Saturday 31 May 2014

Spring Makes ME Smile

The last few days have been amazing! 
The sun is out, the birds are chirping and the grass has never been greener. 
Spring just fills me with an overabundance of joy! 
Spring makes me smile!
I always tell people, I am not built for Canadian winters. I don't like being cold, I barely ski, and I definitely do not like cleaning snow off of my car, although who really does right???? I'm kind of like a bear, I hibernate in the winter and come out of my cozy den in the spring. 

Now that it's much warmer I'm out walking, jogging, and biking with the kids every opportunity I can get. You blink and summer is gone. You learn to enjoy every last second of it here in the Maritimes. I guess that is the perk, when you live in a vortex of snow for five months you really gain a special appreciation for springtime.
I've also enjoyed seeing all of our neighbors out again. Other then the occasional wave as you're running in from the car in the frigid cold, we really don't see them in the winter. The warmer weather definitely brings people closer together, that's for sure!
The girls have picked several bouquets of dandelions for me, although no dandelion tea yet. I remember when I was little I used to make dandelion tea for my Mommy. I'm pretty sure she drank it too. Since then I have learned that there are actually some great health benefits to drinking dandelion root tea. I guess I had the best of intentions as a child. Bring on the tea!
Other signs of spring  include the blossoming of our apple tree, grass stained knees, smells of the BBQ, clothes drying on the line and sunflower seeds sprouting from hand painted pots.  
Spring just makes me smile!!

What makes you smile?
xoAngela

Friday 30 May 2014

Canadian Maple Curry Chicken Penn-EH

This is an amazing, easy, "Canadianized", super yummy curry dish. The sweetness of the Canadian maple syrup paired with the spiced curry is a fantastic emulsion of flavors.  I have made this numerous times and it is always a winner.

Here is the recipe obtained from "all recipes". The recipe calls for 1 cup of heavy cream but I usually use 1/4 cup of cream and remaining 3/4 cup of 2% milk. It still tastes great but has a few less calories.

This particular recipe (below) does not include noodles so I cook about half a box of penne rigate a la dente, and toss it with everything else near the end. My kids eat this too so I use a mild curry paste, but if you like it spicy, hot is definitely the way to go!

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 large onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and
chopped
1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
2 cups cubed cooked chicken breast
meat
3 cloves garlic
1 teaspoon sugar
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1 cup heavy cream
2 1/2 tablespoons hot curry paste
Directions:
1.Heat butter and oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and peppers, and cook until onions are soft and translucent. Stir in cooked chicken and garlic, and sprinkle with sugar. Cook, stirring for about 3 minutes, then stir in maple syrup and cook for about 5 more minutes until caramelized.
2.Stir in curry paste and heavy cream and reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes or until the sauce reaches your desired thickness.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © 2014 Allrecipes.comPrinted from Allrecipes.com 5/28/2014
 This dish is great paired with either asparagus, spring rolls or a even a fresh crisp salad.
Bon Appetit!

Thursday 29 May 2014

An Oldie, But A Goodie


Well I am sure by now most everyone has heard of bareMinerals. If not, either you have been living in a cave, or hiding under a rock, joke! Well I had heard of it but only just purchased the sample kit last Christmas. I am no stranger to the "mineral foundation", but decided to give the bareMinerals "original formula" a good shot.

So I have to say, I was really impressed with the results. I love how easy it is to apply and how natural it looks on the skin. The definite selling feature for me is the ingredients it containes ," Active Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide 12.6%, Zinc Oxide 21%. Inactive Ingredients: Bismuth Oxychloride, Mica, Iron Oxides, Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide".(source)  I am slowly becoming more conscious of what I put on my skin and into my body.

So because this foundation is mineral based it is actually good for your skin.  It is proven to promote clearer, healthier skin.  This foundation provides a very luminous, flawless finish that lasts up to eight hours, (longer if you pair it with a primer).  I also like that it has a SPF factor of 15. This definitely does not take the place of the usual sunscreen, but it's that extra added protection that I like.

