foyer style

t shirt – 40% off | denim25% off | gold stacked rings | chain ring | pinky ringsnake necklace | hudson necklace | similar hoop earrings | staircase frames

When this quarantine first began, I shared 10 ideas for at-home activities.  At that time, I never could have imagined that three weeks later we would be in the same place, but here we are!  Since then I’ve come up with 10 more ideas for things to do at home.  Let’s get into it!

1) Take an Ivy League class… for free.

Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Columbia – some of the best universities in the country are currently offering free courses.  Check out your options here.

2) Paint by Numbers.

I have started painting silhouettes and finding things to paint and transform.  Someone suggested a paint-by-numbers kit and I thought it was brilliant!  I am loving this one and this one.

Another idea: finally get around to painting that room you’ve always wanted to paint.  I might paint our laundry room…

3) Binge a Podcast.

I have dozens of recommendations in multiple categories if you search “podcast” on this site.

A few new ones I’ve discovered that’s great: Viral: Coronavirus, Even the Rich and Whoop it Up with Vicki.

4) Watch a live concert.

This is on our list to do this week!  Watch a live concert once the kids are asleep.  Check a list of performances airing for free daily here and here.

You can also watch Taylor Swift, Justin Timberlake and the Rolling Stones on Netflix.

5) Make a candle.

I have shared some of my candle DIY tips in the “candles” saved story on Instagram, but there are so many fun tutorials to make a candle from scratch!  Love this one.

My candle tips are centered more around rescuing candles that aren’t burning well.  I got you!

6) Master the at-home manicure.

I have been so entertained watching everyone attempt their own gel and dip powder manicures at home.  Impressive!

I’ve gone the lazier route and ordered some press on’s that are reusable.  I am hopeful… but if they don’t cut it I will absolutely be learning how to dip my own nails.  I’d love to hear if you’ve tried!

7) Plant an herb garden.

This is one of the things I did over the weekend that I’m so excited about.  We have a brick plant bed that I knew would be perfect for herbs.  I’ve been waiting until spring to get it started, so I planted seven herbs and will be tending to them like little babies.

I even made DIY label markers by breaking off pieces of paint stirrers and painting them with chalk paint.

8) Flowers blooming? Make arrangements and drop them off at your friends doorsteps.

I’ll confess I’ve only done this for one friend but I’m trying to gather my vases because I want to leave more!  Our snowball plants are exploding with gorgeous flowers and I want to share them.

9) Perfect your makeup skills.

I heard Nene Leakes say she’s been watching makeup tutorials on YouTube and I thought… brilliant.  I need to catch a few!

10) Take a bike ride.

This is on our list.  We’ve gone on so many walks but I want to take my wheels for a spin.  We haven’t figured out what to do with Hudson just yet… but it’s a thought!

And hey – you don’t have to be productive.  There is absolutely nothing wrong with watching a Real Housewives of NY marathon or taking three naps.  For those of you with the same workload or multiple kids, I totally understand that there isn’t a lot of “free time” other than your normal routine.

To be honest, I’m probably about 25% less busy in my workflow, but now Hudson is with me every day.  So I still look at the clock and say, “how is it already 4PM!?”  BUT, we are finding time to garden, paint, play card games, cook, cook, cook and clean, clean, clean… you know the drill.

BUT, I heard someone say something along the lines of: one day your kids are going to read about Covid-19 and they’re going to ask us, “what did you do when you stayed at home for ___ months in 2020?”  I’m hoping I can say, “we planted herbs and bougainvillea.  We created art and played card games.  We got to know our neighbors and brought flowers to friends, drank wine by candlelight while listening to your great-grandmother’s records.  We even took a free history class online from Yale.”

I want to have some things to say that I can be proud of!  Is there anything you have done in the past few weeks that you’re particularly proud of?  I would love to hear.

And if you’re looking for some recipe inspiration, check out 15 easy things to cook at home here.  I’m going to be sharing my favorite pizza recipe soon!

Thank you so much for reading and sharing – XO –

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natural table runner

– adding a table runner for spring –

salt and pepper

salt & pepper bowls for the dining room –

bunny

– every now and then, seeing a baby item around the house that makes me think, “awww” –

bunny print fabric

– adding some bunny lumbar pillows to the den and loving them –

white circle vase

– adding faux greenery like this and this to vases

Three weeks and I’ve left the house… twice.  How insane does that sound?  I cracked a few times this week.  I felt frustrated.  Overwhelmed.  Anxious.  The feeling came and went, but it was the first time that I really thought to myself, “how long will we be doing this?”  There is, of course, no easy answer to that question.  Therefore I had to really focus my energy on remembering that I can really only take on one day at a time.

