tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1535809992615218292024-02-18T23:12:10.724-08:00The C's of LifeCrafting, Cooking and Creating a Life of HappinessBellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.comBlogger75125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-25738883684929626432013-08-22T15:50:00.001-07:002013-08-22T15:59:43.226-07:00Watermelon Refresher<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Lately I have been obsessed with yellow watermelon. I stumbled upon it at the market a few weeks ago and been lovin' on it so much that I have eaten 4 in the past two weeks. Have you ever had yellow watermelon? If you haven't, <b>do it! </b><br />
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So...The other day my friend at <a href="http://www.pepperdesignblog.com/">Pepper Design</a> posted a delicious recipe (and inticing photos) for a <a href="http://www.pepperdesignblog.com/2013/08/19/cantaloupe-basil-summer-blend/">Cantaloupe + Basil Summer Blend</a>. I laid in bed dreaming of drinking pitchers of it. My mind started twirling and I thought <i>hmmmmm, I have some watermelon in the fridge. </i>Maybe I could make a summer drink with that?</div>
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Today, I did just that.</div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizZxWpvWc5K3k9B9wCGYnyULutMc4S27Y_MXwA4zBAynzv7DNcgkWPmRWjoctMe3KC0cJ4ezurj4VbV54a8-J6V3lVkoEBZcLgSqjfAgdvtCROuIwmDifVPZ5Htzyx8PnoBkXXLRzGZmPC/s640/blogger-image-886677057.jpg" /></div>
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<i>Watermelon Refresher </i><br />
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2 cups watermelon</div>
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8 ice cubes</div>
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1 sprig of mint, 7-10 leaves </div>
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Blend that baby up and Voila! As quick as that, I am sipping a glass of watermelon juice on this lovely summer day. </div>
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR0RolcoZQFC5Ea73bzaPDnMqEIbcMJ5kRL2sUDEhLY4N7PzXq6n99txIX6kezK6z3qQl_ItsTSBz6_fcML9YuA6oFJYaRYVRlg8052OB0P9FsJ8EzIkYyjwzFcdBH3xyutgjvMIua8mG5/s640/blogger-image--782231318.jpg" /> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxCLgOy1CkbaSM4kJ1zv8QEPe_xbk4vDkLeBzyxfibKglx84ywxMPH8RzP_6dL0j1NPKRx-3gy0plysZRl06B_9BPS7nFXPTvlGyW33LDdBPqpwUm_VQoJQYgipLVabI0kTJTCnOSVvinE/s640/blogger-image--841270066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxCLgOy1CkbaSM4kJ1zv8QEPe_xbk4vDkLeBzyxfibKglx84ywxMPH8RzP_6dL0j1NPKRx-3gy0plysZRl06B_9BPS7nFXPTvlGyW33LDdBPqpwUm_VQoJQYgipLVabI0kTJTCnOSVvinE/s640/blogger-image--841270066.jpg" /></a></div>
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Here's a peek into what yellow<br />
watermelon looks like. Now go buy one!</div>
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Cheers, <br />
Belle</div>
Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-73775175106639969582013-04-30T23:10:00.000-07:002013-05-01T05:54:50.502-07:00Italian Eats<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace; font-size: large;">Ciao! </span></div>
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I have been on another hiatus due to busy schedules at work aaaaaaaaand I just returned from a 3 week adventure in Italy with my best bud. Wow, I could write an entire blog about Italy. <i>Oh wait</i>, we did! (Private blog for family & friends...FYI, a great way to document travels). We began our travels in Venice and over to the Ligurian coast, down to Florence, through Tuscany & Umbrian and, down to the beautiful beach town of Positano and ended our adventures in Rome. <br />
But today I want to give you a quick glimpse of my travels through the lens of <b>food</b> (and my iPhone). Aaah yes, the food. The way the cappuccinos became your first desire in the morning, the pizza each having its own distinguishing features, pastas with the most delightful combinations of flavors, wine going down so smooth and the gelato. <span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Wow</span>, the gelato. I tried 21 different flavors! I am no food photographer, so be forewarned about the amateur shots. But enough talking, let me <i>show </i>you how delicious Italy is.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Venezia: <i><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">a style of its own, thin crust pizza, pasticcerias, the introduction of the "spritz" and cicchetti e apertif</span></i></span><br />
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<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWiUDXPYwESgFxjieNf3kizjTMg7ljOF761nlyk1JyCbyV7G6qfA61vyL-bTVIRQ4AGbXbMA1N0YgO1JJ9HBVbAPe1HvroJ30SwKCCHR7RQoEfygoIs-YQSTOKiVpjydw8Mp1eX-6wANlX/s400/DSCN8074.JPG" width="300" /> <img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVb6QRU5RIacO3_78IwcjwGJ2kFxCjKnoQaYNCnNKVtNiNJKWYSjNbhWmEI7FyK4-i92ke9CcnW5tFd9SA1oG-JIT-wN7Ma8-S1I8AHIQyW4LlRN1aVUXiDffQkjVUJiR3XPFhHWOT_KEe/s400/DSCN8075.JPG" width="300" /> </div>
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un litro di vino & pizze diavola (spicy salame) </div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihi4wWY7V1C64Bf1HAi5mQ5oo7aek0XGbGteFW-Ck6y-K_5W-V8cI0tn7SrEcaAJKZdNClJzC0p57SsIRD6JtwBa02-O18JUSVN_jMzcIlPdktZelGK5j7ZV_wpm473ig4tQYFkZO1W7qV/s640/DSCN8090.JPG" width="640" /> </div>
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<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBz930CD1h21e2h5lxac4NuJLw16H7C9Iyp4xOubzxze-9tlgrNPHBthiSLG2VNYk8VZBBOUM-KLelsSULemNINcoG25VebbaVl4ZDMd9FaeNDvPbFWbp6wyE1jo_xvULRXR8D7G1HspAq/s400/IMG_5557.JPG" width="300" /> </div>
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Giant cake/brownie like Venetian cookies: Pan dei dogi cioccolata</div>
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<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZYs_6pIoRIpPMN9IbirY4npC5TP2hGOqdoIbBm2KeLwBP9EQcr8FQsjuD3vR3s23EbtVkZbqyvl3_-o5jQiuF36kJd0Ff7vIvN5X0ljC3y7B3Ix8g3YI-66uvROzJ6M3vYTOVV8wWLf60/s400/DSCN8104.JPG" width="300" /> </div>
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Prosecco apertif & cicchetti (small bites in Venice) </div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-hBEb4nXF6juf6dYVzAW917O4Pll9q0aiUQ2nWRGXPMBKkyDUayUHTH17-e2s4syvoBqURXKoputJDQGW2QLGj2QCpRVM4k4C6tTPGWGD4X9fCHRF7hFBG7J0ZjiO6vNeWHCTThmbwod-/s640/IMG_5799.JPG" width="640" /> </div>
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Aperol & Campari "Spritz" </div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHFxgXe5HYGGYonVJRxdbDn4VoZsWu1feIxWw5UBu7yfEEYq9VtnxWDLikX-b1EldnEARrqOrXmP0MkcN_-dFAIO2gqhzxQv9mHXegUFuKQIu8lqxo5_LsFrZR_GUh47Rhnv52mZxryltp/s640/DSCN8078.JPG" width="640" /> </div>
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Sandwiches a gratis? Sure! </div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1Z5gp-LsY8lYR-vSobhp2vqEhXOa8chOsihsIxaN2u3BZwb-CXXvhWn8qnlZYMc-4pFre1-qqclkb-tzj8aEaUmeLD2sM4oa1Sym0AJPy4oejWv0AHa9ee_l8x_k52wMbiMk5wKtUlQ5y/s640/DSCN8115.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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Agnolotti alla Bolognese </div>
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(stuffed half moons with spinach & ricotta...mmm)</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Cinque Terre:</span> <i>Ligurian pesto, fresh seafood, sunny day treats and a dessert wine that will warm you from your earlobes to your tippy toes</i></div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQx_bxDHctmTvjfFMOP3yVvo9G9oJlHvetzEt9GxPsQHwj7LTC0J_A1eKhvlThVDaghlsUqkmGn2HkOSfiek6a_eCfw6lg6Hj-Y-OSHIgqrBmo7vKVNSvI7TabF-RYCtnlmktr4wT1edq5/s640/IMG_4816.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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Cozze Ripiene</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJT17WOTKHYcP4ILhBhGYO0coEITqfpsm5dAkuPZxtfcqDab_j6rlvgoNF8cO99lgzkKDbUr57B2FwaCeySUtdMRZf81F45weR_9z9PFbjLbo1eZM02c3eZ44NkakSnPEjr2SKHTiqokfu/s1600/IMG_5632.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJT17WOTKHYcP4ILhBhGYO0coEITqfpsm5dAkuPZxtfcqDab_j6rlvgoNF8cO99lgzkKDbUr57B2FwaCeySUtdMRZf81F45weR_9z9PFbjLbo1eZM02c3eZ44NkakSnPEjr2SKHTiqokfu/s400/IMG_5632.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUiIahwnX1O0s4PyQLbRMgoSZaSMECITOdwaEaGP3KLJHMMhIBMUtOS0iSDyTDWJ_SUsIvlVmMkBpH7Dmw_aZQMKbD30L0Kzlij3mBCAyHJAzBftyKp275VVcfd-yh7FLGDAwS1K419I2z/s640/IMG_4817.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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Linguine alla'Lampara: Swordfish Linguine</div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKhxaVDluqth69BAl9GOrvquRyEbdJq8jXFGeR_XLaoNTN3ILhyzZJm5hOnWsmEYzUdv9R-0UPN8mGlwoQLpQUZ_psx-FXzmvVcc0w4CH49yupqFSyXXEC-a2y_1NNV7dd-gl-0lxEIA16/s640/IMG_5637.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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Sciacchetra & Biscotti </div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ER4Vha0NkVCIS0987BjgQwzzL89Wjh0uCV3fd32DSpPUS6z1GOOgK5Dj1AKpepkvOxDc5XbxVgLb5SEkrXBdEai_WO2DirKkSmalJssaPR5fbFJsWBpPHvNKCO7yVIhm6W3owikzArj0/s640/IMG_4842.JPG" width="640" /> </div>
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Ricotta e fichi (fig) & Bacio gelato </div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG26bxBI7Ivy9GW1bQH-POy0roJgGspIFQKb8GMygIGDFWxhwBFAzVsbyrvL6zMoJNToepPNvPzJooFQCiDVirf4NMZ8PzBMU5kmok86GSSLZ0FeEUCKvPPY-XYFOPdIe0bGA8mxm7qLaw/s640/DSCN8154.JPG" width="640" /> </div>
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Green Olive Focaccia </div>
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<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjscJb1gyrYowFNJBvGTrk10Cge52IBeluvVFGk2JqmrqVaKyZBrxxn7CxIbud9f6ikNOt-uuscbOqAMxB27PBxE8tw8iMacb43KGiBCMMaiWGLlDfd_OI5LmPk_ey62evbCDj-1X1S4PtX/s400/IMG_5605.JPG" width="300" /> </div>
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And when exhausted from a day of travel, </div>
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we could count on a meal of local salami, pecorino and pane for under 10 euros. </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Florence:</span> <i>rich with flavor, small markets, simplicity, macellerias and fresh homemade pasta</i><br />
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBvJVcm42Vafr0YfR_fFmJHY6ZtUrD0hg5Gj57Y70z3i8ybT4983lIohb9_zqGaQ3HHn8KzPNeVrXW52YpUPEdcTA7eWXusVx5A34riIQvWaQIZ97002UCIWGPrhb_67uobfU9v1eWhhhZ/s640/IMG_5035.jpg" width="640" /><br />
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Colazione tipica: a typical breakfast of cafe, cheese & a roll, jelly and yogurt</div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiZUjWn-ySz8zzSQJc9C59S-axJc053auXaIAUICOkmuiIHPqBiRD5KTxQTlEw9TGdrnkhkpnNIBKv9hTEw4Q6P-NmT0KgMnqy8OdAAgperCQnhuLogVvICA02_TF1gGo-K49t9iXSL7JE/s640/IMG_4865.JPG" width="640" /> </div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoS9xhOShI8tCgN4vUR5i9a4gJef9UkjvmdFE6YbJUOy_WLzSkGYEgHWCm97j2ekC2NL_b35Vf3SaTTP5nxKtP-trGRK3_hHPRleybyIObFp1vufPporEn_FQAuRZIBLEf-1xIlcO6Jafb/s640/IMG_5691.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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Pecorino on a rainy day</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhes85rT8n0-_TnJDCQCxYCmIbtzQCQFer5N8MAde2ILQXMWI008lXSCk8Kqk9Q6zldeHZmEq4H3Tj0HYN9ENNw2hWkIHattsCL22jTrBCgm7KAcuElDTo7JICtEv5oBK_xlPblseD7twt/s1600/IMG_4918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhes85rT8n0-_TnJDCQCxYCmIbtzQCQFer5N8MAde2ILQXMWI008lXSCk8Kqk9Q6zldeHZmEq4H3Tj0HYN9ENNw2hWkIHattsCL22jTrBCgm7KAcuElDTo7JICtEv5oBK_xlPblseD7twt/s400/IMG_4918.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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At least 1 macelleria (butcher shop) on every block </div>
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<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj51te-ocB5VlO295JaaiqltKbwpLBx0DoP6DN-qH_nt3JVJ4VxPPc9ZskAGTgC-ewU7t_F8VkHA1MVq1JmlWoSSJYAhBUY7xkn5bhUi7R1WeydS6GunvS0ROEZDIuM5TVSKNpDjbifmZJ/s400/IMG_5718.JPG" width="300" /> </div>
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Always fresh ingredients... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESrmnA9x0ovVoEIBbZ6SJ1k-Tz2mqqg3oJf_sXJk0SryHN3uYMtXmaBN7pT8W14qgdfW3KfOac2z3pc_kUA56nvTm0V2nWWROwbbXthVSGqt_a8bvXxOUGnsJhIkEDEE0Gc7JAZEKxO5A/s1600/IMG_5738.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgESrmnA9x0ovVoEIBbZ6SJ1k-Tz2mqqg3oJf_sXJk0SryHN3uYMtXmaBN7pT8W14qgdfW3KfOac2z3pc_kUA56nvTm0V2nWWROwbbXthVSGqt_a8bvXxOUGnsJhIkEDEE0Gc7JAZEKxO5A/s640/IMG_5738.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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We made that! </div>
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<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB7bLTOXZ5osRI0gaUSt6HBOnslnPk90YYoTJGVkujkcg0_38CUvHN0D2hlLtXnSz7Iw7NCOcEg0zFzCTd2rv0OAP7OMlleWvXCayjo103wU17gzf5d7fTL22POV8myV8w6LukTw_3wtMW/s400/IMG_4911.jpg" width="300" /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRs-Jh8m19vMawOj9wR2eEi3lWk4zWWdaHYyxd8g_g4cOvwYTdZJTaYEG4fQP8ldZS6ONB4hXdXmd66Cfh4VRhun-ZlutzdFlZWS7MTVTksoLk7VU9cWjU4jzpjoKS7LtfjVv8CsvSTHBV/s1600/IMG_4913.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRs-Jh8m19vMawOj9wR2eEi3lWk4zWWdaHYyxd8g_g4cOvwYTdZJTaYEG4fQP8ldZS6ONB4hXdXmd66Cfh4VRhun-ZlutzdFlZWS7MTVTksoLk7VU9cWjU4jzpjoKS7LtfjVv8CsvSTHBV/s400/IMG_4913.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Stuffed pork panini followed by Noce e Cioccolata (Walnut & Chocolate)...delizioso! </div>
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Best panini of my life: Proscuitto, truffle spread, pecorino spread, arugula & fresh pane</div>
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ooh, yes..wine always accompanied eats </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Tuscan & Umbrian hill towns: <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i>wild boar, cheese, lots of local wine and the best cappuccino stop ever</i></span></span> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmN-vjxosmo51H957GUbU9jOfHYergpbiH8wMj3LvdectCbSqg7k8W2X29cGPP3DoiL_PQ141hzCcVAsXESq-lb_Jiq9MQQvrcl7l7z4ZptB7x91KAbMaI7K_u_IrlbhLv_dQRNiVQ78_i/s1600/IMG_5778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmN-vjxosmo51H957GUbU9jOfHYergpbiH8wMj3LvdectCbSqg7k8W2X29cGPP3DoiL_PQ141hzCcVAsXESq-lb_Jiq9MQQvrcl7l7z4ZptB7x91KAbMaI7K_u_IrlbhLv_dQRNiVQ78_i/s400/IMG_5778.JPG" width="300" /></a><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8dHW6pQLnuLj3pyCY5oNP5UtDb9hyphenhyphenKGlBGqPX6ET7a_p5LMX2pn8Y98pdMyC_kkeyiDOgaA8EzmwAQmEobDz5PnPw3HVt3VHcgV0Uury8i-IP1CcOb15j-jfMcLsjePgYY5Dm4oDKVv0S/s400/IMG_5753.JPG" width="300" /> </div>
