Cassie DeNisco

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Reputation Book Review!

I am so excited to be sharing another book review with you! This one is seriously was on my want to read list for months before it even came out! We all love Bridgerton and this book gave me all those vibes! I seem to be obsessed with historical fiction since my last reviews have been just that!

This book was a quick read for me but really kept me entertained. I loved the vibe of it and it seriously was reminding me of Bridgerton meets mean girls! Here’s my Reputation book Review!

Reputation by Lex Croucher- Click Here

reputation book review

This book follows Georgina Ellers who is essentially abandoned by her parents. She’s sent to live with her aunt in this regency era and gets thrown into this world of high society. She meets Frances, the ultra high society queen bee and soon falls in with her friends.

The story follows them breaking the rules and pushing the boundaries that are set up for them during this time period. From underage drinking to sneaking out to party with boys, this book shows just how restricted teenage girls had it.

It also touches on the love lives of these girls and how they all essentially want to be married by the summer. They think that will magically solve all their problems and they can move up in society that way.

Final Thoughts

This was definitely a different book for me. I thought going in I would absolutely devour it but it wasn’t my top favorite and thought it was just a little all over the place. It definitely was a good read but the story line just wasn’t it for me.

It definitely was fun and Bridgerton/Mean Girls inspired but I guess I just had higher hopes for it than what it was. I think you definitely still should check it out yourself!

I hope you enjoyed this Reputation Book Review! Reading has been so much fun for me and I hope you’ve been inspired to read too! Be sure to subscribe here so you don’t miss another post!

Check out my other book reviews here!

My Sunday Reset for a Good Week

If you know me, you know I love a good Sunday Reset. Sundays are the only day that I actually don’t have to go anywhere so I take full advantage of that. I like to spend my Sundays setting myself up for a good week.

Life can get super crazy during the week so I generally leave a lot of things for Sundays to do. I’ve been loving reading posts like these to see what Sundays look like for everyone else so I figured I’d share my typical Sunday routine!

7:30 am

Sky is always up around this time no matter the day so we’re usually up and feeding her at this time. After she’s all set for the morning, I grab my ice roller and we head back to bed!

10:00am

By 10 we’re usually ready to be up for the day and will either grab bagels or make a yummy breakfast at home. I rarely have breakfast in the morning but on Sunday it’s so nice to spend the time making something like pancakes that I wouldn’t normally eat!

11:00-1:00pm

Depending on how productive I was on Saturday, I may or may not have to grocery shop on Sunday. We usually will need fresh salmon so we will make a quick trip out for coffees and whatever we need. I love actually taking the time to go for a morning ride on a Sunday because it’s leisurely and something Sky enjoys.

I always will take a few minutes to refresh the house though. I love changing my sheets, dusting, using the Roomba and mopping. This little refresh helps to keep cleaning simple and not overwhelming. During the week, I cannot be bother to do this so carving out time on a Sunday to do this is essential to keeping me sane during the week.

1:00-4:00pm

After that, I always make sure I spend time doing whatever I want. Whether it’s a nap, reading, or doing some yoga/pilates, I like having time for it. Sundays are only relaxing if I can be productive but also make time for myself to rest and recharge. We generally do laundry throughout the week so this time on a Sunday can really be relaxing.

5:00-7:00pm

I am all about an early dinner on a Sunday. I love eating early, cleaning the kitchen, and then taking a good shower. Sundays are my favorite days for a yummy meal but that has easy clean up. You can check out my favorite soup recipe here that’s always a go to on a Sunday for me.

My Sunday showers are also a ritual. I love washing my hair on Sunday to set myself up for a good week. I’ll lotion and also lymphatic drain as well since I actually have the time to spend doing that. I finish off my day with comfy pjs and a glazed donut skin on my face.

7:00pm

Once I’m all set, I’ll hop into bed and we’ll usually watch a show or movie that we’ve been putting off. I love being in bed early on a Sunday because it seriously sets you up for a good week. I’ll read and then finish off the night with essential oils and a quick mediation before bed around 9pm.

Everything I just listed is my ideal Sunday reset. Obviously not every Sunday will be this dreamy but I do try to make a few of these things a priority no matter what I’m up to that day. Also, your Sunday reset might be totally different and that’s okay too.

I’m all about setting yourself up for a successful week and you might have to do different things to do that. Let me know your favorite things to do on a Sunday in the comments below and subscribe here to the blog!

Finding a French Bulldog Breeder

The top asked question in my dms when I post Sky is who was her breeder. The next question is how did you find a french bulldog breeder you trusted. I won’t sugar coat, it took me over 6 months of research on not only breeders but the breed itself to find someone I trusted.

French Bulldogs are a unique breed and can have a lot of health issues if they are bred incorrectly. You are spending so much money already on your puppy. It’s crucial to make sure you can avoid major genetic issues as well as some physical ones as well.

I’m going to share with you my thought process in picking a breeder but not the breeder itself. Unfortunately they are no longer breeding but I also think you need to find a breeder on your own. Recommendations are great but honestly there’s a lot at stake when choosing your French Bulldog breeder.

Facial Features

This is probably my top tip and something I didn’t realize until after I got her. Frenchie’s can have major breathing problems due to their smooshed faces but so far we haven’t seen that with Sky. Her nose is actually much further out on her face and I think that’s why.

I’ve noticed the dogs how have the super smooshed faces seem to be the snorters and the ones that breath super heavy. Sky has minimal breathing like that but seriously not that bad. When going to pick out your Frenchie, I would look for breeders who have dogs with longer snouts because that just means more air and room for air for your pet.

