Friday, September 30, 2022

WEEKLY CRUMBL | 9.30.22

Crumbl-cookies-review-the-Kristen-diary-blog

This week’s Crumbl Cookies lineup is Caramel Pumpkin, Nutter Butter Peanut Butter Cream, Raspberry Butter Cake and Lemon Glaze. These were a total impulse buy this week. I had zero clue on the flavors and no intention of buying any this week. The next thing I knew, I had a 4-pack in my hands! Lol 🤪 Here’s the 411! 

+ Caramel Pumpkin - This one was a pumpkin cookie with a caramel cream-cheese frosting. Keeping it real— I could take it or leave it. I didn’t find anything out of the ordinary about it but I also didn’t dislike. It had a subtle hint of spice which wasn’t too overpowering but the caramel flavor never really came through for me.

+ Nutter Butter Peanut Butter Cream - Winner winner, PB dinner! This one was SO delicious. I’m always a sucker for their peanut butter flavors so if you also like peanut butter, you’ll love. The creamy frosting was delicious with the crunchy Nutter Butter pieces mixed in. I also liked that the cookie was chilled + had a little crunch.

+ Raspberry Butter Cake - My second fave of the week! I love raspberry which was up front and center in this cookie. It’s very much an in your face raspberry with a zing! I loved that— very sweet mixed with the buttercream. The cookie itself was so-so. I haven’t loved the classic butter cake cookie but the topping masked most of it’s flavor. I think it’s always a little too gummy and underbaked for my liking. Besides that, I enjoyed the rest of it!

+ Lemon Glaze
- Yummy if you like lemon. I’ve never been a huge fan of lemon desserts, but I always really enjoy Crumbl’s. This one was very comparable to all of the others I’ve tried so pretty much what I expected. I like the sweet, zingy flavor. Not too tart but refreshing.

What flavor would you pick?

Wednesday, September 28, 2022

5 NETFLIX SHOWS ON MY FALL WATCH LIST

Fall-netflix-shows-the-Kristen-diary-blog

When I think of fall, it's all about the warm and cozy vibes. Sweaters, hot drinks, feel good movies + shows you can bundle up to. I'm almost done rewatching Gilmore Girls (FYI-- amazing show to watch during fall) so I'm scouting out what to start next. Halloween and Christmas will definitely make it into the lineup, however I also need some good "everyday" picks. I'm also still feeling the tv show vibe over movies right now. Here are my picks on Netflix right now. Let me know if you've watched any of them or if you have other recommendations I should watch.

+ Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life - I feel like I'm cheating a bit with this one but I obviously have to jump into this next! I've never seen Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life which is a limited miniseries that came out years after Gilmore Girls wrapped. I've always loved the show and because I've been doing a re-watch, this is a total given. From the writing, characters, vibes-- it really is one of the best shows. I'm already sad to be near the end of it so this will keep the dream alive for a little bit longer. 

+ The Great British Baking Show - There isn't a more perfect season for The Great British Baking Show than fall. If you love baking/cooking, you'll love this. If you don't, there's a high chance you'll still love it. Lol. It just has a special charm to it that you can't help but like. With the newest season on Netflix + holiday episodes around the corner, now's the time to jump on in. It'll give you all the feel-good vibes, laughs + you'll be rolling out cookie dough in no time. 

+ Virgin River - I don't know too much about Virgin River but I've heard good things. For some reason I associate it with fall in my mind? Let me know if you've watched this one. 

+ Friday Night Lights - Fall means football in the south, ya'll. Friday Night Lights is a show that's always been on the back of my watch list but I've never gotten around to it. I also really like Kyle Chandler (he was amazing on Bloodlines) so I think this might be the year I finally give it a go.

+ New Girl - My sister has told me for years that I need to watch New Girl. I believe it's on the romantic comedy side and while I don't know that it has fall vibes, I have heard it's lighthearted and funny. Working in retail during this time of the year is something else so I will happily take as many laughs as I can get. 

What's on your fall watch list?

