Embracing the Tranquil Transition: Welcoming Fall with Open Arms

embracing fall

As the vibrant hues of summer gradually give way to the warm and cozy tones of fall, it’s time to prepare ourselves for a change that’s both refreshing and invigorating. The transition from the sunny days of summer to the crisp air of autumn brings with it a sense of renewal and reflection. I enjoy the cooler mornings and evenings and try to embrace the change of seasons. Here are some ways to mentally and physically embrace the enchanting season of fall.

Cultivating a Cozy Home Sanctuary:

embracing fall
Create a warm and cozy environment

As the temperature begins to dip, it’s the perfect opportunity to infuse your home with warmth and comfort. Swap out lightweight summer linens for plush throws and knitted blankets that invite you to snuggle up on the couch. I pull out my cozy blankets and lay one on each couch to curl up in on a cold night. Add rich, autumnal colors to your decor palette through cushions, drapes, and small accessories. Incorporate scented candles that evoke the fragrances of fall, like spiced apple, cinnamon, and vanilla. A cozy home environment sets the stage for embracing the change in the air.

Savoring Seasonal Delights:

embracing fall
Try a new soup recipe

One of the most delightful ways to welcome fall is through its culinary treasures. The transition of seasons brings with it an array of hearty and soul-warming dishes. Spend time in the kitchen experimenting with recipes that feature the bounties of fall – from pumpkin spice lattes and apple crisps to butternut squash soups and roasted root vegetables. Cooking together with loved ones not only yields delicious results but also fosters memorable bonding moments. A comforting pot of soup simmering on the stovetop is always welcome for fall.

Exploring Nature’s Beauty:

embracing fall
Enjoy time in nature

As the leaves begin to change colors, take advantage of the natural beauty that surrounds you. Plan leisurely walks in local parks or nature reserves to witness the enchanting transformation firsthand. Capture the kaleidoscope of colors through photography or simply immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of the season. Bring some of the beauty of nature indoors. Nature’s gentle shift encourages us to embrace change as a source of wonder and renewal.

Cultivating Mindfulness and Reflection:

embracing fall
Take time to reflect

Fall’s arrival invites us to slow down and engage in moments of reflection. Set aside time for quiet introspection, whether through meditation, journaling, or simply enjoying a cup of tea by the window. Use this time to appreciate the beauty of impermanence and the cyclical nature of life. I start every morning writing in my journal and reading something uplifting and motivating. Fall teaches us that change is an integral part of existence and provides us with an opportunity to grow.

Fostering Connections and Togetherness:

embracing fall
Enjoy Fall activities

For women who value their relationships, fall offers numerous opportunities to strengthen connections. Host cozy gatherings at home, such as movie nights or intimate dinners, where you can share stories and laughter with family and friends. Consider organizing seasonal activities like apple-picking outings or crafting sessions to create lasting memories together. Embracing fall as a season of togetherness enriches our lives with shared experiences.

Nurturing Self-Care Rituals:

embracing fall
Take time for you.

As the pace of life tends to slow down during fall, it’s an ideal time to prioritize self-care. Pamper yourself with indulgent baths, hydrating skincare routines, and relaxing massages. Engage in activities that bring you joy, whether it’s reading a captivating novel, practicing yoga, or taking up a creative hobby. By nurturing yourself, you set a positive example of embracing change with grace and self-love.

In the embrace of fall, we find a gentle reminder that change is not to be feared but celebrated. This transitional season teaches us the art of letting go, while also inviting us to welcome new beginnings. Fall presents a canvas of possibilities for cultivating warmth, reflection, and togetherness. By savoring seasonal flavors, exploring nature’s splendor, and nurturing our well-being, we can gracefully transition into fall and relish the unique gifts it brings. So, as the leaves fall, let us also shed the unnecessary and step into the season with open arms and open hearts.

profileUntil next week,

Carrie

Embrace the Sweet Farewell of Summer: Tips and Ideas for Women 40-60 to Savor the Remaining Sunshine

enjoy the last of summer

As the sun begins to cast its golden glow on late afternoons and the scent of blooming flowers lingers in the air, we find ourselves at the crossroads of summer’s end. For those of us who relish spending quality time with our loved ones, entertaining, and embracing the finer aspects of life, this transitional period offers the perfect canvas to create cherished memories. Here are some delightful tips and ideas to make the most of the final days of summer.

