Kelly (2:19)

Yeah.

Liz (2:19)

And I think Those types of people are. Are important to have in your life, too. And I just, like, need to go change and put jeans on right now, is what I'm saying.

Kelly (2:26)

Two things I want to say about getting dressed that I didn't say on the interview.

Liz (2:30)

1.

Kelly (2:32)

Or not even getting dressed. But, like, I have been trying to do it more and more, and there's also. There's days I'm just not going to do it. And I think that's fine. Like, it doesn't have to be. Like, I'm not an all or nothing kind of person. But I do love Marek's style because sometimes I feel like you look at these, like, fashion bloggers, and it's, like, such a cute outfit, but you're like, where are you wearing that to? Yeah, like, literally, where are you wearing that? And Merrick's outfits, for the most part, are all, like, you would be dressed up to be at home, but, like, it wouldn't look insane. Like, you know how. And I'm gonna say this, and I hope you take it with, like, I hope everyone takes us the right way. But, like, I would describe her style as, like, you know, like. Like sitcom, sitcom, TV families. Yeah. Like, Merrick's outfits are like, what the stylish mom on the Disney Channel would wear. And it's like, you're dressed up for sure, but, like, you don't look out of place being at home.

Liz (3:33)

Yeah. Again with, like, the. The highest form of compliment you can receive in that way.

Kelly (3:38)

The highest form of compliment. Like, it's like what a family on a TV show would wear. Like the mom on a TV show would wear. That's how. That's Merrick style.

Liz (3:46)

It's very. But it's very attainable. It's extremely attainable.

Merrick White (3:49)

So.

Kelly (3:49)

Attainable.

Liz (3:51)

So anyway, we have that interview. So good. Really excited for everyone to hear it. But before we get into that, how are you, Kelly?

Kelly (4:01)

Well, I'm okay. I opened on my Instagram a bit that I've been having some cortisol issues.

Liz (4:08)

Yeah.

Kelly (4:09)

Mainly just because I kept waiting for it to get better, and it's just not totally getting better yet. And. But I don't know. I'm okay, though. Basically. I just. Ever since I learned a reaction. I know everyone's so tired of hearing about it. My body's just, like, having trouble regulating its cortisol a bit, and I go in, like, waves of, like. I guess I. I don't really like to use the word panic attacks, because I guess I just. I feel off and I feel anxious. But for no reason. Which is a very weird feeling, because even on times where I've had anxiety, like, even postpartum, when I had anxiety, even though it might have felt, even though my anxiety wasn't rational, I could at least tell you why I was feeling that way. But with this one, like, I have no idea. Like, there's nothing to talk through because it's like, it's not. It's so not my mind. It's so my body doing it. It's a.

Liz (4:58)

It's a literal chemical imbalance.

Kelly (5:00)

Yeah. And, you know, all the things that, like, should help lower your cortisol, like exercise and water and getting outside at the first day's light. And I'm like, those don't work. Because the whole point is that my cortisol is not functioning properly right now. And so it's really kind of just like. I mean, I'm doing some supplements based on some blood work that I got done, and then it's kind of a timing thing. So I have really good moments. Like, I'm fine right now I feel fine, but then this afternoon I might not be fine. So I'm very much just, like, living my life through my. I'm very much, like, living my life just kind of in the. In. In the ups and the downs, and I'm totally fine. I don't want anyone to worry about me, but I'm just letting you know that's kind of where I'm at right now.

Liz (5:41)

Yeah.

Kelly (5:42)

And if you're like, oh, I didn't notice, like, that's because I really only post when I'm, like, feeling like posting. Like, I'm just not really one to, like, just for my own mental health. I'm just, like, not one to post on my stories every time I'm having, like, a hard day. Like, I just. That's the last thing I want to do. So my Instagram is very much a highlight reel because that's for me. Yeah.

Liz (5:58)

Yeah. It kind of. It kind of. I didn't realize when I saw your post about it this morning, I was like, oh, my gosh. She. I guess she hasn't shared this because it's actually been, like, really a big deal in our lives. Like, it's really affected a lot of our work and our lives in your life. So it was kind of crazy to me that, like, oh, I really. She hasn't posted about this one time. And, like, it's one of the top three things we're talking about offline constantly.

Kelly (6:27)

Yeah. Because it's very much Just I don't know who I'm gonna be in any given moment. And I'm like, it's so interesting because like I am okay, but there's moments where I'm not necessarily okay. So like on the days where I'm feeling good, like I'm telling Liz, like get to the dealership, I'm bringing three outfits. I'm telling my manager what is every ad that you need filmed? Because like, I don't know how I'm gonna feel tomorrow. Like, we're really capitalizing on the moments. I feel good and it's definitely getting better. Like I'm having less brain fog and I would say I'm having. My lows are definitely less.

Liz (7:03)

And I'm.

Kelly (7:03)

On week seven and they like everything I've read and is, you know, this can be like a 12 week thing. So hopefully I start to and start to feel better and continue to feel better. But. Yeah, it's just kind of crazy.

Liz (7:16)

Yeah.

Kelly (7:17)

And also just a sign, like, you know, you just gotta go. I said this before and it was kind of like a joke, but like now I kind of get it. Like you just really are responsible for your own health, you know, and like, like your doctors kind of care, but like you gotta advocate for yourself and like I just didn't feel right and I'm ready to feel right. Also, shout out to chat GBT because I'm loving chatgpt for tracking my symptoms and tracking like my good days and my bad days because it's. I'm trying to see if there's like any pattern for why I'm feeling certain ways. And definitely there's like, there's a little bit of like a times of day when I don't feel good, but I don't know. So anyway, that's what's, that's what's new with me.

Liz (8:01)

That's what's. Okay. Kind of a loaded question when I.

Kelly (8:03)

Asked how you were. But it has been crazy. Like if I think back at like what the last seven weeks have done, like we've done so much and like. Yeah, in between.

Liz (8:13)

Yeah.

Kelly (8:14)

My mental breakdowns. Yeah, I'm fine.

Liz (8:17)

Really. I'm really, really also realizes like how much the car mom like fully depends on you because when you're not feeling well, it's like, okay, well, I guess we're not posting anything today.

Kelly (8:26)

Yeah, no. Okay. Everyone's actually, everyone's off today.

Liz (8:29)

So actually like when you see a post come from the car mom, just know that we were really grateful we were able to get that post out. No, we're fine.

Kelly (8:43)

Anyways, I don't anyone to worry about me and I don't want you guys to think I'm like, not saying how it really is, but like, I just, I don't like creating content. I just, I don't want to do that. Like in a bad day. I don't. I'm not trying to. I'm not trying to make it only a highlight reel. But whatever.

Liz (8:59)

You don't want to post when you're feeling bad. Like, you got enough going on. Like, you don't have to log on Instagram. You're fine. No one's judging you. No one cares.

Kelly (9:05)

Agreed. Anyway, but moving on because I'm gonna feel better. And I'm having a great day today and we had a great interview with Merrick and life is good.

