Monthly Archives: July 2017

Smoothie Monday

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Hey Dolls! Happy Monday! If you’re like me, it’s just harder to eat healthy during the weekends. I am working to improve – this weekend, turkey burger instead of hamburger, no bun or cheese, just sautéed mushrooms and onions. Even still, it’s challenging. That said, I use Mondays to reset from any weekend missteps. 

I’ve really been enjoying trying different smoothies, but am challenged in one area, most recipes include the use of bananas. I cannot over-emphasize how much I dislike bananas. I have become quite adept at searching for, and finding, smoothie’s sans bananas. 

My go-to’s, Pinterest and POPSUGAR. This week’s Smoothie Monday recipe – the Clear Skin Smoothie is compliments of POPSUGAR – one of my favorite lifestyle blogs.  

Th Clear Skin Smoothie is a “three-fer.” No bananas, good for your inside and works to achieve the glowing skin we all crave. Peep the mixology below.

The Clear Skin Smoothie 

The Ingredients |

2 cups raw spinach

  • Diabetes management
  • Cancer prevention
  • Asthma prevention
  • Aids in lowering blood pressure
  • Supports bone health
  • Promotes healthy hair and skin

1/4 avocado

  • Help to decrease the risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease and overall mortality
  • Promotes a healthy complexion and hair
  • Increases energy and overall lower weight

1/2 cup red grapes (fresh or frozen)

  • Slows or prevents many types of cancers
  • Works to fight heart disease
  • Helps to fight high blood pressure
  • Reduces risks associated with Type 2 diabetes

1/2 cup frozen strawberries

  • Supports healthy vision
  • Strengthens the immune system
  • Works towards preventing arthritis and gout
  • Fights cancer and tumor growth
  • Supports healthy brain function
  • Effective and lowering blood pressure
  • Fights heart disease
  • Promotes weight loss

1 tablespoon almond butter

  • Source of Calcium & Copper – good for brain cell communication; nervous system and muscle functions; supports a strong skeletal system
  • Source of Vitamin E & Magnesium – promotes bone health; helps produce energy; supports health communication between cells
  • Healthy fats and fiber contributing to cardiovascular health
  • Improves blood cholesterol levels

1 teaspoon flax meal

  • Protective effect against breast cancer, prostate cancer, and colon cancer
  • Significant blood pressure-lowering effects
  • Improves blood sugar levels
  • Reduces inflammation
  • Reduces the intensity of hot flashes

1 cup water

The Mixology | Place all ingredients in a blender, and mix well. Serve and enjoy! 

Until then, keep sharing the pretty,

TPD

You Are Cordially Invited to Champagne Sunday! 

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Hey Dolls! Happy Sunday! The summer months are all about fresh fruit to me. So, why not combine it with our favorite libation – Champagne! Two weeks ago we did Champagne Popsicles. Today, I bring you Champagne + Strawberry Ice Cubes! Peep the mixology below.

Champagne + Strawberry Ice Cubes

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The Ingredients |

  • Ripe Fresh Strawberries, Slices or Diced
  • Champagne or Your Choice of Sparking Wine – Cava, Prosecco, or Brut
  • Ice Cube Molds or Trays – Regular Molds or Heart Shapes

The Mixology | Fill the ice cube trays with the diced or sliced strawberries. Carefully pour the champagne/sparkling wine over the fruit into the trays. Freeze for about 4-6 hours or until solid enough to remove (exact time will vary based on the temperature of your freezer). The champagne ice cubes will not freeze 100% the way water would, but will be solid enough to remove and use in drinks. Serve and enjoy!

Chin, chin!

Until then, keep sharing the pretty,

TPD

 

Source: Women’s Day

You are Cordially Invited to Champagne Sunday …

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Hi Dolls! Happy Sunday! I know I am getting this post to you late; but honestly it’s been that type of week. Today’s Champagne Sunday cocktail is one that we will try together. I am a fan of old Hollywood movies – black and whites, fabulous frocks with a snatched waist and shoulder pads, the perfect slap across face for a ill-behaved cad; I love it all. So when I came across a Champagne cocktail named the Ingrid Bergman, I immediately put it on the list.


Note: For the younger set not familiar with Ms. Bergman, please Google her and spend a rainy afternoon watching one of her movies – start with Casablanca.

Anywho, peep the mixology below for the Ingrid Bergman. I will update the post once I try the recipe.

