Thursday, December 31, 2015

Day 365: One line a day journal


Happy New Year!  We made it to Day 365!  It's been quite a year, and starting a new year, I bought this little book to make personal notes one line at a time. 

Have you ever thought of writing a status update on Facebook, but decided against it for various reasons?  Sometimes it's because you don't want to humble brag, or over expose yourself.  But what if you want to just remember a random thought or occurrence?  I often thought of writing my statuses down in a journal, but never got around to doing it.  That is until I found this journal.  It is basically a five year record where you can write one line a day.  The beauty of it is that you can start on any day, and each year you pass that day you will see what you wrote exactly one year ago.  It's like a low-tech version of the Timehop app.  Plus, the high quality paper, gold embossing, and binding makes it something special that you want to keep around for a while!

One line a day book, $10 on amazon.com






Sunday, December 27, 2015

Day 361: Travel tote


With the amount of traveling I do, it's important for me to have my carry-on travel bag ready to go at all times.  After many many trips, I have easily ruled in and out the staples needed for both long and short flights.  

First off, is the bag.  My fuschia Longchamps 'Le pliage' (size large) is my go-to because it is lightweight, durable, and can hold quite a bit.  Not to mention it can fold up so that I can keep it in my luggage if I decide to use another bag on my return trip.  

Inside I have my wallet (and passport of course if I'm flying international), cell phone, ear buds, sunglasses and kindle.  Sometimes I carry my iPad, though I prefer to read on flights.  I have snacks such as a Kind bar or lara bar, and always some form of chocolate.  After passing through security I buy a big bottle of water to keep me hydrated en flight.  

I keep my skin hydrated as well with what I call a power pack for flights.  It includes a Burt's Bees chapstick (coconut and pear and currently my favorite), a L'occitane travel size hand cream, and Jurlique skin balancing face oil.  I also carry Systane eye drops if my eyes feel dry.  Along with a small compact mirror and hair ties, these items go in a small make-up case. which makes them easy to find in my large tote.  

Add a magazine and scarf, and I'm ready to go with plenty of space for other items I find along the way!  Duty free anyone?

Items pictured:

Longchamps 'Le pliage' tote, large, $145



Ray-ban wayfarer, $140



kitsch hair ties, $9



Whittaker's coconut block, $13.99 on amazon.com
(this is from New Zealand which is why it's so pricey)



Kind bar, dark chocolate, nuts and sea salt



 Jurlique skin balancing oil, $50



Burt's Bees Pear and Coconut Lip Balm, $3.29



Systane, $10


P.S.  Sometimes, the best things to pack in your carry-on are souvenirs from previous trips.  I love getting magazines from different destinations, such as this Vogue India I picked up at the airport in Hyderabad, and the silk scarf I found at a bazaar in Abu Dhabi.  




Friday, December 25, 2015

Day 359: Merry Christmas to you and me!

Don't you love it when you find a shopping bag hidden away in your closet that you'd forgotten about?  It's like receiving a present from your past self!

I came across this bag today, and it had two finds from one of my favorite homestores, Zara Home.  The silver wood paneled frame is timeless and elegant, and the bird in a birdcage hook is more decorative than useful with it's faux antique finish.  Since these were not needed, and more fun purchases it truly felt like a gift!


Wednesday, December 16, 2015

Day 350: Cold weather package



As the temperature goes down, and a chill sets in the air, we all want to take care of our skin.  Here are a few products that are sure to help get through the winter months:

1.  CO Bigelow Lemon Cream body wash and body cream

Feel extra pampered by layering these two luxurious products.  The body wash has a subtle lemon scent which is invigorating on those cold winter mornings.  It contains lemon oil and extract, as well as sunflower oil to moisturize skin.  Liberally using the ultra moisturizing and skin brightening body cream post shower helps lock in the scent.  Great for dry skin, it has shea butter and has been a favorite since 1870.  Found at CO Bigelow retail shops and certain Bath and Bodyworks stores.

2.  JR Watkins Sugar and Shea Body Scrub (Coconut Milk & Honey)

Heaters tend to dry out skin, and this scrub will not only make skin feel renewed, but also leave it extra soft.  Containing sugar, shea butter, and coconut oil, this scrub is a great way to exfoliate and moisturize gently during the winter months.  Found at Target stores.

3.  Burt's Bees Coconut Foot Creme

There is nothing worse than dry, cracked and calloused feet in the winter!  This foot creme is the ultimate product to protect your feet from the elements.  Use this on your feet at bedtime, cover with socks, and let the creme work it's magic.  With coconut oil, olive oil, vitamin E, and a hint of peppermint, this is a must have for feet.  Found at Target stores.

