup. I use Moroccan Oil on damp ends. I let it air dry and then use my T3 curling iron and hairspray when I style it.
My brother’s first child was born terminally ill. Edie only lived to be four years old. I was in my 20’s when she passed and while I wish she could have been with us longer, she taught me so much in her short life.
It solidified that I would rather have a few close friends than an army of acquaintances.
Nothing in life is guaranteed. Be grateful. Really understand what basic gifts and senses are blessings and the value these things bring into your life.
And I ultimately chose to wait a little longer to have my own children because I wanted to feel ready for any child God sent to us.
Setting new year resolutions – what are yours?
I don’t really make resolutions but I did make a vision board in 2020 and shockingly, somehow the majority of it came to fruition. So I’ve already made another for 2021.
A quote I put on it: “God is not in a hurry. You are. It’s why you are tired. It’s why you are anxious and stressed and disappointed. Trust what was meant to be yours will be yours.”
Meal ideas for Hudson?
I follow the Moms on Call books and we just give him bite-sized pieces of what we eat. But if he doesn’t like it, I also always have yogurts, applesauce, veggie straws, bananas, peanut butter and Trader Joe’s bars nearby.
Is Hudson ready for a sibling?
Ha! He has just entered a very busy stage – walking and into everything. God bless everyone. We definitely hope and plan to give him a sibling but we aren’t in a rush. He keeps us plenty busy all by his little self.
I also know this sweet time with just one baby is so special. Just the three of us. I want to enjoy it as much as I can before expanding our hearts to another little one.
Thank you so much for reading and for sending in these questions! You could find all of this year’s and years past Q&A’s in the “personal” category of this site. I hope you had a MERRY Merry Christmas! XO –
MERRY CHRISTMAS to you!! Thank you so much for blessing our family by being a part of this blog, being a part of our journey and offering your support and encouragement along the way.
I am so grateful for the opportunity to share my interests and passion in fashion, photography, styling and writing with you, and it’s thanks to each of you that I’m able to fulfill my dreams all from a little office in this house.
Thank you. I hope you have a beautiful weekend with someone you love, lots of hot chocolate, some holiday movies and matching Christmas pajamas. Because to me, those things are really important!
Tonight we’ll be streaming Christmas Eve church service and then readingThe Christmas Baby, How the Grinch Stole Christmas andRed and Lulu. If you have any Christmas book traditions, I would love to hear in the comments. We really love all books in this house.
Lots and lots of love and joy from our hearts to yours!
”And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.'”
I’m always looking for inspiration for holiday meals, so I thought I would share what we plan to cook on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day!
We will be staying in Georgia because Christian is working the holidays this year, but now that we have this larger kitchen compared to solo holidays in years past – I’m actually looking forward to cooking. I think it’s going to be a pretty sweet little weekend.
Breakfast
Classic Breakfast Casserole | This is what we had every Christmas morning growing up. You can serve it with biscuits and fresh fruit, and it just tastes like Christmas to me. One year my mom didn’t make it, not really thinking it had become our “tradition.” All of us were like, “WHERE’S THE CASSEROLE!?” Needless to say, she won’t be skipping it again!
I read the comments of this recipe and I am going to try to use Texas Toast, half and half instead of milk and up the egg count.
Coffee Cake | Christian loves coffee cake, so he’s going to make this easy recipe this year.
Popeye’s Turkey | You read that right. My friend told me that her friend’s mother swears by their turkeys, and I want to see what’s up. So we’ve ordered one!
Grammy’s Dressing | We stick with my grandmother’s very basic dressing recipe that is my favorite, probably because of nostalgia. It’s very similar to this recipe!
Other plans we have are to stream our church’s Christmas Eve service (it was a lottery system this year and we didn’t get seats), hot chocolate and Christmas movies, board games, a family walk or exercise (a Christmas Eve tradition, oddly enough) and a wood-burning fire round the clock.
For some tablescape inspiration, be sure to check out this post which you can also find under the “holiday” category!
And if you have any recipe classics that are crowd pleasers, I would love to hear! Merry merry Christmas! XO –
Sharing 2020’s last holiday gift guide – Last Minute Gift Ideas under $50! I’m crossing my fingers that you have done most of your holiday shopping already. But usually there is one or two people left on the list we’re on the hunt for…
So hopefully this will give you a few ideas! If you’re still looking for ideas you can find more gift guides at the top of this site under “holiday.” To shop, just click on the item or find its associated number below the collage.
I hope you’re making your list and checking it twice. Trying to prepare some content ahead of time for you guys so I can duck away for a little break during the holidays. I am ready for some lounge time!
Thank you so much for reading, having a beautiful weekend and Merry Christmas – XO –
You can’t feel the fabric of these pieces in these photos… but boy do I wish you could! As soon as I received theseChloe Colette pieces in the mail, I immediately knew my mom and sister would also love them. With each piece being a blend of rayon, nylon and spandex, they’re super soft, stretchy and wildly comfortable.
