SWEATER TRY-ON

The first few items I tried on were all sweaters because the weather here in San Diego has started to get a bit chillier! Since we live close to the beach, it definitely gets chilly in the morning and night, so I needed a few sweaters that I can wear throughout the week to stay warm!

Item 1: A New Day Women’s V-Neck Ruffled Pullover ($25)

This was a fun surprise! I honestly didn’t think I would like this because I felt like the ruffled neckline might be too much! But I was pleasantly surprised with how well it draped! It comes in three different colors and would look cute paired with jeans and booties! I’m wearing a size small, and normally would be a medium so I would size down! It’s a very comfortable and cozy piece and the ruffled element gives it a feminine, chic look!

Item 2: A New Day Women’s Slouchy Mockneck Sweater ($25)

I looooooove this sweater! I’m wearing a size Medium in this photo, but switched at checkout to a size small so also size down! It’s so soft and is the perfect sweater to wear with leggings! You can wear with leggings, tennies and a jean jacket or dress it up a little and wear with Spanx Leggings, tall boots and a wide-brim hat! It’s a super versatile tunic length sweater and is honestly so soft! It comes in a ton of colors too and is only $25!

Item 3: Universal Thread Crewneck Pullover Sweater ($20)

Size up on this one if you are on the taller side! I’m wearing a large to add a bit of length to it!! It’s slightly oversized, seriously comfy and is only $20! You can totally wear this to work with some dress pants or pair it with jeans and some loafers! There are like 15 different colors so you can take advantage of the affordable price point and buy multiple!

Item 4: A New Day Women’s Loop Stitched Cardigan ($35)

Okay…so I first saw this cardigan in Instagram on someone and it was super cute! But when I saw it in stores, I wasn’t as impressed! But then I tried it on and it fit so well and has a cool vibe to it! The large loop knit gives it a cool texture and you can wear it opened or buttoned up! It’s super versatile! I love the ribbed detailing and it’s a great piece to add to your closet for those semi-chilly nights! It does run a bit oversized (wearing size small) so size down for a more fitted look!

SHIRT TRY-ON

Item 1: A New Day Ottoman Long Sleeve T-Shirt ($20)

This is characterized as a t-shirt, but I actually felt like it was more sweater material since it’s a pretty thick knit! I love the neckline and the pocket detailing! I would wear this two ways- with my Madewell Jeans shown here, some white sneakers like these, and a headband! For a slightly dressier look, you can wear with Spanx leggings, knee high boots and a faux leather jacket over! It’s a simple basic tee that can easily be dressed up or down!

Item 2: Women’s Long Sleeve Henley Neck Pointelle Shirt – Universal Thread ($14.99)

This shirt is a great basic and layering piece! It’s only $14 and comes in white also. If you are shorter than 5’9, I would stick to your normal size! Otherwise, size up for a longer fit! I loved the pointelle detailing and the beautiful blue color!

Item 3: Women’s Puff 3/4 Sleeve Top – A New Day ($20)

This pullover top features a puckered texture, puffed short sleeves with drop shoulders, and a lovely peplum hemline. It’s made of cotton and some spandex and is a cute top! I loved this dusty rose color, but would definitely size down. I’m wearing a size medium, and would have got a small if they had it in stock! This shirt would be great year-round- wear it with denim shorts in the warmer months or add a layer and your favorite jeans in the colder months! 

Dresses

Item 1: Women’s Long Sleeve Ribbed Knit Sweater Dress – A New Day($29.99)

This Crewneck midi sweater dress is such a fun piece! I’m wearing a size small and love that it fits more form-fitting. You can easily dress it up or down depending on your style! I love it paired with a denim jacket and some casual sneakers! Top it off with a wide-brimmed rancher hat and you are set! 

Swap out the sneakers for booties and throw on a faux leather jacket and you are ready for date night! 

Item 2: Long Sleeve Sweater Dress – A New Day ($29.99)

This midi dress is similar to the previous one, although it has a hoodie and is more of a loosely-fitting dress. I’m wearing a size small and would size down to an extra-small, for a slightly better fit. I think this dress would be perfect for those who are currently pregnant too! There is enough fabric to give a little stretch and it’s a super cute casual dress that can transition into a postpartum wardrobe! I dream of putting my hair in a messy bun, slipping on this cozy dress and adding a pair of woven mules or sneakers to it! Casual yet chic!

Item 3: Puff Short Sleeve T-Shirt Dress – Universal Thread ($22)

This dress was so fun! The color looks a little more orange in pictures, but it is such a cute dress and it is actually long enough for tall girls! I’m wearing a size medium so I would say it is true to size! I love the slight volume in the sleeves! Slip it on, pair it with some braided mules and you are good to go! Easy peasy lemon squeezy!

Pajamas

Item: Women’s Plaid Fleece Lounge Sweater and Pants- Colsie ($20 sweater, $20 bottoms)

I love this pajama set! It is lined with fleece and seriously so warm and soft!! I’m wearing a size large in the top because it was seriously cropped on me, and a small in the bottoms! I love this print so much and you will find me wearing these all winter long!

To Shop Any Items in Our Post, See Below

Phewwwww! That was a lot of trying on! I hope seeing some of these pieces on helped give you a better idea of how they actually look on! Sometimes when I see them in store, I’m like nope! But once I try it on, I’m able to get a better idea of how it really looks and how I can style it.

Thanks for following along with us! We appreciate your support and hope you are having a great holiday season! If you still need to get gifts, we have some gift guides, here and here, that can provide inspiration!

xoxoxox,

Kari

Ps. We get a tiny commission if you purchase from our links and it makes us so grateful.

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Gifts for Baby Girl

1. Shopping Cart // from early walking days to toddlers, baby girls just love filling these up and pushing them all over the house.

2. Magnatiles // watch their fine motor skills + creativity soar with these magnetic tiles. We love these for quiet times like at church or during school!

3. Portable Sink with Running Water // my daughter played with one at a friend’s house and didn’t want to leave. The running water makes this sink so fun and practical! Can be used to teach kids to wash their own dishes.

4. Poke-a-Dot Books // These books challenge small motor movements with their fun popping circles on each page! With popular nursery songs, holiday themed and basic learning themes, you’ll definitely find one for you baby!

5. Magnetic Dress Up Doll // These magnetic dress up dolls are so fun. My daughter loves creating different outfits. I love to hear her vocabulary come out as she pretends to be the girls.

6. Balance Bike // teach them full body control but make it cute, right? Haha. I’m so into more subtle colors even for my daughter that I loved this bike when I saw it!

