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Hi!

Kristen here. Welcome to my blog! I’m really winging that new mom life, so if you are perpetually asking yourself, “Who let me have a child?” follow along and we can all be clueless (and in love) together.

KRISTEN'S CHRISTMAS LIST: ALL IS COZY, ALL IS BRIGHT

KRISTEN'S CHRISTMAS LIST: ALL IS COZY, ALL IS BRIGHT

Two week countdown, people! Click the images below to shop my favorite holiday gifts this season, and check out my Amazon Storefront for an extended list of some of the years best gifts according to moi. Dear Santa (and any of my readers), don’t be afraid to send some Jen Meyer my way! Love, Kristen

TICKETS TO FREESTYLE LOVE SUPREME:Laughter is the best gift you can give - bar none. For anyone who lives in the NYC area (or are planning to visit before Jan. 5), tickets to this new, Broadway hit from Lin Manuel Miranda is the most joyous present …

TICKETS TO FREESTYLE LOVE SUPREME:

Laughter is the best gift you can give - bar none. For anyone who lives in the NYC area (or are planning to visit before Jan. 5), tickets to this new, Broadway hit from Lin Manuel Miranda is the most joyous present anyone could give. Trust me, even if you don’t consider yourself a theater buff, you will be laughing your cute ass off all night and talking about it for weeks to come. Andy and I went with our family near the end of October and were lucky enough to see the show with the regular cast, plus guest stars Christopher Jackson and Lin Manuel Miranda. Extra bonus… Anthony Ramos was in the audience that night! (If you know, you know.) Bottom line: The talent is off the charts and the laughs are endless. Be warned it’s heavy on the audience participation, and there are no phones allowed to protect the innocent, and more importantly, the guilty.

THIS IS ABOUT HUMANITY TOTE BAG:For the perfect gift that gives back, head to The Little Market to purchase your This Is About Humanity Tote. Half the proceeds go to the This is About Humanity Fund and International Community Foundation which work o…

THIS IS ABOUT HUMANITY TOTE BAG:

For the perfect gift that gives back, head to The Little Market to purchase your This Is About Humanity Tote. Half the proceeds go to the This is About Humanity Fund and International Community Foundation which work on overdrive to support immigrants, refugees and asylum seekers. The bags are handmade by female artisans in Bangladesh; each bag is completely unique, and every purchase helps support jobs for marginalized communities. This is About Humanity puts others first and fights for those who don’t have the resources to fight for themselves. You can check them out here, and follow them on Instagram for the latest updates and on the ground volunteer work. Georgie and I purchased our This is About Humanity Tote this fall at The Palisades Village. We use it absolutely everywhere, and it always reminds me to be mindful of others’ needs and grateful for my own blessings. This is About Humanity is an organization I desperately want to get more involve in, and you can too!

DAISY JONES AND THE SIX:By one of my all-time favorite authors, Taylor Jenkins Reid, this New York Times Bestseller is absolutely sure to captivate any and everyone who consumes it. Reese Witherspoon fell so hard so fast for the book’s fictional 70’…

DAISY JONES AND THE SIX:

By one of my all-time favorite authors, Taylor Jenkins Reid, this New York Times Bestseller is absolutely sure to captivate any and everyone who consumes it. Reese Witherspoon fell so hard so fast for the book’s fictional 70’s rock band that she snatched up the rights immediately and is now co-producing (under her banner Hello Sunshine) a 13 episode limited series adaptation of the book alongside Amazon Studios. Get in early on the OG novel, so you can be a seasoned insider and inevitable fan when you binge the much anticipated female-driven drama next year.

THE STARLING FLAT BY BIRDIES:I’m desperate to get my hands on a pair of these shoes. They have a variety of gorgeous flats that look like a million bucks, feel like slippers and are reasonably priced. Elle Magazine says they’re, “like clouds for you…

THE STARLING FLAT BY BIRDIES:

I’m desperate to get my hands on a pair of these shoes. They have a variety of gorgeous flats that look like a million bucks, feel like slippers and are reasonably priced. Elle Magazine says they’re, “like clouds for your feet.” As a tired mama who lives in slippers, but wants to look like she tried a little more than that, these shoes could not be more on brand. I’m also obsessed with a good monogram, and if you call the San Francisco store at (415)-263 -9668 they will personalize any of their Starlings and ship them to you for a total of $140 - $95 sans monogram. Dear Santa, I am after the Olive Starlings with a white K on one shoe and an F on the other: please and thank you.

