Sunday, September 30, 2012

Challenge: Scare Yourself into Fitness!!

The October Abs and Push-Up Challenge...
Any Takers??

Food & Healthy=A Great Combo if it's Done Right
I am planning a trip to Vegas with my little sister, Marcie's 21st Birthday in November, and it's time to kick things up a notch for a great Vegas-Style Body!! I know, I know...if, I lose her, she'll be on the roof! That being said, get fit with My Abs & Push-up Challenge covering all of the major areas: Arms, Core, Abs, and Stomach...get it right, get it tight!

Your Kids will Follow Your Regiments...make them good ones!
I challenge you to take a before and afterpPhoto in order to realize how much dedication and effort pay-off...plus, you'll prolly be a sexy beast starting November 1st!! :)

Don't worry about the scale, worry about how you feel, and how your  clothing size decreases!
October Push-up Challenge:

*If you can't complete the full amount, don't give up, just breakdown the sets. For example, Week 2: 2 sets of 10 push-ups instead of 20 push-ups in a row.

Week 1: 10 Full Push-Ups/Day COMPLETED FOR THE WIN!
I just completed one week of the Push-ups and Abs Challenge...I hope I am not alone in this!! I can TOTALLY notice a difference already!! Feel free to leave tips, inspiration, and stories about your first week!! Great Job!!

Week 2: 20 Full Push-Ups/Day COMPLETED FOR THE WIN!!!
Alright Ladies and Gents, I hope you continue to follow my challenge!! I can't believe that 14 days are already down...keep on keeping on!!! Now...for the 30 push-ups!

Week 3:  30 Full Push-Ups/Day COMPLETED FOR THE WIN!!!

Week 4: 40 Full Push-Ups/Day  COMPLETED FOR THE WIN!!! 

Youtube Video Tips for the Perfect Pushup

 Youtube Video: 10 Push-up Variations

*This may not seem like a huge challenge, but it is a supplemental workout, and you still have to complete it whether or not you ran a half-marathon or in need of the hangover-pass (ain't gonna happen)! Also, if you're so awesome, add more push-ups every week or do multiple reps throughout your day. Keep in mind, I want you to look forward to this challenge every day, to feel stronger as every day passes! Don't over-exert yourself the first day putting yourself out or creating a grumpy mood for the next day. Your mind is a powerful tool, think positive and know that you can. :)

My Mantra when Running, when I'm gettin' tired, I repeat this to myself, and I haven't stopped until  the  End Since!
October Abs:

This is a fun-you-choose-your-workout-challenge: Only 10-15 Minute Abs, you choose your workout, just complete one every day. Check out random blogs, youtube videos, magazine and website articles to help you to complete a random Abs Challenge Every Day for the Month of October...31 total!! You choose and choose wisely, because our goal is to get ripped, son!!

Killer Abs
Some Great Tutorials:
13 Ab Routines 
300 Reps for Perfect Abs
Click on the captions for the Ab Routines...
Pilates Idea Abs Challenge

6 Different Animated Moves...Great Workouts
Beast Mode Engaged

Yoga & Rock Hard Abs




Rihanna's Ab Routine


That's what's up!!

New Addition Abs 8 Minute Simulator Youtube Video

New Youtube Abs Routine by Simulator Youtube Video

New Great Abs Routine Workout and Form Information

Have a Great Routine?? Comment and Spread the Word...keep checking back for  Workout Updates!

Tamin' My Mane: Part 1

The Blonde Bombshell...
With great hair, you can conquer the world!

I have been blessed with an ever-so-thick wild mane...and of course, addin' a little blond never hurt anyone, right?? My current obsession has stormed the braid craze, and I can't seem to get enough!! It's official ladies, the loose-bun atop my head is a style of the past...a braid's just so much more darn cute!! 

Venture below for Part 1 of Tamin' My Mane consisting of my Top 3 Favorite Trendy Hairstyles...hair posts were discovered with the help of friends, through trial and error, and inspired by Pinterest re-pinned to Tamin' My Mane and attempted by yours truly...I have provided steps and tutorials for those willing to attempt...happy stylin'!!

Check My Girl, Vicki out at London Grace Salon and this great blog write-up I did for her, Here!

