tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34593583048297465912024-03-13T14:30:16.191-07:00from–The Lion's DenAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.comBlogger98125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-29460790383085276932014-08-20T13:50:00.003-07:002014-08-20T13:50:34.115-07:00I've Moved!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg40EL2GsOzAOWzTRQ7qTS9xrarlX1m2kS3C0S9TdeW7UaGQkACRYPgMbSp77dLZyLmt7o9-2BeSjILmezOd1L3AmQcYo24HdVLeuNX0QHLszkcmgf8qNttY-tADloV6akj02_YP-rUgj3q/s1600/DSC04560+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg40EL2GsOzAOWzTRQ7qTS9xrarlX1m2kS3C0S9TdeW7UaGQkACRYPgMbSp77dLZyLmt7o9-2BeSjILmezOd1L3AmQcYo24HdVLeuNX0QHLszkcmgf8qNttY-tADloV6akj02_YP-rUgj3q/s1600/DSC04560+copy.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm excited that after <i>a lot</i> of work, I've finally finished transferring my blog info to it's new home! </div>
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<i>applause</i></div>
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Come visit me at the new www.from-TheLionsDen.com (or try www.fromthelionsdenblog.com)!</div>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-7459779664054192792014-08-18T12:07:00.000-07:002014-08-18T12:07:30.098-07:00Weekend Snapshots<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="snapshot" border="0" height="417" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3880/14774745928_14094e3c18_z.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">new <a href="http://www.katespade.com/home-stationery/ks-accessories-stationery,en_US,sc.html" target="_blank">Kate Spade</a> stationary goodies</td></tr>
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<a name='more'></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="8.16.3" border="0" height="499" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5553/14958293381_96e7178d54_z.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">continuing to enjoy summer deliciousness</td></tr>
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Here are some snapshots from the past weekend. I had an amazing time camping and I can't wait to fill you all in with more details (and a list of my camping necessities!) later this week.</div>
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<img alt="DSC04285" border="0" height="426" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5583/14938190776_f4960c71c0_z.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">stunning views from the top of Big Bear mountain</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="big bear" height="480" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3904/14938368936_e58497c459_z.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big Bear Lake</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="DSC04270" height="426" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5563/14961186235_d9df7bf488_z.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">rediscovering my love of (and anxiety from) rock-climbing</td></tr>
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Now, you all enjoy these photos while I reapply aloe vera onto my many sunburns.<br />
My shoulders...<i>ouchie</i>.</div>
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<img alt="8.16.1" height="425" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5558/14742051848_5c381e52d7_z.jpg" width="640" /> </div>
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Yet another perfect way to utilize all those perfect farmer's market finds. I'm so happy to be back in a state where summer never ends. </div>
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<img alt="8.16.2" height="425" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3839/14905669366_d361ca95ec_z.jpg" width="640" />
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Summer calls for the beach and fantastic produce. This salad lets you enjoy the latter without embarrassing yourself at the former. <i>Winning</i>.</div>
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<b>PEACHY SUMMER SALAD</b></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">yield: 1 salad</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">time: 15 mins (20 mins with chicken)</span></div>
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INGREDIENTS:</div>
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1/2 Cup peach, diced (half a large peach)</div>
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1/4 Cup sweet corn kernels </div>
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1 1/2 Cup greens of your choice (spinach, baby romaine, arugula, etc.)</div>
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1 Tbs balsamic vinegar</div>
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2 Tbs extra virgin olive oil</div>
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1/4-1/2 tsp dijon mustard</div>
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pinch of salt & pepper</div>
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INSTRUCTIONS:</div>
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<ol>
<li>In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, mustard, and salt and pepper (start seasoning with a pinch each, then after the dressing is done, add more to taste if necessary).</li>
<li>Add about half a tablespoon to the balsamic mixture and whisk again to start the emulsification. Continuing to whisk, slowly drizzle in the rest of the olive oil. Continue to whisk until it all comes together. It should happen rather quickly. Slowly and gradually drizzling in the oil ensures that the vinaigrette will stay together.</li>
<li>Either toss the greens in the vinaigrette or drizzle the vinaigrette over the greens. </li>
<li>Sprinkle the peach and corn over the greens. Add roasted chicken breast, if desired. </li>
<li><b>For the chicken</b>: Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Place a chicken breast onto a baking sheet. Drizzle 1 Tbs oil (canola, vegetable, or extra virgin olive oil work great) over the chicken breast and toss to evenly cover the chicken with the oil. Sprinkle a couple pinches of salt and pepper over the chicken. Roast for 12-20 min depending on the size/thickness of the chicken breast. When done, the chicken will bounce back when poked and the juices will run clear. Slice and serve atop the salad.</li>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-24582567220616644992014-08-15T10:49:00.000-07:002014-08-15T10:49:13.826-07:00Fitness Friday?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvdxbviEpH8xdLehze3IIXbcIXDWIummtsmqoc3_TKaajd7FlrYnRgWoQ2bmA-rfzbipoD4u1GNkGnJNfNxjxflDLIoYnYd9cpdIOnpkr2H_q_RTSpGHlhWuxacrXyKI_W164cImjAG6ya/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-08-15+at+10.43.46+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvdxbviEpH8xdLehze3IIXbcIXDWIummtsmqoc3_TKaajd7FlrYnRgWoQ2bmA-rfzbipoD4u1GNkGnJNfNxjxflDLIoYnYd9cpdIOnpkr2H_q_RTSpGHlhWuxacrXyKI_W164cImjAG6ya/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-08-15+at+10.43.46+AM.png" height="452" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Health Hazards of Sitting - source: <a href="http://apps.washingtonpost.com/g/page/national/the-health-hazards-of-sitting/750/" target="_blank">The Washington Post</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There are tons of articles out there about the dangers of sitting. I believed them, but it wasn't until now that I <i>really</i> believed them. Because I've finally realized that the last two months of me sitting on my ass screwed. me. up.<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br />
As you all probably noticed, I've been neglecting my Fitness Fridays for a while and that's because I honestly had nothing to report. I know being busy shouldn't be an excuse to neglect your health but I can't deny that I let it get the best of me. I want to say studying for the bar is just different from business from work or school, but that's mostly because I'm trying to convince myself that I won't let this happen again.<br />
