Cassie DeNisco

The Christie Affair Book Review!!

June 8, 2022

As we approach the warmer months, there’s nothing better to me than a good mystery book in the sun! I was excited to get my hands on The Christie Affair after hearing about Agatha Christie’s mysterious few weeks being missing.

I love any book from Reese Witherspoon’s book club so I had very high hopes for this one. If you’re interested in purchasing this book, I have an affiliate link below which means I earn a small commission. No pressure to purchase though!

The Christie Affair by Nina de Gramont- Shop Here

This book follows the mysterious disappearance and reappearance of Agatha Christie. This is about the true story of Agatha Christie’s car being found abandoned on the side of the road. And how she reappears days later far from it.

Christie’s marriage wasn’t the greatest. It has allegations of cheating from her husband so Nina de Gramont writes this book from the point of view of the mistress. I think it’s a very interesting take on the story and gives it a new perspective.

Christie’s disappearance was actually a way for her to try to save her marriage and get the mistress to go back to her ex boyfriend. I think the story line had a lot of potential with twists and turns but to be honest, it was hard to follow.

The story of Christie is one I already know so I was looking for more of a mysterious adventure, not a revenge plot. I also felt like there was too much emphasis on the mistress when the book is marketed as what happened to Agatha when she disappeared.

This might be the first book of the month that I actually wouldn’t say run to read. It is well written but just did not live up to the hype . I seem to be leaning more and more into historical fiction so this just didn’t do it for me.

Final Thoughts

I really just did not love this book. It wasn’t what I thought it was and I just feel like I wouldn’t want to recomend it. I’m super interested to hear if you read this and liked it though!

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Makeup Products I Can’t Live Without for Glowy Skin!

April 11, 2022

It has been quite awhile since I last shared a makeup products review! I wanted to share now because I’ve really switched up what I’m using lately. As we head into the warmer months, I like light makeup. Something not too heavy but natural and glowy.

For awhile now I haven’t been wearing much makeup. I feel like that was partly because of the pandemic but I really have come back to it. I wanted to get and try out some new products as I get back into makeup. I love watching videos and reading posts on makeup product recommendations so I hope you do too!

Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Foundation- Shop Here

I actually purchased this new foundation on a whim when it came out. I was hoping it was similar to the It Cosmetics CC cream but it’s actually so much better. Because it has they hyaluronic acid in it already, it keeps your skin hydrated and glowy. I really love this stuff, I just wish I had gotten a slightly darker shade so I can wear it all summer!

Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer- Shop Here

I’ve had my eye on this concealer for awhile now and I finally went for it. I absolutely love it under my eyes and to cover blemishes. It seriously is great and long lasting. Lately, I’ve just been wearing a little concealer and calling it a day. I know as it gets warmer I’ll definitely be skipping foundation all together so this will be perfect.

Milk Makeup Lip + Cheek Stick- Shop Here

I love this blush!! It is so creamy and easy to use. It’s easy to blend and sits so nicely on the skin. This is actually my first Milk product and I am super interested in getting their bronzer version. I think the key to glowy skin is cream products that will really melt into your skin.

Beauty Counter Think Big Mascara- Shop Here

I was gifted this Beauty Counter mascara for Christmas but it easily has become a staple product for me. First of all, it’s a clean makeup product but it actually works well. It doesn’t clump but helps make my eyelashes super long and big. If you get anything from these products, this is what I would say you have to get!

Laura Mercier Translucent Powder- Shop Here

I know I’m late to the game on this powder but I love it. The Laura Mercier translucent powder is perfect to put in the areas that you don’t want to get super oily. I love a glowy look that’s not too greasy so this helps to counteract my oily skin throughout the day and keep my makeup in place.

As you can tell from my last glowy makeup routine post here, I really have switched it up! I honestly like wearing just a little concealer and some color on my cheeks. I’ve been patiently waiting to see if I can get my hands on the contour wand by Charlotte Tilbury but it’s so hard, let me know if you’ve tried it out!

I hope you get some inspiration from these makeup products! If you’re interested in trying them check out my affiliate links! Also be sure to subscribe here to the blog so you never miss a post!

