Author: styleand

3 Spring Sorbet Recipes

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3 SPRING SORBET RECIPES

A few years back my husband and I hosted an elegant French themed dinner party. In an effort to wow our guests, we served a sorbet between courses. The sorbet recipe needed to be made with an ice cream maker. In an effort to be streamlined, I try to avoid purchases like these, however, I really wanted to prepare the sorbet so I bought a Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker. I was surprised to learn how easy it is to make sorbet and ice cream and have made some delicious recipes. If you are feeling the need for a little indulgence…try these delicious sorbet recipes. While they do have sugar, they are low in fat!

LEMON BASIL SORBET

Makes about 5 cups

Ingredients:

2 cups water

1 ½ cups of granulated sugar

1 ½ tablespoons lemon zest, divided

1 cup packed fresh basil (1 ½ cups if stronger basil flavor is desired)

pinch of sea salt

2 cups fresh lemon juice

Instructions:

Combine the water, sugar and 1½ tablespoons of the lemon zest in a medium saucepan set over medium-low heat. Cook mixture until the sugar is fully dissolved. Remove from heat. Once the simple syrup is ready, add the basil and salt. Let the mixture steep for 30 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice. Cover and refrigerate 2 to 3 hours, or overnight. Strain the chilled mixture through a fine mesh strainer. Turn on the ice cream maker; pour the mixture into the frozen freezer bowl and let mix until thickened, about 15 to 20 minutes. When the sorbet is almost done, add the reserved zest through the opening on top of the ice cream maker and let churn until combined. The sorbet will have a soft, creamy texture. If a firmer consistency is desired, transfer the sorbet to an airtight container and place in freezer for about 2 hours. Remove from freezer about 15 minutes before serving. Garnish with a single basil leaf for an elegant presentation.

Source: www.cuisinart.com

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RASPBERRY SORBET

Makes about 5 cups

Ingredients

2 cups water

1 ½ cups sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

5 cups fresh raspberries

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions:

Combine water and sugar in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve. Reduce heat to low and simmer, without stirring, to make a syrup, for 5 minutes. Pour the syrup into a medium bowl, stir in vanilla extract and transfer to freezer and chill for 15 minutes. Purée 4 cups of the raspberries with the syrup in a blender until smooth. Scrape the purée through a fine sieve into a bowl and discard the seeds. Stir lemon juice into the raspberry purée and pour into a 2 quart ice cream maker. Freeze until desired consistency is achieved, approximately 25 minutes. Add remaining raspberries and continue freezing in the ice cream maker for approximately 5 minutes. Transfer the sorbet to a plastic container and freeze until completely set, about one hour. Garnish with a little home made whipped cream for a luxurious finish.

Source: www.saveur.com

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CHOCOLATE SORBET

Makes about 5 cups

Ingredients:

2 cups water

1 cup granulated sugar

½ teaspoon salt

1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (I like Ghiradelli)

1 cup cocoa (my favorite is Valharona)

¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

Heat water, sugar and salt in a medium saucepan, stir until sugar dissolves. Gradually mix sugar solution into cocoa using a whisk. While the mixture is still hot, add the chocolate chips and let sit for 5 minutes before mixing with a whisk. Chill 2 hours or overnight and then freeze in an ice-cream maker according to the manufacturers’ directions. Garnish with raspberries and mint leaves or chocolate candy.

Source: www.chocolatechocolateandmore.com

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Hope you enjoy these sweet sorbets!

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Bisous,
Rebecca

f. 21.2017
Five Tips for Spring Cleaning

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Five Tips for Spring Cleaning

Tomorrow is the first day of Spring, which means warm weather, vacations and summer holidays are around the corner. Like you, I am busy…working, mom-ing and blogging. Keeping things streamlined and organized is key to staying sane. I grew up in St. Louis where space was never an issue, but have spent most of my adult life in Florida. Alas, there are no basements in Florida, which means you have to get savvy really quickly because storage is minimal. We live in a condominium so space is even more limited. However, I like the challenge of trying to be minimal (shoes are not included in this minimality). It is amazing how many things you can truly live without. If you are not naturally organized, we are here to help. Here are my Five Tips for Spring Cleaning. I like to do a major cleaning for Spring and Fall and then a smaller cleaning for Summer and Winter…since I have a good foundation of organization, it really only requires some touching up and cleaning of containers and cabinets.

