In high school and college, I did so much damage to my hair that it's kind of embarrassing to look back at pictures of it! It was so dry, over-colored, and no matter what I tried I could never get it to grow past a certain point. As of the past two years my hair has totally changed for the better and I've gotten a bunch of questions from friends + readers about what gave me the most improvement, or what I've done differently!
Here's how I made my hair healthy again and some of my must-have products...
1) CUT BACK ON WASHING & DRYING IT
Dry shampoo really is your BFF (my favorite is this one-less than $5) I try not to wash my hair more than twice per week. Typically my hair looks it's best on day 2, so if we're going out for date night or I know I'm heading to dinner with a girlfriend I will plan at the beginning of the week to wash it the night prior. Ever since I started cutting back on washing and drying my hair I noticed how much healthier the ends were and how much more it grew in length!
And if you can help it, set down the blow dryer and let your hair air dry.
2) USE A WET BRUSH This brush is the only brush I ever use on my hair when it's wet OR dry. I can't express enough how much I love it - just buy it if you haven't tried it yet! Also, when I blow dry my hair I mainly just use my fingers.
3) TAKE PRENATAL VITAMINS OR BIOTIN
I have to give credit to these bad boys for strengthening my hair and getting it to grow several inches! It has so much more body and length to it, and my nails grow super quickly too.
4) DON'T COLOR IT SO MUCH!
I do get partial highlights every so often, but I really try to limit it.
5) USE COCONUT OIL FOR A DEEP-CONDITIONING HAIR TREATMENT
Typically I comb some through my hair (from about my ear to the ends) at night before I go to bed and wash it out in the morning. DO NOT use too much because I've found even after washing it that if I do my hair will be a little greasy.
Alright girls, it's time to get our shopping done for the men in our lives!
Every year I try really hard to find GOOD gifts for Billy that he will actually use or wear long term. I absolutely love these Johnston & Murphy Oxford dress shoes (they are Billy's favorite brand of shoe for work), they are so sharp! And I think The North Face vest or Patagonia Pullover are great options for casual everyday wear. This Fitbit Watch would be a true winner if he's into fitness (or even just loves electronics!), along with a new briefcase for his laptop. This one has amazing reviews and is on sale for $62, normally $80!
Also...I typically like to get a fancy shaving kit for Billy since he normally doesn't splurge on these type of items, so this year I got him this Winter Winston Set from Harry's. It has everything he would need (limited edition razor, shave gel, 3 blade cartridges, and 1 travel blade cover) for just $30! It can be engraved and comes in a pretty midnight blue. They also have a nice deluxe set with a few more products included for $50!
Hope you all had a great weekend and I hope this gift guide helps because I know how hard shopping for men can be! Happy Monday!
I confess...that I tried to go shopping for things post delivery (aka things in my normal size) and it was one of the worst ideas I think I've ever had. It was actually very depressing and had me cursing in the dressing room because I got stuck in a shirt (lol), so then I ended up in the shoe section (you know-after I got out of said shirt) which made me feel a little better since I got a really cute pair of sandals. Thanks to the shoe section for redeeming the evening...somewhat.
I confess...I'm not proud of the amount of caffeine I've been drinking lately. Absolutely essential to survive these last few weeks of pregnancy with a toddler at home.
I confess...this Lush knit tee is one of my favorites to wear with boyfriend jeans and is marked down to $19 right now (with all sizes left-hurry up!)
I confess...I'm itching to go on vacation. Probably not the best time to have this itch since I CAN'T DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT! #wahwahwah.
I confess...FGL's "Holy" is on repeat in my car these days.
I confess...I've found two holy grail skincare products that have done wonders for my skin, and make me feel like I just had an amazing trip to the spa. I snapchatted about them about a month ago, but had to share here too. Honestly, they are better than any other skincare product I've tried over the years (just read the reviews for them!) I will happily pay for these products time and time again in the future because they are worth every penny. The first is Colleen Rothchild's Radiant Cleansing Balm (you can buy it here too), which is a MUST try/buy. It dissolves all eye/face makeup (even mascara) and leaves my skin so smooth and hydrated. You rub it together in your hands which warms the products and massage it all over your face. Then you place the muslin cloth that comes with it over your skin for a mini facial and wipe off the balm. Obsessed! I even used it on Billy because I was raving about it so much.
