Cassie DeNisco

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My Baked Oats Recipe!

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:

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degreees
  2. Add oats, almond milk, banana, baking powder, vanilla, peanut butter and cinnamon to a blender and blend thoroughly.
  3. Spray a mini baking safe pan and pour in mixture.
  4. 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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Death by Dissertation- Book Review!

I’m back with my March book of the month! I can hardly believe that it’s March and I’m already sharing my 3rd book of the year! I wanted to switch it up this month and I chose a light hearted mystery. I’ve found that I don’t love heavy books and this one is really fun and an easy read. This month we’re talking all about Death by Dissertation by Kelly Brakenhoff.

Death by Dissertation– Shop Here

death by dissertation

I initially was drawn to this book because the main character and I share the same name, Cassandra. Cassandra Sato is an admin at a college where a death happens to one of her students. She finds herself thrown into the investigation and ends up uncovering more clues than the police.

I really enjoyed this book because the mystery was simple and easy to follow. On top of that, Cassandra is a really likeable character that calls her parents and has some love interest in the men she works around. Overall, this book has a little bit of everything: Mystery, friendship, and a hint of romance.

After reading It Happened One Summer and The Light we Lost, I was in the mood to switch of the genre. I actually found this one through the Kindle app and was excited to see it’s a series. I realize that I’m more inclined to choose a book if it at least has one other book in the series. Sometimes one book just isn’t enough for the characters so I gravitate towards series.

The best way I can describe this is like an adult Nancy Drew. Cassandra is balancing a full time job with a crazy boss, love life, friends, and making time to call her parents all while solving a mysterious death on campus. You’re really able to relate to her which I really appreciate.

I can’t stress enough that because I read before bed I don’t want any crazy scary books. I like easy reads that have a good story line. Death by Dissertation was perfect for me and gave me that mystery feel I was looking for. I’m excited to read the other books in this series!

I hope you have been enjoying these books of the month! It’s so fun to share my favorite book that I read that month. I actually have a goal of 75 books this year so we’ll see if I make it. I am always looking for more recommendations so let me know in the comments what you’re reading!

That Girl Night Routine!

If you know me, you know I am passionate about good sleep and unwinding at night. I’ve even written posts about it like this one for tips for better sleep! I wanted to share my version of the that girl night routine because I think this concept is really interesting.

This trend has a negative connotation because people feel like they need to act or do things a certain way. I think it’s really just bettering yourself and making sure you are the best version of you. The that girl night routine vibe is just helpful to inspire you to want to take better care of your mental and physical health.

With that being said, here are 5 things to do before bed for better sleep!

Lighting Matters

This is my top tip that I always suggest. Turn off or dim your lights a few hours before you plan to go to bed. As soon as I get home from work I like to start to turn off lights after I use them so that my brain starts to process that the darkness means sleep.

I feel like too bright of lights will keep your body awake. It helps to get you in the mood to lay down when the lights are dim and cozy anyway. This will help making falling asleep easier.

No Phone

that girl night routine

This one was seriously a tough one to get used to. It seriously has made such a difference though. I use the sleep feature on my iPhone and actually have it set to go on for 8pm. Essentially this turns on do not disturb so you’re not seeing any notifications.

When the light on your phone keeps popping up from notifications your more tempted to check it. I like to just put my phone on charge and maybe turn on a show or my next step to help me unwind.

Reading Helps

If you are someone that likes reading, try it right before bed. Unless I’m reading a really high action thriller, my eyes almost always get heavy after reading for like 30-45 minutes. Most nights I turn to reading instead of a show in order to reduce that light and screen time.

I try to just make sure that whatever I read isn’t going to be too exciting or interesting so that it doesn’t have the opposite affect on me. I’m currently sharing one book a month for my book club so be sure to check out the posts here!

Essential Oils

Essential oils are my very final step. I love falling asleep to the smell of lavender and I almost feel like I have conditioned myself to fall asleep as soon as I smell it. Sometimes I’ll even put a drop in my humidifier so that the entire room smells good.

Essential oils are really underrated and I think more people would like them if they gave them a try. I even have body wash and bath soaps that have the essentials oils infused in them so if I shower at night, I’m setting myself up for success.

Don’t Stress

that girl night routine

One thing I hear all the time when I hear people talk about sleep is how they get stressed about it. You have to go in with an open mind and not worry if it takes a bit to fall asleep. There’s no worse feeling then watching the clock tick by because you’re stressed that you’re not asleep yet.

If you can’t sleep one night, that’s totally fine but get up and get water, or take a lap in your house. Don’t let yourself spiral into anxiety and stress which will only prevent you from sleeping.

