Welcome Real Life

2011 is just around the corner. By that, I mean 3hours and 59minutes away. (As of now).

New year, new changes. 

I have now graduated from college. Yaaay for me. 

Welcome Real Life. 

I moved to Vancouver B.C. a week and a half ago. I'm currently in search of a job. I've already been on one interview, it was a success, but the job wasn't what I was looking for. Great interview experience though. 

Until I find my own place, there will be no cooking posts. Well, I do have one in my archive, so that will be posted at some point. I'd like to change my focus to some sort of hobby. Something inexpensive, but still productive. On the side, I have also started some self-improvement. In the past three days, I've been on two runs. Today, I ran 7km. Slightly impressed with myself considering that I thought I couldn't even run a mile. The Biggest Loser scared me a little. 

Speaking of, THRILLED for its next season. January 4th. 

I'm sad to leave Boston and my life behind, but time to look forward. Yesterday, I went to check out Christmas lights. There's a 'Trinity Street Christmas Light Competition.' Quite amazing. Below are some photos. They were more gorgeous in the moment. I took these on my camera phone. 

There were so many cars on the street, driving by, so I was in a rush. Didn't think to take the photo horizontally. Instead, I took two photos. I wanted to include the globe all the way on the right, but still wanted to include all the reindeers and threes on the left side of the law. The reindeers even moved!!! 

Oooh nooo. The santa fell. Disqualified? Haha, joking! 

So cute! Two snowmen hugging! 

Loved this set up with the Santa and the globe

Confession: I don't really have a New Year's resolution yet. Sort of focused on the short term. Starting my life. On my own two feet!! Well, once I get my own place, I think it'd be fun to start posting videos of myself cooking. 

I wish you a happy, Happy New Year! 

Merry Christmas

I wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

A little Christmas love from my home to yours...

Confession: I actually made this a week or two ago and made a new gingerbread house last night, but 1. did not take photos yet 2. I really like my sleigh. :)

Sprinkle Sprinkle Easy Love

As we draw closer to Christmas...you'll start to have family parties and corporate potlucks.
Well, I have your stress-free solution. I've made this twice, and it's a killer. At the same time...SOOO easy. It was inspired by Paula Deen, but I'm surprised the recipe wasn't Sandra Lee's.

Chocolate Gooey Butter Cookies
- 1 8oz Cream Cheese, room temperature
- 1 stick butter or half cup, room temperature
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 18oz box moist chocolate cake mix
- Chocolatechips (optional) // I used sprinkles instead, you might even want to use m&m's for that festive touch
- Confectioners' sugar, sifted

Preheat your oven to 350F
Cream together cream cheese and butter. Beat in egg and vanilla extract. Beat in chocolate cake mix. (Mix in chocolate chips if desired)
Cover and refridgerate for 2 hours to firm up the dough.
Put some of the sifted confectioners' sugar in a bowl, then rub some on your hands (so that the dough doesn't stick to you)
Roll the dough into tablespoon balls and roll into the confectioners' sugar. (I also rolled mine into green, red, and white sprinkles for the holiday touch.) Put it on an ungreased cookie sheet 2 inches apart.
Bake for 12 minutes
When the cookies are completely cooled, sift more confectioners' sugar on top.

You now have winner cookies.

Confession: I feel a tad guilty about using the cake mix. 

Ouchie

This entry is for your future reference. The next time this happens to you, you will calm down and not exert so much anger towards these mean injuries.

Paper Cuts.

I cringe at the thought of paper cuts. 

Those tiny painful, painful injuries. 

Why, why, WHY must you hurt so much? Allow me to tell you. I did my research. 

According to Indiana Public Media, don't blame the cut itself, blame the paper. It is the chemicals within paper that causes the pain. The pressed wood mulch, and other chemicals that gets left behind in the cut is to be blamed! Because paper cut wounds are usually very shallow, the skin on both sides close very quickly, thus trapping all the chemicals, particles, and bacteria in. It is those that stimulate pain receptors in the skin.

Another one of my theories (which was sort of confirmed in one of the Health and Wellness books I've read) is that the mind is connected to body. When you keep thinking about that cut you got, it hurts more. This goes especially with burns. if you accidentally burn yourself on the stovetop, just say "ouch" then stop thinking about it. Funny how you won't get a blister, so the next time you get a paper cut, don't think about it. It'll just hurt more and heal slowly. 

Confession: I thought about this because I broke a nail a little too deep, then I had to trim my nails. Since then, my finger has really been hurting. I keep thinking it's because I cut my nail too short, but really, I noticed today that it's because I have a cut right on my skin, on the edge of the nail. I just keep thinking about it and the pain. I NEED TO STOP!! 

I'm going to have to be called Chef Jacquie soon!!!!

I'm currently eating while posting.

I will update on this one and add a photo later on, but it's so easy and delicious that I felt the need to come on and share my recipe.

Did I ever tell you about my boldness and chicken stock? This one time...they had chicken breast at Stop&Shop for buy one get one free. I had to debone it myself though. I decided to take on the challenge. I ended up with a large pile of bones. At that point, I decided to take on another challenge. Chicken stock right on the spot. I basically just threw in the chicken bones in a pot of water and let it cook for a full day. Added salt and pepper..and turned out not bad!!! Slightly bland, but not bad for cooking.

Today, I pulled my chicken stock out of the freezer. Defrosted it. Cooked my rice in it. Fried two eggs, shredded it. Took it out of the wok. Browned ground beef. Added the only vegetable I could find in my fridge (which ended up being my freezer) then added some light soy sauce. Stir-fried it for a bit. Added my chicken-in-flavoured rice. Fried it. Added my shredded eggs. Salt and pepper.

Bow. Thank you.

Confession: This is soooo bad. I'm eating and it's currently 10:54pm. 