enjoy the last of summer, garden party
A cozy spot to gather

1. Intimate Garden Gatherings: With the balmy days still gracing us, why not host a series of intimate gatherings in your garden? Set up cozy seating arrangements with plush cushions and decorative lanterns to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Share stories, laughter, and delectable bites with your family and close friends, celebrating the beauty of togetherness amidst nature’s splendor.

enjoy the last of summer, sunset beach picnic
Enjoy the sunset at the beach

2. Sunset Soirées: There’s something magical about sunsets that cast a tranquil and contemplative mood. Invite your loved ones for a sunset soirée by the water, whether it’s a beach, a lake, or a serene riverside spot. Set up a picnic with gourmet cheeses, fresh fruits, and sparkling beverages, as you watch the sun bid its daily adieu with its radiant hues. Ask each guest to bring a favorite treat.

enjoy the last of summer, host a cooking party
Host a cooking party

3. Culinary Adventures: If you have a passion for cooking or exploring diverse cuisines, consider organizing themed culinary evenings. Invite your family and friends to be part of a delightful journey through flavors and cultures. From a Mediterranean mezze feast to an elegant French bistro-inspired dinner, these gatherings will not only tantalize taste buds but also foster engaging conversations.

enjoy the last of summer, paint party
Painting in the garden

4. Artistic Escapades: Unleash your creative spirit by organizing an outdoor art session. Set up easels, canvases, and an array of vibrant paints in your backyard or a local park. Create your own masterpieces while sipping on refreshing beverages and indulging in lighthearted conversations. This experience will not only ignite your artistic passion but also serve as a beautiful reminder of the fleeting beauty of summer. There are many art studios that will come to you for a class.

enjoy the last of summer, nature walk
Spend time in nature

5. Nature Walks and Picnics: Embrace the outdoors with leisurely nature walks in picturesque settings. Take your friends and family on a journey through lush trails, observing the changing colors of leaves and the harmonious symphony of birdsong. Pack a picnic basket with gourmet sandwiches, salads, and refreshing drinks to relish in a delightful al fresco feast.

enjoy the last of summer, outdoor movie night
Fun with an outdoor movie

6. Al Fresco Cinema: Create a cozy outdoor movie night for your loved ones to enjoy beneath the starry sky. Set up a projector, scatter plush blankets, and cushions, and prepare a selection of your favorite classic films or heartwarming comedies. Don’t forget the popcorn and some decadent treats to heighten the cinematic experience. Ask guests to vote on the picture and show the top vote-getter.

enjoy the last of summer, spa day
Unwind with a spa day

7. DIY Spa Retreat: Treat yourself and your loved ones to a rejuvenating DIY spa retreat. Set up a tranquil oasis with scented candles, soothing music, and luxurious skincare products. Indulge in relaxing facials, massages, and soothing baths, allowing everyone to unwind and recharge before the hustle and bustle of autumn.

enjoy the last of summer, flower market
Explore a flower market

8. Gardening and Floral Delights: Engage in the beauty of nature by organizing a gardening day or visiting a local flower market. Encourage your guests to cultivate their green thumbs, sharing tips and techniques for nurturing plants and flowers. The colorful blooms will not only infuse your surroundings with beauty but also serve as a metaphor for embracing the various stages of life. Invite guests to bring a cutting from their favorite flower.

enjoy summer, party
Summer celebration party

9. Gratitude Celebration: Host a heartfelt gratitude celebration to bid adieu to summer. Create a meaningful ritual where each guest shares what they’re grateful for from the season and their hopes for the future. This introspective gathering will foster a sense of connection and optimism, setting the tone for the approaching autumn days.

