This year, instead of setting grand, lofty goals and New Years Resolutions, I realized that I respond better to smaller targets that I can cross off my to-do list every day, so instead of setting year-long resolutions I set mini, specific goals that I can hit daily. For January, instead of cutting out sugar entirely or committing to running 500 miles this year, I decided to commit to small things like drinking a half gallon of water and jump rope every day this month. I’ve honestly already missed a couple days but it’s nightttt and day difference to the minimal water I was doing before. It’s ok if we’re not perfect but I already notice the changes.
I love being able to check it off my list and it gives you momentum to keep it up, which I fully believe is one of the biggest forces that keep us progressing. That momentum of doing something, even something small, adds up to reaching a big goal. Have you guys ever tried hitting smaller goals instead of going big every year? What do you think!
XX, Christine
xo, Christine
7 Steps to Get Professional Facial Results At Home
DIY facial night!
Someone woke up during my spa time and wanted to cuddle!
Pre-pandemic and pre-Ollie I was religious about going to get my facials. I would get a hydrafacial once a month, but now I think I’ve had 2 facials since last March. Tried a vampire facial for the first time last week! 😱 Will be sharing all my thoughts soon 🙂 I’ll always love the spa experience but I know a lot of places still aren’t open, or have limited availability if they are, so until you can get in for your next (or even first!) professional facial, bring the spa to YOUR HOME. Skincare is about consistency! So even if you are getting in for your facial take the time to pamper yourself at home too! So get cozy, and take a step into my spa routine at home 🥰
The first step to fake a luxury facial at home is to add a little luxury to the set up. Burn a luxe candle (obsessed with this scent, I’ve posted about it a lot but I just can’t get enough!), put on a Terry headband, your favorite pjs, wrap up in a robe, and find a relaxing playlist. (I usually take a bath or a hot shower before I start my spa day so I feel fresh and clean – it sets the tone 🥰)
CLEANSE:
First and foremost, make sure you remove any and all makeup or excess dirt and oils. I’ve been using these cotton pads for years and they are a favorite for removing makeup. Then you’ll want to do a double cleanse with a good face wash and cloth. I’m about to run out of this face wash and already I’m reordering because I don’t want to miss a day without it – it’s that good. It’s really gentle but also leaves my skin feeling refreshed and more radiant. If you don’t have a face wash you’re crazy about, try this one and let me know if you agree! It’s also important to use something to use a wash cloth, muslin cloth, or cleansing device to help exfoliate (just ordered this one – love that it’s deep cleansing and massaging! This one is specifically for sensitive skin.) Once you start doing the double cleanse and add a cloth or cleansing device, you’ll realize what a difference it makes.
STEAM:
Almost all facials start with a facial steam. It’s the best way to ensure a deep cleanse but also promotes circulation, collagen and elastin, but most importantly helps your skin absorb skincare products. I actually didn’t know until I started researching but it’s also super hydrating. (Not to mention so relaxing!) There are tons of at-home facial steamer options available but especially with your skin, you don’t want to take chances so make sure you get one with great reviews like this one. This is a top seller and super easy to use and heats up fast.
EXFOLIATE:
There are tons of options when it comes to exfoliating. If you’re in the mood for a face-scrub, I love this one. I saw Victoria Beckam post about it a year or so ago and immediately added it to my cart haha. For something less abrasive, you’ll want a product with AHAs and BHAs – this one is a super quick and convenient and a cult-favorite.. Either way, keep it somewhat simple – the last thing you want to do is over-exfoliate!
MICROCURRENT:
Hailey Bieber is my favorite celebrity – all her beauty and fashion fits are flawless! So a year or so ago when I saw her try the microcurrent facial I was dying to try it. My next trip to NYC I booked it. I loved the immediate results but you actually need to do it regularly to see the best long lasting results. This NuFace trinity device is the next best thing if you can’t fly to NYC or LA for a microcurrent facial every week (which really nobody can right haha). Honestly you won’t believe before and after pictures! It makes me want to be super religious about it because it’s the only way you’ll see lasting results. It tones facial muscles and improves contour and skin tone while also reducing fine lines and wrinkles. You can also get the basic model here, but the Trinity comes with a lip and eye attachment to target those smaller areas. It’s really simple to use and takes just a few minutes every day, so it’s easy to get in the habit of it. They say even for 5 minutes for 30-60 days you will see results. I can’t wait to start seeing some results as I keep using it!