Like I said, I am all about good sleep. I think quality sleep seriously sets you up for a great day and keeps you going. These things have seriously helped me to unwind and honestly get in the mood for sleep. I hope they help you too.

The that girl night routine is all about being your best you and honestly that’s why I love it so much. Night routine posts are always my favorite to write. Let me know if you liked this post and be sure to comment more posts you want to see from me!

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24 Things I Manifested Before Turning 24

Because this post is going live on February 28th, the night before my 24th birthday, I wanted to reflect on my life so far! I came up with this idea of 24 things I manifested before turning 24 as a way to look back on everything I’ve accomplished so far.

Manifesting isn’t this crazy concept. It’s based along the principle of speaking things you want in life into existence. You have to focus on specific ideas and the universe will help guide you towards them. I think making room to dream about your future is so important in helping you actually want to work towards it. You’ll see some of these things are huge goals, and others are just small daily things that make my life so much better.

24 Things I Manifested

24 things I manifested

1.My Puppy

2. The Blog

3. Paying off half of my college loans in cash right out of college

24 things I manifested

4. Purchasing a new car on my own

5. Able to dance & teach dance everyday

6. Working from home

7. My relationship 🙂

8. Ability to Travel

9. Financially Indepedent

10. Healthy Lifestyle

11. Time to read everyday

12. Being close with my family

13. Able to do something creative everyday

14. Managing stress and anxiety

15. Parents who support whatever I do

16. Time for hobbies and to explore other things that interest me

17. Brand partnerships from my blog

18. Creating a side digital marketing business

19. Toxic people leaving my life

20. Intentional with every action I take

21. Finding what makes me happiest

22. Letting go of things that don’t serve me

23. Ability to manifest & just let the universe move through you

24. Being grateful for everything no matter what

Wrap Up

As you can see, this list has all sorts of things on it. Whether you manifest, pray, or just set intentions they all do the same thing. Just focus so hard on what you want in your life and just let things take their course.

I am so grateful that I realized how powerful manifesting was and was able to have this list. Manifesting isn’t magic and you won’t over night be able to meet some goals. Living each day focusing on only what you want and letting go of things that don’t serve you will help you reach whatever you want.

I am so grateful to have built this community and am able to continue to share all my favorite things with you. Let me know in the comments if manifesting has worked for you!

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My Healthy Dessert Recipe!

This healthy dessert recipe is delicious!! I used to not like dates but making them this way has changed my dessert game forever. I find myself always craving something sweet to finish off the night but I just wanted a healthier alternative.

This recipe uses dates to make a healthy version of a candy similar to a snickers bar. I know you might be thinking dates are kind of weird but they actually give off a caramel vibe paired with this chocolate and peanut butter treat!

Anyone can make this recipe because it is just that simple! Here’s the recipe for my favorite healthy dessert!

healthy dessert recipe

Ingredients

Pitted medjool dates

Peanut butter

Chocolate chips

Directions

  1. Open up the date and put some peanut butter in the middle.
  2. Melt some chocolate and completely cover the date in it.
  3. Let the dates set in fridge for about 30 minutes and enjoy!
healthy dessert recipe

As you can see this recipe is so simple and only had 3 ingredients! I’ve seen some people take some flaky salt and add it to the top for a sweet/salty vibe. I personally am just all for the sweets so I leave it just like that.

I love this healthy dessert recipe because it really is a great alternative dessert. I never am one to deny cravings but I also know that I should sometimes try to swap it out for something healthier. Let me know in the comments below your favorite healthy dessert recipe!

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My Wellness Favorites!

This year instead of resolutions I decided to choose a word to live by. I picked “wellness” which just means I’ll be more conscious of my well being than I was last year. Whether it’s working out, eating right, or honestly just slowing down and taking time for me I want to promote and elevate my wellness.

With that being said, January was a bit of a transition month for me with this and I found some products that I seriously love. These wellness favorites range from all different categories and seriously have helped raise my game for wellness!

The Five Minute Journal- Shop Here

wellness favorites

This guided prompt journal was game changing for me. Before the new year I had tried to journal and write out my thoughts but honestly it became a chore. I often was struggling with what to write and stopped enjoying it.

I loved this journal when I found it because there’s 3 questions for the morning and 2 for the evening. They’re short and sweet but get me thinking about what I’m grateful for and set up my mindset for the day. I also like that there’s room to reflect at night how the day went. Highly recommend if you’re looking to start journaling but need a prompt to get you started.

Microwave Heating Pad- Shop Here

wellness favorites

I became obsessed with this. There was not a morning or night that I did not heat this up and use it on my neck, feet, or back. I live in NY where it is so cold in the winter so this just helped to relax me and elevated my mood and my vibrations.

