Sparkles and ATX

Summer is here, and it’s sizzling in Texas, which means lots of pool days ahead. My pool bag is packed with all my summer essentials, and here are a few of my favorites.

☀️® Strawberry Orange Soda: Exclusive to Walmart, for the perfect poolside beverage (gotta stay hydrated)

☀️ Aluminum Free Clear Solid Deodorant - Sparkling Citrus: providing All-day freshness so I feel my best self all day (even in this Texas heat).

☀️ hydrating SPF to block that intense Texas sun and keep me getting a nice tan (Instead of a nasty burn).

☀️ hair gel and serum to transform my pool hair, help with all the flyaways, and simultaneously strengthen it with peppermint and rosemary oils.

☀️ “Such a Bad Influence” by Olivia Muenster and “Siri, Who am I?” By Sam Tschida, Make the perfect poolside reads. (Add to that summer reading list).

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By now you have seen at least one of the many bright pink food trucks all over Austin, but did you know ZIKI now has over over 10 locations spanning from Georgetown to Dripping Springs. ZIKI is a Greek-Mexican food truck known for its fresh, safe ingredients. No vegetable oils or soy; they use grass-fed butter, pasteurized eggs, and locally sourced organic veggies. Recently launched in Austin, they plan to expand statewide.

When I am in a hurry but want something I know will nourish my body, I always run to ZIKI, and with their convenient app, I can order ahead so I don't have to wait in this heat.

• ZIKI Bites: (My absolute favorite) Three crispy spanakopita bites filled with feta, secret cheeses, and spinach.

• Iced Berry Green Tea: ( So refreshing) Unsweetened green tea infused with fresh organic blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries. No sugar added.

• Pork Zurrito: Crispy flour tortilla with sweet & tangy pork, yellow rice, avocado jalapeño ZIKI sauce, crumbled feta, garlic sauce, grilled corn, cilantro cabbage slaw, pico de gallo.

• Gyro Beef BowlL Wholesome grain bowl with gyro beef, yellow rice, classic ZIKI sauce, whipped feta, fajitas, pico de gallo, cilantro cabbage slaw, crispy chickpeas. Gluten-free.

So if you haven’t already been won over by the deliciousness that is ZIKI, check them out and let me know what you think!

🍽️ Revamped and Ready to Sizzle! 🥩 Acre 41, Austin's only Contemporary Steakhouse in the Campus District, has just unveiled its mouthwatering new menu. Indulge in USDA signature cuts, from tender filets to juicy New York strips, and prepare your taste buds for an extraordinary culinary experience that goes the "extra acre."

                                 

🇺🇸 Happy 4th of July! Today, as we come together to celebrate the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, let us remember that the journey toward true freedom and equality has been a complex and ongoing struggle. While we honor the historical milestones that have shaped our nation, it is important to acknowledge that not all groups have had equal opportunities or access to the freedoms we hold dear.

This timeline offers a glimpse into the strides we have made, but it also underscores the work that remains. Even in 2023, women, people with disabilities, people of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, and many other minorities still face barriers to freedom and equality. We must continue to fight for justice, inclusivity, and the rights of all individuals to ensure we live in an America where everyone has equal access to liberties and opportunities.

Summer is officially here, which means all the summer fun. I am ready to hit the road from pool days, days on the lake, staycations, and all the adventures in between. 

Now that I'm all set for some summer fun, I am packing up My must-have summer bag, the Weekender Travel Bag. With plenty of room for all my essentials, it has a convenient front zip compartment and many pockets. It's carry-on compliant and even has a trolley sleeve for easy handling.

For snacks and drinks, the patriotic cooler bag from Vera Bradley is a winner, fitting up to 21 cans and featuring a removable liner for easy cleaning.

It is Hot, I mean sweltering, here in Texas, so having a quality Sunscreen is so important. SPF 50 is my skin's savior, protecting it from UV and antioxidant rays. It's zinc and paraben-free, leaving my skin hydrated.    

For thigh rubbing discomfort in the sun, I rely on Monistat Care Chafing Relief Powder Gel—non-greasy and long-lasting.
To cleanse after a hot day, I choose Monistat Maintain Feminine Cleanser with Boric Acid—fragrance-free and pH-balancing for freshness and hygiene.

On any summer adventure, I always have a great read from “The Camp" by is a thrilling homage to slasher movies. "The Other Mistress" by is a seductive tale of betrayal and revenge with a diverse cast. And "The Last Sinner" by features two detectives solving crimes in New Orleans.

What are your beach bag must haves? Remember the link in the bio for more about all these summer essentials.