Health Info

This one is pretty obvious but you need to have a breeder who’s willing to give you info on the health of all of their dogs. Not just the parents of your puppy but also the other dogs in their care. I was able to actually meet her parents and look at them as well as get their health info written out.

They didn’t have anything that would’ve been a warning sign or indicator of hereditary health issues that they could give to Sky. I wanted to also meet some of their other dogs because it gives you an idea of how well they take care of their pets and if they have any health issues.

Vibe of the Breeder

I can’t tell you how many breeders I talked to that were way too pushy. If I’m reaching out about a dog, clearly I want one but not just the first dog you have. I also was turned off by breeders who had insanely strict contracts for vaccines and spaying/neutering.

When I take home my puppy, I want to be able to make decisions for it that I have researched and feel is best, not anyone else. I get why breeders have contracts to preserve their line of dogs but I wanted a breeder who would guide me, not decide for me. Sky’s breeders were super laid back and answered any questions I had in the early months of having her.

Social Media Tags

This is one that I think a lot of people don’t think to do. My breeder had an instagram account and I found it super helpful to go to their tagged pictures and see how their dogs were doing now. This gives you an better idea of their health problems that maybe a breeder wouldn’t want to tell you.

Through social media, I was also connected with some of Sky’s siblings to talk about the dogs and how they’re doing. This was just so helpful to see happy and healthy older dogs because it gives you an idea of what you’re getting.

What does your puppy come with

After talking to a bunch of breeders, it’s common to have dogs come with other health tests done. I think the more health testing your breeder can offer the better because then you know what you’re getting.

Some dogs also need vaccines so it’s important to make sure your pup comes up to date with those. Some breeders send home other things like collars or toys. I don’t find that as important as getting those health tests that you would want.

Obviously price and color come into play but these 5 things were at the top of my mind. You are trusting this person to give you a healthy dog that’s very expensive. Research is essential and taking the time to choose is necessary.

My top tip is just start emailing your local french bulldog breeder or breeders at a distance you’re comfortable in going to. Honestly, building a relationship with the breeder and getting to know their dogs is my top tip.

Check out more Frenchie posts here and be sure to subscribe to my mailing list here so you don’t miss a post!

Pet Favorites I Can’t Live Without!

Now that I’m a dog mom, I am always on the look out for new pet favorites. Today’s bonus post is dedicated to all the products I’ve found that make life so much easier. I think that the key to having a pet is finding products that work for the both of you.

As we head into the warmer months, I find myself grabbing for these products even more on walks and trips. I have affiliate links to each product below but there is no pressure to purchase from them!

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag- Shop Here

pet favorites

This little bag is essential for my walks. I find that since we’re not wearing jackets in the spring with pockets, I need something like this. It perfectly fits my phone, keys, and of course treats for Sky.

Not only is this bag functional but I love that it is stylish and comes in lots of colors. This was also a great travel bag when we were on vacation but it fit everything I’d want to carry!

Snuffle Mat- Shop Here

pet favorites

At first glance you’re probably like you are crazy. This snuggle mat is seriously the greatest part of Sky’s day. I throw some treats in it, pull it smaller, and then she’s busy for about 15 minutes.

Enrichment toys like this are a great addition to your dogs day. They help to keep your dog busy and stimulate their brains. I like these especially on rainy days when Sky doesn’t want to walk but I know she needs to do something.

Freeze Dried Treats- Shop Here

pet favorites

Sky picked these out herself when we were at the pet store. They were on a bottom shelf and she wouldn’t stop sniffing them. She ended up loving them so we are now freeze dried raw people.

It’s funny because these used to gross me out but they really have a lot of health benefits for pups. I use these as a high value treat for her when we’re out and about and I need her attention.

I told you these bonus posts would be short and sweet! I’ve been enjoying putting them together for you to get more content out!

Let me know any pet favorites that you have tried or if you are planning to try any of these!! For more pet posts click here!

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.

Be sure to subscribe to the blog below and check out more recipes like this here! You can follow me on Tik Tok here!

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!

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!

My Veggie Couscous Bowl for Back to School

This recipe is seriously one of my favorites to meal prep. My veggie couscous bowl is so easy to make and reheats well so I love to make this at the beginning of the week. Another great part of this recipe is you can really choose any veggies you like. I picked sweet potato, zucchini, and tomato because they’re my favorite but you can use whatever you like. Here’s my veggie couscous bowl recipe!

veggie couscous bowl

Ingredients:

1 medium sweet potato

2 tomatoes

2 zucchini

1 box of couscous (I like instant)

Olive oil

Thyme

Paprika

veggie couscous bowl

Directions:

  1. First preheat your oven to 425 then I start chopping up all of my veggies. I dice them into about 1 inch pieces so that they don’t cook down to small.
  2. I prepare 2 baking sheets with aluminum foil and place the sweet potatoes on one with a sprinkle of paprika. On the other I put my tomatoes and zucchini with a sprinkle of thyme.
  3. Bake the zucchini and tomato tray until soft for about 15 minutes. The sweet potatoes will need to be in longer for about 25 to get soft.
  4. While everything is baking, I follow the directions on the instant couscous box and then let it sit until my veggies are ready.
  5. Once everything is cooked to how I like it, I stir together and I’m all set!

I wasn’t kidding when I said this was such an easy recipe. The instant couscous seriously makes life easier because you don’t even have to do much to it. I like this as back to school or work meal because it’s somewhat healthy and gives you all the nutrients you need to continue on with your day.

Let me know in the comment if you loved this recipe! Subscribe to the blog for more recipes like these!

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