tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23776392887561366102024-02-20T07:01:56.368-08:00I Want A Slice...A blog that tries to feature a bit of everything I enjoy. From fashion to food and DIY to being thrifty. I like it all so I'd like to share it with you.Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-70089017400371856302011-12-01T12:01:00.000-08:002011-12-01T12:01:16.135-08:00Simple Holiday Decorations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1mmGRhhkUnM/TtfWwnCQzYI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/4q3sSxZuXFE/s1600/IMG_1367.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1mmGRhhkUnM/TtfWwnCQzYI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/4q3sSxZuXFE/s400/IMG_1367.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">As the holidays are approaching, I'm getting a bit excited of all the decorations that could be done around the house. I just think that with small additions here and there, it can really change the atmosphere of a space. With these decorations, I just put to use all the things I already had on hand. The glass jars were from my brother's wedding and all the ornaments and pine cones were just things in our Christmas decorations. Just thought the top of the piano was a bit bare next to the x-mas tree, so this was my solution.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7hsxdPTjWpk/TtfUwQ46V1I/AAAAAAAAAXI/VUGOwDDOnZc/s1600/IMG_1337.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7hsxdPTjWpk/TtfUwQ46V1I/AAAAAAAAAXI/VUGOwDDOnZc/s400/IMG_1337.JPG" width="346" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OmxtuNCRdq0/TtfU_EEYtwI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/mFuyp9c3qSI/s1600/IMG_1355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OmxtuNCRdq0/TtfU_EEYtwI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/mFuyp9c3qSI/s400/IMG_1355.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I know that the green lights are a bit distracting but I put this together the other night and really liked the look when the lights were low. I'm still considering adding candles to this instead of the lights. To get the different heights, I just used textbooks (nerdy, I know) I had on hand and then draped an unused tree skirt over it.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pPXD3ESW9U8/TtfVY4G9azI/AAAAAAAAAXg/8c7iAD86y5o/s1600/IMG_1359.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pPXD3ESW9U8/TtfVY4G9azI/AAAAAAAAAXg/8c7iAD86y5o/s400/IMG_1359.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1IDIwXetO_I/TtfV4Y8P9NI/AAAAAAAAAXw/ypOuu4cFqvQ/s1600/IMG_1361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1IDIwXetO_I/TtfV4Y8P9NI/AAAAAAAAAXw/ypOuu4cFqvQ/s400/IMG_1361.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nr0V4swzSz8/TtfWkECwChI/AAAAAAAAAYI/jv87Z2Uexyk/s1600/IMG_1366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nr0V4swzSz8/TtfWkECwChI/AAAAAAAAAYI/jv87Z2Uexyk/s400/IMG_1366.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I'm all for re-purposing what you already have to decorate. Love to see what you guys put together for the holidays.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-10313632652230854152011-11-30T14:32:00.000-08:002011-11-30T14:32:45.783-08:00Thanksgiving Outfit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IGxqZpuxeXI/TtasEXlILiI/AAAAAAAAAW4/3LxSG7S824M/s1600/IMG_1304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IGxqZpuxeXI/TtasEXlILiI/AAAAAAAAAW4/3LxSG7S824M/s400/IMG_1304.JPG" width="271" /></a></div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">What I'm wearing:</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ One shoul<b>der dress. I picked up this dress from Kohl's not long ago and just thought it was too cute to pass up.</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b>+ Guess peep toe pumps</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b>+ Grey belt, thrifted.</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Sorry that I've been so bad at updating my blog. After Thanksgiving, I just got into a lazy slump. But I'm back and ready to get Christmas rolling. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">By the way, hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. I spent mine with the bf's family on Thursday and then with my own family on Friday. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I tried to match with the bf but he didn't really have anything in his closet that was blue/teal so tan was the best thing we could come up with. Call us cheesy but we do sometimes plan our outfits. Haha.</span><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Some Holiday crafts to come! </span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-73565422073934574262011-11-16T00:22:00.000-08:002011-11-16T00:22:19.585-08:00Lunch Date<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">My bf and I spend the better part of this morning doing some early X-mas shopping at the mall and decided to head over to Downtown Sacramento to get hot dogs at Capitol Dawg. We've never been to this place before but he saw a Groupon ad for it and bought it as a surprise for me. I squealed when I found out.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I know, it's silly that credits to a hot dog place would be a gift but I love hot dogs. I know about all the not-so-great things that goes into them but I can not help myself. They are delicious and just makes me want to chow down. It's one of those foods that are simple and in my eyes, you can never go wrong.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Because it was our first time to Capitol Dawg, we were really taken aback at the variety on the menu. Never knew there was so much stuff that can be put on a hot dog. We ended up getting 2 hot dogs, garlic fries, and shared a drink....and boy was all of it yummy.</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>(Sorry for the quality of the pics, they were all taken on my phone with the Vignette app.)</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XcbRCz4qU8U/TsNvkZgDNoI/AAAAAAAAATs/g9IpHevKxs4/s1600/IMG_0026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XcbRCz4qU8U/TsNvkZgDNoI/AAAAAAAAATs/g9IpHevKxs4/s400/IMG_0026.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For Him: Italian Sausage with a whole bunch of pickled peppers.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fIFCeQzJL04/TsNvgiSaOII/AAAAAAAAATc/RctXPH50UeM/s1600/IMG_0024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fIFCeQzJL04/TsNvgiSaOII/AAAAAAAAATc/RctXPH50UeM/s400/IMG_0024.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For Her: Prop. 51 Dawg, Chicago style with grilled onions.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wSb9FwAheco/TsNvgG4umWI/AAAAAAAAATU/lI_6DOKyzjg/s1600/IMG_0023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wSb9FwAheco/TsNvgG4umWI/AAAAAAAAATU/lI_6DOKyzjg/s400/IMG_0023.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I couldn't leave without snapping a pic of the restaurant mascot.<br />
The writing says "Only wieners eat hamburgers."<br />
Too silly to pass up.<br />
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<div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Hope your week is going well so far!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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</span></div></div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-19939356027540456542011-11-14T16:41:00.000-08:002011-11-14T16:41:24.036-08:00Family Dinner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lBJg16J1kLg/TsGxUkvF9-I/AAAAAAAAASk/8kKp-AR9xX0/s1600/IMG_1242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lBJg16J1kLg/TsGxUkvF9-I/AAAAAAAAASk/8kKp-AR9xX0/s400/IMG_1242.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b>What I'm wearing:</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ F21 short trench coat</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ Purple long sleeve blouse.....I got this blouse at a thrift store awhile back and just love the old school feel to it. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ Seven For All Man Kind jeans</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ Guess peep toe platform pumps......I have a few pairs of Guess shoes and I notice they all are very comfy given that they're 4" heels. Gotta love it.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ Vieta satchel</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ Locket necklace.....I think I got this at Deseret Industries for a few bucks. The locket actually opens but I've yet to put pictures in there.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ F21 gold teardrop earrings......can't see it in these pictures but I wore them. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Over the weekend, my family decided to celebrate all the November birthdays in one dinner. My two brothers and niece were the guests of honors. We gathered at a chinese restaurant to celebrate with family and friends. The food was great and there was so much of it. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">And some of you might notice, the background to my pics are that of an asian grocery store. My nephew snapped some shots before we headed a few doors down to the restaurant. I'm pretty sure I got more than a few odd looks from certain shoppers for standing around and posing. It's all good.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oQebqQXTqvY/TsGxsiizhhI/AAAAAAAAAS0/ATUlWeBRXdg/s1600/IMG_1246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oQebqQXTqvY/TsGxsiizhhI/AAAAAAAAAS0/ATUlWeBRXdg/s400/IMG_1246.JPG" width="263" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MoHVSzjG7nc/TsGxQ2EcwXI/AAAAAAAAASc/wFN_2h62heU/s1600/IMG_1241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MoHVSzjG7nc/TsGxQ2EcwXI/AAAAAAAAASc/wFN_2h62heU/s400/IMG_1241.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My niece Megan. I can't believe she's already 12. </td></tr>
