Let's make heart-shaped quesadillas! These would b Let's make heart-shaped quesadillas! These would be fun for Valentine's Day dinner with your kids. 

In full transparency, I wanted to make quesadilla uncrustables, but bought the wrong kind of tortilla. If you want to make those definitely get flour tortillas not corn. 

These are easy to make though, just use a heart shaped cookie cutter to cut your tortillas, then fill and grill on the stove! 

#easymealsforbusypeople #easyrecipesformoms #valentinesideas #valentinesdinner #recipereel #galentinesbrunch
Here's a hack to make your boots stand up tall in Here's a hack to make your boots stand up tall in your closet! Use a magazine! Roll it up and stick it inside for your boots to stand tall! 

After organizing all weekend, I didn't want to purchase ANYTHING else to organize. I wanted something cheap that I already had lying around.

I like the pool noodle hack but did not have time to go acquire a pool noodle in January.

Try the magazine hack and let me know how you like it? What's your favorite organizational hack?

#organizationhacks #closetmakeover #homehacks #closethacks #widecalfboots #organizationideas #homeorganizationtips
A little matching moment for your Monday! 🌸🌺 A little matching moment for your Monday! 🌸🌺

As a boy mom, I have to work a little harder for matching ensembles, but this little floral wrap dress and button down for spring are just too cute! 

Linking our outfits here: https://liketk.it/40B4p

#ltkfamily #shopltk #ltkunder50 #boymomclub #familymatchingoutfits #familymatching #ltkkids #boyclothes #oldnavybaby #oldnavykids #oldnavystyle #floralsforspring
I purchased the @thebeachwaver B1 over the holiday I purchased the @thebeachwaver B1 over the holidays and loved it so much I bought one for my sister. The rotating barrel makes getting ready so darn easy! 

Use my code HELENWAVE for 10% off!

#beachwaver #beachwaverpartner #hairstylingtutorial #hairstylingtips #hairstylereels #curlingirons #curlingiron #curltransformation #igotbeached
Today we're making garlic and herb pigs in a blank Today we're making garlic and herb pigs in a blanket for your super bowl party. 

-First, roll out crescent dough and slice each of the triangles into thirds. 
-Then spread a little boursin herb and garlic cheese onto each of the triangles. 
-Add a lil smokie and roll it up. 
-Bake for 12-15 minutes on 375. 
-Serve and enjoy!

Do you add anything extra to your pigs in a blanket? 

#superbowlsnacks #superbowlsnack #superbowlappetizers #easyappetizer #easyappetizers #easyrecipeideas #easyrecipesformoms #easyrecipesathome #recipereel
You've heard of a butter board, but have you seen You've heard of a butter board, but have you seen a peanut butter board? 

Today we are making one for Valentine's Day. 

-First take a board and spread peanut butter all over it. 
-Then top with chocolate chips, valentine's day sprinkles, bananas, nutella and strawberries. I cut mine to look like hearts. 
-Then serve with graham crackers, pretzels or fruit and enjoy! 

Are you doing anything fun for Valentine's Day or Galentine's Day? Have you tried the peanut butter board yet?

#valentinesdays #valentinesdaydessert #galentinesparty #butterboard #peanutbutterrecipe #peanutbutterdessert #recipereel #valentinesdayideas #easyrecipesformoms
Today we're making jalapeno cheese dip in a bread Today we're making jalapeno cheese dip in a bread bowl. This is a great party snack and would be awesome at an upcoming super bowl party. 

-First, cut the top off a round loaf of bread and remove the middle. 
-Cut all of the pieces removed into cubes and set aside. 
-Then take a jalapeno queso block and cut it into cubes. Place in a pan. 
-Then add two cans of drained green chiles and a splash of milk. 
-Heat over medium high heat on the stove stirring constantly to prevent sticking. Trust me nobody wants that cleanup. 
-Then immediately pour into your bread bowl and serve hot with the cubed bread pieces. Enjoy!

Easy, and tasty! Are you having or going to a Super Bowl party this year? What's on the menu?

#partysnacks #partysnack #easyappetizers #easyappetizer #cheesedip #recipereel #superbowlsnacks #superbowlfood
My baby is finally feeling better, thank goodness! My baby is finally feeling better, thank goodness! I'm going to be honest, I am exhausted. The emotional toll this week has taken on me has just made me a new level of tired. 