I really love the longer length of theClair Wrap Tunic. The black + white ribbon tie waist really gives it a pop of contrast. The look I styled here is more of a dinner date, girls night, NYE even (!!) kind of look. But I think this top would also look really cute dressed down with denim or leggings for working-from-home, lunch or a weekday errand vibe. This top comes in multiple colors and the ivory is also so pretty.
Of course I can’t dismiss theFrancesca Wide Leg Pant. What you can’t see in these photos is that these pants have a high waist (my favorite) that is smoothing and looks great with either longer tops like this one but also still works with shorter length top likethis one.
I think one of my favorite things about these pieces are that because of their clean and classic lines and comfort, they really work for all age groups. Sleek, sophisticated, feminine yet modern. But also soft, stretchy and comfortable. You can’t beat that.
And right now you can get 15% off site wide through the end of January with the code KATHLEEN15.
I am so excited to partner withNeiman Marcus again this year (last year’s posthere) to share some of my tip top gift ideas for the gal who appreciates the finer things in life.
Most of us are doing the majority of our shopping online this year. If you fall in that category, Neiman Marcus offers complimentary Gift Advisors. You take a quiz and they’ll match you with an expert. You can even give your Advisor a short bio about the gift recipients you’re shopping for and they’ll suggest ideas. I LOVE THAT. You can also set an in-store appointment with a complimentary style advisor or even take your appointment virtual, which is pretty amazing. If you’re near a Neiman Marcus, schedule curbside pickup featuring Santa this Saturday, 12/19, from noon – 6PM!
If you’re looking for some ideas, I want to share a few brands that come to mind that always have beautiful pieces that I consider fool-proof gifts. All available atNeiman Marcus. Let’s get into it.
MacKenzie-Childs
You guys know I love a MacKenzie-Childs moment. I grew up with a mother who had a few pieces herself that she treasured, and now I’m elated to have my own small collection!
An iconic Courtly Check Two Quart Tea Kettle was the very first MacKenzie-Childs piece I purchased, which is why I think it’s a beautiful and thoughtful gift. Neiman Marcus offers both one that whistles and the original style that doesn’t. Not only does it always look pretty on your stove, but we use ours regularly.
Neiman Marcus also offers their photo frames in various sizes. Insert a personal photo, wrap it up and who isn’t going to love that?
Tory Burch
Tory Burch has some classic accessories that work for all age ranges. Personally, I’m loving this littleKira Chain Crossbody in tweed (also comes in a larger shoulder strap sizehere), and I really can’t get enough of thesesuede booties.
Maison Francis Kurkdjian
My first experience with Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 was a little travel size bottle. It smelled so intoxicatingly good, I savored it, wearing sparingly so I could make it last. It has notes of amber, jasmine and cedar wood (amber always gets me) and they blend together fabulously. I quickly came to find out, this fragrance is a cult classic! Loved by so many, it has countless reviews on NeimanMarcus.com.
Another fragrance of theirs I’ve recently been introduced to and am loving isL’Homme A La Rose Eau de Parfum this year. A blend of roses, grapefruit and woodsy undertones, it’s the kind of scent that Christian and I could both wear.
You could also gift a travel size Baccarat Rouge 540 like this one. Even better, you could gift multiple ladies a little travel size! But watch out… because they’re going to become addicted. Trust me.
Of course, if these items don’t quite strike a cord for the person you’re shopping for, Neiman Marcus offers multiple curated gift guides online that are really helpful. I love when a retailer offers thoughtful selections! It makes shopping from home even easier.
While perusing their gift guides, I discovered this ReFa CAXA M1 Tool and I’ve got to say, I’m interested. A Lele Sadoughi headband (worn in the photo above) is a great grab for the girly-girl, and I’m loving these Tizo coasters for the homebody.
And of course, there isn’t anyone who doesn’t love a cozy pair of UGG slippers. An old faithful gift! Who’s left on your shopping list?
Thank you so much for reading and happiest holidays to you and happy shopping – XO –
A cute apron is always a great gift and this is one of my favorite ones, even paired with a cookbook!
I once received nice coasters last year as a housewarming gift and I loved that idea.
A bag of good coffee and a cute mug is a sweet combo. You could even toss in some sweet treats like these Heaton Pecans from Mississippi (dangerously delicious).
Along with a fabulous vase with flowers (I just recently ordered this one).
If you put a little thought into it, there are so many cute little gift combo ideas. Which could also be nice for in-laws, aunts, uncles or a gift exchange.
If you’ve hit it out of the park with a host or coworker gift recently, I’d love to hear.
You can see all of the gift guides from this year and year’s past at the top of this site under “holiday.”
Thanks so much for reading and I have one more gift guide coming up for you guys before taking a holiday break. XO –