Happy Father's Day to the fearless, unwavering, and brilliant man who taught me to be my own person. Growing up, I often got into trouble for speaking my mind., I'll never forget the parent-teacher conference when my dad came back beaming because my third-grade teacher, Mr. Curry, praised my independent thinking. It was a moment that encapsulated my dad's ultimate aspiration for me. Whether challenging me to calculate grocery bills mentally or teaching me to navigate our way home, he consistently emphasized the value of my strength and independence as a woman. I'm incredibly blessed to call the outspoken, vibrant, brilliant, and kind Bob Iannaccone, my father; well, let's be honest… I still call him Daddy Bob.

June has officially arrived, and with it comes Pride Month🏳️‍🌈. As a cisgender heteros*xual individual, I am learning that being an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community involves more than simply expressing support. It involves consistent action, growth, understanding, and learning. We can all play a crucial role in creating a safer, more inclusive environment for everyone.

Here are some ways we can cultivate allyship:

1. Educate Yourself: Understanding the diverse identities, terminologies, and issues within the LGBTQIA+ community is essential. This knowledge will foster deeper empathy and help us use correct language.

2. Listen and Validate: We must actively listen to the stories, experiences, and perspectives of LGBTQIA+ individuals without judgment. Validate their feelings and experiences, acknowledging their struggles and resilience.

3. Speak Up, Not Over: Use your privilege to challenge homophobia, transphobia, biphobia, and any form of discrimination, but always remember not to speak over the community members. Amplify their voices without taking up their space.

4. Recognize and Check Your Privilege: Reflect on how your cisgender and heteros*xual identity has shaped your experiences and perspectives. Understand that this privilege often shields you from certain hardships faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. Use this privilege to support, rather than undermine, the community's struggles.

5. Advocate for Inclusion and Equality: Support policies and organizations that promote LGBTQIA+ rights. Make your spaces more inclusive and welcoming.

6. Apologize When You Make Mistakes: Nobody's Perfect. If you make a mistake, apologize, learn from it, and strive to do better.

7. Support LGBTQIA+ Art, Business, and Media: From purchasing from LGBTQIA+-owned businesses to promoting LGBTQIA+ artists and media, your support can make a huge difference.

Remember, allyship is not a label but a lifelong commitment to supporting others. It requires constant learning, unlearning, and relearning. Let's strive to be better allies and foster a more inclusive world for everyone.

Tag your favorite LGBTQIA+ artists, organizations, and small business below!

As we wrap up National Mental Health Month, let's spotlight the incredible non-profit BLOOM. Dedicated to empowering young girls against bullying and fostering emotional resilience, Bloom transforms lives, turning seeds of self-doubt into blossoming leaders. In an era where reactionary measures are standard, Bloom's mission stands out - creating a nurturing environment where girls can face challenges, grow, and navigate their experiences.

At Bloom, licensed therapists join hands with caregivers and the girls to address bullying's impact, cultivating emotional intelligence and resilience. The goal? Helping girls thrive and 'bloom' with unshakable confidence. Together with Bloom, I'm committed to raising awareness about the pressing issue of bullying amongst our youth.

Here's a throwback to simpler times - my Myspace era! It's hard to comprehend the pressures today's teens face in this TikTok world of 2023.

So, what wisdom would I pass on to my middle-school self?

Marisa, the world is far grander than you can imagine. You're going to meet incredible people and visit places beyond your wildest dreams. You won't become a doctor, and Sam won't be your Prince Charming. But guess what? You'll touch the lives of children with disabilities just as you've always dreamt of. You'll fall in love and realize that there are people who genuinely love, see, and know you. Amidst life's trials and tribulations, never let the world dim your sparkle, keep sparkling and having God-sized dreams.

Swipe through to see Middleschool Marisa, and make sure you go follow to learn more about all the amazing work they are doing!

Fostering makes a difference!!... Short story time. I went to a few weeks ago to help promote national adopt a shelter pet day. My sweet Max is a rescue and I know more than ever our shelters need our help. Long story short I saw Chocolate Frog and Chocolate Chunk and somehow ended up taking them home ( no idea how that happened 🤣). Fostering is a great way to support your local shelter if you aren't able to adopt!
What questions do you have about fostering?
❤️🐶

Calling all Austin area educators! After a challenging year, we want to show our appreciation and give back to those who have worked tirelessly to educate our future leaders. That's why I've teamed up with to gift one deserving Austin area educator a well-deserved break with a 75-minute signature massage! Nominate a teacher who has gone above and beyond this year and deserves some pampering. Let's spread some love and gratitude for our educators!

