Valentine’s Day Inspiration: Sequins and Sweets

Many call it another Hallmark holiday, but there is no denying that Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to put on a gorgeous ensemble and hit the town. Whether you are going out on a romantic date or drinking one too many whiskeys with close friends, you can sparkle and shine to your heart’s content and enjoy every moment of the night.This is especially true  if you happen to come across the most perfect dress in the world, like I did.

I was approached by a lovely woman from the PinkBlush boutique http://like2b.uy/shoppinkblush/ to try something and give a review. When I went to the beautiful site I immediately found lots of dresses, trendy tops, skirts, and lovely accessories but my search was over when I found the most amazing burgundy sequin gown. I requested it and days later it arrived at my door looking even more incredible in person! I was telling two of my friends at work about the gown and showed them the online picture and also had to also send them photos when it arrived. Jen and Lacreasha both agreed it looked even better in person. 

I was excited to put it on and share the photos because the PinkBlush boutique is going to give a $75.00 gift certificate to one person that comments on this post. So, don’t be shy. Say something! 

The next day I my dad, aka my photographer, took me to a local hotel http://curiocollection3.hilton.com/en/hotels/rhode-island/providence-biltmore-curio-collection-by-hilton-PVDCUQQ/index.html?wt.srch=1 for pictures. It was actually his idea because after taking wedding pictures for 40 years he kind of knows the best spots in town. 

The Providence Biltmore is an iconic, landmark hotel with an illustrious past. It really such a magnificent place to stay, hold an event or just have a really nice dinner or drink. It would be perfect for Valentine’s Day, of course. 

You can provide dessert. Here are two of my favorite recipes, which are actually both from my mom. I grew up with Red Velvet Cake as a traditional Valentine’s Day, Christmas and Birthday favorite. 

Red Velvet Cake

You will need:

1/2 cup shortening

1 1/2 cups sugar

2 eggs 

2 ounces red food coloring 

2 tablespoons cocoa

1 cup buttermilk 

2 1/4 cups cake flour 

1 teaspoon salt 

1 teaspoon vanilla 

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon vinegar

Frosting

3 tablespoons flour 

1 cup milk 

1 cup sugar 

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 cup butter

1. Cream shortening, sugar and eggs.

2. Make a paste of food coloring and cocoa 

3. Add to creamed mixture.

4. Add buttermilk alternating with flour and salt.

5. Add vanilla.

6. Add soda to vinegar, and blend into the batter.

7. Pour into 3 or 4 floured cake pans.

8. Bake at 350 degrees for 24-30 minutes.

9. Split layers and fill and frost with the following frosting. 

10. Prepare frosting by adding milk to flour slowly, avoiding lumps. 

11. Cook the flour and milk until very thick, stirring constantly.

12. Cool completely.

13. Cream sugar, butter and vanilla until fluffy.

14. Add to cooked mixture.

15. Beat, high speed, until very fluffy.

Chocolate Sweetheart Cakes for Two 

You will need:

3/4 cup all purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar 

1/4 cup packed light brown sugar 

3 tablespoons Hershey’s Cocoa 

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/8 teaspoon salt 

1/2 cup water 

3 tablespoons vegetable oil 

1/2 teaspoon white vinegar 

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 

Chocolate Frosting ( recipe follows)

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour 8 inch square baking pan.

2. Stir together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cocoa, baking soda and salt in medium bowl. Add water, oil, vinegar, and vanilla; beat with whisk or spoon until smooth. Pour batter into prepared pan.

3. Bake 18-20 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes; remove from pan to wire rack. Cool completely. 

4. Transfer to cutting board. Using 3 1/4 inch heart shaped cutter, cut cake into 4 hearts. Prepare chocolate frosting; spread over tops of two hearts. Piece remaining two hearts on top. Garnish as desired. 

Chocolate Frosting 

You will need:

1 tablespoon butter

2/3 cup powdered sugar 

1 tablespoon Hershey’s Cocoa 

2 or 3 teaspoons milk 

1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract 

Place butter in microwave safe bowl. Microwave at medium power ( 50%) 20 seconds or until butter is melted. Stir together powdered sugar and cocoa; add to butter mixture alternately with milk, beating with spoon or whisk until smooth. Stir in vanilla. 

This is a really easy and delicious recipe that’s perfect for sharing with those special people in your life.

Double Decker Chocolate Hearts 

http://www.acmoore.com/make-n-mold-174-double-decker-chocolate-hearts.html

Here are some more really great ideas inspired by classic conversation candy hearts. They are perfect for a party or sending in to school with your child for all their friends and teachers to enjoy.

Rice Krispie Treat Heart Pops

http://www.celebrations.com/c/read/conversation-heart-treats-valentines-day

Conversation Heart Ice Cream

http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/valentines-day-ideas/g3180/valentines-desserts/?