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Cinghiale (boar salame), herb pecorino, mandorla (almonds) & a bottle of San Gimignano Vernaccia</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Positano: </span><i>primi & secondi, </i><i><i>sicilian olives, </i>seafood, pizze napoletana & fresh fruits!!</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPDvz848kk_B7J-7KobCCqfPFtnnwEm17SnG8-PNf95jIBIJbag4lGm_hn9kinkJlwusd95-ctj2byspu7QZpFsoPZeC44x8AqlG7-i3-kh0GNM5oZduiJ10iKvxXsvzPClkHUBtuP8dI2/s1600/IMG_5936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPDvz848kk_B7J-7KobCCqfPFtnnwEm17SnG8-PNf95jIBIJbag4lGm_hn9kinkJlwusd95-ctj2byspu7QZpFsoPZeC44x8AqlG7-i3-kh0GNM5oZduiJ10iKvxXsvzPClkHUBtuP8dI2/s400/IMG_5936.JPG" width="300" /></a><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo9AxupVQ3bEM4DokWQ346Lo4EsfQ-ejJmtZ4Crux7b58RN1gFyZVrr5fMOIzCbiGA2NYvuINGFjf5cWWQhMjx-ltgt6Rp-JDdoQbBIXGuY9tJ-KjeYZLXY2BOirCit0DAzwAhzKpfxqgg/s400/IMG_5944.JPG" width="300" /></div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj19yMKhm8-hC5kwfl8g0q1RApNboLofo6z12DJFZWrzJKqdTWSNiyh9ks99Wwkfu1w5-wtaKzofvvwOEteCf4BSvYEnNihjfoqSFbXct9gii-rVQTh_i1fr_MJGZgATW43WPHkFUVFwTev/s640/IMG_5248.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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Pillowy, billowy gnocchi </div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigY8A9tZHbTJtaNsf0kAHFFtZC4zm7lrMZriu3hl7tOb4bachdkdxV4l6D7Ci5f-ogp9-p7tUAtpGhlPESJ8a8xUEaUFYUqUhaxR2vuxZgjepwYTG_D4zHU1yroF2745EWFwzC9yWSeIWo/s640/IMG_6082.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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<span class="short_text" id="result_box" lang="it"><span class="hps">Calamari alla griglia</span></span> (grilled squid)</div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj3BcR1JxioaMagVpv1G-6wRjvFkdpT7-Vf2zpKqtEAxar8EIm2obkrNzI12P-Elrowb7RuCa_8KVu-5icU5NXQR9Pu_s95EHhswWK-LzYP6GqPrBw-95KEeam5PH1A8PKZdF8GMbVp0FW/s640/IMG_5249.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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Linguine alla Scampi </div>
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Pizze vegetale </div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgilcsvh8C5rGLlUFZ0fn-wXBqzueLGWiJ9ejr9EmPI7YjNYVVdPMKBIWAa9z8Z4sh3SE1wZXbjeaZ08eXYKb7oU-j90cFg5bGHZMYtCGbrIDa8j2Z8bnIHQR4u4OyWG6ivUOyBKzN8AipH/s640/IMG_5949.JPG" width="640" /><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfzCxCLuLf6FHVOjgG6dOuVYxAxT9Uy5Ypt1XDAR-ZgRsTflQRFcQxVIRIQTyrVeJqiuEyfC5pdMNpP4q9rk20aXyYzjbHDSma07xzaHiRV1LmX3ZuHes0NWi2n8c7dvRjWHMJEn-1c2BD/s400/IMG_5204.jpg" width="300" /> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Daily Positano breakfast with <i><squeal>...Fruit! </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">Roma:</span> <i>fresh mozzarella, greens and radicchio, meat & seafood cravings, </i><br />
<i> and everything under the roman sun</i><br />
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgVeb68ZYL9T5KA771jE4N9nXDIHBcNrjs84xriipj6e8JzxvXcEbxh3HwEyNQoaG-nm3KoZKNCVXLrXSt_3dPFC3iIzMQsnvk0JGosYNk78graoax-9ENs51iUKUMmtn-IWzWYhyphenhyphenqGOdp/s640/IMG_5492.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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Proscuitto, radicchio fusilli, pomodoro e mozarella....and a few glasses of vino bianco</div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdZncogmXcSRmCSC00mpzh6p0aFTDz-PAYLKTQXjhM74CIjTs-zFcEZspMEyzJOqpH54o3DE32sFaV-Y9jMWo17hrXq8RtixRhmBwPVGU8xfn1hvdlWkf1zahUPk9qOhSXf5XSTr6X8O0z/s640/IMG_5316.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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Bresaola e verde oliva panini</div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMtJ1LEiivXYrXwcs0PsrcTbW4u8AudRwmFPeYI11IujP2TgYq9JXelj1W1cDunpc6PMFI8uXlSc24iTVo-p29hhawPyjJKbxBuj9cUnHHpalvmKoaj6M3y6MdvPKAG2tY_pmgrsHXMhrV/s640/IMG_5305.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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Beef shank ravioli...As American as that sounds, it was incredible! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvzMa9HAUrQml13fRmfZqQkcZlqFvbwT2iBxOdVF_HfUiYVlM0MOPoEj23io1CPF861RPC8zEHS5hH4t3uzFqC9Od8YPNV71jzGItpPa6wXvYtg7nzupSnj2dgANZaWZQPItt6cH3yEg-e/s1600/IMG_5420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvzMa9HAUrQml13fRmfZqQkcZlqFvbwT2iBxOdVF_HfUiYVlM0MOPoEj23io1CPF861RPC8zEHS5hH4t3uzFqC9Od8YPNV71jzGItpPa6wXvYtg7nzupSnj2dgANZaWZQPItt6cH3yEg-e/s400/IMG_5420.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2fc6DYegbCI16c45blZmlBNFGx2h-g_G0MDZaVHpZUdyraaAfMydMyYz-enhO7Az1_sCuOT8UETn6TGkj7Q2V_BlU5HOMcJYJceNZZkJ2roORHm6aimH9cvSpMUTtUBl4HiLAAW4YxOV5/s1600/IMG_5478.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2fc6DYegbCI16c45blZmlBNFGx2h-g_G0MDZaVHpZUdyraaAfMydMyYz-enhO7Az1_sCuOT8UETn6TGkj7Q2V_BlU5HOMcJYJceNZZkJ2roORHm6aimH9cvSpMUTtUBl4HiLAAW4YxOV5/s400/IMG_5478.jpg" width="300" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_SuNVaqh2nLd4SQ6aQzxLbA4GMNaobByaL0NzMvgxnFqoH_ewCruZ7IATbMbRIrsM9MP8WIjhMgWk-FYjj-JcHWhy7OsqJBQH0SBDAeLvmeFDNyn-Zpolz-dJXSwm0ApcNQKSUTpRwliu/s1600/IMG_5494.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_SuNVaqh2nLd4SQ6aQzxLbA4GMNaobByaL0NzMvgxnFqoH_ewCruZ7IATbMbRIrsM9MP8WIjhMgWk-FYjj-JcHWhy7OsqJBQH0SBDAeLvmeFDNyn-Zpolz-dJXSwm0ApcNQKSUTpRwliu/s400/IMG_5494.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span class="short_text" id="result_box" lang="it"><span class="hps">Gelato al Caramello Salato (right)</span></span></div>
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Ultimo gelato: Pistacchio, Mandorola e Cardamom & Thumbelina </div>
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(Pistachio, Almonds with Cardamom and Rose Petals & Lavender with Walnuts)</div>
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<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe1Gc7rj2nxMvzzn5CJ4ZmlE4_EqHLya-OsMYKjxRPo5dd80bsBznXeaxCnaIOAM0YXNxblyLc1MrcX6HjNWaZBOnKk778EdZsoq59GCKuQtB291GUqY4FGM2d_8K_tyK8V0_JThe40eOs/s400/IMG_6259.JPG" width="300" /> </div>
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Apertivo tipico: Spritz, mini bites, potato chips, pretzels & peanuts </div>
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<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7pkTH3R-zvuuAAojnKsa_4Zvf396TZI5kBLWyBYeEg1EwbLuz6wpt0uWnl9XYjjzFNLBqr8G8r9FM_d-eFxQNp2gVLhABBildiqJm5qi4johBPOjLkydBUi1_6rfBM4xAxc_SkU9uI51p/s400/IMG_5521.jpg" width="300" /> <img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6y9Pje1ZeXVfjXgV0TARafXUKHBwHMOiZy4O0TIpCjpNu3ckAyErUUNY4MR8RfMUbNnsCH0oiXPdb-V4K5w2nMOQx0X4GRUpRUQIR77DKePB-wu8HXCyuCmdEc4HK1XStiR53JQipBCCC/s400/IMG_5523.jpg" width="300" /> </div>
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The final meal: Bresaola & melt-in-your-mouth Mozzarella</div>
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Linguine pesce spada & Spaghetti <span class="short_text" id="result_box" lang="it"><span class="hps alt-edited">all'amatriciana</span></span> </div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzCvamOix8dWhp_py7vfa0bUqMqxX-7IicXE24Zer3t2t55qfkT3OMmlWVIwo0BrrpDK7i3HMfhSyyAUz4khB-iw2HaoHN1VB1ItDFgnqnW5CTnFjCszWkrXEVLhfqfi4FsgSXEP4DwQp6/s640/IMG_5934.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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E tutto! That's all folks!</div>
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Until next time Italy...</div>
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Cin cin, </div>
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Belle </div>
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Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-79946068167692602642013-03-22T23:02:00.004-07:002013-03-23T12:15:18.285-07:00Venetian Rice & Pea Soup<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Oh my! I can't believe it! In one week, I will <i>almost</i> be in Venice, Italy. </div>
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I made this incredible soup last year from my Williams & Sonoma Soup of the Day cookbook, </div>
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I've been wanting to post it and well.... whadda ya know??</div>
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I will get to eat authetic Venetian Pea Soup soooo soon! </div>
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I've been thinking about<i> </i>this soup a lot. But I gave up cheese for lent and there is a nice scoop of Parmesan cheese in this soup, so now I reeeeally can't stop thinking about it. </div>
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.......mmmm...cheese.......</div>
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Okay, I am done daydreaming. Back to reality, sitting on my couch in San Diego. </div>
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Here's the lowdown on this comforting soup.</div>
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<i>Venetian Rice & Pea Soup: </i></div>
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<i> </i>2 Tbsp unsalted butter</div>
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1 shallot, minced</div>
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1 celery rib, chopped</div>
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1/2 c Arborio rice</div>
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3 c chicken broth</div>
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2 c fresh or frozen peas</div>
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1/2 c Parmesan cheese</div>
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1 Tbsp minced flat-leaf parsley</div>
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Salt & fresh ground pepper</div>
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In a large, heavy pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shallot and celery and saute until the shallot is translucent (about 2 minutes). Add the rice & cook, stirring until the grains are translucent with a white dot in the center (about 1 minute). Um... starting to notice Williams & Sonoma likes to cook until things are translucent for some "close-to" amount of time. </div>
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Raise the heat to a medium-high, add the broth and 2 cups water & bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover and simmer until the rice is tender (about 15 minutes). Add the pears and cook, stirring occasionally for 5 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan and parsley, season with salt and pepper and serve!</div>
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Your belly should now be warm & satisfied. </div>
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Salute, </div>
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Belle </div>
Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-42576974065360675772013-02-22T15:15:00.002-08:002013-04-24T08:06:05.531-07:00Cocoa-Crusted Pork Tenderloin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Earlier this month, I hosted a Chocolate themed dinner club with my girlfriends. The original plan was to make homemade chocolate croissants, but I was pressed for time that weekend and decided to stick with an old fave: pork tenderloin. I read through dozens of cocoa-crusted recipes and finally found this <a href="http://www.thedailymeal.com/cocoa-crusted-pork-tenderloins-cherry-sauce">one</a> on The Daily Meal. I always like an excuse to try a new tenderloin recipe. <br />
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I know I have talked about pork tenderloin before, but it is a nice meat that doesn't take much work and usually has wonderful results. I was even excited to use a new meat thermometer I got for Christmas. The recipe used a cocoa rub and a cherry sauce, so I prepped both of those the night before dinner club. Then the morning of, I was ready to rock! Let's get cooking...<br />
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Trim up your tenderloins and lay out on baking sheet for a good rubdown<i> </i></div>
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Heavily sprinkle on spice rub and cover whole tenderloin. You should be smelling of cinnamon now.</div>
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They look so innocent and unknowing. </div>
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Do a quick sear on both sides, careful not to burn the cocoa. As you can see, I might need a new, larger frying pan. Then place back on baking sheet and pop in oven. </div>
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This is the best shot I could get out of the oven, and although its nice and brown on the outside it was the perfect temperature and light pink on the inside. </div>
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Once your sauce base is ready, stir in cherries and serve over pork! </div>
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Here's what you'll need:<br />
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<i>Cocoa-Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Cherry Sauce</i> <br />
<i>Pork:</i><br />
1 tablespoon ground white pepper<br />
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1 tablespoon ground coriander</div>
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4 tablespoons ground cinnamon</div>
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2 teaspoon ground nutmeg </div>
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1 teaspoon ground cloves</div>
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4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa</div>
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4 tablespoons kosher salt</div>
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2 tablespoons olive oil </div>
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Two 2-pound boneless pork tenderloins</div>
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<i> </i></div>
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<i>Cherry Sauce:</i></div>
<em><strong></strong></em>2 teaspoons olive oil<div class="ng-scope" style="cursor: pointer; margin: 0; padding: 0;">
<span class="iconTextStyle ng-binding"></span>2 large shallots, minced</div>
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2 tablespoons fresh garlic, minced</div>
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8 sprigs fresh thyme</div>
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¼ cup red wine</div>
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¼ cup dried cherries</div>
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2 cup veal or beef stock</div>
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2 teaspoon sugar</div>
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2 teaspoon kosher salt</div>
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<i>Cooking instructions</i></div>
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Mix all the dry ingredients together. Place tenderloins on a sheet
pan and coat well with rub. Let sit for 2 hours. Preheat oven to 375
degrees. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Once hot, place
the pork in the pan and sear all sides until brown, being careful not
to burn the cocoa. Remove pork from skillet and place in a baking dish
and bake in the oven for 20-30 minutes, or until internal temperature
reaches 140 degrees.
