Sparkly Sweaters

With the weather getting a bit chilly lately, I've been rummaging through my closet pulling out all of my sweaters.  I have to admit, I'm a bit bored with them.  I'm not sure if its the boredom, or getting into the holiday spirit, but I've been gravitating towards sparkly things lately.  A bit of sparkle can spice up an everyday sweater.  Embellishments, sequins, sparkles, and metallics are everywhere right now.  Check out some of my favorite finds below.

xoxo, Jen

Sparkly Sweaters by jennifer-frisk featuring sequin tops

LOFT sparkly top / Dolman sweater / Sweater / LOFT long sleeve cotton t shirt / Forever 21 sweater / Forever 21 sequin top / Original Frenchi Sequin Sheer Sweater Tunic (Juniors) Navy- India Ink... / Original Frenchi Sequin Sheer Sweater Tunic (Juniors) Navy- India Ink...

Happy Thanksgiving!

Its been WAY too long since my last post.  Things have been so busy, that I just haven't been making the time to blog.  However, I felt that I needed to share our wonderful Thanksgiving day and meal with everyone.  I'm thankful for so many things, but this year, I'm most thankful for my perfect little man Brayden.  We're so blessed to have him in our lives.

The other day, the Hubs and I were watching Food Network and the Sandwich King was on.  He made this incredible looking recipe called the open faced turkey stuffing patty.  Originally, we were just planning on picking up Boston Market and having a simple, low key Thanksgiving for just the 3 of us.  However, after seeing this recipe, we ended up cooking all morning!  This Thanksgiving was special because it was Brayden's first, and the Hub's and I's first time not traveling or hosting anyone.  Although we missed our family, it was really nice to have a holiday all to ourselves.  I've listed the recipe (we decided to leave out the cranberry sauce) and our pictures below.  Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

xoxo, Jen

Ingredients

• 4 slices bacon
• 2 cups Old Fashioned Turkey Stuffing, recipe follows
• Canola oil, if needed
• 12 fresh sage leaves
• 8 ounces leftover turkey meat
• 1 cup leftover turkey gravy, heated through
• 1/2 cup Simple Cranberry Sauce, recipe follows

Directions

Cook the bacon in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until extra crispy, about 10 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a paper-towel-lined-plate to drain and reserve the fat in the skillet.

Meanwhile pack a 1 cup dry measure tightly with a 1/2 cup of the Old Fashioned Turkey Stuffing. Dump the stuffing onto a baking sheet and press down into a 4-inch-wide-cake, using a flat spatula. Repeat until you have 4 patties.

Heat the reserved bacon fat in the skillet over medium heat. Carefully lay 2 patties in the skillet and cook until golden brown, 3 to 4 minutes each side. Transfer the patties to a plate and repeat with the remaining 2 patties.

Add oil to the skillet if needed. Add the sage and fry, about 30 seconds. Transfer the sage to a paper-towel-lined-plate using a slotted spoon.

Divide the turkey meat onto each patty and pour gravy over top. Crumble 1 crispy bacon slice over the turkey. Dollop with the Simple Cranberry Sauce and garnish with the sage.

Old Fashioned Turkey Stuffing:

• 1 stick unsalted butter, melted, plus more for greasing
• 3 large loaves white bread, cut into 1/4-inch cubes
• Oil, for cooking
• 4 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 2 medium yellow onions, finely chopped
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth, or turkey stock made from giblets
• 2 tablespoons poultry seasoning
• 2 large eggs
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease two 14-by-9-inch baking dishes. Arrange the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake until lightly browned, about 8 minutes.

Heat some oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter, celery and onions and cook until the vegetables are lightly browned and translucent. Set aside to cool.

Add the bread cubes, celery mixture, broth, seasoning and eggs in a large bowl. Mix well until moist and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Divide between the 2 prepared baking dishes. Bake until the top of the stuffing is slightly crispy, about 40 minutes.

Simple Cranberry Sauce:

• Two 14-ounce cans cranberry sauce
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• Pinch ground cinnamon
• Pinch kosher salt

Add the cranberry sauce, orange juice, ginger, cinnamon and salt into a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Cook, uncovered, stirring often to incorporate flavors, about 15 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat and cool. Yield: 2 cups.

