Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Hey Yoga Girl... I just want to know your world....

                         Standing Bow Pulling Pose
                                         taken by my boyfriend

As I've told you here and here I really love Yoga.

There are so many health benefits a person receives from a session, and I don't think that people truly understand them. Yoga has helped people overcome numerous injuries, which doctors and physical therapists said would never happen. It helps with your digestion, your immune system, and skeletal system. People have also been able to treat reproductive and respiratory issues. You can read more in depth about other ways yoga has helped others overcome their own health problems.

I have practiced at a few studios around the Bay Area ( I stick to Bikram so that does limit me a little) There are things that I like and dis-like about the ones I have visited.

This is my new tank that I get to wear to class tonight (excited)- Lululemon Run you Heart Out Tank


Los Gatos Yoga Source- Well, they just moved to a bigger studio and I have yet to go and check out the new facilities Bad Devon. They have another studio that is located in Palo Alto and some of the teachers flip back and forth between locations. Some of the specific amenities that I LOVE are their; hardwood floors (very sanitary), their eclectic decorations (too cute), their complimentary hand towels (because sometimes you're forgetful) but best of all they have a fabulous boutique inside- featuring all the best yoga brands (ex- lululemon, yogitoes, pink lotus) I also think the Bikram classes are nice for beginning your practice- they open the door for venting and don't keep the room as humid.

Balance Yoga Center- This studio is owned by Mike, who is the most by the book instructor I have ever met. No, If you think you'll get away with an incorrect posture- he'll find you and have you re do it in front of him. Which is great because it really helps you learn the moves correctly. The room is not kept very hot, so again, it's a good class for someone who cant take the heat, no pun intended. Everything in the studio is brand new and up to every yogi's standards.


Bikram Yoga Santa Clara- This studio is only 8 minutes from my house and was a blessing when I stumbled on it through groupon. This studio has been my primary studio for the past 6 months. They only offer Bikram and it is the studio in the area, that follows the specifications most closely. They have great heat and humidity, lots of mirrors and all the teachers will be sure to help you correct a pose. They don't open the door or windows which while your reading probably sounds horrible but it's actually the reason I love it so much!! They do need to rip out the carpet and install new flooring, but that is my only complaint.

The title of my post comes from this YouTube video-it is so funny, I watched it this weekend and died of laughter. The group has another video titled "Whole Foods Parking Lot" which is also very funny!!

Check out the Yoga Girl or Whole Foods Parking Lot for a good Tuesday laugh.

Even though I mostly practice Bikram- I do know about other types of practices. Email me or leave it in the comments if you have more questions about anything yoga or if you want to brag about yourself a little.. :)

Thursday, January 26, 2012

Is your LIFE disposable?

I just wanted to take the time to share with you a message, some advice, a quote- it doesn't matter how you take, it all that matters is that you listen.

Don't be one of those people who says they'll do it tomorrow. Because for some, tomorrow never comes...

Whether it's starting a new workout plan, wanting to eat healthy, being more outgoing, kicking the smoking habit, telling your crush how you feel, or trying something new for the first time- start today!! I know the things that are bad for me, and I try to limit my intake... I want my body to work like a well oiled machine, so that I can live a long and full life. Some people don't think that way- they do things that might be unhealthy and if they die... well, then that's it...

I cant live my life that way, nor can I think that way

So my message to you is to try and do the best you can for yourself. There are consequences to EVERYTHING you do... Do you really want to chance it and have the consequence be your life?

c/o lenscaption

Just think about your decisions a little wiser, thats all

Dirty Rice with a Twist

He who says he doesn't like vegetables, obviously hasn't tried my  rice...


Yes, you read it right- I made a fabulous dirty rice recipe last night that I got from Elena, of course I had to tweak it a little bit I always do.

So the media, dietitians, grocery stores and magazines have all told you to cut down on the processed carbs and heavy starches; like rice, bread, sugar, potatoes, and corn. Sometimes it's hard to make the change because there are so many yummy things that are now "off limits". This is a great recipe because it looks like something you're used to eating but its totally healthy for you and has nothing "bad" in it.

