All is Pretty

Fall Food

2011-10-26T06:55:00.000-07:00

I have been baking a few things over the past two months for fall, many have come off of pinterest (Follow me).

Fauxstess cupcakes. They were okay, not a fan of the white frosting though.
The ganach however is perfect for all kinds of things. Recipe

There are A LOT of S'mores baked goods on Pinterest. Of the two I made, I liked this one a lot and would remake. So yummy. Recipe

These are the ones I would not recommend. Recipe

Another recipe that looked better than it tasted. Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

And this one was the winner! Chocolate Eclair Cake
And it couldn't be easier either. My niece told me it was the
most amazing cake ever! :) Recipe

Have you made any of the recipes floating around on Pinterest? How did they turn out?

Tips for Smooth Silky Hair

2011-10-25T06:57:00.000-07:00

I seem to be on a quest for smooth, silky hair every few months. I find something I like and then my hair gets used to it and starts to get unruley. Or maybe because my hair is getting a lot longer now. I don't have a problem with split ends, but more with it snapping or breaking off. I do have high-lighted blonde hair, so it's damaged. I have tried the Redken Anti-Snap product as well as some of their CAT protein products, along with lot of other brands. I was liking the Aussi 3 Minute Miracle too, but it isn't cutting it lately. I may have to go back to the Redken All Soft Heavy Cream treatment as a conditioner.

BUT, the other day I tried putting Coconut Oil on my hair (concentrated on the ends) and I left it on for 60 min, then shampooed and conditioned as normal. I also used my Macadamia Nut Oil after towel dried. My hair was AMAZINGLY silky smooth! And it stayed that way for a few days, through washings etc. I got it from Amazon, but I'm sure you can find it other places (health food stores maybe, I also cook with it, it's a healthy oil). It is in a solid form so you can either warm it in your palms or heat a little in the microwave (15 seconds). I really recommend this.

http://www.amazon.com/Natures-Way-Organic-Coconut-Ounce/dp/B003B3OOPA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1319472405&sr=8-1
$7.99

I also got the Macadamia Nut Deep Repair Mask to try out and that works amazing well also, about the same results as the coconut oil. I also get it from Amazon, for a savings compared to buying it at a salon (or Ulta). I would recommend either this or the coconut oil about the same. The coconut oil a little less messy, but a little less costly.

http://www.amazon.com/Macadamia-Oil-Deep-Repair-ounces/dp/B002WTC37A/ref=sr_1_2?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1319472499&sr=1-2
$16

The oil treatment that I put in damp hair.
http://www.amazon.com/Macadamia-Oil-Healing-Treatment-ounces/dp/B002WTC37U/ref=sr_1_3?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1319472574&sr=1-3
$23

Next up: A pinterest recipe post

Sephora Friends and Family Sale 2011

2011-10-24T08:54:00.000-07:00

The Sephora sale started last Thursday, go here for your code: http://www.sephoralove.com/friendsandfamily/
It runs until November 2nd. I didn't get too much this year, but this what I did get (I don't think I'll be buying anymore but you never know):

This is a staple for me. I noticed I purchased it last year during this sale also, and I have about 1/3rd left. So it lasts me over a year (not good about using it every night). Love it.

The Stila In the Lights Eyeshadow Palette. I LOVE Stila eyeshadows, maybe even more than MAC (ahh blasphemy). I do NOT have the Urban Decay Naked palette and I contemplated it, until I saw this one which is $39 at full price (so cheaper) and if you add up the weight of the eyeshadows, these 10 actually give you a lot more product vs the 12 in the UD palette. Excited to try it.

I bought this fragrance gift set for my Mom in Pure Grace for her birthday. It's her favorite scent and with the discount came to $40.

I also wanted to show you this magnetic nail polish my Mom added on to my order (for the free shipping). She got it in the purple color, and I hope she lets me try it out too!! It's pricey at $16 though, but with the discount it's $13. I wish they had more than two colors.

This is what I wanted to add to my cart, but I didn't. I have it in the black and the dark blue. The dark blue one of mine is starting to dry out and I want to replace it. It's awesome! Stays all day, love the color, etc. Not sure it makes your lashes any better like it claims, but then again I don't use it everyday.

Anyway, what did you get?

Ps. I won't be neglecting this blog anymore now that summer is well over. I have a bunch of posts planned, including an awesome discovery for how to get SILKY smooth hair with a natural ingredient (coming up tomorrow).

Sephora Friends and Family Sale 2011!

2011-10-08T06:32:00.001-07:00

Mark your calendar and start making your list! Sephora.com will be having their Friends & Family sale soon October 20th – November 2nd! Check inside for more details.

Get 20% off off your purchase when you order online from Thursday October 20 until Wednesday November 2. Discount is valid on all merchandise, there are no exclusions.
There is no code this time. You must go to sephora.com/friends during the time of the event for a unique code to enter at checkout. Free standard shipping when you spend $50 or more.

I will do an updated post with what's on my list. What's on yours?

Summer 2 2011

2011-08-15T07:33:00.000-07:00

Summer 2011

2011-08-03T05:53:00.000-07:00

I hope you are enjoying your summer! I am, hence the lack of posts!

Cleveland Ohio

View from Pier W Restaurant, Lakewood Ohio

Lakeside Winery, Geneva-on-the-Lake Ohio

Mansfield State Reformatory Mansfield Ohio
(where they filmed The Shawshank Redemption)

Holden Arboretum, Kirtland Ohio

Holden Arboretum, Kirtland Ohio (life size gnomes!)

Lake Erie Ohio

The Westside Market, Cleveland Ohio

Do you like tea?

2011-07-20T05:26:00.000-07:00

Pizza Bites

2011-07-10T05:01:00.000-07:00

These pizza bites couldn't be any easier and were a big hit as an appetizer for a party. You basically take pizza dough (I bought mine at the Italian grocery store) and divide it into 20-25 pieces. Spread each piece out a bit, stuff with cheese and pepperoni, seal it up and put it in a pan sealed side down. Then you brush with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasonings and parmesean cheese. Finally you bake it in the oven at 400 for 20 min. Then they pull apart very easily. Yum!

