Food: Snack Factory White Chocolate & Peppermint Pretzel Crisps

I used to pride myself as not being much of a snacker.  Well, either I have always been fooling myself or I have recently developed a new habit perpetuated by the generous samples being handed out by the super friendly Costco employees at the end of every aisle!

My latest obsession is the Snack Factory White Chocolate & Peppermint Pretzel Crisps.  They are the perfect combination of sweet and salty.  The peppermint candy pieces sprinkled on top are just a added bonus.

So if you find yourself in need of a new sweet treat...I highly recommend these Pretzel Crisps but you may have to hurry to Costco as I have a feeling they are only a seasonal treat.

CozyVoxBox

I recently received a #cozyvoxbox from Influenster.  It's filled with fun new products to try out for free and then to write and share reviews.

Here are a few items I received and have tried so far:

Maybelline SuperStay 24hr Longwear Lipcolor in Keep Up the Flame.  Here are the instructions:

Step 1. Apply liquid lip color to clean, bare lips. 
Step 2. Allow two minutes to dry, then apply the ultra-conditioning balm to seal in moisture. Step 3. Reapply balm as needed. Step 4. Remove with an oil-based makeup remover.

Review: I thought the stain went on pretty easily and dried quickly.  The balm was very moisturizing and my lips did not feel dry.  The color lasted for may hours even through multiple drinks. The color is pretty dark so if you tend to wear lighter shades it may not be for you.

Fashion: Grunge Inspired Fashion

The grunge look originated in the late 80's but really took off in the early 90's heavily inspired by the music scene; think Nirvana and Pearl Jam.  The lais a faire attitude behind the look was a combination of flannel, ripped denim, and lots of plaid.  The finished product was to make you appear to have that thrown together look when in reality you spent as much time getting ready in your grunge attire as you did in you big haired, shoulder pad laden, multi-layered outfits of the 80's!

This look has resurfaced in a small way with lots of plaid and flannel being introduced in fall/winter 2016 fashion trends.  However, this time the look is more stylized, with a better fit, and a more feminine flair.

This top from Hem&Thread has super soft thermal sleeves paired with a plaid body.  Super cute and is available from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile.

Photo from hemandthread.com

Fashion: All About the Plaid

Nothing says fall better than a great, super comfy plaid shirt.  Plaid feels familiar and safe; a trustworthy, classic style.  I love this plaid top from Beach Lunch Lounge.  It has a crisp collar, front shirt pocket, and a rounded hem to give it a more feminine appeal. The best part is the exceptionally soft brushed herringbone fabric - it's soft enough to sleep in!  This cutie is available now from LDesigns at +Frisco Mercantile +LDesigns Boutique.

Victoria Beckham; Rachel Zoe; Calvin Klein

It's always fun to see where the trends originate.  I love these plaid overcoats from

 New York Fashion Week.  They are statement pieces and they have a significant impact

 on the trends we see in everyday fashions.

  Photo from Stylecaster.com: 12 Best Fall Trends of 2016 article by Perrie Samotin.

Food: Trader Joe's Pumpkin Spice Coffee

One of the perks of shopping at Trader Joe's is knowing that I will be able to enjoy a small coffee sample while I shop.  I am a big coffee connoisseur and I look forward to finding a new coffee to get excited about and while I have sampled many a cup at T.J.'s I have never gone back for seconds or grabbed a can right from the display and added it to my basket!

This Pumpkin Spice Coffee is really worth talking about.  It has a wonderful rich and spicy aroma, makes the entire house smell good when brewed in a Bialetti (I prefer The Original Bialetti Moka Express), and is not made with artificial flavorings, rather uses natural spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, orange peel, and more.  I would considerate it a medium-dark roast and it is not bitter to the taste.

I highly recommend!

Photo from: http://m.traderjoes.com/fearless-flyer/article/1252

Food: Anastasia Coconut Cashew Crunch

Leave it to Costco to find the most delicious snacks and to have them strategically placed right by the check out lanes  Well, they got me this time with this delicious combination of coconut, cashews, brown sugar, and a few other wonderful ingredients!  By the time I tried my first bite (notably in my car on the drive home), I was addicted and have since returned to buy a couple more bags as I am now not the only one in the house that enjoys this delicious treat!  Think peanut brittle's fancier cousin and go try this yummy snack out for yourself.

