Healthy Start, Healthy Body, Healthy Mind

Posted on February 17, 2014 by 1prettydomestic

Hey Dolls! Coming off of a Valentine’s weekend of decadent food and plenty of champagne, I need to recommit to eating healthy and exercise this week. I really fell of the wagon! I have my exercise routine mapped out, now what will I eat this week. I have never been a person who eats breakfast, but have come to believe that feeding your body with nourishment in the morning is great way to jumpstart your day. Then there is always the notion of having enough time, or making enough time to eat in morning. But as my Mom says, “you make time for what you want to make time for;” and she is correct. That said, I am going to make time to eat breakfast.

I am not a person who is going to cook in the morning, but we purchased a new blender, and I can definitely make a breakfast smoothie. I came across the recipes below and am going to try a couple. I hope to adopt the habit of drinking a breakfast smoothie daily; one because it’s good for me, and two because veggies and fruits provide the nourishment my mind and body need for me to be the best me everyday.

Image: Gloverstreet Market

Watermelon Mist Juice

4 to 5 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
1 cup cucumber, trimmed and cut into chunks
3/5 cups fresh squeezed orange juice or store-bought
2 tsp fresh squeezed lime juice
Fresh mint leaves optional
1 Tbsp. Agave Nectar

Go Green Juice

1 green apple diced
4 celery ribs chopped
1 handful of baby spinach
1 piece of Ginger Root
1 cup cucumber
1 stalk of brocoli (stem and florets, optional)
Tbsp. Agave Nectar
Tsp. Flaxseed Powder
Tsp. Hempseed Powder

Cool Cucumber Pear Juice

1 large pear or pear juice
1/2 cup honeydew melon
1 Granny Smith Apple
1 cup cucumber
juice of 1 lime
Mint
1 Tbsp. Agave Nectar

Feeling a Little Tropical Smoothie

1 cup chilled orange juice
1/2 cup lemon sorbet
1/2 cup chopped bananas
4 strawberries
1/2 cup diced pineapple chunks
1/2 cup mango chunks
1/2 cup yogurt (plain or vanilla)
2 tsp. Agave Nectar
1/2 cup crushed ice

There you have it! I am going try incorporating a couple of these recipes into my breakfast routine over the next several weeks. Leave a comment and share any recipes you may have! Here’s to a healthy start, healthy mind, and healthy body!

Until Then,

~ L.

The Pretty Domestic

You Are Cordially Invited to Champagne Sunday …

Posted on February 9, 2014 by 1prettydomestic

Hey Dolls! Welcome to Champagne Sunday, the 2014 Olympics Edition!

The Opening Ceremonies commenced Friday night with much pomp and circumstance; and Sage Kostenburg won the first USA Gold Medal on Saturday for Slopestyle Snowboarding. What better way to celebrate Champagne Sunday, than to sip on a libation that pays homage to the spirit of the games. Chin! Chin!

Gold Medal Martini

Ingredients

1.5 oz Old Tom Gin
0.5 oz Dolin Blanc Vermouth
2-3 large ice cubes
Edible gold stars

Recipe

1. Place ice, gin and vermouth in a mix glass. Add ice and stir 40 times to get very chilled.

2. Strain into a martini glass and add gold stars as a garnish.

Image: Cupcakes and Cashmere

“Citius ~ Altius ~ Fortius … Higher ~ Faster ~ Stronger.” Go USA!

Until Then,

~ L.

The Pretty Domestic

The Must-Haves: The Classics

Posted on February 6, 2014 by 1prettydomestic

must-have \ˈməst-ˌhav\ –n

1. an essential possession: the pump, a stylish shift or sheath dress, the perfect bag, a crisp white blouse, tasteful go-to earrings, and a DVF Wrap dress are the must-haves for every Pretty Domestic Doll

–adj

2. essential: a must-have wardrobe

Recently I had a conversation with one of my Dolls, who shared that the most stressful part of her day was deciding what to wear in the morning. I was taken aback, because she is perfectly coiffed head to toe whenever I see her.

