FEBRUARY FINAL FRIDAY FIVE FAVORITE FINDS

February 2020, the Leap Year Month! Did it seem extra long or was that just me? Between the rainy days the sun shined so warm, enough for us to crave a bit of summer. In Arizona February means the start of Spring Training, pitchers and catchers in the beginning and the first games mid month. Jose and I shared some great finds together, but these are what we each found to be our favorite for the month.

BRITT’S FIVE

1. MY NEW CAR - I love my new (to me) Nissan Rogue This month we spent searching for the right car for me and after patiently waiting for it to arrive, we had a different way of celebrating Valentine’s Day. If you’re curious to learn more theres a VLOG and a BLOG.

2. WARM GRAIN BOWLS- I discovered these at Panera and after getting frustrated of paying $10 I was inspired to #DIY. Quinoa + Rice + Protein (Chicken) + Greens + Hummus + Greek Yogurt/Sour Cream + Tomatoes + Olives + Seed/Nut . Yum!

3. JUSTIN BIEBER - I am (now ) a Belieber. From his Youtube documentary to his new album I cant get enough. The more I watch him and Hailey I find so many things to relate to and the more I bump the album in the Rogue, I dig it even more.

4. SUPER SETS -Jose and I frequent the gym and I love working out together. We first get 20-30 min of cardio in then, strength training. But to take it up a notch we are adding sets in between while waiting for another to finish up and also keep our heart rate up. If you have any sets we can replicate, tag us in them! @thedailykelsey and @daniellepascente have great ones!

5. BEVERAGES - I have switched to Decaf- tea. Not coffee- lol. So I can continue to drink tea all day long, I brew decaf black tea and make lightly sweet ice tea. I also have fallen back into my raw smoothies and discovering the best new drink places in the valley like Wow Wow Lemonade and Kwench. Know any other places I should check out when I am thirsty?

JOSE’S FIVE:

1. PIZZA - I have been craving all kinds of delicious slices lately! Thankfully, Britt is not hard-pressed to pass up some za. It also stems from what have I been watching lately.

2. BON APPETITE YOUTUBE CHANNEL -This has basically all kinds of pro-chefs with different personalities doing awesome cooking projects. Thankfully having so many chefs with different backgrounds gives an opportunity for great concoctions for their videos.

3. INTENTIONS BY JUSTIN BIEBER- What can I say other than this 25-year-old did it again. I really think he has made a major pivot in his career and he is worth the listen. I am also bias because he and I just got married and this is definitely a tribute to those feelings and emotions. 

4. COOKING -  I have learned a lot about concepts, theories, and techniques through recent YouTube videos. The best part about it is I find myself being more confident in the kitchen. I definitely wanna try a new video with cooking involved. 

5. WALKING WINTER -We are up to 2x a day walks with our pup, Winter. I enjoy times when we are a family and when are alone.  Each walk provides a new perspective every time. 

We will celebrate the Leap Year Day in some big way- Jose suggested a cold plunge, I suggested making something new to eat, lol. Head to the socials to find out.

XoXo

Britt

JANUARY FINAL FRIDAY FIVE FAVORITE FINDS

Happy New Year Y’all! It is a new decade and we’re brining back our Final Five Favorites Jose and I are obsessing over in the month. Somethings maybe the latest and greatest and some are your grandmother’s remedies, but either way we are sharing in hopes you learn a little more about us. Also, how fun is this going to be to read in 2030 when EVERYTHING is different.

BRITT’S FIVE

1. SOLVED - A new podcast you have to check out. It’s an interactive podcast where the listener hears a case from start to finish/death, interviews from suspects and gets to decide who the killer is all in under 30 minutes. I have yet to solve a case and you would think with all the Forensic Files I watch I would have. Check it out on apple podcasts, here.

2. CHARCUTERIE BOARDS- This trend is def 2019, but I made my very first one by myself in 2020 and I am obsessed. I mean who doesn’t love meats and cheeses and nuts and fruits? But follow down the Pinterest rabbit hole and discover ones for movie theater snacks, Valentine’s Day, and even breakfasts. Follow me on Pinterest to see what boards are inspiring me.

3. JAZZ MUSIC - Putting on background ambience is huge for me, but lately I have been craving lively piano. After watching a documentary about Jaco Pastorius I started re-listening to jazz and classical jazz musicians- flutes, trumpets I dig it all.

