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Favorite things

Favorite Things, Friday Eve Favorites, Podcast

Friday Eve Favorites – July Guest Edition

I’m so excited that Nicki Wilson is here to share her favorite things! SUMMER = Pool time, which is a favorite hobby of hers! Nicki is all about body confidence. She is one of the happiest humans, brimming with JOY, which you learn quickly just by visiting her Instagram. Her yearly #justgetinthepool challenge has encouraged the hearts of women far and wide, motivating our spirits to jump in. Nicki transforms women, helping us become strong and confident in our own skin, while encouraging us to stop obsessing and LOVE our bodies! Making peace with our body relationship, freeing up space to THRIVE at the important things in life! Which is what she is most passionate about…living fully! Here are a few of her favorite things…

Summersalt Sidestroke Swimsuit


“This swimsuit is literally every woman’s dream. It’s cut to perfection and nothing is slipping out. I love to do athletic things and feel like these piece makes me feel totally confident playing Spikeball on the beach or waterskiing on the lake!”

Knixwear

“I LOVE THIS BODY POSITIVE COMPANY! They have mastered the art of leak-proof underwear that are super cute! I love the option that even if it is that time of the month, you can still wear comfortable, pretty panties! AND while you are browsing, check out their waffle robe, which is a staple in my world!”

GoodR Sunglasses


“Listen, I LOVE a great, pricey pair of Raybans, buuuuuut, when I am at the pool 90% of the time, I need something of amazing quality and style, but at a price ($25!!) that I can afford if I DO happen to lose them (and with 3 kiddos- that is a guarantee!) These are cheeky and super fun and polarized to protect your peepers!”

Frontgate Pool Float


“These are a bit pricey, BUT they will last several years and are an investment piece if you have a pool! This is how I read every day- hop on one of these and just blow thru my reading list.” 

Waterloo Sparkling Water

“This is THE best tasting sparkling water and trust me, I am a picky one!”

 

Farmhouse Fresh Vanilla Bourbon Body Oil

“I am a sucker for all types of skin care, but in the summer after hours of sun and chlorine on the skin, I love to douse myself in this stuff because 1.) the scent is sooooo smooth and subtle and 2.) it makes my skin instantly softer!” 

Native Deodorant

“Ok, if you are like me- the thought of natural deo might be over the top scary, especially in a state like Texas where it is well over 100 degrees and 100 humidity on the regular! However, the chemicals in standard antiperspirants are pretty potent! I have been on the hunt for a natural deodorant for almost 2 years. ALL of them broke me out and gave me a rash, sometimes after weeks of use when I thought I was all good. I FINALLY found one that works and I LOVE it!!”

The Crazy Confidence Podcast

How fun is Nicki? Make sure to give her a follow on Instagram and subscribe to her podcast! She will definitely brighten your day while infusing your soul with confidence and love!

Nicki’s Website

Nicki’s Instagram

Crazy Confidence Podcast

July 16, 2020 by
Favorite Things, Friday Eve Favorites, Friendship, Makeup

FRIDAY EVE FAVORITES…June Guest Edition

Meet my very first “Polly Pocket” friend, Shannon Senn Trammell, tiny enough to fit in my hip pocket. Shannon is a real life cowgirl – the prettiest that you’ll ever meet, inside and out. She is the hardest worker, always on a horse, pulling a trailer of horses or cows behind her enormous truck, rescuing farm animals (raccoons) and raising the most adorable family. Shannon is married to Toby, has the most precious son Case, and the funniest/spiciest daughter, Steely. She is the perfect blend of a Tomboy Fashionista, and one of the sweetest friends you could find. When I’m in search of something to wear, she is the gal who directs me. She has an account on the Like to Know It website/app where she shares her amazing finds weekly! Give her a follow here. I’m so thrilled to have her share some of her favorite finds this month!

CeraVe Hydrating Face Wash

Beauty products are huge for me.  For a girl who damages her skin on the daily, I need a lot of help for my skin. My first go to is my CerAve facial cleanser.  I have extremely dry skin and have seen a big difference since I switched to this brand many years back.  

Circadia Moisturizer with SPF 37

I can’t live without is Circadia SPF 37 for every day moisturizer.  Luckily you can purchase this locally (to Waco) through Brandy Draper at Birch.  

