TRENDY SANDALS FOR SPRING + SUMMER [UNDER $100!]

#TGIF! What are your plans for this weekend? The bf and I talked about going to a soccer game Saturday night but we usually just grab takeout + watch movies. Also I know the time change isn't for a few more weeks but I swear it already feels like it's light out for longer? That and this nice weather is putting me in full on Spring mode. I've been look at all the new clothing + accessories hitting the market and there are SO many good sandals out this year. Here are the ones I have my eye on! 

NEW SPRING + SUMMER SANDALS

1. Universal Thread Kara Faux Fur Slides - The fur slide trend continues! I really like this pair-- I think the design has improved a lot from previous years. Both the shoe + the fur strap seem to be smaller + more narrow which looks more flattering. Also really digging this brown shade (comes in black too) and that the fur isn't too shaggy.

2. Steve Madden Skyler - Okay I was so excited to see Steve Madden put out this new version of their infamous studded sandal. Last year, the ankle strap style was always sold out so I never ended up ordering. This year's new version is a slide style with a square toe. It also comes in clear with crystals which I also like... trying to decide which one I should order? Let me know what you think. They also brought back the ankle strap one here + one with pearls here. 

3. Steve Madden Marina - The braided shoe is super on trend for this spring. These look very similar to Bottega Veneta designs but are way more affordable at under $80. They have a vintage vibe to me and are definitely a unique statement. I'll link them here so you can see the different color options.

4. Steve Madden Damaris Slide - These are another Bottega inspired design-- peep this $800 version. The Steve Madden version look identical and are under $60 which is amazing. If you want to save even more, Target has this pair for $19.99! Comes in black + nude. 

5. Steve Madden Chrishelle - These are so fun! I love how big and flashy the stones are, they remind me of a disco ball. Available here in a black + gold combo too which I really like. Which is your fave? 

6. Steve Madden Leandra - Love love love these. Do you guys like the clear/see-through sandals? I have fair skin so I always feel like they wouldn't look as good on me as someone who is tan? I'm debating on ordering...I think the mixed stones + rhinestone border is so cool and edgy!

7. Steve Madden Brielle - Okay these are fab!! Loving that everything is embellished this season but it also makes it so hard to pick a favorite. I love that the stones on this pair has an iridescent coloring to them- so so pretty!

8. A New Day Tafia Stud Slides - These are a gem for under $20! Very edgy but still easy to throw on + go. I like the pop of snake print with the studs. 

9. Adidas Adilette Comfort Slides - BUYING! I never jumped back on the Adidas slides when the OG black + white ones came back in style but these!! I need an easy pair to throw on with leggings, shorts, etc. and these look a little bit nicer but are still casual. Very affordable here + several color options. Thinking of getting the leopard pair too! 

Okay if you could only pick ONE, which pair would it be? Comment down below!! I can't decide, I want them all haha. Have a great weekend!!

xx,

Kristen

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I love sharing my essentials with you all! Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :)

EDGY + CASUAL EVERYDAY LOOK #OOTD

JACKET [old Free People-- similar Levi's one here!] | TEE [wearing size medium] | LEGGINGS [wearing a small] | SUNGLASSES [Gucci - similar here + here] | SNEAKS | NECKLACE 

OUTFIT DETAILS 

The weather today was SO nice, you guys! I'll take sunny + 65 any day of the week. I think the next few days are also suppose to be nice but then all rain next week. I was feeling edgy + into my band groupie vibes today so I thought I'd share my #OOTD! This one is super casual and a cute bum-day look.

How cool is this graphic tee from EllandEmm? Her designs are so so good! I picked up this Poison Tee because it's basically a band tee except it's not a band tee, haha! Anyone else love old '80's rock music? I wish I grew up in the '70s-'80s! I was jamming out to some '80s on my IG stories today-- never gets old. Definitely check out her shop for the best graphics. Also I love the tee but I'm NOT a snake person-- I don't wanna see any in real life! Lol 😜 I'm bummed that Free People doesn't sell this denim jacket anymore because it's one of my favorites. I've had it for years + love the sweatshirt sleeves/hood. They have a ton of other styles I'll link here but I also found this one from Levi's that looks identical. It's also a lot cheaper than Free people and gets great reviews. 