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<em>For the sauce:</em>
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Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add shallot, garlic and thyme and sauté for about one minute. Deglaze with red<strong><em> </em></strong>wine.<a class="itxtnewhook itxthook" href="http://www.thedailymeal.com/cocoa-crusted-pork-tenderloins-cherry-sauce#" id="itxthook2" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: none; border: 0px none transparent; display: inline; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><span class="itxtrst itxtrstspan itxtnowrap" id="itxthook2p"><span class="itxtrst itxtrstspan itxtnowrap itxtnewhookspan" id="itxthook2w" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: transparent transparent rgb(0, 204, 0); border-style: none none solid; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; color: #009900; font-size: 100%; font-weight: normal; padding: 0px 0px 1px ! important; text-decoration: underline ! important;"></span></span></a> Reduce
red wine by half and add stock. Reduce by half again and add sugar and
salt to taste. Strain and set aside. When ready to serve, heat and add
cherries.<br />
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As seen earlier at my <a href="http://babybellescs.blogspot.com/2013/02/chocolate-dinner-club.html">Chocolate dinner club</a>, serve up with some greens & veggies and enjoy!<br />
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Cheers,<br />
BelleBellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-30889804662706132302013-02-22T14:09:00.001-08:002013-02-22T15:42:15.938-08:00Chocolate Dinner Club<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Chocolate. Who doesn't love chocolate? </div>
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Every month, 11 friends and I get together for dinner club. The host will choose a theme for the month and everyone brings a dish to share. It was my turn this month! I wanted to do something cute with Valentine's Day but didn't want to over do it with hearts or red & pink foods. So as I was browsing quotes about love, I stumbled upon this one. Funny that I have always loved Charles M. Schulz, the Peanuts creator. His comics carry such good memories for me. He always blended sweet lessons with humor so well, very fitting that he would blend love and chocolate and set the perfect scene for my dinner club. </div>
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The only requirement was to to include a chocolate ingredient because...</div>
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"All you need is love, but a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt." </div>
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The lineup included:</div>
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<u>Drink</u></div>
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Chocolate martinis</div>
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<u>Appetizer </u> <br />
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Mini Chocolate Machaca Breakfast Burritos</div>
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Fruit with Creamy Chocolate Dip<u></u></div>
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<u><br />Salad & Veggies</u></div>
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Mixed Greens with Warm Cacao Nib Crusted Goat Cheese</div>
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Cocoa Spiced Roasted Vegetables</div>
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<u>Main Dishes</u></div>
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Beef Paleo Chili </div>
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Cocoa Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Cherry Sauce</div>
Pinto-Bean Mole Chili (Epicurious)<br />
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<u>Dessert</u></div>
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Fudge Mint Brownies </div>
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Chocolate Chip Pancakes & Strawberries</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdqpxrWjx0F6gFxXUwOlYavqZzvIVBdAyrchzedFEosAupRzfPwewrCq6Afux2lrIKjJYfMV5h19s2MKNQ7701TdZdUSMe5MBYOz-lmYZaSsVbvnEehznqAztnsNQoGWihiJ8XBjyY7rx_/s1600/Chocolate+Dinner+Club.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdqpxrWjx0F6gFxXUwOlYavqZzvIVBdAyrchzedFEosAupRzfPwewrCq6Afux2lrIKjJYfMV5h19s2MKNQ7701TdZdUSMe5MBYOz-lmYZaSsVbvnEehznqAztnsNQoGWihiJ8XBjyY7rx_/s640/Chocolate+Dinner+Club.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div>
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Here are a few of the girls enjoying lunch! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj4KxGAqxvhRKxQ3U4gK-ys4yUn7La9blraxAi751GLNAt40OA6kHT4sa-a6LLFEh5DhCSFUSDTvTUTjGHLs7_ZChN_yrrAWHes_9FJNm0gbmlfp3Pagn9H3D1cOjaBzlojkkqYJL7xjDH/s1600/DSCN7894.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj4KxGAqxvhRKxQ3U4gK-ys4yUn7La9blraxAi751GLNAt40OA6kHT4sa-a6LLFEh5DhCSFUSDTvTUTjGHLs7_ZChN_yrrAWHes_9FJNm0gbmlfp3Pagn9H3D1cOjaBzlojkkqYJL7xjDH/s640/DSCN7894.JPG" width="640" /></a> </div>
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January was Prohibition theme: a hidden alcohol ingredient and March the dishes must be made with local grown food. I can't wait to see what other themes come up throughout the year. </div>
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Food makes for such great conversation and the company doesn't hurt either!</div>
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See the recipe for Cocoa Crusted Pork Tenderloin <a href="http://babybellescs.blogspot.com/2013/02/cocoa-crusted-pork-tenderloin.html">here</a>.<br />
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Cheers,<br />
BelleBellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-48042979251827457642013-02-19T22:48:00.000-08:002013-02-22T11:31:43.307-08:00Birthday Blessings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A birthday can make us think about, reflect on and appreciate many things. </div>
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Today as I celebrate my 31st birthday, I am overwhelmed with thoughts about how blessed I am. </div>
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My year of 30 was not what I expected, weird and surprising tough times but a lot of high times too. I could not have gotten here today without the support of my amazing friends and family, so this year..instead of wishes for myself, I have some wishes for those who have been there for me & by my side. I am so excited to see what this year has in store for me, so <i>thank you</i> from the bottom of my heart. I am truly lucky to be here living this wonderful life today. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWTTy4fQzE1z0ZSJSZchNEl8YypG7IQqJPW8dxBKKgPaIWk2mlOc0Fcdwy1zSJhhPttZyhz3MmZ6HWG2-L2mC5KO9O9eN3FC69Mbem1Dt8JvMXZlqw9Ok8NVgF6yl_6_DgTT5FdZhtv8I/s1600/Birthday-quotes-for-friends-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWTTy4fQzE1z0ZSJSZchNEl8YypG7IQqJPW8dxBKKgPaIWk2mlOc0Fcdwy1zSJhhPttZyhz3MmZ6HWG2-L2mC5KO9O9eN3FC69Mbem1Dt8JvMXZlqw9Ok8NVgF6yl_6_DgTT5FdZhtv8I/s640/Birthday-quotes-for-friends-1.jpg" width="640" /></a> </div>
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A few fun highlights of my 30th year of life:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQdy46EYU2HHB6wfSSGSOG39uBouIcU2JoQVwxhwgghVB4eu-hz-0lI8KXqbJ1-SjF0TyWoc9scVQMpb5N6TAMZLvpJbWaZvr7h4gU4-vebgNoQnIVLY5-rdlrrUUwZvMFWNm2BkaRbZs/s1600/DSCN5776.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQdy46EYU2HHB6wfSSGSOG39uBouIcU2JoQVwxhwgghVB4eu-hz-0lI8KXqbJ1-SjF0TyWoc9scVQMpb5N6TAMZLvpJbWaZvr7h4gU4-vebgNoQnIVLY5-rdlrrUUwZvMFWNm2BkaRbZs/s640/DSCN5776.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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A fabulous 30th birthday bash in a swanky speakeasy</div>
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<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPvrLuM7f8MiNWBjU9Klvy3ldyF_PDWYsZfO4-ChQzSFmee0jalu4HUVIZT6dtzzEvGhaXWZkQFOqH7cFN3XI9ySY6LgYBzfZSVBE6zYSgzpkW4v3wBXArAUHI4kbBKaafbu1fbCZZNXI/s640/IMG_1555.jpg" width="480" /> </div>
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Sharing cocktails poolside with my best bud </div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Cm_74lsEgioZoRy-Irdtm51F7l8yO3rLPziT4b6kbZYgPxv2VPXiATZvMbg5-2_NHLN-I-AKWtwxdbadG-3Ghr5g3tJZshi80IV1KmnpPpAkuIJPtGNffz3u6hWAyiXwsLwOKWS7b-0/s640/IMG_0587.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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Watching my elementary school best friends become beautiful mothers </div>
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and spending time with their baby boys!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUg1ljtVO5Axe9mQf9MFymnYJuF1PvvZXvD95DQrxo_FP4EIPTzrfXnOnNq2VAsBwqEtaK9O6maj_bAbaozE-hp2iZihHWYfsyQ_2T0RhW-VpxzT3kvSQs34X4T4hEtGxxfuP0fVwxq94/s1600/IMG_2216.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUg1ljtVO5Axe9mQf9MFymnYJuF1PvvZXvD95DQrxo_FP4EIPTzrfXnOnNq2VAsBwqEtaK9O6maj_bAbaozE-hp2iZihHWYfsyQ_2T0RhW-VpxzT3kvSQs34X4T4hEtGxxfuP0fVwxq94/s640/IMG_2216.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Sailing for the first time </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAgD7nI3gma07V0l2ER3l47EKEBTymDiUHj9Eyr2LScWtn1W8k1PQZNz_xhxKxnjtrWw-yiJKOoFI81hwWe7AL54xTa7A45n8qj7Q-im2t4d54DQNb5fSYbp_HRJheRxv0kARnJ6oPZZ0/s1600/IMG_3045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAgD7nI3gma07V0l2ER3l47EKEBTymDiUHj9Eyr2LScWtn1W8k1PQZNz_xhxKxnjtrWw-yiJKOoFI81hwWe7AL54xTa7A45n8qj7Q-im2t4d54DQNb5fSYbp_HRJheRxv0kARnJ6oPZZ0/s640/IMG_3045.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Running through a ridiculous amount of colored paint</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS8oPwQE2wZd0oz_mR7hDgxNwF2L3Gcx4eBunaqYvH95Fz61b5rhDRMX6ijuSiINtc2JosSvJyGy4xbuHL_jvHFFsF__N09N_AYg8znEf5qaABW6HM96tsm6zXIYn4lgHVQaXz6-VIOKs/s1600/20120813_42_523457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS8oPwQE2wZd0oz_mR7hDgxNwF2L3Gcx4eBunaqYvH95Fz61b5rhDRMX6ijuSiINtc2JosSvJyGy4xbuHL_jvHFFsF__N09N_AYg8znEf5qaABW6HM96tsm6zXIYn4lgHVQaXz6-VIOKs/s640/20120813_42_523457.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Rappelling into a cave </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_LF3JrbShGYjtm8CSX08RvvAdZHGyHr6rkShl8oovrHPmK4TE6DPYssnUHw0Yp5DhyVutZlyLMQN-iSkQkegBL5stwQXHoAZlU9jodAa_XY2TTBbyO_rtsWWzTopmQaUBC5h-ao8w0I/s1600/IMG_2247.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil_LF3JrbShGYjtm8CSX08RvvAdZHGyHr6rkShl8oovrHPmK4TE6DPYssnUHw0Yp5DhyVutZlyLMQN-iSkQkegBL5stwQXHoAZlU9jodAa_XY2TTBbyO_rtsWWzTopmQaUBC5h-ao8w0I/s640/IMG_2247.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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Becoming a triathlete</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf868A1hVSNaZvOOowK4oRCQ7MOqfT9Zd_yXpUfhV7KZCDY3mRy5TI964MtgXWJF5ebtUq-gHpC2asgW4dSgW7aeHVG1qKprkASCgy7JcdvtB1FK8bXuRDhuEqtRYtpEFraKjEgJBIK10/s1600/IMG_3736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf868A1hVSNaZvOOowK4oRCQ7MOqfT9Zd_yXpUfhV7KZCDY3mRy5TI964MtgXWJF5ebtUq-gHpC2asgW4dSgW7aeHVG1qKprkASCgy7JcdvtB1FK8bXuRDhuEqtRYtpEFraKjEgJBIK10/s640/IMG_3736.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Seeing my goddaughter turn 1! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPvrLuM7f8MiNWBjU9Klvy3ldyF_PDWYsZfO4-ChQzSFmee0jalu4HUVIZT6dtzzEvGhaXWZkQFOqH7cFN3XI9ySY6LgYBzfZSVBE6zYSgzpkW4v3wBXArAUHI4kbBKaafbu1fbCZZNXI/s1600/IMG_1555.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
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See...when you stop and think about, there are so many little things that can make a moment great. </div>
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Since we are talking about great moments, these are the moments I look forward to in my 31st year. Seriously, how lucky am I?</div>
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<i>Upcoming special moments:</i> </div>
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* Traveling to Italy with my best friend </div>
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* Opening myself up to more risks & life</div>
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* Welcoming new babies into this world</div>
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* Reading many more books</div>
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* Continuing to blog about<a href="http://loveluckpurpose.blogspot.com/"> Love, Luck & Purpose</a></div>
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So cheers to this upcoming year! I wish all of you the blessings I have been bestowed and hoping to a fabulous year ahead! </div>
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Cheers, </div>
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Belle </div>
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Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-9121193655816784652013-02-18T21:01:00.004-08:002013-02-22T11:31:55.193-08:00Puff 'n' Stuff CookiesAs a Valentine treat for someone sweet, I made up some new cookies. Easy & extremely delicious!<br />
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<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivHTx11ASVO_9SkMKgWyRDazLedloRdklgjxgmyn5-pRI_ecqKYMHJvP6ih3V_8uv5Ftaj3NHoPMpIQDXqUdssl3dGu4wSp0rG1I7J-59nsFZ40E9vhsYp7a-3bRrMUHJo1xkl8DCs77k/s640/IMG_4154.jpg" width="480" /> </div>
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I took the <a href="http://www.verybestbaking.com/recipes/18476/original-nestl%C3%89-toll-house-chocolate-chip-cookies/detail.aspx">Tollhouse Chocolate Chip Cookie</a> recipe and added in a few fun items!</div>
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A cookie stuffed with so much goodness... I decided to name them Puff 'n' Stuff Cookies... yummo! </div>
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<i>Puff 'n' Stuff Cookies: </i></div>
<ul>
<li class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">2 1/4</span> cups all-purpose flour</span></li>
<li class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">1</span> teaspoon baking soda</span></li>
<li class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">1</span> teaspoon salt</span></li>
<li class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">1</span> cup <span class="type">shortening or softened butter</span></span></li>
<li class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">3/4</span> cup granulated sugar</span></li>
<li class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">3/4</span> cup packed brown sugar</span></li>
<li class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">1</span> teaspoon vanilla extract (My secret is 3 teaspoons!)</span></li>
<li class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">2</span> large eggs</span></li>
<li class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">2</span> cups <span class="type">semi-sweet chocolate chips</span></span></li>
<li class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">1 cup mini marshmallows</span></span></li>
<li class="ingredient"><span class="amount"><span class="value">Sprinkles </span></span></li>
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<b>Preheat </b>oven to 375° F.<br />
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<b>Combine</b> flour, baking soda and salt in small bowl. Beat butter, granulated
sugar, brown sugar and vanilla extract in large mixer bowl until creamy.
Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually
beat in flour mixture. Stir in morsels and marshmallows. </div>
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<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihnxEJt5pD4M1Zvpd0KL469U1nW0sCLXGzB9TYGcjtoWSGV1_8-Ld8FbnJ1Wdi1VpkclmAnuDRBcFoOsX2kax6zVyKcgCV4Xla5fhS4zgdMWguEyXVpZFan2Gyyen8Zs35kFdKnSWAZcQ/s640/IMG_4149.jpg" width="480" /> </div>
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<b>Scoop </b>tablespoons of dough and roll into 1-1/2 balls.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFlNJk3W3MHtU1XGDUsDZEZmFlkss4zCxUSNaHp9RHKi7bRFvBNvVUVMxWtLls7tmdgFIN4f9g0BvdB651sdNiZNKLrJK8L1Pl3rHyy_p7KS0ZbZIcHZcfckS-jy6jPBdOVFDndkYb-s8/s1600/IMG_4150.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFlNJk3W3MHtU1XGDUsDZEZmFlkss4zCxUSNaHp9RHKi7bRFvBNvVUVMxWtLls7tmdgFIN4f9g0BvdB651sdNiZNKLrJK8L1Pl3rHyy_p7KS0ZbZIcHZcfckS-jy6jPBdOVFDndkYb-s8/s400/IMG_4150.jpg" width="300" /></a><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh80MCvKIfhkepIJO14lHwgIBlq514nljpxYDic48p1veHjdOdGoZ5bbf0LiK7TFfvq1Vy19iSm53QaWutwv1U9pOjI_MvQVO_6jAcbcJMBPhzDDCVYO7Mq8NW_QdW1U-FBg0eUoXWPhcI/s400/IMG_4151.jpg" width="300" /><b> </b></div>
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<b>Dip </b>balls into a small bowl of sprinkles. </div>
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<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioJPEhQ-EN877UNLDSIXNKiBxwGoBWpwaBdbfdLwvXxYChZV8dp81aTBK7V4nKTX8gRSIjXtIoTPCPBq5uHWoe1PxpehnBqu0X37IiPgNpe3vZFEYDUWd7vu4wyFGP2l3SUCFWAIATpZQ/s640/IMG_4153.jpg" width="480" /> </div>
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<b>Bake</b> for 9 to 11 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2KdvWll41CRxDrW9Ak1iZHvrs5X_-367gpr3HQiVOLY1FLXFyMiNFC5Er7xm4bs7HxsJ02q_BKjf5lbWLFjIIuhWCLj4tSx74GDL9Y9WD_oMf3GPeUvq8o41Bm3om-T1XjfUb5xMexuM/s1600/IMG_4155.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2KdvWll41CRxDrW9Ak1iZHvrs5X_-367gpr3HQiVOLY1FLXFyMiNFC5Er7xm4bs7HxsJ02q_BKjf5lbWLFjIIuhWCLj4tSx74GDL9Y9WD_oMf3GPeUvq8o41Bm3om-T1XjfUb5xMexuM/s640/IMG_4155.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Enjoy </b>and <b>Share</b>! </div>
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Cheers,<br />
Belle </div>
Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-65699083414803445672013-01-03T08:18:00.001-08:002013-01-03T08:22:10.728-08:00The Case of Too Many Carrots<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><i>The Case of Too Many Carrots:</i> Solved</span> </b></div>
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Make Carrot Cake Bars. </div>
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I love fresh produce. I hate throwing out fresh produce. So, I noticed I had a lot more carrots in my fridge then I could eat in the next few days. I shredded those carrots and put on my thinking cap. Carrot Cake Muffins were definitely going down... but what else could I make. With a family gathering coming up, I went sweet and decided on these <a href="http://www.grandmaskitchen.com/recipes/keepsake-cookies/carrot-cake-bars">carrot cake bars</a>. They were really easy and tasted so yummylicious!!! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNm2TbOn4oRQxm6p7a3QX6IcTOwJUWcSuaUini3nhsaTC281dPwUXIUpXxJJoxBdY5oyhm51JPeHDYYUK5PefJGu_usBSpSQWYgVF08fKLndnKuGrTsmvWkq2ueIs_mIC6ntW3TdWTI30/s1600/IMG_3774.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNm2TbOn4oRQxm6p7a3QX6IcTOwJUWcSuaUini3nhsaTC281dPwUXIUpXxJJoxBdY5oyhm51JPeHDYYUK5PefJGu_usBSpSQWYgVF08fKLndnKuGrTsmvWkq2ueIs_mIC6ntW3TdWTI30/s640/IMG_3774.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Not paleo, not healthy, but man.. they were good. I have been trying to use up all the dairy, flour and sugars I bought for the holiday family recipes I make. And when you know that your home eating is still on track, it's okay (at least to me) to splurge and indulge at times. </div>
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Also <span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;">exciting</span>, <span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">I used my KitchenAid Mixer for the first time in years. Maybe 3 years. It's been just collecting dust in the corner of my kitchen. I just prefer the ease of grabbing my hand mixer and a bowl. Okay, enough blabbing... let's get to the good stuff. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients"><i>Carrot Cake Bars:</i></span></div>
<ul class="ingredients">
<li class="first"><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients">1 cup sugar</span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients">3/4 cup vegetable oil</span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients">2 eggs</span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients">1 cup all-purpose flour</span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients">1 teaspoon cinnamon</span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients">1/2 teaspoon baking soda</span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients">1/2 teaspoon salt</span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients">1 cup freshly shredded carrots</span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients">1/2 cup chopped pecan, walnuts or sunflower seeds</span></li>
<li><span class="ingredient" itemprop="ingredients">1 can (16 ounces) cream cheese frosting or homemade <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/cream-cheese-frosting-recipe/index.html">Cream Cheese Frosting</a></span></li>
</ul>
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<b>Step One: </b>Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Dust off old mixer. Or just get out a bowl and hand mixer <img alt="Winking smile" height="19" src="https://gfx5.hotmail.com/mail/w4/pr04/ltr/emo/winking_smile.gif" style="border-style: none; vertical-align: text-bottom;" title="Winking smile" width="19" /><b> </b></div>
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<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGzt_PgMosYcuOhAgeiG6txa1fDAO2LRIX9ZWIG6YuQip01dreOb9NPeRdD3baA1MY7RG5CrhyphenhyphenZvwdY_Fq6InrNuuSilGzHuqj6HjX_6LdJ2zlSKjnZoT49uutUJP4tuP9DW8wyNoBIH4/s400/DSCN7664.JPG" width="300" /></div>
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<b>Step Two:</b> In a large bowl using an electric mixer, beat the sugar, oil and eggs
until light.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimflqeQMzP4at0EnpkdDSlSJLQKPiyquDvmAKhBg-OrYurcwQJ7-SNQodh_kP17AviMaHBZwELJIde2fvY5jr22C3lsw4m9w6Xy0LjYOtAnXdmrpa9asslhkHC2jTY9Ljrb6I5uIzSKb0/s1600/DSCN7665.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimflqeQMzP4at0EnpkdDSlSJLQKPiyquDvmAKhBg-OrYurcwQJ7-SNQodh_kP17AviMaHBZwELJIde2fvY5jr22C3lsw4m9w6Xy0LjYOtAnXdmrpa9asslhkHC2jTY9Ljrb6I5uIzSKb0/s400/DSCN7665.JPG" width="300" /></a><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUFn2o7mNCjMMk4bkBbA5ZsZxjG2Y_PmnzNLbHXY5YFytf18xqCWieVXaeKjpbFDv70rxM6MNsUD0Y0WQmdmggMWEOd-CRw1jv0zhnvowGTB-Fwl4fV9PocJhDvnILt5Tf8i6LfjGkhk4/s400/DSCN7666.JPG" width="300" /></div>
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<b>Step Three:</b> Stir in the flour, cinnamon, baking soda and salt until
well combined. Gently stir in the carrots and nuts/seeds. <i>(I just continued to use the mixer on low speed, worked fine!)</i></div>
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<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXXD9Pdw8l8nh8-AJ9mAoPRfPRQngBCW3mVrD5Oe6nLLx6iRygVqpZsA-6eW-1iQ-6mbVAAZWHxBgkZ1OKDQlfj0GADn0CEgHW8dyaNh2IeankeSN9NXsAI-voYh7fqxcSWoqQz40MG2M/s400/IMG_3770.jpg" width="300" /> <img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge-SAz2xtmoiwkhn83BitB-3YgYRldNWGX81b6q40-F3QxzHYSadi4ZazvIXRygXrEAOby1N92gG-woD1HhSjLQDNP15ho3lox7LyMDjjK11qOSeWhW-QXI4hmqPa2xUgtDfwpx7wxn6s/s400/DSCN7668.JPG" width="300" /></div>
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<b>Step Four: </b>Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake until a toothpick inserted
in the center comes out clean, 25 to 30 minutes. Transfer the pan to a
wire rack and cool completely. </div>
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<img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1DWL7NGNrgO9tbgnY8EIOQSrPHf0-el7XqfEWkMREoexm6CrYnX9M_JvejB-tCW5yYc7ORtFAEHtmFHmM5NT3GzCyrWhRa_uTRCc1b8nM0p3PLsCIu1hlMq2ObfX5rAqS1zRB6-ZYgqk/s400/DSCN7669.JPG" width="400" /> </div>
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<b>Step Five: </b> Spread the bars with enough of the frosting to cover completely. You can drag a
fork through the frosting on a diagonal to decorate. <i>I just spread on a nice thick gooey layer and called it a day. </i>Cut into 2-inch
squares and remove from the pan. </div>
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<b>Step 6:</b> Try not to eat them all!!! </div>
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<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8_SUAdJnstYhg_OQ4vWBlSnv7k9ZMskYHj_SzR7gYAAMv8GU3twrQ_1EHlHukMjG0sxJDRB18JkC_cSWuhA43xut08CcH_IQvMGuhGhEiW4E0YsiuQMy9Q9BbcW4XxDs6_Vhrc1nxS9c/s400/IMG_3773.jpg" width="300" /></div>
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I also had extra cream cheese from another holiday recipe I did, so I went for the homemade frosting. I usually don't like cream cheese frosting so I altered the recipe & added a little more vanilla and sprinkled in a <strike>little </strike>lot of cinnamon. </div>
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<i>Cream Cheese Frosting:</i><br />
<ul class="kv-ingred-list1">
<li itemprop="ingredients">4 ounces unsalted butter, softened
</li>
<li itemprop="ingredients">4 ounces cream cheese, softened
</li>
<li itemprop="ingredients">2 cups powdered sugar
</li>
<li itemprop="ingredients">1 teaspoon vanilla extract <i>(I did 2 teaspoons)</i></li>
<li itemprop="ingredients">2 teaspoon cinnamon <i>(my addition) </i></li>
</ul>
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In a large bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese with an
electric mixer. With the mixer on low speed, add the powdered sugar a
cup at a time until smooth and creamy. Beat in the vanilla extract and cinnamon. Then use for your recipe... mmmm mmmm good. </div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjbWW3tE0Nl_tH-GFygY79DBD15UiuGvfO6H6RU-6tqpDXizq-28qAN-ElyTRvoAiS-2C0SFauxh_e_-rv7TlAmAiawyPVkTfoK5gA1zx6EmeQLED3Cy1vX9bIM0rYYO97NGtIqFawtSA/s640/DSCN7676.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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I may have changed my own mind about cream cheese frosting. Wowzer!</div>
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<br />Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-6970282533820640632012-12-31T22:04:00.001-08:002013-01-02T15:14:07.828-08:00Giving Shoes a Face Lift: Part Two<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">It's a Brand New Pair of Shoes! Well... sort of <img alt=":-)" class="wp-smiley" src="http://practicallyfunctional.net/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif" /></span></span><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIo57yJlzXWEo69MlXbi058Ud79nGOvmq77fSf4Q9Meuz3mAOsoQOKinVPeGyepukEdLyyXYpwXfpBnYCUdyuUkw_mxjArVDP4Udx-_SOHRCtXR5KZucqKKVXOJe7YOuJMPuzgtIlqI70/s1600/IMG_3794.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIo57yJlzXWEo69MlXbi058Ud79nGOvmq77fSf4Q9Meuz3mAOsoQOKinVPeGyepukEdLyyXYpwXfpBnYCUdyuUkw_mxjArVDP4Udx-_SOHRCtXR5KZucqKKVXOJe7YOuJMPuzgtIlqI70/s640/IMG_3794.jpg" width="480" /></a><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;">Mod Podge became my new friend this past week. I had another favorite pair of comfy, worn in flats that needed to be dumped in the trash (NOOOOO!) or revamped into some fancy footwear. After Mod Podge-ing fabric onto another pair of shoes, I thought it would be cute to glitter some. I have seen so many fancy glitter flats & heels at the stores, and BINGO! - new craft idea for me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"><b>Step One: </b>Pick your shoes and favorite glitter! </span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioE9WXrWdi9Ty6D6LGxSxdoNDuzlhZQv5bRjDVU41t9_FNhIsLMVJoKcvqQvfyDID2ta4GuCY3kUnv9H70eE0y3Mr05_JJTf_vRvmswzphfYpuLRfqhPrt71iPwNVdAOL1xj-fcxTEG2Y/s640/DSCN7653.JPG" width="640" /> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Step Two: </b>Mod Podge the toe of your shoe. Then sprinkle on glitter. Glue & glitter, part by part. (Note: after the fact, I decided it would have been better to polish or spray paint the shoe black first)</span></div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwRlgE_Gu5jKqBrV9tClSTLSJfrLuD0ujGkvw6G9YepzZffO3lHJN546yTVqBkCynk1agQS_uK2SzZhBg2s7cL4IbI5bpsz1fgoIVhG4aWejSAt8LONV44_62uEPbs9wJ2p-RyJmwe5G0/s640/DSCN7656.JPG" width="640" /> </div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdzN1YB33wemiucd_ZHlCjOHswkBpZjYxAfN0LqIQhqYaSTYA2hAE1e2_gnvTRLMgUi0GQVnnSdF6S9Q0wQeGFL9Jry2Nb9LqhnqihuqyelGyqBryTdprmkW884PcMvOxfQWyMZoRFWMU/s640/DSCN7658.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Step Three: </b>Continue applying Mod Podge and glitter away.. (pardon the blurry pics, my camera was having a hiccup!)</span><br />