I don’t know about you, but I’ve actually been buying more online in the past few weeks.  I have replaced pillow covers, ordered decor, bought outdoor chairs and ottomans, ordered plants… I can’t stop tinkering.  But along with that comes tackling so many home “to-do’s,” and that is something that feels really encouraging.

I’ve enjoyed new shows that have released and  are super engaging, Little Fires Everywhere and Ozark’s season 3 to name a few.

I discovered Chrissy Teigen’s Spotify playlist that has been super fun.  And I’ve been adding to my vibe-y playlist (post here) as well as my 90’s playlist.

What have you done this week that has brightened your day?  I’d love to hear.  Thanks so much for reading – XO –

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1  25% off |  2 – 40% off3 – 10% off4  – 30% off5 – 25% off6 – 30% off7 – 30% off8 – 30% off 9  – 20% off10 – 25% off11  – 25% off12 30% off13 – 20% off14 – 30% off15 – 30% off16 – 40% off | 17 – 25% off18 – 40% off

Sharing some of my picks that are all on sale today.  Can’t get over this cozy bomber jacket – so cute!  Love this succulent.  The denim I live in and the black and white basket I didn’t know I needed… and all marked down.

A few more sales: 

ASOS | up to 50% off sale

Banana Republic | 50% off everything

Crate & Barrel | 20% off kitchen essentials, 30% off outdoor furniture, 40% off Easter items

DSW | 50% off dress shoes

Express | 40-60% off everything

GAP | 40% off everything

J.Crew | 50% off your SALE STYLES with code SPRING

Levi’s | 30% off orders $100+ with code SCORE

MacKenzie-Childs | 20% off thousands of home decor items for a limited time

Madewell | 30% off your purchase with the code HAPPYPLACE

Neiman Marcus | Shop 30% off regular-price orders of $1,000+, 25% off orders of $500+, and 20% off orders of $250+
with code STAYHOME

Nordstom | up to 40% off spring items

Old Navy | up to 60% off site wide

Pottery Barn | 25% off with code FRIENDS

Ray Ban | 30% off everything

West Elm | 20-40% off the entire site

I’ve ordered some more throw pillows for the basement patio under $6 a piece here and here.  I ordered some faux olive tree branches.  We want a little rug to go by the front door since there is so much foot traffic there.  And I’m about to start ordering some crafts so I can work on some DIY projects at home.

Are you guys tinkering at home?  I think I’ve rearranged the entire house… I can’t stop!  Thank you so much for stopping by.  XO –

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easy meal ideas

I shared a few ideas of things to do at home in this post, but I wanted to round up some easy, delicious and mostly healthy recipes to keep you inspired in the kitchen.  For me, when I’m spending this much time in the kitchen, it’s easy to become bored.  I love getting some ideas from others of what’s good and equally important – what’s easy.

Let’s get into it!

healthy nachos

1) Bell Pepper Nachos

summer salad

2) Summer Salad

best alfredo pasta recipe

3) Alfredo Pasta

garlic noodle recipe

4) Garlic Noodles

5) Spaghetti with Lentils

6) Chrissy Teigen’s Cacio e Pepe

best chopped salad

7) Best Chopped Salad

best pimento cheese

8) My Favorite Pimento Cheese (or put it on dates – YUM)

9) Healthy(ish) Deviled Eggs

moms tomato pie

10) Karen’s Tomato Pie

11) The Best Baked Chicken Breast

denim on denim

12) Whiskey Rebellion for when you need a cocktail!

southwestern bowl

13) Southwestern Quinoa Bowl

14) Sheetpan Fajitas

15) Sheetpan Sausage and Veggies

An easy dessert I am borderline addicted to right now is pudding and whipping cream.  I’ll buy a box of vanilla pudding and substitute some of the milk for sweetened condensed milk.  It makes the pudding taste more like a custard.  Then I’ll whip heavy whipping cream and put a few dollops on top.  It is dangerously delicious.

You can find more food + drink recipes here, and let me know if you guys would be interested in more Quarantine-inspired recipe posts!  Spritzers, homemade pizzas, my favorite salad dressing… tell me what you’d like to see and I’m happy to whip it up for you guys.

