Ginger Snap!

What better time to finally find a little time to gather my faves from the past few months than on the first snowed in day of the season? Rounded up a little bit of this and a little bit of that while I’ve been writing Christmas (and one Hanukkah) cards and watching no less than four Netflix Christmas movies. I hope you enjoy! 

Beauty and Fashion:

Essence Brighten Up! Banana Powder - I am OBSESSED with this powder! I use it to both set and brighten up under my eyes, chin and forehead. It is super smoothing and soft, and it’s such a bargain! I usually stock up when Ulta has the entire Essence brand for Buy One Get One 50% off. 

Great Lakes Collagen Protein - The packaging isn’t the cutest, but I am seriously convinced that this collagen protein powder is making my eyelashes grow! I add two heaping teaspoons to my coffee in the morning and you can’t even taste it at all, plus I’m getting some added protein to start my day, which definitely isn’t a bad thing. This brand is almost half the price of Vital Proteins and on Amazon prime - score!

Pink Velvet Scrunchie - Scrunchies are baaaack and this pink velvet one from Target is so cute and only $4.99! 

It's a 10 Miracle Oil plus Keratin - This hair oil is totally worth the hype - it smells amazing and you only need a little for a great smooth and shiny result.

Lifestyle:

Warby Parker Louise Wide Glasses in Birch Tortoise - Earlier this fall I tried Warby Parker’s at Home Try On program for a new pair of reading glasses and was so impressed with the brand, quality and experience! My glasses came quickly and their customer service was top notch. I have the Louise Wide style in Birch Tortoise - kind of a dark blue and khaki mix - and I love them!

Dyson V7 Motorhead in Fuchsia - And now we enter the section of an OMG, LOVE! post in which I obsess about something Chrissy (and her mom) introduced me to. If loving your vacuum is wrong then I don’t want to be right. This thing is AWESOME. It’s cordless, bagless, comes with a ton of great attachments and seamlessly goes from carpet to hard flooring. It’s hands down one of my best purchases in a long, long time. Ugh, I’m so 30.

Apple iPhone XS Max and Heyday Print Case - I may or may not have had a bit of a mid-life crisis yolo moment and upgraded to the iPhone XS Max. #NoRagrets It’s incredible (FaceID 4life) and I love the Heyday case I picked up for it at Target! Heyday is a newer brand at Target and has super cute Apple accessories like iPhone cases and iWatch bands that are really affordable. 

Mpow 059 Over Ear Bluetooth Headphones - I’ve been in the market for some over the ear wireless headphones for a bit and gave these a try after reading all of the positive reviews on Amazon. Bonus - they were $39.99! The quality and comfort for the price is crazy, I love that I can use them wired in with the included headphone jack, or charge them up to use as a wireless bluetooth connection. Perfect for at my work desk and traveling on a plane - a great gift for anyone that needs new head phones!

Food and Bevies:

Cuisinart Griddler - My brother Patrick inspired this purchase and I’m so happy with it! You can use it as an indoor grill, griddler, panini press and a waffle maker (I bought the waffle grates separately). It has a drain that catches excess grease and is really easy to clean - the grates are dishwasher safe! 

Mrs. Anderson's Non-Stick Silicone Baking Mat - This silicone baking mat is a great alternative to parchment paper that you can use over and over again! It’s heat safe up to 480°F and you don’t need to use any added oil or nonstick cooking spray - win!

Trader Joe’s Pizza Crust - Rebecca and I tried this on a whim while she was visiting and I’ve bought them no joked five more times since! You get two flatbreads in a package and can top them with whatever you like. We did a pesto/feta on one and pepperoni/green pepper/mozzarella on the other - they are soooo good! 

Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie - If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert to bring to an upcoming holiday party, look no further than this baby right here! It is so, so easy and SO, SO good! The crust consists of canned cinnamon rolls and yes that is as good (probably even better) as it sounds. Definitely suggest reading the comments and taking the advice to bake the bottom crust for about 5-7 minutes before adding the filling. Give this a try, you won’t regret it!

Entertainment:

TCL Smart 4K Roku TV - Yooooo I got a new TV and it’s so dope! My sweet, sweet friends upgraded me and I’m over here livin’ in 2030 with this 4K smart beauty! 

