Friday, September 27, 2013

My September Birchbox

What was in my Birchbox?  Well, let me tell you!  Since September is almost over, it is the perfect time to highlight my Birchbox from this month.  To me, this box was filled with goodies that have me thinking about fall.  Now, if only the weather would cooperate!


Ruffian Nail Lacquer in Hedge Fund—This color is perfect for fall.  With this color on your fingertips, you will have money on your mind!  Check out how it looked on me (ps-- I did that manicure all by myself!)

Caudalie Hand and Nail Cream—I love this hand cream, it smells wonderful and makes your hand feel baby soft.  If you put this on before you went to sleep and then put on gloves or socks (whatever you have), your hands would thank you!

Sarahpotempa The Half-Up—In theory, I love what this product is about.  Since I have a few layers in my hair, it did not wrap up the way it should have.  I think it’s a fabulous product, but I just didn’t work for me.

Coastal Scents Neutral Mirage Palette Set—I am a huge fan of warm colors.  These four colors are perfect coffee shades for fall.

BCBGMAXAZRIA Bon Genre—I love the way this smells!  It has me thinking of warm night by the fireplace with a latte in hand.

Image Map



Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Roxy’s Ice Cream Social Food Truck

Sometimes people call my place of work “Disney World.”  It is hard for people to understand what we really do as social media managers.  I can tell you one thing, we do more than “play on Facebook and Twitter all day.”

We have been hosting Twitter chats at work called #HashOuts.  Today our topic: all about h&8th (an OKC night food market) and local food trucks!  It was a huge hit and it was great to see the community talking with their favorite food trucks.  Speaking of  food trucks...



My favorite ice cream truck (Roxy’s Ice Cream) made a visit to our office!  They sold ice cream from our parking lot for almost an hour.  You know me; I loaded up with a double scoop cone of salted caramel.  It was perfect, like always!  So yeah, maybe I do work at the Oklahoma version of "Disney World."

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Dear Britney Spears

Here is the deal; I have been a fan of Brit Brit since way back when.  Even when she shaved her head and went crazy, I still stood beside her like a loyal fan.  To me, she can do no wrong.  So last night, I was watching E! News and they had a short interview with her.  I learned more about my favorite pop princess.


  1. She does not drink (Good for you Brit!)
  2. She does not gamble (Me neither…too scary)
  3. She would rather buy shoes instead (Ummmmm….Are we twins separated at birth?)
  4. How does she celebrate?  Simply put, miss B likes to go shopping at Nordstrom (Girl I love you even more)
  5. Ohh and she loves pizza

Dear Britney,

I think you are amazing!  Anytime you want to go shopping at Nordstrom when you are in the south, girl you just let me know and I will be there!  We will find the perfect pair of new shoes (or maybe just a “few”).  From all of that shopping we will have worked up an appetite.  I will find us the perfect place to eat and we can have a dance party in the car on the way there.  We will arrive at the best pizza joint and chow down on some pizza.

Monday, September 23, 2013

Pumpkin Cupcakes

Yesterday, I decided to get back into the kitchen and bake some cupcakes! Martha Stewart once again served as my inspiration. I found a pumpkin cupcake recipe that smells better than any pumpkin spice candle. When you take these babies out of the oven your house will be overwhelmed with pumpkin and spice smells. This batch makes 18 cupcakes, enough for you to enjoy and share with friends!



Pumpkin Cupcakes

Ingredients:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1 cup packed light-brown sugar
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree
Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line cupcake pans with paper liners; set aside. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice; set aside.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together, brown sugar, granulated sugar, butter, and eggs. Add dry ingredients, and whisk until smooth. Whisk in pumpkin puree.

3. Divide batter evenly among liners, filling each about halfway. Bake until tops
spring back when touched, and a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean, 20 to 25 minutes, rotating pans once if needed. Transfer to a wire rack; let cool completely.

Top these with your favorite cream cheese frosting and you are good to go!


Sunday, September 22, 2013

Kate Spade Booties at Nordstrom Rack

Fall might be my favorite time of the year. Maybe it has something to do with college football, jeans, boots, and sweaters. On the other hand, I think it has more to do with the month of October or as I like to call it—Lindsey’s Birthday Month. Yes, birthday month, I celebrate all month long! Either way, you look at it, fall is here! PS—Check out these awesome Kate Spade booties I scored at Nordstrom Rack! They were a steal, I couldn't resist!






Wednesday, June 5, 2013

I Have A Husband

It has been a while since I last blogged. I just want to give you a quick life update about a few things. There have been some big changes around here!


#1) I have a husband!

That’s right ladies and gentlemen; Jered and I tied the knot Saturday, May 18th around 6:30 p.m. It was truly the best day of my life!