4.  Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream

This face cream is a favorite for many.  It's non-greasy and light consistency makes for a great overall moisturizer.  Use it in the morning before make-up for all day wear, and at night.  You won't regret this splurge!  Found at Kiehl's shops and fine department stores.

Not only are these great for yourself, but also as gifts for the holiday season!  Enjoy, and don't forget to stay hydrated, too!

Thursday, November 26, 2015

Day 331: It's all about the pumpkin silk pie

If you've been on pinterest lately, you've probably seen a post about a pumpkin silk pie.  Since I normally put myself in charge of pumpkin pie, I decided to make two of these pies, but found a few changes to the recipe what it taste more like pumpkin, and less like Cool Whip.  



Ingredients:
8 oz package cream cheese, softened
2 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1 cup powdered sugar
1 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
8 oz Cool Whip tub
1 graham cracker crust, store bought
whipped cream (optional)

Instructions:
1.  In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it is light and fluffy.
2.  Add the powdered sugar, pumpkin, vanilla and pumpkin pie spice.  Beat until smooth.
3.  Fold in the container of whipped topping, mixing in completely.
4.  Pour mixture into pie crust, spreading evenly.  
5.  Place in the fridge for at least four hours.  Alternatively, you can put in the freezer and remove one hour before serving to let it thaw.
6.  Add whipped cream if desired.

I have to say, this was a crowd pleaser.  It was almost like a cheesecake, but much lighter.  It was super easy to make, and if you are doing it for a party you can make it days beforehand.  Just remove it from the freezer one hour before serving.  Enjoy!




Wednesday, November 11, 2015

Day 316: Headbands that are a head above the rest

Ever since headbands were single handedly resurrected by Blaire Waldorf from other forgotten 80s hair fashions (remember the banana clip?), they have been making a slow and steady comeback.  Somewhere between adorning the crown of Coco Chanel, and the heads of little school girls, this hair accessory has had a confusing place in fashion.  Luckily, nowadays there is such a large selection of headbands, it’s easy to find one for any style and occasion.   

From simple satin bows, to bands studded with crystals and feathers - with all the choices out there, you’ll be able to find a headband that is sure to turn heads.  Here are a few options to prove that a headband doesn’t come to mind only during yoga class!

The Colette Malouf Mesh Botanical Swarovski can be worn like a traditional headband or as a tiara.  This adjustable headband is made out of fine mesh shaped into plumeria blossoms and comes in three colors, though the silver-ivory (also in black and grey) is exceptionally dazzling.  

Saks Fifth Avenue


For a more casual look, the Missoni Chevron Wool blend headband truly brings function to fashion. Keep your fly aways under control, or use it as an ear muff while dashing around town.

Saks Fifth Avenue


Headbands offer a non-traditional alternative to the veil for brides, if not during the ceremony, then later on for the reception.  The Vera Bohemian headwrap from Untamed Petals, wraps elegantly around the crown of the head.  The three crystalled sections have tiny combs that help the wrap stay in place, making a delicate and layered look that would add a modern touch for the boho-chic bride. 


$145, Nordstrom's

If feathers are your fancy, the Jacques Vert Feather Scatter Stone Headband sweeps up with a mix of crystals and black feathers from one side, drawing the eye up.  This dramatic piece can complement an elegant evening outfit.

£49, House of Fraser
For something more simple, L. Erickson USA has a Bit Silk Charmeuse headband that is a basic band with a horsebit detail.  In a variety of colors, this classic band can easily be put on top of a sleek bun or straight ponytail to add a little “bit” of fun and class.

Nordstrom's

And if you really just need a headband for yoga class, might I suggest the Under Armour headbands with Armourgrip.  Made out of moisture-wicking fabric, the more active you are, the more it stays in place.   
Under Armour

Day 315: Turning a Tazo tea tin into a crayola tin

I had finished my tin of Tazo gingerly jasmine green tea, and I couldn't bear to throw away (or recycle) the tin.  I kept it in the back of the cupboard thinking what can I do with this?  At the same time, I was getting tired of storing all of my kids crayons in a Ziploc bag.  It just looked really untidy, and was getting hard to manage.

Solution?  Use the tea tin for the crayons!  It was the perfect size and with a quick refurbishing, it was did a good job of occupying by toddler as he repeatedly dumped all the crayons out, and put them back in.


