"I wish I had a twin so I could see what I would look like without plastic surgery."-Joan Rivers
Shabby Yet Chic has taken a page out of Joan Rivers' book and got a
facelift!! We have made the big change from Blogger to Wordpress and are
pretty excited with how it turned out! Shabby can now be found at www.shabbyyetchic.com
(yes our very own domain name!). Today's post includes a tour of the
new page as well as a a letter that a dear friend wrote me about all of
the things I have taught her over the years (some are hilarious!).
Check, check, check it out at the new address and happy reading all!
-m
Saturday, 3 October 2015
Tuesday, 8 September 2015
I Wish I Had..
"I wish I had more vacation days."-unknown
Well here we are. Almost the very beginning of September and it is just starting to finally feel like summer (with the odd theatrical intermission that includes some dramatic thunder, lightening and torrential down pours). With summer being late I have a feeling winter will be late and that we are going to have the most wonderfully warm fall. A fall that will hopefully include swimming in the ocean, back yard fires, apple picking and a healthy dose of sunshine. With wedding/beach season coming to a close and boot/scarf season falling quickly upon us, I thought I would share some favourtite beauty products that will help carry your summer look into the fall and some tips on how to use them including an at home manicure that is easy and gives professional results at home! Happy beautifying all!
-m
The best summer-to-fall nails..
Who doesn't love a good mani/pedi? Pampering yourself is important but if you want to save some money and keep your nails fresh, at home manis and pedis are where it is at. As far as at home manicures go, Essie provides some of my favourite colors and products. I always start with a quick trim and file. I follow up with some Sally Hansen cuticle removing gel- this stuff is seriously the best. Leave it on for a few seconds and overgrown cuticles easily push back and can be clipped off providing a perfect canvas for some bright polishes. For a base coat I use Essie's "Ridge filler", I read about this product a while ago and I have been using it every since. One quick coat and it fills ridges and evens out nails for a smooth surface that takes nail polish far better than a naked nail. Next apply two coats of your favoutite Essie color. My current color obsessions for the summer months include "Bikini so teeny" for my toes- it's the perfect bright powdery blue that covers well and looks fabulous with summer kissed skin. For my fingers I am loving "Peach side babe"- a fabulous peach/coral pastel. The Essie fall line up this year is a collection of deeply pigmented jewel tones with some beautiful greys. I am lusting after "The perfect cover up" which is a charcoal grey with blue undertones and "Fall in line" which is a mossy green with grey undertones. To finish of my nails I use one coat of Essie "Good to go" topcoat. This helps them shine and makes your nails last up to a week (in my experience). Best part? All of the products above can be easily purchased at any local drug store.
The best skin...
The best skin is moisturized, protected and dewy whether it is summer or fall. I am still in love with Josie Maran Light argan oil for keeping my skin smooth and moisturized. I use a couple of drops every night before bed focusing on dry spots (in my case my nose!). I also love Aveeno suncreen made specifically for the face, I find it doesn't clog my pores like many other products do and it offers long lasting sun protection. In general I don't go out without SPF on my face whether it is just straight up sunscreen for the beach or if it is in a tinted moisturizer or BB cream. I don't want to look like a raisin when I am older and I am hoping sunscreen will help! I also make sure I wash my face thoroughly at the end of the day to take off makeup and sunscreen and let my face breathe a bit.
The best coverage...
As far as makeup with natural coverage, I am still a big fan if Garnier BB cream. It smooths, evens and it is light and airy on my face. If I need a little more coverage I am absolutely in love with Nars "All Day Luminous Weightless Foundation". This product goes a long way. It has no preservatives and it is like air on my face all the while evening out my skin and making it look airbrushed. Tips for this product- because it has no preservative make sure you mix/shake it well, it will separate if you don't. Also one pump should do your whole face and instead of using a brush the Nars representative at Sephora encouraged me to use my hands for an even application while using less product. Win-win.
The best summer-to-fall blush...
Nars Orgasm blush is a cult classic for a reason. It it peachy-pink, it reflects light and looks great both on fair skin and dark skin tones. This is a color that will never go out of style and it's hyper-pigmentation means a little goes very far.
The best bronzer...
I have tried buckets of bronzers. Drug store, high end and anything in between and I always come back to MAC's bronzing powder in "bronze". It gives a natural sun-kissed finish without the harmful rays and without looking like a bad contouring job. It is natural enough to help carry a summery glow easily into the fall without looking too done.