#2) I am no longer a 4-H Educator!

Yep, your eyes do not lie—I am no longer employed with Oklahoma State University in Pottawatomie County. I said goodbye to my tiny humans and hello to a new opportunity.



#3) Blogging is in my job title!

My friend Brooke packed her bags and moved to be closer to her soon to be husband. I thought she had the coolest job in the world, so I gathered up my courage and applied. I was lucky enough to be the person they hired! I am the travel writer and social media manager for Chickasaw Country. There are 13 counties in south central Oklahoma that I cover!  You have to check it out and plan a visit--it would be fun!

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

Wedding Wednesday: Invitations

Picking out wedding invitations can be a challenging process. There are so many things you have to consider. Here are some questions to talk about as a couple to make the decision - making the  process go over smoothly.


1. Do you want your invitation to match the Save the Date card? (Font styles and overall theme)

2. How formal is your wedding? (garden party or black tie)

3. Do you need direction cards?

4. Are you going to have RSVP cards?

5. What do you want your invitation to say? (Traditional or nontraditional)


Once you have these questions answered, it will be easier for you to look at designs because you now have an idea of what you want in mind. The next step is finding that perfect design that fits your special day. I was lucky to come across Minted.com. It is a website that has all kinds of invitations, stationery, and most importantly—unique designs. You can even order samples to make sure the designs look even better printed on paper!

If you are looking for save the dates, wedding invitations, thank you notes, moving announcements, or just new personal stationary, I highly recommend you check this online shop out. I promise you will not be disappointed. I also have a deal for you since you are my friend. Minted will give you $25 towards your purchase of $50 or more! Yes, you read that right $25 OFF!


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This past weekend Jered’s office was transformed into a wedding workspace, or as I like to call it, a “wedding sweatshop”. We had an assembly line going putting together invitations like it was our life calling until we noticed we ran out of invitations. Let’s just say math is not my strongest skill but never fear, the remaining invitations were ordered on Sunday and should be here by Friday. Below are a few of my wedding invitation tips for you:

1. Once you have your wedding invitation assembled, make sure to weigh it. It might take more postage than what you think. (Speaking from experience)


2. The return address usually goes on the back flap of the envelope.



Thursday, March 14, 2013

Gliori's Italian Restaurant In Tecumseh

Telling you that I do not find carbs delicious would be a lie. Hello, I am human! No matter how hard I try to resist their scrumptiousness, I fail. At the top of the list stand pasta and bread sticks, two things equally capable of standing alone, yet even better when they are on the menu for together. I have found a mom and pop Italian joint that makes you forget your diet, even if it is just for the evening.

Gliori's Italian Restaurant located in downtown Tecumseh transports you to Italy. I am merely speculating that’s how you would feel (I haven’t been to Italy, #bucketlist). From the rustic walls, the mountain side paintings, and the sounds of crooner Dean Martin, you really develop a feel for the old world. Ian, and his wife, Phylis Gliori, own and operate the Italian Restaurant and their passion shows as each plate leaves the kitchen and arrives at your table.



They have everything essentially Italian: spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna, ravioli, chicken parmesan, pizza, and even fresh baked calzone. The possibilities are endless with their multiple pasta and sauce combinations, leaving you to create your own Italian masterpiece. For the dessert lovers, did mention that they also have the best tiramisu this side of Napoli?  However, the decadence does not end there; they even have cheesecake, brownies, and ice cream.

This little main street business is one of my favorite spots in the Shawnee area and I visit it frequently. I am always impressed with the quality of service from the wait staff, but also the friendliness of Ian and Phylis who are known to walk around and chat with the guests throughout your dining experience. There is something charming about being greeted by the owner, letting you know that he truly cares about each individual customer. The best part, for $9.95 you get your choice of salad, a heaping portion of spaghetti and meatballs, and endless bread sticks. Someone pass the parmesan.


Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Benedict Street Marketplace In Shawnee


There is a local restaurant that I love to hit up on lunch hour. Benedict Street Marketplace is a charming spot tucked away behind St. Benedict Catholic Church in downtown Shawnee. You can have brunch, soup, salad, mouth-watering hamburgers, and handcrafted espresso drinks. What more could you ask for? Oh wait, did I mention homemade cookies and cupcakes, yeah there’s that too! The menu changes weekly and it showcases a new salad and soup special, which I always find exciting. This is the closest thing you will find to a French bistro in Shawnee Oklahoma.


It looks like an odd combination, a hamburger with soup. What are you thinking Lindsey? The soup of the week was New England Lobster Chowder. How could anyone resist that? Paired with the chowder is the “Carmen Burger” that is cooked to perfection.