Thank you so much for reading.  And if you’ve cooked anything delicious lately, please share in the comments.  I need some inspo!  Stay safe, friends – XO –

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1 – 40% off | 2 40% off | 3 – 40% off | 4 – 40% off | 5 – 25% off | 6 – 60% off | 7 -40% off | 8 – 15% off | 9 – 40% off | 10 – 40% off | 11 – 40% off | 12 – 40% off | 13 – 40% off | 14 | 15 – 40% off | 16 | 17 | 18 – 40% off | 19 – 40% off | 20 – 40% off

A few more sales…

American Eagle | select styles up to 40% off (including denim)

Anthropologie | 40% off select dresses and jewelry, 25% off home and furniture

ASOS | up to 50% off sale

Banana Republic | 40% off regular priced items

Crate & Barrel | 20% off kitchen essentials, 30% off outdoor furniture, 40% off Easter items

DSW | 30% off everything with code FEELINGEXTRA

Express | 40% off everything

GAP | up to 60% off everything

J.Crew | 40% off your purchase with code SHOPNOW

Last Call | extra 10% off designer bags and shoes + extra 40% off everything

Levi’s | 30% off orders $100+ with code SCORE

Madewell | 25% off your purchase with the code BRIGHTSPOT

Nordstom | up to 40% off spring items

Old Navy | up to 50% off site wide

Pottery Barn | 25% off with code FRIENDS

West Elm | 20-40% off the entire site

With so much time at home… I must admit I have been shopping more than usual.  Not necessarily for spring, but for loungewear, exercise clothes, undergarments and so on.  But I’ve been stalking home items more than anything.  I’ve been looking at spaces with a keen eye, getting inspired to paint some simple things for bathrooms, etc.

For anyone interested in shopping, there are definitely some major markdowns happening right now.  I’d had my eye on some table runners (specifically this one and this one).  When I noticed they had both been marked down, I took the plunge.  If there is anything you have been pondering over for some time – there’s a good change it could be on sale.  So revisit your longtime favorites!

Nordstrom has marked many things down up to 40%.  Some pieces I really love are this classic purse.  This wine/champagne chiller that I’ve been contemplating for literal years.  This record player we love and some gold flatware.

I bought this sleep set in blue.  I bought this bust for the living room.  And this art is inspiring me to paint!

Have you been shopping?  If so, are you looking at home/lounge/sleep/fitness – I’d love to hear what’s piques your interest.  Thank you so much for reading! XO –

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southern living

– a special Southern Living feature in the April issue with mom –

chocolate bunny

– a giant Lindt chocolate bunny that I know is going to get me in trouble –

olivia side table

– picking flowers from the yard every day –

white linen runner

– a linen table runner for the dining room –

white and black pillows

– some black and white throw pillows that were a great deal (bought these too, only $6 a piece!) –

Day 12!  We have made it to day 12 of isolating ourselves at home.  Well… really just Hudson and myself.  Christian has still been going to work while taking proper precautions (more on that here).

So far this week we have been finding time to work outside.  I have planted bougainvillea, picked flowers every day and cleaned outdoor furniture.  We bought shrubs and herbs and more concrete paint to work on over the weekend.  I ordered throw pillows, cutting boards, vases and art.  Someone referred to this time as “redecorisolation.”  HILARIOUS – and spot on!  I can’t stop tinkering around the house.

I’ve been watching Tiger King and cannot get over this insane documentary.  It is something.  Have you been watching anything super entertaining?

During the day, it feels borderline pointless for me to try to work too much with Hudson.  I also want to be sure to use some of this “social distancing” as an opportunity to be as present as I can be with him.  So I’ve been waiting until Christian gets home, handing off the baby and then going to my office.  Big shoutout to all the working parents out there trying to be efficient and productive at home while also feeding your kids, keeping them entertained, teaching them – your tireless efforts are not going unnoticed.  You are strong!

Thanks so much for taking the time to pop over today.  Some more ideas of how to efficiently pass the time here.  And working from home tips here.

Now I’m off to attempt to tidy up my closet.  Big hugs and stay safe! XO –

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ballard designs sofa

denim | shirt | shoes – old, similar style here | hudson’s outfit | living room details here

What brand of treadmill do you have?

Sole.

Microblading update. Have you gone back for the touch-up?

It was supposed to be tomorrow but we had to postpone it to April.  Hoping I will be able to go!

Does being an influencer change friendships you had before?  My friend is an influencer and it’s different now.

I don’t feel it has… but that is from the influencer perspective.  I have the same friends from childhood as well as college.  In fact… I had a virtual happy hour with college friends last night!  I’m honestly thinking why on EARTH we aren’t having more virtual happy hours with our long-distance friends!?

What’s one of your favorite early memory of dating Christian?

He always opened my car door, pulled out my chair and has the best table manners.  Still does!

