Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Grilled Almonds

I'm always on the hunt for a new snack.  I would rather snack all day that actually eat a full meal.  While almonds are a healthy snack, they can be a bit boring after a while.  In an effort to change things up, I started grilling them.  Even though I love to cook/bake, I'm not a grill master.  Thus, anytime the Hubs in cooking out on our grill, I take advantage and add these almonds to menu.  Grilled almonds are quick and easy to make. I make mine with just olive oil and salt, but you can switch it up with any ingredient.  Try honey and sugar, or olive oil and parmesan cheese.  The options are endless.  See below for the recipe.  Enjoy!

Ingredients:
Plain almonds
Olive Oil
Salt


Directions:
In a zip lock bag add almonds, olive oil, and salt.  I just eyeball everything.  Add as much olive oil and salt as you desire.  Seal the zip lock bag and shake it, so that all of the almonds are coated.  Let the almonds sit for a few minutes to absorb the oil and salt.


Remove almonds from zip lock bag and place on a grilling tray.  I use a metal pizza tray with holes in it to vent.  Place the tray on the grill and let them cook for 5-6 minutes.  After 5-6 minutes, use a spatula to move the almonds around so that they're all getting that great "grilled" look.  Do this for another 3-4 minutes and then you're done!  I usually let mine cool for 5-10 minutes after removing them from the grill to let the smokey flavor set in.  Enjoy!



xoxo, Jen

Monday, July 30, 2012

Neon and Nude

Its summer and neon colors are everywhere!  If you're nervous about incorporating these bright colors into your wardrobe, try pairing them with a nude color to balance it out.  See below for some mix and match pieces to try out!

Neon and Nude

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Rainy Day Fashion

Growing up in South Florida, I'm used to afternoon summer showers.  I'm always the one who carries an umbrella in my bag at all times.  While the rain my put a damper on your afternoon plans, see it as an excuse to look cute in a rainy day outfit.  There's so many great styles out there now for a rainy day.  Umbrellas come in different sizes, styles and colors.  Trench coats and rain coats can be found in different materials, lengths, and colors.  My favorite rainy day fashion is the rain boot.  There's so many great styles, patterns and colors.  They add an instant pop to your style and brighten up a dreary day.  Check out some rainy day styles below.

xoxo, Jen

Rainy Day Fashion



A|Wear ruffle coat / Sonia by Sonia Rykiel hooded coat / Vero Moda trench coat, $47 / Burberry coat / Laundry by Shelli Segal belted trench coat / Double breasted coat / Call it SPRING kitten heel boots / Hunter wellies boots / Hunter wellies boots, $130 / Chooka kitten heel boots / Burberry wellies boots / Wellies boots / Felix Rey clear umbrella / Burberry umbrella / Polka dot umbrella / Vera Bradley umbrella / Cath Kidston polka dot umbrella

Friday, July 20, 2012

Banana Bread Cupcakes

The Hubs and I have developed a tradition on Sunday nights of making a new dessert to try.  This past Sunday we found this recipe and made banana bread cupcakes.  We made an executive decision to ditch the frosting (mainly because the Hubs isn't a fan of frosting and I was too lazy to make it just for me), however I did spice things up by adding chocolate chips to a few of the muffins. They came out great and only lasted a few short days in the house!  I've posted the recipe and our images below.  Enjoy!

xoxo, Jen



Banana Bread Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
makes 1 dozen cupcakes
2 1/3 cup all purpose flour
3/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2 extra-ripe bananas, mashed with a fork until smooth
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 stick butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/3 cup well-shaken buttermilk
for cream cheese frosting:
1 stick butter, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
seeds of one vanilla bean (or 2 tsp vanilla extract)

directions:
Preheat your oven to 350 and grease (or line) a cupcake pan.
Cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy and then add the eggs, one at time, beating after each addition.

In a small bowl, combine the mashed banana with the vanilla and buttermilk and stir well until combined.

In a larger bowl, combine the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, nutmeg and cinnamon).

Add the wet and dry ingredients alternately to the creamed butter, mixing well after each addition. This works best if you have a Kitchen Aid and keep it running on low the whole time.

Fill muffin tins about 3/4th of the way full (add a few chocolate chips for extra flavor!) and bake for 25 minutes, or until golden.  

Let cool completely while you make the frosting.
For the frosting, beat together the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add the vanilla bean seeds and powdered sugar and beat on high until light and fluffy.

