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Category: Amazon

Top 5 Must Reads in 2020

It’s the latest craze…”self-care ain’t selfish!” Everywhere you turn, every meme, every instagram post, people left and right are reading books on how to become them best versions of themselves! One of my all time favorite things to do is read…It’s always been something that has been attractive to me. The idea of being transported to another dimension, a sort of escape. Once I had children the idea of reading was a distant memory, however this past year I decided to get back to what I really and truly loved so much! 2019 was a year of transformation for me. I decided to dive in and join a book club (if you want to know which, you’ll have to message me) and these people are all about being the best version of themselves! My people! I always thought the self-help section meant there was something wrong with me, that I didn’t need any help with living my life. Now, it’s all the rage! Nowadays people are digesting self help books likes it’s off the dessert menu at The Cheesecake Factory! lol Below are my list of top 5 “self-care ain’t selfish books!” I hope you enjoy them as much as I have and here’s to a new you this 2020!

“Go for No”- Yes is the destination No is how you get there

This book is an absolute game changer! I feel like I need to read it again. It’s a quick and easy inspirational read that helped me to get over when someone tells me no and to go for it anyway. It’s given me the confidence to have massive success in my business and I hope it does the same for you! One of my top gifts to give too!

“You Are A Badass”- How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness & Start Living an Awesome Life

We all experience self doubt. Are we good enough? Are we smart enough? The answer is YOU ARE! The first step to greatness is knowing you are fully capable of your wants and desires and then making it happen!

“The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck”- A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life

I’ve always been someone who worried too much about what others thought or pleasing them. This book has given me the confidence to realize that life is short and we only have so much f*cks to give in life!

“No-Drama Discipline”- The Whole Brain Way to Calm the Chaos and Nurture Your Child’s Developing Mind

As a mother I am always finding ways to better myself for my children. I can’t stand the drama and chaos that parenting sometimes brings. This is an inside look to our children’s brains and actionable approaches to not yelling.

“Girl, Stop Apologizing”- A Shame-free Plan for Embracing and Achieving Your Goals

One of my all time favorite reads right after “Girl Wash Your Face.” We live in a society where we always feel like we have to apologize for the way we are or the way we make others feel. It’s time to stop apologizing and make 2020 your best year yet!

I have linked all the books to my AMAZON Associates account. Please shop through my link to show your support, so I can continue to deliver valuable content. Thanks a bunch!

February 6, 2020April 18, 2020

Briana D.Leave a comment

2020 Must-Have Supplements

2020! New decade, new year, new YOU! I’ve put together my top 5 supplements I love and swear by. Whole Foods Market is having their annual supplement sale January 3rd-5th, but if you can’t make it to the store, feel free to shop through my Amazon links! Reach out if you have any questions and here’s to feeling and looking your best in 2020!!

New Chapter Daily Multi-Vitamin

Nordic Naturals Omega 3 Fish Oils

Garden of Life Once Daily Probiotic

Gaia Kids Elderberry Syrup

Rainbow Light Counterattack

January 2, 2020May 3, 2020

Briana D.Leave a comment

Top 10 Holiday Gifts under $50 for everyone on your list!

Season’s greetings! I’ve narrowed down my top 10 holiday gifts for everyone on your list for under $50! Some of these sets can be broken up and used for significant others, teachers, parents, friends, aunts, uncles, grandparents, teens, children, the list goes on! Hope you enjoy and happy shopping!!!