Monday, September 26, 2022

WEEKLY TO-DO LIST | 9.26 - 10.2


Can you feel the holiday rush starting to set in? With October right around the corner, I can already feel my schedule filling up both in + outside of work. This week is particularly busy, mainly because I have to take my car in for repair next week. A few months ago my poor Mazda was nailed and bailed on in the Panda Express parking lot (compliments of a nice U-Haul truck). I've been on a waiting list for months so I'm happy to finally get it fixed, however I feel like I have a million things to do before then, lol. Keeping a running to-do list always helps me stay focused (and WAY more productive) so I thought I'd share a few of my main objectives for the week. 

If you're new to these posts-- I like to put both the big + little things on my lists. In my experience it's often the seemingly easy things that we're more likely to forget or put off. Most of the time I put things down that I really want/need to get done, that aren't part of my normal weekly routine or (in the case of laundry) are things I hate doing. Lol. Sometimes you need a little push, ya know? I also jot down what I need to pick up so I threw in a little shopping list too ;) 

CAR THINGS
+ Schedule a rental 
+ Get an oil change
+ Clean out car
+ Fill her up! 
+ Finalize payment info w/ insurance 

SELF-CARE
+ Orangetheory class
+ Wash hair/scalp treatment 
+ Teeth whitening 
+ Daily supplements 
+ Nails
+ Finish Gilmore Girls?  
+ Read Bible (hoping to finish up Genesis + move onto Exodus) 
+ Start a new book 
+ Buy new fall staples 

AROUND THE HOUSE
+ Laundry 
+ Change linens/bedding
+ Declutter my life! 

SHOPPING LIST
+ Tea Tree oil 
+ Oregano oil
+ Antibac soap
+ Deodorant 
+ Basic tees, thermals, button-ups
+ Leggings, jeans 
+ Epsom salt, bubble bath 
+ Snacks 
+ Pin drive 
+ Cat collar 

What's on your to-do list this week?

Friday, September 23, 2022

5 COLD WEATHER BASICS I LOVE



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Wednesday, September 21, 2022

SHOPBOP SALE PICKS



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Monday, September 19, 2022

START OF THE WEEK THOUGHTS: STUCK IN A RUT

pulling-yourself-out-of-a-rut-the-Kristen-Diary-blog

I've found myself feeling stuck and in a rut lately. It can be all-consuming, like you're trapped in a box without air. I've learned that it's a somewhat normal experience we're all bound to feel at some time or another, however it can be really tough to get out of. There are a lot of different reasons or causes that can put you into a rut. Most of the time, I think it stems from the reality of something in our life not matching our expectation, goal or desire. 

Although it can be hard, I've found that focusing on the things you can change really helps. You might feel stuck in your job, relationship, etc., however you might not be able to fix that overnight. By diverting your attention to the things you can control, it shifts your perspective and often helps dig you out of the rut. Here are a few small ways I help to get myself out that I hope will help you too: 

+ KEEP THE FAITH - Religion and having a relationship with God have gotten me through both the good and bad times in my life. If you have a relationship with God, you’ve probably experienced a tendency to lean on Him more during the tough times. I think this is a common flaw that happens to all of us. Although I often feel guilty, it also brings me some comfort. I wouldn’t put it past the Big Man to bring us trials and tribulations in order to seek Him. I think He knows :) It serves as a reminder to continue to keep seeking Him at all times, in both the highs and lows. I always find peace and perseverance through my relationship with Him. By connecting with Him, I'm reminded I can let go and let Him take control. I also always feel better, refreshed + less stressed. 

+ TREAT YOURSELF - A little daily pick-me-up has been my go-to lately and something that helps put my into a better mood. For me this has been the always controversial morning Starbucks coffee. I've never been a habitual day drinker, just every once in awhile. Last Monday I randomly decided to grab a Starbies on my way into work + it did wonders, ya'll. I'm not even kidding-- I felt SO good all day. I've gone several times since and it's put a little extra joy into my morning. No matter what it is, try to find something to treat yourself with every day. It doesn't have to be coffee or even something that costs you money. It could be something as easy as a nightly bubble bath, a stroll around the block or making time to watch your favorite show. 