4. THE BIGGEST LOSER -Its back for you, but new for me. In the first 15 minutes I was obsessed with the trainer- not the guy, the girl! She lost all that weight and has so much mental strength; she’s a great inspiration! I am looking forward to this season. Are you watching? Who are you rooting for? Red or Blue team? #TEAMRED

5. TALKING WITH STRANGERS - Malcom Gladwell’s new book is phenomenal, duh! I am only a third of the way in, but his voice as an author makes it such an easy and interesting read. I love that I can apply this book in my daily life and working conversations.

JOSE’S FIVE:

1. OOOPS ALL BERRIES CEREAL - Classic taste, smell, and flavor! Nothing has beaten my ritual one bowl each night. It's not often I get to enjoy it but when I do I try to enjoy every bite. I was able to get it big bag style to last me quite some time (or not).

2. NARDWUAR - I recently found these masterpieces of interviews on YouTube. Each one of these videos has me laughing and learning so much. In summary, this kooky character interviews hip hop/rap artist about deep culture and history that it even amazes them how he finds out things. If you like history, humor, or even just want to see people lose it these clips are for you.

3. SUNSET CRUISE BY BOOGIELO- Our new friends and recent guests have made a banger of a hit. This is my song going home from work. The lyrics make me smile and think what is in store next for them.

4. RESEEDING -  We spent one weekend being serious homeowners. We chose to take care our lawn to help prep for Spring. Since we have two large lawn areas, we made a big trip to Home Depot. I feel now I understand: “We grow with our home”. Each home project is growth for both of us.

5. TANDUM WORKOUTS -Working out with my wife has made it afun and easy transition back to a work out routine. It has also been a new experience teaching another person certain exercises. Britt has made the whole new experience a joy to be apart of.

It felt like a very long month and it was hard for me to resist putting up Valentine’s Day decorations. We look forward to the Leap Year Month and celebrating LOVE.

XoXo

Britt

NOVEMBER FINAL FRIDAY FIVE FAVORITE FINDS

Winter is here and we are in the full holiday spirit! FIrst it is thanksgiving and feeling oh so grateful for each other and what we are already blessed with! The rainy days has us spending more time indoors and here are the 5 things we each appreciated in November 2019.

BRITT’S FIVE

1. PIANO LESSONS -I recently started relearning the piano. On Mondays for 1 hour I sit at our piano go through my scales and learn to play a song or two. I want to keep it up going in to the new year.

2. BECOMING- I finally finished ready Becoming by Michelle Obama. I received it last year for Christmas and found little time in between wedding planning. But once I got into it again I could not put it down. I really loved reading it now as a newlywed and find some similarities in the Obama relationship and views on marriage. I would definitely recommend this book

3. HDTGM PODCAST - I don’t know why my podcast subscriptions go away over time but I rediscovered How Did This Get Made- a podcast about B movies and hilarious comedy banter provided by Paul Scheer and Jason Mantzoukas and immediately resubscribed. Even if you dont know the movies you will laugh the whole episode and find yourself searching for them on Amazon Prime the next day.

4. HOMEMADE RECIPES -From cookies to soups with the chilly weather we are taking to the oven more and stirring up magic in the FInding Arizona Kitchens. Some of my favorite recipes have already been featured on the blog: Zuppa Toscana, Italian Wedding Cookies, Puppy Biscuits, and soon more to come!

5. DECORATING SEASON - While we are lighting the sweater weather candles and placing the pumpkins on the porch I am also taking the time to organize each room of our house. Almost Marie Kondoing - when is the last time it brought us joy? Organizing bins and containers and making sure everything has purpose and placement. I am in no means breaking the budget in fact just repurposing things in the house and finding a few goodies at At Home and of course - Goodwill.

JOSE’S FIVE:

1. DISNEY+ APP - Yes! I know pretty easy pick! Britt and I have been enjoying it so much! Reliving our childhood through classic Disney channel movies. On top of which it has a new favorite the Mandalorian, which is my new personal must-see.

2. THE HOTTEST TAKE PODCAST - This podcast has been so much fun to be apart of. I think it is also fun for the cast that puts it on. The point of the podcast is come up with crazy “take” on a subject and then defend it. It can basically be on anything. Some of my favorites so far: Alphabet, Indoor Volleyball, Thanksgiving songs.

3. POCKET WORLD 3D- This little game app is for the those who enjoy model making but don’t enjoy sticky fingers. It is model builder with dynamic cultural pieces from around the world.

4. DUO LINGO- I’m trying to learn more Spanish. What I have started to do is spend 1 half-hour every day with the app. This has been fun for me because it’s fast and fun. I am still working my way past things I already know.

5. TOASTER STRUDEL -The past week I got to enjoy this snack. I forgot how much I enjoyed this pastry. It has been a nice touch to enjoy these with new toaster we got for our wedding.

