MARCH FINAL FRIDAY FIVE FAVORITE FINDS -LOCAL BUIZ EDITION

March- the month of social distancing and quarantine. COVID-19 or the Corona Virus hit the US hard, and still continues to do so. Everyday more cases are being reported, the CDC is implementing new regulations, and thousands of Americans are stressing. Finances, health, work, you name it- we’re stressed. Instead of highlighting FIVE of our favorite things this month, we want to each share FIVE local business you can support, like us, in this time. Please let us know any more that may need some extra love! Just because we’re practicing our distancing IRL doesn’t mean we have to virtually.

BRITT’S FIVE

1. PAIGE POPPE - Paige is an Arizona artist who’s work is now seen throughout the valley from greeting cards to murals. It has been amazing to watch Paige blossom and support all her creative projects like Children’s books, pins and more! Now, she is launching a coloring book! We Stick Together is a printable coloring book featuring amazing sketches you can fill with color manually or digitally. Another added bonus: 50% of the proceeds support a local charity. I purchased a few for our Nursing home and self. You can too, here.

2. THE MADISON - The Madison Improvement Club is a health and wellness fitness studio, most well known for their Party On A Bike Spin Classes, is doing some innovative stuff during this pandemic. First, everyday they are offering LIVE classes on Instagram. I usually take the weekend yoga flow; check out their page here and turn on notifications. Second, they are renting out stationary bikes to continue your spin classes at home. So smart!

3. PRICKLY PEAR PAPER - Our friends Mark and Lauren are offering some great deals everyday of the week to support their business. Free pens and stickers, BOGO deals and more- you have to check out their website and stock up now for #PostCorona. We use Prickly Pear Paper for our custom business cards; they are cute, practical and stand out! Everything you want in a card. Visit their site and support today!

4. CAFE EMPOROS - We have mentioned this coffee before and are still obsessed with it! Pour over and enjoy- its too simple. We met Ruben at Phoenix Flea and after coming on the podcast and sharing his invention we continue to enjoy the Uganda blend at home. I am looking forward to the summer and trying the cold brew. You can purchase and try it out at home here.

5. LOCAL FIRST- This is a business who is all about supporting business. Their message has been and always will be sustainability, but right now I love that they are offering support for small, local, and independent businesses during these uncertain times. Check out their site. You can also discover thousands of other connections and resources an deals here.

JOSE’S FIVE:

1. LOCAL FIRST RELIEF FUND- Local First Arizona is our favorite organizations in the community. We are consistently learning new connections and networks from them. LFA is sponsoring mini-grants to help support Arizona’s smallest locally owned enterprises. Click here to learn more. 

2. STATE FORTY-EIGHT - They always find themselves in the front lines supporting as much as they can. During this crisis, they have created a new shirt to support local business and are creating accessible food options. Fifty percent of the shirts’ proceeds will be going to Local First Arizona and Matthew Crossing Food Bank. The shirt is also always cool looking too! Support here.

3. PUBBLICO ITALIAN EATERY-  This announcement is for those you who have love for Sunday Dinners. The incredible staff behind leader Danny will supply you a classic Italian supper. Go check out their latest post to find out how to pre-order today

4. WASTE NOT AZ- As a previous guest on our podcast, we love promoting their fight against hunger. Waste Not “...is the only nonprofit agency in Arizona collecting prepared foods that would otherwise go to waste and deliver it directly to nonprofit agencies that serve those in need.” They are continuing their fight and always educating others on how to help even virtually through times like today. Check out their website.

5. OPEN LETTER TO DOUG DUCEY -Behind the scenes, business are working together to make their voices and comments heard. Available on the breadfruit website is a open letter to Arizona Governor Ducey. On the letter is a response and petition to help save small business in the local community. :learn more and even sign the letter here.

Not sure how April will go as I take it hour by hour, day by day. Thankful for so many things and finding the optimism in everything and more for those who can’t. Stay safe, and thank you for supporting us by reading.

XoXo

Britt

WHAT THE CORONA?!?

This week’s blog post was going to be on a completely different topic, but all that has been on my mind, and I’m, sure yours too, is the Corona Virus. Working in the Health Care Industry I have seen, heard and been apart of some things that are worth sharing, or at least remembering years from now. I also want to share what I think is best to do in this time of anxiety, at least what is helping me.