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPCu8bGzXWhN4wzB99lD532gxb0sOrsaz9wtZcY-m5I1Tr_MfFHbUGEgpPU87f9wlJWzUL2vEdEQwmM0NyOhevO3AiE0BEr_Jvvls2d6KIIuFjTmAYFt1UnPLrKelXyMAGVsjLrBdy-Ew/s640/DSCN7661.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Step Four: </b>Finished applying & glittering. Then repeat with a 2nd coat of Mod Podge & glitter. Allow to dry for about an hour. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Step Five: </b><strike>Brush with <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Delta-Ceramcoat-Varnish-Exterior-Interior/dp/B000XZZT3K">Satin Varnish</a> or spray with<a href="http://www.krylon.com/products/satin_finish/"> Satin Finish </a>to seal the glitter.</strike> Nothing worse than sparkles all over! Actually, I can think of many worse things. But it sure creates a mess. <img alt="Winking smile" height="19" src="https://gfx5.hotmail.com/mail/w4/pr04/ltr/emo/winking_smile.gif" style="border-style: none; vertical-align: text-bottom;" title="Winking smile" width="19" /> *update: My shoes began to crackle once the Varnish dried, so I am trying the shoes again with a spray glaze over instead. Mod Podge will work also, but I was worried my matte finish would de-sparkle the glitter </span><br />
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihB_hcK89XO__G4TpqqEkrLA66RDrKHkNDnlKwdKTb4aAP8XnQ8FKL7mLo4xnaEx8K_SbMBqMJOf9DVxoABiJvLEnF8UUV-l812p1AIzTXORQPHUOsabkAjcAxLKLqjPfNk76-rOzq-Is/s640/IMG_3785.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Now I have some twinkle toes of my own!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Perfect for New Year's Eve, whether you are out & about or cozy on your couch. </span></div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXevZymlWowPTbS68va2M1ms9wAUR3g_HevltBiND3RByyPwsgIP8q3UxxZiqRUZKAjGK5uXJnyaeBzon8DcpoTf0RWGKSXQfs5Bl8ZJxhs9kfRPdwPP2SvK8GVRYxZdoBBngfReY22Hc/s640/IMG_3791.jpg" width="640" /> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Time to shine on in 2013!</b></span></span> </div>
Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-23746561763120919742012-12-31T12:13:00.001-08:002013-01-02T09:21:14.995-08:00Giving Old Shoes a Face Lift! Well, what a whirlwind I've had these past few months. One of my New Year's resolutions is to make sure I am up to date with my posts! Yikes!! I am on Christmas vacation right now, so I have had some time to finally dig into my craft pile. <br />
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A few months ago, I saw an idea to Mod Podge fabric onto a pair of flats. I have two pairs that are so comfy, but are looking pretty sad & weathered. This was my chance to revamp them and get a new pair of shoes for free!<br />
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<img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUEdWKrAG-1rbrKCSn7WHYFkn9FgfwmywIgcxF3w6MR2SSOep00C8bRw1gFRqb85VRBjrmrs-aBhm17MGC3MRvvAe4_4pqIUTBa2CGI-zNVC9xKNxni4sD-j_etLHVEiA8hyphenhyphenFrVIX7UiI/s640/IMG_3726.jpg" width="478" /> </div>
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I found a <a href="http://practicallyfunctional.net/2012/05/customize-your-shoes-with-mod-podge/">tutorial</a> and figured I'd give it a shot. A lazy, rainy day was the perfect time.<br />
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<b>Step One:</b> <b>Find a pair</b> of your favorite, but weathered flats and a fabric you love. (Any inexpensive pair of new flats will work too!)<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVLM4_cpxfRWPDfe3-4gOTu0LZ-fkUQVX655A1gffzny2YZ-rV8q9K4o7V9wSBdy1-ogMg0zx1Ax24Cx-QOw9zBEzu7X2TjaUxMYzL1E4LFY_gXTC1_EbBUVs2DgztueYm_4N1rKTEHVM/s1600/DSCN7496.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVLM4_cpxfRWPDfe3-4gOTu0LZ-fkUQVX655A1gffzny2YZ-rV8q9K4o7V9wSBdy1-ogMg0zx1Ax24Cx-QOw9zBEzu7X2TjaUxMYzL1E4LFY_gXTC1_EbBUVs2DgztueYm_4N1rKTEHVM/s640/DSCN7496.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<b><b>Step Two: Cut out a piece </b></b>of fabric
big enough to cover the shoe. You can be fairly imprecise here; just
lay the fabric over the shoe and cut out a general rectangle.<b> </b></div>
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<b>Step Three: Cut a slit in the fabric</b> over the opening
of the shoe. You want to leave the fabric whole over the toe, but split
it in half to cover the sides. Start at the heel and cut right up the
middle until you are half an inch away from the beginning of the toe of
the shoe. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1_sCA_KaMQ1xuoP6AIM8-WVdn0Eph1vTNMBEB2kjC5lwChTHu98WrIGGN8SdVLkGXdyn6-Hehe2UPN38jv-nGEAfQGupRU854LsKALnQTrgtp-b1tzVeNjY0zwyOpm2RzfxV7iO1FHo8/s1600/DSCN7495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1_sCA_KaMQ1xuoP6AIM8-WVdn0Eph1vTNMBEB2kjC5lwChTHu98WrIGGN8SdVLkGXdyn6-Hehe2UPN38jv-nGEAfQGupRU854LsKALnQTrgtp-b1tzVeNjY0zwyOpm2RzfxV7iO1FHo8/s640/DSCN7495.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>Step Four:</b> <b>Cover </b>the toe of the shoe in a thick layer of Mod Podge.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMWjzm3GebGjcKg334-Q6O7oD4Q4gxcmqdNhdgcc-2A1KPYS7YwLjXZomfzS85uWAcXeK2n77rmuZ63EoQPMUdRsukCFzqXmT3WipgQ231nZoScIh3xXtX2c9ztGZGi6HT1Zhrq590U5c/s1600/DSCN7499.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMWjzm3GebGjcKg334-Q6O7oD4Q4gxcmqdNhdgcc-2A1KPYS7YwLjXZomfzS85uWAcXeK2n77rmuZ63EoQPMUdRsukCFzqXmT3WipgQ231nZoScIh3xXtX2c9ztGZGi6HT1Zhrq590U5c/s640/DSCN7499.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>Step Five: Cover the toe of the shoe with your fabric</b>
and press it down firmly. You want the fabric to be stretched out and
laying flat everywhere so that it doesn’t bunch up and pucker near the
sole. Since I was using patterned fabric, I didn't have to worry about keeping lines straight. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlZ5_dyvInUQIVx_obDCnZdVWTJHq2_5iKpjiWKwDbwZcKy-vKz5X8dvOiewJ-hnVk3Yy4cmN6CbFppUaWa8dFY7ND0QjBqUmIzv1P57ZTHuhUH9_SgbV6VbZPQW-Udx5hYaaZdFpjNj8/s1600/DSCN7501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlZ5_dyvInUQIVx_obDCnZdVWTJHq2_5iKpjiWKwDbwZcKy-vKz5X8dvOiewJ-hnVk3Yy4cmN6CbFppUaWa8dFY7ND0QjBqUmIzv1P57ZTHuhUH9_SgbV6VbZPQW-Udx5hYaaZdFpjNj8/s640/DSCN7501.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>Step Six: Cover the sides of the shoe with Mod Podge and press the fabric onto the shoe</b>. Keep making sure the fabric lays flat<i>. </i>Leave about 2 inches uncovered near the heel so you can make a nice seam.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipNsfvnEHDGw-M8xbABV9xSWomY_xhgru-MCjaiLwcJeT0oK33d88zuuF537eQfnnuw7PnUu3EY1MIx6mE2TQ99p2_fosn5mFtuM8qEQa7LPR3GsbsSoRo-4gxZ3P7FC6Hw5bTudnecHA/s1600/DSCN7503.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipNsfvnEHDGw-M8xbABV9xSWomY_xhgru-MCjaiLwcJeT0oK33d88zuuF537eQfnnuw7PnUu3EY1MIx6mE2TQ99p2_fosn5mFtuM8qEQa7LPR3GsbsSoRo-4gxZ3P7FC6Hw5bTudnecHA/s640/DSCN7503.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyP67L0AFU5g9S8Zap8eTwige34h72DinXOE4qKs5GnQfDahdDKlc6uOxYHGyiXRvhEm1kkmn47814V3AcQH4jbmHPg-JF6HrQAPajUAuPsxHxuzbr6NDP3oqssb2BD7p55wN8UkN09ec/s1600/DSCN7504.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyP67L0AFU5g9S8Zap8eTwige34h72DinXOE4qKs5GnQfDahdDKlc6uOxYHGyiXRvhEm1kkmn47814V3AcQH4jbmHPg-JF6HrQAPajUAuPsxHxuzbr6NDP3oqssb2BD7p55wN8UkN09ec/s640/DSCN7504.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>Step Seven: Cut one side of the fabric</b> so it covers the heel and goes about half an inch past the heel seam. Apply Mod Podge and press the fabric down. <br />
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<b>Step Eight: Cut the other side of the fabric </b>one inch past the middle heel seam of the shoe. Fold half an inch of fabric under at the edge to hide the raw edge, then apply Mod Podge and smooth the fabric down onto the shoe. Make sure to keep the raw edge folded under to make a nice seam at the back. (I forgot to take a picture of this part..see <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoPX3HtWq5Tvhx0ehANo4694t6WJb7bEfzJMPoWrP8-e-D37yeOSrps3j74G3b0Pg51HJ3J3MAtKY-XSaGThABNVg9qXAqm4MKaaJoR7f9eigRgR0iWft_GzMO6Zyw10T59Qap3_xJfcFH/s1600/Step+Six.png">here</a> and <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhytUyEmygz5sSpNYvy6yOOgZ4JwtVFRMC6jAJbriBMEyaAQpLNpOE0hqB9ImbptuqMUwHeHDEOm_WDdT9dYxKu4id_UMPrOHNKoKQ3gHL1rtdAWuugJ1R0RQh9usMODugcis7CeOJucRnk/s1600/Step+Seven.png">here</a> ).<br />
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<b>Step Nine: Trim away the excess fabric</b> using your
scissors. You don’t need to be extremely precise here either. For the
bottom of the fabric just run the scissors along the sole of your shoe
as a guide (you will cut this fabric more exactly later on). For the top
of the fabric just follow the curve of the opening of the shoe, leaving
about half an inch. Then <b>cut slits in the fabric in the curve of the toe </b>so that you can fold the fabric over without stretching it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCaQNAR9O1nP-Qp4U_-31VMyK_JnWW-D8hq8lWbknPCiY3crPe-lRbNFsC8V4gunZmL-Y3CbJiJhU6UiArBITIDVdDRcbPguXubFT5neCoNMOZKAb7OyOGB1kJij-UYddQ2gWN7ZTv37E/s1600/DSCN7506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCaQNAR9O1nP-Qp4U_-31VMyK_JnWW-D8hq8lWbknPCiY3crPe-lRbNFsC8V4gunZmL-Y3CbJiJhU6UiArBITIDVdDRcbPguXubFT5neCoNMOZKAb7OyOGB1kJij-UYddQ2gWN7ZTv37E/s640/DSCN7506.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg3c91xNSkG75UPUnfUWGDIjSvf1gpjGmXZkdUtfpIVnglPysGuP5MBqo9RZRU9Vx0RxAh8U2V9O0f-P1Rlog96U4F22hdRYMyIIW3tBfOknwNUdKmjHCKDjezrB2WdxDuNJdaD5yaaW8/s1600/DSCN7507.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg3c91xNSkG75UPUnfUWGDIjSvf1gpjGmXZkdUtfpIVnglPysGuP5MBqo9RZRU9Vx0RxAh8U2V9O0f-P1Rlog96U4F22hdRYMyIIW3tBfOknwNUdKmjHCKDjezrB2WdxDuNJdaD5yaaW8/s640/DSCN7507.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>Step Ten:</b> Apply Mod Podge to the under side of the toe of the shoe; <b>fold the fabric over and press firmly.</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpvUswlCkccApCXpm2woS1Qx2DwQWBlKXeWlo2dek4lCrRfB7y0pgCuivfJv8h1ugTjk3c8wEz6SyIUywYYKP9IUEeb-gexd8Tbb0v5sNOmAfftaqy8e9xKy-LvgXTKJhWH3gK7EzUvO0/s1600/DSCN7510.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpvUswlCkccApCXpm2woS1Qx2DwQWBlKXeWlo2dek4lCrRfB7y0pgCuivfJv8h1ugTjk3c8wEz6SyIUywYYKP9IUEeb-gexd8Tbb0v5sNOmAfftaqy8e9xKy-LvgXTKJhWH3gK7EzUvO0/s640/DSCN7510.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>Step Eleven: Continue applying Mod Podge and folding the fabric over</b>
around the opening of the shoe. Since it's the inside of the shoe, you can cut imperfectly if you want. <img alt=":-)" class="wp-smiley" src="http://practicallyfunctional.net/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif" /> I also didn't worry about the weathered insole of the shoe since no one will see it when I am wearing them, but I may go buy some new inserts for new support. <br />
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<b>Step Twelve:</b> Using your exacto knife, <b>trim off the excess fabric at the sole of the shoe</b>.
Make sure your knife is SHARP for this part! Don’t worry if there is a
little bit of fraying at the edge; that will get fixed when you Mod
Podge it down. Once your fabric is trimmed down, <b>apply Mod Podge and press the edges down</b>.