The best eyebrows...
Duh! Summer, winter, spring, fall Anastasia Dip Brow pomade is the best eyebrow product I have ever used. Throw out your gels, your fibers, your pencils and your powders and make way for the best eyebrows you have ever had. A pot lasts for a year or so and applies very easily in small brush strokes with an angled brush. It is waterproof but washes off easily with facial cleanser and it holds down longer stray hairs. Use as little or as much as you would like to help create as dramatic or natural of a look as you want!
The best waterproof mascara...
Water proof mascara is good for the beach, the pool, for sweatin' at the gym and for all of the emotional moments at your bestie's weddings. Make Up For Ever's Aqua Smokey Extravagant mascara lengthens, fills and doesn't flake. It stays in place until you wash it off and I promise it won't run when your bestie says I do.
The best inexpensive lip...
Matte lips seem to be a trend that is hanging around. Surprisingly, Rimmel has an amazing line of exceptional, inexpensive lipsticks and the matte ones are worth discussing. They are the Kate Moss line and although the are dry, as all matte lipsticks are, they don't flake around the lip and they will stay put all damn day. There is a crazy number of on point colors ranging from pin-up reds to classic nudes and priced between $5.99 and $7.99 these are serious bang for your buck. Check out color 104 for a pinky-taupe that will look good on any skin-tone and that can easily transition from sun-kissed beach babe to fall fashionista. For the best natural/neutral pink I have always loved MAC's Modesty lipstick but Rimmel has a color in their Kate Moss line that I may prefer even more and the color number is 08. This is an amazing find considering I have been wearing Modesty for at least five years.
Happy beautifying all!
-m
Well here we are. Almost the very beginning of September and it is just starting to finally feel like summer (with the odd theatrical intermission that includes some dramatic thunder, lightening and torrential down pours). With summer being late I have a feeling winter will be late and that we are going to have the most wonderfully warm fall. A fall that will hopefully include swimming in the ocean, back yard fires, apple picking and a healthy dose of sunshine. With wedding/beach season coming to a close and boot/scarf season falling quickly upon us, I thought I would share some favourtite beauty products that will help carry your summer look into the fall and some tips on how to use them including an at home manicure that is easy and gives professional results at home! Happy beautifying all!
-m
The best summer-to-fall nails..
Who doesn't love a good mani/pedi? Pampering yourself is important but if you want to save some money and keep your nails fresh, at home manis and pedis are where it is at. As far as at home manicures go, Essie provides some of my favourite colors and products. I always start with a quick trim and file. I follow up with some Sally Hansen cuticle removing gel- this stuff is seriously the best. Leave it on for a few seconds and overgrown cuticles easily push back and can be clipped off providing a perfect canvas for some bright polishes. For a base coat I use Essie's "Ridge filler", I read about this product a while ago and I have been using it every since. One quick coat and it fills ridges and evens out nails for a smooth surface that takes nail polish far better than a naked nail. Next apply two coats of your favoutite Essie color. My current color obsessions for the summer months include "Bikini so teeny" for my toes- it's the perfect bright powdery blue that covers well and looks fabulous with summer kissed skin. For my fingers I am loving "Peach side babe"- a fabulous peach/coral pastel. The Essie fall line up this year is a collection of deeply pigmented jewel tones with some beautiful greys. I am lusting after "The perfect cover up" which is a charcoal grey with blue undertones and "Fall in line" which is a mossy green with grey undertones. To finish of my nails I use one coat of Essie "Good to go" topcoat. This helps them shine and makes your nails last up to a week (in my experience). Best part? All of the products above can be easily purchased at any local drug store.
The best skin...
The best skin is moisturized, protected and dewy whether it is summer or fall. I am still in love with Josie Maran Light argan oil for keeping my skin smooth and moisturized. I use a couple of drops every night before bed focusing on dry spots (in my case my nose!). I also love Aveeno suncreen made specifically for the face, I find it doesn't clog my pores like many other products do and it offers long lasting sun protection. In general I don't go out without SPF on my face whether it is just straight up sunscreen for the beach or if it is in a tinted moisturizer or BB cream. I don't want to look like a raisin when I am older and I am hoping sunscreen will help! I also make sure I wash my face thoroughly at the end of the day to take off makeup and sunscreen and let my face breathe a bit.
