Hello loves, I know you haven’t seen one of these in a while. I was feeling really burnt out, the content was flowing and instead of giving you guys stale content I took a break. I planned to come back right after the 4th of July; however, my house fell apart figuratively speaking. The basement flooded and the AC went out. Needless to say it was an adventure! It’s been over a week and a half and things are getting back to normal around here. Plus, I really really missed you guys! Thanks for sticking through the break with me.
Here are the weekly sales for this weekend beginning on 7/17.
Clothing: ◦ American Eagle up tp 60% off everything including jeans! ◦ Aerie up to 60% off the Aerie collection and 25% off new arrivals. ◦ Loft summer tanks, shorts and accessories $15 and under and, summer dresses, pants and sweaters $25 and under with code SIZZLE. ◦ Old Navy epic clearance up to 75% off. ◦ Anthropologie 20% off clothing, shoes and accessories plus free shipping for all orders for Anthro Members. ◦ Macy’s up to 40-60% off their One Day Sale. ◦ Torrid Semi 30% off select tops and shorts. ◦ Altar’d State all jewelry buy one get one 50% off.
Accessories: ◦ Kate Spade up to 50% off select Margaux with code PERFECT. ◦ Fossil semi annual sale up to 50% off sale styles. ◦ Michael Kors Blue Skies Sale up to 70% off.
Beauty: ◦ Ulta $3.50 off $15 with code 807235.
Shoes: ◦ Steve Madden up tp 70% off. ◦ Famous Footlocker buy one, get one 1/2 off. ◦ DSW 30% off clearance with code CLEARSKIES.
Okay welcome to the first ever thirsty Thursday over here! With Rona still out in full force Grant and I decided to get creative in the townhouse! We are going to pick something new or an old favorite to highlight (or enjoy) every Thursday night!
This week we needed something easy (or you know my bar tools need some serious tlc whatever….) So this for week one we grabbed something fun from the freezer!
At Costco I was left unsupervised. I’m the alcohol section and next thing you know I bought Popsicles that have vodka in them! They were less than twenty and a pack of 18. I was initially leery because Vodka doesn’t freeze easily but thought whatever even if it doesn’t freeze it’s basically a shot.
When I got home I threw a watermelon hibiscus, a strawberry freeze and a lime drop in the freezer and a few hours later I had a popsicle! (Be warned they melt fast but I did find it was actually frozen.) They were frozen enough to let me have a sword fight with grant then eat my popsicle.
So my favorite is the watermelon. It is sweet and doesn’t have an alcohol taste. The lime is too tart for me. I took one sip and my face felt like it was in a permanent pucker! The strawberry is really good but the watermelon is way better!
I’m in love and will be happily buying them again from Costco!
Hi guys. I just wanna hop on here and talk for a minute. I’m going to try to not get upset but I can’t make any promises.
I don’t typically use my platform for political agendas. It’s not my style. I’ll encourage you to be informed and vote absolutely but I’ll love you and respect you no matter how you vote.
For some of my newer followers you guys might not know this about me but before I became a lawyer I worked on political campaigns. Heck, I even helped run campaigns. I loved the job mostly because I stood behind candidates I respected and looked up too. I know this probably seems overly wordy but earlier this year I lost my mentor.
He was a Commissioner back home and I can still hear his voice in my head telling me to stand up for those who need a voice, to respect everyone and to listen patiently to everyone before making my own opinion. I took that knowledge into law school and used it to help me become a better person.
It helped me work in a public defenders office because I could listen to our clients and respect them despite what they’ve done.
I’d give anything to call Todd Portune up and ask him what his thoughts are about what is going on. I would love to get his insights on how we could fix our world; how we could heal our country and bring ourselves back together. But he is not here to ask so it’s time to bring forth his advice and for us to be the best we can be.
I guess this is my long winded way of asking you guys are you happy right now with how our world feels? Could you listen more and talk less to understand the perspective of someone else? Could you do more that would make you feel more complete? Would it help someone else? We’re at a cross road and if we don’t do something to make this world better we might regret it for our entire lives. I’d also like to point out we’re showing the next generation how to act.