Style #1: The Wavy Side Updo worn by my muse, Sarah Hyland
The Golden Globe Awards 2012 courtesy of Marie Claire

My Version:
Attempted as a Bridesmaid Sept 2012
Time:15-20 Mins...30 if, you're really slow...

How to Attempt Beauty For Long & Short Hair:

1. Loose Curls: section your hair off & curl
Tip: I am not the best curler and HATE that it takes forever with long hair...that all changed when, I ordered the Remington Curling Wand. It's SUPER quick (5mins for my hair) and easy!! You just wrap your hair around it and pull-done, perfect curl...your welcome!

2. Pull to One Side: Tip: if you have longer hair, twist your hair once when pulling it to one-side leaving a cute horizontal twist and shortening hair for an easier pin-up process and hold.

3. Place in a loose side-bun: Simply twist your hair until it forms a bun at the appropriate length, just below and slightly touching your ear, with loose strands layered until they are just above your shoulder, and pin enough to secure.

4. Twist & Pin: Take the remaining curls, twist, and pin around your bun
*Add a big white flower, little flowers, or a jeweled-pin for extra sass!!

And Voila...
Classy Hair-do


Back Hair Twist to shorten long hair and add interest
Laura's Wedding by Solarbear Imaging


Style #2: The Side-Fishtail Braid:

Believe it or not, I was taught and learned of the Side-Fishtail Braid from a little 9-yr-old girlie, who had learned from a web tutorial from youtube...WOW!! I suggest viewing Lauren Conrad's Fishtail Tutorial for an easy step-by-step fishtail guide.



My Version:
Attempted before work August 2012
Time: 5 minutes

And Voila...

My first Fishtail



Outdoor Portrait Creations Session


Style #3: Frizz-free Locks

I am always looking for safe products without harsh chemicals, artificial dyes, preservatives, & scents. I suggest Aubrey Organics and their super amazing smelling Honeysuckle Shampoo & Conditioner.

My Version:
Time: 2-5 Minutes

1. Brushing: I suggest a Boar's Hair Bristle Brush to maintain strong hair, shine, and anti-frizz.
2. Hair Balm: Real Organic Unrefined Shea Butter actually has a pine scent and when mixed with Essentials Oils can be an amazing skin and hair product. It's anti-bacterial properties rid the potential threat provided by other unnatural oily & refined hair products that may clog your skin's pores causing acne & damage your hair while absorbing and spreading harsh chemicals into your skin, lungs, and eyes!
Tip: I suggest African Black Soap & Honey and Black Seed Oil Body Shea Butter by Nubian Heritage (Ha- Yes, I know I'm a white girl). I use these products on my skin and rub the remaining Shea Butter into my hair for an amazing smell and great anti-frizz for the whole day!!
*live in the Charlotte Area?? I purchase my Shea Balms at The Healthy Home Market!
3. Hairspray (Optional): I do not usually use hairspray, but I know that some ladies can't live without it! Top off your hair with this great Aubrey Cosmetics Hairspray that smells naturally wonderful and works even better!
4. Air-dry Loose-Curl: Place Shea Balm on hair sparingly and and it'll dry frizz-free...if frizzy, add a little more post-dry.

Out at Vida, the best Mexican, I've had in a long time...highly recommend it...with my Niece, Adelyne!
OR

Blow-dry Straight and Sleek: Blow-dry with a boar's head brush after air-drying for 10-15mins and Apply Shea Balm sparingly until sleek and you're good to go with NO straightener needed!! Tip: Apply bottom to top near tips and follow to your scalp allowing balm to wear-off...then, top to bottom pulling the little amount of balm from your scalp to the hair tips causing less oil to surface near your scalp...LESS IS MORE!! Do NOT apply a lot or your hair will bring about those ever so horrible Jersey Shore qualities! UGGGGHHH!!

Boar's Head Brush and Benefits!
And Voila...


Loose Curls, no frizz


Straight hair, no Straightener..use the wax shea butter!!

Shea Balm Sleek and Sexxxyyy

Saturday, September 29, 2012

Sweet Little Finds Make For Big Behinds!

The String Bean 
Fresh Market & Deli
So cute and yummy, I just wanna pinch its little cheeks off!


