Fun Party Drink...Arnold Palmer Jello Shots!

All you need is 1 package of Lemon Jell-O, Firefly Vodka, and 10 lemons. Make the Jell-O normally, replacing the 1 cup of cold water with the vodka.
For the lemon shells, simply halve the lemons, remove everything inside, and place them tightly into a cake pan. Then fill them with the Jell-O and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before slicing. Use a very sharp knife.

Cook's Note: do not let these sit for more than 36 hours or so, or the lemon peels will cause the shots to become extremely lemon-y.

Enjoy!

Easy Meal: Buffalo Chicken Calzone

I pulled this promotional recipe offline and made a few changes to better fit my tastes. The original recipe calls for a can of Pillsbury pizza crust (stretched out and cut into 4ths), barbecue chicken, and mozzarella.
I went with grilled chicken in buffalo sauce, mozzarella, chopped celery, and ranch for dipping. They were D-licious! And perfect for a college kid or a mom on-the-go! I thought of a few other traditional recipes but you could really add anything you would like!

Traditional
Pizza sauce
Mozzarella
Pepperoni
Sausage (for Meatlovers)

Caprese
Mozzarella
Tomato
Basil
Chicken (optional)

Recipe:
1. Oven at 425. Spray cookie sheet with non-stick spray.
2. Unroll and stretch dough, then cut into 4 pieces.
3. Fill, fold, and fork the edges!
4. Pop into the oven for 9-12 minutes (or until light brown.)

Easy, right?

Feel Good Morning Routine

I'm back! Amidst my procrastination I came up with this morning routine inspired by a post on pinterest. Although it is slightly personalized, I think it's mostly applicable to anyone. So here goes...

-Set your alarm for 7 am...DON'T HIT SNOOZE!
-Get out of bed and make it.
-Open your curtains. It's been proven to help you wake up in the morning.
-Eat a small snack - granola, yogurt, and/or fruit - and drink 2 glasses of water.
-Slip into your workout clothes of choice (I like more fitted ones because they make me suck in my stomach!)
-Head outside...walk 10 minutes, run 30, and walk 10 more.
-Once home, do 50 crunches and superman (back exercise).
-Stretch 10 minutes.
-Pamper yourself - hop in the shower, use facial scrub, shave
-Finish off your routine by making yourself pretty - makeup, hairdryer, and cute outfit
Now look in the mirror...how do you feel?

If you love fashion...

You must follow this blog...Ah Ma Zing


http://atlantic-pacific.blogspot.com/

A PINK folding chair!

This IKEA gem is an adorable twist on a boring piece of church picnic furniture. It is a PINK folding chair! So cute.

Ikea pink folding chair

So so sorry!

I am so sorry for my extensive absence from the blog! I have been so busy with my internship and traveling that I have no idea where time has gone! I vow to update more frequently!

Tory Burch at Target!

Not really...but close! How cute are these paper plates and napkins? These could make a picnic chic.

Spring Cleaning: Bathroom Counter

Make use of your bathroom counter! New use for classic kitchen storage. I used mason jars and a glass sugar bowl to harness my daily toiletries. It makes doing my hair and makeup that much easier (and quicker!) by having everything right on hand. On tip: most people forget to wash their make-up brushes on a regular basis...I'm guilty myself...but before you move them out to breathe on the counter top, WASH THEM! It'll be better for you skin! Having hair accessories (sugar bowl) accessible makes running out the door in a ponytail makes "running out the door" possible. No more frantic digging in drawers and bags for just one bobby pin! I'd suggest any jars, sugar bowls, colorful plates, cups, or vases. So tidy up!

A Very Functional Chandelier

Vino Chandelier! I discovered this gem at NEACO in Blowing Rock and wanted to buy it right then and there! How much fun would this be at a dinner party? And a great conversational piece! And did I mention you can just take the glasses directly off the chandelier? This will definitely be the first purchase I make in decorating my first tiny apartment post-grad. Here's the product on Amazon:

Wine Glass Chandelier

Weekend Catchup: Throwing Out Old Magazines and Books

Saturday my mom was in Athens so I was a little busy but after she left I knew I needed to take a small step towards my spring cleaning regardless. This is a project you can do in 5 minutes or less.

Go through your stack of old magazines from beach trips and impulse buys at the checkout counter. But if you feel that you could never part with your Elle because Anne Hathaway, your favorite actress, looks so Ah-May-Zing on the cover, remind yourself of these guidelines. There are only 3 reasons to keep that magazine:

1. It has at least 40 pages of items/advice/workout regimens that you TRULY will use in the future. If you don't use it in the next month though, toss it.

2. It is a featured edition, one remembering Audrey Hepburn or some other truly iconic person (RIP Farrah.)

3. It looks trendy/chic/artsy/smart/becoming on your coffee table, and therefore makes you look trendy/chic/artsy/smart/becoming.