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I wouldn't say I was in tip top shape before studying began, but I definitely wasn't horribly out of shape. Now... well, I've never felt like this before. Lunges are difficult. I could do about half the amount of pushups I could do before. I'm breathing a lot harder. Body fat > muscle mass. <i>ugh</i>.<br />
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But I'm slowly but surely trying to get back into my fitness groove. Now that the bar is over, I have more time in the day to work on my health. On Wednesday, I went to a yoga class at a local studio, <a href="http://www.blackdogyoga.net/" target="_blank">Black Dog Yoga</a>. I went to the Mindful Body Sculpt class and I every part of my body is still sore. Our instructor, Chappell Westlake (you can find her on YouTube <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/chappellwestlake" target="_blank">here</a>), had us use yoga blocks, a purple ball, resistance bands, free weights, and sliders to work EVERYTHING. Lunges, balance moves, arm/shoulder/back/leg moves with the resistance bands, mountain climbers, BURPEES, planks, bridges, and a bunch of other stuff with titles I'm unaware. Long story short: it was hard, but really good.<br />
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Another really great (and really hard) fitness find? <a href="http://www.fitsugar.com/photo-gallery/35455501/Do-Anywhere-Bikini-Circuit" target="_blank">FitSugar's Bikini Circuit</a>.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
I need a foam roller. My body...ouch.</div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 32px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 24px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/" style="background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 32px; line-height: 0; min-height: 20px; min-width: 40px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 24px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-21477715839052841312014-08-12T10:16:00.000-07:002014-08-12T10:20:26.546-07:00Peach Mango Smoothie<img alt="8.12.3" height="426" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5592/14711263679_2c77913bc6_z.jpg" width="640" />
<br />
Leftovers from the farmer's market are still standing strong. Well, they were. Until they were liquified in a blender and drunk by yours truly.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<img alt="8.8" height="889" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3844/14710983290_4fec210c59_o.jpg" width="650" /><br />
I visited the Philippines about 7 years ago (holy crap, it's been a while) and I quickly discovered it is mango nation. We literally had mango at every meal. Mango smoothies for breakfast (with eggs and rice), freshly cut mango for dessert after lunch, mango shakes at dinner. I would call it an overflow of mango but I only wanted more. The mangos there aren't the regular mangos here. They're the smaller, skinnier, wholly orange and <i>much</i> sweeter. They have a similar variety available in the US but they aren't nearly as good as the ones in the Philippines. Long story short, I LOVE mango and can readily eat it everyday. I just wish I could teleport over the ones from the other side of the Pacific.<br />
<img alt="8.12.4" height="287" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3921/14711693498_6d0381c45a_o.jpg" width="650" />
<img alt="8.12.2" height="976" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3836/14874919406_f16c6fb418_o.jpg" width="650" /><br />
With my tropical memories associated with mango, of course I had to add a good spoonful of coconut to this smoothie. Feel free to omit (or add more). Or add protein for a filling breakfast.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>PEACH MANGO SMOOTHIE</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">yield: 1 large smoothie or 2 small smoothies</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">prep time: 10 min</span></div>
<br />
INGREDIENTS<br />
<br />
1/2 Cup yellow peach, diced<br />
1/2 Cup mango, diced<br />
1 medium banana<br />
1 Tbs coconut<br />
1 Cup almond milk (or regular milk)<br />
1 Cup ice cubes<br />
<br />
INSTRUCTIONS<br />
<ol>
<li>Break up the banana into thirds, or smaller.</li>
<li>Throw all ingredients into a blender. </li>
<li>Blend until smooth.</li>
<li>Drink the goodness!</li>
</ol>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Delicious and couldn't be easier. Perfect, I know.<br />
<br /></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-1247803952320766312014-08-11T00:05:00.000-07:002014-08-11T08:25:25.926-07:00Bro Town and Tacos<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="DSC04047" height="426" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5590/14882112312_1edc75263e_z.jpg" width="640" />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Typically, those who finish the bar go on "bar trips" to somewhere tropical, exotic, and/or out of the country. My broke ass? I went to San Diego. And you know what? I loved every minute of it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><h4>
Opt Out of the Best Western.</h4>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Let me tell you all about my major fail. Like I said, I'm a broke ass (not working, or getting student loans, for the past three months has not been very lucrative) so for our first night in SD I booked an affordable room. In this weekend's experience, "affordable" was tantamount to shitty. I was foolishly wooed by the free continental breakfast, then was broken-hearted by the repulsiveness of the room itself. Some friends call me bougie; I call myself moderately germaphobic. I guess I would've been okay had a cloud of cigarette odor not immediately engulfed us as we opened the room door. <i>Foul</i>. I also could have done without the guy in the next room screaming at his wife/gf/Tinder victim throughout the night. (Not that I could sleep anyway, what with the carcinogens ruining my insides.)</div>
<h4>
It gets better.</h4>
<div>
We started the day off on a walk around a lake we just happened to stumble upon. There were a lot of people taking advantage of the track circling the lake...running, cycling, walking with dogs or kids. It made me rather disappointed there isn't something comparable in LA. At least nothing comparable that isn't ridiculously inconvenient due to parking/traffic issues....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="8.11" height="954" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5561/14879663371_df7c8354ab_o.jpg" width="650" />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Weird thing though... We came across this weird <i>thing</i> hanging from a tree branch. I can only describe it as a jailhouse art piece. They were cheap razors wrapped in paper, flowers...just weird shit. It was incredibly creepy, but I was intrigued. Almost as intrigued as by this snail that made its way all the way up branches skinnier than the snail itself. Maybe this is only interesting to me... sorry.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="DSC04043" height="426" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3836/14882117202_f2baed6fc0_z.jpg" width="640" />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">tank: <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/shamika-tank-cheap-monday/vp/v=1/1540138946.htm?folderID=2534374302168484&fm=other-shopbysize-viewall&colorId=17966" target="_blank">Cheap Monday</a> | sunglasses: <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/harvest-sunglasses-karen-walker/vp/v=1/1566663942.htm?folderID=2534374302162611&fm=other-viewall&colorId=12867" target="_blank">Karen Walker</a> | shorts: Madewell (<a href="https://www.madewell.com/madewell_category/PANTSSHORTS/shorts/PRDOVR~A5507/A5507.jsp" target="_blank">similar</a>)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="DSC04038" height="426" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5569/14695815059_73e1c17d82_z.jpg" width="640" />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I don't know how many of you watch The Killing, but this lake totally reminded me of that show. Peaceful thoughts, right?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="DSC04053" height="426" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5576/14695766640_b3fcbfd8c5_z.jpg" width="640" />