Liz (9:13)

And like, not to make something I'm really thankful for. This is totally separate. Our mom had just texted that all the the girls group chat and said, here's my Christmas list. Which she's never done before. But you know what? I love a girl who knows what she wants. Because instead of questioning what should I get my mom, she sent us a list of probably nine things on here. And I think I want to share them with everyone because she's so funny, because she's like, here's what I want for Christmas. And like, like they're 13 items. Twenty dollar items. Like, her biggest ticket item, I think is $70. So I'll also include Chris's. I'll. I'll make a. I'll make a collection of Chris's Christmas list too, so you guys can see. But I just want to read the. I want to read the Chris miss list. Okay. I need to ask her about this. Mattress lifters. Yeah, I don't know why I think this is. It's a tool to make it easier to change your sheets because it gently lifts your mattress up. I had no idea this existed. But the amount of nails that I've broken trying to lift a mattress and then shove a fitted sheet. I'm inspired. Mattress lifter. Okay, she wants her favorite golf balls. Callaway bronzing stick. Specific Bronzing stick. Specific Lip gloss, tinted SPF tubing, mascara, lip balm. Like a lot from Sephora White tea to layer under sweater from quints. $20. Like, she's so cute. Like, this is actually such a good basic tee for laying under sweaters because it kind of has a tall neck. I actually have that tea audible gift card.

Kelly (10:58)

Cute.

Liz (10:58)

Love that.

Merrick White (10:59)

Sure.

Kelly (10:59)

Sure, Mom.

Liz (11:00)

And then she wants these Ugg slippers from Nordstrom Rack.

Kelly (11:06)

I'm just gonna, like, copy and paste this back, take off the golf balls, and be like, this is my Christmas list, too.

Liz (11:12)

It just goes to show, it's like, I don't make a Christmas list because I do feel. I don't know, I feel awkward making a Christmas list. But this is, like, so helpful. Like, I'm going to click the links, I'm going to add to Cart. I'm not going to have to think about it. I'm going to give her something, exactly what she wants. So everyone, make your own Christmas list this year.

Kelly (11:32)

Something else I love about. I mean, our mom is just. I love our mom. And we were talking about, like, that. That Merrick episode. Just, like, the importance of getting dressed and all this and X, Y, and Z. And our mom does such a good job making the holidays special. And I do think one of the things that makes our holiday special is that we dress up. And I just think it would be so easy because we just go to her house for dinner, which we do so many times throughout the years. But, like, we will be like, I will be in a healed booty at Thanksgiving at our house. Even though, like, the week before, I was in sweats at her house eating dinner.

Liz (12:01)

Yeah. Yeah.

Kelly (12:02)

You know, it's just, like, fun, I think, to make the holiday, you know, it's the holidays. It's the holidays. It's the holidays.

Liz (12:09)

And if you don't know what we're saying, maybe you weren't listening to the podcast this time last year. Chris, during holiday season, she's always wearing a sequin. She's always wearing a statement earring. She's wearing them together. She's wearing a leather pant. She's wearing a red heel. And why? Because she says it's the holidays. She says there's no. Nothing is off limits when it's the holidays. Wear the sparkles. Wear the bling. Because why.

Kelly (12:37)

Yeah, I would say Thanksgiving to New Year's, you know, she'll be like. She'll be going out to dinner, like, with our dad, and she'll be like, well, you know, I'm just like, I'm gonna wear this velvet pump because it's the holidays. It's the holidays, Cal. You just. You got holidays.

Liz (12:51)

It's a season.

Merrick White (12:53)

So.

Kelly (12:54)

Yeah, I love her. We need to get her back on the podcast. I just feel like it's a minute.

Liz (12:58)

We do. We do. Okay, well, I think we should honestly just get into this interview because it's like, so good. Like, what else could we possibly say?

Kelly (13:08)

So do you want to do our DWTS predictions?

Liz (13:12)

Ooh, who we think is gonna win?

Kelly (13:14)

I'm so looking forward to the finale. I'm having two friends over and I'm gonna make Chris's hot apple cider on the stove. It just feels like a fun thing to sip, you know, it is a.

Liz (13:24)

Fun thing to sip and you're not actually gonna, like, catch a buzz from it, but it's, like, nice to know that, like, there's a potential that you could. And it's also a good thing to have if you're not drinking or if you don't wanna drink or if you're pregnant or whatever. Because it gives you the vibe of a drink without actually a drink.

Kelly (13:40)

Yes. I just feel like it's, first of all, a three hour finale. Like, who are they? Second of all, I've never been more grateful to live in standard or central time as I am during Dance with the Star season. Because the fact that we get to watch it from seven to nine, like, we are so blessed. Like, the East coast is 8 to 10. That's crazy. And I don't even. I think the rest of the country doesn't even get to watch it live. So, like, sometimes it's just good to be in a flyover state because we get to be on central time and that is the best time zone. And does anyone want to disagree? Central time is the best time zone. I never thought I'd have a take on a time zone, but like, you mountain girlies.

Liz (14:15)

Woof, woof. You Pacific Time, Everyone revolves around us, really. Like, we're never to have a meeting. We're never waking up early. We're never staying on late. Like, we are the perfect time zone. So just if you have to move states or whatever and like, you're like, trying to compare apples to oranges, like, consider a time zone.

Kelly (14:35)

Consider Central time. Consider CST is where it's at.

Liz (14:39)

Totally. Okay, well, now you're ready for the episode. Over the.

Kelly (14:44)

Now I'm ready for the episode. Yeah.

Liz (14:45)

Okay.

Kelly (14:46)

All right, you guys paid. Wait, we didn't give our predictions.

Liz (14:48)

We just talked about time zones. I think it's gonna be Robert. I do.

Kelly (14:53)

I think it's gonna be Robert too. And I'm good with that.

Liz (14:56)

I'm good. I would be so thrilled for Alex or Robert. I would applaud. I would cheer. I would end on a happy note if. If Elaine or Jordan or Dylan wins, I will be like for why it should be Robert or Alex, I saw.

Kelly (15:12)

The best reel ever. So I. My hair part about Dancing with the Stars is the reels, truthfully. But Ezra did the bird theory for Robert. Did you see this?

Merrick White (15:24)

No.

Kelly (15:24)

Do you know what the. Do you know what the bird theory is?

Liz (15:27)

Is that where you say, I saw a bird?

Kelly (15:28)

Yes.

Liz (15:30)

No, I. Okay, so he told Robert, I saw a bird yesterday.

Kelly (15:34)

Yes. And Robert was so cute. He was like. He goes, what was the wingspan? Did it take flight? I love him. I love him.

Liz (15:48)

I mean, Alex is, like, the biggest influencer. Like. Like, she's got over 4 million followers, but Robert has 8 million. He has double the followers that Alex has, and he has an international audience.

Kelly (16:01)

No, I think it's gonna be Robert.