I soon realized that a lot of women feel this way. However, with the addition of some must-haves in their closet, and they can start the day with a little less angst and a little more confidence. So here it is, my list of 5 must-haves. Let’s go.

1. The Pump.

The pump is a true fashion classic and is associated with style and glamour. A Doll needs many pairs for many reasons; but the true must-have is a classic black pump in leather (and patent).

Image: Christian Louboutin Pigalle 110

2. The Shift Dress or The Sheath Dress.

A shift is commonly confused with a sheath. Both refer to uncomplicated-looking dresses that end somewhere around the knee. The difference is that a shift tends to be less fitted around the waist and hips.

Images: Net-A-Porter

3. The Bag.

The Celine Trapeze Bag might be so Twenty-Thirteen, but it’s still a great tote. It comes in solids and prints, leather and suede; but more importantly is stylish, yet sturdy.

A great clutch is also a must-have wardrobe staple. I love the soft-clutches being shown on the runways.

4. The Perfect White Blouse.

There is nothing like a perfectly crisp white blouse. In my mind it takes a skirt, suit or pants from 0 – 10 in a matter is seconds. I particularly like a white blouse with a french cuff. If you don’t have cuff links, borrow your hubby’s or S/O’s.

Now, nobody, I mean nobody does a white blouse like Carolina Herrera. I love that it is her signature look. (Every Doll needs a signature look, or signature piece.)

Images: TallSkinnyRich & The Post_Gazette

5. The Earrings.

There are some days, and evenings, that call for a more ornate earring; but for everyday, a Doll needs a go to pair that fit every outfit, for any occasion. The go-to designer, David Yurman. His classic cable hoops never fail. They are simply a classic.

I know I said that these were my five must-haves, but the ultimate go-to frock for those mornings when you can’t decide what to wear is the Diane Von Furstenberg Wrap-Dress. This looks great on women of all shapes and sizes.

Peep these pictures of DVF from 1974 in her original wrap! PS ~ She’s doing iPad and iPhone cases and covers now!

Images: SheFinds

There you have it, my six must-haves. Leave me a message with the go-to staples in your wardrobe.

Until Then,

~ L.

The Pretty Domestic

Get Your House in Order Pt. Deux

Posted on February 5, 2014 by 1prettydomestic

Hey Dolls! I am calling this a “Wednesday Quick Post.” Several weeks ago, I posted the first edition of “Get Your House in Order,” with helpful hints from the ultimate domestic guru, Martha Stewart. Madame Stewart shared a daily checklist for keeping our homes needy and tidy sans outside help, or for between weeks when your help is not scheduled.

I have since found another helpful daily schedule to follow. Yes, I like lists and to-dos; and love the idea knowing exactly what I am going to tackle on a daily basis. I hope that you also find it useful.

Image: classyclutter.net

Until Then,

~ L.

The Pretty Domestic

Don’t forget to “like” Pretty Domestic on FaceBook; and on Instagram and Twitter @1prettydomestic.

#husbandswhocook

Posted on January 20, 2014 by 1prettydomestic

Here at “Stonewood Manor,” one of our New Year’s Resolutions is to eat healthier, as a part of larger lifestyle changes. Since the beginning of the year, my husband has been the driver of several changes in our home in support of this goal ~ healthier shopping, eating and incorporating exercise into our weekly routines. He is on it!

Together, we have been finding and preparing new recipes that are free of fat and an abundance of other ingredients, and GMOs, that are not good for you. It’s been fun, the recipes good, and more importantly, better for us. The other night he shared a recipe with me for Roasted Shrimp and Garlic. It looked really good, so off to Fresh Market we went to shop for ingredients.