You will need:  Tazo tea tin, glue stick, construction paper, scissors.

1.  Clean off the tin, trying to get the adhesive off of the top (this is probably the most difficult and least fun part of the whole process).


 2.  Measure out a piece of construction paper, cut it, and apply glue from a glue stick to one side.  Also apply the glue to the sides of the tin, especially on the corners.  


3.  Firmly apply the paper around the tin.  Make sure to seal the edge.  We know how little toddler hands like to explore every nook and cranny looking for an edge to pull on and rip.


This was fairly easy DIY project and took me less than five minutes to do.  Another advantage to this is if the paper rips off or gets too full of doodles, I can easily replace it with another piece of construction paper.  You can get more creative with stickers, and ribbons.  I kept it simple.  It came out so well, the next time I have this tin, I might just use a decorative paper and keep it for myself!  It would be a handy place to put hair ties, lip balms, or other small items.



Monday, November 9, 2015

Day 313: Apple Cinnamon Raisin compote with French Toast

I love breakfast, and among all the breakfast foods in all the lands, I love French toast the most.  For some reason, maybe because it's November, I woke up craving something with apples and cinnamon in it.  I figured since I'm still in the middle of my 30-day detox that there must be a simple way to make a fruit compote without using refined sugar.  I found a recipe here, and put a spin of my own on it by adding raisins.  This is actually a very easy and simple recipe to make, and really fun to do.  I enjoyed making it.  My family, in turn, enjoyed eating it!


The skillet with apples, raisins and cinnamon.



Ingredients:
1 tablespoon butter
2 apples, sliced
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 box of 1 oz raisins

Directions:
1.  After prepping a non-stick skillet with cooking spray or oil, melt butter in the pan over low to medium heat.
2.  Add the sliced apples, sauteeing for about 5-8 minutes, taking care not to burn them.
3.  Once the apples are soft enough, add the cinnamon and maple syrup, cooking over low heat for another few minutes.
4.  Add the raisins and spoon over French toast, or pancakes.

One thing to mention is make sure the apple slices are about 1/2-1/4 of an inch thick.  When they are cut thinner, they cook well and all the way through.  Though you might be tempted to use an apple cutter (as I was) unless it makes thin slices, don't bother - just use a regular knife.  The recipe also mentions a recipe for French toast, but since I'm not using refined sugar, I did my tried and true recipe that you can find here.  

French toast cut into quarters for my tots.


ViolĆ !  Breakfast is served!


Sunday, November 8, 2015

Day 312: French Toast

According to my book, Sunday mornings are made for French Toast.  When I first got married, my husband bought me a griddle.  He knew my love of breakfast foods ran deep.  Since then, pancakes and French toast have been a staple at our house, especially when we have houseguests.  Though sometimes we'll try variations with different techniques or ingredients, a basic recipe with 100% pure maple syrup is still the best way to go.  And this is my go to recipe.

I've tried a variety of breads: baguette, challah, brioche (my favorite) and naan (that one didn't turn out so great).  I've also toasted it, and used day old dry bread (didn't make that much of a difference).  For the sake of simplicity, I usually make it with the regular pre-sliced bread.  And since I'm on a detox with no white bread, I used a whole wheat bread.  My next idea is to try cinnamon raisin bread, but that's for after my detox!  





Ingredients:
6 eggs
1/4 cup low fat milk
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla extract
8 pieces of whole wheat bread

Directions:
1.  Preheat the griddle to 350 degrees F.  
2.  Lightly beat the eggs and add the milk, cinnamon, and vanilla.  
3.  Take each piece of bread individually and soak it on both sides with the batter, and lay it on the griddle.  After about 3-4 minutes, flip.  Fry until each side until lightly brown.

You can serve this with a simple assortment of fruit like bananas, or berries.  Or you can make an apple cinnamon compote, recipe found here.  Whatever you do, don't forget the maple syrup!  

Thursday, November 5, 2015

Day 309: Discovering the Power of Kodiak cakes

I'm not sure that I mentioned this, but I am about two weeks into a 30 day detox.  This means no caffeine, no processed foods, no refined sugar, and no white bread.  That is partly why there have been so many food posts lately!  When your eating options are limited, you tend to get creative in the kitchen.

A few weeks ago, my husband came home from Costco with a huge box of Kodiak Power cakes mix.  I laughed at him.  But it looks like I'm the one who's laughing last.  These pancakes are the best pancakes EVER.  And I can eat them while on my detox.  They are so good, you don't need to bother putting anything in them - no chocolate chips, no blueberries, no butter.  Just enjoy them with 100% pure maple syrup, and you'll be good to go.




