Tech Support

"Computers themselves, and software yet to be developed, will revolutionize the way we learn." - Steve Jobs

I absolutely love anything tech! My undergraduate degree in college was Computer Science, and I absolutely enjoyed it. The major really challenged me to expand and grow my knowledge within the tech field. I've always been interested in new gadgets and the latest news. Technology is constantly evolving and changing, so it's always fun to see what's new on the market!

Today I am sharing my favorite mobile device, app, and a few accessories! 

Favorite Mobile Device: Google Pixel 2

I recently left my beloved iPhone, and switched back to Android. Although I was very apprehensive, the Google Pixel 2 is the perfect phone for me! It has similar features that the iPhone has but includes some amazing specs!

Fave Feature: Camera

Favorite Smart Watch: Skagen Falster

I'm a huge fan of the Skagen brand! This watch is absolutely stunning and so easy to use. The smart watch is powered by Android, and syncs perfectly with my phone!

Fave Feature: Customizable Watch Faces

Favorite Mobile App: Vivino

As you all know I love wine! This app is perfect for the wine lover who is always on the go. Not only can you shop for wine in the app, but rate other bottles as well! Also, you can scan bottles into the app and keep a catalog of your favorite wines.

Fave Feature: Taste Profile Tracker

Favorite Wireless Earbuds: Jaybird x3

These earbuds are spectacular! They do not slip in and out of my ears like most buds do. The earbuds come with three wings, silicone buds and memory foam tips to ensure the fit is absolutely perfect! Also, you are able to customize your sound in their mobile app.

Fave Feature: Jaybird MySound App

Favorite Security Camera: Arlo

G bought a camera for our front porch over the holiday season - mainly so we knew when our packages were delivered. We loved the camera so much that we got several more for our home! The camera is easy to install and the app that goes with the camera is great!

Fave Feature: Motion Detection Alert

Media Streamer: Google Chromecast

We love this device and put one in our Master Bedroom. It is perfect because it syncs up with our Google Home seamlessly. Also, we are able to do voice commands or use a television network app from our phones to play content.

Fave Feature: Google Home Integration

What are some of your favorite devices and mobile apps?

XO, Analise

Two Years

"Experts on romance say for a happy marriage there has to be more than a passionate love. For a lasting union, they insist, there must be a genuine liking for each other. Which, in my book, is a good definition for friendship." - Marilyn Monroe

G and I will be celebrating two years of marriage on March 26th. I'm so looking forward to the many years we have ahead of us. I still remember the way I felt, and how G looked at me on our wedding day - it was such a wonderful moment. During that time I knew that this was "it", and our lives would be forever better and filled with love. Saying "yes" to marrying my husband was one of the easiest and best decisions I've ever made.

Throughout our relationship there are many things G and I have learned. Today I'm sharing our top two lessons on marriage.

G's Advice

  1. Compromise with each other. It is so important to work with your spouse and find a common ground. There will be times when you have to make hard decisions. It is essential that the two of you are on the same page.
  2. Communication is key. It's so important to establish proper communication in your marriage. Try and ensure that this quality is a strong foundation in your relationship. 

Analise's Advice

  1. Keep your home a safe place. When we purchased our home it was really important for me make sure it was absolutely comfortable. Growing up, my home was the sanctuary, and I wanted the same thing for G and I. Not only did it need to be comfortable, but also safe. It's important that our home is calm and peaceful. Keeping your home warm and loving promotes positive energy within your marriage.
  2. Maximize your partner's talents. G and I push each other to be the absolute best. We dream together and discuss the future together. It is so important to discover what motivates your partner and guiding them to that goal.

XO, Analise

Photo Credit: Shannon Moffit Photography

 

Recipe: Shrimp Tacos

"Food is not just eating energy. It's an experience." - Guy Fieri

Happy Taco Tuesday everyone! Tacos are a staple in our household and they are so easy to make! Today I am sharing my favorite shrimp taco recipe.

What You'll Need

  • 20 peeled and deveined shrimp
  • Olive Oil
  • Butter
  • Corn Tortillas
  • Arugula or Shredded Lettuce
  • Cilantro
  • Lemon or Lime
  • Tomato
  • Avocado
  • Lemon Pepper Seasoning

Step 1: Prepare all of the veggies! Dice your tomatoes, chop your cilantro and lettuce, and cut a few wedges of lemon or lime for added flavor.

Tip: Slice up an avocado and throw that on your taco too!

Step 2: Heat your skillet for your shrimp. Put the pan on medium to high heat, and add butter to the skillet. Place the shrimp into the skillet, and add a little bit of lemon pepper seasoning (to taste), while they are cooking on each side. Allow them to cook evenly, this will take about 2-3 minutes per side. Once the shrimp have a nice pink-ish color, remove them from the skillet into a bowl so they can cool down.

Tip: Do not over cook the shrimp, they will become rubbery and chewy.