December is to bring more holiday love and memories of falling in love- our engagement anniversary. Were planning a BIG construction project in December and a trip with WInter! Looking forward to sharing and hope you all enjoy the little things the final month of the decade.

XoXo

Britt

OCTOBER FINAL FRIDAY FIVE FAVORITE FINDS - WEDDING EDITION

Thirteen days into being Mr and Mrs. Acevedo and I can say we have come down from the clouds just a bit to fill you all in on a few after the Big Day deets! Just like they said it would it happened so fast but SPOILER ALERT- it was perfect and I would not have changed anything about it. WIth that being said we wanted to recap and each highlight 5 magical moments from our day for our monthly edition of Five Favorite Finds.

BRITT’S FIVE

1. WALKING DOWN THE ISLE -What do I remember the most? Walking down the aisle to the beautiful voice of Danielle Durak and seeing my handsome husband to be with a gleam of light in his eye while side by side to my father who is nervously rushing me down the aisle- but it was magical and time stopped. I felt like a princess and when all eyes were on me- my eyes were on him and I will never forget that.

2. THE DRESS- I never was the bride who committed to a personal trainer or crazy dieting measures but after my final fitting I was a bit nervous on how it was fit- but the day off it was PERFECT and I even hesitated taking it off for my second outfit change of the night. You can read all about how I won the dress for free here.

3. I DIDN’T CRY - Now my cheeks sure do hurt from smiling so much (still to this day) but I didn’t shed a tear. I choked up during the vows - Jose’s and mine- but the tears never flowed. I was too happy too overjoyed too many great emotions to have anything come out. I was very nervous it was going to be a different story so this made the day even more perfect.

4. HAVING EVERYONE IN OUR HOME - I know that many amazing people will never be at our home under one roof at the same time again. I took in every moment to thank everyone for coming and making their experience up their with my own. A few times we stepped back to take it all in and I forever have mental photos of the dreamland venue we created that day. From the morning to the night friends and family were there to help out in so many ways and our house was flowing with love. I thank each and everyone of them.

5. JOSE’S RING -Not only is his ring gorgeously hand made in Santa Cruz CA from Ebony Wood and laid with Turquoise and Lapis Lazuli but it also symbolizes his vows. They were personal and funny but also serious and sentimental and with that ring I promised to honor mine and his. After months of research I found it on etsy and every purchase plants 5 trees in the Amazon.

JOSE’S FIVE:

1. BRITT’S VOWS - Hearing and seeing Brittany’s vows. Nothing will ever replace that moment. I think I will remember that moment most of all. I can definitely say I fell in love all over again. Combine all that with the fact that she looked stunning, it holds the number one slot.

2. MOTHER / SON DANCE - The mother/son dance was hard for me. We chose a song that I will always remember my mom by. She and I are definitely close and hearing it in that moment made me cry so much. So for all that mushy gushy-ness it is number two. You can access our wedding playlist here.

3. THE VENUE - The alter/entire backyard transformation was mind blowing. We turned our entire back yard into the perfect venue. Our wedding planner worked her butt off to make everything perfect, and surprised us all with her speediness on the altar setup. If you take all the hard work with the entire transformation it equals to my number three moment.

4. FATHER OF THE BRIDE’S SPEECH-The speech that Brittany’s dad gave made me really take in how much the family means to me. I sometimes forget that I’m adding much more than JUST Brittany into my life. I truly was moved by his words and his openness. This fit right in as number four in my moments.

5. CEREMONY LIVE STREAM - My last pick but definite solid moment was our cool live stream we were able to accomplish. We really tried our hardest to make this moment available for everyone to enjoy. We were saddened when certain family members couldn’t make it due to illness. Having this live stream made it easy for them to access and see it. It really gave both of us ease of mind. This made for a really top 5 moment.

These are (some) fave photos from cell phones on the day of. I cannot wait to share the talented Katrina’s finished images soon. BUT- It’s not over ! One more thing I am grateful for is taking a break between Wedding and Honeymoon. This one will be one for the books too! Can’t wait to share Mexico City with the Acevedo’s !

XoXo

Britt

SEPTEMBER FINAL FRIDAY FIVE FAVORITE FINDS - SATURDAY EDITION

We quickly flew through September- from celebrating birthdays (Mom & Jose) and working hard on finishing wedding projects we found a few things that kept us grounded this month. Here are our favorite finds from September 2019.

