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Utah Hikes, You’ll Love & Girl Time Makes It Even Better!

The start of Gibbs loop, Waterfall Canyon and Bison.

Waterfall Canyon

View from Waterfall Canyon

Waterfall Canyon

You’re off to great places, today is your day. Your mountain is waiting, so get on your way.” Dr.Seuss
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Hiking with the girls…Last year I started hiking once a week with my girlfriends, getting in some exercise, girl time and exploring where we live. We’ve gotten lost (kind of🙈), we’ve gone on 2 hour hikes that turned into 7😬, we’ve seen beautiful sights, breathtaking views, heard calming sounds and shrieks🐍, had sore muscles and scrapes, but the laughter, memories and bonding with these ladies has been my most favorite♥️. It’s a day I look forward to every week no matter the weather (yesterday I was wearing 5 layers!) Not joking!😜 Sometimes we pack a picnic🥙🍷and other times we go out to lunch at a local restaurant after our hike. It’s a time for us to chat, share what’s going on in our lives and support each other no matter what we’re going through. It’s been one of the best things I have done for myself in a long time. I enjoy all of these ladies company and really cherish the time out in nature exploring where we live. (I do have to say my backpack keeps growing with essentials I learn I need 1 hike at a time!!) I’ve talked a lot lately on my instagram on the importance of getting out and exploring where you live. This is a great way to do that. If you don’t have mountains get out and enjoy trails and pathways. My goal is to check off more hiking trails this Spring, Summer and Fall! I’ve been making my list, in Utah we have more trails then you can count and I want to eventually do ALL of them! View ALL Utah hikes Here
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Here’s Some of our favorite hikes we’ve taken at this point:

Waterfall Canyon 3 miles Here

Wolf Creek Canyon 7 miles (Powder Mountain)

Ogden Overlook 6 miles

Indian Trail 4 miles

Green Pond 5.4 miles

Icebox Canyon 6 miles

Paper Airplane @Powder Mt 4 miles

Gibbs Loop 3 1/2 miles More or a trail

Bonneville Shore line 10 miles (this one you do about 1 1/2 miles to connect to Water fall Canyon hike)

Birdsong Trail 2 miles Here

Ogden River pathway Here

A great FREE app that tracks your fitness and miles: Map My Fitness by Under Armour by Under Armour inc.

Another great source is Utah.com Hiking & Utah.com

So grab a group of friends and ask them to ask some friends and get out and explore where you live. You’ll love the camaraderie you build♥️ while also doing my challenge #getoutandexploreyour state! OX, D’Arcy

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Note✔️ Watch my instastories for videos & New hike info, also most of our hikes are saved in my highlights for more information, views and maybe some bloopers too😂😂

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TIP:Being part of a group pushes you to go when your not feeling it…Also gives you encouragement to finish! Let’s not forget safety in numbers!

Things I have found I like to have for hiking…. Camel bag {here} Hiking shoes {here} Hiking shorts {here} My favorite socks {here} Sun screen {here} pocket knife {here} Taser {here} First aid kit {here} Rattle Snake kit {here} Rx bars {here} Nuts {here}

8 tips for Packing light for a weekend Getaway

8 tips for Packing Light for a Weekend Getaway!

Packed and ready to go! Insta Style Book {Here} Heart Sunnies {Here}

Baggallini rolling tote and backpack! Outfit #1 { leggings, denim jacket, white sweater, converse, backpack, hair tie, carry on}

organizing & packing prep

# 2 {Leopard dress, denim jacket, wedge sandal, jewelry}

#3 {Leopard dress, denim jacket, wedge sandal, jewelry} same as above with added jacket.

#4 {Leopard dress, white sweater, leggings, backpack, jewelry, and converse }

#5 {denim jacket, white sweater, white jeans, sunglasses, jewelry, carry on}

#6 {white jeans, bird top, wedges, jewelry}

#7 {white jeans, bird top, wedges, jewelry, carry on) I Just added a jacket.

organizing & packing prep

Hello Beautiful!

Last week I introduced you to Baggallini luggage & bag company. Promising you some easy packing tips and 6-7 outfit looks with just a few pieces of clothing. I am off for a weekend meeting for two days with my @baggallini rolling tote and backpack to help make traveling easy and light. Here are 8 tips I hope you find useful.

