tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-43053311436196740382024-03-13T13:24:35.838-07:00Hello StephniAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.comBlogger34125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-26468880331934420502015-04-21T09:30:00.000-07:002015-04-21T09:30:01.091-07:00The Beginning of a New ChapterHi all! I'm sorry about the lack of activity these past few weeks. After much consideration, I have decided to stop Hello Stephni and create a new blog along with my twin sister, Joanna. The blog is called <a href="http://www.opalandopal.com/">Opal & Opal</a> (because our birth month is October and there's two of us, haha) and will feature food, health, beauty, and fashion!<br />
<br />
Joanna and I have lived together, went to school together, and did almost everything together for the past 22 years. However, as graduation comes up (~three more weeks!), and we go our separate ways for grad school (Joanna to Seattle and me to Houston), we thought starting a blog together would be a great opportunity for us to remain connected despite being thousands of miles apart.<br />
<br />
As we begin this new chapter of our lives, we would love to share with you guys and with each other our stories. Thank you!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S-ueDYvO3uo/VTZ6Ixs0IKI/AAAAAAAAA0w/OPDbyGiC2wg/s1600/twins-about.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S-ueDYvO3uo/VTZ6Ixs0IKI/AAAAAAAAA0w/OPDbyGiC2wg/s1600/twins-about.png" height="320" width="306" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Please visit <a href="http://www.opalandopal.com/">Opal & Opal</a>!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
P.S. Can you tell who's who? </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-73576217076231107572015-04-05T07:00:00.000-07:002015-04-05T07:00:01.182-07:00Post-Cruise Sorrows: Missing the Food <div>
<div>
Last week, <a href="http://hellostephni.blogspot.com/2015/03/where-do-people-do-during-spring-break.html">I shared about my cruise to Ensenada, Mexico over Spring break</a>. It was a super awesome experience and exactly what I needed between the busyness of school. Although this is long overdue, today's post is pretty much a photo dump of all the heartwarming, delicious food that I ate on this cruise. Look on:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0Egorz-oYEI/VSDmdqDz7kI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/9BtVD6iIFT0/s1600/FullSizeRender-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0Egorz-oYEI/VSDmdqDz7kI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/9BtVD6iIFT0/s1600/FullSizeRender-2.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Let me just say, the food on this cruise was really good! The pictures on this post came exclusively from the Spirit Dining Room, which was the ship's more sit-down, order and serve restaurant. Although the setting was more formal, we could nevertheless order whatever we wanted and however much we wanted.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HUAXWoWUZwg/VSDmdgfDjcI/AAAAAAAAAzM/IXsRThGI7wA/s1600/FullSizeRender-3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HUAXWoWUZwg/VSDmdgfDjcI/AAAAAAAAAzM/IXsRThGI7wA/s1600/FullSizeRender-3.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jYBxL-k0yTI/VSDmdnUnj-I/AAAAAAAAAzI/xtAezg_zzh8/s1600/FullSizeRender-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jYBxL-k0yTI/VSDmdnUnj-I/AAAAAAAAAzI/xtAezg_zzh8/s1600/FullSizeRender-1.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QhRfZglXtas/VSDmfefhusI/AAAAAAAAAzY/sO4JXs1QL8Q/s1600/IMG_0649.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QhRfZglXtas/VSDmfefhusI/AAAAAAAAAzY/sO4JXs1QL8Q/s1600/IMG_0649.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Truth be told, by the time we arrived at the Spirit Dining Room, my friends and I have already gone to the buffets twice. Nevertheless, we still ordered two entrées per person as well as desserts and an extra to share. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rru3QEw-D90/VSDoIAVrokI/AAAAAAAAA0E/St-26XdsV6E/s1600/IMG_0651.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rru3QEw-D90/VSDoIAVrokI/AAAAAAAAA0E/St-26XdsV6E/s1600/IMG_0651.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pMrV9FY4yGk/VSDoH5oIoKI/AAAAAAAAAz8/OgpB3nle78A/s1600/IMG_0648.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pMrV9FY4yGk/VSDoH5oIoKI/AAAAAAAAAz8/OgpB3nle78A/s1600/IMG_0648.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y9kBrTos7NY/VSDoIIJetqI/AAAAAAAAA0A/ZObRuhu9f3Q/s1600/IMG_0655.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y9kBrTos7NY/VSDoIIJetqI/AAAAAAAAA0A/ZObRuhu9f3Q/s1600/IMG_0655.png" /></a></div>
<div>
The food was so good, and we ate so much that praise the Lord we didn't get diabetes afterwards. Anyhow, happy Easter and I hope I've successfully convinced you to go on your own cruise!</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-69259176152947671812015-04-02T08:29:00.000-07:002015-04-02T11:25:39.697-07:00Decaffeinate: Dandelion Root Tea<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.brandbacker.com/bob_cl_tk.js"></script><script type="text/javascript">var search_me = '223_52844'; var scriptElems = document.getElementsByTagName('script'), i=scriptElems.length - 1, curLoc; for (; i; --i) { curLoc = scriptElems[i]; if ('innerText' in curLoc) { if (curLoc.innerText.indexOf(search_me)) break; }else if ('textContent' in curLoc) { if (curLoc.textContent.indexOf(search_me)) break; }} addImpression(223,52844);var clkHndlr = function(event) { addListenersForClickAround(223,52844, curLoc); };addEvent(window, 'load', clkHndlr);</script><input id="bob_camp_id_223" name="bob_camp_id" value="223" type="hidden"/><input name="bob_camp_mem_id" value="52844" type="hidden"/>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l3_RW60g5mA/VRq75FqxP0I/AAAAAAAAAyg/NNqHsHYZ8Jw/s1600/FullSizeRender.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l3_RW60g5mA/VRq75FqxP0I/AAAAAAAAAyg/NNqHsHYZ8Jw/s1600/FullSizeRender.png" /></a><br />
As you can tell from my previous posts, I love starting the day with some sort of warm beverage, especially a warm, <b><i>caffeinated</i></b> beverage. <span style="text-align: center;">(Check out my </span><a href="http://hellostephni.blogspot.com/2015/01/starting-off-day-right.html" style="text-align: center;">green tea latte</a><span style="text-align: center;"> and </span><a href="http://hellostephni.blogspot.com/2015/01/beaten-coffee-sore-arms-but-totally.html" style="text-align: center;">beaten coffee</a><span style="text-align: center;"> recipes!) </span><br />
<br />
However, I recently realized just how much caffeine I was consuming with almost a daily cup of coffee and multiple rounds of green teas, black teas, etc. Thus, I've been trying really really hard these last couple weeks to decrease my caffeine consumption. Instead, I've taken to drinking more caffeine-free teas like mint tea or what I'm focusing on today: Dandelion Root Tea with Hibiscus & Cinnamon.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LkQ_s7Dafnw/VRq75LMM0cI/AAAAAAAAAyk/-CC18pleQgc/s1600/IMG_0602.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LkQ_s7Dafnw/VRq75LMM0cI/AAAAAAAAAyk/-CC18pleQgc/s1600/IMG_0602.png" /></a></div>
A couple weeks back, I received a sample of this tea from <a href="http://kissmeorganics.com/">Kiss me Organics</a>, the same company who sponsored me to <a href="http://hellostephni.blogspot.com/2015/01/happy-new-years-and-green-tea-frozen.html">review their Culinary Grade Organic Matcha</a> (which is amazing by the way).<br />
<br />
I've never had dandelion root tea before. However, the packaging suggests that this tea helps support healthy digestion and aids in liver and kidney detox, and of course to go along with what I was talking about earlier, caffeine free. Some basic research revealed many benefits:<br />
<ul>
<li>Hibiscus - supports normal blood pressure</li>
<li>Cinnamon - helps regulate blood sugar levels</li>
<li>Dandelion root - helps improve digestion, upset stomach, inflammation</li>
</ul>
Although I can't say I've noticed a significant difference in my digestion, this tea is nevertheless a calming and flavorful way to escape the grasps of caffeine. Plus, with all of the herbal ingredients, it's a great source of many vitamins and nutrients.<br />
<br />
If you're interested in trying the tea, visit their amazon page: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NFYLN18">http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NFYLN18</a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i>sponsored post. personal review.</i></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-34048935017714540822015-03-27T07:00:00.000-07:002015-03-27T07:00:03.265-07:00Where do people do during spring break? Apparently, Mexico!Wahoo! So last week, I was able to go on a cruise with Carnival Imagination to Ensenada, Mexico. This was my first cruise ever, so I can't even begin to put into words how excited I was for this adventure! So much happened so good thing I took notes! Jkjk!<br />
<br />
However, one thing <i>to</i> note ;) This post is going to focus mostly on my experiences and not what I ate during the cruise. I tried to combine everything together, but it was just impossible to fit all of the pictures in a reasonable amount of space! So, I'll do a cruise food post on another day!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #f4cccc; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Day 1</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9ZkTLavzs1A/VRTW1lBqIuI/AAAAAAAAAvg/M0cxHQ0q0Xo/s1600/IMG_0575.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9ZkTLavzs1A/VRTW1lBqIuI/AAAAAAAAAvg/M0cxHQ0q0Xo/s1600/IMG_0575.png" /></a></div>
We arrived at the cruise terminal at around 3pm, but checking in took a while, so we didn't actually enter the ship until about 5. The first thing my friends and I were thinking about was FOOD! We were like lions with our eyes on the prey, haha. So we literally went to our room, dropped off our goods and headed out in search of food. The rest of our evening was spent browsing (and sampling) all of our food options!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #f4cccc; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Day 2</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lviTGdr2-80/VRTgscXsGUI/AAAAAAAAAxc/15366YY76aE/s1600/IMG_1680.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lviTGdr2-80/VRTgscXsGUI/AAAAAAAAAxc/15366YY76aE/s1600/IMG_1680.PNG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Au7mmf71WIQ/VRTgsFPFNkI/AAAAAAAAAxY/HD2YLKj099k/s1600/IMG_1668.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Au7mmf71WIQ/VRTgsFPFNkI/AAAAAAAAAxY/HD2YLKj099k/s1600/IMG_1668.PNG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IMKx4jZfw6s/VRTg1vkVMhI/AAAAAAAAAxo/4ivBpTulL00/s1600/IMG_1669.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IMKx4jZfw6s/VRTg1vkVMhI/AAAAAAAAAxo/4ivBpTulL00/s1600/IMG_1669.PNG" /></a></div>
Catalina was our stop for today! Surprisingly, although it is nearing four year since I've lived in LA, I still hadn't gone to Catalina Island before. However, I'm happy to say I finally went! Catalina is incredibly beautiful, and my friends and I enjoyed a long leisurely walk around this peaceful, seaside town.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pyxHGze70kg/VRTW_dKZZ5I/AAAAAAAAAvo/-jVUCtDN160/s1600/IMG_0572.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pyxHGze70kg/VRTW_dKZZ5I/AAAAAAAAAvo/-jVUCtDN160/s1600/IMG_0572.png" /></a></div>
When we arrived back on ship, we on chilled on the top deck and watched the sunset! Of course, for dinner, we headed straight back to our chain of food options. Don't be surprised, but we visited all three of the major dining areas everyday, every dinner ;)<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #f4cccc; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Day 3</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kUil5-Po8fY/VRTYoJwLdfI/AAAAAAAAAwM/BqrDmvkMZDw/s1600/IMG_0535.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kUil5-Po8fY/VRTYoJwLdfI/AAAAAAAAAwM/BqrDmvkMZDw/s1600/IMG_0535.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1LqMnao_eFY/VRTYAWaP86I/AAAAAAAAAv0/mYS_V8p1Wh0/s1600/IMG_0573.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1LqMnao_eFY/VRTYAWaP86I/AAAAAAAAAv0/mYS_V8p1Wh0/s1600/IMG_0573.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ensenada! My first time in Mexico! Ensenada was again a really beautiful and peaceful city. I enjoyed a trip to the local flea market and visited La Bufadora, one of the largest blowholes in North America!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mUKblI4rokM/VRTYoSej8kI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/V5hS57yYny8/s1600/IMG_0534.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mUKblI4rokM/VRTYoSej8kI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/V5hS57yYny8/s1600/IMG_0534.png" /></a></div>
Sadly, the entire time I waited there were no major blow blasts of water :(<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XZnW6N98Lk8/VRTYre7dhnI/AAAAAAAAAwc/TclS2Yhh85w/s1600/IMG_0537.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XZnW6N98Lk8/VRTYre7dhnI/AAAAAAAAAwc/TclS2Yhh85w/s1600/IMG_0537.png" /></a></div>
Anyhow, I had my first authentic Mexican taco and piña colada today as well! They were both delicious. Sadly, I don't know why, but I only got one taco. I know, let's hear the boos :(<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gbGJ5lLpMe0/VRTYL6yngCI/AAAAAAAAAv8/IKEyrAFIUg8/s1600/IMG_0574.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gbGJ5lLpMe0/VRTYL6yngCI/AAAAAAAAAv8/IKEyrAFIUg8/s1600/IMG_0574.png" /></a></div>
Towards the end of our day in Mexico, we gazed into the endless waters on horseback! This was definitely my favorite part of the day. Not only were the horses adorable, the view was incredible as well! My conclusion for the day: Mexico has been such a sweetheart, and I want a horse!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #f4cccc; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Day 4</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5AJdwWoiOwA/VRTaiYldwCI/AAAAAAAAAwo/z05fQNvUcnY/s1600/IMG_0576.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5AJdwWoiOwA/VRTaiYldwCI/AAAAAAAAAwo/z05fQNvUcnY/s1600/IMG_0576.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Today was an entire day on the ship with nowhere to go and nowhere to be! We woke up around noon, and just spent the afternoon chilling by pool on the upper deck. It was an incredible feeling seeing all the birds and seagulls fly above us. It seemed almost like they were swaying to the music that was playing on deck. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OgyZrrk0xLE/VRTb7ttn7kI/AAAAAAAAAw4/9eNa6ewH0Cs/s1600/IMG_0567.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OgyZrrk0xLE/VRTb7ttn7kI/AAAAAAAAAw4/9eNa6ewH0Cs/s1600/IMG_0567.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7FuKYviaT3Y/VRTain2T0vI/AAAAAAAAAws/zcpXkFaB3eM/s1600/IMG_0500.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7FuKYviaT3Y/VRTain2T0vI/AAAAAAAAAws/zcpXkFaB3eM/s1600/IMG_0500.png" /></a></div>