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<div><div style="text-align: center;">Hope you all had a great weekend!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div></div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-2153081534828994052011-11-12T11:19:00.000-08:002011-11-12T11:19:17.596-08:00Recipe - Avocado Eggrolls with Teriyaki Cilantro Sauce<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GoilMLoubmM/Tr68JvIABlI/AAAAAAAAASU/SZKqDOsJeOI/s1600/IMG_1236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GoilMLoubmM/Tr68JvIABlI/AAAAAAAAASU/SZKqDOsJeOI/s400/IMG_1236.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">This is my 2nd attempt at making avocado eggrolls and I'm pleased to report that it turned out better this time. In the first attempt, I followed a recipe from <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/anneorshine#p/search/0/F2bXFVIh86g" target="_blank">AnneorShine</a> which turned out great as well but since I've never eaten any avocado eggrolls prior to my first attempt, I wasn't sure what they were suppose to taste like. Silly...I know.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">But recently, I was at BJ's Brewery and ordered these little suckers and fell in love. What I loved was actually the sauce because it tasted like an altered teriyaki sauce to me. Therefore, in my 2nd attempt, I used a teriyaki sauce as the base and I think it turned out really well.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Avocado Eggrolls with Teriyaki Cilantro Sauce</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(Makes about 25 large eggrolls)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">6 ripe avocados</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1 bunch of cilantro (half in eggrolls, half for sauce)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">4-5 green onion stems (using mainly green portion)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1 small yellow onion (or any type you have on hand)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">3 tbsp sun dried tomatoes in oil, chopped fine</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Cream cheese</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1 packet of eggroll/spring roll wrappers</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Salt and pepper to taste</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1 egg (beaten, used as wrapper sealant)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><u>Sauce</u></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (I used <i>House of Tsang - Korean Teriyaki Stir-Fry Sauce</i>)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">2 tbsp tamarind paste (I think limes would work too if you don't have tamarind on hand)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">4 tbsp of sugar</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">[1/2 bunch of cilantro, listed above]</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1. Cut avocados in half and remove center pit. Score each half into 8 piece chunks and using a spoon, run it around the outer edge of the avocado skin to remove chunks into a large bowl.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">2. Chop: onion, green onion, cilantro and sun dried tomatoes. Add to avocados. Salt and pepper to taste.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">3. Lightly toss to mix ingredients but remember to not "mash" avocados up too much.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ungm8FTY0o8/Tr664yyXimI/AAAAAAAAAQs/eg1aVb8GTZw/s1600/IMG_1215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ungm8FTY0o8/Tr664yyXimI/AAAAAAAAAQs/eg1aVb8GTZw/s400/IMG_1215.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RLCNy2H5W9A/Tr66-hJ96lI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/sAtceNFQgco/s1600/IMG_1217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RLCNy2H5W9A/Tr66-hJ96lI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/sAtceNFQgco/s400/IMG_1217.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--RButkz3_zY/Tr67F_25b7I/AAAAAAAAAQ8/qnp-ITmDGcU/s1600/IMG_1218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--RButkz3_zY/Tr67F_25b7I/AAAAAAAAAQ8/qnp-ITmDGcU/s400/IMG_1218.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">4. With one wrapper on a flat surface, turn one of the corners towards you. Place a large spoonful of avocado mixture near the corner edge. Take some cream cheese and spread it in a line near avocados. Begin wrapping. (This will be easier to explain through photos)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OTPTHrYcWEg/Tr67rcgMLKI/AAAAAAAAARs/efKx3mhmkrw/s1600/IMG_1228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OTPTHrYcWEg/Tr67rcgMLKI/AAAAAAAAARs/efKx3mhmkrw/s400/IMG_1228.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mjFjS2GrqMM/Tr67Mab3tQI/AAAAAAAAARE/g0USjyDROpk/s1600/IMG_1221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mjFjS2GrqMM/Tr67Mab3tQI/AAAAAAAAARE/g0USjyDROpk/s400/IMG_1221.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YK_5n3RtHKk/Tr67YvMlQjI/AAAAAAAAARU/T8tSfs_uC7w/s1600/IMG_1225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YK_5n3RtHKk/Tr67YvMlQjI/AAAAAAAAARU/T8tSfs_uC7w/s400/IMG_1225.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After folding the left side in, I like to roll it forward half way before folding in the right side. I do this because it gives the eggroll more even coverage in terms of the amount of wrapper around it.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ypq13GqyoBc/Tr67ezxdYNI/AAAAAAAAARc/oH6XHD8ojzg/s1600/IMG_1226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ypq13GqyoBc/Tr67ezxdYNI/AAAAAAAAARc/oH6XHD8ojzg/s400/IMG_1226.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NL6_xP11K0I/Tr67lBr0MkI/AAAAAAAAARk/rSgk7bcUQlw/s1600/IMG_1227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NL6_xP11K0I/Tr67lBr0MkI/AAAAAAAAARk/rSgk7bcUQlw/s400/IMG_1227.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YysepkYgnUA/Tr67RwiKhUI/AAAAAAAAARM/sAlH-pTFuvg/s1600/IMG_1224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YysepkYgnUA/Tr67RwiKhUI/AAAAAAAAARM/sAlH-pTFuvg/s400/IMG_1224.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Using the beaten egg, spread it on the last corner of the eggroll. Finish rolling.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WcBtf67wnqE/Tr67xfrNG3I/AAAAAAAAAR0/GCTNED_Stq4/s1600/IMG_1229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WcBtf67wnqE/Tr67xfrNG3I/AAAAAAAAAR0/GCTNED_Stq4/s400/IMG_1229.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div><br />
<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">5. Fry the eggrolls by whichever method you like. Because you're not worried about the insides cooking, pan frying or deep frying would both work fine for this recipe. Fry them until golden brown on the outside and you're good to go.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b>To make the sauce:</b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1. Combine the teriyaki sauce, tamarind, and sugar in a bowl. Microwave for 20-30 seconds to warm up mixture. Depending how you like your sauce to taste, tweak the measurements to your liking. When satisfied with the taste, add the chopped cilantro to the sauce and Enjoy!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tqNxA5nXDB8/Tr68DVoR35I/AAAAAAAAASM/51MVvOqXVzY/s1600/IMG_1235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tqNxA5nXDB8/Tr68DVoR35I/AAAAAAAAASM/51MVvOqXVzY/s400/IMG_1235.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">My nephews and nieces were loving these eggrolls with the sauce, so mission accomplished because they're the real judges around my parts.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
</div></div></div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-29059116143720470212011-11-08T19:48:00.000-08:002011-11-08T19:48:33.752-08:00Necklace Re-Fashion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rFp4mkilzAY/TrnyhSPwc2I/AAAAAAAAANs/o-sp7I5Xwe0/s1600/IMG_1183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rFp4mkilzAY/TrnyhSPwc2I/AAAAAAAAANs/o-sp7I5Xwe0/s400/IMG_1183.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I came across this necklace at Goodwill the other day and just really love the bright aqua blue. I knew that I'd have to re-do it a bit because this original design was not going to cut it for me. But at $.99....I was wiling to give it a go.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">So with some pliers, I began taking off some of the "charms".</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dgwaewU-Cfk/Trnyq-0EMLI/AAAAAAAAAN0/wjGPwXC_z3Q/s1600/IMG_1188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dgwaewU-Cfk/Trnyq-0EMLI/AAAAAAAAAN0/wjGPwXC_z3Q/s400/IMG_1188.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">And with some extra jewelry chains, I re-attached the charms in a cascading manner.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tN9e9T_EwOg/Trny0oqcR_I/AAAAAAAAAN8/JtGWjphLSOc/s1600/IMG_1193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tN9e9T_EwOg/Trny0oqcR_I/AAAAAAAAAN8/JtGWjphLSOc/s400/IMG_1193.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A3fI50V6EQQ/TrnzY8WQ4eI/AAAAAAAAAOk/4D5p2a4ltqI/s1600/IMG_1202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A3fI50V6EQQ/TrnzY8WQ4eI/AAAAAAAAAOk/4D5p2a4ltqI/s400/IMG_1202.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zAwZg5vY144/TrnzQo6P60I/AAAAAAAAAOc/_oHpTZGVkRY/s1600/IMG_1201.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zAwZg5vY144/TrnzQo6P60I/AAAAAAAAAOc/_oHpTZGVkRY/s400/IMG_1201.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">After I finished the necklace, I noticed that I still had some charms and decided to make them into a pair of earrings.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m6Ep5gExtDk/TrnzEL3yFmI/AAAAAAAAAOM/xhBoj73E4x0/s1600/IMG_1198.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m6Ep5gExtDk/TrnzEL3yFmI/AAAAAAAAAOM/xhBoj73E4x0/s400/IMG_1198.