dine
Happy Friday to you!! Each and every year Ava and I celebrate Valentine’s Day with a very special party we put together for one another. She will always be my little Valentine.
Read MoreGood morning friends and happy Thursday! One of my favorite ways to celebrate any occasion, be it big or small, is with a sweet little treat.
Read MoreGood morning and happy Thursday, friends! Whew, it’s been a little while since I’ve been on here, but regardless, I hope everyone had a fantastic Valentines Day and also a fun Presidents Day.
Read MoreEach year, Ava and I have a special little Valentines Day party where we enjoy yummy treats and celebrate all things love. This year, even more so, was very memorable since the first word Ava learned to spell and write by herself was “love.”
Read MoreOne of my simple pleasures in life is a good cup of coffee in the morning and afternoon, sometimes even in the evening. It’s a time to either get me started or to take a relaxing break with a sweet snack.
Read MoreRaspberry and Lime Chai Pudding Parfait
Coconut Tortilla Chips and Salsa (This recipe I made up myself)
Tomatoes, Cilantro, Olive Oil, Lime Juice, Onions, Salt and Pepper.
Fresh Celery Juice 16oz on an empty stomach (wait 1/2 hour to eat)
Black Bean Humus
Pumpkin Pie Pancakes
Honey Berries
Wild Blueberry Pancakes
Good morning dear friends and happy Monday! I’ve always been one to watch what I eat, though never eliminating anything from my diet. Eating healthy has always been important to me, but I would never “diet” or exclude food, only keeping the “bad” food in moderation. I recently came across The Medical Medium’s Instagram account through Selma Blair, who was recently diagnosed with MS, the illness my mom bravely fought for 16 years. She was showcasing her morning celery juice, which is the cornerstone of the Medical Medium’s healthy lifestyle. Celery juice is taking the world by storm! Read more about it here.
Always curious about eating the best I can, I spent a few hours reading through Anthony’s blog posts, Instagram posts, and testimony from readers of his books all over the the world. There’s a wealth of information, and I highly encourage you to read through some of it, but these are the key points:
No dairy (I drink Almond Milk)
No eggs
No corn
No canola oil
No soy
No gluten
Eating only fresh foods from the earth, and either limiting or completely eliminating processed foods, will have a tremendous impact on your health and overall well being. Eating this way should eliminate the heavy metals, toxins, parasites, and virus’s, living within the body. The goal is to cleanse and heal the liver, thyroid, and gut of these. I do use some processed foods, though they all follow the guidelines above and are organic like the Coconut Tortilla Chips I have with the salsa. Wegman’s has their Marketplace section, which is amazing for finding healthy snacks and foods. Below are some of the snacks I found at Wegmans. The Hippeas are from Target.
I started with the celery juice, 16oz of fresh celery juice each morning on a empty stomach and then waiting half of an hour before eating. Read more about how celery juice heals HERE. It’s all about their mineral salts reducing inflammation and neurotoxins! I feel extremely energized, calm, and alert after starting about 3 weeks ago. I do not need to have coffee anymore either! Overall, after starting to eat cleaner, I have less digestive issues (bloating, burping,) and feel more alive than ever. I was also starting to experience some neuropathy type issues along with muscle soreness in my legs, which has also disappeared as well. My brother jokingly calls this my dirt diet, though he’s not completely incorrect, haha.