As the days grow shorter and the warmth of summer gradually fades, these ideas offer a myriad of ways to savor the remaining moments. From cozy gatherings to artistic endeavors, each suggestion is designed to embrace the beauty of the present while looking forward to the beauty that lies ahead. So, gather your loved ones, create cherished memories, and bask in the sweet farewell of summer’s embrace.

profileUntil next week,

Carrie

June Favorites

june favorites

June has been a busy busy month. I attended the Pink Retreat in Palm Beach again this year. It just gets better and better each year. Catching up with friends, it’s always a great time. We pick up right where we left off, those friendships are priceless. We have been busy keeping up in the gardens with summer in full swing. I don’t know about you but we have had no rain here in weeks. With lots of water and care, the plants are hanging in there. June was a mix of all sorts of favorites. I hope you enjoy it!

My new issue of Bella Grace arrived and I enjoy reading a bit of it every night before bed. It’s uplifting and unlike any other magazine that I have read. This is a magazine that I take my time reading. Bella Grace encourages you to find magic in the ordinary and that everything is special. The photography and stories are beautiful and so well written. There are also worksheets for you to complete to get the most out of this magazine. It has become my favorite treat!

bella grace magazine
For inspiration and beauty

Have you ever been at the airport desperately searching for your luggage? I don’t anymore. I treated myself to a brightly colored suitcase. Trust me, you can’t miss it. I ordered mine on Amazon. Marshalls has a nice selection of bright bags too.  A colorful luggage tag from Lilly Pulitzer makes identification easier too. Who wants to spend time looking for luggage? Not me, I’m ready to get my vacation started.

colorful luggage
You can spot my bags

I make sure to always have a hat with me if I’m traveling somewhere warm. How fun is this hat that I picked up a few years ago? Unfortunately, it is not available anymore but there are great options at all of the stores. I make sure to look stylish and comfortable on travel day. Normally I will wear a comfortable Lilly dress, a sweater over my shoulders(those planes can get so cold), and comfortable sneakers for walking the airports.

monogram hat
Easy travel style

I switch my scents each season and my go-to summer fragrance is Beach by Bobbi Brown. It smells exactly like it sounds, the beach. I can’t get enough of it. It pairs nicely with At The Beach from Bath and Body Works too. I use the wash and lotion from there.

beach by bobbi brown
A go-to summer scent

I change my front door wreath each season to reflect the time of year. A plain wreath can be dressed up and changed out all year long. Adding a ribbon for the 4th of July or any holiday gives it a fresh look. A guest will get the feel and vibe of your home from the front porch and door decor. Make it welcoming.

summer wreath
Welcome guests with a wreath

I hope you find time to enjoy the great that summer has to offer. It is going to go by so fast.

carrie kellyUntil next week,

Carrie

 

 

 

Shop my favorites HERE:

Bella Grace

Amazon Luggage

Beach by Bobbi Brown

 

 

Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Mother’s Day is such a special day to celebrate moms and the women that have made a difference and impact on our lives. Honestly, Mother’s Day should be celebrated every day. It’s hard work. It is nice to treat mom to a day and something special just for her. We always spend part of Mother’s Day with our moms and then usually have dinner out. Bob always goes to the nursery and picks out a plant for me and both our moms. He has done it for years and it’s really sweet. I rounded up a few of my favorites for Mother’s Day guaranteed to warm mom’s heart.

aembr secret garden
Natural and clean scent

Spring-scented candles are always a favorite. Secret Garden from Aembr is a fragrance that I love for the season. Aembr candles are luxury, clean-burning candles formulated by Kristina Braly in her own home. She left her job as a doctor to pursue her dream of owning her own company creating luxury candles that are not full of toxins. The vessels and packaging are beautiful too, she has thought of every detail. I love that story and supporting a woman-owned business. These sell out so quickly each release because they are made in small batches.

5 minute journal
My go-to journal

A beautiful journal makes a wonderful gift. There are so many beautiful options out there. Pair a journal with a pretty pen tied with a bow for a lovely gift. I enjoy writing in my journal daily. It is something that I started during the pandemic and have kept up with it ever since. This is a favorite of mine, a few minutes spent writing in it each morning and evening.

mothers day gift guide,Gardening gifts
Gardening gifts

I told you that Bob always picks out plants for our moms and they both really enjoy spending time in the garden. Beautiful garden gloves, a gardening set, or another favorite of mine, a gardening journal are perfect for the garden lover. A trug to carry flowers and produce in makes a lovely gift. Plant a little herb garden for mom to keep by her door and she can pick herbs for cooking anytime.