All you have to do is:
🧖🏼‍♀️Follow
✨Follow
👩🏼‍🏫Tag a deserving educator

The giveaway closes Thursday, May 11th and 8 pm CST

#512

Spring is here and so is BBQ Burger, but just like a Texas wildflower, you have to hurry and catch it before it's gone! 🌼🍔

This seasonal Burger Features a juicy Angus patty, topped with American cheese, crunchy onion rings, and BBQ sauce. Pair it with sweet potato fries and their famous fries sauce for the perfect meal to share with your friends and family in the sunshine!

Want to try it for yourself? Well, I’ve Teamed up with Hat Creek to giveaway a $25 gift card.🍔

To enter:
- Like this post
- Follow  & 
- ✨For additional 10 entries comment who you would share a BBQ burger with! 🍔

The giveaway ends Wednesday 3/20, and the winner will be notified from this page.

"He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay." - Matthew 28:6

Happy Easter! May the joy of this season remind us of the great sacrifice and love that Jesus has shown us. Let us celebrate His resurrection and the hope it brings to our lives.

Celebrate the end of Women's History Month with these thoughtful gift ideas for the special ladies in your life! I was inspired by my shipment from which got me thinking about ways to show appreciation for the amazing women in our lives! 

Treat your loved ones with a sweet tooth a brownie sampler from made with natural ingredients and individually wrapped for freshness. Use code BABBLE15 for 15% off

Gift your journaling friend a high-quality notebook and pen set from a company that has been inspiring readers, writers, and thinkers since 1987. Consider their set of two linen-covered Emily Dickinson notebooks and a Retro 51 Emily Dickinson Exclusive Rollerball Pen.

For book lovers, gift them two captivating books from that highlight the inspiring stories of trailblazing women. The Nurse's Secret by and The Book Spy by feature women who accomplished incredible feats that are often overlooked.

For your boss babe friend who's always on the go, consider gifting them a Newport Ultra Slim Backpack, which doubles as a small backpack for work accessories and everyday essentials.

For the self-care-focused lady in your life, give them skincare, which provides high-performance, professional-grade skincare that's safe for home use. Use code BABBLE20 for 20% off.

Check out the link in the bio for more details on these amazing brands and products, along with some discount codes.



 



 

I'm absolutely in love with my Byte Aligners! Like many, I've always wanted to improve my smile, and last December, I took the leap with these convenient aligners. The best part? I was able to do everything from the comfort of my own home. Although I've fallen a little behind on wearing my retainers (whoops!), seeing the progress I've made so far has been incredibly motivating. With each transformation, my confidence grows even more.

Ready to start your smile transformation journey? Use code SPARKLESANDSPED to get your Byte Impression Kit for just $19 (usually $95), and receive a $200 discount on your Byte aligner treatment. Head to the link in my bio to get started today!

   
     
    
      
     

Today marks the first International Women's Day since the overturning of Roe v. Wade. My focus today is on reproductive rights, a critical issue that impacts everyone regardless of political affiliation, gender or orientation. The availability of birth control, comprehensive s*x education, and safe access to abortion can have a significant impact on the lives of women and girls, both in the short and long term.

✨Happy National Sparkle Day✨

National Sparkle Day is a reminder to live life to the fullest and celebrate even the smallest things. For me, this message hits particularly close to home. In 2021, I was in a serious car accident that made me truly understand how precious life is. The accident was a wake-up call for me to appreciate every moment and live life to the fullest. Today, on National Sparkle Day, I'm reminded of the power of positivity, gratitude, and celebrating life's little victories. It's the perfect day to add a little extra sparkle, smile a little brighter, and appreciate the beauty surrounding you. 

✨What's something small that adds a little extra sparkle to your day? ✨

🎅🏼Looks like I was on the nice list this year because all I wanted for Christmas was straight teeth and thanks to Santa and , my dream is becoming a reality. Convenient, easy, and comfortable, Byte is allowing me to transform my smile without stepping foot into an orthodontic office. Don't miss out on your perfect smile this season; use code SPARKLESANDSPED to get your Byte Impression Kit for ONLY $19 (normally $95), and get $200 off your Byte Aligner Treatment.

 
                        
      

My friends and I decided to celebrate the Day of Pho by having a pho-tactic lunch at one of our favorite Austin restaurants which has the best Pho in town! With over half a dozen Pho options there is sure to be something for everyone.

We ordered:
🍜Pho Rib
🍜Pho Vegetable
🍜Pho Brisket and Filet Mignon

I will have to say the Pho rib was so unique and the flavor was out of this world! The meat fell off the bone! Go celebrate for yourself!

Which Pho would you try first?

📍Don’t forget to save and share this with your fellow Pho-loving friends! 🍜

                    

Max and I just wanted to wish everyone a healthy and happy thanksgiving.

Oh, my gourd, it’s national pumpkin day, and don’t you fret you still have 5 days to experience every and all things pumpkins. I am sharing my favorite Pumpkin centered activities in Central Texas.