What’s your favorite alcoholic drink?

Pinot Noir, Syrah or Sauvignon Blanc.  My friend in town has also gotten us on tequila on ice (Casa Dragones if you’re able to splurge, Casamigos Blanco is a great price point) with 1-2 limes.

Please share your secrets – how you are already back in amazing shape after Hudson!?

I am not in amazing shape, trust me!  I exercised and tried to eat well during my pregnancy.  I still gained more weight than I thought I would, but wasn’t going to get caught up in it.

I didn’t cut back or push myself during that “fourth trimester” while I was still breastfeeding.  I was still working, Hudson was colicky, I didn’t enjoy breastfeeding (more on that here)… I had enough on my plate.  I wanted to give my body three months to just rest and recover before putting any kind of pressure on myself.

At 12 weeks postpartum I weighed myself and was 10-12 lbs above my pre-baby weight.  So I started writing down what I was eating and really being accountable.  Hudson is now a little over 4 months and I’m 6 lbs above my pre-baby weight.

I eat a lot of fruits and vegetables (including potatoes!), brown rice, salads, eggs and beans.  Tragically I have cut a good amount of carbs but will have popcorn, open faced sandwiches or an egg-in-a-hole when I need a carb fix.

It will come off… eventually!

Any postpartum things happening that you didn’t expect?

If anything, I’m shocked my stomach has returned (mostly) to it’s previous size.  When I was 9 months pregnant I thought, “goodbye belly button.  I guess I’ll never see you again.”

I’ve heard resuming your cycle can be intense but after a year of not having it, I didn’t find it to be anything other than the usual.

My postpartum recovery was minimal this time around.  We’ll see if I get as lucky next time!

At home workouts?

I’ve got two posts for you here and here!

Is Christian still working during the quarantine?  Are you nervous about it at all?

Yes he is.  No, I’m not nervous.  We feel lucky that our jobs have continued throughout this pandemic, and it’s important to Christian to prioritize his patients health along with the overall public and his own.

It’s difficult but necessary.  And things are changing day by day, so we are just taking it one day at a time.

What does Christian think of the drive thru and curbside pick-up?  Is it safe?

He said, “it’s safer.”  It’s only as safe as the place you’re picking it up from.  In his opinion, limiting all interactions as much as possible is the safest scenario.

Is Karen concerned about Coronavirus?

She wasn’t at first.  Now I think she’s a little freaked out.  But she is happy to stay locked in her house sans “gradeau.”  In fact, she was recently telling me how she disinfects her steering wheel and car handles after going to the grocery.  She’s apparently been doing this for years.

She’s also considering asking my dad to sleep upstairs because he’s a physician and still working.

I’m not joking.

How are you staying motivated to maintain your business right now?

I’ve always been a self-motivated person and I’ve worked from home for almost five years.  With that in mind, my day-to-day isn’t drastically different other than I don’t have childcare and zero social obligations so I have more time to split between work and baby.

CBL has been an income source for our family for many years, and I don’t take that position lightly.  We own a home.  We just had a baby.  That is my motivation to work hard!

Can you post the toy bar attachment again?

Yes!  You can find it here and it’s also saved in the “CBL Bebe” stories on Instagram.  We mostly use it on this bouncer.

Can you share anything that worked with colic?

I debated sharing a post on this but have stalled because if I’m being honest… I don’t know how encouraging it would be.  We tried everything.  Gerber Soothe Probiotics helped a little bit, but it really just took time and a LOT of patience.

Know when you need a break.  Tap out and let your partner tap in.  Talk openly with your pediatrician.  And don’t feel guilty for hiring a babysitter or someone to help and give you a few hours or afternoons of relief.

In Hudson’s case, it lasted 9 weeks.  Then week 11 came along and he was a gem.  It was nothing I had done, he just outgrew it just like our pediatrician said he would.  I had stopped breastfeeding by then, the colic was fading and I was finally really able to bond with him.

How did you know it was colic for Hudson’s fussiness?

I talked openly with our pediatrician.  He gave lots of great suggestions, we tried them all and pretty much nothing worked.  He is part pediatrician and part therapist (joking), but he was essential in my sanity.  And now Hudson has outgrown it and is doing all the things our doctor said he would.  Colic is temporary.  When you have overcome it (and you will!), it will quickly become a distant nightmare!

If you haven’t had a colicky child, this may sound dramatic.  If you have had a colicky child, you feel me on this one.

kick flare denim

What formula is Hudson on?

I’ve chosen not to share this only because it’s really most important to see what formula is going to work best for your baby.  I am not an expert by any means!

