Friday, February 28, 2014

187:365

Shirt by H.I.P, scarf by B.P., jeans by Seven For All Mankind, shoes by Aldo.

A few years back, I started making coffee sleeves as a side business, carrying the Brew Sleeves in local coffee shops and boutiques.  I had high hopes but ended up taking a break from it as it didn't exactly pan out number-wise at the time  Recently a friend asked if I could make a custom sleeve as a gift for a friend, explaining how their friendship came to fruition, and wanted me to create a sleeve to represent their friendship.

Here is what I cam up with.  The picture on the left, you see two flowers representing each of them, and then when you fold it around a coffee cup, a heart is exposed (a coffee shop is where they had their first hang out).  I thought I would experiment with 3-dimensional flowers since I didn't like the looks of 2-D ones I had seen online.  Hence, here is the final result!  

Thursday, February 27, 2014

186:365

Dress by Lush, sweater by Nine West, tights from Nordstrom, boots by Cole Haan.

Tonight I sipped on Ponzi Tavola wine and made pizza with ingredients I found in my fridge and pantry. It may seem a little random, but I have to say, it was quite delicious! (Makes 1 large pizza)

Here's how I made it:
  1. Homemade no-yeast pizza dough using this link
  2. 1 lb. of ground turkey, cooked
  3. A handful of brussel sprouts, thinly sliced
  4. Sliced pineapple - as much as your little heart desires!
  5. Jar of pizza sauce
  6. Pressed Garlic
  7. Parmesan cheese - 1 large bag
  8. Pink Himalayan Salt, ground pepper, crushed red pepper
  • Make pizza dough and spread onto pizza pan
  • Bake for 5 or so minutes
  • Spread pizza sauce
  • Add cooked ground turkey, brussel sprouts, pineapple, and pressed garlic evenly over pizza
  • Layer cheese on top
  • Pink Himalayan Salt, ground pepper, and crushed red pepper to taste
  • Bake in preheated oven at 400 degrees for approximately 20 minutes - to your preference
  • Enjoy!

Wednesday, February 26, 2014

185:365

Houndstooth, leather-trimmed top by Trouve, jeans by Seven For All Mankind, flats by BCBG.

A little over ten years ago (Wow!!), I made the decision to join a summer project held in the beautiful Fort Collins, Colorado. I had just finished my sophomore year of college and wanted to seek adventure, new friends, gain leadership skills, and experience the breath-taking Rocky Mountains. Joined by two other U of O students and 36 others from northwest colleges, we met up on one sunny day in June, spent the summer together at the Colorado State University Chi Omega house, made memories never to be forgotten and developed ourselves internally and built relationships externally for a span of two months. I will never forget that summer. Long days and late nights made for an exciting adventure, and I know though I don't often see the friends I made that summer, we have a bond like no other and if/when we see each other again it will be as if we hadn't skipped a beat.

Fast forward ten years, and one couple (who was already dating coming into the project and is now married) started a Youtube reality series called Expedition Overland. It involves beastly vehicles, adventure in the depths and heart of Alaska and the roller coaster of emotional highs and lows in between. The beauty they capture behind the lens is phenomenal, the people they meet are fascinating, and the quaint towns the size of the produce aisle of your local grocery market will make your heart melt.

If you love adventure, the outdoors, spontaneity, and seeing people choose to follow their dreams, look no further!!

Clay and Rachelle, I remember all the moments sitting on the cliffs on the outskirts of Fort Collins watching the sunset, our crazy ropes course at the top of the Rockies in the middle of a thunder and lightning storm, our black ops night excursion just outside the house, among many others. You two are meant for adventure, and I'm so glad you're following your heart!

Here's to many more adventures.

Jennica 


Tuesday, February 25, 2014

184:365

Scarf by Old Navy, sweater by BCBG, dress by Ann Taylor Loft, booties from Italy.

I have to say, I like this outfit better in person than staring at it right now as I type...But I do still love it. I was getting sick of wearing black all the time (though it's clearly my favorite color of clothing and I'm sure I'll end up wearing it tomorrow...) AND it was time to bust out a dress y'all. So I thought I would just throw a little sweater over it and give it a shot. I'm also very particular about tights. I love the look, but they can be really uncomfortable...So amidst the arctic blasts, my poor calves took it for the team.