I saw something the other day and it really stuck with me. 

Nobody talks about this when you are thinking about having kids. They talk about the financial piece and the how it's going to change your life piece. But nobody talks about the risk you take by having something you love so much and all the worry that comes with it. 

It's a risk every day to have your whole heart walking around, and going to school and picking up illnesses. There is so much worry and stress that comes with it.

But on the other hand, what a privilege it is to have something you love that much. I have never loved anything the way I love this little boy.

While sometimes the emotions, intrusive thoughts, worry and stress get the best of me, I am grateful every second of every day that I get to be this perfect, beautiful tiny human's mom.

Thanks for all the sweet messages of encouragement this week. It's so nice to know I'm not alone. I'm very grateful for all of you! 

#momthoughts #dailymotherhood #workingmomstruggles #toddlermom
Do you decorate for Valentine's Day? I love a holi Do you decorate for Valentine's Day? I love a holiday that is all about pink and red. 💕 

Decided to update my little kitchen island tray this year with Valentine's Day decor! ❤️

Do you decorate for Valentine's Day?

#valentinesdaydecor #valentinesdayideas #valentinesdaydecorations #galentinesdaydecor #galentinesdayparty #valentinesdayparty #holidayhomedecor
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Beauty · January 14, 2019

Kristin Ess Line – Worth the Hype?


Let’s talk about one of my favorite topics: hair.

I’m super serious when it comes to my hair. I like my Barbie hair. I want it to be long and blonde, but most importantly I want it to be healthy!

Want some real talk? In college, I worked the hair to pick up guys. It was always my main move at a bar. Obviously I’m married now (although I totally used the used the hair trick on my husband), so I’m not working my hair at bars, but I still put a lot of emphasis on having healthy shiny hair. I’m always trying out new products to find the best.

When Kristin Ess released her line at Target, I was one of the first to jump on board. If you aren’t familiar with Kristin Ess, she’s a celebrity hairstylist, colorist, and the co-founder of The Beauty Department. She released and affordable line of luxury hair care products at Target last year. Let’s just say people are obsessed.

kristin ess line

At first, I was a little skeptical of the line because it is legitimately so affordable. I was paying a lot more for my shampoo and conditioner, and we won’t even go into how much I spent on styling tools. So I was skeptical, but enthusiastic. At first, I purchased the reconstructive hair mask, “The One” purple shampoo and conditioner, and the pivoting curling wand.

I’ve been using these products for about a month now. The first time I used the shampoo and conditioner, I was at my parents house. My mom and sister were so impressed after one use, that they both went out and bought the shampoo and conditioner too. After one use! My sister got the purple  combination too and my mom got the one signature shampoo and conditioner. (She’s a red head.)

I was hooked after one use too. The purple shampoo and conditioner removed any brass instantly for a perfectly cool blonde shade and my hair felt ah-mazing. My split ends were gone, it felt light and bouncy, and was so freaking soft.

Each of  these products have “Zip up technology.” It’s made to “‘zip-up’ split ends while targeting weak areas of the hair, smoothing the appearance of damaged cuticles and helping to protect hair from environmental stressors and color fade.” That’s what gives you the amazingly healthy and soft hair.

That was just from my shampoo and conditioner. Once I used the restorative hair mask, I was officially converted for life. I kept mine on for 30 minutes under a shower cap and it was like I had a new head of hair. Like the most healthy it’s ever been. The smell of the mask is not my fave, but for hair like that, who cares?

Then I used the pivoting curling wand. This is so genius because it pivots from a straight wand to a 90 degree angle. I included a hair tutorial video below and dive really into this product there. Basically it’s $60, just add to cart. Thank me later.

Ok, so I used these products for awhile and fell in love, but then Kristin released other lines like a dry-styling and finishing line, a wet styling line, and a scalp line. So now I also own the dry shampoo and the beach wave spray. Both are excellent, completely excellent. I’m converted in every aspect possible.

 

So when people ask is the Kristin Ess line worth the hype, my answer is a resounding yes! Like hell yes. It’s also so affordable. Like we’re talking $12 shampoo and $60 curling wands affordable. If you haven’t tried it, use one of your Target gift cards you got for Christmas and stock up.

Check out my hair tutorial using the pivoting curling wand below:

Have you tried Kristin Ess? What’s your favorite product?