Delightful Thanksgiving Delights

In spirit of Thanksgiving (and procrastinating on studying)...
Today's entry will help you prepare for one of the many, many desserts that will be on the Thanksgiving Dinner Table. --CAN'T WAIT!!

Crisp Apple Pie with a Deen Twist

- 2 9-inch pie crust (refrigerated)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Dash salt
- 2 cups, granny smith apples, sliced
- 2 cups, gold delicious, sliced
- 1 (8-ounce) jar applesauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons butter, chopped into small pieces

Top:
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoon sugar
- Dash salt
- 2 tablespoon butter, at room temperature

Finish with: 
- Vanilla ice cream

Preheat your oven to 425F
Line your 9-inch pie pan with one of the crusts.
Combine sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl. Stir in apples, applesauce, and lemon juice. Spoon apple mixture into pie pan and spread the diced butter on top.

Cut the other pie crust into strips. Arrange in a lattice design over the top of the pie.

For the extra crunch top...
Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Cut the butter into the mixture (with a form) until it gets crumbly. Sprinkle over top of the crust.

Bake for 10 minutes. Reduce heat to 350F.
Continue to bake for about 45 minutes or until crust and topic are golden brown.
**Note: If you'd like to reduce the amount of mess, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and put it under the pie in case the apple sauce boils over.

Let it cool for 1.5 to 2 hours. Serve with desired amount of vanilla ice cream. (I like A LOT).

Confession: When I was prepping for my pie, I realized, I forgot to get a pie pan, so I ended up using a casserole dish. Still worked out well! For the second time around (I had extra pie dough, so I made mini apple pies.)

Boyfriend named it "one of the best apple pies he's ever had." WHAT A COMPLIMENT! =) Thank you! Enjoy! And, Happy Thanksgiving!!

Confession: A week and four days later, I realized, I forgot to put a confession!!! That should be my confession, but another that I'd like to share. When I was making the mini apple pies along with the medium one, everything was so hectic. Then, my boyfriend called. We talked and then without thinking, I hang up and put my cellphone on the stove top. Minutes later, I realize, grab my phone and it is BURNING. I can barely hold my phone. I put it down (more like toss it down) and then try to see if it works. It's off. I freak out. Take off my cover. My phone on the back was melted. I will take a photo and upload. Anyway, I ended up plugging it into my charger after the battery cooled a bit and then it started working again. Since then, it's been okay. YAY! 

Save the world, Save the food!

Between school, work, and friends, I find myself eating out a lot or grabbing a bite on the go. At the same time, I still have food at home from a. baking b. breakfast c. days that I decide I should make home at dinner and save money!!

Here are some tips for you!!

15 Tricks for Keeping Food Fresh Longer
These helpful hints will help you cut costs and the grocery store by keeping your food fresher longer than ever.
Posted By Country Living, Thu, 14 Oct 3:38 PM


1. If you're unsure of an egg's freshness, see how it behaves in a cup of water: Fresh eggs sink; bad ones float.


2. Don't throw away sparkling wine or champagne that's gone flat. Restore the bubble by dropping a raisin or two into the bottle. The natural sugars will work magic.


3. Line the bottom of your refrigerator's crisper drawer with paper towels. They'll absorb the excess moisture that causes veggies to rot.


4. A bay leaf slipped into a container of flour, pasta, or rice will help repel bugs.


5. Stop cheese from drying out by spreading butter or margarine on the cut sides to seal in moisture. This is most effective with hard cheeses sealed in wax.


6. When radishes, celery, or carrots have lost their crunch, simply pop them in a bowl of iced water along with a slice of raw potato and watch the limp vegetables freshen up right before your eyes


7. Believe it or not, honey is the only nonperishable food substance, so don't get rid of the stuff if it crystallizes or becomes cloudy. Microwave on medium heat, in 30-second increment, to make honey clear again.


8. In order to make cottage cheese or sour cream last longer, place the container upside down in the fridge. Inverting the tub creates a vacuum that inhibits the growth of bacteria that causes food to spoil.


9. Prevent extra cooked pasta from hardening by stashing it in a sealed plastic bag and refrigerating. When you're ready to serve, throw the pasta in boiling water for a few seconds to heat and restore moisture.


10. You can freeze cheese! After serving, put leftovers back in the original package, wrap tightly in plastic, and freeze. Defrost in the fridge a day before serving. This trick works best for soft cheeses with a high fat content.


11. Prevent mushrooms from getting slimy by wrapping them in paper towels before refrigerating.


12. To revive day-old muffins, sprinkle them with water, place in a paper bag, and pop in a hot oven for five to 10 minutes. The steam created by the water will restore moisture.


13. Keeping brown sugar in the freezer will stop it from hardening. But if you already have hardened sugar on your shelf, soften it by sealing in a bag with a slice of fresh bread or an apple -- or by microwaving on high for 30 seconds.


14. Stock up on butter when it's on sale — you can store it in the freezer for up to six months. Pack the butter in an airtight container, so it doesn't take on the flavor of whatever else you're freezing.


15. Avoid separating bananas until you plan to eat them — they spoil less quickly in a bunch.


Confession: Some of these tips are truly excellent ideas. Whether they work or not...I'm not sure!! Speaking of food, the other day, I watched Super Size Me for the millionth time (in class), and I actually started to crave a burger. Ugh, what does that say about me? Hahaha

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner

I realized that I've been cooking at home a lot recently...

Today, I wanted to go on a date, but I wasn't craving anything. I literally surfed the web for three hours looking for a restaurant. My goal was to find something "fun." I feel like I'm bored of the typical Italian restaurant date. Don't get me wrong, I love it...but I was craving "fun"

My options ended up to be Korean BBQ, Brazilian BBQ, or Indian.