I had a quick meeting✈️ , and I stated I’d share my packing tips for creating easy outfits out of just a few pieces to make packing light! I don’t know about you, but I love the ease of 1 carry-on bag! Wanting to look put together and chic without the hassle of multiple luggage. The above shows 7 outfits & below are some of my favorite tips & the clothing pieces I used to create 7 looks with ease…

Clothing Pieces: To create the 7 looks above.Denim Jacket {here} White Jeans {here} Leggings {here} White Sweater {here} Bird Top sold out Another Option{here} Leopard Dress {here} Wedges Similar {here} Another option {here} Converse {here} Pj’s similar {here} Pj’s similar cami set {here}

Shop the post below:

8 tips for Packing light for a weekend Getaway

#1:

Find luggage that is easy to use, for instance, lightweight and stylish! Not only are these bags stylish, but they are also so functional. The tote is overflowing with compartments for a laptop, documents, clothing, cosmetics. I love everything can have a place with 3 zippered compartments! The matching Metro backpack lets you be hands-free because it has multiple pockets & comes with an RFID wristlet which helps keep your information safe! ✈️

I love the black-on-black Cheetah print, and the piece is so lightweight! 🧳 You know I love some animal print.

#2:

I like to travel wearing a jacket that can be versatile. This gives you more room in your bag!

#3:

Pack items that can mix and match, for instance, allowing you to pack less but create new looks! So what’s in the bag…Pj’s, toiletries, undergarments, laptop, tan wedges, white jeans, button-up top, shirt dress, jewelry….all going with the pieces I am wearing…As a result, I can create 6-7 looks with these pieces!

#4:

Use a divider toiletry bag {here} and purchase the travel-size bottles of everything you regularly use.

#5:

Because I love shoes and could pack a different pair for every outfit! Try to build your outfits out of pieces that work with just a couple of types of shoes. As a result, this keeps your bags lighter and really does help to keep things simple. (In the Winter, I try to wear my boots on the plane and pack the lighter pair.)

#6:

Pack a tide stick & dryer sheet, for instance, to keep your clothes smelling fresh and remove a spot.

#7:

I like to use little snack baggies to pack my necklaces in and keep tangle-free, for instance.

#8:

Pack a variety of jewelry, for instance, some statement earrings, hoops, along with several rings, necklaces & bracelet pieces that work together to give your outfits different looks. Because jewelry is small it takes up little room and yet makes a big impact on finishing an outfit.

Shop my Travel favorites below:

Hoping I inspired you to create a travel capsule, if you will, and my 8 tips for packing and 7 outfit inspirations helped you for your next trip!

Judy’s Chocolate Kahlua Cake

The story behind Judy’s Chocolate Kahlua Cake, A cherished recipe

I wanted to share this recipe with you in memory of my dear friend Judy. It was a cake she brought to every event and party. Back in my scrapbooking days (if any of you from those days are following along, you will remember this cake and Judy well), This cake is so decadent, rich, and fit for a chocolate lover. So very Judy!

Easier than it tastes recipe: Judy’s Chocolate Kahlua Cake

You would think it took forever to make and had a million ingredients! She found out our oldest, who didn’t like cake loved this cake, and she started making it for his birthday every year! One year she surprised me with the recipe! Not something she gave out freely:) It’s a recipe I will genuinely cherish along with her cranberry crush (I’ll share another time).

Keeping Judy’s memory alive

I will care on her tradition by bringing them to parties and events. Judy was one of the classiest, most talented, full of fun ladies I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. I feel blessed to have shared many scrapbooking, shopping, birthdays, and holidays with this beautiful person. Judy passed away last week and I will truly miss her.

Things Judy and I had in common

We shared many of the same loves and even more in common. Judy was a mom of boys too, and yet so girly like I am. She loved a beautiful home, decorated every holiday perfectly, and loved to entertain to the fullest. She treated her friends like family and made everyone feel special. Judy just might own more pairs of shoes than me…. well, maybe not!:)

We sure did have fun shopping for them together and we might have several of the same pairs. We even wore the same size! She lived her life to the fullest and was one tough cookie. The last few years, she fought her health, while still looking chic! To live until your 80 is fantastic to do it her class, chicness, strength, and love are a gift to all those who knew her!

I will miss you, Judy Lewis, until we meet again, my sweet friend. OX, D’Arcy

chocolate cake

Ingredients you’ll need for this delicious cake; easy to make cake!

Best chocolate cake ever

Judy’s handwritten and scrapbooked recipe, something I will always treasure.

Grease & Flour the Pan

When all the batter is in the pan tap the pan 3 times to even out.

Serve with Judy’s favorite Moose Tracks ice cream or my favorite Vanilla Bean ice cream.