We also watched one of the employees carve an ice sculpture (he took first place after his father in a national contest in Indonesia!), a hairy chest contest (interesting, right?), a music/dance performance (picture above), and of course, ate lots and lots of food~<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #f4cccc; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Day 5</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k5EvRGwfSqw/VRTc9RZ_E5I/AAAAAAAAAxE/lxIwbMY9SIU/s1600/FullSizeRender-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k5EvRGwfSqw/VRTc9RZ_E5I/AAAAAAAAAxE/lxIwbMY9SIU/s1600/FullSizeRender-1.png" /></a></div>
This was the last official day on the ship. The ship was actually already docked when we woke up. In fact, we woke up JUST in time to catch the last bit of breakfast. My last meal consisted of a bowl of oatmeal and fruits, some slices of smoked salmon, and coffee! Delicious way to end indeed.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xphUywRCBTI/VRTc9lQNhQI/AAAAAAAAAxI/shnQz2Db7Ms/s1600/IMG_0486.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xphUywRCBTI/VRTc9lQNhQI/AAAAAAAAAxI/shnQz2Db7Ms/s1600/IMG_0486.png" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-57878140709655782822015-03-20T15:00:00.000-07:002015-03-20T15:01:33.350-07:00Spring Break Chillin' at Nature's Brew<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FWiDtmk6VEQ/VQyXQpxRAJI/AAAAAAAAAtc/tDP0n3M2-Dk/s1600/FullSizeRender-4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FWiDtmk6VEQ/VQyXQpxRAJI/AAAAAAAAAtc/tDP0n3M2-Dk/s1600/FullSizeRender-4.png" /></a></div>
I'm at <a href="http://www.naturesbrewcafe.com/">Nature's Brew</a> right now hoping to get some work done. It's located about a mile from the University of Southern California (the campus is small, but nevertheless beautiful if you haven't visited!).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6XsaK_W-5bM/VQyXRmbtDII/AAAAAAAAAtw/VD-j4pxIzNU/s1600/IMG_0494.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6XsaK_W-5bM/VQyXRmbtDII/AAAAAAAAAtw/VD-j4pxIzNU/s1600/IMG_0494.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5yHO5rRJIZY/VQyXRpvVrZI/AAAAAAAAAts/WtiwCbFHyuM/s1600/IMG_0496.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5yHO5rRJIZY/VQyXRpvVrZI/AAAAAAAAAts/WtiwCbFHyuM/s1600/IMG_0496.png" /></a></div>
It's spring break! And I just came back from a four-night cruise to Mexico with a couple friends, so my goal for today is to finish editing some photos and reflect on my travels, so I can share my experiences with you all!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uYxtZLWd1U8/VQyXQSeC1yI/AAAAAAAAAtU/qVaBaeXpsdE/s1600/FullSizeRender-3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uYxtZLWd1U8/VQyXQSeC1yI/AAAAAAAAAtU/qVaBaeXpsdE/s1600/FullSizeRender-3.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QdwOmDL4uMk/VQyXQg4aWuI/AAAAAAAAAtY/ck0k0WXalvg/s1600/IMG_0491.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QdwOmDL4uMk/VQyXQg4aWuI/AAAAAAAAAtY/ck0k0WXalvg/s1600/IMG_0491.png" /></a></div>
I ordered the Vegan Sandwich, which features sweet and spicy yams, pickled beets, grilled bell pepper, red onions, roasted eggplant, and a house-made lemon garlic veganise for a perfect combination of sweet and tangy. I also got a quinoa salad, which is also delicious! The lemony and slight curry flavor left my tastebuds feeling absolutely delighted. Furthermore, the crunch of the water chestnut along with the grainy texture of the quinoa was delicious!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-10284260190008097672015-03-08T08:00:00.000-07:002015-03-08T08:00:04.175-07:00[KLAIRS] Gentle Black Deep Cleansing Oil Review<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Living in Los Angeles, my skin gets exposed to so much dirt and pollution in the air, so skincare has become something that I’ve been concerned over more and more. Since we only have one chance to take care of our skin, I recently decided to invest in better skincare products that are gentler and more natural. </span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">I mentioned in my <a href="https://www.blogger.com/">WishTrend post<span id="goog_2010460234"></span></a> that I had purchased the <a href="http://www.wishtrend.com/skin-care/1161-gentle-black-deep-cleansing-oil-klairs.html">Klairs Gentle Black Deep Cleansing Oil</a>. I’ve been using this product for the last few weeks, so I thought it’s about time to do a review on it!</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N5O1cn-Hg3I/VPXyx1Rh_2I/AAAAAAAAAr4/_or8JiODhOE/s1600/klairs1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N5O1cn-Hg3I/VPXyx1Rh_2I/AAAAAAAAAr4/_or8JiODhOE/s1600/klairs1.png" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<span class="s1"></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">The <a href="http://www.wishtrend.com/skin-care/1161-gentle-black-deep-cleansing-oil-klairs.html">Klairs Gentle Black Deep Cleansing Oil </a>contains an assortment of various oils that are great for your skin! These include:</span></div>
<ul class="ul1">
<li class="li1"><span class="s1"><span style="color: #990000;">Black bean oil</span> - helps control sebum production, increases skin elasticity</span></li>
<li class="li1"><span class="s1"><span style="color: #990000;">Black sesame oil</span> - prevents dehydration and aging of skin, has antioxidant effects</span></li>
<li class="li1"><span class="s1"><span style="color: #990000;">Black currant seed oil</span> - helps keep skin moist, promotes skin cell regeneration</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">All of this information I found on <a href="http://www.wishtrend.com/">WishTrend’s website</a>, which is another reason I love this store. I learn so much about the product as well as what the benefits of various ingredients!</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: center;">
<span class="s1" style="background-color: #f4cccc;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">So... conclusion </span></span></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: center;">
<span class="s1">Would I buy recommend it? </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Yes!! I feel like my skin has become so much softer and smoother from using the cleanser these past few weeks. </span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><br /></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Furthermore, the <a href="http://www.wishtrend.com/skin-care/1161-gentle-black-deep-cleansing-oil-klairs.html">cleansing oil </a>is really fun to use! All you do is pump a small amount of the oil onto dry hands and massage it onto your face. When you rinse with lukewarm water, the oil transforms into a milky consistency! Love it!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dM87j0L9lfM/VPnR-ecQSUI/AAAAAAAAAsg/hSOQAT-CgsQ/s1600/klairs2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dM87j0L9lfM/VPnR-ecQSUI/AAAAAAAAAsg/hSOQAT-CgsQ/s1600/klairs2.png" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Adding water.... !!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span class="s1"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pgehRB6lq30/VPnR-mZPfHI/AAAAAAAAAsk/cNTF48o8xt0/s1600/klairs3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pgehRB6lq30/VPnR-mZPfHI/AAAAAAAAAsk/cNTF48o8xt0/s1600/klairs3.png" height="640" width="480" /></a></span></div>
</div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><br /></span><span class="s1">So now that I've shared by thoughts on the oil cleanser, I have some March promotions for you from Wishtrend!</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<ol>
<li style="text-align: left;">Coupon code for 10% off! <span style="color: #990000; text-align: center;">WISHMAR2015 </span><span style="text-align: center;">Shopping cart order must be over $55 and can't be combined with any other discount or voucher.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span class="s1" style="text-align: center;">Special gift voucher code for </span><span style="text-align: center;">1 Full size IPOO Smell Cover Oil in Baby Powder scent </span><span style="color: #990000; text-align: center;">WISHGIFTMAR2015</span></li>
</ol>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.wishtrend.com/tool-accessories/1181-ipoo-smell-cover-oil.html"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wlaAoRry3DU/VPvms6zFYHI/AAAAAAAAAs8/QcMLqiJCpM4/s1600/ipoo-smell-cover-oil.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a><br />
<div class="p1" style="text-align: start;">
<span class="s1"><i>One consideration at the moment though—should I buy a regular cleanser as well? I’ve heard before that oil and regular cleansers clean your face differently… any suggestions?</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: start;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: start;">
<span class="s1">Also! I haven’t done many beauty product reviews, but I’m hoping to do more in the future! Would you guys be interested in that? </span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-84293075223486719002015-02-27T07:00:00.000-08:002015-02-27T07:00:10.002-08:00Year of the Goat: Baked Chinese New Year Cake Recipe<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Chinese New Year was last Thursday, and for the most part, I spent the day pretty celebration-free. I did some social media work for my internship, visited my school’s Startup Career Fair, and called each of my relatives in China. I didn’t do much, but I'm thankful for a time to reflect and appreciate family and friends among many other blessings of the previous (lunar) year.</span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u3etX7UnPnY/VO_ZLrcp40I/AAAAAAAAAq4/PBjH5q49lL0/s1600/IMG_0196.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u3etX7UnPnY/VO_ZLrcp40I/AAAAAAAAAq4/PBjH5q49lL0/s1600/IMG_0196.jpg" /></a></span></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Although I wasn’t able to celebrate on Thursday, I did celebrate with some friends on Saturday. As college students, I was surprised by all the incredible dishes that everyone bought! We had such incredible goodies as dumplings, steamed fish, eggplant, curry, and niangao (me!).</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UqOrquE-3jA/VO_X6p0JerI/AAAAAAAAAqE/2cAYgzQDKmU/s1600/IMG_0201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UqOrquE-3jA/VO_X6p0JerI/AAAAAAAAAqE/2cAYgzQDKmU/s1600/IMG_0201.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uXDTXdK7HTQ/VO_ZLizA3rI/AAAAAAAAAq0/sH-9iuIgnbo/s1600/IMG_0197.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uXDTXdK7HTQ/VO_ZLizA3rI/AAAAAAAAAq0/sH-9iuIgnbo/s1600/IMG_0197.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-If-4Ahpr-Wk/VO_X4h2hHwI/AAAAAAAAApw/jxWr1YRqq30/s1600/IMG_0198.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-If-4Ahpr-Wk/VO_X4h2hHwI/AAAAAAAAApw/jxWr1YRqq30/s1600/IMG_0198.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f1Ud6luV-jE/VO_X5ma1afI/AAAAAAAAAqA/ACnQZvAij-Q/s1600/IMG_0200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f1Ud6luV-jE/VO_X5ma1afI/AAAAAAAAAqA/ACnQZvAij-Q/s1600/IMG_0200.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Anyways, enough with what I've been eating! I’m here to share my mom's baked niangao recipe, which I brought to the potluck! Earlier last year (and half a year late), I shared the more <a href="http://hellostephni.blogspot.com/2014/07/a-little-late-but-chinese-new-year-and.html">traditional steamed niangao recipe</a>, but I think this recipe is also really delicious! </span><br />
<br />
The niangao recipe is obvious not the most healthy recipe, but seeing as to how it's the new year, I don't see why we shouldn't enjoy ourselves a bit! You know the 80/20 rule?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ASztFKKqzUI/VO_X7OkTB2I/AAAAAAAAAqQ/wYhNtrk_GYE/s1600/IMG_0205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ASztFKKqzUI/VO_X7OkTB2I/AAAAAAAAAqQ/wYhNtrk_GYE/s1600/IMG_0205.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6RIZZLMuWwM/VO_X7ikO6GI/AAAAAAAAAqY/bkTMX1jD4o8/s1600/IMG_0204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6RIZZLMuWwM/VO_X7ikO6GI/AAAAAAAAAqY/bkTMX1jD4o8/s1600/IMG_0204.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="background-color: #ebd3c4; border-radius: 15px; padding: 10px;">
<b>Baked Niangao Recipe</b><br />
<br />
Ingredients:
<br />
<ul>
<li>1 bag of glutinous rice flour (16oz)</li>
<li>3 eggs</li>
<li>3 cups of milk (I used 2%)</li>
<li>3/4 cups sugar</li>
<li>1/2 cup vegetable oil (or 1 stick butter)</li>
<li>1 tsp baking powder</li>
<li>1 tsp vanilla extract</li>
</ul>
<br />
Directions:
<br />
<ol>
<li>Preheat oven to 365 degrees fahrenheit.</li>
<li>Combine all ingredients and mix very thoroughly. If you have an electric mixer, blend on high for a couple minutes. If you're like me and don't have one, combine the dry and wet ingredients separately and then slowly add the wet to the dry mixing thoroughly in between.</li>
<li>Bake for 40-45 minutes until top is golden brown and center is cooked through.</li>
</ol>
</blockquote>
This baked niangao is super delicious and has a mild sweetness to it. With the glutinous rice flour, it's also pretty filling! Try the recipe and let me know how it goes!<br />
<br />
Hope you all have a great Year of the Goat!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-74835022611604341712015-02-15T07:14:00.001-08:002015-02-16T21:26:09.497-08:005 Things I've Been LovingHey guys! Hope you all had a lovely Valentine's day filled with chocolates and lots of love regardless of whether or not you're in a relationship!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #f4cccc; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">My apartment-mate got chocolates for our whole apartment! Feeling so blessed :)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-POnY9jCdt_g/VN_rHw1AiKI/AAAAAAAAAnM/gipHY43YvYY/s1600/20150214_191324000_iOS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-POnY9jCdt_g/VN_rHw1AiKI/AAAAAAAAAnM/gipHY43YvYY/s1600/20150214_191324000_iOS.jpg" height="375" width="500" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Anyhow, onto the 5 things I've been loving:<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>1. Overnight Chia Oatmeal </b></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nktxWnRATjQ/U-RmvgbNlMI/AAAAAAAAAVM/XaW63crjuCg/s1600/Photo%2BAug%2B06%2C%2B8%2B20%2B45%2BAM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nktxWnRATjQ/U-RmvgbNlMI/AAAAAAAAAVM/XaW63crjuCg/s1600/Photo%2BAug%2B06%2C%2B8%2B20%2B45%2BAM.jpg" height="500" width="500" /></a></div>