Girls 3-5 years

1. Balance Bike // Set your child up to not need training wheels with a balance bike!
2. Wooden Dish Set // I’m all about toys that use less plastic so this dish set is a perfect addition to any little girls life.
3. Pretend Kitchen // I think most little girls dream of a pretend kitchen! I love the minimalist look of this one and the green detail!!
4. Scooter // one of the most used toys in our home are the micro scooters. Their unique 2-front wheel design reduces falls which I’m sure every parent can appreciate!
5. Maileg Mice // these are an investment for sure, but the amount of open ended play they will provide is worth it! There are more affordable alternatives on Etsy tho!!
6. Wooden Dollhouse // Another popular gift for little girls is a dollhouse. This wooden dollhouse with multiple levels is a dupe to a more expensive option and seems so fun!

Gifts for Baby Boy

1. Doodle board // have some fun with this doodle board that can be used over and over again! Love these for traveling.

2. Balance Bike // an adorable option for your child’s first bike! They will be the cutest scooting around in this bike.

3. Climbing Ladder // not only is this climbing ladder functional and aesthetic, it will help promote motor development, creativity, and coordination/balance. And it gives parents some much needed quiet time!

4. Cleaning Set // include your child in home chores and plant the seed for serving! This adorable cleaning set will get them excited to clean!

5. Sensory Tubes // in the fidget toy family, sensory tubes open and close creating a fun sound.

6. Water Wow Coloring // When water touches the pages, colorful images appear. We use these for airplane rides, during church and just anytime! This paw patrol set is so popular right now!

Boys 3-5 years

1. Tonie Player // Saw an ad on Instagram for this and thought it was so interesting! Each character plays a unique story or song! A way to minimize screen time while giving kids the stories they love!

2. Lincoln Logs // made from real wood, Lincoln Logs allow your child to use their creativity and extend into pretend play. So fitting for the cooler weather!

3. Jungle Gym // a fun way to challenge problem solving, coordination development and enjoy the outdoors!

4. Scooter // a toy that your child will use over and over again. Worth the investment!!! Reduce falls with their unique 2-front wheel design.

5. Guess Who Board Game // This game is so fun! Ask yes or no questions to figure out your opponents character. The person that correctly guesses in the fewest turns wins! This has quickly become a family favorite!

6. Dog Man Books // Whether it’s Dog Man of another series, giving the gift of books is always a good idea! My son happens to be so into Dog Man books so I’m going to grab him a couple!

Presence over Presents

It’s nice to give kids presents if our budgets allow, and hopefully this hopefully these holiday gifts for babies and toddlers gave you some suggestions if you are stumped. Oh and check out our previous blog post for inspo on gift for your husband, gym enthusiasts and more!

A friendly reminder to never feel pressured to spend outside of your means! Ultimately what kids love the most is time with the special adults in their lives!

We love you all! Melissa + Kari

Ps. We get a tiny commission if you purchase from our links and it makes us so grateful.

The post Best Holiday Gifts for Babies and Toddlers (0-5 years) appeared first on sunkissed & grateful.

Happy November friends It’s the holiday season and that means lots of family/friend gatherings, yummy food, and of course presents! To help take the stress out of holiday gift shopping, we put together a few holiday gift guides to help you out! Whether you are shopping for your partner, bestie, or a teacher, we have ideas for you! So be sure to keep reading for some fun gift inspiration for everyone on your list! You can also find last year’s holiday gift guide HERE and HERE!

Gift Guide for the Wellness Enthusiast

We all have that special someone in our lives that is super into all things wellness, fitness, and health! Here are some gift ideas for the wellness enthusiast that will be sure to get their heart rate up in excitement! See what I did there (Insert winky face)! haha!

1// Act and Acre Gua Sha Scalp Tool: I’m sure you have heard of our love for gua sha for the face, but we just recently discovered gua sha for the scalp and are all about it! Using this gua sha stone, made of jade, helps promote circulation in the scalp, giving it an invigorating massage, which can help increase hair growth. As a postpartum momma who is still struggling with hair loss, this would be an amazing gift!

2// Saje Pocket Farmacy Essential Oil Blend Set: This is such a must-have for the wellness enthusiast! This kit includes a collection of 100% natural essential oil blends that you can keep in your car, purse, or anywhere you travel. Saje Wellness is one of my fave brands and they included some of their bestsellers to treat everyday ailments! Lululemon also has this recovery kit from Saje Wellness that would be an amazing gift too!

3// Lululemon Double Roller: Help your friend release tension with this amazing double roller! As a two-in-one roller, you can use the exterior roller to massage your arms and legs, and then pull out the interior roller to release tension in your back! Comes in three different colors and is such a great price point!

4// Bumble and bumble’s Bb.Post-Workout Dry Shampoo Mist: Revive those sweaty strands with this quick-drying dry shampoo! It will absorb oil, eliminate odor and it doesn’t leave any white cast or sticky residue! It’s the perfect post-workout product to take you from spin to brunch with your bestie!

5// Golde Matcha Turmeric Latte Superfood Blend: Give the gift of ultimate health with this superfood powder blend! Made with 7 essential superfoods with organic cacao that tastes great and has equally amazing benefits. The Turmeric is the ultimate superfood for skin and gut health, while the match, Rich in antioxidants and chlorophyll, provides a glow, detox, and a natural dose of caffeine. And the creamy coconut base is rich in MCT, which supports hair, skin, and nail health and boosts metabolism. It truly is magical and it’s vegan and keto-friendly! They also have a cacao flavor too!

6// Ice Roller for your Face: After a long night or an early morning, take this ice roller out of the freezer and roll over your face! It will help decrease puffiness, shrink pores, and can also ease tension and migraines! It’s such an inexpensive gift that makes such a big difference!

7// Be a Good Human Hat: Such a simple hat that packs a powerful message! This is the perfect hat for those who love to workout outdoors or keep the sun off their face! I also really love this smiley face hat from Etsy! It comes in so many colors and I constantly am getting asked where I got it!

8// Tangram Rookie Smart Jump Rope: How fun is this! The SmartRope Rookie syncs to your smartphone, automatically records your exercise data, programs your workout, and lets you compete with friends. Who knew a jump rope could empower you to live an active life!

9// Silk Hair Scrunchies: Say goodbye to creases after a workout with these super-soft silk scrunchies! I love to work out in these or use them while I sleep to ensure my hair stays smooth and breakage-free! Comes in a few colors and is such a fun and easy gift!

Gift Guide for Your Soul Sister

1// So Soft Sherpa Ballerina Slippers: So comfy and perfect for lounging around, these soft Sherpa slippers are so soft and only $20! Your bestie will thank you for keeping her feet warm and cozy!

2// Dae Dreamer Set: We have been big fan of Dae for quite some time now and love so many of their products! This set includes some of their best-sellers and is a great price! It sells out fast because it is just that good! I’m also a big fan of the deep-conditioner mask and the prickly pear hair oil!

3// Nodpod Weighted Eye Mask: Perfect for soothing migraines, calming anxiety, or getting that peaceful sleep, this weighted eye mask features four weighted pods that contour to your face, blocking out the light and providing soothing pressure to help relieve stress! I mean everyone needs one of these!