The best coverage...
As far as makeup with natural coverage, I am still a big fan if Garnier BB cream. It smooths, evens and it is light and airy on my face. If I need a little more coverage I am absolutely in love with Nars "All Day Luminous Weightless Foundation". This product goes a long way. It has no preservatives and it is like air on my face all the while evening out my skin and making it look airbrushed. Tips for this product- because it has no preservative make sure you mix/shake it well, it will separate if you don't. Also one pump should do your whole face and instead of using a brush the Nars representative at Sephora encouraged me to use my hands for an even application while using less product. Win-win.
The best summer-to-fall blush...
Nars Orgasm blush is a cult classic for a reason. It it peachy-pink, it reflects light and looks great both on fair skin and dark skin tones. This is a color that will never go out of style and it's hyper-pigmentation means a little goes very far.
The best bronzer...
I have tried buckets of bronzers. Drug store, high end and anything in between and I always come back to MAC's bronzing powder in "bronze". It gives a natural sun-kissed finish without the harmful rays and without looking like a bad contouring job. It is natural enough to help carry a summery glow easily into the fall without looking too done.
The best eyebrows...
Duh! Summer, winter, spring, fall Anastasia Dip Brow pomade is the best eyebrow product I have ever used. Throw out your gels, your fibers, your pencils and your powders and make way for the best eyebrows you have ever had. A pot lasts for a year or so and applies very easily in small brush strokes with an angled brush. It is waterproof but washes off easily with facial cleanser and it holds down longer stray hairs. Use as little or as much as you would like to help create as dramatic or natural of a look as you want!
The best waterproof mascara...
Water proof mascara is good for the beach, the pool, for sweatin' at the gym and for all of the emotional moments at your bestie's weddings. Make Up For Ever's Aqua Smokey Extravagant mascara lengthens, fills and doesn't flake. It stays in place until you wash it off and I promise it won't run when your bestie says I do.
The best inexpensive lip...
Matte lips seem to be a trend that is hanging around. Surprisingly, Rimmel has an amazing line of exceptional, inexpensive lipsticks and the matte ones are worth discussing. They are the Kate Moss line and although the are dry, as all matte lipsticks are, they don't flake around the lip and they will stay put all damn day. There is a crazy number of on point colors ranging from pin-up reds to classic nudes and priced between $5.99 and $7.99 these are serious bang for your buck. Check out color 104 for a pinky-taupe that will look good on any skin-tone and that can easily transition from sun-kissed beach babe to fall fashionista. For the best natural/neutral pink I have always loved MAC's Modesty lipstick but Rimmel has a color in their Kate Moss line that I may prefer even more and the color number is 08. This is an amazing find considering I have been wearing Modesty for at least five years.
Happy beautifying all!
-m
Sunday, 30 August 2015
For What It Is Worth..
"For what it is worth: It's never too late to be whoever you want to be. I hope you live a life you are proud of, and if you find that you are not, I hope you have the strength to start over."
-F. Scott Fitzgerald
Last weekend I turned thirty. For a couple of months I have been dwelling on the fact that thirty is a pretty big double digit and a significant milestone. Seriously, it isn't that long ago that it was a big deal to live to thirty (what with the plague and all). In my mind thirty meant I was officially an adult, not that I already wasn't one, but come thirty you kind of have to have your shit together. It is almost an unwritten expectation. For some reason thirty, to me, was coming with strings attached. These strings included retirement investments, future planning, being kinder to myself and a fool hardy nightmare that I would wake up on the morning of my thirtieth and my face would be cracked into a million wrinkles (thanks Lesley for planting that little seed in my brain to grow when you yourself turned 30). Not even a touch logical, but for some reason I secured some anti-wrinkle cream the week before, you know, just in-case. With the big day fast approaching people were very generous to relay to me how they felt when they turned thirty and what have been the best and worst ages in their lives. Not gonna lie, mixed reviews were handed down on the big 3-0. Some people told me their thirties have been the best years of their lives, others stated they spent the year and the months leading up to it in hibernation. I swear, I was not obsessed with thirty, I was just dwelling a little more than I probably should have.
Well, the day came and went. I had the most marvelous time and thirty has been nothing short of wonderful so far. I spent the day with family, friends and almost all of the people I love. I was spoiled silly. I felt loved and I felt grateful. I am going to make thirty count, it is going to be my very best year yet!