                          

Grab a head of Cauliflower, chop it and put it through your food processor till it gets the consistency of rice.
Let that sit alone for a while
Then grab your cutting board for-
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup white onion, diced

  • 2 celery stalks, chopped

  • 1  green pepper, diced

  • 1  red pepper, diced

  • 1 bunch scallions, chopped

  • Get out a BIG fry pan and warm 2 tablespoons of EVOO on medium.

                                  

    Add your cauliflower and veggies to the pan and start mixing them with a large spoon.
    Then you will want to mix in the following spices-
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme

  • 1 bay leaf ( I didn't use this)

  • ½ teaspoon Celtic sea salt (I used regular salt?)

  • ½ teaspoon pepper

  • ¼ teaspoon chili powder

  • ½ teaspoon cumin

  • 2 cups chicken stock or vegetable stock

  • I added 2 tsp taco seasoning and a big pinch of chili flakes

  • I also added green chilies for a little kick


  • Then you just let it simmer on med for 30 mins, stirring often (like every 7 mins)

    Added Bonus-->What are the health benefits of cauliflower? First, cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable. That is a good thing because cruciferous veggies help with the detoxification of the body. Cauliflower is also full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Finally, cauliflower is full of vitamin C, vitamin K, Omega 3's and good fiber.

    This is what mine looked like when it was finished and it was so yummy!!!

                                
    sources-1, 2

    Wednesday, January 25, 2012

    How do I wear that??

    When I watch fashion shows or read articles in magazines, I sometimes wonder what designers are talking about when they describe their "ready to wear lines." Now, I understand that most designers have a ready to wear line and a couture line. The couture line is usually gowns that are worn to the Academy Awards or suits worn to other classy events. Ready to wear is supposed to be the everyday collection- but I get confused when looking at line sheets, because sometimes the garments are so out of this word that I could never imagine a person wearing it on the street.

    Fashion is always revolving. The designer puts out their collections- other designers copy, tweak, change, add, or tone down the look into something they can call their own. And this happens with cuts, colors, styles, and pieces- but for the most part they stem from the Karl Lagerfelds and Alexander Wangs of the world.

    Now when I do choose to bring a new design home with me I'm often stumped with what to pair it with. Because even though I might love the Bold shoulder jackets- I don't have silk Gucci pants or the spiked Christian Louboutins that the model paired with the look. My pocketbook wouldn't allow it, nor my everyday life because its not practical. :(

    I was indulging in the new issue of Elle the other night I found I great article about the four statement looks for spring. Which I always find enjoyable, so I know what will be fashionable next season. But, this article was even better. I also featured several ways to wear the look (depending on the occasion) and also what to pair it with. Just what I needed!!!

    So I have to share the article with you, so you can get fashionably fit for spring too. Enjoy

    ciao xo

     I have a houndstooth jacket that would be perfect for this look, I can pair it with a bright silk top and open toe wedges.

      This is my favorite- I have to get a long black maxi and a wide statement belt , then I can pair it with my new oversized bicycle tee and Tstrap flats. A perfect look for the farmers market.

     I have wider hips so this look might work for me and it might not... I'll have to try it on first with a second      opinion beforeI make the purchase.


     I just bought a red dress (should be delivered today!!!) with a pleated skirt I could pair it with my camel colored boots.

    Monday, January 23, 2012

    So Fresh and So Clean...

    The CAKE I mean...

                     

    The cake I made last night was so good and so easy- everyone loved it. I was at dinner the other night, we went out for Caribbean food (which was amazing) and now I'm in this tropical feeling but stuck in rain boots because it's raining outside.


    photo courtesy of my boyfriend.. examples of his talent

    Well I decided to brighten up my kitchen with a little coconut gluten free cake. So simple; eggs, vanilla cake mix, coconut oil, vanilla extract and coconut milk. I made a double layer cake- but you bake whatever size you like.

                       

    Put the mix, 4 eggs, 1 cup coconut milk, 1/3 cup coconut oil, 1/4 teaspoon of  some extract that you have on hand (I didn't have coconut extract an obvious choice so I used vanilla) and a cup of shredded coconut. Pour it out into your baking containers and bake it at 325degrees for 25 minutes.
    1- 9 inch is 30-35 mins
    1-9x13 is 24-30 mins
    cupcakes are about 22 mins ( I don't know how they got that random time??)
    I always grease my nonstick pans, I just don't want any parts to stick because I hate the way uneven cake looks. But you don't have to be as overly cautious as I am.