</div>
<h4>
The Broiest Place In the World.</h4>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I haven't been to the beach all summer, which is a damn shame, so we decided to head to the beach and figure out what to eat for lunch once we got there. It was a great plan, actually. The closest, and apparently most hoppin', beach in the area was Pacific Beach. Okay, so this probably wasn't THE broiest place in the world, but I'm sure it's top ten. Party city. It was a lot to take in, but I decided to just let sleeping dogs lie and went with it. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="8.10.2" height="980" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5567/14696279279_1a859a61fd_o.jpg" width="650" />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We stumbled upon a taco place that had a special on 32oz margaritas. Seemed pretty appropriate. We shared a Patron watermelon margarita, blended (because blended is fun), and it tasted nothing like watermelon. The tacos made up for it though, so I didn't mind. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I got the Surf n Turf tacos - shrimp and carne asada - and they were exactly what I needed in San Diego. I mean, you can't go to SD and not get mexican food. And you can't go to the beach and not get seafood. So surf n turf tacos was a big D.U.H. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="DSC04054" height="426" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3887/14695799089_d8ef907a47_z.jpg" width="640" />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The crappy part of the trip was that the beach was pretty overcast and not all that warm. It was good enough, but the only thing missing from the quintessential southern California day. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="DSC04057" height="426" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3923/14695902367_353f1c340a_z.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
The only thing better than tacos is an afternoon siesta under a tree. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
After our nap, naturally, we ended up at a brewery. We went to Urbn St. Brewery, which I wouldn't necessarily recommend if you're looking for great beer (we didn't eat dinner there). Urbn's beer is alright, but they do have other great beers available. I'd go more for the ambiance, but opt for an alternative. (Stone or Green Flash would've been better options.)</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
But all in all, it was a great day and I loved every minute of it.<br />
I hope you all's weekends were just as joyful!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-3524776186855617392014-08-08T10:31:00.003-07:002014-08-08T10:31:34.633-07:00Whole Wheat Flaxseed Tortillas...or pita bread?<img alt="8.8.1" height="426" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3871/14837574966_aa36172e78_z.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<br />
Here's just a really quick recipe to get you through your weekend get together. Homemade tortillas?? Oh you fancy, huh?...your guests will say. "Yes," you would reply, with a satisfied grin adorning your beautiful face. And if you aren't into praise or showing off, make them anyway cus they're tasty and will actually make those tacos, nachos, burritos, etc. just a little more guilt-free. Which gives some calorie wiggle room for margaritas.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>I was actually forced to make these the other way when I made <a href="http://www.from-thelionsden.com/2014/08/shrimp-squash-blossom-ceviche.html" target="_blank">this ceviche</a> and forgot to buy the chips. I also forgot to buy cilantro and red onion, but that's a different story. I've actually been interested in making these for a while so I was a bit grateful when the opportunity was rather forced upon me.<br />
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I saw <a href="http://hilahcooking.com/how-to-make-tortillas/" target="_blank">this</a> recipe on Hilah Cooking and tweaked it a bit. Hope you guys like it! As you can see, there's no need to pay too much attention to uniformity. Roll the balls into whatever size you desire and just cook accordingly. Also, I was feeling a bit lazy and didn't put in the extra effort of rolling these out extra thin, like regular tortillas. Rather, I left them a bit thick, and they came out kinda like pita bread. But shit.. I'm not mad at it.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>WHOLE WHEAT FLAXSEED TORTILLAS</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Adapted from <a href="http://hilahcooking.com/how-to-make-tortillas/" target="_blank">Hilah Cooking</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Serves: 3-4 (approx. 10 tortillas)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">prep time: 40 min | cook time: 10 min</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">total time: 50 min</span></div>
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INGREDIENTS</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
1 Cup whole wheat flour</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1 Cup all purpose flour</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
2 Tbs flaxseeds</div>
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1 1/2 tsp baking powder</div>
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1/2 tsp salt</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
2 Tbs extra virgin olive oil</div>
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3/4 Cup almond milk, room temperature (you can also use regular milk)</div>
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INSTRUCTIONS </div>
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<ol>
<li>Combine all the dry ingredients. Combine wet ingredients in a separate cup. Combine the wet mixture with the dry ingredients to form a soft dough. </li>
<li>Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 2-3 minutes, until the dough is elastic and no longer sticky.</li>
<li>Put the dough back into your mixing bowl and cover with a damp cloth or paper towel for 30 minutes.</li>
<li>Divide the dough into ten equal parts and roll into balls. Place balls onto a plate, cover with the same cloth or paper towel as before, and allow to rest for 10 minutes. </li>
<li>Onto a floured surface, roll each ball into flat, tortilla-like circles. Start by pressing the ball flat, then roll out with a rolling pin starting from the middle. Rotate the dough and roll out from the middle again. Repeat until you reach your desired thickness and the tortilla is a uniform disk.</li>
<li>After a few tortillas are rolled out, heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat.</li>
<li>Once the skillet is hot, slap on a tortilla. It should take approximately 1 minute on the first side and large bubbles should form. Flip and cook approximately 30 seconds on the second side. </li>
</ol>
TO MAKE TORTILLA CHIPS:<br />
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</div>
<ol>
<li>Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. </li>
<li>Cut your cooked, soft tortillas into chips. (Cut the tortilla in half, and in half again, and again, to make 8 triangular chips.)</li>
<li>Spread onto a baking tray and bake until crispy, approx. 10-12 minutes.</li>
<li>OPTIONAL: Before baking, toss the tortilla chips in some oil. Spread the chips on the baking tray and sprinkle with flavorings, e.g. salt, salt & pepper, cayenne/chili powder, cinnamon & sugar.</li>
</ol>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy weekend!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-21632412394977216062014-08-07T00:05:00.000-07:002014-08-07T08:57:22.558-07:00Echo<img alt="photo 2" height="480" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5577/14846882214_3363c46bb9_z.jpg" width="640" />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">hat: J.Crew | top: Zara | shorts: H&M | sandals: Steve Madden</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Echo Park Lake</span></div>
