Monday, July 29, 2013

Vanilla Almond Milk Recipe + The Nasty Little Truth About the Store Bought Version

How did it take me so long to start making my own almond milk?  I'd seen recipes galore all over blogs and on Pinterest but for some reason I had it in the back of my head that making almond milk at home was too difficult to try.  Wrong!   I finally gave it a try a few weeks ago....OMG.  It is so yummy and beyond easy to master in the comfort of your kitchen. 

The nice thing about making this at home is that you're able to control exactly what you're putting into your body.  I decided to google the ingredients that are in our favorite almond milk brand that we used to purchase from Whole Foods.  I was so disappointed to learn that DL-Alpha-Tocopheryl Acetate, which is a synthetic man made version of vitamin E is added to my delicious vanilla drink, but labeled as vitamin E so it appears "healthy" to those who don't know so.  This nasty little additive is created through a chemical process that uses petroleum as the base.  YUCK!!  It really is true - if you can't pronounce it, don't consume it.  

Lesson learned.  From now on, almond milk is created in my kitchen NOT in a lab!





Ingredients

1 cup plain organic almonds (not dry roasted or salted)
2 dates, pitted and chopped (the dates add a nice caramel flavor!)
1 whole vanilla bean, chopped
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups water
1 tsp honey
pinch cinnamon
pinch sea salt


Directions

Place almonds in a bowl and soak overnight (or at least 4 hours minimum).  After soaking, strain and give the almonds a good rinse.

Place almonds in a blender, and add water, dates, and vanilla bean.  Blend until smooth.

Pour mixture into a bowl that is lined with either a cheesecloth or a clean dishtowel and allow to drain through.  Wrap up almond mixture in the cheesecloth/dishtowel and squeeze out excess liquid.

Once all excess liquid is drained, whisk in honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon and sea salt.  

Store in an airtight container and refrigerate.



Do you make your own almond milk at home?  I would love if you shared any tips/tricks that you use!  xx

Friday, July 26, 2013

This Week In Pics

Yayyyy its Friday!!  I'm having such a hard time grasping that its the last weekend of July, and that its almost officially August.  How has this summer gone by so fast already?  I haven't done a 'This Week in Pics' in a couple weeks, so today's post will feature pictures captured from the past 3 weeks including my short few days that I spent in Washington D.C.  I flew up there last week to meet up with my mother and watch my brother be presented with the 2013 Marine Times Marine of the Year award.  Last year he was awarded the USO Marine of the Year, and since I wasn't there for that ceremony I was really excited to attend this one!  It was only my second time in DC, and the weather was absolutely DREADFUL.   I thought Miami was bad in the summer, but 100+ degrees plus humidity= torture!  I definitely feel for you girls that live in the area!  Even though the heat was a little tough to handle, we still had a great time touring around DC, exploring the area, and watching him be awarded.  So proud!
 
Here's my week the last few weeks in pics, and you can always follow along on Instagram as well to see more :)  (instagram: andy_adler)


Milo's is one of our favorite restaurants in Miami & Vegas.  I love the presentation of fish - you just walk right up and select your dinner!

New workout kicks :)
And some new lovelies I scored as well! I couldn't resist the sale price on net-a-porter...
My copycat version of Milo's salad.  I asked the waiter exactly how they make it, and this turned out even better!
J.Crew oversized sweater, siwy denim shorts, Miu Miu wedges.
Thanks to a little work in the gym, plus the Suja juice cleanse that I did, I'm down 4 lbs and back in my comfort weight zone.
I'm never buying store bought almond milk again :)  Making it at home is way better!
Touring around D.C.
With my brother, my mom, and Gen. Paxton. 

My mom & I toured the Holocaust Museum - so emotional.  Never Forget.

I'm still in love with my Rag & Bone denim vest!  (Also wearing Joie silk pants)
Meeting with our baby princess.  We get to take her home next weekend!!!



Thanks so much for checking out my blog!  Have a beautiful weekend! xx

Thursday, July 25, 2013

Margherita Pizza Made With Homemade Cauliflower Crust

I LOVE pizza.  For real, its one of my favorite things to eat.  So imagine my horror when the results of my food sensitivity testing came back last summer showing high intolerance's to gluten, and bakers yeast.  I almost cried.  Actually, I did cry but that was due to the nutritionists recommendation not to drink wine anymore (turns out I'm intolerant to brewers yeast as well).  Yeah, like that was going to happen.....Anyhoo, once I got over my little pity party I discovered a whole world of healthy substitutions for wheat + yeast.  I also figured out that I can still have a love affair with pizza by making healthier swaps for the crust.

If you've never tried cauliflower crust pizza, I really encourage you to give it a try!  If you're like myself and have any issues with gluten, you'll be thankful that you can indulge in a slice of pie without paying for it later.  Enjoy!




