HARD TRUTHS

What a weird week it has been. Do you ever have moments or encounters that really make you think and reflect? I'll be the first to admit that I'm not a "feelings" person-- talking about them makes me feel uncomfortable and icky. I process things internally so the non-emotional Aquarius in me is screaming to shut the hell up right now! 

I also like to keep things pretty light on the blog AND I'm still a work in progress when it comes to these things. Whether it's through interactions, disappointments, ups and downs-- I'm still learning how to both handle them and how I respond. I've been thinking a lot on that these past few days-- this week has brought some experiences that have made me look at the actions of others as well as my own. That always brings up some "sentiments" or thoughts-- I wanted to share them with you for a few reasons: 

1- I like the idea of documenting/journaling these parts of my life. I keep a lot of notes and journal excerpts like this to remember the moment, my mindset, etc. and look back on them one day. They can serve as great reminders of what you've overcome or that you were just being a crazy b*tch!

2- Real talk- I'm still working to hold myself accountable on posting three times a week. With that, I've found myself trying to branch out and post new types of content. Long-term, my goal is to add more value on TKD than just beauty or outfit posts. 

3- We all go through all of it... let's try to deal together? 

4- They say writing it out helps. 

Also if you hate feelings too-- don't you worry. We're still keeping it light and very non-specific. Consider this a summarized, cliff notes version of an emotional week. General highlights with a three sentence conclusion at the end. 😜 I've reflected on my week so these are just some conclusive thoughts I have at the moment. Some came to me, some are commonly shared ideas I’ve revisited. Most aren’t exactly happy-go-lucky either. Sometimes it’s difficult accepting or even acknowledging the actions or character of others or yourself. The truths can be hard, but they can also be healing too. Here are some of the hard truths I’ve faced this week: 

• There is a fine line between offering grace and honoring your own self respect
• People often expect more from you than they want to give 
• Expecting to be treated how you treat others often leads to disappointment
• There are no perfect people, including yourself 
• While some may not value you beyond what you can offer them, you'll be surprised at the ones who do 
• Blood is almost always thicker than water 
• Risk is scary and exciting

I'll leave you with those for now. I think they serve as good reminders for those tough situations, especially ones involving others. It doesn’t always make facing adversity and disappointment any easier, however it helps with the coping. Have a great weekend!

THE BEST CASUAL EVERYDAY UNIFORM

Tee: Aerie [wearing a size small-- oversized!] | Jeans: Topshop [old, similar here + here] | Sunnies: Gucci [similar here + here] | Sandals: Rainbow | Star Necklace: Kendra Scott | Initial Necklace: LuluDK [old- similar here] | Earrings: Nordstrom [on sale right now!!] | Gloss: Fenty 

EVERYDAY UNIFORM INFO

Alright ya'll... I'm starting to realize maybe I need to branch out with these looks. I just don't think I'll ever get tired of a good tee and jeans moment, ya know? At this point it's pretty much my everyday uniform! The great thing is how versatile you can make this. I'm a casual gal so I usually opt for a sandal but this would easily work with a heel and a nice blazer or jacket! It's WAY too hot out here for that, though. The temps reached in the 80s today!

I've mentioned the tee I'm wearing a million times at this point. It checks all the boxes I need it to-- perfectly oversized, washed look, comfy + affordable. I won't keep boring you with the same spiel but you can find all the details in my New Favorite Basic Tee post here. They tend to go on and off sale a lot so I'd keep a watch on them (don't pay regular price!)-- right now they are 25% off here which makes them around $18! I have in several different colors, they are great staples. 

My jeans are an old pair of the Jamie's from Topshop-- I've had them for years but I did find this current/similar pair that look very close to mine. I really like that the new style only has distressing on the knees... thinking I might need to get them too. Just an FYI-- they are more of a jegging than a jean so the fabric hugs your body but is very flattering. My philosophy is always tight pants + a loose top! Has to be one or the other. Also wearing the best favorite sandals ever (check out my Spring & Summer Shoe Staples here) + my normal everyday jewelry. My earrings are these ear crawlers-- they look like you have several piercings in + are currently on major sale. I'll also link my star necklace here + a similar option for my initial necklace (old LuluDK). 