Photo by: http://www.coconutcashewcrunch.com/

Fashion: Animal Print Trends

Animal Prints are one of those fashion trends that are continuously recycled. A classic tailored animal print blouse never really goes out of style.  It may sit in the back of your closet for a season or two but then can be pulled back out and worn again, looking fresh and chic.

You may be bold and wear all over animal print dresses or jackets or maybe you just want a little of the trend to spice up your current wardrobe like this navy hooded sweatshirt with animal print sleeves and hood. (Available from LDesigns at +Frisco Mercantile).

It's fun to look at how the trends play out in high fashion.

  I found this picture on Fashioners Fall/Winter 2016/2017 Trends:

http://www.fashionisers.com/trends/fall-winter-2016-2017-print-trends/

Fashion: Military Inspired Jackets

Photo: Monoreno.com

Fashion has traditionally been inspired by the crisp clean look of military uniforms  Think Navy Pea Coats and the leather bomber jacket craze.  Every few years we recirculate the military or cargo jacket trend and this fall you are certain to see that trend popping up in many different forms.

One of the styles that is popular for fall 2106 is this lightweight jacket with zipper detail on pockets and back bodice, side button epaulettes, and two button cuffs.  Will look super cute paired with a floral dress or all black as pictured above.  Jacket available from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile.

This scaled down look is inspired by what we seen on the high fashion runways:

wwd.com/fashion Dsquared2 RTW Fall 2016 Photo: Monica Feudi / Indigital.tv

Fashion: Sequins Sequins Everywhere!

Once again we are seeing the use of sequins in high fashion.  Though it is probably unrealistic for most of us to wear full length garments adorned in sequins in our everyday life, an easy way to incorporate this trend in our everyday wardrobe is by the use of accessories or as in this super cute tee, a little splash of sequins on the pocket.

This super soft heather grey tee has mixed print sleeves and a bronze sequins pocket.  Perfect to throw on for everyday life!  Available from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile.

High Fashion Photo: www.wmagazine.com; Sonia Rykiel; Photo courtesy from the brand.

Fashion: Baseball Tee with Sequin Pocket

One of the many fashions trends this fall is the use of sequins.  Fall fashion shows displayed shiny, sparkling sequin dresses, jackets and even entire pant suits.  Now most of us are not going to run to Target or to pick up our kids at school in a full length sequin dress (if that's your style then the more power to you!) but adding a little bit of the high fashion trend in small ways to our everyday wardrobe can be fun and is much more realistic!

I love this color-blocked baseball tee with a double layered sequin pocket. Super cute and comfortable and something you can wear to any event!

Here are a couple of pictures from WWD including Michael Kors

 RTW Fall 2016 and Versace RTW Fall 2016. 

Baseball Tee with Sequin Pocket: Available from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile; S-L $28

Photos from WWD Fall Fashion News: Trends

Fashion: Great Fall Looks

Super cute and soft, this color-blocked long sleeve tee is the perfect go-to tee for fall fashions.  It has 5% spandex to give you just a touch of stretch and a relaxed comfortable fit.  Looks great with denim cut-offs or I love these comfortable slim fit capri jeans from White House Black Market.   These jeans are stretchy and comfortable and great for fall with your favorite sandals.  The best part is that the hem is frayed so if you like a longer cuff than pictured it gives you a more relaxed, casual look.

Top: Available from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile S-L; $28

Jeans: WhiteHouseBlackMarket $78

Fashion: Red is the New Black

I love fall fashions.  To me there is nothing better than a great fitting pair of jeans and a super cozy, but ultra cute sweatshirt.

Last week I spent a few minutes in the mall...that was about all I could handle considering how crowded the malls are in North Texas the first week of August when it's over 100 degrees everyday. But I had a gift certificate at White House Black Market so I decided to go check out the new fall colors and styles and to see what is trending this season.