It's super easy to use and although less is more with this product, you can build it up for more coverage if you desire. I use the original but there are different formulas for differing skin types. I have combo and this seems to work for me.

I also use the bareMinerals Prime Time Foundation Primer.  I bought this as a kit when I purchased the full size mineral foundation.  I apply a very small amount of this in outward strokes on my face. You don't rub it in like you would a cream, instead simply smooth it over the skin. I let this dry for few minutes and then apply the mineral foundation over top.  I call this foundation insurance. It's an extra step to help keep everything stay in place for the whole day. It also helps to minimize imperfections you may have on your skin.

I also own the bareMinerals Prime Time Eyelid Primer.  This is something similar to Urban Decay's as I mentioned in an earlier post. It helps your shadow stay  vibrant and crease-free.  An essential for anyone with oily or combo skin.


Lastly but certainly not least, is the bareMinerals "original" Mineral Veil. The ingredients in this are similar to that of the foundation.  It is used to set your makeup by minimizing pores and giving the skin a soft, natural airbrushed appearance.  This product also absorbs oil and helps to preserve the mineral foundation. Apparently some people are even using this under their foundation to combat oil and also using it to set their lipstick. The possibilities are endless. There are three other formulas, tinted, hydrating and illuminating.  .

I  believe that bareMinerals are in the lead in terms of mineral makeup. I can clearly see why many of their products are award winning and also why they have consistent, glowing reviews from their users.

Here is link to the bareMinerals website. Sephora also carries most of their products as well.

What bareMinerals products do you use?

Wednesday 28 May 2014

A Great Little Morning Snack.

I always bring a snack to work with me for the mid morning stomach growl. I usually bring fruit and nuts, or a yogurt.

My new favorite snack  is Martin's apple chips and my homemade energy balls. Yes I know what your thinking, "boring", but I swear they are both really yummy, pinkie promise.

I picked up this gigantic bag of "all natural" dried apple chips from Costco the other week. These chips are so crispy and sweet I can't get enough of them. I also have one or two energy balls with the chips. It is the perfect, filling, satisfying snack.

Here is the recipe for the "energy balls" I found from "Oh She Glows" blog. They are really easy to make and taste amazing. (My kids love them too!)

I also added about 1/4 cup of shredded coconut and increased the amount of dates to 13. I did not have pecans so I used cashews instead. I also added cranberries instead of cherries and they turned out great.

   Ingredients:
  • 1 cup whole raw almonds
  • 120 grams pitted Medjool (not honey) dates (about 8 )
  • 1/2 cup dried sweetened cherries
  • 3 tbsp dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips (I used Camino brand)
  • 1/4 cup raw pecans
  • Kosher or sea salt, to taste

1. In a food processor, process the almonds until finely chopped. It’s ok if some bigger pieces remain. Just be sure not to pulverize it into a flour as you want some texture.
2. Remove 1/3 cup of the processed almonds and set aside for the final step.
3. Now, add the pitted dates in (along with the almonds already in the processor) and process until finely chopped and sticky. A dough will start to form. Add cherries and process again until combined. The mixture will likely form into a large ball. If this happens, break it up with a spoon and process more if necessary.
4. Add in the chocolate chips and pecans and process until they are just chopped. Add salt to taste. Pulse in the reserved 1/3 cup almonds for texture. Roll into small balls. Place in a container or baggie and store in the fridge or freezer. Oh yea, don’t forget to pop a few in your purse!

Read more: http://ohsheglows.com/2012/03/28/dark-chocolate-cherry-energy-bites-a-book-review/#ixzz32aEWBYOQ


Give them a try I am sure you will love them too!
xo Angela

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Tuesday 27 May 2014

Tarte - Brazilliance - Self Tan for Face and Body

Tarte is a wonderful beauty line that offers healthy, cruelty -free cosmetic and skincare products. Tarte infuses their products with plant extracts, vitamins, minerals, essential oils and other naturally derived ingrediants (source). 

