April Reads

I didn't do too much reading, but here are some books that I picked up and my thoughts on them.  I'm really excited to share my May readings, as I'm halfway through 2 books and it's only May 3!

What have you been reading? I'm always looking for a new good read!

Tortellini {recipe} and Wine Pairing

Ever have those days where you just don't want to cook?  I've been having a lot of those lately.  I'll text hubby and ask for sushi.  I'll look in the freezer and pull out something from Schwan's.  I even thought about grabbing burgers takeout the night I made this.  I just had to cook something though.  It is my job to provide a meal (or several) all day every day, and luckily I had a few key ingredients to make this happen.  I normally am really good at planning things out and I do love cooking, but I've been in a bit of a cooking rut and don't always know what to make.

I basically googled what I had on hand and came up with this--

Balsamic Tortellini 
-a little bacon
-evoo
-tortellini
-balsamic vinegar

This Garlic Bread seasoning is SO yummy and I just spread a little butter with this mixed in and broil it on whatever bread I have on hand.  It's nice to control the butter/seasoning amount.  A little bit goes a long way!

I had a bottle of red to go with.

I must say this this Pinot Noir is heavenly!! Even my husband, who isn't a wine drinker, poured himself a small glass and sipped it late night!  It has a smooth finish and would pair perfectly with any red sauce or steak.  It definitely made my list to enjoy again this Fall/Winter.  I can see myself sipping on this with a roaring fire, even though I'm not ready to give up my 80 degree days quite yet!

For this or other great wines to be delivered to your door, (ya heard!) check out Wine Chateau.  I don't' know about you, but the last place I ever want to drag two little children would be the liquor store and well, we don't have wine in our grocery stores up here in NYS! 

*These opinions are my own.  I received a bottle of this wine to review.  

Glasses

Whether you're looking for prescription glasses or even some fun sunglasses, Firmoo has something for you!  As per their website, "World's Most Popular Online Eyeglass Store - VISION & FASHION THE FRUGAL WAY."



I received my glasses in a timely manner, in this sturdy little case and was pleasantly surprised at how light, yet durable these are!

I was able to pick out something with a little design on the side, which gives it a little pop of something extra!  They have so many different styles to choose from, there is certainly something for everybody's style.

I am currently lusting after a pair of their fun and trendy sunglasses.   The fun blue ones? Yes please!! The price won't break the bank, I am sure they will last through all my fun summer adventures.  Check out their site for some great deals!

*All of these opinions are my own.  I was sent a pair of glasses to review.

Food 52 Genius Recipes {Book Review}

It's no secret that I love reading.  It's also quite obvious that I don't have a ton of free time on my hands, so when I do make the time to read, I want to make it count!!  Lately I have felt a little boring in the kitchen; I absolutely love to cook, but sometimes get overwhelmed by some of the daunting recipes that look amazing but have so many steps and/or ingredients.  When I saw this cookbook, I knew that I had to have it!! I know we aren't supposed to judge a book by its cover, but I am so darn glad that I did! I am currently making the front cover's recipe and let me tell you, it smells divine.  

I mean really, look at that pasta dish…

Oh, and the best part?  This book is full of delicious recipes that are simple.  I am a huge fan of cookbooks for so many reasons.  Sure, online is a great source, but just like curling up with a good romance novel, getting all cozied up with a cookbook really makes me happy.  I envision a big group of friends and family sitting down to a perfectly prepared dish that I've made, as food is most definitely one of my love languages.

When I received Food 52 Genius Recipes  in the mail, I immediately opened it right up, poured a cup of tea and couldn't wait to run my fingers through the pages.  The photographs {which are KEY for me to want to cook something!} are absolutely beautiful and each recipe is easily stated and a short snippet about the dish as well.   It explains why and how to do things in each recipe, and I have found myself nodding my head several times at a new trick to try!

From meatless dishes, to scrumptious breakfast ideas, and even desserts, this book has it all.  Sometimes I feel like a cookbook has so much in it, I don't even know where to start.  Well, in this case it was a no brainer, as my husband even saw the cover and said, "I want that now!"  I prepared the front cover pasta dish last night and my husband is Italian, so I am always seeking his approval for pasta dishes.  This was no exception; as simple as the ingredient list was, he went back for seconds and even said, "This is a make again, for sure!"  I call that winning.