Ingredients

1 large head of cauliflower, cut into 1-2 inch chunks
1/3 cup parmesan cheese
1 egg; lightly beaten
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried basil
1 tsp salt
Any brand of pizza sauce (I used Organicville because its GF)
Shredded mozzarella cheese
1 roma tomato; sliced thin 
Fresh basil


Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.  Using a food processor pulse batches of cauliflower florets until they are broken down to very small pieces (about the size of a lentil). 

Transfer to a large pot, fill with 1 inch of water and bring to a boil.  Boil for 5 minutes.  

Using a fine mesh strainer, drain cooked cauliflower.  You can use a large wooden spoon to lightly press & pack the cauliflower into the strainer to aid in the draining process.  Allow to slightly cool.

Transfer cauliflower from strainer to a cheesecloth (or a clean dishtowel) and squeeze out any excess water until it feels completely dry.  *Its much easier to do this step once the cauliflower has cooled slightly*

In a large bowl, mix cooked cauliflower, egg, parmesan cheese, oregano, dried basil, and salt until well combined.

Transfer to a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper, and press "dough" out into a circle about 1/3" thickness.

Bake for 35 minutes @ 400 degrees, or until pizza is golden brown & firm to the touch.

Remove pizza from oven, and immediately top with desired amount of pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and tomato slices.  Return to oven and bake until cheese is melted.

Top with fresh basil slices and serve immediately.



Monday, July 22, 2013

Amazing New Find - Under $10!!!

I came across this article on Pinterest last month, and since I've always been into natural beauty products and with the title of the online article being "The Best Beauty Products You've Probably Never Heard Of" I was sold.  Immediately, I analyzed every single product mentioned in the article but what was most intriguing was the Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay and how the Huffington Post simply described it as "Best. Mask. Ever".  Sold again.

I did a bit of research on the mask.  The clay, according to Aztec Secrets website is "betonite clay from Death Valley, CA, where it is sun-dried for up to six months in temperatures that sometimes reach 134 degrees."  They also discuss the molecular science behind the clay.  It contains a negative electron charge and since "poisons and toxins stored in the epidermis have a positive charge - Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay lifts the pimple and blackheads into the clay bed to cause accelerated healing and nourishment to the skin with over 50 minerals.  100% Natural."
  
Its sold in the beauty aisle at Whole Foods (but you can also purchase online on amazon) and since I was headed to the grocery store that afternoon, I added it to my list of things to pick up.  I found it next to the natural makeup section and was shocked at the price.  $8.99?????!!!!!  Coming from a gal who's paid upwards of $200 for face masks this almost seemed too good to be true!

After using this mask twice, I can firmly state that this sh*t is the real deal.  This cheapie little miracle in a tub is nothing short of awesome!  Here's my thoughts:


  • I mixed the clay with apple cidar vinegar for an extra detoxifying boost (you kind of smell like a salad but who cares!)
  • You can really feel it "pulsating" as the label claims!
  • The mask gets suuuuuuper tight and firm, to the point where you can't smile or raise your eyebrows.
  • After washing off, my skin felt refreshed & squeaky clean.  It removed a few small blemishes that I had on my forehead and visibly evened out my skintone.
  • My face was visibly firmer throughout the day, and pores were much smaller. 
  • The post mask glow continued for the rest of the day.  Similar to the glow that you get after a really good facial!



Cheesy selfie!


Love love love this mask!  So glad that I came across that article and definitely will continue to use!  Have any of you girls tried this mask?  Thoughts? xx

Monday, July 15, 2013

Fitness Inspo......I Need Some!!

Hi ladies!  I haven't updated in a while.  The last couple weeks I've been living out of a hotel room in Vegas and I haven't had the opportunity to put quality posts on my blog.....quality over quantity peeps!  Also, I've completely fallen off the healthy lifestyle wagon and I'm going to be completely honest when I say that I feel like a bloated, sluggish lump of sh*t.  It started with over indulging in Sin City; too much sweets and too much vino, and has continued since I've gotten back to Miami.  The sweets + vino were oh so amazing at the time, but now just make me feel like a sloth.  I know that I shouldn't be so concerned with gaining a few lb's, but I've gone above my "comfort zone weight" and it affects not only how I feel about myself but also how my body feels internally as well.  I also know what my body is capable of and its time to get back there!  Who would have thought that 2 weeks in Vegas would turn into this!!! 

So, this is my plan: 3 day Juice Cleanse + Pilates + Gym, repeat.  I need to fully detox my body to get rid of all the crap that I've been putting into it.  A juice cleanse is the perfect way to do just that as well as reset my palette.  After my cleanse, I plan on sticking to an extra clean diet; no breads, no alcohol, no sweets (no fun but necessary).  I also need to get back to the gym and start back up with Pilates & cardio.  I've scheduled 3 Pilates sessions this week with my trainer, and my goal is to get into the gym and do at least 45 minutes of cardio 4 times this week.  To motivate myself, I've created a new workout playlist on my iPhone and bought myself a brand new pair of workout shoes.  Nothing is more motivating to me than wearing cute new sneaks!

Here's a few pictures & quotes that I found on Pinterest & Tumblr for extra inspo:

Truth!
ughhhhh.....those abs!