I've been wearing the fire out of my faux leather leggings on here recently but they go with so much! It still amazes me every time how comfy they really are. You'd think the material and being form fitting would be suffocating but they feel like you have nothing on. Linking them here-- definitely a staple. You know Brett Michaels owns a pair! Still wearing the chucks + my fave star necklace. I actually switched up my glasses for a change, though! They're a little more '70s than they are edgy but I was in the mood for something different. They're old Gucci ones but these + these are similar. 

Would you wear this as an #OOTD? Comment below! 

xx,

Kristen

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I love sharing my essentials with you all! Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :)

HOW I SAVE MONEY SHOPPING

Happy Monday! I thought we'd kick off this week with another money post. I know I'm not the only one out there who loves to shop but also loves to save + have more money. "You know you're an adult when..." Lol 😜 Over the years I've found some easy, small ways to save when I'm spending that can add up big over time. The key for me is easy + hassle-free. I like saving money where I can but I also think it's important to remember you can be a penny wise and a pound foolish. Time is money so just keep it movin'. Also if you happen to be new-- this isn't sponsored or endorsed by anyone except me, hehe. I know money/finance topics can come across as gimmicky but these are tips + tricks that I actually use + have worked for me. Let's get into it! 

You can find me on IG @TheKristenDiary

HOW I SAVE MONEY SHOPPING

EARNING CASH BACK- One of the biggest ways I save + have saved lots of money shopping over the years is by earning cash back. There are several ways you can do this, however I like to use cash back websites + apps. Essentially these are third-party sites that work with different retailers and stores to offer you (the customer) a % of cash back off of your purchase. You can shop at almost anywhere online (and some places in-store) and automatically earn money back on every purchase. The way it works is you log onto the site, select the store you're planning to shop at + then you shop and checkout directly on the store's website. The purchase is tracked by the cash back site + then added to your account. 

There are several sites out there (Rakuten, TopCashback, Mr. Rebates, etc.). I've used a few over the years, however I only really use Rakuten. It's easy, they have tons of stores to choose from + they offer double cash back days/events where you can earn more. Getting paid is super easy too-- they can either send you either a check in the mail or deposit the money directly to a PayPal account. My most recent payment was $75! *PS-- if you look closely at the photo, you can see my lifetime earnings is close to $750! Told you it can add up over time!*

I've been a user for years + signed up all on my own but I do have a referral link if you're interested (not sponsored). If you use my code, you can get $20 back after spending your first $20 anywhere + I'll also get $20! Once you sign-up you also get a referral link so you could invite your friends + family. If you want to use my link, click here. If not, you can google or go to Rakuten.com to sign up :) 

I also like using the Ibotta app to earn cash back for food + groceries. They offer cash back on tons of different grocery items + sometimes do freebies, etc. I also have a referral which I'll link here if you're interested.

TARGET REDCARD- If you love Target as much as I do, you need a Target RedCard! Once again, totally not sponsored. I've personally had one for over five years and absolutely love it. The benefit of signing up is that you get 5% off of every single Target purchase you make in-store or online. I shop at Target weekly + purchase most of my necessity items there so the savings add up fast. The 5% discount is automatically applied at checkout before you pay which also makes things super simple + easy. There are a few other perks that are nice too-- free 2-day shipping on most orders, special birthday/anniversary coupons, etc. I also like that you can sign up for either a Debit Card or a Credit Card. As far as I know, the benefits for either are the same. I personally have the Debit Card which just links to your bank checking account. 

PRICE MATCHING- If I'm shopping at a big box store (usually Target) and another retailer has the same item for cheaper, I'll ask for a price match. A lot of the times online prices are less than in-store so it pays to check + hit up the customer service desk. I know personally that Target will also price match online orders via their chat system which is great. You also still get the extra 5% off if you have the RedCard so it's a win win. 

