The Perfect Gift for Him and Her - plus a GIVEAWAY!


 






 
NECKLACE, SOLD OUT - SIMILAR HERE

Does anyone else struggle with gift buying for their significant other?  Whereas I can always come up with several things I want at any given time (shocking, I know), my husband's default answer is always that he needs and wants nothing.  Which makes my job that much harder.  I've almost bought him a watch several times.  A watch is always a solid gift, but it can be kind of boring, in my opinion.  Which is why I'm so excited to share these extremely UNIQUE wood watches by JORD with you!

I was lucky enough to have JORD watches contact me and ask me to review one of their gorgeous wood watches.  I didn't even realize that wood watches were a thing, but after I browsed their site I was in love!  I was super excited to see that they offered men's watches too, and the first thing I noticed was just how unique they are.  I've truly never seen anything like them.  So you can bet my hubby will be receiving one of these watches soon.  Since I know he doesn't read my blog, I'm not spoiling the surprise! ;)  Click here to view their entire selection of men's watches.

JORD is being extremely generous and giving one lucky reader a $75 e-voucher for their website.  Even better, ALL ENTRANTS (excluding the winner) will get a $20 e-gift card JUST FOR ENTERING!

CLICK HERE to enter the giveaway!

What do you think about giving the man (or woman) in your life one of these?  What's the best gift you've ever given your significant other?  Tell me about it in the comments!  Share the wisdom please, cause I'm sure next time around I'll be, yet again, stuck on a gift idea.

*A special thanks to JORD for giving me this watch in exchange for my honest review.  As always, all opinions are my own, and I only promote products that I love and use myself.  Click here to view JORD's entire selection of women's and men's watches. Unique Watches

Blush Off the Shoulder







Target OTS top {sold out, also love this}  |  Clutch  |  Jeans
Gladiators {now 50% off and come in black too!}  |  Bracelet
 
Just a quick post today on this cute off-the-shoulder top I picked up at Target a few months ago.  I've been meaning to post this outfit for months, but the pictures got buried and forgotten until this week.  The gladiators that I have on are Rebecca Minkoff and are 50% off right now (with all sizes currently in stock) making them only $60!  They also come in black, which I think I'm going to snatch up while they're on sale.  There's also a very similar version of these available at Target for only $33 - see them here.
 
Since my top is sold out, I've linked up some other cute OTS tops for you below:
 
 

Lush Side Slit Tank and BaubleBar Tassel Earrings




Tassel Earrings (all colors and styles available)  |  Morse Code cuff (cheaper version here)
 
Hi there!  Just a quick post today to share a date night outfit I wore a few weeks back when we went to dinner with some friends.  I was having one of those days where I can't find anything to wear (does that happen to you too?).  When that happens, I seem to always pull out a tried and true favorite, like this side slit white tank.  Pair it with some fun accessories and you look totally put together with minimal effort.  I need to grab this tank in more colors before it sells out, because I'm going to be layering it all through fall and winter.  They have a cute striped version on sale for only $20. 

My favorite sandals of the year are back in stock in all sizes in the nude color!  If you've had your eye on them you better grab a pair because they go fast.  Have a fabulous week! 



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How to Clean Your Flat Iron


A great flat iron is an essential part of your beauty arsenal.  A good quality flat iron is going to cost you anywhere between $100 and $200 and will last for many years if properly cared for.  It's an investment you want to protect and maintain so it can operate at optimal performance for as long as possible - decreasing your costs in the long run.  Proper care and cleaning of your flat iron isn't hard, but it does require a small time commitment each week.  The longer you go between cleanings and the more product you allow to build up on your iron, the harder it is going to be to clean - and the more time it's going to take.

Another important note before we get into the details of cleaning your flat iron - Take care not to drop it!  I've ruined more than one flat iron this way.  Dropping the iron can jar loose the small parts inside or even crack the plates if they smack together when they hit the floor.

HOW TO CLEAN YOUR FLAT IRON

  1. While your flat iron is unplugged but STILL WARM, spray the plates with a product specifically designed for cleaning flat irons, such as Hot Tools Styling Iron Cleaner.  A bottle is only $6, but if you don't want to buy a special cleaner, I've heard that plain rubbing alcohol or Windex works well.  (However, I have NOT tried this myself and CANNOT guarantee it won't ruin your iron.  If you've tried either of these methods, please let us know how it turned out in the comments section!)
  2. For heavy buildup, let the product sit on the plates for up to 10 minutes. 
  3. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.  For heavy buildup you can scrub the plates with a soft brush before wiping clean (a firm bristle toothbrush works well). 
  4. Wipe again with a clean rag damp with plain water to remove any remaining residue and cleaner.  This will prevent the iron from becoming sticky when dry.
  5. Wipe the handles of the iron down with a damp cloth.
  6. For many months of heavy buildup, it may take several cleanings to get the plates completely clean.
  7. Feel how smooth your plates are and be amazed at how much better your iron slides through your hair.  Make a mental note to clean your flat iron more often than once a year (and then probably forget).
Ideally, you should clean your iron at least once a week (or even after every use), but realistically I clean mine about once a month.  You can also use this method to clean your curling irons or styling wands.  Not only do they perform better when clean, they also don't damage your hair as much (added bonus!).  When there is buildup on your iron, it tugs at your hair and doesn't slide through smoothly, causing more damage to your hair - and who wants that?!
      