The Stringbean Market & Deli
The String Bean: Lunch Option- Belmont, NC


I am always in search of and pleased to find cute little places with character and great eats! I love supporting local businesses, because I think they are truly important landmarks that help spread culture, unique ideas, and bring interest to our already ever-so-interesting lives. And if, we don't support these amazing little nooks, we'll be left with places likes Applebees...EWWW!! Restaurants with quality ingredients, unique combinations, and great craft beers seem to grab my attention, and it is my pleasure to point you to these hidden gems...Be Brave, life's too good to eat boring!!!!

My dad and I, had an Outdoor Photo Shoot in Belmont, NC and after our session were scouring the horizon for a place to plop down for some eats!! As we were driving through Belmont Main Street, we saw The String Bean Fresh Market & Deli and dropped in for some patio action!! What a treat, this place is absolutely adorable!! Not only a great shaded patio area, but an amazing fresh seafood casing as you walk in, and a long list of craft beers and wine.

The menu consists of fresh ingredients and amazing homemade sides with great flavor combos! It was absolutely delicious leaving both of us satisfied and feeling great!! 

Our Orders, I suggest them both...YUMMY!

My dad ordered their Flatbread Pizza, The Conmish, which is made with peppers and onions, pepperoni, and a red sauce and only $8.50.


The Bite's About to Happen...The Conmish Pizza

And After...Enjoy the Conmish
I opted for the vegetarian option, the Portabella Sandwich, which was super flavorful and one of the best Shroom Sandwiches I've had! My dad even liked it, and he normally describes mushrooms as SLIMY!! Yummy Portabella on Focaccia with a delicious Pesto Spread, Provolone, and LTO...YUM!!! It came with a side item, and I chose their Pasta Salad. Generally, I am really picky when it comes to this side, but it was made just right, no crazy amounts of mayo, great flavor, and I WANNA GO BACK NOW!! The prices weren't bad at all either. My lunch was only $7.50!

Shroomssss


Pesto Portabella Sandwich and Pasta Salad


Needless to say, we enjoyed this place and will be back again!! 

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Shhh...I think I Smell A Vegan!!! AAAHHHHH

I Definitely Hear Something...
*Cough* Vegan
Oh No, did you say it was Vegan?? Anything but that...

Vegan HAHA

I was racking my brain for the scariest topic I could find in honor of Halloween, and I decided on...wait for it, "Cue the Scary Music"....VEGANSSS!!!! When, I initially learned of the Vegan lifestyle, the terms that came to mind...WEIRD, Hippie, Mal-Nutrition, GROSS and the list goes on.

For some reason, our society instantly negatively judges those looking to maintain healthy lifestyles with the amazing foods given to us...Fresh Fruits, Vegetables, Oils, Grains, Alt Milk Options, Soups, Nuts, Beans, Legumes, Breads, Pastas, etc. can all be prepared and taste even better. It is just a slight switch in your recipes, but most of all, a switch in your attitude and willingness to rid old ways making way for the new...that's all folks!! If not Vegan, shoot for Vegetarian...you'll be surprised at how much your body will crave these alternate options over meats and dairy, and how well, your body will respond to your changing diet.

I used to be one of those terrified people but not anymore. Why not cut back on meats and dairy while diving into a healthy pool of vitamins and minerals by simply substituting with extra F&V, whole grains, oils, & alternative milk benefits?? Sounds good to me...I am going to tell you how, and you'll be how amazed at how easy it is to incorporate Vegan and Vegetarian principles into your diet! It doesn't have to be all or nothing with personal health, a little bit of healthy goes a long way! A lotta bit goes even farther...

If you haven't check this booked out, it's a must have, Skinny B**** and changed my life and lifestyle with facts and funny-get-to-the-point writing! 


Skinny Bitch
Like documentaries better?? Check out this great one on Netflix, Vegucated.



Get Vegucated!

I am creating this post to discuss the Vegan diet and offer great easy substitute taking away that instant paralyzing fear that grabs a hold of you every time you hear the word, VEEGGGAAANNN!!! Pinterest and Vegweb are 2 Amazing Sites providing Vegan and Vegetarian dishes and information...my pinning is getting out of control!! Check out my Veggie Head and Vegan Head Pinterest Boards...