The Ingrid Bergman


The Ingredients |

  • 1 Dash Grapefruit Bitters
  • 1 Dash Absinthe 
  • 1/2 Ounce Lemon Syrup
  • 1/2 Ounce Cedrat
  • 1/2 Ounce Beer Distillate 

The Mixology | Stir ingredients with ice. Strain into a flute. Top with Champagne. Garnish with grapefruit zest. Serve and enjoy!

Leave a comment and let me know if you tried the Ingrid Bergman.

Until then, keep sharing the pretty,

TPD

What’s Making Me Swoon!

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Hey Dolls! The summer heat is “doing the most” and the fragrances I wear during cooler months are simply too heavy for this time of year. Enter, the search. I mentioned in an earlier post that I’m attracted to packaging. Clean and minimal normally grabs me. I was in Sephora on several occasions, the last to pick up the a travel size fragrance; but wasn’t sure what I wanted. As I browsed, I spied the Maison Margiela ‘REPLICA’ fragrance collection. Of course the packaging drew me in – simple bottle, clean, minimal, black and white labeling. I’d been meaning to try several of the ‘REPLICA’ scents; but hadn’t made time. 

What to choose? Beach Walk, Jazz Club, Lazy Sunday Morning, By the Fireplace? Don’t you love all of the names? I opted to try Lazy Sunday Morning and Beach Walk.

Lazy Sunday Morning is a floral fragrance combining notes of Aldehydes, Pear, Lily of the Valley, Iris, Rose Absolue, Orange Flower, White Musk, Indian Patchouli Oil, Ambrette Seeds Absolute. While a beautiful scent, as the label suggests, it reminded of the linen spray I use on freshly laundered sheets. 

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Up next, Beach Walk. Combining notes of Bergamot, Pink Pepper, Lemon, Ylang Ylang, Coconut Milk, Heliotrope, Musk, Cedarwood, Benzoin, the scent is truly a mid-afternoon stroll along the beach. Jackpot! I should have known this Miami-born Doll would be in love the any fragrance named Beach Walk.

I purchased both a travel/purse, as well as full-size bottle. 

Why ‘REPLICA?”

Each fragrance is said “tell a story with every spritz,” evoking a memory of a special place and time, allowing you to “relive the magic.”

A little about the bottle …

“The silhouette of each ‘REPLICA’ bottle is inspired by classic apothecary jars, allowing the collection to be instantly identifiable. Each bottle carries a 100 percent cotton label, which is printed using black ink text and resembles the tags used on the clothing and accessories for the ‘REPLICA’ couture collection. The unique pumps are wrapped with a rope to symbolize the authentic reproduction of the original ‘REPLICA’ couture line.”

What’s me swoon? ‘REPLICA’ Beach Walk by Maison Margiela.

Until then, keep sharing the pretty,

TPD

Smoothie Monday!

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Happy Monday Dolls! After Champagne Sunday, Smoothie Monday is a must! Today’s Smoothie Monday recipe is the Flat Belly Smoothie! If the name doesn’t motivate you, I don’t what will. I tried it yesterday and it was so yummy. Sweet, but with ingredients that are super healthy for you, the Flat Belly Smoothie fights belly fat and bloating. Make it your Monday morning smoothie choice. Peep the mixology below.

Flat Belly Smoothie

Yep, I am putting my Nutri Ninja to good use.

The Ingredients |

3 ounces vanilla nonfat Greek yogurt

  • Promotes digestive health
  • Work to lower high blood pressure
  • Helps with weight management
  • Good for bone health
  • Lower in lactose

1 tablespoon almond butter

  • Source of Calcium & Copper – good for brain cell communication; nervous system and muscle functions; supports a strong skeletal system
  • Source of Vitamin E & Magnesium – promotes bone health; helps produce energy; supports health communication between cells
  • Healthy fats and fiber contributing to cardiovascular health
  • Improves blood cholesterol levels

1/2 cup frozen blueberries

  • Maintains healthy bones
  • Lowers blood pressure
  • Help manage diabetes
  • Wards of heart disease
  • May works to prevent cancer
  • Improve mental health
  • Support healthy digestion
  • Promotes weight loss and satiety
  • Fights wrinkles!!!

