MOROCCANOIL® BEAUTY

January 15, 2018January 16, 2018 StephanieRaeOrtiz

Hello My Beautiful Loves,

Happy Winter! It’s snowing here today and it’s so beautiful outside. So today’s post I’m featuring one of my Favorite Brands I use for Healthy Hair Treatments!

I have rather Coarse Hair naturally and with the Wonders of Winter Weather well it can really play havoc on my Hair and make it slightly unmanageable if I don’t stay on top of keeping it Moisturized. The winter air is so drying which can make my hair a bit brittle so moisture is a must!

I’ve learned over the years the importance of keeping a healthy hair regimen throughout the year rather than simply reacting to Winter. It’s all about consistency with Beauty in general Ladies and preventative treatment trumps reactive repair!

I notice also that when we are merely ‘reactive’ we have a higher expectation of the products we buy. We want them to work ‘immediately’ rather than giving them the right amount of time to do what they were designed to do.

So today I’m featuring MOROCCANOIL® as it’s been a tried and true product go-to of mine since 2008. A gal at church came up to me and commented on how beautiful and thick my hair was and asked what I used. I shared and she said oh I am going to bring you this Oil, Moroccan Oil – have you heard of it? I was like no I haven’t and she brought me a little bottle the next Sunday. It was heavenly! Like the best smelling liquid gold -ever made for hair, ha! It smells amazing and I think that’s what made me a fan initially as I am totally a ‘smells’ person. But as I consistently used it, I could see the benefits it provided. My hair seemed more manageable, sleeker, smoother and, felt healthier. I used it to condition my hair before bed and prior to styling.

Here are My Four Favorites,

SHOPPING LINKS >> MoroccanOil Hydrating Styling Cream (here) | MoroccanOil Glimmer Shine Spray (here) | MoroccanOil Intense Hydrating Mask (here) | MoroccanOil Treatment (here)

TO FINISH

I use the Glimmer Shine Spray (here) for final touches as it, literally has gold shimmer in it! I spray it on my legs for an extra glow in the spring/summer also – so random, I know! 😉

(Tip: Sign up (here) for free to become a Beauty Circle Member and you’ll get free shipping You know I love my free shipping!)

TO TREAT

I use the Intense Hydrating Mask (here). I typically purchase travel size products when it comes to my masks as I find that I waste less product this way.

TO NOURISH & FOR BRAID DAYS

I use the Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream (here) It conditions, hydrates and fights frizz, especially for coarser hair like mine. It’s like a nourishing soft-hold cream if I had to put it into my own words. It also is great with taming flyaways!

TO MOISTURIZE

I use the Moroccanoil Treatment (here). This was the first MoroccanOil product that I ever used, tried and true since 2008 as I previously mentioned and I love it! It’s the best, also a stylist favorite. It comes in three sizes I believe. I prefer the Pump but I’ve had them all. I use this to moisturize as well as to shine. I use it before bed and I use it prior to styling. It’s every bit of amazing and perhaps also my favorite product mentioned today!

Thankful for products like this that are made from goodness and you reap great results!

XOXO,

Fun Fact: Moroccanoil Pure Argan Oil is 100% Pure Argan Oil, which is known for its nourishing and conditioning properties for the skin, nails and hair. It may be applied as a moisturizer over areas that need pampering, and/or as a richly hydrating hand, nail and cuticle treatment.

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FRIDAY FAVES| Jan 5

January 5, 2018January 26, 2018 StephanieRaeOrtiz

Hello & Happy New Year My Beautiful Friends,

It’s been a while and oh how I’ve missed you. I’ve been a little consumed with work, enjoying time with my husband, raising our little loves, managing home, preparing for & enjoying the holidays, along with every moment of our time with family and I’ve somewhat neglected my blog yet I took some time to plan out 2018 and let’s just say I’m uber excited about it!

What an amazing year we closed out in 2017! Lots and lots of hard work accomplished.

I am so happy to have gotten www.stephanieraeortiz.com off the ground, up and running. I have a lot planned for this year’s blog and I’m so excited to share the little bits of our life with you all! I’m really pumped and excited for 2018!

So in 2017 I published 28 of the 52 blogs that I set out to accomplish but I couldn’t be happier with the blogs that were published in my first year. I acknowledge the struggle I faced when it came to not being as prepared yet desiring to still publish content on the blog and quite honestly it goes back to what my Great Grandpa would say ‘ Plan your work & work your plan’ and I didn’t have a plan I just had the desire to publish 52 blogs last year yet I didn’t know what was going to be behind those 52 blogs so I got caught in the creativity trap so to speak however, I’m more well prepared for this year and looking forward to all the goodness! All of your support in 2017 is savored & appreciated and hope you enjoy all I share in the years to come!

Now onto My First Friday Favorites of 2018!

First Up I’m sharing My Faves from the 2017 Holiday Season

You can shop the items by clicking on the links below the pic

SHOPPING LINKS >> Salted Caramel Hot Cocoa (here) Pottery Barn Alphabet Mug on sale (here) Pottery Barn Oversized Faux Fur Leopard Throw (here) Programmable Crockpot (here) Williams Sonoma Dry Brine Sold Out similar (here) Quilted Personalized Stocking on sale (here) ZAK Stainless Steel Tumbler more colors (here) Pottery Barn Buffalo Plaid Pillow Cover (here)

Next Up I’m Sharing My Favorite Gifts Received & Given this Christmas

You can shop the items by clicking on the links below the picSHOPPING LINKS >> Fitbit Ionic Watch my husband loves it (here) 1 1/5 Carat Diamond Platinum Ring Set (here) Dimmable Make-Up Mirror in black (here) Faux Fur Bean Bag (here) Garmin – vivofit jr. Activity Tracker For Kids (here)

TIME WITH MY HANDSOME

Will’s Birthday is December 30th so December was his Birthday Month and we enjoyed cherishing and celebrating him all month long. He is such an amazing man, person, heart and, soul! Love me some him!

SHOPPING LINKS >> Shop My Dress on sale (here) Earrings (here) & (here) Necklace on sale (here) Velvet Teddy Lipstick (here) topped with Saint Germaine Lipstick (here) Will Dress Shirt (here) Will’s Tie (here)

REFLECTIONS OF THE HOLIDAY

We soaked up an amazing amount of Family Time and I couldn’t be more blessed and My Heart couldn’t be more satisfied. It’s not about what you want, it’s about embracing all you have! So grateful, thankful, blessed! #GloryToGod

SOFIA REIGN ORTIZ

follow SOFIA on Instagram (here)

Our Australian Golden Labradoodle Sweet, Sofia Reign Ortiz is the BEST! She was born July 16, 2017. She is a true combination of her Mohter ‘Sailor’ and father ‘Micah (here). We adopted her officially in early October. We actually were planning to only Puppy Sit for our friends Abby & Bryce while they were out of town for the weekend and it just so happened they were actually looking for an adoptive family and we were so excited to Puppy Sit as we were considering buying a Golden Doodle for Christmas so it was the perfect timing. We were actively looking (here) and had been in contact with a few breeders at that point. We were originally considering a male pup and planned to name him Samson Rock Ortiz however after a little research we could have went either way truly so when Sofia (formerly known as Maple) arrived we were smitten and it was love at first sight. She is just the sweetest being.

Sofia Reign is Affectionate and Oh So Cuddly like the English Cocker Spaniel. We love nose kisses, I put my nose to her cute little black snout & she just soaks in all the lovin!
She is Super Intelligent like the Poodle, Loyal and Devoted like the Labrador. Totally Sporty and Loves to do Tricks like the Irish Water Spaniel. She is Great with all People Simply the Best! Australian Labradoodles are Allergy Friendly and Non-Shedding so that’s also an added bonus and she is soooo soft!