BRITT’S FIVE

1. PEANUT BUTTER PROTEIN SHAKES - I have never been a peanut butter fan- in fact I only enjoy it with chocolate. While I have been following my raw meal a day diet I have been craving something sweet and started concocting peanut butter cocoa and banana protein smoothies. Those 4 ingredients mixed with ice and cashew milk in the magic bullet is so good!

2. TRUCKS- I have recently been considering our next car purchase. I am not loving mine and it is causing a few headaches- but I was recently rear ended and thankfully I am okay but the minor damage to my car has put it in the shop and I talked my way into a Nissan Frontier rental for the time being. I love it already and am anxiously searching for free stuff on Craig’s List to go haul.

3. HAIR SCARVES- With the wedding approaching I have been more concouse of not applying to much heat to my hair- plus the pool dried it out! So I have been resorting to more braids and buns and ponys. I just ordered these short silk scarves on Amazon to help accessorize a plain pony and also add more navy blue - my favorite wardrobe color right now.

4. ORGANIZATION - Virgo season was pretty much ALL of September and I felt all the organization vibes. Not only have we been trying to clean every inch of our home before the wedding but we have also been purging a ton of stuff too! From cups to unused towels to closets and cleaning products we went through all the cabinets and replaced with storage bins and purpose. My favorite are these wooden boxes from Walmart and how cute is this dog toy organizer from Marshalls?

5. CANDLES -Fall for me is lighting all the candles and filling the room with the best smells. Anything but sweet scents is my jam- stay away from the sugar cookies and the pumpkin pie and give my all the woodsy pines and cranberry mandarin scents. My favorite place is Walmart because they are so cheap- $3 for a 3 wick that last 3 days - in my house.

JOSE’S FIVE:

1. ADOBE RUSH - I am trying to get better at editing videos on the go. As a big element for our social media, I always want to be mobile and this app is so powerful! I definitely have a lot to learn but I am enjoying myself a lot.

2. PERFECT BAR (DARK CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER) - How do you describe greatness in such a little bar!? This epic tasting treat has been a staple lately for both Britt and me.

3. iPhone 11 PRO MAX - As my 30th birthday present to myself, I upgraded my phone to the new iPhone. I have never been happier when it comes to screen size and power. This is my daily driver so I need a lot to go into it. This phone has again changed the game for me and my business.

4. AMERICAN HORROR STORY -The new season has started and it has been like always a mind-bender. No spoilers, but this series has made itself known for its storytelling, so I'm excited for what's to come.

5. FINDING AZ WEDDING PLAYLIST - Just like when I was a kid, I get excited about playlist/curated music . Available now on Spotify, you can find our wedding playlist that we will be playing throughout the whole ceremony. recently I have found myself listening to it more and more throughout my day. Just like a quarterback would replay a game for complete perfection. Here is the blog breaking it down and sharing the tunes .

October is the BIG month! Wow! We have so much in-store including an amazing trip planned to San Diego- then Mexico City! We cannot wait to share the next 30 days!

XoXo

Britt

AUGUST FINAL FRIDAY FIVE FAVORITE FINDS - SATURDAY EDITION

August is my birthday month! This was a mile stone- the big THREE OH! Im feeling older and wiser and sore all from laying 1000 square feet of sod in our yard. Time is flying and that means the wedding timeline is too! Here are the 5 things that Joe and I indulged in between podcasts, wedding planning, home rennos, and work.

BRITT’S FIVE

1. PRESENTS - It is my love language. Not sure what that means you can read the blog about it here . For my 30th birthday my parents gifted me 30 presents! It was amazing: from lotions to snacks to clothes to a custom painted Frida guitar and Wedding Corn Hole set. I am grateful for all the love on my birthday!

2. CAR HUMIDIFIER- Yes- I am boujee. Not only do I recomend sleeping with a humidifier with a few drop of essential oil but you need to put one in your car too! It not only calms and refreshed you but also your car. I keep a waterbottle to refill and usually keep lemongrass and peppermint to drop in for my commutes. Here is the one I got on amazon!

3. MORNING RUNS- Finally the weather is nic(er) to wake up and roll out of bed to pop on my running shoes and hit the canal. Just a short jog but enough to count and keep me motivated to do several times a week.

4. SAGE AUBREY- I am finally part of the Sage Squad! Sage Aubrey is a phenomenal designer, motivating mother and an overall beautiful inside and out human being! I have been eyeing her bags since before I met her and now I am the proud owner of the MINI HELLA NAVY. Catch her around town with me holding everything I need to get through my day.

