Friday, November 30, 2012

Friday Foodday

Happy Friday love bugs, here are some of my favorite recipes for the week!

Apple Hot Toddy
c/o Cookie and Kate
Ingredients

  • 1 green tea or black tea bag 
  • 1 1/2 ounces rye whiskey or bourbon
  • 1 ounce real apple cider
  • 1/2 small lemon
  • garnishes: thin, round slices of lemon, a cinnamon stick, and star anise


Directions

  1. Heat water to the boiling point and pour over the tea bag in a mug. Leave about an inch of room in your mug for the whiskey and cider. Let the tea steep for a few minutes, then discard the bag so the tea doesn’t get bitter.
  2. Pour in the whiskey or bourbon and a hefty splash of apple cider (adjust these amounts to suit your tastes). Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon and garnish with lemon slices, a cinnamon stick and a star anise. Sip up.


Chicken Noodle Soup
c/o Smitten Kitchen
Ingredients
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
3-pound chicken, in parts or 3 pounds chicken pieces of your choice
8 cups water
1 bay leaf
2 teaspoons table salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 large carrot, diced (1/3-inch)
1 medium parsnip, diced (1/3-inch) (optional)
1 large celery stalk, diced (1/3-inch)
3 ounces dried egg noodles
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or flat-leaf parsley


Directions

Prepare broth: In a large (5-quart) heavy pot over medium-high heat, heat the vegetable oil. Add the onion and saute it for 3 to 4 minutes, until beginning to take on color at edges. Add the chicken pieces (if too crowded, can do this in two batches), making little wells in the onions so that the parts can touch the bottom of the pan directly. Cook chicken parts until lightly browned, about 10 minutes.

Add water, bay leaf, table salt and some freshly ground black pepper and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and skim any (sorry for lack of better term) scum that appears at the surface of the pot. Simmer pot gently, partially covered, for 20 minutes.

Transfer chicken parts to a plate to cool a bit before handling. Set a fine-mesh strainer over a bowl (ideally, with a spout) and pour soup through it.

If your pot looks grimy and you’re fanatical about having a clear soup, you can give it a quick wash before returning the broth to the pot. You can remove a bit of fat at this point, if it looks necessary. Bring the broth back to a simmer.

You may be tempted at this point to taste it and add more salt. I know this because I do it every single time, adding another teaspoon, and every. single. time. I regret this as it is too salty in the end. So, proceed with any re-seasoning with caution.

To finish and serve: Add diced vegetables and simmer them until they’re firm-tender, about 5 minutes. Add dried noodles and cook them according to package directions, usually 6 to 9 minutes. While these simmer, remove the skin and chop the flesh from a couple pieces of chicken, only what you’re going to use. You won’t need all of it in the soup. I usually use the breasts first because they’re my least favorite and benefit the most from the extra moisture of the soup. The remaining parts can be slipped into an airtight bag in the fridge (I recommend leaving the skin on for retained moisture until needed) and used for chicken salad or the like over the next few days.

Once noodles have cooked, add chicken pieces just until they have rewarmed through (30 seconds) and ladle into serving bowls. Garnish with dill or parsley, dig in and let it fix everything that went wrong with your day.

Chicken Cheddar Bacon Rice Ranch Bake
c/o Cassie Craves
Ingredients 
4 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, chopped
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 1/2 cups chicken stock
3 1/2 cups milk
1 packet dry ranch dressing mix
1 1/2 cups uncooked long-grain rice
1 cup sour cream
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup cooked crumbled bacon


Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

2. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat and cook the onions until translucent and softened. Add garlic, salt, and pepper and cook and stir for 30 seconds.

3. Add flour and mix well for 30 seconds, or until the mixture is bubbling. Stir stock, milk, and ranch seasoning into flour mixture.Turn heat to medium high and add one cup cheese and continue to whisk as mixture comes to a simmer. Taste and adjust seasoning.

4. Add rice and lower heat to medium low. Cook until the rice absorbs most of the liquid and is tender, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes. Stir in the sour cream, then stir in the chicken and bacon.

5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch casserole. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese evenly over the rice. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbling.

