Hump Day

School Starts in less than three weeks and our mornings will no longer be filled with laziness. They will however be filled with many more matching headband days like today. I'm loving making these knotted t-shirt headbands. What I love even more is that Maggie keeps them on. She thinks it's pretty silly when she sees we are wearing the same thing. I think I look pretty silly in this picture period. I tried so hard to get her to take a fun selfie but this was the best I could do. 

Lately we are spending more time upstairs playing in Maggie's room, pulling every stuffed animal and book out of their shelves, and attempting to put on every pair of pants in her dresser. She is all about trying to dress herself lately. I think we are going to be in trouble before too long. 

Wednesdays get even more exciting when packages come. I took advantage of some major JCrew Factory sales and stocked up on some Fall necessities. I am soo looking forward to rocking these with my favorite Boots. I'm so in love with the Jewelry tray. I can finally take my most frequently worn jewelry out of the tupperware container it has been housed in. 

We have had thunderstorm overload this week and I have been loving it. This is what every evening has looked like for the last several days. Doesn't get much better than this. 

Here is the best part. A successful test kitchen run in the middle of the week?....My work here is done. 

This was so easy and delicious, and it looked like I slaved for hours. Triple Win!

Here is what you need:

1 Roll of refrigerated crescent rolls. ( I used generic brand but wished I had used Pillsbury. FYI). 

1/2 a Bag of Frozen Meatballs

1/3 of a Jar of Spaghetti Sauce

1 can of Diced Tomatoes (mine had onions and garlic in them). 

About 1 cup of mixed cheeses. Anything will do really. I used Italian Blend, Parm, and Colby/Mont Jack. 

Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Italian Seasoning, Dried Parsley, and Pepper. 

Baking Stone. I used my Pampered Chef Stoneware Baking Sheet. 

Thaw your Meatballs out in a strainer with some hot water. No need to cook them. 

Roll your Crescent dough out into a rectangle. 

In a bowl, put your meatballs, can of tomatoes and about 1-2 cups of spaghetti sauce. 

Mix together and pour down the center of your crescent dough. 

Sprinkle with Garlic pwdr, Onion Pwdr, Pepper and Cheeses. 

Next take a pizza cutter or a knife and cut the excess crescent dough on a diagonal until you reach the filling. Pull the dough over the top, alternating sides to create a braided look. 

Top with Parsley and Italian Seasoning. 

Bake @ 375* for about 18-22 minutes, until brown and and no longer doughy to the touch. 

Makes about 6 servings. Don't worry, the brown was just the juices that browned onto the stone. It was perfectly flaky, buttery and delicious. 

Happy Hump Day. 

J Crew Factory Wishlist

I can't believe that it's already time to start back to school shopping. I feel like Summer has flown by and my absolute favorite time of year is right around the corner. As I made my way through J Crew's Factory site the other day I couldn't help but put together a few of my favorite pieces to add to my wish list for both myself and Maggie. I am especially looking forward to some Mommy and Little matching outfits with the camo and chambray. 

Here is the best news....take an additional 30% off new arrivals. Hurry before the sale ends. 

Thursday Loves: Beauty Products

I'm always on the hunt for new and inexpensive beauty products, that also deliver amazing results. I also believe that some products are worth spending a little extra money on. I wanted to give a quick run through of my daily use products that I absolutely LOVE and to let everyone know where they can find them to try them out as well. 

Aquaphor: This is an intense moisturizer that I use everywhere, cracked heels, chapped lips, eczema patches, even stretch marks. This stuff is amazing, and can literally be found anywhere. It's made by Eucerin which is a company devoted to products specifically made for eczema and I love it. They also make Baby Aquaphor which I consider to be a MUST HAVE for newborns dry skin. I didn't even buy lotion for Maggie when she was born, I just used this stuff.

Denman Hair Brush: This brush has been a recent purchase for me, but something that I have wanted for a while. I have the slightest natural curl to my hair and attempting to get it perfectly straight and keep it from getting really Staticky during the day was next to impossible...until this guy. The coated bristles are embedded in rubber and treat the static as you brush through it. The brush is also really heavy and the weight of it helps make your hair extra straight while blow drying.

Elf Brushes: I cannot justify spending loads of money on makeup brushes after trying out Elf's Studio line of Makeup Brushes. These are an absolute must in my daily makeup routine. I use the large Stipple brush for applying my foundation and it gives it the most flawless application. I use the small stipple brush as my blush brush and it applies the color so well, and I use the powder brush to apply my setting powder. I don't think I spend more than $5-6 dollars a piece for each of these. GET THEM. You won't be disappointed.

Elf High Def. Powder: The Best Translucent Powder out there...and get this. It's only $6.00! Enough Said.

Physicians Formula Happy Boosting Blush: I am the pickiest person when it comes to blush. I have such pale skin that softer, more raspberry pinks are the only colors that I can pull off. However all other brands with this color never really last all day and I was constantly reapplying. This stuff however is the complete opposite. I put it on with my Elf Small Stipple Brush and it lasts ALL DAY! I LOVE IT.