Skull Scarf

I'm loving the edgy look of the Alexander McQueen skull scarf.  However, with a price of $260, this scarf will not be entering my closet anytime soon.  Luckily, I've found some great inexpensive options that look just as amazing!  Enjoy!

xoxo, Jen

Skull Scarf by jennifer-frisk featuring sheer shawls

*Accessories Boutique skull scarve / Sheer shawl / Raj Women's Skull Print Silk Scarf | Overstock.com / Alexander McQueen Skull Scarf BLACK /WHITE OR WHITE/BLACK | eBay

Halloween Inspiration

Halloween is right around the corner.  From decorations, to candy, to the Hub's birthday (yes his birthday is on Halloween!), I love everything about this holiday.  Below are spooktacular ideas including crafts, decor, and recipes to get you ready for Halloween.  Enjoy!

xoxo, Jen

Glitter Pumpkins from Brunch at Saks

Halloween Countdown Sign from Corner House

Soda Bottle Labels from CM2

Kids Footprints Ghost Sign from Miner Moments

Halloween Wreath from Grits and Giggles

Halloween Party Decor from theKitchn

Yummy Halloween Treats from InvitationBox

Teardrop Bib Necklace

I'm loving bib necklaces lately; specifically teardrop bib necklaces.  I feel that this is a great addition to the bubble necklace that popped up everywhere.  The necklace comes in tons of colors and can be found all over the place.  The best part......its inexpensive!  I just ordered one in black (I know, sounds boring, but I have so many bright statement necklaces and realized I was missing a classic black one!).  I've shared some examples below.  Enjoy!

xoxo, Jen

Teardrop Bib Necklace by jennifer-frisk featuring a statement bib necklace

Statement bib necklace / Statement bib necklace / Teardrop necklace / Black Size 50mm Teardrop Double Strand Necklace by HandmadeGarden / Coral Bib Necklace | The Red Dress Boutique / Teardrop Bib Necklace: ChiChi Collections

Elbow Patches

I used to think of elbow patches as a men's style only, mainly on blazers.  However, they've now made their way to women's fashions as well.  Elbow patches make your typical blazer or sweater more interesting.  I love the contrast in the styles below.  Elbow patches in different colors or fabrics add a bit of flair to your outfit.

xoxo, Jen

Elbow Patches by jennifer-frisk featuring a stripe dress

Celli Girl stripe dress / Plus size cardigan, $40 / ASOS crewneck sweater / J.Crew j crew / PONTE DI ROMA BLAZER WITH ELBOW PATCHES - Blazers - Woman - ZARA... / Elbow Patch Cardigan | FOREVER21 - 2055141963

These Boots Are Made For Walkin'

Every year when Fall rolls around I find myself wanting to buy more boots.  I mean, I have so many pairs already, but who can resist another pair when there's so many great styles to choose from?!  I've listed a few examples of some of the great trends in boots.  Booties look great with skinny jeans or a dress.  Studded booties give an edge to your look.  Fringe, western and lace up boots are each unique and yet so stylish.  Cowboy boots are a staple in the south; especially paired with a cute dress for a football game.  My personal favorite are tall boots.  I love a great pair of riding boots to wear with tights a long sweater, or stiletto heels to wear with jeans and a great top.

xoxo, Jen

Boots by jennifer-frisk featuring high heel booties

Steve Madden side zip boots / Steve Madden boots / Steve Madden high heel booties / Steve Madden side zip boots / Steve Madden short heels / Steve Madden bootie heels / Steven by Steve Madden suede platform boots / Steve Madden booties / Steve Madden booties / Steve Madden bootie boots

Leather Skirts

When I think of leather skirts, an image of a bad 80s/90s style pops in my head.  However, leather skirts have reemerged as a current hot trend.  There's so many ways to rock a leather skirt.  A feminine top such as lace, can add a soft contrast that is perfect for daytime or date night.  A pair of tights extends the trend into fall/winter.  A black top, killer heels, and a smokey eye gives an overall edgy look perfect for a night out.  Check out some examples below!