The above photos are just some of the recipes I’ve tried (and loved) over the last few weeks. I also eat a ton of fruit and vegetables throughout the day. After my celery juice, I have a bowl of the berries with honey and a green tea. I then eat an apple and a banana followed by a small bowl of raspberries and a cutie (orange). The raspberries and tangerine “help prevent the calcium loss that can occur as the thyroid virus forces the body to use its calcium stores to wall off the virus in nodules and cysts, both in the thyroid itself and throughout the body. Help prevent osteoporosis.” At lunchtime, I have coconut water with a salad I made up of organic spinach, hearts of romaine lettuce, broccoli sprouts, cilantro, cucumber slices, nut cheese (Parmela Creamery found at Wegmans), and fajita chicken (I make a batch of this a head of time and save for my salads throughout the week.) I’ll also make cucumber juice to have along with some more fruit to snack on (cantaloupe, watermelon, carrots, zucchini spears, kale chips (2tbs eevo tossed with some fresh kale, salt and pepper, bake for 10 mins) kiwis, grapes, strawberries). I’ll also snack on some baby carrots and the black bean hummus or I’ll make guacamole or the fresh salsa. Dinner is really a toss up and different everyday, but my morning breakfast, lunch, and snacks are pretty much the same everyday. The pancakes for dinner is always fun or zucchini pasta, salmon and veggies (mushrooms, brussel sprouts, red peppers), seasoned chicken, or even a soup. Sometimes I’ll make the parfait for dinner and it’s soooo filling!
Anothy also has kids recipes available, thank goodness! Kids are notoriously picky eaters, especially with health food, but I’ve always been very lucky with Ava. She eats a lot of fruit and some vegetables throughout the day anyway. Shes also a big fan of the pancakes, parfait, and the healthy snacks we found at Wegmans and Target. Kid approved!
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor and do not claim everyone will react or feel the same. All recipes are from The Medical Mediums MM101 series. Information is from Medical Medium.
xo, Amanda
Hum Nutrition Glow Sweet Glow Vitamins c/o || Hum Nutrition Collagen POP c/o || Coola Organic SPF 30 Makeup Setting Spray c/o || Coola SPF 30 Full Soectrum 360 Sun Silk Drops c/o || Blush Tulle Sweatshirt || Jeans || Crystal Link Bracelet ||
Happy Friday, friends! Sun protection and skincare are two very important things that I take quite seriously. I mean, who doesn't want to have glowing fresh skin that looks youthful and dewy?? It starts with good nutrition and wearing your sunscreen. Skin cancer runs on both sides of my family too so it’s no joke for me.
Im a big fan of gummy vitamins and use them daily. These Glow Sweet Glow from Hum literally taste like candy! They have a tangerine flavor and I look forward to taking them every morning. You take two heart shaped gummies each day, seeing results in about 4-6 weeks. The key ingredients are low molecular hyaluronic acid (helps keep moisture in the skin!), Amal Fruit (Vitamin C), and Vitamin E. They also stimulate collagen production! Along the same lines is the Collagen POP from Hum. As you can guess, this boosts collagen levels and locks in skin moisture. You dissolve one tablet in 8oz of water and drink your way to better skin. The tablets have a rose and lemon flavor, super yummy tasting! The key ingredients are Premium Marine Collagen and Vitamin C.
One of the most important things we can do for our skin is wear sunscreen daily, no matter the time of the year. I rely on many of my beauty products containing SPF to get my daily dose for my face, but reapplication becomes an issue then. How to apply over makeup? Coola came up with an easy solution in their SPF 30 Makeup Setting Spray. A few mists of the organic spray and you’re set! You can spray throughout the day to re-fresh and get the sun protection all without ruining your makeup. It’s a genius idea and makes on the go sun protection a breeze.
Another way to get your daily dose of full spectrum 360 protection from the sun, environmental toxins and digital exposure is with Coola’s Sun Silk Drops. You apply them after cleansing or mixed in with face lotion or makeup. These drops are for anyone who uses a cell phone, computer, or TV. Digital rays can do serious damage just like the sun. This organic liquid lotion feels light as air, has a golden color, and helps defend against UVA, UVB, IR, and HEV/Blue Light. I was really surprised about the damage digital rays emitted by computers, televisions, and cell phones have on our skin causing premature aging and inducing a skin hyper pigmentation more pronounced than UVB and similar to UVAA. Blue light rays penetrate more deeply into the layers of the skin than UV rays can accelerating skin aging.
