MY 3 DAY SQUEEZED JUICE CLEANSE

Embarking on a wellness journey often requires stepping out of one's comfort zone: Cold Plunging, HIIT training, HOTWORX, etc. As someone who loves a good bio hack, I decided to undertake a another 3-day juice cleanse with Squeezed. Delivered in a cooler tote bag with ice packs, the 18 bottles were neatly organized and labeled for each day. Here's a candid account of my 72 hours! And if you are ready for a cleanse - you HAVE TO TRY SQUEEZED!

Day 1: Back in Familiar Waters

• Morning: Starting with Juice #1, a vibrant blend of beet, apple, pineapple, carrot, orange, ginger, and lemon. I usually dont “eat” till 11am, but I had to juice by 9am. I was getting hungry. I had Juice #2 for snack- it was good and spicy. Spice is suposed to help speed the metabolic process.

• Midday: Hunger set it! I had to have banana and my ENERGY Juice- My Favorite! It is cashew milk and cinnamon and Juice #3, combining coconut, pineapple, spinach, and apple, provided a tropical twist that kept me energized too!

• Evening: At home its harder when you are “Snack Bitch” to your toddler; then the dinner witching hour! I was quickly outta juice and needed something more. I snuck some raw cashews- chewed them well, but according to ChatGBT I didn’t “break the cleanse”.

Day 2: Navigating Challenges

• Morning: Woke up feeling more alert and less hungry!

• Midday: Faced some hunger pains, but staying hydrated and focusing on the cleanse's purpose helped. More water today! I even got an energy boost at 3pm when I usually get a crash!

• Evening: Noticed improved digestion and a clearer mind. Making dinner was TOUGH! I made chicken nachos (my favorite) and almost popped a chip that dropped into my mouth from muscle memory, but stopped! This cleanse is a mental challenge too!

Day 3: Reflecting on the Journey

• Morning: Felt a sense of accomplishment and clarity. Today is my last day!

• Midday: Energy levels remained consistent, and the juices continued to satisfy. I enjoyed my last cashew milk, sipping every last drop. Its so good! I might order for fun!

• Evening:Final stretch! I celebrated dinner with a salad! I needed to chew something and thought a good first meal would be a salad! Nothing fancy- mixed bag from the grocery store. Just like Elaine I love a BIG SALAD!

Completing the 3-day Squeezed juice cleanse was both challenging and rewarding. I was experiencing tummy troubles from big work events and travel and needed this reset! If you need this reset too I encourage you to try SQUEEZED!

Take care of yourself so you can take care of others.

XoXo

Britt

THE GREATEST SHOW ON ATLAS

Step right up, folks, and welcome to The Greatest Show on Atlas! This year, we transformed our backyard into a magical four-ring circus to celebrate Atlas turning the big FOUR. The day was packed with fun, laughter, and circus-inspired magic that left every guest grinning from ear to ear, even if it was painted on!

We went all out with the décor, embracing bold reds, yellows, and blues to capture the carnival spirit. A custom Big Top streamer display welcomed guests to the party, while a “4 Ring Circus” backdrop added a playful photo opp. No circus is complete without concessions, and we kept it simple but delicious. The concession stand was filled with animal crackers, cookies, and juice boxes, and the smell of fresh popped popcorn wafted through the air! A giant pizza from Manhattan Giant Pizza fed the whole crowd with room to spare! For dessert, we had a circus animal cracker cupcakes that Atlas helped decorate himself, perfectly rounding out the birthday feast.

Of course, the games took center stage! The ping pong goldfish game, a ducky pond, knockdown cans, hula hoop challenges, and a tattoo booth were just a few of the attractions where kids got a chance to win bags of goldfish (the snack, not the live kind!). The bouncy jumper was also a hit, providing endless fun for kids to burn off their sugar rush. Don’t forget to FOLLOW Atlas’ Big Top Bash Playlist on Spotify AND relive the day with us!

