Wildflower Sprouts Inspiration

Drew Barrymore: a rebel, a mother, and a Hollywood glamour gal.

I knew I always loved Barrymore, but I think I never quite knew just why. I adored her in Never Been Kissed and I always seemed to find a little of myself in her characters. Just so happens, that the actress has as well.

I originally picked up this book because of my infatuation for this elegant, soft toned star, but also because I am a sucker for celebrity bios and stories. Just one chapter into it I found it to be so much more than that.

The stories are not told in some extra fancy language or expressions, it’s just as if she’s talking out loud to you. It’s real. It’s lovely. More than anything the tales are inspiring and motivating. I expected to have a serious tell all of her hardships and while she does not hide that aspect of her life, she actually embraces it and is not negative about any of those experiences. Better yet, it’s not even a façade, you can tell she means it all. That is the glimmer in this book– the genuineness flies off of each page. That is very hard to find in Hollywood. There aren’t gimmicks or tricks of humor to get your attention. It actually reads very much like a journal like anyone else’s. In fact, that is how the book started as the actress reveals. But, obviously, her experiences are much more entertaining.

In each story you learn a lesson with her and she paints the picture so strongly and emotionally you feel like you’re right there with her. She’s really quite a powerhouse for feminism and role model in learning to love who you are and owning all the trials and tribulations in life.

The book clearly spoke to me, maybe because I am on that journey and still in trying to embrace the twists and turns, but definitely because it’s simply irresistible.

I now know what really makes Drew Barrymore lovable. She’s who we all want to be and actually quite relatable—who knew? If you want to fall deeper in love with this strong, female role model than this pick is for you. If anything pick this treasure up for inspiration and motivation.

 

 

 

Disney Just Keeps Getting Better

 

 

Like I said in my last post, Disney has some outdated concepts, but the studio is making great strides. Emotionally, Disney is always on point. The especially heartwarming stories are in the little sweet treats that are developed in short films. Somehow in about ten minutes, they manage to capture our hearts, make us giggle, and cause sniffling while subtly wiping away tears before anyone sees.

Even though this remains true, thus far, culture and religion are topics that are barely touched on or just served in an undertone in Disney films. Which is why Pixar’s newest short is something to celebrate and applaud. Sanjay’s Super Team takes us along an intimate story between father and son. In first viewing the short, I was shocked right away just in seeing a little Indian boy–how many times can you say you’ve seen that in a major animation film? The fact that the story develops into a lesson of religious values and cultural respect is a cause for some real jaw dropping action. I had twinkling eyes and a face of wonder while watching the action unravel. I swear it was as if I was kid watching my favorite cartoon. In the end, I was a ball of emotions with watery eyes and giant smile.

In a time of political turmoil and racial conflict, this production and its acceptance and approval from so many, made my heart scream. How lovely to see a different culture and religion embraced in something like Disney that was such a grand and magical part of most of our childhoods. To see a real and relatable story of the struggles for American children with immigrant parents, surpasses our expectations and truly shows great progression. I, for one, never thought I’d see the day for something so magnificent. So sit back and enjoy the wonder through Sanjay’s eyes…

 

 

Great Change for Female Fairytale Characters

As much as the Disney and classic fairytale stories are near and dear to us, one could say they are quite dated–to say the least. Princesses with perfect curves and big busts and big buns aren’t are all that realistic to aspire too. Not to mention, we CAN defend ourselves and we need NO man to depend on. Our status and reputation certainly does not merely depend on marriage or on a man like some princesses. Which is why characters like the revamped Rapunzel in Tangled and Elsa in Frozen are so admirable as they take matters into their own hands and are fierce figures of strength. But, one major change and twist in the ever popular Once Upon A Time created awe, amazement and cheer.