<a href="http://hellostephni.blogspot.com/2014/08/china-and-blueberry-chia-overnight.html">I made a post on this a while ago</a>, and it is simply delicious! Especially, since it's been so hot in LA recently, overnight oatmeal is a great choice! Super filling, full of fiber, and best of all, a refreshing start to the day~<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>2. Matcha Latte </b></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jiMJGoxvG3o/VLX3BY-Y3vI/AAAAAAAAAhI/BdpDNhMi8ac/s1600/IMG_0012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jiMJGoxvG3o/VLX3BY-Y3vI/AAAAAAAAAhI/BdpDNhMi8ac/s1600/IMG_0012.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a></div>
Especially since I've run out of instant coffee for my <a href="http://hellostephni.blogspot.com/2015/01/beaten-coffee-sore-arms-but-totally.html">beaten coffee recipe</a> (which in my opinion is just as good as the latte), I've been turning to <a href="http://hellostephni.blogspot.com/2015/01/starting-off-day-right.html">this matcha latte recipe</a> almost every morning! This latte is super delicious and great for a pre-workout energy boost!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>3. Blogilates</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XhanfT9zSTo/VOBEPx4A41I/AAAAAAAAAnk/YvwoZH_rcs4/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-02-14%2Bat%2B11.00.52%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XhanfT9zSTo/VOBEPx4A41I/AAAAAAAAAnk/YvwoZH_rcs4/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-02-14%2Bat%2B11.00.52%2BPM.png" height="300" width="500" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/blogilates/videos">Blogilates' videos </a>are super challenging, but I've been really enjoying doing them recently. I'm exhausted afterwards, but I feel so strong too! What I like to do is choose a few of her challenge videos for each major muscle in the body and I'll work through them from legs to arms (biggest muscle to smallest). I learned in my weight training class at university that you should work the large muscles first and then the smaller muscles because the smaller muscles fatigue easier!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>4. Grid Diary </b></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t8MuESL_szI/VOBAK8TYLsI/AAAAAAAAAnY/2TtFJmt6A9s/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-02-14%2Bat%2B10.43.16%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t8MuESL_szI/VOBAK8TYLsI/AAAAAAAAAnY/2TtFJmt6A9s/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-02-14%2Bat%2B10.43.16%2BPM.png" height="300" width="500" /></a></div>
<a href="http://griddiaryapp.com/">Grid Diary</a> is an awesome diary/journaling app that I discovered a few months ago! Each day has a list of questions for you to answer such as "What am I grateful for?" "Did I exercise today?" "How can I make tomorrow better?" and so on. What's nice is that you can also edit, delete, and add your own questions. However, note the pro upgrade is $4.99, which is a little pricy for an app in my opinion.<br />
<br />
Nevertheless, the Grid Diary has been super helpful for me to reflect on my day and remind me of all the things that I should be thankful for in my life!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>5. LIAR GAME </b></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nJ4tNfOpUBQ/VN_o0LwpUbI/AAAAAAAAAm8/1vSqbWZPonE/s1600/LiarGame2-banner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nJ4tNfOpUBQ/VN_o0LwpUbI/AAAAAAAAAm8/1vSqbWZPonE/s1600/LiarGame2-banner.jpg" height="341" width="500" /></a></div>
<a href="http://wiki.d-addicts.com/LIAR_GAME">Liar Game</a> is a Japanese drama that I've obsessed over recently! It's about a really honest (and almost naive) girl named Kanzaki Nao who gets tricked into a game called the Liar Game (well duh :P). The secret organization behind this game forces participants to try to steal money from each other or risk being 100 million yen in debt! Since Kanzaki Nao is so honest, she gets the help of a mastermind swindler, Akiyama Shinichi, to help her in the game. And so goes their story!<br />
<br />
I love love love Liar Game! Even though I'm typically not a big fan of Asian dramas, I just got totally stuck on this show. Furthermore, Matsuda Shota, the actor of Akiyama Shinichi is sooo cuute! <3 Haha, this is definitely not the only reason I love Liar Game, although it is one factor :P<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7ecIlvleHVA/VN_o1nEfb2I/AAAAAAAAAnA/Em3liekaqWc/s1600/LiarGameSeason2a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7ecIlvleHVA/VN_o1nEfb2I/AAAAAAAAAnA/Em3liekaqWc/s1600/LiarGameSeason2a.jpg" height="288" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Look at his furrowed brows and intense but cool aura! Who can resist?!</i></div>
<br />
Anyhow, even if you don't agree that Matsuda Shota is adorable... Liar Game is a super great psychological thriller that engages you and makes you reflect on the value of remaining truthful!<br />
<ol>
</ol>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-25829473796698709012015-02-11T12:28:00.000-08:002015-02-11T12:30:23.015-08:00DELICIOUS. Alcove Café & Bakery ReviewHey guys! I know this was a long while ago, but on Martin Luther King day, a couple friends and I went to <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/alcove-cafe-and-bakery-los-angeles">Alcove Café & Bakery</a> for brunch. Before I say anything else, let me just get this out there: <span style="color: #e06666;"><i>It. Is. Heavenly.</i> </span><br />
<br />
Not only did I really enjoyed the food, I loved the <b><span style="color: #e06666;">location</span></b>, the outdoor seating, the ambiance, all of the energy, and oh my gosh, this is the perfect place to spend a cool, sunny morning. Everyone was just talking and cheerful, the sun was out, and even though we were sitting outside, the way Alcove was decorated just gives this full-of-life vibe!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #f4cccc; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">When I was at Alcove, I felt like I had no worries in the world.</span></div>
<br />
<br />
Sadly, I don't have any pictures to show what Alcove looks like! Nevertheless, I found a few from Yelp so that you guys get a sense of what the environment was like. Of course, credits go to the people who took these pictures.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-umqCFH0hQmc/VNHO5y9KFrI/AAAAAAAAAkU/a2uszEdGar4/s1600/l%2B(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-umqCFH0hQmc/VNHO5y9KFrI/AAAAAAAAAkU/a2uszEdGar4/s1600/l%2B(2).jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LV-nWlmiVFs/VNHO5zywkLI/AAAAAAAAAkY/1W3-yfRNNwI/s1600/l%2B(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LV-nWlmiVFs/VNHO5zywkLI/AAAAAAAAAkY/1W3-yfRNNwI/s1600/l%2B(1).jpg" /></a></div>
Although there was a lot of people, the wait passed by pretty quickly. The way it works is a cashier will take your order at the front entrance, and then they'll seat you while you wait for your food. Most of the seating is outside, except for a small bar that they have inside.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RTo20WXMMmc/VNHO55KSrGI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/Ub9Pkdhpjkw/s1600/l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RTo20WXMMmc/VNHO55KSrGI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/Ub9Pkdhpjkw/s1600/l.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
Of course, I don't mind all of the outdoor seating when the weather is beautiful--haha, praise God, Los Angeles has beautiful weather :)<br />
<br />
As for what I ordered, I got the <b><span style="color: #e06666;">Blackened Salmon Sandwich</span></b>, which was delicious! One note though, the sandwich typically comes with a sesame brioche bun. However, I asked to replace the bun with sour dough bread, which in my opinion was a great choice!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xqYPTV86ofM/VNOobfkIvCI/AAAAAAAAAmE/IvJ9zLjImbQ/s1600/20150119_202622000_iOS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xqYPTV86ofM/VNOobfkIvCI/AAAAAAAAAmE/IvJ9zLjImbQ/s1600/20150119_202622000_iOS.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
My friends ordered the <b><span style="color: #e06666;">Shrimp + Crab Omelette</span></b>...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kpOQSEh3ejY/VNOobWAbfhI/AAAAAAAAAmI/rNfo-aPRuvk/s1600/20150119_202958000_iOS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kpOQSEh3ejY/VNOobWAbfhI/AAAAAAAAAmI/rNfo-aPRuvk/s1600/20150119_202958000_iOS.jpg" /></a></div>
And the <b><span style="color: #e06666;">(Kinda) Classic Benedict</span></b>....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sPitbxnHt_I/VNOobe8j8eI/AAAAAAAAAmU/U0Pj1ev-W0o/s1600/20150119_202951000_iOS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sPitbxnHt_I/VNOobe8j8eI/AAAAAAAAAmU/U0Pj1ev-W0o/s1600/20150119_202951000_iOS.jpg" /></a></div>
I haven't tried either of these, but my friends loved it, and both dishes looked delicious!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #f4cccc; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Since President's Day weekend is coming up, do you guys have any scrumptious plans?</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-78468940731274776792015-02-05T09:17:00.001-08:002015-02-28T15:20:07.081-08:00InstaNatural Argan Oil Hair Mask Review<script src="http://www.brandbacker.com/bob_cl_tk.js" type="text/javascript"></script><script type="text/javascript">var search_me = '169_31036'; var scriptElems = document.getElementsByTagName('script'), i=scriptElems.length - 1, curLoc; for (; i; --i) { curLoc = scriptElems[i]; if ('innerText' in curLoc) { if (curLoc.innerText.indexOf(search_me)) break; }else if ('textContent' in curLoc) { if (curLoc.textContent.indexOf(search_me)) break; }} addImpression(169,31036);var clkHndlr = function(event) { addListenersForClickAround(169,31036, curLoc); };addEvent(window, 'load', clkHndlr);</script><input id="bob_camp_id_169" name="bob_camp_id" type="hidden" value="169" /><input name="bob_camp_mem_id" type="hidden" value="31036" />
A quick disclaimer before I start. This is a sponsored post. BUT although I am sponsored by InstaNatural to write this post, I have tried some of their products before this one! Furthermore, these are my own personal and truthful opinions regarding their products. InstaNatural is not in any way requiring me to write a positive review!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
--------------</div>
<br />
The last few months, I've been getting into <span style="color: #6aa84f;"><b>natural skincare products</b></span>. I realized that a lot of our everyday daily products like cleansers, shampoos, and even nail polish have a lot of harmful chemicals that in the long run can be really harmful to my body. As I started doing more research on natural skincare products, I stumbled upon <b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">InstaNatural</span></b> on Amazon.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZMl6k4cFgpQ/VNOlnzuIlBI/AAAAAAAAAl4/NQ8AMGhrnUw/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-02-05%2Bat%2B9.17.08%2BAM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZMl6k4cFgpQ/VNOlnzuIlBI/AAAAAAAAAl4/NQ8AMGhrnUw/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-02-05%2Bat%2B9.17.08%2BAM.png" height="57" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
For a newer and not as well known brand, InstaNatural has incredible reviews for all of their products! Thus, I decided to give them a try. The two that I've tried are their Vitamin C Serum and Advanced Action Retinol Moisturizer, both of which I have enjoyed immensely! I'll do a review on these products in another post.<br />
<br />
Anyhow, I recently received a sample of InstaNatural's Argan Oil Hair Mask, and I was super excited because I had previous positive experiences with their other products.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PHfruc3ieUs/VNOjvF7TdQI/AAAAAAAAAlU/lYjIESrNDTs/s1600/20150205_075226000_iOS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PHfruc3ieUs/VNOjvF7TdQI/AAAAAAAAAlU/lYjIESrNDTs/s1600/20150205_075226000_iOS.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xVWjcxyyNtY/VNOjvSBKn2I/AAAAAAAAAlo/FeFDhVd0Ko8/s1600/20150205_075309000_iOS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xVWjcxyyNtY/VNOjvSBKn2I/AAAAAAAAAlo/FeFDhVd0Ko8/s1600/20150205_075309000_iOS.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7C1tBoaCxZ4/VNOjvckPaWI/AAAAAAAAAlY/YaP89le5g6Y/s1600/20150205_075328000_iOS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7C1tBoaCxZ4/VNOjvckPaWI/AAAAAAAAAlY/YaP89le5g6Y/s1600/20150205_075328000_iOS.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>The Review:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>First Impression!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
My first impression of the Argan Oil Hair Mask was <b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">IT SMELLS AMAZING</span></b> and looks pretty delicious too haha.</div>
<br />
<b>Let's start with the cons...</b><br />
In my humble opinion, the mask kind of let me down, granted that both times I've used it so far, I've left it on way longer than the suggested 10-15 minutes. I kept the mask on for almost three hours the first time and 30 minutes the second time--oops! In the end, my hair looked more like <i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">second day unwashed hair</span></i>. Thus, I admit I still need to try the mask for the recommended time before I can form a really conclusive opinion on the product.<br />
<br />
<b>Now for the pros!</b><br />
However, since these two uses, I do believe that my hair has become somewhat <b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">smoother</span></b> and <b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">softer</span></b> then I remembered it to be at the beginning of the school year. These changes are consistent even on days when I wash my hair and don't used the mask, which suggests that the mask may actually have the potential to treat dry, damaged hair! Yesss!!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b>The future...</b><br />
Anyhow, I'll continue using this product at the moment because I've been complaining about my hair feeling dry for the longest time. (Blame my bitter sweet memories of soft, lush hair in middle school and high school. Arggg~).<br />