Egyptian Magic All Purpose Skin Cream

My evening facial moisturizer is extremely hydrating for dry skin. I have used Egyptian Magic for many, many years.  It is a very clean and super hydrating product.

Nutiva Organic Cold-Pressed Virgin Coconut Oil

After every shower/bath, I use this organic coconut oil before getting out. Since starting this, I have not bought lotion for almost 10 years.  

Beautifive Lighted Makeup Mirror

As much as we travel, I have to have a mirror that is compact enough for suitcases but still has magnifying and led lights. I have gone through many and this one is by far my favorite. 

NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer

Nars tinted moisturizer SPF 35 is by far my favorite go-to almost daily… I have very sensitive skin and this is safe. Being in wind, cold, sun and heat everyday having extra SPF on top of my moisturizer is amazing.

Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

Shape tape concealer is by far my second favorite product ever!  For a mom, this is a God given gift because is sure hides the dark circles!

IT Cosmetics Lash Blowout Volumizing Mascara

I literally have 7 favorite mascaras but I narrowed down to just 2. Ha! My first favorite is IT Lash Blow Out.  It gives such great volume.  

Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Curling & Lifting Mascara

Benefit Roller Lash is a huge second place, it’s not as volumizing but gives great length to your lashes.

Framar Detangling Brush

Steely and I have naturally, thin, crappy, knotted hair….. how fun is that?! So, when the Wet brush came out I thought it was miracle until I found this new one on Amazon.  We lose far less hair when tearing through our knots. 

Rewined Rose Fragrance Candle

I am obsessed over this Rewined Candle in Rose, it smells heavenly! 

Fragrance Sachet

These Kirkland Sachets are life savers to make small areas smell better (closets, vehicles, tractors…). I buy multiple, put them in freezer bags and pull out to exchange them.  HEB is also selling these, so I’m stocked up!

St. Tropez Tanning Mousse

My favorite tanning mousse. It doesn’t turn you orange and last longer than any other I have tried 

Mellanni Bed Sheet Set

I’ve used these sheets about 8 years maybe longer. We love them and they are cheap!   

Tom Ford Soleil Blanc Shimmering Body Oil

Currently OBSESSED with this body moisturizer/shimmer!  

And that is a wrap on Shannon’s favorite things! Thank you so much for sharing with us!

Sending you all Love & Light,

Brooke

June 18, 2020 by
Books, Favorite Things, Friday Eve Favorites, Gifts

FRIDAY EVE FAVORITES – June edition

I have missed your faces! In light of all the world has been through since March, I didn’t feel that it was right to share favorite things until summer. Now we have made it to June, the world is still on fire for different reasons, but in need of normalcy and the sharing of good things…here we are.

#1 in my Friday Eve Favorites….you people. I’ve missed you all and want to hug everyone in the world. We need it.

La Roche-Posay Body Cream

I have had a life time search for lotion that keeps my legs moisturized for more than a minute. I randomly found this on Amazon, and have reordered it several times now. It is SUPER moisturizing, and has longevity for my day. It isn’t greasy, doesn’t have a scent, and is the perfect consistency! Plus, it is under $20! It is on every night stand and bathroom in our house, makes great gifts for girlfriends as well.

Bar Keepers Friend

During quarantine, I made a new friend. This soft cleanser (and its powder and spray form friends) can literally clean ANYTHING. My husband and boy’s have a “deer camp”, aka “The Ranch”, that has an old house on the property where they stay while hunting. It has 3 bathrooms with completely rusted toilets. While social distancing…I joined them out in the country often. I brought a whole bag of this cleanser. I am not as prissy as some might think, but I do have cleanliness standards. I threw some gloves on and started cleaning a bathroom with a tiny thread of hope. Had I known that it would COMPLETELY REMOVE ALL THE RUST, I would have taken a before picture. It literally took a completely rusted toilet and sink, and made them look as new as an old toilet can look. Sparkling white. (*This took several rounds of the Bar Keepers Friend soaking in) You can find it at Target stores or Home Depot/Lowes. It is on Amazon, but is really expensive compared to less than $3 at Target.

Go Clean Co

Warning…This Instagram account is addictive. Even if you don’t like to clean, you’ll soon be addicted. (This is where I met Bar Keepers Friend.) She has a ton of cleaning hacks and tips saved in her highlighted stories. Give her a view and follow. May we all be sparkly clean together.