Thursday, July 19, 2012

Loving Lace

I'm currently loving all the lace I've been seeing everywhere.  Lace dresses, tops, skirts, and my favorite - shorts.  The lace shorts trend has been popping up on Pinterest, on celebrities, and on several retail websites.  It's a great piece to have in your summer wardrobe.  Dress it up with a great blouse and heals, or tone it down with a casual tank and sandals.  Check out some of my finds for this trend below.

xoxo, Jen


Lace Shorts

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Arm Candy


I love bracelets, bangles, and big watches.  Thus, I love the current arm candy trend.  I'm sure you've seen multiple pictures around Pinterest of all the different variations of the arm candy trend.  Here are a few of my favorites, as well as some of my favorite finds to incorporate this trend into your everyday style.

xoxo, Jen


Arm Candy

Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps

I'm not usually a fan of crock pot recipes.  The plan always sounds good- dump everything in a crock pot and when you get home from work, dinner is already ready.  However, when I get home, I usually find that my dinner is overcooked.  When I stumbled across this recipe on Skinnytaste, it looked too good to pass up.  I am happy to report that this meal turned out amazing!  It's so easy and healthy.  The directions said to cook on high for 4 hours, but I cooked it on low for 7.5 hours.  Even the Hubs liked it.  He gave me a look when I said "lettuce wraps", so I made his on wheat buns and he was happy.  I used a fat free ranch on the side, instead of making the ranch referenced in the recipe on the website (I was lazy).  I also used Frank's Buffalo Style cayenne pepper sauce, instead of just the Original Style.  I used the leftovers and made it into a salad for lunch the next day (I loved it that much!).  I will definitely be making this again soon.  Enjoy!

xoxo, Jen


Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Skinnytaste.com 
Servings: 6 • Size: 1/2 cup chicken + veggies • Old Points: 3 pts • Points+: 3 pt
Calories: 147.7 • Fat: 0.1 g • Carb: 5.2 g • Fiber: 1.6 g • Protein: 24.9 g • Sugar: 1.7 g
Sodium: 879 mg 

Ingredients:

For the chicken:

  • 24 oz boneless skinless chicken breast
  • 1 celery stalk
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 16 oz fat free low sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup hot cayenne pepper sauce (I used Frank's)

For the wraps:

  • 6 large lettuce leaves, Bibb or Iceberg
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded carrots
  • 2 large celery stalks, cut into 2 inch matchsticks

Directions:

In a crock pot, combine chicken, onions, celery stalk, garlic and broth (enough to cover your chicken, use water if the can of broth isn't enough). Cover and cook on high 4 hours.





Remove the chicken from pot, reserve 1/2 cup broth and discard the rest. Shred the chicken with two forks, return to the slow cooker with the 1/2 cup broth and the hot sauce and set to on high for an additional 30 minutes. Makes 3 cups chicken.




To prepare lettuce cups, place 1/2 cup buffalo chicken in each leaf, top with 1/4 cup shredded carrots, celery and dressing of your choice. Wrap up and start eating!



Monday, July 16, 2012

Brayden Cole

Our little man is 7 months old!  Time is flying by.  I decided to take a break from my normal fashion, style, and food posts and dedicate a post to our cutie.  Brayden is growing up so fast.  He has 2 teeth and is showing signs (TONS of drool) of more to come soon.  He eats all of his fruits and vegetables.  We've recently started incorporating "dinners" (chicken and rice, etc.) and a little juice into his diet.  He's sitting up like a pro and can push himself up into the crawling position.  He can't crawl just yet, but can shimmy himself backwards and around in circles.  He's full of giggles and loves to babble on and on.  We had professional pictures taken last month by the talented photographers of Graceology.  They came out great!  Check them out below as well as a few pictures we took tonight for his 7th month.

xoxo, Jen












Friday, July 13, 2012

Summer Essentials

Check out my must have's to get through the dog days of summer:


Row 1:  Bright bikini, stylish shades, colored shorts, waterproof mascara
Row 2:  Bronzer, casual maxi dress, a great read, bright gloss, gold sandals
Row 3:  Neon nails, light scent, moisturizer with SPF, cream blush, staying hydrated


xoxo, Jen

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Maxi Skirts

Maxi skirts are a hot summer trend.  Celebrities can be seen rocking a maxi skirt from the red carpet to running errands.  This trend is easy to incorporate into your wardrobe and be be worn for several occasions.  Pair your maxi skirt with a a tank, summer scarf and sandals for a casual look.  Dress up your maxi skirt by pairing it with a great pair of wedges, bold accessories and even a blazer or stylish jacket.  I've listed some of my favorite maxi skirt finds below.  The best part is that they're all affordable!