Conversation Heart Sugar Cookies

http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/mini-conversation-heart-cookies/c3360460-849d-4d3d-8c5f-8ca7d767a6fc

Dipped Oreo Cookies 

http://www.celebrations.com/c/read/conversation-heart-treats-valentines-day

Hope you found this post entertaining and useful. I truly appreciate your time and attention.

Thank you so much for visiting the blog today and Happy Valentine’s Day! 

Yours truly,

Jennifer 

Ps. I recently had the pleasure of sampling the Bootay Bag subscription service and love it. The best part is that proceeds from each payment goes to a great cause. This month a dollar will be given to melanoma research and treatment. 

http://bootaybag.com/ for more info and to subscribe 

Simple and Splendid Sunday Brunch Ideas: Fashion and Food Inspiration

I have always been a huge fan of dressing up for any and all occasions. I’m guilty of restyling fancy cocktail dresses I love again and again to make them appropriate to wear to my job as a kindergarten teacher.

However I do believe I found the most perfect piece to nail a polished daytime look ( for brunch or any daytime occasion) that is still feminine and fun. 

I searched the https://www.stylewe.com/ website and was delighted to find the Dark Blue Polka Dots Girly A-Line Mini Dress. https://www.stylewe.com/product/dark-blue-polka-dots-pockets-girly-a-line-mini-dress-82983.html

It is so comfortable and warm. The lining is crystal velvet and so unbelievably cozy. I love the Peter Pan collar on this StyleWe dress and added my favorite necklace from Kate Spade. It is the Magnolia Bakery Mini Cupcake Pendant. 

You can find it here: https://m.katespade.com/products/magnolia-bakery-mini-cupcake-pendant/WBRUA960.html 

I am wearing Steve Madden red patent leather heels I found at thredUP.com but I found a similar pair here: https://www.google.com/shopping/product/14973588181154799451?q=steve+madden

My lipstick is a brand called lipsense and the shade is called Fly Girl. It is the most vibrant, gorgeous shade of red and I wear it often. The best part about it is that I never have to reapply it. It is smudgeproof, waterproof, and kissproof for up to 18 hours. You will get a substantial discount if you mention this post to Amanda at https://m.facebook.com/groups/designerlips or at http://instagram.com/designer_lips. 

My hat and tights are from target.com which is my go-to place for basics and an occasional fun accessory. 

I think this would be the perfect outfit to go out to brunch in, however when Sunday morning finally rolls around, you can take advantage of every glorious minute of it by planning a simple, splendid brunch. 

One option is a leisurely breakfast that can be savoured with a thick copy of the Sunday paper. Start with glasses of a tomato juice cocktail or a spicy Bloody Mary. Next try thick luscious slices of French Toast spiced with bourbon. Serve it with regular or Canadian Bacon- it only takes a  few minutes to sauté. ( The microwave makes cooking bacon a breeze.) To end the meal, enjoy bowlfuls of juicy and succulent fresh fruit. Make it with the market’s freshest selections. It’s perfect to top the bowls with pomegranate seeds. The jewel-like fruit is a real exotic treat and adds not only brilliant color but an interesting crunch too. Then, get cozy and enjoy more coffee, more of the paper and more of Sunday. These first few recipes are appropriate if you are in the mood to plan a breakfast for two. 

Bourbon French Toast

You will need:

3 eggs

1/2 cup milk 

1 T bourbon 

Grated rind from 1 orange 

1/8 tsp. ground cinnamon

Dash grated nutmeg 

4 slices (1 inch) thick, challah or French bread 

Butter

Syrup:

1/3 cup maple syrup

1 T. bourbon 

1 T. butter 

In a shallow bowl or pie plate with wire whisk, combine eggs, milk, bourbon, orange rind, cinnamon and nutmeg. Beat until well mixed. Dip bread slices into egg mixture, turning to coat both sides. In a large skillet or griddle over medium heat, melt enough butter to coat the surface lightly. Add bread and cook until well golden on both sides, adding more butter or margarine as needed. In small saucepan over medium high heat, combine syrup, bourbon and butter. Heat until butter is melted. Serve syrup over toast with bacon.

Fresh Fruit Cup 

You will need:

1 medium apple, cored and cut into chunks

1 medium pear, cored and cut into chunks

1/2 cup red seedless grapes 

3T honey

1 T.fresh lemon or lime juice

1/4 c. pomegranate seeds 

In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients except pomegranate seeds. Toss until well coated. Just before serving, sprinkle some pomegranate seeds over each serving. 

Get the most from a pomegranate by starting from the stem end of the fruit and, using a small knife, score the skin into quarters. Then, simply pull the sections apart to expose the succulent seeds. Pluck them out leaving the bitter white membrane behind. The entire seed is edible.