I've never had Brazilian BBQ before, so that's my next goal. For tonight, I ended up going to Indian because my boyfriend doesn't like it...and I HAD to change his mind. Yes, he likes it now. =)

I must say though...I like cooking at home. Come back to check out the recipes!!

Today's recipe...
It's a great afternoon snack. Great lunch. Great...overall!

Pizzguette (That's meant to be a combo between "Pizza" and "Baguette")
- 1 baguette
- Any spaghetti sauce you have handy
- Toppings: olives, jalapenos, orange peppers, red peppers, onions, pepperoni, american cheese
- Shredded Cheese (I used Four Cheese Mexican Mix)

Preheat your oven to 350F
Cut the baguette longways. Spread a thick layer of spaghetti sauce on both slides. Add your toppings. Above are the toppings I used. Worked out well. Top with shredded cheese. Put it in the oven for 15min to 20min.

Serves 3-4.

Confession: My recipes come from the typical college-student fridge. I try my best to be creative and use whatever I have in the fridge. I actually used all the toppings for my Mexican night. These were the leftovers. Another time, I got fresh american cheese slices and they were getting old, so I threw them on as well. Finally, with all these ingredients, you can also use it for future meals. Spaghetti sauce can be used for pasta night. Along with the toppings. Shredded cheese can be used everyday! I use the four cheese mexican mix because I usually buy a large bag and it's multi-use! Welcome to college life slash budgeting! How good of me...!!

Sad, Sad News

British chef and author Nigella Lawson once said, "[Chocolate] gives [people] a feeling that's meant to be comparable to the feeling you get when you fall in love...It's like giddiness, feeling of excitement, feeling of attraction. So, in other words -- perhaps without knowing it -- we're giving people a love drug"

Not that I am a huuuge chocolate lover, but I know a lot of them. Sometimes, yes, it is a problem.

However, we have one, large problem facing us in the next 20 years.

Apparently...we are running out of chocolate. Well, we're actually running out of the main ingredient of what makes chocolate -- cocoa. We are consuming at a faster rate than we are producing. According to AOL News, cocoa is a labour and time consuming crop.

What does that mean for us?
Does that mean less happy people?

Discovery Health has concluded that

"Chocolate does, indeed, contain several compounds that have been shown to act on the brain in myriad ways, and most of them induce pleasure. It's also long been believed that chocolate, which is processed from the cocoa plant and is found growing in such far-flung areas of the world as Malaysia, Ghana and Guatemala, bestows heightened feelings of sexuality upon the eater. This would make chocolate an aphrodisiac, a notion that the Aztec ruler Montezuma reportedly bought into. He's said to have drunk goblets full of a chocolate drink called xocolatl ("bitter water") to provide stamina for his sexual conquests"

John Mason, executive director of the Ghana-based Nature Conservation Research Council, claimed that chocolate will be like caviar in 20 years, "It will become so rare and so expensive that the average Joe just won't be able to afford it."

Confession: As I'm writing this entry, I'm eating a Hershey's Cookie 'n' Creme bar. HAVE YOU TRIED IT? Quite delicious. Courtesy of my friend: Laura Schiraldi.

Boo!

Excellent for days following Halloween...

Everyone...

May I present to you...

BOO!

What a cutie. Seriously. 

I've been wanting a little puppy, but I'd feel like I'm cheating on my baby at home. 

Chere, currently lives with my family in Beijing.

Little baby Chere is too cute. I had to put more than one photo up. 

Her secret (and only) talent: standing on her two back legs for an abnormally long time. Of course, this must have a treat involved. 

Confession: I ALMOST thought Boo was cuter, then I saw Chere on Skype....

Nope, Chere is still my little baby <3

Bye-bye Halloween, Heeeello Thanksgiving!!

Sad, sad news.
I threw my pumpkin out today. I lift the cap for fun...only to find mold!!! Gross!!!

I'm glad I got a couple snapshots before it got all moldy.

That's my beginning and after shots! Can you see what it is? 

Hint...

Imagine a face.

Need another hint?

Open mouth. Screaming. 

STILL one more?! 

Hands on cheeks. 

You must've guessed it by now!! 

It was called "Mourning." Now that I think about it, kind of depressing. I found it in my pumpkin carving toolkit. 

I carved this on Halloween. The day after, I was over it. We're all about working with the pumpkin now! For sure, I'll be making pumpkin pie! CAN'T WAIT! 

Of course, while carving the pumpkin, I couldn't waste it! I had the urge to do something with the insides...so I decided to roast the pumpkin seeds. 

Toasted Pumpkin Seeds
- 2 teaspoons melted butter
- A generous dash of salt
- Any optional spices such as garlic powder, cayenne pepper, cajun seasoning!

Preheat oven to 300F.
Mix melted butter and salt with about 1.5 cup of pumpkin seeds.
Add any spices.
Spread pumpkin seeds in a single layer onto a baking sheet.
Bake for about 45 minutes stirring occasionally.

Voila! Great snack!

Confession: I didn't put any additional spices, and it didn't taste very great. I wish I had tried cinnamon and sugar! 


Let me know how it goes! 

Prom Dress, Anyone?

Of course, there must be a Halloween edition!
Food, food will be returning soon! I've been very inspired recently.

However...I'm sitting in my Advertising and Promotional class when we started talking about consumerism and prom. Someone brought up Duct Tape prom dresses. WHAT????

Never heard of this!!! NEW TO ME!!! Check it out below (or here)

2010 Winner

Runner-up

I love the detail on this one

Then I came across some other interesting dresses...

Dress made out of condoms

And finally...

Dress made out of diapers

Hahaha this has been very interesting. I'm very impressed with all their hard work and creativity. 

Confession: I would still like my magical, gorgeous prom dress. Just like how I would love that magical, gorgeous wedding dress. Yes, advertisement is my life story. They have shaped me. Ruh oh...