The first thing I noticed is that red is now the new black and not just in accessories.  There were several different styles in tees, tops, and sweaters and the fall red is such a rich, deep color. My favorite was this super cute convertible layered top in auburne red.

Next I tried on a pair of distressed girlfriend jeans and fell in love with them.  These jeans were so super soft and comfortable, similar to the boyfriend but with a more feminine fit.

So all in all I am getting excited about what we will be seeing in fall fashions for 2106.

Photos from www.whitehouseblackmarket.com

Food: Turkey & Apple Wraps

I love an easy and healthy lunch idea - especially one that utilizes food I usually have on hand.  I got this delicious wrap idea from CleanFoodCrush. It only takes a couple of minutes to assemble and uses healthy ingredients like turkey (or you can use any lean lunchmeat of your choice), avocado, apple slices, and large lettuce leaves. The first day I made it I used Gala apples which were crunchy and sweet.  The next time I made it I used Granny Smith apples, which are usually my favorite, but the I think the sweeter Gala apples worked better mixed with the other ingredients.

Full disclosure: My wraps did not look as neat as the ones pictured or stay together very well when I assembled them but they still tasted great!

Photo from cleanfoodcrush.com

Food: Turkey & Apple Wraps

I love an easy and healthy lunch idea - especially one that utilizes food I usually have on hand.  I got this delicious wrap idea from CleanFoodCrush. It only takes a couple of minutes to assemble and uses healthy ingredients like turkey (or you can use any lean lunchmeat of your choice), avocado, and apple slices. The first day I made it I used Gala apples which were crunchy and sweet.  The next time I made it I used Granny Smith apples, which are usually my favorite, but the I think the sweeter Gala apples worked better mixed with the other ingredients.

Full disclosure: My wraps did not look as neat as the ones pictured or stay together very well when I assembled them but they still tasted great!

Photo from cleanfoodcrush.com

Fashion: Racerback Washed Tank

This is a super comfortable and versatile tank.  I love the washed berry color and it looks great paired with denim or white for summer.  This cute top has just a bit of stretch for a perfect fit and is only $34.  Available now from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile.

Picture from umgeeusa.com

Fashion: Navy Halter with Front Ties

Love this navy sleeveless top with front ties and red and white embroidery on the shoulders and down the front.  Looks super cute with white shorts or denim.  Can be dressed up with white jeans and summer sandals!  Available from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile: S-L; $34.

Photo from shopblupepper.com

Fashion: Round Neck Printed Flowy Tank

Love this super soft, printed flowy tank.  Looks great with denim or white shorts or capris.  Has a little bit of spandex to give you just the right amount of stretch.  Now available from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile.

Photo from Shopblupepper.com

Fashion: Sleeveless Top with Lace Details

So perfect for summer!  Soft and feminine, fabric and lace...a perfect addition to your summer wardrobe!  S-L; $34 from +LDesigns Boutique and available at +Frisco Mercantile.

Photo from umgeeusa.com

Fashion: Light Blue A-Line Tunic

You can't go wrong it this super soft, over-sized A-Line Tunic.  In a beautiful soft blue, it looks great with white denim or capris.  Available from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile.

Photo from lovein.com

Fashion: Floral Jersey Tank

This tank is so cute and comfortable!  The back is solid heather grey, super soft jersey, and the front is printed jersey with lace trim.  Fits very true to size and looks great with cute denim cut-offs or white shorts or capris.  Super affordable at only $28 and runs S-XL.  Available from +LDesigns Boutique +Frisco Mercantile.

Photo from PSKate

Fabulous Find: Clarins Super Restorative Tinted Cream

I love this product that I just purchased from Clarins: Super Restorative Tinted Moisturizer.  It's lightweight with good coverage, has SPF 20, and smells amazing.  I was a little nervous ordering it on-line without testing the shade on my skin first but I have had luck in the past with their shade colors on-line being pretty true to color.  I was so happy that Shade 03 Lichee matched perfectly with my skin-tone and even though the product is quite expensive you only need to use a very small amount.  The fact that it also has anti-aging properties just seals the deal.  Another fabulous find!

