Well, it’s our last weekend before the beginning of school…and honestly, I think the attitude around here is pretty darn excited!
The backpacks are ready to go, the stuff for lunches is in our fridge, first day outfits have been selected (but please, do not call Smith’s “an outfit” or he will get annoyed with you), and we’ve picked several fun things to do to wrap up our last two days of summer. Tonight, we’re surprising the kids with a movie in our pool after it gets dark 🙂 . It was a sweet summer, but I think we’re all ready to welcome fall.
Just like every Friday, today, I’m linking up with three of my besties, Andrea, Erika and Narci and sharing my favorite things from the week.
I hope you have a fantastic weekend, friends!
Did you watch the first episode of Worst Cooks in America this week????
Eeeks! There’s my baby brother right there on the end!
I had so much fun talking to Sean about this process. The very first question I had was of course…was Rachael Ray as sweet as she appears? And he gave an emphatic YES!!
You can catch this season on Food Network or catch up online as well. I know how this season shakes out…and let me just say…we are all SO PROUD of Sean! He really stepped out of his comfort zone and worked really hard. This was not an easy gig for them. They really worked and earned it!! (And bonus, I love programming like this because it’s good for the whole family!!)
Yesterday, I told you about this girl…
…this is Kimarie. And today, I want you all to go buy her salts. I seriously cannot say enough about her products. I am FLIPPING OUT OVER THEM!
I met Kimarie in the green room at QVC. Before then, I had no clue about her or her company, Saltopia. I just walked in, plopped down and she instantly started chatting with me AND I LOVED HER RIGHT AWAY. We just clicked in that special way you do with people. So, I ask her why she’s at QVC and she starts telling me about how she started this salt company from her house. I had so many questions. Why salt? Because she said as a former dancer (22 years), salt was a very important part of her diet, but after she retired and had two little boys, she found that every salt/seasoning on the market was full of chemicals, preservatives and such…so, she started making them at home all-natural and organic with only the best ingredients…and thus, a business was born.
So, I love salt and all…but when I tasted her salt, IT BLEW MY MIND. I could not stop eating it. She doesn’t just add dry seasonings to salt, she actually marries the salt with the seasoning so that each crystal is flavored. Make sense? I gushed so much that she gave me 18 bottles to take home. Here are just a few of my faves. I am going to gift several of these bottles because look at the packaging! It’s just so cute!!!!
This one would be amazing on frostings, chocolate, garnished on whipped cream coffees…it’s just so good!
This one is my very favorite! I can’t even tell you about how good it smells…it’s like the best thing EVER!
Just. So. Good.
On the back of each package are three recipes to show you how to use the salt, but let’s be real, we can just add it to just about everything, right? A sprinkle here and there, a rub on a piece of meat before grilling/baking/smoking…just add it! And isn’t it packaged so cute with the little wooden spoon? I am swooning. You can purchase directly from her website HERE. She has 72 different varieties!
This stuff…from Trader Joe’s…buy it. Today.
This kind of thing is typically not my jam. My snack of choice is more like crackers with cheese or a dip (gosh, I love dips)…but I opened this for my kids the other day and Ashby had to tell me to share. It’s so good!
‘Tis almost the season for light jackets. I have two new faves from this week…
I love, love, love my new denim jacket. In my opinion, it’s just the perfect color. I will be wearing this alllll fallll long!
And then this little cropped military jacket too. Bam. Easy.
(And psssst: here are the other outfit details: Booties, gray jeans, pink top (it comes in three colors) and light earrings for the win!)
This quote has been going through my head all week…
So, second grade wasn’t super smooth for our Kensington. She really worked hard, we really loved her teacher, but there were a few bumps along the way. Last Friday, we found out about her new third grade class and let’s just say, she had some memories from second grade that really discouraged her about this upcoming school year. A few days later, she started to show some real confidence about going into third grade and quite honestly, it was probably one of her most mature moments to date. Andrew and I were so proud of her. Then, she said she really thought if she cut her hair a bit, it would give her just what she needed to face third grade. And well…Coco Chanel came to my mind, so we went for it.
Before.
I just love this sweet girl.
The back view before.
And then…
The after!