EMBER TEMPERATURE CONTROL SMART MUG:I have the most annoying holiday Starbucks order of all time: grande, extra hot, non-fat, chestnut praline latte with 2 pumps and no whip. I know, I know – it’s bad. Truth be told, I’m a grade A coffee addict and …

EMBER TEMPERATURE CONTROL SMART MUG:

I have the most annoying holiday Starbucks order of all time: grande, extra hot, non-fat, chestnut praline latte with 2 pumps and no whip. I know, I know – it’s bad. Truth be told, I’m a grade A coffee addict and when push comes to shove, I will take it any way I can get it as long as it’s HOT. Now that I have this baby (do you seem a theme here?) my coffee cup pretty much lives in the microwave because there’s always a diaper explosion or a snuggle session I can’t pull myself away from long enough to finish a cup. This temperature controlled smart mug feels like something I’d use and enjoy every damn day, especially during these bitter cold winter months. Plus, she looks so chic, doesn’t she? This fancy mug also graced Time Magazine’s list of the top 25 best inventions of the year. Dying to try! Pro tip: the black version is on sale via Amazon.

LINGUA FRANCO’S “FILTHY MOUTHED WIFE” CASHMERE SWEATER:These gorgeous cashmere creations have been on my radar for a while now. How could they not be? With such witty, politically charged messages and insane celeb endorsements, they’re impossible to…

LINGUA FRANCO’S “FILTHY MOUTHED WIFE” CASHMERE SWEATER:

These gorgeous cashmere creations have been on my radar for a while now. How could they not be? With such witty, politically charged messages and insane celeb endorsements, they’re impossible to miss and even more impossible not to admire. This particular sweater, with it’s charming, genius nod toward Trump’s mention of Chrissy Teigen in a tweet about criminal justice reform, really makes me smile… Is Chrissy Teigen anyone else’s spirit animal?

CHRISTOPHER RADKO ORNAMENTS:Guys, these are classy AF. Neiman Marcus usually has the best selection, but Amazon has recently upped their CR game as well. These are not only stunning ornaments, but fabulous collectables with an extremely inventive, w…

CHRISTOPHER RADKO ORNAMENTS:

Guys, these are classy AF. Neiman Marcus usually has the best selection, but Amazon has recently upped their CR game as well. These are not only stunning ornaments, but fabulous collectables with an extremely inventive, wide range of designs that symbolize different regions of the world, highlight life’s special milestones and celebrate the festive season. Santa may or may not be bringing Georgie a “First Christmas” ornament this year.

TAKING CARA BABIES GIFT CARD:Forget the diaper bag. Don’t bother with the cute outfits. By far, my number one pick for new and expectant parents this Christmas (or any time of year) is the gift of sleep. Cara, neonatal nurse, wife of a pediatrician …

TAKING CARA BABIES GIFT CARD:

Forget the diaper bag. Don’t bother with the cute outfits. By far, my number one pick for new and expectant parents this Christmas (or any time of year) is the gift of sleep. Cara, neonatal nurse, wife of a pediatrician and mom of four, is the ultimate baby sleep goddess. She was recommended to me by a friend in Minnesota (Thanks, Lyndsey!) and has been a crucial resource for me as a new mom. What you really have to understand about these courses is this: Cara helps parents do so much more than log hours of sleep, she also gives us tools that promote self-confidence, empowerment, and quality baby bonding. I head over to her Instagram regularly because at some point during any given day, I know she’s going to tell me that I’m the best mama in the world for my baby, that I’m doing a great job, and that I was made to do hard things. And honestly, I need to hear that… a lot. She is a true blessing. Click the photo above to put a Taking Cara Babies gift card in a special family’s stocking this year. Coming soon to the blog: a full review of my experience as an avid Taking Cara Babies follower, and how it has personally transformed my family’s life for the better.

LOTUS & ASH STATIONARY:I go to L&A founder and designer Ashling Loh-Doyle Nunnely for damn near everything. Have an anniversary coming up? Call Ashling. A company retreat? Call Ashling. A wedding? Ashling. A baby shower? Ashling. A blog? Ash…

LOTUS & ASH STATIONARY:

I go to L&A founder and designer Ashling Loh-Doyle Nunnely for damn near everything. Have an anniversary coming up? Call Ashling. A company retreat? Call Ashling. A wedding? Ashling. A baby shower? Ashling. A blog? Ashling. My love for the entire Lotus & Ash team is endless because they have delivered for me time and time again. These particular thank you notes Ashling designed for my family back in 2016 when my dad was diagnosed with stage four brain cancer. He was a cardiologist and we needed notes to thank all of his friends and colleagues for their tremendous support. These stunning cards featuring an anatomical heart and touching Shakespeare quote were the most thoughtful, perfect design - one that, to this day, still brings us to tears. For stationary made with love, look no further than Lotus & Ash.