If you aren’t sure what to do i would like to make one suggestion; educate yourself. Pick leaders who truly represent your beliefs and ideologies. I honestly believe we can fix our world if we step back, become better educated and let compassion lead.
How in the world is it already almost July? I feel like I blinked and boom, we celebrated my brother’s birthday, then jumped to now looking for clothes to wear for the 4th of July. It doesn’t seem real how fast this month flew by. This month I can basically summarize that Grant, Dex and I have been redoing the townhouse to update it and get rid of a lot of stuff we no longer need. It’s been really cathartic if I must admit. How have you spent your June?
Here are the weekly sales for this weekend beginning on 6/26.
Clothing: ◦ American Eagle up tp 60% off everything! ◦ Aerie up to 60% off everything. ◦ Loft 70% off Sunny day must haves with code SUNNY and 40% off almost all other full priced styles (online only). ◦ Old Navy up tp 60% off store wide. ◦ Anthropologie up tp 50% off original prices with an extra 30% off. ◦ Macy’s up to 40-60% off their One Day Sale. ◦ Torrid Semi Annual Clearance extra 50% off clearance. ◦ Altar’d State 60% off all sale.
Accessories: ◦ Kate Spade extra 40% off sale styles. ◦ Fossil semi annual sale up to 50% off sale styles.
Beauty: ◦ Ulta $3.50 off $15 with code 807235.
Shoes: ◦ Steve Madden up tp 70% off. ◦ Famous Footlocker buy one, get one 1/2 off. ◦ Adidas up to 50% off. ◦ DSW Buy one, get one free, for select dress shoes and sandals or 25% off select brands with code Feelingfine.
Happy almost Father’s Day! Instead of doing my traditional weekly sales I gathered up so great gift ideas for Father’s Day! I did test these gifts by asking my Dad what he thought of these gifts and he gave the dad approval. (Funny thing he actually informed me he has a few of these and that he wants a new pair of dad shoes.) My list might be a little smaller but I honestly just wanted to recommend products we use and really like. That we’ve used and tested because I can’t think of anything worse than giving a gift that doesn’t perform.
I’m a big fan of the Tile Key Finders. Dex debated getting these for Grant since we get asked have you seen my keys once a day! The ones below are a great starter pack. They come with two stickers, a keychain and a card sized finder. The best part is it works with Alexa so you can simply ask Alexa to find your keys! If you just want one to try I’ll link that below.
One thing I know my dad loves, I got one for Grant and he loves it, is a pressure washer! This one is amazing. It cleaned years of dirt and grime off our back patio. Plus it was a great bag for your buck. I’d highly recommend it.
Another one of the favorites I’ve seen is a grilling kit. They put all of your grilling essentials in one easy place to find. It has a spatula, tongs, skewers, corn holders and a cleaning brush. It’s perfect for the dad who has everything but could use more a few more tools for his grill.
Another favorite at our house is a great portable charger! The one I’ve linked below has been Grant tested it has all the cables you need to charge any phone and the battery lasts for multiple full charges to make sure your phone is fully charged. Best of all it can be easily plugged into the wall and charge your device.
I’m sure you have one of these by now but if not, omg, this literally makes my life so much easier. It’s the Amazon Alexa. She is my right hand in the kitchen and I know she makes life easier for Grant as he uses her as much as I do. If you are looking for a way to video call with your loved ones then I would go with the Echo Show. I’ll link both for you guys.
One thing that seems so small but has become such a big part of our lives is the coffee machine. It has so much versatility that anyone uses it. Grant loves ours because it makes the best Snapple’s for him whereas my dad loves his because it’s super easy for him to be able to brew a cup of coffee without having to do a lot of work. My family loves their Keurig so that’s what I’ve linked below but the Nespresso has been a hit. (If you want more info about that one check out my comparison between the two.)