Awwww! She felt so good about her new haircut!! And no, we did not highlight her hair…God did via the sun 😉 .
So, now that she has a few inches off…I think she’s ready to conquer third grade on Monday.
It makes me want to cut my hair. I’m pretty inspired by this girl!
And wrapping things up this week…
…one of my most popular posts every year! My Back to School Slow Cooker Suppers post will help make your life so much easier this fall. Simple, yummy recipes ready and waiting on you after a busy day. See that post HERE.
That wraps up this week’s Friday Favorites!! Have the BEST day, friends!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
I love Kensington’s new hair. It looks so grown-up and so sophisticated!
–
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Lauren D says
Sorry to hear Kensington had some bumps last year. I remember that feeling. Up until high school I was nervous every year because of what had Gina in the year prior – and found that in high school, starting each year was a breeze! It does get better. Hope she has a more clam year this year!
Elspeth Mizner says
Have a great Friday Shay! Enjoy you ur last summer weekend!
Lindsay says
Kensington’s haircut is ADORABLE!!! My daughter has natural highlights as well– I always tell her that I pay good money to have those same colors in my hair and how blessed she is! 😉 Now is when I am wishing there was a Trader Joe’s close by! Yummm! I hope you have a great weekend before school starts!
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams says
Loveeee Kensington’s hair cut!! She looks awesome, she is going to rock third grade 🙂 I do want to try those salts, some of the flavors look delicious. Enjoy your weekend!!
xo
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams
Francie says
Kensington looks so beautiful! You should definitely be proud of this young lady, she’s so inspirational. http://www.supersimpleways.com
Courtney says
Oh my gosh! Could K get any more adorable with that hair cut!? And thank you for the recipes this week, we need some structure and planning. 🙂
XO
Courtney
Narci Dreffs says
Kensington’s new hair cut is precious!!!! And, those salts are so fun! Happy Weekend, Shay! Xo
Tina says
School can be rough sometimes and it makes you want to give out lots and lots of hugs. I told my two when they encountered bumps, they had to choose how to respond. Hard for little kids, but now I am glad for those experiences because it offered lots of opportunities for discussions and guidance.
I hope K’s new year is smoother than last year! The excitement on her face in the after haircut picture made my heart smile.
Amy Heinl says
Kensington’s haircut looks great on her. Can’t wait to try those salts. I ordered them off qvc but didn’t realize she had so many other flavors. Can’t wait to check out her website. Also please be safe as Hurricane Harvey hits a fair portion of your state this weekend especially with all the rain inland. I will be lifting your state in prayer
Erika Slaughter says
Who knew Kensington and Coco had so much in common?! Her new cut is fabulous!!
emily @ a little bit of emily says
How sweet is Kensington’s haircut?! She looks like a doll! Hope this year goes well for her – and for all your kiddos! And I have to say, cracking up when you said ‘Ashby told me to share’ – that happens to me sometimes with certain foods!
Eileen says
Love Kensington’s hair!!!! My daughter has a similar experience going into 3rd grade last year and got a similar haircut for a new look and fresh start. It worked wonders for her confidence! Wishing Kensington a great 3rd grade year!
Goodbye Bread and Cheese says
That haircut is so cute on her and don’t you just love those natural highlights from summer! I may never cut my little guy’s hair!
Sheaffer Sims says
So many things…1) I can’t wait to watch Sean on the show! Love that we can watch as a family! 2) I’m going to have to order some of that salt. 3) KENSINGTON’S NEW DO IS PRECIOUS.
Gentry says
Kensington’s new hair is too cute! I chopped my hair off 4 years ago (after a big break-up of course!) and have never looked back! It helped me become the new “me” and was the confidence boost I needed 🙂 Tell K to have a great year in 3rd grade!
Sarah says
Kensington’s hair looks so good!!!! She’s beautiful!! 🙂
Those Trader Joe’s puffs were my go-to pregnancy snack. I probably went through two bags a week LOL
Best of luck to your kiddos on their first day!!!
-Sarah http://www.thefrugalmillionaireblog.com
Kelly Stamps says
Kensington’s hair is gorgeous. I have hair envy. She’s so pretty. I hope 3rd grade is great!