xoxo, Jen

Maxi Skirts

Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Minty Fresh

I'm currently LOVING the mint trend.  Maybe because it reminds me of a big mint chocolate chip ice cream cone during the hot summer days.  From clothes, to makeup, to technology, this color is everywhere.  Its a great refreshing hue that's perfect for summer.  Check out all the different ways you can incorporate the mint trend into your everyday style.

xoxo, Jen

Minty Fresh


Monday, July 9, 2012

Healthy Pita Pizzas

Pizza is a favorite in our house (isn't in a favorite in everyone's house?!).  In an effort to eat healthier, I started creating a twist on our normal take-out pizzas.  I've been making this for years now and I still have clean plates at the end of the meal.  The great thing about making your own pizzas is that you can create any kind that you want.  The Hubs and I have different tastes so I make one (two) for him and one for me.  I usually go for a pesto and margherita pizza, while the Hubs likes a pepperoni pizza (which I make with turkey pepperoni and tell him its real pepperoni).  I use a large round stone (mine is from Pampered Chef) to cook the pita pizzas on.  Bon Appetit!

xoxo, Jen



Pesto and Margherita Pita Pizza:


Ingredients:


Whole wheat pocketless pita
Reduced fat pesto
Olive oil
Garlic
Seasoning (oregano, italian blend, garlic salt)
Tomato
Reduced fat mozzarella cheese


Directions:


Heat oven to 425 degrees.  


Arrange pita(s) on large round stone.


In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, and seasoning.  I don't use a specific amount of each, I just base it on how seasoned I want my pizza.


Spread reduced fat pesto on the pita.  Brush a desired amount of olive oil mixture on top of the pesto.


Take a bit of cheese and sprinkle on the pita.


Add sliced tomato and sprinkle additional cheese (your desired amount) on top.  


Add desired amount of oregano on top for additional flavor.


Pop in the oven for 12-15 minutes depending on your desired crispiness.





Turkey Pepperoni Pita Pizza:


Ingredients:


Whole wheat pocketless pita
Pizza Sauce
Seasoning (oregano, crushed red pepper flakes)
Reduced fat mozzarella cheese


Directions:


Heat oven to 425 degrees.  


Arrange pita(s) on large round stone.


Spread desired amount of pizza sauce on pita.


Take a bit of cheese and sprinkle on the pita.


Add turkey pepperoni slices and sprinkle additional cheese (your desired amount) on top.  



Add desired amount of oregano and crushed red pepper flakes on top for additional flavor.


Pop in the oven for 12-15 minutes depending on your desired crispiness.













Sunday, July 8, 2012

Tell Me About It, Stud.

I love stud earrings.  I'm usually partial to a simple set of pearls or my Tiffany's silver bead earrings, but lately I've opened my eyes to a whole new array of studs.  There's so many great colors, shapes and sizes of stud earrings out there.  These earrings may be small, but they can make a big statement.  I've pulled together a few of my favorites that I'm currently eyeing.  I'm especially loving the Kate Spade Show Your Spots studs.  Enjoy!

xoxo,
Jen

Stud Earrings



Kate Spade jewelry / Alex and Chloe heart shaped stud earrings / Kate Spade earrings / Van Peterson 925 carved earrings, $31 / Betsey Johnson long stud earrings / Kenneth Cole coral earrings / Kate Spade earrings / Kate Spade studded jewelry / Pieces oversized jewelry / Fantasy Jewelry Box gold stud earrings / Gorjana owl jewelry / rachelleceline 14k stud earrings / MICHAEL Michael Kors ball earrings

Thursday, July 5, 2012

Drugstore Gems

I love roaming the aisles of a drugstore.  There's so many great products ranging from beauty to food to gift cards.  You name it and you can probably find it at your local drugstore.  My favorite part is finding great health and beauty products at an affordable price.  Over the years, I've spent a pretty penny on all types of beauty products.  However, I've found that many of my go-to items are found at the drugstore.  Here are my top 10 drugstore beauty finds.

xoxo, Jen





1.  Crest 3D White:  I use this whitening rise every day to keep my smile white and bright.  It really works!  Pair it with 3D White toothpaste for maximum results.

2.  St. Ives Apricot Scrub:  I exfoliate my skin 2-3 times a week (which is probably more than is recommended).  I can't help myself!  I love how this product leaves my skin feeling smooth and renewed.  

3.  Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner:  This product removes any remaining dirt and oil from your face.  It leaves your skin feeling cool and fresh.