    When the cakes look delicious and the tooth pick comes out clean, then leave them to cool before you ice. I made standard cream cheese frosting with the 1/3 less fat cream cheese, but you can have whatever frosting you like. Then all you need to do is grab a glass of milk and enjoy!!

    Saturday, January 21, 2012

    If you know whats good for you...

    You might make more healthy choices in life!!!

    Everyone wants to be healthier, even if they don't admit it out loud. This post will show you what delicious things you should nosh on more and how they help you with your journey to a happy healthier you!

    Grapefruit- Everyone knows this power fruit for its antioxidants and Vitamin C benefits. But did you know that it can also help with you waistline? The substance called naringenin is found in citrus fruits and is particularly abundant in grapefruit. Studies it has shown a decrease accumulation of lipids, tryglycerides and cholesterol in the body, and naringenin switches the liver away from fat calories and speeds up the metabolism of glucose.Grapefruit contains the compound nootkatone, which stimulates the release of proteins that ramp up calorie burning. Nootkatone reduces body fat, especially from the abdominal area. Furthermore, research shows that eating grapefruit keeps insulin levels steady, which improves fat loss as well.


    Green Tea- This is powerful elixir that doesn't receive nearly enough credit for all the good things it does for your body. Green tea may be more beneficial than any other beverage, including water. Not only does it rehydrate the body as well as water, but it delivers valuable antioxidant polyphenols. The Mayo Clinic recommends drinking 3-10 cups each day in order to see the benefits. Green tea burns fat in two major ways. First, green tea is rich in catechins, which are antioxidants that boost fat loss by increasing energy expenditure. Second, catechins inhibit the breakdown of norepinephrine, a fat burning hormone. Elevated levels of norepinephrine are linked with greater fat burning. Green Tea can help protect you from numerous diseases including osteoporosis, diabetes, high cholesterol, it even had fluoride in it's leaves so it good for your teeth and gums.

    Almonds- If you snack on chips or crackers a lot, you should make the switch to nuts- Almonds in particular! So put down the processed carbs and do your body and digestive system a break. Almonds are high in monounsaturated fats, the same type of health-promoting fats as are found in olive oil, which have been associated with reduced risk of heart disease and lowering cholesterol. In addition to healthy fats and vitamin E (great for your skin), a quarter-cup of almonds contains almost 99 mg of magnesium which will improve the body's blood flow.The International Journal of Obesity and Related Metabolic Disorders found that the fats found in nuts can actually help you shed the pounds faster than other low fat diets. Plus they give you a great boost in energy, they deliver protein to the body faster and the fiber helps you stay fuller for longer.

    Water- ok, you can stop laughing now- of course I'm going to add water to my list. People really don't understand how important water is for your body, hello your body is 70% water. America has an obesity problem and its only getting bigger (no pun intended). People eat too much and restaurants feed us too much. Sometimes when people think they're hungry they really are just thirsty- so when you feel the hunger coming on, drink a big glass of water and see if you still feel hungry- 7 out of 10 times that will fix you. Water hydrates all kinds of things other than just dry mouth- your skin (wrinkles, dark under eye and complexion), hair (breakage, natural color and shine), nails (strength and length), and organs ( they run better when they are properly fueled). People ask me why they feel so sluggish during the day and as soon as I ask "how much water have you had to drink?" and when they give me a sheepish look they also know the answer. You cant expect your body to run at peak performance if you don't get it adequate fuel. Its just like a car- common sense people!!

    These ideas are a good start to improving your health. You can hop on this site and research other tips that might be more specific to your needs. I follow all the tips I just gave you and I do see a difference when I deviate from my normal routine. I enjoy grapefruit for breakfast, 30 oz of green tea during the day (no coffee for me- yuck), I snack on at least a 1/2 cup of nuts throughout the day, and I don't think I could survive without my 60- 90 oz of water a day.