How do these values become so strong? How does advertisement shape this? This is like the engagement ring. We expect a large diamond ring. Think about it. 

Truly Amazing...

69 Days. 33 Miners.
50 minutes roundtrip on a 924-pound Fenix capsule. 624 meters.

Truly amazing...
There are so many factors. We have the heroes outside. The families outside.
Then inside, how do they decide who gets to go up first?

Check it out for yourself. This is just a little taste, if you don't know about this news report yet.
http://www.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/americas/10/13/chile.miners.rescue/index.html -- CNN
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-11518015 -- BBC

Confession: I've been so out of the loop recently with news that I didn't learn about it until yesterday. My new goal--follow up with news again. I use to do it everyday with my phone, then it started to drain my battery, so I stopped. Need. To. Start. Again. 

Food food fooood! Long time no cook :(

It's only been me, so I haven't really been cooking. Plus, I'm trying to watch my weight, so salads and coffee is pretty much the extent of my diet.

Here's a little highlight of my food life...

I apologize for the poor quality photo. My camera is on vacation, so...welcome to cellphone camera!!
This recipe can't be any simpler.

Pooootatooo Skiinnn
- 1 slice of bacon
- 1 Potato
- Shredded Cheese (You can really use any time, probably best with cheddar. I used 4 Cheese Mexican Mix)
- Jalapeno
- Green Onion
- Sour Cream
- Olive Oil

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Rub olive oil all over the potato. Put it in the microwave on high for 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, fry the bacon until brown. Remove it and put it on a paper towel to absorb the extra oil.

When the potato is done, cut the potato in half (longways). Scoop out the insides and put it in a bowl. The potato should look like a tiny bowl. Put some cheese and crushed bacon into the bottom, and refill the potato bowl with its insides. Layer the top with desired amount of cheese, jalapeno, and green onion. I like LOTS of everything. Do the same with the other half.

Put the potato into the oven. It'll be ready when the cheese starts to brown.

Confession: I loooove Sandra Lee's Semi-Homemade cooking show. It's delicious, but most importantly, conveniently priced well. You don't have to go out to buy all the ingredients, yet the recipe gives you flexibility. If you want to make it healthier, you can. It's not like me grabbing a box of mac and cheese. Let the creativity in you come outtt!!! 


We had a long weekend today...I hope you enjoyed your Monday :)

October: Welcome To Breast Cancer Awareness Month

It's a new month! One more less month in Boston =( I will be so saaad to leave!

I know I said I'd try to update as often as possible, but the last two weeks have been an emotional ride with my personal life. On the great side, I'm bacck.

I went to the Breast Cancer walk last Sunday!! It was excellent!!

It's almost like everyone knew their dog was going to get sooo much attention! There wasn't a single uncleaned, adorable dog at the walk. I loooved it! It was the perfect weather and Boston was truly looking GORGEOUS.

Other cool breast cancer awareness stuff:
- Anyone been watching football? Love the pink!! It's also my favourite colour. Monday, Patriots against...I believe the Miami Dolphins....Pink shoes and pink chin straps. Loooves it!!
- Facebook...are you a part of it? My status:

Jacqueline Lai ‎:: I like it on carpeted floor, on a chair, on a desk, anywhere with a surface! ;)


My mother also took the liberty to update her status too: "I like it under the table." 


I must admit, GREAT answer!!! 


Hilarious.


Anyway, support breast cancer research. The Breast Health and Healing foundation is a great place to start. Their foundation is starting from the root of the disease, THE CAUSE of breast cancer. That way, it will shed light on the cure. Check it out, donate, and support!!


Don't forget your pink ribbons!!!

Confession: My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer when I was a junior in high school. She's great now :) But I went through all the downs and of course, ups with her, so...always a breast cancer supporter!! 

Asian Unicorn or "Bicorn," HA!

So apparently, The Guardian reported that an "Asian Unicorn" was captured. This species is also known as Saola. The animal was found in Laos where it also died a couple days later. The first ever "Asian Unicorn" was found in 1992. It is believed that only a few hundred exist in the wild now.

This picture was taken when it was still alive.

Thoughts??

Confession: My friend posted this on FB. My response: "Umm...aren't UNIcorns meant to have UNI - one - sharp pointy thingy popping outta its head? I'd just like to point out that this one has TWO. Either it's a bicorn or goat. 


According to WIKIPEDIA - I quote - 'Most goals naturally have two horns...' (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goat - UNDER 'ANATOMY')


INTERESTING. This so-called "Asian Unicorn" really resembles a goat...hmmm...Is it only me or am I taking crazy pill?"

I was a little harsh on the poor Saola.

Jacquie is back. Food is back. Bon appetit!

I haven't been making any amazing meals recently. I feel like I need to set aside time for myself to do things I enjoy. Perhaps it will help me relax.

The most recent thing I'm doing to help me relax is reading. If you know me, I NEVER READ! Leisurely, that is. Of course, I read my text books for class and all, but I've never bought a book to read "for fun." Usually, they put me to sleep. However, I was in Borders a couple weeks ago and saw Chelsea Handler's newest book Chelsea Bang Bang, so I picked it up. The first three pages captured me and that was the start of Jacquie reading!!! My goal, to read all three of her books.

So the last food that I made and documented was adapted from Sandra Lee's Focaccini that I saw on TV the other day.

I don't even know what Focaccini is, so I'm going to call mine...

Pizzscuit
- 1 Roll of Pillsbury Flaky Biscuit
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1 small can of artichoke
- Olive Oil
- Italian Seasoning

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Put about 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a bowl. Add about a teaspoon of italian seasoning and garlic. Separate the biscuit (about 8 per roll) on a baking sheet. Flatten them a bit. Brush the seasoning on generously. Put as much tomato and artichoke on top as desired. Optional: add blue cheese on top. Sandra lee did this on her show, but I forgot. It still turned out excellent and healthier!! The option is there though!! Bake for about 13-15 minutes, or until the biscuits start to brown.