I love that you can just microwave this because it is so easy to use. I don’t like the plug in kinds because you have to sit near and outlet. Although this will lose it’s heat, by the time it started to cool down I was ready to either go to sleep or get going with my day.

Melatonin & CBD Gummies- Shop Here

wellness favorites

I am usually a great sleeper but once or twice a month my anxiety runs wild. These CBD + melatonin gummies are everything for the nights I need to relax and shut off my mind. I usually take some time to read before bed so I’ll take 1 of these and in like 30 minutes I’m ready for bed.

I’ve tried other gummies before this but they honestly leave you groggy in the morning. I think because these have CBD they help you to fall asleep, stay asleep, but wake up refreshed and ready to go. Highly recommend these but of course take at your own discretion!

Pajama Set- Shop Here

I just had to include this pj set because I swear it instantly makes me cozy and relaxed. I got this set off of Amazon after I wasn’t quite sure if I wanted to invest in the more expensive version. This dupe did not disappoint me and I wear the robe like all the time.

I have a Barefoot Dreams robe but since this one is significantly cheaper, I find myself wearing it more. I don’t feel nervous cooking in it because it wasn’t as expensive. These Pj’s are so soft and seriously make me feel ready for bed the second I put them on.

Bamboo Pillow- Shop Here

wellness favorites

I was definitely a skeptic when it comes to pillows. I liked pretty soft and squishy pillows because they’re honestly the comfiest. Over winter break I got a COVID booster and I was down for a few days. The only thing that helped me sleep was my boyfriends super thick pillow.

Ever since then, I have slept religiously ever night and I think everyone needs one. The stiffness is great especially if I want to read. It keeps be propped up enough but still comfy and cozy in bed!

As you can see, these wellness favorites are all for better sleep and just overall relaxation. I think for me, wellness seriously just means reducing stress and using that to live my life. We live in such a face paced world that is like perfect for anxiety to grow and it takes a toll on you.

Using these wellness favorites have helped me to take a step back and be able to shut off the world when I’m home. It’s so important to me to use my house as a safe space that isn’t chaotic and each of these products just elevates that feeling for me!

Let me know in the comments below your resolutions or word for 2022! You can check out my last favorites post here! Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter here!

The Light We Lost- Book Review!

It’s a new month which means a new book! I loved the response from our first book of the month, It Happened One Summer! Not only is it so much fun sharing my book recommendations with you, but it really helps me keep accountable and reading all year long!

When I initially picked this book up in the book store, I thought it was something entirely different. I don’t like to read heavy books so when I realized that’s what this was I was a little worried. However, this book was so captivating that I had to keep going.

The Light We Lost– Shop Here

the light we lost

The Light We Lost really draws you in with the first chapter discussing the characters account of 9/11. Both Lucy and Gabe are in college in NYC in the beginning and they experience this very scary time together. From there, this story evolves into their friendship and love continuing throughout their lives.

As they grow up and get new jobs, the book has them bump into each other here and there. It begins to make you think of fate and maybe they are meant to be together. Even Lucy and Gabe consider it, but never take the jump to explore what that could mean after Gabe takes a job that requires he travel.

I started to think about missed opportunities during this book. Lucy and Gabe clearly have so much love for each other but their lives are like parallel lines running next to each other but never crossing, until the end of the book.

I was not prepared for the ending and if I’m being honest, it’s why I don’t usually pick books like this. Something happens and you realize you can’t keep living life with the idea of something, if you want it you have to work for it. The main theme of this book for me was realizing life is too short and sometimes when you finally get what you want, it’s too late.

Final Thoughts

Timing is truly everything and it seemed like Lucy and Gabe just never got the right timing. Jill Santopolo was a great author and the way she wrote this book from Lucy’s perspective was so unique. At the end you realize what the narration means and I was just speechless. I recommend this when you’re looking for a book with a bit more to it.

These book posts are so fun to write. I hope you’re enjoying them just as much as me! Don’t forget to follow @bookchatswithcass if you want to follow along with the books I’m reading in real time!

Also, feel free to leave your book recommendations in the comments below. I am always looking for books to add to my list and would love to hear what you have read or recommend!

Self Tanning Tips for Winter

I always find myself reaching for my self tanner right about now in the winter. My summer glow has faded and I’m seriously reaching for anything that will get me glowing. I’ve made previous posts about self tanning tips like this one here but I’ve actually switched up my products.

I noticed with the previous brand I was using, the ingredients weren’t very clean and one of my resolutions was to make sure my beauty products are. Another thing I noticed was that they changed their formula. This brand I had been using for years and the last time I purchased, then tan had a weird tint and didn’t go on smooth.