Also be sure to keep an eye on what you've already bought. If the price goes down or on sale within a few weeks after buying, you usually can get a price adjustment.

BUY MORE, SAVE MORE- Okay I am not someone who buys in "bulk," however I do like a buy more, save more opp when it makes sense. I do this for things that I'm always using-- vitamins, tooth paste, deodorant, etc. A lot of the times Target (they really are the MVP) will do a buy 3, get one free deal or a buy X and get a $5 gift card on certain items. Since I know I'm going to use up 3-4 tubes of tooth paste within the next 8-12 months, I try to take advantage of these deals when they come up. It's also really nice having backups + not having to constantly buy every month or two! 

Sam's Club + Costco also have some great deals + larger quantity packs that can help you save. I always buy my deodorant there in a 3-pack! Be strategic with this one because sometimes it's easy to get sucked into buying more of something that's a great deal when you don't really need or want it. 

Those are just a few easy ways I like to save that have added up over the years! I hope you enjoyed this post-- let me know if I should keep doing more money + finance related content? Have a great week! 

xx,

Kristen

Also read: MONEY MOVES I'M MAKING IN 2021

WINTER WEATHER ESSENTIALS

 So maybe we were a little pre-mature with our spring thinking? It's suppose to be 19 degrees here tomorrow! This weather is crazy crazy. I've been worrying and praying for everyone affected by this winter vortex in the south. Our weather hasn't been too bad here in Tennessee but my heart goes out to Texas + everyone who has lost power. I'm praying they get everything restored quickly + it starts to warm back up! Since we're still dealing with cold temps and having to bundle up, I thought I'd share some of my go-to winter weather essentials. I pull these out every year + pretty much live in them all winter long!

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 

WINTER WEATHER ESSENTIALS

COATS + PULLOVERS

When it's freezing a good coat + pullovers are your best friend. I have one really good winter coat that I love-- this one from The North Face. It's definitely a splurge but is a classic style that will last you for years if you take good care of it. I'm partial to black because it goes with everything but it also comes in a few other colors here. 

I get even more wear out of my pullovers. I have two styles I love- this one from Patagonia and these from Thread & Supply. Most of the time I can get away with throwing one of these on over my top as my outerwear/jacket. They are super warm but not as bulky as a coat. I like that I can wear them around indoors whereas I feel like I have to take my coat off once inside! The fabric of the Patagonia is a little bit lighter weight (but still super warm) whereas the Thread & Supply is a thicker sherpa. 

LEGGINGS

I pretty much wear leggings exclusively during the fall + winter. I have several favorites but the two I think are best for when it's cold out is this Zella pair and this Spanx pair. I stay comfortable in both but the Zella pair is a little bit thicker + maybe a tad warmer. The Spanx pair mold to your skin + feel weightless.

BOOTS

I've honestly never had any other boots or shoes that keep my feet as warm as a pair of Uggs. They are the coziest boots ever! I've been wearing them for so long now that they're a winter staple at this point. I just bought this mini pair in black which are good for the cold but if it's snowy or freezing I always wear this tall style. They keep my legs warm + since I've had them for so long I don't care if they get wet from snow. Similar pair under $40 here!

*I always wear socks with mine + like these. They aren't too thick but keep my feet from sweating (sweat = stinky Uggs!). 

We don't see tons of snow here but if I lived somewhere with a lot I would buy these snow boots. They're more heavy-duty for serious weather! 

ACCESSORIES

These are must-haves when it's really cold + windy. My beanie is old but this style is identical! I love the color. I also have these ear muffs, gloves + an older version of this headband. These are pricey so keep an eye out for a sale. I bought all of mine during the off-season for a lot cheaper!

HOME ESSENTIALS

Okay let's talk about home essentials! These are game-changers + I wouldn't make it through the winter without them. My absolute favorite thing ever is my little space heater. Don't tell anyone but I actually keep it out all year, LOL. My boyfriend thinks I'm crazy but it's so so good. It's simple, affordable + keeps things toasty. My sister has a boujee Dyson one + I wouldn't trade mine for hers. I have this one.