But seriously, TOSS THEM. You will feel liberated I promise.

Before

After!

Spring Cleaning: Room #1 Bathroom

Although my bathroom is mostly clean already one thing that needed a good cleaning was my fabric shower curtain liner. MAKE SURE TO READ THE LABEL for instructions. They were surprisingly complex so I'm glad I read before just tossing them in! I also have about 20 products in my shower, many of which are almost empty. Declutter your shower by using those almost empties next time you wash up (even though your brand new one smells the best!) Tomorrow, we tackle the sink (and underneath! eek!)

SPRING CLEANING FRENZY

My room is a mess and since I am heading back home for the summer, it seems like the perfect time to clean and cleanse. I'll be giving you a step-by-step progress report with some of my own cleaning tips. So keep up on my updates!

New Uses: Make Traveling with Electronics Easy

Hanging toiletry case. I recently traveled up to the NC mountains for a relaxing weekend. However, one thing that always bothers me is how messy and bothersome all the cords are for my various electronics. Between my phone, nook, computer, and ipod...it gets pretty ugly. So I came up with this trick: stash the cords in your hanging toiletry kit. It keeps them tamed and accessible, without getting tangled. Happy traveling!

Design Idea: A Chic (and Functional) Ladder Against the Wall

This is a great way to lay out your clothes for the next day. Hang up your outfit on a ladder leaned against the wall. You can also lay jeans over it, or hang your necklace around it. Another idea? Drill small holes into a hollow ladder to put in backless earrings for the full vision!

What I Aspire to...

I just discovered this blog and I am already addicted. No rehab necessary. Love.

Modern Girl Style.

My J.Crew Favorites for Summer 2011

I'M OBSESSED. My summer goal is to look good in a pair of those white skinnies...

Sun-Drenched Sweatshirt in Abstract Blue

Matchstick Jean in White Denim

Irena Gladiator Wedges

Pinstripe Toluca Tunic

Paradis Paisley Bikini in Old Red

Dressing for Wine Night

This one is dedicated to Katie. She's studying abroad in the Italian part of Switzerland this semester and when I found this perfect combo, all I could think of was Katie sitting in a cafe in Italy sipping on a merlot. It's chic, comfy, and would really work here in the States or abroad. So Ki, take notes.

A Genius Product for All you Apple Freaks

The perfect product for those who have everything Apple. No worries, I'm an Apple freak too. This is my favorite blog 'Storage and Glee'. Check out this amazing product they discovered! By Andrew Seunghyun Kim.

My new favorite drink...

I've been trying to explore as many restaurants, bars, and venues as possible so that I feel like I really appreciated Athens at its finest when I graduate in December. Last night Laura and I wandered into a warm pub/restaurant. Trapeze Pub was full but we were directed to the connecting Highwire Lounge. From here, we ordered amazing fish and chips. The real gem, however, was a blueberry mojito. It was by far the most delicious thing I had ever had. Refreshing and light. I highly encourage everyone try one! Have a good spring break to all you students!

Where I'd like to be right now...

...dreamy.

Hold everything.

A "hold everything" wallet is about to save your life. They are amazing. First of all, they make it soooo much easier to navigate your purse. Second, you can keep everything (including a checkbook AND pen) inside them...change included. And third (given the style), you can pull them out of your purse in a hurry and throw in a lipstick and *POOF* you have a clutch! Hobo has a great signature hold everything wallet, but if you're looking for one in a lower price range, I got mine on clearance at Target! And it's almost identical!

Top image: The Hobo version, opened

Bottom image: The Target identical, closed

Yummmmy

The best seasonings ever are the ones you can use on E V E R Y T H I N G! I have found this seasoning originally in a recipe for fish tacos and it was amazing. When I had a little leftover I tried it on tofu and it was just as great! Sauteed with some veggies over pasta...yum. This seasoning would also be great on chicken. I usually make the seasoning and store it so it's ready any time I want to make a quick lunch! It's so delicious...

Cumin Fish Taco Seasoning:

• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

And if you're curious...the original recipe.

An Easy Bedroom Transformation...

Paint a headboard! I've always wanted to try this little trick but never knew where to start. Here are some tips from Real Simple...

"The tools you'll need are one-inch-wide blue masking tape (about $5 at hardware stores), a level, and a three-inch roller. For a standard queen-size bed, use the tape and the level to mark out a rectangle that’s 50 to 52 inches from the floor and 62 to 64 inches across (or two to four inches wider than the mattress). Then fill in the whole area with two coats of high-gloss paint. Finally, a dream come true."

Full article

Target has the best stuff.

