June Instagram Recap

July 2, 2020

June Instagram Recap: Summer dress outfit had all of you in love. Paired with some of my favorites, you guys love Summer dresses, and I am listening. Shop this look HERE

Summer linen is one of my favorite things and yours too. You guys purchased a ton of these pants HERE, and I wasn’t surprised because they are one of my favorite things, easy to style, and were on SALE. SHOP look HERE

Summer dresses Affordable Summer tee shirt dresses perfect for Summer. Comfortable to wear and even easier to style. Wear plain with your favorite flip flops or tennis shoes or wear as I have in the above photo paired with a hat, denim jacket, sandals and, a summer bag. Shop the Look HERE This was a TOP look you loved on Instagram. Below I have featured several affordable and comfortable to wear tee shirt dresses. #teeshirtdresses

This Outfit and Caption from Instagram had you all laughing, and that was my point! We sure needed this lighthearted and funny post. If you missed it, read it HERE and shop it HERE.

June Instagram Recap: Instagram story’s favorite and one of my personnel favorites as well. These Splattered paint cropped lounge pants are so comfy and super soft sweatpant material. I’ve been living in these and you will too. I love that the comfort of these pants could be styled and chic also. Shop the look HERE

Summer linen is a perfect Summer fabric. Nothing say’s Summer like a cute pair of linen shorts. These $13.50 shorts were such a great deal you guys bought them up. They came in several colors, and at these prices, you can grab a couple of pairs. I sure did:) Pair with your favorite tank, denim jacket, and your set. It even looks cute with a concert tee. Shop my look HERE

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My New favorite Beauty tool, and you guys love the tutorial on Instagram View HERE. The Hollywood Browser Dermaplaning kit is a must-have tool for your make up bag and is very affordable. Shop HERE and get 20% off with code DARCYMVANDENBER

MY TOP SELLERS FOR JUNE

Homedecor: Adding a pop of Boho Summer designer pieces to your home. Here I used some high-end designer pieces to decorate for Summer and shared with you the DUPES you could purchase to get the same look at a fraction of the cost. SHOP HERE

Sangria Recipe: I shared this Sangria on my stories, and My DMS were flooded for the recipe. I did say how to make it in the stories and saved to cocktail highlights, but I know a lot of you like a written copy. White Sangria recipe: is a Moscato wine, one bottle of your choice 1/4 jar lemon-lime soda (sprite) 1/4 jar lime La Croix and cup chopped pineapple, cup Strawberries, 1/2 cup blueberries. Add all to a glass pitcher or serving jar… The measurements were based on the jar 1/2 the pitcher was the wine, then 1/4 soda 1/4 sparkling water ( hope that makes sense) I did the same for the Red Sangri, a bottle of sweet red wine, 1/4 soda, 1/4 Sparking water and for the fruit I used one apple chopped, 1 cup of grapes cut up and 1 cup blackberries mixed. The best flavor is to make a day ahead. I hope you guys enjoy it because this #sangriawine is a winner in my book.

Charcuterie Board The Instastory that gave me more DMS then I could handle:) My festive Charcuterie Board that has something for everyone and can feed a large gathering. It’s effortless to put together, and many of you asked for a shopping list. Here is what I used this time:
Grapes
Strawberries
Raspberries
Blackberries
Blueberries
Zucchini bread
Crackers (3) types
Carrots
Cucumbers
Hummus
Verity of cheese
Nuts
Chocolate
Crostini
I like to use little dishes on my board to give hight and keep the fruit from making the crackers soggy. Also great for cheese spreads and Hummus. There are so many ways you can create a great Charcuterie board, really no wrong way to create one. Below are a few of my favorite items to help you create a great board

June Instagram recap: Baked goods June was the first month. We started using Wildgrain bread, pasta, and pastries made fresh than fresh frozen and delivered to your door. Ready for you to bake or cook when you need it. You guys loved my stories and wanted to try the service out for yourself. Some of the best Bread, pasta, and pastries my family has ever had. With this foodie family, that is hard to say. We felt like we were in a bakery in Europe, right in our own home. You won’t be disappointed. Get $10 off with code DARCY_10 Shop HERE.

Date-Night. June took us on a much-needed date night out at The Gateway in Salt Lake. We had dinner at Midici’s Neapolitan pizza company than A drive-in Theater experience. If you haven’t been to The Gateway in Salt Lake and live in Utah, you need to make your way down there. The outside dining, beautiful wall art murals, interactive parks, water features, window displays are so pretty and inviting. They have some unique shops and entertainment as well.

I hope you enjoyed my June Instagram Recap, sharing all the things you enjoyed in my stories, top sellers, and items you wanted more info on. I plan to do a recap at the end of every month, as this seems to be something you have been requesting. Please leave a comment below if there is something you would like me to write or share about. Have a Beautiful 4th of July. OX, D’Arcy

Ways to Entertain and Dress Festive for 4th of July

June 23, 2020

Can you believe the 4th of July is a little over a week away! Seriously Summer just flies by, and I love to soak up every minute of it. This year the 4th is going to look a little different for all of us. Many of the activities we all love and enjoy May be canceled, For instance, parades, festivals, firework displays, and breakfast in the parks. however, this doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate American and this great Country in a little different way. (Did you know Utah is the number 1 most patriotic state?) Family BBQs, Backyard pool parties, or a lake day, little sidewalk fireworks, or even a small neighborhood firework display (if allowed in your city). Family and friends are what makes a Holiday special, So put on that American the great playlist, Plan the grocery shopping list and pull out all the stops on your Home decorating.