1/2 cup frozen pineapple

  • Immune system support
  • Promotes bone strength
  • Promotes eye health
  • Support digestion
  • Anti-inflammatory benefits
  • Blood clot reduction
  • Reduces the symptoms of the common cold and sinus inflammation

1 cup kale

  • Low in calories, high in fiber, zero fat
  • High in iron
  • High in Vitamins K, C, Calcium
  • Filled with powerful antioxidants 
  • Great anti-inflammatory food
  • Great for cardiovascular support
  • Great detox food

3/4 cup water

The Mixology | Place all the ingredients in a blender, and mix until smooth. Enjoy immediately.

flat bellySource: POPSUGAR

Until then, keep sharing the pretty,

TPD

You Are Cordially Invited to Champagne Sunday …

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Good morning Dolls! Yesterday, one of my most fabulous girlfriend’s, Michele J., hosted Dolls for an afternoon luncheon at her beautiful home. Not that we needed a reason to get together, but we had much to celebrate – two new jobs, a wedding, a daughter’s wedding, election into an organization’s office. From her home, the meal, and gift bags, everything was perfectly appointed. 

Once we finished our meal, Doll Michele shared that she had a treat for us. And did she! Champagne Popsicles! When I say they were everything! Words cannot describe! When I arrived home last night, I immediately texted to asked her for the recipe and could I share for Champagne Sunday! Of course she said yes. Peep the mixology below for Champagne Popsicles!

Doll Michele’s Champagne Popsicles

I so enjoyed my popsicle, I forgot to take a picture of how pretty they were outside of the mold. Pretty and absolutely tasty!

The Ingredients |

  • Your favorite Champagne 
  • Simple Syrup
  • Peppermint Oil
  • Silicone Form

The Mixology |Make a simple syrup (1 part water and 1 part sugar) in a sauce pan. Add 2-3 drops of peppermint oil to mixture and bring to a simmer. Pour into popsicle form, fill 1/3 with simple syrup and 2/3 champagne. Place in freezer for 3 hours then place sticks into the center and return to freezer for another 3 hours. Best if made in a silicone form. 

Enjoy and serve.

Peep the pic below for an idea on how you can serve Doll Michele’s fabulous Champagne Popsicles at you next soiree!


Image | Pinterest 

Until then, keep sharing the pretty,

TPD

10 Pieces from Zara You Need this Summer

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Hey Dolls! I need to do a little summer shopping, just to pick up a few pieces for an August vacation. And like most Dolls, I love Neiman Marcus, forever known as  “Needless Markup,” Saks and Nordstrom; but Zara recently opened near me, so I decided to see what I can find. Surprisingly, I was not disappointed. Check out these 10 pieces to add to your summer must-have list.

White Blouse with Back Bows

Crisp and clean, this white poplin shirt with cuffs, collars and back bows can take you from day to evening. 


Fuchsia Blouse with Flared Sleeves

Need a pop of color, this A-line, three-quarter length sleeve blouse with gather in the back is perfect. 

Off-the-Shoulder Midi Dress

I love dresses in the summer. This easy off-the-shoulder number is perfect for a summer night out. And while not everyone’s style, I love the pairing with silver booties.

Black Long Dress with Ruffled Hem

Doesn’t this dress scream cool and comfortable. I am loving the asymmetric ruffle along the hem and pockets.

Side Printed Flared Trousers

I already know the side-eye I am going to get on this pick. Surely a Doll has lost her mind, but these trousers will look hot with a white blouse or body suit, pointy kitten heels and the perfect clutch. Just sayin’! 

White Loose Jacket

Evenings get cool at the beach during the summer. You can throw on this jacket to keep warm on an evening stroll. But while you are at it, peep the whole look. Ca-ute!


Flounce Summer Sweater

So two things about this look – one, stripes scream summer to me; and two, I love an extra-long sleeve. Pair this summer sweater with white linen pants. Perfect for an evening party or boating, where you know there will be air conditioning or a cool breeze coming off the ocean. 


Asymmetric Ruffled Top

This top is too cute paired with shorts, jeans, pants or a skirt; it’s sure to keep you cool in the summer heat.

Floral Slides

Now I am a Jack Rogers Doll at heart, but slides are all the rage. These are perfect for a flirty poolside look.

Shimmery Stripped Wrap

Restaurants are always super cold in the summer; so a Doll always keeps a wrap in her bag. This also comes in a pretty salmon color.

What are your summer vacay go-to looks?