Portable Power Bank with Charging Cords

This portable charger is my favorite ever. It is always in my purse, and can fully charge my phone up to 3 times before needing a recharge itself. This one comes with all the different charger cords tucked into the sides, and a built in wall plug to recharge it when it needs it. It solves the problem of having a charger, but forgetting the cord at home! I was so tired of sharing my charger, so each son of mine got one in their Easter Basket this year.

Mini Vegan Messenger Bag

This mini vegan messenger bag is a perfect size for a crossbody! They also offer a full size vegan messenger bag if you need something larger. The strap is not included, however you can purchase it separately. They offer new straps each season. Here are some of their original options….there are plenty more on the Social Threads website!

Erasable Highlighters

Hi, my name is Brooke and I’m addicted to highlighters. Especially pretty pastel ones that are erasable! You’ll love these. All the important things you highlight will love them as well.

Fit HQ App

My personal trainer, Jenny, recently created the Fit HQ App with several of her signature exercises and workouts on it! The app is free and the program is less than $20 a month….SO WORTH IT! You can easily do the workouts from home or your gym. She has a Beginner’s Guide, a Breakthrough Body Challenge, Treadmill Runs, and Weekly Workouts. I’m currently on Week 5 of the Breakthrough Body Challenge and am loving the results! I could see a huge difference in my muscle tone and strength by Week 2! If you want an accountability partner, send me a message! I love friends who hold me accountable too!

BOOKS…BOOKS….and more BOOKS

Battery Park Book Exchange Asheville, NC

I’ve read so many books in 2020 and will share some absolute must-read-favorites with you soon. Until then, I always have my currently read saved on my Instagram highlights for book recommendations. I give honest feedback in my stories. There is a 2020 Books and a 2019 Books Highlights tab.

Sending you all love & light…

May we live with open minds and open hearts,

Brooke

June 4, 2020 by
Favorite Things, Friday Eve Favorites, Gifts, Organization, Podcast

FRIDAY EVE FAVORITES – February Edition

Hi Friends, here are a few things that are saving my sanity and life right now….

Neck and Shoulder Relaxer – Chiropractic Pillow

My chiropractor friend (truly her official title), told me to order this. It’s so relaxing to lay on after a long day or tough work out. It stretches out the neck in the most supportive way. I’ve actually accidentally slept all night on this, proof it isn’t torture. For under $20, it’s a chiropractic bargain!

Sidekick Pencil Pouch

This little pouch from the Container Store is my journal and current book’s sidekick. I underline and highlight as I read, so I like to have a writing utensil close by. This pencil/pen pouch has a MAGNET ARM that hugs the cover of a book, so one is always close by. Brilliant. As my friend, ‘Other Brooke’ says, “Another thing I didn’t invent…”

Portable Mini Refillable Perfume Atomizer

This is the best for those of you who don’t like using a roller ball for perfume application on the go. It’s the coolest little guy. You simply take the spray lid off of your favorite full size perfume, connect the bottom of the atomizer to the regular perfume bottle and press it up and down to fill the cavity. It travels well and doesn’t leak in your purse like roller balls can!

skyn ICELAND Hydro Cool Firming Eye Gel

I’ve tried a ton of eye patches to help freshen up puffy eyes. These are my favorite by far. Others that I have tried are jelly (ick) or slimy (gross), and fall all over my face. The inside of these babies is super soothing and so nice while the outside is more like a material…nothing slimy! The best part is that they WORK with puffiness and fine lines. They carry them at Ulta, I’ve linked them here from Amazon as well.

Clear Shelf Divider

I don’t know how to accurately describe these amazing and strong shelf dividers. So just believe me? I was looking for a solution for some closet shelf organization. When I found these, I started looking for other places to use them. The bottom arm is padded, so it won’t scratch the wood or paint that it grips onto. They hold up well, (even strong enough for books!) and divide beautifully.

No Show/No Slip Socks

These made me break up with Nike No Show socks. They are perfect, no slipping and they let you keep the circulation in your feet! The best part...they come in a pack of 6 for under $20!

Podcast….

If you haven’t caught this podcast of Brene Brown, hosted by School of Greatness…. or this podcast of Richard Rohr, hosted by Good True & Beautiful…enjoy!

Several have recently asked me for book recommendations…I have a saved Book Highlight on my Instagram for those! I always love hearing your recommendations as well!