RECIPE:

Judy’s Chocolate Kahlua Cake

1 Duncan Hines Devil’s food cake mix

One small instant vanilla pudding mix

1 Pt. Sour cream

1/4 cup vegetable oil

1/2 cup Kahlua

2 Eggs

12 oz bag of Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips

Place the mix in a bowl & whisk in the pudding mix. Add all other ingredients one at a time except chocolate chips. Mix with an electric mixer. Add chips to the mix before spooning into the bundt pan that has been sprayed with pam, and then coat with flour. Bake at 350 for 50 minutes or until the toothpick comes out clean. Cool on a rack for 20 min. Then invert the pan on a rack so the cake will slide out. Cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar. I also like to drizzle it with chocolate syrup. Judy serves with Moose Tracks ice Cream, I like Vanilla Beans.

In her memory

I know she would have pure pleasure knowing her cake will be enjoyed by many, so please make it, enjoy it, and share a piece of Judy with your family. OX

Thank you for stopping by to read ” Judy’s Chocolate Kahlua Cake” Does your family love chocolate like mine? I’d love for you to tell me in the comments.

You can also find me on Instagram, Pinterest, Liketoknowit, Amazon shops, and Facebook.

Have a beautiful day, pretty ladies,

You might also Like the following:

Easy Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Mixed Chocolate cookies recipe

Spring Beauty Must Haves!

Liquid Collagen Lip by Algenist: Alguronic Acid + Collagen. You can wear alone or under lip balm, lipstick or lip gloss. Gives your lips a plump while healing! Heals cracked lips! {HERE}

Volition Beauty products : 1: Apple Cider Vinegar resurfacing peel pad {HERE} 2: Oceanene Youth Boost Gel {HERE} 3: Detoxifying Silt Gelee Mask {HERE} 4: Snow Mushroom Water Serum {HERE} 5: Not shown Polish Scrub {HERE}

The Better Skin Co.: Amaze Balm, Ultra rich therapy creme. Nourish your skin!

The Better Skin Co: Amaze Balm, ultra-rich therapy creme. Nourish your skin!

Hello Beautiful,

Spring is in the air, and I am so happy! It’s been such a long Winter. Spring is the perfect time to add some beauty products to your routine since the weather is changing, your products need a minor adjustment—items you need for your Spring beauty routine that help and work with what you already use. You know I try out all the products before I share them with you. These are my tried and authentic beauty products, and I have wanted to give you them at various prices. These products have made a difference in my skin, helped me look my best, and helped me maintain my beauty—these beauty products you’ll love and are easy to use in your everyday routine. Trust me, your friends will take notice of your skin!

Here are a couple of tips I’ve learned over the years. I share them often, but I love to give you a little reminder.

Try to do two different face masks a week. It does help your skin. I like to mix it up and do a moisturizing one and then maybe a brightening or tightening, etc. I have been using this one {HERE} {HERE} AND {HERE}. Also, it’s important to exfoliate the face and body once a week. This helps clear off dead skin and helps your spray tans this time of year. I love this one {HERE} {HERE}, some of my favorite beauty products listed on my shopping boards {HERE}.

Other Spring products I love not shown in photos:

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your skincare routine, and the Infraredi LED Light Therapy Mask is a powerful tool for that. It uses red and blue light wavelengths to combat acne, fine lines, and dark spots, giving your skin a radiant, youthful glow.

New Fragrance: Derek Lam drunk on you {HERE} Bobbi Brown Beaches {HERE} Fresh Lemon sugar {HERE} You need a fresh new scent for the warmer months, and these smell clean and fresh!

Perfekt: 10 Skin Perfection +: This is my favorite foundation. It’s 10 products in one and has the perfect coverage! I wear Color Ambient, which has 30 SPF, Firm, cover, prime, protects, correct, smooth, hydrates, long wear, and boosts collagen! {HERE}

Honest Beauty: Makeup Remover Wipes: With a blend of grape seed and olive oil to soften and nourish. Removes all your makeup and smells clean and fresh {HERE}.

Self Tanner: I love and use a couple of different self-tanners; I like these because they’re easy to use and don’t streak, plus they give you a nice glow without a lot of work. {HERE} {HERE} {HERE} This one is a browning lotion and one of my ALL-time NEED products {HERE}.

Hair Mask: This is a must for the season change, especially if you live where it’s dry like I do. I use it a couple of times a month ( I should probably be using it once a week!) my go-to: {HERE} {HERE} {HERE}.

Detox Water: Water is so essential for your skin and your weight! I do drink a lot of water, but I love a good detox, and these are some of my all-time favorite ways to add more water to your diet without adding calories. Perfect for detoxing and getting your skin and body ready for warmer months! Detox Water recipes {HERE} Detox water bottle {HERE} detox water {HERE} detox Oxygen water {HERE}.