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xo, Amanda
A very happy Easter Monday, friends! I hope everyone had a joyous Easter weekend. He is risen, alleluia!! I wanted to share some of my favorite parts from this past holiday weekend. We started with an Easter egg hunt in the backyard and then dyed some eggs, which we later decorated some of Ava’s favorite characters. My dad’s birthday was this past Tuesday, happy birthday dad!, so we celebrated his birthday along with the holiday. Easter Sunday started with church, then a hunt for some baskets the bunny left for Ava, followed by a lunch that I hosted. We lucked out with kind of spring like weather so some walks were also included. It’s wonderul to breathe in the fresh air! It actually snowed last night. It looks a little more like Christmas than Easter right now, but hopefully the couple of inches will melt quickly. I hope everyone has a great start to your week!
xo, Amanda
Sequin Tulle Dress c/o || Ava’s Velvet Dress || Jackie Kennedy Pearl Earrings || Jackie Kennedy Cascade Ring || Stella & Dot Brier Ring || Stella & Dot Engraved Ring ||
Good morning and happy February 1st! It is officially the month of love and what better way to kick it off than with a little Galentine’s Day Party. Just the “gals” here hence, Galentine’s lol. Ava and I spent the better part of a day celebrating and having our yearly party. We started with putting on our makeup and then getting dressed up. Ava picked out her own accessories and was very excited the whole time. The anticipation of it all! This has always been my favorite post to do throughout the entire year and one I always look forward to. Then we set the table together and lastly baked the cookies. She helped spread the icing and sprinkle on the sprinkles, all while enjoying eating some in the process, haha. Ava kept saying it was a tea party and honestly, we’ve been having little tea parties every day since then. Every meal happens at the dining table so why not make it pretty and fun?! After taking some photos, we dug in to all of the goodies and had some girl chats talking about the things we love. The heart ballon has a nice little story behind it. We were out the day before picking up the roses for the party, when a worker at the store just fell in love with Ava. He ended up cutting this ballon down from one of the displays and giving it to her, which was incredibly sweet! Thank you! This was one of the best days I’ve had and couldn't have spent it with a better gal than my little Ava. Cheers to all of the loved ones in your life! <3
xo, Amanda
Gold French Press || Copper Mule Mugs || Gold Spoon || Plaid Dress c/o (Old, Similar Here) ||
Good morning, friends! If you’re like me, then coffee is a big part of your daily routine. I actually drink green tea in the morning and then make some coffee for a pick me up in the afternoon. Recently I started using a French Press to make my coffee. Personally, this is a great option since I only drink one or two cups at the most. Typically with a French Press you only want to make the exact amount you’ll be drinking without any leftover. Think “of the moment”. It’s a very romantic idea! Leaving the coffee in the grounds will only make it bitter when you go to re-heat it.
In most other countries this is called “Cafetiere coffee” while in America we refer to it as French Press. I remember the first time I ever had French Pressed coffee was in a local organic restaurant. They used sweetened condensed milk in it too and it was absolutely delicious! There are many different styles of French Presses out there and at different price points. Some of them are included below! They all look incredibly chic too. The steps to making a fresh cup are faily simple.
If you do end up making more coffee than you can drink at the moment, try pouring the coffee out into another container for later so it does not get bitter sitting in the grounds.
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xo, Amanda
Oh my little Ava bug. These are always my favorite kinds of posts to do. The whole time I was like, oh I love you so much Ava and she kept eyeing the cupcakes haha. She had cake on her first birthday, but this was the first time she had cupcakes and let me tell you, she LOVED them! As you can see from most of the photos, she's holding one and has icing all over her mouth. They were Ava approved! I tried to get our dresses to match as best I could too. I really want to find a store that specializes in matching mother daughter outfits. My dress is an old one from Modcloth. Ava's is a recent one from The Children's Place.