All for now. Ciao Bellas ;)

Jennica

Monday, February 24, 2014

183:365

Sweater by BCBG, asymmetrical shirt by Halogen, skirt by Forever 21, boots by Loeffler Randall hair by the crazy train.

On the first day of the second half of my project, I may have attempted to do Shaun T's Hip Hop Abs...After doing Insanity for all these months, I thought for sure Hip Hop Abs would be hard. Not Hard. Thoroughly disappointed in Shaun T. Therefore, I went to the gym and lifted HARD as my boyfriend would say. And it felt good. My body is thanking me. My body actually told me, "Hey Jenniqua, you should do this more often." And I was like, "OK, I guess I just might have to do that, and by the way, how'd you know my nickname was Jenniqua??" And my body was like, "I will not accept might as an answer, and I know all about you giiiiiiirl." And then I turned to God and I was like, "Lord, when did I sign up for this???" And with a chuckle, God was like, "Giiiiiiirl you better do what your body says!" Perplexed by all of this, I then submitted to my body, and changed the word might to will.

After that lengthly, quite odd convo, I decided I need to lift weights more because I hear that starting at the age of 30, women begin to loose muscle tone, and when you loose muscle tone, everything goes downhill, literally.

Do your body good. Lift weights.

Jennica


Sunday, February 23, 2014

182:365


Hat by Magid Hats, Blazers tee by Step Ahead, skinnies by Cello, booties by Trouve, Bella from The Oregon Cat.


Killer Burger's Peanut Butter Pickle Burger!!!!
Today is a red letter day for two reasons. One, it's a red letter day because I got to cheer my Blazers on
to victory in my red and black, in what fans anticipated being a not-so-pretty game up to half time. The Blazers then made a 25 point swing, leading the Timberwolves in the majority of the 4th quarter, and beating them by 11 points. Jumping up and down as much as I did had me a little light headed...but worth a minuscule risk of passing out for the thrill of the 6th Man.

The second and more important reason this is a red letter day...drum roll please ..........................
Today I am officially half way done with my project 365!!!!!!! There is hope! I have to say, getting through the first half of my project has been a challenge to say the least, but knowing that I conquered the first half means there is light at the end of the tunnel, there's no turning back, I'm in it to win it.

Thank you to all of you who have encouraged me, given me feedback, and have been consistently reading my blog. Having you join me on this journey has been fabulous. I hope that in receiving encouragement from you, I have also been able to reciprocate that encouragement to you in some way through my blog. May this next half be as challenging, inspiring growth internally for both you and me, and may we all end this Project 365 as better people. 182 down. 183 to go. (Technically 182.5 days is half way so I chose 182 as my halfway point..) :).

In hope,

Jennica

181:365

Sweatshirt by J.Crew, gold sequin racer-back tank by Wilster, jeans by Joe's Jeans, shoes by Nike.

I mourn the loss of this complete outfit for the next six months. If we could all have a moment of silence please?

.....
.....
.....
.....
.....

Thank you.

Jennica

180:365

Seahawks shirt by Nike (Valentines Day present from my man!), jeans by Anoname, shoes by TOMS.

Though I know I'm one of those fans who joined the 12th Man bandwagon late in the game, I'm still committed. I've always hesitated getting into NFL football for fear of watching games played by athletes with no heart for the game. In a lot of cases that may be true, but in watching the Seahawks, hidden under their helmets and behind their numbers is a heart for the game that I'm not used to seeing on that level of football. The energy they bring to the field is unlike the NFL I've grown accustomed to.

While rooting for the Seahawks during the season, I was unable to sport my pride with Seahawks gear, since I couldn't buy any apparel. Thanks to my man, and knowing me well, I got hooked up on Valentines Day with a #3 Wilson tee of my own! Go Hawks!

XOXO

Jennica

Thursday, February 20, 2014

179:365


So this evening, I was attempting to use what I had in the pantry to accompany some soup I made previously. I'm not sure it was the ideal complimentary dish, but it was delicious! Here's what I did:


  1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees.
  2. 1 small bag of brussel sprouts - cut the ends off and cut in half.
  3. 1 small bag of golden potatoes - slice in circles.
  4. 1 package of polsksa kielbasa - slice in circles (2 packs for $6.00 at Freddy's).
  5. Toss in olive oil, ground pink himilayan salt, and ground pepper.
  6. Spread out evenly on a broiler pan.
  7. Bake for 25 minutes
  8. Enjoy!!
Give it a try. It's inexpensive and has lots of flavor. You could even eat that for your meal alone!