Tinted Moisturizer: A must-have for the warmer months, a tinted moisturizer. This helps give your skin a hint of coverage with enough moisture to keep your skin looking dewy in the hot temperatures. These are a few of my favorites in different price points {HERE} {HERE} {HERE} {HERE}.

Tightening Cream: Who doesn’t want the look of tighter-looking skin? Am I right? Here are a few that can help give you the appearance of tighter-looking skin {HERE} {HERE} {HERE}.

I hope my Spring Beauty product list helps you find products you’ll love and enjoy using this season to help you look your best! Thank you for using my links as I do receive a tiny commission at no cost to you. This allows me do what I love to bring you honest, tangible tips and advice. Thank you, beautiful! OX, D’Arcy

Way’s to Wear a Scarf

I love wearing a little bandana as a necklace. It’s cute tied up on the neck as well! Bandana: sold out {similar Here}

A full scarf tied up into your top knot gives your top knot some extra pop. Scarf & scrunchie combo: Free People {Here} & {similar here}

Adding a scarf to a pony tail give a vintage vibe but also dresses up a plan outfit. Free People: {here} similar {here} fun hair accessories: {here}

A few of my favorite scarves i’ve been collecting! I’ve picked up at Free people, Target and Amazon. Shop: {Here} {Here} {Here}

Ribbon as a belt but could also be a scarf in its place and tied with a bow. This add softness to your denim and also gives a pop of texture and femininity. Jean: {Here}

Adding a scarf to your belt loop. Here I removed the scrunchie from the scarf and tied it to one belt loop! Free People scarf: {Here} Jeans: {here}

Add a scarf to your purse handle for a fun pop of pattern and added softness. Bag: SOLD OUT Similar {Here} Scarf: {Here} Earrings similar: {Here}

Adding a scarf to a pony tail can add color and dress up your pony. Free People: {here} Similar: {here}

Add a Hair scarf to your high pony tail doesn’t have to be for high school girls! You can wear this look at any age. My favorite hair accessories: {here}

Hello Beautifuls,

If you’ve been following along on my Instagram, you know I’ve been obsessed with scarves lately and even shared a video on ways to wear {Here}. I love that it is a big trend for Spring and happy to share ways you can add this fun little trend into your wardrobe. It’s a trend that every age can wear and incorporate into your wardrobe with out breaking the bank. I don’t know about you but I used to wear scarves and ribbons in my hair back in high school and yes that little thing called a scrunchie! I love it’s back but with a little extra something added.. a scarf! It makes for adding to your hairdos easy. If you don’t want to wear in your hair you can just take the scarf off. I love getting multiple uses out of something. Don’t you?

These scarves also make for great gifts. I give to all my February & March friends for their birthday’s with a pair of statement earrings and a lipstick! They loved! You can even hang one of a bottle of wine like my cute girlfriend did as a gift!

I hope some of my ways to wear this seasons scarf trend inspire you to try it out! If so tag me on social media, @darcyvandenberg I’d love to share how you’re wearing it with my following!

Have a happy weekend! OX, D’Arcy

Shop All my fun shopping boards full of my favorite things:{Here}

THIS POST IS ALL MY OWN IDEA’S AND MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS!

Valentine Outfit Inspirations

Sweater: Victoria Secret Cashmere line (sold out), similar here. Pants: here. Shoes: similar here. Vest: similar Here Jacket Here Vest.

Tee: similar Here here, Pants: similar here, Shoes: similar here, Jacket: here

(this sweater has hearts all over it) Sweater: similar here, Pants: here, Shoe Clips: similar here, Leather Jacket: here

Sweater (sold out): similar here, Pants: here, Shoes: similar here

Sweater: (sold out)similar here, Pants: similar here, Shoes: similar here

Don’t love hearts? Or haven’t started your collection? Think pink, red, burgundy, leopard, anything in that color way can work to create a fun and festive outfit. You don’t have to have hearts or love written on it! Beanies: Here, Kiss shoes that are so darling: Here Sweaters I love but not shown: Here Here Here Here

A collection of jewelry perfect for the month of love and really everyday! Start your collection today... Bag:Lex and Sullivan, Red Tassel Earrings: similar here, Hot Pink Tassel: similar here, Ombre Pink Earrings: similar here, Heart Hoop Set of 2: here, Love You More Necklace: similar here, Heart Necklace: similar here, Giving Key Necklace: sold on there website , Love Necklace: similar here

Hello Beautifuls, its been a little while since I’ve posted a blog post and I am so sorry! If you follow my Instagram and my stories I explained my little creative funk. Winter sometimes puts me in the blues and then add teaching full time to the mix and it took all my time. I have finished my long term teaching position and and am ready to poor my heart and soul out here. I’ll have to share about my experience teaching here soon! If you want to hear about it let me know!

