All About Home, Beauty, Entertaining, Everyday Life, Food

March Favorites

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march favorites

I really can’t believe how fast the year is going. It seems like just yesterday I was planning for our Christmas Eve celebration. I am happy that spring is finally here. Nothing makes me happier than bulbs in bloom, grass greening up, and longer days. Spring decorating is done. Everything is bright, cheery, and floral! I think by my March favorites you can tell that I was looking forward to spring. Enjoy!

faux tulips
Looks so realistic

I have seen everyone rave about the faux tulips from Amazon, and I had to give them a try. I love fresh flowers from the market, but sometimes there is little to pick from. Wow, I am impressed. They are made with a plastic/rubber mix and the texture is so natural. They can be bent and shaped too. My Mackenzie-Childs vase was perfect. It took me about 5 minutes to bend and shape them to create a casual arrangement. I like the look of tulips falling from the vase. There are so many other faux floral options on Amazon and I am going to pick up some hydrangeas for summer.

fentimans rose lemonade
A refreshing treat

Who doesn’t enjoy a refreshing drink on a warm spring day? A rose lemonade from Fentimans is even better. I found these at my local Target but have seen them randomly at other places too. Of course, they are also available online. I love flavored lemonade and this one is so pretty in the bottle too. Spring is finally here when you have a nice cold lemonade.

younique serum foundation
For a natural, flawless look

Serum foundations have become my new favorite. I don’t wear much makeup and rarely do on a daily basis. I want my skin to look like my skin only better. Younique Touch Serum Foundation has been my new go-to. My favorite way to use it is just to mix a little in with my moisturizer. A little really does go a long way.

aerin lilac path
A perfect spring scent

Aerin Lilac Path is still my favorite spring perfume. I’m not sure if that will ever change. Lilac Path has a beautiful lilac smell that does not smell artificial. It is light, airy, and perfect for spring. I have many perfumes from Aerin and each one is unique. Cedar Violet is still my favorite for winter too.

aembr secret garden
Natural and clean scent

Another favorite spring scent is Secret Garden from Aembr. This candle is exactly what it sounds like, a secret garden. One of my favorite bloggers and YouTubers, Kristina Braly started Aembr in her home. She wanted to create clean fragrances with only the best ingredients in small batches. These are all hand-poured, most of them by her too. She left the medical world to follow her dream of becoming a business owner. I love the story behind the brand as much as the brand.

As I said, March was full of anticipation for spring. I hope you give one of these great products a try. Let me know if you do, I love to hear your favorites. I hope you find time to enjoy all that March has to offer.

carrie kellyUntil next week,

Carrie

Enjoy a complimentary guide and learn to decorate like a pro when you sign up for my newsletter full of exclusive content, tips, tricks, recipes, style, decor, and so much more.

Shop my favorites below:

Amazon Faux Tulips

Fentimans Rose Lemonade

Younique Serum Foundation

Aerin Lilac Path

Aembr Secret Garden

 

All About Home, Beauty, Decor, Fashion and Style, My Favorites

Favorite Spring Scents

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spring scents

Spring is here and that means new scents and fragrances. I am one of those that likes to change my perfumes, home fragrances, and candles every season. I love my Cedar Violet and woody scents but it is time to lighten things up for spring, and I am ready for the change.

Candles and home fragrances set the tone, mood, and feel of a home. I ordered some lavender and pink jasmine refills for my Pura device(which I love), and I am looking forward to trying those as soon as I get them.

magnolia hearth and hand herbs
A fresh pot of herbs

I was in Target a few weeks ago and can’t resist browsing the candles and Heart & Hand Magnolia collection. It’s such a beautiful collection. This collection “Herbs” smells exactly like it sounds, a pot of freshly grown herbs. I picked up a diffuser and candle. The rustic look of the candle looks perfect in any decor. I will repurpose it when the candle is gone.

longaberger lily of the valley candle
Welcoming Spring scents

Lily of the Valley is another one of my favorite scents. Can you tell I gravitate toward florals? Santal, Lily of the Valley Candle from Longaberger by Carrie Kelly Lifestyle smells like sandalwood, linen, and lily of the valley. This Lush candle is a complex blend that can enhance any room. Each candle is topped with dried rose petals and rose quartz crystals which just adds to its beauty.

mackenzie childs lotion, february favorites
For soft hands

Another favorite brand of mine, Mackenzie-Childs has ventured out into scents too. The Lavender Fields hand lotion sits by my bedside table and it is the last thing that I put on every night before going to sleep. The bottle is beautiful and the scent is light lavender and eucalyptus, a perfect scent for a good night’s sleep.