JENNIFER MEYER BAR STUDS WITH DIAMOND BEZEL DROP:I have a not-so-subtle Jen Meyer obsession. All her pieces are radiant, thoughtfully designed, and undeniably timeless. I have a little collection going, and am eager to add some earrings into the mix…

JENNIFER MEYER BAR STUDS WITH DIAMOND BEZEL DROP:

I have a not-so-subtle Jen Meyer obsession. All her pieces are radiant, thoughtfully designed, and undeniably timeless. I have a little collection going, and am eager to add some earrings into the mix. I need something I can wear everyday and something my seven-month-old won’t grab at, so I’ve put these beauties at the top of my list. Her Lucky Charm Necklace and Nameplates are total classics and personal favorites from my own collection, but I’m always eyeing new stunners like her Diamond Small Leaf Bracelet. Check out her site for a wide variety of gorgeous gifts; I promise you can’t go wrong. Plus, who doesn’t love supporting female founded businesses?

ARITZIA PUFFER JACKET:Anyone who knows me knows my mother is pretty much a fashion icon. She’s ahead of all the trends and will only buy clothes she calls, “Wow pieces.” Her airplane outfits are nicer than my date night outfits. (Sorry, Andy.) We ar…

ARITZIA PUFFER JACKET:

Anyone who knows me knows my mother is pretty much a fashion icon. She’s ahead of all the trends and will only buy clothes she calls, “Wow pieces.” Her airplane outfits are nicer than my date night outfits. (Sorry, Andy.) We are spending the holidays in my hometown in Minnesota, and she came home from Black Friday shopping at the Mall of America with this STUNNER: The Long Super Puff in High Gloss Bordeaux. It’s lightweight, warm as all hell, stylish and under $300. You can also customize the puffer’s cut and warmth rating to suit your climate and lifestyle. Hope this guy doesn’t slip into my suitcase, Mom.

MOU LACE UP SNEAKERS:I like to think of Mous as UGGS with attitude. MOU is a Canadian brand I’ve only ever found in select boutiques or online. I get countless compliments on mine whether I’m in London, Minnesota, NYC, or Los Angles, yet never see p…

MOU LACE UP SNEAKERS:

I like to think of Mous as UGGS with attitude. MOU is a Canadian brand I’ve only ever found in select boutiques or online. I get countless compliments on mine whether I’m in London, Minnesota, NYC, or Los Angles, yet never see people wearing them – which I love. These lace up sneakers are one of my favorites from this year’s collection, but I’ve also highlighted a few other incredible designs on my Amazon Storefront.

THYMES FRAISER FIR EVERYTHING:I seriously want to eat this candle. If the song “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” had a scent – this would be it. Frasier fir comes in a wide range of products: candles, soap, incense, etc… all very reasonably priced, makin…

THYMES FRAISER FIR EVERYTHING:

I seriously want to eat this candle. If the song “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” had a scent – this would be it. Frasier fir comes in a wide range of products: candles, soap, incense, etc… all very reasonably priced, making this Christmas staple a fabulous gift option for all occasions - from stocking stuffers to hostess gifts. Thyme even make a frasier fir home frangrance mist that I use 365 days/year because Christmas is a lifestyle not just a season.

ALO YOGA HIGH WAIST AIRLIFT LEGGINGS:I’m dying to try these beautiful ALO leggings. I feel they would make me look skinny. That is all.

ALO YOGA HIGH WAIST AIRLIFT LEGGINGS:

I’m dying to try these beautiful ALO leggings. I feel they would make me look skinny. That is all.