Photo from clarins.com

Fashion: Sleeveless Tunic with Self -Colored Braid

This is a great top to pair with your favorite white denim.  Summer-Weight, Sleeveless, with self-colored braid detail around the neckline, and embroidery at the hem.  Super cute and comfy! Available from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile.

Photo from monoreno.com

Fashion: Embroidered Top with 3/4 Sleeves

This fuchsia top has such a classic look for summer when paired with white shorts or denim.  This comfortable 100% cotton top has 3/4 sleeves with crochet lace at the sleeve hem, intricate embroidery, and a great fit.  Available from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile; S-L; $38.

Picture from monoreno.com

Food: Protein Snack Balls

I like to make my own protein bars so that I don't have to buy the store bought kind that contain all kinds of added sugars and preservatives.  I am always searching for new recipes that are easy, and of course, taste great.

On my search today I found another great recipe from cleanfoodcrush: Almond Joy Protein Balls. Luckily I had enough of the ingredients on hand that I only had to make a few substitutions: I used a combination of honey and pure maple syrup (from Costco) for my sweetener, I only had vanilla whey protein powder so I used that in place of the chocolate, I added about 1/2 tsp cinnamon, I didn't have the cacao powder so I substituted Trader Joe's Unsweetened Cocoa Powder, and I eliminated the chocolate chips but did add chopped almonds.  With all that being said, they turned out great!  The recipe was easy to follow and they are so delicious. This recipe is a winner!

Here is the recipe from cleanfoodcrush:

1.  Combine in large bowl:

• 3/4 cup all natural almond butter
• 1 cup uncooked rolled oats
• 1/3 cup raw honey, pure maple syrup, or agave *Note: Sometimes I add a bit LESS sweetener & they are still WONDERFUL!
• 1 tsp vanilla or almond extract
• 2 scoops chocolate whey protein powder
• 1 Tbs unsweetened cacao powder
• 2 Tbs slivered almonds (optional)
• 3/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate/cacao chips (optional).  I love Lily’s brand sweetened with stevia found on Amazon:CleanFoodCrush.com/lilys
2.  Form into 1 inch balls.
3.  Use your hands to combine well, and form into round balls.
4.  Keep them refrigerated or frozen. – I prefer these frozen!
Recipe and Photo from cleanfoodcrush

Fashion: Volatile Morocco Sandal

Volatile sandals are known for their great style and comfort.  The easy-going style of the Morocco sandal is no exception. This sandal features a snake-embossed synthetic upper with rhinestone detail, a foot-bed with arch support and breathable padding, and a comfortable, true-to-size fit.  Available in sizes 6-10, $48, and available from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile.

Photo form Volatile/PalosVerdesFootwear

Fashion: Sleeveless Dress with Sharkbite Hem

This is a great dress for warm summer nights. It's made out of 100% breathable soft cotton, has a front button placket, and a fashionable sharkbite hem.  Easy to throw on but looks classy and effortless.  Sized S-M-L and available from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile.

Photo from monoreno.com

Fashion: Texas Tank

As the saying goes...I was not born in Texas but got here as fast as I could!  This is a super comfortable red tank with the state of Texas in brushed gold.  High quality fabric with a soft hand, v-neck, and a great fit makes this the perfect summer tank!  Available from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile!  Sized S-XL; $38.

Photo from HummingbirdApparel

Food: Blueberry Bars

I have to admit that I do love to bake, but it's hard to find recipes that won't completely sabotage a healthy diet and lifestyle.   When I do find a good recipe that can satisfy both the baking process and the "need" for baked goods, yet still keep you on the healthy side...I just have to share!

I found this recipe from primalpaleo.  It's easy to assemble and very tasty.  Although I could not pass them off to my children as "regular" blueberry muffins, I enjoyed them myself for an occasional sweet treat!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups almond flour
• 2 tbsp coconut flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 3 tbsp coconut sugar
• 2 tbsp coconut oil melted
• 1  orange juiced and zested
• 2  eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups blueberries

For the complete recipe, instructions, and more you can go to primalpaleo.  Happy Baking!