aerin lilac path
Freshly picked lilacs

As I said before, I change my perfumes each season too. Is there a better scent for Spring than lilac? I love Aerin Lauder fragrances, they are all so unique (Cedar Violet is my go-to Winter scent), and Lilac Path is a favorite for Spring. Lilac Path weaves a delicate story of crisp greens, rich blooms, and delicate petals. Evocative Lilac infuses the scent with inviting depth, heightened by lush fragrant Galbanum. Creamy Jasmine Lactones blend with soft Angelica Seed Oil and Orange Flower to create an incredible scent.

une balade en forte beauty pie
Fresh and light

Une Balade En Foret from Beauty Pie. is a surprise scent for Spring. It is not overly floral but I really enjoy it. Beauty Pie is a membership-based skincare, makeup, and fragrance line. I have incorporated many of the skincare products into my routine(along with my favorite FarmHouse Fresh) and have been so impressed with the results. High-end skincare without the middleman or high-end price tag. But, back to the perfume. I ordered a sample set so I could try them all. There are a few that could be dupes for some high-end fragrances too(one is a dupe for my beloved Cedar Violet). An atmospheric blend of aromatic Balsam Fir and earthy Gentian Absolute, warmed by Cashmere and Amber Woods and brightened with a touch of citrus ‘zing’ on top. It’s a little more wintery but I am really enjoying it.

These are just a few of my favorites for Spring. I imagine that I will find a few more favorites along the way this year. I always do. Fragrances are very personal. When you find one that speaks to you, enjoy it. I would love to know your favorite Spring scents too.

carrie kellyUntil next week,

Carrie

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All About Home, Decor, Everyday Life, Longaberger

Spring Home Refresh With Longaberger

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longaberger decor

I don’t know about you but when Spring rolls around I get in the mood to freshen up the house. Spring signifies rebirth and our homes should do the same. It’s time to shed the heavy blankets and accessories and lighten things up a bit. I always change just a few things and it really makes an impact. Longaberger by Carrie Kelly Lifestyle has everything needed to transition the home from Winter to Spring.

longaberger hanging mail basket
A Warm welcome

Nothing sets the tone for a home better than a welcoming front door. Our delightful Hanging Mail Basket with a Longaberger 1973 gold tone tag is perfect for a covered front porch or front door. This basket is great for more than just mail. Greet each visitor with a seasonal arrangement on your door. Change the flowers out each season for a new look.

It’s true, the kitchen is the heart of the home. The Small Robin’s Egg Blue Cake Stand is fit to elegantly display your creative baking creations. Set the stage with icing-covered cakes, cupcakes, fresh-baked cookies, and more. When I saw this piece, I knew that this would be my focal point on our kitchen table. I added a plant, napkin holder, and salt & pepper shakers to mine. A perfect pop of Spring color. Our 1973 pottery collection is made to mix and match and coordinate with all of our collections. I love the mix-and-match look.

What better way to add a touch of Spring than with beautiful floral fabrics and pieces. Our newest partner is Paint&Petals from Bridgette Thornton. From the walls of your home to your kitchen and bathroom needs, Paint&Petals believes everyone deserves to live with beautiful art and design. Paint&Petals elevates usable household objects by adorning them with founder Bridgette Thornton’s vibrant floral art. I love a beautiful apron and all of the pieces are sure to become a favorite of mine this season.

I always say that the bathroom in a home should be inviting and a place to relax, rewind, and refresh. Fluffy white towels look crisp and clean in a beautiful basket on display. I like to organize my bath products into baskets too. Greenery is another must for the bathroom for that spa-like feel. Pop a plant into a basket, it’s that easy. Candles, candles, candles, I can’t get enough of them. A fresh scent like Lily of the Valley is perfect for the bathroom.

longabergerWith a few easy changes and your home is ready for Spring. I am ready for plants to pop up, grass to green up, and more time spent enjoying the outdoors. I hope you enjoy all that Spring has to offer.

carrie kellyUntil next week,

Carrie

Enjoy a complimentary guide and learn to decorate like a pro when you sign up for my newsletter full of exclusive content, tips, tricks, recipes, style, decor, and so much more.