<br />
I've read some reviews on Amazon where people have said they use it as a regular hair conditioner, so I'll give that a try as well!<br />
<br />
<br />
You can find the Argan Oil Hair Mask product on Amazon for $17.95 at the moment: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MNK9R5Y">http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MNK9R5Y</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-83727969096097246272015-01-31T16:21:00.001-08:002015-01-31T16:21:20.737-08:00Beaten Coffee--Sore Arms, but Totally Worth It!It seems like I've been writing a lot about drinks recently, like the green tea latte and the... or never mind. Maybe not. I've posted recipes for a few other drinks--but more than half a year ago! By the way, check them out! <a href="http://hellostephni.blogspot.com/2014/06/black-sesame-banana-drink-recipe-and.html">Black sesame banana drink </a>and <a href="http://hellostephni.blogspot.com/2014/07/smoothies-who-doesnt-love-them.html">chocolate raspberry smoothie</a>.<br />
<br />
However, today, my focus is on <b style="color: #e69138;">beaten coffee</b>! Have you heard of it before? Me neither, until earlier this week! Apparently it's also called <b><span style="color: #a64d79;">Indian Cappuccino</span></b>, and it's super creamy, affordable, and--oh my gosh--DELICIOUS! You know how I said I've been enjoying <a href="http://hellostephni.blogspot.com/2015/01/starting-off-day-right.html">green tea lattes</a> before my workouts? Well, I've been enjoying this even more, which is not necessarily good because sometimes I just can't help myself to another cup!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X7KKVCugB5M/VM1pcw4by8I/AAAAAAAAAjQ/WT1p_VB2Aag/s1600/IMG_0050.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X7KKVCugB5M/VM1pcw4by8I/AAAAAAAAAjQ/WT1p_VB2Aag/s1600/IMG_0050.png" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
What's even better about this recipe is that there's so few ingredients. You really need only four ingredients, and you'll likely have all of them in your cupboard already!<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="background-color: #ebd3c4; border-radius: 15px; padding: 10px;">
<b>Ingredients:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>2 tbsp Instant Coffee Granules </li>
<li>1 tbsp Granulated Sugar (or to your liking--I prefer less sweet)</li>
<li>1 tsp Water</li>
<li>1 cup milk of choice</li>
</ul>
<div>
<b>Instructions:</b></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>Combine instant coffee, sugar, and water, and mix ingredients together until the mixture thickens and lightens. The texture should be almost that of marshmallow fluff! For me, this takes about 10-12 minutes. </li>
<li>Heat up milk, and add the mixture to the hot milk.</li>
<li>Stir and enjoy!</li>
</ol>
</div>
</blockquote>
Super simple! Look at how dark the mixture was in the beginning! Almost black :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_9odbTWJ7HE/VM1o9pJE0eI/AAAAAAAAAiI/IvZqi1IKlPk/s1600/IMG_0042.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_9odbTWJ7HE/VM1o9pJE0eI/AAAAAAAAAiI/IvZqi1IKlPk/s1600/IMG_0042.png" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
However, as you continue mixture with your spoon, the color gradually lightens and the mixture begins to thicken.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yOKoc8FAsyI/VM1o9nCAyGI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/LOoZWVgAA6U/s1600/IMG_0043.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yOKoc8FAsyI/VM1o9nCAyGI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/LOoZWVgAA6U/s1600/IMG_0043.png" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B3yheJCiJLQ/VM1pGK91ABI/AAAAAAAAAis/Z3fbNFSL06g/s1600/IMG_0046.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B3yheJCiJLQ/VM1pGK91ABI/AAAAAAAAAis/Z3fbNFSL06g/s1600/IMG_0046.png" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've tried using a whisk to make this before, but for some reason, it didn't seem to work as well as with a spoon.... Not sure why, maybe just magic? Haha, just kidding! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rtfUHTWWp1o/VM1pQpa-SOI/AAAAAAAAAi4/UENi59yaofk/s1600/IMG_0047.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rtfUHTWWp1o/VM1pQpa-SOI/AAAAAAAAAi4/UENi59yaofk/s1600/IMG_0047.png" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
As for the sugar, you can adjust it to what ever suits your taste. You can even choose not to add any! And I know because I accidentally left it out once. Oops! But it still tasted great, albeit a little on the bitter side~<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KQZXkfEEo5s/VM1pRA1xDqI/AAAAAAAAAi8/KgB6WK1jNe0/s1600/IMG_0048.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KQZXkfEEo5s/VM1pRA1xDqI/AAAAAAAAAi8/KgB6WK1jNe0/s1600/IMG_0048.png" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
Look! So thick :) Beaten coffee is somewhat tiring to make, but don't give up! It's worth it. Totally.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qt8YkfoI0lY/VM1pVA0RjhI/AAAAAAAAAjI/h3KpOl5MEWE/s1600/IMG_0049.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qt8YkfoI0lY/VM1pVA0RjhI/AAAAAAAAAjI/h3KpOl5MEWE/s1600/IMG_0049.png" height="400" width="297" /></a></div>
Go try it! And if you do, <b>tell me how it goes!! </b>:)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-46622920644325053762015-01-17T23:13:00.003-08:002015-02-28T15:19:10.942-08:00WishTrend - Korea-Based Skincare and Cosmetics<div style="text-align: right;">
<i>Disclaimer - This is not a sponsored post.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tuJGkl1cnPg/VLrEnHS0fDI/AAAAAAAAAhU/taOqxoOIitQ/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-01-16%2Bat%2B12.39.32%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tuJGkl1cnPg/VLrEnHS0fDI/AAAAAAAAAhU/taOqxoOIitQ/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-01-16%2Bat%2B12.39.32%2BPM.png" height="70" width="200" /></a></div>
Hey guys! I just wanted to let you know about a website to find quality skincare products and cosmetics from Asia--<span style="color: #0b5394;"><i><a href="http://www.wishtrend.com/?a_aid=hellosteph">WishTrend.com</a></i></span>. While they are based in Korea, they ship globally, and their website is completely in English, which really helps people like me who loves Korean products but don't know a bit of Korean!<br />
<br />
What makes WishTrend really stand out among other online skincare/cosmetics stores is their YouTube channel <i><span style="color: #e69138;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/WISHTrendTV">WISHTrendTV</a></span></i> and their blog <i><span style="color: #cc0000;"><a href="http://www.wishtrend.com/glam/">Wishtrend Glam</a></span></i>. These videos and articles gives you a bunch of tutorials, product suggestions, trends, and more! Furthermore, these resources are super easy to understand, informative, and have really good image/video quality.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0bC5zX8Cu7Y/VLtYzhlihvI/AAAAAAAAAho/8w0y84eJJJ8/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-01-17%2Bat%2B10.52.58%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0bC5zX8Cu7Y/VLtYzhlihvI/AAAAAAAAAho/8w0y84eJJJ8/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-01-17%2Bat%2B10.52.58%2BPM.png" height="164" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">WISHTrendTV</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sB8qkBWFCsE/VLtYzQUK-4I/AAAAAAAAAhk/oc7xpY50vtI/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-01-17%2Bat%2B10.52.47%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sB8qkBWFCsE/VLtYzQUK-4I/AAAAAAAAAhk/oc7xpY50vtI/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2015-01-17%2Bat%2B10.52.47%2BPM.png" height="293" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wishtrend Glam</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Here are some articles and videos that I've really enjoyed:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.wishtrend.com/glam/hyaluronic-acid-serum/">Is hyaluronic acid serum good for your skin?</a> [article]</li>
<li><a href="http://www.wishtrend.com/glam/eye-makeup-day-night-tutorial/">Eye makeup day to night tutorial</a> [article]</li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xD-Z7XqoU_A">Korean straight eyebrow tutorial</a> [video]</li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pldbfsWACD8">Korean hair extensions for short hair</a> [video]</li>
</ul>
Meanwhile, product-wise, WishTrend has a huge variety, from <a href="http://www.wishtrend.com/163-make-up">makeup</a> and <a href="http://www.wishtrend.com/209-skin-care">skincare</a> to <a href="http://www.wishtrend.com/218-hair">hair products</a> and even <a href="http://www.wishtrend.com/182-men">men's products</a>! They also have a section of products with free shipping, which is great if you want to save on shipping costs. Furthermore, almost all product pages includes:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>A brief description of the product</li>
<li>The product's features</li>
<li>Recommended uses</li>
<li>Detailed closeups of the product</li>
<li>Instructions</li>
<li>Product information</li>
<li>Ingredients</li>
<li>Reviews</li>
</ul>
<div>
I recently just ordered the <a href="http://www.wishtrend.com/skin-care/1161-gentle-black-deep-cleansing-oil-klairs.html">Gentle Black Deep Cleansing Oil </a>(free shipping!!), which I'm really excited for. I'll keep you all updated on how it goes when I receive it~</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.wishtrend.com/skin-care/1161-gentle-black-deep-cleansing-oil-klairs.html"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BgPZG5sRnbM/VLtb4Xe5TiI/AAAAAAAAAh4/UeGWQCUPDmc/s1600/gentle-black-deep-cleansing-oil-klairs.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a><span id="goog_190712986"></span><span id="goog_190712987"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you are interested in purchasing any products, you can use the code "<span style="color: #cc0000;">WISHJAN2015</span>" for 10% off any purchases $55 and over. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Furthermore, if you sign up through <a href="https://www.wishtrend.com:48598/?s=184319501">this link</a>, you can receive $5 to use on your first purchase! Enjoy~</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Where do you purchase most of your skincare/beauty products?</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-4956032420481015092015-01-13T21:23:00.002-08:002015-01-15T09:30:23.389-08:00Starting off the day right: Matcha Latte RecipeHey guys! I just had my first day of classes yesterday, and let's just say I'm pretty pumped for this semester~ I'm taking mostly classes for my entrepreneurship minor this semester, so I'm really excited to be able to work on some venture ideas these next few months! If anything happens from this semester, I'll definitely keep you all updated!<br />
<br />
Anyhow, I think I've been doing pretty well on my <b><span style="color: #3d85c6;">New Years resolutions</span></b>! I went to the gym before class both yesterday and today, so I'm feeling pretty good. Sleeping earlier, however, is something I could work on a bit more, especially since I haven't really gotten a lot of assignments yet. I don't know why, but even though I'm tired, I sometimes just don't want to go to sleep yet... I guess I prefer watching TV more... eeks! <b>Do you guys have this problem as well?</b><br />
<br />
Since I don't like eating a lot or not eating anything before I work out, I've been making myself a <b><span style="color: #38761d;">matcha green tea latte</span></b> before going to the gym! The recipe uses the same Kiss Me Organics Culinary Grade Organic Matcha I mentioned in my last post (<a href="http://hellostephni.blogspot.com/2015/01/happy-new-years-and-green-tea-frozen.html" target="_blank">check out the post for another matcha recipe</a>!).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jiMJGoxvG3o/VLX3BY-Y3vI/AAAAAAAAAhA/5Cs0TMxAzXs/s1600/IMG_0012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jiMJGoxvG3o/VLX3BY-Y3vI/AAAAAAAAAhA/5Cs0TMxAzXs/s1600/IMG_0012.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
The recipe is super simple and fast to make, which makes it a great option for the morning! That way, I can drink something really quick, change, and then go the gym. Furthermore, the <b><span style="color: #38761d;">matcha latte</span></b> gives me quick <b><span style="color: #cc0000;">energy</span></b> (in the form of caffeine from the matcha <i>and</i> calories from the soy milk) as well as lots of nutrients (<a href="http://hellostephni.blogspot.com/2015/01/happy-new-years-and-green-tea-frozen.html" target="_blank">check out my last post to learn some of the awesome benefits of matcha</a>)!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UFtTHtUwkS0/VLX3BW2B-eI/AAAAAAAAAg8/xRy0xdb_z8A/s1600/IMG_0011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UFtTHtUwkS0/VLX3BW2B-eI/AAAAAAAAAg8/xRy0xdb_z8A/s1600/IMG_0011.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Alright, here's the recipe! </div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="background-color: #c8e1da; border-radius: 15px; padding: 10px;">
<b>Matcha Latte Recipe</b><br />
<br />
<u>Ingredients</u>
<br />
<ul>
<li>1-1.5 tsp matcha powder</li>
<li>2 tsp hot water
1 cup soy milk (or almond milk)</li>
<li>1 TBSP honey</li>
</ul>
<u>Directions</u>
<br />
<ol>
<li>Add hot water to matcha powder and mix until all of the clumps are dissolved</li>
<li>Add honey to matcha mixture and stir until completely dissolved</li>
<li>Microwave milk for 90 seconds (or until hot, depends on the microwave)</li>
<li>Pour hot milk into mixture, and enjoy!</li>
</ol>
</blockquote>
<b>What are some of your favorite pre-workout meals/snacks? </b>I love love to try them!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-58083612974131853012015-01-07T20:15:00.001-08:002015-01-14T09:07:47.065-08:00Happy New Years and Green Tea Frozen Treat!!<script src="http://www.brandbacker.com/bob_cl_tk.js" type="text/javascript"></script><script type="text/javascript">var search_me = '146_42911'; var scriptElems = document.getElementsByTagName('script'), i=scriptElems.length - 1, curLoc; for (; i; --i) { curLoc = scriptElems[i]; if ('innerText' in curLoc) { if (curLoc.innerText.indexOf(search_me)) break; }else if ('textContent' in curLoc) { if (curLoc.textContent.indexOf(search_me)) break; }} addImpression(146,42911);var clkHndlr = function(event) { addListenersForClickAround(146,42911, curLoc); };addEvent(window, 'load', clkHndlr);</script><input id="bob_camp_id_146" name="bob_camp_id" type="hidden" value="146" /><input name="bob_camp_mem_id" type="hidden" value="42911" />