The one downside to using my heater + heat in general is dry skin! I have dry skin to begin with but the winter air + heat can make it worst. I wrote a post on Products I'm Using for Dry Skin (you can read it here) but a humidifer also really helps. They have so many great benefits for your skin, breathing/congestion + can help if you get sick. I have this style but there are lots of different ones from the brand I have here.

I also like to be cozy at night so I swap out my regular sheets for these velour ones when it's freezing. They feel like sleeping in a blanket-- super soft + cozy. I also layer a blanket on top-- mine is old from Target but this one is very similar.

Fuzzy socks are a must too. My sock drawers are overflowing at this point so I think I have a problem, lol. If you want a boujee pair, these are great but I also love these seasonal ones from Target. They wash well + are usually around $3-5 each. 

Looking forward to it warming up outside but hopefully these are helpful in the meantime! Does it snow where you live? 

xx,

Kristen

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I love sharing my essentials with you all! Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :)

10 FACTS ABOUT ME

Since I've started posting on the blog weekly, I thought I'd share a little bit more about me. I'm Kristen if you're new! TheKristenDiary is my blog-- my creative outlet for posting whatever is interesting to me. I would consider this to be a lifestyle blog with beauty, fashion, food, money, books + more. I'm curious about a lot of things so I try to mix it up + share different topics. I also post a lot of my day-to-day on IG stories @TheKristenDiary. Would love to chat with you over there! Here are 10 Facts About Me.

Sweater (old-- very similar one here) / Sunnies / Heart Earrings (sold out-- these look identical)

10 FACTS ABOUT ME

1. I'm a 1994 baby. I just had my 27th birthday and I'll be honest with you guys-- I'm that person who hates getting older. I'm optimistic about the future + goals I want to accomplish but my motto's also #foreveryoung. I always feel a little melancholy when it comes to age, it's a weird feeling for me. I was even sad graduating from college! I remember being emotional/tearing up during the commencement speeches. I wasn't ready to enter the "real world." Honestly, can anyone blame me though? 

2. Diet coke addict here. I pretty much drink it exclusively with the occasional water here and there. It's a terrible habit but I looooveeeeeee love it. Those t-shirts out there that say "Diet Coke, Just for the taste of it" must've been made for me. Has to be diet coke though + just right. If your diet coke is messed up at a restaurant, I can always tell!

3. I never finish tv shows. I will start one, watch 80% of the series and then bail out at the end. I honestly think I just don't want to face the ending + it being over. Cheesy, but I do it every time. The only show I know I've watched every episode of is Bloodline on Netflix. I watched it several years back with my dad-- probably the reason I actually finished it??? Such a good one, btw. Definitely watch if you haven't seen it + like drama/suspense. 

4. NOT a morning person. I've always struggled with getting up early + instead I stay up super super late. Still punctual + always on time when I have to be! 

5. I was born in Tennessee but spent most of my childhood growing up in Virginia. After college I moved back to Tennessee + I live here now. 

6. I love love love food and snacks. I'm big on chips + queso and love going out to eat. My recent love has become Chick-fil-A! I use to feel meh about it-- I liked it but didn't really love it like everyone else. They remodeled ours here about a year ago so I think that + doing curbside after COVID has converted me. Recently I've been on a spicy chicken sandwich kick but I also love the nuggets + breakfast! Also a ride-or-die for Chipotle. 

7. I have one sibling, my big sissy Haley. We're three years apart and super close. I see her every single day! We still fight sometimes (not as much as when we were little!) but I love her to death. I know we'll always have each other's back in life + can count on one another. I always tell her that one day when we become old + alone old we'll live + travel together! 

8. I went to a big university + graduated from Undergrad with a Bachelor's in Business Management. My concentration was focused on entrepreneurship + technology. 