I hope you enjoyed this look! I'd love to know what more you'd like to see on here-- feel free to comment below or DM me on Instagram. You can find me @TheKristenDiary :) 

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? :)

START OF THE WEEK THOUGHTS | 4/26 - 5/2

Happy Monday, friends. It's the last week of April.... ya'll ready for the best memes of the year? They only come around once a year so let's all take a moment of silence to enjoy! 🤓

Thanks to Google for providing us with these gems!

Couldn't help myself! I don't know how many years these have been out now but they still make me laugh. I'll also be honest with you guys-- I've found myself needing a little bit of blog inspiration and creativity this week. That has zero to do with the memes but makes for a pretty nice transition into today's post, huh?

I wanted to share a "Start of the Week Thoughts" because I really enjoyed writing this End of the Week Thoughts post a few weeks back. A lot of the beauty + style posts I create require a lot of preparation with photos, graphics, etc. Those are some of my favorite things to do, however sometimes it's also nice being able to just write it all out. 

Back to finding myself struggle with what to create and share on here. I think my brain or the universe one is trying to test me. I recently shared in my Thoughts On 3 Months of Blogging post that in January I created a goal to consistently put up a new blog post every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. It's something I've always wanted to start and stick with. Since publishing my first post after setting this goal, I haven't missed one yet! That both scares and excites me... I'm almost afraid to even say it out loud. I know that sounds silly but if you read the post, you'll know it's a big deal for me! I don't want to be too repetitive so I'll link it here if you want to read more.

For me the expectation to keep going is what's scary and exciting. Sharing content with you all, being creative and also working on this goal is fun and motivating. Because I've always struggled with it, not being consistent feels like giving up or failing to me. I think that's why I'm afraid to miss a post-- if I do I might just stop posting all together. That's scary! I'm sure a day will come in the future where I'll inevitably miss one, I'm just hoping it won't be for awhile. I'm trying to challenge and hold myself accountable. One time I read that the more you do, the more confident you become. I think that has to be true-- if you do something once, surely you can do it again? If we just keep repeating that, in theory we should be able to keep on going. Definitely easier said than done, though!

I feel like I'm being tested on this because I'm finding it more and more difficult to come up with post ideas that I'm both proud of and that I think you all would enjoy reading. I'm going to try to work this week on writing out some ideas and planning out a schedule. I've found planning in advance to be a huge help-- highly recommend if you struggle with where to start, getting things done or staying organize. It always helps me to write things down and make lists. Hopefully I can get the creative juices flowing!

Since we're on the topic of this week, here are a few of my other weekly to-dos:

• Wash + change sheets and bedding
• Catch up on budgeting + plan for May 
• Find an outfit for a bridal shower
• Finish + wrap bridal shower gift 

I'm excited for the week ahead but also already looking forward to the weekend! I have a bridal shower to attend on Sunday and my boyfriend and I should be having a movie night. The past few weekends we've been watching our way through the Fast & The Furious movies! I've seen them all (they are some of my faves!) but he hasn't. So far we've watched the first two. I'm looking forward to re-watching them all but can't wait to get through three and on to four-- I love Vin Diesel + the whole crew!

If you've made it to the end, thank you for reading and visiting the blog! Feel free to share how you feel about these chatty posts and what type of content you'd like to see more of. I hope you have a great week and we'll chat soon! 

WHAT I WANT TO READ | APRIL

Happy Friday! I thought I'd share a few new books with you that I've added on to my to-read list. I've been in the mood for something new that's personal growth, business or finance related. I love the guidance and motivation I always find in them! I'm also still trying to kick this never-ending reading slump-- I just can't seem to get out of it! Usually the self-help books or something romancey helps me out! PS- have you read anything great recently?

Girl On Fire | Cara Alywill Lebya 

Girl On Fire is a follow-up to the author's book Girl Code. It focuses on how women can create their own path on their own terms. Instead of waiting for someone else's permission or an opportunity to arise, go out and use your power to design it yourself. 