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Toe-tally Colorful

Don't forget to send me your holiday gift guide needs and wants!  Who is the toughest to shop for on your list and why?

Metal cap toe is a big trend this winter, but so often we see this trend in black or gray, it's sassy, but it's also a snooze. How about a cap toe with some color?

Holy moly do I love these shoes. I'm a sucker for mary janes as it is, so when you edge it up with a metal and put it in a pop of yellow- I'm sold.

Dorothy Perkins, Teal Toe Cap Point Mid Court, $29
You certainly can't beat the price, and the color is so decadent!

Charlotte Russe, Pointed Gold Toe Pump, $32
This blush stiletto will mix with just about anything in your closet. Dresses, jeans, you name it.

I like a shoe that demands something, like this one: just dance. Not a problem little one, not a problem.

Sure, you can wear a sky high black heel with a gold cap toe, or you can wear a splash of color, something noticeable that will demand attention right down to your toes.

Be fabulous today!

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Color Me Warm

Happy humpday lovebugs,
How's your week going? A little chilly? How about a scarf post? Today we're looking at colorblock scarves.

Yes, it's a little expensive for a scarf, but I promise, Nordstrom cashmere delivers. You will be so cozy and warm in this beautiful scarf.

So maybe it's not 25 degrees where you are, try this stunner either around your neck or even around your purse handle!


Gap, Cozy, Colorblock Scarf, $29
This bright yellow would be perfect under almost any color coat, even patterned.

I really love the pops of neon in this scarf, it's a great layering piece with or without a jacket.

You can never really have too many scarves, and embracing the colorblock trend is so easy with this accessory.

Be fabulous today!

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Animal Crackers

Next week I'll do some gift guides for the holidays, but I'm asking for your help! Leave a comment or shoot me an email requesting who you need a gift for; example: the nerdy secretary, the fashionable coworker, the boss, you name it, I will do my best to deliver!

Alright, back to business, today we're looking at animal print. Not the usual leopard or snakeskin, but rather an image of an animal. Let me explain.

How adorable is this sweater? It's quirky and cozy in all the best ways.

Madewell, Fox Print Sweatshirt, $59
You may be thinking, sweatshirt? Come on. But layer a white oxford under this and add a collar necklace. Instant chic!


A stunning skirt, perfect for work, I'd pair it with some flat boots and tights.

The Limited, Bird Print Peasant Blouse, $34
I love this print, but you know what I love more? The dot cuffs. That's right, how sweet is that?

So give the leopard print a break this season and try animal graphic that is big and centered or a smaller repetitive print.

Be fabulous today!

Monday, November 26, 2012

Gunmetal Baby

Hey there lovebugs!
How was your holiday? Are you stuffed? Any good black Friday sales?

If you're a little familyed-out you might be feeling a bit rebellious. A little edgy, a little, 'you don't get me', I have the perfect trend for you. Gunmetal. I great color that pushes the envelope.

The perfect dress it up dress it down pullover for this winter. 

Bauble Bar, Gunmetal Spike Strand, $28
I told you it was a little rebellious. Release your inner rockstar ladies.

Holiday party anyone? This will certainly turn heads.

This might be the most versatile belt you own, over cardigans, dresses, pants, you name it.

Gunmetal doesn't always have to be cold, warm it up this winter by pairing it with neons or saturated jewel tones. 

Be fabulous today!

Friday, November 23, 2012

Friday Foodday

Happy Black Friday everyone. Today's Friday Foodday is going to get you carbed up and hydrated after a long day of shopping.

German Apple Pancakes
c/o Annie Bakes
Ingredients
4 eggs- room temperature
1/2 cup flour
1/2 cup whole mil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Apples:
5 tablesponns butter
3 apples- cored, peeled and sliced
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 cup brown sugar


Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a medium bowl, beat the eggs with a whisk. Add in the four, milk, salt and vanilla. Set aside to rest.
Heat an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter. Once melted add the apples and spices and cook, coverred 3-5 minutes. Then add the brown sugar cover, and cook for another 4-5 minutes or until the apples are soft. Remove from heat.
Pour the batter over the apples. Place in the oven and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the pancake is done and browned.
Serve with powdered sugar or maple syrup.

