Motivational Reads & Staying Organized

Although I haven't wrapped up our AZ trip posts, I wanted to share two books I've been reading/listening to; I really got into them on the flight out there and when I had some down time.  I highly recommend them both, especially if you've got that entrepreneurial spirit.  You Are a Badass is really for anyone who wants to live a happy life, be better and just stop feeling like you're not going any where.  The more you listen, the more you feel like a badass…no joke!

She definitely has a bit of a potty mouth, which I have no issue with.  It's real, honest, raw and relatable.  I listened to it once all the way though and then started it a second time, with a pen/journal in hand.  I need to carve out more time to devote to books like this, as I cannot express to you the incredible feelings you get from simply hearing her!  I bought it on Amazon, and then paid a few extra bucks to get the audible version as well, so that I can listen to it if I can't sit and read.  Totally worth it!

I also bought #girlboss which I had been wanted to read for awhile.  I am very intrigued by her whole story and again, it's all about working your tail off and never giving up!  I think it's interesting because you see a lot of #girlboss all over the internets, but just because you hashtag it, doesn't mean you are one.  It really takes a lot more than just a few social media posts to be a real boss.  I thought that was important!  Social media makes life look easy, and that we can all attain the same material items, create the same living spaces, wardrobes, etc.  But reality?  It takes a lot of work to create anything worthwhile and a photo is just an image and we never know what really went into creating it. 

I think these both really resonated with me for a few reasons; one is that they are female.  A lot of the leadership/self help books are written by men.  That's fine and all, but there is something about the female persona that speaks to me a little more, or perhaps in a different way.  The other?  I feel that I have something inside me that I still want to become, be, do, create..and I am not sure exactly what or how but these books are allowing me to work on ME--not the mom, wife, sister, friend, daughter, but ME.  And that?  That is super important. 

In other news, I did get my new planner! I love EC planners and I totally splurged and bought the Rose Gold.  I may do a little video on it, but it's worth every penny.  I love writing out everything and keeping myself and family organized.  It is therapeutic for me to write lists and I swear by simply writing something down, I am 10x more likely to remember to do it!

I also picked up a monthly budget book, which I am excited to start using come 2016.

I just really, really, appreciate all of the positive messages EC shares throughout her products!

I have a good feeling about 2016; it's going to be one big year!!

Get Yours Here!

Friday Night Meatballs

We did it!  We actually hosted a "Friday Night Meatballs".  I'm a little late to post about it, but as is life! 

Brooke Lynn
Brooke and Joe did some clean up outside on the back deck, as the furniture was still outside.  Really, they just wanted an excuse to play in the leaves! Love this girl.

It was a lot of fun and definitely something we would love to do again, I just don't think I could do it every week.  Maybe it'd be less of an ordeal, but you could tell for everyone, coming over "for dinner" was a big deal.  I may have invited a lot of people, but I didn't really know what to expect.  We had a lot of "no response" which is always annoying, and we had some people who couldn't make it last minute, understandable.



My niece was getting super hungry and couldn't wait to eat!

Father & Son

 Either way, the house was full of food, laughter, and lots of people!

My love!

My dad & step mom!

Chatting with friends!

I would recommend gathering everyone into the dining room.

We had plenty of room, but I was putting the baby to bed and people were already sitting at the kitchen table eating. I didn't want to make them move.

Next time I would not put out this many chairs.  I reeeeeeeally wanted everyone in one room! Being me, I was kind of upset for a bit about that, but what can I do. I learned for next time!

Most of the food was eaten by the time I remembered to snap a pic.

So, while we didn't get the effect of the table being completely filled up, we still had a wonderful time!

Brookie loved running around with the other kids and goofing around with Daddy.

That was my goal. 1) Have a table full of friends/family 2.) Let the kids play.

It gave us an excuse to light these candles that have been up here forever…

Our sauce with meatballs…smelled so good!

I decided to make some chicken cutlets too, just to make sure we had enough to eat.

The biggest hit?  Homemade bread.  The first batch I tried to make didn't work out and I got pretty upset, but Joe insisted I try again, instead of just buying some at the store.  I was so glad that I did! There was NONE left.  {Recipe}

My favorite part?  He was excited to make meatballs and help tidy the house for our friends to come over.  He'd kill me if he knew I posted this, but how can I not?! Seriously it melts my heart when he is in the kitchen. {real life kitchen = mess}

Have you hosted a dinner party? I will definitely do it again, I'm thinking February when holidays and birthdays are out of the way.  

Blog & Bling {Review and a Giveaway!!}

It's no secret on this here old blog that I love fashion.  I strongly feel that it helps us feel good, special and let's be honest, pretty!! From fun clothes to even more fun jewels, a little bit can go a long way.

A few weeks ago Shelby contacted me about doing a review of her Stella & Dot products and host a Blog & Bling Party, with a giveaway for my readers! First and foremost, I already knew the quality would be amazing, so of course I said yes!! I have purchased a few pieces throughout the years and I can tell you honestly that these are the pieces I always reach for on special occasions or when I want some extra sparkle.   The material is always top notch and I have never had any issues with anything breaking.  It's super high quality and it lasts!