Our Breeder Information: Website (HERE) Facebook (HERE) YouTube (HERE)

Sofia’s Litter on YouTube (HERE) and (HERE)

We are so thankful for God’s provision and His hand in all of this as we believe it was truly destined. She has been such a great addition to our family and we just love her so much!

SHOPPING LINKS >> Sofia’s Sweater (here) Sofia’s Dog Name Tag (here)

Well, Happy First Friday & Have a great weekend!

XOXO,

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MY MAKE-UP LATELY | FALL 2017

October 18, 2017October 18, 2017 StephanieRaeOrtiz

Hey You!

Today’s blog post is going to be all about My Make-Up Lately.

makeupbysteph

So if you know me at all, you probably know that I love Make-Up! I always have and I’m sure I always will. Every fall I just get so inspired to shop for a few new favorite finds in the beauty department and today I’m going to share with you a some of my favorite picks I’ve found this fall. I hope you can find a few new suggestions for yourself that you’d like to give a try as well! Enjoy.

SHOP BY NUMBER

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5a) (5b) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12a) (12b)

Below is some of my personal feedback on each of the items, how I use them and what my thoughts are of them.

1 | Estee Lauder The Smoother Universal Perfecting Primer I have mentioned this product now a few times and I really do love it! In short it seems to minimize the appearance of pores and bring a real perfecting foundation prior to me applying my foundation + it literally helps to keep all my make-up in place all the day long! You can purchase (here) to try for yourself. What I love about this most is that I am so picky when it comes to products that I apply to my skin and this has a real satin smooth finish and is not sticky in any shape or form nor has it proven to clog any of my pores! I’m in love with it.

2 | MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation Spf 15 – I wear NC42 True Medium Golden This foundation is great for me. I feel that it provides a natural matte finish and it’s not full coverage (which I like) but it’s buildable without looking like cake face in the event you did need to build for more coverage. You can purchase (here) however I suggest going into the store and/or calling their Beauty department so they can assist in matching you. (always remember that Nordstrom has free shipping & free returns)

3 |Anastasia ‘Dipbrow Pomade’ in Ebony along with a duo eyebrow brush like (this) $3 one for application has been what I use for my brows for years now. Love these products! To purchase the Dipbrown click (here). This past year I’ve added this Volumizer by Maybelline to keep all my hairs in place and I love the volume & dimension it adds, you can purchase that (here).

4 | Stila Written In The Stars Glitter & Glow Liquid Eyeshadow Set I have this in the Kitten Karma and just apply a little to my ‘lid only’. I highly recommend this set because I love the one I have and paid that much for just the one. This way you will get to try them all and with the Holidays coming up I think I will pick up this set also because ,well it’s going to be just the perfect amount of glitz & sparkle for the holidays. You can purchase the set (here)

5 | I recently was trying out a few primers and tried the benefit primer on my eyelids for some odd reason and LOVE it! So random – I know, but it works great for keeping my shadow on and in place without creasing throughout the day. You can purchase the benefit primer (here) My recent go to eyeshadow has been this basic brown by Urban Decay in the color Secret Service you can purchase that (here)

6 | L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Macara in Blackest Black is every bit of AMAZING and uber affordable! You can purchase (here)

I see they have this in a ‘duo set’ that couples this amazing mascara with their primer. I have used the Volumious Primer before in past and it is well known to add so much length prior to your mascara application. Just need to give it time to dry prior to applying your mascara. To check out the set for just a few bucks more click (here)

7 | Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder is used to set under my eyes and any place that may typically be known to be more oily or more prone to crease my foundation/concealer. You can purchase the Setting Powder (here) I set my under eyes with this tapered brush from Sigma – truly love this brush. It’s pretty much perfection.

8 | Speaking of Concealer, Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer is a good go to of mine for M-F. I guess my faves so far in this category are by MAC, Maybelline, IT Cosmetics and, Tarte. Love the concealers that I’ve tried so far from those brands. You can pick up the Maybelline Age Rewind (here)

9 | Benefit Dandelion Shy Beam Matte Liquid Highlighter for highlighting, just a drop will do ya! I apply highlighter at the tip of my nose and at the peak at my cheekbones.

10 | Stila ‘Stay All Day’ Bronzer For Face & Body in Medium is what I use to add warmth and definition to my face.

11 | Nars Blush – Deep Throat on the apples of my cheeks is just bliss. I also love their Orgasm & Super Orgasm blush as well. I believe it’s MAC has a Peachy Keen blush that is much like Nars Orgasm also. It’s a pinky coral with Gold Specks in it, just makes you glow!

12 | Lippies to finish the Look, I’ve been combining both MAC’s Velvet Teddy which is a Matte formula topping that with Saint Germain Lipstick which is an amplified lippie so it adds a little shine and smoothness. It’s my perfect combo at the moment for my lips. You can purchase the Saint Germain (here) and the Velvet Teddy (here)

Well those are my recent faves for Fall. I hope you all enjoyed this blog post and I’ll see you back here soon!

XOXO,

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FRIDAY FAVES | SEPT 29

September 29, 2017October 1, 2017 StephanieRaeOrtiz

Happy Friday!

It’s the last Friday of the Month and just two full days away from October! I love the fall ya’ll. Although I kind of can’t believe we are this close to the end of the year. Today I’m sharing Five Friday Faves with you!

HAPPY NATIONAL COFFEE DAY TO ALL MY COFFEE LOVERS!

First Up, we had so much fun at my Husband Alma Mater football game & our towns Party on the Pavement! Will’s Alma Mater was looking pretty good the entire game – they won! My boy now can’t wait to be an Angel! I love fun filled days like this! Party on the Pavement or Cement Fest as Will Junior called it (lol) 🙂 is always such a good time for our community to come together and just enjoy themselves. I love large community outings!

It’s typically cooler on this day however it was a whopping 90 degrees and I wore black for some odd reason so it was a HOT one to say the least.

I love running into friends especially those you haven’t seen in a while! The pavements were packed with tons of fun little events like face painting, temporary tattoos, balloon animals, swords & crowns, bikers & tricks, chalk murals, delicious roasted corn – in the 90 degree weather, live music, glass blowing & wood carving demo’s, a unique & antique car show, dance competitions, fun high-school fundraisers like water dunking tanks & pies in the face, baggo games played in the middle of Main Street (we hung out here for a while), bounce houses, tall slides, ice-cream, dancing and much more, all while some pretty sweet Star Wars characters roamed the streets of Downtown Racine with us! After that we ran a few errands and enjoyed dinner together back at home! What a fun fall day!

We have a google home voice activated speaker and we love it! It’s pretty handy actually and of course the kids have had a few laughs with her! It also is pretty nice for me to speak what I need from the grocery store and she will add it to my shopping list. Oh and this is what I’ve been using to listen to google playlists and the speaker is actually pretty great! I really do love it. You can purchase (here)

Okay my friends, every single night this week at Dinner we have been playing a round or two of Loaded Questions! I know not all families have the opportunity to sit down every night together for dinner and we are so thankful that we are able to do so, as I do believe it’s so important to a strong bonded family.