Valentine’s day is tomorrow and I have been sharing inspiration all over my Instagram for the last couple of weeks and several of you asked to see more everyday outfit inspirations. You ask, I give! 🙂 In this post I wanted to share several looks you could get inspiration from and hopefully copy with similar items you have in your closet. Remember if you don’t have the exact item you can use “like” items… Think graphic tee, sweater, cardigan, leather coat, black jeans etc. I linked items that were in stock and other items that I loved or are similar. (Thank you so much for shopping my links and supporting my blog it really means the world to me!)

I adore the month of February, the month of all things love. My hubbies birthday is first part of the month, then Valentines day and we end with our Anniversary. We have something to celebrate each week and it helps this Winter month to go by FAST. I also love hearts and all things pink and red so i’ve been collecting pieces of clothing, jewelry, and decor that work for the month of love for years! Every year I pick up a couple more things. Don’t worry if you don’t have a huge Valentine collection, just think Pink, red, sparkly and even a touch of leopard. Valentines doesn’t have to be fancy or dressy either (although I always love a chance to dress up), I found I don’t dress up for Valentines (I do for our Anniversary). I normally work and cook a fun festive dinner for my family so I need more everyday looks that are festive and fun. This was the first February teaching school and I wore a fun Valentine look everyday last week and the kids and other teachers loved it. (especially the little girls!) That made my last week of school more fun! One of the things I realized about teaching that kids are so observant and really do love all the Holiday festive clothes and jewelry! (thank goodness I had a bunch of Christmas things to wear for the month of December) If you want to check out my festive Holiday looks I wore they are on my Instagram feed. So after all that… that is the reason for my outfit inspirations! Everyday Valentine’s day looks you can wear day or night.

I hope you find inspiration in this post and if you have questions or an idea you want me to blog about please leave a comment. Have a beautiful Valentine’s Day OX, D’Arcy!

October Favorites

October Favorites!

I am a little late to the game on posting October Favorites! But better late than never, right? October was a crazy month, and It’s one of my favorite months too! (maybe because it’s my birthday month?) So anyway posting a monthly round-up of my favorite things from that month featuring anything I loved, from fashion to podcast I am listening to. It has been a popular post of mine, so I thought I would share a more clear favorite from the month here on the blog!

This will be a NEW monthly post (hopefully closer to the end of the month)! This will feature any random things I loved throughout the month, including products I used up! October brought us all the Fall feels with cooler temperatures and pumpkin spice starting to make its way into everything! So here is what made its way into my heart, home and body this last October!

October Favorite: Fall Fashion

One of my favorite things is dressing for Fall! I love the layers and finding fun pieces. I saw this jacket last year at Nordstrom rack and am linking a (similar one DEAL Here and Here) pants and sweater in the photo below.

all black outfit, fall outfit, fall vibes, photos,

Fall leaves are gorgeous this time of the year and perfect for stunning photos! Loving all the Fall vibes. Outfit details: Sweater {here} {similar here} black jeans {similar here} Another October Favorite: over the knee boots {similar here and Here}

On my Instagram, I shared this post with my feelings on aging. Please read it here. October is my birthday month, and I always enjoy the beauty of Fall and the feelings you get from the cooler temperatures and color change. Outfit details: Duster {similar here and here}, distressed jeans {similar here and here}, tee-shirt {here}, and another one I love {here}, plus a killer deal {here}. Let’s not forget these super cute booties {here}, October favorite for Sure! My leopard cardigan cut as well for an October favorite {here}, and this Sweatshirt {here}, plus these pj’s {here}.

October Favorite Books

One of the books I read, Wildchild, is my month’s fav! I couldn’t put it down! Here are a couple more books I read: Good, Better, Best by Sue McCarthy, Audacious by Beth Moore, and The Participation Game by Norty Cohen. I love to read, and I love an actual book to hold, not a fan of my kindle except for travel. How about you? I usually don’t get four books done in 1 month either but being a teacher. You read when the kids do!

I enjoyed each book and was excited to learn business techniques, more about faith, and a book for the joy of reading and taking you somewhere different with a storyline you could relate to. What are you reading? Joanna Gaines’s book is on my nightstand right now (I have had since she released it! Maybe a year or two?) In my school bag is The Career Code.

A book about the photographer, model, and magazine world: it was such a fun read I couldn’t put it down!
A quote from the book Wildchild that I loved and couldn’t have said better! ” Style makes you different. Fashion makes you the same!”