Smooth it out to keep it from bunching up and tuck any frayed edges in. <br />
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<b>Step Thirteen: Cover the entire shoe in a thick layer of Mod Podge. </b>Allow it to dry overnight<b> </b>(I
let it go about 12 hours) and you’re done! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Brk_qisP52AsaqM9cCZMr13zkQO3BzEzRRSZ8a1EEwZxn-adv6vXFmw9RdI9b1EE6nKbMRT2EiUimVZ4hIk4g4m9giIod49CKm-UFMnS-u7F5iOMVInN2ngCTWdulJh21ax0ryDqqfQ/s1600/DSCN7513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Brk_qisP52AsaqM9cCZMr13zkQO3BzEzRRSZ8a1EEwZxn-adv6vXFmw9RdI9b1EE6nKbMRT2EiUimVZ4hIk4g4m9giIod49CKm-UFMnS-u7F5iOMVInN2ngCTWdulJh21ax0ryDqqfQ/s640/DSCN7513.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUEdWKrAG-1rbrKCSn7WHYFkn9FgfwmywIgcxF3w6MR2SSOep00C8bRw1gFRqb85VRBjrmrs-aBhm17MGC3MRvvAe4_4pqIUTBa2CGI-zNVC9xKNxni4sD-j_etLHVEiA8hyphenhyphenFrVIX7UiI/s1600/IMG_3726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUEdWKrAG-1rbrKCSn7WHYFkn9FgfwmywIgcxF3w6MR2SSOep00C8bRw1gFRqb85VRBjrmrs-aBhm17MGC3MRvvAe4_4pqIUTBa2CGI-zNVC9xKNxni4sD-j_etLHVEiA8hyphenhyphenFrVIX7UiI/s640/IMG_3726.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
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Voila! New shoes! </div>
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Directions from Jessi at <a href="http://practicallyfunctional.net/2012/05/customize-your-shoes-with-mod-podge/">Practically Functional</a>. </div>
Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-23240807804956668972012-11-22T09:30:00.001-08:002013-01-02T09:20:14.937-08:00Grateful<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Today on this Thanksgiving, I am filled with gratefulness...</span></span><br />
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<i>I am thankful my dad still calls me to tell me when Charlie Brown holiday specials are on TV. </i><br />
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I am thankful for my amazing parents and the endless love they give me. <br />
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<i>I am thankful for the happiness around us. </i><br />
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I am thankful for my best friends and their open hearts.<br />
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<i>I am thankful for curiosity and adventure. </i><br />
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I am thankful for my huge family.<br />
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<i>I am thankful for my sweet goddaughters, they bring me so much joy. </i><br />
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I am thankful for life. It is so precious and moving forward, we must treat life with care.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Be grateful for everything you are blessed with!! </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPuXVImxtCE5SPNqQG0V2rgqTMk4bsf1kiCll5FffR-sbEI9VacIyM6KDQygh1fWgr6XHLpv3UjQuiCqcyWWjyC-YQtv_wocFi2qgAxkGGAGqR_SnYQiqGUVpIbg07efgMHtXtq5Oo2wo/s1600/grateful.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPuXVImxtCE5SPNqQG0V2rgqTMk4bsf1kiCll5FffR-sbEI9VacIyM6KDQygh1fWgr6XHLpv3UjQuiCqcyWWjyC-YQtv_wocFi2qgAxkGGAGqR_SnYQiqGUVpIbg07efgMHtXtq5Oo2wo/s400/grateful.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-76975228013932839032012-11-14T06:43:00.001-08:002013-01-02T09:20:14.943-08:00Giving Thanks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-44503075113553675182012-10-21T11:10:00.002-07:002013-01-02T09:22:05.729-08:00My First Triathlon!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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September 8, 2012 I became a triathlete!!! The weeks leading up to the race I was feeling nervous, excited, prepared, unprepared. I guess it was all part of the anxiety of the unknown. I had a lot of hiccups along the way: a week long illness & fever, leg cramps, figuring out how to change my bike gears and then my bike brakes literally cracking in half a week before the race. ugh! But.... I still did it and the triathlon was one of the most thrilling things I have ever done in my life! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicdxm_P8URL6yWIev241iwiTB3MaD5CWQAmIF6sAgJYPuX8pk0828e02eYm-9n0lWN548Xb9zmJpg-bLuaRa_uRnpRygqjw3-XsiMkvS3P_PEuH_ateqHeLsFI1Iipy9hXw-KGw22TWN4/s1600/Collages1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicdxm_P8URL6yWIev241iwiTB3MaD5CWQAmIF6sAgJYPuX8pk0828e02eYm-9n0lWN548Xb9zmJpg-bLuaRa_uRnpRygqjw3-XsiMkvS3P_PEuH_ateqHeLsFI1Iipy9hXw-KGw22TWN4/s640/Collages1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Race morning I headed down to Liberty Station in Point Loma at 5:30am & began to set up everything I needed for the day. I had no idea what I was doing, but thankfully I watched a few youtube videos about how to set up transition. My mom came down to the start and watched me get ready to embark on this little adventure. </div>
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Soon enough, they were announcing for everyone to get out of transition area & get to the start line! We headed over to the water, it was a really beautiful day but with no clouds in the sky - people were nervous about the heat. The last thing you want on race day is full sun exposure!</div>
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<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_1pjTazT03-7Zcw0xOKQEGymwWnVZ2UsZmN8j8bz6ciI5uTTcV65GF5UCtpI_kU1PHIMQGhPuKRa78DIp1OKjWJ9dfpK7PRdpgkKUlxkQriuyGqstg7XP9niKnq-zMswyMaHSHSIKqw4/s400/303544_3616261450189_1216514887_n.jpg" width="300" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcZ0r9PJFP-JGmVh9IIS_ID1UyC-dQVY8NeqSiheByaAA4nLN-Z1Rb2sr80TaqyzlVgX2EG0dE7UX6bIEwva0e3oUsdOGePr2YEAHclhUkDrUeBOvp5VY0ACBnvE_3yuawjA0RZUi0XhI/s1600/293019_3616261930201_589837724_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcZ0r9PJFP-JGmVh9IIS_ID1UyC-dQVY8NeqSiheByaAA4nLN-Z1Rb2sr80TaqyzlVgX2EG0dE7UX6bIEwva0e3oUsdOGePr2YEAHclhUkDrUeBOvp5VY0ACBnvE_3yuawjA0RZUi0XhI/s400/293019_3616261930201_589837724_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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The race started at 6:15am and I was in the 5th wave, set to start at 6:22am. </div>
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As the waves in front of me started in the water, the feeling of excitement grew more & more. I couldn't believe I was about to do this! So I gave my mom a big hug and jumped in the water... The sun was <i>barely </i>coming up (even though it was warm already), so I was nervous about how murky or cold the water would be. It was perfect conditions, or much better than murky Mission Bay! They called "wave 1.... wave 2..." and so on until "wave 5, please swim to the start line!" Eeek, I looked around at everyone else and just took deep breaths as I prepared myself. And then we were off! </div>
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The first 100 m or so were a disaster, I was so excited and swam off in a hurry, was trying to catch my breath and occasionally sidestroking. I came up after the first buoy and pulled myself together mentally and just started a methodical routine of stroke, stroke, stroke, breath... I watched as people passed me but I found my groove and just went for it. The swim was freeing and calming. I was one of the slower swimmers in my group but I kept checking to make sure I wasn't last! hehee... As I came out of the water, I found my mom relieved I hadn't drown. </div>
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Now it was time for the bike transition, I think it was about 6 minutes (hey, I am still new to this) and I was off on the bike! My mom was able to see me take off & come in for the end of my ride.</div>
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The bike portion of the race was great. I was reeeeeeally nervous about this one hill that we had to ride twice, and since this part of the course was on the Naval Base, there was no way to see the hill pre-race. My goal was "don't fall on the hill!" Well, I didn't fall, I passed people who were walking their bikes and overcame my fear of hill climbing (at least for the time being). It was hot out there, but not too bad. My seat definitely needs to be raised again because I felt like I wasn't moving much for the amount of energy I was exerting. As I was finishing up loop 1 of the bike portion, I was flying down a hill to see my friends, Todd & Tammy, standing on the corner cheering me on! What a boost! I completed the next loop with confidence going up the hill again and just finished up the best I could. </div>
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As I came in to Transition 2, my friend Ashley was cheering my into the bike finish. Another boost! I ran my bike in, ripped off my gloves and helmet. I took off for the run and I felt like I was sprinting.. then I looked down at my watch and apparently my legs were lead. I was hardly moving! Running after a bike ride is the weirdest sensation on your legs. I was thirsty, thirsty, thirsty and stopped for every tiny bit of water I could get on this 6 mile run. Tammy, Todd, Ashley and another surprise guest, Jeff, arrived on the run course and pushed me with positive thoughts. I love that my friends are active and we support each other in our little endeavors! So as I finished up my run I hauled my little buns to the finish line and collected my sweeeet medal! <br />
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Yipeeeeeeeee! I think I really was saying that as I crossed the finish line.</div>
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Free beer garden celebrations for participants and spectators. </div>
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Todd, Tammy and Jeff were definitely not passing up the free Stone Brewing Co. beer. </div>
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Thanks to my mom, Ashley, Todd, Tammy & Jeff for coming out and supporting me!</div>
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So... When is the next one? </div>
Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-89472999574529286612012-10-10T22:30:00.002-07:002012-10-10T22:31:21.273-07:00Paleo Carrot-Cake Muffins I got a bag of fresh carrots last week from our school's Farm 2 Kids program and yes, the produce is for the kids buuuuut they always give the teachers a bag too. So... I don't turn down fresh produce when it's offered! My students were asking me for ideas for their carrots and after suggestion muffins or bread, I wanted to do a little baking over the weekend. I also recently threw out all my wheat flour, so I looked for a gluten-free carrot cake muffin recipe. Thanks to <a href="http://robbwolf.com/what-is-the-paleo-diet/">Paleo</a> being all the rage these days, it was easy to find a pretty yummy looking recipe.<br />
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I found this one on <a href="http://momgonepaleo.com/">MomGonePaleo</a>... The result was nutty, tasty and a little salty!<br />
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<i>Paleo Carrot Cake Muffins:</i><br />
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2 1/4 cups almond flour (I used almond meal, so the texture was a little nuttier)<br />
1/2 tsp baking soda<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
2 tsp ground cinnamon<br />
1 tsp nutmeg<br />
1/2 tsp each of allspice, clove and ginger <br />
3 tbs melted coconut oil or butter<br />
3 eggs beaten<br />
2-3 tbsp honey (start with 2 then add the 3rd if you want it sweeter)<br />
1 tbsp vanilla extract<br />
3/4 cup shredded carrot (I did a little extra!)<br />
1/2 cup raisins (optional)<br />
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)<br />
1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)<br />
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Used my food processor to shred up fresh carrots - still had leftovers for salads this week! </div>
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Mix 'er up! </div>
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This recipe made about 16 delightfully, surprising muffins! </div>
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I brought them to work on Monday... mixed reviews because they are <i>different.</i> The muffins turned out extremely moist and fluffy but they are saltier & less sweet than what most would expect of a muffin. I love the way almond meal bakes, but some people aren't used to gluten & (processed) sugar free foods. BUT I was very happy with a new breakfast treat and I've had one every day this week ;) </div>
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If you don't mind venturing away from regular flour and trying more natural ingredients, I highly suggest these little guys. Carrots, almonds, walnuts -- I've convinced myself that I am eating lots of goodness in these muffins! Now you should to! </div>
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Cheers,<br />
Belle Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-63167243275139398472012-10-07T08:52:00.001-07:002012-10-07T08:54:20.600-07:00Power Smoothie!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have to eat breakfast. It is a meal I can't skip, or else I am sluggish and my appetite is off all day. Unfortunately I don't have time to make scrambled eggs or a fritatta, so I usually go for a protein smoothie. This one is full of fiber, protein & good fats. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS2UNKnS2I40DBkgqb1_hJpfYLRjnGUDVB212125CmK9h4hk4jUfHYCV7Gv9XqD3Tvw4t3Anagc20spXizWR8IG_EIfwgZQlIgNUnJzIj-n-55fHSrP_yX-oWydjw-FroU7ae_oOVXbX4/s1600/IMG_2366.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS2UNKnS2I40DBkgqb1_hJpfYLRjnGUDVB212125CmK9h4hk4jUfHYCV7Gv9XqD3Tvw4t3Anagc20spXizWR8IG_EIfwgZQlIgNUnJzIj-n-55fHSrP_yX-oWydjw-FroU7ae_oOVXbX4/s640/IMG_2366.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<i>Power Smoothie: </i><br />
3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk<br />
1/2 banana (about 6 frozen slices)<br />
1 scoop protein powder<br />
1/2 Tbsp flax seeds <br />
1 Tbsp nut butter (almond, sunflower or peanut <br />
Ice cubes, if you like more of a milkshake consistency<i> </i> <br />
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Tips for the day: </div>
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1) Blend all ingredients first except the nut butter, then add nut butter in once smooth - It blends in better without sticking to all the sides of the blender!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSgX2jo_rg_vPbeoadxdgvayZajP6TrqdtABuuUcmGw-k4cotGXfnpsXS51vgEi8qWBuiDaiEd43Zpi8-i0YGGxP-YtPAeXar0vGWL-TscPQyU0OVx6xMOBG-LROnycJf4kws0Q0LjM4Y/s1600/IMG_2365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSgX2jo_rg_vPbeoadxdgvayZajP6TrqdtABuuUcmGw-k4cotGXfnpsXS51vgEi8qWBuiDaiEd43Zpi8-i0YGGxP-YtPAeXar0vGWL-TscPQyU0OVx6xMOBG-LROnycJf4kws0Q0LjM4Y/s640/IMG_2365.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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2) Slice and flash freeze bananas when you buy them. Then stick in a freezer bag for later use. It makes the smoothie creamier!<br />
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Speaking of breakfast, I am hungry and going to make one of these right now! </div>
Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-1053344874174142492012-10-01T21:55:00.001-07:002012-10-07T08:54:42.091-07:00Monthy UpdateWell, it's been over a month since I have updated. Here is what's been going on....<br />
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School started again. </div>
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Went sailing for the first time. </div>
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A family member passed away = a lot of family time together and celebrating life. </div>
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My tomato & pepper plants are still growing.</div>
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I completed my first triathlon. </div>
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The triathlon was amazing.... look for a full post soon! </div>
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I can't believe it is already October!!! Although September had some nice & memorable moments, it was an extremely hard month. A lot of sadness & loss, school work piled up over & over, and a mental breakdown with running. I am so so happy for a new month to be here, and hopefully more happiness and less stress in store for me & others around me.<br />