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1. SORT AND SEPARATE

As demonstrated above, keep things separate so you can see them. Previously, I kept all of my pasta in various bags and locations. I would constantly buy the same things over and over, forgetting I already had some. After sorting out what I had, it allows me to only buy what I need.

2. MAKE IT VISIBLE

If you have something, make sure you can see it. If you need to pack things away in a storage unit, then clearly label and organize them, so you can easily identify them when you need them. If you cannot see it or find it, it is probably best to trash it because you will forget you have it.

My kitchen cabinets are filled with the OXO Pop Up containers above and my refrigerator is filled with these Glasslock containers so that I can see exactly what is inside.

OXO Containers available at www.containerstore.com

Glasslock Containers available at www.amazon.com

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3. LABEL

I am certain my husband thinks I am 100% OCD when I get out the label maker, but he is glad when is is looking for something in our utility closet and instead of opening up all of the drawers, he can just go to “screwdrivers” or “batteries” to find whatever he needs quickly. For me, I might mix up “steel cut oats” with “quinoa” if I am in a rush and cooking. Labeling my containers saves time so that I can avoid mistakes.

Available at www.amazon.com.

4. DONATE

A good rule of thumb for cleaning your closet is if you have not worn it in a year, it should go. Find a reputable charity and donate your unused things…there may be someone in need who could use something that is just collecting dust in your home.

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5. STAY ON TOP OF IT

Now that everything has a place and is easy to find, all you need to do is maintain. When you are finished using something, return it to the proper place. It only takes a few extra seconds but saves minutes when you need to find it.

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Spend some time cleaning and organizing your home, I promise it will be worth it. We are all too busy to waste time! Best of luck.

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 18.2017
Spring 2017 Trend Alert: Citrus Crush

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SPRING 2017 TREND ALERT:

CITRUS CRUSH

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Temperatures are warming everywhere which makes it the perfect time to discuss the warm color palette that is showing up in stores and online this spring. Citrus shades of yellow and orange feel fresh this season and add a cheery pop to Spring ensembles. Below are some of my favorite styles from this Spring trend.

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These Alexis floral pants make a major fashion statement AND are incredibly comfortable, which is something you can’t say very often. 😉 The L’Agence ivory cami works well with these pants and is just an awesome wardrobe staple that goes with a ton of different looks. This outfit is ideal for hosting friends for dinner or Sunday brunch. The pants are a bit long so a wedge or platform heel works best.

Available at www.intermixonline.com

This mesh mustard colored top from Fuzzi feels so updated this Spring. The easy to wear silhouette features a tie neck and feminine flutter sleeves. The rich mustard hue looks great with all shades of denim, cognac brown accessories and a pop of turquoise jewelry.

Available at www.shopbop.com.

This orange Boutique Moschino dress is a great daytime weekend option. The racerback design gives it a sporty flair and is flattering on most body types. I like styling this dress with either a natural wedge (straw, cork, espadrille) or a fashion forward sneaker. This dress looks will keep you polished on those marathon “on-the-go” days.

Available at www.neimanmarcus.com.

Incorporate some citrus colored pieces into your Spring wardrobe for a bit of cheer!

Bisous,

Rebecca

Photos by Erica Dunhill at www.ericadunhillphotography.com.

f. 14.2017
Natural Deodorants…do they work?

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NATURAL DEODORANTS….DO THEY WORK?

By now, I am guessing most have heard there are studies that show a link between the aluminum compounds found in anti-perspirants and breast cancer. Some like to debate these findings, but I feel exactly like I do when people debate environmental issues which is,”Why risk it?” If we are uncertain, I prefer to err on the side of caution. I try to replace as many toxic products with healthier versions when possible. I still have a long way to go…especially in the beauty department.