Liz (16:03)

I think it's gonna be Robert, too.

Kelly (16:04)

And I'm fine with.

Liz (16:05)

But whatever. I mean, I don't know why we're predicting here, because this episode comes out on Wednesday, so we'll know by then.

Kelly (16:11)

And also, we're not leaving you Friday, So I know you're like, oh, long weekend. Your girls aren't going to be here. No, actually, we are. We're trying something new where we don't leave you when everyone else leaves you.

Liz (16:20)

You know what I mean?

Kelly (16:21)

So easy for us to take the week off. Oh, it's Thanksgiving. Not us. Not us.

Liz (16:25)

We want. We want to be the constant in your life.

Kelly (16:28)

We want to be the constant. Yeah. And we're hoping our podcast numbers skyrocket that day because you have. No, nothing else because everyone took off. We'll see if that theory rings true.

Liz (16:37)

We'll see. All right, guys. Well, without further ado, let's get into our interview with Merrick White.

Kelly (16:43)

Merrick White, welcome to the Carpool podcast.

Merrick White (16:47)

Thank you so much. I am so excited to be here.

Liz (16:50)

We're so excited to have you.

Kelly (16:52)

No, you have no idea. You're basically, like. I mean, you've been. I've brought you up probably, like, every episode since we had that night at your house, because you have really, like, you've inspired me in such a real way. And I'm sure you hear this a lot from women, but I find your content and your fashion so inspiring. And I'm just really grateful that I've been getting dressed more and I've been wearing the clothes in my closet more, and, I mean, all I do is rip you off. Like, I don't even think for my own self. I'm like, oh, Merrick bought that outfit. Let me just buy the entire outfit. Like, how embarrassing is that?

Merrick White (17:26)

That is not embarrassing. That is exactly what I'm here for. And it makes me so unbelievably happy. And by the way, I just have to tell you that my team listens to your podcast. And, like, I am not a good podcast listener. I listen sporadically. I freaking love your podcast, but I do not hit every episode. I'll just be fully transparent with you. But they're like, they mentioned you again today. Of course I have to go listen to it. So they keep me, like, updated on the things. So they are fangirling that I'm here on the podcast today. So we're just.

Liz (18:00)

You're. You're constantly coming up, like, on the podcast. In my personal life, we're just like, wwmd, Will America do I need bracelets, necklaces?

Kelly (18:10)

We do.

Liz (18:11)

Yes, we do.

Kelly (18:13)

So I've been following you for years. I mean, years. And then it was so funny. I saw a post, like, pop on my Instagram one day. It's like, we're moving to St. Louis. And I'm like, who moves? First of all, who moves to St. Louis? That was so crazy. And now you've been here a couple of years. We've met. I think we've met twice, which is. We need to get better about that. And how are you liking St. Louis, that you've been here a couple years?

Merrick White (18:39)

I love it. So here's the story, is that the company that my husband works for is headquartered in St. Louis. So when he started with the company, like, 19 years ago, we knew that St. Louis was a possibility if we stayed with the company. And so we've moved several times for the company. We started in Utah, moved to California, moved to Texas, and he came to St. Louis a ton over the years. I had been here one time, I think, just like, passing through. I'd been at the arch. I remember it being, like, a little traumatic being in that little, tiny A.

Kelly (19:15)

Totally.

Liz (19:16)

For sure.

Merrick White (19:17)

And that's kind of all I knew. Oh, we did go to the zoo. And it was the middle of the summer.

Kelly (19:21)

Hot.

Liz (19:22)

Super hot.

Merrick White (19:23)

Like the surface of the sun.

Kelly (19:25)

Yeah.

Merrick White (19:26)

So that's kind of all that I knew about St. Louis. And. And so when we found out that we could potentially move here, I'd always had it kind of in the back of my mind. But then we flew here for, like, a little scouting trip, just my husband and I, before he got the job, before we told the kids, my parents were coming into town in Texas, and I'm like, please stay with the kids. We're gonna go on a scouting trip. Cause we might move to St. Louis. And I flew in and it was January, and it looked kind of dead, sort of like Texas did. And we love Texas so much. And I was like, you know what? It looks enough the same. I feel like I could be okay. You know, it wasn't like such a stark difference. Like, I have a friend that moved from, like. Like Vermont or something to Arizona. And yeah, like, that is, like, huge difference, right?

Liz (20:14)

Yeah.

Merrick White (20:15)

Dallas to St. Louis, it was okay. It was a pretty smooth transition, actually. And I'm loving it here.

Liz (20:21)

Totally.

Kelly (20:22)

It's been huge for St. Louis. Like, home of Merrick White. Like, that's all.

Merrick White (20:27)

Well, used to be home of car mom. Now we can share.

Liz (20:29)

Okay.

Kelly (20:29)

Yeah, okay, Sounds good.

Merrick White (20:31)

Which if I have to share with anybody, I'll take you guys.

Kelly (20:34)

You're so sweet. Okay, well, like, there's. There's just, like, so much we want to get to, and we wanted to have you on. I mean, you squeezed us in because there is so many Black Friday sales coming up. This episode's coming out Wednesday, the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, and I was like, let's just get you on. I want to get your take on a few things. If people are shopping for themselves, want to take advantage of some sales. We. We just. We thought it would be a good way to kind of really kick off the crazy sale season. I'd first like your take on. I feel like this has kind of been a long time coming, but the Black Friday sales have started so early this year, and I actually like it. I feel like I have more time to think, more time to just like, relax with a coffee scroll. Deals kind of, like window shop a little bit. And I don't feel like it's all pressured on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday. What is your take on, like, the extended sales?

Merrick White (21:27)

I feel the same because as an influencer and you guys probably feel this the same way, like, when we're the ones sharing the links. When I'm sharing so many links, I'm not buying things myself. I, like, forget to buy it, and then the sale ends, and I'm like, shoot. I talked about it three times and I forgot to check out. Things are in my cart, and I forgot to actually check out. Right. So this doesn't give me more time. I 100 agree with you. I think it's nice. I think it does get a little tiresome for some consumers and followers that we're talking about sales over and over and over. And I think in the past, some retailers did, like, different sales. Like, two weeks before it was, like, one sale. And Then the sale would kind of get better.

Liz (22:13)

Yeah, I don't like that.

Merrick White (22:16)

Which, yeah, like, you don't want to buy two weeks before, and then suddenly it's cheaper two weeks later. That's so frustrating. So I think they've gotten smarter about that. I don't see that anymore.

Kelly (22:25)

And then some. I'm also. I'm not. What I'm not loving, though, which, I mean, I get that some brands just have to do this, but, like, I love Quinn's. I know you do, too. And they're. They're making me mad because they have, like, select. They have, like, these flash deals, and, like, you don't know what day the thing you want is going to go on sale, and this is exhausting.

Merrick White (22:44)

Yeah, I don't like that.

