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

FINDING ARIZONA KITCHENS: STRAWBERRY POUND CAKE

Valentine’s Day is near and since you have already broke the diet and ate girl scout cookies, you might as well mix up this treat and share it with someone you love. Did you (not want to) know they call it pound cake because you add a pound of sugar, butter and flour? That is why one slice is enough. This is a pretty, and pretty easy cake to make.

INGREDIENTS:

FOR THE CAKE

• 1 Pint Strawberries (fresh)

• 1 Cup Butter

• 3 Cups Sugar

• 5 Large Eggs

• 3 Cups Flour (Sifted)

• 1 Tsp Salt

• 1/2 Tsp Baking Soda

• 1 Cup Buttermilk

• 1 Tsp Vanilla Extract

• *OPTIONAL 1/2 Tsp Red Food Coloring 

  FOR THE GLAZE:

• 2 Tbsp Strawberry Puree 

• 2 Cups Powdered Sugar

• 1 Tsp Vanilla Extract

• 1 Tsp Lemon Juice

Directions:

1. Start by washing your strawberries and de-stemming them. Puree them and set aside 2 tablespoons for the glaze.

2. Next, add the puree to a sauce pan and reduce it for 15-20 minutes. The final product should be around 1/2 cup and thick. Cool to room temperature.

3. Pre-heat your oven to 325 and prep your bunt pan with the method of your choosing.

4. In a mixing bowl beat your room temperature butter and sugar until light and fluffy 4-6 minutes on high speed. Add your eggs 1 at a time.

5. Turn your mixer to a low speed before you add your flour. Add the flour in increments as well to avoid spilling out of your mixer. Finally add your salt and baking soda and scrape down the sides of your bowl. Be careful not to over beat your flour.

6. Buttermilk is next to add to your dough. Combine lemon juice with milk to DIY Buttermilk at home.

7. Mix in your vanilla extract and your strawberry puree. If you chose this is when you would add food color if you really want to brighten your mixture. Pour into bunt pan and bake for 60 minutes or until you can toothpick check your cake. Stick a toothpick in and if it comes our dry, its done! (One time check per pick)

8. The cake takes a while to cook and cool so I don’t recommend prepping the glaze too far in advance. When you’re ready whisk all ingredients together: lemon, powered sugar and strawberry puree. Check the consistency of the glaze by seeing how it runs down a spoon. Add more powder sugar if its too runny and more lemon juice to liquefy it.

I love making this cake and how delicious it was. It serves beautifully with fresh strawberries and with coffee or tea in the mornings for a sweet treat. Let me know your thoughts bellow; I would love to try making other seasonal fruit versions.

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

FINDING ARIZONA KITCHENS: ALBONDIGAS SOUP

Albondigas (Mexican Meatball) Soup is one of my top 3 favorite soups! Its full of flavor, delicious meatballs and juicy vegetables. Growing up my best friend would have it cooking in her home every Friday and the smell just brings back so many memories. I saw a close friend making it and asked for the recipe. After a few tweaks and measurements, its perfect, and I am ready to share it with your kitchen too!

Ingredients:

• 1 Stalk Celery 

• 1 Bag Baby Carrots 

• 2-3 Large Potatoes

• 1 Onion

• 6 Cloves of Garlic

• 4-6 Ears of Corn

• 2-3 Large Zucchini

• 1 Bunch Cilantro

• 3/4 Cup Uncooked Rice

• 1 Can Diced Tomatoes

• 1 Can Tomato Sauce

• 1 lb. ground beef

• 2 Eggs

• 2-3 Cubes Chicken Bouillon

Directions:

1. Dice onion and garlic. Saute in a large soup pot half of your onion and garlic in olive oil until golden- not brown. While you are watching the onion you can begin to prep your meatballs.

2. Mix in a bowl ground beef, remaining garlic and onion, cilantro, uncooked rice and pepper and salt if desired. Chill in fridge and allow flavors to blend and meat to get cold. Meatballs are easier to form the colder your mixture.

3. When your onions are golden in your pot,  add diced tomatoes and let simmer to blend flavors.

4. Add tomato sauce and water to create a 3/4 full pot. Add bouillon and bring to a rolling boil before you add in any meatballs. But, while you’re waiting you can continue to prep your meatballs.

5. Using your hands, roll meat mixture into meat balls all the same size and place them, softly and one by one, in boiling water 20 minutes. Cover. Meatballs will begin to float once fully cooked.

6. After 15 minutes of the meatballs boiling add vegetables chopped to your preference of a bite size and stir occasionally. Be very gently the more aggressive you are the more your meatballs break in your soup.