I also made these muffins with the mix.  They came out really good.  It's just a basic "pancake" muffin recipe from Aunt Jemima, but it can easily be made into blueberry or apple muffins, or whatever your fancy might be with some easy additions.



Kodiak cakes Power muffins

Ingredients:

2 cups Kodiak cakes Power Cakes whole grain mix
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
2/3 cup milk
1/3 cup honey
1 egg, slightly beaten
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:
1.  Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
2.  Spray a muffin tray with a non stick cooking spray, or line with baking cups.
3.  Combine mix and cinnamon in medium bowl.
4.  Combine milk, honey, egg, oil, and vanilla in a small bowl until well mixed.  Add to dry mixture, and combine.
5.  Fill muffin cups 3/4 full.  Bake 15-18 minutes, or until toothpick insterted into center comes out clean.  
6.  Cool in pan for 2 minutes, and then remove to cooling rack.



Wednesday, November 4, 2015

Day 308: Homemade Apple Cinnamon Raisin Granola

I loved boxed granola.  I thought it was the greatest thing since sliced bread, and since I'd sworn off all bread, it was a wonderful alternative.  I would layer it with blueberries and a banana, sometimes having two bowls.  That is until I say how much calories and sugar it had in it.  I had added granola to my list of no-no's until I found this recipe by Bethenny Frankel, celebrity chef and Real Housewife.  

I made this for the second time yesterday, and it makes the whole house smell wonderful, like fresh baked oatmeal cookies.  The recipe is actually pretty simple.  You can find the full recipe here, though I used raisins and apples.  The apples I prepped myself.  I took one apple and cut it into small pieces, about half a centimeter long.  I let them air dry over night.  They made a great addition to the cereal!


Ingredients:

4 cups rolled oats
2 cups slivered almonds
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 cup warm water
1/2 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup raisins (optional)
1/4 cup dried apples (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F, and oil one large sheet pan. In a large bowl, stir together oats, almonds, and spices. In a small bowl, stir together the warm water, maple syrup and vanilla.
2.  Pour the wet mixture over the dry mixture and stir to combine well.  Spread the mixture onto the sheet pan and bake for 30-45 minutes, making sure it doesn't burn.  
3.  Remove from the heat and immediately stir in dried fruit.  Cool and store refrigerated in an airtight container up to one month.    

Enjoy!


Monday, November 2, 2015

Day 304: Finding your (outdoor) space


I've been a yoga enthusiast for over 15 years now, and although the most typical place for yoga is a quiet room that is well lit with hardwood floors, there is some charm with doing yoga outdoors.  I've practice yoga on a beach in Puerto Rico with waves crashing in the background, and on a sun deck in Abu Dhabi during dusk when you could hear the call for prayer.  

Almost one year ago I posted about my indoor yoga space, and now I've found an outdoor one.  I was made aware of a patch of grass in our common space that was specifically for yoga.  Living amongst high rises, this little sanctuary adjacent to the lap pool has become the perfect way for me to start my day.  I go with my mat, and iPhone set with my tunes, starting with a sun salutation to the towards the generous sun.  Having this space for myself, even if it's just for 30 minutes, helps me further enjoy my "me" time.  

Friday, October 30, 2015

Day 301: Apple Cinnamon Water

I am six days into a 30 day detox.  As a part of my detox, I have incorporated two liters of apple cinnamon infused water.  It is super simple to make and is supposed to help cleanse out your system.  I'm not sure if I've seen any effects of it myself, but it tastes good and is a good substitute to juice or ice tea.  



Basically take three apples and slice them as thin as you can.  Put them in a two liter jug along with a cinnamon stick.  Then put it in the fridge and let it "infuse" over night.  Try to finish the entire jug in one day.  After that, drink just plain water.  You can reuse the apples in the cinnamon stick and just refill the water for three days.  

It supposedly is a diuretic, so try to be at home the first day you use it.  It's easy to prepare, and I like the taste of it alongside my breakfast.  It's nice and cool, and has a pleasant sweetness to it in the morning.  Enjoy!


Friday, October 23, 2015

Day 296: The new trend of coloring books

Since having kids I have rediscovered coloring.  When they open up their coloring books, crayons and markers in hand, I tell myself to enjoy this quiet time for myself,  But it's hard not to join in.  