MASK:
One of my favorite parts of a facial is the mask. You can just sit, relax, and maybe even get a cat nap in while your skin is soaking up some TLC. These are a splurge but have amaaazing reviews online – will definitely be trying ASAP! I also love these eye masks – I think the eye area makes the biggest difference so if you don’t have time for a full mask, stick these on while you go about the rest of your day. This is an overnight sleep mask that just launched at Nordstrom but has amazing reviews!
MOISTURIZE:
Last but not least, a few skincare staples. After your mask you will want to moisturize.
If it’s during the day make sure you add a SPF of 30 or higher since your skin will be extra sensitive and susceptible to sun damage. I also love a good eye cream and lip treatment after a mask. I’m still on the hunt for an eye cream that I love but this one has a lot of good reviews and my friends always post about it, so just added to cart to try.
MIST:
This is another VB favorite I bought asap after I saw she loved and I am obsessed. My favorite part of the end of my at home facials is a refreshing elixir mist.
KEEP IT COLD:
And if you’re in the habit of at-home facials, you’ve probably already pulled the trigger on the beauty fridges. Not only are they so cute and extend the shelf life of some skincare products (nothing beats a cold eye cream), they also help with swelling and redness.
Have you guys tried an at-home facial? What’s your secret ingredient?
XX, Christine
*In collaboration with Nordstrom.
xo, Christine
The Best Excuses To Spend A Cozy Valentine’s Day In
Ordered a few of these cozy pieces for Valentine’s Day!
I love any excuse to get dressed up, but just as much as I love a little Valentine’s glam, I am also a homebody. I wanted to share some of my favorite cozy Valentine pieces and ideas to make the most of a day/night in.
VALENTINE’S BRUNCH
Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday this year so take advantage of the slow, lazy mornings with a Valentine’s brunch. We got this heart-shaped waffle maker last year and it kicked off a new holiday tradition with waffle art. Also love these heart mugs for your morning espresso. But I live in PJ’s so let’s not forget the best part matching pajamas! Love these matching heart pajamas and this cute lounge set. I also got this red ribbed set for Ollie which I already have in a few other colors. Linking a few more of my recent Valentine’s buys at the end of the post, too!
FESTIVE DIY PROJECTS
Whether it’s just you and your S/O or you have kids in the mix, adding a fun DIY memory to your day is a great way to make a keepsake and a memory at once. This year I’m thinking of getting red lounge sets for the family and tie-dying them. They’ll be a great festive look for Vday but also great to split up as separates and get more wear out of them throughout the year. Love these for a great unisex fits for adults and these are great for kids so you can grab whatever sizes you need.
COOK TOGETHER
Cooking and baking together can be just as memorable and romantic as a date night out, especially if one (or neither haha) of you doesn’t spend much time in the kitchen. Light some candles and turn on your favorite playlist and have fun – whether it turns out according to plan or doesn’t it will great time with your S/O.
Here a few Valentine’s pieces I have bought this week for me and the kids:
And below are some more of my favorites for a cozy Valentine’s Day at home!
XX, Christine
xo, Christine
5 of My Favorite Recent Organizing Buys
I’ve been in major clean up, de-junk, and get organized mode this past week and it feels amazing! It’s like a high that you don’t want to lose, so once you get started you can’t stop and I’m not complaining haha. Sometimes all you need are some good products to get you started so if you’re getting organized like me this year, here are 5 of my recent buys and why I’m loving them.
I’m obsessed with these clear stackable drawers (20% off right now)! Especially with standard closets, they are the perfect solution for storing things that are hard to organize and would usually end up on the floor or piled on shelves. A great piece for kids closets, especially since you can fit so much more. I love that these are stackable too! I use these to store things like diapers, wipes, and other items accessories like beanies and hats etc. The bigger ones are great for baby shoes or leggings. Both are on sale 20% off right now too!