I love the bold direction and synopsis for this! Questioning where you're at in life and what path you're suppose to be on is something I think we all face. I deal with it constantly! I can't wait to pick this one up-- it sounds very empowering and inspirational. 

Where to purchase: Amazon | Wal-mart | eBay

Get Good with Money | Tiffany Aliche

This book is a brand new release by Tiffany Aliche, also known as the "Budgetnista." It provides ten steps to help build wealth, achieve financial security and also have peace of mind when it comes to your finances. 

I just learned about Tiffany from seeing her book on the new releases list, however I am always interested in learning new tips when it comes to money and finance. Since I'm not familiar with any of her other content, I'm excited to see her perspective and guidance on money. Do any of you follow her?

Where to purchase: Amazon | Wal-mart | eBay

Finish What You Start | Peter Hollins

This one is right up my alley! The premise is just what it says-- "Finishing What You Start." It's all about developing willpower and focus to help you achieve your goals.

My entire life I've struggled with procrastination and NOT finishing a lot of the things that I start. I've finally come to terms with this and it's something that I've now been working on! This book intrigues me because it shares a lot of the psychology and why behind this. It also outlines tactics to help overcome procrastination! 

Where to purchase: Amazon | Wal-mart | eBay

Those are my top three for now. I always have a long list but I'm trying to get my mojo back. Have you read any of these? If so- I would love to know your thoughts! 

I hope you have a fun, relaxing weekend!

SPRING & SUMMER SHOE STAPLES!

Alright literally the only thing I can think about right now is the "OMG SHOES" video....IYKYK. LOL. Anyways-- let's actually talk about some *good* shoes today. Who knows, we may all end up getting some too. 😆 OKAY, I'M DONE. I have a few pairs that are my go-tos every Spring + Summer. They're staples because they are easy to style and go with so much. You'll see I've definitely gotten my wear's worth out of a few of them over the years. I also just bought a new pair of slides that I'm pretty sure are gonna be a fave too so I had to include them! 

PSA-- they are all flats! We have no time for heels or wedges here! Haha, I actually love how they look I just can't them to work so it's usually sandals or sneaks for me. What do you wear more of?? 

SPRING & SUMMER SHOE STAPLES

Birkenstock Arizona Sandal

We'll start with the Birki's!! I always say this but I feel like you either love or hate them?!? Obviously I'm a fan-- they have their own signature vibe + style. They're very comfy and better for your feet too! I have the Arizona style in a few different colors that I pair with cutoffs, leggings and gym shorts. They're on the pricier side but should last you for years-- I've beaten mine up quite a bit and I think they still look really good considering!

Converse Chuck Taylor Low Top Sneaker 

Chucks are always a classic-- for some reason I love them during the warmer months! Maybe because they aren't that warm, haha?? I usually wear them with my "edgy" looks-- graphics, distressed tees, etc. I have a white pair + a black which give completely different looks. The white is a little more clean/feminine and the black can go more edgy/cool (especially if a lil' dirty!). I paired the white ones with a dress in this look and the black ones with a graphic tee here. Which do you think look better? 

adidas Adilette Comfort Slide Sandal 

Okay these are funny because I don't really like rubber slides-- I am a leather sandals girl. Ya'll will laugh but I bought these for the rain. Totally that person who babies their shoes when the weather is bad... I don't want to mess them up, lol! That usually leaves sneakers as my only option but sometimes it's too hot for that or they don't work with my outfit. I went for the adidas Adilette because everyone said they're super comfy and they aren't too expensive. Lots of color options too!

adidas Swift Run X Sneaker 

I live in these-- I seriously wear almost every single day. A few years ago you couldn't catch me in sneakers... I never liked them, haha. Times have changed because I'm now obsessed with the adidas Swift Runs. I never have to think about them-- since I wear leggings most days, they always look good. I have the older version but I'll link the new style here. I'll also say they are way cheaper than a lot of other sneakers out there! I have yet to find any worth paying $100+ for so I'm sticking with these!

