Archives

Domestic

If You Feel Like Pina Coladas…

March 19, 2014

IMG_8552

Well, because I am currently in overdrive on my “Spring Break Diet,” I am not indulging in Pina Coladas… le sigh.  BUT I am doing the next best thing, which is whipping up this amazing coconut body smoothing treatment.

IMG_8501

Coconut Ginger Scrub

  • 1/2 cup ground rice (just give it a few seconds in your blender)
  • 1/4 cup coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 Tablespoons freshly grated ginger

Stir until the ingredients form a paste.  Smooth onto your body using circular motions. Rinse and moisturize.

I like to then apply my favorite self tanner with this mitt.

IMG_8503

One step closer to being pool ready!

For other exfoliating posts check out here and here.

Travels

Airplane Attire

March 18, 2014

With spring break traveling in full force, I wanted to share my “Airplane Attire Guide” with you all…hopefully you have (or are planning) a fun getaway to use some of these tips!

Travel

Sweater/Tank/Maxi Skirt/Cashmere Travel Kit/Headphones/Socks/Purse/Kindle/Sandals/Snacks

I have always prided myself on getting in and out of airport security rather quickly… here are my Top 5 Tips for easy airport travel:

  1. Dress in light layers. I love maxi skirts/dresses because they are like personal blankets, and when paired with a cozy sweater you will be all set for the near freezing airline temperatures!
  2. Do NOT accessorize.  If I want to have necklaces/bracelets/etc. on when I land, I tuck them into the side of my purse to put on AFTER I go through airport security.  Don’t be that person taking off your belt and unbuckling your boots and taking off your jewelry and backing up the security line.
  3. Wear sandals.  People love to wear Lulu and sneakers, but taking off/putting on sneakers is a hassle (unless you are rocking these), so I just put on some flip flops and pack socks for the flight (don’t forget your pre-trip pedi!).
  4. Be mindful of carry-on rules.  As I have said before, I pretty much solely carry-on. That being said, you sometimes have to get crafty with the carry-on rules. I only travel with a small handbag (love cross body bags like this one), which I then tuck into a larger bag (usually a beach bag or larger tote, to accommodate travel extras such as snacks, my kindle, camera and any magazines/last minute packing additions. I also include my toiletry bag in my carry on (at least to go through security), and then add it to my luggage before boarding.
  5. Keep valuables close. NEVER EVER put valuables in your luggage. Whether you are carrying on jewelry, a camera, iPad, or anything of personal value to you, I HIGHLY recommend you keep it in your carry on (especially if you are checking your bag).  Another tip, if you check your bag – pack a back-up outfit/swimsuit in your carry on, should your luggage get misplaced for a day or two…

By following these simple rules, I’m confident you will have a smoother time going through airport security.

*Beauty Tip: I really advise traveling with your hair up and face make-up free.  Applying moisturizer during the trip has been a major skin saver… and don’t forget lip balm!

Tasty

Vegan/GF BBQ Salad

March 17, 2014

IMG_8002 This week is all about getting Spring Break ready!  While being a college grad/adult, I may not get an actual “Spring Break” on my calendar anymore.. but I am lucky enough to get to tag along on my family’s annual vacation – thus gifting myself a “Spring Break” each year.

IMG_7950

That being said, working 8-10 hour days everyday takes a toll on your body, and getting spring break ready is a lot of work… so this week is going to focus on some key points.  First up – health.

The past few weeks I have been focusing on clean eating – a lot of produce and fish, and minimal red meat/gluten, and no processed foods.  That being said whole eating is a priority, and here is one of my go-to salads (great for dinner or lunches for the week).

IMG_8030

BBQ Veggie Salad

  • 1 head of Romanesco cauliflower (or regular cauliflower)
  • Lentils or black beans
  • Radishes
  • Carrots
  • Red Onion
  • Avocado
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • Vegan Ranch Dressing
  • Tortilla Chips (optional)
  1. Cut cauliflower into florets and roast at 350 degrees for 7 minutes.
  2. Brush BBQ sauce onto cauliflower and bake 3 minutes more.
  3. Assemble salad with ingredients of your choice.
  4. Top with more BBQ sauce and/or ranch dressing.

IMG_7995

* Disclaimer: The joy of this salad is it doesn’t really need a recipe – you can add (or not add) whatever you would like – other ideas include cilantro, corn, celery, cheese (if you don’t want to go dairy free), etc.

IMG_7964 IMG_7975

IMG_7985

Sip

I’ll Have A…

March 14, 2014

IMG_7914

As we all know I love a fun drink – the more involved the better.  Muddled cucumber? Check. Blood Orange Juice? Yes please. Unfortunately, my unique cocktail taste has most dive bar bartenders scratching their heads/hating me, so this drink is my go to when I am trying not to be high-maintenance.

IMG_7948

In honor of St. Patrick’s day I want to introduce you to an easy-to-order/easy-to-drink concoction – Jameson and Ginger.

IMG_7930

Jameson and Ginger

  • 1.5 oz Jameson Whiskey
  • Ginger Ale
  • Wedge of Lime
  1. Pour whiskey into an ice filled highball glass.
  2. Top with ginger ale.
  3. Finish with a squeeze of lime.
  4. Stir and enjoy!

IMG_7919 IMG_7926 IMG_7930 IMG_7933 IMG_7911