Favorite Makeup

2011-06-24T08:57:00.000-07:00

If you saw my makeup organization video, then you saw the amount of makeup I have.

Guests will be staying in my guestroom though, so I had to clean out my makeup drawer, and will have to apply it in the bathroom or my bedroom. I put everything that I don't think I will need for three weeks, and kept out my favorites. This is what I have left and what I will be using for the next three weeks (plus two eyeshadow palettes):

Rimmel Lasting Finish Foundation, Clinique Redness Solutions Foundation,
Urban Decay Face Primer, Clinique Pore Minimizer,
Maybeline Dream Mousse Concealer, Physicians Formula Correcting Face Powder,
Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush, Milani Blush in Luminous,
and a MAC highlighter, Nars Laguna Bronzer

Urban Decay Primer Potion, Prestige Black Eyeliner, Rimmel Green Eyeliner,
L'Oreal Hip Purple Eyeliner, Make Up For Ever Navy Aqua Eyes Eyeliner,
L'Oreal Telescopic Carbon Black Mascara, Urban Decay Eyelash Primer Potion

Buxom Lashliner in Dark Blue and Sequined Black, MAC Paint Pot in Rubinesque,
MAC Eyeshadow in Woodwinked, Smashbox Eyebrow Powder and Gel,
NYC Eyeshadow in My Favorite Color

Summer

2011-06-16T07:29:00.000-07:00

Sorry I've been MIA since June 1st, I think I have summer on the brain! It doesn't officially start until Tuesday, but it unofficially started Memorial weekend. Especially when it was in the 90s that weekend and has been nice ever since. Makes up for that rainy April and May. What are you looking most forward to this summer? Here's my list and I hope to enjoy every second of these precious months:

sunsets at the beach
walking at the beach path in the morning
swimming!
hanging out with my Mom at her pool
reading books and magazines and more books! (my goodreads:
lazy hair and makeup
flip-flops
flower clips in my hair
scary movie night on Monday nights with Tom, Mom, Aunt April and Uncle Mike
going to the movies more often
wineries
making s'mores
sitting around a fire at night
picnics
hikes
pool parties
Fourth of July
our SEVENTH wedding anniversary (Holy Cow)
Tom's parents coming from Scotland
getting a new job
ice-cream
strawberries
TOMATOES
peaches
watermelon
grilled food
girlie foo-foo drinks

Here's my beach-bag (got it at Forever 21), what's in yours?

Here's a great, EASY dessert to make for get-togethers/cookouts:

Recipe here: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/down-home-with-the-neelys/strawberry-shortcut-cake-recipe/index.html

Pepperoni Bread How To

2011-06-01T13:18:00.000-07:00

Pepperoni bread is pretty simple to make and a great appetizer for an outdoor party (can be eaten hot, room temp or cold).

Roll out your dough to a long rectangular shape.
I get my dough from a local pizza shop.

My secret is that I add a very thin layer of marinara sauce.

Add the pepperoni.

Add mozzarella and parmesan cheese and roll up.

If it's too long for your baking sheet, wrap it around.
Brush olive oil on the top, sprinkle with parmesan cheese
and add a few slits to vent.

Bake on 400 for 30 min with foil covering,
remove foil and bake for 5-10 more minutes.

Slice and enjoy!

Glazed Lemon Cookies and Chocolate Dipped Shortbread

2011-05-31T04:18:00.000-07:00

I made these cookies for a Memorial Weekend party and they were a huge hit.

The glazed lemon cookies are a Martha Stewart recipe, and the chocolate dipped shortbread are an Ina Garten recipe. The only thing I changed on the shortbread recipe was that I rolled it into a log and sliced them, vs. rolling them out and using cookie cutters. Rolling pins, cookie cutters and myself do not get along. My way was super easy. They only took 12 minutes to cook, not 20. I dipped them in dark Belgium chocolate from Trader Joes (1lb brick, I used half the brick).
The lemon cookies also only took about 13 minutes to cook, not 15-20.
I will be making both again for sure!

Weekend Recap

2011-05-25T07:02:00.000-07:00

We had a nice weekend!
Starting with homemade pizza Friday night and a walk at the beach:

First sunset we have seen this year!

Saturday morning we went to Cuyahoga Valley National Park and rewarded ourselves afterward with a cupcake and cannoli from a local Italian Bakery. Yum!

Left over panini, it wasn't pressed down at all.

So I pressed it at home when I re grilled it.

World Market

2011-05-19T06:18:00.000-07:00

Let's just talk about World Market for a second (some parts of the country call it Cost Plus). I recently joined their Explorer Program and I think you should too. You basically use your account # every time you make purchas. Once you purchase $100 worth of food products you get a $10 gift card. There's no expiration either to get to your $100 purchase total, so you could take an entire year to do it if you want. Also, for every 6 bags of coffee you buy you get one free one. And if you buy a bag of coffee on a Wednesday it counts as if you had bought two. Not to mention their coffee is YUM. We currently have the Texas Turtle Blend (bought on a Wednesday, two points!). So besides the $10 and the coffee deals you also get coupons and recently I had a random $10 off $30 which I put to good use.

Food I enjoy from World Market includes: coffee, chocolate from around the world, British items for my husband (like HP Sauce, Heinz Beans, various chocolate), Maui Sweet Onion Chips, lemon pancake mix, fruit jams and preserves, baking items, pasta sauces, and chicken korma sauce. I also enjoy their wine and beer (I don't think that counts towards the $100 food purchase though unfortunately!). We recently tried Buffalo Bills Orange Blossom Cream Ale and it is delish.

I wish I could take you all on a shopping trip there! Besides the food section I also love their patio/outdoor items, kitchenware (particularly serving items and coffee mugs), home accessories, greeting cards, and fancy french soaps. Last time I was there I got this pretty teapot for only $15:

I also want to mention that they are currently doing a $100 gift card a day giveaway on their Facebook page until May 27th. The only bad thing is that my local World Market closed, but the nearest one is only about 12 miles away so it's not THAT horrible.