October Favorite Products

I used up. Well, maybe my hubby helped a little! Wink wink! Loreal Revitalift Intensive Overnight Mask: wear in the evening after cleansing the face. It moisturizes but feels thick. Glo Hydra Radiance Moisturizer: a daily moisturizer that makes your skin glow, almost dewy, I would purchase again. Hyaluronic Acid Anti Aging Serum: Use after your toner & helps even skin tone and tighten skin. I think my skin looked clearer (not that I have any acne), just fresh-looking. Revision Skincare Retinol Complete: I use this at night only, and after serum, I use it around my eyes and smile lines. I feel like it helped reduce the lines. It’s a brilliant product to use in your late 30’s to 60’s.

If you have been following, you know how important skincare is to me and that I am always trying new products out to see what works and what doesn’t. I try to share my results with you over on Instastories, and every so often, I’ll do a beauty routine or round up over here on the blog. Would you mind letting me know on what social platform you want me to post results?

New here? I am 47, and nobody ever guesses my age:) some of that I can thank my mom… The other is because of my skincare routine. I’ll do a face mask twice a week (it used to be once a week until I learned 4-5 months ago you should do two a week! I use a cleanser every day and a scrub maybe three times a week. Then I’ll use a toner, then a serum. Retinol is new to my routine, and only at night, and I finish with a moisturizer. At least one night a week, sleeping with vaseline all over my face because Utah is so dry!

I am sharing this with you to understand my routine and know I try a product out for the whole month, sometimes two, before sharing it. I also want you to know I support products I love, which does not always sponsor me. What’s your favorite product? Will you be trying one of my October favorites? Please let me know below!

October brings the most beautiful sunrises. This photo was on my morning drive alongside the lake.

October Favorite Podcasts

I am listening to and can’t get enough… I don’t even listen to music in the car anymore!

Favorites List:

The Influencer Pod: Cast if you are an influencer or in any marketing, it’s a must!
Joel Osteen: Christian.
Style Collective: Great if you’re self-employed.
Wit & Wisdom: Also great if you’re self-employed.
Pop Fashion: You guessed it, Fashion-based.

My October Favorite Random Things

This month I adored this lipstick (here), my favorite blanket to snuggle up with (here), and my favorite seasonal mug (here). I used to snuggle up and watch Hocus Pocus at least 25 times during October! My favorite NEW TV shows: God Friended A Million Little Things and Me!

And now the excellent stuff! Fall means comfort food, homemade soups, mac and cheese, chicken pot pie, and yummy pasta! Here’s my easy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe (here), and I will continue to share our family’s favorite dishes with you since it’s some of my most engaged posts. Below is my oldest son Hudson’s easy Spicy Rigatoni Recipe! You’re going to love it, and it’s so effortless!

My Sons Easy Spicy Rigatoni Recipe:
For a quick and easy throw-together meal that feels like you slaved in the kitchen. You’ll love this Spicy Rigatoni Recipe. Our family loves Buca di Beppo’s Spicy Chicken Rigatoni. One day Hudson, my oldest, decided he would recreate it in a fast college student way! So he did, and it is yummy.

You’ll Need:

1 box rigatoni Our Favorite HERE

1 16 oz jar of your Favorite Marinara sauce (we like garlic and basil) It’s WHOLE30 HERE

1 16 oz jar of your favorite Alfredo sauce but your only using about 10 oz (we like this one HERE)

1 half-pint heavy whipping cream using 1/2 of the container (we like this one HERE)

1 small bag of frozen peas

2 tablespoons of fresh minced garlic

1 tablespoon of crushed red pepper HERE

salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup parmesan cheese to top off HERE

Optional Add-Ins: 3 Grilled chicken breast cut thin and pan-fried or grilled.

In a large pan, bring to boil water for pasta and follow directions on the box. In a medium saucepan, pour in a jar of Marinara sauce, add about 10-12 oz of the Alfredo sauce, and 1/2 the container of the cream, let simmer and add in all the seasonings. Don’t add peas to the sauce until the very end (about 1 min to the sauce), right before you drain pasta and are ready to dish up. You want the peas to be warm but still have a little crunch. Plate pasta, cover in sauce, and top with parmesan! So good and dinner in less than 20 minutes! Serve with a salad and garlic bread!

My favorite pasta serving bowl (HERE) and the best strainer (HERE)

Did you do anything from my Fall bucket list HERE?

I hope you had a beautiful October and enjoyed the list of my favorite October things! Let me know if you try a couple of them, maybe this November. Seriously, I can’t believe it’s already the 2nd week of November, and I have some exciting things planned for the blog.