XOXO,

Jennica

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

178:365

Sweater by Forever 21, pants by BCBG, booties by Vince Camuto.

What if? The dreaded question that haunts our minds when we have too much time on our hands, allowing fantasies of the worst possible events to take place. What are we to do with that question? What power do we have over that question? What if we stopped asking ourselves what if? What if we were to allow the events, decisions already passed, and (insert your worry that's beyond your control here) be? What if we were to leave it alone?

If I were to be honest with myself, I find that I worry a lot. In fact anxiety and stress have been known to take over and high-jack my ribcage, tying my lungs in knots and causing my heart to double in speed. Knowing stress, worry and anxiety are common, I thought I'd share a few tips. 

Along with avoiding what if mind-bombs, I've found, though I don't do this often enough, doing yoga is so beneficial, allowing my mind and body to slow, my breathing to regulate, and my muscles to relax (except for in downward dog!!!). As my mind slows, it creates room for authentic thoughts to stand prevalent in the forefront of my mind, giving needed clarity. In the coming months, I hope to bring yoga into my regular schedule as a strategy to reduce stress, worry, and anxiety, as well as bring clarity into my life.

Also, pump the brakes on the caffeine! Though I have been drinking caffeinated coffee in the morning lately, I did take about a year off from the ol' caffeine and found it to helpful in warding off the vein-pumping stress and worry I was so used to. Maybe start by limiting your caffeine to just one cup, instead of the whole pot - you know who you are.... Then go to half-caff. for a little while, and finally replace it with decaf. Once I transitioned over to decaf, though I know it still has trace amounts of caffeine, I found myself not being trapped in a glass case of emotion between the hours of all day

In short, to limit your worry, stress, and anxiety, don't ask yourself what if?, do yoga, and pump the brakes on caffeine. I think you'll notice a difference.

XOXO,

Jennica 

Tuesday, February 18, 2014

177:365

Lace jacket by Eyeshadow, cargo pants by American Eagle, booties by Report.

My outfit.
First of all, this lace jacket I wore today was one of the lucky items that got mended in sub-fifteen minute time. It's hard to tell, but it has three or four layers of ruffles and a zipper in the front. I'm so excited to finally wear this, since I only got to wear it once before some threading came undone! I also love the heels/cargo look as I've seen on Pinterest numerous times. This is my attempt to duplicate it. I have different versions in mind but will wait to attempt them on a day when I'm not feeling so inspired in the outfit department.

In other news.
Good news. The hangers I got yesterday are working fabulously. Bad news. I didn't get enough. Good news. My friend Carice said I can find them for cheap at Costco. Bad news. They might not match the ones I just bought i.e. color/style. Good news. I can probably search online and find the same ones at a discounted price. Bad news. No matter what, it will cost me money. Good news. I will have more room in my closet. Bad news. I can't buy anything to add to my closet.

Good news. I'm done with my blog for today. ;)

Jennica

Monday, February 17, 2014

176:365

Jacket by J.Crew, shirt by Olive & Oak, leggings by B.P., booties from Italy.

On my day off, I got a few things done, including getting my hair cut (!), as well as returning a couple home items I bought a while back that I decided I didn't need after all. Fortunately I kept the receipt! After returning them, I received store credit. I was quite excited for the opportunity to find something new and fresh for my home, and made the rounds at the store, dreaming about how I could spice up my home. With a few ideas in mind, each one would force me to spend almost double the store credit I had available. With hesitation, the logical side of my brain won. I chose something practical and most definitely NOT exciting...I bought hangers. Ya know, the kind that are all fuzzy and have the hooks and supposedly take up less space and are good for your clothes?? I figure if I care enough about the clothes that I have, I should take care of them in the proper way. From what I've heard, they're all the rage, and therefore, thought I would give it a shot and in turn I'll be making sure that I get rid of any wire hangers 'hangin' around.