5. MEXICAN REFRIED BEANS - Im the most non-mexican mexican you’ll meet. I eat tortillas and beans and tacos a few times a week. For me, everyday is taco tuesday! While I was blessed to have my family in town this week my mom taught me how to make refried beans from scratch. I am going to save the recipe for a Finding Arizona Kitchens Blog post and you will not want to miss that one!

JOSE’S FIVE:

1. VEME.LY- Everybody wants to have content that has captions below it nowadays. When you have a little time to edit the captions into your videos this app will be a timesaver. Where it lacks most is that you do have to pay a subscription but for the price and the time saved it is up to you whether or not you use this tool to its finest.

2. SMOOTHIES- Always healthy and always delicious this drink is always going to be stable for my morning or my afternoon. I’ve recently tried more and more kinds of smoothies at home and at my local smoothie shop. (Smoothie King).

3. VITAL PROTEINS - Alongside my smoothies, I put this protein in to help give it an extra kick. Brittany has drawn concerns about collagen so I choose this mix in particular because I wanted to try something different. We both enjoy because of the ability to put it in any smoothie or drink we want.

4. SUCCESSION-The new season of the HBO series has come out and simply WOW!!! If you haven’t caught on yet, you need to. Every character is uniquely situated in this season to take out everyone. At the same time, there are family and family ties under all the tension.

5. BOOGIELO (SUNSET CRUISE)- Our most recent musical guest put out a new album for the summer. And this episode we talked about how much these guys are working to try and get their voices together. In this album, you’ll start to hear the blend of their work. The other thing that I am so excited about is the lyrics that still question a lot of things around them. They have a ton of potential and I can only see them going up further from here.

September is Jose’s Buirthday Month! Keeping up the “Happy 30th Birthday” decor and getting ready to celebrate another year of greatness.

XoXo

Britt

JULY FINAL FRIDAY FIVE FAVORITE FINDS - SATURDAY EDITION

From opening up our guest room to adjusting into a new career, July was a pretty crazy, quick month! So quick in fact, we had turn this Final Friday Blog post into a Saturday Morning Edition! Enjoy the 5 things we each were loving this month.

BRITT’S FIVE

1. THEMED PARTIES - Earlier this month we threw a Puppy Party inspired by the show Vanderpump Rules. James Kennedy and his girlfriend were planning a puppy shower for their new pup, but since ours was turning one we wanted to throw her a big bash. So after Pinterest-ing a few themes I went with: “Wild One “. We had a Blaze Your Own Trail Mix and other punny food themes. And after whipping out a few different versions of the lavender lemonade I really feel like I’ve nailed it. You can check out some of the photos here. But this inspired me to want to go back to the old-school way of doing parties; cheesy, but they work and everyone loves them. Take our wedding for example black and white everyone in theme: simple and so perfect. It is going to work so well!

2. THE RESIDENT ON FOX- After starting my new position I realize that I quickly needed to advance my clinical skills so I was searching for a show to start to binge watching and came across The Resident on Hulu. Originally airing on Fox, this drama captures not only the OR but the AR (accounts receivable). I love relating to every aspect and also learning what a new abbreviation stands for or braving myself to watch a laryngoscope camera capture a biopsy to test for cancer.I just saw this and didn’t look away or cringe! If you have any other medical shows, podcasts or books I can learn from, send my way.

3. GREEK FOOD- I am 14% Italian/ Greek/ Southern European so I am obsessed with mediterranean food. A warm pita, fresh feta, spicy hummus, tender gyro, juicy olives, my mouth waters talking about it. I recently discovered the gyro making kit at Costco and except for not enough pitas, which is always a problem, they were delicious! The gyro is combo beef lamb and so tender and flavored well. Plus, the taziki sauce is quality! Add fresh tomatoes and greens and it’s a great meal. We also have a place called Halal Guys here in Arizona that is so good; street pitas as fresh as can be!

4. COLOR COORDINATING MZY HOME SCREEN- I saw it in a mag, googled it and saw that Martha Stewart had and article about it so I immediately took a mindless Instagram scrolling night and organized my apps in ROYGBIV order. I thought I would be so difficult to find them, but quite the opposite. My brain automatically knows the color associated with the app, blue: Twitter, FaceBook, Orange: Vivint , Red: Instagram, Yelp. Try it out. It’s so aesthetically pleasing.

5. ONLY CUBS BASEBALL - Not to be a Negative Nancy, but my last favorite is from a recent realization of what I don’t enjoy! Recently I attended two Diamondback / Dback (whatever they go by) games in a four day span. At first I was excited, ballpark snacks, a live sports atmosphere, but after the 3rd inning I was over it. I realized when you don’t enjoy any of the teams playing, baseball can be a very boring sport. I am sorry to offend any fans out there, but, I don’t remember the last non-cubs baseball game I went to whether that was in Arizona, San Diego, Los Angeles, and of course Chicago. I came home from that Monday night game and turned on the final inning of the cubs game.