*I am not affiliated in any way with World Market, I just really enjoy this store :)

French Onion Soup

2011-05-18T10:02:00.000-07:00

I followed Deb's recipe to a T and it was AMAZING!
Recipe: http://smittenkitchen.com/2011/04/french-onion-soup/

Shower Products Review

2011-05-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

Two recent purchases:
Garnier Fructis Pure Clean Fortifying Shampoo

The claim on this new shampoo is that it will not weight your hair down because it has no silicone, will leave no residue and will wash away clean. It is also biodegradable. It does still have sulfates in it, but I enjoy a good lather, and the fruity smell. Anyway, my verdict is that it will be a good once a week shampoo for my baby fine hair to help get rid of residue and give my hair a break from the blonde salon shampoo I use. Overall it's probably just as good a drugstore shampoo as any other one out there plus it's environmentally conscience. Thumbs up.

Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash - Fragrance Free

This is a non-soap body wash for sensitive skin, dry, itchy skin. I am really liking the moisturizing properties of this and can see it being great in the winter time but also during the summer after a day at the beach or in the sun. Another thumbs up product.

First YouTube Video!

2011-05-12T07:36:00.000-07:00

Makeup Organization:

Frozen Yogurt

2011-05-11T07:58:00.000-07:00

Yay we finally got a do-it-yourself frozen yogurt place like they have all over California (Pinkberry, etc.), Yogurt Vi. It's at Legacy Village in Beachwood and you get to serve your own yogurt AND the toppings. The prices seem good especially with the sales they've been running (10-20% off certain days). Love the strawberry and the vanilla and even the sugar free raspberry! The topping selection is also great, lots to choose from. Love the mini buckeyes. Plus you are getting your live active cultures, better for you than ice-cream!

http://www.yogurtvi.com/

Dinner Series: Chicken Florentine Style

2011-05-02T12:28:00.000-07:00

Do yourself a favor and make this!
This was amazing, and pretty easy also.
Recipe here:
http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/chicken-florentine-style-recipe/index.html
I did not change anything.

Dinner Series: Spinach Tortellini Soup

2011-04-29T06:11:00.000-07:00

This is a really easy and flavorful soup. Highly recommend it! Nom nom. Recipe here: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/spinach-tortellini-soup-recipe/index.html The only thing I changed was I used petite diced tomatoes instead of stewed and also half of an onion finely diced. I think you definitely need the onion for flavor. Oh and I also threw in fresh spinach towards the end instead of frozen.

Easter Fun

2011-04-27T07:17:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a nice Easter! Ours was pretty good and definitely filled without a lot of food!

I attempted to make Eggs in Purgatory for the first time for Good Friday. I don't think it typically has mashed potato pancakes though! I wasn't a fan, I'd try it without the potatoes. My husband loved it though.

Recipe: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/eggs-in-purgatory-recipe/index.html

Saturday morning my Mom and I went to my little niece's house to color eggs!

Easter treats from the Easter Bunny!

Chocolate Truffles from World Market

Easter morning I made this meyer lemon pancake mix from World Market.
They were awesome!

Desserts I made:

Creamy Lemon Squares.
Recipe here: http://www.kraftrecipes.com/recipes/creamy-lemon-squares-104737.aspx
I think I'd stick to a traditional recipe in the future.

Bunny Bait! White chocolate covered popcorn with Easter peanut M&Ms.
I got the idea here: http://bakeat350.blogspot.com/2011/04/bunny-bait.html

Cooking Light's Carrot Cake
recipe:
http://www.cookinglight.com/eating-smart/recipe-makeovers/healthy-carrot-cake-recipe-makeover-00412000070625/

Movie Review #5 - Water for Elephants

2011-04-25T05:35:00.000-07:00

I read this book back in 2007 so it was hard for me to remember much about it. I know I liked it and rated it four stars out of five. I was very excited for the movie, for both Robert Pattinson and Reese Witherspoon. I thought their romantic connection was believable on screen. Overall I loved the movie and I thought they did a good job. I saw it with my friend who read the book more recently than I did, she said some things were different but it did live up to her expectations. I think someone who hadn't read the book would also enjoy the movie. It has suspense, adventure, romance, and some humor. The film LOOKED beautiful, and the elephant, Rosie, was amazing.
Overall I give it a 8 out of 10.

Movie Review #4 - Insidious

2011-04-22T06:22:00.000-07:00

I probably had too high of expectations for this movie. I had seen one preview, and kind of forgot about it, but a few weeks later I saw the high rating on IMDB.com and my 13 year old and 15 year old cousins told me it was the scariest movie they had seen (no offense but every movie they see is the scariest they've seen). Anyway, I went with my Mom, Aunt and Husband and my Mom tends to laugh all the way through scary movies. So that kind of made it less scary for me, not to mention half-way through it got really hokie and circus/funhouse-like. It had potential but it went downhill. I guess it was still an enjoyable experience thanks to my Mom and also my Aunt for spilling a ton of popcorn on the floor at one part! oh and also the two of them SCREAMED so loud towards the beginning of the movie, the entire theater was looking at them.

It's from the makers of Saw and Paranormal Activity, I find both of those movies a lot scarier and better overall.

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1591095/

Ps. My husband really liked it a lot, but he believes this stuff can really happen! I HOPE not.

Dinner Series: Shrimp Cobb Salad

2011-04-21T08:03:00.000-07:00

I loosely took this from this month's Cooking Light. We normally would have chicken in this type of salad, but I didn't really think of shrimp!

Dinner Series: Chicken Parmesan Burger Recipe from Cooking Light

2011-04-20T06:34:00.000-07:00

I have some new recipes I am going to be trying out this week and I thought I'd post what we like here. Last night we tried the Chicken Parmesan Burger Recipe from Cooking Light's April Issue. They were sooo good! I ended up using ground all white turkey though (because that's what Trader Joe's had) and some really good focaccia bread from Trader Joe's instead of buns. The other thing I changed was the herbs, I used an Italian mixture of dried herbs that I get from a local Italian market. I was a little worried about putting marinara sauce into the meat mixture, it made it kind of soupy, but it held together well in the end and really is what made it.

I highly recommend making this, and it was really easy!