But, even if just once or twice you sit down together as a family for dinner during the week – go and buy this game and pull it out at dinner time! The kids were all smiles when I told them this is what we’d be doing at dinner this week! Haha, this game will bring dinner alive in a new way – no joke, SO FUNNY! We have laughed so much more this week at dinner with this game and it’s great to know how well we know each other by our answers. Go get this, you won’t regret it and your kids will thank me! 😉 You can purchase (here)

Transitional Fall Layers are kicking off here in Wisconsin since we are finally experiencing some cooler temps! I’m excited but I know not everyone is yet transitioning with fall layers is definitely a fave of mine! Here is a great outfit inspo for the transition! (Click the links below for each item)

OUTFIT DETAILS

Lush Ruffle Sleeve T-Shirt Dress in Dark Olive (here)

(also comes in grey & rose)

BP. Plaid Oblong Scarf, Tan Multi (here)

Matisse Merge Mid Top Leopard Bootie (here)

Taupe Sole Society, Paloma Over the Knee Boot (here)

Spending time with these Nino’s has been a fave of mine this week. Even just hanging out in their rooms with them, cuddling in their beds with them, just being around them! They got flu shots this week and it’s not a fave of mine that they got shots but their little comments in the doctor’s office and Mackenzie ‘needing’ her big brother to hold her hand, so she could squeeze was just so sweet! That and me holding Mackenzie like a baby and just holding her so tight and her placing her ear on my heart were a few of my favorite moments from this week!

(his daring smile of anticipation as his sister squirms before her vaccination – to funny)

(When I was holding her as a baby before they were heading off to school.)

I get compliments every single time I wear this sweater. It’s sold out but a similar version is (here).

Well those are my Five Friday Faves Friends! We are excited for the arrival of Miss Maple tonight! She is already a highlight of our weekend. In case you missed it, in my last post I talked about how we get a chance to Puppy Sit Miss Maple this weekend! Isn’t she just the cutest!

(Precious Miss Maple)

I hope you all have a fantastic weekend and I’ll see you back here soon!

XOXO,

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What’s Up Wednesday | September 2017

September 27, 2017September 28, 2017 StephanieRaeOrtiz

What’s Up Wednesday!

It seems like it’s been so long since I’ve done a What’s Up Wednesday Post but in all actuality it’s only been a month since my last WUW So,

It’s been such an amazingly beautiful and fun month! I just can’t believe it’s just about over yet I’m so excited for October because. .

lovefall

ilfmoa

So let’s get on with What’s Up with me this Wednesday!

WHAT WERE EATING

Wednesday: Personalized Pizza’s on Naan Bread

Thursday: Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup

Friday: Mom’s Chili & Cornbread

Saturday: Hot Chicken Salad

Sunday: Chicken Enchilada’s with Puerto-Rican Rice

Our annual Trip to Lambeau, with Football Season here, we just love football in our home and this trip kind of kicks off the season for us each year! I get so excited every trip, honestly time after time it never disappoints. I would have to say that Lambeau Field is definitely one of our Happy Places! #GOPACKGO

I am a lover of all things leopard, red, teal, black &, magenta so I’m loving anything relative.

This Leopard Ruffle Blouse is Perfect for fall, to be layered with a basic cami beneath and styled with black jeans or a dark wash skinny jean! So cute.

In case you don’t know – but I guess you do since I just mentioned it above but I must confess! I kind of have a slight obsession with leopard and these booties are everything!

I honestly don’t know what’s not to love about them! They are on my Birthday Wishlist and I’m kind of secretly hoping that I really get these beauties that can be pretty much worn with anything because to me Leopard is a Basic in Fall & Winter and perhaps all year long! You can purchase here.

I also love this Puff Sleeve Turtleneck Sweater in Red the color is so lively and I just love dramatic sleeves on a sweater!

Well I guess an easier question may be what haven’t we been up to!

This month has been jam packed and literally flown by.

UPDATING OUR FALL DINNER GO-TO MENU

This past year we’ve really balanced our meals and cut quite a bit of processed food out of our day to day so inevitably their are a few Fall Menu items that perhaps I considered delicious just a year ago that I no longer have the desire for. So focusing on preparing a more nutritious and balanced Fall Menu is a little something I’ve been working on.

WATCHING . . .

Homeland, We have been watching Homeland once the kids are in bed as it’s not kid appropriate.

READING . . .

‘NONE LIKE HIM‘ by Jen Wilkin seems to be a great simple yet sweet read that I think I’ll complete rather quickly.

Hip-Hop Rap like Andy Mineo’s SAY LESS, love the beat on this track. . . and a few of Lecrae’s new ones also. I didn’t purchase their full albums yet. I say yet because I just may it’s just at this time that I didn’t love-love all the tracks on each album but I’ll give them a few more runs soon to see. . .

SWEATER WEATHER!

Well we have been enjoying a true Indian Summer here in Racine, WI. I’m talking about high 80’s low 90’s! So I haven’t had the chance to get into all the fall feels and sweater weather just yet. I haven’t even officially had my 1st PSL aka Pumpkin Spice Latte because the weather has just not allowed me to be in the mood for it quite yet however I did enjoy a Chai Tea Latte with Pumpkin Spice (no water added) from Starbucks with Will and it was so delish ya’ll. If you are looking for a Pumpkin Spice option with no caffeine! That is it!!!

So with that said I have been wearing my Spring & Summer attire lately. The closest I’ve gotten to my Fall Wardrobe is my Lightweight Cami from Gap in a Mustard Color atop of a Cami and a MAC Diva lip!

MAC Diva Lipstick

Pink Cardi & Cami Combo

LUSH Knit Maxi

I wore the blue on Friday and the Black on Saturday! Love this Maxi Dress & just the Lush brand period, it’s like made for me!

LUSH Crepe Dress in Winetasting

I love this dress because to me pieces like these are transitional from summer to fall and winter to spring and can even be worn in Winter also with leggings and a long cardigan.

LUSH Olivia Wrap Dress

This is perfect for Indian Summer Vibes also as it’s lightweight and still holds the beauty of Summer. (also comes in black, which could be paired with tights, booties and a scarf for more of a fall vibe. – Currently on Sale so I picked it up in Black also!)

I haven’t officially worn MAC’s Velvet Teddy but I got this in the mail yesterday and tried it on and I think it likes me! 😉 I also picked up another tube of MAC’s Russian Red as I kind of accidently fell in love with this also last year!

We are going to PUPPY SIT Maple this weekend! We are so excited. We have collectively agreed upon what type of dog we would like for our family . . . a Black Labradoodle and Maple is a Golden Labradoodle so it’s kind of perfect that we get a chance to watch Abby & Bryce’s baby girl! Originally I had my heart set on a Goldendoodle but our neighbor actually may have officially talked me out of that. Anyhow we shall see what ends up happening but this is a great opportunity for our family to watch this sweet girl and will be insightful as to whether a puppy would be a good fit for our family or not.

(Miss Maple – isn’t she the sweetest!)

Will is working this Saturday so it will be a true test for us all as Momma will be in charge with the kids help of course! They are already so excited!!! 🙂 I hope they don’t overwhelm her with their excitement and frighten her because when I say excited I mean they are E-X-C-I-T-E-D-!!! and ready to give her SO Much LOVE!

Other than that we plan to head to one of our local Petting Farms this Sunday and enjoy Family & Puppy Time along with some cooler fall like temps. Will be in the mid 60’s this weekend! 🙂 #happy

CELEBRATING OUR BIRTHDAY’S

Mackenzie will be 8 years old & I will be 33 years old! Two OCTOBER Girls in one house, crazy amazing if you ask me! October Birthdays are the BEST! (totally bias) 🙂

So I’m looking forward to all that goodness along with all the other awesomeness that comes along with. . . . FALL in OCTOBER!

Not that much actually! Life is good and I’m enjoying every moment, Thank you JESUS!

Well that’s all for now friends! I’ll see you back here soon!

XOXO,

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My Friday Faves|September 8

September 8, 2017September 14, 2017 StephanieRaeOrtiz

HAPPY FRIDAY FRIENDS!

Today I’m sharing Five of My Faves from this week.

Really looking forward to this weekend! I hope you all enjoy your weekend as well!