We are all aware of the harmful effects the sun can have on our bodies, from skin cancer, dark sun spots to pre-mature aging. Although I still long for the tanned look, I vow to apply the sunscreen and achieve the color from a bottle from now on.

I am a big fan of tarte products, so I was really intrigued when I stumbled upon the Brazilliance skin rejuvenating maracuja face and body self tanner.

The product is formulated without parabens, mineral oil, phthalated, triclosan, sodium lauryl sulate and synthetic fragrances. It contains maracuja oil, vitamin c and essential fatty acids that drench the skin in moisture.  

It really is a lovely product. It comes with a special mitt for easy application and it dries within five minutes, and it smells good too. The smell reminds me of the sweet-tarts candy we used to eat as kids (or maybe still do, wink wink). Tarte claims that this product will give you a natural, sun kissed warmth. If you can see the before and after picture below you will see that it is very natural looking.  Not at all an over the top tan if you now what I mean.  

The mitt that comes with it really helps deliver a streak free even tan. My only recommendation is that you need to work quickly with this product, always exfoliate beforehand and keep the mitt in the open air after using it. Don't stuff it back in the box, it will get moldy. (the price you pay for natural I guess).  

I also apply this to my face with a small makeup sponge rather then the mitt, it works great. I totally recommend  this product for anyone looking for a healthy natural looking tan. 
I purchased this from Sephora

Before                                                       8 hours after one application


What's your secret to a healthy sun-kissed appearance?
xoAngela





Monday 26 May 2014

My New Addiction.

It began as a small need and quickly grew into a full fledged, "have to have". I felt I could not go on without them......  FISH TACO'S.

Ok so slight exaggeration but..... I really do love these taco's. They are house made and very delicious. I am certainly no stranger to the fish taco, but never had the opportunity to try them. But man am I ever hooked now! I am slightly embarrassed to admit this but, I have had these the last three weekends in a row!



You can find these at the Delta's [Catch] Urban Grill or DJ Purdy's  for just around $13.((DJ's is a bit more casual, we prefer this side with the kiddo's). Kids under 6 eat for free, so this is the perfect place for families who don't want to spend a fortune, but want a great meal.

Adios Amigos!
xoAngela

Sunday 25 May 2014

Drugstore Adventures (# 2)

 I picked up a few things on sale the other day. Two great, one not so great. 


 I will start with the good:

Revlon Nail Enamal - Eclectic - One word, love! The polish went on wonderful and the color is fabulous. It is a pastel green/blue.  I have had the polish on for three days and it still looks great considering I have been washing dishes, etc. This is a definite great purchase for $4.99 (on sale).

The second product is the Rimmel, Lasting Finish By Kate - #12.  I am really starting to have quite an affection for this specific lip brand. They offer great colors and formulas for a very reasonable price. I paid $4.99 (on sale) The color is a warm tropical coral and stays on quite well.

I also picked up the Almay, eyeshadow in Creme Brulee. I like the packaging and the color, although it is very shear. I had to work very hard to get it to show up. I was a little bit leary of the bright colors in the collection, but they might be great if they are as shear as the Brulee. I bought this for $2.99. It was on sale and I had a $2 off coupon.



What drugstore item are you loving?
xoAngela

Saturday 24 May 2014

Searching for Sugar Man

One thing I like to ask people is, have you seen any good movies lately? Searching for Sugar Man was one answer to that question. A friend of mine described is an an amazing, edge of your seat film.

Searching for Sugar Man is a documentary about Sixto Rodriguez who was a 70's rock and roller who surprisingly, never was.

It all begins when Rodriguez is picked up by a couple of producers in the late 60's. The producers compared his sound to that of Bob Dyan. They then go on to produce the album "Cold Fact" very quickly as they anticipate the album will be a knockout.  The bad news is the album ends up bombing, big time.

Meanwhile, over the next two decades a boot-legged copy of the album gets picked up in South Africa. It 's popularity grows as people begin to buy copies of the album. It becomes a staple in all households, building a status bigger than Elvis for Rodriguez. The twist to the story is Rodriguez has no idea any of this is going on. The South African's are told that he has committed suicide. It is not until two fans do some digging that they realize he is in fact alive!