I'm reminded of how as a kid at the start of the school year I would get the huge box of 64 crayons and attempt to keep them in as pristine condition and unbroken for as long as I could.  Now with my own kids, as they scribble away, I join them by meticulously staying within the lines with their new and pointed colors.  This morning we found a new box, and all four of us started coloring.  Looking at the colors, my husband picked up two nearly identical colors and asked "What's the difference between red-violet and violet-red?"

The repeated strokes have a meditative quality, something that has been picked up as a kind of a trend.  I was walking through a Barnes and noble in Manhattan recently and came across this display filled with coloring books for adults.


Not being able to resist the doodle like flower and leaf patterns, I bought the Secret Garden book, and also a set of 20 coloring pencils from the Metropolitan Museum of Art.  I'm sure any other artists coloring pencils would do, but I just couldn't resist the uniquely packaged roll in the museum gift shops.  I also got a kick out of the fact that I'd be able to use my Liberty Bell pencil sharpener again (it's the little things).  

It's hard not to get swept away by coloring.  It really is the perfect rainy day activity for moms and kids.  And dads too.  


Thursday, October 22, 2015

Day 294: Going Green for breakfast

Do you know what a heavenly breakfast is for me?  Okay, well maybe occasionally, especially on Sunday mornings, it's brioche French toast with amazingly good coffee, preferably in bed.  But on a typical Thursday like today, it's egg and avocado.  The union is, for lack of a better word, perfect.

This morning I shredded some spinach along with some emmental cheese.  Sometimes I use Guyere - I prefer these smokey and nutty cheeses, they really add flavor and go well with the avocado.  I added these ingredients to one egg to make an omelet.  I then sliced avocado to put on top.  Along with a green tea, and cup of fresh organic blueberries, it was a healthy and "green" start to my day!

Ps.  The day after I snapped this picture my husband made cornbread for breakfast.  I put my avocado and omelet on top of the cornbread.  A little bit more indulgent, but I loved the combination of the sweet and savory.


Wednesday, October 14, 2015

Day 286: For the love of ChloƩ, and a good crossbody

As a busy mom about town, I have always been drawn to a good crossbody.  On our recent trip to Paris I was able to escape my family, and the hustle and bustle of the Champs-ƉlysĆ©es, for a few moments to see some of my ChloĆ© favorites at their flagship store located on avenue Montaigne.  

Upon entering I was greeted by their Fall-Winter 2015 Ready-to-wear collection.  Long flowing blouses and dresses, coupled with tailored jackets and slacks blend a classic masculine edge with a post modern feminine feel.  With current head designer Clare Waight Keller at the helm, this 63 year old design house continues it’s fresh look on the casual yet elegant female figure.  

Egyptian born founder Gaby Aghion was responsible for coining the phrase ‘pret-a-porter’ (ready-to-wear).  After lamenting that couture fittings take too long, Aghion revolutionized Parisian high fashion - and the way we shop today - by offering her clients pieces that were ready made.  With continued guidance in the past few decades by fashion powerhouses, such as Karl Lagerfeld and Stella McCartney, ‘la maison’ ChloĆ© has been known for their fresh and youthful take on the stylish bohemian woman.

At their flagship store in Paris you will find a large selection of pieces.  The latest collection in store is a classic mix of hard and soft.  A vertical line of buttons outlining a delicate sash neck tie; rounded bubble sleeves and ruffles on tailored, rich fabrics; wools and tweeds framing soft chiffons and silks.  The handbags and jewelry also reflect this juxtaposition of the hard and soft with supple leathers bound by gold hardware, and draping necklaces with sharp shapes next to threaded tassels.  

The 'Marcie' in a medium crossbody.


I was particularly drawn to the 'Marcie' medium leather crossbody bag. It's soft pebble leather, with brushed gold hardware, and saddle shape gives it an equestrian feel, taking me back to my riding days. For seasons I had flirted with this bag, and today on this crisp Parisian Fall day, I was ready to take it home.  

After going through all the colors (and there are a lot!) I went with the blush nude.  This soft pink color is so versatile, I can use it with my Summer or Winter wardrobes.  It can also be worn to formal events or more casual daily outings.  The ‘Marcie’ keeps it’s shape well and is spacious, yet not too deep interiorly.  A crossbody has that grab-and-go quality that moms like me can’t resist.  Another crossbody that caught my eye was the ‘Drew’ which is slightly more formal with bright yellow gold hardware.

The 'Drew' in a few of its colors

As I walked out of the store and on to avenue Montaigne with my new purchase packed and slung across my shoulder, I saw my family waiting for me.  I put the shopping bag around the handle of the double stroller, and happily resumed my perfectly Parisian Fall day.