    Sources- 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12

    Thursday, January 19, 2012

    Craving for Coachella

    I'm an organizer, I like to plan things- vacations, parties, even my daily activities. I have lists for everything in my phone, it might even be a little obnoxious sometimes. BUT oh well, if that's what works for me then I'm stickin' to it.
    Well, the other night at a friend's birthday everyone was talking about the upcoming Coachella concert in Indio, Ca. I'm so excited to be going, this will be my first huge music festival and I hope I get to hear all my favorite artists.

    So as everyone is talking about the trip I just keep thinking of all the cool clothes I want to bring and how I will even allow my 'inner hippie' to come out. I love the drapey fabrics, the loud colors and prints, the headbands, big earrings and even the fringe. Coachella seems like its the perfect place to dress how I like and not worry if anyone is judging my appearance.
    I pulled together a little collection of some pieces that I want for Coach this year- If you have any other good ideas or tips that I might need, feel free to share. :) Click on the picture if you need a better look.



    1. Lauren Moshi bag- perfect compartments for water, gum, sharpie for autographs, and room for a sweater in case it gets chilly in the evenings.
    2. Heart Sunglasses- just for fun I thought I'd switch up the shape of my glasses for this concert. Peace and Love baby.
    3. Backstage AM to PM dress- I fell in love with the color- and the length and style are perfect for a hot day in the desert.
    4. Free People sandals- OK, just look at them. They scream ultimate hip summer sandal!
    5. Cut Off Cords- Great color that will go with everything, and the unfinished hem is perfect rocker chic.
    6. Vintage White Blouse- This top is right in line with my style, the delicate embroidery and simple design adds a girly touch with whatever you pair it with.
    7. Feather Earrings- I saw Vanessa Hudgens wearing them and she is a boho babe- a must for Coachella.
    8. Nail Polish- Essie has some great colors for spring. Fashion mags are saying its all about nudes and pastels for Spring, so that is what I'll be packing.
    9. Misc Tee shirts- I live in tanks and tees in the summer so I will be bringing a wide range of hues so I can pick what I feel like each morning.
    10. Chaser LA Beastie Boys Tee- Chaser makes a ton of vintage-y rock tees- I just like the Beastie Boys' new album so I picked this one.
    11. RUNWAYDREAMZ Vintage Dyed Studded Short - Just too cool to pass up.
    12. Hair Cuff- I love pony tails and this looked like the perfect accessory to dress up my usual 'do.
    13. Cynthia Vincent Dress- This is the perfect flowy Maxi dress, and best of all it's not too long so you don't have to worry about people stepping on it.
    14. Mulberry Satchel- a cute crossbody bag that's small enough for moshpitts but big enough to store all your goodies.

    Tuesday, January 17, 2012

    Daycation to Mill Valley

    The other week the boyfriend and I went on the perfect outing- have you ever been to Mill Valley?
    It isn't too far of a drive for us, just a little north of San Francisco across the bridge
    We decided to eat at this amazing place with a menu filled with good for you foods. They boast that their chicken is free range, their food is organic, nothing is treated with added hormones, everything is made fresh daily and even their to-go cartons are biodegradable. They really go out of their way to make you feel like your doing a good thing just by being their customer. You can't help but feel like your making a positive change to yourself and the environment just by eating there. The little restaurant is located on the boarder of Mill Valley and Tam Valley- appropriately named Cafe Del Soul.

    Yes, I can honestly tell you that the food was Ah-MAZE-ING!!

    I decided to get the Cilantro lime-alicious brown rice wrap filled with all kinds of goodies and my boyfriend got the Thai Terrific rice dish (He was nice enough to share a bite- and boy was it tasty). I also tried their pumpkin soup, which was a special for the day- but their soups change often so I'm sure it will cycle again with all this cold weather rolling in. I love finding hidden gems like this spot and it's especially better when I feel good eating there. Eating healthy is really important but sometimes it's difficult when you go out to eat at restaurants. This spot took the guesswork out of the equation and made it so their guests had nothing but healthy items to choose from.



    After lunch we went to Stinson Beach, which was a gorgeous drive to the coast and the little town was even cuter. I could say it was the epitome of your Northern California beach town- laid back, slow moving, filled with touristy shops, fun little bars and other eateries.