Brouk and Co. Duo Travel Organizer for Cosmetics and Jewelry: One of “Oprah’s Favorite Things,” this top Lower zippered jewelry compartment features two enclosed pockets, rings/earrings pillow, and mirror.
9.5” (L) x3.5” (W) x 6” (H)
Made of premium vegan leather
Nylon lining on top, soft-Suede lining on bottom
A smart solution for the savvy traveler
$48, plus save and extra 20% with a coupon!
These four essential men’s products, conveniently sized to take on-the-go, feature Sequoia Stem Cell Complex to help protect skin and hair from everyday stress.
Counterman Carry-On Includes:
Counterman Purifying Shampoo: This daily shampoo cleanses away dirt and oil without stripping the hair or scalp.
Counterman Energizing Charcoal Body Wash: Made with an invigorating blend of natural rosemary, mint, and citrus oils and activated charcoal, this energizing body wash purifies and detoxifies skin.
Counterman Daily Exfoliating Cleanser: This gentle daily cleanser, featuring exfoliating jojoba beads and soothing Aloe Vera, removes dirt, oil, and other impurities while sloughing away dead skin cells to help unclog pores.
Counterman Oil-Free Face Lotion: This lightweight and non-greasy daily moisturizer absorbs quickly and boosts hydration. Corn starch helps to minimize shine while Taurine helps to boost skin’s resiliency.
$45
Sony SRS-XB12 Extra Bass Portable Bluetooth Speaker:
On “Oprah’s Favorite Things” list and an Amazon Exclusive!
Extra bass for Deep, punchy sound
Waterproof and Dustproof (IP67 rated)
Up to 16 hours of battery life
Compact portable design with included detachable strap
Add an extra speaker for stereo sound
In the box: USB cable, strap (attached to product body), card
Smack, pucker, and pout—these universally flattering lip glosses glide on easily and pack a delicious punch. The lightweight, cushiony texture delivers an ultra-glossy hint of color. Sweetened with Stevia, each of the five shades has its own unique scent experience: Raspberry, Butterscotch, Orange Cream, Peppermint, and Sorbet. $39 for the set! These WILL sell out!


Shades Include:

Raspberry
Butterscotch
Orange Cream
Peppermint
Sorbet
Burt’s Bees Organic Argyle Christmas Pajamas:
I’m always on the hunt for matching family Pjs! These Burt’s Bees pajamas come in every size, for every member of the family! Plus, they’re 100% organic! Safe and in style…what more could you ask for?
$10.15-$39.95
Achieve an easy, polished look in seconds with these three essential products.
Fresh Faced Trio Includes:
Brilliant Brow Gel in Invisible (3 ML / 0.1 OZ): Groom your brows with our invisible, flake-proof, light-hold formula made with organic conditioners that leave your brows soft to the touch. A tapered applicator makes for a precise, fool-proof application. Suitable for every brow color.
Lengthening Mascara (5 ML / 0.2 OZ): Add length and definition with nourishing plant-derived ingredients, including rice bran and carnauba wax to help condition lashes. Our unique precision brush perfectly separates, defines, and coats each lash. 
The Jellies in Sorbet (6 ML / 0.21 FL OZ): Get an ultra-glossy sheer wash of color with this lightweight, cushiony, and universally flattering lip gloss in Sorbet.
$45
Ecoffee Cup Red/ Red Silicon:
Another “Oprah’s Favorite Things,” made the list!
300 billion single-use cups are manufactured each year. Only 1% are recycled
Reusable Over And Over With ‘No-Drip’ Lid
Light, bright and beautiful with no flavor taint, so your coffee won’t end up tasting like plastic or metal
BPS, BPA, phthalate, and latex-free. Proudly LFBG, FDS, Japan Food Compliant
Made with natural fiber, corn starch, and resin. Fully dishwasher safe
$13.99

This trio of lightweight hand lotions—enriched with shea butter, grapeseed and jojoba oils, and squalane—deliver rich, non-greasy hydration that protects hands against winter weather’s drying effects. Gift as a set, split up into multiple presents, or pair with our coordinating Body Butter Trio for an ultra-hydrating treat.