New Amsterdam on NBC - Out of all the shows that started this fall, New Amsterdam is definitely one of my favorites! It’s kind of a mix between a Grey’s Anatomy and a Law and Order type vibe and riiiight up my alley. 

Old Dominion - Hotel Key - This song is the jaaaam, I’ve got it on repeat! 

Brett Eldredge Glow (Deluxe Edition) - I’ve been fangirling over Brett Eldredge for awhile now and his Christmas album - Glow - is no exception. It has both the classics and some new originals that will definitely get you into the holiday spirit.

What have you been loving lately? What are you wishing for this holiday season? Share it with me on Twitter and Instagram @brit_kotary using #OmgLove!

Clinks and winks <3

OMG, it’s been awhile. Like, a long while. Like, so long that I’ve had this drafted in my Tumblr and titled as “OMG, LOVE! - April and May” and the calendar currently reads September 3rd. HOW on this earth is it already September 3rd?! I am now 30 (trying to also be flirty and thriving) and 2018′s Labor Day Weekend is getting smaller in the rear view. I’m feeling sad another summer season is ending, but thankful for the sunshine and fun times I had with my family and friends in both New York and North Carolina. As usual, there is more I’d love to do, so here’s hoping fall is good to me, too! 

Let’s pick this back up and see if I can get it together (TBD). Here are some of the things I’ve been loving these past few months - many of which I got from my favorite people for my birthday in May! 

Beauty and Fashion:

BeautyGARDE Lash & Brow Shampoo - I got to try this eye makeup remover for free from BzzAgent and it was AMAZING! I actually just used the last of it and will be purchasing! It was so gentle and did an amazing job breaking down even waterproof mascara and eyeliner. It comes with a really soft brush attachment that the product flows through, so it’s easy to apply and work in. A little goes a long way, so it lasts a really long time. Thank you Beauty Garde and BzzAgent! #LoveYourLashes #GotItFree

Old Navy Driving Loafers - I love these affordable loafers from Old Navy so much I have them in Sand, Blackjack and Blushin’ Up! They are really comfortable and great quality for the price!

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer - I got this INCREDIBLE hair dryer for my birthday from the best brother!! I feel SO COOL using it and it seriously lives up to the hype. It is so lightweight, quiet and powerful. If you blow dry your hair a lot and find that you go through cheaper ones pretty quickly, I think it’s definitely work thinking about investing in the Dyson. Thank you so much Patch, love you!!

amika Polished Perfection Mini Straightening Brush - This is another birthday gift that I’m obsessed with! My favorites Erica and Rob sent me this mini straightening brush from Sephora and I have been using it all the time! It heats up quickly and it so great at getting the hair close to my scalp smooth and straight. Thank you Hochs, miss you the most!! 

Lifestyle:

MY VERY OWN 4 THINGS TOTE! - YUP, THAT IS OMG, LOVE! ON MY 4 THINGS TOTE!!! I am still SO excited about this bag months later, I use it each and every day. Thank you to my gf Chrissy for gifting it and her friendship to me, it’s the best and she’s the best!! Before I knew I was getting this from Chrissy, I actually had ordered Rebecca one for her birthday! 4 Things Totes are sold through The Shop Forward and Espwa. Espwa means 'HOPE' in Haitian Creole, and these 4 Things custom totes support spreading hope in Haiti. A donation from each #4ThingsTote bag will help rescue, love, and care for orphans and impoverished children in Haiti by supporting Danita's Children Hope for Haiti Children's Center. 

Apple Watch Series 3 38mm in Gold - This was a birthday gift to myself (thank you, self!) that I seriously love. Have any favorite Apple Watch apps or accessories? Let me know! 

Ralph Lauren Chadwick Medium Tote in Rose Smoke - If you’ve been hanging with me for a little bit, you know this dusty rose, mauve pink is my absolute favorite. I couldn’t pass up this Ralph Lauren tote during Macy’s Friends & Family sale - I love that it has a full zipper and tons of room inside. It makes the perfect everyday and travel bag. 

Queen Bee by Good Chemistry Eau de Parfum Women's Rollerball - Who knew I had my own scent?! JK, but this seriously smells so good and you guessed it, another birthday gift from the fantastic friend squad - thank you Kevin and Shelly! I love rollerballs because they are easy to throw in your bag and travel with.