The fresh seasonal cranberry pear salad, dressed with a to die for homemade vinaigrette, proves that salads are not merely meant for our animal friends, but are a perfect match for one of the signature wraps on the menu. This salad is one of my all-time favorites. It’s so different from anything else you can find on a lunch menu that’s less than $15. Have I caught your attention?


Monday, March 11, 2013

Blue Fine Wine and Food in Norman

Recently, I had the opportunity to have a night on the town with Jered at my favorite restaurant in Norman, Blu Fine Wine and Food. This place has everything you could ever want and more, not to mention an excellent wine selection. Cheers to that!


Nothing says cheers to the weekend like a glass of wine. Why have just one glass when you can sample three? Blu has exceptional seasonal wine flights for your exploring palate. As you can see, I chose the Winter Whites, and it did not disappoint.


I am obsessed with their hummus and pita chips, just look at that bright, vivid color. In my opinion, it is a serious contender for the best appetizer with close competition from the cheese tray.



Now, for the star of the show, I bring you BBQ shrimp and grits. The beautifully crafted entrée provided a true to form a taste of the south with a modern upscale twist. I kept listening for the jazz band to come around the corner because felt like I was sitting in the French Quarter of New Orleans.

If you are looking for a new place to have dinner with the girls or a special date with your loved one Blue Fine Wine and Food never disappoints. Each time I leave with a new favorite find.


Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Trix Crispy Treats

Although I am an adult, I still love sugary breakfast cereal like a small child.  However, I don’t eat it for breakfast—I make yummy treats!  I have made these for years, switching up cereals as I see fit.  My all-time favorite is Lucky Charm Treats.  I won my fiancé over by making Fruity Pebble treats for him (I am not sure if that’s how…but I think it played a small role).  You probably have these ingredients just hanging out in your pantry begging to be used.  I give to you my Trix Crispy Treats from the Original Rice Crispy Treat recipe.



Trix Crispy Treats

Ingredients:
  • 3 tablespoons butter or margarine
  • 1 package (10 oz., about 40) regular marshmallows OR 4 cups miniature marshmallows
  • 6 cups Trix breakfast cereal

Directions:

1. In microwave-safe bowl heat butter and marshmallows on HIGH for 3 minutes, stirring after 2 minutes.

2. Add Trix cereal. Stir until well coated.


Mixing up the magic

3. Using buttered spatula or wax paper evenly press mixture into 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan coated with cooking spray. Cool. Cut into 2-inch squares. Best if served the same day.


Just look at the sticky goodness!


Monday, February 11, 2013

Chocolate Cupcakes With Peanut Butter Frosting

I am not a huge chocolate lover.  I get it, for some people chocolate is not the question—it is the answer (cough cough, Lauren).  Although when it comes to dark chocolate covered strawberries—you better get out of the way, I might knock you down.  For over ten years I have been searching for the right kind of chocolate cupcake.  Numerous recipe books, Pinterest attempts, and chats over coffee—I finally found one my heart has been searching for.  A helpful hint I have found, it is worth it to purchase the higher quality coco powder.  I present to you my favorite chocolate cupcakes with peanut butter cream cheese frosting (thanks, Martha)!


Before the oven

Chocolate Cupcakes (Makes 12 cupcakes)

Ingredients:
  • 1 cup flour
  • ½ cup unsweetened coco powder
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup butter
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 1 egg
  • ¾ cup milk
Directions:
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees

  2. Mix flour, cocoa, baking powder, soda, and salt

  3. In a spate bowl, cream butter and sugar on medium until light and fluffy

  4. Reduce the speed to low and add vanilla

  5. Incorporate the eggs into the mixture one at a time

  6. Add milk and flour mixture alternately while still mixing

  7. Pour into lined cupcake pan

  8. Bake at 250 for 20 minutes


Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Frosting (makes enough to frost 24 cupcakes)

Ingredients:
  • 6 ounces cream cheese
  • 1/3 cup confectioners' sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ½ cup heavy cream
Directions:
  1. Beat cream cheese and confectioners' sugar with a mixer on medium speed

  2. Add salt, and then peanut butter, and then vanilla

  3. Whisk cream until soft peaks form, and then fold into peanut butter mixture

  4. Use immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days. (Bring to room temperature, and beat on low speed until smooth before using.)



Friday, February 8, 2013

Thank You Notes

I have been doing a lot of in-school enrichment this past semester.  A lot meaning each week I am facilitating bullying lessons to 760 youth!  The lesson from this week was about manners and the importance of Thank You notes.  It’s a great lesson and I am so glad to introduce children to them.  Each week the lesson has a different “Power Phrase” and this lessons phrase: “Good Manners are the perfect way to show respect every day!" Just check our this awesome thank you note I received.