I think sometimes even the best cooks can get a little over-worked or even bored.  I know that having two little kids 2 and under has made my kitchen time a bit frazzled, and I am always looking for simple but good meals to try.  My mouth is literally watering as I flip through the pages collecting inspiration from this gorgeous cookbook.  Not only does is serve as a tool in my kitchen to whip up fantastic meal for my family, but it is also such a pretty book to display in my home.  I appreciate both the artistic photographs and the written recipes so much.

If you are a lover of cooking or know someone who is, this for sure a kitchen staple.  I cannot wait to try more of these recipes in my kitchen. It has brought some joy back into the mundane chore of cooking.


One of my fellow blogging friends told me about this wonderful opportunity to become involved with Blogging for Books.  This is my first review of a book and I am so happy with my choice!

*Disclaimer: I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.  All of the opinions are honest and are my own.

December Stitch Fix {review}

Woop woop!! My very first fix came the other day.  It couldn't have been a better day, as we were snowed in and being large and in charge, ain't nobody got time to waddle around looking for clothes that don't really fit anyway. Baha.

So, real quick, what is Stitch Fix? It's basically where an online stylist takes your personal info, {you fill out a cool profile about your style} and then you can write a note with any added information that you think may help your stylist.  For me, it was that I am super duper prego and about ready to give birth, so I was looking for more accent pieces and transitional items to take me into postpartum/nursing.

You do pay $20 for a styling fee, but once you receive your fix, that will go towards any items that you keep.  If you choose to keep all 5 items, then you will also receive an extra 25% off your purchase!

Another way to save money? Referrals. I love when companies offer referrals.  For every person that schedules a fix, when it ships, you will receive $25 credit!! I loved that I could give that to my girl Jamie that raved about this service.  So, if you like what you see and would love to give this a whirl, you can use my code here Stitch Fix Referral and then you will get your own referral code to share with your friends and family.  How awesome?!

I opened her up and she's so pretty! Hey, when you're this pregnant and pretty much house bound due to weather (and size) you get excited over silly things, mmmm k?

I ripped everything open as fast as I could and loved that they send you style cards with two different ways of wearing the items.  I don't have to think==winning--and I didn't have to waste time Pinteresting. Fab!

So, what did I love? Hate? Keep? Return?  Well, you know how I feel about this bad boy cardi. I'm talking old school Mr. Rogers, super soft and just hugs you in all the right spots.  I got a medium and it definitely ran a bit big, but I like that in the winter (and in the last stage of pregnancy/postpartum).

Keep.

Navy blue cotton maxi dress. Feels like butter on your skin, for real.  I will admit, I don't know how flattering I feel in it right now, as I am the size of a house, but I am so in love with it.

I love that it is blue {for baby boy?!} and the top/breast part is already really stretchy, so it's perfect to nurse in!! Seriously, I am huge people haha!  I didn't realize how big my belly was until I saw it in this dress. It's also a size medium, and clearly fits a 9 month prego booty/belly and I am about 5'8 so I think the length is fairly decent too.

So?

Keep.

Next up, as my husband would say, "Bird bird bird, bird is the word…" no really, this adorable bird infinity scarf!! I thought it matched well with the dress even.   Soft, and just the right amount of 'fluff' to create that pretty, cozy, look for winter.

Keep.

See how happy that grey cardigan makes me?!  It goes with the maxi too! I'm half tempted to pack this maxi in my hospital bag to come home in, as you just want comfort and looking sort of cute is always a perk!

I wanna say this length would cover my bum in leggings too.  #sweet

Next up was the faux leather sleeve jacket thingy.. Aka super cute and trendy, but I just have too many lady lumps going on to enjoy it…this medium fit a lot more snug than the others as well.

Return. 

I know it doesn't even match the dress, but I just think it wouldn't really look right on me for quite some time and I just didn't love it.

Finally, was another cardigan, but more fitted.  This medium was smaller and while cute, I could not justify purchasing, simply because…

I already own this light grey gold sequin elbow-patched cardigan!

My stylist clearly nailed it, but I just bought the one on the right off Jane.com and so, mama doesn't need two.  Sorry boos!

Return.

So out of 5 items, I'm only sending back these 2!

Now I just have to toss them in the return bag, which is already postmarked and then pay for my goodies I am keeping.  Oh, and I have to patiently wait until my next fix, which oddly enough, may not be here until baby boy?!  I can't wait!!