Our front porch welcomes & celebrates America, and I hope it gets you excited for what’s beyond the front door. I wanted to share with you a red, white, and blue nautical Bar cart perfect for serving drinks, a festive snack table to keep guests happy and tummies full before dinner, and our Stars and stripe dining table perfect for entertaining a small crowd. I hope they will inspire you to entertain this 4th of July and maybe make some new traditions.

Tip for creating an eclectic and festive tablescape for entertaining is to gather up all the items you have in the colors theme you are using, here, of course, is red, white, and blue. Don’t worry about the patterns. A mix is part of the fun. Place all our items in your workstation, take inventory and see what your missing (plates or glasses, etc.) This act will allow for easier shopping. Another tip would be to collect items that can quickly work for other occasions (think solid colors, patterns not necessarily the Holiday pattern.)

Try to think of other Holidays or events you could use items to decorate with. Say the Red polka dot bowl. The item could be used for Christmas, Valentine’s day, 4th of July, and even a Birthday. Layering is also another tip, layering tablecloths, placemats, ribbon, chargers, etc. Layering adds texture, for instance, if I removed the mesh ribbon from the center of the table below, The centerpiece of the table would look flat and not as interesting. Layering creates texture. Play with the items you’ve collected and remember to group in odd numbers, use dishes as risers to give your display height dimensions, and use some unexpected things. Using denim pockets from old jeans for the silverware holders is unexpected and useful.

My inspiration was all things red, white, and blue, days of Summer from the past. Coke and cherries remind me of hot summer days and add a little nostalgia to the tablescape. I created easy shopping for you below. Some of the items I have used are vintage and some I have been collecting for years. I did find a lot of similar items or pieces that could easily be substituted. Mixing things collected, vintage and new gives it that fun pop. For more Idea’s and products Shop my Amazon shops HERE

Now that we have the entertaining covered, let’s talk dressing festively. You could use the same concept I used for entertaining/ creating a tablescape, Collect all the Red white and blue clothing items and accessories, and create your outfits from the pieces you collected from your closet. You’d be surprised how many festive outfits you could put together from what you already own. Below you will find I created five 4th of July outfits from pieces I have owned for years. White Jeans HERE a Summer staple and my RED Tory Burch Miller sandals HERE are pieces I wear all supper long. Pair them with a Gingham top below and festive jewelry for that perfect Summer night outfit/BBQ. I added an easy shopping bar below to help you find a piece or two that works for all of the Summer season and perfect for the 4th of July. Shop the outfit HERE

4th of July perfection says the dress below, unfortunately, it sold out. Still, I listed some adorable alternatives below. The straw bag is perfect for the Summer season, and I added this cute designer dupe bow pin to make it perfect for the 4th of July. Shop the look HERE or shop the post below

Easy peezy outfit that says 4th of July without having a flag or saying 4th of July. Pulling red white and blue pieces out of your wardrobe that you wear all summer and pairing them together creates a Holiday look without actually purchasing a 4th of July item. Stripes are one of my favorite things, and I love you can mix a bold stripe and small stripe. Shop the look HERE or shop the page below

Chic and festive pulling basics out to create a Holiday look everyone can wear. Navy blazer, classic white button-up shirt, distressed jeans and could also be worn with Bermuda shorts add festive accessories, and you’re ready to celebrate. Show the look HERE or Shop the page below

The easiest dress to wear and style multiple ways for Summer. Here we’re shooting for 4th of July and celebrating America, so I paired this polka dot maxi dress with a denim jacket, a sun hat, and a patriotic star bandana. Easy and festive. You could also swap out the denim jacket and wear a striped sweater over your shoulders. Swap out the sun hat for a festive headband. Shop the look HERE or Shop the page below

Welcome to our Home. Remember, your entryway tells the story of what your guest should expect when they enter your home. Make it as festive as your tablescape. I’ve been collecting items since owning my Home decor store “Pages of tyme” back in California starting almost 24 years ago. Some of these pillows are a treasure from those days. The lady that hand made them from some of the prettiest fabrics. This flag and rose pillow are hand embroidered. Remember to collect things that bring you joy. They’ll always work in your home when you love them.

I hope your Holiday week brings you joy and your ability to make fun memories, although they may look different this year. Happy fourth of July! OX,D’Arcy

I have three blogger girlfriends that are sharing 4th of July inspiration over on their blogs! Please go check out their post:

Rosemary= Distinctly southern style

Gwen= Gwen Lives Well

Heidi=www.simplyoursociety.com

Michele = Sooo Boca

My Latest Amazon Haul, 18 Items You Can’t Live Without

June 9, 2020

Amazon Haul=All about the Lace. This High low High-quality lace top is a piece you’ll own for a long time. I love you can wear it casually or dress it up with white slacks, heals, and dressier accessories. It looks very expensive but is so affordable. If you are in-between sizes go up, there isn’t any give in this fabric. Buttons at the neck. I paired it with these fun Tassel Statement Earrings also from Amazon. #amazonfashion (a dupe from Free People) Shop Top HERE Shop Earrings HERE Outfit HERE

This Cactus Kimono is so cheerful and happy. I thought it would make a great addition to my Summer wardrobe. Easy to wear over a swimsuit or pair with your favorite jeans or shorts. This Kimono is One Size fits most and truly would fit a 0-14 Shop Kimono HERE Shop the outfit HERE.