While health is a major priority, this one was concerning. I live in Miami. It is almost always hot. During the summer, it is over 90 degrees every day. This “summer” to which I mention lasts through October so perspiration happens. Often. However, I had to ask myself if working in an air conditioned office creates a lot of perspiration? Dinner in an air conditioned restaurant? Living in an air conditioned condominium? So I decided to make the change. For good. I have tried a variety of brands over the past nine months and have highlighted my favorite options below. It has been much easier to make the switch than I anticipated.

While all of the below are effective, it takes your body a few days or even weeks to adjust to the change, so give yourself some time. One of my favorite things about these new deodorant options is that they all smell AMAZING.

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AGENT NATEUR

I love the sleek packaging of this one…Agent Nateur deodorant is a stick that glides on smoothly and smells deliciously of eucalyptus and lavender. The ingredients include coconut oil, avocado butter and honey so I have wondered if you could actually eat it.

FREEDOM

Freedom Stick Deodorant is a stick that is made from shea butter, coconut oil, beeswax and baking soda. It is available in multiple scents…peach, bergamot mint, lavender or unscented. Also available in a travel size. I like that it comes with some detox tips.

SOAPWALLA

Soapwalla is a vegetable and clay based deodorant cream that is made with lavender, peppermint and tea tree oils to prevent bacteria and absorb moisture. The consistency is similar to icing and is applied with your fingers.

DR. HAUSCHKA

Available in a sage mint or rose scent, this roll on deodorant uses witch hazel and sage to control odor and tapioca starch to help absorb moisture. The formulation is clear and keeps you fresh all day.

LAVANILA

This super soft solid deodorant stick won “Best Deodorant” in the 2016 Allure Best of Beauty Awards. I tried the Sport Luxe option for ultimate protection. This formula is made from essential oils, aloe and keeps you odor free all day.

All of the above are available at www.amazon.com. Give one of these a try and let me know what you think below! I think you will be pleasantly surprised.

Bisous,
Rebecca

f. 13.2017
Spring 2017 Beauty Report

SPRING 2017 BEAUTY REPORT

sSince March is almost here, Spring is closer than ever and we are launching our Spring 2017 Beauty Report to celebrate. If you are feeling the urge to refresh your look, beauty and makeup trends are one of the quickest and most cost effective ways. Below find our favorite Spring beauty trends.

ROSY CHEEKS

Rosy cheeks were featured at the Chanel and Reem Acra Spring 2017 runway shows and gave the models a lovely, flushed appearance. This is an easy look to emulate and, for every day life, blending is key. I discovered this fantastic Hourglass Strobe Lighting Blush trio which makes it easy to achieve this trend. This set has ultra fine pearl particles which create a nice glow instead of going on flat. Simply continue to layer and blend for added depth. I usually only have one blush color so it is nice to have a variety of colors that work with different makeup looks.

Available at www.sephora.com.

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LET IT GLOW

Matte everything has been a beauty trend for the past few years…. foundations, nail polish and lips have dominated the beauty scene and so it was refreshing to see dewy, glowy skin featured at the Versace, Lanvin and Prada runway shows. The Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector can be mixed with foundation or used alone as a highlighter. Another one of my favorite products to create a glow is the Nars Optimal Brightening Concentrate. The YSL Touch Eclat Blur Perfector is the best mid day update to maintain an all day glow.

Becca product available at www.ulta.com, Nars and YSL items available at www.saks.com.

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ALL THAT GLITTERS

We will be featuring more glitter posts since it is a major trend this Spring…in the beauty world, glitter is showing up in eyeshadows, lip gloss and nail polish to name a few. I like glitter that is more subtle…MAC has done a limited edition lip gloss to commemorate the Mexican singer Selena Quintanilla, it is a pretty pearlescent shade of pink. The Nails Inc polish featured above has chunky pastel glitter and can be layered or worn alone with this Nails Inc trio.

MAC lip gloss available at www.nordstrom.com and Nails Inc Trio at www.saks.com.