The second is the Extreme Recovery Cream (can also buy here) that I like to use in both the morning and night. This cream fights fine lines and wrinkles and evens out skin tone and texture. My skin just absorbs this cream and looks so much better when I use it. Both of these products have a spa like fragrance and feeling to them, and you get a lot of product so don't be put off by the prices. If you've never listened to me rave about skincare before, now is the time because you'll soon be hooked like me if you try them!
I confess...I truly believe I won the husband lottery. Billy normally doesn't get home from work until around 6:30 at night and the second he walks through the door he drops his laptop bag and plays with Cam, and asks what I need help with. He has been BUSTING his butt around the house daily, picking up my slack, and doing all the crazy things I ask him to do. I love him so much (and don't say it enough on here.)
I confess...these running shoes and these booties (the perfect color-I want these so bad! only $60) are everything. Get yourself a pair.
I confess...Camden has started saying please and it is the cutest thing I've ever heard. He also loves to hold our hands now, which I'm sure won't last long, and makes the cutest face when he sticks his hand out to us. My favorite is when he wants to hold both me and Billy's hands when he goes upstairs to bed...so precious. He's something else.
I confess...my Dad offered to babysit Cam on Saturday so we
will get another date night. Hooray for one last dinner out and a movie
before baby #2 comes!
I confess...I really want a Ford Explorer for my next car....I LOVE them! I'm trying to talk Billy into getting one sooner rather than later but am failing because I don't have a car payment now so it's proving to be difficult to get him on board. Who has one and wants to give me some great reasons why we need one so I can try to convince him? What do you confess? Tell me one confession in the comments!!
It's been wayyy too long since I've shared some of my favorite kids products, toys, etc. that I've come across, so I figured I would do a whole post with all of mine (and Camden's!) current favorites at 16 months old. I'm pretty much a pro at this topic since I'm not a minimalist by any means and love finding things that make our days easier, more fun, or that occupy Cam longer than 3 minutes.
I really hesitate to say that life is easier with a toddler than a baby because I know with kids everything is just a stage and tomorrow it could all change, but for us parenting has become a lot easier ever since Camden turned a year old. Kids at this age are able to communicate their needs more, you as a parent have become more knowledgeable and gained valuable experience, and you don't have to worry about breastfeeding, giving bottles, or spending time fixing purees. Our days just started flowing so much better as he's gotten older and are much simpler. Trust me, I know it won't always be this way!
All of these things I'm about to talk about get DAILY use in our household or are items that once we're out of I immediately stock back up on.
Let's see what made the cut and why...
Nuby Flexi-Straw Cup: When we transitioned to cups from bottles, I tried like 12 different ones because Cam was pretty picky. It's incredible how many leak and are impossible to clean! This one is literally the best I've tried...easy to clean, doesn't leak, has a slim body so baby can grip it easy, and the straw promotes better oral motor development (I do own some spout cups to use on the go but when we're at home I only use straw for this reason.)
Shea Moisture Kids Detangler: If you're looking for a great line of kids hair products, you'll want to give this a try. The detangler is awesome to use in between shampoos and to use on bedhead. Cam's hair is getting longer and longer (and even wavy/curly too), so this is a great product for us. I love it!
Melissa & Doug Wooden Farm Puzzle: An excellent starter puzzle thanks to the thick, chunky, and bright pieces. Great way to teach farm animals and shapes.
'My Truck Is Stuck' Book: Cam is OBSESSED with this book and so am I! It's a fun read as it rhymes and is really colorful.
Babies R Us Lightweight Stroller: I keep this one in my trunk to use for errands, the park, the mall, doctors appointments, etc. It's really compact and lightweight. My only complaint is that since it's so lightweight it'll tip over when my diaper bag hangs from the handles, if Camden isn't in it at the time. We use this all the time and it's less than $20.
Old Navy Coastal Sleep Set: Old Navy's sleep sets are where it's at...adorable prints, comfy, and fit him really well. This coastal set is even cuter on and perfect for summer.
Enfamil Poly-Vi-Sol Multivitamin With Iron: My pediatrician recommended this multivitamin for us at his recent appointment. It's in liquid form so it's easy to use. The color is darker so I normally have to wipe Cam's lips off after I give this to him, but I really like it overall.