4// Starbucks Custom Cups: I love these cups so much!! And you know we are big fans of leopard print, so these Venti Starbucks custom cups are calling our names! At only $17, they are an inexpensive but thoughtful gift that you can give to all your besties! We also love these Gold & Rose Gold Ombre Custom Insulated Starbucks Cups! They are perfect for hot lattes!

5// Laneige All-Nighter Gift Set: Keep your besties lips super soft with this set of best-selling Laneige lip masks. This set comes with the famous All Nighter Berry lip-mask and holiday flavors, Gingersnap and Peppermint! Such an inexpensive gift that will be a major hit!

6// Aerie Oh Snap! Weekend Henley Mock Neck Sweatshirt: This sweatshirt is perfect! It fits perfectly oversized, the quality is great and the style reminds me of Free People but at a much lower price point! The sweatshirt comes in so many colors and is the perfect cozy sweater to wear on those chilly nights! It comes in so many colors and is perfect with leggings!

7// Daily Pause Spiral Journal: This journal is great! It includes daily prompts that encourages you to take moments of pause and reflection to bring mindfulness! It’s the perfect self-care journal and makes a great gift!

8// Lululemon Fleece Belt Bag: Phone, keys, wallet. Keep them close in this versatile belt bag! It’s the perfect bag to hold the essentials while you are out hiking with your bestie, grabbing a coffee or a busy mom chasing her kids at the park! And the soft fleece is PERFECT!

Gift Guide for Your Parents/In-Laws

Parents and in-laws are always the hardest to shop for, at least for me! It’s hard to figure out what exactly to get them, especially if they have it all! We found a few ideas for gifts that we think are sure to be a hit!

1// Herschel Supply Duffel Bag: This is the perfect bag for weekend getaways and adventures! If your in-laws like to travel, this cute bag comes in multiple colors and features snap-down sides that expand to allow a bit of extra packing space inside. The top handles make it easy to carry, and convenient pockets help organize essentials for a trip to the gym or a weekend getaway!

2// Smart Garden 3 Self Watering Indoor Garden: I am obsessed with this and it would make the best gift! No matter how little space you think you have, you have room to grow your own fresh herbs or vegetables in this self-watering indoor garden! It’s easy-peasy and you don’t need a green thumb!

3// Barefoot Dreams Robe: Perfect for cozy evenings at home, this cushy unisex robe is made from CozyChic, a machine-washable microfiber that won’t ever shrink or pill! It’s honestly so soft that you will probably only want to wear this!

4// Nordstrom Large Charcuterie Board: If your in-laws or parents love to host, this charcuterie board is perfect! Large enough to beautifully display the food and gather the whole family around and a great price! Win-Win!

5// Promptly Journals Autobiography Journal: I love this company and have the childhood journals for my kids! They recently came out with this autobiography journal and it would be perfect for grandparents to fill out! They can record their life story, sharing special memories that will live on forever! It’s such a sweet and sentimental journal for families to cherish!

6// Digital Photo Frame: This is the perfect gift for parents/in-laws! You simply download the Frameo app onto your smartphone to add photos wirelessly or can put in an SD card! It works with both iPhone and Android devices and once the photos are downloaded, you have your very own “rolling slide show”! It’s so cool to display over hundreds of photos in great quality!

7// Caraway Frying Pan: If your in-laws or parents love to cook, this Caraway frying pan is the perfect gift! Designed with a ceramic nonstick cooking surface to promote healthier cooking, easy food release, and quick cleanup, this pan is truly the best! I love the different colors too, especially the chic cream and navy blue color!

8// The Home Edit Book and Container Store Gift Card: Who doesn’t love a clean and organized home? I love following the Home Edit account on Instagram and they just created this book filled with tips and tricks to organize every inch of your home! Give this to your parents/in-laws with a Container Store gift card and you have the perfect gift!

Gifts Under $100

1// Vuori Performance Joggers: I love these joggers! I own a few pairs and pretty much everyone else in San Diego does too! But that’s because they started as a local Encinitas small business, are insanely comfortable, and are such good quality! You can’t go wrong giving these as a gift! You can easily give your work-from-home uniform a cozy upgrade with these soft, relaxed joggers that are also stylish enough for errands! They even have a men’s version too!

2// Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil: This hair oil is amazing! It was created by blogger Negin Mirsalehi and her hair is just amazing! Total hair goals! This oil will deeply nourish, moisturize, soften and smooth your hair! Perfect for winter!

3// The Knotted Crossbody Bag: Love this crossbody! The pockets in the front are perfect to access your phone easily and it’s the perfect bag to hold all the essentials! The knotted details add a little flair to this simple, yet chic bag!

4// Hardside 20″ Carry On Spinner Suitcase: This is the perfect gift for anyone who loves to travel! This super-affordable carry-on features a full zip-around closure that lets it expand when you need to bring home more than you left with, and interior zippered compartments for more efficient packing! And it comes in a bunch of super cute colors!

5// Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Camera: These are so fun! I have one and I love adding the polaroids to our family’s photo album! My daughters love them too! It’s the perfect gift for any age!

6// DermaFlash Ultrasonic Pore Extractor & Serum Infuser: If you know someone who loves skincare, this is such a fun product! The two-in-one ultrasonic device unclogs pores and infuses your favorite skincare products, for smaller pores and clearer skin. I mean who wouldn’t want that?

7// FM Radio Alarm Clock with Qi Wireless Charging, Pointuch Desk Bedside Clock: Obsessed with this charging station! Not only does it charge your phone, but it also serves as a bedside clock, radio, thermometer, and humidity reader and you can put a photo in it! It’s super cute for a bedside table and is a gift that you can truly give anyone!

8// Hooded Quilted Water Repellent Jacket: Everyone needs a good winter jacket! This one contours to your body, doesn’t feel big or boxy, and is waterproof! It even has straps that you can use to hang it when you aren’t wearing it! It’s definitely a high-quality jacket!

9// Driftwood Candle: How gorgeous is this driftwood candle? It’s the perfect gift for that special someone in your life who has it all! It comes in two different scents, Grapefruit Pine and Ginger Patchouli, and will last such a long time!

You Can Shop All of Our Gift Guides Below

We hope that helps make your shopping easier! We are coming out with a second round of gift guides in the next week or so if you need more ideas!

Thank you so much for all of your love and support with our blog! We have grown so much the past few months and are truly forming a little community! It makes us so happy and excited for what the future has in store!

Hope you have an amazing week!

xoxoxo,

Kari

p.s. if you do click on our links and make a purchase from our gift guides, we make a small commission. As two stay-at-home moms, we greatly appreciate the support when you do!

p.s.s. be sure to check out our most recent blog post to see how Melissa styled her favorite $22 Target jeans!

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Today I’m sharing the $22 Target jeans styled four ways. Four different tops that work with the jeans! I live in these sandals and thought they worked well with each top especially here on Kauai! Which of the four tops will you try?