Voila! Bon appetit!

This is a fantastic snack and easy to make. My friends came over, had the "Pizzscuit" with some salad and watched Keeping up with the Kardashians! Excellent night. Enjoy the rest of yours!

Confession: I know I write a lot about food, BECAUSE I LOVE IT, but I also love The Biggest Loser. It's on tonight!!!

Short, but back!

I haven't updated in awhile....
My life has been on a rollarcoaster. I've been prepping myself for the next phase in my life.
In three months, it will mark the finish of my college life. At this very, current moment, I'm not ready.

After my last post...I lost internet connection as I was in the process of moving. Then, it was my birthday the next day. August 30th. Following, school started again. It's shocking how fast time can go by.

I'm slowly getting back into a routine.

My wellness class is definitely top on my interesting list. Last class, we put crayon to an A3 piece of paper.

Sound ridiculous, but..it worked! Before we started the exercise, the professor said..."Remember how you're feeling now." Then we went crazy and interpreted (via drawing) what we thought wellness was. At the end of class, the professor as who felt worse, the same, or better. Most people felt better and there were select people that felt the same. However, no one felt worse. It's interesting how drawing could have such an impact. Maybe because it brings us back to childhood? No worries?

Then, on Monday, she cancelled class so we can have a Mind&Body day. It's a day for us to wake up early and use class time for something that will de-stress us. I've decided to wake up and make breakfast with my boyfriend. I'll tell you how it all works out.

In the meantime, considering drawing.
Here are some other de-stressing techniques: http://www.helpguide.org/mental/stress_relief_meditation_yoga_relaxation.htm

...I'm baaaackkk!!

Confession: I haven't posted in so long that I forgot to add a "confession"

There's always something to worry about! A lot on my mind at this very moment....so, I will keep this entry simple.

"Best comfort food I've had away from home" - My boyfriend

Yum Yum Special Shepard's Pie
- Small package ground beef (usually a little more than 1lb)
- One large onion chopped
- Spaghetti sauce
- Spices (oregano, basil, salt, pepper)
- Worcester and tabasco sauce
- 3 medium potatoes
- 1 stick of butter (1/2 cup)
- 1/2-1 cup milk
- Pinch of salt
- 3 tbs sour cream
- Shredded cheddar
- Medium casserole dish
- Large bowl

Wash and cut potatoes into 0.5 inch slices. Boil them for about 15 min or until soft.
Meanwhile...
Fry ground beef until golden separately. Fry onions with extra virgin olive oil until soft and tender. Add ground beef and desired amount of spaghetti sauce. Add spices and worcester and tabasco sauce to taste. Simmer for about 15 min on low heat. Slightly thick sauce is desired.
Cover to bottom of the casserole dish with the sauce.
Back to the potatoes...
Drain the water. Peel the skin off the potatoes and put it in a large bowl. Mash the potatoes. If you don't have a potato masher, a fork is fine. Add in butter. Mix until butter is melted into potatoes. Add salt. Add milk and mix until smooth. Add sour cream and mix.
Add the mash potatoes into the casserole dish on top of the beef sauce. Then top it with cheddar cheese.
Bake at 375 degrees for 25 min. If you'd like the cheese to brown a little, turn the oven to broil. Be careful, it burns fast!

Substitute for spaghetti sauce (halfsies HOME MADE!)
2 cans of diced tomatoes
1 pkg spaghetti sauce

Confession: After my boyfriend made that statement about my shepard's pie, he decided to take it back. He decided that one of his guy roommate's meatloaf was "more comforting" HA. I'm going to pretend that didn't happen! =)

Fashion Smashion

At 12:27am on a Thursday night with no obligations at all...I, like many other people would do...
Cleaned my room.
I don't know why we always start from there. Maybe we do it to show that our life is organized? Or maybe it's about control when we have no other priorities at a specific time in life?

(I have finished summer school and found housing...finally, here I come, Summer!!!)

Anyway...as I was cleaning and reorganizing....I came across....

http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/features/baltimoremomblog/2010/06/silly_bandz_tweens.html

SILLY BANDZ

They're like these little packets of goodness!!!
They come in pretty colours
They come in glow in the dark
They come in smelly form
They come in ALL TYPES of forms!!

Essentially, they're rubber bands with a theme/shape.

I find came across them at a party. This girl had an armful of them. She worked at Rue 21 and said they were the new cool things. She gave me my first Silly Band ever. A pink penguin.

The next day, July 4th BBQ, this little boy saw it and immediately loved it. How could I not give it to him? I had to insist that I was too old for it before the boy took it. Too cute!!!

I've seen many people strutting them. Including the guy who sits next to me in class. He has a yellow turtle.

Celebrities like Sarah Jessica Parker or Mary Kate Olsen are seen mixing these Silly Bandz with their fine jewelry.

http://www.olsen-twins-news.com/mary-kate-olsen-celebs-and-their-silly-bandz-62436/

Oh, how cute!!

Confession: After the July 4th weekend, my boyfriend went to NC for vacation. Among the many gifts he bought me....I can now say--I am the owner of smelly fashionista-themed Silly Bandz.

Summer Drinks

Yesterday was my last day of classes for the summer. Now I have a three week break.
To celebrate, I decided to let go and have a relaxing night. I ended up going to the Cheesecake Factory with two of my friends. I tried their Tropical Smoothie...it was amazing


The smoothie reminded me of a little something I made a couple weeks ago...