Mac Studio Finish Concealer: This is product I have to admit I would go cheap on until recently. A Friend had me try her Mac concealer and immediately I was hooked. Chasing a 14 month old I admit there are many days that makeup doesn't done, but sometimes a quick trip to the grocery store is required. A little dab of this under the eyes and any red areas, and some chapstick and i'm out the door with flawless looking skin. I use color NC15.

Moroccan Oil: You have probably seen many duplicates of this item in the drug stores and beauty supplies labeled as argan oil, etc., but nothing beats the real thing, trust me I've tried the others and there is a difference. Nothing makes your day two hair look as good as day one as this stuff. Taming frizz, static and flyways and it smells amazing without leaving your greasy or oily. It also gives amazing shine and a little goes a long way.

NYX Hi Def. Photo Concealer: I consider this to be my brightening and contouring staple. I buy it in porcelain and use it for under eye brightening. It's awesome and only about $5.00.

Brazillian Blowout Thermal Straightening Balm: Remember my slightly curly hair that I mentioned. Well mix the Denman Brush with this stuff and you will have yourself the most perfect blowout ever. A pea sized amount of this, and I emphasize "PEA SIZED", otherwise your head will be giant grease ball. Rub it all through your damp hair focusing mainly on the ends and about half way up the hair shaft. It's formulated to cut drying time and offer a straighter result to naturally curly hair. Seriously I cannot live without this stuff. I use it Everytime I blow-dry for probably the last 6 months and I have only used about a tablespoon of product because it requires so little product. I love products that make the most of my money.

Jergens Natural Glow Moisturizer: I have been blessed with two very unfortunate genes, Pale Skin, and extreme susceptibility to Skin Cancer ( Grandmother died of Melanoma, and many family members have had moles and small skin cancer spots removed). Needless to say, sun tanning is not for me, but I still yearn for that perfect summer glow. Natural Glow is right up my alley. I have used this for years. I usually start in April and carry it through October or what I like to refer to as "Leg Shaving Season". Start Gradually, applying every other day to avoid over applying in certain areas. Once you have achieved your desired color, you only need to apply once-twice a week. Use it sparingly around your knees, ankles and feet but make sure to blend well to avoid streaks and make sure to WASH YOUR HANDS when you are done.

Beauty Blending Sponge: This is my go to for blending in my NYX Concealer under my eyes. These sponges are great to have on hand and give your makeup that flawless, professional finish.

Cover Girl BB Cream: To say that I have tried many BB creams would be an understatement. It's probably close to about a dozen different ones. I had the mentality that the more expensive ones were going to be a better quality and match my skin tone better. Not True. After failing to find one that really matched my skin, I decided to just buy an intensive one and give it one last try. Success. This has been my daily go-to moisturizer/sunblock. I put this on daily in the summer, even under my foundation because we spend so much time outside. On my no makeup days, it goes on in 10 seconds flat and still gives my skin the SPF and moisturizer it needs daily.


I hope you give these products a try. Comment and let me know your thoughts on any of them and let us know what some of your favorite beauty products are.

Happy Thursday (And Happy 24th of July if you're in Utah)

XO: Kelli

Weekend Recap

Friday, Grant and I celebrated 6 years of Wedded Bliss (Universal Applause)....cause 6 years is BIG! 6 years of Happy and Still in Love is even BIGGER! Due to unfortunate circumstances on our One Year Anniversary (Grant deployed to Afghanistan the following day) we weren't able to celebrate as we had hoped. Our Air Conditioning was not working and we were dying to get out of our 90 degree house and our minds off of the year ahead. We pretty much decided to go out to eat at the next place we saw a  commercial for...It was Red Lobster. We decided then that we would make it our Traditional Anniversary Dinner and we would only be allowed to eat there on our Anniversary, and no other time during the year. So Friday we carried out Tradition and had us a night on the town. Okay we really just ate dinner and then went home, but we were still without the Wee Maggie so it counted. 

I of course had to rock my Anniversary Wardrobe. 

T-Shirt and Necklace: Here/ Diaper Bag/Purse: Here 

We tackled a project that has taken us, ahem...5 years to complete. We could never agree on how to landscape this side of our yard and we hummed and hawed over it every year trying to decide what would be best for it. Finally we both just agreed that we wanted it done and fast and with as minimal work as possible. So we finalized on this. 

This ham has been such a character the last few days. She has taken it upon herself to help me out each morning by removing her diaper and throwing it across the room. At what point it comes off I don't know, somewhere in the 20-30 minutes of deadly silence she gives after she wakes and we don't know it, but out of 5-6 times we have only had one accident. I'm hoping it's a sign of early potty training.  She also walks around the house now mimicking any sound she can with a gurgling growl. The toilet flushes....grohgaohlhs, the vacuum turns on...grarohaaouhs, dogs bark....ghrouahgoush, it's great fun. She popped her top right tooth through on Sunday. I only knew she was teething because she took a 4 hour nap, no swelling, no fever, no drooling baby. We really lucked out. Saturday she decided to chill on the couch and watch Clifford while drinking her milk. She never sits still like that so I had to document. 