Radio Flyer Wagon: Oh gosh, I can't recommend a wagon enough. As Cam has gotten older, sometimes he doesn't want to be strapped into our BOB stroller for walks and such. The wagon is so much easier and he loves riding in it! We use this for walks and I also bring it to the zoo. I actually just got a little decal for the side of it that says "the Krysh boys" and I kind of love it.
Skip Hop Diaper Backpack: I've only had this for a few weeks but wish I would've switched to it sooner!! Arms free, easy to clean, spacious, lots of pockets. You need this bag in your life.
Old Navy Earth Sandal: A sandal that is super cute AND stays on? Perfect. Love these little sandals!
CoolIt Cooling Dish: Does your little hate waiting for food to cool off? Here's your solution. It does exactly what it's supposed to...cools hot food fast and keeps ice cream/other cold treats colder longer. Made without BPA and is dishwasher safe!
Kids Crocs: Absolutely love these for the warmer months for the pool, playing outside, pretty much anything.
Johnson's Hand & Face Wipes: I buy these in bulk because I go through them so quickly. I keep a pack in our diaper bag, in the car, and in our kitchen.
Bento Box Food Storage Container: Use this for Cam's lunch when he goes to the nanny - it has five compartments to keep food separate and fits perfectly in his monogrammed lunchbox. I had a much smaller one before this and he quickly ate his way out of it. This one will last him for awhile because it's deep and can hold a lot of food. Top rack dishwasher safe. (Pottery Barn has free shipping right now!)
First 100 Words Board Book Set: I can't recommend these books enough. I know that Camden learned a few of his first words and animals because of them! He is constantly choosing these books for me to read to him and he will also look through them on his own when he is playing. If you scroll down on the link, you can select to buy all 3 books together for only $13.
There we have it! For those of you with a toddler(s), have you used any of these?
The cutest cards and stationary from Trop Mignon Paper Co. I can't even pick a favorite because I love all of them...but I'm partial to the BFF wine friendship card (perfect for support, a quick thank you, anything really!), the cute baby shower card, or the cheese one. Because well, cheese is in fact the best. And the best part is you can't find any of these at Target - nope, way cuter. The "stuff to do" notepad is magnetic, so it's front and center on our refrigerator.
Garnier's Micellar Cleansing Water! I read a lot of reviews about micellar waters and this one seemed to be a favorite. I don't like over washing my face, so it's nice to use this in the morning because it gives me an instant refresh and makes my skin super clean. I also use it to remove makeup...it's gentle but does a great job. Will definitely buy it again!
-THREE-
Valentine's Day clothes for Cam...too much cuteness! I got both of these from Carters recently for 40% off...the 'heart breaker' sweatshirt comes with navy pants and I can't wait to see him in these and to snap some pics (of course.)
-FOUR-
The best prenatal vitamins! During my first pregnancy, I just took the gummy prenatals but noticed iron and other essential vitamins were missing. This time around, I don't have to worry about that because everything I need is in my Hotze prenatal pak! Inside this box (which I keep on my counter because it's an easy reminder to take them) is a roll of individually wrapped packets with the pills inside - you take one packet for breakfast and one at lunch. They don't make me feel sick (like some prenatals can) and I know that baby (and me) are getting all the right nutrients we need on a daily basis! *if you're expecting-use code MOMMY20 for $20.00 off!*
-FIVE-
One of the first products I knew I wanted when we found out we were pregnant again - a CoveredGoods! I first saw it used as a cover on infant car seats and LOVED the look/design of it. Then I got online and found out it's actually a four-in-one cover! You can use it as a nursing cover, wear as a scarf, a shopping cart cover (genius), and also for the carseat cover. I got this one (grey/ivory stripe) since it's gender neutral and will go with a lot of my outfits when I wear it as a scarf!
Happy Monday friends! I've got a whole round-up of posts coming at you this week!
Hey there, Monday! How was the time change transition for everyone?
I was actually worried and thought it would throw Cam's sleeping off, but it hasn't seemed to affect him much and he's continued to sleep through the night like a champ!!
Today I wanted to feature my favorite baby items that have made my life so much easier these past (almost) 8 weeks! I still plan on highlighting some separately and going into more detail about them, but I wanted to have a post with all of them in one place too. Here's some more specifics about the ones you might have questions about--
I got the Ergo 360 baby carrier for when he is a little bit older, but the Solly Baby Wrap is by far the best one to start with when baby is really little. It's lightweight, soft, and comes in really cute colors. We watched a YouTube tutorial on how to use it which was really helpful! It's really easy to put on once you get the hang of it. As for swaddle blankets...Cam loves to be swaddled-some babies do and some don't. We like to use the swaddle blankets during the day, and at night we use the zipper sleep sacks because they are quicker and easier. The Boon Lawn drying rack was a gift we got that I was unsure if we really "needed", but I'm SO glad we kept it. It's nice to have a place for all our bottles and my pump parts to call home, plus it looks cute so you can leave it out all the time.
