Fall is right around the corner!

Fall is right around the corner!

by brettdanielle ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Whoa, new blog post who dis?! It’s been over a year and a half since I wrote my last post, and I’ll be honest, when I first started this journey I had no clue what I was getting in to. I doubted myself, compared myself, and let life get in the way of this passion of mine. Getting my blog back up and running has been a goal of mine for a couple of months now, and guess what, I finally did it! I’m no tech expert, and I’m still figuring out/re-learning how to even create a blog… you know, all the links, the layout and making it pretty. But I know it’ll come back to me with a little practice and patience. In the meantime, I’m going to share this incredibly cute sweater that Woodenships sent over to me. And I know, I know. Some of you are thinking it’s way too early to be thinking about fall. And I’m right there with you considering it’s going to be nearly 90 degrees this week. But it’s literally right around the corner. School is starting back up, football is on TV again… there’s no denying that it’ll be here any minute. I also wanted to share this sweater, and this company in general with you girls.

When Woodenships first reached out to me, I was ecstatic… you can even ask those closest to me. This company stands for so many things that I believe in, and issues that I’m passionate about. So when they asked to collaborate I didn’t hesitate. The founders believe in a no-waste approach. Meaning, instead of creating this huge, mass production of items that might not sell and then dumping the merchandise, each item is made to order. I love this! And what’s even better, they are constantly giving back and donating to organizations all over the world. I could go on and on about how amazing this company is, how they’re conscious of their carbon footprint, how they have amazing customer service, as well as a very low return rate. And my personal experience can back up how amazing of a company they are, genuine and so fun to work with.

I chose this Autumn sweater because who doesn’t love this season?! 🙂 It’s also so lightweight, and I love the slouchy, casual look it has. Perfect piece to transition into fall with! I’m going to leave Woodenships website right HERE so you girls can check out their story and how they came to be. Make sure to also check out their inventory, because I’m not just saying this, but they really do carry the cutest items. I love how unique and comfy they are!

💕Brett

Holiday Gifting with Jord Watches

Holiday Gifting with Jord Watches

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Holiday Gifting with Jord Watches

It’s that time of year, and Christmas is less than a month and half away. I’m usually someone who shops ahead, but sometimes there’s that special someone who seems to be a little harder to shop for.

Jord Watches has ended that streak for me. The quality of their products is unlike any other. As soon as I opened the box I couldn’t believe the care that went into every little detail. From the burlap pillow your watch hugs, to the handmade wood box it was packaged in. Everything was beyond my expectations.

Jord also offers so many different styles, you’re bound to find more than one in your shopping cart. I loved the neutral tones of my watch because it goes with everything!

I also love how weightless and beautiful Jord’s watches are. Because I want you all to experience this love, and give you time to do a little shopping yourself, I’m offering my readers a 25% off coupon code. You can access the code right here. The link is good until December 15th, so don’t wait!

For women’s watches click here

For men’s watches click here

Happy shopping!

💕Brett

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Sweater Weather

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Okay, seriously guys this is my favorite time of the year because who doesn’t love a good sweater to cozy up in?! I did a little holiday shopping this weekend, and I’ll admit, I’m on of those girls who can’t help but get a few things for myself while shopping for others. And this weekend I did a sweater haul!! Below are a few looks I picked up that I’m swooning over!

Free People V-Neck Pullover found Here

Dreamers Knit Pullover found Here

Fire engine red Pullover found Here

The French Connection sweater I purchased isn’t listed online anymore, however Here is a very similar one!

Thanks for stopping by, hope you all have a wonderful week!

💕Brett

Give me all the embellishments!

Give me all the embellishments!

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One trend I am seriously obsessing over this season is embellishments! They’re on sweaters, jeans, shirts, everywhere- and just in time for the holidays. Today I’m sharing a look at one of my favorite sweaters, which is actually vintage! That’s another thing I love- when trends come back into style. I’m so glad I held onto this little treasure of mine! Since this sweater is no longer available, I’m sharing some looks that you can snag for yourself right now. Hope everyone has a beautiful day!

Knit sweater found Here

Appliqué sweater found Here

Pearl crop jeans found Here

Puffy embellished sleeve blouse found Here

Pearl denim jacket found Here

Pearl embellished ankle strap heels- they also come in nude!! Found right Here

💕Brett

Golden Birthday– and 10 things about me!

Golden Birthday– and 10 things about me!

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Hi sweet friends!  How was your weekend?! Ours went way too fast, like always! We had a very busy weekend celebrating my golden birthday! That’s right, I turned 29 on the 29th. To say I’m a little sad my twenties are almost over is an understatement, but I also enjoy all the exciting things that come with getting a little older. So here’s to making this the best year yet! Today on the blog I wanted to get a little more personal and share 10 things you probably didn’t know about me, so here we go!