If you missed it, check out this article on my new Irresistible Me dual voltage flat iron that I'm OBSESSED with, as well as 3 tips for stronger, healthier hair.  And the flat iron is ON SALE now for only $104!  This is the Cadillac of flat irons - and it will last you a VERY long time, especially since you're now an expert on keeping your flat iron clean and well-maintained ;)

 
  

Irresistible Me Diamond Flat Iron Review & 3 Tips for Stronger, Healthier Hair



 



Hey guys!  Sorry I've been MIA for awhile.  Things have been pretty hectic around my house lately.  Actually I've been keeping a bit of a secret from you ... we're building a house!  It's totally stressful and time-consuming, but I can't wait to get some pictures up so you guys can see the progression of the house.   

Today I'm reviewing the Irresistible Me dual voltage diamond flat iron (sounds pretty snazzy, right?).  Every girl loves diamonds, and this dual voltage flat iron has crushed diamond particles in the plates. 

So first off, the flat iron was shipped incredibly fast and the packaging was pristine.  It comes packaged in its own box that has all of the features and pertinent information printed right on the inside. 

I've been a dedicated CHI flat iron user for years, so I honestly didn't expect that to change when I was offered a chance to try out this Irresistible Me iron.  I was so surprised when this blew my CHI out of the water!  Reasons you need this flat iron:
  • All buttons are on the inside so you don't accidentally push them while straightening your hair.
  • Adjustable temperature setting.
  • Digital temperature display which automatically switches between Celsius and Fahrenheit, depending on the supplied voltage.  Perfect for all of you world travelers!
  • Shuts off automatically after 30 minutes.
  • It heats up FAST.  Like 10 seconds, crazy fast.  This is my favorite feature.  I'm impatient.  I hate waiting for my flat iron to heat up.  I know it only takes like 2 minutes but I still hate waiting.  You can plug this in and immediately use it on your hair.  It's seriously amazing!
So if you're in the market for a new flat iron (and even if you aren't) you should definitely check this out.  It's hands down the best flat iron I've ever used.  To view the complete features list, visit Irresistible Me's website.  The dual voltage flat iron retails for $149, and if you sign up for their emails you'll receive a coupon in your inbox for 20% off. They've also got some amazing hair extensions!

For all you flat iron using ladies out there, I have 3 tips for keeping your tresses healthy and strong, even with all that heat styling.
  1. ALWAYS USE A HEAT PROTECTANT.  My favorite is Dry Bar's Hot Toddy, but there are lots of products out there.  Find one that works for you and use it!
  2. DEEP CONDITION YOUR HAIR WEEKLY.  I personally don't like to spend a lot on my shampoo and conditioners, so I use this inexpensive Pantene 3 Minute Deep Conditioner weekly.  The rest of the days I use a normal conditioner, but I shampoo and condition right when I get in the shower, and then I let the conditioner sit on my hair while I finish my shower and rinse it out last.
  3. DON'T HEAT STYLE EVERY DAY.  It really takes a toll on your hair if you do, and I've noticed such an improvement in the health of my hair since I've stopped washing and heat styling daily.  I try to go at least 2 days between washes, and I try to let my hair air dry at least once a week.  On the air dry days, this fun sea salt spray gives me some beachy waves that look great in the summer especially.  Give it a try.  I promise your hair will thank you.
*The dual voltage flat iron in this review was provided to me by Irresistible Me in exchange for my honest review.  All opinions are my own.  Visit their website to see their amazing selection of hair extensions, tools, and accessories!    
   

LuLaRoe Clothing Review and a GIVEAWAY!

 LuLaRoe is a new-to-me clothing line that I'm so excited to be featuring today!  The company was started by a single mother of 7 children, and the clothing is designed to be stylish yet comfortable enough to chase your kids around in.  And every single piece is comfortable enough I could seriously sleep in it.  Being a stay at home mom I LOVE dressing comfortably, and these clothes are a great alternative to yoga pants and t-shirts!  The clothing is sold by consultants, and you can purchase through Cindy's Facebook group here.  She holds a sale every Wednesday, and she gives away freebies almost daily.  So if you like free swag, you have a good chance of winning some on her page - plus, she is giving a FREE MAXI SKIRT to one lucky reader, so keep reading to enter!