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Things I am looking forward to in October:<br />
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<li>a trapeze lesson this weekend</li>
<li>a possible Disneyland trip</li>
<li>Japanese themed dinner club</li>
<li>Halloween!</li>
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Cheers & wishes for cooler San Diego weather,<br />
Belle Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-42598027984154138712012-08-25T16:16:00.003-07:002012-08-25T17:04:07.567-07:00Ginger-Lemon Soother Finally!!! I woke up this morning feeling MUCH better that I have the last 5 days. Only got one fever in the middle of the night and although I have been up since 4am, I am feeling less achey and have been cleaning house this morning. I found a cold-remedy recipe online yesterday, but couldn't find it again today. I knew it included ginger, lemon and some water. Seemed easy enough. And wow, it really was. I know there are quite a few of you with sore throats, give this a try!<br />
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<i>Ginger-Lemon Soother</i><br />
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2 cups water<br />
4 slices lemon<br />
1 inch unpeeled ginger root, sliced<br />
2 Tbsp honey <br />
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1) Bring to a boil<br />
2) Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes <br />
3) Strain through a sieve into a mug<br />
4) Stir in honey<br />
5) Sip & soothe<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBYE-tXlbnGBrE4dAWm8Fke1z-hFwkyvqIOgsOqiSz8fHwbXRozbURe9bxV6Tlu-X2TvmTdUTAtsSVOwv5j56YFdFSzZFKBhn0_rTmzpF7-Yxc2GbShyphenhyphenGh5PlRzbREV29a0C1stcAsqq8/s1600/IMG_2143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBYE-tXlbnGBrE4dAWm8Fke1z-hFwkyvqIOgsOqiSz8fHwbXRozbURe9bxV6Tlu-X2TvmTdUTAtsSVOwv5j56YFdFSzZFKBhn0_rTmzpF7-Yxc2GbShyphenhyphenGh5PlRzbREV29a0C1stcAsqq8/s640/IMG_2143.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here are some other recipes I found that involve more work and deeper flavor, but I didn't have the time or patience for that today. When I have more time, I will definitely try these out though!<br />
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<a href="http://www.artistic31mama.com/2012/03/cold-remedy-honey-lemon-ginger-syrup.html">Cold Remedy: Honey, Lemon & Ginger Syrup</a> from Artistic31Mama.com<br />
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<a href="http://www.thekitchn.com/recipe-flu-season-ginger-honey-38574">Flu-Season Ginger Honey Lemon Tonic</a> from thekitchn.com<br />
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<a href="http://www.deliciousdays.com/archives/2010/02/09/thylehogichi-or-how-to-fight-a-nasty-cold/">Thylehogichi</a> - from deliciousdays.com (named for its THYme LEmon HOney GInger CHIli - cute!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii3eKPq00bqHvyXE8o-Z7tV1WqsFNEELdmRyG7q5zPm1cI6INgGxDvpS6r-iGUi7g4AtrVXf_Gqrzc-KvaJi1SGFNX6gCwbLpr7hlwCvI_QJ6gifW_xD_sltgp-z2OSbE2mWln2MrIvKQ/s1600/tea" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii3eKPq00bqHvyXE8o-Z7tV1WqsFNEELdmRyG7q5zPm1cI6INgGxDvpS6r-iGUi7g4AtrVXf_Gqrzc-KvaJi1SGFNX6gCwbLpr7hlwCvI_QJ6gifW_xD_sltgp-z2OSbE2mWln2MrIvKQ/s640/tea" width="640" /></a></div>
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Picture from deliciousdays.com</div>
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Cheers to soothed throats,<br />
Belle Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-33670030013594810542012-08-24T09:39:00.002-07:002012-08-25T17:03:39.039-07:00Fideo & Chicken Soup with Queso FrescoJust my luck. It is my last week of summer vacation and I am sick. I have been feeling really lousy all week and Wednesday, I woke up feeling a teeny bit better. So I decided to go for a ride with my new clip-in shoes. Bad idea. I got home, felt even more lousy and have had a fever that is coming and going ever since. <br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Soup to the rescue!! </span></i><br />
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Have I mentioned I love soup? Yes, it might be a small addiction. Maybe I should change the blog to "The S's of Life: Soup and Sweat." hehehe. Okay, maybe a bit extreme.<br />
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Anywho - after feeling so icky, I decided to make a soup that I happened to buy ingredients for this past weekend. I found this recipe in the August chapter of my Williams-Sonoma <a href="http://www.williams-sonoma.com/products/3845070/?catalogId=84&bnrid=3120901&cm_ven=Google_PLA&cm_cat=Cooks_Tools&cm_pla=Cookbooks&cm_ite=Williams-Sonoma_Soup_of_The_Day_Cookbook&adtype=pla&ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=3845070">Soup of the Day</a> cookbook. It looked delicious and pretty simple.<br />
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Here's what you will need for this tasty soup: <br />
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<i>Fideo & Chicken Soup with Queso Fresco </i><br />
<i>(serves 6 - unless you are like me and eat it all yourself)</i><br />
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2 small skinless, boneless chicken breast halves<br />
3 Tbsp olive soul<br />
Salt & fresh ground pepper<br />
1 white onion, chopped<br />
4 cloves garlic, minced<br />
2 Tbsp tomato paste<br />
1/2 chipotle chili in adobo, minced (use the whole chili if you like the extra kick)<br />
6 cups chicken broth (I used 4 cups broth, 2 cups water)<br />
1/2 fideo noodles or vermicilli/angel hair pasta broken into 2-inch pieces<br />
2 Tbsp chopped cilantro<br />
1 avocado, pitted, peeled and sliced<br />
3 oz queso fresco, crumbled<br />
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Let's get cooking...<br />
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I love that most of the ingredients are pantry staples. </div>
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Chicken breasts were roasting for 20 minutes at 375 degrees. </div>
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I omitted the cilantro because, well... I didn't have any. </div>
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And as lousy as I felt, I didn't want to go to the store. </div>
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Chop & mince while the oil is heating in big ol' soup pot. </div>
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Saute onion & garlic for 5 minutes, until translucent. </div>
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Add in oregano, tomato paste & adobo chili to onion and garlic mixture. </div>
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Let's take a moment: How cool is this tube of tomato paste? No more wasting a whole can!</div>
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Hmmm..what am I going to do with all these chilis? I guess another recipe soon.</div>
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<i> </i><i> </i>Add the broth and bring to a boil (I chose broth & water to lower the sodium) </div>
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I love watching soup simmer! </div>
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Add noodles & <b>cooked</b> chicken to broth mixture and let boil until noodles are done. My angel hair only took 4 minutes, but the recipe says 8 for fideo noodles. </div>
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Stir a few times while the noodles cook, then salt & pepper to taste!</div>
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Since my mumbo jumbo directions probably are scattered, here's the exact recipe:</div>
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1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees and put chicken breasts on baking sheet. Brush with 1 Tbsp olive oil, season with salt and pepper. Roast chicken in the oven until it is cooked through, about 20 minutes. When chicken is cool enough to handle, shred and set aside. </div>
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2. In a large pot, warm 2 Tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic and saute until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the oregano, tomato paste and chipotle and stir well to combine. Add the broth and bring to a boil. Add the noodles and cook til soft. Add the shredded chicken and cilantro and stir to combine. Season to taste with salt & pepper.</div>
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3. Serve, top with avocado and crumbled queso fresco. </div>
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I think Williams-Sonoma would be very proud of how my soup compares to theirs.</div>
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Muy delicioso!</div>
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Cheers, </div>
Belle<br />
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Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-60690198399720820182012-08-23T12:49:00.001-07:002012-08-23T14:45:04.855-07:00Summer SpaghettiFresh ingredients. Vegetarian & Light. Summer spaghetti. Yum!<br />
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This is how it all began:<br />
About a month ago, my students and I harvested these beautiful tomatoes from our school garden. (No, these tomatoes aren't a month old... it just took me this long to finally post about it)<br />
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A variety of tomatoes...Basil, peas and carrots too! </div>
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We harvested so many that I think each child took home at least 15 tomatoes and I ended up with the extras. I was happy to take them home and see what I could come up with.<br />
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Think, think, think. Basil in my garden. Fresh picked tomatoes. Pasta in pantry. Easy peasy, a summer spaghetti was on its way. <br />
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I still wanted to add something to it... so I searched my fridge. I found a container of unopened non-fat cottage cheese. I bought it thinking that I might convince myself to try it finally, but I hadn't touched it. I decided to turn it into a "ricotta" for my spaghetti.<br />
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Here's how to make this easy, vegetarian meal! <br />
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<i>Summer Spaghetti </i><br />
<i>(serves 2)</i><br />
1/2 box of your favorite spaghetti noodle, I used brown rice spaghetti<br />
10 grape tomatoes<br />
1 clove garlic, minced<br />
3-4 leaves of fresh basil<br />
Extra virgin olive oil<br />
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<i>"Ricotta</i>" <br />
4 oz. non-fat cottage cheese<br />
1 tsp oregano <br />
Juice from 1/2 lemon<br />
Salt & Pepper<br />
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First things first, get your pasta going. Next, take the cottage cheese and oregano and blend together. Add in juice from lemon until you've reached desired consistency. Season with salt & pepper and set "ricotta" aside. <br />
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Once the pasta is cooking and cheese is ready, slice your tomatoes lengthwise. Heat 2 Tbsp evoo in a pan and toss in garlic. Saute on low for 1 minute. Toss in sliced tomatoes and saute until tomatoes begin to soften. Roll basil leaves into a cigar like shape and slice basil into thin strips, set aside. <br />
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When tomatoes are softened to desired consistency (I like mine on the crunchier side), add pasta to pan with tomatoes & garlic. Saute all together for 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in basil. Serve in bowls and top with a dollop of cheese mixture! Enjoy!</div>
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Cheers,<br />
Belle Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-13837210697721728542012-08-22T12:52:00.003-07:002012-08-23T11:22:02.385-07:00Weekly Sweat Stats 8/6-8/19 The past two weeks were filled with travel, relaxation, humidity and a lot of sweating. I went on vacation for 8 days to Playa del Carmen with a good friend. It was much needed to relax my muscles and <strike>cross-train</strike> eat and drink. Training was all over the place, but I did what I <strike>could </strike>wanted to while on vacation. We were constantly sweating from the heat and walked everywhere, so even if we were indulging a bit - it was sweating right back out. Or at least that's what I'd like to think.<br />
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One day, we ventured out on an excursion. Just a few more ways I kept active and moving... <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Repelled into a cenote...</div>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsU87Ye43kQP2sXCc7Np8HdYX-KXn-nRq8a8sEpTjk-NDP0xfheN2KXOsGPv9fKO6xvxV9J4q0-lIpwwmUErDWOkDlHdm98bNBsd3ELNREJwGpYFXn8WYFim-FwSheuH9SWfI7DfP6bdo/s1600/20120813_42_523452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsU87Ye43kQP2sXCc7Np8HdYX-KXn-nRq8a8sEpTjk-NDP0xfheN2KXOsGPv9fKO6xvxV9J4q0-lIpwwmUErDWOkDlHdm98bNBsd3ELNREJwGpYFXn8WYFim-FwSheuH9SWfI7DfP6bdo/s640/20120813_42_523452.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ziplined through the Mayan Riviera jungle....</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Snorkeled through a cave...<br />
</div>
Both Jeff & I were signed up for the AFC Half Marathon, so we
squeezed in a few shorter runs on days it wasn't too hot. If you don't
know about Mexico weather, it can be pretty warm!!! It was mid 80s-90s
with 90% humidity. We were already pretty well trained but wanted to
keep our legs loose and moving. <br />
<br />
AFC turned out to
be a mess for most people. It was 78 degrees at the start at 7am, and continued
to get warmer and warmer. I felt really good up til mile 7, where I
choked on some water at an aide station and proceeded to throw up.
Luckily/unluckily it was all fluid and no food, so I had energy still
but no liquids. Slowly, I sipped on water through the next few miles as I
jogged along heavily. My friend Heather found me on the course and ran
beside me, motivating me til the finish. I ran a personal worst, 23
minutes slower than my best time. Yikes. But truly, this race was meant
to just keep me moving throughout the summer. And whether it was after a
long day at work or during humidity on vacation, I kept moving. <br />
<br />
<i>Weekly Sweat Stats 8/6-8/12</i><br />
<br />
Monday: 50 minute (5 miles) on elliptical, core and strength training<br />
Tuesday: 1300 m swim, track workout 5 x 800m repeats with a short warm up lap and cool down laps in between (equaling about 3.8 miles)<br />
Wednesday: 21 mile ride, 2 mile run <br />
Thursday: travel day, super sweaty dance off<br />
Friday: nada<br />
Saturday: 5.5 mile run <br />
Sunday: 1000 m swim <br />
<br />
<i>Weekly Sweat Stats 8/13-8/19</i> <br />
<br />
Monday: excursion day! <br />
Tuesday: 3 mile run, 50 minute on spin bike<br />
Wednesday: 50 minutes on spin bike<br />
Thursday: travel day<br />
Friday: 3 miler<br />
Saturday: rest & stretch<br />
Sunday: AFC half marathon, 13.1 miles<br />
<br />
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We survived a hot race day! </div>
Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-36602858590888661402012-08-09T04:35:00.000-07:002012-08-23T13:28:54.974-07:00Best Fruit Salad You've Ever Had3 ingredients. Plums. Nectarines. Mint. Done.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxadLEOWHgTPUEPG6BBYboywb6nFnVi9UtYxogpbNNFPJ42lciky9jBB0m6leT0Ip7saPz1ZtpbLnj_NaOYiSz_-dpO8P7LIvWrY5qVMxpBF73Gfm35zzvoXFtQcL0Uuj0ebrkGiP12tY/s1600/IMG_2070.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxadLEOWHgTPUEPG6BBYboywb6nFnVi9UtYxogpbNNFPJ42lciky9jBB0m6leT0Ip7saPz1ZtpbLnj_NaOYiSz_-dpO8P7LIvWrY5qVMxpBF73Gfm35zzvoXFtQcL0Uuj0ebrkGiP12tY/s640/IMG_2070.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9yTPJ2tjXIP4ZcyMZ_9PAymUgt0-BfBpMVun0tOXsYZiOWufcV93u54Elp6ySbarryMPucIDi5qZG5Y74pw7t-_LWXAvtAPHeSqdESdUD_cDJxtbaBCa3iyx9TD1ZhJ6pk8jQfPIoiMw/s1600/IMG_2065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9yTPJ2tjXIP4ZcyMZ_9PAymUgt0-BfBpMVun0tOXsYZiOWufcV93u54Elp6ySbarryMPucIDi5qZG5Y74pw7t-_LWXAvtAPHeSqdESdUD_cDJxtbaBCa3iyx9TD1ZhJ6pk8jQfPIoiMw/s640/IMG_2065.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Poor little fruits, waiting to be munched. </div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm sure it would be tasty with a glass of that Moscato too... </div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Juicy, red plums!!! How did I miss out on these as a child? </div>