Recipe here: http://www.myrecipes.com/recipe/chicken-parmesan-burgers-50400000111141/

Tag Post

2011-04-18T11:19:00.000-07:00

1. What is your favorite kind of pizza?
Fresh/Real Mozzarella with Mushrooms

2. Who is the most famous person you've met?
Sandra Oh. We met her after her play in NYC, Satellites in 2006. She met everyone that waited after the show and she signed my program. I was a huge Grey's Anatomy fan at the time so that was exciting.

Hubby with Sandra Oh

3. What would your last meal be?

Lobster, mashed potatoes, bruschetta, and strawberry shortcake.

4. Have you ever broken something and blamed someone else!?

Probably!

5. If you could be any character in any Broadway Show,
- who would you be?

Well probably Eponine but she died, so Cosette.

6. What was your best subject in High School?
Science, especially Chemistry and Physics, but also English and Math (surprisingly!). Okay I was a goodie goodie and loved school and was obsessed with getting the best grade in the class (those teachers shouldn't have posted lists like that)!

7. Describe your worst job ever.

Telemarketing!

8. How many computers do you have?

One and my husband as a laptop. He's a PC, I'm a Mac.

9. Describe your first driving experience.

Ugh, I was so scared to drive!! So it probably wasn't good. I didn't get my license until I was 19.

10. Show us your current favorite pair of shoes.

Lately it's my red rain boots. Rain Rain Go Away!

Sephora 15% Off Code + Mini Ulta Haul (Urban Decay)

2011-04-14T12:50:00.000-07:00

The 15% off sale for Sephora is April 15th - April 21st (you can print the in-store coupon here). The online code is: BICHIC
I need to figure out what to get. I think I want one of the Tarte Amazonian Clay Blushes everyone is raving about, a replacement for my Stila Kitten eyeshadow (almost used up), and the Smashbox Brow Tech to Go.

I went to Ulta today and got the last box of Urban Decay Box of Potions for $30. It has an eyeshadow primer potion (mine ran out), an eyelash primer potion (always wanted to try), a pore perfecting, and a lip primer potion with SPF 15. What a deal!

I also found the knock off beauty blender for $5, some face sponge thing to wash your face with for $2, an My Favorite Color NYX eyeshadow (mine ran out), a flower pin/hair clip and a nail file.

Book Review - A Vintage Affair by Isabel Wolff

2011-04-13T08:27:00.000-07:00

From goodreads:
Do fairytale dresses bring fairytale endings? Every dress has a history, so does Phoebe! Phoebe always dreamt of opening her own vintage dress shop. She imagined every detail, from the Vivienne Westwood bustiers hanging next to satin gowns, to sequinned cupcake dresses adorning the walls. At the launch of Village Vintage, Phoebe feels the tingle of excitement as customers snap up the fairytale dresses. Her dream has come true, but a secret from her past is casting a shadow over her new venture. Then one day she meets Therese, an elderly Frenchwoman with a collection to sell, apart from one piece that she won't part with ! As Therese tells the story of the little blue coat, Phoebe feels a profound connection with her own life, one that will help her heal the pain of her past and allow her to love again.

This was VERY good, couldn't put it down. It's a little more substantial than the typical chic-lit because of the story line (not just romance). Would make an adorable movie also! As my friend said, it would be great to see the shop and all those beautiful the dresses on film.

Book Review - Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah

2011-04-13T08:22:00.000-07:00

From goodreads:

Meredith and Nina Whitson are as different as sisters can be. One stayed at home to raise her children and manage the family apple orchard; the other followed a dream and traveled the world to become a famous photojournalist. But when their beloved father falls ill, Meredith and Nina find themselves together again, standing alongside their cold, disapproving mother, Anya, who even now, offers no comfort to her daughters. As children, the only connection between them was the Russian fairy tale Anya sometimes told the girls at night. On his deathbed, their father extracts a promise from the women in his life: the fairy tale will be told one last time—and all the way to the end. Thus begins an unexpected journey into the truth of Anya’s life in war-torn Leningrad, more than five decades ago. Alternating between the past and present, Meredith and Nina will finally hear the singular, harrowing story of their mother’s life, and what they learn is a secret so terrible and terrifying that it will shake the very foundation of their family and change who they believe they are.

Wow. Best book I have read since The Help last year. The last 100 pages were heartbreaking and hard to get through (so devastating and sad). The story is so rich and just amazing. Sisters, friendship, family, love...very powerful. I rarely post a book on here since most of us are on goodreads, but this one is really worth the read!!!

Movie Review #3 - Hanna

2011-04-13T08:15:00.000-07:00

I saw this last night, not knowing really what to expect. I saw the preview and it looked cool, dangerous, scary, and The Chemical Brothers did the music. Oh and Cate Blanchett is in it, which helped me want to see it at the theater. I think I maybe had higher expectations for it, it wasn't AMAZING, but it was good and entertaining. The other two movies I just posted about (Adjustment Bureau and Lincoln Lawyer) were better. This is totally different though, really adventurous and full of action and suspense. I jumped a few times and was creeped out. I really liked the beginning in the forest/wilds of Finland, and then when she escapes capture and realizes where she is. The second half of the movie felt forced to me, but overall I think this would be a good one to get on DVD or see it at the theater if you love action/suspense/combat/girl kicks ass type movies.

*I liked the actress, I just noticed she will be playing Itaril in The Hobit 1 and 2! I can definitely see her as an elf.

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0993842/

Movie Review #2 - The Adjustment Bureau

2011-04-13T08:04:00.000-07:00

It's hard for me to describe this movie, I just know it made me feel good and I really liked it. It's a different kind of love story, I thought Emily Blunt did great along side Matt Damon. Before I went I had heard if you like Inception you would like this. It's nothing like Inception though, not really. My husband liked it a lot also, we recommend it!

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1385826/

Lunch Date

2011-04-10T09:27:00.000-07:00

My husband had Friday off so we got to go to lunch at Pier W in Lakewood, Ohio. It's one of the few restaurants right on Lake Erie with a great view of the Cleveland skyline. It was a rainy/dreary day but we got one of the best tables in the restaurant (right at the window) and it was still nice watching the storm and fog come in. They have the best seafood in Cleveland and it didn't disappoint at a lower-cost lunch meal! I had the almond pistachio crusted tilapia and my husband had the scallops. We split a baked Alaska for dessert since I heard my cousin taking about those a few weeks ago, but I never had one before! It had mocha ice-cream inside, so good!