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bZhCUbaiuiQ/TrnzeZmFrcI/AAAAAAAAAOs/c8VFf7mT7aU/s1600/IMG_1203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bZhCUbaiuiQ/TrnzeZmFrcI/AAAAAAAAAOs/c8VFf7mT7aU/s400/IMG_1203.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Aws1Fuw8mYY/TrnzkeioO9I/AAAAAAAAAO0/oWi1Lan4NWM/s1600/IMG_1207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Aws1Fuw8mYY/TrnzkeioO9I/AAAAAAAAAO0/oWi1Lan4NWM/s400/IMG_1207.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I apologize for the picture quality. I was completing this craft project while sitting on my bed streaming Dexter online. (<i>The show just gets crazier and crazier but it's sooo good!!</i>)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-85058555255820058232011-11-07T23:13:00.000-08:002011-11-07T23:13:36.471-08:00On Track<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XzjimKAyne0/TrjOa2rR_NI/AAAAAAAAAM8/yzXc4O4kMHM/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XzjimKAyne0/TrjOa2rR_NI/AAAAAAAAAM8/yzXc4O4kMHM/s640/2.JPG" width="425" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b>What I'm wearing:</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ Pink dress with white polka dots by Naked Zebra</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ F21 Grey trench coat.....I bought this jacket about a year ago and it's one of my favorite winter pieces of all time. I love the color and cut of this jacket, plus, since it's F21, the price was pretty great too.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ Shiekh Grey booties........A gift from the bf a few years back when I was going wild trying to find a pair of booties I liked. (<i>haha, "booties")</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ Black tights</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ Grey crochet cowl</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ Grey belt with gold buckle....thrifted</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ Vieta satchel.......I've been looking for a satchel for a few months now and found this little baby on sale at TJ Maxx for around $20. Who can say no, right?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ F21 double finger ring</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The weather here has gotten very cold lately and making things feel more like December/January rather than just the beginning of November. And although I love the cold, I still can't get over my summer dresses. Like this outfit, I just decided to combine the two. Hey, why not? I love that most summer dresses can be brought into the fall/winter by pairing it with leggings or a great jacket. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ofg_bUmHBE/TrjOvKYLAiI/AAAAAAAAANc/pwRSdfZnvoc/s1600/6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ofg_bUmHBE/TrjOvKYLAiI/AAAAAAAAANc/pwRSdfZnvoc/s400/6.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YGVNmIFz5cU/TrjOqvn11KI/AAAAAAAAANU/b95YXmnZ63Y/s1600/5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YGVNmIFz5cU/TrjOqvn11KI/AAAAAAAAANU/b95YXmnZ63Y/s400/5.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q0AdduQVpuQ/TrjOgpP3XkI/AAAAAAAAANE/gGpdjDGDgOU/s1600/3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q0AdduQVpuQ/TrjOgpP3XkI/AAAAAAAAANE/gGpdjDGDgOU/s400/3.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OJq5FY68m44/TrjOmKnvUUI/AAAAAAAAANM/ySw4dIMZW0A/s1600/4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OJq5FY68m44/TrjOmKnvUUI/AAAAAAAAANM/ySw4dIMZW0A/s400/4.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MV-294FgZDo/TrjOX8H368I/AAAAAAAAAM0/nytwky3nAzk/s1600/1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MV-294FgZDo/TrjOX8H368I/AAAAAAAAAM0/nytwky3nAzk/s640/1.JPG" width="410" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Do you remember when you were younger and they used to teach in school that you shouldn't play near train tracks? Well, here's why.....</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DZTJ2Oy6q0M/TrjVhcPW6FI/AAAAAAAAANk/7V9ps4A-ano/s1600/IMG_1153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DZTJ2Oy6q0M/TrjVhcPW6FI/AAAAAAAAANk/7V9ps4A-ano/s400/IMG_1153.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">During the time that I took these pictures, two full trains came by and you can just imagine how I'd be scrambling off those tracks on to rocks......with heels on. But the conductors were nice and enough and waved to us.....which made things okay.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</span></div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-35696632193846405622011-11-03T12:04:00.000-07:002011-11-03T12:04:16.668-07:00An Apple A Day...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GeAzDVMCiEg/TrLhT75qCmI/AAAAAAAAAMk/AWapicMcBqE/s1600/IMG_1055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GeAzDVMCiEg/TrLhT75qCmI/AAAAAAAAAMk/AWapicMcBqE/s400/IMG_1055.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b>What I'm wearing:</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ Loose black tank top</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ F21 short trench coat.....I've been looking for a tan tan trench coat for quite some time now and just loved this one when I saw it in a picture in the store. It's a lightweight jacket that's so great for layering.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ Black skinny pants</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ Gray boots with green leg warmers worn over the knees</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ Necklace was thrifted</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">A few days ago, I went with some of my family to Apple Hill which is a collection of apple orchards here in Northern California. It's pretty much just seeing apples and other fruits every where. I was quite nice to be in these orchards and plus, I've always wanted to go there. My nephew and niece had a great time picking some apples, which was what they wanted to do all along.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UVpBnQGkkOM/TrLg5YjtLKI/AAAAAAAAAME/0ZwNklxnQ7M/s1600/IMG_1101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UVpBnQGkkOM/TrLg5YjtLKI/AAAAAAAAAME/0ZwNklxnQ7M/s400/IMG_1101.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YAszxCeqagk/TrLg9PkmLlI/AAAAAAAAAMM/zNfmqpxhayo/s1600/IMG_1104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YAszxCeqagk/TrLg9PkmLlI/AAAAAAAAAMM/zNfmqpxhayo/s400/IMG_1104.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vrPyFu0DRCI/TrLhD8gOBkI/AAAAAAAAAMU/XSGzlJe1b50/s1600/IMG_1105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vrPyFu0DRCI/TrLhD8gOBkI/AAAAAAAAAMU/XSGzlJe1b50/s400/IMG_1105.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TaKaXy8sZtM/TrLhNa6K6KI/AAAAAAAAAMc/dxdllPeZodE/s1600/IMG_1106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TaKaXy8sZtM/TrLhNa6K6KI/AAAAAAAAAMc/dxdllPeZodE/s400/IMG_1106.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pZYv3hpfMCc/TrLgqmRErrI/AAAAAAAAAL8/gPppYBVw2yU/s1600/IMG_1045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pZYv3hpfMCc/TrLgqmRErrI/AAAAAAAAAL8/gPppYBVw2yU/s400/IMG_1045.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">And you can't go to Apple Hill without some apple pie!! It was huge and oh so yummy.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</span></div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-39396821476580489222011-11-02T16:45:00.000-07:002011-11-02T16:45:47.730-07:00Halloween Wrap Up<div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I hope all of you had a wonderful Halloween weekend! I don't know about you but this Halloween didn't feel as hyped as many other years. Don't know if it's because I'm a bit older or just the general state of things. With that said, I did have a wonderful weekend myself. We had a friend's birthday this past weekend and decided to just go out clubbing. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I decided to just go as a school girl...a little bit on the naughty side, but not too much. We had a variety of costumes within the group from vampires to doctors and cops to Twilight Wolf Pack.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h404/olumbang11/DSCN0997.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h404/olumbang11/DSCN0997.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h404/olumbang11/DSCN1027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h404/olumbang11/DSCN1027.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h404/olumbang11/DSCN1001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h404/olumbang11/DSCN1001.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h404/olumbang11/DSCN1004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h404/olumbang11/DSCN1004.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">What did you dress up as this Halloween?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</span></div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-54051644513189399282011-10-26T13:07:00.000-07:002011-10-26T13:07:09.793-07:00Vietnamese Flan Recipe (Banh Flan)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-co6RpwFqiQQ/Tqhd5l3gjnI/AAAAAAAAAIg/sDqyQXzECiU/s1600/IMG_0510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-co6RpwFqiQQ/Tqhd5l3gjnI/AAAAAAAAAIg/sDqyQXzECiU/s320/IMG_0510.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">For those who are not familiar with Vietnamese flan and wondering what the heck it is or what's the difference between it and some other types out there...I'll try to explain as best I know how. Although I call it "Vietnamese Flan", the idea is actually French based. As far as difference in taste, this flan recipe is not as "rich" as some other flan recipes that are creamier and really sweet. This flan lands closer to a Chinese "egg tart" consistency than custard like.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Flan has always been one of my favorite desserts and I've tried making it numerous times. By tweaking amounts of ingredients, I've come to find my personal favorite recipe for Vietnamese flan that is simple and simply delicious.</span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><u style="font-weight: bold;">Vietnamese Flan Recipe</u> <i>(makes roughly 6-7 ramekins, depending on size)</i></span><br />