We tried four or five different formulas before finding one that worked for everyone, but we continued to talk openly to our pediatrician who gave us some samples.  Those samples were really helpful in the process of narrowing it down.

What is Hudson’s feeding/napping/sleep training schedule?

We mostly follow Taking Cara Babies and Moms on Call.  Every baby is different – do whatever works for you!

Do you like your Miku baby monitor?

Yes!  I love that we don’t have to carry around a monitor and our cell phones, it’s just an app on the phone.

We did have a snafu with it stopping working, and after several troubleshooting calls with Miku they exchanged it.  But other than that, it’s been very convenient.

Can you please list more baby essentials for new moms?

I shared this post but I don’t have more because you really don’t need that much stuff.  Babies need breastmilk or formula, diapers and wipes, bottles, some clothes and bath items and a lot of affection/physical touch.  Don’t feel like you have to buy a ton of stuff.

What’s your honest opinion about lab diamond engagement rings?  Would you have wanted one?

I have a blog post about lab diamonds here.  I think for earrings, bracelets, necklaces, bands and so on it can be a great option if you’re cost-conscious.  I don’t know that I would have preferred a lab diamond engagement ring, but they are conflict-free and environmentally friendly which is amazing.

But seriously – who cares what anyone thinks.  It’s your ring.  Whatever makes you happy is the right choice.

What earrings are you wearing?

I have six ear piercings (look away, mom!) and shared some of my tiny earring favorites here.

Luxury purchases you regret?

I actually shared a post on my most and least worn luxury accessories here!

Trends you’re loving and not loving?

Loving: matching sweatsuits and jogger ensembles.

Not Loving:  Dad shoes, biker shorts, 90’s vibes.

What is your favorite boyfriend denim?

Always Levi’s.  If they’re 100% cotton I size up one size.  If they have some stretch I order my usual size (27).

Love these, these and these!

How tall are you?

5’7″

Holy grail hair products you can’t and shan’t live without?

Moroccan Oil, Mason Pearson brush, Oribe Texturizing Spray

How did you use the PMD to get rid of the bumps on your arms?

I used the body attachment and just followed the instructions that come with the device. There is also a video tutorial on their YouTube ChannelThis device is great too!

Do you use any organic/aluminum-free deodorant?

I am a longtime Cashmere Mist wearer.  But it does have aluminum in it.

I have tried so many natural deodorants and honestly hated them all.  They were sticky, didn’t work well and one gave me an armpit rash.  Necessaire makes a Eucalyptus aluminum-free cream deodorant and it is truly the only one I’ve liked.  It’s really good!

What’s your go-to tinted moisturizer?

Right now I really like AmorePacific – hoping it will be restocked!  I also really love Urban Decay’s One and Done.

What are you using as a Botox alternative with the quarantine?

I haven’t had Botox since 2018.  I keep meaning to get some and then I forget.  So I guess just hydrating and taking care of my skin!  My tip top picks here.

Can you share how you keep your house so clean?  Any schedule or tips?

I have two amazing women who come and help clean 2x a month.  We have a Roomba that’s on a timer and runs every day at 9AM.  I also have always been the person with a clean room.  I truly have no memory of my parents telling me to clean my room.  I function in an “outer order, inner calm” mentality.  I am uninspired in a messy home!

Can we see a before and after of the exterior of your house?

I’ve chosen not to share street shots for privacy reasons, but I have shared some up-close angles on insta-stories (saved in the “GA Home” saved stories).  It’s a pretty dramatic difference just in painting the brick, shutters, revamping the front sidewalk, etc.  We want to plant a few shrubs and monkey grass things in the front yard before it will feel “complete.”

Then… onto the last big home project: remodeling the bathrooms.  Nervous about that!

If you were to have your choice of 1) clothing line with your name or 2) a talk show, which would you choose?

Oh my gosh this is hilarious!  A clothing line.  Only because I could do it more from home and most likely be able to spend more time with the family.

Not a question, but you should totally just show up with a cat and see how long it takes C to notice.

I WISH.  I would love to foster a cat, but Christian is not (currently) on board.  I can’t do it behind his back because if he showed up with another large, shedding dog I would lose my mind!  I love Bailey so much, but the dog hair is… a lot of maintenance.  She’s almost 13 and I would do anything for her, but I can’t do another retriever.  LOVE their personalities but the hair and size is a lot for a mostly indoor pet.

No question! Just love how much your life has changed in the past year.  So much happy!

I love you.  Thank you.  We are so happy and grateful.  You can’t really appreciate the highs unless you’ve lived through some lows!