I love that they have so many different styles of jewelry to choose.  You've got something with lots of bling and many different options--You could totally style this at work or layer it all for a special night out on the town with your love.  This Starlet Pearl Necklace is so versatile!  I think my favorite thing about a statement necklace is that you can take any color plain or graphic tee, sweater, blouse, and jazz it up!



Someone who may not love all the bling, but appreciates sophisticated with a touch of rock?  This is a true gem! This chic pearl & Spike Cuff Bracelet is to die for!



They also have a little girls' line, how adorable are these!?  Santa will be stuffing that upper right hand corner set {Izzie Necklace & Bracelet Set} into a little girl named Brooke's stocking!

Meet Shelby!



She is a super busy gal!! She started her business in September and has had some amazing accomplishments already, hello $800 in free jewels!! ::drool:: She just made Associate Stylist! Congrats girl! She works full time, coaches a swim team, and is an excellent stylist.  I asked her what her favorite part about being a stylist is, and she said, "Definitely the interaction with women.  Everyone's styles are so different and that's what makes it really fun."

Stay up to date with Shelby's styling tips by following her Facebook page: Stella & Dot With Shelby

If you're interested in becoming a stylist, she is the girl to go to! We have had so much fun talking and getting to know each other, I feel like I've made a new friend.  She's got me half tempted to embark on a Stella Stylist journey!

She let me choose my wishing bracelet, and I went with The Elephant Wishing Cord Bracelet.  I love when things have meaning, and here the elephant represents making your own luck.  It's my lucky charm!!

First of all, I was incredibly pleased and impressed by the simple, yet girly packaging.  This bracelet, ringing in at only $19, is the PERFECT gift to have on hand for friends, teachers, hairdressers, sisters, moms, whomever!! It'd make a great Santa Grab Bag gift or Secret Santa Exchange.

The packaging itself is so adorable, there's no need to even wrap!

I don't know about you, but this time of year, no matter how organized I try to be, it's awesome to have a little help in the gifting/wrapping department.  Stella & Dot has made this a breeze!

It can be worn alone and a little loose.



Or you can tighten it up:



I love that it can be worn either way! Plus, it's super easy to loosen/tighten, which can't be said for every bracelet I own!



And the back? So cute and still stylish! I think that because it's pink I love it that much more! For me,  I love this wishing bracelet because on a day to day, I can't wear tons of bangles and fun arm candy: read, I have a 10 month old who is teething and pulls everything: but this is not an issue!



The other item Shelby asked me to review were the lightening studs--LOVE!

Right away I knew I would be smitten because again, I have a baby who loves to pull and yank, so the fact that these little studs are on my lobes are not appealing to little man!



I also have my hair up often, so it's nice to have something lightweight and a little different to show off in the ears!


Right now you can earn dot dollars too! Spend $50 and get $25 to spend later!! So you can stock up on your Christmas gifts now, and then treat yourself to some jewels come the new year.  You know, when the Christmas cheer has come and gone and you need a little sparkly pick me up!

Onto the Giveaway!

Rules: 

1.) Simply order through this link {here} from now until December 7, and you will automatically be entered into the drawing!! 

2.) Shelby will be giving away a wishing bracelet--and you get to choose!

There are quite a few to choose from!  

Who is one lady that maybe tricky to buy for?  We can help find a style suitable for your budget and style!

CYBER MONDAY

Yelllllo!! Happy End of November!! Oh my goodness, I have so much to do, but I just had to share a few of my cyber Monday specials I have found with you!! I am all about small business, helping other mommas out and sharing a good deal when I find one! Here is what I've stumbled across so far…

For the first time EVER, AdvoCare is having a sale on lots of goodies!!  If you're looking to try something new or just stock up/save, NOW IS THE TIME!! Check it out!

If you're looking to add some bling to your holiday outfits, or still looking for a gift for a girlfriend, Stella & Dot extended their Black Friday sale until today!  I totally scooped up a necklace and few other things, earned Dot dollars & will be styling for my holiday parties.  I'll be reviewing some goodies tomorrow on the blog, and be on the lookout for a giveaway! {hint, if you order from this link, you'll be entered into the drawing!}

$228 value for $61!!!

Skincare is so important, especially when the weather is turning cold and the heat makes everything dry!  I am loving my Reverse Regime that Megan is helping me out with.  I can tell you that my next purchase will be for my lips, because they are so dry and chapped! I am in need of some help!  Megan would love to assist you with any skincare questions, she can be reached here! 

She even has something for that hard to buy guy in your life:

With all of the photos we'll be taking, have you thought about your makeup?? Younique has a heck of a deal with buying this bundle! $99 and it's valued at $151! That lipstick looks to die for. Ann can help you out, feel free to browse these deals here!   They extended their Black Friday promotion as well.

And a not so small biz…

And for you coffee lovers, did you see Starbucks has a $25 off of $60 purchase, plus free shipping?  Who wouldn't love a fun coffee mug to curl up with on these cold days ahead?  Gimme all the coffee. Starbucks Deal

Please tell me some of the good deals you're finding today!  Share below.  Happy Holiday Shopping!