The real showstopper was Bubbles the Clown—a.k.a. Jose’s aunt—who brought a whole lineup of entertainment, including magic tricks, face painting, and balloon animals. The kids couldn’t get enough of her bubbly personality (pun intended) and colorful creations. Hearing Atlas laugh as he proudly said, “All my friends are here” was the highlight of the day!

As the day came to a close, guests went home with happy hearts and plenty of prizes from the games. Atlas had the time of his life running from one ring of fun to the next, and we loved seeing all the kids (and adults) fully embrace the circus spirit. To everyone who came out to celebrate our little ringmaster, thank you for making Atlas’ fourth birthday so special. It truly was The Greatest Show on Atlas!

Until next year—who knows what theme we’ll dream up next!

XoXo

Britt

P.S. Atlas LOVES his digital camera gift and as you can see he is already taking photos and will be making a blog post here soon sharing his snapshots!

BEARS CARDINALS AT SOLIDER FIELD WEST + FOOTBALL KICKOFF PARTY

DA BEARS came to town, so you all know what that means! I went all out celebrating my love for DA BEARS with a double-header: a Saturday kickoff party at my house, followed by Sunday’s tailgating and game day showdown between the Cardinals and Bears at "Soldier Field West" in Glendale, AZ. From themed treats and games to tailgating VIP-style, here’s a recap of our unforgettable football-filled weekend with my favorites!

It all started with a Saturday football kickoff party at my place. The decor was on point—think football-themed sugar cookies shaped like mini stadiums, a meat and cheese platter arranged to look like a football, and a custom photo backdrop with a balloon huddle. Atlas and I even made a DIY football garland to add some family flair!

We had activities for everyone: custom coloring pages and a football-themed “Guess Who” game featuring players from both teams. Nothing says game day fun like seeing friends and family get hyped to “guess” their favorite Cardinals and Bears players! My favorite part? A few intense rounds of bags with the fam and eating way too many nachos, QUE BUENO! Atlas stole the show, though—he was such a little host, making sure everyone was having a good time.

On Sunday, we headed to State Farm Stadium, also known (to us Bears fans) as “Soldier Field West.” We scored a prime tailgating spot near the bathrooms and had some TVs close to catch the morning games. We ventured over to Westgate to join some Bears pregame parties, snapping photos and taking in the atmosphere. The best part? Getting a VIP golf cart ride back to our tailgate spot from Westgate, waving and hyping up fans along the way. That’s what I was born to do!

Walking into the stadium, I proudly held my “Soldier Field West” sign high, and the sea of Bears fans cheered in solidarity. It was about 85% Bears fans, so the energy was there—even if the team’s performance wasn’t! While I loved seeing, MY QUARTERBACK, Caleb Williams on the field, I didnt think the coaching staff showed up; Matt Eberflus lacked that head coach presence. By the start of the fourth quarter, Bears fans started to leave, sensing there was no comeback in sight. BUT We stayed until the end, true die-hards, capturing every moment on camera, including a fight in the parking lot (don’t worry, we were just spectators!). The whole weekend is packed with great memories and some wild moments—make sure to check out the vlog for all the highlights and a few misses.

Bear Down Chicago Bears, we got half a season to go and Atlas just learned the fight song!

XoXo Beard Down Britt

ATLAS' NEW SCHOOL ADVENTURE

After nine months of the preschool hustle, we’ve made a big transition – Atlas started at a new school! Nothing new about it... It’s been around for 75 years, so I know we’re stepping into something solid, especially with its focus on community, which is huge for us. And while the price tag is still crazy, it fits our family’s budget a little better. Let’s be honest, how are you you raising your kids in this economy? 😝

After a week of “new school,” Atlas agreed to go back on Monday. He still says he likes his old school more though (change is tough, right?), and every morning, I get the adorable, “Mom, can you stay with me for a couple minutes?” But once he’s off playing with friends, he’s totally in his element. One of my favorite moments from his first day? I didn’t have the gate code yet, so I told Atlas, “Watch this—it’s how you make friends.” I asked another parent if he didn’t mind letting us in, and boom, instant connection. A dad dropping off his daughter got us in, and we were off to a great start.