Every Valentine's Day I pretty much prepare the same treats and make sure the house has pretty flowers throughout it. While many feel this may be a "hallmark" holiday, I see it as a day to celebrate all of the love you have in your life. In grade school, we handed out valentines to our friends and as we grew older, we started celebrating with significant others. Whether it be your husband, wife, best friend, mother, father, brother, sister, daughter, or son, you can celebrate with any of these people and show them that you care. The list can go and on and on!
White Eyelet Dress || Humble Chic Pearl Earrings c/o || Lily Lough Necklace c/o || Jackie Kennedy Unity Band || Blossimsib Concentration c/o ||
Being healthy is something that is always at the forefront of my mind. I try to be mindful of what I eat, how much sleep I get, and how much I'm exercising. I recently found BlossimSib and decided to test it out. Being a busy mom on the go, I knew this concentration would have its work cut out for it! I've also been on a few different trips lately, which can put stress on the body, and was glad to know BlossomSib was cleaning my body from the inside out. The concentration strives to clean toxins out of every cell in the body and act as a natural protection from future toxins in the environment. Once completing the concentration, you should feel healthier, younger, and more beautiful while hopefully living a longer life.
The basics of taking the BlossomSib is to fill the piquette half way with the concentration and then pour it into half a glass of water twice daily 30 mins before a meal. This goes on for 12 days with a 3 day break, and then continues on for another 12 days. I've been taking mine for about 2 1/2 weeks now and have a deeper sleep with improved skin. I only have one hormonal pimple right now, while usually I'll have a few more. As being someone who has dealt with acne since middle school, that to me is reason enough to use BlossomSib. I'm also hoping to see an increase in energy. I would say I do have some, but its hard to tell since I've been drinking green tea steadily throughout the day as well. I'll definitely keep everyone updated on my final results once I complete the course!
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xo, Amanda
If I had to describe Cape Cod it would be charming and quaint. Every turn has beautiful bright blooms, picturesque homes, and a 40 mile stretch of gorgeous protected beaches. It's hard not to fall in love with the old world allure. That's not even to mention the scrumptious food too. I haven't had one bad meal there yet. My dad and I were graciously invited to Pain D' Avignon to indulge in one of their meals, we chose breakfast, and were absolutely blown away by their hospitality and incredibly appetizing food. The place was packed with a constant stream of customers coming through the doors. I decided on the Croquet Madame, while my dad had the Oeufs Poches. We both partook in a yummy blueberry tart for a little treat before heading out to enjoy some more antiquing and driving through various communities to explore what they have to offer.
This white dress with pretty pink roses adoring it has a retro inspiration that looks just as beautiful as it feels to have on. The fit and flare style, an absolute favorite of mine, compliments any body figure. I'm wearing a size small and found the length to be a bit longer than a midi style on my shorter frame (5'2.) I have to say, of all the outfits I wore on our trip, this dress got the most compliments. It's a head turner for sure! We ended up in Chatham where the main street is filled with shops and restaurants to fill everyone's interests and delights. At the end of the main street is the beach and lighthouse where the movie The Finest Hours was based out of. It's a destination we never miss!
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xo, Amanda
Floral Dress || My Custom Candy c/o || Earrings c/o || Rumba Time Watch c/o || Jackie Kennedy Unity Band || Candle Stick Holders || Carter's Girl Dress || Similar Cake Stand || Similar Cupcake Stand || Tablecloth || Napkins || Place Mats || Purple Straws ||
I must admit, I do have a bit of a sweet tooth and love to indulge in them sometimes! When I had started to create the custom heart candies, I wanted to include them in a special event. What better than a tea party?! My love for tea must have come from my mom. She would drink it all the time and we eventually started drinking it together whenever we would watch Murder, She Wrote. We would drink tea and have some maple cookies while we tried to solve the mystery along side Jessica Fletcher. This also marked Ava's first time attending a tea party, even though she was a bit young to partake in the goodies, her eyes lit up as soon as she saw the colorful table.