Food and Bevies:

The Patio at the Unscripted Hotel Durham - Way back when the summer was starting, Jess, Ryan and I went on an adventure to Durham and hit up the Durham Hotel and Unscripted Hotel rooftops for some sunshine and beverages. I loved the vibe at the Unscripted Hotel, it actually reminded me a lot of Miami! I definitely want to go back as we transition into the fall months, who wants to come with me?!

Late July Organic Sea Salt & Lime Tortilla Chips - These lime tortilla chips are soooo good with salsa, guac or on their own! When they have them on sale at Harris Teeter, I stock up. 

Quaker Oats Oatmeal Squares Brown Sugar Cereal - I am honestly shocked that this hasn’t made a favorites list yet. This is probably my most favorite cereal and I can eat it morning, noon and night, with or without milk. The OG brown sugar is my preferred flavor!

bubly Lime Sparkling Water - One week I ran out of LaCroix (gasp!) and I noticed the bubly brand was on sale (PepsiCo’s version of LaCroix). Not being one to pass up a good bargain, I picked up the lime flavor and really love it! I haven’t tried any of the other varieties, so I’m not sure how they stack up flavor for flavor with LaCroix, but the lime hits the spot for me.

Entertainment:

Armchair Expert Podcast - Do you like podcasts? Did you watch Parenthood? If you said yes to both of those questions (and TBH even if you didn’t) I totally recommend this podcast with Dax Shepard. Chrissy shared it with me (of course) and I’ve listened to every episode! 

Queer Eye on Netflix - Let me tell you, Netflix’s Queer Eye reboot was exactly what this world needed. I have watched (and cried at each and every episode) both seasons and am a crazy person stalking the entire cast on Instagram. I am obsessed with how much they love and support one another. If you haven’t watched and need a feel good pick me up, definitely put it on your list!

Jordan Davis - Singles You Up - This song is a jam and I’ve had it on repeat all summer!

Keith Urban - Coming Home ft. Julia Michaels - How freaking talented is Keith Urban?! I also love how much he’s supported and collaborated with female talent, both in and outside of the country music genre. Coming Home with Julia Michaels is so good!!

What have you been loving lately (or like all summer)? What do I absolutely need to add to my list to try or do this fall? Share it with me on Twitter @brit_kotary using #OmgLove!

Clinks and winks <3

How insane is it that we’re already into the fourth month of 2018? Baseball is back and you know what that means! Helloooo springtime, my old friend. My March was definitely not short on activity or excitement. I surprised one of my favorite people for her 30th birthday in Dallas and I started a new job (<---!!!!)! Here are some of the things I loved during the month! 

Beauty and Fashion:

Ardell Magnetic Strip Lash Double 110 - I’ve been in search of these magnetic lashes since seeing them on Popsugar and Buzzfeed and for a while, the only place you could buy them was at Sally Beauty. I think they are finally making their way into Ulta and Target by now. I’ve never been skilled with traditional glue on lashes, so I knew I had to give these a try. They definitely take some getting used to, but I LOVE them. They are so, so comfortable and easy to wear. You put them on after your mascara, so you can use and reuse them over and over! I struggled to get the full band to work on my eye shape, so i trimmed them a bit and use just a portion of them on the outer corner of my eyes for a more natural look. 

Makeup Train Case Organizer with Adjustable Dividers by TOP S.X. - I saw this in @mrsvitale’s Instagram story as her favorite makeup bag and decided to order one from Amazon to try for myself. While it isn’t the cutest thing on the planet (at first it was giving me major lunch pail vibes), it was very inexpensive and I love that you can move the dividers around to fit your custom needs. And Laura Vitale was right, it fits SO much stuff. It forced me to get more organized with my makeup and I absolutely love it. 

Lifestyle:

Glade Fine Fragrance Mist in No.1 Enraptured Atmosphere Collection - I received this Jasmine and Cedarwood room spray to try and review from BzzAgent. I really like the packaging and the smell is amazing. There are four total scents in this line and I’d definitely pick it up in the future. I did receive this product for free in exchange for my feedback, but promise my thoughts are my honest own! If you want to learn more about BzzAgent head here: http://u.bzz.com/5g301

Topgolf - During my trip to Dallas (it was also my first time to Texas!) we went to Topgolf and I am ready to start whatever kind of petition I need to in order to get one in Raleigh. It was so fun!! The location in Charlotte will have to do for me for now, but if you have one near you and haven’t been, I’d totally recommend trying it regardless of your level of golf experience! 