+ GET A NEW HOBBY - A new hobby or project to focus on is another great way to pull yourself out of a funk. I think having something new to work on can help you feel re-inspired, boost creativity, and give you a chance to take a break from whatever is making you feel stuck. It's also a great time to force yourself to try something you've always wanted to or keep putting off. Mine is starting Orangetheory this week! I've been thinking about joining a gym or taking some classes for months now but I kept putting it off. Because I've been feeling stuck and in the "same old, same old", I finally bit the bullet and signed up for a class. I'm starting tomorrow + can't wait! 

+ DRESS UP - Usually when I'm in a blah mood, the last thing I want to do is get all dolled up. It's so easy to throw on your comfy clothes and roll out the door. I love to do it, however I've found that it doesn't make me feel good. A lot of the times, I actually end up feeling worse because I think I look gross and ugly, lol. When I do take the extra time to throw some makeup on, fix my hair or wear something a little bit more put together, it makes a world of difference. I think the "look good, feel good" sentiment actually holds a lot of merit.

What's on your mind this week?

Friday, September 16, 2022

TOP 5 MOST POPULAR BLOG POSTS | SEPTEMBER

It's time for our monthly round-up of the most popular blog posts here on TKD. These posts have been a popular new addition to the blog over the last few months + I'm really glad you like them! I've been seeing a mix of both new + old uploads in the top five so it's a great way to catch up on new, "new to you" or some older posts. I also like to see what you have been reading lately too ;) Here's what made the cut this month: 

TOP 5 MOST POPULAR BLOG POSTS THIS MONTH

1. WHAT I WANT FOR FALL - A newbie!! I'm stoked that I can start sharing fall content and my first post of the season-- What I Want for Fall-- made it into the list. My wishlists are constantly changing + growing (lol, are we surprised?) so making and sharing the "What I Want" posts is a lot of fun. This one in particular has a mix of fall fashion staples, beauty + accessories. 

fall-wish-list-the-Kristen-Diary-blog

2. FALL SNEAKERS I'M LOVING RIGHT NOW - I've been on a new sneaker kick lately. I've added both these On Clouds and this pair of HOKAs to my collection which I think was a fire starter, lol. Upgrading my old shoes to these has made a huge difference + now I feel like I need an entire collection of fun options. I'm very active too so style + functionality are both a must. 

Read here: Fall Sneakers I'm Loving Right Now

3. OURA RING UNBOXING - Back in the top five is my Oura Ring Unboxing. The Oura Ring is a sleep tracking device that provides data on how you sleep, ways you can improve + more. I've been working on improving my sleeping habits and score (calculated by the ring based on all different factors) and so far I love it. If you also struggle with sleep, it's definitely worth looking into.

oura-ring-heritage-gold-unboxing-the-Kristen-Diary-blog

Read here: Oura Ring Unboxing 

4. BOOKS IN MY CART | BUY 2, GET 1 FREE SALE - For my fellow book worms. Every once in awhile this store has a big sale on books (buy 2, get 1 free). Right now there isn't a sale, however the post has a lot of books that I have had on my wishlist or have purchased lately. 

book-sale-The-Kristen-Diary-blog

Read here: Books in My Cart | Buy 2, Get 1 Free Sale 

5. WEEKLY CRUMBL | 8.17.22 - Ya'll are enabling the infamous Crumbl Cookies reviews, lol. I will say I've proudly skipped the past several weeks, hehe. I'm also not very impressed by the current week's except for the Banana Cream Pie... the Banana Pudding cookie is one of my all-time faves so I feel like I have to get one. One week that WAS good was this Weekly Crumbl which we all clearly agree on! ;)  

Read here: Weekly Crumbl | 8.17.22

What are your favorite blog posts to read?

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? :)

Wednesday, September 14, 2022

FALL CANDLES | 2022



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Monday, September 12, 2022

MY FAVORITE FALL BLOG POSTS FROM LAST YEAR

We've been calling it fall over here for weeks now so I've been brainstorming some fun blog posts + content to share with you. I was going back through some of last year's posts to get some inspo and let me tell you-- there are some gems here on TKD if I do say so myself! Lol. ;) I'm still working on the rest of my ideas for this year but until then, hopefully these faves will get you in the fall mood. PS-- also be sure to check out What I Want for FallFall Sneakers I'm Loving Right Now + Fall Books I Want to Read

1. MY FALL BUCKET LIST - Every year I make a list with all of the fall activities I want to do. I love this time of the year but you blink and it's time for Christmas. It goes by WAY too fast so I like to map out my game plan. A few of my favorite things like watching movies + baking always end up on the list. What's on your list for this year? 