Hubby prepared the meal when we got home, and “ya’lllllll” it was “some kinda good,” as my Grandmother would say. He also made Basmati Rice to serve with it; but when we tasted the first bite it was so good, we forgot to put the rice on our plates.

So today I share with you, “RS’s Roasted Shrimp and Broccoli.” Bon Appetite!

Image: Stonewood Manor Kitchen

Ingredients.

2 lbs. broccoli
2 tbs olive oil
1 tsp coriander seeds
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/8 tsp hot chili powder
lemon zest from one lemon
1 lb shrimp shelled and deveined

Directions. Heat the oven to 425. On a large cookie sheet, toss together 2 pounds of broccoli cut up into florets (but not teensy tiny florets, I like a little stem attached), 2 Tbs olive oil, 1 teaspoon whole coriander seeds (or 1/2 tsp. ground), 1 teaspoon whole cumin seeds (or 1/2 tsp. ground), 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper and 1/8th tsp hot chili powder. Spread into a single layer and pop into the oven for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, toss together one pound large shrimp, shelled and deveined, with 2 Tbs olive oil, lemon zest from one lemon, 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper (I just eyeball the salt and pepper) in a bowl. When the broccoli’s been in the oven 10 minutes, add the shrimp to the broccoli and toss (carefully.)

Roast another 10 minutes, tossing once halfway through, until the broccoli is tender and golden around the edges. Enjoy!

http://skinny911.sbcspecial.com/

Until Then,

~ L.

The Pretty Domestic

50 Shades of Red … Vol. 3

Posted on January 17, 2014 by 1prettydomestic

Ah yes, another month has passed. 60 days of wearing nothing but red lipstick. A Doll will not be deterred. Another page turns tomorrows, and with it a new shade of red. But quickly, a recap from the last month.

If you remember, I wore L’Oreal Infallible Le Rouge Lipstick in “Target Red” ~ Tar-gee, in my world ~ with a MAC Lip Pencil in Brick. Simply put, LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!

“Target Red” is the perfect shade of red, and lasts “foreva.” It has somewhat of a matte finish, which I love, but my lips still retained their moisture. This duo will definitely stay in rotation. But keeping my commitment, it’s time to move on.

In my mind, January and February are the dark days of winter. Little sun, dreary weather, just blah. I too am going dark, and will be rocking MAC DIVA, with its complimentary Currant Lip Pencil. These goodies have been sitting unused in my makeup case for a minute.

I purchased this on a whim one day when I saw it on a Doll in the mall. She was a make-up artist, so her face was beat. I mean fab. I couldn’t resist the urge to purchase. Anyway, I’m in. Let’s go!

Until Then,

~ L.

The Pretty Domestic

Our Clean Eating Journey Continues

Posted on January 14, 2014 by 1prettydomestic

Hey Dolls! We’re two weeks into the New Year ~ 14 days exactly! How are you coming with your goals, resolutions, etc.? Pretty Domestic is still hanging in their with adopting healthier eating patterns; although dinner tonight with my hubby and mother-in-law was a minor setback. Nothing wrong with a little treat from time to time.

Our Nik is still on the case though and has brought us another clean eating recipe this week to support our journey. Bon Appetite!

Nik Says:

Hey there! One thing you will see in many of my recipes is that I love to “hide” veggies in almost everything I cook. I load up my burgers, stews, etc. with vegetables; so, my latest meatloaf creation is no different. It’s perfect for moms who have picky eaters and also for those of us who like to make sure we get more than enough vegetables on a daily basis. Here is a delicious, veggie loaded Turkey Meatloaf that I created last week for my family. You can also play around and make this mixture into a yummy burger. I hope you will try it.