I think my last recommendation would be a great coffee tumbler to go. Now a days we’re always on the go and no one, I repeat no one, wants chilly hot coffee. We love our insulated metal coffee tumblers. Now I’m going to be honest. We have both a Yeti and an Rtic plus an Ozark Trail. I think my dad prefers his Ozark Trail. (That being said the Rtics were put to the test on the beach and they came through like a champ.) There is absolutely no difference that I’ve seen in quality between them. Plus they are all dishwasher safe. If you want the name brand go for the Yeti it’s a great tumbler and won’t let you down. However if you are looking for a more budget friendly option so you can do more with your dollar then I honestly recommend the Rtic or Ozark Trail over the Yeti. I’ll link both for you below. My Dad loves his forest green color for the record.
Hopefully these help and since they are all Amazon they should get to you in the nick of time for Dad!
Welcome to our book club! The book we’re currently reading is “Burden of Truth.” If you wanna participate please read the questions below and answer in the google doc. Feel free to comment on other people’s answers too, we’re all here for a great discussion.
1. Would you take the case? 2. What do you think of Cass’s comparison of herself to Aubrey? 3. Do you think she should have asked if she was guilty; why or why not? 4. Would you have asked Aubrey if she was guilty? 5. Why do you think she asked Aubrey if she did it? 6. Do you think Cass’s is helping or hurting her younger brother with his addiction when Miranda put him in her office instead of calling 911? 7. Why do you think Aubrey confessed? 8. What did you think would happen when they left the station? 9. Do you have that relationship mentality with your siblings? 10. Do you agree with Cass’s theory that Aubrey is covering for someone?
Week Two:
Do you think Detective Eric Wray actually believes Aubrey killed Coach D?
Why do you think Eric still visits his wife after everything? Would you still visit in his position?
What did you think of the advice Jeanie gave Cass? “ be her enemy for a little while before you can be her champion”
Why do you think the athletic director didn’t believe Aubrey when she confided in him about Coach D abusing her?
Do you think Aubrey should have tried to cover for her father? Would you have covered for your parents in the same situation?
Why do you think Emma and her stepmother are constantly at war?
What did you think of the athletic coaches secretary slipping Cass a note? Was it accidental?
Do you think the man who slammed into Cass had intended to kill her or simply scare her?
Do you think it’s a coincidence that the man who drove Cass home after her mother died is the same man who called 911 after her accident?
Why did they assign Eric to investigate Cass’s car wreck?
Week Three:
Do you think Coach D was the reason Vangie left?
Can you understand why Dan attacked the athletic director? Do you blame him?
What did you think of Cass’s opening statements? Do you agree with her that things aren’t always how they seem?
Would you let Aubrey testify?
Do you think the two Letterman’s would’ve hurt Cass if the bodyguard hadn’t shown up?
Why is Cass’s former boss providing her a security detail?
Do you think the athletic director knew Coach D was hurting those young girls?
What do you think about Aubrey finding her voice and fighting after admitting she’d been raped.
Do you think Aubrey’s plan was smart or dangerous?
Why do you think Cass called her former boss for help?
Week Four:
Do you think it was right for Cass to force Vangie home?
What did you think of the judge telling Cass to make sure that the town knew what Coach D was?
What do you think of Cass’s promise to Vangie about bringing down all the men who protected Coach D?
Why do you think Detective Eric was trying to get the leading detective to confess?
Why do you think the lead detective never showed the coffee shop video or the witness?
Do you think Jack is to be believed that he knew nothing about this?
Are you happy with the verdict?
What do you think of the coffee shop video, do you think someone edited it?
When do you figure out Eric was the real killer?
Do you think Eric should’ve confessed to save Aubrey?
Alright. Before y’all judge me for having two coffee machines, which I know might be a bit insane, let me explain the method to my madness. One is for regular coffee and the other is for espresso.
Keurig:
The first coffee machine I have is my Keurig Cafe. It is an upgrade from the regular Keurig. You insert a K-Cup, select the size of the coffee you want (6 oz, 8 oz, 10 oz and 12 oz) or you can select the shot function which gives you the equivalent of an espresso shot. The Keurig also comes with a milk frother to make lattes or cappuccino. The milk can be done both hot or cold depending on the drink you want.