Once Upon A Time usually maintains the essential points, agendas, and backstory in each character, but will stray slightly for more originality and entertainment value. Which they have done commendably as the magical element remains and even enhances. Most importantly, what we really love about these stories continues to stay true. But, what they did for Little Red Riding Hood and Dorothy was totally unforeseen, yet absolutely endearing. In their storyline, true love’s kiss came with an extra twist. It became the most progressive tale yet for such characters. It was another woman to the rescue for another lady in need. Cue heart eye emojis because this is a story to die for. I love me some overly romantic stories and a hunk-a-hunk with big arms like Prince Charming and Flynn Rider just as much as the next gal, but this new development in what some consider a mainstream show is a grand step towards the right direction.

At last there is hope for the depiction of real people…in totally unrealistic circumstances…but all in good fun.

 

 

Biggest Makeup Trend: Being Yourself

 

These days you can’t simply browse Instagram or vlogs without being bombarded by makeup tricks. With these tricks, some before and after pictures depict entirely different people. Some are even commenting “is this legal?” and I don’t blame them. Who are we trying to be? Who are we trying to impress? Would you really want to go to bed next someone and not recognize them after all of the gunk is wiped away?

The biggest, most embarrassing (as a woman) makeup deception these days is contouring. Contour everything, to the point that it looks like a child wrote all over your face when sleeping.You can make your nose look much smaller, you can create cheek bones, you can make your lips appear bigger, the possibilities are endless…some might say. In reality, this just seems like another ploy to make each other feel bad about one another’s looks and something to buttress insecurities. The amount of makeup that piles on doing this over-the-top technique can’t be good for your skin and it is so visible! Who are you fooling?? We can see each and every layer on your face!

Please, can we just be at a time when it’s a trend to just be you. It’s one thing to hide those small impurities and marks but to go to a whole new level of creating something that doesn’t even exist is entirely different thing. Go ahead make yourself comfortable and be the best version of you, but don’t make yourself into something that isn’t really you and someone totally unrecognizable. Besides, when did looking overly greasy and shiny a thing? Isn’t that what we’ve been trying to avoid this whole time. Let’s just stick to this simple sentiment: Just do you. And let’s empower the younger generations and create a new path for them. A path that isn’t traced with belittlement and degrading our sense of individuality.

 

Spring Fashion Essentials

Easter eggs, blooming flowers, and bright sunshine–Spring is here! Bring out those dresses and skirts….but what else?! I’m here to tell you  the must haves for this spring. The list includes outfits and accessories.

 

1. A colorful romper 

A romper is an easy, breezy option for the Spring weather. A colorful one matches the          season just right

2. A cut out dress with a slit

Why go with a plain ole dress? Bring on the Spring fashion with an edgy dress with a peek-a-boo slits and cut outs.

3. Beach hat

Get some shade from that sunshine with a trendy hate. Don’t over do it with an overly adorned hat. Go simple with a casual beach hat with a girly flair.

4. Retro Sunglasses

All that beauty of the season might just blind you, so get some chic sunglasses. Get into the trend with a solid pair of retro sunglasses. This pair is from a Henri Bendel collection.

Top 3 Trendiest Veggies

Move over Kale—There’s more exciting and dynamic veggies trending right now.

I’ve listed the Top 3 veggies that you can expect to see in those mouthwatering Instagram posts and along with some dishes that are pin worthy for Pinterest.

OMG these are so hot right now…

Brussels Sprouts

Did you know brussels sprouts look like this as they grow?–

Brussels sprouts contain high levels of vitamin C and K. It was once known as a stinky vegetable you’d avoid as a kid (as did Molly from American Girl—ah, good memories). But, really these are so in right now. The mini cabbage-like vegetable, even in their tiniest form, can be dressed up in so many different ways. Here are just a few ways to do so:

Brussel meatball 

Grill brussels  and get the crispy, leafy outside golden brown and crunchy. Toss in marinara sauce and top with gooey cheese and you’ve got yourself a hearty, vegetarian, meal to replace meatballs.