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Comments

  1. Katelyn | The Potpourri Blog says

    January 14, 2019 at 11:13 am

    I’ve never heard of Kristin Ess, but after reading your post, I’m thinking I may just have to try it! As a brunette, do you suggest I use the signature kind?

  2. Samantha Sock says

    January 14, 2019 at 12:57 pm

    I have been looking at this shampoo in the store and have been wondering how it is. Thank you for sharing, I need to try it now!

  3. Becky @ Disney in your Day says

    January 14, 2019 at 1:15 pm

    I honestly don’t do much with my hair, and I haven’t found a shampoo/conditioner that I love yet. I think I’m going to pick this up next time I’m at Target to try out!

  4. Laura says

    January 14, 2019 at 2:48 pm

    As a hairstylist, I am ALLLL ABOUT HAIRRR! haha and surprisingly, I’ve NEVER tried Kristin Ess! I’ve been dying to try the dry shampoo she has. And can we just talk about how cute her packaging is? Since it’s at Target, you bet I’m gonna try it!

  5. Aisha says

    January 14, 2019 at 4:10 pm

    I have to check out this brand. I have a love/hate relationship with my hair lol
    Aishadaobi.com

  6. Denise // The Elle Aesthetic says

    January 14, 2019 at 7:10 pm

    I love the packaging so I’m glad to know the products are beautiful AND work!

    Denise | http://theelleaesthetic.com

  7. Lily Ayala says

    January 14, 2019 at 9:53 pm

    Definitely need to check out that wand!

  8. Stephanie says

    January 15, 2019 at 9:15 am

    I’ve been wondering about this line for quite some time. I’m always hesitant to try more affordable hair products because my hair is colored such a unique combination of tones, and it fades SO FAST if I don’t take extra good care of it. However, saving a pretty penny AND using quality products sounds like a major win!

  9. Rebecca Bush says

    January 15, 2019 at 1:19 pm

    I’ve been looking for a new wand so this is completely amazing! Thank you so so much for sharing!

  10. Alix Maza says

    January 15, 2019 at 2:08 pm

    That wand is seriously so cool! I think that’s just what I need lol.

  11. Marisa Hernandez says

    January 15, 2019 at 3:25 pm

    These look like great product! That wand is awesome, your waves are perfect!!!

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Let's make heart-shaped quesadillas! These would b Let's make heart-shaped quesadillas! These would be fun for Valentine's Day dinner with your kids. 

In full transparency, I wanted to make quesadilla uncrustables, but bought the wrong kind of tortilla. If you want to make those definitely get flour tortillas not corn. 

These are easy to make though, just use a heart shaped cookie cutter to cut your tortillas, then fill and grill on the stove! 

#easymealsforbusypeople #easyrecipesformoms #valentinesideas #valentinesdinner #recipereel #galentinesbrunch
Here's a hack to make your boots stand up tall in Here's a hack to make your boots stand up tall in your closet! Use a magazine! Roll it up and stick it inside for your boots to stand tall! 

After organizing all weekend, I didn't want to purchase ANYTHING else to organize. I wanted something cheap that I already had lying around.

I like the pool noodle hack but did not have time to go acquire a pool noodle in January.

Try the magazine hack and let me know how you like it? What's your favorite organizational hack?

#organizationhacks #closetmakeover #homehacks #closethacks #widecalfboots #organizationideas #homeorganizationtips
A little matching moment for your Monday! 🌸🌺 A little matching moment for your Monday! 🌸🌺

As a boy mom, I have to work a little harder for matching ensembles, but this little floral wrap dress and button down for spring are just too cute! 

Linking our outfits here: https://liketk.it/40B4p

#ltkfamily #shopltk #ltkunder50 #boymomclub #familymatchingoutfits #familymatching #ltkkids #boyclothes #oldnavybaby #oldnavykids #oldnavystyle #floralsforspring
I purchased the @thebeachwaver B1 over the holiday I purchased the @thebeachwaver B1 over the holidays and loved it so much I bought one for my sister. The rotating barrel makes getting ready so darn easy! 

Use my code HELENWAVE for 10% off!

#beachwaver #beachwaverpartner #hairstylingtutorial #hairstylingtips #hairstylereels #curlingirons #curlingiron #curltransformation #igotbeached
Today we're making garlic and herb pigs in a blank Today we're making garlic and herb pigs in a blanket for your super bowl party. 