Hello everyone!! <b>Happy New Years! </b><br />
<br />
I can't believe it's already been a week into 2015. <u>So much is happening for me this year</u>. I'm finishing my undergraduate degree, going to grad school, moving to Texas, and biggest change of all, separating from my twin sister who I've lived with for the entirety of my 22 years (including undergrad). Thus, there's going to be <u>a lot</u> of changes, but I guess that keeps life exciting, right? <br />
<br />
On another note, for this new year, my resolutions are to be healthier and for me, that means to... <br />
<ol>
<li>Sleep more,</li>
<li>Eat better, and...</li>
<li>Exercise more</li>
</ol>
<a href="http://hellostephni.blogspot.com/2014/12/30-day-bikram-yoga-pass.html" target="_blank">Remember my <b>Bikram yoga</b> post?</a> Well... I haven't gone for maybe two weeks? Eeks! But I do have a reason for that (family vacation, and then I had no car afterwards). HOWEVER... I did go yesterday and today, hehe.<br />
<br />
So... in my efforts to start the year off healthy (and to use my mom's new Vitamix before I go back to school), I decided to make a nice frozen treat for myself, using my organic matcha from Kiss Me Organics.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tlni9ZfFbcw/VKyJJ-6hLYI/AAAAAAAAAf4/hdYkB2b0_y8/s1600/vscocam-photo-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Tlni9ZfFbcw/VKyJJ-6hLYI/AAAAAAAAAf4/hdYkB2b0_y8/s1600/vscocam-photo-2.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The ingredients list was super short and simple. All I used for 2 servings worth was...</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 cup ice<br />
1.5 cup fresh pineapple<br />
1 TBSP honey<br />
2 tsp matcha</blockquote>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Bam! That was it; simple as that. Delicious and healthy, although a little cold for the winter--lol, I had to warm myself up with some hot chocolate afterwards, haha.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So the main item I want to focus on in this post is the incredible <i><a href="http://www.kissmeorganics.com/" target="_blank">Kiss Me Organics: Culinary Grade Organic Matcha</a></i>. I love it! It tastes so good and gives me a boost of energy and metabolism!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TmLFPfEbbbU/VKyLU64Vf2I/AAAAAAAAAgE/UEXqMVLpfu8/s1600/vscocam-photo-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TmLFPfEbbbU/VKyLU64Vf2I/AAAAAAAAAgE/UEXqMVLpfu8/s1600/vscocam-photo-4.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Now what's so great about matcha?</b> Well, below are just a few of the many benefits of matcha! Read on~</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>1 tsp of matcha powder has the equivalent in <b>nutritional and antioxidant benefits</b> to <i>10 cups</i> of green tea</li>
<li><b>Increases</b> <b>metabolism</b> and assists in weight loss</li>
<li>Contains <b>20x more</b> <b>antioxidants</b> than pomegranates or blueberries</li>
<li>Contains the amino acid<b> </b>L-theanine, which promotes<b> relaxation </b>as well as<b> alertness</b> <b>and energy</b> without jitteriness that coffee can cause in some people</li>
<li>Contains the catechin EGCg, which has potent <b>cancer-fighting properties</b></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I don't know about you, but all of these benefits definitely make me want to make green tea somethings every day for the rest of life, haha. Anyhow, if I find any other matcha recipes I really like, I'll let you all know! Love you all and wish you all the best 2015!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
By the way, you can find order this matcha powder form the following sites:</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Matcha-Green-Tea-Powder-Antioxidant/dp/B00DDT116M">http://www.amazon.co.uk/Matcha-Green-Tea-Powder-Antioxidant/dp/B00DDT116M</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Matcha-Green-Tea-Powder-Antioxidant/dp/B00DDT116M">http://www.amazon.com/Matcha-Green-Tea-Powder-Antioxidant/dp/B00DDT116M</a><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Matcha-Green-Tea-Powder-Antioxidant/dp/B00DDT116M">http://www.amazon.ca/Matcha-Green-Tea-Powder-Antioxidant/dp/B00DDT116M</a></blockquote>
<b>What are your favorite matcha treats? I would love to try them!</b><br />
<i style="text-align: right;"><br /></i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i>sponsored post. personal review.</i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-58303300155085107982014-12-30T11:59:00.000-08:002015-01-14T09:07:59.270-08:00NatureBox ReviewHey guys! Happy holidays! This is a bit of a late review, but I ordered a NatureBox free trial last month. However, until now, I haven't had the time to review it.<br />
<br />
<b>What is NatureBox?</b><br />
NatureBox is a monthly subscription site where your choice of healthy snacks delivered straight to your door. There are different subscription plans and over 100 different snacks to choose from.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>NatureBox Review</b><br />
The trial box comes with four sample-sized snacks and one full-sized snack, and each of the samples I received have between 100 and 140 calories. Overall, I really enjoyed these samples. Not only did they taste really good, they also came in small and convenient packages, which makes them really easy to bring around. The full membership, however, doesn't come in small packs, but includes five full-snack bags a month.<br />
<br />
<b>Individual Snack Review</b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZIjtykFSXCA/VKDMXy_3-OI/AAAAAAAAAfg/Ozx7YokNp7E/s1600/Cranberry.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZIjtykFSXCA/VKDMXy_3-OI/AAAAAAAAAfg/Ozx7YokNp7E/s1600/Cranberry.png" /></a></div>
When I first opened it, I was surprised to see that there were only cranberries! I thought since the product name was cranberry medley, there would be more than just cranberries. But then I read that they were "pomegranate and acai flavored dried cranberries with blueberries." (I should probably read that first, haha!) Anyhow, they were really good! I could definitely taste some of the pomegranate and acai flavor, and what's awesome is that it's packaged into a 100 calorie serving.
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PS83E-4E0rs/VKDMX-n8AyI/AAAAAAAAAfI/kUXdVN3FX5I/s1600/Seasalt.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PS83E-4E0rs/VKDMX-n8AyI/AAAAAAAAAfI/kUXdVN3FX5I/s1600/Seasalt.png" /></a></div>
I wasn't really sure what to expect when I saw sea salt sun-crunch, but they turned out to be super adorable, bite-sized crackers! For 140 calories, there were only about 10 crackers, which to a big snacker like me was kind of disappointing, but they were nevertheless delicious! I really enjoyed the crunchy texture and nutty flavor. However, after five cookies, I began to think they were a bit too salty? Then again, they are sea salt sun-crunches, haha, and I have a pretty low tolerance for saltiness anyways.
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I_18kLAAbqc/VKDMYTsAlAI/AAAAAAAAAfM/JsNa6RugVQo/s1600/coconut.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I_18kLAAbqc/VKDMYTsAlAI/AAAAAAAAAfM/JsNa6RugVQo/s1600/coconut.png" /></a></div>
Yum! These were definitely one of my favorites! I could definitely taste a mix of cashew and coconut. In fact, it tasted like I was biting into macaroons (with two Os! the coconut cookies!). The texture of these cashews was softer than that of regular cashews too, so you don't get the typical crunch but that added to the eating-a-cookie feel haha. It was good! 140 calories for a big handful of "cookies." YESS.
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8mCTAsbz778/VKDMXiup_zI/AAAAAAAAAfE/EdDURKqVvfk/s1600/Cinnamon.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8mCTAsbz778/VKDMXiup_zI/AAAAAAAAAfE/EdDURKqVvfk/s1600/Cinnamon.png" /></a></div>
I've never had anything like these, but they were quite good! They have an incredible crunchy texture, which made them really fun to eat! I could taste the cinnamon-sugar coating, but it was actually really light so it didn't actually add too much flavor-wise. It was good nonetheless--again, really fun to eat!
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IGYod6xgcfw/VKDMZNdupYI/AAAAAAAAAfY/_kIB-gYg6Vw/s1600/pumpkin.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IGYod6xgcfw/VKDMZNdupYI/AAAAAAAAAfY/_kIB-gYg6Vw/s1600/pumpkin.png" /></a></div>
This was the full size item that I received for the sample box. They were really good and I could taste the spices really well, but what freaked me out was that each ~1in diameter cookie was 100 calories! Eeks, and that was after I already ate three cookies, haha. Oops! Must have better self control next time~<br />
<br />
<b>Conclusion....</b><br />
Would I continue my subscription? Yes definitely. However, being a jobless college student in the midst of the holiday seasons, I decided to halt my subscription. I think I'll try starting up again in January or February? So yummy~<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i>The pictures above belong to NatureBox. I simply added text to the images. (All the pictures on my phone got deleted. heh... heh... SOB)</i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-66428318561802339132014-12-22T09:48:00.004-08:002015-01-14T09:08:11.711-08:0030-day Bikram Yoga pass!I'm usually not that interested in yoga and prefer running or doing using the elliptical when I exercise (which isn't often o__o). However, I found out that a Bikram Yoga studio near my house has a <b>new-student promotion</b> that offers unlimited classes for 30 days for $35, and me being the typical Asian I am, calculated that if I went five to six times a week then that would be less than two dollars per class! I couldn't let this opportunity go by, so I signed up last Wednesday and went to class the next morning.<br />
<br />
<b>Bikram Yoga</b>, for those of you who don't know is a sequence of 26 yoga postures performed in a heated room of about 105°F. I don't know about you, but I would feel pretty nervous about doing anything in 105°F temperature! Of course, I went in there not knowing either of these, haha.<br />
<br />
Here's a little infographic I found online regarding the different poses:<br />
<div class="visually_embed">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 18px;"><img alt="Bikram Yoga Pose Sequence" class="visually_embed_infographic" src="http://thumbnails-visually.netdna-ssl.com/bikram-yoga-pose-sequence_52a1d0882039b_w540.jpg" /></span></div>
<div class="visually_embed_cycle">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 18px;">Infographic by <a href="http://behance.net/cheriebon%20OR%20cheriebon.dropr.com?utm_source=visually_embed" target="_blank">Cherie_bon</a> </span></div>
</div>
<script class="visually_embed_script" id="visually_embed_script_97441" src="http://a.visual.ly/api/embed/97441?width=540" type="text/javascript"></script></div>
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
<b>My Opinion:</b><br />
To tell the truth, the Bikram Yoga session actually wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. There was a lot of balancing and flexibility required, but having done ballet from elementary school to the end of high school, these two came pretty naturally to me. <br />
<br />
As for the heat, I actually didn't even realize it was 105°F! It was definitely warm, but not suffocating. I sweated A TON, but the heat actually felt pretty nice in my opinion~ I just need to invest in nicer yoga activewear <3<br />
<br />
<b>Bikram Yoga Benefits:</b><br />
There are a lot of benefits to Bikram Yoga. In addition to the overall benefits of Bikram Yoga and yoga, the 12 standing poses and the 14 floor poses have their individual benefits.<br />
<blockquote>
<u>Overall benefits of Bikram Yoga:</u>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Improves posture</li>
<li>Increases flexibility and balance</li>
<li>Builds muscle strength</li>
<li>Improves circulation and immune function</li>
<li>Removes toxins from the body</li>
<li>Reduces stress</li>
<li>Aids in weight loss</li>
</ul>
<u>Benefits of standing poses:</u>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Opens pelvic area</li>
<li>Relieves sciatica and arthritis</li>
<li>Improves circulation</li>
</ul>
<u>Benefits of floor poses:</u>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Improves function of the central nervous system, digestive system, and reproductive system</li>
<li>Relieves lower back pain</li>
<li>Eases constipation</li>
<li>Lessens symptoms of scoliosis</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
Anyhow, that's all I have for now!<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Have you guys tried Bikram Yoga before? What do you think about it? </b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-17764703379659551072014-12-17T11:45:00.000-08:002015-02-28T15:21:14.850-08:00Delicious Curls - KISS InstaWave Review<script src="http://www.brandbacker.com/bob_cl_tk.js" type="text/javascript"></script><script type="text/javascript">var search_me = '166_29365'; var scriptElems = document.getElementsByTagName('script'), i=scriptElems.length - 1, curLoc; for (; i; --i) { curLoc = scriptElems[i]; if ('innerText' in curLoc) { if (curLoc.innerText.indexOf(search_me)) break; }else if ('textContent' in curLoc) { if (curLoc.textContent.indexOf(search_me)) break; }} addImpression(166,29365);var clkHndlr = function(event) { addListenersForClickAround(166,29365, curLoc); };addEvent(window, 'load', clkHndlr);</script><input id="bob_camp_id_166" name="bob_camp_id" type="hidden" value="166" /><input name="bob_camp_mem_id" type="hidden" value="29365" />
Hey guys! Today, instead of a food-related post today, I wanted to share with you all a new hair curler I’ve been using! It’s called the KISS InstaWave, and it’s super fun and easy to use.<br />
<div style="font-family: -apple-system-font; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: -apple-system-font; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kWDuN-oCpkc/VIiaOVYBMFI/AAAAAAAAAa8/Y-W81jhMe9Q/s1600/20141115_164625000_iOS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kWDuN-oCpkc/VIiaOVYBMFI/AAAAAAAAAa8/Y-W81jhMe9Q/s1600/20141115_164625000_iOS.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
At first I was kind of skeptical about the InstaWave because I’ve always been the kind of person who was too lazy to curl her hair, even when I was using the relatively easier straightening-iron-method. However, the KISS InstaWave sported a really good rating on Amazon (13 out of 14 raters gave it a 5 star rating), so I was like okay! Let’s try this out~