Tomato Juice Cocktail 

You will need:

3/4 pound tomatoes, sliced 

1/3 cup chopped onion 

1/4 cup water

2 tablespoons sliced celery

1-1/2 teaspoons sugar 

1/2 teaspoon salt 

1/8 teaspoon pepper 

In a small saucepan, combine all ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 30-35 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Cool. 

Transfer tomato mixture to a blender; cover and process until smooth. Refrigerate until chilled. 

Spicy Bloody Mary

You will need:

16 oz tomato juice

3 oz vodka 

2 dashes hot red pepper sauce 

1 dash Worcestershire sauce 

2 jalapeño peppers 

Pinch celery salt 

Pinch black pepper 

1 lemon, juiced 

Celery spears, for garnish 

Combine all ingredients, except celery spears, in a small pitcher. Pour into large glasses filled with ice and garnish with celery spears.

Note: You can omit the alcohol in this recipe for a Virgin Mary.

Another idea is to make someone feel special with this leisurely, heartwarming spread. This savory omelette, mouth- watering potato medley served with the refreshing tomatoes juice cocktail above will definitely warm up a wintry day!

Fresh Vegtable Omelette 

You will need:

4 egg whites

1/4 cup water

1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar 

2 eggs 

1/4 teaspoon salt 

1 teaspoon butter 

1 medium tomato 

1 small zucchini 

1 small onion

1/4 cup chopped green pepper

1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning 

1/3 cup shredded cheese

In a small mixing bowl, beat the egg whites, water and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form. In a large mixing bowl, beat eggs and salt until thick and lemon- colored, about 5 minutes. Fold in the whites. 

Melt butter in a 10-in. nonstick ovenproof skillet coated with nonstick cooking spray. Add egg mixture. Cook over medium heat for five minutes or until puffed. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a skillet, sauté the tomato, zucchini, onion, green pepper, and Italian seasoning until tender. Carefully run a knife around edge of omelet to loosen. With a sharp knife, score center of omelet. Place vegetables on one side and sprinkle with cheese; fold other side over filling. Slide into a serving plate; cut in half. 

Skillet Potatoes 

You will need: 

1 large baking potato 

1/3 cup chopped sweet red pepper

1/4 cup chopped celery 

1 garlic clove, minced 

1-1/2 teaspoons olive oil 

1/2 cup sliced baby portobello mushrooms 

1/2 teaspoon paprika 

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon pepper

Place potato in a small saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.

In a nonstick skillet coated with nonstick spray, cook the other vegetables in oil for 2-4 minutes. Stir in the potato, paprika, salt and pepper; cook until lightly browned. 

One last way to be hospitable and treat your family and friends ( or just yourself ) to a special brunch is to prepare an assortment of oven- fresh scones. Serve with hot tea or coffee and lots blankets for snuggling up. 

In addition to being time-honored delights in Britain, scones have garnered a following on this side of the Atlantic too. The charming bites are not only versatile and easy to prepare, but their wholesome goodness perfectly compliments the lifestyles of health-minded bakers.

Whole Wheat Blueberry Scones

You will need:

2 cups all purpose flour 

1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour 

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

4 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/3 cup butter

1 3/4 cups 1% buttermilk 

1 1/2 cups blueberries 

1 tablespoon sugar

In a large bowl, combine the flours, brown sugar, baking power and baking soda. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in blueberries. Turn into a floured surface; gently knead 10 times.

Transfer dough to a baking sheet covered with cooking spray. Pat into a 9 inch circle. Cut into 12 wedges, but do not separate. Sprinkle with sugar. Bake at 375 degrees for 39-35 minutes or until golden brown. 

Coconut-Glazed Orange Scones

You will need:

3 3/4 cups self-rising flour 

1/4 cup sugar 

2 teaspoons baking powder 

1/2 cup cold butter 

2 eggs 

1 cup plus 1 to 2 tablespoons fat-free milk, divided 

1 teaspoon grated orange peel 

1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar 

1/4 teaspoon coconut extract

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar and baking powder. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a small bowl, whisk eggs, 1 cup milk and orange peel; stir into crumb mixture just until moistened. Turn onto a floured surface; knead 10 times. Roll into a 14 x 8 inch rectangle. Using a floured pizza cutter, cut widthwise into 2 inch strips, then diagonally into into 2 inch strips, forming diamond shapes. Bake at 400 degrees for 8-10 minutes. For glaze, combine the confectioners’ sugar, coconut extract, and enough remaining milk to achieve desired consistency; drizzle over scones. Serve warm. 