Sonia Limon says
How precious…she looks so grown! (tear…looking at her makes me even more heartbroken over my baby being a Senior this year…I don’t know how it happened so quickly). Prayers over all these kids having great school years and having confidence!!
Valerie C says
Kensington, you are going to rock 3rd grade! Your hair looks so cute!
Alexis deZayas says
Kensington has me all excited for my hair cut this morning 🙂 She looks precious!
sydnee says
Love your sweet Kensington. I have a daughter the same age and it’s both delightful and daunting how fast she’s growing up! On a different note, those sea salts look amazing!
http://www.designbysydnee.com
Megan Butler says
We love those Trader Joe’s corn puffs!!! We have been stocking up on our TJ favorites every time we go to the city and we are officially all out!! Guess we need a McKinney trip asap!!!! And K’s hair is so precious. Hope that sweet girl has a fabulous year.
Claire says
I’ve never seen that Chanel quote but SO true! I just cut 15! inches off my hair & it totally changed my life (mostly my hair routine;) I love it & encourage EVERYONE to chop off a few or 10! inches! Go for it! It’d be so cute on you! & Kensington is the cutest little girl ever! Love her little natural highlights too. She’s darling! Hope this year is better for her.
Karen says
Kensington looks so adorable! Love her new haircut and best of luck in third grade!! I just love your blog- first thing I go to when I wake up…along with my coffee.
Melissa says
I hope you all enjoy your last weekend of summer! Kensington’s haircut is beautiful and she’s gonna rock this school year!
Brooke Richardson says
I must try some of those salts now, I’m intrigued. Kensington looks adorable, love the new cut.
Rachael says
Kensington is so cute!!! I pray that she has a wonderful school year! #whowouldntlikethatcutie #preciousgirl!
Ralinn says
I absolutely love Kensington’s hair!! The cut looks fabulous on her. Here’s to 3rd grade rocking.
I am seriously going to buy salt from Saltopia. An amazing business indeed.
The jean jacket from Anthro is right up my alley. I love the cut and color.
Raquel Whatley says
Kensington is rocking her new hair cut and will rock third grade! You can do it!
Jenn says
I looked through the comments and didn’t see anyone ask. I LOVE K’s shirt (and her hair) but is it a Matilda Jane? I would love to get something similar for my daughter.
Mix and Match Mama says
It is! I believe it’s from last fall though.
Jess Newland says
Enjoy that last weekend of summer! Our kids just finished their first full week. They’re tired, but we made it! Have a great weekend. And that haircut! So cute!
Stacey O'Neill says
Good Luck to all your kiddos this upcoming school year. I remember multiplication tables and cursive in the 3rd grade ;).
Anna says
That popcorn is one of my favorite products from Trader Joe’s! Have you tried the cookie butter?
Barbara Parnell says
I ordered some of those salts last week! Love the packaging. Kensington’s hair looks beautiful,I hope she has a great year ahead. Funny, one of my sons had a real issue with haircuts..for some reason he was petrified,so we let him grow it out a bit and then he just refused to get it cut. Fast forward 5 years(!!!!) and he told me he thinks it is time for a haircut. I was thrilled because it was far too long. He just cut it two weeks ago and it look incredible. SOmetimes, we just have to let them find their inner strength to conquer whatever it is they are having difficulty with. He has such confidence now as well…and I am so happy to have him rid himself of that long hair!
Wishing all the kids a wonderful year at school. Here’s to fall!!
Kristen Pitstick says
Such a cute haircut!!! I love that she said if she gets her haircut it will give her what she needs to conquer third grade. SO precious! Have a great year Kensington!
Tiffany says
So sorry to hear that Kensington had some unhappy 2nd grade memories come back when she saw her class list. As an elementary teacher, I am guessing that the memories might have to do w friendship troubles/conflict w other kids. If so…I encourage you to get her a copy of The Smart Girl’s Guide to Friendship Troubles. It is an amazing resource for elementary aged girls. It has a fun, inviting format and lots of great suggestions. There are a ton of other great books in The Smart Girl’s Guide as well. Hope she and her cute haircut have a great 3rd grade year!
Mix and Match Mama says
It was a combo of things including academics and other stuff. It was just a tough year.