Cactus Kimono Back View

Amazon Haul= I love crocheted lace, and I adore it as a detail in a top. This Top is so cute and excellent quality, Has a rich look for an affordable price. Fits True to size and looks great paired with Summer shorts and denim skirt or your favorite Jeans. I love that it would look great layered with your Fall pieces too. This Boho Crochet clutch is also an Amazon find I’ll be using all summer long. Shop the Top HERE, Crochet Bag HERE, the Whole outfit HERE

Amazon Haul= Boho Printed Top, This darling top adds a fun pop of color for Summer. I love it paired with distressed shorts, boho sandals, and a Crochet Bag that is also a great Amazon Find. This Top would also be cute paired with a denim skirt or white jeans. Top fits true to size. Shop The Boho Top HERE, Crochet Bag HERE, Shop the Outfit HERE

Amazon Haul Favorite Things: 1. Fun braided hair headband. 2. Boho Pillow 3. Striped Braided Basket 4. Assorted Barrette Set 5. Pink Hat 6. Colored Pen set 7. Fresh Lemon perfume 8. Boho Jute Circle Rug 9. Faux Snake Plant: Shop ALL HERE

Braided Hair Headband adds fun & natural detail to your hair in 1 minute. It comes in a verity of colors and makes for one quick hairdo. $15.99 Shop HERE
Boho Farmhouse pillow Sham does not come with pillow insert. But for $16.99, it’s a deal. You know I love black and white, and I adore stripes. This fun pillow works in a Boho or Farm House home decor. Cute on a bench, bed, couch, or even on your outside furniture. Shop HERE
Striped Braided Basket, perfect for stashing extra pillows or blankets; if you have littles, it’s great for toys or laundry. High Quality and Handmade Shop HERE
Barrette Set comes with over 20 cute barrettes perfect for keeping a few and giving a few as a gift. $8.99 for all of them, what a deal. Shop HERE
Pink Hat if you’ve been following me for a while, you know I love hats, and I couldn’t pass up a pink one. So cute& stylish for Summer and even more perfect for shading your face. $14,99 Shop HERE
The colored Pen set is perfect for adding a pop of color to your journal, calendar, or Bible. I’ve been using them to color code my schedule. I love the way they write, and the colors are so pretty. Shop HERE
Fresh Lemon Perfume has always been one of my Summer favorites. Smells clean and fresh, not too strong, and indeed is perfect for Summer. Best is it mixes with the scent of your sunscreens well. Want a scent that makes you happy? Shop HERE
Boho Jute Rug says Summer, it works well on a patio, front entryway and gives your home a Summer feel. This scent can work in a verity of home decor. Country, Farmhouse, Boho Chic, Shabby Chic, Coastal, and even Traditional. Shop HERE
Faux Snake Plant, Plants are all the rage, but let’s face it. Some spaces need a pop of greenery, but the area isn’t right for a living plant, or you might not have a green thumb. This plant and planter are perfect for that added touch. Shop HERE

Amazon Haul= A crisp Striped button-up Here is perfect for Summer. True to size, washes up great and goes with jeans, denim shorts, pair it with a skirt or even throw over a Swimsuit or jersey dress and knot it in the front. Here I wore with my Favorite Kut Jeans, White Blazer also an Amazon Haul Find HERE accessorized with the clutch I’ve shown a couple of times today HERE Shop the whole look HERE

LIKE My Latest Amazon Haul? View 7 of my blogger girlfriends favorite picks over on their blogs…Links below

Heidi= Simply our Society

Nancy= Up your Game Girl

Rosemary= Distinctly Southern Style

Rebecca= R U Ready to Organize

Gwen= Gwen Lives Well

Melanie= Mels 2nd Act

Kim= For A Good Life After 50

I hope you have enjoyed my Latest Amazon Haul. I love sharing items I just couldn’t live without along with fab deals. It is enjoyable to share not only outfits created from Amazon fashion but other things I love along with some fun home decor I’ve picked up. I know during these tough times, it’s nice to have a little news break and be able to let your mind clear. I believe it’s ok to have some joy in the storm; otherwise, we’d never be at peace. I hope this has given you the little break you needed to continue through your day. Please know I don’t take what is going on in the world lightly, and that I am praying daily for this country, it’s leaders and humanity. Please see My Instagram post on Monday, June 1st, for more on my thoughts. HERE

Please be safe, tell your family you love them, and Have a conversation about what is happening today and over the last 400 years. Education and love start at home, and we can make a change one family at a time. OX, D’Arcy

You might also like these following post:

7 Tula Beauty products you’ll love

20 Favorite Things Right Now While Staying Home

The Ultimate Summer Bucket List

Follow me over on the LIKETOKNOW app for easy shopping.

Need Father’s Day Gift Ideas? Shop Here for my Hubby’s Favorite’s & boys Too Here

A couple of things that arrived TODAY from Amazon fashion…that You can’t live without because it’s one of the biggest Summer Deals & so easy to style… UNDER $9.00 for the cutest shorts, I featured In my stories Last night Here

I grabbed the camo and the Leopard print and doing a try on and multi ways to style TODAY.

This post contains affiliate links. All opinions are my own. I only promote brands that I genuinely love and believe in! Thank you for your support!

