You Butter Make This!

Move Over, Paula Deen!

It's Time To Make Butter!

This past Easter, my brother brought a homemade cheese bread and Parmesan Chive Butter to our family picnic, and Ohhhh My Goooodness were they awesome and super yummy!! Haven't made your own butter before?! It's extremely easy, and I ain't buying it anymore! Here, lemme show ya!

Let's Do This Thang!

Zee Equipment:

• Hand Blender: I used a Cuisinart Hand Blender that I make my smoothies with, but you can use: a Hand Mixer, Blender, Churn for the ol' timers, or put your kiddos to work, and simply shake your whipping cream in a Mason Jar (just takes longer and some muscles)!!
• A Mixing Bowl or Stainless Steel Mixing Cup

Zee Ingredients:

• 1 Pint of Organic Heavy Whipping Cream
• Salt (No salt for Unsalted Butter)

Now, How Do I Make This?!

Step 1: Pour the heavy whipping cream into your container.

Step 2: Next, we will separate the fat to make butter! Begin blending on low-medium speed until your whipping cream thickens and turns into butter (about 5-10 minutes).

Step 3: After the cream thickens, you will see a leftover liquid known as Buttermilk or the milk of the butter-MIND BLOWN! Pour the buttermilk into a Mason Jar for storage (I didn't have that much). You can save your buttermilk to make Buttermilk Biscuits or Buttermilk Pancakes- YUMMY! It's all butter, babyyyyy!

Step 4: Scoop your butter into a bowl to remove the excess buttermilk. Start by pressing your butter with a spoon to squish out any remaining liquid. When you can't remove anymore liquid, take cold water and pour over your butter to rinse the remaining buttermilk out.  Repeat the process.

Step 5: Add any infusion ingredients such as: salt (for longer storage and a stronger flavor), chives, onion, garlic, Parmesan cheese, honey, etc.

Step 6: Press your butter into a container of your choice. I suggest using a Mason Jar or a Ramekin.

Infuse Your Butter, Babbbbby!

Get creative and make all different types of butter- salty and sweet! You can make a variety of different butters such as: Honey Butter, Chive Butter, Onion Butter, Garlic Butter, Parmesan Garlic Butter, Cajun Butter, Strawberry Butter, Salted Butter, and Unsalted Butter.

*I prefer the tasted of Unsalted Butter, but add salt to your butter for a longer shelf-life and a stronger salty flavor.

And Voila...

I suggest freezing your butter in Mason Jars for proper storage or leave in your refrigerator for fresh sweet cream butter! 

As Always, thank you for reading my blog! 

Spread the buttery word and eat this recipe up!

Live. Laugh. Love. Learn.

Concrete, Dye, and Lace!

Triple Threat!

I'll Take All of Zee Above!

Let's just get this outta' the way...I'm In Trendy Kendie HEAVEN!! I discovered this super awesome recycled fashion boutique in NODA from a little bird and couldn't be happier...this place rocks! Concrete & Lace Boutique was recently opened by two super cool ladies, Kim and Rachel!! I found some great buys on opening day and here to tell you to CHECK 'EM OUT NOW!

My sister Marcie and I, checkin' out Concrete & Lace on opening day!

Brand new outfit, CHECK!

Dress and Sweater Set $10!!

Super Sexy Tank $5!

Hey, Where'd Ya Get That Shirt?!

Oh yaaaaaa know, LIVE FREE AND DYE!

Live Free and Dye owned by Kelly Busher is another MUST see! His company focuses on graphic design and screen printing your fave custom t-shirts. This super awesome shop is located off of West Morehead Street! Wanna buy a t-shirt?! Find his custom t-shirts sold at Concrete & Lace and all three of the Infinity's End stores as well-woohooo!! Wear phresh and step outside the box...he'll dare ya!

Meet the T-shirt Mastermind, Kelly Busher!

What Would Jesus Brew?

T-shirt by Live Free and Dye and super sexy model, Ryan Frank

And perfect for my portrait studio, 

I SHOOT PEOPLE! 