I’m most excited about the sense of community and long-standing traditions this school offers. It’s an academy, which means there’s room for Atlas to grow, build roots, and make memories. I’m looking forward to getting involved, too! Watch out PTA. The environment is definitely more hands-on, with a variety of activities. It’s faith-based, which is new for us, but it’s sparking some big, beautiful conversations at home, and I love that. As a family, we’re embracing it and welcoming everything it brings to our house; even saying “Grace” at family dinner now.

Atlas, on the other hand, is LOVING the activities. In just his first week, he did karate, had a picnic, named three types of apples (Granny Smith is his favorite), and even did a science experiment where he “parted the water” like a mini Moses. Oh his new friend’s name is Moses, they both have Lightening McQueen shoes, Kachow! He started soccer and is signing so much, right now practicing Star Spangled Banner for Homecoming!

I’m feeling good about this change. Sure, school is scary in so many ways right now, but I’m focused on raising a bold, brave, and confident kiddo. If I can do that, I’ll feel a little more relieved sending him off every day, knowing he’s ready to face the world with courage and kindness. Here’s to new beginnings, building community, and watching Atlas take on the world!

XoXo

Britt

POTTY TRAINING DIARIES

"Rome wasn't built in a day," so naturally potty training Atlas has been 5 months in the making. Luckily, I diaried it all in action, photos and screen shots included.

9/6/23 Day 1: Amazon, for the win and Elmo was the choice over the Target budget bundle of undies that went back after he immediately said “No no no.”

This morning we started off with a couple hours, education and asking every five minutes to go potty. After sitting on the potty for a little bit, we were able to get enough to celebrate, and a sticker to go on the chart.

I also put a post up on Instagram asking for advice tips tricks. Prayers, books., etc . Will share responses:

Day 2: Okay! Magical Checklist:

• Stickers for reward

• Books and mags for reading materials

• Grunt, relax, breath, feel it here ( point to bowels )

• Routine: put back on undies, hand wash, get sticker on the chart, run and tell dada!

• Lots of praise! 

Only pee and lots of it so far! “Try again” one more time”. No poop yet …

Day 5 : The past few days have been a blur. I think he is nap rebellion because of potty training, but I am no child psychologist. This morning before we sat down for breakfast he stood up and pointed to his belly, and I asked if he wanted to go potty and he said, “Yes,” so we started off really good and really early. Still no poop yet just practicing reading relaxing.

I thought maybe he was getting poop shy so started to do laundry while he was sitting there and then he got distracted.

Day 9: starting right out of bed in the potty  is a huge win! Let’s Keep it Up!

1/26/24 Day 109 or Day 10? Operation Weekend No Pants!

After off and on tries since September we are commuted to a no pants weekend and really getting this done!

Friday and Saturday we had events and dance class so although we used big boy undies he never “went” when we were out. 

Monday allergies hit hard so with an extra runny nose we are staying in and really going pantsless. 

I left Monday morning for work so were singing all day Daniel Tigers’ “When you have to go potty stop and go right away,” song, I came home immediately to “look mom!” Straight to his potty in the bathroom to show me he can go and wash and dry and he was so excited. 

 2/5/24 The Final Days: School started and we knew that this was the final piece in the puzzle of potty training… seeing other kids like him use it! 

So we loaded up on PullUps and sent him off to school with a few changes of clothes. 

Teacher was impressed and said he was using it with the other kids. 

At home the Pullups turned into another diaper so we are back to no pants and home! 

2/25/24: Today I am getting rid of the changing table in his room. We no longer use it. We potty in the potty or change in the bathroom and need to associate all those things n that room. Time for a mini big boy room update. 

3/2/24: Big boy undies all day.

Pottied at the Home Depot Public Bathroom! 