This is a  great heart warming film that will continue to inspire people for years to come. It makes you see that not all happiness is necessarily found by wealth. Not to mention how bizarre it is that this could even happen.

Sadley, the director Malik Bendjelloul passed away at the age of 36 earlier this month.

Here is the "official trailer"  found on YouTube.



Let me know what you think. I would love to hear some feedback!  I have made some changes so commenting is much easier now.
xoAngela

Friday 23 May 2014

Shopping for deals at the GAP Factory store.

Ok so yes, I went shopping again, but..... I promise I did not spend more then $40 for all these goodies.



Here is the story....
Alright, well normally I would not venture into the Gap Factory Store to shop. I don't know why, I guess I could never find anything that was my style back in the day. I had a coupon though, so I decided to pop in. I walked in and I could not believe my eyes! Total awesome-ness!  (I think i just made up a word, ha) If you are looking for sundresses, maxi dresses, t-shirts and tank tops this place is worth checking out. And the best part is, almost everything is marked down 50% or even 75% off the original price. Oh my gosh, I just about fell over, well not really, but I was really impressed.  Anyone that knows me knows that I like a good deal, and these deals were fantastic.

So..... I found two super cute t-shirts with crochet embellishments (see above), and a pair of white flat sandals. The three of these were around $30. Woohoo!

The white jeans in the picture are not from the Gap. I found them recently at  H&M and only paid $10 for these. I thought they all looked good together.



Will I be heading back to the Gap Factory Store? Absolutely!  Seriously folks, their stuff is really cute! Check it out!

Toodles.
xoAngela

Thursday 22 May 2014

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies

Every once in a while I get a craving for something sweet. (Actually more frequently then I am willing to admit). I like to make these cookies to have on hand for these moments. They are relatively healthy'ish, and very easy to make.  My hubby, who also has a sweet tooth, will devour a batch of these in a couple of days so I like to "hide" a few in the freezer to save for later. (wink, wink)

Here's what you will need:
  • 1/2 cup of peanut or almond butter (they both taste great)
  • 3 tbs of honey
  • 1 tbs of coconut oil (melted)
  • 1 egg
  • 1 1/2 cups of quick oats
  • 1/2 cup of shredded unsweetened coconut
  • 1/2 tsp of baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Mix the PB, honey and oil together until smooth, then beat in the egg. Add the oats, coconut, baking powder, salt and cinnamon, then add the chocolate chips. 

On a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper drop spoonfuls of the batter leaving about 1.5 inches between each cookie. Flatten the tops a bit with a fork. Bake cookies at 350 degrees for 8-9 minutes.  

This makes about 18 or so cookies. Let cool, and enjoy! 


   

How do you curb your sweet tooth?
xoAngela


Wednesday 21 May 2014

Inspiring Blogger Award Nomination

I  am flattered that I have been nominated for the very inspiring Blogger award by Emma from Emhasrednails. Be sure to check out her blog!



Top 10 Sephora Wish List (#1)