OUCH THAT HURTSSSSSS!!!!

T-Shirt by Live Free and Dye at my studio, Portrait Creations!

Need some help finding these local hot spots?!

Concrete & Lace Boutique
Owners: Kim Irene and Rachel Michele
Store Address:
516 E. 15th Street, Charlotte, NC, 28205
Phone Number: 704.560.7883
Email 'Em: concreteandlaceboutique@gmail.com
Website Information, HERE!


Live Free and Dye
Owner: Kelly Busher
Store Address:
2206 West Morehead Street, Charlotte, NC, 28208
Phone Number: 704.778.2201
Email 'Em: Kelly@LiveFreeAndDye.com
Website Information: HERE!

Congratulations on your awesome and innovative companies! 

Good luck and shoot for the stars!

Live. Laugh. Learn.

Nan and Byrons' Goodness!

Beet Burger Bliss!

Beet You To It!

Ohhhhhhh Myyyyyyy this place is super awesome! My best buddy and I, have special "girl date night" and do our best to try out the BEST restaurants in Charlotte. I met the Executive Chef, Jamie Lych and his super fun wife, Courtney Lynch, through a mutual friend and found out about this little gem, GO NOW! Nan and Byron's rocks, and I know you'll love it!

Nan and Byron's is owned by the same owners of 5church and located in the Charlotte South End area! It took over the little Vinny's Seafood spot, and they turned this restaurant into a gorgeous hot spot! The ambiance is inviting and beautiful, and the food was amazing! I will definitely visit again soon!

I was told about Nan and Byrons' amazing Beet Burger and had to try it! Being a vegetarian, I'm quite the connoisseur for veggie burgers and found this one to be top notch- WOW! The beet burger was packed with amazingly great flavor, perfectly earthy, made to perfection, and super yummy! I loved that it was red in color too!

My bestie opted for the alternate veggie option, the Portobello Mushroom with Mac N' Cheese, and why not some delicious home fries?! YUMMMMMMM! Another super awesome girl's dinner night out complete. Time to let others try 'em out too!

Check out their Menu: HERE!

Nan and Byron's is located at:

1714 South Blvd

Charlotte, NC, 28203

Make Your Dinner Reservation at:

980.224.7492

Good Company, Great Food, LOVE YOUR PLACE! Thanks for the eats!

Live. Laugh. Stuff Your Face.

What The Turmeric?!

Unleash The Turmeric!

OHHH BABY, I Can Feel It!

What's the buzz with Turmeric, and why can't I get enough of it?! This Ginger-like root packs quite the powerful punch! Move over pepper...I am currently obsessed and putting it on everything!

Not incorporating this little gem into your diet?? BIG MISTAKE! I'm very good at convincing, START NOW!

What is Curcuma Longa aka: Turmeric?

Turmeric is one of the most versatile cooking and healing herbs. It is commonly used in Indian Cuisine and gives Curry dishes their vibrant color with its amazing dying power! Most importantly, we can thank this powerful herb for its ability to heal our bodies in so many different ways. It is an Ayurvedic herb and known for its ability to reduce inflammation, treat various gastric disorders, skin disorders, depression, coughs, cancer prevention/cure, and so much more (The Complete Herb Book Pg 92-93)!

Turmeric can be consumed by peeling the skin of the root and mincing. It can also be made into a paste and applied to the skin healing minor burns, cuts, infections, and alleviating skin and stomach irritation.

Scientific Proof This Works!

The healing benefits of Turmeric are endless. Check out these Turmeric articles and studies and see pho yourself!

• Gastric Disorders

• Crohn's Disease: Study Found Here!
• IBS: Study Found Here!
• Ulcerative Colitis: Study Found Here!

• Cancer Prevention

Curcumin is the very powerful antioxidant found in Turmeric and responsible for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. Recent studies are proving that it has the power to destroy cancer-WOW! Check out the Facts and how Curcumin fights cancer!!