This was quiteee the delicious drink! I can't give you the exact recipe, but it comes something like this...
14oz pack of frozen mangos
24oz pack of frozen peaches
16oz orange juice (I prefer to use Simply Orange)
4 shots of vodka
Blend all ingredients in mixer. Ta-ta! If you like it thicker, add a couple pieces of ice cubes. Garnish with a slice of fruit. I used a slice of peach.
When I made this, I actually used peach vodka and it had this strong distinct taste, so I didn't put as many shots in, but if you'd like...add as many shots to your taste. This recipe is really flexible. Use whatever frozen fruit you find in your freezer.

I actually had the mangoes and peaches because I was attempting a healthy strike. Worked for about a month and then I gave up. I lost 5lbs, but I had no motivation after. The frozen fruits tasted terrible as a snack, so I made it into the smoothy.

Speaking of losing weight...
I use to watch The Biggest Loser. I loved the show, but I just haven't had time to follow recently. Although, I must say...the first couple seasons were the best. Now it's filled with a lot of marketing junk. Regardless, I feel like it's inspirational. The show helped me lose my Freshman 20.

If you're considering losing weight...that's a great place to start. It's inspirational. Watch one episode before you go the gym.

Confession: Yes, drinking is actually counterproductive to losing weight. Take note: THERE IS A LOT OF CALORIES IN ALCOHOL!!! Although...I did come across an interesting article the other day...


Cosmopolitan's August 2010 issue had an article about "Is Wine the New Diet Drink?" on page 190. It basically talked about a study that researchers did for 20,000 normal-weight women for 13 years. The study showed the the women who drank a glass or two of red wine a day were 30% less likely to be overweight. Reasons being that 1. triggers your body to torch calories. Because women's body tend to have lower metabolism rates, they have to work harder to burn the calories. 2. Alcohol raises your body temperature causing the body to burn calories to create heat. 


Interesting...

Education used in "Real World"

Busy, busy school! I just have one more 10-minute presentation and a paper due next week.
This weekend, I will be going to New Hampshire to visit the boyfriend's family.
Cool story, they were actually featured on Episode 2 of Boston Med.

Which brings me to....
MY CLASSES! I've been going at school non-stop for a year now. No breaks at all! Perhaps the occasional long weekend and a two-week winter break, but that was about the extent.

Back to my story --
In one of my classes Television: Text and Context, we watch films and we analyze them.

http://blogs.e-rockford.com/bricksandclicks/category/the-daily-show/

http://blogs.tampabay.com/media/2008/04/at-the-daily-sh.html

For example, one of the first weeks, we watched The Daily Show and The Colbert Report. Our take (and the author's) on the show was that the show uses the conventions of comedy (through satire and parody) to critiques the news.

Bottom line: Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert believe that there is a lack of objectivity in the news today. News is meant to inform people, however in reality, they aren't giving the substantive information needed so that the audience can make judgements for themselves. Instead, we have shows such as the O'Reilly Factor that are strongly opinionated shows. In the past, news featured experts giving facts and explaining the situation, now we have journalists that give their take on an event. Therefore, on the Stewart and Colbert use satire and parody to challenge these news reports. Because these shows are known to be comical, they do not need to follow the conventions of the news genre, rather they criticize it using their show and humour. The set up of the show is almost identical to news and the satire used is to challenge the news.

http://www.uniquewarez.com/tv_zone/311953-boston_med_all_seasons_720p_hdtv_reg_updates_megashares.html

For my final project in the class, I have to make my own analysis of a tv series or episode. I have chosen Boston Med. I want to take on the critique that the show is highlighted to be a documentary, but in my analysis, I show that the show uses documentary conventions to drive the drama narrative. The show is a documentary about the people who work in Boston's Brigham, Children's, and Mass General. My overall point is that the show is a constructed fiction. It is meant to be a reality-based documentary, but I believe otherwise. Even though the show is unscripted, I don't believe that it is non-fiction. The filming does feature "real people" but I think the entire narrative is pieced together by TV workers. They create the central story. Therefore, the people in the show are seen as characters, rather than "real people." I feel that it is more drama than documentary because it doesn't highlight the major societal problems. For example, the show has a lot of talk about how the doctors and nurses are their for long hours, and thus, focusing on interpersonal relationships between the doctors and nurses. However, the show ignores the larger societal issue that it may be a problem. Perhaps that is an ongoing issue with hospitals where people work too much. Another point to note is that the show does not go into detail about greater issues that affect the entire society such as health insurance. At this point in MA, health coverage has been a large topic, yet the show overlooks it. I support my overall point using genre conventions. For example, the show uses documentary conventions such as the hand-held camera and one-on-one interviews. It helps to add drama and drive the central narrative with the doctors and nurses.

That is my presentation in a nutshell!!

Confession: Still love LOVE Boston Med! I was watching it on campus and got all teary-eyed. Quite embarrassing. All the stories are so touching! Today was actually the last episode. =( Will definitely watch it online tomorrow or this weekend! We also studied a critique on Sex and the City, yet...still LOVE IT! So...these "scholarly analyses" won't hold me back from great shows!!!!!

Do you eat breakfast?

Do you eat breakfast?
A.) Consider starting!
B.) Good on you!!

Ever since I was little, my mommy would make me breakfast in the morning. Well, that's of course, before I moved to college.

Now, I make breakfast for myself every morning. (Oh hoho, look at my first statistic! Why, thank you, Mommy!)