Give it a shot. You just might like 'em.

Jennica

175:365

Top by Mezzanine, coated skinnies by Rich & Skinny, belt by Gap, Sky Highs by Nike.

Excited to get my hair cut tomorrow! I need feedback on what I should do with my hair and I need your opinion. My last hair cut was an A-Line with swopped bangs (on the right).  Prior to that, I had grown my hair out longer, past my shoulders (Pic on the left).

Weigh in and let me know what you think via Facebook or the comment section below!

XOXO,

Jennica

Sunday, February 16, 2014

174:365

Burnout jacket by Free People, silk top by Nike, jeans by Joe's Jeans, boots by Fergie.

Think positive.


XOXO,

Jennica

Friday, February 14, 2014

173:365

T-shirt by Xhileration, skirt by TCEC, boots by Loeffler Randall, necklace by Jennicouture Design.

love.  Love is complex.  Love has many layers.  Love can control the depth of one's being.  Love does not accept no for an answer. Love is peace, yet love can be a wrecking ball, tearing through the limbs, souls, minds, and hearts of those deprived of "it." Love reciprocates love. Love, the absence or presence of it, is felt for one's entire life. Love or the lack-there-of can be what one lets define who one is.

But yet true love, raw love, real love, cannot be mastered in this life time.

Perfect love is only from God.  

It's hard to compare my minimal ability and attempts to love to a standard such as God's...but yet to have that standard can only lead to improved relationships, continuous self-evaluation, and ultimately - change.


What is love? Who is your standard? How are you defined by love?

XOXO

jennica

Thursday, February 13, 2014

172:365

Scarf by Shokay, tank by Hinge, necklace and bracelets by Ann Taylor, skirt by BCBG, heels by Cole Haan.

happy valentines day!
With tomorrow being Valentines Day, I'm sure a lot of people have plans, whether with friends, significant others, or to stay home and stay out of the chaos. Whatever your plans, one has to plan what to wear! Fashionistas, don't panic. Everything will be Ok. I urge you to not rush out and buy something new just so you don't have to dig through your closet. Save some bucks and take some advice from me. Below are some suggested types of outfits to cure your wardrobe woes.

  1. Scenario - Going on a date with your significant other: Clearly we've sealed the deal, or close enough, but that doesn't mean we don't need to bring a little sass to the table. Push Frumpty Dumpty off the wall, and say good riddance! If you're going somewhere fancy, you can never go wrong with a LBD (little black dress). If you're keeping it casual but still want to look nice, jeans, heels, and a classic blazer will do the trick.
  2. Scenario - First Date: I would go for a fun, flirty dress, statement necklace, babydoll heels, and do whatever amazing things you do with your hair (don't take advice from me in that category...).But by all means, keep it classy ladies! We want guys to know we're more than just good looks! 
  3. Scenario - Hangin' with all your single friends, out on the town: Go for a fun tribal print skirt, heels and a flowey, silky tank. Don't try too hard on your hair - keep it basic. 
  4. Scenario - Staying home, bah humbug: Leggings, hoodie, and some kick @$$ slippers! And messy hair! Because it doesn't matter, and giiiiiiiiiiiirrrrrrl, you can do what you want.
Whatever you do tomorrow, stand tall, and don't let a Hallmark holiday define your worth.

XOXO,

Jennica

Wednesday, February 12, 2014

171:365

Sweater by Marina Luna, jeans by Cello, booties by Report, headband by Elizabeth Perry.

As I've watched the Olympics the last couple nights, it has been unfortunate to watch as two of the US's super stars, Shaun White and Shani Davis were so close but yet so far away of their ultimate dreams. Both coming into the Olympics striving for a three-peat, they walked away empty-handed. Though I know each of them have had more than a handful of glory in their time as professional athletes, a part of me remains devastated that they were in reach of their three-peat golds and just didn't have what it took when push came to shove in the moment of potential glory. 

However, what was impressive to me, beyond even qualifying for the Olympics three times, was that they walked in to the Olympics as favorites, and when interviewed regarding their losses, both Shaun and Shani accepted defeat with grace. Genuinely congratulating the new champions, they walked away with pride still on their shoulders and respect for the level of competition each was able to experience. 