<br />
<div style="font-family: -apple-system-font; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: -apple-system-font; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r-H13ngQnV8/VIiawd0Tp0I/AAAAAAAAAbM/az0LYpF6TWs/s1600/20141115_164312000_iOS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r-H13ngQnV8/VIiawd0Tp0I/AAAAAAAAAbM/az0LYpF6TWs/s1600/20141115_164312000_iOS.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: -apple-system-font; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">
<b>About the product: </b><br />
According to the website, the KISS InstaWave is a "fully automatic tangle-free curler that instantly creates beautiful, long-lasting curls with ease.” There are:
<br />
<ul>
<li>Two temperature settings (high and low),</li>
<li>A right/left directional switch, and </li>
<li>A 1” ceramic ionic barrel with prongs at the end that catch and hold your hair around the barrel</li>
</ul>
Another feature that I thought was really cool about the InstaWave is that it automatically shuts off after 90 minutes. That way, if I’m ever in a rush, I’ll never have to worry about whether I forgot to turn out my curler, which being the forgetful person I am, I’m very prone to doing.<br />
<div style="font-family: -apple-system-font; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yqiB2RwdHXM/VJFCk1_RfLI/AAAAAAAAAcA/oDahBr2w9t0/s1600/KISS%2BInstaWave%2B3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yqiB2RwdHXM/VJFCk1_RfLI/AAAAAAAAAcA/oDahBr2w9t0/s1600/KISS%2BInstaWave%2B3.png" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: -apple-system-font; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">
<b>What I liked about the product:</b><br />
In my opinion, the InstaWave is very innovative, especially with the automatic curling action and the left/right directional switch. <br />
<br />
After some getting used to, the InstaWave makes curling hardly any work at all! All of the rotating is controlled by the two buttons, which allows me to use either hand when curling. Basically the only work I had to do was hold the curler close to my head and it does all the work! <br />
<br />
<b>What I thought could be improved:</b><br />
The first thing is that the InstaWave does take some time to get used to. The first time I used it, I found it really confusing which direction I was supposed to place my hair in relation to the barrel and when I was used to use the left verses right directional switches.<br />
<br />
Another thing is that there is some minor buzzing noise that comes from the iron. The company did say that the noise was normal and nothing to worry about. However, you do have to hold it next to your head for the entirely of the curling process, so if that does irritate you... that's something else to consider when buying the product.<br />
<br />
<b>Overall...</b><br />
Overall, I really liked the KISS InstaWave. I thought it was really convenient and easy to use (after the initial learning-process). Because I didn't have to do any physical labor, the InstaWave makes curling my hair super easy and fast. I don’t have to know what’s going on behind my head, and I can just let the curler do all of the work!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ydo0_a3tgqg/VIibBsX8WxI/AAAAAAAAAbU/LcybrlcXu-w/s1600/20141115_164306000_iOS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ydo0_a3tgqg/VIibBsX8WxI/AAAAAAAAAbU/LcybrlcXu-w/s1600/20141115_164306000_iOS.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: -apple-system-font; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">
<b>Rating: 4.5/5</b></div>
<div style="font-family: -apple-system-font; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: -apple-system-font; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">
<b>How to use</b>:</div>
<div style="font-family: -apple-system-font; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">
<ol>
<li>Hold the InstaWave vertically and place a small section of hair on the curling rod between the barrel and the prongs.</li>
<li>Press either the left or right directional switch. The InstaWave will automatically catch and wrap the hair around the barrel.</li>
<ul>
<li>If you want to curl your hair <u>away</u> form your face, then start your hair <u>in front</u> of the barrel and push the arrow that points away from your face.</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X0y88ZiUhzs/VJFAyjo9RZI/AAAAAAAAAbs/yPQxp-u3TLc/s1600/KISS%2BInstaWave%2B1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X0y88ZiUhzs/VJFAyjo9RZI/AAAAAAAAAbs/yPQxp-u3TLc/s1600/KISS%2BInstaWave%2B1.png" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li>If you want to curl your hair <u>towards</u> your face, then start your hair <u>behind</u> the barrel and push the arrow that points toward your face.</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kjD8Ftap6Uk/VJFAzOv0iGI/AAAAAAAAAbw/YUH_OUmfAC4/s1600/KISS%2BInstaWave%2B2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kjD8Ftap6Uk/VJFAzOv0iGI/AAAAAAAAAbw/YUH_OUmfAC4/s1600/KISS%2BInstaWave%2B2.png" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<li>Hold the hair against the barrel for 5-10 seconds depending on how tight you want your curls to be.</li>
<li>Pull the Instawave down for beautiful curls!</li>
</ol>
</div>
<div style="font-family: -apple-system-font; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px;">
<br />
<b>Note</b>: If you’re interested in purchasing the product, you can go to http://KISSInstaWave.com, which will direct you to different locations/websites that you can purchase the product! Enjoy~<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i>sponsored post. personal review.</i></div>
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-19707980385836427672014-11-18T20:07:00.000-08:002015-01-14T09:08:47.453-08:00November is the season for pumpkin! A day's worth of pumpkin recipes to try~<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My favorite thing about <b><i><span style="color: #bf9000;">NOVEMBER</span></i></b> is all of the food, family, and warm thoughts associated with the Thanksgiving season. However, one of the first things that comes to mind when I think November is without-a-doubt pumpkin! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
So below is a list of five pumpkin recipes that I can't wait to try! And hey, I just bought five cans of <b><i><span style="color: #e69138;">PUMPKIN PUREE</span></i></b>. Yay!</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>1. BREAKFAST: </b><a href="http://www.eatingbirdfood.com/2014/10/protein-pumpkin-oatmeal-egg-whites/" target="_blank">Protein Pumpkin Oatmeal with Egg Whites</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_p2B14Ssn9o/VGwQKyAJ6MI/AAAAAAAAAao/lVfXTS88RI4/s1600/Protein-Pumpkin-Oatmeal-with-Egg-Whites.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_p2B14Ssn9o/VGwQKyAJ6MI/AAAAAAAAAao/lVfXTS88RI4/s1600/Protein-Pumpkin-Oatmeal-with-Egg-Whites.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><b><span style="color: #6fa8dc;"><br /></span></b></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><b><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">EGG WHITES</span></b></i>? I know that sounds kind of odd in oatmeal, but doesn't Brittany from Eating Bird Food's recipe look absolutely delicious? Furthermore, the egg whites give you an extra boost of protein in the morning--perfect as a<b><i><span style="color: #cc0000;"> POST-WORKOUT MEAL</span></i></b>... that is, if you can wake up that early!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">
<br />
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>2. MEAL</b>: <a href="http://www.fannetasticfood.com/recipes/black-bean-and-pumpkin-veggie-burgers/" target="_blank">Black Bean and Pumpkin Veggie Burgers</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LL0021kN9OY/VGwT2pqqOsI/AAAAAAAAAaw/Ucs1C-VBTes/s1600/068_thumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LL0021kN9OY/VGwT2pqqOsI/AAAAAAAAAaw/Ucs1C-VBTes/s1600/068_thumb.jpg" height="302" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Although I typically think of desserts when it comes to pumpkin, Anne from Fannetastic Food manages to combine black beans and pumpkin into a totally <b><i><span style="color: #3d85c6;">HEALTHY</span></i></b> and <b><span style="color: #e06666;"><i>DELICIOUS-LOOKING</i></span></b> veggie burger! I can't wait to try it out~ </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">
</span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>3. SNACK</b>: <a href="http://www.somewhatsimple.com/pumpkin-cheesecake-crepes/" target="_blank">Pumpkin Cheesecake Crepes</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WI8m9dExtc0/VGwHCyGI4lI/AAAAAAAAAaM/vJsb2vZoj4A/s1600/DSC_1073-edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WI8m9dExtc0/VGwHCyGI4lI/AAAAAAAAAaM/vJsb2vZoj4A/s1600/DSC_1073-edited.jpg" height="640" width="427" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><b><span style="color: orange;"><br /></span></b></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><b><span style="color: orange;">PUMPKIN</span></b></i> and <i><b><span style="color: #bf9000;">CHEESECAKE</span></b></i>! What could be better than this? When I first saw Ashton from Something Swanky's recipe, the first thought that came to mind was, "I can't wait for my afternoon snack."</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">
</span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>4. DESSERT</b>: <a href="http://chocolatecoveredkatie.com/2013/11/04/healthy-pumpkin-pie-recipe/" target="_blank">Healthy Pumpkin Pie</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b5485_ein5k/VGwL9ZVQ72I/AAAAAAAAAag/tt8m4U5p2Pk/s1600/Vegan-Pumpkin-Pie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b5485_ein5k/VGwL9ZVQ72I/AAAAAAAAAag/tt8m4U5p2Pk/s1600/Vegan-Pumpkin-Pie.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="color: #e69138;"><b><br /></b></span></i></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="color: #e69138;"><b>PUMPKIN PIE</b></span></i> is a must-have staple during the Thanksgiving season, and I'm sure thankful for Chocolate-Covered Katie's recipe. Not only is it <span style="color: #6aa84f;"><b><i>DIET-FRIENDLY</i></b></span>, the pie looks absolutely mouth-watering!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>5. DRINK</b>: <a href="http://detoxinista.com/2012/10/healthier-pumpkin-spice-latte/" target="_blank">Healthier Pumpkin Spice Latte</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DF9aPpRCgTU/VGwJ0TRN4mI/AAAAAAAAAaU/U-3xyNSZsOM/s1600/DSC09651.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DF9aPpRCgTU/VGwJ0TRN4mI/AAAAAAAAAaU/U-3xyNSZsOM/s1600/DSC09651.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The word <b><i><span style="color: #3d85c6;">HEALTHY</span></i></b> always catches my eye! After all, who wouldn't want to <b><span style="color: #990000;">"<i>INDULGE</i>"</span></b> in a healthy treat? Megan from the Detoxinista has the perfect recipe for pumpkin spice latte~
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
Hope you guys enjoyed this post! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><br /></b>
<b>Let me know what your favorite part about November is!</b></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-23434236255010702782014-10-18T18:42:00.001-07:002015-01-11T17:53:15.764-08:00Home Sweet Home: Mom's (& Dad's) Cooking!Hey guys! Wow, it's been forever since my last post.<br />
<br />
School has been super crazy. I don't know why, but I thought I could take on 20 units (as opposed to the typical 16 units most students take) and still handle grad school interviews. Well, I definitely got under three to four hours of sleep at least four days a week. However, things are getting better now; grad school interviews are over! So thankful and so relieved!<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-version="2" style="background: #FFF; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: -webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width: 99.375%; width: calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding: 8px;">
<div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding-bottom: 55%; padding-top: 45%; text-align: center; width: 100%;">
<div style="position: relative;">
<div style="-webkit-animation: dkaXkpbBxI 1s ease-out infinite; animation: dkaXkpbBxI 1s ease-out infinite; background: url(data:image/png; display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -44px; width: 44px;">
</div>
<span style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; position: relative; top: 15px;">Loading</span></div>
</div>
<div style="line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; padding: 0; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://instagram.com/p/t_fFhIClzE/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none;" target="_top"> View on Instagram</a></div>
</div>
<style>@-webkit-keyframes"dkaXkpbBxI"{ 0%{opacity:0.5;} 50%{opacity:1;} 100%{opacity:0.5;} } @keyframes"dkaXkpbBxI"{ 0%{opacity:0.5;} 50%{opacity:1;} 100%{opacity:0.5;} }</style></blockquote>
<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>
<br />
Anyways, last weekend I went home to Portland to celebrate my birthday with family! (...I don't know about you, but I'm feeling 22.... eh sorry, lol) It was such a blessing after all those weeks of stressing over interviews and school. Although I still had a lot of homework to do, there's just something about being at home that makes everything better.<br />
<br />
As expected, we went out to eat a lot. On the night we got back, we went to a steakhouse called <a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/ringside-steakhouse-portland" target="_blank">Ringside Steakhouse</a>. I'm no expert when it comes to steak, but I thought it was pretty good! I got the <b>dry aged New York </b>with a baked potato as a side. Dessert was their cheesecake. It was overall a very delicious and flavorful meal. Sadly, I don't have any good pictures because my iPhone's picture quality is absolute horrendous when it comes to dark lighting.<br />
<br />