9. Iced coffee is my jam. I only ever drank hot until one day in college I randomly decided to try it iced. I've been hooked ever since! I don't care if it's sunny or snowing, I always go for iced. I change my order sometimes but here are my go-tos: iced caramel macchiato w/ non-fat milk, iced white mocha w/ non-fat milk + no whip or iced cinnamon dolce w/ non-fat or almond (also no whip). 

10. I take a bath every single night. It's so bizarre to me how some people don't like baths! It's become a nightly ritual at this point + I look forward to them every day. For me it's the best time to relax + spend a few moments alone. I also always use this bubble bath + these bath salts. 

Hope you enjoyed! Tell me something about YOU!  

xx,

Kristen

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I love sharing my picks with you all! Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :) 

5 MOTIVATIONAL BOOKS I WANT TO READ

This post is for all my book lovers! If you're like me, there's probably a million different books you hope to read one day. I'm always making mental notes of new titles I see. I go in phases with what I'm in the mood for but I love motivational + personal growth/self-help books. They're inspiring and can offer great advice to better yourself and your life. Here are 5 Motivational Books I Want to Read! 

Currently reading Daring Greatly by Brene Brown.

5 MOTIVATIONAL BOOKS I WANT TO READ

  Atomic Habits by James Clear

This one is at the top of my list, I have heard such great things! This book outlines ways + strategies to kick bad habits and develop new, positive ones. It focuses on the day-to-day and small ways you can improve that lead to big results. 

This is an area that I'm constantly working on. I always find new ways to work on myself and improve but actually making them happen can be a challenge at times. I love the overall idea for this book + can't wait to pick it up!

  Where to Purchase: Amazon | Target | Walmart | eBay

Awaken the Giant Within by Tony Robbins 

I would consider this book to be a classic in the personal growth genre. I've heard people discuss Tony Robbins for years and years and he's a highly respected expert in this space. Awaken the Giant Within is centered on mastering all aspects of your life from money, emotions, your health + more. 

If you read the reviews for this book, a constant praise is that it's "life-changing." Not kidding-- lots of reviews said that! I like that it tackles all areas of life that I think we all look to succeed in and (hopefully) improve upon. I feel like I'm constantly juggling ways to be better mentally, physically, financially, etc.! I've read the book is broken down into a step-by-step process for improvement and that Tony offers a lot of motivation to implement these practices in your life. 

  Where to Purchase: Amazon | Target | Walmart | eBay

Get Out of Your Head by Jennie Allen

Doesn't this just look like a motivational book? I was immediately drawn in by the colorful design of the cover! This is a religious based book that focuses on ways to get out of negative thinking and toxic thoughts. It focuses on the importance of your mindset + how positive thinking will connect you to your God-given purpose. 

I'm a big believer in the "law of attraction" and how your mindset can truly affect your life in both a positive or negative way. It is so so easy to become consumed by negative emotions and thoughts. I've experienced this in my own life and it can be very difficult to step away from. I believe there's even scientific data that shows it is easier for our brains to process negative thoughts than it is positive ones. I'm looking forward to reading this as I can always use a reminder on having a positive mindset and outlook.

  Where to Purchase: Amazon | Target | Walmart | eBay

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey  

I'm surprised that I haven't already read this one since I've had it on my to-read list for several years now. Something I am constantly fighting is time management. I always have a feeling that I could be doing and accomplishing more with my time. While this book isn't focused on the idea of time management, it does outline seven different habits that can be used to be more effective at work and at home. 

The seven habits include: Be Proactive, Begin with the End in Mind, Put First Things First, Think Win/Win, Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood, Synergize + Sharpen the Saw

It has been highly respected and well received for decades and is still on my reading "bucket list." Hopefully I will finally pick it up soon!

  Where to Purchase: Amazon | Target | Walmart | eBay

Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki

I had to include a money book! I recently watched an interview with Robert Kiyosaki that was very interesting. He was discussing his perspective on money and how rich people do not work for money, money works for them. A lot of his perspective is very unconventional and different than what you hear from most other finance gurus. 

I heard him speak on several different topics from paying taxes to debt. He seems to have a very interesting perspective on things so I'm intrigued to read his book.  