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<ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>4 eggs</i></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>6 egg yolks</i></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>1 can of sweetened condensed milk</i></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Milk</i></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Hot water for recipe and for baking bath</i></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>1 tspn Vanilla powder</i></span></li>
</ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i> For Caramel:</i></span></div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>1/4 cup of sugar</i></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i>2 tbsp of water</i></span></li>
</ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><b>Directions:</b></i></span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i><br />
</i></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">2. Break all 4 eggs and 6 egg yolks into medium bowl. Whisk together just to combine, no need to "whip" the eggs.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">3. In a separate bowl, add whole can of condensed milk. Using the empty can as your measuring tool, fill the whole can with hot water and add it to the condensed milk. Mix together to dissolve the condensed milk. Again, using the empty can, fill the whole can with milk and add to the condensed milk. Mix to combine.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">4. Add the eggs to the condensed milk and mix to combine. Over another bowl, run this mixture through a strainer in order to get a smooth combination. Add vanilla powder and mix together.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">5. To make the caramel, place the sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Heat and stir until the mixture turns a light golden brown. The caramel will continue to cook and grow darker in color even after removing from the heat. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">6. With your ramekins placed inside a baking pan with high walls, divide the caramel into the bottoms of each ramekins. You don't need to make it perfect because it will all evenly melt during baking.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">7. Pour the flan mixture into the ramekins, making sure to fill to near the top.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">8. Take some hot water and pour it into the baking pan so that the water reaches about half way up the sides of the ramekins.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">9. Place baking pan in oven in center rack and bake for 50 mins. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">To keep my flans longer, I cover them with plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, run a knife around the sides of the ramekins and invert the flan onto a plate. </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Q7cgyPBgw4/Tqhd8zWJlKI/AAAAAAAAAIo/sdREypUeMC0/s1600/IMG_0511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Q7cgyPBgw4/Tqhd8zWJlKI/AAAAAAAAAIo/sdREypUeMC0/s400/IMG_0511.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7X5wSicLIxg/TqheApH5eBI/AAAAAAAAAIw/-kGNqtN8qN4/s1600/IMG_0512.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7X5wSicLIxg/TqheApH5eBI/AAAAAAAAAIw/-kGNqtN8qN4/s400/IMG_0512.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2ypkSdRdoUI/TqheRKCcTzI/AAAAAAAAAJI/buiL4APkfVs/s1600/IMG_0515.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2ypkSdRdoUI/TqheRKCcTzI/AAAAAAAAAJI/buiL4APkfVs/s400/IMG_0515.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Hope you enjoy!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-85347503307252500132011-10-25T23:51:00.000-07:002011-10-25T23:51:45.825-07:00DIY : Wedding Bouquet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Me2_s8Cc3dI/TqelsFpFouI/AAAAAAAAAG4/PM2zZILopHk/s1600/IMG_0215_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Me2_s8Cc3dI/TqelsFpFouI/AAAAAAAAAG4/PM2zZILopHk/s400/IMG_0215_1.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">So here's another simple DIY that I did for my brother's wedding recently. The main flowers that I used were tulips with some deep orange mini cala lilies scattered in there. After this, I don't know if I would actually recommend using tulips in your bouquets because although they are my favorite and so pretty to look at, the red red tulips bloomed so large by the next day. So maybe if you're considering using tulips, choose ones that are still tightly closed which will slowly open for you. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">To make this bouquet, I removed all the leaves of my tulips and kept the long stems in tact. I simple picked up about 3 tulips and decided that would be my center. I added a few fillers such as baby's breath, queen ann's lace and some yellow/red flowers I found at the wholesale flower store. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rL5yY9mNroA/TqeloAWp0QI/AAAAAAAAAGw/8_D1uANthRc/s1600/IMG_0214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rL5yY9mNroA/TqeloAWp0QI/AAAAAAAAAGw/8_D1uANthRc/s400/IMG_0214.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">For every two "main" flowers you bring into the bouquet, add 2-3 small pieces of filler flowers as well. Really, this is the whole concept of creating these bouquets. Rotate the bouquet so that you can see where things need more of something or not. Also, keep in mind that it should be rounded off, so don't have all the lengths of the flowers even, make it more dome like in the center and work your way out.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dsL25dE8gMw/Tqel1qYJZGI/AAAAAAAAAHA/m2ww2H14D2s/s1600/IMG_0222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dsL25dE8gMw/Tqel1qYJZGI/AAAAAAAAAHA/m2ww2H14D2s/s400/IMG_0222.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">When you're happy with the size of the bouquet, use some rubber bands to hold it in place. Wrap the band around and try to have it closer to the top as you can so that the flowers don't droop over. For these bouquets, I decided to add some green stems to the outside to give it some "green". Again, I wrapped a rubber band around the bouquet and used it as a fastener for the green stems. I had help in looping the stems and adding it to the bouquet...trust me, it was much faster this way. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fTcH5t5FlvM/TqemEPXWXgI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/-QQKWtZPR4A/s1600/IMG_0227_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fTcH5t5FlvM/TqemEPXWXgI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/-QQKWtZPR4A/s400/IMG_0227_1.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">At this point, you're ready for the ribbon. I used a half inch brown ribbon and some head pins to secure. Begin close to the base of the flowers and pun in your ribbon with a downward motion to the pin. You don't want to just stick the pin straight into the handle of the bouquet it case someone might hold it to tightly, so point the pin downward when pinning.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4aBKFtbAt5U/Tqel7EzugcI/AAAAAAAAAHI/TXcbuvgC7ng/s1600/IMG_0223_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4aBKFtbAt5U/Tqel7EzugcI/AAAAAAAAAHI/TXcbuvgC7ng/s400/IMG_0223_1.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">(<i>I decided to add the green stems after already adding ribbon the bouquet, so that's why the above picture is missing the green stems</i>)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Continue wrapping the ribbon around and pinning at about 3/4" intervals. When you reach a point you want to stop at, cut the ribbon and this time, pin in an <i>upward </i>direction, as to not have the sharp pins showing out the bottom. From here, just cut off the end stems to your desired length, and you're good to go.<i> </i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sLOrITCx4hc/TqemfSGrfiI/AAAAAAAAAHo/QGc-rqABf30/s1600/IMG_0229_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sLOrITCx4hc/TqemfSGrfiI/AAAAAAAAAHo/QGc-rqABf30/s400/IMG_0229_1.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Sorry that I don't have a "final product" picture to show you guys but I was finishing up the ribbon part of these bouquets on the morning of the wedding, I was kind of a wreck trying to remember things and it slipped my mind.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">As this will the be the last Wedding DIY I have you, I'm gonna just have a little show and tell with some photos from the wedding. I'll show you better ones when we get pictures back from the wedding photographer.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z9Tj2url-As/TqenCT7PaJI/AAAAAAAAAII/MhEnHU00Kic/s1600/IMG_0304.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z9Tj2url-As/TqenCT7PaJI/AAAAAAAAAII/MhEnHU00Kic/s400/IMG_0304.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">My brother and his bride.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jTReq3hNCek/TqenGEf0QmI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/80PBpfogeYg/s1600/IMG_0322_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jTReq3hNCek/TqenGEf0QmI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/80PBpfogeYg/s400/IMG_0322_1.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The wedding party at the reception</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nZ7DvBGoGBk/TqemxyWOVPI/AAAAAAAAAH4/zDB2PQ5waJg/s1600/IMG_0382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nZ7DvBGoGBk/TqemxyWOVPI/AAAAAAAAAH4/zDB2PQ5waJg/s400/IMG_0382.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Me and my nieces.