Creating a Capsule Wardrobe: The Pros & Cons

March 28, 2022

I have long been interested in breaking down my closet and transitioning to a capsule wardrobe. This basically just means you have a few pieces that for the most part you can wear together. I definitely could not fully commit to this but I did have fun picking out pieces that I felt would best fit a capsule wardrobe.

These are essentials basics that can be paired with anything. I’ll leave a few links to the items I mention which are affiliate links but I honestly think the key here is finding what you like. You’re basically downsizing your closet so you have to have pieces that you love no matter what.

The Pros

I’ve found it so easy to create outfits. With such a packed closet, it was often overwhelming to look through. By narrowing it down to primarily basics with some funky pieces thrown in, I can easily see everything and put outfits together.

In addition to quickly creating outfits, I feel like I’ve saved some money. I initially invested in good quality basics so i don’t really need to be spending a crazy amount on clothes each month. For the most part, I’m just adding in more trendy pieces once in awhile.

I think the most obvious pro is that your closet is organized and clean because you don’t have the clutter. My clothes take up about half the space they used to so it is nice having more room and the ability to actually look for clothes.

The Cons

I miss a big closet. This was something that I always thought wouldn’t have been a problem. I was constantly trying to get rid of clothes but turns out I liked having a lot. I’m super indecisive so I feel like having many choices was easier on me.

It takes a while to get there. I had been finding and investing in pieces for a while before I could say I had a good capsule. I wanted to make sure I loved the pieces and actually wanted to wear them. Not to mention, actually downsizing a closet takes a lot of time.

I noticed all I had was black clothes. I guess for some reason in my head capsule meant black pieces so I really was just buying black basics. I love black but at the same time I like other neutrals and pops of color once in awhile.

I think trying to create a capsule wardrobe is something everyone should try. I don’t think you need to go out and throw all a way. I do think this helps you learn a lot about what you do like and actually will wear.

Let me know in the comments below your closet strategy and if you’ll try a capsule wardrobe! You can check out more fashion posts here or subscribe to my blog here!

My Baked Oats Recipe!

March 14, 2022

If Tik Tok has taught me anything, it’s how to make a baked oats recipe to die for! Baked oats essentially is oatmeal that instead of cooking on the stove you blend the ingredients then bake. It turns into this delicious cake like breakfast that is so satisfying and delicious.

Baked oats is great because you can really customize it to your preferences. I’ve made it a few different ways but always go back to this simple recipe. This might seem super intimidating to make but with a few ingredients and a good blender you’ll have a great breakfast in no time!

Ingredients:

1/2 c Oats
1 Ripe Banana
1/2 c Almond Milk
1 tsp Baking Powder
Dash of Cinnamon
1 tsp Vanilla
1 tbsp Peanut Butter
Handful of vegan chocolate chips

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 degreees
Add oats, almond milk, banana, baking powder, vanilla, peanut butter and cinnamon to a blender and blend thoroughly.
Spray a mini baking safe pan and pour in mixture.
Sprinkle chocolate chips on top and bake for 30-40 minutes depending on how you like it. (Sometimes I like a gooey center and others I want it completely baked)

Do you see how easy and healthy it is to have cake for breakfast? I’ve even seen some people take out their baked oats and drizzle a little almond milk on top to make it even more gooey.

This baked oats recipe is my go to on mornings I’m craving something sweet and have time to make it. I wish I could make this every morning but because it does take a bit it’s a once in awhile thing for me.

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My Favorite Products from December!

January 19, 2022

I feel like I am constantly sharing products and reviewing them so I decided along with my monthly book review, I would have another bonus post! This post is dedicated to all the favorite products I had from the month before!

December was a busy month and I had some products that I really could not live without. They seriously got me through the busiest month between content, work, dance and just life. All of these links are affiliate links so if you purchase I do make a small commission from them. As always, there is no pressure, just like to mention it!

Simply Modern Tumbler- Shop Here

I’m probably late to this party but I cannot life without this cup. It keeps my cold drinks cold and the sleek design is a serious plus. I had the pink and blue ombré and asked for the black for Christmas. Between the both of them I am set for this next year.