HURRICANE RELIEF DONATIONS

My heart – Oh my heart for the victims of these natural disasters. Hurricane Harvey left multitudes in devastation, and Hurricane Irma has also already effected many victims on the Islands and is now fiercely headed for the state-lines.

The weight of these natural disasters is just an outright tragedy.

Praying for each and every single person that has been abruptly uprooted from their day to day lives, their neighborhoods and everything that made Home, HOME! Also praying for those evacuating the sunshine state praying for safety on all the roadways and extended stays somewhere safe!

Below are a few ways to contribute to the relief if you were looking for a way to donate!

TEXAS FOREVER | #ASHIRTWITHAPURPOSE

For $30 bucks you’ll be making a $26 donation to Hurricane Harvey disaster relief efforts not to mention you will get this shirt from Chip & Jo’s Magnolia Market!

$26 t-shirt + $4 shipping = $30 paid in full

HOU DAT | #NEWORLEANSHELPSHOUSTON

Another Shirt, this one is from Fleurty Girl. Houston helped New Orleans during the relief of Hurricane Katrina and now New Orleans is able to help Houston by donating 100% of the proceeds to Feeding Texas – an organization that serves food banks in and throughout the affected areas you may also go directly to the Feeding Texas site to donate as well if you’d prefer, linked (here).

For $24.16 you’ll be making a $20 donation + $4.16 for the USPS First Shipping Option (scroll down a little for this shipping option once to that point as it’s not right on top) for this spunky t-shirt.

And finally I have a few ways that you may just simply donate.

I would like to first suggest the Samaritan’s Purse you can simply click here, or go to www.samaritanspurse.org. The Samaritan’s Purse is noted to have accomplished a great and many things to contribute to the relief of Harvey and are well known for their help in International Crisis Response.

To donate to Hurricane IRMA relief efforts click ( here )

To donate to Hurricane HARVEY relief efforts click ( here )

And last but not least the simplest way to contribute – would have to be via text. You will just text the word HARVEY to ‘90999‘ to donate $10 to the American Red Cross.

Praying that those who have had their day to day lives ripped right from their grip, are able to put and keep their minds on the things above rather than on the overwhelming circumstances. Trusting that God will make everything beautiful in it’s time. #trust #hope #faithinJesus #wearebettertogether #unitedwestand #america

(it is more blessed to give than receive)

MY ERIN CONDREN PLANNER

Now I truly feel as though Erin just get’s me and speaks my Organizational Language – is that a thing? I don’t know if it is but I appreciate it that she just get’s it because to me that was not an easy feat – I’d consider it pure genius actually!

When I open it, I may or my not hear the heaven’s rejoice! haha!

#sodramatic

I LOVE the International Watermarked Print that I selected for 2018, just inspires me in so many ways! The updated leopard print was tempting – however since I already have a leopard one and the covers are interchangeable, I can change them in and out throughout the year if I just so choose.

She is actually having a sale right now BOGO for the interchangeable covers! So head over to her site and order your 2018 deluxe planner so you can also get a head start on planning and preparing for the awesome year of 2018!

If you are like me, you already have some dates that you need to get down and planned out for 2018 so ordering now is just perfect timing. 🙂

I love how the life and inspo is alive inside the planners as well!

I am loving the gold spiral binding this year also!

I love this fall tote that I can carry all of my go-to items in, that are needed throughout the work week! I tend to carry a purse and a lunch pack or a tote quite often during the work week and I kind of sort of was ready to change out my taupe one for this black beauty so I’m excited that I found this one for 50% off!

(phase 3 tote 50% off)

This Humidity Shield by Living Proof has been a saving grace for my crazy lion mane. The humidity can really do a number on my hair. It’s a great lightweight formula that works for many different hair types. I love this stuff honestly & truly.

Humid days are days I always equated to bad hair days or days for braids until I found this stuff! I’m not kidding! So if you are looking for a real Humid Shield that is not only awesome but doesn’t leave your hair stiff or sticky, works great and, is lightweight then this is your new go-to! #thankmelater

I now want to try the Living Proof No Frizz Nourshing Oil since I know the Humid Shield worked so well! (currently in my cart).

It can also be found at Ulta.

ESSIE NAIL POLISH | BACHELORETTE BASH

Mackenzie and I like to agree on a new nail polish each season and to kick off fall we picked ‘Bachelorette Bash‘ by Essie. It’s a juicy fuchsia. We couldn’t fully agree on a color so we had to have the boys weigh in with a vote and this one won! We picked it up last week and have been loving it everyday since – sort of vivacious!

My morning routine has to be a favorite of this week as well!

I have been waking up earlier to assure I get that Mommy Me time and there is just something about a crisp fall morning, just speaks life to my soul!

I enjoy a nice warm cup of hot water with two teaspoons of Apple Cider Vinegar and two drops Young Living’s Lemon Essential Oil, (Referral Code: 3048455) during my devotional time.

Followed by a Workout and about 30 minutes of Mommy Me time.

All, before I wake up the crew for the start to their day!

It’s just been such a great way to start my day and I’m really enjoying it!

That wraps up my favorites this week! Hope you all have a fantastic weekend!

XOXO

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What’s Up Wednesday | August 2017

August 30, 2017September 14, 2017 StephanieRaeOrtiz

What’s Up Wednesday!

A lot! Haha, We are in our last week of Summer Break here in Wisconsin and then the kids are back to school!

I love What’s Up Wednesday, It’s my favorite way to look back at the Month and to look ahead! As I’m writing this post, My Will is in the kitchen finishing the install of our kitchen floor! I tell you, he has just done such an amazing job with our kitchen renovation! #proudwife #blownaway

Today I will be sharing the following fun and random little bits of our life with you so, Enjoy!

WUWednesdayBlog

WHAT WERE EATING

Wednesday: Chili & Side Salad

(Super easy as we have a very busy night ahead of us with Open House, Tumbling & Cheer Practice as well as Haircuts for the Boys)

Thursday: Grilled Chicken RedPepper Swiss-Mayo Avocado Panini’s & Sweet Hawaiian Onion Chips (the kids have been loving these Krunchers – Mackenzie was with me at the grocer and said Mom you better buy two bags of these because you know Will Jr. can tear up an entire bag by himself! haha)

Friday: BBQ Chicken Taco’s

Saturday: Burgers on the Grill along with Corn on the Cobb followed by S’mores

Sunday: Chicken Caesar Salad accompanied by ‘finger foods‘ per Mackenzie she would like to assist with the ‘finger food‘ aspect when I asked her ‘what’ she says ‘do you really need the specifics now’ haha! #mygirl

My days in Elementary School. They were filled with adventure and so much life, so many fun experiences. The elementary years are not only foundational but also what I’d call fun experimental years. You get the chance to try things out that you are interested in. Such a fun-filled time of life looking back and seeing that for my kids now.

I was thinking about the times when I was younger and I just wanted to be an Adult so I could be the boss. And now I have days where I’m just not up to being so Adultish but that’s not exactly a choice so I use it only to encourage my kids to be kids and to enjoy it because it goes oh so fast!

Today I’m sharing two pics of Will & I in our Elementary School Years! Sorry they aren’t the best quality but Ahem, you just got to love the Old School Pics!!! #nostalgic

Why was I not smiling? I don’t know, does smirking count as a smile!?! This is that look I give when I want to burst into laughter but know I should be more serious.

My Sweet Caramel Pie, The Love of my Life, always smiles more to the left than the right. He’s just so cute and I love that here and now I see so much purpose when I look into his eyes & can we have a moment of respect for these puff sleeves and the touch of pearls on my Velvet Dress! (haha) I love it and it’s so funny how Velvet & great Sleeve Details are still trending yet again here in 2017!