Spinach & Tortellini Soup Recipe

May 28, 2020

Spinach & Tortellini Soup topped with Parmesan cheese & served with a slice of homemade garlic Bread. So delicious, your Family will love it.

Tortellini soup

1 14.5 oz can crushed tomatoes

1 14.5 oz can tomato sauce

1 15.5oz can butter beans rinsed

2 cans water (rinse out tomato cans)

1 14.5oz can chicken broth

1 16oz bag chopped spinach

1 8oz bag cheese tortellini (save until about 15 min before serving)

1 tablespoon garlic herb seasoning

1 Tablespoon dried chopped onion

1 teaspoon of salt & pepper

1/2 cup chopped onion

Parmesan cheese for topping

Add all ingredients to a soup stock pan and simmer on med-low until boiling (except Tortellini and Parmesan)…. turn to low add tortellini let simmer 5 -10 min or until Tortellini is cooked. Dish up and top with Parmesan Cheese.

Serve with a loaf of garlic bread or crusty Bread

I created this soup a couple of years ago with items I had in my pantry, trying to create a yummy fast dinner. It’s been a quick go-to meal ever since. My Family loves Pasta and soups which make for a great combo. This soup makes a great comfort meal and is a great way to add some nutrients. It makes a big pot and is great for leftovers as well. I serve it with my Cheaters Homemade garlic bread! Recipe below.

Cheaters Homemade Garlic Bread! This Bread is so dang good I have to Make two loaves for this Family of 7!

Cheaters Homemade Garlic Bread

1 Loaf Rhodes Frozen Bread

1 cube butter

1 tablespoon of minced garlic

1 tablespoon Garlic Seasoning

1/2 Teaspoon Italian Seasoning

NOTE: This Bread is not for someone on a diet 🙂

First, Place the frozen loaf on a cooking sheet lined with a parchment paper, cover with a linen dishtowel.

(or cheesecloth) let rise. (follow directions on bag) Bread rising usually takes ALL day. I’ll get this ready at about 9:00 am to make for dinner around 6:00 pm. When risen bake at 350 until golden brown. (follow the direction on packaging.) While Bread is baking melt cube of butter in the microwave, then add garlic and seasoning and mix. When Bread is out of the oven, brush on a heavy coating of the Butter mixture. Let cool for about 10-15 minutes slice (Bread will still be warm and will sink, it’s ok), then coat each slice with more of the butter mixture. Serve hot and almost gooey

This Bread is a family favorite, and when my Family sees it on the counter in the morning, they literally jump for joy. They’ll eat two full loaves and if I would make three that would get eaten too. It’s so rich, soaked in butter and garlic it’s heavenly! I serve this Bread with soups, Pasta, and even salads. If you watch my instastories and I hope you do, you’ve seen me make it several times while stay at home was in place. ( heck probably one of the reasons I’ve gained 10 pounds!) 😛 How did it get its name? Well…Cheaters because well, your cheating and not making the loaf from scratch! Nobody’s got time for that! Insert Giggle! Hince, I named it My cheater’s homemade garlic bread.

I hope you enjoyed this week’s blog post, and I would love for you to leave a comment below if you tried this recipe or are going to try it. Have a beautiful rest of your week! OX, D’Arcy

7 Tula Beauty Products You’ll Love & 2 Kits

May 21, 2020

Top provided by Sugar Honey Doll Boutique Here codeDARCY15 for 15% off

7 Tula Beauty Products You’ll Love & 2 Kits your skin will love. USE CODE DARCY15 for 15% off #Embraceyourskin #Tulapartner

TULA is a clean & effective brand built on the power of probiotics & superfoods.

Probiotics are a powerful, natural ingredient that helps balance your skin by improving skin’s smoothness & hydration. Consider its skin’s superfood! Found in 100% of Tula’s products.

RESTORE the skin’s natural balance & radiance

NOURISH skin to improve hydration & smoothness

SOOTHE skin to calm the look of skin irritation & inflammation

I’ve been using these products for the last couple of months, and you guys have been asking me, “what are you doing differently? You’re glowing!” I have been using these Tula products, along with some of my favorite City Beauty products HERE, Coola products, HERE, HERE, HERE, and my favorite C02 Mask HERE. I’ll do full skincare and Beauty round-up soon, to show you how I have been getting that Summer glow you’ve been asking for. Until I can get the full List up, I am sharing with you how I have been taking care of my skin in the morning with Tula.

Step 1: I start with the Tula Cult Classic face cleanser, wash my face and rinse. Step 2: I use the Tula So Polish exfoliating scrub and rinse, smells delicious, and is so gentle you can use daily. Step 3: Tula Get Toned toner all over the face with a cotton ball. Step 4: I use City Beauty Serum apply with fingers Step 5: 24-7 Tula Moisture Step 6: I apply the Rose Glow & get it, balm to my bridge of the nose, forehead, and under eyes Step 7: I use a Face mist by Grace & Stella.

1. Rose Glow & Get it Cooling& Brightening eye balm = Eye Balm (think: caffeine, aloe, blueberry & hyaluronic acid), plus the addition of rosehip oil (a plant-based retinol alternative) & hydrating rosewater, so you feel instantly energized, awake & ready to glow.

2. BEST Sellers Travel Kit= Skincare to-go. Cleanse, exfoliate, hydrate, prime—this kit gives you Tula’s best sellers in travel-size, plus this TULA blue bag. Whether you’re packing for a trip or just the gym, these products will keep your skin looking glowing, radiant, & smooth on the go.