Tackling the garage has been on my list forever. I knew we needed some kind of storage or organization system and this one was the perfect first step. I read SO many reviews and this one had the highest rating. It has a bunch of different hooks to hang various items (we also ordered these extra hooks to go with it). It saves so much floor space and I loved being able to see such an immediate difference so quickly! It has amazing reviews and they were spot on – super easy to install!
Another garage must-have if your family is super into sports like mine – this vertical ball organizer attaches to the rail system above and makes it really easy to get all the various basketballs, volleyballs, footballs, etc. into one place. Seriously no better way to store them! I also love the flexible bands in front so the kids can grab any ball they want without a hassle (and also makes it easy to put them away). Another one that lives up to its glowing reviews!
Once you go draw dividers, you never go back. They make finding and putting away clothes so much easier and helps you visualize everything you own quickly. I especially love them for kids drawers! This one works for smaller drawers too but also extend out really long so they can work for longer drawers too. These are on sale right now too!
These rope baskets are another one of my favorite products. I’ve actually had them for years but just got a couple more for organizing so everything matched. They come in multiple sizes (here and here) and are great for storing some of the eye-sore items that don’t really have a good spot otherwise. Not just for kids’ bedrooms either! Great for linen closets, pantries, toy rooms, family room. Great price point too!
Are you guys on an organizing kick too? I would love to learn about any favorite products or hacks you have! Let me know below in comments!
XX, Christine
xo, Christine
Top 5 Best-Sellers, Most-Loved & Favorite Buys of 2020
HAAAAPPY 2021! It’s the first Monday of the year and I am so excited about so many things this year. I mentioned it on stories yesterday but this year (December 2021) will mark 10 YEARS OF BLOGGING! So many feelings thinking about the last decade in the industry, I’m excited t make this year special. To all of you guys, you have become friends and family and I appreciate your support so much! How are you guys feeling about the new year?!
I know a lot of us are ready to say sayonara to 2020, but as unique a year as it has been, it’s also had a lot of amazing memories, new self-discoveries, new hobbies, and more. As we wrap up 2020 I wanted to share my favorite purchases of the year, my best sellers, and I asked you guys what your best buys were of 2020 and what your favorite buys were from my posts, see the 2020 round up below!
MY TOP 5 2020 PURCHASES
Here are a few of my favorite purchases and products I’ve discovered or bought in 2020:
#5. My hair stylist recommended this to me and it’s been one of my favorite hair tools this year. It heats up super quick, works on all hair types, and best of all it’s under $50 and an easy quick hairstyle.
#4. This overnight moisturizer I’m obsessed. It’s super moisturizing and hydrating with tons of ingredients to boost your skins luminosity and elasticity, etc. Also very clean which is a bonus!
#3. This knife set was one of my first quarantine buys last year once I realized we would be eating in at home so much more and still one of my favorite buys of the year. Knives can get really expensive but this set is really affordable and great quality (4.8 stars!). Also love how pretty the white looks out on the counters but that’s just a bonus haha.
#2. Having lived in Montana, Idaho, Washington, and Utah, I’ve bought a lot of coats haha. I found this one a few months ago and I have had it on repeat!! It’s really lightweight but also SUPER warm! Such a rare combo. It also has sherpa-lined pockets to make it that much cozier.
#1. My parents actually surprised me with this mid-quarantine and it’s hands-down my most-used item of the year. I actually prefer coffee at home now that I have mastered it. It’s an absolute game changer and I love not feeling like I have to leave the house for a coffee run before I can start my morning. It’s an upfront investment, but if the alternative is a $3-$5 cup of coffee everyday, that’s over $1k a year so an at-home espresso machine is a better investment. I’ve pretty much stopped going out for coffee completely!
MY TOP 5 BABY BUYS & BEST-SELLERS
Some of the best/most-used baby buys this year for Ollie!
#5. I got this for Ollie at Christmas and he hasn’t stopped playing with it. It’s a suction basketball hoop that you stick on most hard surfaces. We’ve put it in the shower, the sliding glass door, etc. We can really just move it around to wherever we are in the house and it will keep him entertained for hours – hands down his favorite toy and under $15! The suction cups are also surprisingly good – most don’t stay up but these are even Ollie-proof.