**Two other random tips: Believe it or not, we have yet to use our changing table in his nursery! We've found it's much easier changing him on the floor (we use a mat but you could also just use a changing pad), especially during the night. During the day for our downtstairs, we use the 4Moms Breeze pack and play (another fav!) to change him on. Lastly, if you plan to pump at all (even if you don't right away) I would recommend stocking up on extra pump parts!
Overall, each one of these items I featured have been LIFESAVERS for us. I'm talking so much so that if we lost one I would literally stop what I was doing to run out and get it again.
I hope this list helps if you're currently pregnant (maybe for future use too?) or are looking for a baby shower gift!
PS: Interested in a BOB stroller? From March 7-20, purchase any BOB jogging stroller at participating U.S. retailers and receive a retailer gift card or promotion code worth up to $30 (with the purchase of a single stroller) or up to $50 (with the purchase of a DUALLIE® stroller).
I've been kind of prepping my makeup bag these past few months for life with a
baby. I keep hearing all about the importance of investing in good products (that
you know get the job done!), and since makeup isn't something I normally splurge on, I've found some great go-to items recently that I know I'll be using
often. I'm sure I won't have much time to spend on makeup, so I want the
products I'm using to be effective.
Most of these products are ones that I tried sample sizes of first and that are consistently bestsellers at Sephora. Since they are known as a bestseller, this gives me a pretty good indication that they are awesome and popular for good reason! I figured I would combine my recent loves into my first gift guide for the season. I plan to do a few more gift guides in the next few weeks, but just not as many as I did last year. I hope they help with your holiday shopping lists!
+For Your Lashes: This Lights, Camera, Flashes Tarte Mascara I received a sample size of and instantly fell in love and knew I needed to buy the whole tube. I've never used a mascara that separates every single eyelash as well as this one, and it gives my lashes great volume. Honestly, I like it more than Benefit's "They're Real!" which says a lot because that one is pretty awesome too.
+For Your Face:Laura Mercier's Silk Creme Foundation is one that I've noticed a lot of celebrities using and raving about. It gives that perfect airbrush look, but since the price tag is a little higher I put off trying it. I wish I hadn't because it's awesome. I plan to only use it on the weekends or for special occasions to make the tube last longer! It's worth trying if you haven't yet. If you aren't a fan of liquid foundation, I'm going to preach to you about Tarte's Amazonian Clay Foundation for about the 5th time in the past few months. You will NOT regret trying this! Such an upgrade from Bare Minerals. (I use the medium beige)
+For Your Eyes: The go-to eye shadow that everyone was adding to their Christmas wishlists in previous years have always been the Naked palette's. Too Faced's Chocolate Bar is a fierce competitor and is the new hot one to try. It has 16 matte and shimmer shades and is even scented with real chocolate. Who hates that?
+For Your Brows: I was one of those girls who never really thought I needed to fill in my brows (just another product, right? wrong!) UNTIL my sister in law let me try Benefit's Gimme Brow gel. It is SO easy to use and really makes my brows stand out. I can't recommend it enough (I use the light/medium tube)
+For Your Lips: If you're not a big fan of the traditional lipsticks and want something that is a gloss, lipstick, and stain combined you'll LOVE Too Faced's Melted Lipstick. I, for one, can't stand lipsticks normally but this is the perfect combination and comes in the prettiest shades for the holidays! (love the Melted Berry shade) Another favorite is Dior's Addict Lip Glow, that enhances your natural lip color and protects at the same time. I love it because it goes on so silky, looks natural, and is great for everyday use!
+For Your Nails: The best time to have festive nails is during the holidays! Deborah Lippmann 'Ruby Red Slippers' shade is gorgeous, fun, and long lasting (mine chip all.the.time)
What's on your wishlist or in your makeup bag recently?
(or you know, also known as the currently posts...)