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4NsiYvauOsg/Tqem1uE4OKI/AAAAAAAAAIA/2-In5FA4umU/s1600/IMG_0424_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4NsiYvauOsg/Tqem1uE4OKI/AAAAAAAAAIA/2-In5FA4umU/s400/IMG_0424_1.JPG" width="266" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Me and my bf near the end of the night. As you can tell, my shoes are off. My feet were killing me for having to run around in them.....what us girls won't do for a great pair of shoes. : )</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QYyvUlceMsE/TqenOwynIYI/AAAAAAAAAIY/7Ssl0EZCaNM/s1600/IMG_0377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QYyvUlceMsE/TqenOwynIYI/AAAAAAAAAIY/7Ssl0EZCaNM/s400/IMG_0377.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">And last...the wedding cake. A simple sponge cake with chocolate mousse.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I hope you guys enjoy this photo overload post.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</span></div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-29512652968401931792011-10-20T12:33:00.000-07:002011-10-20T12:33:14.287-07:00DIY Wedding Favors - Chocolate Truffles<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Hey guys! These last few days have really been "catch on sleep" days because this past weekend was my brother's wedding and I pretty much planned the whole thing. The few days leading up to the big day was so stressful for me....and it's not even <i>my </i>wedding day. With favors to make and flowers to arrange, at least I have some DIY things to show all of you. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">The Bride wanted to have chocolate truffles as the favor, so I tried to comply.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><b><u>Chocolate Truffles</u></b></span></span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small; line-height: 20px;"><strong style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">(recipe from <a href="http://thefauxmartha.com/2011/09/15/chocolate-truffles/">www.thefauxmartha.com</a>)</span></strong></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"></span></span></div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small; line-height: 20px;"><em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">makes about 15</span></em></span></div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"></div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small; line-height: 20px;">1 1/2 c. 60% bittersweet chocolate pistoles</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1 c. heavy cream</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Toppings: chopped nuts, cocoa powder, chocolate sprinkles</span></li>
</ul><br />
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">1. In a 2-quart, heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring the cream to a light simmer over medium heat.<br />
2. Meanwhile, measure the chocolate and place it in a heat resistant bowl.<br />
3. Once the cream reaches a light simmer, pour it over the chocolate. Wait about 10 seconds for the cream to work its way into all of the crevices of chocolate, then whisk to combine.<br />
4. Let the ganche cool for 10 minutes before placing in the refrigerator until chilled, about 2 hours.<br />
5. Meanwhile, chop toppings for truffles.<br />
6. Using a mini ice cream scoop, scoop ganache and roll into ball with hands. Time to get messy.<br />
7. Coat truffle in topping and place in mini cupcake liner</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JtWK3426WCA/TqByXSfO78I/AAAAAAAAAGI/lEU1_-WRal4/s1600/IMG_0193.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JtWK3426WCA/TqByXSfO78I/AAAAAAAAAGI/lEU1_-WRal4/s320/IMG_0193.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fpbkQRw9rnc/TqByRppC1hI/AAAAAAAAAGA/GLwd2Y7cKaM/s1600/IMG_0192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fpbkQRw9rnc/TqByRppC1hI/AAAAAAAAAGA/GLwd2Y7cKaM/s320/IMG_0192.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2RzMSBuUUrs/TqBycrl17UI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/6YTTa9pejEg/s1600/IMG_0194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2RzMSBuUUrs/TqBycrl17UI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/6YTTa9pejEg/s320/IMG_0194.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YnQIrxaL6oo/TqByhTqSU7I/AAAAAAAAAGY/Wd9gijOGi_I/s1600/IMG_0195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YnQIrxaL6oo/TqByhTqSU7I/AAAAAAAAAGY/Wd9gijOGi_I/s320/IMG_0195.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cLLmf7UAk0Y/TqBymg3j6JI/AAAAAAAAAGg/Xy2IEbTwaMU/s1600/IMG_0196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cLLmf7UAk0Y/TqBymg3j6JI/AAAAAAAAAGg/Xy2IEbTwaMU/s320/IMG_0196.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">These paper boxes were picked up from Michaels, but I think you could save more money if you ordered from wholesalers around the internet. I used a bit of shredded crinkly paper from the dollar store for the bottom of the boxes, just to give it something extra.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">The outside decorations are just simple printed card stock that I used craft punches to create. I gave it dimension by using the 3D foam sticker dots. The ribbon and the circular punch were attached by just a glue gun. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">This is such a simple wedding favor and it didn't take that long at all. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">During the wedding reception, one of these favor boxes was placed at each seat. One box at each table was marked with a heart and we decided to gift the live orchid center pieces to the person who happened to have the favor box containing the heart. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lmjVDfe7bXk/TqB110Git1I/AAAAAAAAAGo/v97s30rRf_E/s1600/IMG_0368.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lmjVDfe7bXk/TqB110Git1I/AAAAAAAAAGo/v97s30rRf_E/s400/IMG_0368.JPG" width="216" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">All in all, the wedding went great but I'm so glad it's over!! Don't know what I'd be like when the day comes for my own wedding....probably a hot mess.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #424242; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><br />
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</span></div><div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; color: #424242; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-51300199246127199032011-10-12T14:42:00.000-07:002011-10-12T14:42:27.566-07:00Thrifty Jewelry Finds<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I am running out of space on my board for necklaces and other jewelry but I can't help myself when I see the sparkly pieces. I swear, it's like moth to a flame. Sad, but hey, at least I'll have pretty things to show you!</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S0UU8Z-flR8/TpYDUp4uOiI/AAAAAAAAAEg/68NpBHkxupI/s1600/IMG_0163.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S0UU8Z-flR8/TpYDUp4uOiI/AAAAAAAAAEg/68NpBHkxupI/s320/IMG_0163.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9SWgVg2lKFo/TpYDcquJtqI/AAAAAAAAAEo/fyMVA3yiHOs/s1600/IMG_0165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9SWgVg2lKFo/TpYDcquJtqI/AAAAAAAAAEo/fyMVA3yiHOs/s320/IMG_0165.JPG" width="253" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ElByfALMwD4/TpYDngYdHjI/AAAAAAAAAEw/WbkEpswmUwc/s1600/IMG_0166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ElByfALMwD4/TpYDngYdHjI/AAAAAAAAAEw/WbkEpswmUwc/s320/IMG_0166.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">This necklace has 3 chains of varying lengths to it and the medallion like pendant. I thought that the pendant was so interesting because it looks like an old man's pocket watch but also had the woman carving, which reminds me of British monarchy for some reason. I don't know if I'll take some of the chains off because I think it might be too much to have this pendant and all the chains in one piece, but we'll see. (Goodwill - $3.99)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eFTkW9gUYWE/TpYDwyXYoXI/AAAAAAAAAE4/W7VtElPNBVY/s1600/IMG_0168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eFTkW9gUYWE/TpYDwyXYoXI/AAAAAAAAAE4/W7VtElPNBVY/s320/IMG_0168.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cHII489N7G8/TpYD6iBlYFI/AAAAAAAAAFA/xYsz4YFI9uU/s1600/IMG_0170.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cHII489N7G8/TpYD6iBlYFI/AAAAAAAAAFA/xYsz4YFI9uU/s320/IMG_0170.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FliEM-Dw3zs/TpYEENoJvFI/AAAAAAAAAFI/LjQ8eYkoTRU/s1600/IMG_0171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FliEM-Dw3zs/TpYEENoJvFI/AAAAAAAAAFI/LjQ8eYkoTRU/s320/IMG_0171.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I love the red and gold of this necklace because it really stands out. It reminds me of Greek mythology or something to that effect. The detailing on it is awesome and in such great condition. (Goodwill - $.99) <i>...yeah, can you believe that it was a dollar? crazy.</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kq1-ZyI1wsM/TpYEOgfrciI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/egdkAq6VEYg/s1600/IMG_0175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kq1-ZyI1wsM/TpYEOgfrciI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/egdkAq6VEYg/s320/IMG_0175.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AKgqW6u00Qc/TpYEY4hJd_I/AAAAAAAAAFY/KM-SBtUmtdM/s1600/IMG_0176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AKgqW6u00Qc/TpYEY4hJd_I/AAAAAAAAAFY/KM-SBtUmtdM/s320/IMG_0176.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">This gold choker makes me think of 70's cocktail party. No? I don't know what it is that makes me think so, maybe the design? Who really knows but I can't wait to incorporated into some future outfits! (Deseret Industries - $5.00)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lnrvxzEh1UM/TpYEjpzNhNI/AAAAAAAAAFg/LFT6LgaFTaw/s1600/IMG_0179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lnrvxzEh1UM/TpYEjpzNhNI/AAAAAAAAAFg/LFT6LgaFTaw/s320/IMG_0179.