These custom candies are perfect for parties, events, birthday's, Valentine's Day, or just as a special thinking of you gift. First, you can choose up to three different colors. Next, you can select text, an emoji, or upload a company logo. Finally, you can choose either bulk or custom packaging. It could not be more simple than that! My three words are "Enchant," "Elegance," and "Love Bug." The colorful candy with meaningful words on them were such a big hit and such a lovely detail to add.
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xo, Amanda
Gingham Top || Gingham Shorts || Lace Up Heels || Saddle Bag || Karen Walker Sunnies via Shop Ditto (Similar Here) || Lands Downunder Polka Dot Throw c/o || Rose Wine Glasses || Vant Jag Earrings c/o || Jackie Kennedy Unity Band || Otter Box iPhone Case c/o ||
Happy Friday, friends! A few days ago, I got to take Ava for a picnic at our local park to enjoy an afternoon out together. The weather could not have been more splendid. I packed all kinds of goodies that would be tasty for snacking/lunch time. There were berries, brie, crackers, a salad, macarons, and some wine. Ava even had her little lunch of formula too! She was asleep when we first got there, so I let her nap in the stroller while I set up with this gorgeous pink polka dot throw. It is seriously one of the softest blankets I've ever felt. Plus, its reversible making it like getting two throws for one. The cute fringe on the ends, along with the dot patter, puts such a big smile on my face. This was not planned, but did you see Ava's sun hat? It matches the blanket!
When I first saw this gingham top and short set, I thought wouldn't they look great together on a picnic!? I've been totally smitten with gingham lately, too. As I mentioned before, the print has that summery feeling and what is more summery than a fun filled picnic on a warm afternoon. What I love about a matching set is that I can wear each piece separately to create so many different outfits! The top is slightly cropped and has a boxy look to it. The shorts are high waisted and super comfortable. They even have a retro vibe to them, which is right up my ally ;)
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xo, Amanda
Dress: Old, Forever 21 || Rumba Time Watch c/o || Love Today Mug || Teami 30 Day Detox || LOreal Paris Lip Color || Jackie Kennedy Unity Band ||
Love Today Mug || Teami 30 Day Detox c/o ||
Love Today Mug || Teami 30 Day Detox c/o || Humble Chic Bow Blouse c/o || Skinny Jeans || Jackie Kennedy Unity Band || Happiness Boutique Pearl Necklace c/o ||
Jackie Kennedy Unity Band || Cable Knit Sweater || Teami 30 Day Detox c/o || Love Today Mug || Lip Color In Obsession || Policy Of Style Skirt c/o ||
Nightgown: Old || Love Today Mug || Teami 30 Day Detox c/o ||
Love Today Mug || Similar Pink Sweater || Teami 30 Day Detox c/o || Jord Wood Watch c/o || Jackie Kennedy Unity Band ||
Love Today Mug || Temi 30 Day Detox || Red Plaid Shirt c/o || Faux Fur Vest ||
Lip Color In Obsession || Love Today Mug || Tami 30 Day Detox || Jord Wood Watch c/o || Lily Lough Earrings || Lily Lough Necklace ||
Happy Wednesday, friends! Today I'm sharing all about my 30 day detox with Teami teas. I was pretty excited to try this since I started right after the holiday season. I ate a little too much sugar if you know what I mean! To start off with, the 30 day detox includes a skinny tea and a colon cleanse tea. I basically started off my morning, either after Ava finishes eating or while I'm getting dressed, with a mug of the skinny tea. It is very reminiscent of a green tea taste. Then in the afternoon, usually while Ava was taking a nap, I would have my second glass of the skinny tea. Right before bed, every other night, I had the colon cleanse. Now, it's important to read the directions with the colon cleanse since it can be intense. When you take the colon tea at night, in the morning you go to the bathroom. I'm not going to get too graphic about it, but you get a slight cramping sensation and then you need to go. Enough said haha. I would recommend having a glass of water after or before you take the colon tea. Also, only steep the tea for 3 minutes max. I always did mine at 2:30 and used the timer on the microwave.