In thirty years, I really do have so much to be grateful for. ...
"Honey, you are dead a long time. At least we are all on the right side of the grass."
- The always witty and honest John Ingram
Now that I have been a thirty year old for all of eight days, I thought I would share some of my expertise in the field and few things I have learned over the years..
-m
-F. Scott Fitzgerald
Last weekend I turned thirty. For a couple of months I have been dwelling on the fact that thirty is a pretty big double digit and a significant milestone. Seriously, it isn't that long ago that it was a big deal to live to thirty (what with the plague and all). In my mind thirty meant I was officially an adult, not that I already wasn't one, but come thirty you kind of have to have your shit together. It is almost an unwritten expectation. For some reason thirty, to me, was coming with strings attached. These strings included retirement investments, future planning, being kinder to myself and a fool hardy nightmare that I would wake up on the morning of my thirtieth and my face would be cracked into a million wrinkles (thanks Lesley for planting that little seed in my brain to grow when you yourself turned 30). Not even a touch logical, but for some reason I secured some anti-wrinkle cream the week before, you know, just in-case. With the big day fast approaching people were very generous to relay to me how they felt when they turned thirty and what have been the best and worst ages in their lives. Not gonna lie, mixed reviews were handed down on the big 3-0. Some people told me their thirties have been the best years of their lives, others stated they spent the year and the months leading up to it in hibernation. I swear, I was not obsessed with thirty, I was just dwelling a little more than I probably should have.
Well, the day came and went. I had the most marvelous time and thirty has been nothing short of wonderful so far. I spent the day with family, friends and almost all of the people I love. I was spoiled silly. I felt loved and I felt grateful. I am going to make thirty count, it is going to be my very best year yet!
In thirty years, I really do have so much to be grateful for. ...
- I have an amazingly supportive family that loves me unconditionally (and trust me, sometimes I am hard to love). A family that values honesty, generosity and education.
- I have a wonderful network of kind and compassionate friends that help and encourage me to be a better person and my best self. My sister clearly falls into the first two categories, because really, what is better than a built in best friend that has to love you even when you are being an ass (..because she is also your sister! Ha!).
- I have been given many wonderful opportunities over the past thirty years (I am quite certain I have even taken a few for granted).
- I am self sufficient and I have a job that I love. A job that I feel grateful and honored to be able to do week in and week out. A job where I make a difference and am challenged every time I step through the door. How many people can say that?
- I grew up in a safe and beautiful place. A place that shaped who I am, a place that values community, kindness and generosity over material things.
- I have been lucky enough to travel. I have seen a small portion of the world outside of where I live and that has lead me me to value diversity, become more cultured and to also appreciate even more where I come from.
- I am young, I am healthy and I still have my whole life ahead of me. As a nurse every week I bear witness to the sick and suffering. I also witness resilience, second chances, the wonder of modern medicine and healing. Nothing makes me value my health and well being more than this.
"Honey, you are dead a long time. At least we are all on the right side of the grass."
- The always witty and honest John Ingram
Now that I have been a thirty year old for all of eight days, I thought I would share some of my expertise in the field and few things I have learned over the years..
- Take opportunities when they present themselves. When a door opens it may not be there in a week, a month or a year. Maybe it is applying for a job, maybe it is going on a date and maybe it is a travel opportunity, just be sure to challenge yourself. What is the worst that is going to happen? Maybe you will be told you need more experience, maybe you will fail, or maybe it will just end up being a great story but at least you tried and put yourself out there. Now you can be a better you with those experiences, you can grow, learn what is important to you and be ready for the next door that opens. And maybe, just maybe it will be the best thing that ever happened to you. Put yourself out there, who knows what will happen.
- Grow and nurture friendships. As I am learning very quickly, life gets in the way. Marriages happen, children happen, work happens, life happens and important things like friends can often get put on the back burner. If a friendship has a good foundation this won't matter. You could go a year without speaking to someone but when you finally do see them, it's almost as if no time has passed between you. Those are the kind of friendships I am thankful for.
- On the flip side, life is too short to spend time with people and doing things you don't enjoy. This is a hard one, especially if you are a people pleaser like me. It is OK to say "no" sometimes and it is OK to take time for yourself.