Parmesan Sage Scones

You will need: 

2 1/4 cups biscuit / baking mix

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 

1 3/4 teaspoons minced fresh sage 

1/4 teaspoon pepper 

1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon half and half cream, divided 

8 fresh sage leaves 

In a large bowl, combine the biscuit mix, cheese, sage, and pepper. Stir in 1/2 cup cream. Turn onto a floured surface; knead 5 times. Transfer dough to a baking sheet coated with spray. Pat into a 6 inch circle. Cut into 8 wedges, but do not separate. Brush the remaining cream over dough. Press a sage leaf onto the top of each wedge. Bake at 375 degrees for 10-15 minutes. Serve warm. 

A Few More Tips:

When hosting a brunch at your home, make your space as comfortable as possible. There’s not much you can do about the layout of your house. That much is true. But you can bring in extra chairs or big cushions into a room you think most people will hang out and mingle in. 

Music adds so much to the atmosphere  (well, to the world)so definitely do not forget to put together a playlist you think your guest ( or guests) will enjoy. I love this blog http://www.turntablekitchen.com/ for excellent food/ music pairings and compilations. 

It’s also a good idea to have games on hand. These are a few of our favorite family games.

My all – time favorite:

 If there are younger children involved, we let them be part of the adult teams and it works out. Most of the time the children want to be with us even if they are just helping, rather than be on their own with a game for younger children. When opening your home to others, do your best to make everyone feel special. 

Thank you so much for visiting my blog today. I hope you found it worthwhile and that it inspires you to try something new this year. 

I’m glad I found this dress at https://www.stylewe.com/ and I’m planning to get lots of use out of it while making the most out of cozy Sunday brunches in the new year. 

What are your plans for this weekend and the New Year ? I’d love to hear what you are planning ! 

Yours truly,

Jennifer 

Xoxo 

Be A Rainbow: Fashion, Food and Friendship

I was thrilled to find this ultra-bright tassel necklace at http://www.walmart.com just the other day. I thought it would be perfect to brighten up my http://www.skiesareblue dress I recently found at http://www.thredup.com. I added colorful  accessories found in the necklace to make the whole look more cheerful. 

The hat is from http://www.target.com and bracelets, sunglasses, sandals, and phone case are from http://www.burlingtoncoatfactory.com. 

I found the bag at http://www.very.co.uk. It was a steal at only $31.00.

Here are some other fun summer bags I’ve been loving this season: 

Banana bag – http://www.boutique1.com 

Daisy bag- http://www.zaful.com

Center bag  with tassels and bag in lower right hand corner – http://www.inthepinkonline.com 

I wore this jacket from http://www.savers.com and tee from http://www.target.com in the morning when it was still kind of chilly. 

Later at school I was back to just the dress again. 

My class this year loved everything to do with rainbows , from our circle time poem “7 Rainbow Colors” to the concept of ‘being a rainbow’ when someone in the classroom was sad ( a rainbow in someone’s cloud). 

Children at this age naturally want to please people and are very eager to share a toy, pay a compliment or give each other hugs. Sometimes it’s more difficult, as an adult,to reach out to someone you care about when you know they may be hurting. 

Have you ever tried to lift the spirits of an unhappy friend with no success, or mistakenly made them feel worse ? Not only is your friend still blue, but you’re feeling like a failure for not being a better friend. First of all, you’re not a failure for trying to help a friend , and second of all, we’ve all been there and perhaps it’s because we think about what would help us to feel better, when that may be quite different than what your friend needs. 

Here are a few ideas for “Being A Rainbow” , or cheering up a friend. 

1. Let your friend vent.

Sometimes all people need to feel better is to get their problems off their chest. Allow your friend to talk about what is bothering them without interruption, judgement or offering advice. Unless your friend asks for advice, don’t give it. Also, don’t tell them you know how they feel. People experience things through their own filters. What would be a minor irritation to you could be a major catastrophe for your friend. Just listen and allow whatever histrionics they throw your way. 

2. Make them laugh.

Send a funny picture, video, or silly voicemail message. Laughter is the best medicine as they say.

3. Take them out. 

Sometimes a change in scenery makes all the difference in the world. 

4. Give them new pajamas.

Remember how much fun it was to get new pj’s when you were little? We forget the enjoyment new pajamas can bring as we grow older. Get your friend new pj’s that are fun, soft, or sexy, whichever they will appreciate most. 

5. Tell them you love them.

We sometimes take our friends for granted and don’t tell them how we feel often enough. 

6. Ask what they need.

It’s ok to ask your friend what they need. Not being a psychic doesn’t make you a bad friend. 

7. Give them a plant.

Instead of flowers that may die in a few days, give your friend a nice houseplant so they can enjoy it much longer.

8. Send a note of encouragement.

An actual card that is sent by old fashioned snail mail is preferable, but even an e-card can bring a smile to someone’s face. Taking the time to let them know you care is the important thing. 

9. Watch movies.

Have a movie marathon or watch your friend’s favorite television series. 