I won't give up cheese fully, but I have found some great subs sans Tofu...ewwwww-HA! Check out this awesome Rice Cheese by Go Veggie that I purchased at the Healthy Home Market, it tastes great!!



Current Sandwich of Choice: Bakery Bread (Nova Bakery has a bunch of breads no egg or milk), Tomatoes, Rice Mozzarella, Basil, Cayenne, S&P with any Hummus Spread!! And the ever so awesome, homemade PB and Banana Sandwich, make your own PB and Cashew Butter at The Healthy Home Market!


Yummy Homemade Peanut Butter from The Healthy Home Market!

Charlotte Vegan Restaurants:

Check out these great Vegan restaurants right in the Queen City!

The Bean





The Fern



Luna's Living Kitchen- Check out their Menu!

The Common Market- lots of Vegan options.

Check out my review of The Common Market!

VegWeb:

This website is amazing and really provides all of the facts and answers a lot of questions about Veganism...since, they can explain it wayyyy better...check out the following:



  • Vegan 101 An article explaining what a Vegan is and info about Veganism.
  • Vegan Milk Options: Hemp, Soy, Coconut, & Almond...I only use Coconut & Almond
    • Almond Milk: Unsweetened Silk (it's sweeter than Coconut Milk) I use this for smoothies, with granola, casseroles, mashed potatoes, etc.
    • Coconut Milk: Soooooooooo good, I pour some in for a creamier smoothie, add the almond too, because it's sweeter. I use Coconut Milk for my coffee, because it's a  little bit thicker and doesn't have the "nutty" taste that the Almond Milk has. It's GREAT as a cream, butter, and milk substitute. Don't forget, you can use this in "cream-based" soups, dressings, and as a yogurt substitute. Thirsty?? Chug some, it's super light and refreshing.
It really is SOOOOO Delicious!

  • Protein and Calcium: every time I hear this questions, I giggle inside HAHA..please read this article and put me out of my misery!
The following chart has been directly copied from Vegweb, and it is a Vegweb Substitution Chart which, I have linked and take NO credit for...please refer to this amazing substitute guide, it's super-easy to make these lifestyle changes...

Ener-G Egg Replacer

This long-time baking favorite is a simple way to replace eggs in your recipes. Made from potato starch, tapioca flour, and leavening agents, it helps to bind and leaven baked goods. Whisk together 1-1/2 teaspoons with 2 tablespoons warm water until frothy!
Ground flax seeds

Egg replacing in baking can be a lot more creative than relying on boxed egg replacer. When veganizing muffins, cookies, and cakes, a good go-to egg substitute is ground flax seeds. Cheap and nutritious, when blended with a little bit of water—three tablespoons of water to one tablespoon of ground flax yields about one “egg”—flax creates a mixture that binds baking ingredients together.
Bananas 
This is an amazing substitute, and I frequently use this option!! 

When making banana bread and other cakes containing bananas, the fruit itself has binding qualities and can stand in as an egg replacer. For every egg you need, simply mash or purée 1/2 banana.
Baking powder & baking soda

1 egg = 1-1/2 tablespoons baking powder + 1-1/2 tablespoons warm water + 1-1/2 tablespoons oil (use = leavening)
1 egg = 1-1/2 tablespoons baking powder + 1 tablespoon warm water + 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (use = leavening)
1 egg = 2 teaspoons baking soda + 2 tablespoons warm water (use = leavening)
1 egg = 2 teaspoons baking soda + 2 tablespoons warm water + 1/2 teaspoon oil (use = leavening)
1 egg = 1 teaspoon baking powder + 1 teaspoon vinegar (use = leavening)
Flour

1 egg = 1 teaspoon soy flour + 1 tablespoon water (use = binding + moisture)
1 egg = 3 tablespoons water + 3 tablespoons flour + 1-1/2 teaspoons vegetable shortening, + 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (use = leavening)
Fruit I have used all of these options and recommend all...double your batch and have some applesauce for dessert

1 egg = 1/4 cup applesauce or purée fruit (use = binding and moisture)
1 egg = 1/4 cup pumpkin purée or squash purée (use = binding and moisture)
1 egg = 1/4 cup apricot or prune purée (use = binding and moisture)
Nuts & seeds

1 egg = 3 tablespoons nut butter
1 egg = 1 teaspoon psyllium seed husk + 1/4 cup water (let stand 5 mintues; use = binding and moisture)
Soy-I do not use Soy Products...