JOSE’S FIVE:

1. GOOGLE SKETCHUP - The last couple of weeks I have been designing not only at work but at home too. This easy 3D modeling program has help me create things that are hard to envision in the mind. It is a free program and you can access it on SketchUp.com

2. RAW MEAL DIET- As the 3-0 dwells closer and closer, Britt and I are taking advantage of all health knowledge and making healthy choices together. One we have started is doing 1 raw meal a day. Meaning throughout the day we decide on one meal that has to be completely raw. No sugars, preservatives, or carbs. Which has been helping a lot with our digestion.

3. CBD RUB - Chronic lower back issues has been my achilles heel for years, and now I have solution to when it flares up. Any CBD rub gives my inflammation an instant relief. Granted, this is not a cure all. I also have continued my stretching and my yoga to help strengthen my core which is the root of my issue.

4. THE BOYS - This Amazon Original series is new product to the superhero world. The pitch here for this series is “WATCHMEN MEETS KICKASS AND MAKE IT INTO A SERIES.” Surprisingly finding its way through dark humor and superhero antics, I enjoy the overall characters. If you are a fan of the DEADPOOL movies, you will definitely enjoy this hit.

5. 90’s PLAYLIST (SPOTIFY) - I was doing some wedding playlist searching, and found myself listening to this playlist. It brought me back to my childhood and it felt great to bob my head to every song in the line-up. You can follow this playlist and jam with me here.

August is my Birthday Month! Thirty is approaching and I am excited for the wedding plans to come together.

XoXo

Britt

JUNE FINAL FRIDAY FIVE FAVORITE FINDS

June makes is Summa Summa Summa Time in AZ and things are heating up. Temps hit 110 this week and here are the 5 things we each did to keep our cool and stay cool.

BRITT’S FIVE

1. ONE RAW MEAL A DAY- If you have not read my blog post about my results from my food sensitivities test, I suggest you do so here. But, LMTY (Let me tell you) I think I just made that acronym up. I am really more conscious of my food habits and choosing to nourish by supplementing 1 raw meal a day. Whether that be a protein shake or a Perfect Bar for breakfast or a pressed juice or a salad for lunch. I have substituted cashew milk and all!

2. BEING A STUDENT - I promise this is not a post to highlight my blogs, although, if you create BOMB content share the hell out of it because you worked so hard to put your heart out there. Recently, I changed careers and have spend the second half of June being the best student. First, it is in healthcare and more specifically: skilled nursing. Second, it also involves a Microsoft HP Elitebook and an Android Samsung Galaxy S9+. Send help! Between my online training and in person trial by fire I know this time next month I will be confident from competence. Catch up on the change here.

3. HAIR CLIPS FROM THE 90S - You have seen them all over insa! And would you would believe I still have a few a barrettes from when I was a kid? I did score and find some amazing deal on a amazon for too many I will ever use. I am a creature of habit and will usually style my hair the same way, but throwing in a barrette allows for variety. I really wish I could rock the headbands but I get the worst headaches.

4. WORKAHOLICS - I know this show stopped airing years ago, and if I was doing this blog feature then it would have been on it for sure. I was searching Hulu for a new binge and came across this comedy classic. Three stoner friends surviving corporate america, barely and living for shenanigans- what more can you ask for for a good laugh. I recently watched the Adam Devin Netflix special and it was a hilarious too! Definitely a recommend.

5. THE ALCHEMIST- Our July book of the month book is The Alchemist by by Paulo Coelho is the story of a shepherd’s journey, but is sooooo much more than that. It was such a great book for my career transition and also a book for anyone and everyone to learn from and most importantly what happens when you pursue your dreams.

JOSE’S FIVE:

1. DRAKE FT. RICK ROSS (MONEY IN THE GRAVE) - This is my new workout jam. It’s just a good hit you gotta listen to.

2. WELL FOR CULTURE PODCAST - Well For Culture is an Indigenous wellness initiative to help reclaim health and wellness. Episode 1 is the introductory episode: a breakdown of our general philosophy, a peek into who we are, and a preview of what’s to come. Take a listen here.

3. DAVID DOBREK VLOG - This youtuber has a comedy vlog series that has had me cracking up from its ability swing emotionally through the episodes. From laughs, to crazy stunts, and celebrity visits catch it all every week for FREE. Check it out here.