Wednesday, February 6, 2013

Wedding Wednesday: Modern Day Glass Slipper

I think I have been pretty emotionally stable throughout the wedding process (minus saying yes to a dress—that story will come at a later time).  This morning when the UPS truck driver stepped into my office he had no idea what he was getting himself into.  I knew it was my shoes—I have been tracking them nonstop since I placed the order Sunday afternoon.  Kudos to you UPS, I am impressed they got here so quick.  I was as excited as a little girl standing in line for cotton candy at the carnival!  The UPS driver was lucky he escaped without a hug—I was seriously contemplating it.  I ripped open the box with excitement and furry!   I have been prancing around my office since.





Friday, January 25, 2013

My Favorite Bobbi Brown LipsticksBobbi Brown Rich Lip Color

I love changing my look from day to day.  If you are like me, you have to repeat outfits every now and then.  To make them look different I try styling the outfits with accessories.  The easiest way to change your overall look is by your lip color choice.  Are you feeling sassy?  How about a bold red lip!  Are you going for a feminine look?  Apply a soft pink color! Be brave, walk into your favorite beauty store and ask to speak with someone working.  They should be able to help you find different shades that work perfectly with your skin tone.  Listed below are some of my favorite lip colors.









Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Wedding Wednesday: Return Address Stamp

Last week I shared with you the Save the Date postcard design.  Monday, I was off of work and decided to have a wedding work day of sorts.  I printed off my mailing addresses, grabbed the cards, and camped out at my local Starbucks.  Here is how they turned out, I can't help but smile each time I look at it!



If you are sending out Save the Dates, invitations, and thank you notes, you should look into getting a custom stamp.  I happened to find a great shop on Etsy that makes them; you need to check it out.  I am so happy with the results!  It was a little large for my postcards, but I decided to add it.



Monday, January 21, 2013

Banana Bread

Today between all of the inauguration watching and house cleaning I managed to have a pretty productive day off!  What I am most excited about is finally finding a banana bread recipe I like!  For some reason, I am always looking for recipes similar to the ones I grew up making.  Found memories of being in the kitchen with my mom mashing up bananas in a zip lock bag as her kitchen assistant just make me smile.  Honestly, I am not a huge fan of bananas; mostly it’s the texture that I don’t like.  However, I do enjoy a slice of banana bread.


Before the oven

Banana Bread Recipe

Ingredients:
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 stick butter
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 3-4 medium over-ripe bananas, mashed (place them in a sandwich bag and take out your aggression)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees

2. In a medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients. Set aside for later use

3. In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy

4. Beat in the eggs one at a time

5. Mix in the mashed bananas

6. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet and mix until just combined

7. Bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean

8. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes and then move to a wire rack to finish cooling


Hot & fresh out of the oven




Saturday, January 19, 2013

Weekend Update

I ask you this question. What is the best part of the weekend? My answer: breakfast and coffee. Hopefully, you get to sleep in and start your day whenever you please. Next you can decide to dress up or down. Then you decide on breakfast: brunch, coffee shop, or doughnuts?


This morning I decided for comfortable clothes after being at a work conference for the past three days. Then we headed to a local doughnut shop. At last, we rounded off the morning with a trip to Starbucks! As you can see the child in me picked out the pink sprinkle doughnut for breakfast.


Thursday, January 17, 2013

My January BIRCHBOX


Monday evening my favorite day of the month happened!  Opening my mailbox, I found my monthly BIRCHBOX patiently waiting for me.  I am very happy with my January BIRCHBOX!  I agree with the BB Team, let’s make 2013 the best year ever!  Let me tell you all about the goodies in my box this month.



Eyeok—Skinny Liquid Eyeliner
This item is from the UK, and it’s a pen applicator that is smooth and has a perfectly fine point.  I love liquid eyeliner; it has such a sexy look to it!

Harvey Prince—Skinny Chic
Fresh perfume with a blend of apple, mint, and lotus blossom.  It is growing on me; I think this will be perfect for spring.

Pur~Lisse—Hyrdra-Balance Moisturizer
Moisturizer with Chinese lotus and French marine plant extract leaves your face feeling smooth and hydrated.  The biggest plus, it has anti-aging properties!

Rahua—Shampoo and Conditioner Sampler Pack
An eco-friendly brand filled with natural and organic ingredients.  I love the voluminous shampoo and conditioner, who doesn’t like big hair?!

theBalm Cosmetics—Hot Mama
A blush that also serves as a highlighter with a hint of golden shimmer.  My good friend Kristin loved this during undergraduate.  I love the pin-up girl on the cover!