Food and Bevies:

Easy Bagel Recipe from Skinny Taste - I cannot stop talking about and making these bagels from Skinny Taste. When I saw the video on Facebook, I thought, for sure they can’t be that easy and actually come out good. Not only did they blow me away, but also made a believer out of my skeptical, Ina Garten worshiping brother. They are INcredible and so, so incredibly simple. All you need is flour, baking powder, salt and greek yogurt for the dough and an egg-white wash and seasoning of your choice for the top. I’m a fan of topping them with the Everything but the Bagel Sesame Seasoning Blend from Trader Joe’s. I’ve made them at least five times now and trust me, if I can make a HOMEMADE bagel, so can you. 

[Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Angela Elias]

Emma Reichart Rosé from Trader Joe’s - If you spot this affordable rose in Trader Joe’s, definitely scoop it up. You won’t be disappointed! It isn’t too sweet or dry and it’s $5!! I was intrigued by it being called a “Pinot Noir Rose” and am happy I’ve since picked up four or five bottles because let me tell you, it is very, very easy to drink, cc: Jess. 

Entertainment:

Meghan Trainor, No Excuses - NEW JAM ALERT! Been bopping to this song at every opportunity and am such a fan of Meghan Trainor’s voice and spirit. Get it girl! She even worked with Zumba to make a separate video with Zumba choreography and instructors. I love that! Such a smart and fun branding integration. 

Big Little Lies and Libby - I’m pretty sure this was yet another winning recommendation from Chrissy! And I have Meghan to thank for introducing me to the Libby app, it’s the best! You can add multiple library cards and keep all your requested and borrowed books super organized. I absolutely flew through the Big Little Lies audiobook and HBO series and can’t wait for the second season with the QUEEN Meryl Streep! 

Feeling pretty blessed for the opportunities that have come my way and the constant support I’ve gotten from those around me. I’m ready and excited for what is to come. What have you been loving lately? Share it with me on Twitter @brit_kotary using #OmgLove!

Clinks and winks <3

Isn’t it crazy how it felt like January was the longest month, while February flew by in a flash? For me, it seemed like there was a pretty good balance of both productivity and downtime, so I am very thankful for that. I picked up some new loves along the way and am excited to share them with you!

Beauty and Fashion:

Neutrogena Anti- Residue Shampoo - I have my girl Allie Mac to thank for recommending this clarifying shampoo to me! It really helps to de-gunk my hair without leaving it too dried out. I pick mine up at Target.com or Amazon and use it once a week or every other shampoo. 

Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray - I’ve tried a few drugstore setting sprays and while they work well, nothing holds a candle to the All Nighter Setting Spray from Urban Decay. I’ve tested it out on light makeup days and more full faced looks and it always makes my makeup last and look better, longer. I picked mine up in a discounted double pack at Macy’s last summer and just cracked open my second bottle.

Lifestyle:

Greeting Cards at Trader Joe’s - I have always been a strong believer in “it’s the thought that counts” when it comes to greeting cards. I love to give and receive them, but I can’t get behind a $5 or $6 Hallmark card when most of the time they get thrown away after the shared sentiment is received. True story when I was little and I’d make homemade cards, I always drew a crown and UPC on the back, how cute was I?! Anyway, enter Trader Joe’s cards that are 99 cents. LESS THAN ONE DOLLAR PEOPLE! They are on great quality paper and have beautiful artwork and verses on them. I like to pick up a bunch every month or so to have on hand for birthdays, thank yous, anniversaries and just because. Last week when I was picking up a new batch, the associate that was checking me out told me that they are changed each week! I knew they changed a lot because I hadn’t seen the same card twice, but every week! That is amazing and even more reason to love them. 