And they have low prices! I found this gem at Target.com and I am in love! You could use it for pretty much anything...sugar, cotton balls, office supplies, you name it! It is so pretty!

Rialto Covered Jar (12") - $34.99

Sorry!

Sorry all about my lack of posts this week! It's been suuuuper crazy but I have a ton of ideas coming at you next week! Look forward! Peace and love.

Keep your jewelry handy...

...with a decorative bowl or box! After receiving 3 different jewelry boxes for graduation (in '08) I boxed them away, thinking I had no use for them. But when decorating my apartment last year, I unearthed them and decided to put them to good use. Find a decorative box or plate to put on your nightstand. It's a quick and easy way to store your everyday jewelry each night! And if you don't have something to use...a $2.99 glass sugar bowl (with or without a top) from Target will work too!

Discovered...

One of my heros, Giuliana Rancic, has a website! It's called 'fun fit fab'! Check it out! http://fabfitfun.com/low-cal-winter-cocktails?cookiesdisabled=1

Silly Bandz for Grown Ups

Here's a new use for your kids' most recent obsession...Silly Bandz as Drink Labels! I discovered this little tip on realsimple.com and could barely keep from laughing out loud. This is genius! So, at your next cocktail party or casual get-together (after the kids are in bed), break out those silly bandz and throw them on your wine glass. It will be useful and a great conversation starter.

The Lifesaver that Fits in Your Purse

We've all been there. You wake up late, your boss's boss shows up at your "casual" lunch, or you run into your grandmother getting coffee and bagels after a very late night. Basically, you need to look a lot more put together and FAST. Mark. hookups to the rescue. I've put together your perfect emergency kit and the best part is, it all fits in your purse. The hookups are customizable and compact so you can go online and create your own at http://jsimonini.mymarkstore.com/.

Mark. Emergency Kit:

-Mark. Light Bright Lighten and Depuff Eye Gel Hook Up

-Mark. Glow Baby Glow Hook Up Lip Gloss in Pink Crush

-Mark. Scanda-Lash Hook-Up Mascara in Blacklash

-Mark. Get Bright Hook Up Highlighter

-Mark. It Kit Trend Color Compact

-Mark. Hook Up Angle Eyeshadow Brush

-Mark. A Spray We Go Hook Up Fragrance in Sophistique

-Mark. Petite Cosmetic Bag

-Optional: Mark. Make it Go Away Makeup Removing Wipes

…And don’t forget breath mints!

I die...for Tomato Soup.

I love love love tomato soup and grilled cheese. I found this awesome recipe for a modern twist on this delicious classic. I am going to make it soon but it just looked so good!

Tomato Soup with Parmesan Toast

We kept the soup slightly chunky, though it can also be pureed until smooth. Use an immersion blender, if desired. Hanukkah celebrants eat dairy during the holiday to commemorate the Jewish heroine Judith, who saved her village from Syrian attackers by distracting their general with wine and cheese.

Yield: 6 servings (serving size: about 1 1/3 cups soup and 1 toast)

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 cups chopped onion
• 2 cups chopped fennel bulb
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups organic vegetable broth (such as Swanson Certified Organic)
• 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 thyme sprig
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 6 (1-ounce) slices diagonally cut French bread (about 1 inch thick)
• 6 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese

Preparation

Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onion to pan; sauté 3 minutes. Add fennel; sauté 3 minutes. Add garlic; sauté 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender.

Add broth, tomatoes, and thyme to pan; bring to a boil. Partially cover, reduce heat, and simmer 35 minutes. Remove pan from heat; cool 5 minutes. Discard thyme sprig. Place half of tomato mixture in a blender. Remove center piece of blender lid (to allow steam to escape); secure blender lid on blender. Place a clean towel over opening in blender lid (to avoid splatters). Blend until almost smooth. Pour into a large bowl. Repeat procedure with remaining tomato mixture. Stir in salt and pepper; keep warm.

Preheat broiler.

Place bread slices on a baking sheet. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon cheese on each. Broil 2 minutes or until cheese melts.

Nutritional Information

Calories:

198 (16% from fat)

Fat:

3.6g (sat 1.3g,mono 1.7g,poly 0.5g)

Protein:

7.9g

Carbohydrate:

34.8g

Fiber:

5g

Cholesterol:

3.6mg

Iron:

2mg

Sodium:

962mg

Calcium:

131mg

The Perfect Travel Outfit

Sienna Miller masters traveling in style and comfort.

Here are a few of my tips:

1. Wear jeans or pants. You'll stay warm on the plane and avoid touching the gross sticky seats.

2. LAYERS, LAYERS, LAYERS. A cardigan or blazer and a scarf are great because they will keep you warm but won't be heavy if you want to take them off and put them in your carry-on.