Overall Thoughts?

I think that because I was brutally honest in my note to my stylist, she was able to really find things I was looking for.  Creating the profile was a lot of fun, but if you're picky about certain items, let them know!! I think it helps them create your fix a lot better.  I'm only sad I didn't start this service sooner! I obviously had so much fun opening it up and trying on things, even if I didn't love them, it was still fun to do.  I cannot stress enough, if you're someone who doesn't get to a mall that often or have the time to really dig around looking for things, give this a shot!  Ya never know what you may fall in love with.   The prices can be a little high, but you have to factor in the quality of your items, the shipping both ways is covered, AND you got a stylist.  Again, I can't tell you how nice it was to have new clothes without having to think and go out in a blizzard 9 months prego to get them!

Feel free to ask me any questions about this.  My thoughts and opinions are my own and I certainly just want to share things that I am loving on my blog.  

Do you already have Stitch Fix?  Leave me a comment below, as I love seeing what others get in their fixes too!! If you do sign up, let me know so I can check out your goods as well!  Happy weekend friends. 

Baby Boy Nursery Sneak Peek

It is finally starting to come together, and not just in my head!! We started the transition of putting the crib into the nursery, and I was able to throw on the new sheets and set up a few things for baby boy.  I was on the hunt for an adorable little orange fox for Brad.  I found such a cute ballerina bear for Brooke while I was pregnant for her, and I just love seeing her play with it today.  I stumbled upon this Etsy shop, A Little Bit of Joy and just knew I had to have him!

He's homemade and so soft!! I couldn't be any happier with him!  The quality is on point and the material is so soft.  It was a pleasure working with Joy.  I can't wait to see baby boy snuggle and play with him one day soon.    If you are interested in checking out her shop, feel free to use code: "JENNSAVE10" for 10% off any purchase through the end of December.  

Orange Plush Fox Toy

IRL: 33 weeks pregnant, after a full day of running around with a toddler…this is what I look like!  VS sweats, an ON maternity shirt, and a messy top knot.  I don't care, I was excited to stand by my baby boy's crib!

We moved the glider into his room too, since Brooke just jumps on it and it won't fit come Friday, because her big girl bed will be here!! She slept just fine on the mattress/box spring last night and today for her nap, but I don't want to reveal until I can share how gorgeous it will be!!

Holly has always been a fan of this cozy chair, and I don't blame her.  I can't believe in under 2 months I will be falling asleep here, many a middle-of-the-night, nursing sessions and rocking baby boy to sleep.

I have cranberry bread and squash to make.  I should probably get on that, since Turkey Day is tomorrow!  I hope everyone has a wonderful day, full of grateful hearts.  We have so much to be thankful for, and are abundantly blessed. 

Holiday Cards: Minted {review}

While we are starting to prepare the turkey, stuffing, and all the fixings for Thanksgiving, we must not forget the next big holiday right around the corner.  I cannot believe it is that time of year already!  Time to take some photos of our {growing} family and pick out some super cute holiday cards.  I have had a hard time choosing which direction I wanted to go in, when I was contacted by Minted to do a review of some of their holiday inventory, in exchange for credit to their site.  I had not heard of this company before, but after browsing this site, I can tell you that I am very excited to work with them!  

If you act now, you can take advantage of their 15% off + free recipient addressing just by placing your order by Tuesday.  You don't need to create your cards just yet, but simply by making your purchase, you can save.  How awesome is that?

Use the code: HAPPYHOL15

They offer traditional photo cards as well as some more modern versions as well.  How perfect are these designs?  

This first one gets that merry little tune stuck right into your head!

I love the added detail of the of the ribbon, and yet the simplicity of the card itself.

Perhaps the red and green, all is Merry and Bright?

I love the idea of creating a collage with several family photos and having it resemble a Christmas tree.  It's personal and something I've never seen before!

I am very pleased with their wide variety that they offer and there seems to be something that suits everyone's taste and style. 

They also have an Art Marketplace  where they are showcasing independent artists and their work.   I would have to say, this section really stood out to me and I was very impressed by the quality of the artists they share.  The designs would make excellent hostess gifts or add a thoughtful touch for those who are hard to buy for on your list.

Here are a few that stuck out to me.  Wouldn't this be adorable be by the fireside this holiday season?  You can choose from different frames, that would be suit your decor.