Amazon + Dollar Store Life Hacks - Two kinda, sorta life hacks that I’ve shared on my Instagram recently (@brit_kotary!) have to do with Amazon and the Dollar Store. Long story short I had a cute, ceramic soap dispenser that I loved but had somehow broken the arm on the pump. I was sad to think about tossing the entire thing, so I jumped on Amazon to see if a separate, stock pump existed that I could get to replace it. Lucky enough I found this one and my little soap dispenser was saved! Always check the ‘zon. The second is to pick up inexpensive disposal rubber gloves at the Dollar Store (I prefer Dollar Tree) and use them when doing dishes and cleaning to help protect and preserve my nicely manicured nails. I also like to check the Dollar Store for things like shower and sink cleaning brushes. They are the same quality as more pricey options and I don’t feel bad about tossing them and buying new ones when they get gross. Do you have any Amazon or Dollar Store hacks or tips? I’d love to hear them!

Food and Bevies:

Hello Fresh - Somehow I am very late on the mailed meals train, but I finally gave Hello Fresh a try in February and had a great experience with it! I love to cook and actually really enjoy grocery shopping (most of the time). I had a promo code for $50 off two weeks (3 meals per week) and found some great new recipes and techniques to add to my cooking repertoire. I can’t justify the regular price for my budget and needs, but I can see how it would be really convenient if you lived in a large, expensive city and getting groceries wasn’t as easy as it is out here in the burbs. My recommendation is if you have a promo or discount code, it’s totally worth checking out and having fun with!

NapTimeKitchen - Earlier this month my PIC Chrissy shared @NapTimeKitchen’s Instagram with me and I am so obsessed, I find myself opening the app just to check if she’s updated! Kate has a great, honest and positive personality and shares the best tips and ideas for cooking, Trader Joe’s shopping and just straight up life. Definitely check out her page and give her a follow!

Entertainment:

The Greatest Showman - Shoutout to Chrissy #2 for recommending what I believe to be one of the (no exaggeration) best movies I’ve seen in my entire life. If you have not seen this movie yet, run, do not walk to see it while it’s still in theaters. I immediately purchased the soundtrack after seeing it and have been listening to it on #repeat. What are your favorite songs if you’ve seen it? Mine are Come Alive, Never Enough, This is Me and Rewrite the Stars. UGH IT’S ALL SO GOOD!!  

Kesha: “Praying” 2018 GRAMMYs Performance - I can’t get the embed code for this video to work properly for some reason, but if you haven’t had the pleasure of watching this live performance, I encourage you to experience it. I love the song, I love the strength and I love the power of hope in the message. Bravo, Kesha and thank you.

#OnTheFence:

I’m including this bonus #OnTheFence category because I’m, well, on the fence about it. I had written about previously trying the L'Oreal Paris EverCurl HydraCharge Shampoo, Conditioner and Cream Gel in a former post. Short story it was terrible and I think I even threw it away. So when I got an Influenster invite to try the EverPure Frizz-Defy Shampoo and EverPure Frizz-Defy Conditioner, I was pretty skeptical. So far I thiiink I like it, but I need to give it some more time. It has a hint of a pleasant sunscreen smell and feels pretty moisturizing but so far not too heavy. Maybe they took some feedback from the last round of reviews! Full disclosure: I received both products complimentary to try from Influenster, but all opinions are my honest own. If you like trying products in exchange for feedback, I totally suggest checking out Influenster!

What were you loving in February that I should try? Anything coming up in March that I need to check out? Share it with me on Twitter @brit_kotary using #OmgLove!

Clinks and winks <3

January, you brought us snow, ice, some more snow, 70 degrees and back again. It did seem like a longer than normal month and I’m excited to be one step closer to spring, consistent spring-like weather and spring-time activities! I’m probably getting a bit ahead of myself, but hoping never hurt. Here’s a little bit of what I was loving in January!  

Beauty and Fashion:

Urban Decay Vice Ultimate Pair in Backtalk (Lipstick) and Rush (Liner) - It’s true, I’m a sucker for any kind of creamy, pinky-nude, mauve lip shade. The formula of this Urban Decay Vice lipstick paired with the lip liner is incredible. It is super comfortable and long-lasting. Fun fact: the gorgeous Rebecca Van Tassell wore this lipstick shade on her wedding day and it was a perfect addition to her stunning look! 