Scuba Tank

For the first outfit I paired the $22 Target jeans we with a scuba tank. Specifically, the target’s best selling A New Day Tank. This tank is so flattering on everyone I’ve seen. Plus it adds an edgy/cool vibe to any outfit and it is only $8! Target from head to toe and loving it!

White Button Down

I wanted to pair a more feminine top with the jeans. A classic white button down added a level of sophistication while the knot with a little peek a boo of skin added some younger vibes.

Mock Turtleneck

For the cooler fall temps a mock turtleneck looks great with the these jeans! Usually turtlenecks make me feel hot and claustrophobic. The mock turtlenecks are more breathable while still feeling warm.

Puff Sleeve Top

I tend to stick to simple basic tops but decided to go out of my comfort zone with this top and I’m so happy I did! (Top is unavailable but I linked similar) I love the puff sleeves and all the ruching. The feminine top really softens the edginess of the jeans and made me feel so pretty.

Budget Friendly Jeans

The $22 Target budget friendly jeans are a great option to try the baggier jean trend! My previous post shared a few hair accessories you can also try while styling your look.

ps. if you purchase using our links we make a tiny commission. Thanks so much for supporting our dream!

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Today I want to share three hair accessories that are perfect for fall!

The summer heat has finally subsided which means my signature messy bun is slowly retiring and I can actually comb my hair. Haha. If you’ve ever visited Kauai during the summer it’s very hot and humid and that isn’t the best combo for trying to make my hair look cute. Which is why I’m so excited it’s fall and much cooler weather, think low 80s/high 70s hahah. But, cool enough to try!

I’ve always enjoyed trying new ways to do my hair! I was about 10 my mom bought me a battery operated curling iron and I would curl my hair on the way to church. So, not sure that was the safest thing hahah but I was that obsessed with doing my hair! I’m excited to share 3 hair accessories that are perfect for fall!

Headband

One of my favorite ways to feel more put together is with a headband. It can be as simple as a grab-and-go hair accessory with day 2 hair or a more ornate headband with soft curls for dressier events. There really is so much you can do with a headband—low bun, beach waves, middle part, side part, etc.

So, I found many headbands that would be great for fall. Check them out below!

Clockwise from top:

Blue Pearl Embellished Headband // Faux Leather Trimmed Headband // Cable Knit Headband // Teddy Knotted Headband // Sparkling Headband Set // Braided Headband

Clockwise from top:

1 // Knotted Headband

2 // Knotted Velvet Headband

3 // Suede 3-pack

4 // Knotted Raffia Headband

5 // Wrapped Padded Headband

Clockwise from top:

1 // Suede Knotted Headband

2 // Pleated-Knotted Headband

3 // Floral Knotted Headband

4 // Braided Headband

5 // Floral Twist Headband

Hair Claws

Did anyone else spend hours doing their hair with the butterfly claw clips in junior high? I was obsessed, which is why I was so happy when hair claws made a comeback!

What’s not to love about hair claws? You can avoid the “forefathers” low pony look by using a large hair claw to create a simple updo. Use smaller claw clips to pull back half your hair in a half pony, secure a bun, or use decoratively to cover hair bands.

Hair claws are seriously so easy to use and immediately up your hair game! Here are some that I’m loving!!

Clockwise from top:

1 // Pearl Claw Clip Set

2 // Matte Claw Clip

3 // Shell Claw Clip Set

4 // Gold Rectangle Claw Clip

5 // Tortoise Shell Curved Claw Clip

Clockwise from Top:

1 // Bubble Claw Clip Set

2 // Marble Claw Clip Set

3 // Ombré Claw Clip Set

4 // Amazon Favorite

5 // Metal Claw Clip Set

6 // Matte Claw Clip

Clockwise from Top:

1 // Tortoise Clip Set

2 // Giant Ombre Claw

3 // Checkered Claw Set

4 // ivory claw clip

5 // Mini Claw Clip Set

6 // Rectangle Tortoise Claw Clip

Hair Clips

Hair clips add a subtle yet fun look go any look. I love to clip half of my hair to the side, add them to a low bun, or use to pull back small sections of hair on both side of my face. Clips can elevate any look and they for sure help me feel more put together!!!

Here are some that I’m currently really into!

Clockwise from Top:

1) Geo acetate clips // 2) Embellished Hair Clips // 3) Gold Open Shape Clips // 4) Mini Leopard Hair Clips // 5) Pearl Barrette Clip

Clockwise from top:

1 // Geometric Gold Clip

2 // Beaded Clips

3 // Silver Safety Pin Clip

4 // Pearl Slide Clips

5 // Embellished Bobby Pin Set

Fall Hair Accessories

Hope you were motivated and inspired to try some fall hair accessories!! So if you’re hesitant to try something new with your hair, I recently read a thought that said give yourself 3 tries before you decide the new thing isn’t for you!

if you’re in the mood to continue trying new things, check out Kari’s last post on her October favorites!!!

*we make a small commission if you purchase via our links. we are so grateful for every purchase! Thanks so much.

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Ohhh hey! It’s been like a month or two since we have done a blog post! Life has just been so insanely busy for us both! Melissa and I are both Stay at home moms to entrepreneur husbands so that often translates to them working a ton! But we are back and are so excited to be here again! Thanks for always following along with us and giving us your love and support! We do appreciate it! I wanted to jump back into things and share my favorite things I’ve been loving this past month!

A Little Life Update

We recently moved in August, just down the street, but it still involved tons of purging, packing, organizing and unpacking! It’s been exhausting but also super fun! Our new house is super cute, has tons of natural light and we’ve been slowly starting to decorate it so stay tuned for more home decor posts!!

We also started homeschooling through a charter with my oldest daughter so it’s been fun, but also busy! We have soccer, Wild and Free nature groups and all kinds of fun field trips so it definitely keeps us busy!

And we went to Disneyland! It was so much fun! We enjoyed a week at our favorite place and it made our hearts so happy to see all of the Halloween decorations!

So that’s our little update! It’s been a busy but exciting season of life for us! A little break gave me some much needed time to get my creative juices flowing again!

My Favorite Things this Past Month

I wanted to share just a few of my favorite things I’ve been loving this past month! I always love when people share their faves because it gives me new ideas or products to try! So keep reading to see what I’ve been loving lately!

Books //

I try to make it an intention to read every day and sometimes it happens and sometimes it doesn’t! This month I read two books and really loved them both!

The first book The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave was literally so good!! I even stayed up way past my bedtime two nights in a row to finish it! I don’t want to give too much away but it held my attention so well and was one of my fave books of the year!

The second book, Where the Grass Is Green and the Girls Are Pretty by Lauren Weisberger, bestselling author of Devil Wears Prada was a fun read! It’s about a college admission scandal, following your heart, and the reality of perfect lives! It was more of a fun read, but I really enjoyed it! I highly recommend both books!