You can just make out the Cleveland skyline in the distance/fog

After lunch we went to the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame. We couldn't figure out when we were last there, but it was at least 5 years ago. We didn't take too long in the museum part since we had done it 2x before, we were there to see the 3D U2 concert they were showing. It was actually the same tour we went to in 2005 (Vertigo Tour), but it was in Argentina and Brazil (those fans go crazy!!). It was really cool, the sound, and the 3D, it felt like we could touch Bono. I loved it! Definitely worth the extra $3 ticket price, and it was 90 minutes.

We had a great date day in our city!

Let Me Introduce You To Stu

2011-04-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

This is Stu, The Traveling Gnome:

Add caption

He is almost 4 years old exactly. He loves to travel!

Aberdeen Beach, Aberdeen Scotland

He forgot his clubs! Old Course, St. Andrews Scotland

Stu loves fish n chips! Olde Angel Inn Pub, Niagara on the Lake Canada

Niagara Falls Canada

Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Scotland

Where will he go next?

Easy Baked Cheese Crepes Recipe

2011-04-01T05:32:00.000-07:00

I love this recipe from Giada de Laurentiis,
http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/baked-cheese-crepes-recipe/index.html
I forgot about it and hadn't made it in a few years. I made it Wednesday night and it was so good!
Also it's low-carb!
We accidentally left the left-overs out while we went swimming though so we had to throw those away :(

First you make a stack of ten crepes and let cool, this was the last one.

Then you fill it with mozzarella and fontina cheese, and a little basil.

Ten little piggies all rolled up.

Add sauce and what's left of the mozzarella and some parmesan cheese. And bake.

See the sticker? That means it's tried and tested!

YUMMO

Project 365 - Day Three

2011-03-31T10:25:00.000-07:00

Why hello there March 31, 2011. What have you done with SPRING?

Book Review - Madame Tussaud: A Novel of the French Revolution

2011-03-31T06:00:00.000-07:00

Madame Tussaud by Michelle Moran

I finished Madame Tussaud the other day and was quite impressed by it. It follows the life of Madame Tussaud before she got married, while she was living in Paris with her MOm and Uncle, creating wax figures and table's for their salon/museum. It describes how she tutored Marie Antoinette's sister in wax modeling and became a friend to the Queen and her sister. It also describes the rough/horrible/horrendous time during the French Revolution. What Madame Tussaud had to endure can be quite gruesome, but it helped show what a strong person she is. I really liked this book even though I don't normally like historical fiction novels. I recommend it! (4/5 stars)

Movie Review #1 - The Lincoln Laywer

2011-03-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

We went to the movies on Sunday to see The Lincoln Laywer. I really had no idea what it was about beforehand, I just knew it was getting a great rating on IMDB.com (anything over a 6.5 equals great rating to me), and it stars Matthew McConaughey and Ryan Phillippe (need I say more really?). I have to say, I really enjoyed it! I am not really a lawyer/court movie type of person but this movie was great. Matthew's character was cool, smooth, and fun. We are used to seeing him in the romantic comedies (How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days is one of my favorites!), so this isn't his usual movie. The movie made you laugh, and it definitely was full of suspense and some surprise moments. Nice twist at the end! I give it an A-.

Picture Courtesy www.imdb.com

Project 365 - Day One

2011-03-29T17:29:00.000-07:00

I'm going to attempt the one photo a day project yet again. Today's my birthday, so a good day to start! Here is the table set before my birthday dinner. Butterfly place setting for my niece, and we used fun bull napkins from Scotland!

Birthday Week!

2011-03-28T10:13:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is my birthday, and my friend asked me to do a haul on what I got. Well I only got one thing this year with birthday money, because I wanted a new pocket-sized digital camera.

Most of the haul is from Grove City Outlets in Pennsylvania. It's about 1.5 hours away, but they have tons more stores than the closer Outlet Mall has, PLUS in PA there is no tax on clothes or shoes!! :) There are also some pictures of things I bought in February.

Outlet: The first scarf is more pink than coral,
and the second scarf goes great with my new spring coat.

The upper left bronze shoes are from NY&Co. outlet,
the other three are from various stores near me
(Kohl's for the bottom two, so only $10 each).
The upper right are coral, not orange.
I realized I threw away all my sandals but one pair last year,
so now I have these. Bring on spring!

Outlet: Black crop pants and two tanks,
one is coral and one is more pink. I had $25 off at this store !

New Spring Coat (medium grey)! Kind of a 60s swing coat.
Reminds me of something Zooey Deschanel would wear.

Outlet: A new bathing suit for Tom.
Only $15 at Gap Outlet, can't beat that!

A Spring purse and a very functional cross-body bag.
The cross-body is so handy for shopping and errands, I love it.
(It's navy and light blue)

The black lace headband is from Aldo Outlet,
and the Clinique Redness Solutions Foundation is from The Cosmetic Company Store.
I think I saved about $5 on it vs. Sephora. I needed a lighter shade.
I am loving those new Revlon lip glosses, and my coral Mac Dazzleglass.
How cute is that Nivea Cream Tin? It's very thin and it was only $1.
Great for in your purse for cuticles or hands.
And the mineral face balancing powder is from Physican's Formula,
40% off last week at CVS. I like it so far.

Here are some things I got at the Outlets for my 3-year old niece, EV for Easter.
Minus the book, I got that on Amazon, it's a really cute book! Beautifully illustrated.

The socks aren't really for this outfit,
but look how cute those ice-cream cone clips are.

Always personalize a book you gift!

Spring Recipe Ideas!

2011-03-15T10:10:00.000-07:00

Whose ready to say good bye to hearty meals/soups/stews,

in favor for lighter fresh fruits, veggies and grilled foods? I am!!

Lemon Meringue Cupcakes

Chicken with Artichokes and Angel Hair Pasta

Grilled Pound Cake with Berries and Ice Cream

Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble

Beef Satay with Peanut Sauce

Apricot-Almond Claflouti

Bean and Salmon Salad with Arugula Dressing

Grilled Fish

Glazed Lemon Cookies

Fun Spring Items from Crate and Barrel!