Lindsey Gumer says
The TJ puffs are a constant in our house. My husband puts truffle salt on EVERYTHING so I can’t wait to show him these salts. Kensington looks adorable!
Ashley says
I think I need to go get me a Kensington cut! She looks confidently adorable!
Paula says
I love Worse Cooks. It is fun to watch Sean. Is it weird I feel like we are all old distant friends since I have followed your blog so long & he Bachelor years? My husband says I am a “stalker”. Lol. I am seriously not, I only know what I see posted. But it makes me feel like friends. LOL… WEIRDO ALERT HERE. ?
I love K’s hair.
Buying some salts for sure. What did she say about the salt lamp? Benefits?
Mix and Match Mama says
I’ve ordered a lamp! I’ll keep you posted on my thoughts!!
Katie W. says
Kensington is so cute and reminds me of myself at her age. A little shy, loves to read, little mama to her younger siblings. And you would look great with short hair. Do it!
Susan says
Sending wonderful back to school wishes to Kensington and all of your kiddos. I love her confidence and her hair. She can do it!
Laci says
I love Kensington’s new hair! My daughter has those God given highlights too and I love it!! Hope 3rd grade is her best yet!!
Robyn Beasley says
Is there any special product you use for Kensington’s hair to keep it looking so healthy? We swim all summer, too and my daughter’s poor hair is a mess. Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
I switched her to Moroccanoil this summer and it’s made a huge difference!
Ann Marie Tennison says
Oh my gosh! I think all of these are my Friday favorites too!!! Kensington is even MORE gorgeous with her haircut! Just too precious!
Meg says
Kensingtons hair looks so cute! Sending prayers for a happy and healthy 3rd grade experience ❤️
Robin says
I would love the see some of your school lunch ideas!
Emily K says
Have you ever tried pirates booty? They sell it at Costco and I’m pretty sure it is the brand name version of the trader joe puffs. So addicting and great deal at Costco especially when it’s on special (comes in a giant bag or individual snacking size). I also have major hair envy of Kensington! It looks so shiny, silky and smooth! Mine is so thick it takes forever to style.
Lindsay says
Love her hair. It looks so cute. Hopefully it gives her the boost she needs. School can be tough for our girls. My little started 5th last week. So far so good! I will definitely be checking out those salts and that jean jacket! Hope your family enjoys the last weekend before school.
Carley says
Her haircut is adorable! I hope her school year goes better than last year! It’s tough being a young girl these days…
Elizabeth says
Kensington looks absolutely precious! My daughter had a tough 2nd grade year also with academics friends, etc, which was hard for me being a second grade teacher myself. However, third grade was an answer to our prayers. I’m praying Kensington has a similar experience and has a great year. Saying prayers for you too. It’s hard being a momma.
Sara says
What you said about K and school made me think of something I saw on Facebook recently. It was a reminder that some kids dread going back to school for many different reasons, whether it is because they’ve been bullied or they feel like they don’t fit in because of a disability (physical or learning), their parents can’t afford new clothes or some other reason. It really tugged on my heart. I’ve been praying for all the kids who are not looking forward to going back to school and I hope you’ll join me! Good luck to your kiddos!
Paige E says
Oh to be a girl with a cute new haircut! Conquering the world! I wish my boys would get motivated by something little like that. They are NOT excited about school at all. Its definitely not an air of excitement at my house. Any suggestions to help them get excited and positive are welcome! I mean, besides the obvious candy in the lunchbox trick. They are 11 and 8, 6th grade and 3rd grade.
Brittany Hensley says
Go Kensington Go! I love her haircut, and she is totally going to rock 3rd grade!!
Angela Ellingson says
Kensington’s hair is so cute!!! What a little beauty. And thanks for telling us about Sean being on Worst Cooks in America. So excited to check it out!
Shawnna Griffin says
hey girl- love the post! Kensington’s hair looks so good! Y’all have a great weekend!
heidi says
Oh Kensington hair is absolutely darling on her!!!!
Angelique says
Kensington’s hair is SOOOO cute! I love it! And I never thought much about salt until now … hmmm … must head to Trader Joe’s to explore a bit.
http://www.fourpointsmom.com
Jenny says
Her hair is so cute! I hope she has a great school year!