Homemade Granola Bars
Ingredients
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup honey
1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
2 cups quick cooking oats (not rolled oats)
1 cup crispy rice cereal
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1 cup walnuts, finely chopped (I pulsed it a few times in the food processor)
4 tbsp. mini chocolate chips
Directions
  1. Lightly grease a baking sheet, set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, stir oats, rice cereal, and walnuts together, set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepot, melt the butter, honey, and brown sugar together until it comes to a bubble. Reduce the heat then cook for 2 minutes more.
  4. Add vanilla to the saucepot and stir.
  5. Pour the mixture over the dry ingredients and mix together until just moistened.
  6. Pour onto prepared baking sheet and press out to about 3/4 inch thick – if your sheet is too big, you can press them all to one half of the baking sheet to make them thicker. Sprinkle with mini chocolate chips and press them down lightly. Let cool on countertop until room temperature or for 2 hours, then cut into bars.
Tyr Na Nog
Ingredients
1 ounce The Tyrconnell Single Malt Irish Whiskey
1 ounce cherry brandy
1/2 ounce Aperol
About 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
Directions
Combine all ingredients in an ice-filled shaker. Shake vigorously and strain into cocktail glass.

Thursday, November 22, 2012

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving lovebugs! I hope you are spending with the ones you love and thinking about all of the things you're thankful for. This holiday I'm thankful for...

Family



Friends



Norman


and my country.


Wednesday, November 21, 2012

A Wedge Between Us

Hey there lovebugs,
Today we're looking at some really fabulous booties. They're wedge booties which means they're comfy and stylish and they give you just a little extra lift.

Forever 21, Faux Leather Wedge Bootie, $20
These could be in a museum. Look at these lines, just stunning curves in a delicious chestnut color. Oh, and PS they're $20.

Look at the detail on these bad boys! Hello Saturday night!


Nine West, Tweeks, $59
Check out these majorly on sale booties. I love that the print is continued on the heel.

The fold over on this bootie gives it a 'I'm hot but I don't need to show it off' kind of air. Love a good tassel on the back as well.

Booties are huge right now, and the wedge adds another dimension to the trend. Pair these with jeans and let them show off or tuck them under.

Be fabulous today!

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Airport Chic

Tomorrow or Thursday, a lot of us will be lugging a suitcase, bundling up and hurrying up just to wait at an airport. Why not put the yoga pants away this season and dress smart yet comfy for your travels. Here's my go to travel outfit.

Lands End, Long Sleeve Flannel Tunic, $54
This popover flannel is perfect because it has a relaxed but cool look that you can layer under or over.

This is a great neutral color that allows you to wear just about any color with it.

Zara, Studded Slipper, $49
Easy slip on and off for TSA. A little bling and very versatile.

I love a cross body option bag when traveling just in case I need to use both hands.

That's how I dress for travel, what about you?

Be fabulous today!

Monday, November 19, 2012

Decadently Cozy

Hey there lovebugs,
Happy short week to you. I hope you have plans to visit friends and family at the end of this week. Today we're looking at one of my favorite textures in fashion: velvet. It is so decadent and cozy and it's just perfect for the holidays. Take a look at some of these velvet bags.

Anthropologie, Beaded Velvet Pouch, $38
Leave it to Anthro to take velvet to a new level. Look at this detail and the colors are just stunning.

This is just perfect for a holiday dress. It also comes in pewter and black.

Rachel Roy, Deco Disco Velvet Crossbody, $69
I love this with skinny jeans and sky high heels. A little rocker, a little disco, a lot awesome.

The perfect Thanksgiving clutch. I mean, orange velvet, come on.

What are your thoughts on velvet for the holidays? I think mixing in pieces like a bag or a blazer is a great way to step up an outfit.

Be fabulous today!

Friday, November 16, 2012

Friday Foodday

Happy Friday! Here are my favorite recipes from this week.