Hair//

The next two things I’m loving are hair products! Since we live by the beach, we are constantly swimming in the oceans and pool! Our hair gets dry so we definitely have to keep it hydrated to prevent breakage!

I’ve been using the dae Monsoon Moisture Mask for the past few months and love it! It keeps my hair soft and silky! It also has clean ingredients, smells good and looks cute in my shower! I typically only wash my hair 2-3 times a week max so I just use a tiny bit of this every time and let it sit in my hair while I shave! My hair is definitely shinier and having less breakage!

My daughter’s have pretty wavy to curly hair, and my 5 year old has super long hair! It kept getting tangled and frizzy so I bought this leave in conditioner for curly hair by Verb and it works wonders! I just put a little in the hair after bath, brush through and let it air-dry! She gets perfect little waves with no frizz! It’s magic! I tried on my fine, straight hair and it was a little too heavy for me! So I highly recommend for wavy/straight hair!

Fitness//

With our move recently and a busy schedule it has been so hard to get consistent workouts in and I’ve been left feeling in a rut! I kept getting ads for Melissa Wood Health app so I decided to download and so the seven day free trial! I ending up loving it and now pay $9.99 a month for it!

The MWH Method is a series of slow controlled, low impact movements combining yoga and Pilates to sculpt long lean lines throughout the body. Her program offers pre and post natal workouts, beginner workouts and meditations and much more! I like that she has a schedule to follow so it keeps me on track and mixes it up! I’ve been following the schedule and then adding in an extra workout on days that I have time! It’s been so good and I feel refreshed after taking each class!

To add a little intensity to my workout when you for the challenge, I use these Bala bangles! I have them in 1lb and 2lb and love them! I also try to wear them while on walks! Such an added bonus!

Clothes//

I purchased a few things this month that I am loving! I’ve always been a big fan of one-shoulder looks and found this super cute top at revolve! It comes in quite a few colors and the material really surprised me! When I purchased I thought it was going to be a cotton t-shirt material, but it was actually a thicker polyester and spandex material! I like to wear it with my hair in a bun and some hoop earrings to give it that sexy peek of shoulder look!

I also love this ribbed workout sports bra and bottoms I got from Target recently! I’ve been wearing them non-stop and love the slate blue color! The ribbing is so cute and the high-waist super flattering! I paired it with this cute little open back shirt!

I’ve also been loving this billabong dress I got last month! You can wear it so many ways! I like to wear it with booties, a hat and a chunky cardigan! I’m wearing it with this little cardigan I picked up from Amazon and it’s such an easy and comfortable outfit! This outfit will definitely be a repeat and will probably be on my list of favorite things for a while! You can easily dress up or down!

And my last favorite clothing item this month was my Gap Cheeky High- Rise straight leg denim in black! I was actually going to order the Madewell Perfect Vintage denim in black because I love the fit, but I saw these on sale and figured I should give it a try! I’m so happy I did because I love them and got so many compliments on them! I wore them at Disneyland and they were so comfortable!! Highly-recommend! I would size down one size because they do stretch out as you wear them!

Randoms//

These PeapodMats Leakproof Mattress Pads! My oldest has been potty-trained for a few years now, but instill like to keep this mat over her mattress for extra protection! They are perfect for that potty-training time when you need some reassurance and accidents happen frequently!

I’ve also been loving line art recently!! I just purchased these prints from Etsy and they are so beautiful! These will go in my bathroom and were so inexpensive! You just buy the file, print at Office Depot/Staples and put in a frame! So easy and inexpensive!

Okay! If you made it this far, you are amazing!! Thank you! Hope you enjoyed reading and found some inspiration of books torneadnos things to try! These were just some of my favorite things this past month! Leave a comment below and let us know yours!

You Can Shop this Post Below

Have an amazing week! You are loved, appreciated and beautiful!

Xoxoxo,

Kari

P.S. have you read our blog post about making your coffee be more sustainable?! You can find it here!

And just a disclaimer, we do make a small commission if you purchase through our links!  we are forever grateful for your support!

The post A Little Life Update and Some of My Favorite Things this Past Month appeared first on sunkissed & grateful.

I have been a self-proclaimed book nerd my entire life! It’s the ultimate self-care for me and something I make time for every single day. There is just something about cozying up, reading a good book and getting lost between the pages! I thought I’d share 5 books you need to read this summer just in case you are looking for some new reads!

1//Golden Girl by Elin Hilderbrand

When I think of a summer read, I automatically think of Elin Hilderbrand! She is pretty much the queen of writing summer novels! She is one of my favorite authors and a lot of her books take place in Nantucket or Montauk. It always makes those East Coast beach towns seem so appealing! I definitely want to visit after reading all of her books!

Book Description // On a perfect June day, Vivian Howe, author of thirteen beach novels and mother of three nearly grown children, is killed in a hit-and-run car accident while jogging near her home on Nantucket. She ascends to the Beyond where she’s assigned to a Person named Martha, who allows Vivi to watch what happens below for one last summer. Vivi also is granted three “nudges” to change the outcome of events on earth, and with her daughter Willa on her third miscarriage, Carson partying until all hours, and Leo currently “off again” with his high-maintenance girlfriend, she’ll have to think carefully where to use them.

From the Beyond, Vivi watches “The Chief” Ed Kapenash investigate her death, but her greatest worry is her final book, which contains a secret from her own youth that could be disastrous for her reputation. But when hidden truths come to light, Vivi’s family will have to sort out their past and present mistakes—with or without a nudge of help from above—while Vivi finally lets them grow without her.

My thoughts// Obsessed! From the moment I picked up this book, I could not put it down! It was captivating and endearing and indefinitely stayed up way past my bedtime to finish reading this! Definitely a must read this summer!

2// That Summer by Jennifer Weiner

Jennifer Weiner is another one of my favorite authors! She writes so well, her words are witty and fun, and she weaves the most magical storylines. I have read and loved all of her books, so as soon as I saw this one come out, I knew I had to pick it up!

Book Description // Daisy Shoemaker can’t sleep. With a thriving cooking business, full schedule of volunteer work, and a beautiful home in the Philadelphia suburbs, she should be content. But her teenage daughter can be a handful, her husband can be distant, her work can feel trivial, and she has lots of acquaintances, but no real friends. Still, Daisy knows she’s got it good. So why is she up all night?

While Daisy tries to identify the root of her dissatisfaction, she’s also receiving misdirected emails meant for a woman named Diana Starling, whose email address is just one punctuation mark away from her own. When Daisy’s driving carpools, Diana is chairing meetings. While Daisy’s making dinner, Diana’s making plans to reorganize corporations. Diana’s glamorous, sophisticated, single-lady life is miles away from Daisy’s simpler existence. When an apology leads to an invitation, the two women meet and become friends. But, as they get closer, we learn that their connection was not completely accidental. Who IS this other woman, and what does she want with Daisy?