Thank you so much for checking in and reading this novel!  You can find all previous month’s Q&A’s in the “personal” category as well as by searching “Q&A” on this site.

Appreciate you for stopping by – XO –

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black accent chair

I have been slightly tweaking and moving this room around for what feels like the longest.  Ironically, it’s the room we spend the most time in!  I am so excited to finally share what we have finally come up with to fill this space comfortably.  This is our den and intended to feel like more of a casual “family room.”   It is open to the kitchen, breakfast room, bar and living room, so it was important to me that these four spaces flowed nicely with each other.

Originally I had these super cool Citizenry accent chairs in this room.  But once this Anecdote coffee table came in, the finishes didn’t flow.  I moved my Paula Rallis Home boomerang chairs from my office to the den and put the safari chairs upstairs and it all worked out just right.

Below are the photos of the styled space that I’m so excited to share.  And be sure to scroll all the way to the bottom for a $500 giveaway you don’t want to miss!

hermes blanketmodern wood coffee tablemarble vaseblack boomerang chairblack candlestyling bookshelvesgold starburst mirrorvintage harvard booksblack side tablesgold record casecloset barblack wrap dressstyling bookshelfleather bar stoolspotted pillowsabstract curtainsbrown mccarty bowlblack and gold floor lampblack accent chair

photos by Viva Lux Photography

similar dress here and here | similar pumps here and here | long necklace | “h” necklace | hudson necklace

abstract throw pillows | spotted throw pillows | similar sofa – 25% off | black accent chairs c/o Paula Rallis Home | leather chair and ottoman, n/a, similar set here | rug c/o Annie Selke | floor lamp | side tables, curtains, French lamp slips, starburst mirror, agate box and foliage art c/o Ballard Designs | similar ginger jars here, here and here | similar glass dome (on sale) | driftwood25% off | coffee table, santal candle, Poolside with Slim Aarons book, Travel Home bookmarble vase c/o Anecdote – 15% off with the code KAT15 | white face vase | counter stools | similar candlestick holders | black candlesticks | fireplace screen + tools – 25% off | black and white sketch | brass record case – my grandparents, love this one | similar c & k marquee letters | similar fiddle leaf fig | similar green jar here and here | pampas grass | abstract lamp and basket planter | black planter (old), love this one and this one

Now for the $500 giveaway!  Anecdote has so graciously offered to give a CBL reader $500 toward shopping anything on the site.  They just launched their small business this year, and to offer something like that during this crazy time is incredibly generous.  To enter, simply:

  1.  Leave a comment on this post with your IG handle and how you might want to spend the credit
  2. Follow @kathleen_barnes + @shopanecdote on Instagram (you’ll want to follow their account for major home decor inspiration anyway, trust me)
  3. Leave a comment on this Instagram post with which room in your home you want to refresh!

AND don’t forget you can get 15% off Anecdote products this week with the code KAT15.  A winner will be selected Friday and announced shortly after.

Thank you so much for reading and check out other room tours in the “home” category – including our bedroom, dining room, living room, kitchen + breakfast room and Hudson’s nursery.

Y’all stay safe and enjoy using this time to get cozy in your beautiful home!

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white hydrangeas

– making the most of staying in by tidying up –

j lowery handbag

– a new backpack handbag from J. Lowery –

gardenia plant

– potting a gardenia plant –

black floral wallpaper

– finding ways to work at the dining room table so I can enjoy all of its pretty –

 leggings | cardigan dress | similar mules for less | dining room details here

leatherology bucket bag

– a personalized bucket bag that I’m excited to pull out this spring –

Alright guys, week one down – how is everyone doing?  If I’m being honest, not too much has changed for me other than not having our usual childcare scenario, being less busy on email and not running errands.

Usually in this scenario without childcare, I would feel overwhelmed and stressed.  However because my email is slower than usual, I’ve actually been able to use that free time to get organized and spent more one-on-one time with Hudson.  And it’s been really nice!  After spending so much time with him during his colicky weeks, now that he’s happy it is a joy to spend this extra time with him.  Working from with a crying baby?  Not easy.  Working from home with a happy baby?  Challenging but definitely more do-able.

I’ve chosen to choose gratitude over anxiety.  Grateful that we have a home, backyard and neighborhood with fresh air to spend this “social distancing” time in.  I’m grateful that I have a happy little baby boy to make the days fly by.  Grateful that I get to be the one to get him up from every nap, soak up every smile and kiss.  We’re grateful that we can afford to stock our pantry and refrigerator and that the grocery stores have plenty of food.  Grateful for all of our healthcare employees, grocery store employees, police force, delivery men and women and so on who are putting themselves at risk so we can all stay home.