longaberger
Gorgeous and practical

Mother’s Day with Longaberger is always full of beautiful, sentimental, and special gifts that any mother would love. The round storage basket is brand new for Mother’s Day and this soft green is my favorite color yet. Gorgeous. The Mother’s Day Gift Shop has everything you need to let mom know how special she is. Does she love to garden? A trug or utility shears make gardening easy. Does she love jewelry? A Longaberger watch, ring, charm, or leather bracelet is a sophisticated choice. Does she love perfume? Longaberger perfumes are unique and divine. Is mom a fahionista? The woven handbag is a beautiful, functional, and stylish gift.

 

mothers day gift guide farmhouse fresh
A sweet treat for mom

Treat mom to a little luxury from FarmHouse Fresh. This is my go-to skincare and body care line. This gist set is a favorite and I purchased it for myself. This basketful of Sweet Tea favorites is scented with a favorite southern drink of peach, ginger, and white tea. It includes hand cream and triple-milled bar soap. The sweet tea scent is light and fresh and I love the little basket it comes in.

mothers day gift guide, time together
Mom & I on an adventure

But, my favorite gift of all to give mom, is time spent together. I have started doing this too with my mom. I will pick out something for us to do together. We have enjoyed paint night, creating a fairy garden, exploring new places in our area, and so much more. Really, isn’t that the best gift of all?

I hope you enjoyed this blog and maybe picked up an idea or two for your mom. My hope is that you get to enjoy the day with those that you love.

Until 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.

February 2023 Favorites

february favorites

Can you believe that March is here? Soon the flowers will be blooming and the weather will slowly start to warm up. I am really looking forward to warmer weather and sunshine. I am ready to start working in the gardens! February was a short but busy month. I tried new skincare that I am loving, found a new accessory line, and so much more. Here are five of my favorites from February.

farmhouse fresh, february favorites
Incredible skincare

I’m getting to the end of my Theorem skincare supply and I have been checking out a few new lines. FarmHouse Fresh has blown me away with incredible results after just a couple of weeks. I am still using products from Beauty Pie as well, and their products have worked wonders too. I’m trying to eliminate as many toxins from my products as I can and FarmHouse Fresh is free of parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, and fragrance phthalates. The products are also made in the USA using up to 100% natural ingredients that are grown on their farm, how cool is that? The company is also women-owned and the profits are used to help abused animals rescued and living at their Farm Animal Sanctuary(which I love so much and support). I started with just a couple of products and could not believe how fresh and clear my skin looked and I quickly ordered more. I rarely wear much makeup and prefer my ByTerry CC serum and Ilia serum instead of foundation. You can also set up a video chat with one of their specialists and discuss which products are right for you and tons of samples are included with every order. I will do a full blog on my routine soon too but if I had to pick one product to start with it, the Wine Down serum would be it, it’s amazing.

mackenzie childs lotion, february favorites
For soft hands

Another favorite from the beauty range is this Lavender Fields hand lotion from Mackenzie-Childs. Mackenzie-Childs is so much more than just home decor. The bottle is beautiful on my bedside table and the scent is light and fresh. My hands have been so incredibly dry this winter and this lotion is saving the day. Applying a generous amount of this on my hands is my very last step at night before bed.

bella grace magazine, february favorites
An inspirational and beautiful magazine

I was at Michael’s looking for some craft supplies when I came across this magazine, Bella Grace. The cover was beautiful and it stopped me in my tracks. I flipped through it but did not buy it. I ended up going back the next day to pick it up. It is one of those magazines that is meant to be read over time. Their belief is that an ordinary life can be extraordinary, there is beauty in imperfection, and that magic can be found in the everyday. I love this and I have been enjoying reading a bit of this daily. I have to stop myself from reading all of it at once.

lobe love, february favorites
Beautiful accessories

A few weeks ago I went to a Galentine’s Day event filled with vendors and shopping. I came across Lobe Love and their beautiful headbands and I was hooked. I picked up a couple of headbands and they are so comfortable to wear. With my hair longer I am always looking for cute accessories to add to my collection. The owner and her daughter were so sweet and I enjoyed chatting with them too.

lilly pulitzer scarf, february favorites
An easy accessory

You know that I love, love, love my Lilly Pulitzer scarves. A scarf is a quick way to add style and color to an outfit while also being practical. I tend to get cold inside places and having a scarf with me makes for an easy shawl. This one happened to be in the same print as the pants that I was wearing that day too. Lilly scarves are an accessory that I can’t live without.