Life in the "loved" list -
  1. Philosophy, just release me, dual phase oil free make up remover. This is a very gentle product that removes eye makeup using natural aloe, chamomile and cucumber extracts.  It's $23 at Sephora for a 6oz bottle. Had my eyes on this for a while, wink wink, ha ha.
  2. Deborah Lippmann, She drives me crazy, tantalizing teal tease. I love this color. I think it would be sweet on the toes. The price is what kills me, $22, ouch! I think it is simply the curiosity of what a 22 dollar polish does that intrigues me the most about this.
  3. Josie Maran, coconut watercolor cheek gelee, poppy paradise. I have heard so much about these. I love that it contains natural ingredients and stays on for 14 hours.  You can now buy a mini one for $15, sold! 
  4. Tarte, Amazonian Butter Lipstick, Watermelon. I am a big fan of  tarte products and this is one I would love to add to my collection. This formula is enriched with cupuacu and murumuru butters that help to restore moisture and sooth the lips. The packaging is so pretty, and the cost is $19.
  5. Tarte, Lights, Camera, Lashes, 4 in 1 mascara. - Another tarte product, imagine that.  This formula is sure to pack a punch. It provides lengthening, curling, volumizing and condition properties. It sounds amazing and sells or $24!  I also really love that you can purchase a mini of it for half the price.
  6. NARS Lip Gloss - Orgasm - (peachy-pink with shimmer). Apparently they have switched formulas and this one is much better, less sticky and stays on longer.  I must try. 
  7. Lavanilla, The Healthy Deodorant, Pure Vanilla. This is an all natural deodorant that contains no aluminum. They also offer it in a mini travel size for $13, full size is $17.  I would be really interested in smelling some of their "natural" fragrances at some point too!
  8. Too Faced, Natural Eye, Neutral Eye Shadow Collection. This is the perfect mix of matte and shimmer colors, great for day or night. This has been on my rader for a while. I hear the formula is perfect. It is $45 for this palette.
  9. Bumble and Bumble, Pret-a- Powder.  This product offers all the benefits of a dry shampoo and a volumizer. It helps puts life back into day two hair. The powder sells for $31.
  10. bareMinerals, Faux Tan Face Gradual Glow Sunless Tanner. I  prefer to have  the "tanned" look, without the sun. The much healthier way. I am very curious about this and also the new Clairins, Radience-Plus Golden Glow Booster. Both of these products cost $30 and give your face a healthy summer glow.
Do you recommend any of these products?
xoAngela

Tuesday 20 May 2014

A Little Light In My Life.

So I recently decided it was warm enough to move the plant that lived beside my fireplace, outside for the summer. This gave me an idea and a good reason to go shopping!

I  began my search for the perfect " light-up thingy" to take the place of the plant at Bed Bath and Beyond. This is where I found this sweet 4 ft. tall  LED light up cherry blossom tree.  



The tree itself is really not that sturdy at all.  I would not recommend it for houses with very small children. One bump and this trees going down, if you know what I mean.

I love the way it looks though. It adds a very elegant ambiance to the room.  Here is a link where you can find this beauty at Bed Bath and Beyond.

Honestly though....I am a sucker for just about anything that lights up.
Like a moth to a flame, I am!
xoAngela

Monday 19 May 2014

Confessions of a "Neat Freak".

My friends and family are well aware that I am the "queen of clean".  What can I say... I like a clean, tidy, and organized house.The lingering smell of cleaners is like a "cool breeze on a hot day", for me.

The truth is I actually really do like cleaning and organizing.  It gives me great satisfaction and comfort. A messy closet or cupboard just begs for my decluttering attention, and a sink full of dishes just screams for me to wash them.  Now I know this probably border's on slight obsessive compulsiveness, but I just feel better and in-control when things are uncluttered and orderly.

Now that the buds are out on the trees, it gives me a pretty good reason to do some "spring cleaning" and organizing around the house. This time of year I always look forward to opening up the windows, turning up the music, and washing away winter's impressions.

Spring cleaning also means purging around our house. I swear the toys seem to multiply over night.  I go through the toys when the girls are not looking, otherwise parting can bring such sorrow. Funny how a toy they have not played with in months suddenly becomes their favorite toy as soon as you go to give it away. As for the rest of house, if I have not used it in the last year, and we do not have great plans for it in the future, it's good as gone. 

Look out all you dust bunnies and un-used things in our home, pack up cause it's moving out time! Queen of clean is on a mission!

Do you "Spring Clean"?
xoAngela

Sunday 18 May 2014

Drug Store Adventures (#1)

So I made a little unexpected trip to the drugstore the other day and grabbed  a few things that caught my eye. This is my haul......