Sweet and tangy balsamic glazed brussels

Steam the vegetable then sautee with a balsamic reduction. This will take the bitterness out and replace with delicious touch of sweetness. Add some almond slivers on top for an added crunch. This makes for a quick and simple side dish to satisfy your craving.

Lemony spiced brussels

Boil the luscious green and immediately place in ice water to preserve the crunch and color. Roll ‘em in salt, black pepper, garlic, lemon juice, cayenne, and red pepper flakes with a little olive oil. Stick them in the oven for a quick roast then sprinkle parmesan cheese on top.

Cauliflower

Once known as the dull broccoli, Cauliflower has incited new drool worthy factors in these trendy days. In its whole form they look like a bouquet of white flowers and the dishes I suggest can preserve such beauty. These vegetables can actually taste quite meaty and are way less of the fat and calories and they’re high in vitamin C. Here are some ways to have cauliflower be of a hearty yet light meal:

Vegan pizza crust

Boil the florets, drain, and crumble in a food processor. Combine with Parmesan, Gouda, mozzarella, oregano, salt, pepper, garlic and eggs. Bake it in a form of a circle like a pizza crust. Add any toppings you want

Gobi Manchurian

Boil this rose-like veg then fry with flour mixture or beer batter with soy sauce, chili powder, garlic, salt and any other desired spices. Top with a sauce of ginger, garlic, more chilies of course, canned tomato, soy sauce, and vinegar. Or, buy a can of Tikka Masala Curry sauce or related sauce.

Quickly roasted cauliflower

Chop into florets, toss in olive oil and season with garlic, cayenne, Himalayan salt, black pepper, ginger, and a dash of cumin. Then roast until golden brown. Finally, dust with Parmesan cheese

Butternut Squash

Shhh the butternut squash is disguising as a vegetable. Okay, so it’s really a fruit but certainly used as a vegetable. Some might even say this squash is the neglected pumpkin. It might not be in anything like your latte or muffin like pumpkin, but butternut squash is actually rather diverse too. It’s also nutty and can be sweet. This squash is delicious source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. The following are some ideas to soak up those nutritious benefits:

Potato and Squash Dumplings

Boil potatoes and squash together until tender then mash. Mix with cumin, salt, pepper, garlic, paprika, Gruyere cheese, flour, and water. Form into small dumpling sizes and boil again until they pop up. Then quickly fry until golden brown. Finally, serve with a heavy cream, sage sauce.

Chickpea and Squash Stew

First, you’ll need to sauté onions and garlic with a heap of flavorful spices as cumin, masala, and paprika. Then bring that mixture to a boil with water. Lastly, simmer down with tomatoes, chickpeas, roasted squash, and parsley.

Squash Mash

Bake the squash until tender. Mash until it’s met the right mash consistency. Then stir in butter, milk, salt, pepper, and parmesan cheese.

 

 

5 Surprisingly Addicting TV Shows

1. TV Land’s Younger

I know what you’re thinking, yes TV Land has a decent show (or two even) and no, it’s not an old person’s show. This show has the must haves: a lovable star, a deliciously hot guy, and an endearing lead actor. It’s got all of that.  Hilary Duff reminisces the good Disney days, Nico Tororella brings on the drool in every shirtless shot (nearly all the episodes begin this way), and Sutton Foster makes you want to live vicariously through her. It’s a cute and sassy and even sometimes daring-ish show about a forty -year- old pretending to be in her twenties after divorcing and desperately looking for employment. While it inevitably has its cheesy and ridiculous moments, it’s super current with the younger generation’s typical lifestyle with all the buzz surrounding social media. With that, the show becomes relatable and entertaining.

