I’ve always been a fan of a great at-home bar. I strongly believe it’s a must-learn life skill to mix up classic cocktails, and as an avid host, it’s important to provide an array...
Looking back on Easter as a child, I remember how excited I was to dig through my Easter basket. Full of chocolate bunnies, malt ball Easter eggs, Peeps, golden coins, and my favorite Cadbury...
Lets be honest, salads can be boring. So I’m always trying to think outside of the box to come up with salad recipes that I’ll thoroughly enjoy, but are beyond easy to make. Enter...
Lets be honest, salads can be boring. So I’m always trying to think outside of the box to come up with salad recipes that I’ll thoroughly enjoy, but are beyond easy to make. Enter...
I’m writing this post just before midnight Christmas Eve, in between sipping spiked cocoa and wrapping what seems like my 100th gift. Addison is snoring soundly on her pillow under the tree, my husband is trying not to fall asleep to Christmas Vacation, and my in-laws are tucked warmly in bed. This season is my favorite. And my family’s traditions that surround this season are what I hold especially dear.
I’m thankful for these traditions. But I’m more thankful for a family that is willing to change them all up, and make new ones all in the spirit of helping me live my dream.
Tomorrow (or rather today now), Christmas Eve, will be the first that I have a physical brick and mortar shoppe. So unlike years of past, this Eve looks a bit different. Instead of finishing up holiday baking or decorating, I’ll be helping last minute shoppers find the perfect gift. Holiday martinis will be pushed back to evening rather than afternoon. Church will happen via satellite in our living room (thank God for technology). Christmas Day breakfast has been simplified to pastries and mimosas. And Christmas dinner is now a lunch because of the shoppe’s day after Christmas craziness.
While it all looks a bit different, what matters is the same; family and the reason for the season, Jesus. So my Christmas wish for y’all this year is that whatever you’re doing these next few days, I hope you’re surrounded by love, family, and the true meaning of Christmas. Happy Christmas Friends!! xo, MKR
Recently, I had the opportunity to try out a few key products from the beauty brand Colleen Rothschild. I had heard of Colleen Rothschild before, but hadn’t given anything a go. Beauty products are tough for me. I have extremely sensitive skin, and very specific concerns. So when I find something I like that works, and doesn’t break me out, I tend to stick with it. But, her line intrigued me, so I took the risk, and I’m so glad I did.
Keep reading for more CR details, and don’t miss the BIG promo code at the end!!
First, the Age Renewal Super Serum. Winner of the 2017 Beauty Short List Awards, the Serum is infused with more than 20 potent ingredients, including peptides, collagen boosters, amino acids, vitamins, and plant extracts. And claims to effectively fights the six signs of aging: texture, dehydration, elasticity, fine lines, radiance, and tone. After using it for a few weeks I have definitely seen a difference specifically in the texture, tone and dehydration areas. Plus, I’ve had no negative skin reactions which often happens when I combine my sensitive skin with any serum.
Second, the CR Radiant Cleansing Balm really is a miracle. I lather it on every night after work, massaging it into my skin, then with a warm washcloth I wipe it off. The balm removes all of my makeup, without stripping my skin, and it doesn’t break me out which is always an issue with rich products. I also keep a balm in my nightstand along with organic wipes in case I’m every feeling overly exhausted, or just lazy, to go through my entire evening routine.
After the balm, I wash my face and apply the 3rd can’t-live-without-it product, the CR Retinol Oil. This oil is a dream. I haven’t been able to use Retinoids in the past because they irritate and dry out my skin, but not the CR Retinol Oil. Because CR’s version has the highest concentration of stabilized retinol, along with 9 plant based oils, and Vitamin C, you receive all the skin renewing benefits of Retinol without all the irritation and flaking. I highly suggest trying this out if you haven’t been able to handle prescription retinoids.
Another aspect that completely sold me on CR; her commitment to creating high-performance products with safe ingredients. That means blending plenty of potent plant botanicals and advanced scientific ingredients from around the world but without all of the toxic garbage. All of CR products are formulated without Parabens, SLS/SLES Sulfates, Triclosan, Formaldehyde, PABA, Toluene, or Benzene.
But the ultimate win-win situation is, unlike most beauty brands CR offers a 30-day return policy!! This allows you time to try the products and if you are unhappy with the results you may send them back for a full refund! I mean talk about belief in your brand; love this!
So if I’ve peaked your interest and you’re looking to try out Colleen Rothschild for the first time, or just add a new product of hers to your daily routine now is the time because she’s running two different promotions. The first is 20% off ANY regular priced items through 12/19 with code MARTHA20. The second is a buy more save more situation ($25 off $100, $50 off $150, $75 off 300, and $100 off $400), valid through the 17th.
I really, truly mean it, when I say I was so impressed with CR I plan to pick up another round of all 5 of these products, and try out the eye cream and detox mask. I’d love to know if you plan to try anything out or if you have a CR product you’ve been using and loving forever?! Truly, MKR
Photography, Kathyrn McCrary | This post is in partnership with Colleen Rothschild. A brand I love and adore. All opinions are 100% my own.
Recently, I made a trip home to Chicago for my bestie’s wedding. I couldn’t wait to be back walking those windy streets, especially since the temps had begun to drop and snow was on the verge of falling. I love that in-between; you can almost smell the first snow before it hits.
The problem though, for me is always what to pack? I mean I’m a terrible packer in the best circumstance. But add in bridesmaid dresses, hot to cold temps, and outfits that would have to be comfortable, and warm enough, to walk around plus fabulous enough for wherever the wind may blow me. Enter my go-to combo: long dress, high boots, and a hat. Warm, comfortable, and almost always a “no fail.”
I love this W by Worth dress for a few different reasons. First, it’s extremely comfortable. Second, it’s extremely light which makes it the perfect outfit to take when traveling. It doesn’t take up too much room, or weight, in my suitcase plus it’s easy to steam if it wrinkles during the journey.
And third, it’s extremely versatile. Technically it’s an “off the shoulder” dress, and looks completely the part accessorized with heels and something shiny. But here because I was going for a bit more relaxed look I wore the dress on the shoulders rather than off and paired it with my over the knee boots and favorite Rag & Bone hat. This allowed me to walk around Chicago comfortably during the day, but felt ready for drinks with friends later that evening.
All in all, it was the perfect outfit for what turned out to be the perfect week in Chicago. Tell me, do you have a go-to outfit when traveling? Truly, MKR