• Chemoprevention of Cancer (esp. Bladder Cancer): Study Found Here and Here!!
• Colorectal Cancer: Study Found Here and Here!
• Breast Cancer Study: Found Here!
• Lung Cancer: Study Found Here!
• Ovarian Cancer and HPV: Study Found Here and Here! 
• Pancreatic Cancer: Study Found Here!
• Prostate Cancer Info: Found Here!

• Type 2 Diabetes Prevention: Study Found Here!
• Parkinson's Disease: Study Found Here!
• Eye Problems
• Good-bye Sty with Turmeric Check Out these Directions!
• Pink Eye Cure, Click Here!
• Treating Halitosis: "Bad Breath" Study Found Here!
• Skin Problems

• Burns: Study Found Here!
• Eczema and Skin Irritations: Study Found Here!
• Acne Treatment: Face Mask Found Here!
• Inflammation Reduction

• Heart Disease: the anti-inflammation properties reduce the likelihood of blood clots in the arteries: Study Found Here!
• Postoperative Inflammation aid: Study Found Here!
• Arthritis: Study Found Here!!

• Delay of Liver damage: Study Found Here!

• Alzheimer's Disease: Study Found Here and Here!
• Improves Cognitive Function in the Elderly: Study Found Here!

• Depressive Disorder: Study Found Here!

• Acute Lung Injury (reduces severity): Study Found Here!

• Worms

• Ringworm Removal: Directions Found Here!

How Do I Eat It?

You can purchase Turmeric in its powder or root form. I have been purchasing Turmeric Root from The Healthy Home Market for super cheap, like a buck! You can use Turmeric in Curry dishes or simply sprinkle a "pepper-like" amount or cut a piece of the root, mince, and place in a variety of different food options like: smoothies, soup, stir-fry, sandwiches, hummus, dips, eggs, veggie dishes, chicken, etc.

Minced Turmeric Root has a similar consistency of a carrot when it's cooked in stir-fry, eggs, etc. and the taste is barely noticeable. I add Ginger and Turmeric Root to my smoothies and can only taste the Ginger. I try to add it to as many things possible and sprinkle Turmeric powder in my soups, veggie dishes, and things that I don't care will have a little yellow color. BE CAREFUL! Your cutting boards and clothing will turn yellow-YIKES!

Sprinkle some Turmeric in your soup!

...and your fave veggie sides like: carrots, taters, corn, green beans, squash, and you get the point!

Yummmmm!

Thank you for reading my Turmeric Blog and hopefully you learned something?! 

Don't forget, 
SHARE YOUR KNOWLEDGE WITH OTHERS! 

Live. Laugh. Love. Learn.

28 Days of Fitness Challenge!

Get Out There and Be Somebody!!

'Tis the Season to Look Sexy!

I know, I know, it's been forever since I've written, but I'm back in the game! Bringing to you personally, the 28 Days of Fitness Challenge! Get sexy this Holiday Season and avoid the Winter weight blues!

Your Challenge If You Choose To Accept:

Begins: Monday, November 18th, 2013 
Ends: Sunday, December 15th, 2013

This fitness challenge allows you to choose ANY form of physical activity for a minimum of 30 minutes a day for 28 days in a row. Can you do it?! YESSSSS!!! 

You may choose from the following activities:

• Running and Walking

Be careful out there runners and walkers! It's dark early, and the creepos are out! I was recently attacked having to learn the hard way! Protect yourself by running with protection! Run in groups like the NODA Brewing Run Club or with a friend! Register for the Turkey Dash 1 Mile or 4 Mile Race this Thanksgiving morning...stuffin' your face won't feel as bad!

• Yoga and Stretching
• Breathing Exercises and Meditation
• Weights
• Push-ups/Lunges/Squats
• Ab Work
• Biking
• Sports
• Wii Fit
• Crossfit, Fitness Classes, and Centers!
• Need some support? Check out Meetup and sign-up for your favorite hobby groups!