Photo and recipe from primalpaleo

Fashion:Crochet Lace Panel Top

Lightweight, 100% Cotton Teal Top with Crochet Panels and 3/4 Sleeves with tie detail.  Looks so cute with white shorts or denim.  Sized S-M-L and available from +LDesigns Boutique at Willow Cottage in Grapevine, TX!

Photo from monoreno.com

Fashion: Long Sleeve Hi-Low Top

I love this long sleeve, kelly green top, with a hi-low hem and self-colored embroidery.  The fabric is a beautiful rayon/viscose and the sleeves have a slight bell opening.  This top fits true to size and runs S-M-L. Available from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile.

Photo from monoreno.com

Food: Oatmeal Jars

Breakfast is definitely my favorite meal of the day.  After a good morning workout I always want something easy, fast, and healthy.  These make ahead oatmeal jars fill all of those categories.  I purchased a set of mason jars for $8.99 at Target, and bought the gluten free rolled oats and freeze dried fruit from Market Street.  I used Stevia for my sweetener but did not even use one entire packet for 6 different oatmeal/fruit combinations.  I used a combination of freeze dried bananas, blueberries, unsweetened coconut flakes, and walnuts and I added cinnamon to each different combination.

Here is the link to the complete instructions and fruit/nut combinations: http://cleanfoodcrush.com/instant-oatmeal-jars

Thanks cleanfoodcrush for another great recipe idea!

Photo, recipe, and idea form cleanfoodcrush.com

Fashion: Striped Maxi Dress

A great Maxi Dress is always a must have for summer.  The best part about them is that you feel like you're wearing jammies but you look like you're ready for a night out - now that's the perfect scenario!  This blue and grey striped maxi is super soft rayon/poly/cotton and proudly made in the USA!  Will be available Monday at +Frisco Mercantile from +LDesigns Boutique.  Sized S-L; $38.

Photo from shoplovein.com

Fashion: Coral Striped Dress

Effortless Fashion: A No-Brainer for Summer!  Love this cap-sleeved, banded, drawstring dress in coral.  Soft rayon with 5% spandex for a little bit of stretch and best of all it's made in the USA! (I always forget to mention when items are US made so I will try to make sure that it is noted).  Dress coming next week from +LDesigns Boutique and will be available at +Frisco Mercantile; Sized S-L; $38.

Photo from www.shoplovein.com

Food: Blueberry Baked Oatmeal

I found this clean eating site that I really love called cleanfoodcrush.com.  I have made several recipes from the website and all have proven to be delicious and easy to prepare.

I made this baked oatmeal yesterday and it was so easy - I think it took less than 10 minutes to assemble and baked for about 25 minutes.  I mostly followed the recipe but used honey as my sweetener, added a pinch of cinnamon, and used 1 large egg.  Here is the recipe and the link to the website:

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup dry rolled oats
• 4 egg whites or 1 whole large egg
• 8 Tbsp unsweetened almond or coconut milk
• 1 Tbsp sliced almonds
• 1/8 tsp vanilla or almond extract
• 10 drops liquid stevia, a pinch of granulated stevia, OR sweetener of choice (YOUR personal preference).

Instructions

1. Combine ingredients, pour into a larger cereal sized glass(oven safe) dish, coated with coconut oil.
2. Add 1/2 cup frozen wild blueberries, on top. (You can also sprinkle 1 additional Tbsp sliced almonds on top)
3. Set the dish on a flat sheet pan.
4. Bake for 23-25 minutes in your preheated 375 degree oven.

Recipe, picture, and website information: www.cleanfoodcrush.com

Fashion: Off The Shoulder Top

I love everything about this top: the color, the off-the-shoulder styling, the wrist ties.  It just screams effortless fashion!  Perfectly paired with white denim and nude sandals - you are ready for any occasion in this perfect summer outfit!  Top coming soon from +LDesigns Boutique and will be available at +Frisco Mercantile.

Photo from shoplovein.com