 

 

 

 

All About Home, Decor, Holidays, Holidays

St. Patrick’s Day Door Hanger & Decor

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st. patrick's day door hanger

It’s hard to believe that St. Patrick’s Day is almost here. I know that I am ready for sunshine and warmer weather. St. Patrick’s Day is a fun holiday in our household. Even the pups have something to wear. I thought it was time to put my new favorite tool, my Cricut, to use and make a new door hanger for the holiday. I was so happy with the Valentine’s Day door hanger. You can check that one out here.

The rustic wooden circle I found at Michael’s looked complimented our front gate so nicely that I picked up another one for my St. Patrick’s Day hanger. I may even use the same style for my Easter one. It’s such a versatile piece.

The truck design has become a favorite, and I knew I wanted to incorporate that into my design. The Cricut design space is full of graphics, design ideas, and project ideas. When I came across this truck with shamrocks, I knew that this would be the starting point for my design.

I wanted to add just a touch of sparkle and shine too. What’s St. Patrick’s Day without a little gold, right? I cut out random gold shamrocks and added them to the design. For most door hangers I will add a pretty bow. I found this one with a truck design on Amazon and picked it up. I admit that I am not a great bowmaker. I’m really happy with this St. Patrick’s Day design. What do you think?

I had extra shamrocks left that I did not want to go to waste so I took another piece of wood and added a K monogram. The extra shamrocks went on there too. I’m sure that I will find the perfect spot for this one too!

carrie kellyUntil next week,

Carrie

Enjoy a complimentary guide and learn to decorate like a pro when you sign up for my newsletter full of exclusive content, tips, tricks, recipes, style, decor, and so much more.

 

All About Home, Decor, Everyday Life, Fashion and Style, Food, Longaberger, Monograms

January Favorites

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january favorites

Can you believe that we are already through January? It feels like we were celebrating the holidays yesterday. I hope you are finding time to slow down and relax after the busy holiday season. After the decorations were packed away and the house was back to normal, I have been trying to slow down. I love the holiday season but it keeps me busy. January was full of new and old favorites. I hope you enjoy some of what I loved in January.

Home Chef is something my husband and I are still enjoying. We have been subscribers to this meal kit service for almost a year. With just two of us in the house I sometimes felt like we were wasting so much food especially if we had to buy an ingredient that We knew we would never use again. We really like the variety of choices and have been trying new things too.

home chef
Always a delicious meal with Home Chef

Spring can come anytime now, I’m ready. I always change my scents each season, and Lily of the Valley from Longaberger is perfect for spring. Our Santal, Lily of the Valley Candle smells like sandalwood, linen, and lily of the valley. I love that it is topped with dried rose petals and rose quartz crystals. The modern sleek design fits any home decor style too. These candles are clean with no toxins or parabens, and the scent is incredible.

longaberger lily of the valley candle
A beautiful scent from Longaberger

January always finds me purchasing a new journal. Last year I tried something new and it was okay but not my favorite. I went back to the Gratitude Journal. I really like how it is laid out. A few minutes each morning to start the day off right and a few minutes each evening to end the day on a positive note and reflect on what could have been better that day. I prefer to journal in short pieces like this.

5 minute journal
My go-to journal

You know that I love a monogram necklace. Molly B Originals has become a favorite of mine. Molly is so sweet and always sends a nice little note in her beautifully put-together packages. I had to have the heart for Valentine’s Day and plan on wearing it throughout the year too. The others are new designs and are perfect with all of my Lilly. My favorite feature of Molly B is that many of the necklaces are interchangeable. I order them with a lobster clasp to interchange on my different necklaces.

molly b originals
Monograms for every occasion

My Cricut is something that I have been using non-stop. I made many things during the holiday season with it and for our Christmas Eve craft I cut out holiday items and we transferred them to plates. It was so fun and everyone had something that they made to take home. I needed a new Valentine’s Day door hanger and it was my Cricut to the rescue. I picked up the wooden piece at Michael’s and the bow was something left over from a previous project. In just a few minutes, I had a new piece for the door. Check out all the details and how I created it in this blog. Now, I am working on one for St. Patrick’s Day.

valentines day door hanger
Valentine’s Day door hanger

These were just a few of my favorites from January. New projects, scents, and more to start the new year off right. I see many more Cricut projects in my future too, it’s just too much fun!

Until next week,

Carrie

 

 

 

Shop my favorites below:

Home Chef

Longaberger Lily of the Valley candle

Gratitude Journal

Molly B Originals

Cricut

All About Home, Arizona,My Second Home, Decor, Holidays

Valentine’s Day Door Hanger

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valentines day door hanger

It was time to make something new for our front gate for Valentine’s Day. I wanted to do something a little different and not the traditional wreath. Door hangers are so popular and I thought that would be the perfect project. Can you believe that I have not made one yet?