Carly M says
This just feels like a Fall “Friday Favorites”. Don’t want summer to end but for some reason this post got me so excited for all your fall posts! Good luck to Kensington, a good attitude and a perfect hair cut makes a world of difference. What color nail polish color is your demin jacket photo?
Amanda @ That Inspired Chick says
Oh my gosh, Kensington’s hair!!! Those natural highlights are AMAZING!! And that cut is perfect! She is such a beauty. Next time I get my hair cut I may have to ask for “the Kensington”. 😉
That Inspired Chick
Erin Port says
Love her sweet haircut! Praying those back to school jitters wear off quickly and it’s a great year for you all! Xoxo Erin
Kim Fleming says
First, I love the haircut and totally believe in COCO ‘s theory!! Second, as a third grade teacher on my 29th year I just want to say, she will be okay Mom. Sometimes, we really want to rescue our kids from everything, but as I’ve learned with four bigs now, teach them how to respond to everything and they will be able to have the strenghth they need to conquer. Many teachers will come their way, and not all will be the most memorable. God Bless to all the kids going back.
Kristin says
I loooooove K’s hair! It’s so cute on her! I hope all your kiddos have a great day on Monday!
Danielle says
I will never forget the year I went into 8th grade. I sobbed and sobbed when I realized id be put in class away from my only friend and with the two girls who bullied me all through seventh grade. I feel so bad for Kensington and I’m praying for her ❤❤❤
Gabrielle Storey says
Kensington is so so pretty! She looks so old with her haircut! Enjoy your last weekend before summer!
Amanda says
Those salts look fabulous!
I hope Kensington’s new haircut gives her all the confidence she needs to conquer grade 3!
Emily says
Hi Shay-
I’m so sorry to hear about Kensingtons rough year. School can really be challenging some times! I used to be a former teacher in Houston and just thought I would pass along that in 3rd grade the learning really changes for kids, especially in reading. K-2 they are expected to “learn to read” and from 3rd grade on they are expected to “read to learn”. It’s a huge academic change especially when you couple that with the state testing & it can leave parents scratching their heads!! I obviously have no idea what her bumps were but I just thought I would pass that along!
Jocie says
Okay I seriously got a salt lamp this summer! It is so pretty and the warm light it gives off is oh so comforting!
Alyssa says
Hey! First time commenting 🙂 I really respect how you shared about Kensington today on your blog. You didn’t share the specific details about what made second grade hard; you wrote about your daughter in a way that showed me that you want to be honest in connecting with your readers and sharing real-life stuff, but that your first priority is your family and caring well for them! It was encouraging to see the boundaries you have set for how much you share with us readers, in order to respect and care for your kids who aren’t writing the blog 🙂
Heidi says
Kensington’s hair is beautiful! It’s so hard as a mom, I think we get just as nervous (if not more) about a new school year starting! Hoping she has an awesome 3rd grade experience!
http://www.heidiwanderstheworld.com
Sara Wolf says
I wish I had commented earlier so more people would see this – or you could add it to your post. Today is “Anthro” day so the denim jacket you linked to is 20% off and free shipping. I’m pretty sure the 20% off is valid for everything at Anthropologie so it’s a good day to shop!
Rebecca says
I love Kensington’s hair cut! I am overdue for a trim and now I must go. The jackets are cute and perfect for fall. I hadn’t heard of Saltopia but am definitely going to check them out plus they’ll make great gifts!
Paulina king says
I’ll have to give those salts a try! Kensington looks beautiful as always, where did she get her haircut??
Mix and Match Mama says
At Toni & Guy in our mall 😉
Brooke Hood says
It seems like you’ve mentioned “light earrings” several times recently and, although I know you’ve definitely got your favorites, I wondered if you’ve ever heard of or checked out the earrings from Nickel & Suede? (http://www.nickelandsuede.com/) I can tell you, they are feather light and really pretty earrings, I think you might like them!
Linda says
Kensington’s new “do” is perfect. My Mother taught Third Grade for 36 years and loved that age group. They can do so much. Here’s to a wonderful year for her.
Ericka says
I’m a third grade teacher, and it is such a fun grade! Hoping she loves it! Her hair is adorable!
