Anxious

Shirt Nordstrom/ Jeans Citizens/ Boots Steve Madden/ Sweater Target

 

 

Do you have a "getting ready for the week" routine. I don't know about you, but I like to plan meals, get chores done, etc. to get ready for the work week. When that routine gets interrupted I get very anxious. I was out of town this weekend and didn't return until Sunday evening, so needless to say I was freaking out a little bit all day yesterday. It was not a very good way to start my week, but today is a new day :)

Trench

Trench Express/ Jeans 7FAM/ Sweater Nordstrom/ Shoes DV Dolce Vita via Marshalls

 

I read on another blog the other day that you can't wear the latest trend everyday. Sometimes it is nice to just wear a comfy, casual outfit. Have a great weekend!

Fattoush

Another fabulous recipe from the cookbook my sister gifted me :)

What you will need...

Finished product...

Fattoush

1 whole wheat pita, split
12 cherry or small tomatoes, halved or quartered
1 red or yellow bell pepper cut into 1-inch strips
1/2 English cucumber, cut into 1/2 inch dice
1/4 red onion, cut into thin wedges
1 cup canned chickpeas or other white beans, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup torn fresh basil (the original called for mint, but I am not a huge fan)
1/4 cup torn fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves
3 tablespoons red-wine vinegar
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Bake pita until crisp, about ten minutes.
2. In a bowl, combine tomatoes, pepper, cucumber, red onion, beans, basil and parsley; toss to combine. Add vinegar, oil, salt, and pepper, and toss to combine.
3. Enjoy!

*The original recipe says to break the pita into pieces and toss in the salad, but I filled the pita with the filling instead.

 

 

Floral + 5 Things

 

Blouse Old/ Cardigan Loft/ Scarf Nordstrom/ Jeans Express/ Shoes Steve Madden/ Watch Michael Kors

I guess I should have looked in the mirror right before we took photos...Nick failed to let me know that my scarf was askew. I am having a hard time not transitioning to full on Spring clothing with the nice warmer weather that we have been having.

Five things I love about my mom's side of the family (I thought it was only right if I even things out)

1. I have an aunt and uncle who have been there for me more than just the traditional sense of the word. Many of my fondest childhood memories occurred at their home, either during overnight stays, dinners, or summer babysitting. They continue to be a strong presence in my life. They are my model for what a marriage should be, how you treat others, and how you support the ones you love.

2. I have an aunt that has always been the "fun" aunt. She is my Disneyland buddy and I wouldn't have it any other way. She always took the time to support me during the volleyball years, traveling to out of state tournaments. She continues to be another guiding light in my life. I know that if I ever have a problem I can ask her for advice. She also makes me really cute aprons!

3. My mom's side of the family is loud, opinionated, and sometimes obnoxious...but those qualities make them that much more endearing. They tell it how it is and it is refreshing to have such honest people in your life.

4. They know how to party! Nobody has ever accused my mom's side of throwing a boring get together. I think we might have one of the wildest Christmas ornament exchanges around.

5. My mom's side is just like my dad's when it comes to the importance of family. I may have family dinner night with my dad's side, but I have Sunday bowling with my mom's! I feel lucky and blessed to have such a huge and loving extended family.

Leopard

Blouse BCBG/ Jeans Joes/ Shoes Shoemint/ Jacket Marshalls

 

I have had this blouse for a while now and it never gets old. I love the fluttery sleeves and dark leopard print.  I hope your week started off well :) Thanks for reading!

 

 

Beef Stir Fry

My sister gave me an awesome cookbook for my birthday and I have been trying a new recipe pretty much everyday of the week. One recipe that Nick and I both enjoyed was beef stir-fry with broccoli. I also added asparagus, but I'll get to that in a minute. I am always looking for quick, easy, yet tasty dinners. Confession....the first couple of months of living on my own I ate a lot of tacos and spaghetti.

Beef Stir-Fry with Broccoli and Asparagus

2 teaspoons neutral-tasting oil, such as canola or sunflower
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon finely julienned peeled fresh ginger
Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (I used more because I like spicy food)
1/2 pound boneless sirloin or tenderloin, cut into thin strips
1 1/2 cups chopped broccoli
1/2 cup asparagus spears
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

Heat oil in a medium sauté pan over medium-high heat. Sauté garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes until just golden, stirring frequently, about one minute. Increase heat to high, and add beef, broccoli and asparagus. Cook until beef is seared and vegetables are crisp-tender, turning strips once, 2-3 minutes. Stir in soy sauce and orange juice. Serve immediately.

Sorry, I didn't think to take a good picture, so you are left with the IPhone photo that I sent to my sister.

Polka Dots + Pink

Pants Express/ Top Old/ Blazer F21/ Shoes Steve Madden

 

These pants have an oversize fit and super soft fabric...makes me feel like I am wearing pajamas. I have been loving this blazer since I got it and have to resist the urge to wear it everyday of the week. Have a great weekend!