  1. Almay Oil Free Gentle Eye Make-Up Remover.  This stuff works great, and I like that it is "one-step" versus getting a cotton pad and putting the product on it.  I know, I know I am kind of lazy, but really it just makes things "simple" and I like that.
  2. Almay Lip Balm - Cantaloupe Cream. The color goes on quite shear and is nudey pink. I really like the way it feels, it does not feel sticky at all. The smell is amazing, it is a cross between vanilla and cotton candy, very yummy.  I love the packaging too. I will definitely be purchasing a couple more of these puppies for the summer. 
  3. Maybelline Color Tattoo - 70 Barely Branded. This was on sale and I could not resist. Lots of buzz around these lately. It is a cream shadow that smooths on very easily, and last all day. Great product, I love the color!
  4. Rimmel 60 seconds nail polish -  I Lilac You (love the name). I really wanted to give the lilac nails a go, so I picked this up for under $3. I really like the color, but the formula was not the greatest to work with. I had a hard time getting consistency, and  it seemed to get thicker as I used it too. At least I did not pay much for it.

What nail trend are you rockin"?
xoAnglea

Saturday 17 May 2014

No Joggin' Doggie.


As I mentioned earlier, I began jogging a few weeks ago.  Nothing crazy, but I am trying to make an effort to do it for 15-20 minutes, 3 to 4 times a week.

While I was planning out how this would work, I thought "great", I can take Jaxson, my "fur-child" and he can be my jogging buddy. He will love it! I figured what a great way to exercise the dog and meet my goal, one stone baby!

Well........  The look on Jackson's face when I took off into a jog was priceless.  If he could talk, I'm sure he would have said "what the heck are you doing"?  So I did take him about a half a dozen more times, but he kind of lags behind.  I have to keep "encouraging" him to keep up (aka pull the leash).

Long story short, he is not the joggin' doggie I thought he would be. I think we will stick to our leisurely walks, and save the jogging for moi!



xoAngela and Jaxson   

Friday 16 May 2014

My "Philosophy" on skin care.


I love the "Philosophy" products!  I love the formula, the packing and the messaging. I love their Philosophy!

My collection consists of purity,  the microdelivery exfoliating wash, hope in jar, and hope in a jar night. I purchased these from Sephora a while back.

Purity:
This is hands down one of the most gentle, calming, hydrating, one-step facial cleansers I have used. It leaves my skin feeling clean, fresh and hydrated, and not overly dry (although I always use a moisturizer anyways).  I even use it to wash makeup off my eyes.  It is easy to see how it was awarded "the best of Sephora" in 2008.

The Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash:
One word, AMAZING. It gently exfoliates the skin leaving it soft and glowing . Philosophy calls it a "30 second cleansing mini peel". We all know the benefits of a good exfoliation, but this product is so gentle you could probably use it daily. I  use it every other day. Love, love!

Hope in a Jar:
This is a  wonderful light moisturizer for all skin types. I apply this as a day cream. It goes on nice and smooth and absorbs quite quickly into the skin. It provides a great base for makeup application and claims to help with wrinkles and discoloration. It has a nice light non-synthetic fragrance that I love. The smell is very spa- like, although not overpowering at all.

Hope in Jar Night
This night cream is designed to re-texturize and smooth fine lines and uneven skin tone while you sleep. I actually bought this as a set with the purity cleanser a while back, and am quite impressed. It is much thicker then the original "hope", which  helped to banish the "winter" skin blahs. I may switch to something a bit lighter for the summer though.
As you can probably tell, I am quite a fan of this company.  I will keep you posted on any new Philosophy's I come up with. I hope to try the peels and the treatments down the road.

Whats you favorite "philosophy" product?

xoAngela

Thursday 15 May 2014

Easy "peasy" Peanut Butter Thai Noodle Stir-fry

This is a great way to use up some veggies in the fridge. You can basically use what ever you have on hand.

Here 's how I made the Thai Stir-fry, aka Peanut Butter noodles, in our house.

I cut up the chicken (about three small breasts) in bite size pieces and cooked it on medium in a frying pan with a little bit of olive oil. While chicken is cooking I cut up the veggies. (Sometimes I will cut the veggies the night before to make it extra easy on a week night.)

I cooked spagettini as directed on package, a la dente. (You could use what ever noodles you have though, penne, rice noodles, or even plain rice.)