- Do the things you love. Love the ocean? Go to the beach! Love being creative? Take an art class. Whatever it is, do it and enjoy it (as long as it is legal, doesn't hurt anyone etc. For the record, if you love doing heroin, I am really not suggesting you do that or endorsing it. Please refer to bullet number six if this is the case). Spend time with the people you love.
- Care less about what people think about you. At the end of the day you only have to answer to yourself. Wear crazy lipstick, drink a little too much wine. Care a little less and enjoy yourself a little more.
- Take the time to take care of yourself. Go for a walk, eat the salad, wear sunscreen and live a healthier life. Preventative diseases cut lives short and put a massive tax on our health care system. Diabetes, congestive heart disease and skin cancer may not be totally avoidable but if the opportunity is there to prevent it, take it. A little time spent on your well being now could add quality years to your life. Plus, if you are my friend I guarantee you have heard me say many times "Basal cell carcinoma is not cute, especially when it comes back the second time". I may have even showed you a horrific picture while urging you to protect your skin. I may have even told you that you will "look like a raisin in ten years" and I may have actually gotten into an argument about sunscreen with you. This is because I love you, so love yourself too !
-m
Thursday, 13 August 2015
To Improve Is To Change..
"To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often"- Winston Churchill
Change can be hard. I recently transitioned to a new role at work and everyday I am faced with new experiences, challenges and expectations. It isn't always easy to get into the swing of a new job when things are so vastly different to what you are used to and to what would be your comfort zone. The change has been good and I have learned a tremendous amount about myself and about my career path. I encourage everyone to mix it up every few years whether it is with a career change or even something as simple as a different hair cut or colour of paint on your walls. It often takes change to realise what you like, what you are good at and it usually takes change to continue life long learning.
I have lived in my house for over three years and the fireplace has been one of the only things I have been hesitant of changing. It is a focal point in my living room, it's original to the house and consists of a white, pre mid-century style mantle with simple scroll work and boxy sides. It has bronze brushed black brick and it really is quite lovely. A couple of years ago I elected to paint the inside turquoise as I felt the black that was originally there was a little black hole and didn't allow me to showcase my little stove or my lanterns, it just kind of sucked everything into it's darkness. Black to turquoise was a big change and I loved it! But for some reason painting the brick white, although it has been on my mind from the get-go, was too big of a change. I feared I would regret it and that it would take away from the character and charm that my little middle aged home naturally possessed.
Fast forward to last week. For some reason I got up the nerve to crack open the can of "wedding white" semi gloss paint I had painted the trim and mantel in originally. I grabbed a brush and just spontaneously "went for it", mildly regretting it the second I started. Turns out, brick is a real b*tch to paint. The seams and creases were so deep I eventually had to revert to using a small paint brush to get into all the cracks and crevices. It took three times longer than I anticipated but boy did it ever look lovely when I stood back to inspect my handy work. The room magically seemed to open up and even appeared a little larger. Yay! I was however, faced with a predicament. My mirror was dark brown and stood out like a sore thumb. Not being emotionally attached to the mirror (I have have had it since my very first apartment on my own), I bombed off to the shopping centre checking out my favourite haunts for a nautical, light coloured mirror to suit my needs and the room. I was in no luck. Everything was heavy and dark or far beyond the meagre budget I had set for myself. I did however pick up some great, brightly coloured throw pillows for half off, which turned out to be a great pick me up and room brightener. I also picked up two miniature lampshades to update the hideous sconces that frame the fireplace. When I got home the mirror was still irking me so I went to the basement and pulled out a small sample jar of paint that had been deeply discounted at a hardware store because it was, you guessed it, a mis-tint. It just so happened to be mint green and I very sloppily slapped it on the mirror. I didn't hate it, I put it up lengthwise (why hadn't I done this before?!) and turns out I had just what I was looking for all along and all it cost was a foam brush and one dollar. If that isn't thrifty, I don't know what is! I then decided to paint the interior of my front door with the rest of the green paint on a whim. Guess what? It is great! Change is a good thing my friends. See some poor before (it was so spontaneous I forgot to take pictures!) and some of the finished project below! Happy changing all!
-m
Change can be hard. I recently transitioned to a new role at work and everyday I am faced with new experiences, challenges and expectations. It isn't always easy to get into the swing of a new job when things are so vastly different to what you are used to and to what would be your comfort zone. The change has been good and I have learned a tremendous amount about myself and about my career path. I encourage everyone to mix it up every few years whether it is with a career change or even something as simple as a different hair cut or colour of paint on your walls. It often takes change to realise what you like, what you are good at and it usually takes change to continue life long learning.