After 14 months of making, buying and deciding, I finally today put the finishing touches on her room. I never really felt happy with the completed project when she was first born, so I have since been looking for just the right touches to finish decorating it. I will be posting a room tour and product list soon. 

Happy Hump Day!

XO: Kelli

Wednesday Wish LIst

I have been loving any makeup product that gives that highlighted glow. I have been wanting to try both of these NYX products. The Illuminating Powder found Here and the Liquid Illuminator also found here. 

I'm in love with bright colors for Summer and these Essie Polishes are the perfect addition to add to my collection, while still being rich enough to carry into fall. 

I am on a Turquoise kick for decorating lately and I fell in love with this Houzz Turquoise and Gold Heart Pillow (also available in other colors). 

I'm all about comfort this Summer and simple and fun T's fit the bill perfectly. This Hello Anchor T is must have for simple jeans and top knot day....which is pretty much everyday. 

Am I crazy because I have never owned Clinique Happy? Perhaps, but that is why it is finally making my wish list. 

These Mason Jar drinking glasses are awesome, found here and here. I actually found some similar to these that are more of the Melamine (spelling?) plastic material, which means in the hands of a 14 month old, they are indestructible. We use them all the time for our morning green smoothies. 

Lastly cute running Nike sneakers are a must. They are cute enough to pair with non-workout outfits, but still make working out fun and fashionable. 

Happy Wednesday

XO-Kelli

Summer Getaway

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We're gearing up for our Summer Trip to Lake Mead, and after many trips to the pools and Splash Pads   already, I have quickly learned what my Summer Must Haves items are. 

1. There's this little known fact that babies wreak havoc on your body. For this reason I have yet to flaunt my one year post partum body in a bikini. I was not blessed with the "no stretch marks" gene, so I'm all about swimsuits that conceal and camouflage. I fell in love with these tankini tops with how long and fitted they are. I actually feel extremely confident in them. Fortunately I found mine at trunk shows at our local Costcos so I was able to purchase just the tops, and instead pairing them with my number 5 favorite, Nike compression shorts.

2. Staying hydrated is key. Maggie is still getting used to this whole "I have to drink water constantly in the Summer" thing. I found that by mixing half flavored propel with half regular water in her sippie cups, she guzzles it of her own free will. I also love that you can literally find this stuff anywhere, and that it's filled with all sorts of electrolytes to help ward off dehydration.

3. Trucker hats are essential Summer wardrobe must have, especially for the beach or lake. It offer sun protection, while still keeping sweaty hair at bay with the mesh back...and as an added bonus they make those bad hair days adorable.

4. I have tried sooooo many different BB creams trying to find one that matched my very pale, fair skin.   Their lightest shades were still much to dark for my skin tone and always left those awful demarkation lines. I finally decided I had spent enough and decided to opt for a cheap drugstore option, CoverGirl BB Sunscreen and Moisturizer. I LOVE IT! It matches my skin perfectly and when it's practically all I wear in the Summer, I like that it's inexpensive because I go through it so fast.

5. Oh my fabulous Nike compression shorts, how I love you. You are the perfect item to hide those unsightly, still fading stretch marks on my inner thighs, while still giving my swim suit a fashionable approach.

6. So if you plan on spending any time around water this Summer, you must invest in a waterproof beach bag. They are perfect for keeping your towels dry and your phone free of unwanted splashes. They also make searching for your sunscreen easy since you can see where everything is placed.

7. There are so many swim coverups to choose from. I also try and opt for something black cause it's not only figure flattering, but neutral and can accompany every type and color of swim suit.

8. Help protect yourself and your littles from those damaging sun rays with an easily assembled beach umbrella. I love my Tommy Bahama 7ft. umbrella. It fits perfectly in our car to keep with us at all times, for those unplanned stops at the splash pad. You can find on Amazon. I found mine at our local Costco.

9. Sunscreen is a must, no matter who you are. Unfortunately we are highly susceptible to skin cancer in my family, so I make sure invest in something that can be easily applied frequently, and still over great UV coverage. I love Coppertone Sport. It's not greasy, and stays on through sweat and water.

10. You might have seen in my previous posts how much I love straw Fedoras. They are such an easily worn fashion accessory, and can be worn with swimwear or even just shorts and a cute tee. I love mine and wear it all the time when out in the sun.

I can't wait to post about our Lake Mead Trip soon. 

Hurry and get your hands on some of these items and start enjoying Summer!!! 

XO: Kelli

Patriotic Summer

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My favorite time is year is fast approaching and that means it's time to bring on those Red, White and Blue fashions. Starting the first weekend in June, Utah Valley is flooded with City Festivals, Carnivals, Parades and Fireworks, all the way to the beginning of August. 4th of July Fashions are my absolute favorite for Myself and for Kids. Take a peek at some of these fun pieces I have found to help show your Patriotism this summer as you celebrate in style. 

XO

Kelli

Splurge vs. Steal: Summer Trends

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This Summers trends are all about Bright, Neon Colors and Metallics. Hair and Makeup is all about those simple beach waves and natural skin. Check out these fun finds that will make you Summer ready. Whether you want to spend a lot, or a little you are sure to be a trend setter.

Happy Wednesday.

xo
Kelli