I work in a Skilled Nursing Facility. If you don’t remember my big career change than please go back and read all about it here. It has been 9 month now and boy, have I learned A LOT! This week, though, was was roller coaster. Monday we began asking internally about testing new admissions into the facility. Tuesday I began asking local hospitals if they are testing. Wednesday I received backlash from the hospitals for “Questioning their protocol.” Thursday we implemented: No Out Side Visitors in our facility as well as the hospitals began sharing they are “screening” patients referred to facilities. Friday we are receiving documents sharing the “screening.” Even if it is just my husband that believes it, I like to think I sparked something to #MIH!

I didn’t believe the grocery store hype until I saw it for myself. I am not an expert on toilet paper or why hand soap vs bar soap, but my anxiety did hit seeing the cleared out shelves. Virus or not it is always important to keep staples in your pantry and cases of water and toiletries. But what are we doing to take extra precautions?

• Washing hands 1000 times per day creating friction and carrying 60% or more alcohol hand sanitizer. While I wash my hands I like to also “wash off” the day, the moment, the situation, and feel all the negativity running down the drain- try it!

• Disinfect surfaces including remotes, light switches, steering wheels with 10% bleach and 90% water solutions. Soil the surface and let it dry for 10 minutes before touching. I learned this from the Director of Housekeeping at our facility.

• Bump elbows instead of shaking hands.

But what about local businesses? At Finding Arizona Podcast we are having internal discussions about keeping to our recording schedules and providing great content to our listeners, but how else can we support?

• Support local: shop online or buy gift card. Gift cards are perfect because the business gets the money now and you get to use the service later.

• Engage online while you’re there anyway. Working from home now? Scrolling though social more? Share more, comment more, post more. Be you and let other’s know that we have each other’s back.

• Supporting health care workers at our local level as well. They are working overtime to care for other’s loved ones while their loved ones are not in school or not at work. Whatever this looks like for you- buying their coffee, child care, groceries, or just saying “Thank you.”

Last but NOT least, with all the information out there make sure you are going to CDC.gov to get your real facts. I have no doubt we will overcome this together, but while were here lets separate fact from fiction, emotions from reality and take care of our mental health just as much as the physical one. Be safe out there.

XoXo

Britt.

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

VALENTINE'S DAY CAR

Happy Valentine’s Day to me! I got a new car! I deserve it for all the hard work and love I put into everything I do. It may not be the perfect timing, but what is? I had plans to eventually upgrade; my car’s issues starting piling up and I had to start looking at my options. Buying a car can be overwhelming, so here are a few things that helped me along the way.

Always be looking- if you get to rent cars often or can visit auto shows keep in mind what you enjoy driving and what is best for your situation. Growing up I loved attending auto shows with my dad and now as an adult i feel like Enterprise’s choose your car is like that version of it.

Keep your current car up to maintenance- I recommend looking under your hood often, learning how to check your oil and if you ever need work done, see if you can YouTube it or price match it. With my Chrysler I’ve learned i can jump the power window but i can’t replace the battery on my own. When my list of to-dos became greater and more expensive than the car itself it was time to look at other options more seriously.

It’s 2020 you can buy your car from a vending machine- At first, I went online, downloaded apps, kept an eye out for commercials and dealership offers, but CarMax is my place! I was there in 2014 buying my previous car and with the offer they’re are giving me for it, i knew we could work something out. Maybe it’s because i love shopping at Costco (word on the street they are closing the metro center one in Phoenix) ,but CarMax is ALSO a superstore. Based on my budget and key features there were over 15 cars on the lot alone and more in the state and even more nationwide.

Test drive and do all the things: freeway, U turns, parking, stoplights- It’s a big commitment and don’t let anyone but you tell you it feels right. I do appreciate CarMax is hassle free customer service but at the end of the day it’s sales.

Do you own financing research and put a down payment- Buying a car is a huge financial responsibility and the more you educate yourself the better you will feel and the better your overall wellness will be. Just because the dealership offers financing doesn’t mean it’s your only option. This is my second time going through this process and for me, my bank, Navy Federal provides the best rates and works perfectly for my situation. Everyone is different so do your research and ask around if your financial institutions offer any deals or special rates for car buyers.