(Thinking about that I tend to smile more to my right than my left, I wonder if everyone has a preferred ‘smile’ side? Seriously wondering #random)

All of these items from my last BLOG Post, Fall staples to buy now!

Getting every thing in order, in Summer we seem to relax a bit because well you are just so busy enjoying summer. With the Back to School season, it’s like a new start to a new year and for me that just goes well with getting your life in order and things all extra organized. To go along with that we’ve also as of this week gotten back to our “school sleeping schedule”. So the kids are in bed at 830p. They actually have been loving it which was kind of surprising. My son is naturally a night owl like his dad so I thought he’d give me a little more push back but he hasn’t at all. I use our Young Living Cedarwood and apply just a bit to each side of their temples and then have them inhale for a few seconds before bed. It really seems to help with calming and getting them all ready for a Sweet Sleep.

Speaking of Young Living Essential Oils I have been using Young Living since July 2015 and I started using Essential Oils as a Hopeful Skeptic with a husband that was even more skeptical.

My son was really struggling with seasonal allergies and I just didn’t love the idea of him being on a daily medication aside from his daily vitamins so I thought this could be just what I’m looking for. So I did a little research, I found two friends that sold Essential Oils. One sold Doterra and the other Young Living. My friend who sold Young Living lives in Kansas so I took the time to call her and ask her every blunt and crazy question I could think of. She really didn’t have to sell me on them. She asked me what I was looking into them for and then sent me a sample of a few suggestive oils and the oils did all the work of selling me on it as I couldn’t deny the results or the love.

I spoke with my friend that sold Doterra and went to a Party that she was hosting with another distributor and I liked it but just felt more connected to Young Living (the original) after all my research so I invested and have been thankful and dedicated ever since.

There is one thing that I love from Doterra and that’s their Peppermint Beads. They work wonders when you are stuffed up and have a cold but you can get that same pay off with a touch of peppermint to the roof of your mouth, just nice to have them in a bead form.

So I am totally all in with Young Living as they do not by any means compare to the oils you can purchase over the counter and/or Amazon or even places like your local Health & Wellness store. I ordered this stack of oils listed below here for ‘Back To School’ it just makes ‘KidScents’.

If you are interested in Ordering it’s super easy simply add what You’d like to your cart, create an account enter Member ID Number 3048455 and proceed to check out.

Adults can use the KidScents too! I love TummyGize whenever I have a stomach ache I’ll add a few drops to my tummy and rub it counter-clockwise while inhaling and I don’t know how but it soothes and unbinds! Sniffleease is one of the kids favorite go-to’s when they have a runny nose and I have yet to try Sleepyize or Geneyus. I just ordered this month so I’ll have to keep you all posted on that one.

HOW TO REGISTER?

Simply Put . . .

Retail Customer can order at their leisure and discretion.

Member Customers obtain benefits of being a member like 24% off of retail prices however you will be signed up for monthly orders which can be altered each month for any of the Young Living products that you would like to purchase however it must be at minimum $50/month.

If you are local here in Racine, WI you can direct message me about ways to save!

Well that was a lot more than what I planned on sharing but hey it works and I 100,000% love Young Living Essential Oils and can confidently say you’d be making a great investment into your life and the life of your families by investing in Young Living Essential Oils.

Other than that we have just been up to getting this Back to School Checklist taken care of and getting back in the groove for a great new school year! And enjoying every last bit of summer as we should be! #thisisthelife

(My gosh – I just love them so much! My heart could burst! #thankyouJESUS)

S-N-O-W

Yes, I said the “S” word! hahaha! I crack myself up!

So I know it’s a whiles a way but it’s really not that far and I just want my favorite, FALL to last as long as it possibly may because well, it’s lovely! And, when I think of the slush of Snow. . . I’m just not really ready for it quite yet – although I did have the urge to watch Home Alone yesterday! But no Snow, yup totally dreading it and just not ready for it yet or anytime soon for that matter. Actually if it didn’t mind coming until December 24th or so that would so be A-OK with me!

Getting our home all prepped & purged for FALL and the FALL Decor that I will soon be putting up and on display! I have officially gone through each closet, nook and cranny on our main living level and purged all the old and irrelevant things to us and it feels so good. I’m kind of a dork when it comes to this.

We had our annual Yard Sale not that long ago and I kind of couldn’t believe all of the stuff we still had to purge! I kind of didn’t even want to keep it around for next years sale so I’ve found people to give it to along with a donation to the Goodwill so we are in the clear! #simplified

I know many folks love a good Spring Cleaning Day as do I but I feel like I prep and clean more so for Fall & Winter than I do for for Spring. Maybe because we are cooped up more inside during the Winter than we are in the other seasons? IDK, it just feels so good to have it all de-clutterized! (I kind of like to make up my own words!)

WATCHING

We have officially finished the Good Wife. As the seasons carried on I can’t say she always stood as the ‘good wife’ but I really actually enjoyed the legal aspects (I used to want to be a lawyer when I grew up – so I was kind of loving all of that) and the Chicago references in the show are close to home so I liked it. We really liked that show and we are kind of bummed that it’s like officially over and never coming back! #doneanddone

So I have been kind of surfing around and found American Housewife with Katy Mixon who plays Katie Otto and I found this to be hilarious! Will called it corny but I actually thought it was like the new-aged Rosanne. You know the woman who says things that leave you flabbergasted while bursting into laughter…it could be just me but I laughed lots and I am looking forward to Season Two since I’m already through Season One.

Lots of great shows come back on in the Fall, looking forward to a few like Grey’s Anatomy, Designated Survivor, black-ish, and I’m going to check out The Mayor. I guess I kind of like ABC a little -ay?

READING

I was out to dinner with the ladies this past Friday and we were talking about what books we have been reading or lack there of in my case because this summer has just been so busy and hasn’t fully afforded me the luxury of reading as much as I planned or would have liked so I don’t have any books to share that I am currently reading faithfully at this time But… Amy however brought her Kindle Paperwhite E-Reader that she recently got for her Birthday and when she mentioned it, I was like um, not sure that I would want to ‘give up’ my books and I purchased a Kindle last year in hopes to ‘read more’ on that but haven’t much as I really find that I LOVE the feel the smell and the whole part and process of just reading a book. . . but Ya’ll when she pulled this cute little white device out of her purse, I was like ‘Okay that’s cute. And then when I felt it and held it in my hand I was like this – I could do this!’ She mentioned also that you can rent books from your local library. I mean – how awesome is that? SUPER & AWESOME if you ask me. So I think I’m adding this Kindle Paperwhite E-Reader to my Christmas Wish List because it’s well Amazing. You can click here if you want to check it out yourself!

I do have about 7-8 books that are piled up and ready to go come fall and I am really looking forward to my reading time in these next two seasons. #ilovereading

I have been playing & listening to “Covenant Worship” a lot lately and it’s just sparked my spirit to sing so much and a lot of old school Sunday School Songs actually.

I booked our trip back to CALI and I am so múy múy excited about it!

This Lightweight BP V-Neck Pullover in Green Timber (sold out) but I see it’s currently 50% off in the Red Ochre (pictured above) so I just processed an order for one it! #score

I love this sweater because it’s lightweight yet gives you just enough coverage and warmth and the slits are kind of edgy not to mention you’ll be able to layer this when temps drop further since it is so lightweight! (here is a chunky knit that I’m considering at the moment as it’s also on sale!)

I’ve still been loving this Carly Crop from Articles of Society I love the fringe and the fit. These have been a Summer Favorite for certain!

I’ve been loving my LUSH Lightweight Tops, especially my criss-cross one (sold out) but this one is super cute and I love the open shoulders and ruffle details!