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HzVrvkjxv_4/TpYEt_tbQHI/AAAAAAAAAFo/cE_2CSkB-Dk/s1600/IMG_0181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HzVrvkjxv_4/TpYEt_tbQHI/AAAAAAAAAFo/cE_2CSkB-Dk/s320/IMG_0181.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Yes, so this one is a bit different than the previous because it's not a <i>choker</i>!. It's a long think chain with these great bead detailing. It's great because it's actually really simple as a whole but the intricate beads really make it interesting to look at. (Goodwill - $3.99)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jN1M56_3IUA/TpYE3khqEbI/AAAAAAAAAFw/0PRe22g0s9E/s1600/IMG_0183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jN1M56_3IUA/TpYE3khqEbI/AAAAAAAAAFw/0PRe22g0s9E/s320/IMG_0183.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TQTL0NgH4ac/TpYFA_PybrI/AAAAAAAAAF4/p5YyMr8KgUo/s1600/IMG_0187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TQTL0NgH4ac/TpYFA_PybrI/AAAAAAAAAF4/p5YyMr8KgUo/s320/IMG_0187.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Lastly, it's this little bracelet. When I saw it, all I could about was the <a href="http://iwantaslice.blogspot.com/2011/09/thrifty-jewelry-finds.html">black and gold choker</a> I found earlier and posted about. I couldn't resist. I did have to remove one of the links and add a jump ring to it because the original was missing the link that gets attached to the clasp. Hey, a little fixing isn't hard at all. (Goodwill - $1.99)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Sorry that this post is so "picture heavy" but I hope you guys enjoyed nonetheless!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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</span></div></div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-42482258829911609932011-10-09T12:48:00.000-07:002011-10-09T18:59:44.296-07:00There She Goes...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-21oumi6wB-Q/TpH0l2s_IrI/AAAAAAAAAEM/sJOdMrfnrZA/s1600/sample2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-21oumi6wB-Q/TpH0l2s_IrI/AAAAAAAAAEM/sJOdMrfnrZA/s400/sample2.JPG" width="387" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">What I'm Wearing:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ F21 bow dress....i love this dress because it's so light weight and versatile for all seasons</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ Black nautical-<i>esque </i>jacket.....This was from Macy's a few years back and I just think it's an easy jacket to throw on because the cotton blend makes it so comfy</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ F21 leggings</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ Gray boots.....I don't even know the brand of these because they're quite ancient but I do remember picking them up at Target for a steal. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ Gray cowl scarf</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ Blue belt with gold buckle.....thrifted</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ Bracelet with green heart gem....DIY this from left over chains and charms</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ <a href="http://iwantaslice.blogspot.com/2011/09/surprise-find.html">Dooney and Bourke shoulder bag</a>...thrifted</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+<a href="http://www.toryburch.com/ROUNDED-AVIATOR-SUNGLASSES/TY6006,default,pd.html?dwvar_TY6006_size=60&dwvar_TY6006_color=712&start=22&cgid=accessories-eyewear"> Tory Burch rounded aviators</a>.....These sunglasses were a gift from the bf and I love them. The lens has this cool design on it when you see it up close. I'll have to show you some other time. I just think the aviator style glasses are so retro and iconic that it might never go out of style.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The weather here in Northern California has been a bit....tumultuous lately, to put it lightly. One day it would be really hot then the following day will be filled with rain shower. As an example of this outfit post, it was chilly and wet in the morning then became sunny midday. I mean, I love the cooler weather we've been having but just wish we had a better heads up for the change. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">In other news, the bf has an interview with CSU Long Beach for the Nursing program so we're driving there for that on tomorrow. I'm just going for moral support, if it helps any. But I am looking forward to a change of scenery, even though it's a short one. Hey, better than nothing.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGurLhrz774/TpH16CV0i3I/AAAAAAAAAEU/hkXrXoYHZ7o/s1600/sample4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGurLhrz774/TpH16CV0i3I/AAAAAAAAAEU/hkXrXoYHZ7o/s400/sample4.JPG" width="395" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KA0G5bAr_iY/TpHz-PVry0I/AAAAAAAAAEI/J7J7D016lY0/s1600/sample.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KA0G5bAr_iY/TpHz-PVry0I/AAAAAAAAAEI/J7J7D016lY0/s400/sample.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lp6hagpuahs/TpH2snfwenI/AAAAAAAAAEY/I5SZ-Szrwd8/s1600/sample5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lp6hagpuahs/TpH2snfwenI/AAAAAAAAAEY/I5SZ-Szrwd8/s400/sample5.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U2YhxzC24vs/TpH1j8YNUFI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/fyAxItEfUtM/s1600/sample3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U2YhxzC24vs/TpH1j8YNUFI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/fyAxItEfUtM/s400/sample3.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Hope all you guys had a great weekend!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</span>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-3779941985880570502011-09-30T23:53:00.000-07:002011-09-30T23:53:49.227-07:00White After Labor Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ND0B3s5bNi0/Toaz2zgqljI/AAAAAAAAADY/gKagZlZKTfM/s1600/093020112246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ND0B3s5bNi0/Toaz2zgqljI/AAAAAAAAADY/gKagZlZKTfM/s400/093020112246.jpg" width="268" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">What I'm wearing:</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">+ <i>Talbots</i> coral pullover button up......I recently snatched this little baby up at Goodwill for $4.99. The condition was still great and the fabric is really good quality. I did re-enforce the buttons on it when I got home though but it's worth it.</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b>+ <i>Almost Famous </i>white cuffed distressed capris.....these are by far, my most comfortable pair of pants. Ever. I think i got this at TJ Maxx a few years back in the clearance section for around $3.00.</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b>+ <i>Toms </i>original red canvas</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b>+ <i>Ottimo </i>bag.....my bf got this for me a few years ago when we were in Hawaii. I love the way the bag just hangs and all the detailing on it.</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b>+ Gold necklace with twisted design....I got this recently at Goodwill for $3.99 because I thought it was super cute. Don't know why, but recently I've been buying a lot of these choker type necklaces in gold. It's odd because I usually gravitate towards the longer necklaces. Maybe it's just a phase, we'll see.</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b>+ Mixed bangles</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b>I think we've all heard of the phrase "Don't wear white after Labor Day" and I never knew why this was. I don't really stick to any fashion rules but this one seems so silly yet many people really take it to heart. Maybe white is too springy after Labor Day? I have no idea but since these white capris are oh so comfy, I'm wearing them anyways.</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N-YtZ2axcN0/Toaz1kI3CRI/AAAAAAAAADU/FizvPmGkpOY/s1600/093020112245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N-YtZ2axcN0/Toaz1kI3CRI/AAAAAAAAADU/FizvPmGkpOY/s400/093020112245.jpg" width="263" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SqK354Yk0wo/Toaz76D8roI/AAAAAAAAADs/ktyEbMXTZs8/s1600/093020112255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SqK354Yk0wo/Toaz76D8roI/AAAAAAAAADs/ktyEbMXTZs8/s400/093020112255.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t4XuG-YnppQ/Toaz5xrMAwI/AAAAAAAAADk/XMYTHrMPRzM/s1600/093020112251.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t4XuG-YnppQ/Toaz5xrMAwI/AAAAAAAAADk/XMYTHrMPRzM/s400/093020112251.jpg" width="336" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QV2WefxBNZ0/Toaz6yGPi0I/AAAAAAAAADo/MbcQr0Slrmo/s1600/093020112254.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QV2WefxBNZ0/Toaz6yGPi0I/AAAAAAAAADo/MbcQr0Slrmo/s400/093020112254.jpg" width="380" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Is wearing white after Labor Day a fashion faux pas?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</b></span></div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-5895369207159747712011-09-27T00:25:00.000-07:002011-09-27T00:25:12.354-07:00Crawfish Boil With Garlic Tomato Sauce<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xnE6F9G-6js/ToF0Er46h7I/AAAAAAAAAC4/GVf_KZp3h8s/s1600/092520112225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xnE6F9G-6js/ToF0Er46h7I/AAAAAAAAAC4/GVf_KZp3h8s/s400/092520112225.