A variety of fun favorites this month. March looks to be a fun month with Spring Training baseball, St. Patrick’s Day, and time spent outdoors.

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:

FarmHouse Fresh

Mackenzie-Childs Lavender Fields Lotion

Bella Grace Magazine

Lobe Love

Lilly Pulitzer Scarves

October Favorites

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

 

Theorem Density Conditioning Treatment Mask

Are you struggling with dry, brittle hair that just will not grow? Have you tried every product out there? Do you want gorgeous, shiny, and full hair? Then Theorem. Density Conditioning Treatment is for you!

theorem density conditioning treatmentThe Theorem Method

The Theorem. Method consists of three products that work together to give you the best hair ever. Density is part one, perfect for the hair shaft. Weak strands with damaged cuticles cause hair breakage and this prevents hair from growing long and thick. Theorem Density Conditioning Treatment repairs the cuticle with an advanced silicone-infused formula (botox for the hair). Leave on damp hair for 5-10 minutes and hair is strengthened and thicker. I use it every third wash. Use with heat for even better results. Normally heat causes hair to become brittle but not with Density. Density uses the power of heat to strengthen hair. The silicon will expand making hair even thicker.

Density is multi-purpose and can be used in many ways.

For fine straight hair: Apply to damp hair away from the roots and leave in for 5-10 minutes. Rinse and heat style. The heat will help activate the formula.

theorem densityBotox for the hair

For damaged, coarse hair, curly, or bleached hair: Use as a leave-in conditioner. Apply avoiding the roots and heat style as usual.

For ethnic hair or extra moisture: Mix with 4 pumps of Sugar Pi and use as an overnight mask.

theorem density conditioning treatmentMy results after one use

These are just a few of the many uses of Density. After just one use, hair will be stronger, smoother, and thicker! Let your unique personality shine with Theorem.by Carrie Kelly Lifestyle

Visit the Theorem Boutique here.

Carrie Kelly is an Interior Redesign Industry Specialist and  Lead Designer at Carrie Kelly Designs specializing in interior redesign, seasonal, and home decor helping clients create beautiful spaces in their homes without the time and expense of a full remodel. She is also a Theorem Independent Hair Specialist helping everyone have the best hair day ever and Personal Stylist with Carrie Kelly Boutique, a boutique featuring all things monogrammed and personalized for your unique style. Carrie is also the author of Pineapples and Sweet Tea, a Lifestyle blog, and co-author of the #1 best-selling book The Art of Connection.

You can find her at:

links.carriekellydesigns.com

Tips To End The Day On A Positive Note

tips to end the day on a positive note

Life has been crazy for everyone in the last year. Spending so much time at homemade everyone is a little stir crazy at times. I know I fell out of my nightly routine. I realized that having a nightly routine was what I needed to close my day, I noticed a huge difference in the time I let it go. I tend to like routines and schedules. It was time to get back to the routine that I had created. I found that I relaxed and slept better when I scheduled this into my evenings. These are a few of my favorite tips.

  • I like to have everything tidy and organized before I go to bed. Dishes get put away and the kitchen is cleaned up. Laundry is put away and towels are laid out for the next day. The bed is turned down and clothes are ready for the morning.
  • Finn and Ruby always get a last walk at night. They love that! They have their own routine too. They get their harnesses off, get shoulder rubs, and treats. Not spoiled at all! They know it’s bedtime then.
  • At least with me, it seemed like it was difficult to turn my mind off at night. I spend a few minutes writing in my Five Minute Journal and reevaluating my day, the good and the bad. This journal has become my favorite, I write in it morning and night.
tips to end the day on a positive note
Five-minute journal is my go-to journal
  • I started an evening yoga stretching series just to stretch and loosen my muscles up before bed. Nothing better than a good stretch before bed. A few minutes of quiet relaxation to slow the mind down. I leave my yoga mat out and set any equipment out for my morning workout. This ensures I won’t miss it.
tips to end the day on a positive note
I set all of my equipment out the night before
  • A little meditation ends my day. Sometimes it is just some peaceful music and other times a chant or meditation. I like to change it up depending on how I am feeling and what I need that evening.
  • After I finish my evening routine electronics are off. I don’t check my phone, social media, or email. Anything can wait until the morning and I want to enjoy the quiet.
tips to end the day on a positive note
Affirmation Deck I use everyday