Breakfast is a truly important meal. Here are some statistics:
- According to a study found in The Philadelphia Inquirer of 1,089 kids ages 12-to-15 years-old conducted in the Netherlands, children were more included to eat breakfast daily if their parents ate breakfast daily. Parental rules regarding the morning meal also played a key role in getting kids to eat breakfast regularly. See, breakfast is important!
- According to a study by USDA and Kellogg's, 22 percent of breakfast skippers were obese, compared to 15 percent of cereal eaters. From this study, we get that kids who eat breakfast are less likely to become obese. Breakfast is important.
- According to a University of Connecticut study published in Nutrition Research, eating eggs for breakfast might help you eat less later in the day. The key is protein. Eggs and breakfast are important!
- An Australian study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that drinking fat-free milk at breakfast helped study subjects to feel fuller, more satisfied and to eat fewer calories at lunch. Breakfast is important.
- According to research reported by the U.K.'s Telegraph newspaper, "feeding children high energy breakfast foods such as porridge at a young age boots their exams results at school." Children who followed such a diet before their third birthday had improved scores in reading and problem-solving tests compared to their peers. Breakfast is important!!!
- An article in The Vancouver Province titled "How breakfast can help make your skin beautiful" stated that ingesting oatmeal or bran flakes may help reduce acne breakouts. Want to have beautiful? Well, breakfast is important!!

If you want more global statistics on breakfast, you can get it where I got it. HERE

Speaking of...guess what I had for breakfast.

Homemade banana bread!!!

It was super cute, I made a large loaf and two mini ones.

Bahananana Bread (that's three "na"s after the Baha)
1/2 cup butter
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
1/8 teaspoon salt (pretty much a pinch)
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 cups flour
3 large bananas, overly ripe
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Preheat the oven to 325F. Cream together the butter and sugar. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. In another bowl, add the dry ingredients together (salt, baking soda, flour). Sift the dry mixture into the butter, sugar, and egg mixture. Mix until nice and creamy. Mash bananas into the mixture. Stir in walnuts, if necessary.

Bake for an hour. To make sure that it is ready, stick a toothpick into the loaf and if any of it sticks to the toothpick, leave it in the oven for a bit longer.

Makes 1 loaf.

Confession: Okay, I lied, I actually didn't have the banana bread for breakfast. I brought it to school but it was just too cute to eat. I had to post it here before it was ingested. Actually, as a matter of fact, I did have a greeeat breakfast! It's my typical breakfast. In the morning, I pick out a variety of fruit and put it in a Tupperware, typically peaches, nectarines, oranges, kiwi, or grapes. Today, I had a peach. Other times, I put half a banana with half a package of oatmeal + milk. That's for a story another day...

I'm baaackkk WITH RED VELVET CREAM CHEESE CUPCAKES!!

The horror of summer school. Mass loads of work. Sky-rocketing high levels of stress. Exhausion to the max, yet I find myself restless. Result in little and low-quality sleep. And that's just the beginning.

But...GOOD NEWS...I'm baaaackkk!!!!

I'll show you what I've been up to in a later entry.

But for the more exciting entry, as I promised............RED VELVET CUPCAKES with CREAM CHEESE FROSTING!!!!!!

Because I'm the typical college student on a budget, I won't lie....I used boxed red velvet cake. However, I did make my own cream cheese frosting! Inspired by Mrs. Paula Amazing Deen

Cream Cheese Frosting JACQUIE STYLE

1 package cream cheese, softened

1 stick butter, softened

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup sifted confectioners' sugar

Mix together the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until smooth. Add the sugar until well-blended, light, and fluffy!

Now, using a butter knife, spread a thick, thick layer on top of your boxed-prepared red velvet cake!!

Confession: My recipes are generally a mix of multiple recipes. I usually go on google and pick out recipes that match the ingredients I have in my cupboard. Initially, I was also going to use My Baking Adventure's Red Velvet Cupcake recipe then use Paula Deen's frosting, but then I decided to take the faster and cheaper route. It's also because I needed the oven for homemade, low carb pizza! I had a cute mini-date with the boyfriend that night! At some point, the pizza recipe is a MUST for this blog!!

Side-note: Feel free to use My Baking Adventure's red velvet cupcake recipe. It looks truly delicious, then let me know how it went!

Oooh Nooo! Sad, Sad News!

My weekend has been great, but has gone by waaay too fast.

I'm at the end of my weekend, with lots of work to do, so this will be a short post. More to come tomorrow or day after.

Tomorrow will be a better day, happier entry! For sure!

(Side note: I was reading my Organizational Behaviour class and it said that people tend to be unhappier on Mondays and Tuesdays. People tend to be happiest on Saturdays.)

Anyway, just to mirror the sadness to the end of our weekend....

Hundreds of penguins are dying!

According to Peruibe Aquarium biologist Thiago do Nascimento, about 556 penguins have washed up onto the Brazillian coast since July 11, 2010. According to another biologist, Isabelle Nunes, it isn't unusal for penguins to come up onto the beaches, but usually, they're alive. They believe the cold waters is the root of the problem. Nunes explains that the cold water has caused regional cold front, and therefore, the fish that the penguins usually eat have gone to other waters. Necropsies performed on these penguins have indicated empty stomachs.

Perhaps we can blame climate change, overfishing, and pollution? I don't know.

Read more about the story: http://www.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/americas/07/21/brazil.dead.penguins/index.html

This is sad.

Confession: I have a secret love for penguins, so this is really disappointing. I hope people continue with the penguin searches.

Internet Lies

Speaking of apartments....I'm in trouble for housing in the fall! I haven't solidified my plans. Okay, fine, I won't lie. I haven't even found a place yet. Which brings me to....CRAIGSLIST. I went on there to either find a place to sublet or lease.