4.  Johnson's Baby Lotion:  I have to admit, I've tried what seems like hundreds of lotions.  Johnson's baby lotion is by far my favorite.  I like the one with shea and cocoa butter.  It really moisturizes your skin and lasts all day.

5.  Moroccan Oil:  This is a newer find for me.  I've heard about it for a while and finally gave it a try.  Now, I'm addicted.  My hair is often dry due to all the products and heat I apply to it daily.  I use this product once a week for hair that is left silky and smooth.

6.  Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo:  This product is an oldie but goody.  I first started using this in middle school when I would load my hair with hair spray (you know you did it too.  bangs.)  This removes all the built up residue in your hair from the numerous products (styling, shampoo, etc) you use.  My hair always feels clean and refreshed after I use this product (once a week).

7.  Rimmel Lasting Finish Base and Top Coat:  I have to give my mom credit for this one.  She introduced me to this product a few months ago and now I'm hooked.  This really makes your manicure last. I'll actually add it to my week old manicure to get added time out of it.  It adds shine to your nails and really helps against chips.

8.  Burt's Bees Lemon Cuticle Cream:  A friend introduced me to this product years ago and its become a staple in my cabinet.  Its light, smells great, and really strengthens and protects your cuticles.  Its quick and easy to apply.

9.  Covergirl Lashblast 24 Hour Mascara:  I've spent more than I'd like to admit trying to find the perfect mascara.  I've tried endless kinds of "designer mascaras" only to be disappointed.  In the end, I always go back to the basics; Covergirl.  This mascara is great for volume and definition.  I line my lids with my favorite eyeliner, use an eyelash curler and apply 2-3 coats of this mascara for a bold look.  Its amazing and lasts all day!

10.  Lip Smacker- Strawberry:  I know, I know, this is a product that a 10 year old uses too.  I can't help myself.  I love it!  I often feel embarrassed when I whip this chap stick out and apply it, but its amazing.  It moisturizes your lips and adds just the right amount of shine.  And let's be honest, the flavor/scent is an added bonus.  I'm partial to the strawberry flavor, but I'm sure they're all equally as wonderful.  

Happy 4th of July!

Our neighborhood is known to get together for BBQs and fun.  Everyone brings a dish and has a great time.  Since the 4th of July was around the corner, it was no surprise that plans for our next get together was in the works.  I was feeling "festive", so I searched around for the perfect "red, white, and blue" dessert.  I came across this Red, White and Blueberry Trifle on one of my favorite sites, Skinnytaste.  It was so easy to make and was a hit at the party!  The best part is that its only 169 calories per cup!  You can alter the recipe with different fruits and flavored pudding for any occasion.  I'll definitely be making this again in the future.  YUM!

xoxo, Jen




Red, White and Blueberry Trifle
Servings: 14 • Serving Size: 1 cup   Old Points: 3 pts  Points+: 4 pts
Calories: 169.1 • Fat: 0.4 g  Protein: 2.5 g  Carb: 38 g  Fiber: 3.0 g  Sugar: 16.5 g 

Sodium: 102.8 mg   


Ingredients: 
  • 10 oz angel food cake, cut into 1-inch cubes*
  • 2 pints strawberries, sliced
  • 2 pints blueberries

For the cream filling: 
  • 6 tbsp fat-free sweetened condensed milk (I used Borden Eagle)
  • 1 1/2 cups cold water
  • 1 package sugar-free white chocolate instant pudding mix
  • 12 oz fat-free frozen whipped topping, thawed

Directions:

Whisk the condensed milk and water in a bowl. Whisk in the pudding mix for 2 minutes. Let stand for 2 minutes or until soft-set; fold in the whipped topping.

Arrange half of the cake in the bottom of a 14-cup trifle dish. Sprinkle evenly with a layer of blueberries. Spread half of the cream mixture over the blueberries and gently spread (I piped it using a plastic bag and cut the corner off). Top with a layer of strawberries. Layer the remaining cake cubes on top of the strawberries, then addmore blueberries and top with the remaining cream mixture. Finish with the remaining strawberries and blueberries, arranging them in a pretty pattern. Cover and refrigerate at least one 1 hour.









Wednesday, July 4, 2012

Bubble Necklaces

I'm currently LOVING bubble necklaces. They seem to be everywhere lately. They add a great pop of color to any outfit. I've been eyeing the one from J. Crew for a while now but just can't seem to justify the $150 price. The more I began to research this new style, the more I found affordable options. Etsy is full of these necklaces with prices as low as $19! I also found a ton on Ebay for $13! The only problem I have now is deciding which colors to get.


xoxo, Jen

Bubble Necklaces