I hope you found these tips helpful and will try adding one or two to your evening routine. Let me know if you do and how it is working for you. I would also love to hear your favorite tips for slowing down at night, send me a message!

Until next week,

Carrie

carrie kellyCarrie Kelly is an Interior Redesign Industry Specialist and  Lead Designer at Carrie Kelly Designs specializing in interior redesign, seasonal, and home decor helping clients create beautiful spaces in their homes without the time and expense of a full remodel. She is also a Personal Stylist with Initial Outfitters, a boutique featuring all things monogrammed and personalized for your unique style. Carrie is also the author of Pineapples and Sweet Tea, a Lifestyle blog, and co-author of the #1 best-selling book The Art of Connection.

You can find her at:

links.carriekellydesigns.com

Three Easy Tips To Start Your Day Right

 

Do you struggle with starting your day off right? I had been for a while. Pre-COVID, I had a morning routine that I really didn’t stray from. When we were all on lockdown, the yoga studio was closed, coffee shops and restaurants were closed, it seemed like everything we took for granted was closed. Thankfully, most places have opened back up and life has somewhat returned to normal. We are starting to travel again, and I have enjoyed getting back to travel.

I knew that during COVID I needed to create a new routine. I am a creature of habit and like structure and routine. These are three easy ways that I have found to make my morning start out on the right foot. Starting the day off on a positive note just makes the rest of the day even better.

  • Affirmation card and journaling. I start every morning by pulling an affirmation card from this deck and writing in the Five Minute Journal. I really enjoy this journal, just 5 minutes in the morning and 5 minutes in the evening. A few motivating words and thoughts start the day off right.
    Five-minute journal is my go-to journal

    Affirmation Deck I use every day
  • Working out. After my affirmation card and journaling, I get my workout in first thing in the morning. If I don’t do it then, I will get too busy and put it off. I have been doing Beachbody on Demand this last year. There are so many varieties of programs you won’t get bored. A morning workout gives you a boost of positive energy to start the day. I make sure to set my equipment out the night before so I have no excuse in the morning.

    I set all of my equipment out the night before
  • Lemon water. A simple glass of lemon water every morning is so beneficial for your body. I am not a coffee drinker, and a glass of lemon water does the trick for me. I have been trying to drink more water and I really like making my own flavored waters too. Lemon, lime, and mint is my favorite combination.

    Lemon water starts the day off right

This is the way I start my day. Just a few simple things can make such a positive impact and really set the tone for a positive and productive day. How do you start your day?

If you like this I invite you to enjoy a free guide to proper monogram etiquette here:

carrie kellyCarrie Kelly is an Interior Redesigner Industry Specialist and  Lead Designer at Carrie Kelly Designs specializing in interior redesign, seasonal, and home decor helping clients create beautiful spaces in their homes without the time and expense of a full remodel. She is also a Senior Outfitter with Initial Outfitters, a boutique featuring all things monogrammed and personalized for your unique style. Carrie is also the author of Pineapples and Sweet Tea, a Lifestyle blog, and co-author of the #1 best-selling book The Art of Connection.

 

carrie kelly
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Five Things I am Loving May 2021

 

It looks like the cold weather is finally behind us here in the midwest. My daffodils, tulips, and hyacinth are all in bloom. Unfortunately, a late frost damaged my beautiful magnolia tree. Luckily, it did bloom first. I have been busy planting away. Most of my pots and baskets are finished. On my deck, I planted a pot of herbs for my tea and another herb pot for cooking. Is there anything better than cooking with fresh herbs? I love stepping outside and picking just what I need. I have also been busy doing a bit of spring cleaning and organizing. It’s always a good feeling to clear the clutter. Spring always gets me in the mood for a little decor refresh too. I changed out some heavy drapery, moved a few pieces of furniture around, added a few new pictures just for a little change. I’m looking forward to celebrating Mother’s Day and everything that spring has to offer. Here are five things I am loving for May.