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Only after moving away did I realize how much I take living in California for granted. The perfect weather, for example. Every day is a new opportunity to enjoy dry warmth and sunshine, and I never really took advantage. Since I've been in the midwest for the last three years and cooped up inside all summer, I've been yearning just a day out in the sun. So, when a friend of mine asked if I wanted to just sit in the park, I happily said yes. We grabbed some quick snacks from the closest Trader Joe's and sat and talked for hours. I filled up on Vitamin D for the first time in a while, and loved every second of it.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-75177968593045411102014-08-06T00:05:00.000-07:002014-08-06T00:05:00.192-07:00Shrimp & Squash Blossom Ceviche<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="8.6.1" height="523" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5565/14655081797_d9e4e7ba90_z.jpg" width="640" />
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One of my favorite dishes is definitely ceviche. It's fresh, citrusy, and social; simply, a combination of my favorite things. I could eat an entire bowl of this stuff, and with how healthy it is, there's no need to feel guilty when I actually do it. Perfect, right?</div>
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This was also a great way to use up some of my farmer's market goodies. Squash blossoms, for example. To be honest, I've never actually worked with them before. The only time I've ever even eaten them were in a quesadilla. The quesadilla was great, but I thought the cheese and heat overpowered the delicate squash blossoms. They ended up being a novelty rather a star ingredient. </div>
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Another, more typical, way of using squash blossoms is to stuff them with cheese and deep fry them. This was my original plan but I've eaten so shitty lately (not to mention all the celebratory drinks I've had this weekend) that I felt way too guilty about eating anything fried. Thus, the decision to use it raw as more of an herb in the freshest dish I could think of. I also served it with homemade, whole wheat tortillas/tortilla chips. Then ate it all. :)</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>SHRIMP & SQUASH BLOSSOM CEVICHE</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Adapted from <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/marcela-valladolid/shrimp-ceviche-recipe.html" target="_blank">Food Network</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">yield: approx. 4 Cups</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">prep time: 15 min | cook time: 15-25 min</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">total time: approx. 40 min</span></div>
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INGREDIENTS</div>
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1 lb. shrimp, diced</div>
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1/4 lb. cod, diced</div>
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2 avocados, diced</div>
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1/2 small red onion, diced</div>
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1 Cup tomatoes</div>
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1 1/4 Cup lime juice (approx. 8 limes), divided</div>
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8 squash blossoms, chopped<br />
3 Tbs cilantro, chopped<br />
1 jalapeño, minced</div>
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salt, to taste</div>
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INSTRUCTIONS</div>
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<ol>
<li>Clean shrimp, making sure to remove the shells and devein. Clean cod, making sure to remove any lingering bones and discarding the blood line (the reddish area of the meat). Dice.</li>
<li>Combine diced shrimp and cod with 1/2-3/4 lime juice. Let marinate and "cook" for 15-25 minutes until the meat is opaque. </li>
<li>While the shrimp and cod cook, prepare the remaining ingredients. Combine the avocado, onion, tomatoes, squash blossoms, and jalapeño with the remaining lime juice.</li>
<li>Combine the cooked meat mixture with the rest of the ingredients. </li>
<li>Add salt to taste and serve with tortilla chips, in tortillas for tacos, or just take spoonfuls to the face. </li>
</ol>
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Enjoy!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-71405082279053608642014-08-05T10:20:00.001-07:002014-08-06T02:36:58.240-07:00Rag & Bone // Intermix <div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="8.5.1" height="961" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3885/14857251683_5abc0b3f8e_o.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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The only thing better than Rag & Bone jeans are distressed Rag & Bone jeans. And the only thing better than that? Distressed Rag & Bone jeans on sale. I've always loved Intermix, but an <i>extra 50% off </i>all sale items just steals my heart. I got these lovelies for about a third of the price. And they have ankle zipper details. Done.<br />
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Jeans no longer available at Intermix, but still available at <a href="http://www.shopbop.com/zipper-capri-jean-rag-bone/vp/v=1/1524207584.htm?folderID=2534374302025763&fm=other-shopbysize-chosen-brand-viewall&colorId=48036" target="_blank">Shopbop</a> in <i>plenty</i> of sizes.<br />
Shop the sale <a href="http://www.intermixonline.com/category/sale/all.do?nType=1" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-47258158904720347272014-08-04T00:05:00.000-07:002014-08-04T00:05:00.318-07:00Freedom<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="8.3.2" height="426" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5586/14824409462_4c170aaff7_z.jpg" width="640" />
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I can't tell you how great it feels to <i>finally </i>be back in the real world. It's been too long.<br />
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You all have already heard enough about how I've been studying for the bar exam and how much that blows. But I can FINALLY say... it's over. IT'S. OVER. The test was last week: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday. Six hours a day of pure testing. I won't get into the nasty details, just know it totally sucked. But to be done. It feels <u>amazing</u>. I can't emphasize it enough. The ability to sit, not think about law, and NOT feel incredibly guilty about it...to not feel the constant feeling of stress, urgency, and panic... *long, relaxing exhale*<br />
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<img alt="8.3.3" height="917" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2896/14824287482_5aee83039a_o.jpg" width="640" />
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I can finally do things like go to brunch! Above is the vanilla yogurt french toast and Florentine Benedict from <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/blu-jam-cafe-sherman-oaks-2" target="_blank">Blue Jam Cafe</a> in Sherman Oaks, CA. Both were awesome and dishes I'd happily reorder. The wait was a bitch though, so if you visit on a weekend, be prepared for that.<br />
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<img alt="8.3.1" border="0" height="711" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2899/14638234237_3d25331e0b_o.jpg" width="640" /></div>
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Sunday morning was gloomy. Thunderstorms in LA in August? Not my ideal welcome into summer but I'll happily take what I can get. Going to the farmer's market has definitely been a lost tradition I've been eager to reinstate, so naturally I took the first chance I had to visit the Hollywood Farmer's Market. Check out these peaches, squash blossoms, corn and heirloom tomatoes as big as my face. The Hollywood Farmer's Market never disappoints.</div>