I shared some of my top activities for staying in this week in this post, but I’d love to hear your favorite thing you did this week!  I love seeing how everyone is really coming together to help and share positivity right now.  It’s what I hope I’ll remember from this unusual time in history.

In staying in tune with what this blog is about – fashion, home, style, etc. – I want to share some major sales that are happening at the moment.  If you’re focusing on spending/shopping less right now, I absolutely understand!  I am just sharing the below for anyone who is interested or has had their eye on something.  For those people, there is an opportunity to get it at a discount – like my mom snagging our favorite deodorant at 25% off!  I might need to snag one too…

Abercrombie | up to 50% off

American Eagle | select styles up to 40% off (including denim)

Ann Taylor | up to 70% off sale items

ASOS | up to 50% off sale

Banana Republic | 40% off regular priced items

Crate & Barrel | 20% off kitchen essentials

GAP | 40% off your purchase with the code TREAT

H&M | 15% off orders $60+ and free shipping with the code 3705

J.Crew | 30% off your purchase and 50% off sale styles with code NEWNEW

Last Call | extra 10% off designer bags and shoes + extra 40% off everything

Levi’s | 30% off and free shipping with the code FRIEND

Madewell | 25% off your purchase with the code WHATASALE

Nordstom | 25% off select items site wide

Old Navy | up to 50% off site wide

Pottery Barn | 25% off bedding, 30% off bedroom furniture, 25% off quilts and free shipping with the code SPRING

Sam Edelman | 25% off with the code FAMILY25

West Elm25% off your purchase with the code FRIENDS

Big hugs and thank you guys for reading! Stay safe and if you have any at-home activities or recipes you’ve been loving, please share!  XO –

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yumi kim wrap dress

While staying home more right now, I’ve been spending more time than usual pampering myself.  I’ve given myself a pedicure, masked my face and hair, organized my beauty drawer and so on.  I’ve shared some recent posts about my evening skincare habits, but today I wanted to talk more about some of my morning skincare favorites.  I really do feel that if you take great care of your skin, it’s even easier to keep your makeup minimal and let your beautiful, clear skin make the statement.  Which is even more fabulous with warm weather around the corner!  Clé de Peau has so many luxurious skincare and beauty items that achieve just that.  With a huge focus on quality and luxury, I know what I’m putting on my skin is just as good for me as it smells and feels.

I start the morning by washing my face, and I’ve recently been using their Clarifying Cleansing Foam.  A little bit goes a long way because as you lather, the cream becomes this rich, textured foam.  I’ll be sharing a quick demonstration on Instagram Stories today!  From there I will use a toner if I’m taking my time.  If I’m trying to be a little speedier I’ll go straight to a serum or essence.  Then I’ll apply a face cream like Clé de Peau’s Intensive Fortifying Cream or I’ll mix a moisturizer with their Multi Repair Oil.  The oil can be used from your nose to your toes as it’s lightweight and just enough to give your skin a spring dewy finish.

Lastly I’ll use my ring finger to gently apply some eye cream.  This Enhancing Eye Contour Supreme Cream is unlike any eye cream I’ve ever tried.  It’s extremely hydrating but honestly goes on your skin like silk.  The texture is completely unique.  I’ve been using it so carefully as to not let any go to waste because it’s so good, I’m going to be sad when the jar is empty!

cle de peauclarifying cleansing foamcle de peau cleanservotivo candlefoam cleansergreen wrap dresscle de peau eye creamcle de peau skincarecle de peau favorites

photos by Viva Lux Photography

clarifying cleansing foam | multi repair oil | enhancing eye contour supreme cream | intensive fortifying cream | dress | hudson necklace | “h” necklace | gold rings 1, 2 | pinky ring | bedroom details here

Thank you so much for reading!  For more skincare and beauty content be sure to visit the “beauty” category of this site.  And if you have a favorite item in your morning skincare routine, I’d love to hear.

Stay safe at home and take advantage of the extra time for some self-care!

brought to you by Clé de Peau Beauté

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mango cardigan

cardigan, also love this one and this one | tee, also love this one | denim, also available here | mug | living room details here | hoop earrings

1) Get organized!

This has definitely been my favorite social distancing activity so far.  I immediately organized my fridge and pantry, and I plan to get to my closet and my office closet as well.

Some readers suggested cleaning your spice drawer, making sourdough starter, cleaning out your car and practicing baking.

Take advantage of this time at home to spring clean!