My Thoughts// This book was not what I expected it to be, but I still enjoyed it! It discusses the #metoo movement, sexual assault and rape, and has some strong political viewpoints mixed in there. Because of this it does tend to fall on the heavier side of a summer read. But I did appreciate her exploring these topics and weaving them in throughout the story. While it did take me a few chapters to get into the book, I still found it was thought-provoking and held my attention

3//One to Watch by Kate Stayman-London

If you are a fan of the Bachelorette series, you will love this book! To be honest, when I first picked up this book, I had zero expectations. It just sort of looked like a fun, romantic comedy read! I like those every now and then because it just provides me with some mindless entertainment! I also definitely do judge a book by its cover when picking out books, and this one caught my eye!

Book Description// Bea Schumacher is a devastatingly stylish plus-size fashion blogger who has amazing friends, a devoted family, legions of Insta followers—and a massively broken heart. Like the rest of America, Bea indulges in her weekly obsession: the hit reality show Main Squeeze. The fantasy dates! The kiss-off rejections! The surprising amount of guys named Chad! But Bea is sick and tired of the lack of body diversity on the show.

Just when Bea has sworn off dating altogether, she gets an intriguing call: Main Squeeze wants her to be its next star, surrounded by men vying for her affections. Bea agrees, on one condition—under no circumstances will she actually fall in love. She’s in this to supercharge her career, subvert harmful beauty standards, inspire women across America, and get a free hot air balloon ride. That’s it.

But when the cameras start rolling, Bea realizes things are more complicated than she anticipated. She’s in a whirlwind of sumptuous couture, Internet culture wars, sexy suitors, and an opportunity (or two, or five) to find messy, real-life love in the midst of a made-for-TV fairy tale. In this joyful, wickedly observant debut, Bea has to decide whether it might just be worth trusting these men—and herself—for a chance to live happily ever after.

My Thoughts// I loved this book! It was such a fun and easy read, but it really did speak on an important topic in society. I loved how it talked about body diversity and harmful beauty standards, while also mixing in a bunch of fun, reality TV drama! Highly recommend this book for a fun read that was witty, informative, and endearing!

4// The Jane Austen Society by Natalie Jenner

This was one of those books I typically wouldn’t choose, but after it was recommended a few times I caved in and rented from the library! It’s a historical fiction and is great for those who love Jane Austen and her style of writing! Also, side note, if you listen to the audiobook version, the narrator’s voice is so perfect!

Book Description // Just after the Second World War, in the small English village of Chawton, an unusual but like-minded group of people band together to attempt something remarkable.

One hundred and fifty years ago, Chawton was the final home of Jane Austen, one of England’s finest novelists. Now it’s home to a few distant relatives and their diminishing estate. With the last bit of Austen’s legacy threatened, a group of disparate individuals come together to preserve both Jane Austen’s home and her legacy. These people―a laborer, a young widow, the local doctor, and a movie star, among others―could not be more different and yet they are united in their love for the works and words of Austen. As each of them endures their own quiet struggle with loss and trauma, others from more distant tragedies, they rally together to create the Jane Austen Society.

My Thoughts // This book pleasantly surprised me. It’s a great read and has some really strong women characters that you might find super relatable. I think that there were a lot of Jane Austen references that probably went over my head, sinceI am not an avid fan. However, the four woman characters and their families still drew me in. It’s always a goal of mine to read books I normally wouldn’t gravitate towards and this one definitely checked that category! It was a fun read though and I would still recommend it to others for sure!

5// Summer Island by Kristin Hannah

I just discovered the author Kristin Hannah recently and I have loved her books! They are so good. I loved Firefly Lane and The Great Alone so I was so excited to see she came out with a new book! Her books always pack an emotional punch and this one is no different!

Book Description // Years ago, Nora Bridge walked out on her marriage and left her daughters behind. Now she is a famous talk show host. Her daughter Ruby is a struggling comedienne. The two haven’t spoken in more than a decade. Then a scandal from Nora’s past is exposed, and Ruby is offered a fortune to write a tell-all about her mother. Reluctantly, she returns to the family house on Summer Island, a home filled with frayed memories of joy and heartache. Confronting a past that includes a never-forgotten love, a sick best friend, and a mother who has harbored terrible family secrets, Ruby finally begins to understand the complex ties that bind a mother and daughter- and the healing that comes with forgiveness.

My Thoughts // Okay, so this book will definitely take you on an emotional journey! I wasn’t prepared for how much I would love this book and how much it would make me cry. It’s a compelling story of mothers and daughters and the complicated relationship of these characters. The author is so good about writing about family drama and making you see all the different views! It’s definitely a great book to read this summer!

You Can Shop All of Our Book Picks Below!

Do you have any fun summer reads we should all to our bookshelf? Let us know! We always love reading new books and getting recommendations for different genres! We hope our list of 5 Books to read this summer will inspire you to read something new!

Hope everyone is having an amazing summer! It’s going by so quickly! I can’t believe we are almost to August! Fall is almost here! So don’t forget to take advantage of the Nordstrom Sale to stock up on some fall finds! We shared some of our favorite finds in our last blog post, HERE!

As always, thank you for your support and we hope you are having a great summer!

Xoxoxo,

Kari

P.S. by clicking and purchasing through our links, we may make a small commission. Thank you for supporting us and letting us chase our dreams!

The post 5 Books You Need to Read this Summer appeared first on sunkissed & grateful.

The Half Yearly Sale Details

The Nordstrom Anniversary sale is a one-of-a-kind event where you’ll find amazing deals on clothing, shoes, handbags, accessories, jewelry, cosmetics, fragrances, home goods and more! It’s one of the biggest sales of the year and you can always find something amazing!

When is the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale?
Early Access to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale starts on July 12, and the sale opens to everyone on July 28, 2021. You can shop the Anniversary Sale online starting at 3am ET/12am PT on July 28, or in person during regular store hours and the sale will end at 3am ET/12am PT on August 9! That means for most shoppers, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale will only last for 12 days—July 28 through August 8. (Prices go up August 9.) For those with Early Access, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale lasts for nearly a month.

Early Access is a special perk reserved for Nordstrom cardmembers. Your Nordy Club level is based on yearly spend amounts, though all cardmembers automatically start at Influencer status. You can only shop Anniversary Sale Early Access as a cardmember. If you

• Icon Status – July 12: Early Access for cardmembers with Icon status.
• Ambassador Status- July 14: Access for cardmembers with Ambassador status.
• Influencer Status- July 16: Access for cardmembers with Influencer status.
• General Public- July 28: Anniversary Sale opens to the general public

I highly recommend shopping online, but creating your wishlists prior to the event! Some things will sell out quickly! Last year, I stalked a pair of shoes and it literally sold out in minutes. I was so bummed and kept checking back a few times a day for restocks! I finally got them and still wear them to this day!