Step 3: Now for the tortillas! In a heated skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pan and begin placing in the corn tortillas. Keep the tortillas in the skillet for about 30-60 seconds until browned. 

Step 4: It is time to build you tacos! Grab a tortilla, and put your veggies on the bottom, starting with the lettuce or arugula. Then add tomatoes, cilantro, avocado, shrimp, and desired sauce. Drizzle some lime or lemon juice on top too!

Tip: A cilantro lime sauce is always my go to for this yummy dish.

Step 5: Enjoy!

XO, Analise

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Spring Cleaning

"I look forward to spring cleaning and putting things in their place. It's therapeutic for me." - Kimora Lee Simmons

Spring has sprung! I absolutely love spring. It is the start of a new season, and to warmer days! I prepare for this moment in many ways. One of my favorites activities is spring cleaning! As you all know I'm a huge neat freak, and cleaning is something I take very seriously. I typically clean out my closet each quarter, just to make sure everything is in tip top shape.

Today I'm sharing my tips and tricks for the ultimate closet clean out!

  1. Toss. Donate. Sell. Keep. This is a phrase I live by when I'm cleaning out my closet. I create four piles and indicate which item goes into the category. The Toss category is for any item that is worn out and no longer worth keeping. These items are typically damaged or broken beyond repair. Donate are for the pieces that have been used, but are still in decent condition. These items can certainly be worn again but may not be worth re-selling. The Sell pile is perfect for gently used pieces. I get amazing luck on selling my purses that are in excellent condition! My favorite pile is the Keep! When I see what I'm left with in my wardrobe, it gives me a great idea of items that need to be replaced. I make a list of my must-haves and begin updating my closet. Also, I uncover some amazing pieces that suddenly appear during my closet clean out :) 
  2. When was the last time you wore it? My ultimate rule of thumb is, if I haven't worn the piece in the last 6 months, it has no place in my closet. If there are items that are collecting dust let it go. With these items you can donate or re-sell them if you find that you're not getting much use out of it anymore.
  3. Check the fit! If the piece doesn't fit get rid of it! When the article of clothing is too tight, there is no sense in trying to hold onto it. Also, if the item is too big, take the piece to a local seamstress and see if alterations can be made. I've done this for a few items that I really love and didn't want to get rid of. 
  4. Does the piece match your current style? My style has changed and evolved over the years. It's really important to acquire and keep quality pieces that fit your lifestyle. If an item doesn't match my current style, out it goes!

What are some of your tips for spring cleaning your home?

XO, Analise

Date Day Guide

Cute's good. But cute only lasts for so long, and then it's, 'Who are you as a person?' Don't look at the bankbook or the title. Look at the heart. Look at the soul. When you're dating a man, you should always feel good. ... You shouldn't be in a relationship with somebody who doesn't make you completely happy and make you feel whole. - Michelle Obama

When G and I first started dating, we really loved day dates. We met in a city that was in between where we both lived at the time. During this time we really had to maximize the time we spent together. Day dates quickly became our "thing" and it was so much fun. We love spending time together, and to grow and learn about each other. It was casual and so relaxed - which was absolutely perfect.

Today I am sharing my favorite day dates with you all!

  1. Museums - We are all about going to a good art museum or exhibit. G will research and look into museums before we visit. He will make sure we hit all the best exhibits. 
  2. Wineries/Vineyards - Of course, it wouldn't be a great day date without hitting a good winery or two. If the winery or vineyard has a restaurant, we are definitely hanging around  for lunch. But, if there isn't one, we pack a little basket and a blanket - and do a picnic. Also, sometimes wineries will have food trucks - jackpot!
  3. Tours - One of our favorite things to do are tours. All the way from a Segway to Model Home (hey, we get a lot of decorating ideas from touring newly constructed house) tour. We make it fun! 
  4. Gardens and Parks - I'm a sucker for flowers, so going to a Botanical Garden or a Historical Park is always fun for me. We even take our bikes and go for a ride - just getting out and enjoying the fresh air is so nice.
  5. Brunch or Lunch - Who doesn't like a good mimosa or four during the day? I'm never turning a mimosa down. We are always on the hunt for a new brunch spot. 
  6. Movies - We are huge fans of the Marvel Universe and make it our mission to see each movie that comes out. Sometimes we will go during the day - hello matinee prices! 
  7. Collectible Hunting - So, we are super into comic books. G and I even collect statues. We have a few favorite comic book stores in the Hampton Roads area that we love going to. I enjoy seeing what they have in stock, and thumbing through some comic books. This activity is one of my favorite things to do with G, and we have a blast.
  8. Art Studio - We enjoy going to our local art studio and painting some wonderful pieces. It is a way for us to use our creative outlet and have fun.

Tip: Sometimes we will "un-plug" on our dates. No social media or phones, just the two of us enjoying one another. 

What are some of your favorite day dates?

XO, Analise

 

Photo Credit: Shannon Moffit Photography