Ked’s Glimmer Tweed Slip-On Sneaker - It can be dangerous when I have a DSW coupon to use. Luckily, I stumbled upon these affordable and cute slip-on sneakers form Ked’s. They scream SPRING! to me and I’ve been wearing them every time the thermometer was above 50 this past month. Annnnd as I edit this, I just got another DSW reward in my email so let me know if y’all have gotten anything good at DSW lately!

Lifestyle:

YETI 20oz Rambler Tumbler with MagSlider Lid - I know I am waaaay behind on the Yeti Rambler train, but I’ve been loving my new one I picked up a few weeks ago at REI! The MagSlider Lid is awesome because one thing I hate about tumbler lids is that you can’t really get the top part clean. The sliding lid closure on this one is a magnet and pops right off for easy and thorough cleaning. Bonus, the entire thing is dishwasher safe!

Threshold Mercury Glass Stacked Ball Floor Lamp - This lamp is from Target (cue gasps) and for some reason was on a huge clearance discount in-store a few weeks ago. It was really simple to put together and I love how it looks a little retro, but still totally my style with the metallic accents. 

Food and Bevies:

Ninja Coffee Bar Thermal Carafe System - I got this as a gift from my brother for Christmas and I am so enjoying it!! I used to be team Keurig, but I couldn’t resist the versatility or the Sofia Vergara endorsement of the Ninja Coffee Bar. You can make single-cups in different sizes, full carafes, iced coffee, espresso and it comes with a built-in milk frother, a thermal carafe and an iced coffee carafe! I’m super extra and even got this KRUPS GX5000 Professional Electric Coffee Burr Grinder with Grind Size and Cup Selection so now I buy whole beans that I can freshly grind and enjoy with my Ninja! THANK YOU PATCH, I love you!! 

OXO Good Grips 3-in-1 Avocado Slicer - If you love and enjoy avocados often, you NEED this slicer. The pit removing tool alone is worth $10 in my opinion. It may seem like a silly kitchen gadget, but I’m obsessed with mine and use it almost every day! 

Entertainment:

Justin Timberlake - Say Something ft. Chris Stapleton - Who else is beyond excited to see JT kill it at the Super Bowl this weekend?! I am loving his new single with the incredible Chris Stapleton. The video is awesome too! 

Schitt's Creek - Is it just me or are the new TV shows that have debuted so far this year not that great (if you are somehow still watching 911 on Fox, we must discuss)? Luckily our OG go-tos are starting to come back and we have gems like Schitt’s Creek to binge on Netflix. It’s sarcastically funny and really well written. I’m looking forward to the release of the 4th season!

What were you obsessing over in the first month of 2018? Have any fun plans for February? Share them with me on Twitter @brit_kotary using #OmgLove!

Clinks and winks <3

I hope everyone had an incredible holiday season and December! It’s absolutely bananas to me that Christmas is already over and that this month and entire YEAR is ending in just a few days. I already shared this on my Instagram, but I’m going to include it here too, because I love this quote and truly mean it. 

“I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.” Ol Charlie Dickens had the right idea, y’all. Feeling a little sad this joyous and generous time of year is coming to a close, but also so very grateful for the people who care for me from Atlantic to Pacific. Wishing everyone a Merry little Christmas and the absolute best in 2018 💜🎄🎊

Beauty and Fashion:

American Rag Edee Ankle Booties in Cognac at Macy’s - I saw these booties in-store last year and didn’t snatch them up in time before they were out of stock for the season. I finally picked up a pair and have been wearing them ALL the time. They are so comfortable and go with everything; love them and the fun exposed zipper detail. 

Chop Chop - I cut my hair!! Thank you to Chrissy for being my hair inspo and support system in going for a shorter cut! 💇🏻‍♀️ I absolutely love it and have been wanting something different for a looong time. The lob/shorter hair style has been popular for awhile now, but I was always hesitant to do it with my hair. I feel really comfortable with my stylist here (who I found through Groupon when I first moved to NC!) and trust that she understands my super thick and natural texture to give me something I can work with whether I want to style it or not. I’d totally recommend Samantha Pierce Hair Design if you’re local and in need of someone! She is located the Sola Salons right off Glenwood, past Crabtree Mall.