Went Poo Poo in the potty at home later in the afternoon.

Pottied for the baby sitter while mom any dad were rearing a podcast.

I think I am ready to post our diaries and frame the last diaper ever! 

I know we will have plenty of accidents but the days of diaper genies and the grossest changing tables in public restrooms are in the rear view! 

XoXo

Britt

SPRING TRAINING WITH A TODDLER

Spring Training is not just for die-hard baseball fans; it's also a fantastic opportunity for families to enjoy a day out together. Atlas attended his FIRST Spring Training Game along with my bestfriend who flew into town! Saturday, March 9 Chicago Cubs v Colorado Rockies, 1:05 game. We captured the memories, photos and tips and tricks for ya! If you're planning to attend a Saturday Cubs Spring Training game at Sloan Park with your toddler, we've got you covered to make the experience enjoyable for everyone, not just the three year olds!

1. Arrive Early and Claim Your Spot

With lawn seats at Sloan Park, arriving early is key to snagging a good spot for you and your fam. Toddlers love to move around, so pick a spot where they have some space to play and explore while still being able to see the game. Arriving early also gives you time to check out the ballpark amenities before the crowds arrive.

2. Pack Plenty of Snacks and Water

Toddlers are notorious for their bottomless appetites and constant need for hydration, especially in the Arizona sun. Be sure to pack a variety of snacks and plenty of water to keep them fueled and hydrated throughout the game. Portable, mess-free snacks like sliced fruit, crackers, and cheese sticks are ideal for little hands. We, of course, splurged on the commemorative Cubs helmet ice cream and a hotdog for the vibes!

3. Let Them Burn Off Some Energy

Take your toddler to the little baseball field behind the outfield for some during the game playtime. They'll love running around and pretending to be their favorite Cubs players. It's a great way to burn off some energy in between innings or getting through all 9!

4. Get Your Toddler's First Timer's Certificate

Make your toddler's first Cubs Spring Training game extra special by stopping by the Fan Services Booth near the First Base Gate to pick up a personalized First Timer's Certificate. It's a fun keepsake to commemorate their first baseball experience and makes for a great photo op! No age limit, so even if your first game is at 35 you can still get one!

5. Embrace the Cubs Spirit

One of the most exciting things about attending a Cubs game at Sloan Park is the electric atmosphere. Sloan is a mini Wrigley! From the moment you arrive, you'll be surrounded by fellow Cubs fans who share your love for the game. Atlas was in Awe immediately recognizing there are tons of Cubs (+Bears fans out there too). Plus the Cubs WON! When the famous “Go Cubs, Go” song blasted through the speakers it became Atlas’ new jam, on repeat to this day!

There you have it: a fun and friendly guide to enjoying Spring Training games with your toddler. These tips dont just apply to Cubs fans but all sports fans big and little. Cheers to a great season and Go Cubs!

XoXo

Britt

PS. If I missed any others, please feel free to comment bellow!

PRESCHOOL ADVENTURES WITH ATLAS

Our little adventurer, Atlas, took a giant leap into the world of learning, laughter, and new friendships by staring school this past week. A whole new chapter began and I'll admit it—I'm the one shedding a tear while he's too excited to notice.

From practicing using the potty to engaging in health and wellness activities, Atlas's day was filled with new experiences and discoveries. The daily reports share his adventures, from letter recognition to big movements imitating animals. It warms my heart to see him thriving in this new environment. I love the naptime reports, “Atlas seemed restless during naptime, opting to play with puppets instead.” Hey, who needs naps when there are puppets to play with, right?

Atlas didn't touch their gourmet offerings (typical!), but he happily demolished the snacks I packed. The teriyaki chicken? Yeah, that didn't even make it onto Atlas' radar. Snack game strong!

My fave is the crash course in preschool politeness. "Please pass the crayons, and thank you for the cookies.” Atlas is excited about his grand entrance into the world of preschool. Get this—he asked to go back the very next morning! That's our Atlas, always ready for the next adventure. By the end of the week, Atlas wasn't just attending preschool; he was building a tribe of tiny companions.