1 egg = 1-1/2 tablespoons lecithin granules + 1-1/2 tablespoons water + 1 teaspoon baking powder (use = leavening)
1 egg = 1/4 cup silken tofu (use = binding and moisture)
Starch

1 egg = 2 tablespoons arrowroot + 1 tablespoon water (use: binding and moisture)
1 egg = 2 tablespoons corn starch + 1 tablespoon water (use: binding and moisture)
1 egg = 2 tablespoons potato starch + 1 tablespoon water (use: binding and moisture)
1 egg = 1-1/2 teaspoon tapioca/corn starch + 1-1/2 teaspoon potato starch + 1/8 teaspoon baking powder + pinch xanthan gum + 3-1/2 tablespoons water + 1 teaspoon oil (whisk to froth; use = leavening)
Other I have use the Mashed Potatoes and Yeast Subs which were great!

1 egg = 1 teaspoon yeast dissolved in 1/4 cup warm water (use = leavening)
1 egg = 3 tablespoons vegetable oil + 1 tablespoon water (use = moisture and binding)
1 egg = 3 tablespoons vegan mayonnaise (use = moisture and binding)
1 egg = 3 tablespoons mashed beans (use = moisture and binding)
1 egg = 3 tablespoons mashed potatoes (use = moisture and binding)
Egg white substitution

1 egg white = 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum + 1/4 cup water (let stand 5 minutes, then whip; use = leavening)
Egg yolk substitution

1 egg = 1-1/2 tablespoons lecithin granules + 2 teaspoons water (use = moisture and binding)

Your Guide to Healthy Oils...

I have directly copied this oil chart from Vegweb Oils and take NO CREDIT, please review their webpage article.


Avocado oil- This pick, pressed from avocadoes, is nutty and smooth. It’s also one of the healthiest oils, as monosaturated fat makes up more than half of the content. It’s not great for frying, so mix in a salad dressing to make the most of the avocado flavor. 
Canola oil- Only consumed in its oil form, canola is a type of rapeseed, which is related to cabbage and Brussels sprouts. Canola is best used in baking or light cooking. It’s also good for cardiovascular health as it contains low amounts of saturated fats and has high omega-3 content.
Coconut oil- The New York Times dubbed coconut oil, which actually has more of a buttery consistency, the next biggest cooking ingredient due in part to being loved by vegans. Solid at room temperature and great as a butter replacement, coconut oil adds amazing flavor to baked goods. Drizzle it melted over popcorn and add sea salt for a delicious treat.
Corn oil- This is the most popular oil at fast food outlets for frying French fries, with nearly 70 percent of restaurant chains serving fries that contain corn oil. Though initially considered somewhat heart-healthy, researchers are now saying that corn oil’s comparatively high levels of harmful saturated fat make it one of the least healthiest oil choices.
Olive oil- The beloved Mediterranean liquid is one of the oldest culinary oils and is perfect for sautéeing, as a bread dip (with some balsamic vinegar), or in salad dressing. Extra virgin olive oil, made from the first olive pressing, is the most pure and least acidic version, while other olive oils tend to be refined or a blend of pomace oil and virgin olive oil. Packed with monounsaturated fats shown to lower cholesterol, olive oil has a relatively lower burning temperature, so don’t use it to fry on high heat. 
Peanut oil- One of the best oils for frying and sautéeing, because it stands well up to high heat. Made from one of America’s favorite nuts, this oil is relatively hearth-healthy, with its high monounsaturated fat content.
Safflower and Sunflower oil- The two flower oils are nutritionally similar, and both make for excellent baking fats as they are flavorless and colorless. They also stand up well to high heat, and are the most popular oils for making vegetable margarine. As for nutritional benefits, sunflower oil has high levels of vitamin E and some clinical studies have found safflower oil beneficial for coronary disease and cystic fibrosis.
Sesame oil- Holds well up to heat and is great for stir-fries. Sesame seeds are also full of antioxidants. While refined sesame oil is best for high-heat cooking, toasted sesame oil adds delicious flavor to Asian sauces and dips. Or pour it straight over edamame with soy sauce for a quick, nutritious snack. 