I think one thing I have with reusable water bottles is they aren’t always chic and cute. They’re often just bulky and too gaudy but I love everything from this brand. They also make a similar size to the hydroflask that I have but I prefer this one since it fits in a cup holder.

Day Designer Deluxe Weekly Planner- Shop Here

Okay this was a literal fail on my end. I’ve actually had this planner since June but didn’t realize how great it actually was until now. I use a weekly planner as opposed to a daily planner because I don’t need to have my entire day fully planned.

However, on a Monday when I am off from teaching, I do like to maximize my time and plan out the day. I realized that in addition to being an amazing weekly planner, in the back there’s sheets of their amazing day planner that you can use. I fill it out on Mondays and it keeps me so organized for the whole week.

Kate Spade Oversized Throw- Shop Here

I’ve had this blanket since the end of the summer but didn’t realize just how great it was until the weather got cooler. This is my go to throw because of how plush it is. I had another very expensive and luxury brand blanket but it doesn’t compare to this after washing.

I’ve washed this blanket a few times since it’s white and I have a dog and I realized it really holds up. It is just as soft as it was when I first got it. It also is easy to clean and get stains out of which is super important since it’s white.

Lululemon Scuba Hoodie- Shop Here

I’m sorry in advance for this one because it’s probably still sold out. I had to mention it though because this sweatshirt has become my life. I’m a dance teacher so I’m always in athleisure. These sweatshirts are so flattering but also easy to move in.

Sometimes I just want to be comfy and cozy but not in a huge sweatshirt. These are cut so well that they give you that vibe but are easy to dance in. I have both the 1/4 zip and the full zip and I literally love both equally. They both seriously get the job done.

Slip Silk Scrunchies- Shop Here

I feel like because I’m a dancer, I know scrunchies and hair ties best. These thin scrunchies from Slip are literally insane. They seriously hold your hair but don’t damage it. I am literally never going back to the rubber band ones.

I found that my hair was breaking so much and once I started using these, my hair was able to relax a bit but still be up and pulled back securely. That of course is key when you’re dancing for multiple hours a day.

I would swear by these favorite products because they are all just that great. These are things that I reached for multiple times this month and they’ve really held up. I think my top two would be the planner, it kept all the dates for me, and the scrunchies because I could teach in them.

Most of these products I actually have had for a while but I rediscovered them in December. If you have any of these favorite products or try them out, let me know in the comments below! I hope you enjoyed this bonus post and let me know the content that you’re interested in reading. I’m always looking for new posts and ways to share!

You can read more posts like this here!

Bachelorette Review!

May 29, 2019

This season of the bachelorette is very interesting to say the least. I wasn’t the biggest fan of Hannah B. on Colton’s season but I did go into this season with an open mind. All of the men this season are definitely potential candidates but I was so shocked with how quickly the drama started.

As I write this, last night was episode 3 and Luke P. is SO annoying. I totally get that he and Hannah did have a strong connection but she is so right, he has zero respect for her other relationships. Luke needs to be the center of Hannah’s attention at all times and that is not a good quality for a future boyfriend or husband should have. You really could tell last night that Hannah was super frustrated with Luke P. so I am certain that he’s probably not going to the end and his time is numbered, unless he can really calm down.

Moving on to more craziness, I am so happy Cam went home. After telling the guys earlier in the day that he basically thought he was going home so he was going to tell Hannah an elaborate story to get pity and stay was honestly super icky. Anyone who tells a story like that with ulterior motives is really not someone to keep around. He is super manipulative and honestly he wasn’t even that cute so I’m glad that he is gone.

All drama aside, we did see two really great interactions between Hannah and Peter the Pilot and Hannah and Connor. Now, I’m not sure if I liked their time together because all of the other guys just brought drama or if I thought that Hannah had genuine connections. If I had to make a choice on who I thought would be her fiancé at the end of this, my top three are Connor S., Peter, and Tyler C. I think not only are they all attractive, they seem to be genuine towards Hannah and I actually have enjoyed all of their interactions.