4. LUNCH TIME - Recently, Britt has been home for lunch with me. Its fun to send extra time with your significant other than you normally do. Our time together is precious and I enjoy every second we get.

5. POOLS!! - As the summer months starts to ramp up, I am thankful for the pool I can jump in and enjoy. I use it to swim and exercise in. Its overall therapy from the harsh temperatures.

July has some fun guests in store and even warmer weather! June FLEW by and I know the last 3 before the wedding will even more!

XoXo

Britt

MAY FINAL FRIDAY FIVE FAVORITE FINDS

Wow, May was a QUICK month! I honestly don’t know where it went! We kept our head down focusing on the wall going up and scheduling podcasts episodes to keep us consistent. BUT in between the organized chaos here are the 5 things we are each learning, listening, eating, drinking and loving!

BRITT’S FIVE

1. URBAN DAWN’S “COME TOGETHER” - Drum and bass is my favorite genre of music for many reasons! Top 2 are: fast beats and the absolute skill that comes with producing and actually Dj-ing this music. Urban Dawn has been producing tunes for a while, BUT this tune is absolute bananas. Everyone likes the Beatles, so you will recognize this classic hit, but once the drop hits.... WOW! You can listen on Spotify here.

2. FRUITS, VEGGIES & TEAS - Not exciting I know, but I have been becoming more conscious of what I can and should eat. Understanding Tapatio isn’t one of them anymore. Lately I have been craving nutritious foods like raw broccoli, unsweetened black tea, nuts and seeds. I dislike peanut butter but love The Peanut Butter Perfect Bar! On the go, QT has an amazing selection of fresh brewed teas. So when we need refreshing drinks we reach for tea instead of soda.

3. DALLMYD - aka Scuba Jake aka Scuba Steve 2019. Let me preface this by saving I am not savvy in the YouTubes, but I heard about Suba Jake, a young treasure hunter who returns and cleans up what he finds. I can watch him and his friends search underwater for hours. It may not always be crystal clear waters but guaranteed he finds the crazy stuff! From guns, to gemstones, even snakes. Watch one of his videos here. The sound of the water is so soothing and the first person Gopro cam is a great perspective.

4. THAIRAPY CLIPLESS CURLER - For the nearly a decade I have a had my hand in developing roadshows for major retailers and one of our latest clients is Thairapy. It’s designed to lock nutrients in your hair with their styling tools and my favorite, the clip-less curler is made with tourmaline. I have ALWAYS been a fan of the wand / clipless curler, but this one leaves my hair with more volume and lasts longer. It’s sold out on Amazon and Neiman Marcus but you can check here for you local Costco roadshow!

5. THE GREAT 48 - Yes, of course, Joe and I had to pick this month’s Phoenix Magazine! The honorary Great 48 Issue was released and who can you find among the media team? Jose and the Finding Arizona Podcast. I’m not saying that my manifestation of putting this on my vision board back in January (you can see the photo here on my pinterest page), but I am also saying what you put out there will come back to you! I am so proud of the recognition, but also the verification that what we are doing is “Great” and with our continued consistency and not losing sight of why we started we will hit even bigger goals! You can see the entire article and read about all 48 amazing individuals here!

JOSE’S FIVE:

1. HERTZ SPECIFIC PLAYLISTS - Before going to bed, i will turned on one of their playlists (usually from Youtube). I turn on 435 Hrtz because I have felt best after night sleep with it on. 

2. VALLEY 101 PODCAST - Recently, a past guest on the podcast transition from one podcast to another. She is now part of the Valley 101 podcast, and she is doing wonderful episodes. THe podcast is produced by the Arizona Republic and AZCentral.com. I have learned a lot of Phoenix specific history.  Take a listen here.

3. PHOENIX MAGAZINE “GREAT 48” - am suggesting this article for everyone to read. Not only cause I am in it,but also because there are 47 other really amazing people you need to read about. Check it out here.

4. HOT ONES - This Youtube series is back with a new line up of hot sauces for celebrities. It is so much fun to watch and experience. The latest is with the Jonas Brothers, and it will only get better from there.  

5. FOAM ROLLER - I am using this tool more and more because of my lower back. I use mostly really get out knots from long days. I look up how-to videos either on Pinterest or Instagram. 

We are looking forward to June and keeping up with some of the health and wellness practices into the Summer! We hope you enjoyed an insight into our May 2019.