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><u>Crawfish Boil with Garlic Tomato Sauce Recipe</u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 bulbs of garlic, finely minced</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">10 roma tomatoes, diced small</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">handful of kaffir lime leaves, julienned</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>Louisiana Brand</i> crawfish boil seasoning</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">sugar</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">oil</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">fresh crawfish</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">beer</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1. In a large stock pot, fill with the crawfish. Pour in one bottle of beer. Sprinkle some of the Louisiana seasoning, about 2 tspn because it's salty. Cover with lid and bring to a boil. Total cooking time is about 12-15 mins. Shake the pot once or twice during boil to evenly cook the crawfish. (<i>For us, we got around 15 lbs of crawfish so we boiled it in 2 batches. One bottle of beer per batch.)</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2. In a large pan, saute the garlic in oil until fragrant and tender. Add the tomatoes.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3. Add 2 tbsp of the <i>Louisiana</i> seasoning and 4 tbsp sugar. Mix thoroughly. <i>(Be sure to taste the sauce at this point to make adjustments. Remember that the seasoning is really salty so add small amounts at a time.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4. When tomatoes are soft, turn off the heat. Add the lime leaves and combine.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5. Remove cooked crawfish into a large bowl and half of the sauce. Mix all together and get out some napkins!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>Optional dipping sauce: ketchup and mayonnaise, in a ratio of 1:4</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O7tFcmOpCRQ/ToFz87db7mI/AAAAAAAAACg/iRJVQazbOoI/s1600/092520112218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O7tFcmOpCRQ/ToFz87db7mI/AAAAAAAAACg/iRJVQazbOoI/s320/092520112218.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vCp2SpJRbcc/ToFz-bGXGDI/AAAAAAAAACk/2mdpgDZQ9D8/s1600/092520112219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vCp2SpJRbcc/ToFz-bGXGDI/AAAAAAAAACk/2mdpgDZQ9D8/s320/092520112219.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7M99wlYjHT0/ToFz_veU95I/AAAAAAAAACo/pa32G_RS0jQ/s1600/092520112220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7M99wlYjHT0/ToFz_veU95I/AAAAAAAAACo/pa32G_RS0jQ/s320/092520112220.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zHsS5XvJd5M/ToF0CEkJFMI/AAAAAAAAACw/aWwNxj9a390/s1600/092520112223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zHsS5XvJd5M/ToF0CEkJFMI/AAAAAAAAACw/aWwNxj9a390/s320/092520112223.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YPL7OLQY2hU/ToF0Dfutf-I/AAAAAAAAAC0/s2OSbFUloh4/s1600/092520112224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YPL7OLQY2hU/ToF0Dfutf-I/AAAAAAAAAC0/s2OSbFUloh4/s320/092520112224.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Hope you guys enjoy!</i></div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-34742862578692462522011-09-25T13:06:00.000-07:002011-09-27T00:26:14.738-07:00Thrifty Jewelry FindsAfter stumbling upon a great <a href="http://iwantaslice.blogspot.com/2011/09/surprise-find.html">Dooney & Bourke bag</a> recently, I've been hitting up some local thrift stores to see what I can find. It's been awhile since I've been thrifting so you can call it like a small resurrection of interest. And like many times before, I'm a sucker for the jewelry counter.<br />
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I just love the random arrays of jewelry that are always available. Hey, it's something sparkly to look at, so why not? Within this past week, I've been lucky enough to find some pieces that I'm thoroughly in love with.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IOqI9AfOIdY/Tn-FBYNJPcI/AAAAAAAAACQ/qg_jY2Fif8c/s1600/092520112207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IOqI9AfOIdY/Tn-FBYNJPcI/AAAAAAAAACQ/qg_jY2Fif8c/s400/092520112207.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I picked up this black and gold necklace at this small thrift store in the Sacramento area. The chain is short so it fits almost like a choker but with a bit more breathing room. I've worn this a few times already and have received so many compliments for it. I really like that the necklace itself is quite simple but there's just a few small aesthetic twists to it that makes it interesting. (Price: $3.99, R Thrift Store)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dwJFAYxGN6Y/Tn-F_RVTFRI/AAAAAAAAACU/Z-n6kX3TxpA/s1600/092520112212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dwJFAYxGN6Y/Tn-F_RVTFRI/AAAAAAAAACU/Z-n6kX3TxpA/s400/092520112212.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This now has become one of my favorite necklaces of all. I really am in love with the design of the links in this thing. You might not be able to see but the pointed tips on each link is a pale cream color. It blends into the surrounding gold just perfectly. When worn, it fits like a choker. Who needs the ability to breathe when you have a great statement piece on your neck, right? (Price: $5.99, Goodwill)</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HnBOf-3Bxlk/Tn-HKsB-i7I/AAAAAAAAACY/FONG2yHhQFs/s1600/092520112213.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HnBOf-3Bxlk/Tn-HKsB-i7I/AAAAAAAAACY/FONG2yHhQFs/s400/092520112213.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I decided to get this gold bracelet because I liked the extra chain accent on it. I saw another bracelet at the Salvation Army in the same day with a similar chain accent but it was priced around $30, so that was a no bueno. This bracelet is much less expensive and I like it even more than the one at SA. Just a simple bracelet to throw on for fun. (Price: $2.99, Goodwill)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B0jm0Likrn8/Tn-IWFzysUI/AAAAAAAAACc/DTw9Yo2KQCg/s1600/092520112215.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B0jm0Likrn8/Tn-IWFzysUI/AAAAAAAAACc/DTw9Yo2KQCg/s400/092520112215.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When I saw this ring in the display case, I was already jumping for joy. I thought the design was just so pretty and elegant. I tried it on and thought that it's a bit mature for me but that it would be something my mom might like. My mom loved it when I showed her. She was very giddy...it was pretty silly. Although it's a bit worn, the inscription says "14K Taiwan". When told, all my mom said was "Gold or not, it's so pretty to me." (Price: $8.00, Deseret Industries)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What great jewelry pieces have you found lately?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-86453699522288469772011-09-24T22:46:00.000-07:002011-09-24T22:49:54.844-07:00I've got nudes on my mind...Before you start thinking that this post is going towards the wrong path, it's not the "x-rated" kind of nudes.<br />
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Lately when I'm browsing around some sites, I just can't help but be drawn to all the nude toned items. I think it's cause the color itself is just so nice to look at. It's crisp, clean, and oh so chic. Also, I think that it's just one of those shades that is extremely feminine and soft. I can't help but <i>fall </i>in love. Did you catch that transition into the season Fall? No? That's okay, I still love you.<br />
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As I was trying to say, fall is here and I think the nude tones will be easily carried into the season. As many of us are familiar, as the weather cools, we tend to steer towards colors that are darker. But for me, this fall season, I'm going to try to incorporate some of these lighter colored pieces into my wardrobe. I think with different accessories, these light shades can be manipulated into the fall color scheme with ease.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ac_sUKlYHj8/Tn6-hY9jqbI/AAAAAAAAACM/NmYhkHVTKm0/s1600/picture+of+all+trends.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ac_sUKlYHj8/Tn6-hY9jqbI/AAAAAAAAACM/NmYhkHVTKm0/s400/picture+of+all+trends.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=575454&CategoryID=35786&LinkType=#fn=sp%3D3%26spc%3D171"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Steve Madden Trench Coat - $205.00</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=whatsnew_app_dresses&ProductID=2076808279&VariantID="><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Forever21 Contrast Tie Lace Dress - $29.80</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=whatsnew_app_tops&ProductID=2000027250&VariantID="><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Forever 21 Long Sleeve Chantilly Lace Top - $19.80</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=shoes_highheels&ProductID=2000027612&VariantID="><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Forever 21 Glittered Stiletto - $24.80</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=609285&CategoryID=25122&LinkType=&swatchColor=Taupe%20suede#fn=COLOR%3DTan/Beige%26sp%3D1%26spc%3D139"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Nine West Compellinn Boots - $199.00</span></a></div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-46256293825090184492011-09-21T23:34:00.000-07:002011-09-21T23:35:08.428-07:00Sparkle French TipsAs of late, I've really been into adding sparkly french tips to my nails. They're so easy to do and I think they give a great affect to the overall look.<br />