 

But seriously, if you didn’t know who Nico Tortorella was already you seriously need to find out now—with this show particularly, exhibit A:

 

2. HGTV’s Fixer Upper

Granted you pretty much need to be into design and home décor for this show, but I’m sure Chip and Joanna Gaines can convince you to check out Fixer Upper. Chip is the most ridiculously funny guy who’s basically a 10- year- old trapped in the body of a 40- year- old. Meanwhile, Joanna is the skillful gal that can make the crummy old become fresh and trendy. But to be fair, Chip does a lot of work too. This dynamic couple renovates some run down homes so spectacularly that you just gotta wait all the way to the end to see the final results. These two help lend some great ideas for your dream home with real laughs. They inspire for some real “adulting”.

This is one example of how good they are…

 

3. TV Land’s Teachers

Another surprise from TV Land brings an uproariously funny and unassuming gem in Teachers. Being a former educator myself, there are some surreal caricatures of real teacher personalities. In this show some type of teachers included are the lazy one that’ll let you get away with most things, the uptight conservative that won’t let anything pass, and the super hippie liberal. But, what happens behind doors and in the teacher lounge to these characters are not what you’d think. The show is witty, bold, and right away hit. Trust me, this isn’t your typical TV Land show, it has Comedy Central worthy comedy.

Unlike your teacher these women tell you the truth…

4. FYI’s Married at First Sight

I better preface this one by saying I’m not usually into the elaborate and nonsensical reality shows and when I first heard of this show  I couldn’t help but say, “what stupid a** came up with this idea?!”. But, Married at First Sight reels you in oh so closely while having you grip  on to till the end. You get attached to the genuine characters and the couples that really seem to be into one another. But, mostly you can’t keep your eyes off the train wreck relationships and wonder if they’ll ever see the other side. This season has some real doozies and some have taken a shocking turn. If you stomach this overdrawn reality show, it’s actually worth it.

These are this year’s couples:

5. NBC’s Superstore

This comedy is taking a stab at big corporations much like Wal-Mart. It is a bit inconsistent, but when it’s good, it’s really quite funny. America Ferrera is finally back on television and there are some laugh out loud one liners and fun and quirky characters. It’s about real people in exaggerated yet realistic circumstances when working at such superstores. Episodes like getting locked in after hours and episodes going on strike give you insight on what it’s like on the other side of the register in an amusing and enjoyable manner. Like this…

Smoothie Bowls

Fruit bowls are all the rage right now. They’re hearty, healthy, and invigorating to eat. One bowl (made right) can pack so much vitamins and antioxidants and taste good! That’s right, they look good, taste good, and are good for you.

Fruit bowls aren’t just for breakfast they make a great snack for any time of the day and make a really lean lunch meal. Smoothie bowls are typically what you’ll find. These kinds are smoothie based, meaning they have blended fruit with a bunch of yummy ingredients mixed in and on top. But some bowls can also be oatmeal based or just yogurt based. I am sharing my own recipe for a great smoothie bowl to get you jumpstarted on the trend. It’s got a hint of chocolate goodness with great sources of superfood. Ingredient measurements really are up to you– it’s a fruit bowl after all. The measurements are just suggestions

I call this one…

Berry Chocolatey 

1/2 c raspberries

1/2 c blueberries

1/4 c strawberries

1 c  plain Greek yogurt

1/2 c coconut milk

2 1/2 – 3 tbsp. raw cocoa powder

1 1/2 tsp chia seeds

toppings:

1 tsp fennel seeds

1/2 banana

1/2 tsp coconut shavings

1/4 c granola

(photo edited taken and edited by me)

 

 

 

5 Best Nickelodeon Throwbacks

There’s no doubt that Nickelodeon dominated your childhood, for good reasons. Hearing the memorable theme songs and tunes from the shows can easily take you back to a sweeter, more innocent time. The best cartoons still stand strong today and don’t fail to entertain. The jokes, even if they are still fresh in your mind, continue to create laugh out loud moments. And for those days that you just need to feel like a kid again, TeenNick runs some these classics late at night.