Susie Harrold says
If I were to start off with ONE salt, which one would you recommend? I really can’t afford a set, but I’d like to try the product. Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh goodness…I’m going to say one of the garlic or onion ones. I think you could sprinkle either of those on just about anything. They’re really so good!!
Bethany says
Wow what a big girl hair cut! She is the cutest! I love the jackets!
Bernadine says
I remember when K donated her hair last year. She is gorgeous, Shay!!! Will you be doing a “all about xyz” post again soon? I love getting to know your people more & more with each post. x
Meghan says
I’m going to guess any woman with blonde hair is going to show their hairstylist Kensington’s hair color the next time they are in the salon – including me Monday! ha! Hope the 1st day back at school goes well for everyone!
Lilly Gorman says
What a sweet, smart, courageous baby girl! She’s going to rock 3rd grade! I love the Coco Chanel quote, too. Always a good one. I’m excited to try the salts, too! I’m always a sucker for good foodie finds.
Liz Thorson says
Kensington looks absolutely adorable with her new haircut and her beautiful hair! I am so sorry to learn your kind, sweet, gentle girl had some rocky times last year! I am a retired 2nd grade and kindergarten teacher and know only too well how classroom dynamics can make for a difficult year. One year I had a group of 2nd grade girls who acted 7 going on 14, led by a truly “mean” girl. That ring leader and her groupies caused a lot of heartache, stress and low self-esteem for other girls AND boys that year. Here’s to a better year for Kensington, in spite of the classroom population make-up!
kathy Olson says
Kensington is a doll with that haircut:) Have a great year, sweetie!
Jeanie says
Kensington’s hair is the bomb! If that ‘do doesn’t give her confidence, I don’t know what will. You go, Kensington! We’re all rooting for you.
Maryellen Azarian says
Beautiful hair cut. She is precious. I just received my order of your cookbooks from QVC. They are awesome ! I love the nice photos and recipes seem like I can handle them. Thanks so much !
Debbie Dunbar says
Kensington’s hair looks adorable. I hope that she has a much better year this year!
Ruth says
Your brother is on Worst Cooks in America and you have a cooking blog and cookbooks, isn’t that a little ironic? ? Happy last weekend before school and Kensington is such a beauty.
Christina says
Love, love Kensibgtons’s new hair!
Pamela says
Oh my Lord…
To Kensington: I know that you don’t know me…but I would like to share something with you..if that is ok with Mom. You have probably heard the saying, “You only have one chance to make a good impression.” I started reading your mom’s blog awhile ago. Through that I have seen your family’s pictures and stories about your lives. You have made such a wonderful impression on this Mom. It is that of a beautiful young girl who loves her family , who makes sure that her little sister is happy, who has the best smile, who is talented, who has sunshine in her heart, and who is on a mission to brighten the world around her. Most importantly, you radiate love for God and amazing character. ( Soooo important in life:)) So you rock that third grade with your super amazing new haircut!! It is stunning! p.s. I just have one daughter…so if you ever have any need for a “big” sister for the day….I can hook you up! p.s.s. Always give your mom and dad lots of hugs. They are raising you wonderfully:) Blessings!
Kelley says
Just wanted to thank you for your blog — especially the style section. I’m a part time attorney and mom of two. I love style and fashion but I honestly have a hard time putting together outfits on my own. I definitely am one that has to borrow good ideas! You have so many great ideas about shoes, jeans, etc., and believe me, some of us definitely need ideas in these areas!! Anyway, so glad I found your site, and I’ll try to offer some good ideas too (some brands to try for cute tops — H Halston, Karl Lagerfeld, Ivanka Trump and Karen Kane — I usually shop at Dillards for these bec. we don’t have a Nordstrom nearby!). Anyway, thank you so very much again!!
Liliana Hernandez says
Hey Shay!
What brand is your watch in the picture with your denim jacket? I’m on the look out for a two tone watch and I like the detail of your watch. Thanks!!
Jaren says
Kensington’s haircut is precious!! And I can’t wait to watch Worst Cooks. That show always cracks us up, and I had forgotten Sean was on it. And if I ever met Rachael Ray, I would cry! She taught me how to cook!