  Where to Purchase: Amazon | Target | Walmart | eBay

Have you read any of these? Would love to hear your thoughts as well as some more book recommendations! 

xx,

Kristen 

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I love sharing my picks with you all! Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :)

For more book posts, click here or type "books" in the search bar! :) 

SPRING TRANSITION OUTFIT

What's the weather like where you live? It has been wishy-washy + all over the place here! One day it's in the 60s, the next it's snowing. I feel like we're slowly moving towards spring weather but it's still cold out. Figuring out what to wear can be a struggle so here's a spring transition outfit I would wear on those cooler "nice days" + chilly nights!

I love sharing my style with you all! Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :)

Pullover / Jeans / Shoes / Necklace / Earrings (similar)

When it starts to warm up I usually leave heavier jackets and coats at home. They can be bulky to deal with and too hot. I still get cold at times so I like to wear sweaters + cardigans. This new Barefoot Dreams Camo Pullover is so so good. I can never get enough of camo but it comes in several pretty colors + prints here. Because it's on the thicker side, it's a great transition piece that works without a jacket but is still warm and comfy. It's a little spendy but anything Barefoot Dreams is worth it IMO. 

Are you guys shocked to see me wearing jeans?? I know I am! 😜 Believe it or not I sometimes take a break from the leggings to wear distressed denim in the warmer months. The sun was shining + so nice so I was feeling the vibes but it's still too chilly for shorts. These Madewell skinny jeans have the perfect amount of rips to feel like spring but not freeze my knees off! I also love the stitching + open threads on the cuffs. Can't wait to wear them with sandals! 

Speaking of shoes, they can be tricky with this kind of weather. When it's sunny + feeling like spring, I'm over wearing boots but can't bust out the sandals just yet. My UGG slip-ons are great for this, I have them in two colors! They're a little dressed up from a sneak but I also think some Converse or Golden Goose would be so cute! I have my eye on this pair for spring... should I buy? 

Keeping the vibes casual with this dainty necklace + some old silver hoops (similar pair here).  

I think we're getting rain all next week so I'll probably be back in the leggings + my adidas! 😆

 

xx,

Kristen

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VALENTINE'S DAY FROSTED SUGAR COOKIES

I've been wanting to make frosted sugar cookies since Christmas! I never had the time to do it during the holidays so Valentine's Day was the next best thing. I've of course made sugar cookies before but this was my first time icing them with a piping bag. How do you think I did? By no means are they perfect but I thought I would share them + the recipe I used! Super yummy and the perfect V-Day treat for yourself or your boo. 

Spatula / Cookie Cutters (similar) / Rack

I love sharing my picks with you all! Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :)

You can use any sugar cookie recipe you like-- I used one I found on the back of the heart-shaped cookie cutters I bought (almost exact cutters here). It was super easy to follow! For the frosting, I used the Powdered Sugar Icing Recipe from DesignEatRepeat. Click here for the recipe on her blog!

TIPS + MY TWO CENTS

I listed the recipe below exactly how it was printed, however make sure you use softened butter. I also used an x-large egg but either size works. Something I found helpful is to roll + cut out your dough directly on parchment paper or chill it before rolling. My first batch stuck to my countertop and I had to scrap them + start over. You could also cut them + then chill before removing the edges/excess dough! Chilling makes it so much easier to work with. 

I like soft sugar cookies so I took them out just as the edges started to brown/turn golden. They bake quickly + only took about 6-7 minutes in the oven! Also be sure to let them cool completely before frosting 🤗  

SUGAR COOKIE RECIPE

INGREDIENTS 

(Made about 28 cookies with my cookie cutters)                     

1 cup butter                                   

1 cup sugar                                    

1 large egg

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 tsp baking powder 

2-3/4 cups flour  

PREPARATION

Cream butter and sugar. Add egg and vanilla. 

Mix all dry ingredients and add slowly to butter cream mixture until incorporated. 

Roll out on lightly floured board to desired thickness. 

Cut out cookies using cookie cutters and bake at 400°F / 200°C

Should be light in color with light browning on the edges. 