I then cut up a red and a yellow pepper, mushrooms, baby carrots (sliced into two, or four depending on the size), one onion, and one clove of garlic, or whatever other veggies you like, or have on hand.

When chicken is cooked through  transfer it to a plate and set a side.  Then put all the veggies into a wok style frying pan with a little olive oil  and cook on medium heat.

While veggies are cooking through I make the yummy peanut sauce. This is where the magic happens.

This is what you will need:

  • 1 cup of chicken or veg. stock
  • 1 tbs of corn starch
  • 1/2 cup of peanut butter. (I used the light version)
  • 2 tbs of brown sugar
  • 1/8 tsp of ground ginger
  • 1/2 tsp of sesame oil
  • a couple dashes of hot sauce (more if you like it spicy)
  • 2 tbs of soya sauce or hoisin sauce.  ( I used hoisin today as I ran out of soya)
Start by mixing the stock with the corn starch, then add everything else. Heat in the microwave for 30-40 seconds on high, mix ,then heat for additional 40 seconds, mix again until it all comes together.

Once veggies are cooked add the chicken, and pour in your sauce, bring to a simmer (sauce should thicken), then mix everything together, coating all the chicken and veggies. Add noodles and cook for one more minute, lightly tossing the noodles with the sauce.  I sometimes add mung bean sprouts at this point too, this gives it a nice little crunch.

Serve and enjoy!  

This is sure to be a hit. I usually try and make extra for lunch the next day but it doesn't usually last that long!

What's your easy week night dinner hit?

xoAngela

Wednesday 14 May 2014

Adventures in shoe land ( # 1)

I have been in desperate need of running shoes! It was not until I went shopping last weekend that I was able to find a pair I liked that did not blind me, and that were not ridiculously over priced. I have had cars cheaper, and  80's socks brighter then some of sneakers you can buy these days. 

So... to fill you in, I recently starting running in a effort to become a "healthier" person. I started running as soon as spring arrived even though I did not have the proper footwear. I still made do though, I had some old hiking shoes I picked up 10 years ago that I began my "new" running journey with.  

I have actually surprised myself and am doing quite well. Baby steps though, I am not in any hurry to run a marathon any time soon, or ever.

Anyways back to the shoes, they are made by Nike and are super light and comfy. I picked them up from The Shoe Company @ 30% off. I paid around $72.00. I like that they do not have flashy colors or giant soles ,and that they do not blink or sing etc., ha, ha. And I like that they did not cost a fortune.
 To be honest, I just don't really want to draw attention to myself while I'm running. I prefer to blend in like a cameleon. 

Long story short, I like my simple, black shoes even though I had to weave through all the bright lights to find them. 

 Happy trails ahead!!! Stay tuned for a running "journey" update.

xoAngela

Tuesday 13 May 2014

Two of my makeup "must-have's"




1.Urban Decays, Eyeshadow Primer Potion, Anti-Aging, long-lasting eyeshadow base.
This product is a fantastic base for just about any eyeshadow that also helps to smooth the appearance of wrinkles. I smooth a dot onto each eyelid and let it dry a minute before applying my shadow.

If you find you have the mid-day crease from your eyeshadow this product will be your new best friend. It may seem a bit pricey but I assure you it is well worth it. My tube has lasted me a very long time. I received the deluxe sample (.13 oz) and I have been using it for months now. Here is the link to where you can find it at Sephora.

2. My next  little "gem" is the Two Faced, Chocolate Soleil, Matte Bronzing Powder.
This wonderful little bronzer smells like the name, chocolate! So yummy. I use this to contour and awaken my face. It provides a "matte" healthy looking, warmth which I think is very flattering.  No disco ball here! I got this from Sephora. I also see that you can get it in a set with their famous mascara for $30 from Sephora as well! Great deal!

What is your go-to makeup product? 

xoAngela

Monday 12 May 2014

Mother's Day Special!

Well it's official, Mother's day was a complete JOY!

I cannot thank my family enough for all that they have done. I honestly don't even know where to begin. 