This Tartiest Liquid Matte Lippie is my every day lip lover right now! I picked up the color FESTIVAL. I have really loved Taupe, Pinky Nude Lips this year which is quite a change for me. I also love my pops of color every once and while still!

Speaking of Beauty Favorites, These Two Brush Purchases from Sigma, Total excite my make-up routine every morning now! Make the applications so wonderfully great!

We are unplugging and E-N-J-O-Y-I-N-G family time!

Soaking it all up before the kids head back to school on Tuesday!

Wishing everyone a beautiful Labor Day.

FUN FACT: What is Labor Day?

Labor Day in the United States is a public holiday celebrated on the first Monday in September. It honors the American labor movement and the contributions that workers have made to the strength, prosperity, laws and well-being of the country.

So to all my Hard Working American Friends, Happy Labor Day TO YOU!

Speaking of America, I know many of our hearts have been filled with sorrow and sadness when we have seen what has taken place in Texas this past week. My prayers are with the multitudes in Texas and all affected by this natural disaster.

graphic credit: August Joffe (c/o Sheaffer)

CELEBRATING OUR SON’S BIRTHDAY!!!

(A pic of Will & Landon at Will’s Birthday last year, HE IS GROWING SO FAST!)

I’m also so excited that the Regular Football Season for the Greenbay Packers is going to Kick off for the Packers on my son’s 9th Birthyay!!

P.S. Will Jr. is no longer a Panther’s Fan or a Bronco’s Fan – yes he has been both! He has officially declared himself to be a ‘true Packers fan’ #proudparents

I’ve done you a favor and linked the schedule for the Best Team in the NFL for you right here! #youareWelcome

Life is NEW, every morning, accompanied with GOD’S Mercy! #Lamentations3:22

Oh and I purchased some new towels – so I guess that’s new! Mackenzie came along and of course wanted to color coordinate for everyone So she picked Indigo Blue for her brother, Forest Green for Dad, Powder Pretty Pink for me and Bossy Ruby for her! I of course advised her that I could roll with her idea but the girls will share with girls and boys will share with boys and she was A-Ok with it! haha, not that she really had an option but it’s good to let them think it! 😉 And I actually like the vibrant color selections!

Well that’s all for me ya’ll, have a great rest of the week and wonderful weekend!

XOXO,

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Ortiz’s Lately | Gus Macker Edition

August 23, 2017September 14, 2017 StephanieRaeOrtiz

The Gus Macker 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament returned to our small town this year for all ages and skill levels and we were so excited about it. I ran it past Will and we decided to sponsor two teams so that our little ones could have a tournament experience as we really thought it would push them and grow them – indeed it did.

Will Junior is, has been and, always will be obsessed with Basketball. He lives for the game and has a real passion for it, he loves it! He decided that this coming year he was going to cut out distractions of just playing other sports as he really wanted to focus on training for Basketball getting stronger in his skill sets for this specific sport. He didn’t want to be a jack of all trades, master of none. I mean he’s only 8 years old and already has such a vision for his own future. Love him.

This past year my daughter expressed that she wanted to play basketball. I must admit I was a little surprised, as she is totally into dresses, manicures, make-up and all that comes with getting all dolled up. But she tells me “Mom I’m a Tomboy & a Girlie Girl” and I said, hey that works for me! I played basketball for quite a few years growing up and I also loved playing dress up and getting all glam from early on yet I was also in the middle of the street with the boys playing two hand touch football and near the hoop working hard to prove that girls could have game too! So I could totally relate so then again – I’m not sure why I was so surprised.

A DAY IN THE LIFE

GUS MACKER EDITION

It was time to rise and shine, today was the big day! We were up and at it so the kids could wake up, have a good breakfast & get their blood flowing. We both had our 1st games at 9am that morning and wanted to be there by 8am so we could utilize that extra hour for warm-ups.

So we had our breakfast, packed our lunches, got dressed in our game gear and were on our way to the big games.

(this guy just couldn’t wait to play)

(Will & Hogan warming up before the 1st game)

(The boys and girls had a chance to warm up together)

Our Boys were the “Young Warriors” and the Girls were the “Lady Warriors”. Can you tell that both of our kids love the Golden State Warriors? A few people call Will Jr, Young Steph – after Curry not me, haha! But we let the kids select the names of the team and that’s what they came up with. They also picked out the jerseys.

This was probably my favorite part of the entire tournament. I had a chance to give the girls a pep talk before our first game and then asked them if it was okay if we prayed together and they all agreed in unison – and it was so precious and the best way to start off the game!

The boys had their 1st game on the dream court and it was so awesome, they each were announced by name along with a fun nick-name and they ran through a tunnel of fans and players! The girls had a chance to play on the dream court for our second game! To be announced like big league players was so fun and quite the experience.

As you can see our boys were a little younger and shorter than the team they were up against but they didn’t give up and they gave it their all. They showed a lot of determination and hunger throughout this entire tournament.

I wouldn’t say the tournament was a huge success as far as numbers were concerned as they just didn’t seem to do a ton of marketing-publicity for it this year but it wasn’t a bad turn out either and it was a great weekend overall of basketball. I know they learned a lot and gained a greater understanding of the game at the end of the day.

I will say the games were challenging indeed and the experience was definitely a growth opportunity for each of our players. I remember shouting ‘rebound-rebound’ and then looked at the girls height difference and thought, I’m not sure that’s going to happen but I sure am going to keep cheering them on every step of the way.

Because there wasn’t a great turn out in registrations our teams were the youngest of the all. My Mackenzie was the youngest player in the entire tournament. So the teams our Warriors played against were composed of kids much greater in size, age and, experience.

The gal in the background was as tall as me, I legit walked up to her to assure I had it right and sure enough, our 2nd & 3rd graders played against tall 5th & 6th graders in these games and never gave up.

This entire experience pushed them to greater levels of endurance, confidence & strength.

I can’t tell you how proud I was of our girls for playing hard and not giving up they showed that they had heart, hustle &, ambition. I was so proud of them for that even though they took it hard.

One of the most rewarding aspects of coaching is taking the time to cheer on the champion in these little people.

(I love all the braids – happened by chance and was perfect!)

The lady official we had for the majority of our games was so kind to our girls! I’m sure she was nice to everyone but she was such an encourager to our little ones and I really appreciated that and I think it’s important for the kids to have others in our community also speak life into them! I have some of the best girls to coach in the world and I am so thankful for each of them.

We would have early morning practices leading up to this weekend and the girls learned so much, soaked it all up, ran plays and really bonded as teammates. I was so happy in my heart to see the growth and drive in each one of these girls develop this summer! I am really looking forward to this next basketball season!

(The Dunker pictured here, I believe his name was D-Money but I’m not 100% sure)

After the games that day they had a Dunk Contest and the gentleman that won, jumped over our two kids – my phone ran out of battery so I wasn’t able to take a pic of that specific dunk but he jumped over quite a few of the kids there and my two were in the huddle! They of course thought that was super awesome!

Other than the kids getting this amazing experience of how it is to compete in a tournament proved to be money & time well spent. Another positive aspect is that the proceeds from the event will benefit our local youth programs throughout the year so that’s a double bonus!

Ravenwould.com

(Both of our Teams received the Toilet Bowl Champ Trophy’s)

This made me laugh oh so hard!

Talk about memories to last a lifetime. Love that these are the days of our lives and the best is still yet to come. My girls also received sportsmanship metals that they should each be so very proud of. Each of our warriors worked so hard and I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to share this experience with each and every one of these little ones.

We didn’t leave the courts until about 630-7p that night and we were just so wiped! A full day of in the sun fun. Needless to say we slept really well that night and had to be up early the next morning for some more Basketball!