Pumpkin Nights-Located at pioneer farms, pumpkin nights is hands down my favorite Halloween activity in Austin, and perfect for all ages. Use code MarisaI for 10% off your weeknight tickets. (Picture #4)

Dripping springs pumpkin festival: Open daily from now until Halloween, the festival Includes lots of fun activities for kiddos, as well as some cute photo opps. (Picture #1)

Wonder bar: perfect if you are looking for a spooky spot to get in the Halloween mood. Check out their Halloween cocktails before they are gone. (Pictures #2&3)

Headed to Dallas, you can’t miss the arboretum pumpkin village and check out Autumn at the Arboretum ( Picture #5)

In celebration of World Smile Day, I decided to take control of my smile. I have never liked my teeth or my smile but thanks to I am on my way to a confident, brighter one!

Byte was different from every other aligner company I looked at, and I chose byte for many reasons:
😁easy financing
😁convievent easy process with different treatment plans to meet your lifestyle
😁progress plan which shows step-by-step changes in your smile as you go
😁Brightbyte whitening foam, that not only whitens your teeth but cleans your assigners and freshens your breath.

🦷If you’re like me, and not 100% confident with your smile, THIS IS YOUR SIGN to start your  journey TODAY!! Everything you need to get your dream smile will be delivered right to your door.

✨To start your Byte journey, use my code SPARKLESANDSPED to get your Byte Impression Kit for ONLY $19 (normally $95), and get $200 off your Byte Aligner Treatment. Follow the link in my bio.

   
       
      

Who's ready for Pumpkin season?
✨Enter to win 4 passes to the Dripping Springs Pumpkin Festival opening weekend (September 24 or 25).
To enter:
🎃 Like, and save this post
🎃Follow & 
🎃 Tag a friend. (Each tag is a separate entry.)

The giveaway ends on 9/21, and the winner will be announced on 9/22
*First Photo does not represent current exhibits or activities


                    

💧Happy World Water Week💧

You might be thinking, what the heck is world water week, and why should I care?

Here in the US, a majority of us will never understand what it feels like not to have access to clean drinking water, but over 2 billion people worldwide do not have access to clean drinking water. Unsafe water is responsible for more than 1.2 million deaths each year. Living in Austin, water is a massive part of our lives. So what can you do? How can you help?

1. First and foremost, stop using single-use water bottles, and replace them with reusable water bottles. I love Thily Life]] water bottles because they are triple-walled to ensure your beverage stays cold or hot!
2. Stop using disposable coffee cups. It can be hard to remember to bring your mug, but doing so is good for the planet; most places offer discounts when you get your tumbler! ( Oh, and your coffee stays warm way longer).
3. Be mindful of what you are flushing down the toilet and putting down the sink… everything goes to our oceans.

To celebrate the start of work water week and to encourage the use of reusable water bottles and tumblers, I have teamed up with Thily Life]] to give 3 of you a reusable item of your choice!

💧follow Thily Life]] and Marisa ✨ Austin blogger]
💧like and tag 1 friend

The winner will be announced Friday, August 26th, and will be notified via DM from Marisa ✨ Austin blogger]!

Stop the scroll! We’re giving away all the tools you need to build the ultimate calm space at home or in the classroom.

Includes:
📖 SEL books
🌬 Breathing tools
🖐🏼 Sensory tools
💙 Games & activities to support emotional intelligence
💡 A visual timer & fluorescent light filters
💰 & an Amazon gift card

All you have to do is:
🤍Like this photo
🤍Follow everyone tagged in the photo
🤍Tag a friend!
Bonus entries:
🤍Share this image to your stories

This giveaway closes Tuesday, August 16th at midnight EST. The winner will be contacted via DM. This giveaway is not sponsored, endorsed, or associated with Instagram. This giveaway is open to US residents.

BIG NEWS… I resigned… It was the hardest yet easiest decision because I have always felt deep in my soul I was made to work with kids with disabilities. It always brought me so much joy, but that joy slowly faded. My spirit felt heavy, and I felt like a shell of myself. I struggled with the idea of leaving because, like many of us, my identity is so entwined with being an educator. But like all of you, I DID IT FOR THE KIDS….. With back to school around the corner, I sometimes wonder if I made the right decision. Then something shows me I am right where I need to be.

I am now working for an ED-Tech start-up and will have the opportunity to support educators and young readers on a larger scale. I still plan to share tips and tricks, ideas and resources I have learned over the years. Most importantly, I want to continue to support all of you hard-working educators. I don’t know what my little chunk of the internet will look like, but I know whatever I do, it will be sparkly!
What questions do you have about my transition?