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Plus, I treated myself to some blue point oysters and a sno cone from <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/sno-con-amor-los-angeles" target="_blank">Sno-Con Amor</a>. The blackberry lemon, pineapple lime and watermelon basil flavors are awesome and perfect for such a hot day.<br />
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<img alt="8.3.5" height="380" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3845/14638068059_89da2d74b8_o.jpg" width="640" /></div>
I also tried <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/lemonade-los-angeles-13" target="_blank">Lemonade</a> for the first time. It was awesome too. I had the salmon stuffed avocado, the kale mushroom kumquat vinaigrette salad, the watermelon radish & ahi tuna salad, and the watermelon rosemary lemonade. Lemonade also has a cookbook. After eating there, I might have to buy it.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">waistcoat: Nordstrom | denim: Citizens of Humanity | purse: JCrew | heels: Miu Miu</span></div>
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I'M FREE!! (at least until if/when I have to take it again...) but for now, I'M FREE and I'm loving it.</div>
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Only in Hollywood is it ok to watch movies in a cemetery. Drunk. I highly recommend it.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">top: Zara (old) | shorts: H&M ($10!) | twist scarf: <a href="http://store.americanapparel.net/twist-scarf_rsa0506" target="_blank">American Apparel</a> | purse: J. Crew </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">watch: Marc by Marc Jacobs | shoes: ASOS</span></div>
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With all the things there are to do in LA during the summer, watching movies at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery is definitely one of my favorites. My boyfriend and I have gone for the past two years and I'm hoping to get to go again before the summer ends.</div>
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Gates open at 7pm. So we arrived at 6 and there was already a Disney-esque line waiting for us. So, we (or I) stood impatiently, debating whether to bust out the snacks early or save it for once we got inside like an adult. Reluctantly, I opted for the latter, lest I run out of snacks for the actual movie. Finally, the line started to move and we power walked to the lawn. We walked passed through the graveyard, staring at all the massive and the appropriately theatrical tombstones (including a replica of the Washington Monument). Once we found a spot on the lawn, we set up our blankets, snacks, and wine (duh). We didn't have time to go all out in the snack prep department, so I was incredibly jealous of everyone around us with their lavish appetizers and sangria. Once the bar exam is over, best believe I'm bringing sangria.<br />
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Before I get to the movie, I have to say...part of the fun is the people watching. What. the hell? There were people in formal attire - I'm talking full on suit and gold sequined dress. Another dude in a suit. A group of four women, all wearing plain black, body-con, floor length dresses, with a thigh-high slit and at least one gold accessory each. <i>Did you all plan this?? </i>I can't imagine any of those people were comfortable sitting on the ground. But soon, I too became part of the show (although appropriately dressed). </div>
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At 9pm, the movie started (Goldfinger, btw). At this point, I was about 1.5 red cups of wine down and not exactly 100%. Halfway through the movie (2 cups down), I was out cold. I always get the best sleep at my drunkest, but sleeping in a graveyard...<i>yikes</i>. The rest of the night was basically a blur but I definitely remember waking up to some guy asking my boyfriend, "Is she ok?" To which my lovely boyfriend replied, "Yeah... She's just... really drunk." GIVE ME A BREAK! I'm not on drugs, I've just been studying non-stop for weeks and got really tired! I also remember, though, looking around and realizing we were probably amongst the last 5% of people remaining. The entire lawn was practically empty. Which means that entire lawn (given we were seated towards the back) had to tip-toe around me as they left. </div>
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<i>Oops</i>. </div>
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Well, after about ten times of asking for just "three more minutes" of sleep, I finally got my intoxicated ass up and back to the car. Studying while hung over is not fun, I'll tell you that much. But would I do it all again? Yup. Especially since it was my last night out for a while. Now back to the grind...</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-1256328666556169872014-07-15T00:04:00.000-07:002014-07-15T00:04:21.641-07:00Recipe: Coconut Blueberry Pancakes<div style="text-align: center;">
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Summer sundays call for blueberry pancakes...with a tropical twist, of course.</div>
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I don't know about you, but I love watching shows like Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives and Man v Food. The burgers, the bbq, the ice cream, the comfort food...I'm salivating just thinking about it. But what never really gets me are those humungous pancakes. I know you're pickin up what I'm puttin down. Those pancakes that are served on pizza pans. Why?? I guess it's fun to eat something that obnoxious for breakfast (hopefully shared amongst a few friends) but I'd rather save my table space, thank you. What I love when it comes to breakfast is definitely thick, fluffy pancakes, stacked high so every bite can't help but be a fork full. These definitely fit the bill.</div>
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These are a bit of a take on some coconut crusted french toast I had a while back. The coconut (especially the sweetened variety) leaves a perfect caramelly, tropical touch to your typical pancakes. That paired with the slight tartness in the blueberries makes for a damn good start to the day.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-65238776704787967132014-07-09T00:05:00.000-07:002014-07-09T01:03:09.178-07:00Here Comes the Sun<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>rings</b>: COS</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>– SHOP THIS LOOK –</b></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">I've been a huge sucker for zipper details lately. I've acquired quite a few jeans with zippers at the ankles, jackets with zipper details at the cuffs, purses with contrasting zippers...you name it. I've fallen in love with some zippered heels by Saint Laurent, but alas, I wasn't able to find them on sale (c'mon, I sure as hell can't afford them full price). There were also some great Zara ankle boots with zipper details that resembled some great Giuseppe Zanottis. Missed out on those too. Whatever, seeing as how I don't have enough closet space for the shoes I already own, I don't think I'm at a huge loss here.</span></div>
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I've also been all about neon details. Hence, these heels! I had been looking for a great pair of obnoxiously yellow heels for quite some time, and I got these beauties on major sale from JCrew, but not easily. Months ago, I ordered these shoes online, got the confirmation email, got super excited... only to get a phone call a few days later that they ran out of the shoes and weren't able to fulfill my order! WHAT?! I was so disappointed and scoured the internet for another pair of yellow heels but nothing struck my fancy as much as these did.