Need some suggestions?!

• Trying Something New: Check out Magazines, DVDs, Wii Fit Programs, Youtube Videos, Fitness Blogs, and find some new and exciting challenges! 
• Eat Clean: there is no better way to see results than a great diet! Pay attention to what you are eating by eating organic and avoiding products containing GMOs! Check out these great snack options!

• Drink Clean: Distilled Water and Natural Fruit and Veggie Juices will cleanse your body! Drink up!
• Take A Picture- Monitor your progress by snapping a pic every week and record your personal progress. If you do the work, you will see results- END OF STORY!!

Have a great workout regiment to share?! PLEASE DO! It's all about helping each other and spreading the fitness love! Comment and pledge your 28 days today and check back for workout updates!

Good luck with your challenge! Stay strong! Look Sexy!

Trendy Kendie Summer Faves!

And You, You Get A Gold Star!

I Like Totally Love That!

It seems as though Summer has slipped away once again! No biggie, there were so many things to do, people to see, and stuff to find! Take a peak at all of my fave products and hot spots...I promise you're gonna love 'em!

It's important for us to find and support companies that are innovative, provide quality products, and quality ingredients! What we purchase matters! If we demand quality, it's ours for the taking!

Prepare Yourself For...*drum roll*

The Trendy Kendie Top 5 Summer Picks!

1. Lookin' Good: Sugar Bear Skincare.

Don't keep this brand a secret, it super rocks! I met Jennifer Pliska, Owner of Sugar Bear Skincare at my photography studio after photographing her two adorable kiddos!! SB Skincare products are all natural, smell super yummy, and simply amazing! 

She gave me a couple products to try, and I would highly recommend both. Check out a list of all of her great creations and see for yourself! Want to meet the lady behind this great skincare line?! You can find her at the Charlotte Regional Farmer's Market.

The Sugar Bear Facial Moisturizer smells clean and yummy! A lot of product goes a long way, and it left my face feeling smooth, glowing, and without that greasy feeling! The Sugar Bear Insect Repellent is another super amazing product! It's not sticky at all, smells super delicious, and keeps the bugs away without the chemicals!!

2. Snack Attack: KIND Bars, UNREAL PB Cups, and Veggie Stix.

Companies are listening to us and providing some super yummy snacks that are GMO Free, contain no artificial colors or flavors, and totally rock! Try out my Top 3 Fave Brands!

KIND Bars

KIND Bars are the best snack ever! Not only do they have a million flavors to choose from, I have yet to find one that I don't like! Their bars range from fruity, chocolate (yum), and salty covering all of the major bases! Have a crazy chocolate craving? This is your bar!

UNREAL PB Cups

The UNREAL products seem to be poppin' up everywhere in Charlotte. I actually first learned about them at Target in search of some quality movie candy and recently saw a stand at The Healthy Home Market this past week! Of course, I had to support their marketing and scored some PB Cups!

PB Cups-NOM! NOM! NOM!

Veggie Stix

Potato chips, get out the way!! It's time for the best salty snack ever, Veggie Stix by Good Health Natural Foods! This is the best veggie chip brand by far and is poppin' up everywhere, even at Harris Teeter!! This snack is GMO free, contains no hydrogenated oils, 55% less fat than chips, and full of vitamins and minerals. I think they taste better than chips too!

3. Bring on the Brunch: Zada Jane's Corner Cafe

There are not enough great things to say about this restaurant! I love the Plaza Midwood area filled with hipsters, cool buildings, restaurants, and shops...what more could you ask for? Errrmm...a Mimosa?! Check out Zada Jane's Corner Cafe brunch for amazing Mimosas, NO GMO ingredients, and quality grass-fed, no hormone meat options!

I've tried it all! Check them out for dinner too...it's all amazing!

4. Dress to Impress: Buffalo Exchange.

The Buffalo Exchange is a super trendy thrift shop located in Plaza Midwood. This store is full of great buys and supported by locals trading in their old outfits for something different. You will find great clothing, accessories, and shoes without the junk! Check them out on your way to brunch at Zada Jane's Cafe. You can find 'em right next door!