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BLACK LINED LIDS

Black eyeliner is my favorite so I was excited to see it at the Sonia Rykiel, Giorgio Armani and Rag and Bone shows. You can make it dramatic or soft depending on the type of liner and how you blend. My two favorite black eyeliners are the Bobbi Browns gel eyeliner and Edward Bess Defining Liner.

Available at www.netaporter.com.

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COOL COLORED EYES

Cobalt, amethyst and seafoam colored eyeshadows and eyeliners are everywhere this Spring. Since my eyes are a greenish-hazel color, purple complements them well and I have been wearing this lilac Givenchy eyeliner. I like how it looks softer than the usual grey, brown or black eyeliners I usually wear.

Available at www.netaporter.com.

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NUDE LIPS

I am an advocate of wearing one trend at a time. Whether it be a rosy cheek, dramatic eye or bold lip, my vote is to keep everything else subtle to stay looking sophisticated. Which means you probably will have a number of occasions when you want to wear a nude lip. For a matte option, try this Anastasia Beverley Hills liquid lipstick in Pure Hollywood. If you need the perfect nude gloss, this Smith and Cult color in Flesh Riot is an incredibly flattering shade for a number of skin tones.

Anastasia Beverley Hills gloss available at www.sephora.com, Smith and Cult gloss available at www.saks.com.

Feel free to share your favorite beauty trends below. Stay gorgeous, friends!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 27.2017
Spring 2017 Accessory Report

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SPRING 2017 ACCESSORY REPORT

SWWhile there still may be a bit of winter left in most places, Spring has arrived in stores and online. Our Spring 2017 Accessory Report covers our favorite trends for the season.

FLORAL FOOTWEAR

As in clothing, floral prints and details are prominent in footwear this spring…to keep it from feeling contrived, pair with clean looks-like a white buttoned up shirt and soft pants…avoid floral detailed shoes with floral printed clothing…it will be too much of a good thing. These See by Chloe slides are a relaxed and romantic option perfect for weekend wear.

SLIDES

Chic and comfortable, slides are the must-have silhouette of the season. Flats and platforms alike, slides are everywhere. My favorite pair are these metallic gold Prada slides with bright pink soles.

KITTEN HEELS

Whenever I am wearing kitten heels, I feel as if I am Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. These sexy little heels look elegant when worn with slim pants or skirts. The black and nude Valentino pair featured above give a little edge while the Christian Louboutin pair are incredibly versatile and can be worn to the office or with evening ensembles.

STATEMENT SUNNIES

This season, it is not just about size with your sunglasses…yes, oversized sunglasses are the trend but so are colors and embellishments…I love the black dramatic Krewe style above. Go big and bold to make a statement this season.

MISMATCHED EARRINGS

Don’t like being matchy-matchy? This jewelry trend is for you. Make friends look twice when you sport a pair of mismatched earrings this Spring.

BACKPACKS

Finally! Function is first…backpacks are having their moment again and your back will thank you. While tempting to pack full of items, stay stylish by not overloading them. This taupe Rebecca Minkhoff is a fashionable everyday option.

ALL THAT GLITTERS

Expect more to come on this Spring 2017 trend…glitter is everywhere this year. This fun Furla bag looks fresh when worn with distressed denim and a chic jacket…a perfect happy hour ensemble.

BLUSH AS A BASIC

Your options for basics have officially expanded. Blush is a beautiful shade that is just as basic as black, taupe or white. The studs on this Alexander Wang cross body bag give it the perfect amount of edge to keep your look current.

Keep these trends in mind as you start your Spring shopping!

Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 20.2017
Spring 2017 Trend Alert: Feminine Florals

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SPRING 17 TREND ALERT: FEMININE FLORALS

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I remember when I lived in a colder climate…once the holidays were over and the new year was in full swing, it sometimes felt as if winter would never end. Fear not, friends, no matter where you live, the days are becoming longer and warmer temperatures are ahead.

The past two years have been a blur…the majority of one being pregnant and last year adapting to life as a new mom. Despite being in fashion for as long as I can remember, I realized I had not updated my wardrobe in QUITE some time and so I have determined that 2017 is the year of getting back to myself. So as I update my look, I will be sharing some of these additions with you.