2) Try cooking new things.

Just because you’re spending more time at home and less time eating out doesn’t mean you should make bad choices!  Let’s not forget summer and swimsuit season is still ahead and these few weeks shouldn’t ignite bad habits.

I tried to keep temptation to a minimum and make smart choices when stocking our fridge and pantry for the next two weeks, and it’s a great time to try some new healthy recipes.  A few of my favorites that I’ve shared on CBL are this lemony carrot snack, my go-to pimento cheese, tomato and cucumber salad, vegetable orzo soup, my favorite chopped salad and bell pepper nachos.  To indulge I love this easy Alfredo Mostaccioli and easy garlic noodles.

Treat yourself to a whiskey rebellion and peruse the “food + drink” category for some recipe ideas!

3) At-Home Exercise.

I’ve shared some of my favorite at-home workouts before in this post.  Now that we have a treadmill in our basement with a TV, our Mirror and some free weights, I definitely plan to take advantage of it and make sure I’m staying active.  Walks outside are another way to get fresh air while respecting social distancing!

Someone also suggested riding bikes – love that suggestion!

4) Self-Care.

I try to set aside time every Sunday for a face or hair mask and some extra self-care time.  However I don’t always get to it, and I’ve already masked and given myself a pedicure.

Clean out your beauty drawers, pull out the sheet mask and give yourself a manicure.  Self tan (my favorite tanners here) and be ready to come out of this quarantine glowing, hunny!

This can even mean getting ahead in cleaning your makeup brushes!

You can find a DIY hair growth mask here along with some other favorite beauty hacks.

5) Read.

I wish I set aside more time to read regularly.  I have always loved reading and in elementary school the librarian always joked that I was the student she saw weekly, checking in and out books to read at home.

Whether it’s an audiobook (I’ve heard Jessica Simpson’s book is so good) or sitting on the sofa with a cup of English breakfast tea (my fave), I love the thought of using this time to squeeze in some good reads.

A few posts rounding up some of my beach read picks here and here.

6) Garden.

I coincidentally picked up some spring plants at Lowe’s last week and have already enjoyed planting them with Hudson in the bouncer outside.  I have gotten out the leaf blower and enjoyed prepping our patio for this spring.

Someone suggested repotting, fertilizing, trimming plants and trees… there’s always something you could be doing outside.

7)  Play games or do a puzzle.

I LOVE a good card or scrabble game.  So many suggested 1,000-piece puzzles – when Christian starts a puzzle he cannot peel away.  My family does a puzzle almost every Christmas and it’s something that always drives me nuts!

Some card game ideas here.

Monopoly Deal is another great one!

8)  Get out that long to-do list.

Someone said they were transferring all their VHS tapes to DVDs, such a smart use of extra time.

9)  Be active with your kids.

A reader said she set up the backyard sprinkler for her kids – how adorable is that!?  Backyard camping or swing sets, flag football, sidewalk chalk… so many sweet ideas to try with little ones.

10)  Netflix and chill.

I shared a few binge favorites here and podcasts favorites here, here and here, but we all deserve some low key sofa time.

A reader said she and her friends pressed “play” at the same time on the same movie from different homes and live texted – pretty cute!

These are some of my top picks for passing the time efficiently over the next few weeks – would love to hear any suggestions you have!  Thank you so much for reading – XO –

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mauve midi skirt

After so many months of cold, rainy weather… it’s sometimes hard to imagine that spring is around the corner.  But she is and she’s ready!  And you know who else is ready?  My closet.  Because I can’t wait to start pulling out some spring pieces like these espadrilles from DSW.  They come in four colors and are so incredibly lightweight, making them so comfortable for all day wear.

I love that this pair serves as a neutral while still having a unique touch in the python shoe strap.  It adds a fun little pop that means they can go with most looks or even be the focal point of the look themselves.

And the last thing I’m missing to complete this look is… a faux tan.  Note to self: must apply some self tanner before I show these legs to the world.

7 for all mankind topstyling espadrillesdsw espadrillesrattan purseround crossbody bagceline sunglasses dupe

photographed by Christian Barnes

espadrilles – under $60!, also have them in black and love them, similar style here and here | bag | sunglasses | shirt | skirt (old), love this one and this one 

I saw these sunglasses on the site and immediately bought them.  They look so expensive in person, and I cannot believe they are under $40.  A total steal!  And from now until 3/21 you can get 20% off all Crown Vintage products with the code KATHLEEN20.

What spring shoe styles are you excited for?  You know what that means… time to get your pedicure on, girlfriend.

brought to you by DSW

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