Love & Light,

Brooke

P.S.

February 26, 2020 by
Clothing, Fashion, Favorite Things, Friday Eve Favorites

FRIDAY EVE FAVORITES…February Guest Edition

Meet my friend Amanda Cunningham, who you will rarely find without a smile. Amanda is a wife to Matt, mom to Cade and Cambrie, top ranked Realtor in Waco, Texas, fashionista with a fun style, essential oil loving gal, and an incredible friend. You want her in your corner, every one of them. She is a friend to many and a lover of FUN! She is also hilarious, she makes me laugh without even trying to. Once she bought a house based on the front door design. I admire anyone that sure of their choices. Amanda also weekly hosts The Waco 254, which features local businesses and dives into learning more about our fellow Wacoans. This month she is gracious enough to share a few of her favorite things…

Flawless by Finishing Touch

A new beauty device that erases hair instantly and painlessly without the irritation that comes with plucking or waxing. (Or let’s get real, shaving.) It discreetly looks like a tube of lipstick, and has a built-in light that makes it easy to see and remove every single hair from the upper lip, cheek, chin, eyebrows or anywhere! Zero reasons left to have a spare hair or 12 hanging from your chinny chin chin.

Consuela Handbags

Consuela handbags are a favorite. Especially this Silverlake Classic Tote. When ordering from the Consuela website, you can add your email address for an extra 15% off!

Orange Blossom Foaming Face Wash

Not only does it smell heavenly, it is made from 100 percent naturally derived ingredients. It is perfect for sensitive skin, reduces surface oils and removes dirt and makeup without making your skin feel dry or tight.

Boxwood Hedge Wall

I asked Amanda to put her wall on this list, because it’s one of my favorites. When she told me her plan to do this, I could not wait to see the finished product! She ordered these boxwood hedge panels from Amazon, and simply stapled them to the wall. Seriously. How gorgeous is this space?

Young Living Inner Defense Capsules

Inner Defense is a daily staple in the Cunningham house. It’s packed full of potent essential oils – oregano, thyme, and Thieves® which are rich in thymol, carvacrol, and eugenol for immune support.  (Amanda got me hooked on these last month when I was down with the flu. These guys and Thieves® oil saved me!) Speaking of Thieves…

All things Thieves

If you have had a 3 minutes conversation with Amanda, she has sold you on Thieves essential oil. She will then tell you all the reasons you need to Ditch and Switch (change out all your household cleaning products, etc. to a cleaner, healthier option…Thieves). It really is amazing. You can contact her (below) for more information on Young Living and Thieves.

Overland

In 1973, Jim Leahy, arrived in Taos, New Mexico with a bale of sheepskins, a sewing machine, and a notion that if you did something right the rest would take care of itself. In 2019, Amanda found Overland and fell in love with their capes, coats, and boots.

ART Renewal Serum

This serum is made of several essential oils, including orchid extract, which is full of antioxidants. The essence of orchids helps to regulate skin pigmentation, thus combating aging caused by free radicals. Orchids have been called the perfect plant for skin because they contain calcium, magnesium, zinc, and copper – all things that nourish. Renewal Serum moisturizes, boost your skins immunity, reduces fine lines, smooths, and regulates skin pigmentation.

Calvin Klein Euphoria Eau De Parfum Spray

Amanda’s favorite perfume.

Maui Jim Sunglasses

When asked which exact pair of Maui Jim sunglasses are her favorite, she gave me a list of 4. I feel like sunglasses are personal, so I didn’t link specific pair, but how cute is Amanda in these? In Hawaii, planting trees…of course she is.

NingXia Red®

An antioxidant powerhouse. Truly. Drinking 1-2 oz. of this a day can completely neutralize oxidative stress. It is made primarily of wolfberries – one ounce of Ningxia Red has the antioxidant power of 4 lbs of carrots, 10 lbs of spinach, 8 oranges, and 2 lbs beets. This is health in a juice box.

ART Refreshing Toner

Noonday Jewelry

Favorite affordable jewelry…big earrings! Noonday is a fun company with great designs. They are socially responsible, fair trade company that strives to use fashion to alleviate poverty. Check out all of their products! They are amazing quality and super trendy.

Amanda Cunningham

Website

Facebook

Instagram

February 12, 2020 by