Though one strives for the ultimate medal, the ultimate reward, the Olympics is the elite of the elite, and to be in the presence of prestigious athletes and competing at that extreme level, in itself is a reward.

Shaun and Shani, you're still my heros!!

Jennica

Tuesday, February 11, 2014

170:365

Jacket by Nike, blouse by Ezra, jeans by Seven for All Mankind, boots from DSW.

To follow up my recent blog post, recommending that one makes a To Do list based on how much time each task takes, it was time to put it to the test. Tonight I had seven tasks to do, and based on my analysis, it was going to take me 1 1/2 hours. I wrote down what time I anticipated completing my tasks and at that point I was against the clock!

Though I didn't quite make my goal, I finished 5 1/2 tasks in the time I set for myself. Regardless, I had made it a challenge, and I ended up working faster than I might have otherwise.

Set a clock. Beat the clock. Work faster.

Jennica

Monday, February 10, 2014

169:365

Vest by Nike, shirt by OP, jeans by Seven for All Mankind, loafers by Sanuk. (No need to do my hair if I'm not going to see anyone I know!)

The elements of fashion are beautiful. And in their essence, style lives. New York Fashion week has just begun, saturating runways with opportunity for up and coming designers, dreamers, and those in between.  In line with NY Fashion Week kicking off on February 6th, a series of short films were created to emphasize the essential elements of New York and Paris' Fashion Weeks, such as texture, color, and pattern. Watching these videos excites me to say the least, and though Oregon has it's own unique footprint of style, if only I/we could wear some of these outlandish, AMAZING outfits.

If you have ten minutes, watch them all for a glimpse into the cutting edge of the fabrics that express NY Fashion Week souls.

XOXO,

Jennica

Sunday, February 9, 2014

168:365

Hat from World Market Cost Plus, hoodie by Billabong, vest by Nike, jeans by Armani Exchange, boots by Nike.

Today has been a great day for two reasons. One, DJ made me breakfast. What a man! Two, I mended six, yes six clothing items that have needed some sort of mending, and I'm not even going to admit how long they've been in the mending tub...But what I will admit is how long it took me to mend them. Fifteen minutes. Yes, fifteen minutes...It blows my mind that I have been withholding myself from wearing these clothes because I was avoiding fifteen minutes of mending. That means it took me less than three minutes per item. Which brings me to my own life lesson that I apparently need to take to heart!

Make a To Do list based on how long it will take to complete each task.

If I would have put mending (15 minutes) on a To Do list, I would have completed it months ago...It puts the task into perspective and allows one to get those crummy chores or line items done quickly. No longer is the focus on "Ugh, I don't want to do this" but the focus is then on, "Wow, this will only take me fifteen minutes."

Give it a shot. You won't regret it.

Jennica


167:365

Hoodie by Nike, headwarmer from JoAnn's Fabric, leggings by B.P., boots by Aldo.

Today, Dj and I made the trek out into the snow! Seeing a blanket of snow stretching to the horizon, ducks, geese, and even seagulls huddled closely in the water, and footprints to show just how deep the snow was, it was a beautiful scene. It's easy to say when I'm not the one out driving in it! But I had to layer up for the chilly breeze and (at that point) the freezing rain. In weather like this, always make sure you have a pair of wool socks to keep you cozy, along with your favorite head warmer. When choosing winter coozies, I love to bring in accents of white - obviously not items that will get dirty easily but give the vibe of WINTER!

After playing in the snow, making tortilla soup, and watching some Olympic games, we decided it was time for yoga. And the kitties did too. I had no idea that my kitties knew how to do the downward dog or child's pose, but they've got good form. When we were doing leg stretches, Bella did her leg stretches too - I'm not kidding - and grabbed  ahold of my hand when I was reaching forward. Maybe she's found her calling...Then when I was doing a back stretch, arms reaching behind me, Taz thought that was an appropriate time to smell my armpit. Relaxing yoga? Not so much. Did I still feel good afterwards? Yes.

Wear white outside. Do yoga inside.

Jennica

Saturday, February 8, 2014

166:365

Hoodie by Ralph Lauren, jeans by Anoname, boots by Aldo.