By Terry CC Brightening serum. I mix a dot of the Sunny Flash in with my moisturizer for just a hint of color.

Radiance boosting primer. Built-in skincare. Color-corrector. Instantly brightens. Evens out the skin tone.

Infused with radiant rose stem cells, this illuminating primer creates a flawless base with no coverage. ‘Optical glow’ technology blurs imperfections, evens out the skin tone, and neutralizes redness. Deeply hydrated, skin looks visibly brighter and positively glowing. Glides on effortlessly. Available in 4 shades. Flatters all skin tones. Lightweight serum texture. Easily buildable.

UNIQUE FORMULA

Enriched with radiant rose stem cells Brightening CC Serum boosts radiance and adds protection to the skin. ‘Optical glow’ technology mixes light-reflecting prisms, soft-focus microspheres, and color-correcting pigments.

THE RESULTS

Helps to hold makeup for longer. Skin looks instantly brighter and positively glowing.

N°1 Immaculate Light controls redness and reduces blotchiness. Ideal for pale/porcelain complexions that need a lift. Highlights high points of complexion.

N°2 Rose Elixir illuminates washed-out, ashy-looking skin with healthy pink undertones. Also a perfect highlighter for darker complexions.

N°3 Apricot Glow revives a dull complexion and gives the skin depth and warmth.

N°4 Sunny Flash is ideal for darker skin tones and creates a beautiful bronzed finish.

by Terry cc brightening serum
by Terry CC Brightening Serum

This personalized wooden tray from Initial Outfitters by Carrie is the new centerpiece of my family room table. I like grouping things together and using a tray creates a designer look. On my tray, I added a Bamboo candle from Nest, personalized ceramic coasters, and a hurricane. Trays are just so versatile, I have multiple trays in each room. These trays measure 18″ X 12″ with a rope handle and personalization is complimentary.

personalized wooden tray
Personalized Wooden Tray

I love personalized social stationery, office supplies, and gift wrapping products. I recently came across a new shop on Etsy, Initial Offerings 4 You with the cutest designs. I was looking for Lilly Pulitzer-inspired stationery, and they had exactly what I was looking for. Shipping was also very prompt. I went with the shift dress theme in a Lilly-inspired pattern and ordered personalized notepad and gift tags. Personalized gift tags make a beautiful presentation. A little Lilly print will be framed for my office. I also ordered a Jack Rogers-inspired hand towel and tumbler but those have not arrived yet.

 

personalized notepad
Personalized Notepad

 

 

 

shift print
Shift Print

 

personalized gift tags
Personalized Gift Tags

During this last year when most gyms and yoga studios were closed, I made it a point to continue working out. I started Beachbody on demand.  I felt it was important to try to keep doing the same things I had always been doing. Honestly, I never thought that I would like to work out at home. Turns out, I really do. I enjoy getting up early every morning and getting my workout done before anything else. Beachbody has such a variety of workouts, you will never get bored with all of the choices. To end my day, I destress with a short stretching video followed by a meditation video. After that, all electronics are off for the night. I have a fantastic coach and mentor, Sian Greenwood. If you are interested in learning more about Beachbody and all it has to offer, I highly recommend reaching out to her for a chat.

beachbody on demand
Beachbody On Demand

Last but not least, another Mackenzie-Childs piece. The Royal Check pattern has become my new favorite. I added this little pitcher to my collection. Just the perfect size for a little bouquet of flowers. I have this on my island. I really wanted something not too bulky and easy to move when I want to use the island for cooking or preparing meals. I think it is the perfect piece.

mackenzie childs royal check pitcher
Mackenzie-Childs Royal Check Pitcher

I hope you enjoyed a few of my favorite things and maybe found something new to try. What things are you loving right now?

Until next week,

Carrie