ChloƩ Montaigne
44 avenue Montaigne
Hours:  Monday to Saturday, 10:30 am to 7 pm
Contact: +33 1 4723 0008

Wednesday, October 7, 2015

Day 280: Curry'd carrots

In an effort to "veg up" my dinners, I once again turned to my favorite vegetable.  These roasted curried carrots were so easy to put together, and so delicious!  I honestly could snack on these instead of popcorn or chips when I get the midnight munchies.  

I took 4 carrots, peeled them, and sliced them.  Next, I coated them with olive oil, sea salt and fresh black pepper.  Then, I lightly sprinkled some curry powder.  (Note that this is the generic curry powder that you get in the spice aisle!)  After that I lined a toaster oven pan with foil, poured the carrot mixture and spread out all the carrot pieces so that they were laid out.*  I have a Breville toaster oven which I just love to use to easily roast or broil veggies.  For these carrots, I set it at broil on the top shelf at a temperature of 400 degrees fahrenheit.  After about 15 minutes, I was left with awesomely roasted carrots that were so soft and tasty that even my teething 18-month approved.  

Carrots: my all-time favorite vegetable

*On a side note, don't you just love the color of carrots?  The hue is such a deep and rich orange that you can taste the curry even before putting it in your mouth!

Saturday, October 3, 2015

Day 276: Finding your red lip

A while back I walked into Saks Fifth Avenue in midtown Manhattan.  My mission: to find the perfect red lipstick.  I was initially making a beeline for the Chanel counter, but I was side tracked by the Bobbi Brown shades.  I tried on Hollywood Red I and though I'm more of a chapstick and lip gloss gal, I loved it.  I told the girl at the counter that I wanted to walk around with it first to see how I liked it.  I walked straight over to the Chanel counter to peruse what else the first floor of Saks had to offer.  The girl behind the Chanel counter told me to not even bother.  That the shade I had on from Bobbi Brown was the one.

So I ended up buying it.  The bigger surprise?  I actually wear it.  It takes some skill to apply, and I need to be careful when eating, but I really do love wearing it.  Who knew a former chapstick gal could wear a red lip so well?


Thursday, September 17, 2015

Day 260: Versatile blue nail color

You know how when you go to a restaurant, and peruse the menu, but always gravitate to the same option.  Mainly it's because you know you like it, and you won't be disappointed.  This is exactly how I feel when I go to get a pedicure.  I gravitate to one of my favorites, OPI's "I vant to be a-lone star" nail color.  

It's a light blue color that isn't so pastel, but more of a frosty and shiny blue.  If Disney's Frozen had a nail color (who am I kidding, it probably does) this would be it.  It's suitable for all seasons, and I'm so pleased with how it looks against my skin tone.  OPI quality is always superb, with just two coats lasting for weeks.  I wore it on the beach last summer, and have it on right now in October!


Tuesday, September 1, 2015

Day 244: Low Fat Chocolate Chip "Muffins"

Though these are technically muffins, trust me, they taste more like cupcakes.  They are super decadent and rich.  They will not last long!

Find the recipe here.  A few notes on what I did:  I made the applesauce myself, which is easy with a baby food processor that steams and then purees the apples.  And I used regular chocolate chips.  Also, if you go with the recipe as is (no real chocolate chips) it is gluten free and dairy free.

Enjoy with a mug of milk, or other beverage of your choice!




Saturday, August 29, 2015

Day 239: The best breakfast cookie with oatmeal and chocolate chips

After perusing Pinterest for the best, yet easiest breakfast cookie recipe, I threw these ingredients together.  The results were surprisingly good!  These breakfast cookies are moist and chewy, and perfect for small toddler hands.  I plan on sending my three year old off with a few of these in his school lunch!  

One thing is that I keep my ripe bananas in the freezer.  I leave them out to thaw for about 30 minutes.  They become soft yet cold which makes the dough tougher and less runny.  Something to consider in getting such a nice shape and consistency for the cookies.

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas
1 cup oats
1/8 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/4 cup whole wheat flour
1/8 tsp baking soda
1/8 tsp baking powder
1/4 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup chocolate chips

1.  Preheat the oven to 350 F.
2.  Put all the ingredients in a mixer.  
3.  Roll into balls and flatten.  They should be about the size of a silver dollar.  Place them on a greased cookie sheet for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are lightly browned.

Makes 16 cookies.