Sleep on it- Don’t make a rational decision. Of course the salesman is going to assume the sale and the next thing you know you’re signing your life away. When i go in, the first time, intend to go home empty handed. I need to sleep on it and still have that same want and desirable feeling the next day. That’s when you know it’s a good decision to make.

So why the Nissan Rouge? Time for my big girl car. As a wife and a homeowner i knew my next car was bigger: SUV/Crossover/Truck. Also with my profession, i commute a lot, so gas mileage is a huge deal maker for me too so that rules out trucks. I love foreign cars and will never buy American (again) and i knew a Nissan would last me the next 10-12 years with no big headaches. The maintenance on the car is within my reach and the reviews on safety and reliability are through the roof. Plus we added the MaxCare plan adding additional warranties for the whole vehicle. Did we have to get AWD, no but living in AZ we want to take more adventures on and Find Arizona. I am in love and discovering more features and reasons why it was the right choice every time I drive it.

So who is ready for an adventure? California? Fossil Creek? Around the block? Let’s go.

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

WHAT THE HEALTH

These last few weeks have brought a whole new focus to the word: Health. Working in the industry the last 6 months, learning more of the clinical side and working side by side with professionals has me not only value but question health. Personally in the family some health ups and downs hit home and what better than to share my thoughts in this week’s blog post. 

I need to start off by saying I am not a certified medical professional so do not take my advice over one. Okay, now that that PC is out of the way let me speak my heart! 

We first have to take care of ourselves before we can expect to take care of others. No this isn’t “self care” this is making sure we listen our our bodies and give it what it needs. Nourish was my work of the year last year and this means really answering to our bodies. For everyone this is different. For me it is getting my body moving. If I am not exercising a few times a week the stress builds up, my anxiety rises, my mood swings, and self esteem is down. But when I can get some gym sessions, neighborhood runs or a yoga flow I am immediately in a better mental and of course physical state! I like to think of this analogy like an airplane safety precaution: make sure you put on your air mask and life vest before you help those around you. Fill your bucket first, so you have all the love to give others.

Another piece of this puzzle is what we put inside our bodies. I am learning more and more everyday its not just food, but drinks, vitamins, medications, everything we consume is absorbed into our bodies, our cells. Why would we want to poison our selves? I know cheese is poison to some, but it is knowing what your body can do with the things you consume. I know I am sensitive to almonds, but sometimes choose the stomach bloating so I can have one of my favorite nuts. Or its even grabbing Canes Chicken on the way home from work because its a late night and I am craving it after a long hard day it is a mental reward as well. It is all about balance. BUT what I am here to advocate NOT to do is overly consume those toxic things! Intermittent fasting works for me because I am not a breakfast person, but it might not work for you. Apple cider vinegar lemon shots work for me every morning but that might not for you. 

On to some seriousness. Last week my Father put himself in the ICU, loosing nearly 9 pints of blood because he chose to intoxicate his body to a point of almost no return. Isn’t that funny word? INTOXICATE. It literally has the word toxic in it. Think about that for a second. If a glass of wine or a shot of tequila makes your body feel good then have it, but if it will in turn cause you to hurt physically and or emotionally, damage relationships, and overall alter your day to day life than why would you want to give your single chance at living a shorter shelf life? 

I meet 90 year olds everyday, in fact the oldest resident we have in our facility is 101 years young! This month my grandfather turned 90 and the family gathered to celebrate this monumental moment. What is the secret? I ask everyone I meet over 90 years of age of 50 years of marriage (that’s another post). The most common answer I get is staying busy and happy. Not one or the other its both. Keeping active, just like my grandpa who still does his daily walks, helps with family projects, and of course our annual tamale making. But I have seen him build homes, repair roofs, tend to gardens, drive thousands of miles, and win at hundred of Domino games. At his birthday celebration he exclaimed:”If i had to do it all over, i would.”

That is a life worth living. I can’t tell you much more than that. You can pack the hand sanitizer, cough drops, warm and fuzzy socks and wear a mask but you still might catch something. I received the FluShot for the first time this year and still got sick. I found out that this vaccine was for a diff to strain that what this season’s influence brought us. I wash my hands leaving every hospital, when I get home I shower of physically and mentally my day. One day I walked out of an elevator at a hospital and the entire floor was wearing masks- i suited up as well. Skincare routines and SPF are required daily for me along with with vitamins and minimum 40 oz of water a daily (working on more, I know). I plan on living till at least 100. I got plenty of life to live and I hope you reading this are right there with me living our best (healthy) lives. 