 
 
So can we please talk about these leggings?!  You all have leggings.  You can buy them everywhere.  I get it.  But these are seriously the most comfortable leggings EVER.  I wish you could reach through your screen and touch them.  If you buy these for nothing more than lounging in, you NEED a pair.  Or ten.  I chose a patterned pair, but they also offer solid colors.  They are super stretchy and come in one size fits all, so no worries about picking the right size online.  Being 5'3", I was afraid the one size would be too big for me, but they fit perfectly!

LuLaRoe Maxi Shirt c/o  |  Express graphic tank  |  Watch  |  Sunglasses (under $10!)

This maxi skirt comes in tons of different patterns and solid colors, and like all of the LuLaRoe clothing, it's SO comfortable.  I knotted mine but you don't have to wear it that way.  Cindy is giving a FREE skirt away to one lucky reader, so make sure to enter below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
*This giveaway is only available to those readers located in the US.

LuLaRoe clothing does tend to run a bit big, but if you buy through Cindy's facebook page (which makes it crazy easy to shop!) she has a spot on sizing chart unique to each and every style.  I am wearing either an XXS or XS in each piece (depending on where I fell in the sizing charts), and they fit perfectly.

Thanks for reading, and good luck to everyone on the giveaway!  Cindy is also giving away TWO free pair of leggings - one for you and one for a friend.  Head over to my Instagram to enter!

How To Get Glowing Skin for Summer

 

Anyone can apply makeup to achieve flawless-looking, dewy skin, but what about those lucky few that have naturally gorgeous bare skin?  Ever wonder how they got their perfect complexion?  Good genes ... just born lucky, right?  That's what I used to think.  And of course there are some of those.  But anyone can achieve glowing skin.  Yep, that's right - ANYONE.  You just have to know the secret.  And I'm going to let you in on it.

The Cutest High-Low Top - and it's on Major Sale!


This flowy high-low sheer top by Leith is one of my favorite purchases this summer - and it just went on MAJOR sale!  Originally $54, it's on sale for $33 right now!  This top has a cute button-up front that sits right at your waistline, and the back is super long.  I have the back tucked in here, but when I wear it untucked it goes to my knees.  Since I'm short I prefer to wear it tucked in, but it looks so cute worn long too! 

4 Drugstore Beauty Products That Will Rock Your Socks Off


Today I'm dishing on 4 drugstore beauty products that are totally worth buying.  I would even venture to say that these products work just as well as, if not better than, the more expensive brands.  I'm not being paid to tell you this, and I haven't received any free products. I just love having glowing skin and having extra money and thought you might too!

Workout Essentials, Plus my Favorite Workout App!



I've been extremely bad lately about working out.  I've had a lot going on and, unfortunately, working out is one of the things I've let slip through the cracks.  I'm a big believer in working out just as much for your emotional health as for your physical health.  I know I've been more stressed out and had less energy since I quit working out.  So I'm ready to kick it back into gear and whip myself into shape!  Who's with me?!

Graduation Party Look

I went to my stepson's graduation party over the weekend, and I wanted to share this amazing UNDER $30 Merona maxi dress from Target that I wore!  I don't like spending a lot on dresses because, quite honestly, I just don't wear them very often.  I first spotted this dress on The Lipstick Law's Instagram page.  Definitely follow her if you don't already!  Many of the clothes I own I first spotted on her feed - and most are very affordable.

Statement Necklaces - Save vs. Splurge


 
Statement necklaces are going to continue to be hugely popular again this spring and summer.  The only downside to these hefty necklaces is that they often carry a hefty price tag.  I love accessories, but I also love to switch them up a lot, so I don't like to spend too much on any one piece.  The good news is that you can get a gorgeous statement necklace (or five) without breaking the bank, you just have to know where to look.  And that's where I come in!  I've put together some of my favorite statement necklaces at all price points.
 
Here are a few great necklaces if you want to invest a little more in a nice piece of jewelry that will last for years.  I own a few statement necklaces that cost me close to $100, and for me personally, I just don't wear them enough to justify the cost.  But if you do and want to splurge - here are some amazing choices! 

Instagram Roundup


Today I have a huge instagram roundup for you guys, and lots of these items are from Target and are under $25!  If you aren't following me on Instagram yet, you can follow here.  I've set a goal for myself of 100 new Instagram followers a month, and it would be SO appreciated if you helped me reach my goal!

My Picks for Nordstrom's Half-Yearly Sale

 
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1  /  2  / 3  /  4  /  5  /  6  /  7  /  8
 
Memorial Day weekend is almost upon us ... and with it comes lots of great sales!  The Nordstrom half-yearly sale is going on through June 5, and there are SO many great deals.  I'm loving the new trench vest trend, and this one is under $60!  The men's shirt I included is my husband's absolute

Happy Birthday Wyatt!

I cannot believe my little baby Wyatt is one already!  Time really does fly.  I wanted to share a few of his one year pictures with you guys, which were taken by the talented Kayte at Legacy Portraits!  She did this super cute cake smash with him, and before we started she asked me if he liked cake.