Rainbow Narrow Strap Sandal

If I could only wear one sandal for the rest of my life it would have to be these. Rainbows are my forever love-- I think I've been wearing them since I was 12?? They are the best, simple leather flip-flop. Durable, comfy and they go with almost anything. Right now I have the skinny strap style but I've also had the wide strap too. They are around $50 and the quality is great-- I usually get 2-3 years out of a pair and then they start to look a little janky so I buy new ones. Sometimes I still keep the old ones though so I can wear them in the rain 😉

Tory Burch Miller Sandal

From the outside these are the odd man out but that's why I love them. They're a little bit more on the dressy side but I find they still work with what I like to wear! I usually will grab for them if I want to balance out something edgy like a graphic tee or ripped jeans OR if I need a little bit of a nicer looking sandal. You can wear them with so much-- dresses/skirts, jeans, shorts, swimsuits, etc. They were a splurge back when I bought them but still look great after the 4-5 years I've had them. 

Let's hope the weather stays nice enough to wear these-- we have a cold front coming through here! I heard several states have gotten snow this week so we may all be back in UGGs! 🤦‍♀️

THOUGHTS ON 3 MONTHS OF BLOGGING!

Today's post is an exciting one for me-- I've officially been blogging for three months here on TheKristenDiary.com! I say "officially" because this marks the first time that I've ever followed a consistent schedule with weekly postings. That may sound silly but it is a HUGE deal for me. Something that I've realized (even though I hate to admit it) is that I have terrible follow-through on a lot of things. My brain is always spinning with endless possibilities on things like how to read more books, be healthier, make more money, etc., etc. Wanting to do a million things AND being a perfectionist has kept me from accomplishing and doing a lot of the things I'd like to (even the simple ones!). 

PS-- I'm still obsessed with this look + the photos! The full look is in this post. 

Like a lot of other things, the blog has been on the back burner. I created it several years ago to share the things I love-- beauty, style, food, finance, and more. While I've posted here and there, I've never been present or consistent. A goal of mine this year is to work on my consistency and being intentional with my time. I've also been trying to focus more on doing and less on thinking. That brings us to this post! Since I've always wanted to post more on here, I made a goal in January to put up a new post three times a week for as long as I could. While I've been afraid to openly commit to posting every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, this is my 13th week doing so!

Since January 18th I've put up forty new blog posts and have been a lot more active on my Instagram (@TheKristenDiary), Pinterest and Facebook! It's also crazy to me that I've put up seventy-five new instagram posts when previously I was lucky to post one or two a year. I know that these are very small numbers but it isn't really about them-- it's the consistency that's a huge deal for me!! Blogging has helped me to take action, even if only in small steps. I also feel a sense of confidence each time I publish a new post or I take a photo I'm proud of. I'm excited to keep posting and pushing myself to keep staying consistent. I have no idea what I'll keep posting or for how long-- right now I'm just trying to focus on one week at a time and then one blog post at a time. I also think it's nice to celebrate the small wins, it keeps ya going!

Connecting with a lot more of you over on IG stories has also been so much fun!! I love having this as a creative outlet to chat and I'm happy to have you here! I hope you're enjoying the posts-- I still struggle at times with what to write about. Taking photos of myself is also tricky at times but we're making it work! I can definitely feel myself stepping outside of my comfort zone and hopefully I'm growing and evolving. I know this is such a random topic to share but I thought maybe it would inspire you if you too struggle with doing things or starting somewhere. I don't think it's as important what it is you're doing or how, just more so that you're doing something. If there's something you want to do, why not try it out? I wish I was on the other side to tell you how to get there but I'm still figuring it out myself. 

Anywho, those are my Monday thoughts! I'm excited to see what the next three months brings us-- can you believe we're already over halfway through April??? So crazy!! 