2011-03-14T13:38:00.000-07:00

Cleve Panters

Spring!

2011-03-13T08:22:00.000-07:00

Well spring is officially one week away here in the US (March 20th),

so this week I will do a daily spring-themed post to celebrate!! :)

What are you most excited for with the warmer weather and spring? For me, I love when the trees finally get their leaves again (April sometime) and everything is green again instead of brown and dull. I also love going for walks outside at parks/forests or the beach. So excited!! :)

Cabin Fever

2011-02-25T09:59:00.000-08:00

Lack of posts lately is solely due to my CABIN FEVER.

I cannot wait for Spring in the worst way!!!

We've been dealing with ice storms and this morning blizzard like conditions.

"When will the icicle melt, the icicle icicle"

This is Lake Erie- one of the huge Great Lakes that goes across to Canada (you cannot see the other side). It was snow covered and frozen.

Not sure where the beach ends and the water starts.

Magical, like you are in Alaska.

Lighthouse!

This is the path along the beach that we love to walk during warmer months.

One of my favorite places to be. Soon...soon!!

Happy Valentines Day

2011-02-14T13:37:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-11T12:15:00.000-08:00

Have a good weekend and a sweet Valentine's Day on Monday!

Here are some cupcakes I've made on separate years in the past.

The frosting recipe is here:

And if you want something chocolate, then I suggest cake balls:

The funny thing is I won't be making anything for Valentine's Day since my sister-in-law volunteered to make the weekly Sunday dessert this week. I may make some chocolate chip cookies for my husband's work though, we'll see!

Valentine's Day Dessert Idea II

2011-02-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

Vanilla Cupcakes with Raspberry Cream Cheese Frosting

The frosting is adapted from Martha Stewart's Cream Cheese Frosting recipe.

Double the recipe and add 3/4 cup seedless raspberry jam. Easy!

Healthy Lunches

2011-02-04T06:09:00.000-08:00

Last week I decided to experiment with trying to eat healthy lunches. I decided taking a picture each day would help hold me accountable and help me to really think about my choices. It worked. So here is what I ate last week for lunch for four days. I tried to focus on adding fruits and veggies and cutting back carbs.

Day One: Gourmet light turkey mini sub (these are salad plates)
with tomatoes, carrots and hummus,
grapes and pineapple and half a strawberry C monster drink
+ 1 dark chocolate truffle

Day Two: Hard boiled egg, gouda cheese, carrots, tomatoes,
crackers, hummus, grapes, pineapples, chocolate discs.

Day Three: Apple turkey sausage, hummus, crackers,
hard boiled egg, carrots, banana, half a blueberry B monster drink.

Day Four: Mini bagel with peanut butter
and nutella, handful of nuts, and grapes.

Tag: Your It

2011-02-02T06:40:00.000-08:00

1) What is your dream job?
Definitely a travel writer. But more realistically what I did get to do for two years, elementary school librarian!

2) What is your favourite fragrance for Winter?
Dolce and Gabanna The One

3) How do you take your tea/coffee?
I put agave nectar in my tea and milk, and coffee I must have flavored coffee creamers. I like the new International Delight made with real cream variety.
4) What is your most important beauty secret?
You can use baby wipes to wipe your makeup off before properly washing your face. Also, L'Oreal Telescopic Carbon Black mascara is the BEST.
5) If you had an all expenses paid vacation, where would you go?
I would go back to Australia!

6) If a genie popped up in your lap right now and offered you three wishes, what would you ask?
Well 1: Health and happiness for my family, friends and myself. 2: Have millions of dollars. 3: This ones a secret.

7) If you could only have breakfast, lunch, dinner or desert foods for the rest of your life, what would you pick?
Breakfast!

8) If you were Hello Kitty what colour hair bow would you wear?
Pink

9) What is your biggest makeup pet peeve?
When people don't wear any makeup! I don't get it.

10) If you could wear only one piece of jewellery for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Earrings

11) What one talent do you wish you had?
I wish I could play the piano
12) Which product will you continue to purchase?
Dove Sensitive Skin Soap

13) If you could look into the future, would you? And what would you like to know?
Hmm. I think I like the unknown. The only thing I would wonder is when will I get my teaching job back?

14) Who is your biggest celebrity crush? Include a picture!Probably Jude Law's character from The Holiday specifically, or Ewan McGreggor

15) What made you start a blog?
I've been reading blogs since about 2001, time to start my own!

January Favorites

2011-02-01T06:28:00.000-08:00

My Favorite products of January!

1. Tree Shea Body Butter - Almond & Honey

2. Tree Hut Shea Sugar Body Scrub - Almond & Honey

3. Revlon Just Bitten Lip Stain in Passion

4. Rimmel Lasting Finish Lipstick in Paradise

5. MAC Lipgelee in Sin-tillation

6. MAC Eyeshadow in Woodwinked

7. MAC Paint Pot in Bare Study

8. Smashbox Blush Rush in Flush

9. Tresemme Dry Shampoo - on sale this week at Ulta!

10. Aveda Light Elements Smoothing Fluid

11. Aveda Volumizing Tonic

12. Trader Joes Vanilla & Cinnamon Black Tea

Book Review: The Two Lives of Miss Charlotte Merryweather by Alexandra Potter

2011-01-31T06:31:00.000-08:00

From Goodreads: At age thirty-one, American Charlotte Merryweather has spent ten years in London pursuing personal and professional perfection. Yet her present-day success- heading her own PR company, owning a gorgeous apartment, planning a future with her devoted boyfriend- only heightens the shock of a visit from the past. "Lottie," Charlotte's twenty-one-year-old self, drives onto the scene at the wheel of a rusty, orange Volkswagen Beetle identical to Charlotte's first UK ride. Charlotte pursues a friendship aimed to bestow upon Lottie a decade of wisdom. Yet Charlotte's prosperous polish proves a pale substitute for Lottie's innate, youthful graces- openness, passion, and kindness. Will the student become the teacher in this witty turnabout? The clever plotting and winning characterization that made Me and Mr. Darcy a bestseller are on full display in these pages.