The month of November is a great reminder of all the things we should be grateful for. So in November, I will be sharing my gratitude list, easy way’s to give back, and some fun shopping guides for the upcoming Holiday season. Also, Sharing shopping guides for my Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday picks along with Holiday outfits, a couple of our favorite Holiday recipes, and of course, my Thanksgiving tablescape and peeks at some Holiday decor! So stay tuned as I have exciting things to share! Have a beautiful week!

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 the support!

Recipe for Chocolate Kahlua Cake

Happy Monday Beautiful’s!

You guys asked for this recipe when I shared a photo of it on Instastories. So here’s a little background on how this yummy little treat made it into my recipe box. Back in the days when I did scrapbooking retreats, I had a dear friend Judy make this to die for cake and would bring it to the party! Everyone in attendance would rave and would silently be hoping for it at every retreat. We were blessed with this cake every time Judy came.

This cake is so decadent and rich, if you’re a chocolate lover you’ll think you died and went to heaven. My oldest son adores this cake and Judy would be so sweet to make it for him on several birthdays.

One year we were delighted when she shared the recipe with us and now I can share it with you.

Nobody thought by the taste that it could be a box cake mix and so easy to make! I am so happy I could share it with you and hopefully it becomes a family favorite for you too.

Judy’s Chocolate Kahlua Cake

1 Duncan Hines devils food cake mix

1 Small instant vanilla pudding

1 Pint sour cream

1/4 cup oil

1/2 cup Kahlua

2 eggs

12 oz bag Semi sweet chocolate chips

Place mix in bowl & whisk in pudding mix. Add all other ingredients one at a time except chocolate chips. Mix with electric mixer. Add chips into mix before spooning into greased and floured bunt pan or mini bunt pans.

Bake at 350 for 50 mins depending on oven, then cool on rack for 20 min.

Then invert pan or pans on rack so cake will slide out, cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar.

Serve with vanilla bean ice cream, or with Judy’s favorite: moose tracks ice cream!

My mom was in town for her birthday (she always travels out for both our birthdays, hers is the 12th and mine is the 20th) the boys made her make this recipe! Nothing like making you own birthday cake! HEHE… I am finishing up Whole30 and didn’t want to be tempted….so no cake for me! I hope you enjoy the rest of your week and let me know if you tried this recipe. OX, D’Arcy

A couple of my favorite Baking tools from Amazon Here, Here, Here, and Here

Leopard Trend and My Picks You Don’t Want to Miss!

Leopard Button-Up Top {here} H&M deal $29.99 Black Jeans {here} Black Scarf {similar here} Boots {similar here} Belt {here}

fall photo shoot in Little cotton wood canyon

Outfit details below! This look would be cute with a black top or even a denim button up and black pants.

lace dress {here & similar here} leopard clutch {similar here and here} heals {similar here}

Leopard Trend: Leopard prints are everywhere for Fall and one of the best ways to elevate your everyday style. I have always had leopard print in my wardrobe. It’s a pattern that you can have fun with and a little touch can add interest & playfulness to your outfit. Animal prints have long been a wardrobe staple for stylish woman, but get ready to see this trend really take off.

I love that this year it is a huge trend and showing up in a BIG way from jackets to handbags. You really can’t go wrong with adding a little bit of leopard to your wardrobe. I like to think of leopard as a neutral and it is a print that never really goes out of style… You can mix it with patterns and have fun with it! It’s not just a pattern to wear with black or brown, mix it up, play with the print, try it with a plaid, denim and even lace like I have shown. Go ahead, give leopard a try!

Enjoy your week and remember, if you need outfit advice or help with a outfit leave a comment below and all be happy to help you out! OX, D’Arcy.

PS: Do you love leopard print?

Here are some of my favorite way’s to play with this on trend print & some of my favorite pieces to purchase:

Leopard Cardigan {here} {similar here} Plaid Top {similar here} Jeans {similar here} Booties Old {similar here} Arm Candy {similar here}

Olive Coat { similar here} Striped Top {similar here} Leopard Clutch {similar here} Jeans {similar here} Shoes {similar here}

Leopard Jacket old {similar here} Gingham Top old {similar here} Jeans {here} Louis Vuitton bag Retired {similar here} Booties {here}

I will be wearing these alot! Brit : Ultra chic & versatile zippered ankle bootie by Pic & Pay {here}

I can’t get enough leopard this Fall and these earrings are so lightweight you won’t want to stop wearing them! By James Ascher

*This post may contain affiliate links at no fee to you. All opinions are my own. I only promote brands that I truly love and believe in. Thank you for all your support.