No need to fear, I found this brand at Ulta and I seriously fell in love. The Tanologist brand is pretty affordable and it seriously works wonder. I decided to try out the tan water instead of the mouse and honestly, I don’t think I have a preference. The water is harder to use because it goes on clear to not rub off on anything but that makes it hard to know where you put it.

In addition to the water, I also purchased the drops which I soon realized I didn’t actually need. I never used to use self tanner mouse on my face because it would break me out but the water actually doesn’t. The drops are useful though because all you have to do is mix them with your favorite moisturizer. I might try them in the spring when I’m starting to lay out again but want to be tan. Here are some of my self tanning tips for Winter!

Exfoliate

I feel like people will tell you to exfoliate and literally never elaborate on what it actually means. You need to prep your skin to be able to soak in the tan, just like getting your nails done or hair. I like to shave about a day before I tan and then I like to exfoliate in the show right before I tan. This way my skin won’t be super irritated but I’ll get a smooth application.

To exfoliate, I like to use a mild and gentle body wash with a loofa or some sort of exfoliating brush and just gently work it over my skin. Do not go crazy because you don’t want to over exfoliate and throw your skin off.

To take off the tan, you can try this same process about a week later. I always like to tan on Sundays so then I’ll do it again on the next Sunday.

Moisturize

This is one I used to always over look but not anymore. Moisturizing before you tan is so essential to making sure you don’t have any pooling of the tan in places your skin is try. I used to always mess up my knees and elbows because they’d be super dry. Now that I moisturize, the tan glides on and is even.

It’s also super important to continue to moisturize your skin even as the week goes on. The moisturizer will help preserve your tan and keep your skin glowing. I like to use a lighter moisturizer that won’t be too heavy on my skin but still gets the job done. My personal favorite is actually just the mositurizer from CeraVe.

Find What Works

Not gonna lie, this one took awhile. You can try out the products I mentioned and they might not work for your skin type. It takes a bit of testing out to find a product that is affordable for you and that works well. I really like the Tan water because it’s not super sticky and so far hasn’t transferred to any of my clothing.

I do recommend trying out a mouse if you are just starting out because I can see how you might get an uneven tan the first few times you use it. My biggest tip is to find something that you are comfortable and confident using.

I hope these self tanning tips were helpful. I love being a bit tanner in the winter because it seriously just lifts my mood. The weather in New York is often cold and gloomy mid winter so I’ll do anything to make it feel like summer.

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Products Mentioned:

Tanologist Express Tan Water $16.99- Shop Here

Tanologist Face + Body Drops $19.99- Shop Here

Ulta Sunless Mitt $5.99- Shop Here

Ulta Tan Mitt for Face $5.99- Shop Here

Daily Body Moisturizer $12.99- Shop Here

Healthy Greek Bowl for Dinner!

As soon as I tried this for the first time, I knew I had to share this healthy greek bowl with you. This recipe is delicious and so easy to make. I also love it because it is so fresh and healthy, making it perfect for dinner when you’re trying to get back on your healthy routine.

I love bowls because of how customizable they are. You can add or take out whatever you don’t want, which makes this great to feed your family! This meal is plant based but you can easy make a meat protein for it like grilled chicken if you’re someone who needs that!! Here’s the healthy greek bowl recipe!

healthy greek bowl

Ingredients

  • 2 tomatoes
  • 1 red onion
  • 1/2 a cucumber
  • 1 c Bulgur (you can substitute with couscous too!)
  • Hummus
  • Feta Cheese (I use vegan)
  • Olive Oil
  • Salt
  • Peper
  • Garlic Powder

Directions

  1. Dice your tomatoes, onion, and cucumber. Add them to a bowl with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix and set aside.
  2. Cook your bulgur according to the packaging. You want it to have no water left by the time your are done cooking it.
  3. Once the bulgar is finished, assemble your bowl with the veggies, hummus, bulgar, and feta cheese on top.

I literally told you this was the easiest meal ever. I love this because you can also prep it in the morning or even the day before and it sits really well in the fridge. This is such a fresh recipe and something I crave after the holidays when we’ve had a lot of heavy and dense meals.

You also get in all of your veggies and nutrients here too which is a plus! Like I said before, you can make this a little more filling by maybe adding a piece of grilled chicken on top. For me, the hummus really keeps me full and good to go!

If you loved this recipe and want more like it, click here for another easy bowl recipe! Be sure to subscribe here to the blog so you don’t miss any recipes!

My Favorite Products from December!

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

favorite products

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

favorite products

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!