1. Rugrats

 

A baby’s gotta do what baby’s gotta do

These rambunctious babies with their wild imaginations were all of us at some point–cooler even, maybe. The anxious Chuckie, the rebellious and adventurous Lil & Phil, the stubborn Angelica, and the courageous ring leader Tommy are all characters that grew up with us. Their mysteries and adventures still fulfill our fantasies.

2. Angry Beavers 

Eehh, spoot. (only real Angry Beavers fans will understand).

The clever and rowdy beavers,  Norbert and Dagget, may be even funnier today. Relatable and wacky all at the same time, these two opposite characters are much like you and your best friend. The show still has us wondering if some beavers really are like this in real life.

3. Hey Arnold! 

Move it football head!

That charming football head and his amorous stalker remind us of our own awkward days with uncomfortable crushes. Whether the show is highlighting the hilarity in some of the all too true circumstances or in our wild and elaborate dreams as kids, the show also takes us back to our good ole’ days. The school drama and city life still set up for a thrilling escape.

4. Doug 

Dooo da dooo da doo, nahnana nah nah nah….a tune that will never get outta your head!

 

The show reminisces the days of crawling out of bed and having your mom set up your breakfast and having your eyes glued to the television. Doug was the best cartoon to start the day with. The average and charismatic 11 year old inspired us and taught us many life lessons. Some of which, we all could benefit from learning again.

5. SpongeBob SquarePants 

….Who lives in a pineapple under the sea?

Who would’ve thought a sponge with all his sea creature friends (and random squirrel friend) would be so hilarious. Only this show can manage to include adult humor in a package of childlike wonder. Mind-numbing fun can still be ensued in this show between the kiddish fun and clever jokes.

 

 

The 5 Biggest Moments from the Grammy Awards

In case you missed the show, I nailed down a few of the most noteworthy moments from the awards. From performances, speeches, to pre and after show’s I’ve got you covered.

 

1. Taylor Swifts’ Jab at Kanye West

 

On the off chance you haven’t heard, Kanye, being his usual big-headed, fight-picking self, included lyrics in one of his new songs that was supposedly directed towards Taylor. “I feel like me and Taylor might still have sex…I made that bitch famous,” certainly is not a friendly nod to the two times Grammy winner for Album of the Year and she is oh so aware. In her acceptance speech she say’s “….there are going to be people along the way who will try to undercut your success or take credit for your accomplishments or your fame,” in which she owns her success with sophistication and class. Take that Kanye.

 

2. Meghan Trainor’s Humble Acceptance Speech

 

Meghan Trainor accepted her award for best new artist while desperately fighting back tears. But no crocodile tears here, she actually seemed honestly honored and elated. It’s refreshing to see real emotion from such a big pop star and the emotion even kept happening after the speech (so it’s gotta be real, right?). Trainor shared that her father told her she made it before she made her speech. Truly a non-diva moment we loved to get all the feels for.

3. RiRi Made a Big No No

 

Down to the very last minute it was reported that Rihanna canceled her performance. Apparently her doctor advised her not to continue with the performance considering she had bronchitis. But in Rihanna’s unfeeling apology on Twitter says nothing about her supposed doctor’s orders. This was a real diva moment we should expect, but could really with out.

4. E!’s Terrible Choice in Cohost for Pre and After Show

 

Wait, who is that? Oh, right, that’s Rev Run’s daughter Vanessa Simons. That’s what most of us were thinking when watching E! to catch up on everything about the awards, but that’s just about where it stops for the once reality star. That’s because her only contribution consisted of nods, smiles, and “yeah’s”. On the plus side, she did look gorgeous.

5. Jack Sparrow Made it to the Grammy Awards??

 

Johnny Depp? Are we watching the right award show? These were my thoughts, at least. Well if ya didn’t know, now you do, the Pirates of the Caribbean actor is indeed in a band. And they were, um, limber for their age? Well the performance certainly made your head twist and go “hmm”. A+ for effort, Johnny.