Also this name puzzle was one of the best-sellers. I feel like these are both toys so I put them both at #5 🙂
#4. This sound machine is a must have. We have one at my parent’s house, in Ollie’s room, etc. They are so small and really easy to travel with – super convenient! And a great price point under $30.
#3. Another baby essential – this travel crib. It’s super lightweight and beyond easy to put together. Perfect for a staycation or when we’re visiting family. Must-have for babies and toddlers!
#2. I have multiple of these onesies for Ollie. They are organic cotton and super soft. The zipper is also really convenient. Comes in tons of colors and under $20!
#1. Ollie has now outgrown this, but The Doona car seat/stroller was one of our best baby pieces from this year. It folds into a carseat and worth every penny! It’s the best travel stroller, even just going out and about and needing to go from car seat to stroller quickly.
2020 BEST-SELLERS
Here are the best-sellers from last year that I’ve shared this year that you guys seemingly loved:
#5. One of my best-sellers and my personal faves! I’m obsessed with the high-waist on these and they come in so many colors. Super comfortable – you’ll want to live in them! They also come in a printed version here.
#4. I had this Etsy print framed here and it’s one of my favorite additions to our house this year! It’s a far cry from a summer vacation on the Italian coast but since we didn’t get to travel this year we made do ;).
#2. These are worth every penny and one of the top 5 best-sellers. I’ve gotten them for myself and for gifts and everyone who tries them is converted. I’m wearing the rose gold here but love all the colors!
#1. Maybe my favorite boots all year – this sesame color is soooo good! Also love them in the black. They are waterproof and beyond comfortable. Not at all surprised they were one of the best-sellers!
YOUR TOP 5 BUYS & BEST-SELLERS
A couple weeks ago in stories I posted a question asking what your favorite purchases were of 2020 and your favorite things that I influenced you guys to buy, so I wanted to share some of the most popular responses!
#5. Kitchen gadgets are something I learned to appreciate in 2020 haha. These Always pans are 8-in-1 : a fry pan, saute pan, steamer, skillet, saucier, saucepan, non-stick pan, spatula, and spoon rest. Also the cuuutest pans ever. They come in 6 of the prettiest colors. Obsessed!
#4. Cordless vacuums are the real winner of 2020. We got this one and it’s super convenient but sooo many of you were raving about what a good purchase the Dyson cordless vacuum is. They make so much sense for quick clean-ups and I’ve heard the battery on the Dyson is a lot better than some of the other brands.
#3. This is actually one of my major regrets for not adding one of these in our house, I want one of these so bad! The pebble ice obsession is real haha.
#2. These Barefoot Dreams blankets always sell really well, but there were multiple of you guys who responded that this was your favorite buy of 2020. They really are that good! So cozy, just be careful – they may cause unexpected napping haha. This one is on sale for 25% off but they also come in multiple colors.
#1. No surprise that Apple made your top 5 list – everything from the new iPhone to Airpods and the Apple Pencil got a lot of mentions too! But the Apple Watch was a huge hit – the new one tracks your blood oxygen and heart rhythm. With the new ones launching, you can get the older series for under $200 now too.
With Covid affecting finances for so many people, I tried to stick to primarily budget-friendly price points so H&M was one of my go-to’s last year. They also have the best styling – love all of their outfits on their site! Seriously so good! They are also one of my favorites for Ollie’s clothes. So many great basics to mix and match.
I’ve shared a few of my Skinceuticals favorites but this one takes the cake and one of their best-sellers. I’ve been loyal to it for years – the best vitamin C serum!
I also had some of the sweetest messages from you guys about how you’ve started to shop at Kohl’s again (or for the first time) after my partnership with them last year. I love reading about things you guys get and love from posts so thank you for taking the time to share feedback it always means so much! A lot of you mentioned this teddy coat and these sherpa booties as your favorite buys. So many great finds at good price points! 🙂
Excited to see what new things we find in 2021 and what cult favorites stick around this year 🙂
Here’s to an exciting new year and thank you for taking the time to read and hang with me! HAPPY NEW YEAR!