    We decided to share one of their world famous (almost) soft serve ice cream cones. As you can see from the photo above... well the line speaks for itself. We took it onto the dog friendly beach, what a plus! And watched the gorgeous sunset melt behind the ocean line. Maddie had some fun on the sand too- she is a true California girl, she loves the beach!


    This is just a photo I took of an old mailbox hidden in the trees. Nothing special, but it was unique in its hiding spot. I like the rust showing through the old paint.


     So when you feel like you need a break from your everyday routine, you should check out some of the neighboring cities where you live. Take a chance, you're sure to see or experience something new. Where are some of the places you like to explore where you live?

    Friday, January 13, 2012

    Quite literally the perfect cookie

    So I have already shared with you that I have a love for sweet things... but with that comes extra trans fat, processed sugar and carbs which is NO BEUNO!! While reading the other week I came across a recipe for a delicious no guilt chocolate chip cookie.

    Coming from a sugar fanatic I was sceptical at first too, but I made them the other day and they were fantastic. These cookies are made with nuts- no wheat- so you don't have to worry about the added carbs or gluten. The fat that is present is from the nuts and nut fats are good fats- they're unsaturated and have Omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, Vitamin E, plant sterols and l-arginin. Read about the benefits here. There isn't much extra sugar, only from the dates and chocolate chips. I used dark chocolate chips, but you can use what you like.

    here's the recipe
    • 4 dates, pits removed
    • 1 1/2 cup walnuts
    • 1/2 cup pecans
    • 1 tsp baking soda
    • 1/8 teaspoon salt
    • 2 tablespoons coconut oil
    • 1 egg
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla
    • 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
    • 1/4 – 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
    Instructions:
    Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
    Grind dates in the food processor until a paste forms, about 40 seconds. Add walnuts and pecans and blend until very finely chopped, about 35 seconds. Add baking soda and salt and pulse a few more times.



    Warm the coconut oil so it is in liquid form. With the food
     processor running, drizzle it into the batter with the egg
    and vanilla. Stop mixing as soon as the egg and oil are
    blended in.
                                                






    Scrape the batter into a bowl and stir in coconut and chocolate chips by hand. The dough will be sticky and wet. Drop 12 portions of the dough onto a cookie sheet, then flatten slightly with your fingers.

    Finished!!
    Bake 15 minutes, or until nicely browned.

    Pour yourself a glass of vanilla Soy milk, dunk, and enjoy!!

    Or if the Mother Teresa inside of you breaks loose- package them up and give them to friends



    picture 1,2,3,4

    Thursday, January 12, 2012

    Get on my level..






    Thank you very much I'll go ahead and accept the praise from Women's Health Magazine.
    San Jose California (and areas surrounding) was rated number 2 on their list for healthiest cities for women. From their surveys it showed that  it is highest for overall fitness and women in the area are ranked number 1 for running, swimming, and weight lifting. Pretty impressive. Stats also show that San Jose has a very low death rate from chronic lower-respiratory disease, which is a big threat in females. For more information about the top 10 list and to see where your city is at go to Womens Health for the article.


    But really who could argue... We have over 300 gorgeous days of sunshine each year.. even today
    in January it is going to be a beautiful 65 degree day, perfect cardigan weather. I prefer working out outside when the weather/timing is right. I have a 9-5 so I usually get my cardio on using a treadmill because it's too dark to run outside... but when April rolls around- a good run through the city and Japantown while the sun rises is what I crave. So, whatever your doin'- keep at it, because we want that #1 spot next year!!

    What are some of your favorite outdoor activities?




    Womens Health
    San Jose Facts
    Picture 1
    Picture 2

    Wednesday, January 11, 2012

    San Pedro Square Market Review






    All right, so last time I told you about date night and introduced the new Public Market. I have officially tried every place inside (update: NOT the Little Chef Counter- its always closed when I go) and I really like all of them.

    Listed in order of visit...

    San Pedro Square Market Bar- had a delicious lemon drop martini. Sweet with a little punch of sour taste.. sugar 'round the rim and a little fresh lemon squeeze.. also the Whisky Sour is strong  but smooth.. also tastes good with the lemon squeeze.