1.    I was originally supposed to be name Danielle, but it got pushed to my middle name! Instead, I was named after an ‘80s TV mini-series that starred Patrick Swayze and Kristie Alley called North and South. There were two twin sisters, one Brett and one Ashton.

2.    I was born with a rather large beauty mark on my left cheek. Growing up I was always super self-conscious about it, and it actually took up until the last few years where I embraced it. I was visiting with a dermatologist on options to remove it, but it was my boyfriend Mike who actually made me feel so beautiful to have it. Thanks Babe!

3.    Halloween is my all-time FAV holiday- obviously having a birthday just two days before it helps. But it’s also the perfect time and excuse to be able to do all those wonderful fall activities- going to the pumpkin patch, hay rack rides, bon fires… It’s my overall favorite time of year, and then of course Christmas.

4.    I live with my boyfriend Mike, his seven year old son Carson, and our dog Zoey. We’re the perfect example of a blended family, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. We have a great friendship with Carson’s mom and step-dad, and I wish all blended families could experience what we do. One of my favorite things we do is taking one big family picture after church each Easter!

5.    I love to paint. That’s right you heard me. I’ve painted our kitchen twice, our living room twice, the office, Carson’s bedroom and our bedroom. Also add in any diy projects I’ve done too! I change my mind a lot, and as fads come and go, I like to try and represent them in our home. I’m also so against browns, which is why I’m slowly brightening things up with grey’s and whites all throughout our home.

6.    I love to travel. It’s seriously my favorite thing to do, and I’d rather take a trip than get gifts. Mike and I have taken multiple trips every single year since we’ve been together. We both share a love for trying local restaurants!

7.    Growing up I wasn’t in to sports at all. Mike has since changed that, and I now love football, golf, baseball and hockey! And to be honest, if you had to ask me to narrow it down baseball is my go-to sport now! Go Cubs!

8.    I come from a very, very large extended family. Both of my parents had six siblings, and they all had multiple kids. I’m closer in age to some of second cousins!

9.    I really don’t have much of a sweet tooth. I love anything salty- which includes chips and salsa. And queso. Who doesn’t love salsa and queso?! Mike, however is the total opposite and has the biggest sweet tooth of anyone I’ve ever met!

10.  I love to write, which was one of the things that influenced me to start blogging. I’m still very new to the blogging world, but the last few weeks have been a sponge trying to soak in as much tips from other bloggers as I can. So far, it’s been so fun and the people I’ve met have all have all been so wonderful!

💕Brett

Shredded Chicken Chili

Shredded Chicken Chili

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So, if you live near me, then you know it’s been pretty drizzly over the past week or so, and today is no different. It was extremely hard to wake up after having Monday off, but hey at least it’s already Tuesday! This rainy weather has me bundling up in lots of sweaters and blankets, as well as making some home made comfort food! So today I’m going to be sharing one of my absolute favorite recipes. Seriously, you have to try it. Mike and Carson love it and there’s usually never any leftovers! What are some good comfort meals you like? Feel free to share as I’m always looking for new foods to cook!!

This color block sweater is everything and I’ll be living in it all Fall! Get yours Here.

And here’s another picture in natural light (way better!)

And now for the soup!! It takes about a half hour to make and serves 4-6 servings. Most of the time I will make two batches just to ensure there’s enough, and it’s always good for leftovers. Recipe courtesy of https://ketogasm.com/shredded-chicken-chili-recipe/

Ingredients:

• 4 large chicken breasts, cooked and shredded

• 1 tablespoon of butter

• 1/2 diced onion

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (don’t drain)

• 1/3 can (3 oz) tomato paste

• Chili powder, 1 tablespoon

• Cumin, 1 tablespoon

• Garlic powder, 1/2 tablespoon

• 1 jalapeño (optional- I leave it out for the little one!)

• Cream cheese, 4 oz (I usually do a whole thing to make it creamier)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare chicken by boiling chicken breasts in water or broth on stovetop for 10-12 minutes, just barely covered in liquid. Once the meat is no longer pink, remove from fluid and shred with two forks. This same technique can also be used with a pressure cooker at pressure for 5 minutes with a natural release, or a slow cooker for 4-6 hours. Whatever’s clever for you! Rotisserie chicken meat can be substituted for the breasts as well.

2. In a large stockpot, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent.

3. Add the shredded chicken, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and jalapeno to the pot and combine by gently stirring over the burner. Bring to a boil, then drop it down to a simmer over medium-low heat and cover for 10 minutes.