Now, the actual results! I started off having more energy and being able to sleep better. Those right there would be major pluses for me alone. I did loose about 1 1/2 inches off of my waist line, which is fantastic. 1/2 an inch more and I'll be at my pre-baby size, which was a 25 inch waist. The great thing about that is I did nothing else except drink this tea. I do eat healthy on a regular basis, but I do not exercise as much as I should. Next, it does claim to clear your complexion, but I found mine to be about the same. If anything, I broke out a bit more, which could be due to the detoxification. Your body is getting rid of all the toxins stored in there and guess where it sometimes comes out? I've actually had brake outs while on my own detoxing diets. It happens I suppose.
The jist of the detox tea is taking the colon tea to flush out the harmful toxins from your body, while the skinny tea replenishes your body with health benefits to boost your metabolism, suppress cravings, and raise energy levels. I'd have to say after the 30 days, that I do believe this works. It was nice to have something to look forward to, being on a plan, and knowing that I'm doing something good for my body. Next, I'll be trying Teami Alive and Teami Relax. Sounds perfect for being a new mom!
Use the code 10BREZ to receive 10% off of your Teami tea order.
xo, Amanda
Happy Birthday Confetti | Pastel Balloons | Similar Cake Stand | Blue Dress, Modcloth, Similar |
Ever since my mom passed we have been celebrating my dad's birthday at my house. I love having the chance to host the party and getting to entertain everyone. This year my dad turned 61 and we planned on treating him to dinner and then having cake and coffee back at my house. Angel food cake has always been the staple in my family and I love serving fresh strawberries with it. My brother's girlfriend also made an amazing apple strudel, she'll be a famous chef one day mark my words!, along with the coffee. I used happy birthday confetti to decorate the tables and cake plate, balloons by the fireplace, and banners placed along the walls and fireplace as well. It was such a fun night to enjoy with the family and show my dad how much he is loved.
Last year we had a big celebration since it was my dad's 60th. I really wanted go all out for him and he truly deserves it. We all went out to dinner on his birthday and then hosted a similar dessert party back at my house. Then, a few days later, we drove down to Hotel Hershey for a fabulous Sunday brunch. This had to be the best brunch I have ever had and seen. What a beautiful setting to relax and enjoy. They had every kind of food and dessert you could imagine. I'm glad we were able to do it and make his birthday so special. This happened right before I started this blog last year and never had a chance to share so what better time then when celebrating his birthday this year.
These little bites of delight are super easy to make and are so light and airy they simply melt in your mouth. A huge hit around my house, and made with ingredients usually kept within the house, this is a win-win situation all around. I made these for one of my dinner nights with my dad and lets just say I kept getting requests for seconds and thirds. Great for Fall and they taste like a cinnamon sugar donut! What's not to love?
If you're looking for a yummy dessert to serve, look no further. Chocolate Scotcheroos were made at many family functions over the years; mainly by my aunt Arlene and grandma. These decadent treats please the taste buds with creamy peanut butter and a topping of butterscotch and chocolate morsels. My mouth waters just thinking about them! When I asked Justin what he wanted for our anniversary he said scotcheroos. Always a crowd pleaser and quite simple to make, these little bars should be a staple in everyone's recipe book.
Since both my parents and I share wedding anniversaries so close to one another, theirs is September 22nd and mine September 24th, I decided to make Italian Wedding Soup in honor of the celebrations. This was also the soup served at our reception dinner. A favorite with everyone and sure to be a smash at your next dinner, here is the classic recipe. Bon appetit!
1 large egg
1 lb lean ground beef
1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley
1/2 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
2 tbsp olive oil
1 pkg mirepoix
2 cartons chicken stock
1/3 fresh chopped escarole
1/2 cup acini di pepe pasta
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan Cheese