Fall Bucket List 12 Must Do Fall Activities

white kitchen, marble, super white quartzite counter tops

Bath and Body Works Fall candle collection, my favorite is leaves. Costco Fall flowers & candy corn make it feel like fall! My shirt is by Trunk old, similar here & here.

Hello Beautiful’s! You know how much I love Fall (it’s going to be my Birthday month!) and how much I love to do & enjoy all things Fall! So I thought it would be fun to do a Fall bucket list to share with you, since you loved my Winter bucket list last year (If you missed that check it out here!). I hope it inspires you to get in the spirt of the season and check a couple things off the list as well! OX

PUMPKIN PATCH – Well of course, an annual event around year! Even if my kids are big and over it! I still drag them out for a family day (normally it’s bribed with food). I always have a large assortment of pumpkins on our porch, steps and entryway. So this is a great time to have everyone pick a verity and help decorate!
HAUNTED HOUSE– A perfect date with the family, my boys will be really into this! I haven’t been to one since high school, so wish me luck!
A day in front of a fire with a cozy blanket, a cup of tea, a candle burning and a great book!
Go on an OUTDOOR HIKE, where the colors are stunning and the air is crisp!
Go to a COLLAGE FOOTBALL game! We have to go support Auston Tesch #53 for Weber state at least once a year! It’s always fun and last year my mom was here to go support him too!
Take a FALL DRIVE where the leaves are in full glory. I love grabbing a warm drink and taking a drive with my hubby to see the color’s. It’s fun to grab a meal out and make it a date. When we lived in California, we would go with the entire family,(my mom & my sister) to Oak Glen and pick apples, boy do I miss those days.
Make a HOMEMADE PIE, I haven’t made a pie from scratch in a few years. I used to love making apple pies, when we had so many apple trees in California! (I need to plant a couple apple trees)
JUMP INTO A PILE OF LEAVES and get a cute picture! I will wait for my boys to rake all the leaves up! hehe
Make a big POT OF CHILI (my veggie chili recipe is below) and watch Hocus Pocus! I mean what is fall without watching Hocus Pocus at least 10 times!
Create a FALL WARDROBE CAPSULE, these wardrobe capsules have been all the rage, (have you heard of them?) with fall being most peoples favorite time to shop, it’s a great time to create one for you. Help yourself to get inspiration and pick out classic pieces to build your wardrobe for Fall.
Spend the WEEKEND with GIRLFRIENDS in PJ’S watching HALLMARK MOVIES. Of course we’ll do face mask, drink wine and eat all kinds of yummy food! Who’s ready for a sleep over?
Enjoy a FIRE ON THE DECK making s’mores, under cozy blankets enjoying the crisp fall air! I will be decorating my back deck for fall this year! Unfortunately it’s a short season here in Utah, So I have never decorated the back deck for fall. This year we are going too spend more time wrapped in blankets enjoying the crisp air.

Corn Maze Fun: Outfit details- Cardigan old: similar here & here, Black tee Here, Shoes similar here, Camo moto pants, Old: Similar here and here here

Louis Vuitton, fall nails, purchase color here and Starbucks. Three of my favorite things!

My Easy Veggie Chili Recipe: (slow cooker) So easy you’ll make it a ton!

1 large can of chili beans and sauce

1 can each of pinto, kidney, red beans drained and rinsed

1 large can of tomato sauce

1 can of crushed tomatoes

1 cup of water

1 each of a red, yellow, green bell peppers, washed and chopped

1 large onion chopped and browned

4 cloves of garlic chopped browned

1 tablespoon of butter (for browning onion and garlic)

1 tablespoon of chili powder

1 tablespoon of onion salt

1 tablespoon of kitchen bouquet (browning seasoning)

1/2 teaspoon of salt and pepper

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

crushed red pepper seasoning to taste

shredded cheese (for topping)

Brown the onions and garlic in the butter, then add everything (except cheese) into the crockpot on low in the morning and come home to a yummy meal! You can brown turkey or meat of choice with a chili seasoning packet and add that, but you’ll need another can of tomato sauce. Serve with corn bread, fritos or soda crackers!

Extra toppings optional: sour cream, green onions, hot sauce I hope you try it and let me know what you think. It’s a family favorite around here!

As promised I shared ALL the weekend sales on my instagram stories under Shopping!

I picked some of my favorite things and shared the deals, so go check them out!

Thank you for stopping by and taking the time out of your day to spend a little bit of time with me. If you have any question, please remember to leave a comment. I love helping my friends out! OX, D’Arcy