4. Cut cream cheese into small, 1-inch chunks.

5. Remove lid and mix in the cream cheese. Increase the heat back up to medium-high and continue to stir until the cream cheese is completely blended in. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Eat as-is or garnish with toppings of your choice. I love cilantro and Monterey jack cheese for ooey gooey goodness.

Fall Vibes

Fall Vibes

by brettdanielle ♥ 0 Leave a Comment

Happy Friday eve, loves! Today I wanted to share this adorable fall outfit! I’m crushing on anything maroon at the moment and these pants are the bees knees! I love the detail on them and it makes it so easy to pair with a simple sweater and booties! What are some styles you’re loving this season? Feel free to share below or comment on my instagram!

These pants, wth the zipper sides and all the detail are 👌🏼 I purchased these this week from my local Dillard’s but unfortunately wasn’t able to find them online so I’ve linked some similar ones Here // Here.

These booties were purchased last year, but they’re still available. They come in five different colors and are currently on sale- win, win!

I purchased this sweater last fall, and it’s another Gianni Bini find (seriously one of my favorite brands!) but I linked some other white sweaters that I’m currently loving Here // Here.

💕Brett

Family Pictures 2017

Family Pictures 2017

by brettdanielle ♥ 1 Comment

Today on the blog I wanted to share a few more of our family pictures that we had taken earlier this summer. I’ve made it a point to make sure we have family pictures taken at least once a year. Not only do I then have professional pictures for holiday cards and to have around the house, but I love to see the changes a year can bring. The biggest change for us at the moment is displayed in Carson’s mouth, and by that I mean he’s totally keeping the tooth fairy in business these days!

This year I was fortunate enough to have won a contest and received a discounted price on family pictures! I seriously NEVER win anything so to say I was excited is an understatement. We had so much fun with Kristen, our photographer and I’ve linked her website right here: http://www.kristen-leighphotography.com

I definitely recommend her as she made the entire session so fun, and was ‘go with the flow’ the entire time. Even Mike made a comment of how nice she was.

I will say, one thing I do freak out about is what we’re going to wear.. I always want it to look effortless and like we didn’t try too hard to coordinate. And so from the moment I schedule pictures I will seriously stress over what we should wear, which dress for me, what shirt for Mike… I’m terrible, I know! But I can’t help it. In my mind, if I’m going to pay a good amount of money for pictures, then I want them to look perfect! Of course, like always, we ended up figuring everything out at the last moment, and honestly I think all the colors and prints came together pretty nicely- not to brag!

I’m also always looking for new places to have our pictures taken so if anyone has any suggestions feel free to share. As always, thanks for stopping by!

💕Brett

First Family Vacay

First Family Vacay

by brettdanielle ♥ 1 Comment

Mike and I have been together a little over five and a half years. We’ve been fortunate enough to travel to some amazing places, and have made life long memories that we will always treasure. It was this spring when Southwest Airlines was having another one of their awesome sales on flights, and it made me think of where we should go next. It was in that moment I realized we had never gone on a family vacation, it had always just been Mike and me.

So I was on a mission- a mission where I bugged him probably 15 times throughout one consecutive week about nailing down some dates and purchasing tickets so we could finally go on our first family vacation that included Carson! And Chicago it was- so Carson and I could experience our first Chicago Cubs baseball game. Below are a few pictures from our trip.

Our first night we ate at a local BBQ restaurant and enjoyed some wings. We of course ended the meal with some amazing desserts- fried Oreos and bread pudding. One of the things Mike and I love to do while on vacation is eat at as many local restaurants as we can- we love food! Haha

we had a few rain drops our first day but once the skies cleared up it was perfect the rest of our trip! Carson thought the Bean was so cool!

Navy Pier was another highlight, and with a seven year old he was definitely entertained. One thing I learned from this trip is traveling with a little one is obviously much different than an adult vacation. We made sure to do things where Carson would stay entertained, but it was also fun for Mike and I as well. You also have to remind yourself to make sure they always hold your hand, and to get out of the taxi on the sidewalk side! Haha

We were lucky enough to go to two Cubs games and both came out with a W! The second night we went all out and sat seven rows up from third base and Carson caught a ball from Javy Baez!! If you ask him his favorite part of the trip you can bet that moment is it!

Thanks for reading, and letting me share my love for my boys and the amazing trip we had. I’m already excited to see where we’ll decide to go for our next vacation- I’m thinking something on the west coast! If anyone has any family friendly vacay spots that they recommend please share- I’d love to hear!

💕Brett