The opening ceremonies is one of my favorite parts of the Olympics. It's a moment in time that captures unity, country pride, the essence of beauty in artistic performance, and like music, it brings the people together. I honestly don't think there's another event that can compete. 

Throughout the event, I noticed a few different things. First of all, the use of suspended horses, factory parts, islands, a little girl (I would have been so scared!), and snowflakes was quite a creative use of space. Second of all, the choreographed dance between ballet, 50's dancing, and rigid modern dancing demonstrated a unique representation of Russia's history (some major events omitted). Lastly, I don't always say this in regards to opera, but I was truly captivated by the woman singing opera. Her voice penetrated the air and projected the music that weaved this world's hearts together, joining them for 2 weeks of oneness.

Cheers to the beginning of competition of the elite, deserving athletes of the world. And cheers to the hard work and dedication each and every athlete has devoted over the last four years to arrive at excellence. 

Jennica

Thursday, February 6, 2014

165:365


 Scarf from T.J.MAXX, vest by Heritage 1981, jeans by Rock & Republic, booties by Report.

In honor of the Olympics kicking off, I thought I would take this opportunity to share about my own Olympic experience via an article I wrote in my brother and sister-in-law's wedding newsletter, reading material for the attendees.


The Olympic Dream
Growing up my family always watched the Olympics on TV, and I began to dream, “setting my standards high.”  When I grew up, I didn't necessarily care about competing in the Olympics, I just wanted to go to the Olympics.  I never could have imagined the role Timon was going to play in that dream by moving to China.  When we found out the 2008 Summer Olympics were going to be in Beijing, Timon and I began to scheme about going together.  

I finally bought a ticket and flew out on August 8, 2008.  The first event we attended was Team Handball.  First of all, who knew team handball was anything more than a game I played in middle school PE, and second there isn't a US team.  Maybe there is a chance for Timon and I to compete in the Olympics after all.  After that we attended boxing, women’s soccer semi-finals (US beat Japan!), women’s basketball semi-finals (Dwayne Wade sat right in front of us and gave us a head nod), tennis, women's beach volleyball gold medal match, and last but certainly not least track finals.  

Before track finals, I had already joined Timon and Kristina for their one-month anniversary dinner and spent some quality time getting to know Kristina (instantly approved!).  We decided that in order to represent our country well at track finals, we needed to sport our US colors and flail a giant American flag.  Part of our attire included tights.  Red and blue tights.  And Kristina and I weren't the only ones wearing them...  So after getting dressed in red, white and blue from head to toe, including Kristina's and my nails, we headed to the Bird's Nest!  

I have to admit the three of us were awe struck as we stood in between the Bird's Nest and The Cube hearing people speaking multiple languages and representing the beauty and diversity of many countries.  It was by far the most magical experience of them all.  When we finally found our seats it was hard to believe that we were sitting across the track from the flames that we watched from afar on the television so many times during our childhood.  With cameras flashing, athletes competing to reach their dreams, and us right in the middle of it all, we were having the time of our lives.

We had the opportunity to see many significant events that night.  Brian Clay finished his decathlon that night to take the gold, and Usane Bolt and his team broke the world record in the 4X100 meter relay!  Timon, Kristina and I were jumping up and down and screaming so loud as Usane's team broke into their celebration dance right below us on the track!  Our hearts were pounding, and the deafening sound of the crowd was a moment never to be forgotten.  Throughout the rest of the night the three of us were gripping the flag, jumping up and down in our red, white and blue, and cheering for our country. 

By the end of the track meet, the Australian pole vaulter was attempting his last jumps to break the Olympic record.  We relocated to get a better view, and sure enough it was worth it, as he is now the Olympic Record holder!  After his celebration, a high-lights video was shown, recapping the glorious moments of the evening, including Clay, Bolt and the pole vaulter.  However, the most exciting clip of the video was when we saw ourselves for about two-point-five seconds on the jumbo-tron, jumping up and down in our sweatbands and tights and holding our giant American Flag!  It was the perfect ending to a perfect night and I will always cherish the special memories that Kristina, Timon and I experienced that day.

USA!!

Jennica



PS~I heart snow days!!!

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

164:365

Vest by Nike, vintage sweater, jeans by Seven for All Mankind, boots by Report.