10. Feed them. 

When people are down they either eat more or don’t eat enough. Either way providing your friend’s favorite meal or comfort food when they are down will be helpful. If you can’t be there in person, have the food delivered to them from a nearby restaurant. 

Speaking of food… 

My mom has been making these Rainbow Cookies for years. They take a little bit of time and effort but are worth it. 

You will need:

7 ounces almond paste

3/4 cup sugar 

1/2 teaspoon almond extract 

3/4 cup butter

3 eggs

1 cup flour 

1/4 teaspoon salt 

15 drops green food coloring 

15 drops red food coloring 

2/3 cup apricot preserves

3 ounces semisweet chocolate 

1 teaspoon vegetable shortening 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Grease 3 8×8 metal baking pans and line with wax paper. 

Beat almond paste, sugar, almond extract and sugar at medium high speed until blended. Reduce speed to medium and add the eggs.Reduce speed to low and then add the flour and salt slowly to the mixture until combined. 

Take 2 small bowls and add 1 rounded cup of batter into each bowl. There should be one cup left in the bowl.  Add red color to one and green to the other. 

Spoon the un-colored batter into one pan, and the red and green into the other 2 pans. Bake 10-12 minutes. 

Lay a piece of wax paper on a flat surface that will fit into the refrigerator. Later the 3 colors on the wax paper, spreading the apricot preserves between each layer. 

In a 1 quart saucepan, heat chocolate and shortening over low heat. 

Spread chocolate mixture over the red layer evenly . Do not put mixture on sides. Refrigerate for 1 hour. 

To serve, trim about 1/4 inch from the edges. Cut the stacked layers into 6 strips. Cut each strip crosswise into 6 pieces. You will get 36 square cookies.

These End-of-the-Rainbow Cookie Parfaits , adapted from the Pillsbury version, are very easy and over the top delicious! 

You will need: 

1 roll of Pillsbury refrigerated sugar cookies

2 eggs 

Gel food colors 

1 pint whipping cream 

3 tablespoons sugar 

1 teaspoon vanilla 

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Spray 10 muffin cups with cooking spray. Let cookie dough stand at room temperature 10 minutes to soften. 

In a large bowl, break up the cookie dough and add eggs. Beat with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Divide dough into small bowls and add food coloring. 

Scoop dough into muffin pan, making 2 of each color. Bake 15-17 minutes and allow to cool completely. 

In medium bowl, beat whipping cream, sugar and vanilla on medium high until stiff peaks form. 

Crumble each of the cupcakes, keeping the colors separate. Sprinkle the red into each of 12 glass parfait cups, glasses, or small jars. Pipe whipped cream on top of each. Repeat process with each color of the rainbow. Serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve. 

Refrigerated cookie dough makes it so easy and fun to bring a smile to someone’s face. Try shaping chocolate chip cookie dough into a rainbow shape, add m&m’s and bake ! 

This Sunshine Punch recipe is also very easy and can be refreshing for anyone, whether it’s someone that needs cheering up or not! 

Sunshine Punch 

You need:

2 packages unsweetened Kool-Aid 

3 oz can frozen orange juice concentrate 

46 oz can pineapple juice 

1 quart lemon-lime soda, chilled 

Garnish: strawberries, pineapple chunks,banana slices 

Prepare Kool-Aid and orange juice concentrate according to package directions. Combine in a large punch bowl. Add pineapple juice, stir together and chill. Before serving, add lemon- lime soda and mix. Slide fruit onto bottom half of plastic straws and place into individual glasses, add chilled punch. 

Thank you so much for visiting my blog today.

I really appreciate your time and attention. I hope you found it worthwhile and hope it made you smile. 

Yours truly, 

Jennifer 

Xoxoxo 

Daisies On My Mind

Daisies certainly are the friendliest of flowers. 

I love how the turquoise color in this daisy necklace cheerfully complements the pattern of my Calvin Klein dress. I was happy to find both items at http://www.burlingtoncoatfactory.com last summer. 

Since then , I’ve accumulated other accessories with a daisy motif such as this fabulous hat from http://www.chicnova.com. It’s available now for only $12.00! 

This beautiful bag is from http://www.nicoleleeusa.com.

I really love how Marc Jacob’s Daisy Dream perfume has a fruity floral scent that is etheral, spirited, and luminous. It’s perfect for this time of year.

Planning this outfit kept reminding me of so many different things.

The line Meg Ryan delivers from one of my favorite movies:

The song I learned in kindergarten about a bicycle built for two:



One of my favorite quotes from “The Great Gatsby” :

Princess Daisy :

And this super easy cupcake recipe which I adapted from my mom’s 1966 Betty Crocker Cake Mix Cookbook: 

The book – 

 Just looking at this book brings me back to my early childhood. There is a recipe called ‘Lazy Daisy Cake’ which I turned into ‘Lazy Daisy Cupcakes.’