However, my favorite thing about going home is still definitely home-cooked meals. What can beat the taste of mom's (and dad's) cooking, right?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XDpcp7ZmXkA/VELwLNxTdEI/AAAAAAAAAY8/eVXb1XViH2s/s1600/Photo%2BApr%2B02%2C%2B7%2B46%2B39%2BPM_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XDpcp7ZmXkA/VELwLNxTdEI/AAAAAAAAAY8/eVXb1XViH2s/s1600/Photo%2BApr%2B02%2C%2B7%2B46%2B39%2BPM_1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Don't they look </span><b><i>adorable</i></b> together? <3 <3 <3 I love my parents, haha.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-va6xu0B_00c/VEMQQMGm01I/AAAAAAAAAZI/xXVuwfJU9OQ/s1600/FullSizeRender-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-va6xu0B_00c/VEMQQMGm01I/AAAAAAAAAZI/xXVuwfJU9OQ/s1600/FullSizeRender-1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Tofu Shrimp with Wood Ear Mushrooms</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FAOB5zeAI0k/VEMQQR1j0QI/AAAAAAAAAZg/7qiLGAeuUdM/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FAOB5zeAI0k/VEMQQR1j0QI/AAAAAAAAAZg/7qiLGAeuUdM/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Radish with Oyster Mushrooms</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Some dishes even came with love from my<b> grandma (奶奶 - "nainai"),</b> who lives in China! My dad had just come back from a trip to China, and he brought back a glutinous rice product that my nainai made and dried herself! Yay~ This is the end product:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-foa722RJtoI/VEMQRPyehyI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/EMpjpOyw_g0/s1600/IMG_4788.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-foa722RJtoI/VEMQRPyehyI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/EMpjpOyw_g0/s1600/IMG_4788.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
This pancake (饼 - "bing") is made of the glutinous rice product--sorry! not sure what it's called--and the inside is a filling of tofu, egg, and salted vegetables. It's pan-fried, which makes the outside kind of crunchy but leaves the inside chewy. Super delicious!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YkDAitZe1TY/VEMU0tSXJEI/AAAAAAAAAZs/IKQfQHm-qbc/s1600/IMG_4781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YkDAitZe1TY/VEMU0tSXJEI/AAAAAAAAAZs/IKQfQHm-qbc/s1600/IMG_4781.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The weekend definitely passed way too fast! I love LA and all, but I feel like every time I go home to the Pacific Northwest, it gets harder and harder to go back to LA. :( Does anyone else feel the same way?<br />
<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-version="2" style="background: #FFF; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: -webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width: 99.375%; width: calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding: 8px;">
<div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding-bottom: 55%; padding-top: 45%; text-align: center; width: 100%;">
<div style="position: relative;">
<div style="-webkit-animation: dkaXkpbBxI 1s ease-out infinite; animation: dkaXkpbBxI 1s ease-out infinite; background: url(data:image/png; display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -44px; width: 44px;">
</div>
<span style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-style: normal; font-weight: bold; position: relative; top: 15px;">Loading</span></div>
</div>
<div style="line-height: 32px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; padding: 0; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://instagram.com/p/uFHHzDil3m/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none;" target="_top">View on Instagram</a></div>
</div>
<style>@-webkit-keyframes"dkaXkpbBxI"{ 0%{opacity:0.5;} 50%{opacity:1;} 100%{opacity:0.5;} } @keyframes"dkaXkpbBxI"{ 0%{opacity:0.5;} 50%{opacity:1;} 100%{opacity:0.5;} }</style></blockquote>
<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-26428874818810782592014-09-15T07:38:00.002-07:002015-02-16T20:36:25.296-08:00Burnt Toast and Beard Papa's?I burned <b>six</b> slices of bread the last couple days! I'm too lazy to turn on the oven, so I usually just toast my toast on the stove. But more often than not, I forget about it.... and why hello <b>Mr. Burnt Toast</b>!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oKtTx03BepI/VBUAkMMN0DI/AAAAAAAAAXw/Uoyg07-Qe_M/s1600/Photo%2BSep%2B13%2C%2B6%2B11%2B51%2BPM%2B(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oKtTx03BepI/VBUAkMMN0DI/AAAAAAAAAXw/Uoyg07-Qe_M/s1600/Photo%2BSep%2B13%2C%2B6%2B11%2B51%2BPM%2B(1).jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lol, don't ask...</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Anyways!! My post today is on <b>Beard Papa's</b>. I didn't realize until this summer that this was an international chain. I saw it when I was in Shanghai, and my roommate said she's been to the Beard Papa's in South Korea too! When I checked out their website, I saw they even have locations in <i>Russia, Thailand, and Saudi Arabia</i>. Cool eh?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1YD_Lr7Q96Q/VBUfNt0HoxI/AAAAAAAAAX8/vVm0YQJuMoQ/s1600/Photo%2BSep%2B13%2C%2B7%2B11%2B05%2BPM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1YD_Lr7Q96Q/VBUfNt0HoxI/AAAAAAAAAX8/vVm0YQJuMoQ/s1600/Photo%2BSep%2B13%2C%2B7%2B11%2B05%2BPM.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Earlier this week, my sister bought a Groupon, which gave us a <b>$10 for $16</b> discount. Since Beard Papa's is best known for their <b>cream puffs</b>, we decided to get $16 worth of cream puffs! We bought <b>three very berry ones</b> and <b>five vanilla ones</b>.
<br />
<br />
<b>The Making Process:</b><br />
Seeing them make the cream puffs was really cool. Although the dough part was already made, they add the filling when you order! They stick a tube into the puff and "inject" it with the cream filling.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-piXhBm5BJV4/VBUfWGkrAEI/AAAAAAAAAYE/Y1Oyjekov2c/s1600/Photo%2BSep%2B13%2C%2B7%2B37%2B22%2BPM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-piXhBm5BJV4/VBUfWGkrAEI/AAAAAAAAAYE/Y1Oyjekov2c/s1600/Photo%2BSep%2B13%2C%2B7%2B37%2B22%2BPM.jpg" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>The Review:</b><br />
To tell the truth, I was slightly disappointed with this Beard Papa's. I didn't like how the bakery only had two flavors available when I went: the very berry one and the vanilla one. I thought there would have be more options, but I guess they only have strawberry (which they didn't have at the time) and vanilla daily with one specialty flavor each week. Today, it was the very berry cream puff.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s84w0XRljKw/VBUfYTtY_CI/AAAAAAAAAYM/Dg4AedlPBnw/s1600/Photo%2BSep%2B13%2C%2B7%2B38%2B09%2BPM.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s84w0XRljKw/VBUfYTtY_CI/AAAAAAAAAYM/Dg4AedlPBnw/s1600/Photo%2BSep%2B13%2C%2B7%2B38%2B09%2BPM.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Vanilla Cream Puff</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Furthermore, the cream puffs themselves weren't as good as I thought. That's not to say I didn't enjoy them, but my expectations were definitely built really high after hearing so many people rave about them. I tried both the vanilla and the very berry one, but I liked the berry one better.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
(Sorry, I ate the very berry cream puff before I took a picture!!)</div>
<br />
But the reason why I liked the berry one better is probably because the vanilla filling had a slightly more milky flavor, which I'm not a huge fan of. Nevertheless, I loved--LOVED--the creamy, smooth texture of the cream and how the cream puffs aren't overly sweet. <br />
<br />
<b>Overall...</b>
I'd probably go again, not by myself, but definitely if friends wanted to go. I probably won't get the vanilla one a second time, but I really want to try some of their other flavors. Maybe the green tea one?!<br />
<br />
<b>Have you been to Beard Papa's? If so, what's your favorite flavor?</b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-32906581026349019912014-09-08T17:16:00.001-07:002015-01-11T17:56:09.513-08:00Travel: 12 Days in China!Wow, I can't believe its already been more than two weeks since I've came back from China and more than two weeks since my senior year of undergrad has started! Time passes so fast! Likewise, my visit to China felt just as fast, especially since I was only there for 12 days. However, it was nonetheless the best two weeks of my summer!
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--11OPOLx0Gc/VA4vL7OTQuI/AAAAAAAAAVY/AQNd65RUZ10/s1600/Photo%2BAug%2B06%2C%2B8%2B20%2B10%2BAM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--11OPOLx0Gc/VA4vL7OTQuI/AAAAAAAAAVY/AQNd65RUZ10/s1600/Photo%2BAug%2B06%2C%2B8%2B20%2B10%2BAM.jpg" style="width: 480px;" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Me and my twin sister: can you tell which one is me in this picture? </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My family and I arrived in Shanghai at about 5am in the morning, and basically the first thing we did (after a 2-hour-nap) was pick up my maternal grandpa (外公 “waigong”) and have lunch with almost everyone on my mom's side of the family. That meant about 20 people!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M57qA6RhQ78/VA4zJtgBgZI/AAAAAAAAAVs/I5qZfysyNP0/s1600/IMG_0702.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M57qA6RhQ78/VA4zJtgBgZI/AAAAAAAAAVs/I5qZfysyNP0/s1600/IMG_0702.JPG" style="width: 480px;" /></a></div>
<br />
The restaurant we went to was inside <b>Crowne Plaza </b>in Lake Marlaren, Shanghai. It was actually a buffet style restaurant. The buffet style meal was a really cool experience since I've actually never encountered one before in China.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bM05IBYxIME/VA4zJM_DzBI/AAAAAAAAAVk/FyYrcsZUi6Q/s1600/IMG_0704.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bM05IBYxIME/VA4zJM_DzBI/AAAAAAAAAVk/FyYrcsZUi6Q/s1600/IMG_0704.JPG" style="width: 480px;" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s0NwetqfCFs/VA4zJIMmQPI/AAAAAAAAAVo/QyQUKoYJ5yA/s1600/IMG_0705.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s0NwetqfCFs/VA4zJIMmQPI/AAAAAAAAAVo/QyQUKoYJ5yA/s1600/IMG_0705.JPG" style="width: 480px;" /></a></div>
After lunch, we drove about two hours to Jinhua, which is in Zhejiang province to meet with our paternal grandparents (爷爷 "yeye" - grandpa and 奶奶 "nainai" - grandma). The rest of the week, we spent visiting family and my dad's business partners! My life those two weeks basically consisted of food, sleep, and car rides! <br />
<br />
I won't talk about all of the details of the trip at the moment since that would take hours for you to read, but here are....<br />
<br />
<b>Five Crazy Things I Learned About China:</b>
<br />
<ol>
<li><i>Most nice Chinese restaurants allow you to
book individual rooms (</i><i>包厢 "baoxiang" or "box").</i> They'll usually have one large dining table, which will comfortably sit eight people, a TV, and maybe a restroom. Each baoxiang is serviced by one or two waiters/waitresses. Sometimes, high-end restaurants will even a separate room with a couch or even pool table!</li>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n8tu00hv8f8/VA44DdzDG8I/AAAAAAAAAWM/sFjMobmqOkw/s1600/IMG_1217.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n8tu00hv8f8/VA44DdzDG8I/AAAAAAAAAWM/sFjMobmqOkw/s1600/IMG_1217.JPG" style="width: 400px;" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">My sister in front of a poker table!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<li><i>To be respectful to your host, don't ask and just eat at a high-end restaurant. </i>During my dining experience in China, I've had delicacies such as sea cucumbers and fish lips soup! Sometimes they take a little getting used to, but other times, the flavor is actually pretty good! You never know until you try~</li>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IA10UeiapAs/VA44H975IPI/AAAAAAAAAWo/Kb2yr6Z-ssw/s1600/IMG_1229.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IA10UeiapAs/VA44H975IPI/AAAAAAAAAWo/Kb2yr6Z-ssw/s1600/IMG_1229.JPG" style="width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rzA_MeavDzw/VA44IM6yBwI/AAAAAAAAAWs/EZujCmMTdvY/s1600/IMG_1230.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rzA_MeavDzw/VA44IM6yBwI/AAAAAAAAAWs/EZujCmMTdvY/s1600/IMG_1230.JPG" style="width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qTXwUtSzdpg/VA44Ho70WlI/AAAAAAAAAWg/vdOkusZb9ys/s1600/IMG_1228.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qTXwUtSzdpg/VA44Ho70WlI/AAAAAAAAAWg/vdOkusZb9ys/s1600/IMG_1228.JPG" style="width: 400px;" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Fish lips soup!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<li>The fruits I ate were incredibly fresh and delicious! With so many markets along the streets, it's really easy to get fresh fruits and vegetables. It also helped that my yeye and nainai were farmers, so we got a lot of fresh watermelon, kiwis, and corn from them! Delicious :)<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5w_-LG1FWOw/VA44GzGR-DI/AAAAAAAAAWU/FHy4Wbd7MJ4/s1600/IMG_0926.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5w_-LG1FWOw/VA44GzGR-DI/AAAAAAAAAWU/FHy4Wbd7MJ4/s1600/IMG_0926.JPG" style="width: 400px;" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Red-centered kiwis!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Am8RL4Z8zA/VA44HewiNxI/AAAAAAAAAWc/boUE8kjP1n0/s1600/IMG_0931.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Am8RL4Z8zA/VA44HewiNxI/AAAAAAAAAWc/boUE8kjP1n0/s1600/IMG_0931.JPG" style="width: 400px;" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Freshly picked corn!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</li>
<li><i>Driving in China is crazy!</i> Not only is there a lot of honking, but also people drive in the middle of two lanes or even driving on the wrong side of the road just to escape traffic.</li>
<li><i>Owning a car is really expensive in China!</i> There are A LOT of toll booths along the highways. In fact, I read that Chinese toll roads consist of more than 70% of the world’s total toll roads! Incredible right? </li>
</ol>
<b>Have you been to China? What are some of your favorite things about China?</b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-35536917102637607902014-08-08T08:53:00.001-07:002015-01-14T09:12:07.005-08:00CHINA!! And Blueberry Chia Overnight Oatmeal!It's been more than three years, BUT I'M GOING BACK TO CHINA TONIGHT!! If you could see me right now, I'm practically jumping up and down with excitement. I love love LOVE China, Chinese culture, Chinese food, and of course since a lot of my family is still in China, so it's always super fun to visit them!<br />
<br />
The sad thing is I'll only be in China for 10 days before I head back to LA and start school! But better a little while then none!<br />
<br />
However, on the topic of the overnight oatmeal, I've been super into it recently! In fact, I've been making basically the same recipe every night for the last three days!