3. Get Toned Pro- Glycolic 10% Resurfacing Toner= alcohol-free glycolic acid toner uses probiotics and beetroot extract to gently exfoliate the skin, leaving it looking smooth, hydrated and more even.

4. The Cult Classic Purifying Face Cleanser= refreshing probiotic gel cleanser that goes deep into pores to remove impurities. Probiotics + superfoods help condition skin without stripping or over-drying.

5. Glow and Get It Eye Balm= This eye balm stick delivers a lit-from-within glow while instantly hydrating, cooling & filling in the look of fine lines & wrinkles around the eyes. Provides an instant pick-me-up, so you look refreshed, feel energized & can glow & get it!

6. 24-7 Moisture Hydrating day & Night Cream= Finally, the perfect do-it-all day and night moisturizer. Packed with naturally derived probiotics & superfoods, this nourishing day and night cream deliver’s deep hydration, firms skin & improves the look of fine lines & wrinkles. Skin is left looking more even & glowing.

7. Face Filer Blurring & Moisture Primer=This blurring & moisturizing primer instantly smooths the look of uneven skin tone & redness for a “filter” like finish. Probiotics & superfoods like licorice & chia seeds help balance & nourish the skin.

8. Go Getter 6 Piece Set= Get out and glow. Whether you’re getting ready for a night out or a day at home, this kit gives you some of our most popular products and our limited edition hydrogel mask

9. So Polished Exfoliating Sugar Scrub= Get ready for your softest skin ever. Packed with healthy ingredients like sugar, a natural exfoliant that dissolves in water, as well as papaya and pineapple, which contain naturally occurring enzymes to chemically exfoliate the skin, this scrub leaves skin looking smoother and brighter.

15% off by using code DARCY15%

I hope you enjoyed my little skincare round-up, I’d love to know your thoughts if you wouldn’t mind leaving a comment below. I also thought you’d like to follow me over on LiketoKnowit HERE for easy shopping. Have an excellent rest of your week.

OX, D’Arcy

If you enjoyed this blog post, you might like these.

7 At-Home Beauty Hacks

Spring Beauty Must-Haves

12 Beauty Items Used

This post may contain affiliate links. All opinions are my own. I only promote brands that I genuinely love and believe in! Thank you for your support!

The 10 Positive Things in the Storm a Brightside Challenge: Quarantine 2020

May 14, 2020

A little front porch shot, wearing a cute tee saying, “Straight out of quarantine”! Outfit Details Here

The 10 Positive Things in the Storm, a Brightside Challenge.

The hidden blessings in the storm of STAYING at HOME. This week I got together with some of my midlife blogger friends to help share some of the Brightersides of staying home. Each of us is sharing our thoughts on what we felt was a positive or the Brightside of staying home while being Quarantined. While some of our states are slowly starting to open back up, each state is doing it at a different rate and following a slightly different path to opening back up. Something unknown to all of us is how long we will be keeping our distance, not gathering in a large group, having events, the uncertainty of starting school in the fall, or having sporting events. Through all of this uncertainty, we all have experienced a “BRIGHTSIDE.” Here are a few of mine and make sure to check out my girlfriend’s blogs listed below to read their thoughts and “BRIGHTSIDE’S.”

#1. More family time, Although we have always had nightly dinners, (it’s always been important for me to have my family sit down around the dinner table, share a meal and catch up on the day.” in this time it seems even more important, even though we’re all home 24/7 I think it helps me feel more secure.

#2. Time to organize, I have had projects on my lists I’ve wanted to get done for a long time. Clean out our home storage and food storage area, tackle my gift-wrapping room, clean out, and donated items in multiple closets. Add shelves and make some areas more functional, Just to name a few. This blessing of time has helped me to accomplish my list. Check Check Check!

#3. To do projects… I haven’t made time to do it. This included a few of the items above but also some craft projects, some fix-it projects (like jewelry that was broken) Sew on some buttons, finish my Jewelry wall, etc. (My hubby had a honey-do list that got completed too.)

#4. Share more of my recipes on the blog as this was always something people asked for from my instastories. I never had the time to actually write down the recipe as I was cooking. With “Stay at home”…I could plan out meals earlier and make the time to write down what I did through the process. Helping me to have a collection of our family’s favorite meals written down for me to be able to share. (more recipes coming soon!) Hope you tried a couple of these HERE HERE HERE

#5. Self-care and testing products, one of the reasons I started Dear-Darcy was to be able to share how I like products, what they did, and how they worked. Doing the work to help save you time and help you to not waste money on products that’s weren’t worth it. As you know, I love self-care Sunday, but having more free time allowed me to test out more and give you more reviews. I hope you checked out yesterday’s on Instagram. HERE

#6. Putting the time and effort into my business, blogging consistently, researching, and making connections. Having the time has helped me to see I can succeed in making a career out of sharing what I love and what works in “making life Chic at any age!” I have always loved chatting with clients in the shops about tips and tricks that help you in beauty, entertainment, our health, and ways to wear Fashion… I was always shocked that people would come to me with How to or what works? Then I realize If I share what works for me, it might work for you… this is how I started this adventure in blogging and social media….. I even sold our stores to move into blogging full time… then life happens, and I didn’t devote enough time to what I wanted… To have a full-time career in blogging and social media. This gift of time… has helped me to evaluate, set goals, refocus…. put all my efforts into this business, which is paying off. I have NOW learned in this time where we don’t know what’s going to happen next, and we aren’t sure of the future. That if you push yourself, even in an uncertain time, You can still achieve GOALS!