They are as easy as they look. Simply follow the directions of any cake mix, filling 2 cupcake trays. Use ready made frosting , any flavor,and cut marshmallows in the shape of flower petals. It’s easy to make different colors with colored sugar crystals or you can leave the petals white. Use any small candy for the center. They are great to bring to a child’s birthday party or even a baby or bridal shower. I think they would look very pretty arranged on a tiered platter, almost like a bouquet of real daisies! 

So, yes, I’ve had daisies on my mind.

And I hope that you enjoyed this post. 

I certainly appreciate your time and attention.

 I’ve loved your feedback on my previous posts and I’m so glad to connect with all of you. 

Yours truly,

Jennifer

Xoxoxo

Sunshine and Sorbet: Entertaining In Style

Would you like a little bit of sunshine delivered to your doorstep?

 Are you looking for the perfect outfit to wear while entertaining friends this season?

 Would you like to make a super simple but really fabulous drink to serve guests? 

For the sunshine delivered right to your door , look no further than http://www.SEQCollection.com ! Enjoy free shipping when purchasing any one of the dresses, tops , bottoms , accessories, fitness, or fair trade items in their collection. I discovered the website when I saw many cute items on their IG feed @seqcollection . 

This dress is called the ‘Darcie’ and I paired it with a scarf from http://www.target.com. 

It is a gorgeous feminine mauve color featuring a ruffled bottom and 3/4 sleeves. It is unlined , non-sheer and lightweight. 

The shoes are Guess from http://www.macys.com , bracelets on my right hand are from http://www.burlingtoncoatfactory.com , and bangles on my left hand are from the champagne collection at http://www.alexandani.com. 

This LuluAvenue necklace is called Pebble Beach and can be purchased from http://www.stylebyalana.com . 

Go ahead and visit the Sunshine Equilibrium shop , http://www.SEQCollection.com and I’m sure you’ll find just the right pieces to create a perfect look of your own for entertaining or for attending any casual get together this summer. 

The mauve color of this dress reminded me of raspberry sorbet and that got me thinking about a really quick and easy recipe for Raspberry Sorbet Bellinis, so…

Here’s all you need: 

1. Pink Moscato

2. Raspberry sorbet

3. Fresh raspberries

Here’s all you do: 

1. Add a small scoop of raspberry sorbet to champagne flutes.

2. Top with Moscato and be careful because it bubbles up fast.

3. Garnish with fresh raspberries.

Here’s another great drink ( even though there is no moscato or liquor of any kind involved ) :

Raspberry Lemonade Floats 

You will need:

1. 1 cup fresh lemon juice ( about 10 to 12 lemons, squeezed )

2. 1/2 cup honey 

3. 1/2 teaspoon vanilla 

4. 1/2 cup warm water 

5. 3 cups chilled sparkling water or club soda 

6. Raspberry sorbet

To do:

Combine lemon juice, honey, vanilla, and water in mixing bowl. Use whisk to blend ingredients. 

Pour lemon juice mixture into a large pitcher and add chilled sparkling water or club soda, whisking to combine. Set pitcher in freezer for 5 minutes to cool quickly. Don’t forget and leave it there!

While lemonade is chilling, use a melon baller to scoop 4 to 6 mini sorbet balls per serving. Place them inside each glass and pour sparkling lemonade on top. 

Garnish with fresh fruit and a straw !

And there you have the easy drink ( plus another ) to make and serve ! 

Hope you find yourself surrounded with sunshine this season even if – 



And always remember –

Thanks so much for checking out this post ! Hope you found it worthwhile because I always appreciate your time and attention. 

Yours truly,

Jennifer

Xoxoxo

That’s All She Wore-My Week, Fashionably Speaking

It’s been a fun week for me, fashionably speaking, as I’ve been able to try some new things and also revisit some of my favorite items from the past. 

Monday I wore a ‘new to me’ VeronicaB dress I found at thredUP.com. I picked up the necklace and bracelets a few weeks ago at Burlington Coat Factory with the dress in mind. The necklace inspired me to pull different shades of green together for this look, which led to buying the Powerpuff girl scarf ( The Rack) to tie on my handbag.

I was so excited to come home Monday to a very special delivery from my friend, Alana . She is a stylist for Luluavenue and also represents Acti-Labs. She sent me the Skyscraper Mascara from Acti-Labs, which I had been curious about. I tried it out right away.

I’ve been using it every day and I’m really happy with the results. It is not too heavy, not too light, and definitely does not clump. It has the optimum brush/formula combination for lengthened,defined, even coated lashes. I was most impressed with it on Tuesday afternoon because I had applied it at around 5:00am and it still looked good at 5:00pm! 