Body perfection!



If you've been a little naughty (like myself) lately and want to get back to "the old you", join me in this summer shape up!  Follow along on instagram (andy_adler) or feel free to comment below.  You can also email me at andreaadler4206@gmail.com.  I could use some motivation pals so lets do this together! :) xx

Friday, July 5, 2013

This Week In Pics

Hola babes!  I hope you all had an amazing week, and an even better holiday yesterday!  I've been in Sin City since Sunday and this was actually the 4th year in a row that I've been in Las Vegas for the 4th of July.  Adam loves poker and plays in the World Series of Poker every summer and because of that I've been out here with him basically every summer since we met.  Last year we drove out here from Miami and lived in Vegas for 2 months.  We had a rental house and it was much more of a "normal life".  This year due to our honeymoon, and Adams work obligations, it was a significantly shorter poker trip for him and we didn't feel the need for a house so we're staying in a hotel.  There is only a few doggie friendly hotels around here and we've tried them all out!  I'll do a whole post on that subject soon!

In other news, I finally got instagram!!  Too many of my friends were making fun of me because I didn't have it so I caved in and downloaded the app!  My instagram name is andy_adler......find me on there & lets be friends ♡

My week in pics:

I saw this on Pinterest and winged my own version! Zucchini stuffed with rice & sauteed veggies, topped with marinara, mozzarella cheese and basil.  So scrump!

I always have to have fresh flowers in my house.  Its a must!

Green goddess juice from Jungle Juice in Sunny Isles.

Healthy snack!  2 diced hard boiled eggs mixed with Greek yogurt & a tiny bit of mustard, topped with arugula & spread on a gluten free matzo cracker.  Healthy take on egg salad!

Pretty rainbow before my flight to Las Vegas.

Noodles at The Bellagio is one of our favorite Asian restaurants.

My little traveling companion.  He goes everywhere with me!

To. Die. For.  20 layer chocolate peanut butter cake from Lavo. 

My hubby is soooo sweet! He read my blog this week when I talked about my love for little white dresses, and surprised me with a sexy little white dress from Herve Leger.

Gelato + shopping at The Venetian.

I did my own holiday nails, all from colors I picked up at CVS.

Yummy veggie burger from Greens & Proteins.  Well worth the trip off the strip for healthy food.

Zara off the shoulder sweater, Siwy shorts, Chloe wedges.

Patriotic bear :)



Thank you so much for checking out my blog!  I hope you have a beautiful weekend! xo

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

My Makeup Faves

I've had quite a few requests & emails about my makeup routine lately.  I love to watch makeup tutorials, and I follow several makeup artist blogs like this one and this one (this girl's genius!).  I can talk makeup all day long :) but I do have to warn you that I'm no expert!  I'm simply a gal who spends wayyyy to much money in Sephora has a love affair with all things beauty related.

My makeup routine is pretty low key.  During the day I'm the Queen of the 'No Makeup' look; light blush/bronzer, highlighter if needed under my eyes, mascara, and I'm out the door.  For night I'll usually wear a bit more.  I've worn Makeup Forever HD foundation for years and I love its flawless finish, and how it makes your face look in pictures.  I'll also take my eye makeup up a notch and make it a bit more dramatic.  

If you follow me on Twitter, you know that I'm in Las Vegas for the week (I caved in and came here to be with Adam).  I packed only my makeup must haves (plus a few extras because it is Vegas after all!), all of which fit snugly into my Bobbi Brown Makeup OrganizerHere's what came along for the trip:



1) Nars blush in Torrid
5) MAC Bronzing Powder in Matte Bronze
7) Nars The Multiple in South Beach




1) Laura Mercier Full Blown Volume Lash Building Mascara
2) MAC Paint Pot in Soft Ochre
3) Urban Decay Naked2 Palette
4) Estee Lauder Sumptous Waterproof Mascara
5) Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Duality in Matte/Lace
6) Anastasia Beverly Hills Duo Brow Powder in Taupe
7) Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Liner in Black



So ladies....what are your makeup essentials that you can't live without while on vacation?  Are any of these above products your faves as well?

 

Monday, July 1, 2013

The Cutest Summer Dress

Happy Monday ladies! So last Friday, I posted my 'This Week In Pics' and included a photo of from my friends baby shower.  Since then, I've received quite a few questions about the dress that I wore in that picture, so I thought that I'd share it with you!




The dress is by Dolce Vita and is available on ShopBop's website.  Its the absolute cutest dress for Summer, and I received a lot of compliments when I wore it.  I love the romantic crochet details and the soft teal & white combo!  




It is a little bit expensive, but I justified it by telling myself that you can never have too many LWD's (little white dresses).  I know that this will be in my closet for years to come so for me it was worth it :)  If its out of your price range, you might keep a watchful eye on it and see if it happens to go on sale.





I paired mine with a J.Crew denim jacket and wedges for a summery look:)  


Let me know if any of you end up getting it (but please don't tell me if it goes on sale....story of my life!) xo


 

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