#7. Take the time to write handwritten notes. It does mean more than a text. Happy Mail is something everyone could use.

#8. Supporting Small … As a former small business owner, I’ve always known how important it is to our communities to support local and small businesses. They are the heart of this country and what gives to our communities. Having my platform has been a blessing to help promote so many small businesses at this time.

#9. That it’s OK to relax and have a full day of binge-watching Netflix. To read or to just lay in bed! Everyone needs a day of doing nothing and that it’s ok! I am normally on the go go go and use every minute I am awake to achieve something. Work, kids, home, cooking, decorating, planning, etc. It’s OK to chill! Moving forward, I believe I will be more relaxed because: REALLY what’s important? YOU are important, your state of mind is important, and the health of your family is important. A rest day is good for you, your health, and your family.

#10. That I love my husband’s company, and I really can be around him 24/7! Quarantined with him and my boys work for me. OXOX … NOW can we please go out for DINNER!!!

One of my favorite quotes ….”When you focus on the good, the good gets better.”

Some of my talented Blogger friends, sharing their thoughts and Brightsides

Melanie Silk @ Mels 2nd act.com

Heidi Suydam @ Simply Our Society

Nancy Weiss @ A Two drink minimum

Michele Bellisari @ Soooboca.com

Rosemary Davis @ Distinctly Southern Style

Michele Linton @ hot Fash and Sass.com

Merry Lynch @ Braving Midlife

Gwen Gottilieb @ Gwen lives Well

I hope some of my Brightside were also some of yours! Have a beautiful weekend. OX, D’Arcy

Mother’s Day Gift Giving Guide

May 4, 2020

Call your Mom… That’s what she really wants.

Mother’s Day is this Sunday, which means it’s prime time to shop online for a gift and still time for it to arrive on time. Shopping for my mom is honestly one of my favorite things to do because even though it can be a little tricky (doesn’t it seem like moms already have everything?!), I love being able to have a day to celebrate her, give her a thoughtful gift and thank her for everything she’s done for her family. She’s seriously the best –I love you, Mom!!

I also have to call out a few of my gift ideas below because although they’re all great options, I do have a few that are indeed my favorite. I asked for these earrings by Kendra Scott to go with the ring I purchase at Valentine’s Day. Also, this mask is perfect for any mama needing a moment of self-care and seriously beautiful skin! This Candle is one I had been wanting. My hubby surprised me with one a week ago or so as a just because gift… Seriously so good, I can’t stop burning.

I hope you find one of my favorite things for your mom and maybe grab something for yourself. I know you’ll both be happy. Happy early Mother’s Day to all the mamas out there!! You’re all fantastic and deserve the love!

1. Uncommon James Candle= Nashville citrus is one amazing scent and burns over 300 hours. Shop HERE

2. Earrings= Uncommon James earrings, I love a hoop, and this is a fun take on a hoop. Shop HERE

3. Kimono= What mom wouldn’t love this kimono to finish off an outfit or to wear over a swimsuit. Shop HERE

4. Lollia Perfum set= A great way to experience the variety of Lollia’s beautiful scents. Shop HERE

5. Fresh flower Bouquet= What mom wouldn’t love a sweet, beautiful Bouquet. Shop HERE

6. Love bracelet= A perfect way to show mom how much you love her. Shop HERE

7. Fun sipper cup= If your mom is like me, she can’t resist a cute travel cup or sitting poolside. Shop HERE

8. Co2 Lift face mask= A medical Spa facial without the downtime, seriously the best results. Shop HERE

9. Capri Blue candle= Volcano scent has been a best seller for years. Number one when I had my boutiques. Shop HERE

1. InvisiCrepe Body balm= This balm seriously gives excellent results for crepe skin. Shop HERE

2. Kendra Scott earrings= A classic Kendra Scott earring that she’ll wear all Summer long. Shop HERE

3. Lounge set= Tiedye is all the rage, and this lounge set won’t disappoint. Shop HERE

4. Peepers Glasses=The best reading glasses that your mom can’t live without. Shop HERE

5. City Beauty Matte Lip= You know this is my favorite lip stain, and it will be your mom’s too. Shop HERE

6. Organizing Book = With Stay at Home, Moms have been organizing like crazy, and she’ll love this Book! Shop HERE

7. Summer Bag=, A bag mom, will use all Summer long and affordable. Shop HERE

8. Nuface= A beauty tool every woman should own. It helps fine lines and tones skin. Shop HERE

9. Slippers= Cozy and chic, these cute slippers are a must for moms. Shop HERE

Ben’s Heavenly Homemade Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe

April 30, 2020

Ben’s Homemade Fettuccine Alfredo! “This is so good it’s dangerous:)” say’s my mom. Thank goodness it’s so filling you can’t eat a full bowl…. Unless you’re a Vandenberg boy! 🙂

Bens Alfredo

For a serving of 4

1 cube of real Butter

1 heaping tablespoon garlic

1 Pint Heavy whipping cream

1 cup Asiago shredded cheese

1 cup shredded Romano

1/2 cup Parmesan

Salt & pepper to taste

Melt butter in sauté pan when melted, add garlic, then cream, bring to a slow boil then start to add 1 cup of cheese at a time, first Asiago, the Romano lastly Parmesan cheese, and it gets to thick you can add a little more cream. Salt ad pepper to taste.

