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.'”
Luke 2:8 – 12
xoxo,
Christian, Kathleen + Hudson
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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 –
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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 –
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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 –
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– treats for our delivery ladies and gents who work so hard –
– wishing I’d bought hydrangeas instead of peonies, they last so much longer! –
– the prettiest winter arrangement, I hope it lasts! –
I’ve been feeling the full spirit of the holidays lately, trying to enjoy as much peppermint coffee, holiday movies (Happiest Season = loved) and Christmas pajamas as I can. The month always flies by too fast, so I’m trying to really soak it up! Knowing that we won’t be traveling this month makes it more relaxing for sure.
I still have one person on my gifting list that I always have trouble shopping for. So I need do that like… yesterday. I hope the gift guides I’ve been sharing with you guys have been helpful for a little guidance this year! If there is a theme I haven’t hit, please let me know in the comments. I also have a “last minute gifts under $50” coming next week.
One of my gifts to myself this year is going to be a Pilates Studio membership. I’ve been out of the loop for what really feels like too long, and even if I need to wear a mask the entire time, I think it’s worth it. I was going to join this month, but after looking at my work calendar I didn’t feel like I would be able to enjoy it as much as I want to. It’s that “me time” that helps me feel more relaxed, more energetic and in a better overall mood.
Even though I secretly hate the cliché of getting back into fitness in January, it happens to be a slower work time and therefore… I’ll be there with the masses! Until then, I’m trying to get back into a little exercise in our basement. I was doing pretty well in the spring and once summer hit… so did my desire to sweat. BUT I feel so much better when I do, so I’m trying to remind myself about those endorphins.
If any of you have any tips for staying motivated in your fitness in the winter, I’d love to hear! I hope you guys have a fabulous weekend. Thank you so much for reading – XO –
I think a beautiful diffuser and an essential oil would be such a wonderful gift for someone. Truly the gift that keeps on giving.
I don’t have this booty mug, but you know I love it.
I ordered this laundry basket for myself and this one for Hudson’s downstairs toys. I love that it has a drawstring. So when you’re entertaining you can hide those plastic toys a little easier!
Whether you have your own little ones or not, you might have a dozen or so nieces and nephews to be shopping for like myself.
A few of the things below we have and love, and others I might have my eye on for Hudson. Kids stuff is so cute… once you get started it’s easy to fall down a rabbit hole!
To shop, simply click on the item below or find its associated number below the collage –
This mat can be personalized, and once Hudson was constantly on the move I was convinced it was time to put it up. But even now that he’s full blown walking, he loves to lie down on it or wrestle with the elephant head. It’s so soft and easy to put out in any room… a win!
We have these $11 booties in multiple colors and he wears them almost daily.
There aren’t cuter pajamas out there than these and c’mon… a robe!? I CAN’T. Nothing cuter!
This block set was a recent addition, and I don’t know who loves it more – Hudson or myself. I’m building all kinds of masterpieces (wink)!
A piggy bank was on Hudson’s birthday list because he was already collecting little bits of money here or there. There isn’t anything out there sweeter than this one.
We have this chair (can also be personalized) and it is so cute. I’ve had it in H’s room, but I’ve been toying with the idea of putting it downstairs… I think he might really lounge in it. He loves it in his room so far.
We might also have these on our wish list… I mean… adorable.
Currently a little young for this itty bitty bike but I’ve had my eye on it for months.
Sometimes you see toys out there and it’s like… is this for the kid, me, or a little bit of both? This is one of those toys. I can see myself loving this as a kid. And this!
For more gift guides and holiday content, be sure to check out the posts in the the “holiday” page at the top of this site. More gift guides coming this week! XO –
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When we got married, I had a stack of extra wedding programs because our reception was at the same venue as the ceremony. So many, understandingly, left their programs at the venue. We worked so hard on making them beautiful, and when I say “we,” I mostly mean my mom, let’s be honest. So I was determined to find something special to do with them!
I started with some Christmas ornaments, and then moved onto a little paper rosebud wreath (pictured below). Since then, I’ve found other sentimental paper pieces to make into ornaments as well. Save-the-dates, birth announcements, leftover fabric from my wedding dress, you name it. It just occurred to me this year that I should make an ornament with each year’s Christmas card.
Most of us end up with a few extra each year, and I’ve never had the heart to throw them away. Somehow these cards have made it with us for not one, not two, but three city moves. So I bought some clear glass ornaments at a craft store (you can also find them here), and got out the scissors.
All you need to do is cut your item into strips. Then I like to either roll the strip around my finger for a loose curl or roll it tightly (see photo below). Slip the rolled pieces into your clear ornament and that’s it. Super easy! I’m sure you could get creative with a zig zag, confetti-like pieces, etc. They don’t all need to be the same.
I like to add some pretty ribbon or a little charm to write on for an extra touch.
Believe it or not, these ornament are some of my favorite pieces to pull out year after year. So easy, inexpensive and special.
Thank you so much for reading! And please let me know if you try this yourself. It would make me so happy! Merry Christmas, XO –