Three limited-edition Holiday scents include: 
Fresh Petal
Mandarin Violet
Soft Neroli
$34
Cozy Winter Slipper Socks Women & Men w Non-Slip Grippers Faux Fur Sherpa:
WARM & COZY, Unisex, 75 different designs & 100% animal friendly! Pamper and treat your feet by slipping into warmth and comfort in a pair of Pudus Slipper Socks. With an elevated level of softness, the thick and extra-fluffy Sherpa lining provide a cozy pillow feeling with every step!
$24.99
The ultimate travel companion for skin and hair that’s clean, soft and cared-for—anywhere. Includes travel-size versions of our most popular body and hair care products, all in our signature citrus mimosa scent, to tuck into your toiletry kit, gym bag or work tote.


Beautycounter Travel Companion Includes:
Daily Shampoo: This purifying shampoo gently cleanses without stripping hair.
Daily Conditioner: This daily conditioner is designed to help nourish hair, smooth strands and leave hair looking shiny.
Body Wash: This creamy cleanser leaves skin feeling soft, hydrated, and refreshed.
Hydrating Body Lotion: This lightweight, fast-absorbing body lotion helps keep skin feeling soft and supple.
$35

November 13, 2019April 18, 2020

Briana D.Leave a comment

Breast Cancer Awareness Safer Switches

October is Breast Cancer Prevention/Awareness month! If you follow me on Instagram, I’ve been giving you daily tips with regards to safer switches. Below are my top 5 safer alternatives to limit your toxic intake!

Food Prep Containers with Lids: Research shows, plastic can leach harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates into your food and beverages and then into you! Using glass is a much safer alternative and helps with food prep for the week! Win-win!

S’well Water Bottle: Same goes for plastic water bottles! I always try to carry one around wherever I go! Keeps you hydrated and you’re not drinking any potential toxic ingredients seeping into your water!

Tulip Perfume: The word “fragrance,” is a cocktail of ingredients, masking countless carcinogens and hormone disrupting chemicals. Fragrance can be found in almost HALF of all personal care products! Be especially cautious when it comes to children’s products! Use the EWG app to scan products around your home to see its level of toxicity. If I had a nickel for every time someone asked me where I got this perfume! It’s the perfect blend of lemon and sugar, without being overpowering and minus the harsh fragrance!

Safer Makeup: It’s perfectly legal for companies to use ingredients linked to cancer, endocrine disruption and reproductive harm in cosmetics and personal care products. With Beautycounter’s makeup you don’t have to choose between safety and performance!

LODGE Cast Iron: Some toxic compounds are used in non-stick cookware. While they keep food and stains from sticking, they stick around your body for a very long time and have been linked to cancer. I absolutely LOVE my cast iron skillet! You can literally cook anything you want in it AND it’s oven safe! It’s time to ditch the teflon and non-stick pans!

October 30, 2019April 18, 2020

Briana D.Leave a comment

Back to School Items You Might Have Forgotten!

Can you believe that summer is coming to a close and back to school is upon us? We’ve got a first grader and a preschooler on our hands and we couldn’t be more proud of them! Below is a list of my top 10 back to school must haves that you might have forgotten!

  1. Backup Polos: Most schools require a uniform and these Amazon Basics are comfy & affordable! Plus they come in an array of colors! Always get back ups!

2. Hershel Backpacks: These are the new age Jansports of our time! They are weather proof and come in a variety of sizes and styles! I have the army print and I love it!

3. Lunchbots are 2 legit!: They’re good for the environment and the ones we love, bc they skip the BPA with their metal packaging and the hassle it takes to pack everything up in the morning! Just enough space and at a great price point!

4. Simple Modern Insulated Water Bottles: Never got thirsty with these trusty insulated water bottles. They come in a variety of sizes, colors and lids.

5. Electric Pencil Sharpener: I don’t know about you, but we are always sharpening pencils in our home. Skip the fuss and add this to your back to school list this year, you’ll be glad you did!


6. Desktop Organizer: With the amount of paperwork, homework and back to school tasks, this desktop organizer, makes it easy to have a place for everything and put everything in its place.

7. Hand Sanitizing Wipes: Back to school means back to germs! Skip the stress and have these handy while on the go! Skip the harmful ingredients too!