xoxo, Jen

Leather Skirt by jennifer-frisk featuring forever 21

Forever 21 pleated skirt / Forever 21 / Forever 21 short skirt / Forever 21

Gameday Tailgating Inspiration

I'm so excited to be heading to Tampa this weekend to see my friends and cheer on my NOLES against USF!  Last year during football season I was preggo, so I'm definitely more excited about tailgating this year.  I've shared some inspiration below for a great tailgate.  A festive set up, delicious food, cute accessories, several drinks, and great friends are what I look forward to before the game.  What are your must haves for tailgating?

xoxo, Jen

Gameday Tailgating by jennifer-frisk on Polyvore

Great Guacamole and Salsa Recipes Recipes / Sarah's PB&J Chocolate Bars / Hot Buffalo Wings Recipe : Paula Deen : Recipes : Food Network

Scarf Style

Did you know that there's 40 ways to tie a scarf?  I'm definitely not that creative with my scarves...snooze.

A scarf is a great way to spice up any outfit.  In addition to keeping you warm, it serves as a great accessory.  By tying it different ways, you can achieve different looks.  Celebrities often rock scarves year round.  I've listed a few of my faves below.

xoxo, Jen

Scarf Style by jennifer-frisk featuring sheer scarves

David & Young david young / David & Young david young / BP. circle scarve / LULU square scarve / LULU sheer scarve

Fall 2012 Nail Polish Trends

As the days of summer are coming to an end, I'm already jumping into my fall nail polish colors.  I'm always partial to dark purples, but I love grays as well.  There's tons of great trends in nail polish colors for this Fall.  Check them out :)

xoxo, Jen


Blues/Greens and Purples/Plums:





Berries/Reds, Neutrals/Grays, and Autumns:

 

Fall 2012 Nail Polish Trends by jennifer-frisk featuring essie nailpolish

Zoya nail polish / Zoya nail polish / Zoya nail polish / Nail polish / Essie nailpolish / Essie nail polish / Essie nailpolish / OPI Germany Collection Every Month is Oktoberfest: OPI Germany... / Zoya Nail Polish in Suri ZP633

Chunky Chain Link Bracelets

Chunky chain link bracelets are a great accessory.  Wear it alone, with a chunky watch, or stacked with other bracelets.  I've been loving this one from J.Crew, but there's so many options out there.  I've listed a few below.  Enjoy!

xoxo, Jen

Chain Link Bracelets by jennifer-frisk featuring a chain bracelet

J.Crew j crew / Marc by Marc Jacobs marc jacobs jewelry / Forever 21 chain bracelet / Marc by Marc Jacobs marc jacobs jewelry / Marc by Marc Jacobs chain bracelet / Juicy Couture pave jewelry / Forever 21 chain bracelet / Marc by Marc Jacobs chain bracelet / Juicy Couture bow jewelry / Forever 21 jewelry / Forever 21 chain bracelet

Hair Products and Tools

I'm not one who loves to get their hair cut.  I never like it initially, but after a few weeks, I'm fine (not that I ever get anything crazy done to my hair).  I finally went yesterday, after coming to the realization that I let my hair go past the limit between hair cuts.  For the most part, my hair is pretty healthy (especially considering that I flat iron it everyday). I thought I'd share a few of my favorite hair products.  A good brush, treatment products, and a great flat iron are key investments.  See below for my picks.

xoxo, Jen

Hair Products and Tools by jennifer-frisk featuring styling products

Beauty product / Styling product / Styling product / ghd IV styler, $160 / CHI Silk Infusion Silk Reconstructing Complex 6 fl. oz., Free Shipping... / Hot Tools Pink Titanium Paddle Brush | Folica.com / Organix Renewing Moroccan Argan Oil Renewing Treatment - CVS pharmacy / Buy Neutrogena Shampoo, Anti-Residue Formula & More | drugstore.com

Berry Lips

As the seasons transition from Summer to Fall, your makeup should change as well.  Berry Lips are just one of the latest fall trends in makeup. Although it can be intimidating, there are several shades of berry that you can incorporate into your look.  For a lighter or daytime color, go for a stain or gloss in a light berry color.  For a bolder or night time look, go for a deep wine lipstick.