    Pizza Bocca Lupo- We have tried the margherita (tomato sauce, motz and basil) and the Diviola (spicy peppers, sausage, spices) The flew the wodd burning oven FROM Italy,, so cool. The crust is uber thin and extra crispy (which I like) The pies cook fast so you get your food quick.. really really good!!

    B2 Coffee Shop- I went one morning after a workout and it was just what I craved. I got the Madagascar Vanillia non fat latte and it was fabulous. The flavoring was so creamy and light but it was different from regular vanillia syrup. They even have latte art, cute <3

    Vino Vino Wine Bar- Right now our favorite ‘indulgence spot’. A glass of any of their wines and a panini or salad are sure to please- I like the Nutella, Peanut Butter and Banana Panini (hey, I did say indulgent!) and the blend white wine- its sweeter so it balances the panini well. The Ahi Salad is delicious and crisp and fresh. I have also tried the brie cheese and ham panini- that was tasty too. I dont think any will disappoint.

    Robbees Falafel- I got the falafel salad but I also tried the falafel sandwich, which is made with lavash bread. They have pickles and peppers in their wraps and their sauces are amazing for on top. But the kicker is their Baklava. Homemade.. and you can taste it. The flavor is sweet and you can taste the honey but there is another sweet flavor that I can't put my finger on... but its good!!

    You have to check it out when you get a chance...
    What do you hope to open there? I want a fresh flower shop!!

    San Pedro Square Market

                           


    As you can see from the first pictures, San Jose has changed quite a bit since it’s early years. Back in the early 1960’s, downtown was a bustling community with all of the staple department stores; JC Pennys, Sears, Harts, independent family owned businesses and numerous large hotel chains.

    Unfortunately, when Valley Fair opened in 1956 it started to pull business and shops from the downtown district and it got slower and quieter. Now, the City has invested in bringing it back to life with the help of popular new restaurants (PF Changs, Billy Berks, Mezcal, and Phillz Coffee- just to name a few). The popularity of the Sharks can also be credited as a major influence to the returning nightlife, or any event taking place at HP Pavilion for that matter. And lets not forget the SF 49ers will be moving in close proximity starting 2013. The other week when we were watching the game at home, I had to pick up take-out and it took me 30 minutes just to drive 1.5 miles, traffic and pedestrians EVERYWHERE!  But I’m happy, I want downtown to prosper and grow and bring new life.


    I am in LOVE with one of the new attractions that just opened up in downtown San Jose. The Public Market of San Pedro Square project was completed in October of 2011, and slowly but surely new businesses and restaurants have opened their doors one by one. When I visited Pikes Place in Seattle for the first time, I instantly loved it, now every time we visit that city its a staple visit. I like the open air farmers market, the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, the colorful bunches of flowers and all the tasty treats.


    The San Pedro Square Market will have the same vibe once its filled and busy, but it takes time to grow something successful (trust me, it will be). This place is prime real estate, everyone I know loves the restaurants and bars on San Pedro Square at anytime of day- they already have a full farmers market on Fridays, running April - December. When the two join forces this coming spring, I see nothing but success.



    What do you do when you aren’t expecting company and you have nothing to serve…


    So the other night we were just hanging out at home and the bf tells me that some friends were coming over to watch the UFC fight. He told them that they needed to bring stuff.. but in guys’ minds that means beer? Which wouldn’t be so bad, except for the fact that I literally had nothing in the house to feed anyone. Good thing one gf brought some yummy snacks to share, but there were 14 of them.. So let me tell you a great idea to make this an effortless transition to a “happy tummy” situation.


    The cake mixes in the baking section are a wonderful thing to have on hand.. and the best part is they’re relatively cheep so it wont break the bank if you throw a couple in your cart. And there is such a variety there is something for everyone..gluten free, vegan, w or w/o nuts, low sodium, low fat, blueberry, banana nut, chocolate chip, double chocolate fudge with peanut butter (not that I know that flavor @ all).. you name it, they make it. I usually keep two flavors of something in the pantry because they’re easy and quick to make.