My good friend Courtney is celebrating 365 days of sobriety today and in honor of her, her strength, and seeking God in the hardest thing she has ever done, I would like to recognize her by sharing her blog post on this significant day.

XOXO

Jennica

Tuesday, February 4, 2014

163:365

Blouse by Wilster, jeans by H&M, booties from Italy.

People have been asking for my stuffed mushroom recipe so I thought I would post my invented concoction. My cooking tends to be a little more haphazard and spontaneous, but when I come up with something on the high end of the nom-nom-nom scale, I might as well share it.  It will help me remember it too!

Ingredients
  • 18-20 mushrooms
  • 2 chicken apple sausages, sliced into rounds
  • 1/2 cup quinoi (more or less depending on preference)
  • 1/2 of an onion, diced
  • 2 peppers, diced
  • 1 or 2 cloves of garlic, pressed
  • 1 inch length of ginger
  • 1 container of goat cheese (or feta!)
Directions
  1. Saute onions with olive oil
  2. Add peppers, pressed garlic, pressed ginger, and sausage
  3. Saute ingredients until browned
  4. Add cooked quinoi and goat cheese (If you stop right here before adding the goat cheese, this is delicious too, and leave the mushrooms for another meal!)
  5. Mix thoroughly
  6. Break off stems of mushrooms and wash thoroughly
  7. If you diced your ingredients finely enough, then you can simply put them in the mushrooms. I used a Ninja to mince everything, and then placed a small dollop in each one.
  8. Spread evenly on a cookie tray and bake in the oven at 400 degrees for approximately 20 minutes. For the last few minutes turn the broiler on to add a crispy finish to the top.
  9. Let cool for 5 minutes
  10. Savor. Enjoy!
XOXO

Jennica

Monday, February 3, 2014

162:365

Sweater by Saltaire, leggings by B.P., boots by Loeffler Randall.


Be your own greatest rival.

Jennica

161:365

Jacket from China, tank by Joie, jeans by Anoname, kicks by Nike.

With hundreds of people in attendance, the nation watched as Punxsatawney Phil stepped out into the crisp morning air to check out his shadow. Sometimes no news is better than bad news - I'm pretty sure I don't need six more weeks of guaranteed winter.

On to domination- This goes down in history as one of the most fun Super Bowl experiences I've had. Starting the day out with some munchies and moving onto the stuffed mushrooms and a giant bowl of skittles, there was plenty of goodies to snack on throughout the game. Watching the game with four guys - diehard for the Seahawks - I wasn't sure what to expect. I also wasn't sure what to expect between the Broncos (a great reputation) and the Seahawks (up and coming). I soon found out that the evening would involve lots of skittles showers, chest bumps, intentional lean-and-farts, couch dog piles, and a five man dance party that lasted easily a couple hours after the game ("It's a boy dance party!" ~SNL). Starting the game off with points scored 12 seconds into the game, and starting the second half off with a touchdown 12 seconds into the half, there's no denying that between the 12th man and the Seahawks jerseys, no one was going to shut us down.

Cheers to a great win, a great season, a great team, and the 12th man.

Jennica

PS~I made the cookies I posted about on Saturday and they definitely received mixed reviews...I have to say, I think I'm going to try a new recipe next time. If you know of a fantabulous snickerdoodle recipe, please leave the link in the comment section below!! Thx;)

Saturday, February 1, 2014

160:365

Top by Lily White, skinnies by Pilcro (Anthropologie), booties by Report.

So as the world knows, the much-anticipated Super Bowl is just hours away. With thousands of the 12th Man sending the Hawks off in style, all skittles on the west coast sold out for days, Special Edition Skittles Seahawks cakes selling for $1000, and the 12th Man hearts beating just a little bit faster, fans everywhere are preparing for the big day. Though I can't say I can compete with the Seahawks cake, I'm venturing out to try a new recipe of my favorite cookies in the whole wide world. Snickerdoodles. Though my friend Chelsea is tough competition when it comes to snickerdoodles. I'm going to attempt to bypass her elite cookie-baking status with this recipe. With over 3,500 reviews and a 4.5 star status, I have high hopes of the results for these melt-in-your-mouth delights!

I know we've all set our health goals for the new year, but you should probably buckle just once in celebration of the Super Bowl!!

XOXO,

Jennica