I have lived in my house for over three years and the fireplace has been one of the only things I have been hesitant of changing. It is a focal point in my living room, it's original to the house and consists of a white, pre mid-century style mantle with simple scroll work and boxy sides. It has bronze brushed black brick and it really is quite lovely. A couple of years ago I elected to paint the inside turquoise as I felt the black that was originally there was a little black hole and didn't allow me to showcase my little stove or my lanterns, it just kind of sucked everything into it's darkness. Black to turquoise was a big change and I loved it! But for some reason painting the brick white, although it has been on my mind from the get-go, was too big of a change. I feared I would regret it and that it would take away from the character and charm that my little middle aged home naturally possessed.
Fast forward to last week. For some reason I got up the nerve to crack open the can of "wedding white" semi gloss paint I had painted the trim and mantel in originally. I grabbed a brush and just spontaneously "went for it", mildly regretting it the second I started. Turns out, brick is a real b*tch to paint. The seams and creases were so deep I eventually had to revert to using a small paint brush to get into all the cracks and crevices. It took three times longer than I anticipated but boy did it ever look lovely when I stood back to inspect my handy work. The room magically seemed to open up and even appeared a little larger. Yay! I was however, faced with a predicament. My mirror was dark brown and stood out like a sore thumb. Not being emotionally attached to the mirror (I have have had it since my very first apartment on my own), I bombed off to the shopping centre checking out my favourite haunts for a nautical, light coloured mirror to suit my needs and the room. I was in no luck. Everything was heavy and dark or far beyond the meagre budget I had set for myself. I did however pick up some great, brightly coloured throw pillows for half off, which turned out to be a great pick me up and room brightener. I also picked up two miniature lampshades to update the hideous sconces that frame the fireplace. When I got home the mirror was still irking me so I went to the basement and pulled out a small sample jar of paint that had been deeply discounted at a hardware store because it was, you guessed it, a mis-tint. It just so happened to be mint green and I very sloppily slapped it on the mirror. I didn't hate it, I put it up lengthwise (why hadn't I done this before?!) and turns out I had just what I was looking for all along and all it cost was a foam brush and one dollar. If that isn't thrifty, I don't know what is! I then decided to paint the interior of my front door with the rest of the green paint on a whim. Guess what? It is great! Change is a good thing my friends. See some poor before (it was so spontaneous I forgot to take pictures!) and some of the finished project below! Happy changing all!
-m
Before...sorry for the poor quality!
After!!
 |
| The brick was awful to paint... |
 |
| Awful little sconce shades before.. |
 |
| Door before...well started! |
Wednesday, 22 July 2015
If Life Gives You Limes...
"If life gives you limes, make margaritas!"- Jimmy Buffett
So I have a confession. I have given up refined sugars, many carbohydrates and foods high on the glycemic index(!!!) and yes, it is about as much fun as it sounds (probably equivalent to a root canal). It has been hard but I needed to make some changes to be my best self, to have more energy and to take a moment to focus on my future well being. This isn't forever, I just needed to challenge myself to try something different and what a challenge it has been. It is hard to make things taste wonderful and multidimensional when you can't use honey, maple syrup or even balsamic vinegar (Ha!). Wine is something I do miss and not drinking wine and eating carbohydrates sure does makes it hard to go out and socialize. I didn't really recognize how much the culture of my friends and family was dependent on food and drink until I began this little experiment. It has been seven weeks and although I have not had a sweet or wine in that period of time, I have started not to miss them (gasp!). The first week was hard, it took a lot of research and a lot of meal prep. As it turns out, I truly was the epitome of a sugar and carb junkie. When I made the "big cut" I had headaches, I craved sugar and I felt like I was dragging my arse behind me everywhere I went. This surprised me because generally I am a healthful eater but after about a week, the cravings went away. I had more energy, my skin started to look great (maybe even "glowy") and my hair started to grow like crazy. I have shed some weight and I have actually had a bit of a ball in the kitchen trying to concoct healthy, low carb meals that taste great. I am always up for a challenge and this time I was ready to go toe-to-toe with carbohydrates. Don't worry though, this doesn't mean I won't be sharing decadent recipes for sugar laden sweets and cocktails. There are plenty of those coming down the line!