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Fortunately, they somehow restocked! I guess some people returned theirs? So I snapped them up and kept my fingers crossed that I wouldn't get another cancelation. And HURRAH! they're mine now. The only problem is that they aren't the most comfortable shoes in the world. I don't know about you guys but I always tend to have problems with JCrew shoes. Apparently my feet are too wide and my ankles and are too cankley for the JCrew designers. But I'm making do. Because they're pretty.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-69425011465268463662014-07-07T00:05:00.000-07:002014-07-07T00:05:00.391-07:00A Small Lesson in Baking<img alt="DSC03636" height="426" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2923/14406673967_e93b23c092_z.jpg" width="640" /><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Just listen to Julia.</span></div>
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When speaking to people or simply browsing food blogs, it's easy to see there are generally two types of people: the cooks and the bakers. Whether you do both at times doesn't <i>really</i> matter; it's a matter of where your heart truly lies. Me? I'm all about cooking. I do bake, but it's because, I mean, I love dessert. Plus, I tweak recipes to make them just a <i>tad </i>healthier, just so I don't feel as bad about eating them - i.e. replacing AP flour with whole wheat, oil for butter, etc.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">...what I neglected to see was the ever so critical alert: </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><i>you will need to make <u>five</u> 9-inch cakes</i>.</span> </span></div>
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But because I'm not much of a baker, I tend to....screw things up from time to time. I have Julia Child's <u>Mastering the Art of French Cooking</u> and one of the first things she says is to read the entire recipe before beginning anything. See, I'm more of a skimmer. So when I went to the grocery store and hurriedly checked off my ingredients list then set out to start baking on Friday morning, I was kicking myself for not reading<a href="http://food52.com/recipes/28811-american-flag-cake" target="_blank"> this recipe from Food52</a> more thoroughly. I got all the ingredients, but what I neglected to see was the ever so critical notice: <i>you will need to make five 9-inch cakes</i>. F&#K! In my own defense, this little caveat was included in the "Author's Notes" section, which I mean... cmon! Who reads those?!<br />
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It being the morning of the Fourth, I knew the grocery store would be too crowded and hectic for me to sanely tolerate so I made do with whatever I had substitution-wise. Almond milk to replace at least some of the buttermilk? yeah, ok. Oil to tap in for some butter so I'd have enough for the buttercream? Yep. Not enough raspberries? I'll just make "stripes" like a flag... (Ok, so the berries weren't even part of the recipe but my cake decorator alter ego went a little rogue.)<br />
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All in all, the cake turned out pretty well. Sorry I couldn't get a better picture of the inside. I took the thing to a party and was too afraid I'd ruin it if I attempted to cut it before the big reveal. I couldn't risk three hours of hard work! I just couldn't!<br />
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Oh yeah, I also made <a href="http://fivehearthome.com/2014/01/29/cheesy-pull-apart-bread-with-bacon-garlic-cheddar-swiss/" target="_blank">this pull-apart bread</a> for an appetizer. Talk about CHEESY. The thing is, the store didn't have a bread loaf big enough for the recipe, but I stuck to the rest of the recipe. Basically, there was twice as much cheese than there should've been. But no one complained. I sure as hell didn't. Oh, and bacon. BACON.<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Cheese AND bacon!</span></div>
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I really wish it was still the weekend. Can we just extend the Fourth of July or something? </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-54894176263966631112014-07-02T00:05:00.000-07:002014-07-02T07:13:45.125-07:00Video Recipe: Date Cacao Protein Shake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Did you guys know I have a t-rex hand? It was a surprise to me too.</div>
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I've been wanting to do a video for a while now but I've been pretty pressed for time. So pressed for time that I didn't have enough to make myself a legitimate lunch. In comes this date shake. Filling, healthy, and super quick for those extra busy days. I also decided to go for the video thing anyway and just make it short and sweet (just like this shake). Hope you guys like it! </div>
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And be sure to check out the video's info section for the full recipe!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-56583858434411844082014-06-30T00:05:00.000-07:002014-06-30T00:05:00.113-07:00Recipe: Date Coconut Energy Nuggets {vegan}<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="DSC03575" height="426" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3852/14353768609_30645bea76_z.jpg" width="640" />
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I wanted to call these Angel Poops, but I figured that wasn't the most appetizing name and voted against it. Do I regret it? Yes. Is that why I'm mentioning it now? ..mayyybeee</div>
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[ this is what I mean by "clumps together into a large ball" ]</div>
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I've seen a lot of recipes for date balls and the ones I've tried haven't really been my favorite. I love dates, don't get me wrong, but they can be a bit too sweet for my taste. Plus, the balls tend to be too mushy when there's too much date involved. So, I changed the nut-to-date ratio and made sure to use unsweetened coconut. I found this ratio to be perfect. They have just enough sweetness and yield a pleasant mix of textures...which means I don't have to feel like I'm eating paste. </div>
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But seriously, these things are awesome. They're perfect for packing and just a great little bite for an on-the-go energy boost. These will definitely help me through my next hiking fiasco. </div>
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<a href="https://sites.google.com/site/recipesfromthelionsden/date-coconut-energy-nuggets?tmpl=%2Fsystem%2Fapp%2Ftemplates%2Fprint%2F&showPrintDialog=1" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLslXG4zZXFRMuetu12A0-t6Ec3BRWB7doRjXXaLoYOOSddWwlHJGoObYNrwX_ldn-eKxPvw1fx_0p8-HvNZOLUk2d7hVL0yO3a-bxbvIpFctrflvy-s_hsK68Fn3CMT3flzP_5o42tcJy/s1600/date+coconut+energy+nugget+recipe.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/recipesfromthelionsden/date-coconut-energy-nuggets?tmpl=%2Fsystem%2Fapp%2Ftemplates%2Fprint%2F&showPrintDialog=1" target="_blank">[click for printable recipe]</a></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-52489483201858408092014-06-25T00:05:00.000-07:002014-06-25T00:05:00.309-07:00Nutritious Nutella???<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="DSC03510" height="426" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3909/14501385192_c083bdde11_z.jpg" width="640" />
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Like basically everyone else in the world, I've gone back and forth between diets for quite some time. Regardless of what "diet" I'm on, however, I never try to deprive myself of too much. Back in the day (when I was young, I'm not a kid anymore, but some days I sit and wish I was a kid again), when I was training for my half-marathon, I was able to restrict myself much more. Then, I was eating around 1500 calories while working out for at least an hour 5-6 days a week. Nowadays, that just isn't happening. </div>
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My problem is basically my tenacious love for food - a love that seems to grow exponentially with every meal or cooking session in the den. I mean, food is just the bee's knees. It's enjoyable, satisfying, a fun means of creative expression<strike>, and it doesn't talk</strike>...</div>
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I guess I call this my "problem" because of the obvious partnership between food and consumption. Lately, my consumption levels have kept pace with the aforementioned love. Further, my newfound sedentary lifestyle (trying to be a lawyer sucks) hasn't helped my waistline, let alone my morale. </div>
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So, as you could've guessed, my jeans and my inability to breathe during my last run have slapped me in the face with reality: I need to stop letting my boyfriend pick places to eat (burgers, pizza, and ice cream, anyone?) and I need to get off my ars. </div>
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<b><i>Step 1</i></b>: Find healthy alternatives to the things I love. </div>
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<b><i>Solution 1</i></b>: <a href="http://deliciouslyella.com/nutritious-nutella-vegan-sugar-free/" target="_blank">Nutritious Nutella from Deliciously Ella</a></div>
