Wednesday, July 20, 2016

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

Saturday, July 16, 2016

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

Wednesday, July 13, 2016

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

Tuesday, July 12, 2016

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

Thursday, July 7, 2016

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

Friday, July 1, 2016

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

Tuesday, June 28, 2016

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

Friday, May 20, 2016

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

Wednesday, May 18, 2016

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

Wednesday, May 11, 2016

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:

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

Tuesday, May 10, 2016

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

Friday, May 6, 2016

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!

Thursday, May 5, 2016

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

Monday, May 2, 2016

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

Friday, April 29, 2016

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

Wednesday, April 27, 2016

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

Tuesday, April 26, 2016

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

Monday, April 25, 2016

Fashion: Tank with Floral Ruffle Hem



These lightweight tanks with mixed fabrication are perfect for that summer day when you want to be casual and comfortable but still look super cute.  The tank is a super soft knit fabric, with a v-neck opening, and a printed ruffle hemline with side-slits.  Available from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile. Sized S-L with a roomy fit and only $32.00!

Photo from oddiclothing.com

Fashion: Lake Life Tank


Ahhh...summer at the lake.  What more can you ask for?  These cute, soft, navy tanks say it all!  They are sized a generous S-L and only $18.99 from +LDesigns Boutique and available at Willow Cottage In Grapevine, TX!


Tuesday, April 19, 2016

Food: Siracha Turkey Wraps


I got this recipe from CleanFoodCrush and made it last night.  It was really easy and so good!  I didn't have the aminos so I used low sodium soy sauce.  I also used extra lean ground turkey and a regular white onion.  It was super good and I plan to make it again! I wanted to share...
Ingredients:
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 8oz baby bella mushrooms, finely minced
  • 1/4 cup celery sliced on a diagonal
  • 4 green onions, sliced on diagonal
  • 2 tsp fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 Tbsp avocado, olive or coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup Braggs liquid aminos, coconut aminos, GF tamari, or low sodium soy sauce
  • 1-2 Tbsp Sriracha sauce (optional, leave out if you do not want the spice)
  • To serve:
  • Butter Lettuce leaves (romaine hearts or iceberg lettuce work well)
  • Cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
  1. Heat oil in a medium sauté pan over medium heat.
  2. Add Turkey and cook until lightly browned.
  3. Add mushrooms, celery, green onions, ginger, and garlic.
  4. Cook until fragrant and cooked through-just a few minutes.
  5. Add liquid aminos and Sriracha--- stir to coat.
  6. Scoop mixture onto lettuce leaves.
  7. Top with cilantro, or extra green onions if desired, & your favorite dipping sauce.
Photo, recipe, and more instrucions from cleanfoodcrush.com

Fashion: Layered Sequin Top


Effortless fashion: Loose fitting, off-white tank with mini sequins, layered over a 3/4 sleeve soft tunic.  So pretty with side pockets and crochet detail on the back.  Looks amazing as pictured with gladiator sandals or for the more modest (I fall into that category) over leggings or skinny jeans. Runs a generous S-L and is $44 for both pieces.  Available from +LDesigns Boutique at Willow Cottage Boutique in Grapevine, Texas!

Photo from easelonline.com

Saturday, April 16, 2016

Fashion: Sheer Henley Top



This classic tunic has sheer fabric, raw cut sleeves and neckline and embroidery - looks great over a regular cami or a dress extender as pictured.  Perfect with skinny jeans or leggings.  Perfect weight for summer.  In stores now from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile.  S-L; $38.

Photo from monoreno.com

Thursday, April 14, 2016

Fashion: Lake Life


This is the perfect summer casual tank: soft rayon/spandex so it has a little bit of stretch, a-line for a great fit, and a saying that pretty much speaks for itself!  Perfect for those hot summer days...especially if you spend them on the water!  S-L $18.99 and will be available from +LDesigns Boutique at Willow Cottage Boutique in Grapevine, TX!

Tuesday, April 12, 2016

Fashion: Stripe Tunic with Contrast Fabric



Heather Grey is a color I can not get enough of.  There is something soft and feminine about the color giving the wearer an understated elegance. I love this heather grey and off-white striped tunic with contrast fabric and decorative bow on the back.  The fabric is rayon/spandex giving just a bit of stretch and best of all, this top is made in the USA.  Available now from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile; S-L; $34.

Photo from easelonline.com

Saturday, April 9, 2016

Fashion: Mixed Print Summer Top




This mixed print, pink and white top is so cute and perfect for summer!  The front of the top has pink and white stripes and the back is a pink floral print on a light green background.  The cap sleeves and a-line cut add to the great styling and cute factor of this top!  Will look great with your favorite jeans or white denim.  A summer must have.  Available from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile and +Marketplace Boutiques!

Photo from pskate

Thursday, April 7, 2016

Fashion: Embroidered Peasant Top


Nothing says a day strolling on the beach like a great navy, bohemian style top, paired with white denim.  This cute top is 100% cotton, has a scoop neckline, and flattering embroidered bell sleeves. And to top it off, the fabric is a super soft gauze with an easy, breezy fit.  Now in stores from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile.  S-L $48.

Photo from monoreno.com

Wednesday, April 6, 2016

Fashion: Flowy Gauze Top


If I was trying to pick the perfect summer fabric, a lightweight, flowy, gauzy fabric is the first to come to mind.  I love this 100% cotton, tie front, peasant-type top in raspberry.  It says style with a casual feel and would great with white shorts or white jeans for a night out.  This top has a regular fit, runs S-L, and is $44.  Now available from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile.


Photo from monoreno.com

Monday, April 4, 2016

Fashion: Textured Bell Sleeve Top


At the March Dallas Apparel Market, I found shades of mint and sage to be popular colors for spring/summer 2106 fashion.  I love this mint green, textured, bell sleeve top.  It has a babydoll cut which is figure flattering, 3/4 sleeves, and a soft fabrication.  It runs S-L and is $38.  Now available from +LDesigns Boutique at +Frisco Mercantile.

Photo from easelonline.com