xoxo, Jen

Berry Lips by jennifer-frisk featuring lip makeup

Lipstick / NARS Cosmetics lip makeup / NARS Cosmetics lip makeup / Yves Saint Laurent lip makeup / Christian Dior lip makeup / Clinique lip makeup / Clinique lip treatment / Sephora Collection beauty product / Lip Stain

Collar Necklace

Personally, I'm not a fan of collared shirts (on myself).  However, a different kind of collar has been "popping" up everywhere; the collared necklace.  This trend is a great way to add embellishment to any outfit.

xoxo, Jen

Collar Necklace by jennifer-frisk featuring a collar necklace

Krystal collar necklace / ASOS collar necklace / ASOS collar necklace / Miss Selfridge collar necklace / ASOS collar necklace / ASOS collar necklace / ASOS collar necklace

Burgundy Skinnies

Its officially Fall!  Although the temperatures are still "Summer-like", football season is here and so is Fall fashion.  While Summer brought neon colored jeans, Fall brings deeper, jeweled toned jeans.  My favorite are the burgundy colored skinny jeans that I've been seeing everywhere.  Pair them with a casual shirt or sweater and flats for day time.  Dress them up with a blouse, heels, and cute jacket for night.  I've listed some cute and affordable options below.  Enjoy!

xoxo, Jen

Burgundy Skinnies by jennifer-frisk featuring j. crew pants

The Row cashmere sweater, $995 / Ruffle blouse / Motorcycle jacket / J.Crew j. crew pants / Forever 21 / MOTO Berry Baxter / Steve Madden high heels / Steve Madden flat / Mossimo Supply Co. Juniors Colored Skinny Denim - Assorted Colors

Game Day! GO NOLES!

College Football season is officially here!  I've been searching around for game day outfits to cheer on my Seminoles.  Although there's great options on the typical college football sites, I found tons of cute garnet and gold clothes and accessories that better suit my style.  Below are some of my finds. Now I just have to choose!!  GO NOLES!

xoxo, Jen

Game Day! GO NOLES! by jennifer-frisk featuring stella & dot jewelry

Stella & Dot chain jewelry / Stella & Dot jewelry / Katie Gameday Dress - Yours Truly - Yours Truly / Dawson Gameday Necklace - Yours Truly - Yours Truly

Little Black Dresses {LBD}

As much as I love the color black, I've recently discovered that I don't actually own a lot of it.  Maybe that's because its summer and I've been drawn to bright colors (that have some how taken over my wardrobe).  However, I'm now on the hunt for a cute, casual black dress for an upcoming family picture.  Since I was spending most of my night searching for one, I figured I'd share my findings with all of you.  I've posted a few that caught my eye.  If anyone has any suggestions, I'd love to hear about them!

xoxo, Jen

Little Black Dresses by jennifer-frisk featuring cap sleeve dresses

Forever 21 cap sleeve dress / Silence & Noise structured dress / Katie Gameday Dress - Yours Truly - Yours Truly / LBD Love / Hometown Proud Dress-Black - GAME DAY | The Red Dress Boutique

DIY FSU Fabric Wreath

I've been wanting to try to create this fabric wreath that I found on Pinterest for a while now.  With football season right around the corner, I decided that now is the perfect time for this DIY project.  I've listed the instructions and pictures below.  Enjoy, and GO NOLES!

xoox, Jen

Supplies:
6" Metal wreath (Michael's craft store)
Wreath hanger
Fabric
Ribbon
Wooden Letters
Fabric Scissors
Hot glue gun

Cut fabric into strips; 1.5" wide and 7" long.  I ended up using almost 2 yards of garnet fabric and about 1/2 yard of each the gold and black fabric.

Tie each strip on the metal wreath.  Warning- it takes a while to fill the entire wreath.

Take wooden letters and glue them onto the wreath using a hot glue gun.  I wasn't sure how to get the letters to stay on the wreath.  I tired magnets, tying them on with wire, and finally just gluing them on (which ended up working the best).  After you glue the letters on, tie a bow at the top, and you're done!