7. One pot will serve between 8-12 people. It is best serve garnished with fresh diced onion, cilantro, lime, and crushed red peppers. Leftovers, if you have any are good for 3 days. I also paired it with a garlic avocado sourdough toast.

This soup is perfect for the chilly weather and also goes well will all the tamales you have left over from the holidays. Thanks for getting in the kitchen with me, again. Looking forward to more recipes.

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

HOLIDAY TRADITIONS- SAN DIEGO CHRISTMAS

Another Christmas in San Diego and it was perfect, this time we took Winter with us and she now has her new favorite vacation spot, Imperial Beach, CA. Our first Christmas as married couple one of things shared with us was making sure we have holiday traditions. Although this holiday we went through major kitchen construction we still managed to make it feel like Christmas.

Our precious 1949 home is teaching us so much about handiwork, but this time, it was over our head. After the wedding we thought we had a kitchen pipe clogged that could be solved by a snake or even a hydro flush, but when your line collapses, all you can do is get a new one. Thankfully we found Neighborhood Plumber- through a family friend and not only was he nice in the process, but also to our wallets. After four days and nights, 45 feet of concrete was jackhammered and a new kitchen line was placed. The finishing touches of concrete and a new faucet were added and now we’re cooking. Literally.

As husband and wife we knew this project would hit our Christmas budget hard and agreed that it was our present to each other; we’re thankful we don’t have kids that we have to announce this too. Because kitchen construction means dust EVERYWHERE we didn’t put up a tree, or lights. Our trip to San Diego would be our Christmas fix.

We left Christmas Eve; it was raining hard the entire ride and on top of that it was Winter’s longest car ride! She didn’t sleep and after a few potty stops we were celebrating Christmas Eve in Imperial Beach.

Christmas Eve for us is spent ant my mom and dad’s house with our entire family filled with food, drinks, and fun!White elephant and Saran Wrap Christmas games are part of our Christmas traditions. I’m sure you’ve seen the video where you wear a Santa hat and baking mitts and take turns rolling doubles to open up a nearly impossible present or Saran Wrapped gifts. This is so much fun and even though Jose and I will be alternating holiday locations I will make sure this one stays.

Tamale time! Although we have only been doing this the passed three years, now that I know how to make tamales it is a must for the holidays. Next year I want to try olives! If it’s at my house, we just might! Although I’ll be missing making them with my papa, he is turning 90 in January and sharing stories over spreading masa is so fun.

One thing no matter near or far and big or small our family is we will continue to make and send Holiday cards. I look forward to designing them, selecting our favorite photos from the year and sharing them with our loved ones. If you want one next year be sure to send me your address.

As we head into the new year we have a lot up our sleeve but more importantly putting ourselves first because what I kept repeating through the kitchen chaos was, “I’m too blessed to be stressed.” That is exactly how I felt on Christmas too, blessed; surrounded by the ones I love the most with everything I need.

As I mentioned, we took Winter with us to San Diego and she experienced her first time at the beach. She doesn’t like pools but the beach was another story- she loved it! Her paws running up and down the sand and chasing the tide faster than ever made all our heart’s smile.

I hope you got everything you wanted for the holidays and more! Santa did bring me the two things I asked for- a new kitchen line and a mixer! So get ready for some amazing recipes from the Finding Arizona Kitchen! Have a happy and healthy new year! Thank you for reading and following our journey.

XoXo

Britt

FINDING AZ HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 2019

Last year’s gift guide was a success so we brought it back! Surprise! Everyone is doing GG this year. But here is what makes our different: 1) Local brands- but don’t worry you can still buy online if your not local to AZ and support them 2) Budget friendly- sorry no $50 candles or Designer Shoes 3) It is for everyone- seriously you can find something for everyone on this list! Enjoy and Happy Holidays and of course Merry Christmas!

Skincare-

#Selfcare is not just a LADY thing! In fact every time I do a mask at home, Jose joins too! Get your man a nice skincare routine this year for him. He doesn’t want to smell like roses, but he like the way it makes his face feel.

Or if this is breaking your budget we have suggested a Burt’s Bees Essential Travel Set to ease into a skincare routine. Nails and lips count as skin too, don’t forget it!

Finally this Aztec Clay is a miracle. Use it for DIY masks, add to your bath, sport treatments, and many more. Use it once and you’ll be hooked.

K-Duo Coffee Maker- K cups for weeks days and full pots for weekends- get the best of both worlds with a duo coffee pot. I have had my Keurig for almost 10 years and even though it’s going strong I find myself making 2-3 cups some mornings. This was on our Wedding Registry and has now made it to our Gift Guide.