Happy he loves school! Enjoy some photo memories below!

XoXo

Britt

THIRD ROCK FROM THE SUN- ATLAS TURNS THREE

Our little explorer, Atlas, just celebrated the big 3, and his '3rd Rock from the Sun' birthday party was an intergalactic adventure to remember! Let's dive into the festivities that made this day out of this world.

Giant pizza, rock painting, and a dance party kept the older astronauts and the younger ones accepting the mission. Pizza was from the famous Geno’s Pizza (same giant from our rehearsal dinner). The best! My signature sugar cookie recipe with an an Atlas spin were a hit as well!

The moons rock painting station stayed busy all day. From fun activity sheets to DIY moon rocks these kids were mini Michelangelos. Who doesnt want a fun little moon rock to remember the adventure?

Close by you could bounce, search for treasure and samples in the sand, complete the ball pit rocket ship tunnel and ride off exploring the surface on one of three rovers (aka tricycles). There was alway a dance party with hits for everyone taking you back in a musical dimension.

My favorite moment, although it was hard to pick, was when we gathered around to sing 'Happy Birthday.' Atlas, our little star, looked at everyone and said, "Thank you, everybody." Cue the collective 'awws'!

It wasn't just a birthday—it was a cosmic celebration of love, joy, and the incredible journey of our little explorer, Atlas. Here's to many more orbits around the sun and countless adventures on with our own '3rd Rock from the Sun'!

XoXo Britt

BEARS BOLTS SOFI EXPERIENCE

Recently, I took a day trip to LA for da Bears versus the Chargers, a televised Sunday Night Football game. The significance ran deeper than touchdowns and tackles; it was a reunion with football, family, and a jersey coming out of the archives. Check out the incredible throwback photos too!

I hopped on the plane for LAX midday, ready to catch up with friends and family at SoFi Stadium The last time I caught the Bears and Chargers live was way back in 2015 at Qualcomm Stadium. I rocked this half Bears, half Chargers jersey — the Velcro edition. Fast forward eight years, and this bad boy was dusted off for another game day- sewn tight.

The highlight? Picture this: Uber dropping you off outside the stadium and as your walking through the parking lot you hear cheers, banter, and that unmistakable team spirit in the air. That was the real touchdown moment reuniting with my fam!

It was near game time so we headed in. SoFi Stadium First-timer alert, and guess what? It's now my favorite! The place exudes a different kind of energy, and that screen… wow! Bestfriend and I, of course, had the VIP experience and one too many margs.

The Los Angeles Chargers defeated the Chicago Bears 30-13, but we were the real winners! Born a Bears fan, bred in Bolt country. They will always be my San Diego Super Chargers. So here's to the gridiron, the cheers, and the promise of many more Bears Bolts showdowns.

XoXo

Still a Bears fan, Britt

P.S. Your best game ever is waiting and we have the discount- Use code FINDINGARIZONA on SeatGeek for an exclusive $20 discount in your next event!

FREEZING FAMILY MOMENTS WITH BAYLEY JORDAN PHOTOGRAPHY

I need to share this awesome Arizona Find. We had Bayley Jordan Photography for a family photoshoot at our library. First off, she made us feel super comfortable right from the start. It felt more like a hangout session than a photoshoot! And let me tell you, she's got a knack for bringing out the best in each of us. Our goofy moments turned into pure gold!

The library setting added a unique touch to the whole shoot. With outfits picked from our own closets, roughly ironed, we met before our first cup of coffee for that golden hour; and also before it got too hot for an Arizona July morning.

If you're looking for a photographer who knows how to freeze the moments that define your family, Bayley Jordan is the way to go! She's got that magic touch, and our photo album is now filled with cherished memories.

Go check out the podcast episode we did right after and then book your shoot with Bayley!

XoXo Britt