    That night I grabbed a Pumpkin Spice Quick bread… it can be used as several different recipes; bread, waffels, muffins and I think a few others but I dont really want to get up to check, sorry. I pulled out muffin tins because that would be easy to serve. I had the required vegetable oil and eggs (which are both staples in my house too) and I whipped them up in less then 20 minutes. While they were baking I used cream cheese frosting that my sister made, but all it is is (8oz)cream cheese and (1/2cup)powdered sugar, easy! I added nuts to some cakes and dark/white chocolate chips to others and left some plain.


    I pulled them out and let them cool on a baking sheet, then I piped the frosting through a plastic sandwich bag onto each cake, finally I smeared the frosting around with a knife to give it better coverage. I served them and they were a hit, even the 5 year old who was there loved them.. and kids don’t lie. Everyone got the flavor they wanted, YAY. So my ‘hosting’ advice to you is to get a few to stash away in the cupboard for a rainy day. I promise it will come in handy next time you have an unexpected crowd.

    20 THINGS YOU WOULDNT KNOW ABOUT ME…

    I love reading magazines where you get to know the inside scoop about people.. ya know the stuff that you wouldn’t normally know. Like how Brandyis an a World of Warcraft video game fanatic or how Elizabeth Taylor got into an accident in her early 20’s and almost lost an eye and a leg or that Stevie Nicks loves cartoons or that Zooey Deschanel’s first acting roll was Little Red Riding Hood?? So many cool things ;)
    So since I’m new to the blog world I thought it might be interesting to make a post about that. The 20 things you don’t know about me…
    1. I’m really bossy, and sometimes (ok a lotta times) I have to secretly remind myself to not be so controlling..
    2. Mango and raspberries are my favorite fruits. With all of the powerful health benefits, I cant help but feel like I just did my body a favor after noshing on either one.
    3. A perfect day for me would be to be lazy in bed till 9, go for a run, get ready and hit the road with my hunny and my bunny to some city/place we’ve never been before and enjoy the scenery & take some fun photos. Then swing by Willow Glen Frozen Yogurt for some Wow Cow (dairy AND guilt free!!)
    4. I Rarely complain about things (no one wants to hear it anyway) EXCEPT when plans don’t go as planned… see #1 above.
    5. Joanna is seriously such a cool girl- fashion, creativity, looks, sarcasm and a great Blog- shes got it all lol. Check out her blog Style Porn for some fun inspirations or a good laugh.
    6. I am weirdly obsessed with anything sweet- my boyfriend even says I need to go to therapy… but I shop @ that store already?
    7. I am really goofy… I get it from my dad. I have grown up a jokester and I will die one-
    8. If someone were to buy me roses of course I would love them… but I would ALWAYS prefer sunflowers.
    9. I am REALLY good at the out of state license plate game.. ya I’ll bruise you..
    10. Unfortunately, my dog IS cuter than yours… and most people agree when they meet her.
    11. My sister and I are twins who are separated by four years. I consider her my best friend because she knows pretty much everything about me, but maybe she’ll learn something new after reading this.
    12. Ever since I started working in Los Gatos about 5 years ago, I have fallen in love with banana cake from Icing on the Cake Bakery.
    13. I really love a good book.. I’m finishing the 3rd book in the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo series. I find Lisbeth Salander to be very interesting.
    14. I was a late bloomer when it came to make up products. I didn’t start wearing it till I was 18- till this day I’m still a fresh face kind of girl. I often go without makeup… I think my skin likes it too! but if I had to choose my favorite brand, I’m definitely a Benefit girl. Local and no animal testing :)
    15. I love rap music… Mac Dre all day.
    16. I think that volunteering is a wonderful way to spend my time. On Christmas morning my boyfriend and I went to the homeless shelter and brought breakfast. awwww…
    17. I love buying boots… maybe a little too much. But they dress up a pair of jeans and a top so nicely.. its effortless chic.
    18. Besides the occasional shopping spree I prefer to spend my money on vacations- the memories you make while on one will never go out of style. The above photo with with my boyfriend on a diving cruise in Maui.
    19. I LOVE bikram yoga. This is the grand opening of a studio in my hometown… I’m on the left in the purple top.

    1. I’m pretty sure I’ll see a zombie apocalypse in my lifetime… Ive seen all the zombie movies so I’m ready with my flame-throwers and face makeup (so I can blend in).
    There you have it folks.. 20 things the average person would never have guessed...
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