I stopped at Michael’s and found this multicolor round plaque on a rope. I knew that I wanted to do something round to fit the curve of our gate door. This one with the rustic look really caught my eye and I decided on that one. Saved me a little time too since I did not have to paint it.

Next up, deciding on a design. I started searching on Cricut design space and let me tell you there is so much there. I knew that I wanted my sign to say hello valentine so I could narrow it down a bit. This design was the exact script and font that I was looking for.

If you know me, you know that I love pink. I decided to use a Fuschia vinyl instead of a traditional red. This was a matte vinyl. I have really been enjoying using my Cricut for a variety of projects. Next up is a Valentine’s Day shirt. I cut my design out, weeded it, and applied it to the door hanger. I was going to make a new bow but found this one left over from a previous project. The color was perfect.

valentines day door hanger
Welcome friends!

I’m really happy with my first door hanger project. It looks so nice and welcoming at our gate. What do you think?

carrie kellyUntil next week,

Carrie

Enjoy a complimentary guide and learn to decorate like a pro when you sign up for my newsletter full of exclusive content, tips, tricks, recipes, style, decor, and so much more.

All About Home, Arizona,My Second Home, Decor, Remodeling and Renovations

Den/Office Space Refresh

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den/office refresh

The holidays are over and it is time to get back into the swing of things. I needed a bigger workspace here in AZ. I love my little pink desk from Pottery Barn but it is very small. We have a nice little den space that I thought would be the perfect spot. When we do have guests that use it I will just go back to my pink desk. It is still in the same spot and I just freshened it up with some accessories.

We started by taking out the carpet and installing a laminate. Our two little Yorkies make having carpet impossible. If you have little dogs you totally understand. We did something a little different than the bedrooms that we redid last year. Home Depot was out of that flooring so I chose something a little different. I’m really happy with it and I like that it is a little different.

A small desk was the best fit for this spot. Knowing that it will not be used all of the time and not wanting to spend a ton of money, I checked out Amazon. Of course, I found just what I was looking for. I really like that it has a couple of drawers for all of my office supplies. This desk fits perfectly in the space and I ordered a chair too. I wanted the farmhouse look to keep with the colors of the room.

The lamp was also an Amazon find and I really like the pop of gold in the room. I made a Target run to check out the Hearth and Home line. I just wanted a few simple accessories. The basket was perfect to keep my most used supplies handy and a little greenery is a must. I picked up the picture at a local art fair a few years ago and finally found the perfect spot for it. It has moved around from place to place. The rest of the accessories came from my previous desk.

The only other thing that we did was reconfigure the room to fit my desk better. Everything else on the walls stayed the same too. I actually think that the room looks bigger configured this way. I think this is the perfect little office space for me here in AZ. What do you think?

Until next week,

Carrie

 

All About Home, Decor, Holidays

Holiday Outdoor Decor

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Outdoor winter decor makes me so happy. I love seeing all of the lights around town glowing and sparkling during the cold winter months. It gets dark so early in the winter and all of the lights just look beautiful.

This year I went with some black and white buffalo check mixed with my touches of pink and green Lilly inspired touches. It gets so windy here sometimes we decided a few years ago not to put lights across the entire house. It seems like we would get them up and some would blow off or go out and it would drive me crazy. Now we just hang a large wreath in the foyer window and I think it gives just the same look. My garland on the door is also lit and trimmed with bows in the corners and pink and green ornaments. Last year I purchased the ball topiaries on Amazon and just love them. I keep them out all year and just add lights at the holidays. Just a classic look. The personalized garden flag is from Initial Outfitters by Carrie. My potting bench was trimmed with a large lantern and pot, simple and festive. I change out the pillows on my bench and the tables have a wreath and lantern on them too. Can you tell I love lanterns? They just make everything pretty. A tree in the corner completes the porch. My coach lanterns all have a wreath with lights and pink and green ornaments. A different look instead of swags. I saw this look at Opryland Hotel and thought it was so pretty. A simple lit tree and pots with greenery complete the decor. Simple, classic, and elegant with a touch of fun Lilly whimsy.

Enjoy the holiday season and beautiful decor.