Liz (22:45)

Yeah, I only like to check out once from a place. Like, I'm not paying for shipping twice. Like, I want one order, I want one email. Like, I don't want to go to quints five times. Hopefully they're not a sponsor of this episode. I don't want to check out multiple times. I want one. One sale. But.

Merrick White (23:05)

But they are always good prices. It is.

Liz (23:07)

That's.

Merrick White (23:07)

I always get asked if I get a code. I have a code. Or if they're going on sale. And I mean, they're great prices anyway, so. Yeah, they rarely do sales. No, I agree.

Kelly (23:17)

I'm not complaining about the prices, but then I just don't like not knowing if, like, I want to buy, like, that. Another color of that boxy sweater. I'm like, is that going on sale or is it not going on sale?

Merrick White (23:28)

Yeah. So, yeah, and I should have an in on this because I do work with them and I. I have no in.

Kelly (23:34)

Yeah, yeah, we. They're. They sponsor our podcast. We have no in either.

Liz (23:37)

We have no code. Like, it's just. Well, we do have a co. But code. But it just gets you free shipping, so use code. Carpal.

Merrick White (23:44)

What little plug there. What color are you going to get in the boxy sweater?

Kelly (23:49)

Well, I think. Well, I get spoilers, but I re. I love to spoil my team every Christmas, and I like to make them feel like they're influencers when they get this box. So I go big on their. On my team's gifts, and one of the things that they're getting spoiler is a boxy sweater, and I think I'm gonna get them.

Merrick White (24:08)

I don't.

Kelly (24:08)

I don't know what color. I think I'm gonna give everyone chocolate brown because it's kind of like a chocolate Brown season. So spoilers. That's what you're getting. That's one of. One of your presents.

Liz (24:18)

So fun that I get to be.

Kelly (24:19)

Part of the team and anyone on my team listening. It's one of your presents. But that's not all.

Merrick White (24:24)

I do a similar thing for my team, and, like, I love putting together the box, and then I, like, ship it to them and they get to open it. We do, like, a team lunch, like a zoom call, and then everybody opens it. So I love that you do that, too.

Kelly (24:38)

Spoil the T. Okay, so let's. I want to talk so much. I want to talk to you about. So one of my favorite pieces of content that you've done recently is Merrick has this theory concept, or she makes a lot of content around getting your outfit to seven points. And basically everything you're wearing counts as one or two points. Like, one if it's basic, two if it's more loud. And the goal is to get to seven. So if it's, like, only at a five, you need to add stuff. If you're at, like, a 9, you need to take something away. And it's really been such a fun and easy exercise to add to my getting dressed routine, because I start counting out my outfits, and I'm like, okay, I'm only at 5, and it's like, well, let's just wear the dang bracelet. Or, like, let me just throw on a scarf or let me put a belt on. It is really helped me accessorize and I think make my outfits look just a little bit more polished. I cannot get enough of it. It's my favorite thing that you do.

Merrick White (25:34)

Yes, I need to do more. You told me last time we were together, you're like, please do this. Like, I need. I need to do it, like, once a week. But another thing that you said to me, which I really liked the idea of, which I hadn't thought of, is that, like, you have the bracelet already, you have the belt already. You're not necessarily wearing them all the time. This gets you more use out of things that you already own. These accessories that are just sitting in your drawer, sitting in your closet, where.

Kelly (26:00)

100%, like, my bracelets have never seen the light of day so much. They've been thrilled. It's like they're just. They're just getting out more. So I think that is, like, that's just been such a tangible takeaway. I want to, though, like, go back even a step further, and I want to kind of hear your theory on. I mean, you do get yourself dressed every day. And I feel like for a lot of moms, that can be really hard. So why do you get yourself dressed? Why do you get yourself dressed every day? And why do you think it's important?

Merrick White (26:29)

So my mom is somebody that got dressed every day and sounds like our mom. I love that your mom is the cutest, by the way. I want to meet your mom.

Liz (26:36)

You would love her.

Merrick White (26:38)

Like, every time I see her in your content, I'm like, we would be friends.

Kelly (26:41)

Yeah.

Merrick White (26:41)

But my mom got dressed every day. And my mom was a stay at home mom. She never worked. And she was also a homeschool mom. Did you know that about me?

Liz (26:52)

No. That's fascinating.

Merrick White (26:55)

Fun fact about Merrick's art. I was homeschooled all the way until I went to high school, Then I went to public high school. But she homeschooled all of us for all these years. And, like, that is the greatest excuse to stay in your pajamas all day, right? That your kids are all home. You're not going out. Like, you're not running kids to school drop off or pick up. You're not seeing anybody. But she prioritized getting dressed every day. And I don't know for sure that my grandma was one that got dressed every day. I think she was. I mean, that's kind of like more. That generation wasn't like, so, like, athleisure wasn't a thing. That was not a thing back then. But I think that that, that was just important to my mom and she instilled that in us that even though we were going to be home all day and just sitting on the couch or at the table doing our schoolwork, you get dressed because it makes you feel better. Anytime we were sick, she's like, you know, sleep, take a nap, and then go take a shower and get ready, you know? And so it's just kind of in my blood to get dressed every day. And I recognize how that made me feel, how that made me act, how that made me just like, feel confident. And so I've always done that. I've never been a stay in my pajamas all day. Like, I cannot think of a single time in my life that I've stayed in my pajamas all day.

Liz (28:16)

Never.

Kelly (28:17)

But you don't even wear, like, I mean, if. Because I think you, like, even after a workout, though, like, you change out of your workout clothes to an outfit. See, that's where I get stuck. I'll put on leggings and I'll like, put on my workout clothes and Then sometimes I even don't even work out. But then I don't always get. I'm not always putting on a real outfit, you know?

Merrick White (28:33)

Yeah, but you know what? I was actually. I just posted my weekly outfits, which I do most Sunday nights. Like, here's what I wore this week. And I did one outfit where I went straight from the gym. This was on Thursday. I had errands to run, and I was not working. Thursdays are usually my day off, so I was running errands that day. And I had a doctor's appointment, so I kept my leggings on, and I swapped my shoes to, like, a cuter pair of sneakers rather than my workout shoes. And then I threw on a pullover and a cute coat, and I added some earrings. And then, like, you take your gym outfit. I still have my tank underneath. I have my leggings that I'd worn in the gym, but I, like, added these extra things that made it feel like a real outfit. So, like, I'm not opposed to you going to the gym and. Or, like, not even doing your workout. Just, like, throwing your leggings on after you get up, but then, like, add a few things and make it get to your seven points, you know? Yeah, we're adding the layers. We're adding, like, a couple of accessories. It makes you feel better. I didn't put makeup on that day. Doesn't matter. Put my little tinted sunscreen on, and I just. I feel better. I act better. I feel more put together. People respond better to that. They do.

Liz (29:40)

Yeah.

Merrick White (29:40)

All those studies about that.