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This recipe was really simple and really easy. With only about four ingredients, I was able to whip up a pretty good replica of everyone's favorite: Nutella. This recipe is also really healthy so there's no need to feel guilty about eating this for breakfast, snacks, and dessert. <b>Dates</b> are a big ingredient in this recipe - which are a good source of fiber, calcium, iron, and potassium, amongst other things. It's also good for heart and digestive health, as well as boosting energy. The <b>hazelnuts</b> are also an excellent source of Vitamin E. And last but not least, the <b>cacao powder </b>provides a ton of antioxidants, provides essential minerals like magnesium which helps improve bone health, and increases feel-food neurotransmitters in the brain to make you happpyyy. Oh, <i>and</i> it's vegan!<br />
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<i>*puts spoonful of nutritious nutella in mouth*</i></div>
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Don't worry guys, I adapted this <a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/make-crepes-cooking-lessons-from-the-kitchn-195381" target="_blank">crepe</a> recipe and made them with whole wheat flour and almond milk. But... I left the butter. :)<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-82352689956934389112014-06-20T07:56:00.001-07:002014-06-20T07:56:39.021-07:00Fitness Friday: Another Hike<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="DSC03405" height="426" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2902/14462601451_de704ba7ab_z.jpg" width="640" /></div>
Imagine over an hour on the Stair Master, but skipping three stairs every step and being afraid of falling to your doom.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="IMG_5839" height="853" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2909/14279523097_b2f534e0d8_o.jpg" width="640" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">almost to the top and pretending to be happy</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="IMG_5831" height="853" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2919/14464842474_1fd9c3073a_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the rock climbing portion begins... <br />I remember it being much steeper than this photo depicts.</td></tr>
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That's about as accurately as I can describe my Big Cross hiking experience. But let me elaborate...<br />
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In lieu of studying like I should've been, I thought it a better idea for my boyfriend and me to do this hike. It's on a camp site in Tapia Park in Malibu State Park and is a hike my boyfriend has done about a trillion times. He actually said he's done this hike since he was 14 and would race with his friends up to the top. His dad used to do this hike a trillion times too (he was actually the one who discovered it), so I figured it couldn't be <i>that</i> bad...right?<br />
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It started off pretty poorly and didn't get better from there. As we were driving up to the camp site, my guy points to a massive mountain off the road and gleefully states, "That's it!" To my dismay, he wasn't kidding. I'm telling you guys, I thought he was <i>for sure</i> kidding. He's told me he's gone up this trail in about half an hour before... there was no way that was the mountain. My only reply, "Holy... shit..."<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="DSC03380" height="426" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5565/14464818194_525abdef10_z.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">view from the very top</td></tr>
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As you can see from the picture above, there was quite a bit of rock. This wasn't one of those trails where people bring their dogs. Unless, of course, your dog happens to be a mountain goat. It's a trail where 90% of the time I was either in a low lunge position or a squat-crawl position. About a third to a half of the hike was basically rock climbing - holding onto jagged rocks while balancing on any little crack my toes could find. A lot of the "rock" was actually lose clay crap that broke off when I put any pressure on it. Needless to say, this did not help my anxiety. My strategy: one step at a time, go as quickly and safely possible, and DON'T LOOK DOWN. <div>
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This trail seemed to be never-ending. Whenever we got through one brutal portion of it, there seemed to be another, more trying, portion before us. And to make matters worse (at least for me) my guy kept saying, "Just a little further. We're almost to the top." But they were LIES! Every time he said that, there was a significant portion of the trail left! Even when we were finally close enough to the top to see the Big Cross, we were still about twenty minutes from completion. Bullshit! I'd get all excited only to find we were still so far off. I think it made me mentally more tired. He meant well, but I wanted to slap him. I might've...kidding! maybe... No, totally kidding! :|<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="DSC03378" height="426" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5512/14462608471_e5627f8da9_z.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">top right side</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="DSC03396" height="426" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2932/14464618002_819c1feaa8_z.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Completed! </td></tr>
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It's embarrassing to say how long it actually took for us to reach the top. My guy could've skipped circles around me the entire time, but thankfully he was just trying to tell me how to manage this beast. "Step on these rocks." "Don't step on those." "It's snake season." "Don't touch this plant." </div>
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But you know what? I did it! My guy actually said some girls have cried and given up during that rock climbing portion of the trail (I don't blame them), so I'm glad I was able to complete it. The view from the top was gorgeous. We could even see the beach from there.</div>
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The next challenge: getting down. I won't bore you with the details but let's just say I stayed very low to the ground. Also, I definitely need hiking boots. <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="DSC03407" height="426" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3899/14279499547_20d3e55fc6_z.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Big Cross!</td></tr>
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Just as a side note: that cross... my guy has a picture of himself standing on the very top of it. He's much more of a dare devil than I am and there is NO WAY IN HELL I would ever, <i>ever</i> attempt standing on that thing. My stomach is churning just thinking about it. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="IMG_5846" height="124" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3877/14462627641_1a71334fe9_z.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">panoramic view from the top</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Also, I should've worn sunscreen.</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Until the next adventure! </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-69528817101273618012014-06-19T00:05:00.000-07:002014-06-19T00:05:00.021-07:00Recipe: Spicy Sweet Mixed Nuts...A Studier's Best Friend<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="DSC03453" height="426" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3908/14269653888_1572e398c9_z.jpg" width="640" />
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Good morning. My name's Christine, and I'm a stress-eater.</div>
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I'm sure at least some of you can relate. I'm unsure, however, what it is about chewing, but apparently there's something about it that seems to relieve stress. And by "relieve stress" I mean redirect the stress to something else...like eating too much and gaining weight. </div>
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The key is surrounding myself with healthy eats and ridding my apartment of easily accessible, horrible treats. CONFESSION: I'm already lying. I have cookies in the cupboard right now. But let's give credit where credit is due! I've had that box of cookies for well over a week and I'm not even halfway done with them yet! <i>victory</i></div>
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Back to the nuts - These are great for whatever type of stress-enduced craving to which you're vulnerable. It has everything - salty, sweet, spicy, crunchy, herby (who ever craves "herby" things??)! Plus, even just half a handful will leave you feeling satisfied. </div>