Turkey Meatloaf

1 small package of ground turkey (most packages are about 1.2 lbs.)
1 tbsp. olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
1 orange or yellow pepper, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 small zucchini, grated with a cheese grater
1 cup of cremini mushrooms, sliced
1 roasted red pepper, roughly chopped
2 plum tomatoes, chopped
1 tsp. Sea Salt
1 tsp. Pepper
1 egg white
1 tbsp. almond meal
1 tbsp. Herb de Provence

Directions. Preheat Oven to 325 degrees. In a medium saucepan, heat the oil. Add onion and pepper, and after about 3-5 minutes add your garlic. Stir together and let the onions get barely translucent ~ about 2-3 more minutes. Add the zucchini and mushrooms, roasted pepper and tomato, salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cook.

In a mixing bowl, add your ground turkey, egg white, almond meal, Herb de Provence and the cooked mixture. Mix well and place onto an ungreased cookie sheet and shape into a rectangular shaped loaf. Bake for about 35-45 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees. You will want to take the meatloaf right out of the oven once it is cooked through to keep it from drying out or losing its moisture. Serve hot with mashed potatoes or parsnips, for those of us who avoid potatoes.

Enjoy!

Until Then,

~ L.

The Pretty Domestic

Golden Globes Red Carpet Recap

Posted on January 13, 2014 by 1prettydomestic

Ok Dolls, here are my winners and winners from last night’s Golden Globes Awards. I’m not doing losers. If you don’t have anything nice to say … you know the rest. Let me start by saying, the men looked good! They gave some of the Dolls a run for their red bottoms. Just saying’. More about the gentlemen later. Let’s go.

MANI CAM MANIA

I love that the “mani cam” was back. I think it’s whimsical and gives you a further look into the personalities of the celebs. My favorites …

Julia Louis-Dreyfus rocked short nude nails, with yellow Fred Leighton jewelry. I loved that the mani didn’t take away from the jewelry, which was gorgeous.

Image: E! Online

Zoe Saldana was my mani cam fav. The deep wine to black polish and 10 carat Lorraine Schwartz diamond ring, clutching the Bottega Veneta Pink Leather Embellished Pointillisme Knot Clutch was haute!

Inages: E! Online and ShopYourTV.com

WHO ARE YOU WEARING?

Sofia Vergara. I like this Doll; not as much as my hubby; but I’m a fan. She’s always over the top put together in a Jessica Rabbit kind of way. And, last night she didn’t disappoint.

The black strapless Zac Posen and Lorraine Schwartz statement piece worked. I even liked the lightened hair, with a deep side-part. (Deep side parts seemed to be a trend last night.)

Image: E! Online.

Julie Roberts. I may be the only one that was feeling her look; but I’m ok with that. Here’s the thing, I love a white blouse with an up~do. More than that, I love a collar. Heck my wedding dress even had a collar, so her white Carolina Herrera~inspired blouse under the Dolce & Gabbana strapless, crystal belted dress, with just a small sweep of a train was to die for! Again, not for everybody, but me, yep.

Image: E Online.

Cate Blanchett. Cate looked absolutely timeless in this Armani lace dress, adorned with Chopard Jewelry. The piece-de-resistance ~ the deep “V” in the back of the dress. (Still searching for a pic.) Killer!

Image: Huffington Post

Julianna Margulies was the gorgeous in her Andrew Gn bell-shaped dress with a capped sleeve. Again, loved the deep side part and low bun ~ beautiful with her raven colored hair. It worked really well. I particularly liked the black and gold embellishment on the shoulders and bottom.

Image: Pop Sugar

Kerry Washington and her baby bump were stunning! “The Fixer” was flawless in grey Balenciaga! Gorgeous, glowing and glam!

Image: Arts National Post

Margot Robbie was on point, head to toe. She rocked the white Gucci jeweled embellished dress; and knows how to wear a high-slit. The vintage Van Cleef and Arpels jewelry was also beautiful! Again, the deep side part and low bun. Fab!

AND THE WINNER IS!

Hands down without exception the winner is …

LUPITA NYONG’O! Sick, sick, sick! She killed it in the red strapless Ralph Lauren gown, with the attached cape. Makeup, flawless! Skin, beautiful! Hair, stunning! This picture does her no justice! Watch out fashion world, there is a new Doll in town!