1 box Fettuccine noodles cooked per box direction

Dish up and serve with Asparagus or a salad and garlic bread. My garlic bread recipe is coming to the blog soon, it is on my Instagram in the highlights.

From our home to yours, Ben’s Heavenly Homemade Fettuccine Alfredo, You’ve been asking for it, and it’s finally made it to the blog. Rich, and creamy Alfredo, made with the best ingredients. Real Butter, heavy whipping cream, and tasty cheeses. Ben Started making this dish for me when we started dating. He learned how to make it from a friend, his family-owned, an Italian restaurant in Del Mar California that was known for making the Best fettuccine. Ben then started playing with the recipe and found this combination is the winner. This dish is decadent, rich, and oh so good. It’s a BIG request at our home, and if we have family in town, they request it as well.

With Quarantine in place, I know you have all been cooking way more than you usually do, I know I have. Hopefully, this will be a fun new recipe for you to try and maybe a little something different that can become a family favorite at your home. Quarantine has been the perfect time to share some of my favorite recipes with you, and I still have a couple more of your request to post. I promise I’ll get them up in the coming weeks even though it looks like we’re going to be getting relief from our kitchens as we start to see part of the country opening up if you’re like me you’ll still like to cook for your family just not as much. I sure am looking forward to a break.

Please let me know if you plan on trying this recipe below or if you do make this recipe, please come back and let me know how your family liked it.

Love this recipe? Try our oldest sons Bucca de Beppo’s copy of Spicy rigatoni Here.

Mother’s Day is less than two week’s away, and I’ve been sharing gift idea’s over at my LIKE TO KNOW IT, Here

Stay tuned for a Mother’s Day post next week. Have a beautiful day! OX, D’Arcy

Top 7 At Home Hacks for Beauty

April 21, 2020

Loungewear dress Adore me Here, Shop the Tray similar Here Similar Here

Top At Home Hacks for Beauty

While we all have STAY at HOME orders, we are being faced with having to care for our beauty routines ourselves. I don’t know about you, but I love having my hair, nails, eyebrows done regularly. I also enjoy a facial. Now more then ever, we have to maintain ourselves in ways we usually don’t. You know I love an excellent self-care day…maintenance is a little different than touching up our roots, doing eyelash extensions, or applying a set of nails. Here are a few tricks and products that are coming to the rescue.

Blondes that are having a little trouble with roots, baby powder works excellent, sprinkle in a little at the roots and rub with fingers. Not only does it act as a dry shampoo and suck up oil, but it also helps cover darker roots. These root touch up sprays, washout, and can be used for any color hair! HERE and HERE (No mad hairdressers!)

This DRY shampoo also helps cover roots for blondes HERE.

Home manicures are a breeze with this easy to use kit. HERE I have been loving Gel effects by Aurora. A gel polish that does not require a light. Drys fast and lasts a week. Removable with regular nail polish remover.

My Favorite colors are HERE HERE HERE HERE.

All that hand washing is causing my already dry hands to be even dryer! I started using City Beauty’s Restoring Hand Treatment HERE and, my hands feel like I’ve had a paraffin wax treatment. Use code DARCYV for 25% off

Hair removal is not something we love to do at home but, using Sally Hansen’s HERE Home Hair remover Is Affordable easy to use and doesn’t irritate my skin.

I like this one for my face/mustache HERE.

This one is great for bikini HERE.

This tool is a must-have tool to remove peach fuzz from the face and helps makeup go on smoother HERE.

I have three favorite Self Tanners that give a great glow that smell great and provide a beautiful real looking tan.

Coola Sunless tan, HERE, daily use gradually builds a natural tan. Love the pina colada scent. I highly recommend applying with Kabuki’s body, Brush HERE.

L’Oréal Sublime Bronze self-tanner water mousse I use the medium, it is also is a gradual build in color and doesn’t leave a bad smell HERE. I also adore the Isle of Paradise drops HERE

Keeping your skin hydrated and silky smooth is always essential for a tan. I love Brazilian Bum Bum Cream HERE Smells amazing and genuinely helps keep your skin soft and smooth, it also smells fantastic!

I wear lash extensions, but I have always used a lash serum to keep my lashes robust, long, and healthy. My Favorites are Wow the Crowd HERE, Grande Lash HERE, and Hello lash Therapy HERE. Perfect time to work on getting your lashes healthy and strong. These also don’t affect blue eyes.

Do you feel like you need some lashes for a little normalcy? Try these HERE. These are my sister’s favorite as a makeup artist, and she suggests this glue HERE. Want to see her work? Follow her HERE Tiana Holiday

We’re not heading to the Spa anytime soon, but Using CO2 lift Carboxy Treatment Mask for your face will have you looking like you left the medical Spa without the pain or downtime. This Mask increases hydration recapture the skins youthful glow reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and dark circles puffiness around the eyes, lifts, and smooths skin texture. Purchase HERE use code darcyvandenberg 10% off

For a simple easy to use a Sheet mask, City Beauty’s HydroMask packs a big punch and offers significant results, hydrates the skin, smooths fine lines and wrinkles. Purchase HERE use code darcyv for 25% off

I know hair has been a big concern for most ladies during this time. It’s the best time to pay extra care to your hair and treat it kindly since, regularly, we damage it so. Cutting back on heat tools, giving it a break from constant styling can help your hair and using a hair mask like Better not Younger’s butter masque repairs brittle, dull hair gives it the nourishment it’s been craving. Purchase HERE

Just a little something to make your Selfcare day a little special, I love these CANDLES they smell amazing and also make for a great gift. Another favorite Here and Here

I hope you are all safe and that you are treating yourself to a self-care day soon. OX, D’Arcy

This post may contain affiliate links. All opinions are my own. I only promote brands that I genuinely love and believe in! Thank you for your support!