I came upon this GREAT place. Check out the email:

Happy to hear of your interest,
The apartment is available for rent,
It is very spacious, over 1400sqft, very modern and bright, 2 large bedrooms, 2 full baths, a living room, dining area, washer and dryer in the apartment, lots of closet space, fully furnished, all new bedding/linens, cookware, dishes etc .The rooms are nicely furnished and the apartment features a spacious/open modern Kitchen with Stainless Steel Appliances: range/oven, microwave, dishwasher & refrigerator, lots of closets and storage space. Air Conditioning, Granite and marble bathrooms, stainless steel appliances, 42" LCD TV, DVD, Sound System. Comes with a gated included,a storage unit where you can deposit my furniture (if you want to rent it unfurnished and you want use your own furniture) Maintenance is done by a specialized company and i will be billed for any maintenance work that gets done. Pets are allowed! . The address is: 21 Beacon St Boston MA 02108, It is located in a very select downtown neighborhood, The area is very nice, very quiet and safe, it is close to all the best attractions, easy access to Great Restaurants, Bars, Pubs and shopping abound in the immediate area, within walking distance. In this area i could ren t the apartment for almost double the price i am asking ( US $900.00 / Month, US $900.00 Deposit ) Water,electricity, Internet,cable, parking, All the utilities and amenities fees are included in the monthly rent because I want to find someone serious and reliable that will always be on time with the rent and will take care of my property.

I am the apartment owner, i now live in London, UK most of the time and i have decided to rent the apartment. The rental will be done only via eBayReal Estate. eBay.com is a legitimate and neutral company, offering purchase protection for millions of transactions each day. The apartment is not yet listed on their web site, first we have to set up the rental process through them. The process is simple and easy, everything is done online.

To secure the apartment you will deposit the first month's rent plus the deposit to eBay as security, they will handle all the paperwork, documentation and the keys will be mailed to you via Overnight Express. You will have a 5 days inspection period to review the apartment and the lease, after this period if you decide not to rent the apartment eBay will return you the money 100%, you will get the first month's rent and the deposit back the same day the lease and keys are returned as I will be supporting the fees. I am sure you will love the apartment and that you will decide to rent it, but it's good to know you have the second option also. The apartment is unoccupied, you can move in the same day or whenever you are ready. The lease is flexible, can be month to month, min stay one month, If you are interested you can secure the apartment now and move in later, the lease will start from when you move in.

I will be billed when i set up the process so I don't want to end up paying eBay hundreds of dollars for this service without any result. I want to make sure i am dealing with people who are serious about renting.

Please tell me something about your income. If you are interested in the apartment please describe yourself so i can have an idea about you and the people that will be living in my apartment. Let me know if you are interested, when can you secure the apartment, how long are you planing to rent, I really need to take care of this matter by the end of the next week.

Thank you for your time.
Regards!

Ps. Below are some pictures of the apartment please let me know if you have received them with pictures of the apartment : http://pict.com/album/62540/98746afb63

Does this place sound amazing or amazing? Of course, I live in the city and that's just TOO GOOD to be true. Nonetheless, I got super excited about it. The moment I got home, I decided to look up "eBay Real Estate." As I'm looking it up, I see "ebay real estate scam." Out of curiosity, I click it. OF COURSE, out of my disappointment, THE EXACT SAME EMAIL APPEARS!!!!!!!!!! Crushed me! I was way too excited about something I knew couldn't be true.

Moral of the story: Do your homework. And don't trust the internet.

Craigslist is pretty much an online local classified. It was established in early 1995 by Craig Newmark. Since the late 2000, Jim Buckmaster has been the CEO. In 2010, they company currently has about 30 employees. Craigslist, itself, has over 50 millions users. Each month, over 20 billion pages are viewed. In the past years, "Craigslist has expanded to more than 700 local sites in 70 countries."

My question, how are 30 people meant to manage (every month) the 50 million new classified ads, 1 million new job listings, and 120 million user postings in 100 topic forums?

Answer, they can't.

It's up to us to protect ourselves.

#1 MOST IMPORTANT TIP: safeguard your personal information

Don't give out any information such as credit card numbers, bank account numbers, social security numbers, or even your mobile phone number!!!! You don't know who you're dealing with, especially on Craigslist. On other websites such as Amazon or eBay, I say, just be cautious. ESPECIALLY, don't give out your address "number" (lol). All this is important for YOUR OWN SAFETY, as well as identity theft or other fraudulent purposes.

#2 Do research on websites

CHECK THE WEBSITE before taking action. Especially with websites that you're unfamiliar with, READ THE PRIVACY POLICY. They probably have something sneaky in it. Furthermore, back to tip #1, make sure the website offers a secure connection before giving any type of personal information. DO YOUR RESEARCH

#3 Want to meet people online? DON'T DO IT!

Yes yes, you hear "1 in 4 relationships start online." Well, take the larger percentage and meet that person offline. No joke.

Fine, if you MUST...follow Craigslist's rules:

• Insist on a public meeting place (like a cafe)
• Do not meed in a secluded place, or invite strangers into your home
• Be especially careful when buying/selling high value items
• Tell a friend or family member where you're going
• Take your cell phone along (if you have one) -- Jacquie's note: if you don't, get one...for your safety
• Consider having a friend accompany you -- Jacquie's note: DON'T CONSIDER, DO IT.
• Trust your instincts -- Jacquie's note: NOT your instincts, just BE SMART

I'm going to just strongly suggest, DON'T MEET PEOPLE online, especially through Craigslist.

Those are my top tips.

Please be smart. For your own safety. Think about your friends and family.

Confession: The place I live now was found through Craigslist. I live with three other girls that go to the college next to mine. They're nice and all, but I got lucky. After experiencing what I did (as explained in the beginning of this entry), I would say that I made a mistake and learnt my lesson. So, take me word for it. Use Craigslist cautiously. There are many other websites that are more secure. If you need a place to live, find a realtor. If you're worried about money, talk to them about the realtor's fee. People will work with you. If you're looking to purchase books or a designer bag, use ebay or amazon. If you're looking for job listings, go to monster.com or Yahoo! hot jobs. Be extra cautious.