3. Wear flats, but make sure they have support so your arches aren't aching when you arrive. They will be easy to slip off at security and will protect your toes from rogue suitcases.

If you absolutely MUST wear heels, make sure to apply BANDAID Blister Block where your shoes rub most.

4. Bring a tote with comfortable straps and a zipper so no one is snatching your NOOK out from under you. Keep your zip-locked liquids in an outside pocket and easily accessible to keep security quick and painless.

5. Wear minimal jewelry that won't set off the scanner going through security.

Happy traveling!

Thank you Valentine!

DIY Open Necklace Frame

Here's a fun, easy decorating project. Quit hiding your favorite costume jewelry in a drawer and show it off. And it's cheap too!

1. Buy a shadowbox frame. I used a white 10" x 10" frame from Target.

2. Remove the back, spacer, and glass from the frame.

3. Next, replace the spacer in frame (without the glass) and cover the backing with a fabric or material. I used a sheet of needleprint fabric from Michael's.

4. Make sure to pull the fabric tight and then put the glass piece behind the back and secure it.

5. Next take 2 small nails and hammer them CAREFULLY into the front of the frame at the appropriate height for your necklace. Make sure to do it softly so you don't break the glass at the back.

6. Because the back is covered with glass you cannot access the hook, but problem solved, use command velcro hanging strips for easy hanging and removal!

Now hang up the frame! It looks cute and guests will love that you are showing off your jewelry on your wall!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

PIcture compliments of realsimple.com

Another Classic Favorite

I will forever love OPI Bubble Bath nail color. Since I stopped the nasty habit of biting my nails (YUCK!) my nails are rarely without color. My favorite is this almost sheer color that gives your nails a little boost but if you're busy like me, the chipping doesn't show! Of course, it's OPI so it rarely chips but if you are typing a lot or chasing after kids this color is perfect. And if you are not so great at painting yourself, this is so bare that mistakes are invisible. I LOVE this! Oh and I am also loving OPI's new line "Texas"...great bright colors!

My Favorite Things...

Julia's Favorite Things:

Ok, so my "Favorite Things" list is not quite in the high demand that Oprah's is but I want to share my new love with you. Yesterday I received my first birthday present...a Barnes & Noble NOOK Color! It's fantastic and GORGEOUS. I already have Elle and Glamour on it (I got an Elle subscription for $.99/month!) and the color is amazing. The case is just as great. An adorable pink and orange Kate Spade case. It's simple with a pop. Soooo check it out. A great gift for your favorite guy, girl, sister, mother, father, or yourself! Above is a picture from the website but I'll upload my own soon! Love love love this! (Thanks Mom and Dad!)

One easy step to a more organized purse.

I was given this green mesh pouch as part of a set years ago and never wanted to use it until recently. It's perfect for helping organize my purse, especially for taming all the medicine bottles floating around inside it. You could also use it to rein in loose receipts, extra keys, lipsticks, or change. Luckily, I found a similar product at the container store (image to the right.) Another idea? Use a $.79 travel soap container to hold your, ahem, "feminine products." Andddd *poof* you can navigate your purse!

The MOST Delicious Chocolate Chip Cookies

Prep: 30 min., Bake: 14 min. per batch, Cool: 15 min. Bake 10 minutes for a soft and chewy cookie or up to 14 minutes for a crisp cookie.

Yield: Makes about 5 dozen

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups plus 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 (12-oz.) packages semisweet chocolate morsels
• Parchment paper

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Beat butter and sugars at medium speed with a heavy-duty electric stand mixer until creamy. Add eggs and 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla, beating until blended.

2. Combine flour, baking soda, and salt in a small bowl; gradually add to butter mixture, beating just until blended. Beat in morsels just until combined. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto parchment paper-lined baking sheets.

3. Bake at 350° for 10 to 14 minutes or until desired degree of doneness. Remove to wire racks, and cool completely (about 15 minutes).

http://www.myrecipes.com/

ENJOY!

That's write.

My new favorite thing ever? This adorable personalized stationary by Leen Machine. I was recently given a set and it gave me a few ideas. These are great gifts for:

-Housewarming gift

-Birthday

-Christmas

-Valentine's Day

-Mother's Day

-Labor Day?

...Or replace the not-so-original bottle of wine for some stationary as your next party thank you.

So check it out http://www.leenmachine.com/

And the first subject of the new blog is...T.P.!

Yes, that's right, I'm starting the new topic of my blog with storing toilet paper. How do you solve the problem of not having your TP on hand when you need it (and in less than 5 minutes)? The solution: that basket you bought after spending a weekend in your sister's "shabby chic" cabin. So go find it and put it next to your toilet. Then fill it up with all the toilet paper it will fit. So next time you run out in a pinch...its not too far away. Image courtesy of realsimple.com