Top Fashion Picks for Women

I am super excited for these items! Some of them I already own after buying them from previous anniversary sales and some I have on my wishlist and am getting ready to purchase! They are great pieces that you can mix and match! Just remember that even though this is a massive sale, you don’t need everything! Really look at your closet, see what pieces would make a great addition, and try and build your wardrobe! It’s easy to want to get an item because it’s trendy but if you can’t afford it or you don’t really need it, I would definitely pass!

A Little Breakdown of My Fave Items

1// Nordstrom Moonlight Short Pajamas (Sale: $29.90): I love these pajamas! I own a black pair and they are so comfortable! Definitely want to add this leopard print version to my collection! Some say it runs slightly oversize but for me it runs true to size! Also, I like to wash these with permanent press/delicates because reviews say they pill after a few washes. I haven’t experienced that when washing on delicate! These are a definite add to cart ASAP! Comes in so many colors!

2// Converse Chuck Taylor^® All Star^® Slip-On Sneaker (Sale: $39.90): These are a great and versatile slip-on sneaker you can wear with so many outfits! I love how they look with Spanx Leggings! Size down half a size!

3// Levi’s^® Ribcage Ripped High Waist Ankle Straight Leg Jeans (Sale: $71.90): I have had these jeans on my wishlist for quite some time so I am super excited to order them! I love the color of this pair, as well as the high-waist and the straight leg. They look great dressed up or down so it’s a pretty versatile pair! I always size up in Levi’s so I would recommend that as well!

4// True and CO. True Body Lift V-Neck Bralette (Sale: $37.90): I love this bra! It’s actually my go-to bra for under t-shirts! I love that it doesn’t have any seams, I can easily pull up for nursing and it doesn’t show through clothes! I will definitely be stocking up on these during the sale! They come in so many colors as well! There is also a thin-convertible strap style too!

5// Outdoor Research Trail Mix Turtleneck Pullover (Sale: $66.90): Stay warm whether you’re on the trail or planning your next adventure in this cozy, lightweight fleece top made with thermoregulating ActiveTemp technology! It comes in a few different colors and I love that I can wear it on beach walks or after a workout on a colder day and look stylish!

6// Daydreamer Def Leppard Hysteria Tour Graphic Tee (Sale: $44.90): I own a few of these shirts and I love them! You can’t go wrong with a graphic tee! I love how it looks when paired with a blazer, jeans and a pair of booties!

7// Zella Restore Soft Lounge Longline Bra (Sale: $29.90): This low-impact bra is great for working from home or a studio practice with its lightly supportive shelf bra and comfy, partially recycled brushed jersey material! I love these for Pilates and Yoga!

8// Free People Swim Too Deep Turtleneck Sweater (Sale: $79.90): This grandly oversized sweater that envelops you in the softness of its chunky Shaker stitch knit is the perfect sweater for fall! It’s definitely oversized so size down 1-2 sizes! You can wear as a tunic sweater with leggings or as a sweater dress with some knee-high boots! I am obsessed with the emerald green color, as well as the tan!

9// Spanx Faux Leather Leggings (Sale: $64.90): If you have been following the blog for a while, you may know that I am a major fan of these leather leggings! It’s pretty much my style staple for all of fall and winter! I sized up because they are definitely tight (have a large)!

10// Free People Gorgeous Jess Wrap Dress (Sale: $98.90): Wrapped at the waist and tied with a sweet little bow, this ankle-grazing dress will add floral charm to your warm-weather wardrobe! It’s so cute and would look so stylish with boots, a leather jacket and a hat! It would be a great option for family photos!

11// Quay Australia Its My Way 61mm Gradient Cat Eye Sunglasses (Sale: $35.90): I love these super affordable oversized cat eye sunglasses! Definitely ordering these!

12// BB DAKOTA PREP COOL PLAID LONGLINE BLAZER: (Sale: $59.90): This is one of my trendier purchases that I am leaning towards! I want to wear it with a graphic tee and my Spanx leggings! It looks effortlessly cool!

13// Adidas Swift Run X Sneaker ($56.90): Love these! I bought a pair about five sales ago and I still wear them for my workouts! I get so many compliments and they just fit great!

14// Marc Fisher Gadri Pointed Toe Bootie ($99.90): I love these stylish pointy-toe bootie with a chunky stacked heel! They are versatile and can easily elevate an outfit!

15// AVEC LES FILLES Plaid Shawl Collar Coat (Sale: $149.90): Okay! So this is a piece that is a little out of my normal purchases, but I think after binge watching Virgin River, I am being drawn towards winter coats and cute outfits! This coat reminds me of something Mel would wear and I think it would look great with my Spanx leggings!

You Can Shop My Picks Below!

If you are in need of some styling advice! I put together a few different looks based on some of my favorite items from the sale! There are so many ways to style these pieces so you can easily build a capsule wardrobe!

Outfit 2: Sweater// Leggings // Shoes // Diaper Bag Outfit 3: White Tee // Black Jeans // Boots // Coat

Outfit 1: Blazer // White Tee // Jeans // Boots Outfit 2: Hat // Tee // Jeans // Bra // Shoes

You Can Shop More of Our Favorite Finds Below

If you want more Nordstrom Picks, be sure to follow us on our Liketoknow.it account (username:sunkissedandgrateful)! We will be sharing some of our favorite finds over the next few weeks, as well as some other amazing deals from Abercrombie, Old Navy, Amazon, Target and more! You can see a previous Old Navy Haul here or a Target Short-Girl Approved Haul here!

Hopefully this blog post will help you get ideas or outfit inspiration for the big Nordstrom anniversary sale! It has so many great deals that you can take advantage of! Don’t forget to make a wishlist and only order what your budget will allow! You never want to go in debt just for a new purse or shoes!

As always, thank you for your support and we hope you are having a great summer!

Xoxoxo,

Kari

P.S. by clicking and purchasing through our links, we may make a small commission. Thank you for supporting us and letting us chase our dreams!

The post Our Favorite Items from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale appeared first on sunkissed & grateful.

What’s not to love about Trader Joe’s? Right? I mean they have tons of organic products, pretty affordable prices, amazing customer service and the cutest selection of flowers! It’s a win-win for me and one of the many reasons I do like 85% of my grocery shopping there. I thought I would share a little Trader Joe’s haul for all you fellow TJ lovers out there! Hope you enjoy!

Since we’ve been vegan for over 10 years now, this is our typical vegan Trader Joe’s trip for my family of four. I try and get the majority of my grocery shopping done at Trader Joe’s, and then finish by getting a few things at Costco or Sprouts. And since I don’t want to take my girls grocery shopping every week, I try and get enough for two weeks of meals! So here is a little breakdown of my cart!

The Essentials: Fruits and Veggies

This varies every trip depending on what they currently have in stock that is organic, but the bulk of what I buy is from this section. We really try to eat whole foods, and stay away from processed foods because they aren’t the best for you! I have a pretty sensitive stomach so any additives will typically irritate it!