Until then, keep sharing the pretty,

TPD

Smoothie Monday

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Hey Dolls! I hope that you had a wonderful Fourth of July! In addition to the holiday, we celebrated my husband, whose birthday is also on the 4th. And celebrate we did! I recently started a run streak challenge.  At least one mile a day, every day for 31 days. I’m only on day 4, but have been faithful. Along with my daily runs, I have been extremely focused on healthy eating. I was good until yesterday. The holiday and hubby’s birthday took a Doll down! Burgers, bubbly and Fourth-themed cupcakes Oh My! But today brings a renewed commitment. 

I usually do an oatmeal with fresh fruit for breakfast – fresh strawberries and blueberries to sweeten the taste, as opposed to sugar, brown sugar or a substitute. But I’ve decided to switch it up. Smoothies it is! There are so many options and I like diversity, so I will be trying a new recipe weekly. First up, the Apple Kiwi Superpower Green Smoothie. Peep the mixology below.

The Ingredients |

1 apple, cored and cut into chunks

  • Extremely rich in important antioxidants, flavanoids, and dietary fiber
  • May help reduce the risk of developing cancer, hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease

1 kiwi, peeled and quartered

  • High source of Vitamin C
  • Sleep inducer
  • Good source of dietary fiber 
  • Helps digestion 
  • Good source of Folate
  • Powerhouse of vitamins and minerals – Vitamins A, B6, B12, E, and Potassium, Calcium, Iron and Magnesium
  • Aids in producing beautiful skin

1 handful tender kale leaves, chopped (about 2 cups)

  • Low in calories, high in fiber, zero fat
  • High in iron
  • High in Vitamins K, C, Calcium
  • Filled with powerful antioxidants 
  • Great anti-inflammatory food
  • Great for cardiovascular support
  • Great detox food

1/2 cup cilantro leaves

  • Low calorie, no cholesterol 
  • Good amounts of antioxidants, essential oils and dietary fiber
  • May help reduce LDL or “bad cholesterol” levels in the blood
  • Good source of minerals – Potassium, Calcium, Manganese, Iron and Magnesium 
  • Rich in many vital vitamins – Folic Acid, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin A, Beta Carotene, Vitamin C
  • One of the richest herbal sources for Vitamin K, which supports bone health

1 1/4 inch slice of ginger, peeled and chopped

  • Supports digestive health
  • Reduces nausea, pain reduction and inflammation

1 cup of filtered water

The Mixology | Blend all ingredients until smooth, adding more water if desired.

Makes 1 large (24 ounce) or 2 small (12 ounce) smoothies. Enjoy! 

I also purchased a Nutri Ninja hoping that this will be a better alternative to my blender for making smoothies. I will let you know my thoughts over the  next several weeks. 

Dolls, leave a comment and share your favorite smoothie recipe.

Until then, keep sharing the pretty,

TPD

Because on Sundays, We Mask …

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Dolls know that I love beauty products. I can spend hours in Sephora. By the way, I just reached VIB Rouge status. (Those that know, know.) I also love trying the latest products based on beauty influencer recommendations. My latest beauty obsession? Sheet masks. I have a box full. One for every skincare need – acne, aging, brightening, blemishes, hydration, hyperpigmentation, and healing, I am particularly fond of the Korean masks.

I reserve Sunday evenings for masking. I am usually winding down from a whirlwind weekend and have the time to sit still. Although I have a wide selection of masks, I find myself repeatedly grabbing the Primary Raw Do You 2-Step Milk Peeling Kit.

The two-step kit uses an AHA Milkpeel oversized cotton swab and Soy Milk-infused microfiber sheet mask to combat dullness, uneven texture and skin tone, fine lines, wrinkles and large pores. 

Step one involves swabbing the AHA Milkpeel solution in the first pouch all over your face, as evenly as possible. While it doesn’t appear so, there is more than enough solution to cover your entire face. Make sure you get the remaining product at the bottom of the pouch.

Step two, place the sheet mask over top of the solution. You should feel a little tingle, but it’s not at all uncomfortable. The  instructions suggest leaving on the mask for about 15 – 20 minutes. I tend to be aggressive and will lay down with it on for about an hour. (Disclaimer: Do what works for you).

The first time I used this mask I was hooked. I know it sounds cliche, but my skin was truly brighter, with a smoother texture. With consistent use, combined with my daily skincare routine, I’ve seen a great deal of improvement –  less hyperpigmentation and dullness. 

While this is my go-to mask, I will be sharing others that I use over weeks. Why? Because on Sundays, we mask!

Do you mask? What are your favorites?

Until then, keep sharing the pretty!

TPD