So that’s the day in the life – Gus Macker Edition. I am Already looking forward to next years tournament! Until next time…

Love & Basketball,

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Back To School | Shopping Haul

August 11, 2017August 21, 2017 StephanieRaeOrtiz

Hi there, Loves & Happy Friday!

We are just a few weeks away from the 1st day of school and that means we will officially have a 3rd grader and a 2nd grader on our hands!!! They have both grown so much over this past year that it actually blows my mind but with that said and with Christ front and center, it gives me no doubt that they are ready to conquer this next year of awesomeness!

Today I’m sharing Five Friday Fave’s via a Back To School edition and I must confess… I kind of love back to school shopping! It’s like a great reason to shop for the kids + there is just this fresh start and new outlook that comes along with the BTS (Back To School) season and I just love it.

Be sure to comment on any great finds or tips and tricks that help you in the BTS Season.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES

This is the very 1st year that I purchased all of our school supplies on-line. I can’t say that my first effort was the smoothest operation with shopping on-line for all supplies yet I will say it did beat going from one store to another because you just couldn’t get your hands on one or two of the items, needed. Not to mention between our Amazon Prime Account and Target Red Card we scored free shipping on each of the orders. The only suggestion I had for myself for next year is that with multiple kids comes multiple lists so with that you may have duplicate items to purchase for each child.

So note to self: create a joint master list of all supplies for each child and go about adding the total items for each to my cart that way. I suppose that method would also work well in the store! 🙂 haha! The other positive of on-line shopping was the ease of checking price points between multiple merchants.

I know some stores allow you to price match select items in-store however with my on-line orders I just added it to the cart and simply checked out! I believe I may have found my new way of doing our BTS supply haul – for sure!

Here is a snippet of some of our school supplies.

I legit do love back to school shopping & being all organized!

AFTER SCHOOL ACADEMICS

Our school is great and has a lot of on-line resources for the kids to utilize throughout the year. Two of their favorite’s are First in Math, they love this one as they challenge themselves and are rewarded with points and acknowledged also in class for their work. The other favorite is Compass Learning which is a little more tailored directly to them and where they are in their overall academia. This year I decided to purchase these two workbooks for them to do 1-2 pages after school M-F. I know them and they will sure challenge & encourage one another with these little resources as well.

For our 2nd Grader

For our 3rd Grader

PERSONALIZED ITEMS

I love a good Monogram. I mean I don’t know what it is but I just love everything Monogram. I have always purchased the kids backpacks & matching lunch bags from PBK aka Pottery Barn Kids and I almost picked this one up for Mackenzie this year but quite honestly she didn’t need it as her set from Kindergarden & 1st grade is still in such great shape! And that my friends is what I love about the PBK gear, they are made so great and last for pretty much ever. I always have them personalized with our last name on them. They both have the mini’s that I purchased for them in Pre-K (so cute!) also and they are still in great shape! I know they may be a ‘splurge‘ to some for a child’s backpack but to me it’s worth it. I also purchased our Diaper Bag from PBK and still have that as a cute & classic keepsake which is also in good condition. This year, my son is really growing ‘up’ on me and he really didn’t love the selection at PBK prints so instead we headed over to Pottery Barn Teen and found a green Camo one that he absolutely loved so we got this set and he is feelin’ like a little man with his big man’s backpack. (they have sold out of this green camo but you can find a similar blue camo here.)

I also picked up these personalized Monogram decals for Mackenzie’s Notebooks and what not. I just know she is going to LOVE them, I had them printed in the teal color! You can find them (here) or by clicking on the image below.

I am also going to print these sweet prints off for their 1st day pictures! Easy, Peas-e! You can purchase digital prints of these super affordable from many – many places like etsy and what not.

HOMEBOUND

Making Home our Haven is something I have really enjoyed since becoming a wife and I think with the kick off of BTS Season we know that Fall is just around the corner and not only that but after a full day of school & work we owe it to ourselves to have our Home Sweet Homes be our cozy resting place, our happy place. Not to mention Football season has officially started and well yeah – totally random but whatev’.

So, I picked up this Faux Fur Throw from Potterybarn and it is legit amazing! I have heard many people brag about these throws in past and thought ‘oh it’s just a fur throw’ & would just pick up a fur throw from a TJMaxx or Target in previous but I am telling you. . . nothing can compare to the quality and the weight of this beauty – no joke. Let’s just say it’s summer and that hasn’t stopped any of us from reaching for this cozy comfort. Since day one of it’s arrival to la casa, the kids have been in love with it so I can only imagine how it will be come fall or winter. They will have snuggle to share or take shifts 🙂 haha! I’ll opt for the snuggle! They are a bit pricey but the weight of this product really makes it worth it! I may keep an eye out for a sale on the oversized ones. I purchased the one below in grey ombre.

I haven’t picked up my fall scents quite yet but I know these will be in the round-up as they are every single year along with a few new that sound amazing! I maybe wouldn’t call myself a candle connoisseur but I definitely love candles and I am totally all about quality over quantity and the pay off for the B&BW aka Bath & Body Works candles has not legit compared to any other in our home. They are amazing, they fill so many rooms with just one candle, they last quite a while and they burn evenly. We love them and lighting a candle is pretty much a necessity when ‘back to school & fall season’ kicks off!

MY PERSONAL BTS CHECKLIST

Here is my checklist that keeps Mommy-Me on task between the school years. When I calculated the years, my nino’s will not collectively finish high-school until 2028 – Say What! I mean that kind of sort of makes me feel so crazy inside – like lots of emotions of awesomeness. Well here is a glimpse of my ‘keeping it together list’ for operation BTS’.

I like to keep track of this in my Erin Condren Planner.

Now, the only things I have left to do is to get some more ‘clothing’ shopping done for BTS and then kind of go over the extra-curricular schedule with the family to finalize everything and then we will be off to a great start! Oh and deep clean la casa.

Well that’s all for now loves, enjoy this weekend the weather is expected to be great so planning to make the most of it!!! #BeachBum here I come.

XOXO,

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What’s Up Wednesday | July 2017

July 26, 2017August 21, 2017 StephanieRaeOrtiz

Today is What’s Up Wednesday!

What a great summer it’s turned out to be so far – right, and we still have a little over a month left of the goodness! #excited #ilovesummer

I hope you all are enjoying every bit of it and making the most of every day as it goes so, so fast. Today I will be sharing the following fun and random little bits of our life with you so, Enjoy!

Wednesday: Bacon Apricot & Roasted Red Pepper Panini’s

Thursday: Italian Sausage Kale Soup & Chef Salad

Friday: We are heading to the County Fair so we will grab some Fair Food Finds out there! #funnelcakes #creampuffs

Saturday: Lettuce Burgers & Corn on the Cobb

Sunday: BBQ Chicken Taco’s

The kids have enjoyed dessert like every single night this week. Say What!!! 🙂 Just a few spoonfuls of their picks below gives their little tummies a sweet delight! Will was talking about why Sorbet is obviously the better choice over Ice-cream so he started to read the ingredients to back up his opinion and Mackenzie said ‘okay you can stop Will, there is no way my ice-cream is healthy it’s just delicious’ It cracks me up but hey isn’t that what summer is all about! We also made homemade Strawberry Icecream earlier this month and it was actually pretty scrumptious!

And I just have to share the fact that this deliciousness launched at Starbucks this week. It’s a Teavana pineapple fruit botanical black tea blend with coconut milk – however I had my barista shake it with some heavy cream as well to make it just a little ‘richer’ tasting per her suggestion! It was super refreshing and enjoyable and it’s joining the permanent menu so if you like piña coladas and refreshing splashes of deliciousness you may want to try this but no rush because you can get this all year long!