Those are pretty much the essentials that we always stock up on! But I thought I would share a few of my favorite finds that you have to try! Some are snacks and more processed, but everything in moderation for us! And some are frozen because it’s great to have something you can make quickly on a weekday when you are short on time! So here are some of my favorite Trader Joe items you need to try!!

1. Trader Joe’s Vegan Ranch Crunch Salad Kit

Okay! This has been a fan favorite for the last month I’m the Moya household! We are obsessed! The salad kit includes green cabbage and romaine lettuce, fried onions, roasted sunflower kernels, kale, red cabbage, carrots, green onions, and a vegan ranch dressing. You just put the dressing over, add the sunflower kernels and you are good to go! The flavor is amazing!

We actually love to make this salad and put it into corn tortillas! We then add vegan fish fillets and some yummy salsa and you have a delicious vegan fish taco that took less than 10 minutes to make!

The only downside with this kit is that it’s not organic! Other than that it’s pretty amazing!!!

2. Trader Joe’s Japanese Style Fried Rice

I buy like four of these at a time! My daughters are obsessed! The flavor is super good and it’s so easy to cook on a busy weeknight! And it’s only $2.99, so it’s definitely an affordable vegan meal/side dish!

The dish includes a rice base with a small amount of edamame, carrot and tofu with a savory sauce. The shredded tofu is supposed to be like a fried egg, but there’s not that much if it so we add some tofu to make it more protein filled!

We love cooking our tofu in the air fryer! Highly recommend this one, but I’ve seen amazing reviews on this one from Amazon too. In an earlier blog post (here!), I shared my favorite way to make tofu! The key to getting crispy tofu is a tofu press! Pressing tofu is THE key step when cooking tofu. When it’s pressed it absorbs marinades and crisps up more easily! This one is super affordable and works great, but I love the aesthetic appearance of this one too!

I also love to add avocado and nutritional yeast to the fried rice and tofu to give it more flavor and more nutrition! It’s so delicious! You have to try if you haven’t already!

3. Almond Butter Pretzels

Okay…I was a fan of the regular peanut butter filled pretzels, but these are just amazing! I mean who doesn’t love something a little sweet and salty. These are seriously the best though and my go to snack whenever I am craving something sweet! I really love how creamy they are inside and they are great snacks for anyone whose child has a peanut allergy!

I would just make sure you don’t eat the whole bag in one serving! It’s definitely easy to, so be mindful of that! The serving size is 8 nuggets, which contain 140 calories, 6 grams of fat, 240 milligrams of salt, 19 grams of carbs, 2 grams of fiber, and 4 grams of sugar. But it’s definitely a delicious treat!

4. Coconut Chocolate Date Bars

These delicious bars are amazing! I’m a super big fan of the fact that it only has a few ingredients and they are all real ingredients, no hard to pronounce names over here! It’s just dates, almond butter, coconut flakes, unsweetened chocolate chunks and cocoa powder! That’s it!

Each bar has 170 calories and it comes in a five-pack for $3.49, so it’s a good deal! They taste like a brownie to me and are very creamy and slightly chewy! My daughters really love these as a special treat and I can feel satisfied knowing they aren’t getting all of the additives! They are a great alternative to a brownie or dessert, or even just a little treat to put in your child’s lunchbox! These bars actually remind me of a Larabar, which Trader Joes used to carry!

Eco-Friendly Shopping Items

One bad thing about Trader Joes is that a lot of the products are wrapped in plastic! You can’t really bring your reusable produce bags and put the produce straight into them since they are already packaged. I do wish that was an option, but unfortunately, it isn’t right now! In order to combat that, I always bring my reusable bags to bag my groceries at home! It’s the little things that count!

Here’s a few of my favorite bags!

I hope this post didn’t make you too hungry and that you have a Trader Joes nearby so you can try these delicious items! Thank you for following along and we hope you have a great weekend!!

xoxoxo,

Kari

p.s. if you do click on the links and purchase an item, we make a small commission! we appreciate your support <3

The post What’s in My Cart: Trader Joe’s Haul appeared first on sunkissed & grateful.

1) Switch to reusable k-cups/pods

My first if the the 3 tips create a sustainable coffee bar is to switch to a reusable k-cup (or equivalent, like a machine that doesn’t require any pods at all!). I have a Keurig machine and it has the option to use your own coffee beans in a reusable k-cup, rather than purchasing the cups already.

Most, if not all, coffee pods are made of plastic and if you drink 1 cup a day that’s at least 7 plastic pods/week. I believe it’s even more economical to get your favorite coffee beans and use them in the reusable k-cup! We love to get coffee from local coffee shops and use in our machine. That way we are supporting local, reducing our carbon footprint and reducing our single waste plastic consumption.

If you have a Nespresso, they have a really amazing recycling program that’s free! We really wanted to get a Nespresso but HI isn’t part of the free recycling program so we opted for the Keurig. Learn more about the Nespresso recycling program if you’re interested!

Here are some coffee makers that can use the reusable k-cups or just use your favorite coffee directly!

Shop coffee makers here!

2) Compost Coffee Grounds

We recently started composting and it feels so good to have made this small sustainable change. Now instead of throwing our used coffee grounds in the trash, we are able to compost them! I’ve seen that coffee grounds make great fertilizer so even if you don’t have a compost you can sprinkle some of your coffee grounds onto your plant’s soil to help them grow! There are other creative ways to use coffee grounds and Pinterest has tons of ideas!

If you’re wanting to start composting, here are some compost bins to get you started! I definitely will be upgrading to one of these as we started off with a basic bucket haha that doesn’t This Vitamix compost bin expedites the decomposition process!! So crazy cool! While this one looks so sleek and doesn’t take up too much space.

3) Use a plastic-free/ethical plastic coffee cup

Shop compost bins here!

It’s reaaaalllly hard to avoid plastic for me. It’s everywhere! Although I’m trying to purchase plastic free alternatives, it seems like sometimes it’s very challenging. For example, finding a completely plastic free portable coffee thermos, for me was challenging.

When I discovered the brand, Keep Cup, I was very impressed with their movement, philosophy and sustainable practices.

I use my Keep Cup daily for my coffee/tea beverages. There are several color options and a cute cork hand grip. There are other more affordable ones that I want to add to my cupboard…like this plastic free cup! Here are other sustainable coffee cups you can get!!

Shop sustainable cups here!

Go small!

If you’re starting your sustainable living journey, I hope sharing these 3 tips to create a sustainable coffee bar helped inspire or motivate you to make small changes in becoming more sustainable! It’s okay to go small and make changes at your own pace! Thanks for reading! Have a beautiful day! —Melissa

Ps. Don’t forget to check our Kari’s recent post to get some matching outfits for this upcoming holiday weekend! Check out her favorite 4th of July picks here!

* thank you fo everyone who purchases using our links! we make a small commission if you purchase using our links and it means so very much to us!! We love you!

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