Lifestyle:

ban.do Medium Agenda in Rose Parade - It’s that time of year where I buy an agenda and try to be more organized, creative and cool. I did pretty good last year with my Sugar Paper one - lord knows I had quite a few activities and items to keep track of in 2017. I of course use the iCal app on my phone and computer, but there is just something about having a place to physically write something down and see everything laid out in one spot. If you’re in the market for a 2018 agenda, planner or calendar, I definitely recommend looking at HomeGoods/TJ Maxx/Marshalls! I picked up this ban.do one that retails for $28 at Home Goods for only $12.99! The stores I visited had a ton of options, colors and sizes ranging from $6.99-$19.99. The one I picked up comes with a pocket folder, stickers and very important “holiday” information as can be seen above.

Glisten Disposer Care Foaming Cleaner - Okay, I know this is kind of weird, but I totally got sucked into one of those Buzzfeed articles (specifically 27 Amazing Cleaning Products You’ll Never Regret Buying) and HAD to try these. If you have a garbage disposal you must go on Amazon right this very moment ($6.37 for a four pack) and get them or just watch the video of what the blue foam does. It is like an amazing science experiment and it might just be an illusion, but I swear my disposal is running faster and better. 

Food and Bevies:

Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach - I can’t be trusted when I go to the grocery store with nothing to do afterwards. I do things like buy a package of ground Italian sausage when it’s on super sale and put it in my freezer for a month. Enter a Pinterest search (follow me!) for something to do with it and I found this recipe from Yellow Bliss Road. It was incredible and I will definitely be purposefully buying Italian sausage to make it again! 

My recipe notes for anyone who is interested:

- I used a can of crushed tomatoes that also had extra garlic, basil and oregano in it. The recipe calls for its own amount of garlic and fresh basil (I used half the amount it called for of dried instead), I just had this kind of canned crushed tomato on hand and think it gave it even more flavor. 

- For the onion, I grated (instead of diced) one entire medium sized onion. I did this on a cutting board with a box grater and used all of the juices that came out the onion as well. This brought out a lot of onion flavor and almost melted into the soup.

- I used an entire bag of fresh baby spinach - it calls for two cups of packed, but I just used the whole bag.I made the entire base of this soup the night before I was going to have it. I didn’t put the fresh spinach or tortellini in until the day I was first going to have it. When it reheats a few days after the tortellini gets a little mushy, but still tastes really good.

- I used light olive oil instead of vegetable oil.

Utica Bakery (in North Carolina) - If you live in the greater Triangle region, I totally recommend taking a trip to the Utica Bakery in Apex. It’s right off of the toll portion of 540 and is completely worth the short drive! They have so many of the amazing Italian bakery items I grew up enjoying in Central New York like half-moons, cookies, breads and cannolis. Don’t get me wrong, I love the amazingness that are North Carolina donuts and biscuits, but these are different amazing and you just have to try them for yourself. Let me know if you go, because there is a very good chance I’ll come with you. 

Entertainment:

Brother’s Osborne Ain’t My Fault - This song has been my jam since seeing Brother’s Osborne perform it at the CMA Awards and the music video I just watched for the first time today is pretty great too. After seeing their performance, I immediately purchased the entire Pawn Shop album and have really been enjoying listening to it. Fun fact I saw brother T.J. at a boutique the first time I went to Nashville a few years ago (before they really blew up) and I thought he was Josh Turner because he has such a low voice haha. 

*Sidenote: If you want to watch another amazing country performance from the 2017 CMA Awards, check out Dierks Bentley, Rascal Flatts, Montgomery Gentry - My Town. I’ve watched it so many times and I always get chills and teary eyed. And if you want to watch yet another country/crossover performance that isn’t quite as emotional in a sad way, I recommend Justin Timberlake and Garth Brooks - Friends In Low Places because how stinking cute is Justin Timberlake fan girling over Garth Brooks?! Can you tell I spend a lot of time on YouTube?*

Snowed-Inn Christmas on Lifetime - I watched many a Christmas movie this season and I have to say Snowed-Inn Christmas on Lifetime was one of my favorites. It was what you’d expect from a Lifetime/Hallmark’esk holiday movie, but it was so cute and Bethany Joy Lenz (hello Haley from OTH) is in it! Thanks for the best recommendations as always, Rebecca! ❄️📺🎅🏼

What were you loving, gifting or receiving in December? Find any can’t miss post-holiday sales or deals? Share them with me on Twitter @brit_kotary using #OmgLove!