3 Easy Soups and 1 Hearty Comfort Recipe

April 16, 2020

Our Family favorites. You guys asked on Instagram for me to share these recipes with you. I love sharing things that our family enjoys and brings us comfort. Thank you for being apart of my following and caring for me to share a part of our family favorites.

Food is just some of the things that are helping our family get through these emotional times. With STAY AT HOME in place cooking, every meal has been a consistent thing in our home as well as yours, I am sure. I thought I might be able to help by sharing a few of my personnel recipes with you that my family enjoys and brings some comfort. Mealtime has always been important to our family and now more than ever. I hope you enjoy our favorite go-to soups. Even better, these are easy Crockpot soups, with items you probably have on hand to make a delicious dinner your family will love.

Easy to make Hearty Vegetable soup! I love you can use any veggies you have on hand with this soup.

Easy veggie soup
1 box chicken broth
1 can tomato sauce
1 cup of water
2 Lg potatoes
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped carrots
2 chopped tomatoes
1/2 cup corn
1/2 cup peas
1 tablespoon seasoning salt
2 teaspoon onion powder
2 teaspoons salt & pepper
1 tablespoon real butter
1 tablespoon chicken garlic Bouillon

Place all in a crockpot on low stir occasionally. I prepare in the morning, and it’s ready for dinner when we get home. Serve with warm rolls or a grilled sandwich.

(You can use whatever veggies you have on hand.) Green beans, broccoli, spinach, asparagus, etc. Make it a Minestrone by adding a kidney bean and small noodle.

Homemade Cheesy Potato Soup! One of My boy’s favorite soups.

Homemade Cheesy Potato Soup! One of My boy’s favorite soups. Served with Homemade rolls or Rhodes rolls.

Cheesy Potato soup

3 cans of chicken broth

1 can milk ( I use chicken broth can) I use a little more if looks like it need a little more liquid

5 large potatoes chopped

1 can of cheese soup

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 1/2 cup shredded cheese

1 1/2 cup chopped carrots

1 cup of chopped onions

1 cup of chopped celery

1/2 cup green onion (can add more as garnish)

1 tablespoon Pepper (or to your taste) my family likes heat!

1 tablespoon no-salt seasoning salt,

1/2 teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons of dried chopped onion

1 Tablespoon minced garlic

1/2 of Wondra quick-mixing flour (save until you emulsified)

Throw all in a crockpot on High for 3-4 hours, then emulsify with a mixer, emulsifier, or meat chopper! ( I keep it pretty chunky, so I use the pampered chef meat chopper)

Add flour (important to use Wondra). It thickens without clumping! Then turn on low and let simmer another hour or until dinner time.

Garnish with more cheese and green onion, some like a dollop of sour cream! Salt and pepper again to taste:)Ps: It’s so good the next day, you’ll need to add a touch more milk to thin it out before heating up.

Homemade Cheesy Potato Soup!

Easy to make Chicken pot pie. Comfort in a bowl so easy to make

you’ll put this yummy soup on your go-to list.

Easy chicken pot pie

2 14.5oz chicken broth

2 cups shredded Chicken

12oz peas & carrots (frozen)

1cup of chopped onions

1 cup of chopped celery

2 cup milk

1 Tablespoon onion

1 1/2 tablespoon salt seasoning

Salt & pepper

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup flour

Salt & pepper to taste

2 tablespoons of butter

2 cans of buttermilk can biscuits

Throw all in a crockpot on High for 3-4 hours or longer (except the biscuits) Stir every so often. Place mixture in a casserole dish (buttered or sprayed) Top with the biscuits placed tightly together. Depending on the size of your casserole dish, you could have enough for two dishes. (one for a neighbor)

Homemade Chicken noodle soup. Hearty and full of flavor, this easy crockpot soup is always a home run.

Easy One-Pot Chicken Noodle Soup

2 14.5oz chicken broth

2 cups shredded Chicken

12oz peas & carrots (frozen)

1 cup finely chopped onion

1 cup finely chopped celery

2 cups of water

1 Tablespoon onion salt

1 1/2tablespoon salted seasoning

1 tablespoon minced garlic

1 chicken bouillon cube

Salt & pepper to taste

1 tablespoon dill

2 handfuls noodles I like Country pasta (large bag at Costco)

I place all in my crockpot except for the noodles. And let simmer on low all day about 30 min before serving I’ll add the noodles. This soup is a rustic recipe I created years ago, and my family loves it! I’ve even substituted out some of the veggies for others I happen to have on hand. The Dill is the secret ingredient to this soup and truly makes it!

I hope you enjoy some of my family’s favorite go-to dishes. Please leave a comment below and let me know which one you’re trying. OX! D’Arcy

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