Or even some inspiration for our office; I am all about self-improvement and empowerment and find that it's so easy to get wrapped up with what others are doing.  A daily reminder of focusing on what's important [me] would be a perfect addition to my space.

You can follow them on Facebook  and Twitter for a daily dose of artistic expression and inspiration.

These are my own personal thoughts and opinions pertaining to this company.  I look forward to purchasing cards with use of a credit from Minted and doing a full on review of the quality etc. when I receive them.  

Makeup Review!

I am not a makeup guru. At all, really. I just started getting into makeup in my late twenties, and now that I'm 32 {33 in July!} I really like finding quality products that make me feel and look good!  I've been watching You Tube and saw this little gem available for only $26 at Sephora. I went in to try it out and fell instantly in love.

I also grabbed that concealer which is fab too!

I honestly really like this foundation. I sprayed it onto the back of my hand and applied it with my brush [below] I really thought it'd be hard to apply, but really it went on perfectly! I also took note and decided not to directly spray my face.  The girl at Sephora sprayed the brush, but I didn't want the foundation all over my white carpet in the bathroom. I know, who puts white carpeting in bathrooms? I would like to know!!

The great thing is you can add extra coverage if you want, or keep it light if you're like me and don't want too much.

I ordered this off amazon. 

Even my husband noted that my makeup looked really nice!  He said it didn't look "too makeupy" and I know what he means.  Sometimes with my Bare Minerals foundation, I feel like it makes my pores appear bigger than they are and like I am applying too much powder, even though I didn't put a lot on.

I am now intrigued to try out some drugstore foundations, just to play around a bit. I clipped a bunch of coupons in Sunday's paper, so we shall see what I can find. {What else is a girl to do in NEGATIVE DEGREE WEATHER!?!? I'm over this ish.}

I am also in search of some zit cream, as I have these reoccurring pimples at the corner of my mouth, that once one goes away, another comes in! It's annoying and uncomfortable. Suggestions????  Sexsay, I know, I know. 

HANA Hair Dryer Review

Those of you who have been reading my blog for awhile, (or know me in real life) may know that my hair, is my thing.  It's long. It's thick. It's blonde. It's a royal pain to keep it looking pretty!  Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining; I absolutely love my hair.  But, any time I get the chance to make my life a little bit easier?  I'm all for it!!

I was contacted by Misikko and they offered to send me one of their top of the line hair dryers to review.  I was BEYOND excited.  I have wanted to review something that was meaningful to me, and a fancy hair dryer was right up my alley! 

You can say I was a tad elated to see it arrive...{clearly I needed it, by the look of my hair that day!!}

When I opened it up, there were a bunch of  fun girlie items inside.  It was a nice surprise since I figured I would just be getting a hairdryer in a box.  Wrong!  Misikko dolled it up, and I give them an A for presentation!

 

To be honest, most days I avoided drying my hair like the plague!  It just took too much time, and I would always have to use my straightener afterwards.  Plus, since it took almost a half an hour or more to dry, I'd work up a sweat and get all frustrated.

Now? 

Less than 15 minutes.  That is what I'm talking about people!!  With a crawling baby, two crazy dogs, a hardworking husband, and my new business venture with AdvoCare, I just don't have the time to waste!

I wish I had one of these bad boys sooner.  It's that good!

Before:

After:

See how smooth it looks?  I use a round brush to help with drying, but that was it!! No flat iron.  I love the attachment piece too--it really helps smooth it out.

My hair no longer frizzes out like crazy, I don't get too hot while drying my hair. Seriously, I get that "just left the salon look" after simply drying my hair in my own house!! Even my  mom tried it out (her hair is even thicker!) and she was shocked at how smooth it left her hair feeling.

If it's one piece of advice I'll give about spending money on your hair, it's that everyone sees it!    This is definitely worth the money, it will save you time and save your hair from looking fried.  It is hands down, the best hair dryer I have ever used.  Thank you so much for sending me this hair dryer Misikko!  I would happily use any of your products any day!!

If you're searching for help with your hair, or know someone special with a birthday coming up, I highly suggest these products.  They won't disappoint; that much I'm sure!  Check out their selections here.

*I received the HanaAir Professional Hair Dryer to review.  All opinions are my own and are true.  I was not paid to review this product.*