XoXo

Britt

ROARING 2020’s

Here is my obligatory New Years Resolution Post. I was inspo-ed not FOMO-ed in fact more JOMO-ed that I didn’t have a big New Year’s Eve and a plan to start new on the first, but more focused on preparing to enter a new decade with good practices and know my voice so I can let it roar!

New Years Resolutions are defined by Merriam-Webster as “which a person resolves to continue good practices, change an undesired trait or behavior, to accomplish a personal goal, or otherwise improve their life.” BORING! And no, this is not a 5th grade essay. This is Brittany Acevedo using her voice on this amazing platform and putting out into the universe what I am doing for myself and hope to inspire you to take action for yourself, no matter what day of the year it is.

Preparing for the New Year I, of course, made the plan to join the gym again- no excuses for weather or locations- PLUS, Planet Fitness has hydro massagers so I get a 10 minute massage every session! Jose has a membership and this is one of the things we bonded over when we first met and I love reliving these new love butterflies again.

That takes care of my body, but for my mind I already started carrying the mantra: “Too blessed to be stressed.” I used this and felt this way throughout the kitchen construction project, carried it through the holidays and into the new year. Jose sent me an instagram profile reading January 2020 tarot and he couldn’t have described Virgo better. Watch here and see if your sign is accurate too!

I also wanted to make a simple but BIG change and decided to chop off my hair. It’s unique but trendy- long bob with one side a little longer. I’m obsessed and I felt more confident January 1.

Lastly, picking a word of he year. I have done this 2 years now and find it helpful when I a feeling lost or need re-centering. This year my word is RELATIONSHIPS. I entered 2020 as a wife and not that I am supporting “labels,” but recognizing this added responsibility makes our “ship” a priority. Next, friendships. Adult friendships are tricky and I want to take this decade to really nurture the “ships” I’ve made in Arizona. Our village is strong and we can all make it stronger. AND always appreciate my family ships- make time to see them and touch base more.

Fun things up our sleeves for 2020 focused on one thing at a time. I promise to keep you all updated the best I can and appreciate you following our journey in 2019 and just wait to see what 2020 has in store! Happy Decade everyone!

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

NASCAR WIVES: FINDING ARIZONA VIP'S WITH KNOW TRIBE AT ISM RACEWAY

First time at a Nascar race and I could not not blog about it! What was I expecting and how did we get to be apart of this amazing experience I have to share. Not everyday does someone get to tour the garages while the drivers are prepping for qualifying laps or meet Jimmy Johnson’s publicist.

I am not here to boast but to feel honored to be apart of the Know Tribe and great opportunities like this one that we get to be apart of. Sarah Benkin started the Know Book + Tribe 2 years ago and we have been blessed to watch and support this journey. You can read all about the Tribe at the launch we attended this year here. When we got the invite to attend we said yes in a heart beat. Thanks to a helpful post of Facebook I had suggestions on what to wear and made sure ear plugs were part of the OOTD.

On the drive over we were joking about the direction they lap and the rules of the game. Once we arrived we were quickle toured by Julie Giese ISM Raceway’s first and only female president. She was humble and her passion for the sport was palpable. We toured infield inside the garages watching the cars get pushed to inspections before their qualifying laps. Before the 200 lap race we rushed up to our suite with a beautiful view of the entire track and lite bites and drinks.

Upstairs not only did we get to hang out with Julie but we also met Jimmy Johnson’s publicist Amy Walsh Stock. She was again very humble and after leaning more about her new candle business and that she is in the KNOW CHARLOTTE Book we were celebrating with the other KNOW Women in the room. This was a pure moment of gratitude- to be surrounded with such powerful women not only in the NASCAR industry but also Construction, Health and Beauty, Marketing and PR.

Then, I look over at my handsome husband- who is my plus one for life and no one I would rather have experience this with me and I thank him for letting me into the podcast and allowing me to water it and nurture it and love it while it continues to bloom. Until our next adventure together.

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