Our trip to California, I wanted to go back so bad and spoke to Will about going back yet still this year and he was thinking of taking us out there this year for My Birthday in October but it would be such a short trip that I thought it will be better to wait and make the most of it later!

We have tossed it back and forth over the last two years about moving out there and making California our HOME Sweet HOME and I do believe it will come to be as the whole family is on board so yes, Sweet Cali has been what I’ve been reminiscing about.

Sunrises are divine. The resort we stayed at was amazing!

The Oceanfront is so beautiful and powerful, Washed this little baby Dolphin ashore.

We couldn’t keep this guy out of the Ocean – literally! He LOVES California!!!

And Sweet Mackenzie feeling so Free on the Beach

This pose though & missing her two front teeth. My baby forever she’ll be!

So needless to say I can’t wait to book our next trip!

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale! Seriously I legit have been shopping the Sale e-v-e-r-y single day! They are adding new items daily and re-stocking items that I am keeping my eye on and I actually have loved every single item purchased! Heaven help me I really should stop after this. You can see my 1st post here and my 2nd round here.

Click this picture if you want to shop some of my favorite picks from the sale so far!

And these pajamas are so comfortable and cute! And this Sigma Beauty Brush Set #Score!

Our Weeks have been so busy, I would have to say this entire year has been the busiest and best year yet! Thankful for God’s presence in our lives today, forever and always and His amazing grace, guidance and, unmerited favor. He leads and we follow and I’m grateful every day that He guides us through so graciously.

Will has enjoyed this season of baseball and I’m so glad! He is playing in the Semi-Final Championship for his baseball league tonight so we are all super excited about that!! This league has been a little intense with machine pitch and to say that he was so excited after winning his playoff game on Monday this week is an understatement, he was Stoked! He smiled so big and said ‘Momma this is the most excited I’ve ever been about playing in a baseball game’ I told him I am so proud of him and glad he is loving it! On the way home that night, I ‘interviewed‘ him and it was the cutest thing! #lovehim #myboy #chillwill

Some of the parents on the sidelines though have had me much like “what is going on in the world!?!” #itsnotthatserious #3rdbasecoachproblems (pic from Milwaukee Zoo) lol

Here is a picture of the 2017 Yankees!

(My little guy is the only guy not smiling but at least my Mr. is! )

Mackenzie has been a busy bee with cheer and tumbling classes twice a week and she is totally loving it. It’s like her thing and it’s so exciting to see her in her element. She is excited to add a Hip-Hop class into the mix starting in August. These are the times of our lives and we have to enjoy every single moment of it! #loveher #mygirl

Currently nothing, thankfully! #alliswell

I am working on figuring out the best way to manage it all. Aren’t we all!? Ha,ha! Seriously this year has been one of the busiest and best years of our lives yet and I’m so thankful for each opportunity the Lord has afforded to us and I just want to do the best I can in regards to setting us all up for success in all aspects of our priorities and that has proven to be a little more demanding and challenging than it has in years past. That scripture, Luke 12:48 comes to mind when I think of this year where it talks about To whom much is given, much is required and to who much has been entrusted, more will be asked! Can I get an #Amen!

We just have a few new focuses added to all of our lives so I have been trying to find the new normal in our scheduling so we can manage and manage well, thrive not just survive. So getting that in order has thingbeen a main focus for me this month. I have used this planner here to get me through this year and I have depended on this amazing little thing for our scheduling needs this entire last year. I am looking forward to ordering my next one already actually for 2018!! I know – to even think that we are closer now to 2018 than 2016 is crazy indeed, time really does fly doesn’t it! #makethemostofit

My Favorite Planner, here

WATCHING

I watched the movie love and basketball the weekend before last. It’s been so long since I’ve sat down and watched this one and it’s official I still love it.

We are still watching The Good Wife, I think we are on Season 3 finally, I like love it!

And last but not least we are watching The Bachelorette, I wonder who she is going to pick! I have no favorites actually so wishing Rachel the best!

READING

I’ve been reading the BIBLE, that’s the book for me, I stand upon the word of God the B-I-B-L-E. Ha, don’t you love those Sunday School Songs we grew up with! I haven’t been reading as much as I’d like lately! Just the Bible along with my daily devotional. I have the Jesus Always by Sarah Young. I don’t love it as much as I loved Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. I can’t tell you how much I loved this devotional and how timely it was. So I think I’d still highly recommend Jesus Calling if you are looking for a devotional but I wouldn’t jump to recommend her Jesus Always.

I have also been reading bits of the Unstuffed: Decluttering Your Home, Mind, and Soul book for the last month or so.

I want to be your man by Zapp & Roger. I think it’s because I watched love and basketball and…. I just had to go add this to my itunes library! #iloveoldschooljams seriously!

I’ve also been listening to some older Alicia Keys and Beyonce faves and this song by Lecrae & Tori Kelly, I like the light and catchy melody.

shark week

Ha,ha! I literally did get excited about #SharkWeek I love how they come up with all this stuff! It really is the making the most out of the littlest things that makes life so great and grand! So what was exciting about Shark Week this year? Well if you haven’t checked this out already and I’m sure you have but in case you haven’t click here on this link to watch what happens when Michael Phelps Races Great White Shark (technically and technically not live but still)

What is Shark Week? Shark Week is an annual week of honoring Sharks on the Discovery Channel. So in essence, it is educational, informative and, entertaining. Shark Week has been going on since July of 1988 so I thought that was pretty neat!

Personalized Bracelets with My Babies Names | Ani & Alex Bangle | Gorjana Gold Hoops

These Asics Gel’s are so amazing! They were a gift from my hubbs and well worth it! They are so breathable durable comfortable and oh so lively! Similar Asics Gel here. And aren’t Mackenzie’s little feet just so cute. I have been wearing these every M-F for my morning walk with my love!

I have been loving this lip duo Too Faced Melted Long Wear Lip Stick | NYX Lip Liner

Carly Crops | Lush Cross Top I purchased in three colors, I love the feel & fit so adorbs!

Heading to the County Fair to watch the Demo Derby! The kids were intrigued when Dad was telling them all about it so that’s going to be fun along with seeing the horses and enjoying funnel cakes! #yum

Saturday I signed Mackenzie up for a special Dance Class Workshop so we may wake up early, workout on the beach then head over to that and then later that day I think I’ll get some painting done.

Other than that, we are going to add some final touches to our kitchen and hopefully Go for a Bike Ride since the kids got new bikes this week! (They decided to sell their old bikes at the rummage this year so they could upgrade and they are both so excited about their new bikes!)

Enjoying the last month of Summer, Every single day of it + Back to School Shopping!!!

I am super duper excited about our kitchen remodel coming to a close! #thankyouJesus It’s almost done and it’s sooooo exciting. My husband is SUCH a handy man, I’m in awe! I have very few words that can do Will justice all around, he is legitimately beyond an amazing man and I’m eternally grateful for every bit of him. He’s been working so hard to get this done and done well and yeah, he’s really just a stellar person all around and I am so appreciative for him and all he does and for who he is and without him I don’t think this kitchen remodel would have gone so swell.

We have just a few more things to finalize and it will be DONE! I would not sign up for a kitchen remodel like ever again in my life while living in the home with smaller children. It’s just a lot more than I personally anticipated however I should have listened to Will. He certainly told me that it was a HUGE undertaking and indeed it has been.

Is it worth it you ask? Absolutely! So if I were to ever do this again which I don’t foresee ever happening but if I did, I’d have to set up a mock kitchen in another one of our living spaces because we just need our kitchen, it really is the heart of our home.

Well that’s what’s up with our Wednesday! Have a great rest of your day & night!