 Well.... let's start with the "homemade" waffles my hubby whipped up this morning, sooooo good. I will put the link to the recipe below.

The weather was absolutely beautiful, so we all went to the park and enjoyed the sunshine for the morning!

 I was given very thoughtful gifts too. See picture below


My husband got me the book" Blogging for Dummies". Not too sure what I should think of this.....Does he really think I am a dummy? Ha ha. Just kidding, he is sweet and would do just about anything to help me out with something I was interested in. 

Then I was ordered to go shopping in the afternoon while the kids napped.  No rejection from me, I was in the car, and at mall, faster then a toupee on a windy day. 

New running shoes,  fish tacos and chocolate bread pudding for dinner, followed by wonderful snuggles and lots of laughs made for the most amazing Mother's day ever. Thank You!

Hope all of you Mother's out there were spoiled for the day too! You deserve it!!!  
 I love this quote.

"A mom’s hug lasts long after she lets go." ~Author Unknown

Click here for waffle recipe.  
xoAngela

Sunday 11 May 2014

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day Everyone!

My two little girls have brought me more joy in my life than I couldn't have ever even imagined.  Yes, there   are tough times to being a Mother, but the joys definitely out weight the challenges. My girls are my breath, my heart beat, and my inner song. They are my everything!

My heart goes out to those that may have lost there Mother, and also to those that are struggling to become one.  This might be a day that acts as a reminder of what is missing or lost. This may be a day of sorrow.  For those of you in these situations, my thoughts are with you all. xo

Mother's Day for me, is about appreciation.

It was not until I got into my twenties that I was able to truly reflect upon what my Mother had, and still continues to do for me. I am so proud of the strength, courage and determination she has shown over the years. Her loving, gentle, kind spirit always lights up even the darkest days.  Her strong work ethic, commitment and passion for life continues to amaze me every day.  Her beauty radiates from the inside out. 

She is my hero!

 My wish is that I can learn to apply the wisdom she has taught me over the years, and to pass these onto my girls. I  hope I can continue to inspire my own children the way she has inspired me.

To the best Mother, ever. Thank you! I love you!


Me and my Mom.

     
  xoAngela

Saturday 10 May 2014

The Best "Teriyaki Chicken" Ever!

A little while ago I was browsing the recipes of "All Recipes"  for a quick, easy, and delicious meal I could serve to my family.  I came across this recipe for  "Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs". There was over 3500 glowing reviews which would mean this would be a no brainer, excellent recipe!

My family ended up loving this. I have made it several times. The chicken always turns out perfectly moist and delicious, and it is very easy to make. I serve the chicken over rice, with a veggie on the side.

I have made this recipe in advance by throwing everything together and then refrigerated it. It still tastes  good, although the sauce does not seem to thicken as well as when you cook it right away.  It is also very important to brush with the sauce every 10 minutes while cooking for maximum coverage and gooey saturation and caramelization .

 This is an "any" night kinda dinner you are sure to love too!


 Here is the recipe copied from "All Recipes".  Enjoy!  

Baked Teriyaki Chicken
Rated:rating
Prep Time: 30 MinutesReady In: 1 Hour 30 Minutes
Submitted By: Marian CollinsCook Time: 1 HourServings: 6
"A spicy, homemade teriyaki of soy sauce, cider vinegar, ginger and garlic enlivens your choice of chicken cuts. Easy to double for a large group."
INGREDIENTS:
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon cold water
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup cider vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
12 skinless chicken thighs
DIRECTIONS:
1.In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the cornstarch, cold water, sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, ginger and ground black pepper. Let simmer, stirring frequently, until sauce thickens and bubbles.
2.Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).
3.Place chicken pieces in a lightly greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Brush chicken with the sauce. Turn pieces over, and brush again.
4.Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Turn pieces over, and bake for another 30 minutes, until no longer pink and juices run clear. Brush with sauce every 10 minutes during cooking.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © 2014 Allrecipes.comPrinted from Allrecipes.com 5/10/2014

What's your "all star" easy recipe?

xoAngela