Kelly (29:42)

You're so right. Yeah, it's. I think it's one of those things that feels very hard and daunting in the moment. I mean, especially if you have young kids, like, getting yourself dressed, and it feels like, what's the point? It's going to get thrown up on. It's going to get this, it's going to get that. But you will. You will. I've never put on clothes and felt worse. Never had a worse day. You know, Should.

Merrick White (30:04)

Should we. Should I get a tattoo of that? I've never felt worse. It's so true, though. Like, that is literally. That is literally like words to live by.

Kelly (30:14)

You just put on, what do you feel like for, let's say, the busy mom listening, who wants to start getting dressed? What are, like, a couple of basic pieces that they would kind of need in their wardrobe? Maybe they have, maybe they don't. But, like, what do you feel like are, like, three things that every person needs in their Wardrobe to get dressed every day.

Merrick White (30:34)

Okay, that's a great question. I think number one is a great pair of jeans. And there are, like. Think back in the day when jeans were, like, not comfortable. And you're, like, thinking of, do I want to put on my sweatpants or my leggings, or do I want to put on my jeans? Like, they're obviously very different, but now there's, like, super comfortable jeans.

Liz (30:58)

Yeah.

Kelly (30:58)

Yeah.

Merrick White (30:58)

Another plug for Quince.

Kelly (30:59)

Those obsessed with Quince jeans. Obsessed.

Merrick White (31:02)

Aren't they so comfortable? They're soft.

Kelly (31:05)

They're 50 bucks, and they come in four inseams. And, like, that's just. I cannot. I don't even know how they're doing it. Like, it. That's an insane thing to offer to people.

Merrick White (31:14)

Yes, yes.

Liz (31:15)

So by cutting out the middleman, Spanx is a. Or, where's the. Where's the copy?

Merrick White (31:24)

Where's the plug? So jeans, I think jeans are, like, the easiest thing because you can throw them on with anything else. With your sweatshirt, with your tank top, with your T shirt. Yeah, whatever. And you can feel put together. You add a couple of necklaces, you add a pair of earrings, you add a bracelet and. Or belt, you instantly feel put together. So jeans are, like, such a foundational thing. And just for that busy mom that feels like, do I want to put on jeans? You'll feel more put together. You'll feel better. And they don't have to be uncomfortable. Right. Might take some trial and error to find the ones that are just right for you. But, like, they are out there. Comfortable jeans that make you feel great.

Liz (32:04)

Is that your plug? Is Quint your plug? Are there other brands that people should try that you like that are comfy?

Merrick White (32:10)

So those, I think, are one of the comfiest that I've tried. I also really like Everlane, but they are not quite as soft. I really like oh, well, Mother jeans.

Liz (32:26)

I just got some PR from Mother, and one of the pairs are. I've been wearing them every day. They're. They're like leggings. They're so comfortable. And then another pair is, like, very stiff, and I can't wear it. So I think that it depends. I think that they have, like, multiple types, but, like, their soft ones are insane.

Merrick White (32:43)

Okay.

Liz (32:43)

But they're expensive, aren't they?

Merrick White (32:45)

They are so expensive. So I think in terms of comfort and affordability, Spanx is top.

Kelly (32:51)

I think Spanx is good.

Merrick White (32:53)

Spanx is great. Or. No, sorry.

Liz (32:57)

I keep thinking Spanx because Spanx are also really comfortable, but they're also Expensive.

Merrick White (33:01)

Okay. No, yeah, No, I do really like Spanx too. No Affordability and comfort.

Liz (33:07)

Good to know.

Merrick White (33:09)

So, yeah, I mean, there's a lot of comfortable ones. Have you guys tried the viral sweatpants jeans? The ones that, like, look like it?

Kelly (33:17)

I'm gonna let that trend lie. That's. I don't need to touch that. I'm glad. Yeah.

Merrick White (33:21)

That one's not for me, but I have heard that those are great. So. Yeah, like I said, there's options out there. There are a lot of good options that are comfortable and affordable. I think you can get those sweatpants jeans on Amazon. Right?

Kelly (33:33)

Yeah. Okay.

Merrick White (33:34)

So.

Kelly (33:35)

So jeans, give us, like, two more like, pieces to that you need.

Merrick White (33:40)

Yes. Pullover sweater. We're gonna give a plug for Old Navy right here.

Kelly (33:44)

Okay. Oh, yeah, Merrick's got. I've bought two.

Liz (33:47)

They're.

Kelly (33:47)

They are really good.

Merrick White (33:49)

They're great. But you don't have to get Old Navy. You get whatever. You could get any kind of just pullover sweater. I like a crew neck, personally. You could do a V neck. You could do a scoop, whatever. Just something that's like a basic, elevated piece. Better than your sweatshirt, better than your T shirt.

Kelly (34:07)

I'm more substantial than, like, more substantial than, like a long sleeve tee. Like a sweater.

Merrick White (34:12)

Yeah, yeah. It's a piece that you can dress up, dress down. It's versatile. You can wear it with your jeans, you can wear it with your skirt, you can wear it with your shorts, whatever, with your trousers, with your sweatpants. But it feels more pulled together. It is a basic, elevated piece. And then also I would say a cute pair of sneakers.

Liz (34:32)

Okay.

Kelly (34:32)

You're such a sneaker girl. And I love that about you.

Liz (34:34)

You are such a sneaker girl.

Merrick White (34:36)

I am. So I think, I mean, if you're not a sneaker girl, you could do a ballet flat or whatever, but like a nicer pair of shoes than your flip flop or your workout shoe.

Liz (34:48)

All right, what's the. What's the brands that you like?

Merrick White (34:51)

I really like Gola a lot.

Kelly (34:55)

I have one of those. I buy those. Anthropology sells those.

Merrick White (34:59)

Yep, sells them. Nordstrom sells them. They have them. A bunch of different retailers. I really like Adidas. Adidas is having a total moment. And some of my Adidas are very unsupportive. Some are more supportive. So, you know, it depends. It's like your mother jeans. Some are comfortable, some are not.

Kelly (35:21)

Yeah.

Merrick White (35:22)

But Adidas I like. I still like my Golden Goose. They're expensive. They were trendy. They were kind of like, gosh, for A while, but I still wear mine. Yeah, those are kind of my top.

Kelly (35:37)

Okay. I think that's good.

Merrick White (35:39)

Steve Madden. Steve Madden makes great sneakers.

Liz (35:42)

Okay, good to know. I'm writing all these down. I'm going to make. I'm going to link all of this stuff in our. In our show notes so everyone can shop. Can shop this. You don't have to write it down. I'm doing it for you.

Merrick White (35:52)

Okay. But like, versatility, I think all three of those pieces you can wear together. Right. Sneakers. But you could also wear the sneakers with your lounge set or your leggings like I did to the doctor and running errands. You know, you, like, throw on the cute pair of sneakers and it makes the outfit feel less like you just left the gym and more like it's a purposeful outfit. I also love sneaker with a skirt.

Kelly (36:16)

Or you're not scared of that.