8. Adidas Slides: I’ve linked these before and I’m linking them again, because they’re the best shoe for running to and from car pool and pick up line! Mine were pink with some palms, but I might have to snag these too!

9. Inside Out Umbrella: This umbrella is like literal magic. It flips inside out, so that you’re not stuck fighting to close it in the rain and getting soaking wet! My Floridians know what I’m talking about!

10. Everyone knows the minute you get the kids from school they’re hungry. Plus when you and your littles are in the car waiting to pick the big kids up you’ve got to curb your snacking, so this little trust container should help!

Hope you enjoyed my top 10 back to school must haves! Have suggestions? Drop them here!

August 9, 2019April 18, 2020

Briana D.Leave a comment

Earth Day Amazon Picks!

Happy Earth Day friends! After more than 20 years of trial and error and tons of personal research…I’ve listed my Top 7 non-toxic cleaning products I swear by and I’m sure you will fall in love with them too! Have questions? Just ask! Simply use the links to shop now and celebrate Earth Day with me! xo -Briana D.

Seventh Generation Disinfecting Multi-Surface Wipes, Lemongrass Citrus, 70 count Tubs (Pack of 6)
LOVE these Seventh Generation Disinfecting Wipes! Great for on the go and safe! Plus, there’s a 30% off coupon!


Earth Friendly Products ECOS 2X Liquid Laundry Detergent, Magnolia & Lily, 200 Loads, 100 FL OZ (Pack of 2)
My go to brand for laundry detergent! Comes in a variety of scents minus the harsh fragrance most laundry detergents have! Love that it comes in a 2 -pack!
Seventh Generation Chlorine Free Bleach, Free & Clear, 64oz, 2pk
Since we’re on the topic of laundry…skip all the harsh ingredients and still get stains out of your clothes!
Method Dish Soap, Basil, 18 Ounce (Pack 6)
This dish soap not only removes scum and dirt, but the basil smell is absolutely divine! Such a steal for a pack of 6!
Seventh Generation Dishwasher Detergent Gel, Lemon Scent, 42 oz (Pack of 6)
You are what you eat! You shouldn’t have to ingest harmful chemicals in order to get your dishes squeaky clean! This is my go to dishwasher liquid!
Better Life Natural All-Purpose Cleaner, Safe Around Kids & Pets, 32 Ounces (Pack of 2), 2409C
My latest obsession is this Better Life All-Purpose Cleaner! It’s safe for children and pets and gets the job done! Plus, it’s super affordable!
365 Everyday Value, 100% Recycled Dinner Napkin, 100 ct
Totally durable 100% recycled dinner napkins for easy cleanup or to be as fancy as you wanna be! Only $3.29!

April 22, 2019April 21, 2020

Briana D.Leave a comment

The Art of “Glamping” 

Ok. I have a confession. The last time my husband and I were out camping together was 14 years ago! We did an 8-mile canoe stretch up and down The Peace River (actually he was the one canoeing and I was taking pictures…ha!) We set up camp and passed out for 14 hours!! I kid you not. Therefore, we never got the full camping experience. It’s definitely been on our radar for some time now. With two kids ages six and three, it seemed like glamping would be the perfect fit! We’ve passed the Westgate River Ranch and Rodeo dozens of times when traveling out to the west coast of Florida and even drove through on our way back from our favorite place…Disney, way back when. We knew that one day, we would come back and man are we glad we did! 

The property is set on 7,000 acres of beautiful Florida land, first acquired back in 1982. We were amazed at the fact that it was within driving distance of where we live! When you drive through the real life dude ranch, you’re transported back to a much simpler time. When cell phones and internet didn’t exist. A time when you could just enjoy each other’s company, without daily distractions. 