Anyway, that is not what I meant this post to be about. What I really want to talk about is limes. Tart, tangy limes that leave the perfect sour smack on your taste-buds. Turns out, limes are almost free at Costco. By almost free, I mean that three pounds of fresh, bright green, juicy limes are only $2.99. Lets be frank, limes are on average two for $1.50 at most grocery stores and believe me when I tell you, I haven't had a dry one yet and I have almost gone through six pounds from Costco. What does one do with all of these limes? Well I have been making the most delightful, summery-fresh salad dressing that is wonderful on fresh butter lettuce or mixed baby romaine with a toss of arugula. You could also be like Deb Perlman and make a dangerously tempting key-lime pie like she does on her blog Smitten Kitchen (recipe here). You could whip up some fresh mojitos (my recipe here) or you could use them to make fresh salsa (like Martha's fresh pineapple-lime salsa here). The limes are your oyster.
Here are some simple tips and a little lime love from celebrity chef Bobby Flay..
"Lime juice makes things taste fresher. I use it for drinks, salsas. relishes, soups and sauces. You want some give to your limes- firmness means the insides are dry- and they will stay softer longer if you don't refrigerate them."
Find my recipe for simple, summery lime salad dressing below!
-m
Delicious (and simple) summer salad dressing
You will need...
So I have a confession. I have given up refined sugars, many carbohydrates and foods high on the glycemic index(!!!) and yes, it is about as much fun as it sounds (probably equivalent to a root canal). It has been hard but I needed to make some changes to be my best self, to have more energy and to take a moment to focus on my future well being. This isn't forever, I just needed to challenge myself to try something different and what a challenge it has been. It is hard to make things taste wonderful and multidimensional when you can't use honey, maple syrup or even balsamic vinegar (Ha!). Wine is something I do miss and not drinking wine and eating carbohydrates sure does makes it hard to go out and socialize. I didn't really recognize how much the culture of my friends and family was dependent on food and drink until I began this little experiment. It has been seven weeks and although I have not had a sweet or wine in that period of time, I have started not to miss them (gasp!). The first week was hard, it took a lot of research and a lot of meal prep. As it turns out, I truly was the epitome of a sugar and carb junkie. When I made the "big cut" I had headaches, I craved sugar and I felt like I was dragging my arse behind me everywhere I went. This surprised me because generally I am a healthful eater but after about a week, the cravings went away. I had more energy, my skin started to look great (maybe even "glowy") and my hair started to grow like crazy. I have shed some weight and I have actually had a bit of a ball in the kitchen trying to concoct healthy, low carb meals that taste great. I am always up for a challenge and this time I was ready to go toe-to-toe with carbohydrates. Don't worry though, this doesn't mean I won't be sharing decadent recipes for sugar laden sweets and cocktails. There are plenty of those coming down the line!
Anyway, that is not what I meant this post to be about. What I really want to talk about is limes. Tart, tangy limes that leave the perfect sour smack on your taste-buds. Turns out, limes are almost free at Costco. By almost free, I mean that three pounds of fresh, bright green, juicy limes are only $2.99. Lets be frank, limes are on average two for $1.50 at most grocery stores and believe me when I tell you, I haven't had a dry one yet and I have almost gone through six pounds from Costco. What does one do with all of these limes? Well I have been making the most delightful, summery-fresh salad dressing that is wonderful on fresh butter lettuce or mixed baby romaine with a toss of arugula. You could also be like Deb Perlman and make a dangerously tempting key-lime pie like she does on her blog Smitten Kitchen (recipe here). You could whip up some fresh mojitos (my recipe here) or you could use them to make fresh salsa (like Martha's fresh pineapple-lime salsa here). The limes are your oyster.
Here are some simple tips and a little lime love from celebrity chef Bobby Flay..
"Lime juice makes things taste fresher. I use it for drinks, salsas. relishes, soups and sauces. You want some give to your limes- firmness means the insides are dry- and they will stay softer longer if you don't refrigerate them."
Find my recipe for simple, summery lime salad dressing below!
-m
Delicious (and simple) summer salad dressing
You will need...
- Juice from four limes (~1/4 cup)
- 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil (grape-seed oil would work too!)
- 1 tsp of ground cumin
- 1-2 tbs of honey to taste OR stevia to taste. ** the sweetness is required to cut the tartness of the lime but go sweet free by all means if you like it!