Merrick White (36:17)

And I love that about you, too.

Kelly (36:18)

You're always. You're always wearing sneakers with a skirt. It's so cute.

Merrick White (36:22)

Yeah, it's like my favorite thing during the summer. It's just like a sporty way to, like, make your outfit feel a little more casual.

Kelly (36:30)

And what about. Let's talk a little bit about another piece of content that I really love that you do is you're big on color and. And you're big on, like, pairing unexpected colors. And I think a lot of other, like, fashion bloggers, like, they're so into the neutrals. And I don't see a lot of people sharing color, but not in a too eclectic, over the top kind of way. I know that style is for some, but, like, that style's not for me. I like to dress simply, but I get bored of the neutrals. And you're throwing together burgundy and red, like two colors that shouldn't go together. And you're teaching people how to style it.

Merrick White (37:05)

So.

Kelly (37:05)

So what about some of your favorite, like, unexpected color combos?

Merrick White (37:10)

So I did a whole series in the fall of, like, fall color combinations. And it was so fun because I have all these fall colors in my. In my closet. But, like, I would be wearing the burgundy sweater with jeans or the burgundy sweater with, like, gray. You know, like, anybody can do that. But then I started pairing these pieces together, like the burgundy and the red or the. Or the plum. Dark plum, like you're wearing. Liz at. Are you wearing brown? It's kind of like a.

Liz (37:38)

It's like a brown plum, actually. I think you're right on that.

Merrick White (37:41)

Yeah, yeah, like the plum and rust. I wore that last Week. Like, I don't. I don't know. It's fun. I think that wearing your clothes in your closet is just, like, you're buying the clothes. So wear the clothes.

Liz (37:53)

100.

Kelly (37:54)

We're all, like, we're all saving. I feel like we all get in the habit of, like, saving our outfits for what?

Liz (38:00)

Like.

Kelly (38:01)

Like, I am so bad about that. It's like, oh, I just, like, need an excuse to wear this dress. It's like, we'll just wear it on a Tuesday. Like, what if you just wore it?

Merrick White (38:08)

Yeah.

Kelly (38:09)

Clothes are meant to be worn. I know that's right.

Liz (38:11)

I love.

Kelly (38:12)

I love the way that you share those color combos. And it's also helped, I think, extend. I think what you're really mindful of is, like, the consumers or is your followers money, for lack of better words. You're like, hey, if you're gonna buy this dress, like, I'm going to make sure you're going to get your wear out of it. Like, I'm going to show you all the different ways to wear this chartreuse sweater. Or I even love. Another piece of content that I love was, you sold me on the Somerset dress. I now have two of them. And you need to do this again. But you did a style on how to wear the Somerset dress year round.

Liz (38:43)

Oh, yeah.

Merrick White (38:44)

Okay.

Kelly (38:44)

I used to do that again. You, like, threw a sweater over the top, like, that was so cute. And it's like, if you're going to buy this $150 dress, like, Mare is going to make sure you're wearing it all season.

Merrick White (38:53)

Yes. Yes.

Kelly (38:54)

You're not so worth.

Merrick White (38:56)

Yeah.

Kelly (38:57)

Yeah.

Merrick White (38:57)

And the other thing about fashion for me is, like, the creativity part of it. Like, we're all getting dressed every day. We have to wear clothes every day. So, like, why not. Why not have some fun and some creativity with it? And, like, I. I love Pinterest. I love looking on Pinterest. And I'm very drawn to all of those, like, fashion girly pictures of the neutrals. Yeah, right. Like, they look so, like, chic and clean and. And then I put it on, and I'm like, this feels so. Not me. It feels so boring. Like, I want to be creative with my outfits and challenge myself. And so that's why I do these little personal challenges, like, what color combinations can I do? And going back to your question, what's my favorite color combination? Chartreuse and burgundy.

Liz (39:39)

Yeah.

Merrick White (39:40)

I am loving, and I've done it in so many different ways. And for me, I'm Doing it, like, maybe a little more bold. Like, the chartreuse sweater and then, like, a burgundy skirt together. Like, that's two big, bold colors together. But, like, whenever I talk about it, I say, you could do this in a really small way. Throw on a little neck scarf that has a little pop of that color. Like, you don't have to do full color on the top and full color on the bottom. Like, that's not the only way to do this color combination. Or, like, your socks or your shoes or your shoelaces or a bracelet or your earrings, whatever. Like, you can throw these little color combinations in.

Kelly (40:13)

Yeah, that's interesting.

Merrick White (40:15)

And it feels like more doable.

Liz (40:16)

Merrick, what do you say to the mom in the small town who's like, I would feel ridiculous throwing an ex scarf on and, like, going about my day. Like, what do you. What do you. What do you think about that?

Merrick White (40:26)

Okay, here's the thing about doing anything is that you don't get good at it until you do it multiple times. Like, the confidence doesn't come by itself. The confidence comes from doing the thing, right? You have to ride the bike for multiple times before you feel confident riding a bike. You don't feel confident the first time you get on the bike.

Liz (40:46)

You feel a little silly the first time you ride the bike.

Merrick White (40:48)

Yeah.

Liz (40:49)

A little wobbly, right?

Merrick White (40:51)

And it's the same thing with fashion. And, like, I totally get it. And I get messages like that from people all the time. Like, my friend group always just was wearing, like, leggings or pajamas or whatever. Like, nobody's dressing up for this. And I'm like, you know what? Like, you do you. If you feel like you want to dress to their level, no judgment for me. Do your thing. I don't care. I like to get dressed and dress up because it's fun for me, and it makes me feel great. But, like, if they want to do it, do it. And guess what? High tide rises all boats, right? So, like, if they see you dressing up and you could do it maybe like, in stages. Like, add the next scarf to, like, your more simple outfit, right? You're doing, like, a basic sweater, and you're doing jeans. That feels safe, that feels comfortable. You add the little accessory, right? It's like baby steps. And then your friends see it, and then maybe they start doing it, and then you can, like, raise it again, right? I love it.

Liz (41:48)

You don't have to just. If you're hearing this and you're, like, maybe centering yourself and, like, feeling bad, like, let's Say you're postpartum or you're just, like, not fully in the stage of your life to, like, wear the next scarf in the earrings and the bracelet and all the things. It's like, like, you said, baby steps. And I loved your example of the leggings, because I think that a lot of us, when we're going through, like, a lot of our listeners have young kids, so it's like, maybe you're postpartum. Like, the jeans aren't fitting. Wear the leggings, and you can still. You can still elevate it. But also, like, if you're not in that stage of your life where you physically can't do it, like, don't feel bad about yourself either. Like, I don't want anyone to hear this and be like, well, I can't do. Like, that's. That's okay. Yes, it's baby steps, but I will. There will be a stage in your life where you. Where you can do this if you want.

Kelly (42:31)

Yes.

Merrick White (42:32)

And that's the key. If you want. Like, nobody is forcing you to dress up and. And wear all the fashion things. Like, if you want to do it. I love to do it. It fulfills me. It. It makes me happy. It's not for everybody.