PELOTON BIKE:Yeah, yeah, I’ve seen the commercial. I’ve read the Tweets. I saw SNL. It’s all very funny, however, the fact of the matter remains, I freaking want one! Let’s do some math. (Ugh.) It costs me $35 to go to a spin class in Los Angeles. N…

PELOTON BIKE:

Yeah, yeah, I’ve seen the commercial. I’ve read the Tweets. I saw SNL. It’s all very funny, however, the fact of the matter remains, I freaking want one! Let’s do some math. (Ugh.) It costs me $35 to go to a spin class in Los Angeles. Now that I have a baby, it costs me $25 in childcare for an hour of free time, but realistically, I need an hour before to travel to the class and an hour after to get cleaned up. That means, it costs me $110 and three hours to get in a workout. Sure, I can walk around my neighborhood with the baby and I do, but for me, there’s nothing quite like a high intensity workout and spin is my drug of choice… especially when I’m carrying around 15 extra pounds of baby weight. In comparison, a Peloton costs $58/month via their payment plan with an optional $39/month membership fee for unlimited class content. Let’s recap: I could go to ONE spin class in L.A. for $110 or spend $97 for a month of unlimited exercise… during nap time. So, that’s where I’m at y’all. Having a kid is expensive. Thank you for coming to my Ted Talk.

CHLOE LOAFER:I dream of these beauties. I came across these in October on an epic shoe hunt after I realized my feet grew a full size post baby. Yes, this is a thing. If you are a size 9 call me, I have shoes that don’t fit me anymore. These loafers…

CHLOE LOAFER:

I dream of these beauties. I came across these in October on an epic shoe hunt after I realized my feet grew a full size post baby. Yes, this is a thing. If you are a size 9 call me, I have shoes that don’t fit me anymore. These loafers are elegant, chic and can be worn with the ankle down for a more casual vibe - which is basically the only vibe I have. They come in black, natural white and delicate pink, which are all perfect neutrals for the new year if you ask me. I didn’t purchase them at first site because of the price tag, but I’m crossing my fingers Santa got my letter this year.

BAREFOOT DREAMS BLANKET:This is one of my favorite brands out there right now. Their material is ultra soft, luxe, and just downright magical. I have a gray blanket and matching pair of socks from them that I use EVERY SINGLE DAY. I even took both t…

BAREFOOT DREAMS BLANKET:

This is one of my favorite brands out there right now. Their material is ultra soft, luxe, and just downright magical. I have a gray blanket and matching pair of socks from them that I use EVERY SINGLE DAY. I even took both to the hospital with me when I gave birth to Georgie. They have a plethora of incredible gift ideas on their website for Him, Her, and Baby, but cozy blankets and socks are always at the top of my list for anyone!

RACHEL PARCELL BOBBLE STITCH SWEATER:You guys, I have this sweater in Ivory Cloud and have since ordered it in Green Botanical. It fits perfectly, can be dressed up or down, and is one of the softest sweaters I own.

RACHEL PARCELL BOBBLE STITCH SWEATER:

You guys, I have this sweater in Ivory Cloud and have since ordered it in Green Botanical. It fits perfectly, can be dressed up or down, and is one of the softest sweaters I own.

LOVE YOUR MELON HAT:This cozy, charitable company was founded in Minnesota (my home state!) to help support children battling cancer. These hats are warm, adorable and fifty percent of your purchase goes to support their Love Your Melon fund which c…

LOVE YOUR MELON HAT:

This cozy, charitable company was founded in Minnesota (my home state!) to help support children battling cancer. These hats are warm, adorable and fifty percent of your purchase goes to support their Love Your Melon fund which creates therapeutic experiences and programming initiatives for children and families battling pediatric cancer. Thus far, they’ve given over six million dollars and donated over one hundred and eighty five thousand beanies. This is one of my favorite companies to support. Love your melon, people.

HANDWRITTING NECKLACE FROM MY MILLIE JEWELRY ON ETSY:I’m really into people’s handwriting. It’s such a small but special trait that highlights our individuality, and I think our differences should always be celebrated and admired. The first Christma…

HANDWRITTING NECKLACE FROM MY MILLIE JEWELRY ON ETSY:

I’m really into people’s handwriting. It’s such a small but special trait that highlights our individuality, and I think our differences should always be celebrated and admired. The first Christmas after my dad passed away, I gave my mom a gold bar necklace with, “Love you forever” written in my dad’s handwriting. (It’s the same signature I use to sign all my posts here.) Needless to say, it’s her favorite piece of jewelry, save her wedding ring. This gift is a near flawless one; delicate, thoughtful and uniquely personalized.

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SKINCARE IN MY STOCKING

SKINCARE IN MY STOCKING

TUMMY THYME: MY CAREFREE QUEST TO TURN GEORGIE INTO A HEALTHY LITTLE FOODIE

TUMMY THYME: MY CAREFREE QUEST TO TURN GEORGIE INTO A HEALTHY LITTLE FOODIE