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7146880-the-two-lives-of-miss-charlotte-merryweather My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this book. It's a good chic lit book, along the lines of Sophie Kinsella but I think I prefer Alexandra's style better. The story line poses the interesting question, just what would you say to yourself if you met yourself at age 21? This is has some mild elements of time travel in it, which I think I am a sucker for when it comes to a good love story. I can't wait to read some of her other books. 4/5 stars

Valentine's Day Dessert Idea

2011-01-28T06:20:00.000-08:00

Chocolate Covered Oreo Cookie Cake

This cake looks like a huge Oreo cookie, and it tastes even better. Who doesn't love a little chocolate on Valentine's Day?

Chocolate Covered Oreo Cookie Cake
(adapated from Kraft Foods Magazine)

Ingredients:

1 pkg. (2-layer size) devil's food chocolate cake mix
4 squares BAKER'S Semi-Sweet Chocolate
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter
1 pkg. (8 oz.) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened
1/2 cup sugar
2 cups thawed COOL WHIP Whipped Topping
12 OREO Cookies, coarsely crushed

Directions:

HEAT oven to 350ºF.
PREPARE cake batter and bake in 2 (9-inch) round pans as directed on package. Cool cakes in pans 10 min. Invert cakes onto wire racks; gently remove pans. Cool cakes completely.
MICROWAVE chocolate and butter in small microwaveable bowl on HIGH 2 min. or until butter is melted. Stir until chocolate is completely melted. Cool 5 min.
MEANWHILE, beat cream cheese and sugar in large bowl with mixer until blended. Gently stir in COOL WHIP and crushed cookies. Stack cake layers on plate, spreading cream cheese mixture between layers. Spread top with chocolate glaze; let stand until firm. Keep refrigerated.

Chicken Madeira

2011-01-26T12:17:00.000-08:00

What's for dinner tonight? How about something new to try that is easy and delicious?

Chicken Madeira - Cheesecake Factory Knockoff (serves 2)

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 boneless chicken breast
8 asparagus spears
2 slices mozzarella cheese

Sauce
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 cup fresh sliced mushrooms
1.5 cups Madeira wine (I used dry)
1 cup beef stock
1 Tbsp butter
1/4 tsp ground black pepper

Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper.

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in frying pan over medium-high heat. Saute fillets until done and browned just a bit. Remove from pan and wrap in foil to keep warm while you make the sauce.

In chicken pan add olive oil and sliced mushrooms; saute for about 2 minutes. Add Madeira wine, beef stock, butter, and pepper. Bring to boil then reduce heat simmer 20 minutes until reduce to about 1/2 original volume. When sauce is done it will be thick, and brown.

While sauce is reducing, bring a pan of water to boil. Add salt to water at boil; blanch asparagus (3-5 minutes). Drop asparagus in ice water to halt cooking.

Set oven to broil. In baking dish arrange chicken, cross 2 asparagus stems over each piece of chicken and top with a slice of cheese. Broil until cheese melts.

Put chicken on plate. To serve, top with sauce 3-4 Tbsp on each piece.

Polyvore

2011-01-20T12:04:00.000-08:00

I heard about this fashion site today called Polyvore while reading the Pioneer Woman's Blog. I just spent a little time on it and it IS addicting. You can design your own outfits with items that are linked to where you can buy them. Apparently you can also design rooms with it. So fun!! I just did the below outfits for fun since I am always thinking about spring....

Dreaming of Spring.. by tammimarie featuring valentino handbags

Date Night Series by tammimarie on Polyvore.com

New Etsy Listings

2011-01-18T12:36:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Cards!

Golden Globes 2011 Red Carpet

2011-01-17T10:31:00.000-08:00

I liked Eva Longoria

As well as:

Dianna Agron

Mila "Sweet Lips" Kunis

Lea Michele

Carrie Underwood

Emma Stone

I didn't like Angie or Claire and Catherine Z Jones looked like she was on the set of Gone with the Wind

More Least Favorites:

Books Read in 2010

2011-01-17T09:08:00.000-08:00

I meant to do an update on the 75 books I managed to read last year! This year I am attempting 100 and so far I am off to a good start. I think I've read 5 so far. So out of the below list my favorite book of the year was The Help. I also enjoyed the Pretty Little Liars Series, The Lost Symbol, Shiver & Linger, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo Series, and all of Elin Hilderbrand's books that I read over the summer (I think I've almost read all her books). It was sad to see The Hunger Games come to an end. If anyone is on Goodreads please add me! Here is my Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/733439-tammi

January:

1. I Alex Cross by James Patterson (3 stars)
2. The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown (5 stars)
3. Fly on the Wall: How One Girl Saw Everything by E. Lockhart - CD (2 stars)
4. Dramarama by E. Lockhart - CD (2 stars)
5. The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson and The Olympians) by Rick Riordan - (1 star)
6. Queen of Babble in the Big City by Meg Cabot - CD (3 stars)
7. How to Build a House by Dana Reinhardt (3 stars)
8. How to Be Bad by E. Lockhart (1 star)
9. When you Reach Me by Rebecca Stead (4 stars)
10. Can You Keep a Secret by Sophie Kinsella - CD (2 stars)
February:
11. Queen of Babble Gets Hitched by Meg Cabot - CD (2 stars)
12. Nanny Returns by Emma McLaughlin (1 star)
13. Jinx by Meg Cabot - CD (1 star)
March:
14. Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse #1) by Charlaine Harris - CD (3 stars)
15. Living Dead in Dallas (Sookie Stackhouse #2) by Charlaine Harris - CD (4 stars)
16. Club Dead (Sookie Stackhouse #3) by Charlaine Harris - CD (4 stars)
April:
17. Tempted (House of Night #6) by P.C. Cast (3 stars)
18. Pretty Dead by Francesca Lia Block (2 stars)
19. 90 Day Geisha - My Time as a Tokyo Hostess by Chelsea Haywood (3 stars)
20. Shiver (The Wolves of Mercy Falls #1) by Maggie Stiefvater (4 stars)
21. Dead to the World (Sookie Stackhouse #4) by Charlaine Harris - CD (2 stars)
22. The Bright Forever by Lee Martin (1 star)
23. Dead as a Doornail (Sookie Stackhouse #5) by Charlaine Harris - CD (2 stars)
24. The Van Alen Legacy (Blue Bloods #4) by Melissa de la Cruz (1 star)
25. Definitely Dead (Sookie Stackhouse #6) by Charlaine Harris - CD (2 stars)
May:
26. All Together Dead (Sookie Stackhouse #7) by Charlaine Harris - CD (1 star)
27. The Help by Kathryn Stockett (5 stars)
28. From Dead to Worse (Sookie Stackhouse #8) by Charlaine Harris - CD (1 star)
June:
29. Stupid and Contagious by Caprice Crane (4 stars)
30. Dead and Gone (Sookie Stackhouse #9) by Charlaine Harris - CD (3 stars)
31. Pearl of China by Anchee Min (3 stars)