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With most my recipes, this one is totally customizable too! Use whatever ingredients you happen to have on hand. Or add more cayenne for more spice, less sugar and butter to cut down on calories, or substitute fresh rosemary for the more convenient dried variety. Further, feel free to substitute for whatever nuts you prefer. I used almonds and walnuts since that's what I had on hand and I love how the "glaze" gets trapped in the nooks and crannies of the walnuts. But even plain peanuts would be great. The world is your bowl of nuts, so have at it! </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-84037131645218969422014-06-17T00:05:00.000-07:002014-06-17T00:05:00.564-07:00Patterns and Marigold<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">handbag: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rebecca-Minkoff-Hudson-Moto-Mini/dp/B00IE547RU" target="_blank">Rebecca Minkoff</a> | jacket: Zara (old) | skirt: Piperlime (old) | heels: <a href="http://www.stevemadden.com/thumbnail/WOMENS/Sandals/pc/-1/c/2163/2217.uts?cm_sp=globalnav-_-womens-_-sandals" target="_blank">Steve Madden</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">necklace: <a href="http://www.gorjana-griffin.com/gorjana/jewelry/necklaces/knox-necklace.html" target="_blank">Gorjana</a> | lips: <a href="http://www.sephora.com/lipstick-P2865" target="_blank">Nars Schiap </a></span><br />
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<b>- SHOP -</b></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">I've been looking for a bright yellow cross body bag for quite some time and I feel like I finally found the perfect one. It's structured, has a good amount of space with several pockets, it's easy to access, and the strap is the perfect length for my short frame. And, I mean, how fun are these shoes?</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"><span style="line-height: 16px;">I wore this outfit out to Bottega Louie for one of my best girlfriend's birthday. My boyfriend and I shared the orecchiette and the artichoke pizza. Both were pretty delicious. I mean, cheese. But the surprise was the portobello mushroom fries. Such a pleasant surprise. I'm definitely trying t<a href="http://acozykitchen.com/portobello-fries/" target="_blank">his replica recipe</a> by A Cozy Kitchen. Hopefully they're just as delicious. </span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-38872786673193461882014-06-10T00:05:00.000-07:002014-06-19T13:52:41.000-07:00Comfort Food: Meatloaf Edition<div style="text-align: center;">
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Meatloaf is fairly new territory for me. I think the only kind I've had were Filipino versions and they probably don't serve as the best representation. Plus, I'm still not sure how I feel about raisins in my meatloaf. </div>
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Typically, when I try something new, something I've never made (let alone really tasted) before, I go for a classic version. I suppose I try to build a foundation of sorts first, then work on my own variations. This time, I figured I'd go for the "weird" version first. I felt like doing something special since this was the first real meal I've made in my new kitchen. And what a way to christen the new crib! (points to everyone who got the Fresh Prince reference)</div>
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I used <a href="http://food52.com/recipes/3557-meatloaf-with-blackberry-barbecue-sauce" target="_blank">this recipe</a> from Food52 (always a reliable source) featuring an awesome spicy blackberry barbecue sauce. The recipe was really easy to put together and the meatloaf came out incredibly moist. I was worried by how little vegetables are in the recipe given all the fillers in other recipes, but this was just meaty goodness. The sauce was spicier than I anticipated but it was a welcome surprise. Go light on the cayenne if you're heat-averse. Speaking of the sauce.. I have some leftover and I'm definitely throwing it on some chicken. Noms.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-53327726900929342132014-06-09T15:15:00.000-07:002014-06-09T15:15:11.076-07:00[Apt] to Home<div style="text-align: center;">
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As I'm sure I've mentioned in the past, moving from Indiana back to California has been a bitch. The only thing approaching the horror of packing has been the unpacking. However, as the weeks have passed and the mountain of cardboard boxes has dissipated into what I hope is the dawn of its reincarnation, this little apartment has begun to feel like home. I figured all it needed was some color and life; enter, Trader Joe's.</div>
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TJ's had great flowers on sale so I picked up some peonies and an teeny orchid for my bedside table. I also indulged in a variety of herbs for my flavor arsenal: thyme, sage, and rosemary. I've already used the thyme for some awesome mashed potatoes (to pair with blackberry ketchup meatloaf - recipe coming soon!). And I'm planning on using some rosemary for herbed sweet and spicy nuts.</div>
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And one of my favorite aspects of the new apartment (and getting organized) is my handbag closet. I find it utterly ridiculous that I even have a closet dedicated to my handbag collection, but in my own defense, the closet isn't a full size closet. It's just a section of the hallway cabinets. I never said my defense was a <i>good</i> defense...</div>
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If you guys have any affordable organization/decor tips for me, I'd love to hear them!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-83157903475059599782014-06-03T00:06:00.000-07:002014-07-08T22:24:02.288-07:00One<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"><i>We are not the same persons this year as last; nor are those we love. It is a happy chance if we, changing, continue to love a changed person.</i></span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><i>- W. Somerset Maugham</i></span></div>
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I've already mentioned this before, but my boyfriend and I have been long distance for quite some time. About 9 months, actually. Now that I've finished school and I'm back in LA, we've <i>finally </i>been able to take the "long distance" out of our relationship and I couldn't be happier. Better yet, we were able to celebrate our one year anniversary! Quite the milestone. We were able to spend the day doing the simple things we loved. No need for presents or extravagant gestures. We simply had a quiet understanding that we just wanted to <i>be </i>together. It was everything I wanted. </div>
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We started the day off on the perfect note - a hike in Franklin Canyon Park. </div>
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Followed by the farmer's market. Some of our bounty, below.</div>
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Satisfied our tummies with some Japanese BBQ. Ohh yeahhh... Then, food coma set in.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">dress: F21 <b>// </b>purse: 3.1 Philip Lim // shoes: DVF // watch: Kate Spade // sunglasses: Karen Walker</span></div>
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We also recreated our first date and opted for dinner at the restaurant where it all started. How far we've come in only one year. Looking back at it all makes me that much more excited for the future.</div>
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And last, but not least, we returned home and watched The Bachelorette. Haha! I'd say it was a perfect day.</div>
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PS. After watching last night's episode (specifically that ridic fight), I'm <i>totally</i> Team Eric and like Andi a lot bit less... Bye Tasos!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11296441207544268955noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3459358304829746591.post-59551155753092875832014-05-27T00:32:00.001-07:002014-05-27T00:32:33.272-07:00Recipe: Brisket, baby.<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="DSC03199" height="441" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5153/14277507681_a1d3d9d5b1_z.jpg" width="640" />
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<span style="color: #999999; font-size: large;"><b>Better late than never. Especially in regards to brisket.</b></span></div>
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<img alt="DSC03200" height="463" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5116/14257704336_2a48755302_z.jpg" width="640" />
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I hope you all had a safe and wonderful long weekend! This recipe probably would've served you all well this weekend, but despite the holiday's conclusion and the work week's commencement, I wanted to keep the summer vibes alive. I've never made brisket before, and am fairly certain this is anything but authentic, but hot damn is it <u>good</u>. Regardless of my amateur status, I was pleasantly surprised by how wonderfully the flavors complemented each other and how tender the meat turned out. So pleasantly surprised in fact that I immediately regretted the decision to buy such a small piece of beef (in spite of the fact that I was only cooking for one). </div>
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My advice: double this recipe.</div>
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