What I love about this coffee maker it gives me a full cup of coffee it. I can customize the size of my coffee from a petite cup to a full on. The full on is if I’m going to to be living in my car all day and need a coffee surplus. Plus I like to froth my coffee cream and make the coffee just that much better! I’m a big fan of an 8 oz cup with my coffee creamer steamed; then poured into the mug. Plus the K-Cups are super easy to find and the variety is top notch, even in my kitchen you can find anything from Starbucks to Snapple.
However, the downside to this is that the shot functionality is a really strong packed coffee cup, it is not the same taste as an espresso shot. I’ve been trying to play around with it but to no avail. During quarantine I was craving a regular old latte from Starbucks and this wasn’t living up to my expectations.
Overall if you want a latte or cappuccino but the taste of the espresso shot isn’t top priority I love this machine for it. I also love that it gives me the first real shot of awareness I get most days! If you want to buy one click the image below.
Nespresso:
The second coffee machine I have is the Nespresso VertuPlus Coffee Maker and I have the milk frother. Overall this coffee machine is a little more specific. It is designed to be used strictly with their pods. (They do have off brands that will fit with the machine.) This coffee machine is really straight forward to use, simply insert the pod and push start. The machine does it all on its own. The size of the cup is predetermined by the pod you select. They make all variations from espresso to full sized coffee cups. You can get a sample pack and determine the type/size of coffee that suits you best.
What I love about this coffee machine is that it gives me my perfect espresso every time. I don’t have to think about it. I just insert my pod, press start and froth my milk. After that I add the milk to the espresso and bam! Coffee! The espresso I receive from my Nespresso is fantastic. I have an amazing coffee and really enjoy it.
However, there is one downside to this machine. Its hard to customize the coffee if you want something slightly different that the traditional cup it brews. Plus you are predetermined to the cup size by the pod. If you want a larger cup of coffee and you don’t have the pod for it you are stuck.
Overall if you want a fancier cup of coffee and you don’t want to be able to customize the coffee this machine is perfect for you. I love it because it can happily brew my espresso and from there I can make my lattes however I choose which is exactly what I want in my coffee machine. If you want one click the image below.
To be brutally honest I don’t have a favorite of the two. I love them for what they can do individually. I also understand that it is not feasible for everyone to have both so I would ask you which is more important The everyday coffee and a latte that is great but maybe not exceptional. If yes, go with the Kreurig. If your everyday coffee is important to you but the latte is what its all about then you should go with the Nespresso.
Hope this helps you in making the perfect coffee choice.
Alright, all you might wanna sit down for this one. It’s a completely semi homemade Monica meal. (I really liked this TV show on the Food Network when I was younger and Mom had it on. It was Semi Homemade With Sandra Lee. I’m not sure why that’s stuck with me all these years but it did. It’s kinda my inspiration when cooking, at least hard core for this recipe.) So for this recipe I took premade dough so it would save me time and energy when cooking. This recipe is easier in my opinion and holds up better than regular tacos. It doesn’t get soggy or have a limit on how many toppings you can put on the Taco. (Okay there is a limit if your plate overflows then the limit has been reached.) Alright, enough intro. Now for the ingredients. You will find them below but please realize the toppings are just that. They are what I wanted/had for my tacos. Your welcome to add more options, even onions, if you want.