Liz (42:48)

Merrick, do you believe in color theory?

Merrick White (42:51)

Like, getting your colors matched? Yeah. Okay. Yes, sort of. I have not had it done. I think that it's a very cool idea because I do put on some colors, and I'm like, oh, I can tell that this doesn't look good on me. Or, like, I used to have blonde in my hair for, like, 25 years. And then just recently, I went, like, full brunette, and I was like, this looks much better on my skin than the blonde ever did. And I, like, remember getting my blonde done, and I'd be like, oh, I love it. And then I would, like, see. See a picture, and I'm like, it just doesn't look quite right. And I just didn't know why. Right. So, like, color theory, I think, can be so helpful, but I don't think it's an end all, be all. Yeah, that's. I think the. The thing that people get stuck on is, like, this is my color, or these are my colors, and I can only wear these colors. I can't wear these colors. You can wear whatever you want. Just know that some colors are going to work better for your skin tones, your hair colors, than others. And I think that that's empowering. But it doesn't have to be, like.

Kelly (43:55)

The final answer we have Done it. And transparently, I didn't. I didn't love it. Oh, it's not. I didn't love it, but I just found I'm kind of with you. Like, I know what colors I look good in.

Liz (44:11)

Yeah.

Kelly (44:11)

And it was like. So I get that. Like, sure. I'm. I don't remember what we're.

Liz (44:15)

We were saying we're summers.

Merrick White (44:18)

Yeah.

Kelly (44:18)

So we're like, these. Which. I like how I look in summer colors, but I also think sometimes I'll put on, like, I just know, like, I don't think you need to get it done.

Merrick White (44:26)

Yeah. Yeah.

Kelly (44:27)

I don't think. Personally, I just didn't find. I just didn't find it that helpful. I guess it didn't change my life.

Merrick White (44:34)

Okay.

Kelly (44:34)

All right. I haven't, like, changed. I didn't get rid of anything, and I haven't. I don't really pay attention. I like to wear blue, so blue's my favorite color.

Merrick White (44:39)

I wear.

Kelly (44:40)

I wear.

Liz (44:40)

Yeah. I think it's for some people. I think people who, like, love rules and just, like, really, like, that's. It's for them. There was a level when we first got it done that I felt more confident when I was ordering stuff online because I'm like, oh, this should look good on me. This is a color that I have never tried before.

Kelly (44:55)

It's.

Liz (44:56)

And it's supposed to look good on me. I, like, ditched to the book that they gave us. Like, I have no idea. I've never thought about it since the week after we did it.

Merrick White (45:02)

But same.

Liz (45:04)

So that's.

Kelly (45:04)

So that's our little.

Liz (45:06)

Yeah, that's our taste.

Merrick White (45:07)

Did they say anything about your hair color or your makeup? Because that's what I think is the most.

Liz (45:11)

Yes, they said. They said we should be using brown mascara, not black.

Merrick White (45:18)

Okay.

Liz (45:19)

And they. Also, the personal attack was that we should be wearing silver jewelry and not gold. And I will just, like, I think that's crazy. I think jewelry is interchangeable. But no, they. They didn't say anything about our hair, but we also don't have color in our hair. So that would have been, like, a real bummer if she was like, you need highlights.

Kelly (45:39)

So, okay, so just before. Before we go. Well, two questions. First, I want to know, Merrick, like, for the people Black Friday shopping, like, is there anything. Like, what do you think? What are you. What's on your list? Like, what do you think would make a great gift? Like, what's a good thing for someone who may be to ask for. For Christmas? Like, I feel like, sometimes that's the hard part. Like, my mom keeps asking me what I want for Christmas. I'm like, I have no idea. Like, I don't know.

Merrick White (46:03)

Okay, so two things, two big sales that I think are worth checking out. One is Spanx. And I know you guys are Spanx girlies.

Kelly (46:11)

We are Spanx girlies.

Merrick White (46:12)

And everything's like, 50 or not 50. Everything's 30% off, I think. But then they. That's a lot. They have, like, daily deals. And I. I just saw that pop up this morning. And so I haven't really looked into it, but I'm excited about a daily deal again. Is this going to be a quint thing where you're, like, having to place multiple orders? I don't know. Maybe that's going to be obnoxious. But the Spanx Lounge sets are, like, so good.

Liz (46:37)

That's what I'm wearing right now.

Merrick White (46:39)

And I love that they come in tall and teeth.

Liz (46:43)

We love extended sizes.

Merrick White (46:45)

Yeah. So that's great. And they've really extended what clothes they have. It's not just, like, shapewear or loungewear anymore. They have dresses. They have jumpsuits. I tried on a jumpsuit the other day that is so cute. And it has that split in the back. Have you tried that one?

Kelly (47:01)

Yeah, I know which one that is. I have that one.

Merrick White (47:03)

Yeah. It's so good. The mock neck with the castle.

Liz (47:06)

Oh, yeah, I just got that one. Yeah.

Merrick White (47:07)

So cute. I think I might wear that for Thanksgiving. It's so good. Okay. So that. And then also Omnilux. You guys tried the red light mask?

Liz (47:18)

Oh, I do have one. I don't think it's Omnilux, though.

Merrick White (47:21)

Okay.

Kelly (47:21)

No.

Merrick White (47:22)

So Omnilux is on sale.

Liz (47:24)

Okay.

Merrick White (47:24)

And it's like a tiered sale, but that is something like if your mom or your husband or whoever is, like, you know, wanting a big ticket item. I've had multiple husbands texting me this week. Okay. My wife is talking about this thing. What is this? Send me the link. Is it worth it? Because everybody's, you know, interesting buzz about the Omnilux mask. I use it every day. It, like, contours your face and helps with, like, fine lines, helps with brightness, helps with dark spots, helps with crepey skin. Like, all these things.

Liz (48:00)

The red light masks work. They really do.

Merrick White (48:03)

They do.

Liz (48:04)

They're worth the hype, I think.

Merrick White (48:06)

Okay. You know what? The other thing is that they have men's masks, and I think that I might get one for my husband. And I have friends that are getting them for Their husbands, too. They have one specifically for men because apparently men have tougher skin. So it like, creates a little more. So that's like a big ticket items. I will my husband use it, I hope.

Kelly (48:27)

Yeah.

Merrick White (48:28)

I mean, good skin. But, you know, we're all getting older, so why not help a guy out?

Kelly (48:34)

We haven't touched on last. Sorry, second to last question. We haven't touched on jewelry. Oh, where are some of your favorite? Like, go to places, like, just for every day or maybe slightly elevated jewelry. Because I think that's sometimes so hard. Like, I want something that's good quality, but I don't need, like, real gold, you know?

Merrick White (48:50)

Yes. Okay. So cheapest option target is always my go to. They do have goods. I mean, is it going to last forever? No. But you're paying 10, $12 for a pair of earrings. Statement earrings. Like, they have good ones. Okay. My favorite everyday jewelry is Miranda Frye.