KitchenAid Stand Mixer- I can’t’ believe I have gone this long without a mixer. Do you know how hard it is to cream butter and sugar by hand? Save your pennies and invest in this beautiful mixer. It is a timeless piece that will get more use than you can even think of right now- especially looking chic with the designer bowls. This was another gift that made its way from our Wedding Registry to the Gift Guide.

Weighted Blanket- This is the adult’s equivalent of the Tickle Me Elmo gift craze. You see these everywhere- grocery stores, furniture stores, mall kiosks. I can’t personally speak from experience but others have raved over it and highly recommended for restless leg syndrome. I wouldn’t mind Santa getting me one.

Smart home

Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip- because why have Alexa turn 1 light on when she can do the whole strip! What we love about this is programing for holidays. For example the Christmas tree and lights are all connected so at night I can say “Alexa, Santa is coming!” and all the lights come on.

FixD- Scan and reader for your car! Turn your car into a smart car- know why your check engine light is on and get maintenance reminders. Everyone can use this! I definitely would have had this for my trips back and forth to college!

Sleep Tracking Pad- Technology tracks everything why not your sleep? I have tried my watch and my phone but nothing is accurate. This pad actually goes on your bed so it monitors how and when you sleep.

Nintendo Entertainment System- Yeah you can get an Play Station or an X box but you won’t keep up with the teenagers and their skills at video games now. So instead, make gaming fun again with an old school Nintendo. We love this deal on Amazon because it also comes with the original games! It is the only gaming system I will allow in the house. Lol.

Robot Vacuum- This was the Cyber Monday I came for. I tested a iRobot model a while back and didn’t love it but after finding a different model and testing it out, I am a true believer. When you have pets and concrete floors you need to sweep everyday it seems in AZ and this saves me so much time and is a little entertainment for the animals too! This model has the mopping mechanism- wow game changer!

Umbrella- We have gotten more rain this year in Phoenix than I can remember and my rain boots are getting a ton of use but it is now time to upgrade the umbrella. We recently went to Mexico City and you can read about our trip and packing list here, but on it was an umbrella. Not a cute one like this, but still necessary. I love this one because it also serves as a great prop for photo shoots plus great price for a Kate Spade product!

5 Minute Journal- Great gift for yourself even to remember to take time in the new year for a fresh start. This is 5 minutes journal prompts and does great to promote mental health. Our mind is a muscle and we must exercise it.

 Flexible Tripod- We have had ours for a year and use it for everything and every device. You don’t have to be a famous YouTuber or Instagram model to need a tripod. This one even has been allowed at amusement parks and sporting events – take that Selfie Stick!

 Power tools- As you become an adult kitchen appliances and power tools become part of the Christmas Present norm. This power hand saw is a NEED for any homeowner and at a great price too!

Mevo- How did we go live on our Facebook for the Finding Arizona Wedding with such a stunning camera? Meet Mevo- stream full HD or Record in 4k!

Book- You can always gift a favorite book. Last year we were gifted Judd Apatow’s book Sick in the Head from our Book Club and recommend it for comedy and or book lovers everywhere.

Music- Vinyl is back! Everyone is getting record machines so make sure you add a classic to their collection! We always look to score at thrift shops but this classic deserves to be in everyone record crate: Al Green Greatest Hits.

LOCAL LOVE

#Sage Squad! You see the Sage Aubrey handbags everywhere. Who wouldn’t want a fantastic high quality bag made from a passionate and inspiring woman? I LOVE MY SAGE BAG! Now she’s adding more to her amazing collection- wallets and scarves and of course gorgeous colors like this red that’s to die for! Yes please Santa! You can order online or if your local you get a special in person delivery.

Manor- This contemporary shoe store in the heart of central phoenix is not only a great place for the latest sneakerheads but a great community supporter for events and run clubs. This place makes great holiday gifts online or instore ranging from shoes to accessories. If you don’t know what to get him- head to Manor.

Indestructible Shoes- I have been in the market for some hiking boots for years now but haven’t found any I love- These shoes are cute and practical PLUS the price point is great. You can get a pair for just about any industry or play! Best part is we have a discount code! You receive 20% OFF using the Code: BRITA67

Simple Jane- We met Simple Jane a few years back on the podcast and fell in love with all their products right off the bat. Not only do these women do great things to support the community but their product is to swear by. Their latest is the CinnaBomb CBD Lip Balm and I cannot get enough of it! Stock your stuffers and everyone you know with it!

Wow! That makes up our 2019 Gift Guide! What were honestly gifting is a new kitchen sink line but that’s another blog post to come and a girl can wish cant she? I hope Santa brings you everything you want this year and more! Merry Christmas from the Finding Arizona Podcast!

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