32. The Blue Bistro by Elin Hilderbrand (4 stars)

33. The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood (4 stars)

34. Graceling by Kristin Cashore (1 star)

35. Lunch in Paris: a Love Story by Elizabeth Bard (4 stars)

36. Vision in White by Nora Roberts (3 stars)

37. Bed of Roses by Nora Roberts (2 stars)

July:

38. Family Affair by Caprice Crane (3 stars)

39. Learn to be an Optimist by Lucy MacDonald (4 stars)

40. Nantucket Nights by Elin Hilderbrand (2 stars)

41. The Beach Club by Elin Hilderbrand (3 stars)

42. Barefoot by Elin Hilderbrand (2 stars)

43. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson (3 stars)

44. The Girl Who Played with Fire by Stieg Larsson (5 stars)

45. Forget About it by Caprice Crane (2 stars)

46. The G Free Diet by Elisabeth Hasselbeck (3 stars)

August:

47. Buying a Piece of Paris by Ellie Nielson (2 stars)

48. The Island by Elin Hilderbrand (5 stars)

49. The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake (0 stars)

50. Savor the Moment by Nora Roberts (4 stars)

51. The Castaways by Elin HIlderbrand (4 stars)

52. The Girl Who Kicked the Hornets Nest by Stieg Larsson (4 stars)

53. Linger by Maggie Stiefvater (3 stars)

September:

54. The Love Season by Elin Hilderbrand (5 stars)

55. Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins - reread (4 stars)

56. Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins (2 stars)

57. Dead in the Family (Sookie Stackhouse #10) by Charlaine Harris (3 stars)

October:

58. Poker Face: The Rise and Fame of Lady Gaga by Maureen Callahan (2 stars)

59. The Espressologist by Kristina Springer (2 stars)

60. Lauren Conrad Style by Lauren Conrad (1 star)

61. Size 12 is not Fat by Meg Cabot (1 star)

November:

62. Burned (House of Night #7) by P.C. Cast (1 star)

63. Misguided Angels (Blue Bloods #5) by Melissa de la Cruz (0 stars)

December:

64. Pretty Little Liars by Sarah Shepard (3 stars)

65. Flawless (PLL #2) by Sarah Shepard (4 stars)

66. Perfect (PLL #3) by Sarah Shepard (3 stars)

67. Unbelievable (PLL #4) by Sarah Shepard (4 stars)

68. Wicked (PLL #5) by Sarah Shepard (3 stars)

69. Killer (PLL #6) by Sarah Shepard (3 stars)

70. Heartless (PLL #7) by Sarah Shepard (3 stars)

71. Wanted (PLL #8) by Sarah Shepard (3 stars)

72. Let it Snow by John Greene etc. (4 stars)

73. Grayson, Will Grayson by John Greene (4 stars)

74. Crank by Ellen Hopkins (1 star)

75. Glass by Ellen Hopkins (3 stars)

Valerie's Fluffy White Flour Frosting

2011-01-13T09:06:00.000-08:00

Flour frosting??? you might say, but actually it's one of the best frostings.
Not too sweet and light and fluffy. :)

Continuously whisk the flour and milk over medium heat.
Constant whisking is important for no lumps. You do not want lumps, trust me.

Cooking the flour will result in something that looks like mashed potatoes.
It's sticky and comes together away from the sides.

Mix the mixture for a minute or so to make sure there are no lumps.
Cover and refrigerate until cool.

Cream together the shortening, softened margarine and sugar.

Slowly add the cooled flour/milk mixture in little bits beating after each addition.
Continue to beat for 7-10 minutes until light and fluffy and all sugar is disolved.

Ha, don't laugh at my attempts at writing with a gel frosting.

Recipe:

5 tbs. flour
1 cup milk
1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup margarine
1 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions:

1In a small saucepan blend flour and milk.
2Cook stirring constantly until mixture bubbles.
3Transfer to a small bowl, beat mixture with mixer for one minute. Cool.
4In a large bowl, cream shortening, butter and sugar with a mixer until fluffy.
5Add vanilla and salt, blending well.
6On medium speed beat in cooled flour mixture in small portions (teaspoonful at a time), beating well after each addition.
7Continue beating until light and fluffy.

Valentines Cards or Anniversary Cards Posted on Etsy

2011-01-04T11:31:00.000-08:00

I'm back into card making, keeps me busy and helps me be creative. Listed on etsy: http://www.etsy.com/shop/tammim

Happy New Year!!!

2011-01-01T09:16:00.000-08:00

I hope you had an enjoyable and happy New Years Eve! All the best for 2011.

2010 in Pictures

2010-12-31T09:43:00.000-08:00

January 9, 2010

I turned 33

We spent Spring Break in Florida

I re-organized.
Before

After

We went to Stan Hywett Hall in Akron

Debonne Vineyards Hot Air Balloon Festival

6th Wedding Anniversary at Pier W - Downtown Cleveland

Saw a lot of sunsets on Lake Erie

Took our annual trip to Canada

My niece turned 3

We FINALLY made it to Cuyahoga Valley National Park

I made cake pops

18 of my family members rented a house in Western New York for Thanksgiving

We had a white Christmas!
- Almond Joy Martini, Christmas Eve

Happy New Year!!!!!