Kelly (49:11)

It's like, I've heard of Miranda Fry. I don't have anything, though.

Merrick White (49:15)

Okay. I don't have them on today, but usually I. I will put them on later when I put my watch on. But, like, I have three or four bracelets that I'll wear every single day. They're the cuff bracelets. So they're not stretchy. They don't, like, you know, catch on your arm hair and like all day, which is, no. Annoying. But they're also sized. They have different sizes, so they like, you know, they're not like, flopping around because they're too big. You know what I mean?

Kelly (49:41)

Yes.

Merrick White (49:42)

And then because they're a cuff, they, like, clasp and then they have a little hook so they don't come unclassed during the day. Oh, yeah. These are nice designs. Seriously. I think I have five of them, and I just kind of rotate which ones I'm wearing. They're my favorite. I wear them literally every day.

Kelly (50:00)

Okay.

Liz (50:01)

Love this.

Kelly (50:01)

I'm obsessed. This is a tangible takeaway. These are really nice.

Liz (50:05)

There are so many tangible takeaways. I'm so excited about this.

Kelly (50:08)

I'm swimming in tangible takeaways. Okay, last tangible takeaway we need from Merrick is after a long day of, like, putting together chartreuse and burgundy outfits. You have three kids, three boys. What are you feeding them for dinner?

Merrick White (50:22)

So I'm a. I'm a dinner mom. I make dinner almost every night. But if we're in a super time crunch and I have not prepped something in the crock pot or whatever, it's a grilled cheese sandwich.

Kelly (50:35)

Yeah.

Liz (50:36)

And I'LL hear a lot of that.

Kelly (50:37)

Okay, I want to dive into that. No, we actually. I don't know if that's ever been, like, a ditch, the drive through.

Liz (50:42)

It hasn't been.

Merrick White (50:43)

Okay, so here's. Here is the. The way that I make the grilled cheese that my children love. Brioche bread from Trader Joe's. Yeah. It's like that thick. It's usually. I'll use it to make French toast. Have you had that one?

Liz (50:59)

Oh, yeah. Huh.

Merrick White (51:00)

So good. It's like, sweet.

Liz (51:04)

Cut.

Merrick White (51:05)

So you do the two pieces of that with two pieces of cheddar cheese, and you put it in the microwave so that the cheese melts. You do like 30 seconds or 45 seconds in the microwave so the cheese is melty. Then you put the butter in the pan, and you just do like a quick brown the butter, brown the bread. And then.

Liz (51:23)

I never heard of this. I've never heard cheese in the microwave.

Merrick White (51:27)

I find that if you cook the grilled cheese in the pan and you're waiting for the cheese to melt, then the bread gets too brown or, like, too burnt, and so you got to pre melt the cheese, and then all you do is, like, a quick little buttery crisp on the bread, and then it's perfect.

Liz (51:45)

Merrick, that might be your hottest takeaway of this tangible takeaway of this entire episode.

Kelly (51:50)

That sounds crazy.

Merrick White (51:54)

I'll try inspired every time. But you gotta do. I mean, brioche bread. That brioche bread is already super buttery, right?

Liz (52:01)

Yeah.

Merrick White (52:01)

But you just gotta do the butter in the pan anyway. And then it's like the perfect little.

Liz (52:06)

Even just the butter in the pan. Because when you butter an untoasted piece of bread, you're getting holes in it. It's getting gross. Like, I always put butter on the bread before I put it in the.

Kelly (52:16)

Why are we doing that? Why are we just putting it in the pan?

Merrick White (52:18)

You're.

Kelly (52:19)

Yeah, that's such a better idea.

Liz (52:20)

My mind is blown.

Merrick White (52:21)

Yeah. And then you do the cheese pull. My kids always do the cheese pull.

Kelly (52:26)

Yum.

Merrick White (52:26)

Yeah.

Kelly (52:27)

Okay. That's a great dish to drive through. Thank you. Thank you for this whole episode. Like, we're so grateful you squeezed us in. Everyone needs to go follow Merrick's art and you will not regret it. I mean, you are my favorite. You're like my. I honestly probably should unfollow you because I'm spending a lot of money lately because I'm always just like. But what I told Liz is one of my favorite things about you is, like, I know if I buy something from your link, you are going to show it multiple times. Like, I just know you're going to make sure I get my wear out of it and that I appreciate. It's not just this, like, you know, consumerism, new arrivals. Okay, now you're never going to see me wear this again. Like, you won't shut up about some. Some stuff.

Liz (53:02)

No, you're very consistent. You're very consistent. Like, you're buying from the same places. You're posting all of your. Your fashion is all very. The same vibe too. So, like, if you buy one thing, you're going to style, if not that exact sweater, something similar.

Kelly (53:16)

Yes, Agreed. Elizabeth. Yeah.

Liz (53:18)

You're very. You're an excellent follow. And we're so happy that you moved to St. Louis. And we're. We need to hang out to be friends with you.

Kelly (53:26)

We do need to hang out more.

Merrick White (53:27)

Literally, our night of hanging out. I. I talked your ear off, like, the entire night. It was so fun.

Liz (53:34)

It was so fun.

Merrick White (53:34)

I could hang out with you guys every single week. Let's.

Kelly (53:36)

Well, you know, what's next for us is you need. I. When you need to go car shopping, we need to go car shopping together.

Merrick White (53:43)

Okay. We actually should, because I am buying a new car in the spring. I know you are. I know we have to get starting. Yes. Let's do it.

Kelly (53:51)

I will take you around to St. Louis. I got the keys to all the dealerships. Wherever you want to go, we have a connection and we'll just. I will be your salesperson. It'll be so fun.

Merrick White (53:59)

This is the best news ever. I. Why had I not thought of this? I'm so excited. Okay. But also, we need to. Because I could just chat with you guys all day. You guys are literally one of my favorite followers too. Like, I. Your content is legitimately so good. And I just have to say I love the new, like, where the color that the car is. I think that's really fun.

Kelly (54:20)

You know, and see, we should do a collab on that. Like, I used to be really into styling my outfit to the car because I thought it was fun. And like, I'm just here to make cars fun.

Merrick White (54:29)

Yeah.

Kelly (54:30)

So, yeah, I'm getting. Yeah, we'll see. Yeah, we. We need to do more. But anyway, we'll let you run because I know I'm sure you're so busy with it being Thanksgiving week. Thank you for squeezing us in.

Merrick White (54:40)

Of course.

Kelly (54:41)

Everyone go follow Merrick.

Liz (54:43)

Thanks, Marek.

Merrick White (54:44)

Nice. This was like the biggest comment.

Liz (54:49)

Thank you for listening to the carpool podcast with Kelly and Liz. Make sure you're subscribed so you never miss an episode. And if you. If you enjoyed riding with us, tell everybody you know. There's room in the car for everyone.