There are several places you can “camp out” while visiting Westgate River Ranch…from rail car cabins, a motel like cabin or you can set up a tent or an RV, if you so desire. Then there are the teepees, which come with all of the comforts of your home including a full-size bathroom inside. We opted for the “glamp” tents. The perfect mix of camping and comfort. There are only about 15 or so, each boasting a comfy king size bed, two twin beds, a refrigerator, microwave and even air conditioning and lights. Each glamping tent comes with your own picnic table, a propane grill and front porch to enjoy your coffee, pastries and fruit delivered each morning! I’m sure you’re asking yourself…ok, but what about the bathrooms? Well, there’s an outhouse (which we were lucky to be the closest to), that comes with your own bathroom and key. I was pleasantly surprised by the bathroom, because I think they were recently updated. I was expecting a woodsy, bug infested place to hurry up and get cleaned off. Instead it was actually more of a respite! You entered the air-conditioned rooms with a card key and they came with an endless supply of towels, not to mention they were very clean, which to us, was the most important part. Our glamp site was situated right in front of a private airport, where we were able to catch a glimpse of some prop planes taking off! The kids went wild!

I would highly recommend renting a golf cart to get around the property as there’s a bunch to see and do. Having the freedom to whiz around, made the experience that much sweeter! We came on a Saturday so that we could specifically enjoy a hayride dinner and see the Rodeo! An old-fashioned tractor-pulled hayride took us through the back of the property and lush landscape, while a man sang classic country songs on his guitar. Breathtaking views of the wilderness spanned as far as the eye could see, where we encountered grazing bulls and cows and several birds. The ride was followed by a traditional cookout dinner, that was just what the doctor ordered. BBQ chicken and ribs, hot dogs, coleslaw, baked beans and mac n’ cheese, followed by some good ole fashioned peach cobbler. It was the perfect dining experience to welcome us to the ranch. After a quick break, we got ready to watch the rodeo and man was it a sight to see! The kids loved seeing the bull riding competition and there were some pretty awesome horse stunts…the energy was palpable! Following the show, everyone made their way outside for a street party! The music blared, while we danced! People were sitting by the fire enjoying their beverage of choice, some decided to make their way into the saloon, while the kids could play a variety of activities. From mechanical bull riding, to bounce houses, bungee jumping, zip lining, rock climbing and mini golf. We made our way back to the campsites where we enjoyed s’mores by the fire. Did I mention each group gets their very own s’mores kit? I must say we had quite the incredible first day! 

The next day was Sunday and we just hung out and made our own breakfast, lunch and dinner (of course followed by s’mores)! We ventured out to explore the resort that takes you back to the good old days. There was a little “town,” with a general store, a gym, a post office and a kid’s area. You could venture out to trap and skeet shoot, test your skills with bow and arrow shooting or visit the full-service marina and restaurant, where you can book an airboat ride or pontoon boat. We decided to make our way over to the little farm on property. The kids loved riding the ponies (especially our 3-year-old daughter) and petting all of the baby goats, that were simply walking by. I was absolutely fascinated by the peacocks who were showing off their feathers and we all loved seeing the sheep and pot bellied pigs that were quite vocal! 

There are some wild horses and bulls they keep on property as well, which are a sight to see! We went over and were able to pet and feed the horses some apples…such an out of body experience for all of us. As for the bulls, you may want to steer clear of those, one of them got a little upset that we were even watching them and charged after us! Luckily, there was a fence to keep them away, but not going to lie, we were all a little shook! Now we just laugh and joke about that one time we got charged by a bull! 

Monday morning we got up and made our way over to the marina for a “swamp buggy tour.” Our guide “Moby” took us through the swamps and marsh, where we spotted an alligator, making the trip worth it, especially for our 6-year-old son! The ride was bumpy and muddy and  it gave us the opportunity to ride through the rugged wooded trail and head out into the wilderness with nothing visible for miles. It was quite the beautiful ride and well worth it! 

That night, we ventured out to the restaurant called “The Smokehouse Grill,” located at the marina. There you can find a number of traditional dishes served in mini skillets, if you’re not in the mood to cook. Although a nice respite, in all honesty some of the best meals we had were simply sitting outside of our tent as a family enjoying some of our own home cooking, because after all that’s part of the experience, am I right?

