Growing up, my family was traditional in the sense that every Christmas we picked out our tree, scattered ornaments around the floor, and discussed (and fought over) which ornament went where—and who got to hang the angel. We drove through neighborhoods strung with lights and with Santas flying over chimneys and voted on which house we loved the most that year. We did the obligatory smile-for-the-camera Christmas photos, but that
Read MoreDIY Wrapping Paper
There are always a million things to do during the holidays. No matter how prepped I think I am, it feels as though an entire year of to-dos get crammed into these two weeks. That’s why I love finding activities that can check off a few boxes at the same time. This year, the kids and I decided to channel our inner Van Gogh and make DIY wrapping paper. I
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Holiday Looks From Reformation
I love a holiday party. (Though if I’m being totally honest, I’d prefer to skip big holiday bashes. Small, intimate parties are more my jam.) Since I wear mostly jeans and T-shirts in my everyday life, I’m happy for any excuse to get dressed up. Breaking out a sexy dress, fancy jewelry, and sky-high heels? Yes, please! One of my favorite brands for holiday looks is Reformation. Their silhouettes are always
Read MoreHoliday Gift Guide
Christmas is less than two weeks away! (How did that happen?!) If you’re feeling behind on your shopping, you’re in luck! I have compiled a holiday gift guide full of things I love or have on my Santa list, as well as items I think men or kids will love. Even better: These gifts start at $15, so you’ll find plenty of steals as well as splurges. Keep reading for
Read MoreGluten Free Christmas Cookies
There’s nothing the kids and I love more than turning on some holiday tunes and getting silly while making and decorating Christmas cookies. But that’s gotten a bit trickier to do since I’ve gone gluten free. So, I asked my friend and cookie connoisseur Lindsey Johnson (check out her Instagram @ladyinthewildwest) for ideas. She was sweet enough to share this holiday cookie recipe that is both gorgeous and gluten free! The
Read MoreA Conversation About Food, Family & Sustainability with Candace Nelson
Conversations with friends are one of those simple, soul-nourishing activities I could do for hours and my recent conversation with Candace Nelson was further proof. You might know Candace as the founder of the tremendously successful Sprinkles Cupcakes (now in over 24 locations!) or her TV appearances on shows like Cupcake Wars and Sugar Rush. She’s also helped me make her ultimate vanilla cupcakes and delicious gluten-free granola bars during
Read MoreHow to Stay Healthy (and Sane!) This Holiday Season
I was looking through old pictures from last year and came across this one where I look like a reindeer in headlights. I was dealing with a severe cold, my daughter had just had her hair ripped out by a runaway vacuum (yep, it really happened), and both boys got a stomach bug. We’d hardly started the holidays and I could barely keep up. This year, I’m hoping things go
Read More12.19: What’s On My Nightstand
As I mentioned last month, I’ve noticed that what’s on my nightstand is a perfect reflection of how I’m feeling and what I’m focusing on. This month, it’s all about reflection and self-care. The holidays always get me a little frazzled. I want to savor the last days of the year, but between all the shopping, holiday functions, the kids’ breaks from school, and trying to manage the blog, I
Read MoreAustin Gem: Lake Austin Spa Resort
The city I call home is lucky to have a world-class spa right in it’s backyard. Lake Austin Spa Resort is consistently rated one of the best spas in the world—and for good reason. The 19-acre lake-front property is blissfully peaceful, offers more than 100 spa treatments, and is the perfect place to relax and recharge alone, as a couple, or in a group. Jared and I have escaped to
Read MoreSpread a little love: 5 charities to support this Giving Tuesday
‘Tis the season of giving and there’s no better way to celebrate the true meaning of the season than to support the charities that make this world a better place. Today marks the 8th annual Giving Tuesday. It’s a global generosity movement that encourages everyone to take a break from buying things and instead help others through the gift of our time, donations, goods or our voices. No act of giving is
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