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For the base, I use 2 coats of "Bubble Bath" by OPI and for the sparkles, I use "Star Lights" by Jade. Any type or color of sparkles will work to suit your needs. As for the base, I just happen to love the "Bubble Bath" because it is my favorite "milky" type of nail polish out there. It doesn't streak when you put it on and gives a clean look to the nails.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aZ71PTSb0PU/TnrWUZnXUoI/AAAAAAAAACE/xDBjB1wC6uY/s1600/092120112200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aZ71PTSb0PU/TnrWUZnXUoI/AAAAAAAAACE/xDBjB1wC6uY/s320/092120112200.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Once the base color has dried, paint the glitter polish onto just the tips of the nails. Depending on how glittery you want the tips of your nails, you'll most likely have to use multiple coats. Keep applying the glitter to the tips of the nails until you get the desired look. Add some top coat and you're good to go.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2lZng5DjoVE/TnrWV2FOKGI/AAAAAAAAACI/DEuBhJgCJ_o/s1600/092120112205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2lZng5DjoVE/TnrWV2FOKGI/AAAAAAAAACI/DEuBhJgCJ_o/s320/092120112205.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">With this simple technique, you'll be able to achieve so many different looks. Have fun!</div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-20191055823108500072011-09-18T13:45:00.000-07:002011-09-19T23:20:44.297-07:00A Surprise Find!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">As with many lazy weekends, I like to browse around my local farmer's market for produce and other thrifty finds. I'm lucky enough that there is a large auction yard about 1 mile from where I live that carries an abundance of things on the weekends. From stalls upon stalls of fresh fruits and veggies to the knick-knack stands of cheap plastic toys, they've got everything!</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">After getting some produce, I normal just walk around because it's good exercise and it's just kind of fun to see some random stuff. There are vendors who sells knew things, those who seem to be in the business of selling old/used things, and there's even those who bring their garage sales out to this auction yard.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Today, as I was passing a stall of an older lady, my sister notices a Dooney & Bourke purse hanging on one of her racks of clothes. She mentions that it's a nice purse so I go over to check the item out. The purse turns out to be a real Dooney, which got me really excited because it's hard to find the real stuff in places like these nowadays. I looked at the hardware of the purse to make sure it had the names and symbols of the brand, which is one way to spot a real piece. Also, I always look at the leather itself. Dooney is really know for their old leather purses, and this one is no exception. Since it's been used the leather is a little worn near the bottom of the purse, but because it's real leather, it's holding its shape and feel nicely.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IEaII6_G9Oo/TnZXWCXAzmI/AAAAAAAAAB4/9F_IlGWbsDk/s1600/091820112193.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IEaII6_G9Oo/TnZXWCXAzmI/AAAAAAAAAB4/9F_IlGWbsDk/s320/091820112193.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yqLTaaEDXOI/TnZXYcjck9I/AAAAAAAAAB8/9kbm1Ub0uIA/s1600/091820112194.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yqLTaaEDXOI/TnZXYcjck9I/AAAAAAAAAB8/9kbm1Ub0uIA/s320/091820112194.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q5Lblqry7FY/TnZXZ-KrXzI/AAAAAAAAACA/nRN9zFg3iXk/s1600/091820112195.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q5Lblqry7FY/TnZXZ-KrXzI/AAAAAAAAACA/nRN9zFg3iXk/s320/091820112195.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The purse is still in excellent condition, especially in the inside which looks impeccable. I was so excited whenI heard the price.......$8! Now how can you beat that price for a real Dooney & Bourke?! And for me, I'm currently loving the vintage/boho/grandma look that's trending at the moment, which makes this purse perfect. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">I've been interested in more Dooney's in this style for quite some time but have not stumble on any that were the real deal. But with this new great find, It's kind of making me wanting to go thrifting again soon because I have not been in awhile. Wish me luck!</span></div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-80208693931651693452011-09-16T16:52:00.000-07:002011-09-16T16:52:49.424-07:00Funfetti Cake PopsWell, I'm going to a friend's niece's birthday party tomorrow and decided to make some cake pops for the little girl. She's turning 7 and I think these pops are the cutest things ever, so I wanted to give them a try.<br />
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<br />
<b><u>Recipe (adapted from various food blogs)</u></b><br />
<i>(makes roughly 60 cake balls)</i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
1 box cake mix (I used Pillsbury Funfetti)<br />
1 jar of frosting (I used Pillsbury Creamy Supreme Vanilla frosting)<br />
Vanilla melts<br />
Crisco shortening<br />
<br />
lollipop sticks<br />
sugar crystals for decoration<br />
block of styrofoam<br />
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1. Bake cake according to package directions.<br />
2. When cake is completely cooled, break into crumbs. Add frosting and mix thoroughly together.<br />
(I actually let my batter then sit in the fridge for awhile so it can harden just a bit)<br />
3. Roll batter into 1 inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet or tray with parchment paper, then place them into the freezer for some time to harden.<br />
4. While the cake balls are hardening, melt the Vanilla melts by placed it into the microwave, stirring occasionally. I use the defrost setting to melt them because it helps from burning the chocolate.<br />
5. Remove the cake balls from the freezer. Take the lollipop stick and dip it into a bit of chocolate, then insert into the cake ball. When finished, placed the cake balls back in freezer.<br />
6. After about 10-15 mins, remove the cake pops from the fridge. You might have to reheat the Vanilla melts in order for it to be really melty again. At this point, if your melt is on the thick side, you can add some shortening to thin it out. You want a runny chocolate so that the coating doesn't get too thick, so add small amounts of the shortening at a time to get the right consistency.<br />
7. Dip the cake pops into the Vanilla melt, tapping off excess coating. Coat them in sugar crystals or sprinkles if you desire. Use a block of styrofoam to stick the cake pops in to keep them up right.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c6au9iQHCaw/TnO496S-x5I/AAAAAAAAABI/y79lghvrHj0/s1600/091620112188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c6au9iQHCaw/TnO496S-x5I/AAAAAAAAABI/y79lghvrHj0/s320/091620112188.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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I decided that would make a gift basket out of these cake pops for the birthday girl. I found a small woven basket and used 2 small blocks of styrofoam to make the form in the middle of the basket so that I'll have a place to stick the cake balls into.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fQ-VXwAcb98/TnO7P5auXfI/AAAAAAAAABU/-fYPPVfu3KE/s1600/091620112190.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fQ-VXwAcb98/TnO7P5auXfI/AAAAAAAAABU/-fYPPVfu3KE/s320/091620112190.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I thought that the final product turned out very cute, just hope the birthday girl will enjoy. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One thing that I wanted to comment on these cake pops is that I noticed a lot of the Vanilla coating was cracking after it was dried. I don't know if this is due to the Vanilla melts themselves or the shortening that was added. I'll have to search around to see if anyone can help me.</div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-89635602115090425822011-09-15T14:33:00.000-07:002011-09-15T14:33:51.135-07:00Fall Nail ColorSo, as the Fall season is fast approaching, I'm out to find myself some pretty colors that are appropriate for this season.<br />
I really love the Fall season because the temperature here in northern California is quite nice. Not too cold and not too hot, just quite around perfect.<br />
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And keeping in line with the warm color scheme that is known for the autumn season, I was in search for a deep red that was fitting for the season. I settled on "Quarter Of A Cent Cherry" by OPI.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OJhFttLVS6E/TnJuHLz7IgI/AAAAAAAAABA/SwmIYbuiAlk/s1600/Nail+color-+opi+red.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OJhFttLVS6E/TnJuHLz7IgI/AAAAAAAAABA/SwmIYbuiAlk/s320/Nail+color-+opi+red.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The color turned out great and I really love it. It was exactly what I had in mind, which was a "deep red". None of that bright reds that are more appropriate for spring or summer. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">i used two coats of this red color then one coat of a clear topcoat. I know that many of you might be saying "No base coat?" Well, for me, my nails seems to have lots of oil and the polish does not stay for as long as I'd like. Personally, I just find that when I don't have a base coat, the polish stays a bit longer.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, if you're out to look for some new polishes for the fall season, this one definitely gets my vote!</div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2377639288756136610.post-28839041239438321382011-08-07T18:02:00.000-07:002011-08-07T18:02:32.787-07:00My first post...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, like the tagline says, I want to create this blog in order to share some of the things I enjoy doing. In the process, I do hope to learn more creative and crafty techniques to apply to my life.</span><br />
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</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Not sure where this will take me or what will be added, but this is the start.</span></div>Xuanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09709172117544062453noreply@blogger.com0