-First, roll out crescent dough and slice each of the triangles into thirds. 
-Then spread a little boursin herb and garlic cheese onto each of the triangles. 
-Add a lil smokie and roll it up. 
-Bake for 12-15 minutes on 375. 
-Serve and enjoy!

Do you add anything extra to your pigs in a blanket? 

#superbowlsnacks #superbowlsnack #superbowlappetizers #easyappetizer #easyappetizers #easyrecipeideas #easyrecipesformoms #easyrecipesathome #recipereel
You've heard of a butter board, but have you seen You've heard of a butter board, but have you seen a peanut butter board? 

Today we are making one for Valentine's Day. 

-First take a board and spread peanut butter all over it. 
-Then top with chocolate chips, valentine's day sprinkles, bananas, nutella and strawberries. I cut mine to look like hearts. 
-Then serve with graham crackers, pretzels or fruit and enjoy! 

Are you doing anything fun for Valentine's Day or Galentine's Day? Have you tried the peanut butter board yet?

#valentinesdays #valentinesdaydessert #galentinesparty #butterboard #peanutbutterrecipe #peanutbutterdessert #recipereel #valentinesdayideas #easyrecipesformoms
Today we're making jalapeno cheese dip in a bread Today we're making jalapeno cheese dip in a bread bowl. This is a great party snack and would be awesome at an upcoming super bowl party. 

-First, cut the top off a round loaf of bread and remove the middle. 
-Cut all of the pieces removed into cubes and set aside. 
-Then take a jalapeno queso block and cut it into cubes. Place in a pan. 
-Then add two cans of drained green chiles and a splash of milk. 
-Heat over medium high heat on the stove stirring constantly to prevent sticking. Trust me nobody wants that cleanup. 
-Then immediately pour into your bread bowl and serve hot with the cubed bread pieces. Enjoy!

Easy, and tasty! Are you having or going to a Super Bowl party this year? What's on the menu?

#partysnacks #partysnack #easyappetizers #easyappetizer #cheesedip #recipereel #superbowlsnacks #superbowlfood
My baby is finally feeling better, thank goodness! My baby is finally feeling better, thank goodness! I'm going to be honest, I am exhausted. The emotional toll this week has taken on me has just made me a new level of tired. 

I saw something the other day and it really stuck with me. 

Nobody talks about this when you are thinking about having kids. They talk about the financial piece and the how it's going to change your life piece. But nobody talks about the risk you take by having something you love so much and all the worry that comes with it. 

It's a risk every day to have your whole heart walking around, and going to school and picking up illnesses. There is so much worry and stress that comes with it.

But on the other hand, what a privilege it is to have something you love that much. I have never loved anything the way I love this little boy.

While sometimes the emotions, intrusive thoughts, worry and stress get the best of me, I am grateful every second of every day that I get to be this perfect, beautiful tiny human's mom.

Thanks for all the sweet messages of encouragement this week. It's so nice to know I'm not alone. I'm very grateful for all of you! 

#momthoughts #dailymotherhood #workingmomstruggles #toddlermom
Do you decorate for Valentine's Day? I love a holi Do you decorate for Valentine's Day? I love a holiday that is all about pink and red. 💕 

Decided to update my little kitchen island tray this year with Valentine's Day decor! ❤️

Do you decorate for Valentine's Day?

#valentinesdaydecor #valentinesdayideas #valentinesdaydecorations #galentinesdaydecor #galentinesdayparty #valentinesdayparty #holidayhomedecor
Today we are making a Valentine's Day waffle platt Today we are making a Valentine's Day waffle platter with nutella filled uncrustable waffles. I do realize waffles don't have crusts, but it helps keep the Nutella inside! 

How to make them:
-First, mix your batter and dye it pink with a little bit of food coloring. 
-Then make your waffles, I found this cute @bydash mini waffle maker for Valentine's Day!
-Once they are done, spread a little nutella on a waffle.
-Add a second waffle to the top and use a heart shaped uncrustable cutter to make an uncrustable waffle. 
-Arrange these on a cute plate, add some strawberries, serve and enjoy!

What's your vote on Nutella? Delicious or overrated? 

#waffleboard #breakfastboard #valentinesbreakfast #breakfastrecipe #nutellapancakes #nutellawaffle #recipereel #breakfastreels #valentinesdaybreakfast #valentinesstrawberries

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