Friday Frugal Find

I was surfing around some of my favorite online shops and I came across this great dress from Old Navy.  It comes in several colors and its on sale for $19.99!  There's also a coupon right now (online and in-store) for 25% off at Old Navy.  How can you say no to this dress with a steal like that?!  This is the perfect transition dress into Fall and cooler temps.  Wear it with a pair of flats, a belt and cute cross-body bag.  Dress it up with a pair of pumps, blazer, and large bag for work.   As the weather gets cooler, wear it with a pair of boots (with or without tights) and a great leather bomber jacket.  With a cute basic dress like this, the combinations are endless!

xoxo, Jen

Friday Frugal Find by jennifer-frisk featuring shoulder handbags

Old Navy dress / Cropped leather jacket / Old Navy jacket / Steve Madden suede boots / Steve Madden knee high flat leather boots / Steve Madden ballerina shoes / Steve Madden high heel pumps / Forever 21 cross body handbag / Forever 21 shoulder handbag / J.Crew leather belt / Tan caramel leather knot wrap belt by elizabethkelly on Etsy

Arrow Jewelry

This past week my sister rushed Pi Beta Phi at Alabama.  I was so excited that she decided to rush, and thus, wanted to get her a cute gift to say "congrats on becoming greek".  One of their symbols is an arrow, so I began my search there.  To my discovery, I found tons of cute options.  Arrow jewlery has really become a fashionable statement.  I've listed some great options below, at all different price points.  I personally have the Kate Spade bangle (shocker- anyone who knows me, knows I'm obsessed with KS bangles) that I plan on wearing for FSU football season.  I didn't show the piece I ended up getting, so that it will be a surprise to my sis :)  Enjoy!

xoxo, Jen

Arrow Jewelry by jennifer-frisk featuring long necklaces

Stella & Dot chain necklace / Juicy Couture jewelry / Urban Outfitters chain necklace / Jewelry / Bracelet / Silver jewelry / Necklace / Anita Ko diamond jewelry, $4,505 / River Island black jewelry, $3.14 / Olia Designs long necklace / Zits Wrinkles

White Hot- White Nail Polish Trend

Although my typical go-to colors for summer nails are brights and neons, I've been loving white nail polish lately.  Its popping up everywhere.  When I usually think of white nail polish, I think of the typical french manicure.  But that's no longer the case.  All the major nail polish brands have a white color in their mix, and celebrities can be seen rocking this color all over the social scene.  See below of inspiration.

xoxo, Jen

White Hot- White Nail Polish Trend by jennifer-frisk featuring a glitter nail polish

Nails Inc. glitter nail polish / NARS Cosmetics nail polish / Sephora Collection nail polish

Breakfast Cookies

I've never been one with a sweet tooth.  However, during my pregnancy, all I wanted was sweets.  I was hoping it would go away after Brayden was born.  Unfortunately, it hasn't.  So in an effort to eat "healthy sweets", I searched for healthy cookies.  I came across these breakfast cookies and was not disappointed.  They're larger than a normal size cookie and thus, fill you up.  There's several ingredients, but don't let that intimidate you.  They're delicious and easy to make.  See the recipe below.  Enjoy!

xoxo, Jen

Breakfast Cookies

makes about 12-16 cookies

1 large egg

1/4 cup loosely packed brown sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 medium ripe banana, mashed

1 1/2 tablespoon honey

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled

1 1/2 cups whole wheat pastry flour

1 cup old-fashioned oats

2 tablespoons ground flaxseed

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

1 teaspoon baking soda

2 tablespoons peanut butter, melted

1/2 cup chocolate chips

1/4 cup dried cherries (or dried fruit of your choice!)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a bowl, mix flour, oats, salt, baking soda, cinnamon and flaxseed together, then set aside.

In a large bowl, whisk egg and sugar together until smooth. Add in vanilla, mashed banana, melted and cooled butter and honey and mix until combined and somewhat smooth (it’s okay if banana chunks remain).

Gradually add in dry ingredients, mixing gently with a large spoon until the batter has come together. Stir in melted peanut butter. Lastly, add chocolate chips and cherries, mixing until distributed.