XoXo

Britt

APRIL FINAL FRIDAY FIVE FAVORITE FINDS

The second installment of Five Favorite Finds is officially here. April means Spring! It is a beautiful season is Arizona. The plants are blossoming and the temps are rising. We had a Spring Cleaning day and literally wiped the baseboards, washed the curtains and reorganized the entire house. Six hours later, we were smudging sage and enjoying our cleanse. We got outside more and even took our first jump in the pool for 2019. Along with that, here are the FIVE things we were obsessing over this month.

BRITT’S FIVE

1. BURGERS ON THE GRILL - High School was my first attempt at BBQing. I turned on the grill, laid on the carne and walked away. A few minutes later the grill was on fire and the meat was charred! Since then, I haven’t been a “grill master.” Also, I really don’t enjoy the smell it leaves in my hair and clothes, BUT when it’s hot and you don’t want to cook anything the grill is such a great way to eat a home cooked meal in a timely manner. I picked up frozen burgers from Walmart and nights we don’t have a meal planned or lunches were to sweaty to make means popping some burgers on. Guess what? I can grill (burgers)! I don’t walk away, I add my secret seasoning and in just a few minutes we have a fresh, hot meal.

2. CHARCOAL EVERYTHING - Speaking of grills, charcoal is amazing and definitely makes a flavor difference but the only charcoal I have been dabbling in is the health and wellness kind! From deodorant, toothpaste, face sponges and lemondes, activated charcoal is such a powerful cleansing tool. Schmidt’s deodorants have been our favorite switch and I love the charcoal one! I also recently purchased their toothpaste, and I won’t go back! I am struggling (still) with a skincare routine, but I picked up a charcoal face sponge and love the gentle exfoliation. Lastly, a local juicery, Kaleidoscope Juice offers charcoal water and charcoal lemonade and nothing is more thirst quenching!

3. YOGA - Okay, nothing new and exciting about this one, BUT my own practice has been non existent. I was talking with a friend who was AMAZED I practice on my own and said I should share that more! So I did and I don’t know why? Maybe ……. #PicOrItDidntHappen . I scheduled a yoga night for our office where I lead a meditation and flow and I am not sure who loved it more, me or them! I got to get creative in my playlist and choreography while leading and sharing one of my passion. We have already scheduled our May flow!

4. BLACKOUT -Podcast recommendation time! This is a long overdue blog post for sure! I KNOW you are already subscribed to the Finding Arizona Podcast, and listen weekly, but I have a new recommendation for you. Do you like Rami Malek? Do you like the Handmaid’s Tale? Then you will LOVE Blackout. It is a visual podcast that takes you on a post apocalyptic journey of a radio show host and his families struggles within a small town. I wont say anymore, because, spoiler alerts, but you can subscribe and binge here.

5. THE ACT- You may remember this news story from 2015 about a Facebook post going viral regarding a mother’s murder and the name Gypsy Rose. This disturbing, true story of Gypsy Rose Blanchard and her mother Dee Dee depicts a mother who suffered from Munchausen by proxy and, for years claimed her daughter suffered from various diseases. Gypsy learns the truth and after falling in love online with a bipolar teenager, they plot to kill Dee Dee and start their life together, but as you can imagine things don’t go to their plan. All 8 episodes are available on Hulu now, happy binging!

JOSE’S FIVE:

1. NIGHT TIME STRETCHING - I work 10 hours in an office. I challenged myself out of the blue to stretch more to help sleep better. I have been routinely stretching every night after work. I set an intention every night to make it happen and has been working wonders so far. Here's a cool infographic to help.

   THE RINGER PODCAST - Bill Simmons is a former ESPN analyst turn sport entertainment podcaster. His podcast is a cavalcade of guess who deep dive on some of the nerdiest subjects. Throw in friends and family it is a wonderful time for everyone to hear. Take a listen here.

   KOMBUCHA - As part of my health month challenge, I am routinely drink one kombucha a week. I really enjoy all styles and flavors because it makes me feel better. Secretly thought here is my favorite.  

   DESUS & MERO - Gang Gang! #bodegahive!!! Growing up for the early part of my life, I have a connection to these fellas. I have grown up here guys like this all the time! Their SHOW-TIME show is great but if you want the deep DEEEP fandom go check out their podcast. Bodega Boys

   PLANOLY - This IG planner app has helped us get back on track with our social media. It has encouraged us to be more active and strategic with every post. Definitely enjoy their setup and user-friendly interface. Check it here. If you need assistance prepping your social media try Planoly- its a great tool to set and forget and enjoy living your life live and in the moment. Learn more about scheduling your posts here.

We hope you enjoyed a look into our April 2019. We look forward to sharing these monthly and rediscovering what we already love.

XoXo

Britt