This spring, a trend you will see everywhere is what I am calling Feminine Florals…floral printed pieces with ruffles, lace and all types of beautiful details. There are tops, blouses, dresses, skirts and even pants. While these prints feel fresh for Spring many of them can still be worn in cooler temperatures. You can create transitional looks with denim, boots and layered with jackets or sweaters.

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When looking for new pieces that work for my lifestyle, I started looking at some of my favorite brands and was delighted to find they were offering irresistible floral pieces in their Spring collections. It was hard to edit the options as I could have featured another ten styles on top of the ones here! To start, I paired the romantic Alexis dress featured above with my essential Rag and Bone Newbury boots to give the dress a more casual, boho vibe. This dress is truly a showstopper and I felt chic and fashion forward wearing it. The Joie sleeveless top featured here and the cover has a cheerful floral print and is perfect for weekend brunch, romps at the park or a casual dinner.

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The Zimmermann smocked top featured here is covetable piece with amazing handiwork in its graphic lace pattern. This top is a bit oversized and so it looks best with a slim pair of denim and a chic pump.

Some of my friends say they feel silly or look too “girly” in floral prints. If you want to keep your look from feeling too frilly, pair it with a sleek pair of pants or pencil skirt, distressed denim, funky boots or a studded accessory.

The options are endless. You will have no problem finding a wide selection of gorgeous feminine floral pieces to inject into your closet this Spring.

Product Details: Alexis dress is available at www.revolve.com, Joie top at www.neimanmarcus.com and the Zimmermann Top at www.shopbop.com.

Happy Shopping!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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Photos by Erica Dunhill

www.ericadunhillphotography.com

f. 15.2017
Lovely Lingerie

LOVELY LINGERIE

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, it seems fitting to discuss upgrading your undergarments. Why keep old, ill fitting or boring pieces when lovely lingerie options abound?

For whatever reason, I found myself holding on to undergarments for far longer than I should…I am not sure why as I would never wear clothing that was in the same condition. Last year, a few months after my daughter was born, I invested in an assortment of new lingerie basics. These well-fitting and pretty undergarments were an excellent choice. I like the confidence and sense of femininity I have when wearing these, just as I do when wearing a well-styled outfit. While I almost never match my shoes and handbag, I almost always match my underthings. Here are a few of my favorites…

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NOT-SO-BASIC BRAS

I like having underwire support in my bras. It gives lift, support and makes clothing fit nicely. My favorites are the Stella McCartney Stella Smooth & Lace Contour Plunge Bra and Natori Feathers Collection. I tried a variety of options but these two are my favorites as they are comfortable and versatile while still incorporating beautiful details. The strapless versions and coordinating panties fit well and offer the same lovely lace and trims.

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CHIC COMFORT

For times when comfort is the priority, I like the Cosabella Ceylon Criss Cross Bralet…its perfect to wear while lounging around the house. The beautiful lace and criss cross straps make slouchy tees and sheer fabrics a bit sexier.

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LACE LAYERS

Also part of the Natori Feathers collection is this gorgeous lace bodysuit, which works perfectly under jackets and blouses. It adds a touch of glamour and elegance to sophisticated ensembles. The best part about bodysuits-no tucking required! Everything stays smooth and in place effortlessly.

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Its time to toss those old items and give yourself the gift of lovely lingerie this Valentine’s Day.

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Bisous,

Rebecca

Items found at www.journelle.com and www.netaporter.com.

f. 6.2017
Quick and Healthy Breakfast Options

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QUICK AND HEALTHY BREAKFAST OPTIONS

sWith the new year in full swing and those fitness goals still front and center, I have shared three quick and healthy breakfast options below. I find preparing meals in advance makes it much easier to be successful in eating clean. All of these recipes can be made ahead of time, are delicious and healthy.

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PROTEIN PANCAKES

These Perfect Fit Pancakes from Tone It Up are easy to prepare and taste great! I add vanilla, nutmeg and blueberries to give them more flavor.