That was 5:00pm at Angelika & Me Salon , which most of you know by now, is my home away from home. 

Early that day, I wore a really old Calvin Klein dress I found at BCF. I remember when I bought it my son was 1 and my daughter was 5 and they helped me pick out lots of pink and purple accessories to go with it. 

When I wore it Tuesday, I decided to keep the jewelry simple with my favorite silver pieces from Luluavenue.com. The necklace is called Modern Girl and was actually my first piece of Lulu Jewelry. 

You can contact Alana for Acti-Labs or LuluAvenue information and purchases on Instagram/ @style_by_alana or Twitter/@wheezie33. 

Have you ever heard of Mai Nyche? It is exclusively handmade jewelry and accessories with attitude and perspective. I was thrilled to discover it on Instagram/ @mainychebycysi. She will make accessories to coordinate with anything in your wardrobe. Visit her etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/shopMaiNycheByCysi.com and you will be amazed ! 

I have these three sets –

I paired the red and blue floral set with navy stripes on Wednesday –

I have on the black and silver set today and love how it looks with my favorite striped dress from Target.

I did add a little polka dot cardigan ( also from Target)  earlier in the day , because I was chilly ( what else is new?) . The red scarf was a last minute idea, I had it tied on my bicycle bag and thought I needed a touch of color just for fun. 

By the way , the bicycle bag is on sale today at J.C.Penney!! 

So , friends, I’m going to show you tomorrow’s outfit. How ? Well, when I first got my jewelry from @mainychebycysi , I tried on the blue set with a little patterned cocktail dress from Cache ( found at thredUP ) . 

Of course , I was cold and added a sweater. I took the dress right off after the picture, and figured I’d wear it to go out some time. However , I feel like wearing it tomorrow, so I’ll wear it to work. Of course I’ll add a blazer , cardi , or jacket of some sort to make it work appropriate. I will also have blue flat sandals ready in case these shoes are not comfortable all day. 

That’s all , folks. That’s all I wore, or will wear , this week. 

Thanks so much for allowing me to share it all with you ! 
Hope it inspires you to have some fun with your wardrobe , mixing old and new items! 

I truly appreciate your time and attention.

Yours truly,

Jennifer 

Xoxoxo

Ps. I went with a jacket –

Easy Like…Saturday Morning?

Sometimes you just have a really busy week and can’t wait for the weekend so you can relax, right?  Wait, sometimes? Well, for me, most times. 

What about when you get through a busy week ( for me , teaching , parenting, and all that jazz) and then Saturday comes and you realize it’s so jam packed that you really are not going to get a chance to relax anytime soon? 

I decided to make my day extra simple by wearing this maxidress from http://www.glamourfarmsboutique.com. It’s super easy to look put together with a dress that already has the colorblocking and print-mixing built in, and is about as comfortable as my softest, absolute   favorite  pajamas. 

And, like most Saturdays, I made my day not just easier, but more delightful, by starting out at Angelika & Me Hair Salon, in Johnston, RI.

I know I can always count on treats and a good Lifetime movie every time I visit Susan, Connie, and Bob at the salon. 

It was easy to accessorize this dress by wearing two of my favorite pieces of jewelry. I’ve worn this Luluavenue necklace so many times since I bought it last Fall. It’s a staple in the collection sold by one of my good friends, Alana. She is @style_by_alana on Instagram or you can go directly to her site http://www.luluavenue.com/sites/alanaj to purchase it. 

Quick close-up of the leather and freshwater pearl bracelet you might recognize from my post last week –

It was handmade by Maya Larson -@connectionsbymaya  / etsy , IG, Twitter, FB, Pinterest 

This is an especially busy Saturday because soon we are off to the theater where both of my children are performing in the ‘Beyond The Rainbow’ Spring Show. My son has already informed me I may need headphones/earplugs for one part. 

Fabulous.

However, I’d like to thank Angelina, my 10 year old, for taking time away from practicing her singing and dancing to take my pictures today. 

She’s always my best girl. 

I’d also like to thank my 6 year old for taking time away from his singing and dancing to be quiet so I could type this up. 

My best little guy, aka Lego Kid 

I am looking forward to the performance all the children have been preparing for for so long. The rehearsals were amazing and the music teacher, Ms.Rodi,truly deserves a medal for her talent and extreme patience. 

I am also looking forward to later , when I can be even more cozy ( although this dress is super comfortable) with these new slippers I found at boohoo.com 

and my favorite pajamas from good ol’ Target, which reminds me , I need to go there now. The cartwheel offer on woman’s and junior clothing expires today. 😉

Have a lovely Saturday ! 

Thanks for visiting the blog , hope you find yourself inspired to relax today! 