$6 Shirt! 

$3 Belt! YES!

5. Juicing Power: RAAW Juice

RAAW Juices are super awesome and a great option when you don't have the time to make your own! Forget the crappy Naked Juice brand and check out RAAW!! Haven't heard of the recent lawsuit against Pepsi's product, Naked Juice?! Make sure you fill out the Naked Juice Class Action Lawsuit and demand quality for our country! No proof of purchase necessary and a $45 claim is up for grabs! If you receive your fat check, I suggest using the money to support a company like RAAW Juice or your local juice bar (The Healthy Home Market, Earth Fare, and Luna's Living Kitchen) in order to help those companies trying to keep us healthy and fight GMOs!

Have a great fave product or company? 

Give them a shout out and spread the word!

Cauliflower Power!

Good Morning, Cauliflower Au Gratin!

Make Way for the New "It" Thang!

What a great way to start your day with Cauliflower Au Gratin! Did you know that cauliflower is full of vitamin C and a cancer killahhhh?! Check out these great Cauliflower Facts and EAT MORE! Need help?? Try something new with these super yummy cauliflower recipes:

• Cauliflower Soup
• Charred Cauliflower Tacos (Check out Tin Kitchen Food Truck for this dish- YUM)
• Mashed Cheesy Cauliflower 
• Cauliflower Puree
• Cauliflower Pizza Dough
• Cauliflower Rice

Cauliflower Au Gratin

Zee Ingredients:

• One Head of Cauliflower
• One Yellow Onion
• One Package of Gruyere Cheese
• Half of a Package of Aged Cheddar by Kerrygold
• One Cup of Parmesan
• 2 TBSP Kerrygold Butter
• 2 TBSP Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 Cups of Unsweetened Coconut Milk
• 3 TBSP All-Purpose Flour
• 1/2 TSP of Nutmeg
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• 1/4 Bulb of Garlic
• An 8x11 Baking Dish

Serves 4-6

How do I Make This?! 

I found this recipe on Pinterest and made a few vegan tweaks for a more healthier and tastier dish. I avoided bread crumbs, added an onion for texture, garlic, used coconut milk instead of milk, and 50% less butter by substituting with Extra Virgin Olive Oil. I also added an Aged Cheddar, because I'm cheesy!


Step 1: Prep Your Stuff

• Preheat Your Oven to 375 Degrees F.
• Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. 
• Cut your cauliflower into florets. Don't know how? Learn something new today!
• Dice your onion and saute for later.
• Grate the Cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheese.

Step 2: Combine Zee Ingredients!!

• Boil the cauliflower for 5-6 minutes and drain them bad boys. Make sure that your cauliflower is firm! 

• Place your saucepan over low heat, add the oil and butter, and stir in the flour (thickening agent). After the flour is mixed in with no lumps (1-2 minutes), add the coconut milk and whisk until it begins to boil and thicken (1-4 minutes).

• Remove from heat and add your remaining ingredients: salt, pepper, garlic, nutmeg, sauteed onions, Cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan Cheese (save a little cheese for the top of your dish).

YAY CHEESE!

Say Cheeeeese!

Onionssss Yum!

Cauliflower Power!

Zee Cream Sauce!!

Mmmmmmm Goooooodddddd!!

Step 3: Bake Zee Dish!!

• Pour the cauliflower into your baking dish and combine with your cream sauce. Salt, Pepper, and cover with the remaining cheesy goodness. 
• Bake your dish for 25-30 minutes and broil for 2-3 minutes at the end to brown your cauliflower.
• DIG IN!

And Voila...

Pair it with a super awesome veggie sandwich!!

I brought a double serving of this dish to my family picnic this past weekend, and it was almost gone!! We paired it with an amazing veggie sandwich, and as you can see, there was nothing but VEGGIE SMILES!

Flower Power!! Another great cauliflower dish.