Turkey & Ricotta Meatballs
c/o I want to be a domestic goddess
Ingredients
1 pound ground turkey breast
15 oz part-skim ricotta
1/3 cup grated Parmesan
3 ounces shredded fresh baby spinach 
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 pinch dried oregano
26 ounces of the pasta sauce of your choice



Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a bowl, combine the turkey, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, salt, oregano and spinach. It will sort of look (but not smell) like tuna salad when combined.
Spread a thin layer of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 pan. Using an ice cream scoop, scoop the meat and plop (I bet Martha doesn't use the word "plop" in her recipes.) it in the marinara-covered pan. Repeat until all of the meat has been scooped into the pan. 
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the meatballs and cook for 30 minutes.

Salsa and Baked Tortilla Chips with Lime
c/o Lauren's Latest
Ingredients

for the salsa-
3-10 oz. cans diced tomatoes
1 large clove garlic, roughly chopped
1/3 cup diced red onion
1 jalapeno, seeded and roughly chopped
1/2 bunch cilantro, washed {about 1 cup}
1 lime, juiced
1/2 teaspoon salt {or more to taste}
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
1/4 teaspoon cumin
for the chips-
4 burrito sized tortillas, sliced into wedges
1/2 tablespoon garlic infused olive oil
1/2 tablespoon salt
zest of 1 lime
Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place sliced tortillas into a large bowl. Drizzle oil over wedges and toss to coat evenly. In a small bowl, stir salt and lime zest together and sprinkle over tortillas. Toss again to coat evenly. Place onto baking sheets in one even layer and bake 5-7 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
For the salsa–place all ingredients into a blender or food processor. Pulse a few times until desired texture is reached. Taste, adjust seasonings, and serve with chips.
Store salsa in airtight containers for up to 3 weeks in refrigerator.
Maple Sour
Ingredients
1 1/2 ounces vodka
3/4 ounces maple syrup
1 ounce fresh lemon juice
2 dashes Angostura Bitters
Lemon peel, to garnish
Directions
Combine all ingredients in an ice-filled shaker. Shake until your hands are too cold to keep holding onto the tin. (Srsly, because that syrup is a mother to disperse well.) Strain into cocktail glass and garnish with lemon peel.

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Say My Name

Happy almost Friday lovebugs,
Today we're looking at monogram rings. Monograms are a great gift for the holidays, and I think a ring is a small and simple way to show your personalized piece.

Personalized From Me to You, Silver Monogram Ring Round, $59
Simple, great edges, something any girl would love.

DKM Accessories, Monogram Enamel Stretch Ring, $34
How preppy and fantastic is this ring? It also comes in two other colors.

Delicate, simple, and a little rustic!

Emily Rose Jewelry, Monogram Sterling Silver Braided Ring, $59
The braid makes this piece look antique. 

Whether it's a gift for someone else or yourself, a simple monogram ring is a simple piece that will go with everything.

Be fabulous today!

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Happy Stripes

Today's post is courtesy of The bf. He suggested a post on wide stripes. So let's go with it. A pattern that is strong yet casual.

Do you know why I love this sweater? Because it has the word 'happy' in it. And that is the perfect way to describe this sweater.

White House Black Market, Striped Peplum Pullover, $39
Marked down from $80, this quiet peplum shirt is perfect for work or play.

How cute is this little shift? With or without tights, I'd add a neon skinny belt and walk out the door!

I like this blazer because it's not a stiff and stuffy. A great sweater type blazer that is great to pair with jeans or an LBD.

I think The bf nailed this one. Wide stripes are fun, versatile, and as Gap puts it, happy.

Be fabulous today.

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Power Flats

You all know I love a great flat. And there are so many types of flats, ballet flats, mary jane flats, dainty flats, but today we're looking at what I'm calling power flats. The 'I mean business flat'.

DSW, C Label Hudson, $34
A slight metallic hue to the deep red paired with some studs. Heck yes.

Nordstrom, Classiques Entier Elina, $77
A cap toe metal? Don't mind if I do. Why yes, I will be owning this business meeting today.

Zara, Studded Slipper, $49
Sleek, a little masculine, but a lot powerful.

Nordstrom, Ivanka Trump Abello, $80
These are my perfect understated but, holy cow these are perfect, flats. A pointy toe, bow, in a perfect black.

So there you have it. Flats don't always have to be sweet and dainty, and pumps don't always have to be the power shoe. Swap out heels for some strong flats. Your feet will thank you.

Be fabulous today!