Sunday, 5 July 2015
I Believe in Pink...
" I believe in pink. I believe that laughing is the best calorie burner. I believe in kissing a lot. I believe in being strong. I believe that happy girls are the prettiest girls. I believe that tomorrow is a new day and I believe in miracles."- Audrey Hepburn
Pink. Every single person who knows me assumes my favourite colour in the whole, wide, world is pink. Why? Because the front door of my house would make Barbie envious. It is the pink that every little girl wishes she was allowed to paint her bedroom. It packs a punch and nearly blinded all of my neighbors when I painted it (it had always been traditional black). I have a confession, pink is not my favourite colour. I don't really have one, I love mustard yellow, mint green and turquoise. I love black clothing, peach blush, white tulips and red shoes (...and red wine). The only time I opt for pink is when I am buying or applying lipstick. Nothing in my house is pink, it is all greys, blues and mints. I painted my door pink 'cause I wanted something modern on an otherwise traditional house. A pop of character.
The problem with painting your door pink (and really, it's the only problem) is that you then have to decorate the exterior with complimenting colours. Traditional red and green Christmas wreaths clash, flower choices look best when they are pink and white. This year I opted for the first time to not buy hanging baskets. My front step is breezy and they just dry out so fast, it is almost impossible to keep up with their thirst. Instead I filled my flower pots with begonias, impatiens and dusty miller and I filled my window boxes with corn flowers and sweet peas. It looks lovely, but without the hanging baskets, a little something is missing.
As a rule I hate fake flowers. No offense to anyone, but they never look authentic and they are dust magnets. The only time fake flowers are acceptable is if and when you live in the Arctic tundra, or somewhere fresh flowers don't grow and aren't readily available (I swear, I am not opinionated). They are also OK in flower crowns because let's face it, flower crowns are gloriously fun. Today I broke my rule. I bought a grapevine wreath for six dollars at a craft store and half a dozen bright pink silk (gah!) flowers to affix to it. I don't know what possessed me. But with a little hot glue and some strategic placement of the fake (sigh...) flowers, I ended up with a pretty cute little focal point for my bright pink door. The wreath cost a total of eight dollars taxes in and you can find pictures of my adventure to the dark side of fake flowers below!
Happy crafting/beautifying !
ps. first time not using my iphone and using my fancy camera, hence the kitty at the end!
-m
Pink. Every single person who knows me assumes my favourite colour in the whole, wide, world is pink. Why? Because the front door of my house would make Barbie envious. It is the pink that every little girl wishes she was allowed to paint her bedroom. It packs a punch and nearly blinded all of my neighbors when I painted it (it had always been traditional black). I have a confession, pink is not my favourite colour. I don't really have one, I love mustard yellow, mint green and turquoise. I love black clothing, peach blush, white tulips and red shoes (...and red wine). The only time I opt for pink is when I am buying or applying lipstick. Nothing in my house is pink, it is all greys, blues and mints. I painted my door pink 'cause I wanted something modern on an otherwise traditional house. A pop of character.
The problem with painting your door pink (and really, it's the only problem) is that you then have to decorate the exterior with complimenting colours. Traditional red and green Christmas wreaths clash, flower choices look best when they are pink and white. This year I opted for the first time to not buy hanging baskets. My front step is breezy and they just dry out so fast, it is almost impossible to keep up with their thirst. Instead I filled my flower pots with begonias, impatiens and dusty miller and I filled my window boxes with corn flowers and sweet peas. It looks lovely, but without the hanging baskets, a little something is missing.
As a rule I hate fake flowers. No offense to anyone, but they never look authentic and they are dust magnets. The only time fake flowers are acceptable is if and when you live in the Arctic tundra, or somewhere fresh flowers don't grow and aren't readily available (I swear, I am not opinionated). They are also OK in flower crowns because let's face it, flower crowns are gloriously fun. Today I broke my rule. I bought a grapevine wreath for six dollars at a craft store and half a dozen bright pink silk (gah!) flowers to affix to it. I don't know what possessed me. But with a little hot glue and some strategic placement of the fake (sigh...) flowers, I ended up with a pretty cute little focal point for my bright pink door. The wreath cost a total of eight dollars taxes in and you can find pictures of my adventure to the dark side of fake flowers below!
Happy crafting/beautifying !
ps. first time not using my iphone and using my fancy camera, hence the kitty at the end!
-m
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