Wanna get some extra Energy?? Add a Juicing Option for a pep in your step!! Do some crunches while your at it!! And, My family recipe for amazing Spicy Roasted Tomato Red Pepper Soup Recipe and learn how to can it in Mason Jars for off-season, fresh eatin'!!

Leeloo Costume DIY...Multipass??

Don't Forget Your Multipass!!
And don't forget, you get more Candy with a Gun...


It's that special time of year again, HALLOWEEN!! Where you can enjoy smashing pumpkins, accidentally kiss your masked cousin, and steal from your kid's candy basket! Meanwhile, Grandpa John's yelling at the innocent 2 year old, Dora, steppin' on his lawn...?!!?! YOU KIDS GET OFF MY LAWWWWWN!!!!

Well, it's time to get ready for Halloween's shenanigans in a DIY Get-up that'll have you lookin' ever-so-stylish..this costume is for boys and girls. I suggest just girls...unless, you're super BA!


DIY Leeloo Costume


What You Will Need:

  • One Roll of Orange Duct Tape: For the Suspenders. Keep in mind, I am 5'3; so, you need to purchase accordingly. Orange Duct Tape is available at Staples.
  • Gold or Tan Spandex Leggings: I purchased mine for $5 at Rugged Wearhouse
  • A Sharpie Marker: For drawing the lines on your leggings
  • Boots: To wear on your feet...haha
  • Orange Bob Wig: I purchased mine at Morris Costumes for $25 bucks, and it's GREAT quality and looks amazing.
  • 2 Small Mens Ribbed White Tanks pre-shrunk (get appropriate size, duh)
  • 6 Snaps and a Needle/Thread/Scissors
  • Tape Measure

Time: One full night after work and a Bottle O' Wine
Pattern: You are going to make your own and wing it...

Shirt:

This is super easy. Grab a pre-shrunk tank, roll it up...done-ski!

Orange Suspenders:



LeeLoo DIY Costume
  1. Make the Pattern: 
  • You are going to make this from the remaining ribbed-tank
  • Always start with small cuts, try it on, and adjust it as you go....using material will provide some pull, so, you can stretch if needed.
  • Suspender MeasurementsMeasure about 5 inches and taper it in if adjustments are needed at the end; if your suspenders are crooked, you can trim them to even everything out.
    • Consistently measure the thickness for the front, side, and back portions of the suspenders.
    • Measure from the top of your shoulder to the middle of your abdomen (where the side portion of the suspender will begin...lets say for blog purposes it's 7 inches...in that case, draw a line on your tank starting from the top left corner, down 7 inches, stop. 
      • Now, go back to the top portion of your tank top, measure across 5 inches (thickness of your suspender) and draw a straight parallel 7 inch line. 
      • FRONT DIAGRAM, Left, Right, Middle, Side
                                                                                                                     5          5
                                                                                                                  L \  \ M  /  /  R
                                                                                                           5         s          s      5
                                                                                                                        \   \/  /
                                                                                                                            V
      • Now the other side: start from the right top corner of your tank top, draw a 7 inch vertical line, measure 5 inches horizontally, and draw a parallel 7 inch line to match it...this should look like suspenders drawn on a shirt.
      • Now, you just need to tweak it...imagine this, your straps need to come together at the bottom in a v-shape; where, you will sew a snap on the front and back portions to make a "bodysuit." If you need to make your straps longer to meet, forming the bodysuit, just take some scrap material, back in duct tape, and extend onto the suspenders.
    • Side portion: Now, where you have stopped at the 7 inch line, leave a 5 inch vertical space and draw your line to the bottom of the shirt, tapering it into as you reach the bottom of your shirt. Repeat the Steps for the Right Side of the shirt
    • Back Portion: Turn your tank over. You are going to make a 5 inch thick straight line strap that goes down the middle of your back which will connect your 5 inch sides, which will connect the front and back portions of your suspenders. Keep in mind, it will look like a cross.
UGGGGHHH...I know that's confusing!! When, you look at the pictures and it starts to come together, it will make sense!

Keep the back strap piece 5 inches thick and make the pattern long enough to go down your back and with enough room to sew 4 snaps on it and meet the front like a bodysuit.