FAVORITE BAKING TOOLS 

Mixing Bowls / Measuring Cups + Spoons / Liquid Measuring Cups / Spatulas / Cookie Sheets / Cooling Racks 

FAVORITE BAKING INGREDIENTS 

Flour / Baking Powder / Vanilla (the BEST-- worth the $$$) / Sugar 

These are so so good so I hope you'll try them out! If you do, send me pics! You can find me on IG @TheKristenDiary. Hope you have a Happy Valentine's + Galentine's Day! 

xx,

Kristen

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WHAT I WANT FEBRUARY 2021

I've been in such a shoppy mood the past few days. I didn't end up buying much in January so I think it's about time to TREAT MYSELF! In all seriousness, I've been trying to be more intentional with my purchases + only buy things that I really want or need. Here's what I have on the list for February!

I love sharing my picks with you all! Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :)

1. Briogeo Scalp Revival Kit - This might be TMI but it is what it is. I've been dealing with a dry/itchy scalp and I've finally had enough! I've been on the hunt for shampoo + conditioner to help this and I think I'm going to order the Briogeo Scalp Revival Kit. It comes with a shampoo, conditioner, leave-on treatment + scalp massager to help with dry/itchy/flaky scalps. It's a pricey set but you actually save quite a bit compared to buying everything separately. 

I normally don't spend this much on shampoo/conditioner. I'm okay with splurging on these because the products are clean/have better ingredients than most + this is more of a "health" purchase than beauty + the line has good reviews. Would you all be interested in me trying this out + sharing my thoughts? 

2. Baublebar Twist Initial Necklace - I love initial necklaces so of course I love this one too. I've been more into wearing gold jewelry so I want to pair it with that new star necklace I shared with you guys.

3. Scunchi Faux Fur Scrunchie - Okay so it's super random I included this scrunchie but it's also very cute, right? Reminds me of the 80s + Legally Blonde. Love the shade of pink + it's only $5! 

4. Wet Brush - Best hair brush ever + the only one I use. Better for your hair and you can use wet or dry. It's about time for me to pickup a new one and I like this pink + silver design. They come in all different colors/patterns and are under $10.

5. Teal Tie-Dye Sweatshirt - Do we think the tie-dye vibe is still cute or dying out? I'm still liking it + think it's bright and fun for Spring. Loving the teal/green shade of this sweatshirt. I don't normally do a lot of color but I thought it would be fun with some denim shorts when the weather is warm! 

6. Rose Tie-Dye PJs - I've also been looking for a good pair of new pajamas +  these seem like they'd be very light and comfortable.

7. 3-Pack Mini Facial Razors - Has anyone used anything like these before? They kind of freak me out, LOL. I thought they could be good to use around the brows/etc. but I've never tried putting a razor on my face. I found this 3-Pack for only $4 so seems like it would be worth a shot? 

8. Rolling Stones Tie-Dye Sweatshirt - Pretty sure this sweatshirt is my fave out of the tie-dyes. You guys know I love a good band tee + I like that this one is bright and colorful. I'll link it here for you! 

What are you wanting right now?

xx,

Kristen

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PRODUCTS I'M USING FOR DRY SKIN

One of my biggest pet peeves is having dry skin + hands. Between winter weather, heat, hand-washing and hand sanitizer, I feel like my hands are always SO dry. Hopefully this isn't TMI but I also had a small dry rash(?)/red spot show up on my thumb a month or two ago. I think it's some form of dermatitis that showed up after my thumb kept getting irritated on top of already being dry. I've noticed the spot it's in easily gets scraped, caught in my pony tail holder when I put my hair up, etc. It's been driving me NUTS (tbh I've probably made it worse messing with it 😫) so I've been using all sorts of products to help moisturize my hands + heal the spot up. I've been seeing a lot of improvement lately so I wanted to share what I've been using + also a few lippie faves! 