All in all, I would highly recommend a trip to Westgate River Ranch and Rodeo, especially in the glamping tents! I loved being able to spend some quality time without distractions with my family. One lesson I learned from the trip is “It can wait..” Literally anything you have going on. It’s a perfect chance to shut down any anxiety or stress you have, because there’s nothing like being one with nature with the ones you love most. 

-Briana D. 

Purchase my cheat sheet list of things to bring on your next glamping or camping trip!

Glamping Cheat Sheet

Purchase my cheat sheet list of things to bring on your next glamping or camping trip!

$10.00

There’s even a recipe for an easy one skillet meal! 

April 4, 2019April 18, 2020

Briana D.Leave a comment

New Year, Same YOU, but Better!

BriannaFinal-32.jpg

Ahh the new year!  A fresh start!  A clean slate! Sometimes the sheer thought could be a tad overwhelming. Every year that clock strikes midnight, it’s almost as if we’re expected to know exactly what we want to accomplish for the year, how to get there and what our “resolutions” are. I know it’s just a word, but resolution almost intimidates me. One thing I am NOT is a quitter, so if I “resolve” to do something for the next 365 days, I almost immediately don’t want to start. It sounds like a chore or something I will carry anxiety over, if I don’t deliver. 

Parents today are held to such a higher standard. Whether you’re a parent who works, a stay at home or a work from home, the expectations from a social aspect are immense. What extracurriculars are you signing your child up for? What workout class are you fitting in? Meal prep. Eating organic. Gluten-free. Non-GMO. Ugh, I have a headache. Better not take a Tylenol! Lol

All I’m saying is the New Year is definitely a fresh start for a better YOU, but don’t let it replace who you really and truly are at your core. Now I’m not saying don’t set goals or have dreams, because without those, life wouldn’t really be worth living now would it? I just think it’s crucial to set realistic expectations in areas of your life you want to see improve. Even if it means drinking several more ounces of water in a day or adding in a bike ride around your neighborhood for that extra boost of cardio. 

I sat down on December 30th, that time between Christmas and Hanukkah and New Years Eve, when you haven’t any idea what day of the week or if it’s time for lunch or dinner and I “resolved” to write down some areas in my life I felt needed improvement. 

Below is a brief list (didn’t want to get too personal in a simple blog post), that I hope inspires you to sit down and do the same. 

I used a Lilly Pulitzer planner, because there’s something about the vibrant colors and the stickers that come inside of it that gets me super excited and my creative juice flowing!

4OILQSGSQ8mCgfLbAZPJuQ.jpg

  1. Family: Practice patience. Goodbye to mom guilt. Try one new thing a month. Continue to strive to be present. Plan vacations ahead of time. 
  2. Relationship: Weekly date night (eating dinner alone, a movie at home, doesn’t have to be fancy!) Plan an annual getaway just the two of us.
  3. Home: Continue to chip away at house projects. Purge a bag of donations/trash a month.
  4. Finances: Do a no spend week. Check finances daily. Save! 
  5. Wellness: Work out 3 times a week. Meal prep. Sign up for a Disney run (I put it out there in the universe! Ah!) 
  6. Work: Grow my team of entrepreneurs every month, to continue to serve others and give back! Write 4 blog posts a month. Plan ahead. Continue to increase sales. (I had my BEST month in November!)
  7. Personal Growth: Learn to say no more. Take an hour everyday just for me. Only surround myself with positivity. Be intentional. Spend less time browsing the internet. (Can’t we all? lol) 
  8. Fun: Visit the beach more often. More girls nights. See a concert at least once this year!

I would love to hear yours! Contact me anytime! 

Briana D’Andrea

momgirlblog.com

Featured in January Issue of “Mommy Moments” in AroundWellington.com

IG: @BrianaDAndrea

Photo Cred: Dani Napert Photography

January 12, 2019April 18, 2020

Briana D.Leave a comment

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