So, it looks like the picture, on the back of the shirt, with a 5 inch space between the lines, connecting the left and right suspenders and the front v-portion snapping like a bodysuit.

See how to connect the side, the 5 inch, thickness...?? 
  • Cut & Cover: Cut out the portions of the shirt that are not part of the suspenders, cover the front tank material with strips of orange duct tape, press against the shirt pattern, flip it around, add another strip; so, it's a layer of tape, shirt pattern, and another layer of tape...this creates the suspenders. Do not join the front and back, just tape them separately.
    • Cover up all of the white tank with orange duct tape.
    • Tape your sides to the back piece forming a cross and joining the top portions like a harness.
  • Holes: Cut holes equally spaced down your straps.
  • Snaps: secure with 4-6 snaps on the front and back crotch portions of the suspenders-ha, put the backings on either the front or back of the suspenders, and the snap portion on the opposing side. Snap together, joining the front and back which will form your suspenders-body-suit thingy!!! DONE! I wore this costume for a Music Festival Sci-Fi Night, Amberland...the snaps held up all night!!
Pants:
  • Take your Sharpie and draw a vertical line from the top middle of the pants to bottom, front and back
  • Draw a circle around each leg, just above your knee and another just below your knee.
Wig:

If you have long hair, braid your hair down your back, flip-up, and put a hairnet on to keep it thin so, it will fit, next step, GET WIGGY WIT IT!!!

And Voila...





Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Sweet and Spicy Seafood!

Sweet Cinnamon and Spicy Cayenne Seared Tilapia 
served over Jasmine Rice with Mixed Vegetables...
Did I just make your mouth water??

Seared Tilapia over a bed of spicy and mild peppers
I do not eat seafood very often anymore due to all of the fish farms, pollution, and oil spills; however, when I purchase seafood, it is always super fresh. I recommend seafood from The Fresh Market which is reasonably priced, has beautiful fillets, stuffed seafood options, and a wide-variety. 

I love sweet and spicy food combos. They are a flavor-explosion in my mouth, and the Basmati Jasmine Rice will take you to the moon! Prepare for awesomeness once again and blow your socks off with this new dish, courtesy of my roomie, Keelia.

Preparation time: 10 mins prepping, 15 mins for veggies, 20-30mins for rice depending if you prefer your rice al dente or softer, 5-7 mins for the Tilapia...I feel like it varies with heat and the pan you are using to saute your pieces of fish.

Serves: 2 people

  • Appetizer Idea: Brie and a French Loaf from Nova's Bakery located in South End.

Ingredients:
  • Cinnamon and Cayenne: spread a layer of each on a plate for coating your fish
  • 2 Tilapia Fillets
  • Basmati Jasmine Rice (2-3 Cups)
  • Mixed Veggies:
    • One Onion
    • 1 Red Pepper
    • One Yellow Pepper
    • One Purple Pepper
    • One Orange Pepper
    • 2 Cups of Fresh Spinach
    • 1-2 Tomatoes *add towards the end, they add a lot of juices & don't need as much time
    • 2-3 Cloves of Garlic
    • Mixed Herb Blend, Salt & Pepper
    • Grapeseed Oil
    • Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Get to it y'all!!!

Mixed Veggies and Basmati Rice
  • Basmati Jasmine Rice: Bring water to a boil, pour in your rice with a tbsp of Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, simmer for 20-30mins and remove when it suits your taste.
  • Mixed Vegetables: Heat Saucepan or Skillet with Grapeseed Oil, Garlic, Salt & Pepper, Jalapenos or Cayenne Peppers (optional) on medium-high heat, add loosely-chopped vegetables and saute for 15 mins-ish or until, the mix veggies are to your liking once again! Be creative, you may switch out some veggies, you're allowed!! 
  • Tilapia: Rinse your fillets in cold water, rub a little Grapeseed Oil, cover both-sides in your cinnamon & cayenne mix, add salt & pepper. Heat your saucepan with Grapeseed Oil, Garlic, Salt & Pepper, on med-high heat, Sear, and Saute for about 5-7 mins until golden brown and un-slimy!!
  • Make Your Plate: Place rice on your plate, veggies, and Tilapia on the top!

And Voila...

Cinnamon and Cayenne Seared Tilapia over a bed of Mixed Rice and Basmati  Rice