I love sharing what I'm using with you all! Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :)

PRODUCTS I'M USING FOR DRY SKIN 

Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion w/ Soothing Oat - I use to use this Aveeno Daily Lotion years ago + loved it so I picked a new one up during the holidays. It's on the lighter side so it moisturizes but isn't super heavy or thick. I love that it's unscented + also absorbs quickly. It's the only one I use during the day because it doesn't give you greasy hands that take forever to dry. I bought the travel size (great to fit in bag) but it comes in larger sizes (better value) here. 

CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion - I originally bought this lotion to use on my face but I've now been loving it for nighttime use on my hands. It's a little richer and leaves my hands feeling noticeably softer + smooth right after it sinks in. I go to town and lather it all over, then I put on some soft gloves before bed! This helps to lock the product in + also keeps my sheets clean! 🤗

I just use a soft pair of gloves (had them for years so no idea where I got them) but I would buy something like this $3 pair (inexpensive + look lightweight and soft). 

Burt's Bees Hand Salve - The Burt's Bees Hand Salve is an ointment consistency with lots of essential oils (smells a little lavender/eucalyptusy). It's super smooth + easy to rub in. Because it has a lot of oils + beeswax, it can be pretty greasy so I like to use this one at home. It also takes a little bit longer to absorb into the skin but I like to apply it and then layer the CeraVe on top to lock the oils in! 

Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm - Chapped + cracked lips might be worse than hands. For years my go-to lip balm has always been the holy grail Burt's Bees. It's just easy + works. I also love that it's 100% natural, very affordable + feels a little tingly from the peppermint oil. 

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask - When I want something a little heavier, I'll use my Laneige Lip Mask. This one is rich + thick so I only use before bed. I feel like it's slow to absorb but has great staying power. When I wake up in the morning, I can still feel a little bit of product on my lips which is impressive! 

That's a wrap for what I've been using on my dry skin. I've found all of these products to be great at moisturizing + helping to heal up my poor thumb (hoping it gets back to normal ASAP). I'm still always on the search for the next best hand cream so if you have a favorite lotion/product, TELL ME YOUR SECRETS! 

xx,

Kristen 

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VALENTINE ROCKER CHIC

Channeling my inner rocker vibes today with this graphic sweatshirt look. Can you see the snow falling in the pics? It was flurrying when I took these so I pretty much froze my booty off! Surprisingly the sweatshirt kept me warm but everything else turned numb, lolllll 🥶 Have I told you guys I'm OBSESSED with tigers/leopards/cheetahs?? I love all of the big cats, one day I want to go on an African safari! Naturally I'm obsessed with this sweatshirt for anytime but I had to bust it out for February/Valentine's Day!

I love sharing my style with you all! Should you click on or make a purchase through the links in this post, I'll earn some money to keep on shopping! Pretty cool, huh? :)

Sweatshirt | Leggings | Boots | Necklace 

I'm wearing the Love Fiercely Tiger Sweatshirt from EllandEmm. I own a few pieces from her collection which is amazing! Her designs are high fashion inspired at an affordable price + she's also a small business which I love. Definitely recommend following Jenn on IG (@ellandemm) and checking out her shop, she has the best style + recommendations.

I wanted to go the edgy route so you already know we had to do faux-leather leggings. They honestly make any outfit look instantly better, are super flattering and make a big statement. My boyfriend calls them my shiny leggings, lol. He comments on them every time I wear them! I've raved about them before so I'll just link for you here! (very similar pair here for only $20).

Before I snagged these boots back in the Fall, I had never owned a pair of combat boots. Sometimes they can look a little too army for me but this pair is perfect. I think the chunkier sole amps them up a little! They're a shiny patent croco with studs so super edgy + fun. Love that they come in all-black too (should I buy?) + are under $40. (love these too!)

You can barely see it peeking out but I'm still obsessed my new star necklace. I've been into gold jewelry recently + this one is dainty but not too small. Mine was a gift but I found them here in several colors. This brand is great quality for the price.

I hope you like this look! Also what's your favorite big cat? I lean a little towards cheetahs + leopards but I love them all 😝

xx,

Kristen

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