Until next week,

Carrie

All About Home, Beauty, Decor, Entertaining, Everyday Life, Fashion and Style, Holidays, Holidays, Longaberger, My Favorites, Wellness and Fitness

October Favorites

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october favorites

October favorites, I can’t believe that I am already writing October. How fast has this year gone? I will admit that I have already started holiday planning and shopping. October is always an in-between month. The weather can be warm, cold, or anywhere in the middle. It certainly has been here. I fell in love with a new jewelry line this month, a favorite new book, a new beauty tool, and more. Enjoy this month’s favorites.

bronwen jewelry
Jewelry for the active lifestyle

Bronwen jewelry has become a new favorite of mine. I first came across it at the boutique I’m working at, and the pieces are so pretty. My favorite part is that they are designed by an active woman looking for jewelry to hold up to workouts, outdoor activities, swimming, sleep, water, and just about anything else you can think of. These pieces are designed to leave on and stay beautiful. I have been adding to my collection often.

longaberger holiday shop
Longaberger Holiday Shop

It’s never too early to start shopping and planning for the holidays. The Longaberger Holiday Shop is full of baskets, pottery, glassware, ornaments, and much more to make the holiday season a breeze. I ordered the mittens basket which is the inspiration for this year’s staircase design. I also added a few mini baskets and an ornament to my collection. Baskets are an easy way to decorate and organize a beautiful holiday table. I use many of my baskets for our annual Christmas Eve event.

spooky snack mix
Spooky snack mix

We were having a Hocus Pocus dinner and movie night and I was looking for a fun and spooky treat to serve. Snack mix, it’s always a favorite and easy to change up for any season, holiday, or theme. For this spooky snack mix, I combined Bugles, pepitas, microwave kettle corn,  and dried cranberries. I melted some white chocolate to drizzle over it and then added candy corn and M&M’s. It was delicious and a big hit!

jade roller
A must for your skin

I recently started using a jade roller, and OMG why have I not been using this? I have been using it every night after I apply my serum and the results are immediate. My skin looks smooth and my product is absorbed even better into my skin. I also love the cooling sensation on my skin too.

daily book of sunshine
Morning inspiration

I start every morning by writing in my journal and with a little inspiration. I came across this book on Amazon and picked it up. The Little Book of Daily Sunshine. It’s bite-sized pieces of inspiration to start the day. Many of these little nuggets will get you thinking and I am always looking for ways to be more positive and inspired.

I hope you enjoyed my October favorites. The rest of the year is going to go even faster. Make sure to stop and enjoy it all!

Until next week,

Carrie

Shop my favorites here:

Bronwen Jewelry

Longaberger Holiday Shop

Jade roller

Little Book of Daily Sunshine

 

All About Home, Decor, Entertaining, Holidays, Longaberger, Tablescapes

Longaberger Holiday Shop

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longaberger holiday shop

I have been waiting for this all year, the Longaberger Holiday Shop. I love all seasons, but somehow decorating for the holidays just seems different and special. Each room has a different style and theme, and I enjoy creating a magical experience for my family and friends. We host Christmas Eve at our house complete with games, crafts, gifts from Santa, food, and so much fun. I look forward to it all year long!

longaberger holiday shop
Sure to grab attention
longaberger holiday shop
Beautiful hand-woven ornament

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Longaberger has been a part of my holiday traditions for years. I have collected holiday baskets and they stay displayed year-round. The traditions and memories behind these pieces are so special to me. Longaberger is a company rich in American history and tradition. I hope to pass these things down to my family and know that they will bring back happy memories of holidays past.

longaberger holiday shop
A Norman Rockwell Christmas
longaberger christmas shop
Winter fun

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This collection is incredible and the weavers really outdid themselves. Baskets shaped like mittens, who would have thought? I ordered the green set and they are the inspiration for this year’s staircase design. Tree skirt baskets, Norman Rockwell ornaments(is there anything more American than Norman Rockwell), glass pieces, and so much more.

longaberger holiday shop
A new take on a traditional piece
longaberger holiday shop
Trim the tree with a handmade piece

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Longaberger really is a lifestyle that I fully embrace. Family, friends, and home are the most important things to me. I am so excited to add new pieces to my collection and create my Winter Wonderland. I am happy to help you find the perfect Longaberger piece for you or a loved one and add a little Longaberger Lifestyle to your home!

longaberger holiday shop
A unique tree skirt
longaberger holiday shop
Traditional red

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Until next week,

Carrie

Send me an email here: pinespplesandmonograms@gmail.com

Visit the Longaberger boutique here: longaberger.carriekellydesigns.com