Ingredients: Tacos: ◦ 1 pound ground beef (I usually get the more lean meat to just make it healthier and keep us eating less fat.) ◦ Taco Seasoning of Choice (I like the Old El Paso Taco Seasoning Mix in the Original Flavor. It isn’t too spicy and is packed with flavor. If you are using this you’ll want 2/3 cup of water for 1/4 cup of seasoning. ◦ 1 Container of Crescent Rolls (I prefer the Pillsbury Buttery Crescent Rolls) Toppings: ◦ Tomatoes ◦ Black Olives ◦ Sour Cream ◦ Avocado ◦ Mexican Blend Cheese ◦ Lettuce
Recipe: ◦ Preheat you’re oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. ◦ The first step is to brown the ground beef, once it is fully cooked drain the meat. ◦ From there you will add you’re taco seasoning and water into the ground beef. ◦ If you are using the Old El Paso Taco Mix then you will mix the seasoning into the ground beef bring it to a boil. Once it is boiling you will reduce the heat to a medium and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes letting it thicken up. (Most is the taco seasoning mixes will be the same). ◦ Once your meat is cooked you will open your crescent rolls and arrange them in a circle on the baking pan with the corners overlapping. (You’ll want to push the corners together to make them overlap.) ◦ Now you are going to put your taco seasoned meat into the base of the crescent rolls. You can stuff them as thin or as full as you like, personally I like to just evenly pour the meat into the crescent rolls. ◦ Then fold your crescent rolls back into shape. ◦ Now that your tacos are stuffed its time to toss them into the oven at 375 degrees for 11-13 minutes. When the timer goes off pull them out of the oven. ◦ Now its that time to cut your tacos into pieces. You will have eight tacos. I put two on a plate then fill it high with toppings. ◦ Last step stop and enjoy your tacos, you can thank me letter.
Alright the votes are in and you guys not only want a book club but are excited by the idea of book club! Personally I’m thrilled to help host and put this one together. I don’t know about you but I love reading. It lets me explore new and different things without ever leaving my home.
So for book club I am thinking that we’ll pick a book by voting on Instagram and Facebook. Then we will read a few chapters a week. I will post a few discussion questions each week on my blog and let the comments fly. I also have seen the votes and you guys are interested in a Zoom to discuss the book. I’m kinda thinking the Zoom idea is cool and a good idea but I don’t think we would want to do it every week. I’m thinking that we would do a monthly Zoom. I’m going to put a poll on my Instagram and Facebook later today to let y’all vote on the best day and time for a monthly Book Club Zoom.
This will be a complete work in progress and if something could be done better I hope you guys will drop a comment and let me know. I want this to be the best book club possible for us!
Alright is everyone sitting down? Our first book club book is going to be…. “Burden of Truth”! Here is the link if you wanna grab the book and support me by shopping my links.
I checked out the book. There is (according to Amazon) 542 pages in the book. I am going to plan on scheduling our book to be read in one month. So I say we start our book club on June 1st and we can start the next book on July 1st. I am going to highlight my reading schedule below for Burden of Truth. You do not need to read at the same pace as me. If you wanna read ahead go for it! I will be posting the discussion questions based off where I am but I will mark it ahead of time so if you aren’t at that point you can skip those questions.
Burden Of Truth Reading Schedule (Chapters and Date Frame) Chapters 1-11 will be read by June 8th. Chapters 12-23 will be read by June 15th. Chapters 24-35 will be read by June 22nd. Chapters 36- End will be read by July 1st.
Alright, lets do this. Let’s rock this book club together! Comment below with any questions or suggestions you guys have!
Is it me or do you all agree these four day weeks after a holiday weekend are brutal? The good news is we survived another short week with extra work and I am so excited to spend some time relaxing around the townhouse this weekend.
Here are the weekly sales for this weekend beginning on 5/29.
Clothing: ◦ American Eagle 25-60% off everything! ◦ Aerie 25-60% off everything. ◦ Loft 60% off with code FRESH. ◦ Old Navy all tees, tanks, shorts and swim 50% off. ◦ Anthropologie extra 25% off all sale clothing, shoes and accessories. ◦ Macy’s up to 20% off with Code MEMDAY. ◦ Torrid extra 40% off all clearance. ◦ Altar’d State Semi Annual Sale 40% off.
Accessories: ◦ COACH up tp 50% off. ◦ Kate Spade Shoes $50 off $200 and $100 off $300 plus with code NEWSHOES.
Beauty: ◦ Ulta Gorgeous Hair Event Sale. ◦ Sephora spend $75 get 15% off later.
Shoes: ◦ Steve Madden up tp 60% off. ◦ Famous Footlocker buy one, get one 1/2 off. ◦ Adidas up to 50% off.
The Real Elle Woodz 