<br />
<i>Stone Fruit Salad</i><br />
<i>(serves 1-2 people)</i><br />
2 sliced red plums<br />
2 sliced white nectarines<br />
Fresh mint leaves (I used 2 sprigs)<br />
<br />
Toss together and let sit for a few minutes, allowing the mint leaves to soften and <i>melt</i> their flavors into your fruit. Then <i>voila!</i> You are on your way to enjoying a surprisingly, amazing fruit salad. <br />
<br />
So I will admit, I am not sure if these are red or black plums. I have been buying ripe plums whenever I can find them at the farmer's market or at Sprouts. I was enjoying ones with red flesh inside and the next week, suddenly the <i>same</i> plums were yellow inside. I asked the guys at the market and at the store, some said they didn't know why they varied and one guy told me the organic red plums were red inside, while non-organic was yellow. I thought black plums were red inside so then I was reeeeeally confused. If anyone knows the answer to the plum mystery, any help is appreciated! But either way, find some juicy plums - I just like the color these add. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiohwUca3LAvmufwEcdf_Z1BhyphenhyphenXUKR9LOqVfa3pAzLh9nsVgGl4RGIsP0it0apMe6nyu8Dott3E6new464BcS0rFtc_bEk84EAx_0XrI5PncmEU9CFhW2qwWDiPIX-T_45jnp6RdjR7XmQ/s1600/IMG_1773.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I <i>guess</i> you could add in strawberries, peaches or other stone fruit. </div>
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiohwUca3LAvmufwEcdf_Z1BhyphenhyphenXUKR9LOqVfa3pAzLh9nsVgGl4RGIsP0it0apMe6nyu8Dott3E6new464BcS0rFtc_bEk84EAx_0XrI5PncmEU9CFhW2qwWDiPIX-T_45jnp6RdjR7XmQ/s640/IMG_1773.JPG" width="640" /><br />
<br />
Now go to the market, buy some plums and nectarines and indulge in summer's sweets.<br />
<br />
Cheers,<br />
Belle Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-37580866950669343502012-08-07T14:07:00.003-07:002012-08-23T14:45:04.842-07:00Portabello and Spinach Pasta Last week I was out of town on vacation, so my blog took a little vacation too. When I returned and was reconnecting with my computer, I saw <a href="http://www.recipe.com/farfalle-with-mushrooms-and-spinach/?socsrc=recfb0803123">this</a> on Recipe.com & Pinterest. Spinach, meaty mushrooms and pasta?? Sold! <br />
<br />
<i>Farfalle with Mushrooms and Spinach</i><br />
6
ounces farfalle (bow-tie) pasta<br />
1
tablespoon olive oil<br />
1 medium onion chopped or sliced, depending on your preference<br />
1
cup
sliced portobello or other fresh mushrooms<br />
2
cloves garlic, minced<br />
4
cups thinly sliced fresh spinach<br />
1-2 sprigs of fresh thyme, leaves pulled off<br />
1/8
teaspoon
pepper<br />
2
tablespoons
shredded Parmesan cheese<br />
<br />
It was perfect for a Friday night, carb-heavy, easy meal. I needed carbs for my 13 mile run the next morning! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKjh-apWhyphenhyphenhmOT7omGPXmrfvBF_fN4kf2mhEWYmTBANUbZc4Bo5FkPoAvF563S6jYzd0zVNKI_EpdLSI8HwWTbpfZPN0uvy-i5HGO4Ty6mzgS5_gAxetm9mm2Vvyoj_Q7qVYdyb2qqiq8/s1600/IMG_2042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKjh-apWhyphenhyphenhmOT7omGPXmrfvBF_fN4kf2mhEWYmTBANUbZc4Bo5FkPoAvF563S6jYzd0zVNKI_EpdLSI8HwWTbpfZPN0uvy-i5HGO4Ty6mzgS5_gAxetm9mm2Vvyoj_Q7qVYdyb2qqiq8/s640/IMG_2042.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I added grilled steak into the Friday night meal, but forgot the thyme. It was
still tasty but needed a little more flavor... so Saturday I made the
same meal <b>with</b> the thyme, a few cut up patty-pan squash and kept it vegetarian. The thyme seemed to be the missing ingredient on Friday. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Turned out super delish!</div>
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</div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixjuX44HH-HNJnS5pDoiUG3moaFbttBaTEGlF-pUuGOYGoUy_JfOh2DYlXPuLqDQAF0XxVTEaz5HhWN3rAE_lqhns39cs_rDDRPFPwHwApIIhYcYEoD9g_5m6r_u2-IDNI8xd7iJcerPw/s640/IMG_2046.JPG" width="640" /> Patty-pan squash... tender and so flavorful! </div>
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<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxoPHzrLlCsc0MjqBFUWlNNIDjio472EOqHnENIxfjXncgsc1CHY_4-2cyUbkf_nJpgxAfiDZfgR8OaTjhiW-KZdeUg90UN1RbEYp1mk9N7OUFpQm92fWjNRmeqKPtlptNtHUYCiCcF2k/s1600/IMG_2043.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxoPHzrLlCsc0MjqBFUWlNNIDjio472EOqHnENIxfjXncgsc1CHY_4-2cyUbkf_nJpgxAfiDZfgR8OaTjhiW-KZdeUg90UN1RbEYp1mk9N7OUFpQm92fWjNRmeqKPtlptNtHUYCiCcF2k/s640/IMG_2043.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Olympics, porch dinner and a warm summer night...Doesn't get much better than this. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
P.S. The photo on the left is from recipe.com and mine is on the right... pretty close, eh??</div>
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<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE54j6RWLOLT6157IycYhCCPw2ExE2t4cqKDR3Bvn8gJUPZkWC2sAQtUTGzsd4nFG2B3xiMYMK0oUVZJmyJcHPfYI2DPQ99CfTNSrDKL29IoO2ZkncLhA4XRZj3ZkKHUDJEzdMaTk7gp4/s320/IMG_2039.PNG" width="213" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKjh-apWhyphenhyphenhmOT7omGPXmrfvBF_fN4kf2mhEWYmTBANUbZc4Bo5FkPoAvF563S6jYzd0zVNKI_EpdLSI8HwWTbpfZPN0uvy-i5HGO4Ty6mzgS5_gAxetm9mm2Vvyoj_Q7qVYdyb2qqiq8/s1600/IMG_2042.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKjh-apWhyphenhyphenhmOT7omGPXmrfvBF_fN4kf2mhEWYmTBANUbZc4Bo5FkPoAvF563S6jYzd0zVNKI_EpdLSI8HwWTbpfZPN0uvy-i5HGO4Ty6mzgS5_gAxetm9mm2Vvyoj_Q7qVYdyb2qqiq8/s320/IMG_2042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I LOVE SPINACH & MUSHROOMS!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Cheers, </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Belle </div>
</div>
Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-19542103003298993782012-08-07T08:31:00.001-07:002012-08-07T14:52:31.419-07:00Weekly Sweat Stats 7/23-7/29 and 7/30-8/5 Well.... I haven't updated in a while because I was on vacation! And a relaxing, family-filled time it was. <i> </i>So now I am back, for a few days that is. I leave this week for another vacation to Playa del Carmen. It is going to be amazing. But until then I need to get updated on this little blog here.<br />
<br />
Having the London Olympics on is extremely motivating. While I am training, I like to imagine that I run and swim as beautifully as those athletes. Two weeks until AFC Half Marathon and four and a half weeks until San Diego Triathlon Classic! I am not worried about the half marathon, but more worried about my first tri. Eeeeeeeeeeek!<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpMebgDXagk41XQZLSPoqtNc7Yeow1MCtsFRkRbCVjHv2d7PemNl1CEFzQFs1iqWBOrYpqrz-0yENOKTU1IkJSbGDcF-_ZaTETwWvnjv05y__FoHAR0q4fWN7-Qaovil9Q3S1VcngVVp0/s1600/olympics" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpMebgDXagk41XQZLSPoqtNc7Yeow1MCtsFRkRbCVjHv2d7PemNl1CEFzQFs1iqWBOrYpqrz-0yENOKTU1IkJSbGDcF-_ZaTETwWvnjv05y__FoHAR0q4fWN7-Qaovil9Q3S1VcngVVp0/s640/olympics" width="640" /></a></div>
How did you put up a fight in life this week? <br />
<br />
<i>Weekly Sweat Stats 7/23-7/29</i><br />
<br />
Monday: 800 m swim <br />
Tuesday: 5 mile run<br />
Wednesday: 12 mile ride <br />
Thursday: 4 mile run (pain in heel this day, so walked 2 miles after)<br />
Friday: 50 minute elliptical & strength training<br />
Saturday: 11 mile long run <br />
Sunday: stretch & core (off to vacation!!) <br />
<br />
<i>Weekly Sweat Stats 7/30-8/4</i><br />
<i>*was on vacation in Las Vegas with family this week, so workouts are all over the place* </i><br />
<br />
Monday: 50 minutes on spin bike & 600 m swim <br />
Tuesday: treadmill workout - 1/2 mile warm up, 6 x 800m sprints, 1/2 mile cool down <br />
Wednesday: day off <br />
Thursday: 3 miles treadmill, 3 miles elliptical, <br />
Friday: drive home from Vegas<br />
Saturday: 13.5 mile run <br />
Sunday: 15 mile "small hill" ride & 500 m swim<br />
<br />
And there you have it. Compared to my friends' Ironman training schedules, this looks sort of wimpy. But my body is feeling better, with the cross-training, than it was with just running. I am only home a few days this week, so squeezing in some double workouts. Off for a swim!<br />
<br />Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-40784653454482245682012-07-27T08:03:00.002-07:002012-08-23T14:45:04.849-07:00Cumin-Lime Pasta Salad Whipped this little bad boy up today for lunch. Pasta salad is a favorite of mine on a hot day. I gave it a little mexican flair and ta-da, new flavors and reinvented salad. Perfect for a picnic, a warm summer evening or heck...whenever you want to eat it!<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4hw45K4li6bAGNOTv5R-TIyhK_vvq6a_fAXJQHbf_EzxbQ7WHtP7-LKJmVAXKdCU0qz-3OS8u-xiOaWfvUzocz_b2DrBxDJuCSgGNwGvp1npdob5U_JA7B23uJ7a_KJuUf7sKAdZfWcA/s1600/DSCN6909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4hw45K4li6bAGNOTv5R-TIyhK_vvq6a_fAXJQHbf_EzxbQ7WHtP7-LKJmVAXKdCU0qz-3OS8u-xiOaWfvUzocz_b2DrBxDJuCSgGNwGvp1npdob5U_JA7B23uJ7a_KJuUf7sKAdZfWcA/s640/DSCN6909.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<i>Cumin-Lime Pasta Salad</i><br />
<br />
<i>Salad</i><br />
1 package Corn Penne Pasta (you can use any pasta, I was giving the gluten-free, corn pasta a try)<br />
1 can black beans, rinsed & drained<br />
1 tomato, chopped or sliced<br />
6-8 mini bell peppers, sliced <br />
1 avocado, half cubed and half sliced<br />
1 ear of corn, grilled and kernels cut off (this was my vision, I didn't make it to the store for corn) <br />
Crumbled cotija cheese <br />
<br />
<i>Cumin-Lime Dressing</i> <br />
1/2 extra virgin olive oil<br />
2 limes, zested & juiced<br />
1 tbsp agave/honey<br />
1 tsp cumin<br />
1 tsp chili powder<br />
Salt & Pepper<br />
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<span id="goog_1239970681"></span><span id="goog_1239970682"> </span><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT-HKv2S6nGQIetM-xE8CS7Q0xuXB5BUm2mF4TPrdO2sh_KFBXnJkAgHG843ceE_clVbDnKEI35354FTiOY4EKUgXTknLjfsXmF96R-4XByNR5qEKwKKbvzqCnvN1UjFyIwZiR0bl0Ko8/s640/DSCN6898.JPG" width="640" /> </div>
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While the pasta is cooking, chop, drain and prep salad ingredients </div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxxXjqBkCUpu6Dv7cvegdi1VSGo-ipcFRgLRoqYmM0eX8lmZ9AK_LnxEihvw98g04VeaB4iMcqlCvBO-TbjkC9-_4Ao-U8hIqqFFdjK79qvOUgKA4jjnMnQ4aoFUOb7CH5AbHENG10O9w/s640/DSCN6899.JPG" width="640" /> </div>
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Then work on the dressing - add oil & cumin in a bowl </div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhinUGf1pVzvpdCvb7Yb-NrNys4Ms39k3DfmYA0QFBoAj-4cV1WEXTe8xG4_OAcHZkZ6BxjVVhQMXSVonQUeoOW-pnGvr-p8LBUfKtP4sGdw_Sjh5W414QCI3m4lI6ZMOMXL7V8A2-zy4g/s640/DSCN6900.JPG" width="640" /> </div>
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Zest & juice your limes, add 1 Tbsp agave</div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwKGbdelNU44smh0KKeVJxq7tGpLTxyxmUDHOOoWQ5f2FdZsOPiRjhZloH_W1EhTYpn-QPSbKutBT92f_YUsKyW7ooTGhsc8nMuYKmavFg8P9MfPiY_xysBecyRBZELl_m2Hp_OiXGZwA/s640/DSCN6904.JPG" width="640" /> </div>
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Whisk ingredients together and add chili powder, salt & pepper to taste</div>
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<img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOlzeLrFRrPYw6O-da5DhqlPs9jKXDCllNEwYT49S3EWRLhyRQOsIbQ1EpndZsl_T5CVbwKsBSNhcx4KYhjgM_ocAJ4aAaL5DN0fDibOm21SHZcsixfs0WJ5xGicNqL2UESd6_3wGd2Sc/s640/DSCN6906.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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Toss it all together. Serve with sliced avocado and crumbled cotija on top. yummo! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFwaZAgrX4ZPeCOZBzY7mAFWxAnoJ43c1I-KMTJEL_0QYTkYWx82JtIjgEovCOyM93bkYKxaE_hqxjWdVol-gbNEVu-qCpJBIGS90YYLfvOWkYC27WO3VHkOyfbkWdst5HSr6vrAZyHWE/s1600/DSCN6910.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFwaZAgrX4ZPeCOZBzY7mAFWxAnoJ43c1I-KMTJEL_0QYTkYWx82JtIjgEovCOyM93bkYKxaE_hqxjWdVol-gbNEVu-qCpJBIGS90YYLfvOWkYC27WO3VHkOyfbkWdst5HSr6vrAZyHWE/s640/DSCN6910.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Super easy and light for a summer meal.<br />
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Cheers, </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Belle </div>
</div>Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-153580999261521829.post-17979894033032622562012-07-25T07:56:00.001-07:002012-07-27T08:06:56.699-07:00Weekly Sweat Stats 7/17-7/22 This week had its ups and downs. Downs because of body fatigue but a lot of ups also! No point in dwelling on the downs, summer break has begun and I have all the time in the world to rest, heal and clear my mind. <br />
<br />
I spectated a triathlon for the first time this weekend at the Solana Beach Triathlon. I met a friend of mine in Del Mar and we ran a little over 2 miles to the swim start of the tri. I was very interested to watch the athletes start, crowd control and the transitions from sport to sport. There were athletes of all ages and shapes! I know I will be able to do this! My first tri is Septemeber 8, so about 6 <span style="font-size: x-small;">1/2</span> weeks away. I have been running and swimming, but still really scared of road biking. I can already do the 24.8 miles on a flat course, but up a steep hill (twice!), is going to be a challenge. Anywho - let's just say, watching this weekend was exciting, motivating and pushed me to get my gears going (pun intended). <br />
<br />
The earlier part of my week was strickened with leg cramps and some ankle pain again. I was so upset about it, that I almost sold my bib for AFC half marathon (which is in about a month). Instead, I took it easy for a few days, took a few baths, massaged legs and started taking potassium & magnesium supplements again. By Thursday, I was feeling a lot better and went out for a pain-free run. I was thrilled!! I think my cramping had a lot to do with little sleep and the swollen legs I was getting during the work day from standing around in a 98 degree classroom! blech. Friday was the last day of school, so now I can stand or sit down whenever I feel like. neener, neener, neener.<br />
<br />
The next few weeks, I am going on two vacations. There will be a lot of indoor workouts (treadmill = yuck!), but this upcoming week I am still home. So I am making sure to take full advantage of having my bicycle and a lap pool nearby. As I approach the next few months of races, I will be reminding myself that it is about the accomplishment - not the best time or a personal record. Bottom line...I want to finish. <br />
<br />
Here's what I did last week:<br />
<br />
<i>Weekly Sweat Stats 7/17-7/22</i><br />
<i> </i> <br />
Monday: spin bike & 500 yard swim<br />
Tuesday: easy 4 miler (legs hurting)<br />
Wednesday: 2 mile run & 1,012 yard swim - first 1,000 yard swim!<br />
Thursday: 4 mile run<br />
Friday: day off<br />
Saturday: 8 mile easy run<br />
Sunday: 2 mile run to the Solana Beach Tri and back = 4 mile run<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4iT0incQX8unph0H92zxyrr72N7mR_Rhf_Ig4OFNKfczdQWrVfnz9ETmldTiepADhYmdZV8tECqR-z-kHww6gJW0tGldDcxPO9kFRuTE3fx3fgQvCr5VGtx51qmfFXGwomlSzGd_kHf4/s1600/tri" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4iT0incQX8unph0H92zxyrr72N7mR_Rhf_Ig4OFNKfczdQWrVfnz9ETmldTiepADhYmdZV8tECqR-z-kHww6gJW0tGldDcxPO9kFRuTE3fx3fgQvCr5VGtx51qmfFXGwomlSzGd_kHf4/s640/tri" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Since triathlons are on the mind, I want to wish my friends <a href="http://www.ieatneat.com/">Tammy</a>, Missi, <a href="http://www.thereisnotri.org/">Ian, Aren</a>, <a href="http://nerdjock-ashleyann.blogspot.com/">Ashley</a> and Lauren the best of luck this weekend on their Half-Ironman and Ironman races at Vineman!!!! They have been training for months and this Saturday is finally the big day. I can't wait to hear about their adventures. Good luck to them! <br />
<br />Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16874009813421843702noreply@blogger.com0