Image: Pop Sugar

THE FELLAS, THE FELLAS

Simply put, the men were dapper. Let’s go.

Jonah Hill is sexy to me! There, I said it! He looked great in his tux!

Image: posh24.com

Leonardo DiCaprio is beyond handsome. I’m loving the goatee and the Gatsby~inspired hair.

Inage: E! Online

IDRIS ELBA! THAT IS ALL!

Image: Daily Mail UK

There you have it. The Pretty Domestic Golden Globes Red Carpet Recap. Leave me a comment on your favs!

Until Then,

~ L.

The Pretty Domestic

You Are Cordially Invited to Champagne Sunday!

Posted on January 12, 2014 by 1prettydomestic

Many of us, in quest to be healthier in 2014, have limited our alcohol intake. We all know that alcohol equals calories. But this week’s Champagne Sunday combines the best of both worlds ~ a little healthy, mixed with a little fun!

Sparkling Champagne Smoothie

Image: Sur La Table

Ingredients:

1 c. plain or fruit flavored yogurt
2 c. fresh or frozen fruit of choice
pinch freshly grated nutmeg
6 oz. chilled champagne

Directions. This recipe is for a blender with standard 64 oz container. Place yogurt, fruit, and nutmeg into the blender in the order listed and secure lid. Turn machine on and slowly increase speed to High. Blend for 30 seconds or until desired consistency is reached. Pour into champagne flutes, filling ¾ full. Top off with champagne and gently stir to combine.

Here’s a toast to your good health!

Until Then,

~ L.

The Pretty Domestic

Get Your House in Order

Posted on January 8, 2014 by 1prettydomestic

Eight days into the new year and most of us have our healthy eating plan in place; exercise routine mapped out; and commitment to being a better manager, employee, entrepreneur, wife, mother, S/O, daughter, friend, etc. on our radars ~ check, check, check. (Not an all-inclusive list, of course.) But what about getting your house in order? Literally!

I’ve been told that I’m a neat freak, and maybe I am. I like order. Each month I do a little purging and a little organizing. I throw things out, find new storage options, consign and donate to Goodwill; but sometimes I get stuck on how to tackle a particular organization problem. The answer for me ~ WWMD ~ What Would Martha Do?

Several years ago I stumbled across the book, Martha Stewart’s Homekeeping Book: The Essential Guide to Caring for Everything in Your Home. I picked up a copy for me and my Mom, and it really has become our housekeeping/organization bible. Yes, yes, I recognize that Martha can be polarizing, and I’m not asking you to like her; but she’s my girl and knows her stuff.

Now I believe in having a little help. As my Doll FT says, “Housework never killed anyone, but why risk it?” I love this quote, but sometimes we have to get down and dirty and get and our own homes in order; and Martha gives us the blueprint.

The first tip I want to share is Martha’s checklist for “6 Things to Do Every Day.” I love this list because it maps out a simple plan for keeping your house in order on daily basis.

This list is do-able, definitely not overwhelming and nor too time consuming. I plan on sharing a few more organization tips in the weeks to come. Leave me a comment if there is particular topic you want me to tackle. Here’s to a “pretty organized” 2014!

Until Then,

~ L.

The Pretty Domestic

The Pretty Domestic | Life with Elle

A Lifestyle Blog Musing On All Things Luxe, Lifestyle + Beauty

Tag Archives: the pretty domestic

Healthy Start, Healthy Body, Healthy Mind

You Are Cordially Invited to Champagne Sunday …

The Must-Haves: The Classics

Get Your House in Order Pt. Deux

#husbandswhocook

50 Shades of Red … Vol. 3

Our Clean Eating Journey Continues

Golden Globes Red Carpet Recap

You Are Cordially Invited to Champagne Sunday!

Get Your House in Order