links + small things

Well? How was it?

Did you have a nice week?

Mine moved at a steady pace and I finally got to experience an entire week of our new schedule now that school has begun for the kids. The evenings are feeling short, and I’m figuring out the best time to make lunches for the next day is IMMEDIATELY after dinner so I don’t have to clean the kitchen twice!

Merrick shared her experience with laser hair removal here.

Tips for hosting a party!

And here are a few things I mentioned on Instagram Stories recently that you may have missed: 

Spanx Bike Shorts – these are my favorite bike shorts. I’m planning on wearing these for the sprint triathlon that is coming VERY SOON!

fresh Black Tea Instant Perfecting mask – one of my all-time favorite face masks.

Osteria G Italian Restaurant – very yummy!

Tillamook Ice Cream Truck

Virtue Healing Oil – I looooove this oil for my dry, distressed ends.

No7 Total Renewal Exfoliator – a fantastic drugstore exfoliator.

Cristo’s Bistro Grandmas Pizza

Urban Decay Naked Lipstick  – one of the best pinks I’ve worn.

Almay Eye Makeup Remover Pads

Jamie Pant from J.Crew Factory -I ended up needing a different size and it looks like the new size will be delivered today!

J.Crew Factory White Popover Top 

Floral Blouse 

Graphic Tees from J.Crew  – easy and casual.

Rothy’s Stripe Bag – so cute!

bumble & bumble Blow Dry Accelerator

Madewell Perfect Vintage Jeans, Roadtripper Jeans

This week’s discount codes (#partnerships): 

Aera – My code KATE20 will save you 20% on diffusers

amika: Use code SMALLTHINGS10 for 10% off your purchase

One-Third Clothing: Kate15 will give you 15% off

Bagging Rights: KATE10 gives you 10% off any items at BaggingRights.com

Miranda Frye: “Smallthings10” will get you 10% off and free shipping!

Spanx: Use code “KateXSpanx” for 10% off plus free shipping!

Beddy’s: Code “SmallThings” saves you 20%!

Questions from Monday’s Q&A Box:

What do you use to clean your makeup brushes? I love this cleanser from Sephora.

Do you read to your kids nightly? Sometimes we read, sometimes we play a card game, and other times we play!

What is your favorite part of your beauty routine? Doing my hair!

Do you take any medication for your migraines? No, just advil or tylenol.

How do you feel about apple cider vinegar for your hair? Not only is the smell extremely off putting to me, but I would wonder if it could be too strong for some hair types.

What do you think of Mary Kay products? I haven’t used them in a very, very long time!

Go to, everyday non-sponsored makeup favorites? I only ever work with brands that I have or would use organically (I wish you could see how many campaigns I turn down monthly!). So, whether it’s sponsored or not–if I tell you it’s my favorite, it’s certainly one of my favorites.