Ingredients, 1 serving

1 scoop Perfect Fit Protein

½ banana, mashed

¼ cup egg whites

½ tablespoon almond milk

1 tsp cinnamon

Step 1: Mash banana with almond milk before stirring in remaining ingredients

Step 2: Spray pan with cooking spray and heat over medium-low before pouring in batter. Flip when ready. The key to the perfect protein pancake is to cook them slow and low.

source: www.toneitup.com

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STEEL CUT OATS WITH APPLES, PEARS & ALMONDS

Ingredients, 3-4 servings

1 cup steel cut oats

3 cups water

pinch of salt

1 apple, sliced

1 pear, sliced

optional toppings: sliced almonds, walnuts, cranberries, brown sugar

Step 1: Bring 3 cups water and pinch of salt to a boil, add 1 cup of oats.

Step 2: Reduce heat to low simmer. Cover and cook 15-20 minutes, depending on preferred consistency.

Step 3: Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for a 3-5 minutes

Step 4: Heat a little coconut or grapeseed oil in a pan and sautee sliced apples and pears. I season with cinnamon, nutmeg and coriander.

Step 5: Top your oatmeal with fruit and any other toppings!

source: my own concoction

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BREAKFAST WRAPS

These breakfast wraps can be whipped up quickly and also be frozen. Change up the ingredients to give yourself some variety.

Ingredients, 1 serving

1 tortilla (I usually select a low carb option, there are gluten free or whole wheat options)

3 egg whites

¼ cup chopped tomatoes

¼ cup chopped spinach

2 mushrooms, sliced

sprinkle of sea salt and pepper

Step 1: Spray non-stick cooking spray in a pan and cook egg whites, tomatoes, spinach and mushrooms. Season with sea salt and pepper.

Step 2: Add egg mixture to tortilla and roll tightly. If freezing, wrap in plastic wrap.

To unfreeze, microwave for 4-6 minutes. For added flavor, dip in salsa and enjoy.

source: my own concoction

Bon Appetit!

sBisous,

Rebecca

f. 25.2017
Fashionable Fitness Wear

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FASHIONABLE FITNESS WEAR

In January, it seems that most us are focused on keeping health and fitness at the forefront of our goals. From Thanksgiving to New Year’s, there are an endless number of parties and celebrations that it make tough to stay on track with healthy eating and workouts. It feels good to refocus and start the year with a clean slate. Not only do health and improved physical appearance inspire me to get to the gym, but new workout wear can add some additional motivation! With the endless choices that are available, it is easier than ever to look fashionable while doing activities of virtually any kind. Check out some of the fitness clothing and gear that allows you to look fabulous while getting your fitness on.

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WHAT TO WEAR

I remember going to LA many years ago and the Lululemon boutiques being a highlight of the trip. They paved the way for premium workout wear and, now, there are more brands than you can count and at a variety of price points. Kate Hudson’s company, Fabletics offers fashionable looks at reasonable prices. Some of my favorite places to shop for fitness apparel include Sweaty Betty, Carbon 38, Adidas by Stella McCartney and Peony and Me. I could not resist this Spiritual Gangster tank and the Le Sportsac bag is the perfect size for gym essentials.

FOOTWEAR

If fitness clothing has progressed, fitness sneakers have come just as far. Have you seen some of the options? Nike, New Balance, Adidas…all have updated fashion selections. My recent favorites are these Athletic Propulsion Labs sneakers.

GEAR

From beautiful yoga mats to pink boxing gloves…even fitness gear has incorporated fun colors, designs and styling. The yoga mat featured is from La Vie Boehme, who offers a gorgeous assortment of printed yoga mats.

TECHNOLOGY

Whether you are using a smart watch, Fitbit or other fitness tracker, there are countless options that are stylish and functional. Music is essential to my workouts and so these gorgeous Caeden wireless headphones keep me in the zone.

WATER BOTTLES

I have several of these S’well water bottles…they keep hot beverages hot and cold beverages cold for hours. I came to work one morning and had ice cubes left from the day prior. The 25 oz size also holds a bottle of wine….for those non-workout occasions. 😉

Freshen up your fitness fashion with some of these pieces and stay motivated!

Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 23.2017