Yours truly,

Jennifer

Xoxoxo

Just Another ‘Manic Monday’ – Beating the Monday Blues

“Music is what feelings sound like.”   Prince 

If there is one song that pops into my head on a weekly basis , setting my feelings to music , it is the 1986 hit ‘Manic Monday’ recorded by The Bangles, written by none other than the amazing Prince. He wrote it in 1984, using a pseudonym “Christopher” with the intention of giving it to Apollina6.  Later it became The Bangle’s first hit from their album Different Light. 

This is one , easy , foolproof way to avoid this : 

I know , I know , it’s not exactly earth- shattering or ground breaking advice , but plan out your outfit the night before. However , not just any outfit , make your Monday outfit something you feel your best in. For me , that would be bright colors or a wrap dress. Preferably a bright colored wrap dress like this Jessica Simpon dress I found at thredUP.com.

 Hat: Eugenia Kim

Sandals: Macy’s

Sunglasses: Ray Ban

Bag: MK Michael Straw Gabriella 

Bandana: asos

Rings: Lucky brand

Snake Bracelet: d.alexandercollections.com/ @d.alexandercollections/ Instagram 

Tory Burch bracelet: pre-owned from tradesy.com

Earrings: Kenda Scott from lastcall.com

Perfume: Jessica Simpson Fancy Love (my all time favorite) 

Blush: Too Faced perfect flush blush in Sparkling Bellini  ( I will give full review of this product in a few days) 

Another way to beat that ‘Manic Monday’ feeling is with “The Blissful Teacher” essential oil mist line created by Beth Wrobel. 

I tried the ‘Lesson Plan Luxury ‘ scent and love the uplifting, energizing feeling that came from the lemongrass. 

Beth has a full line of teacher inspired essential oil sprays using therapeutic grade essential oils. These homeopathic sprays are available in a variety of blends and can help with a variety of ailments. Trouble sleeping? Anxious? Joint or muscle pain? There is a spray for everyone, you don’t even have to be a teacher. Choose from lemongrass, lavender, clove, ginger, peppermint and more! 

The mists have the cutest names and would be perfect to give your favorite teacher for Teacher Appreciation Day or as a Thank You gift for a teacher friend who helps you out ALL the time ( thanks, guys, you know who you are 😉) . 

Find Beth and her products:

The Blissful Teacher / Facebook

@theblissfulteacherllc / Instagram

teacherspayteachers.com

Etsy.com/shop/theblissfulteacher

Hope your Monday and all the days to follow are not manic, bit more like another classic song, this one covered by Prince:

“Jump in, let’s go, lay down, enjoy the show”

From ‘Everyday is A Winding Road’

Thanks, friends, it goes without saying, life is short , enjoy the moments. 

Follow your heart. 

Appreciate those who are good to you. 

Yours truly,

Jennifer

Xoxoxo

Ps.

Authenticity Over Everything-Dedication to Prince (1958-2016)

“Don’t worry about being good…Aspire to be authentic.” Yann Martel 

Prince is a bona fide example of this inspirational quote. 

Yes , he was one of the best – selling artists of all time, with major hits such as Purple Rain, When Doves Cry, and Kiss. Yes , he was a multidisciplinary genius:  writing, singing, playing , and all with visual artistry and charisma. 

What I will remember most about Prince and what will live on infinity is the way he ‘walked the walk’ and stayed true to himself in not just his lyrics , but his actions and lifestyle. 

He touched upon topics such as sex, politics, drug abuse, poverty, and violence in his music and was never afraid to speak openly to the public on any topic. 

We all remember how he stole the show at the Grammys in one unscripted moment. 

 
His infinite wisdom will go on as we remember his thoughts on human development- 

 On loss: 

 On time: 

 He had an extraordinary number of fashionable moments to remember. These are just a few – 

    
   
I find it difficult to come up with one favorite Prince song. It might be ‘I Would Die 4 U’ or ‘I Want To Be Your Lover.’ 

However , for as long as I can remember I’ve been in search of the perfect magenta colored hat , so maybe my favorite is ‘Raspberry Beret.’ 

I did find one, by Christian Louboutin, but somehow I don’t see myself purchasing it at $1,245.00. 

 
I did create an outfit tonight in honor of the ‘Prince of Everything’ – hopefully he would have approved. I think he would like the handbag the best. For sure he would like the fact that it’s just a bunch of things I love that I  put together for fun, for no other reason then to enjoy the moment and not really caring about whether it’s ‘in fashion’ or appropriate.  

   
That’s what I mostly remember about Prince and what will stay with me when I listen to his music. The emotions evoked come from an origin of pureness , creative authenticity. 

Thank you so much for your time and attention. It is truly appreciated. 

Hope you are inspired by the creative artistry of of Prince and that you will remember him fondly. 

Yours truly,

Jennifer

Xoxoxo