Read here: My Fall Bucket List 

2. TASTE TESTING TRADER JOE'S PUMPKIN BREAD + MUFFIN MIX - Can we agree that pumpkin bread is one of the best things about fall? I love trying out different mixes from the grocery store so last year I made the one from Trader Joe's... which ones should I try this year? 

Read here: Taste Testing Trader Joe's Pumpkin Bread + Muffin Mix

3. 5 FALL FINANCIAL MOVES TO MAKE NOW - With the holidays + lots of shopping coming up, now is the perfect time to check up on your money game! In the post I share what I like to do with my money going into fall. 

Read here: 5 Fall Financial Moves to Make Now 

4. TASTE TESTING BEN & JERRY'S PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE ICE CREAM - You definitely don't want to miss this one... it's delish. Crossing my fingers it comes out again soon! 

Read here: Taste Testing Ben & Jerry's Pumpkin Cheesecake Ice Cream 

5. TASTE TESTING LESSER EVIL'S PUMPKIN SPICE POPCORN - Did I mention we love food around here? Honestly one of the best things about fall is the snacks + pumpkin flavored foods. I love Lesser Evil's popcorn so I love when they come out with fun seasonal flavors to try! 

Read here: Taste Testing Lesser Evil's Pumpkin Spice Popcorn 

What's your favorite thing about fall? 

Read more for Fall here: What I Want for FallFall Sneakers I'm Loving Right Now + Fall Books I Want to Read

Friday, September 9, 2022

BEAUTY ON MY MIND | WHAT I WANT


 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? :)

Wednesday, September 7, 2022

WHAT I WANT | SEPTEMBER



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Monday, September 5, 2022

FALL SNEAKERS I'M LOVING RIGHT NOW


Golden Goose Pearly Super-Star Sneakers // HOKA Running Shoes // Veja Campo Sneakers // Golden Goose Metallic Super-Star Sneakers // On Cloud Green Running Shoes // On Cloud Rosebrown Sneakers

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Friday, September 2, 2022

BEST LABOR DAY SALES THIS WEEKEND

labor-day-sales-2022-the-Kristen-Diary-blog

Happy Labor Day Weekend! Did anyone take off today for a four day weekend? If so, count me jealous! I'm working a half-day tomorrow but have Tuesday off so I'm squeezing in my own little three-day weekend. JJ and I were hoping to take a road-trip somewhere but a few work things came up for him. Crossing my fingers for next weekend! Since I'll be home, shopping is a given. 

Holiday weekends in general are always the perfect time to treat yourself to a little something. You can usually snag some great deals and with Fall heading in, a little wardrobe refresh is a must. My mind has already switched over to sweaters, leggings and boots mode. Here's what's on sale at my favorite stores: 

BEST LABOR DAY WEEKEND SALES

Abercrombie (up to 50% off select styles + an extra 15% everything for members)

+ Agent Nateur (20% off site wide)

+ American Eagle (25-70% off everything)

+ Anthropologie (extra 50% off sale items) 

+ Bloomingdales (extra 30% off select sale items) 

+ FARFETCH (20% off beauty items) 

+ Macy's (extra 20% off with code "LABOR") 

+ Nordstrom (up to 60% off summer sale) 

+ Old Navy (up to 60% off site wide) 

+ QUAY Australia (buy one, get one free sunglasses, blue light glasses, prescription + more) 

+ REI (up to 50% off sale) 

+ Static Nails (20% off site wide with code "LD22") 


PS-- don't forget to earn cash back when you shop! I use Rakuten anytime I shop online (not sponsored, I just love it!). If you're not signed up, you can use my referral link to earn an extra $30 after your first $30 purchase

What are you shopping for this weekend? 

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? :)