Watching: Bachelorette...what else? My favorite guys for Andi are Josh and Chris. Josh and Andi's connection seems effortless, and I adore his sense of humor (the bird clip-hilarious!). Chris is just an all around great guy it seems. I used to really like Marcus, but he's coming off as too cheesy now and spitting out all the I'm falling in love with you's so soon. (oh, and I can't believe she gave Marquel the boot! I really liked him!)
Recommending: this amaze hair growth treatment.
If your hair is having trouble growing past a certain length, this is
for you! I'm 110% obsessed with this stuff and saw results halfway
through this container. Another will be purchased when I run out!
Wanting these to show up on my doorstep: Funny you should ask!this dress (print is amazing, no?), these gold sandals, this adorable phone case, and this workout tank (in all colors, please and thanks..)
Loving: Wrenn Jewelry! I have been looking for chic pieces like this for a while and I could not love or recommend this shop anymore. Timeless and chic (and so many different stones and styles you can pick from!) They have a customer for life right here!
Using My: Pineapple beach towel + striped tote the most these days for the pool and running errands. Hint hint...both are now on sale! (get 40% off the tote with code "thanks")
Craving: this green smoothie (pineapple + spinach = so good!!) that I get from my gym...I've been getting it nearly every time I'm there after a workout. #hooked
Telling you to: not forget about Bath and Body Works / VS semi-annual sale going on NOW!! Go stock up on your favorites, ladies! (for me this means the Citron Cedarwood 3wick candle...I could buy 20 of them and it wouldn't be enough! Can you say obsessed?)
Looking forward to: this entire summer, but I'll start with this weekend and next week first. Billy has a bachelor party all weekend, so I've made some fun plans with girlfriends and plan to get a lot done around our house. A mani/pedi might somehow sneak it's way into those plans as well...I can't be too sure ;) Next week we have some fun things planned as well! Gotta love the summertime (that is officially Saturday and the heat around here has definitely let us know about it-not complaining at all, it's been wonderful)
After that? We have two weddings back to back the first two weekends in July (that me and Billy are both in!) Wedding season has official begun, folks.
Happy Tuesday, everyone!
Share your recent favorites (or shopping damage) with me!
It is SO nice to find skincare products that work for you after searching and searching and searching, isn't it? These are all organic products from Organaca that I've switched to using recently. They have completely changed my skincare regimen for the better, therefore it's only fair that I share them with you. This post isn't sponsored, it's just honestly how much I love them!
I'm a big fan of using quality organic and natural skin care products. My face has never looked (and felt) better and I can 110% thank these products for this. Organaca has many quality skincare brands and products you can pick from (including makeup, too!) depending on your skin type, but these are my favorites.
Since my face can be oily, after I wash my face every morning I use Dr. Hauschka Normalizing Day Oil. At first I was skeptical about putting oil on my face (I'm trying to get away from that, right?) but now I am so glad that I do. After just a week or so of using I've noticed my face is less oily throughout the day. I mean, it's a pretty big difference. After that, I use my holy grail moisturizer, Dr. Hauschka Moisturizing Day Cream, as a base for my makeup. I cannot say enough good things about this moisturizer (!!). The second I put it on, my skin feels "awake" and leaves a perfect glow. It's light, balances oil production, and leaves the skin looking enlivened. If you try one thing from this list, try this. I use the Suki Eye Repair Balm at night all around my eyes. This eye balm is a preventative to stop signs of aging, minimizes fine lines and wrinkles, and hydrates the skin. If you are in need of a good eye balm, this is your solution.
Just like our bodies often need a good detox (cough cough..mine), our skin does as well. Next on my list is to try this Suki 21 Day Dermal Detox Kit. I think this would be a good option for those of you who want to try organic products but aren't sure which ones to get. Also, you can't go wrong with any of Dr. Hauschka's products. *get 10% off by becoming an Organaca FB fan or by signing up for their emails.
Last but not least, Brownberry's Sunless Tanning Spray is my go-to for the winter months if I don't want to resemble one of the Cullen's from Twilight. It is enriched with VitaminD3, super easy to use, paraben free, and I have a natural glow within a couple hours or by the next morning. I spray it all over my body, let sit for 5 minutes before dressing, and the tan stays for about 3 days. I just recommend standing on an old towel or something so that it doesn't get on your floor. You don't have to worry about it being greasy or turning you orange either. Does it smell? No. Does it stain your clothes or sheets? Negative.
Have you tried any organic skincare products before?