10 THROWBACK MOVIES TO WATCH ON NETFLIX AND DISNEY+

I recently watched The Princess Diaries and The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement and it reminded me how much I still love the same feel good, coming-of-age chick flicks and comedies as my eight year old self. I don't know if it's nostalgia or having watched them all a million times but they never get old or feel "too kiddy" to watch! One of my favorite childhood memories was going to the movies. My parents took my sister and I almost every single Sunday and we always shared a large tub of popcorn and peanut m&ms! FYI-- THE BEST popcorn combo!! Don't even try me with your buncha crunch! 😜👌🏻🍿

With the way the world has changed, I'm grateful that we were able to go as often as we did. Fun fact-- I think I saw all but one of these movies in the theaters when they came out! Now it's super easy to stream at home-- I love that you can find both new movies and old. I rounded up a list of ten favorite throwbacks that are currently on Netflix or Disney+! These are all of my favorite childhood feel good ones, let me know which ones you've seen!

10 THROWBACK MOVIES ON NETFLIX AND DISNEY+

The Parent Trap (1998)

Little LiLo! I think can all agree that this is her greatest movie. Since I was four when this came out, I remember thinking she was one half of a Mary Kate & Ashley duo, haha. Can you imagine going to summer camp and finding out you have a long lost twin though?? I always loved Annie's London life and the fabulous Elizabeth James!! Has anyone out there not seen this? Please comment if so!! Such a classic, I need to watch again soon. 

10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

Ugh, this one. I don't think it became a favorite until maybe high school-- probably because it was more relatable then. It's a great romantic comedy about two high-school sisters that are complete opposites. It's humorous, a little quirky and has all the feels (Heath Ledger!!) and the romance. 

Legally Blonde (2001)

Elle Woods paved the way for us, ladies! Is there anyone who hasn't seen this one either? I feel silly summarizing them because I feel like most people have? The moral of the story is you can go from sorority girl to Harvard Law and prove all those b*tches wrong! Super cute, inspiring and funny. 

The Princess Diaries (2001) & The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004)

Two of the best Disney movies, IMO. Somehow turning Mia, a normal fifteen year old high schooler into the Princess of an unknown country totally works and made me want to be one too. You have to watch both but the first is my favorite!

Bend it Like Beckham (2002) 

To say I was obsessed with this one is an understatement. I played soccer from elementary through high school so I loved this movie for years. Totally being real-- I have this one next on my list to watch, I've been anticipating it for weeks! There really weren't a ton of soccer movies out when I was younger and none that were like this. I love that it focuses on the sport as well as friendship, a lil' romance and family. It's a feel good for sure! 

Freaky Friday (2003)

Another LiLo but Jamie Lee Curtis is everything! She plays LiLo's mom and they can't see eye to eye on anything. After a freak accident (it's gotta be a little cheesy!), they end up switching bodies and becoming each other. Since they have contrasting personalities and their own lives, it's hilarious and very cute. I believe this one and The Parent trap are both remakes of older films! 

What a Girl Wants (2003)

Honestly any Amanda Bynes movie is a win. Right now, this and Sydney White on Amazon video are the only ones I could find that you don't have to rent. I love them all but What A Girl Wants is definitely in my top two. Having never known her dad, she takes off to London to find him. Coming from a simple life in NYC with her mom, she's thrown into his perfect, "high society" life. 

Ice Princess (2005)

I think everyone is sleeping on this one. I never hear anyone talk about it but it's always been one of my favorites. Another coming of age that's so cute-- I always wanted to figure skate when I was little (probably from this movie, hah!) so I still love this. Very feel good and cute. 

Accepted (2006) 

Watch this if you need some laughs! When you don't get accepted into college, why not start your own? A comedy with lots of shenanigans and goofy humor. 

17 Again (2009) 

I'll be honest-- totally forgot about this one until it was added to Netflix a few months ago. First off, hi Zac Efron. Second, it has a lot of quirky, makes you cringe but laugh funny moments. Chandler Bing makes an appearance too as Mike. He hates his life and after a freak accident (another cheesy moment), gets his younger sexy Zac Efron body back. He's still a forty-something dad which makes for all the awkward moments!

If you're a movie lover like me, how many of these have you seen? I don't keep up with as many new releases but I love all the throwbacks! We all need a little feel-good comedy and romance, right? Cheese included! If you have any oldie recs-- let me know!!