Using a 1/4 cup measure, an ice cream scoop, or even a large spoon, drop dollops of batter onto a nonstick baking sheet, placing them about 2 inches apart. 

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until set and lightly golden around the edges. Cookies will not spread much and will probably hold their form, but get a bit puffy and fat.

Make a Plan

As much as technology has taken over my everyday life, I'm still old school when it comes to my planner.  I love writing things down instead of plugging my appointments into my calendar on my phone.  A planner doesn't have to be boring and business like.  They come in all sizes and colors.  I love ones that are compact to fit in my purse, have multiple room for each day to write appointments/to-do lists, and of course, they need to be stylish.  There's so many fun patterns out there to reflect your own personal style.  See below for some of my favorite picks.

xoxo, Jen

Make a Plan by jennifer-frisk on Polyvore

Tudor City Large Debra / 2012-2013 myAgenda Mini Day Planner | momAgenda | The Day Planner for... / 2013 Jonathan Adler Honeycomb Academic Planner - Paper Source / 2013 Keep Calm Cupcake Planner - Paper Source / 2013 Lilly Pulitzer Datebook - Paper Source / 2012-2013 Mini myAgenda Planner | momAgenda | The Day Planner for Mom... / Erin Condren : 2012-2013 life planner -XΩ chi omega [PLN13-S02] -..., $3.90 / Erin Condren : 2012-2013 life planner -zig zag [PLN13-02] - $50.00, $3.90 / 2013 Snake Mom Agenda Academic Planner - Paper Source

Go For Gold

Maybe it's because I've been watching the Olympics lately, but I find myself leaning more and more towards gold EVERYTHING lately.  I love the glitter, shine, and all that comes with the color of gold.  Check out some great ways to add a bit of gold into your style.

xoxo, Jen

Go For Gold by jennifer-frisk featuring kate spade jewelry

ASOS sequin top / Kate Spade tote bag / Monogram necklace / MICHAEL Michael Kors michael kors watch / Stella & Dot pave jewelry / Kate Spade jewelry / Kate Spade jewelry / Kate Spade tech accessory / MAC Cosmetics eyeshadow / Stella McCartney Aviator metal and acetate sunglasses

At The Current Moment...

I was reading through my daily blog lists and came across this post on Love Lipstick and Pearls blog.  I thought it was so cute and decided to take a stab at it.  Its basically an update on your current status of books, food, life, etc.  I've listed mine below.  I'd love to know how mine compares to yours!

xoxo, Jen

Current Book:
Not that I've had time to read lately, but this book is downloaded on my Kindle and ready to go!  I love Emily Giffin and can't wait to start reading her newest book; Where We Belong.

Current Playlist:

Anything on BPM.  I'm also loving Whistle by my boy Flo Rida (its so catchy!)

Current Color:

Still loving Mint (see my post here).  I'm also loving Hot Pink.  Gotta take advantage of the last few weeks of summer colors!

Current Food:
Chips/Salsa/Guac from Taqueria del Sol

Current Favorite Shows:
Big Brother, Project Runway, RHONJ, Teen Mom (don't judge)

Current Needs:
Essie Mint Candy Apple nail polish, J.Crew chevron cosmetic bag, a cute game day dress for FSU!

Current Triumphs:
Recently got promoted at work

Current Banes of My Existence:
Mine and the Hubs travel schedule, my alarm clock, Brayden's teething, my manicure not lasting more than a week without chipping.

Current Celeb Crush:
Ryan Reynolds :)

Current #1 Blessing:
My boys <3

Current Indulgence:
Cursing the Hubs for buying a box of these at Publix, but I love it!

Current Outfit:
Cute Maxi Dress and Bubble Necklace

Current Excitement:
The Hubs to come home from his business trip, Double Date with great friends on Friday (plus Brayden), Bid Day on Saturday for my sister (Go Chi-O!).

Current Mood:
Tired (staying up too late writing this blog!)

Current Favorite Quote or Verse:
Hmmmm, can't think of one :(

Current Wish List Items:
In addition to what was already listed above for "current needs"; cute sweaters for Fall! (see my post here)

Current Favorite Product:
My new Studio Careblend Pressed Powder by MAC