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nktxWnRATjQ/U-RmvgbNlMI/AAAAAAAAAVE/pqwUsrTKNP0/s1600/Photo+Aug+06,+8+20+45+AM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nktxWnRATjQ/U-RmvgbNlMI/AAAAAAAAAVE/pqwUsrTKNP0/s1600/Photo+Aug+06,+8+20+45+AM.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Sorry the above picture quality isn't the best, but let me tell you overnight oatmeal is so delicious and super quick and simple to make! Furthermore, you wake up the next day with your breakfast already made! What can be better than that?
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NUyoxymt0y8/U-RjKq5WPeI/AAAAAAAAAUw/kcsgoegUjUA/s1600/Photo+Aug+05,+9+15+04+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NUyoxymt0y8/U-RjKq5WPeI/AAAAAAAAAUw/kcsgoegUjUA/s1600/Photo+Aug+05,+9+15+04+PM.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
The basic overnight oatmeal recipe consists of only four ingredients, the ones pictured above and water! I usually add some fresh fruit as well. Super simple right? <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ejv-3qwk2ho/U-RjKrYJMeI/AAAAAAAAAU0/HlO4Q-ZLl7k/s1600/Photo+Aug+06,+8+20+10+AM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ejv-3qwk2ho/U-RjKrYJMeI/AAAAAAAAAU0/HlO4Q-ZLl7k/s1600/Photo+Aug+06,+8+20+10+AM.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
This is what the oatmeal looks like before I put it into the fridge for the night! And the next day it becomes like this.....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-znonw0UMlSQ/U-RmwFWi7dI/AAAAAAAAAVI/jBLRgD_MfPM/s1600/Photo+Aug+04,+6+49+13+AM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-znonw0UMlSQ/U-RmwFWi7dI/AAAAAAAAAVI/jBLRgD_MfPM/s1600/Photo+Aug+04,+6+49+13+AM.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Doesn't it look all plump and beautiful now? Haha, OK now onto the recipe! :)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="background-color: #d5c0eb; border-radius: 15px; padding: 10px;">
<b>Blueberry Chia Overnight Oatmeal</b><br />
Ingredients:<br />
<ul>
<li>1/2 cup old fashioned oats</li>
<li>1 TBSP chia seeds</li>
<li>1/2 container greek yogurt (I think my container was about 5.3oz)</li>
<li>1 cup liquid (water and/or soy milk)</li>
<li>1/2 cup fruit (blueberries, peaches, banana, what ever!)</li>
</ul>
Directions:<br />
Combine everything and store in fridge for about 8 hours or overnight!</blockquote>
<b>How do you usually eat your oatmeal? What do you usually add in?</b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-23159254575964113192014-08-01T15:27:00.001-07:002015-01-14T08:55:16.308-08:00DIY: Embroidery Floss iPhone cordHey guys! I wanted to share with you a DIY project that I have been working on on-and-off these last few days: <b>Embroidery Floss iPhone cord</b>.<br />
<br />
I always hard a hard time back at University trying to figure out which iPhone charger was mine and which ones were my roommates since we all have the same phone. However, with this, there will be no problem telling mine apart from theirs! Yay :)<br />
<br />
I won't tell you how to make it on my blog since I found the tutorial on <b><a href="http://beautyfrompane.blogspot.com/2012/04/embroidery-thread-wrapped-ipod-charger.html" target="_blank">Beauty From Pane</a></b>. She has a much better explanation than I could possible hope to write, so check it out!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lim4Kq8pOVA/U9sjBWmNEyI/AAAAAAAAATo/SCeXfhd_2_0/s1600/Photo+Jul+31,+7+40+44+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lim4Kq8pOVA/U9sjBWmNEyI/AAAAAAAAATo/SCeXfhd_2_0/s1600/Photo+Jul+31,+7+40+44+PM.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It's really simple to make, but does take time, especially since the cord is so long! <br />
<br />
If you want your colors to be in a "random" order, a helpful tip is to choose at least five different colors (for me I used five). Then using three threads at a time, alternate between the five different colors. When I choose which color to use for the next set, I always make sure to keep one color from the previous set. That way, the colors will flow more harmoniously between the sets, but at the same time look like a random assortment of colors!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lK_GEGza6lg/U9wTsrgbALI/AAAAAAAAAT4/G4bdowty65I/s1600/Photo+Aug+01,+9+24+23+AM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lK_GEGza6lg/U9wTsrgbALI/AAAAAAAAAT4/G4bdowty65I/s1600/Photo+Aug+01,+9+24+23+AM.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Yay~ Hope you enjoyed this post!<br />
<br />
<b>Let me know if you guys like DIY projects! What do you like to DIY? </b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-24774135533362873432014-07-31T16:33:00.002-07:002015-01-14T09:12:15.697-08:00Bitter Melon Juice?!Hey everyone! Hope you all have been doing well! I can't believe it's already almost August! Time really does fly doesn't it?<br />
<br />
Remember my post on how <b><a href="http://hellostephni.blogspot.com/2014/07/camp-red-bean-milk-tea-and-radish-juice.html" target="_blank">I got sick after camp and my mom made me drink the radish juice</a></b>? I'm not sure why, but up until recently I still had a minor cough... I think it could have been because I haven't been getting enough sleep lately.<br />
<br />
But my mom decided I needed to try another one of her concoctions! This time it's <b>bitter melon</b><br />
<br />
When I first heard her say this, I was like<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
WHAT? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bitter melon?! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is going to be even worse than the radish juice one you told me to drink! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I usually like radish (cooked at least), but bitter melon is bitter even when cooked! Wouldn't it be worse if I ate it raw??</div>
<br />
But like the good girl I am, I listened to my mom and juiced the melon. However, to make it taste better, I juiced two pears along with the melon.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4mn_Tv-rPaw/U9rHB9mWYUI/AAAAAAAAAS8/7yRPA7t7C0w/s1600/Photo+Jul+29%252C+3+45+22+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4mn_Tv-rPaw/U9rHB9mWYUI/AAAAAAAAAS8/7yRPA7t7C0w/s1600/Photo+Jul+29%252C+3+45+22+PM.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<br />
Btw, eating pears is another home remedy my mom swears by, but this one I don't mind~<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vJlVRKt-E0A/U9rHBxq0-bI/AAAAAAAAATI/vHfV4_8vQ0U/s1600/Photo+Jul+29%252C+3+50+35+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vJlVRKt-E0A/U9rHBxq0-bI/AAAAAAAAATI/vHfV4_8vQ0U/s1600/Photo+Jul+29%252C+3+50+35+PM.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<br />
I've never actually prepared bitter melon by myself before, so I was surprised to find out that it has red seeds O__O <br />
<br />
Haha, the other half of the bitter melon is missing because my sister was de-seeding it while I was taking the picture <3<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wc4w5xRhJeY/U9rHCfCvd9I/AAAAAAAAATE/-vqJ06ntNS8/s1600/Photo+Jul+29%252C+3+51+42+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wc4w5xRhJeY/U9rHCfCvd9I/AAAAAAAAATE/-vqJ06ntNS8/s1600/Photo+Jul+29%252C+3+51+42+PM.jpg" /></a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QshpjCaOVvw/U9rHBwlrCFI/AAAAAAAAATU/HN5i6emJJBY/s1600/Photo+Jul+29%252C+3+51+31+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QshpjCaOVvw/U9rHBwlrCFI/AAAAAAAAATU/HN5i6emJJBY/s1600/Photo+Jul+29%252C+3+51+31+PM.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<br />
Then I just put everything through the blender, and voila! Done :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1YaMtSNG35k/U9rHCja867I/AAAAAAAAATM/TCIvkF1cyt8/s1600/Photo+Jul+29%252C+3+57+58+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1YaMtSNG35k/U9rHCja867I/AAAAAAAAATM/TCIvkF1cyt8/s1600/Photo+Jul+29%252C+3+57+58+PM.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<br />
Doesn't the juice look beautiful?? It's even frothy!!<br />
<br />
So now I'm sure you're all wondering how this "delightful" concoction tastes right?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Well....
</div>
<br />
It actually tasted really good to my surprise!! The first sip tasted somewhat pear-y with a pretty bitter aftertaste. However, for every sip after, I surprisingly couldn't taste the bitterness. :/ Strange hmm? Maybe my taste buds got used to the bitterness?<br />
<br />
I'm not sure if this juice really helped my sickness or not, but I felt a lot better the next day. (I think it was due to getting more sleep though.) <br />
<br />
However, I would actually encourage you guys to try this recipe! It was a surprising success :) <br />
<br />
What do you think about bitter melon? Do you like it? How do you eat it?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
----------------
</div>
<br />
A couple cool facts I just found out about bitter melon from WebMD (***although some studies have suggested the following uses for bitter melon, concrete evidence is still insufficient):
<br />
<ul>
<li>Bitter melon contains a chemical that acts like insulin to help reduce blood sugar levels</li>
<li>Bitter melon is good for some stomach and intestinal disorders including but not limited to ulcers, constipation, intestinal worms</li>
<li>Bitter melon is beneficial for those who have diabetes, HIV/AIDS, kidney stones, and <b>OH WAIT! fever!!</b></li>
</ul>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4305331143619674038.post-63063343634586103162014-07-25T07:42:00.005-07:002015-01-14T08:58:57.533-08:00What?! How could I not have known?So... It's been a while! <br />
<br />
I was going to post earlier, but then... I dropped my phone in the toilet, so I didn't have any of my pictures....<br />
<br />
JK JK, the part about the toilet was wrong (although I have done that before... Oops!). I actually spilled water over it >__< I usually have a cup of water sitting next to my bedside at night in case I wake up and am thirsty. But when I woke up in Wednesday night, I accidentally spilled the water onto my phone! I forgot my phone was there and kinda left it sitting in that pool of water all night.... <br />
<br />
EEKS!! WHY DIDN'T I JUST CLEAN THE SPILL UP?!?! *sigh...*<br />
<br />
Let's just say that phone went into the rice a for a day and a half!<br />
<br />
Sunday (I know it's already been almost a full week, sorry!!), I went on a hike today with six of my friends after church! The trail is really pretty so I felt I had to share with you all!<br />
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nlsEQKt63ek/U9Jq5cLU4mI/AAAAAAAAAQM/xps0QYAw-5Q/s1600/Photo+Jul+20,+2+22+33+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nlsEQKt63ek/U9Jq5cLU4mI/AAAAAAAAAQM/xps0QYAw-5Q/s1600/Photo+Jul+20,+2+22+33+PM.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eYDlaynHYLA/U9Jq4RyMRXI/AAAAAAAAAQE/MMWfl3qelZM/s1600/Photo+Jul+20,+2+25+18+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eYDlaynHYLA/U9Jq4RyMRXI/AAAAAAAAAQE/MMWfl3qelZM/s1600/Photo+Jul+20,+2+25+18+PM.jpg" height="670" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
What's surprising is that the trail is really close to my old high school. Although I used to run there a lot for cross country since it was our home turf, I realized I didn't even know most of the trails, some of which are really narrow and steep!</div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r4HQC57ZWp4/U9JrAelWUFI/AAAAAAAAARQ/fFr2JMlUYmE/s1600/Photo+Jul+20%252C+3+11+58+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r4HQC57ZWp4/U9JrAelWUFI/AAAAAAAAARQ/fFr2JMlUYmE/s1600/Photo+Jul+20%252C+3+11+58+PM.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
Let's just say some of the trails we traveled we had to crawl on our hands and knees or hold onto the roots that stuck out of ground! However, at the end of each slope down or hill up, there's always some beautiful scenery. <br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WO0M7whue1E/U9Jq52XCVjI/AAAAAAAAAQc/ueL9Pg5GToY/s1600/Photo+Jul+20%252C+2+25+23+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WO0M7whue1E/U9Jq52XCVjI/AAAAAAAAAQc/ueL9Pg5GToY/s1600/Photo+Jul+20%252C+2+25+23+PM.jpg" height="350" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-14MV25CtMdc/U9Jq81KdK6I/AAAAAAAAAQs/xMJL9NRFCaM/s1600/Photo+Jul+20%252C+2+31+43+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-14MV25CtMdc/U9Jq81KdK6I/AAAAAAAAAQs/xMJL9NRFCaM/s1600/Photo+Jul+20%252C+2+31+43+PM.jpg" height="350" width="480" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MwRiMa9dqeo/U9Jq7Ucnt4I/AAAAAAAAAQg/e1T5iJPt3pk/s1600/Photo+Jul+20%252C+2+25+49+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MwRiMa9dqeo/U9Jq7Ucnt4I/AAAAAAAAAQg/e1T5iJPt3pk/s1600/Photo+Jul+20%252C+2+25+49+PM.jpg" height="660" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Eh? I didn't notice this picture turned out so blue compared to the rest?</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-54Igr7Do0RQ/U9Jq-RJilnI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/rUsCHvX_vQk/s1600/Photo+Jul+20%252C+2+34+15+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-54Igr7Do0RQ/U9Jq-RJilnI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/rUsCHvX_vQk/s1600/Photo+Jul+20%252C+2+34+15+PM.jpg" height="350" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6xjzECGWZIM/U9Jq_6HW-KI/AAAAAAAAARE/tJw_N__h_Ug/s1600/Photo+Jul+20%252C+2+38+27+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6xjzECGWZIM/U9Jq_6HW-KI/AAAAAAAAARE/tJw_N__h_Ug/s1600/Photo+Jul+20%252C+2+38+27+PM.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15149802663783910922noreply@blogger.com0