Kettlebell Exercise


Hi There! Today I will share a video from the Women’s Health Magazine giving you these quick fast acting kettlebell move for a toned body.

I have been doing these exercise for a couple of weeks now and I already feel a difference. I hope you see the same difference as I do. Please let me know if you have any other short and fast acting exercises that you might want to share.

Instructions:

  1. Use one 1 8 to 10 pound kettlebell (I use a 5 pound as per by physical therapist instruction)
  2. Do two sets of the entire circuit
  3. Do not rest in between

Disclosure: Please consult your physician before starting any exercise routine.

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Boston in Day and a Half


Hi There! Happy Friday! Hope you are having a good day. Today, share my experience of my recent and very first trip to Boston. Though I have to say it was a very short business trip but I did enjoy it a lot. Hence, I will share with you can do during a one and a half day trip to Boston. This is by no means what you should do but this what my colleague and I need and had a great time in the process.

I went to Boston on September 8th and Boston had a record heat that day with temperature in the mid 90s. I took very early flight so that I can have the entire day to enjoy the city.

Hotel:

I stayed in the Colonnade Hotel. It’s located at 120 Huntington Avenue. Everything you need is just a few blocks away. It’s just a mile from the famous Fenway Park.  The staff was welcoming and helpful, especially, Norman the doorman, and the room was clean. The concierge staff was very helpful. One thing I have to say that I was little disappointed at was room service when I had a horrible headache I called for room service I was constantly transferred around, which was a little annoying since I needed to eat something before taking my medicine. Other than that, everyone was very nice an amazing.

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Trinity Episcopal Church:

Trinity Episcopal Church is beautiful church. It located at 06 Clarendon St. The construction of the church started on 1872. Being an Art History minor the architects of these old buildings really fascinates me. If you are in Boston and have time, you should go visit this place.

Boston Commons & Public Garden:

This is one of the most beautiful gardens I have visited. I have nature and it is so beautiful. The place is so scenic. I have willow trees and this garden is full of them. The swan boats were gliding quietly over the pond. There are always a beautiful variety of plants, flowers, trees and foliage. With majestic weeping willows, excellent people-watching, swans swimming by, I couldn’t do anything but smile. This garden is right adjacent to Boston commons, which is the starting point of the Freedom Trail, and the oldest park in the country.

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Whale Watching:

After a stroll through nature, why stop here? Take a cap to the New England Aquarium at 1 Central Wharf and take the Boston Harbor Cruise for 3 hour Whale watching experience. You are going have the time of your life. If the weather is nice you will see a lot of whales.

View from Boston Harbor Cruise

View from Boston Harbor Cruise

Shopping:

You are into shopping like I am there are great shopping places in Boston from my walk to the Public Garden I found H&M, Marshalls, Nordstorm Rack along Boylston St. On my way back to the hotel I stroll around on the

Copley Place, an upscale shopping center at 100 Huntington Ave. It stores shops, including Ralph Lauren, Christian Dior, John Varvatos, Michael Kors, Tory Burch, Victorinox Swiss Army, Porsche Design, Tiffany & Co., Jimmy Choo, David Yurman, Louis Vuitton, Salvatore Ferragamo, Banana Republic, and Gap.

Prudential Center, I myself preferred the shops that prudential center located at 800 Boylston St, right across from the Colonnade Hotel. It houses for budget friendly stores such as Lacoste, Body Shop, Ann Taylor, Loft, Saks Fifth Avenue, Vera Bradley, and more. What I like most about this building is the Skywalk Observatory on the 50th Floor. You can have the most amazing view from the observatory. We had a business dinner there and we got to see the view of Fenway Park with a Red Sox game going on at the time. What a view!

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View of the Fenway Park From Skywalk Observatory
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View of the First Church of Christ from the Skywalk Observatory

Farmer’s Market, right close to the Copley Place, there was a farmer’s market where you could get fresh local items. I could not stop by more since I was on a tight schedule, but next time I to go to Boston for leisure I am sure to really stop by and enjoy for more.

Summary

My one and a half day trip to Boston was amazing. I cannot wait to go there with my family next time and enjoy more of it. My trip was short but I took few seconds just to stop and breath and see the Public Library from outside, say hello to the local people, just stop at the local farmer’s market for a just a second or buy a green tea lemonade from the Boylston St Starbucks and sit in front the fountain at 500 Boylston street before heading back to the chaos. Dear readers, wherever your travel, don’t forget to take your time to just take a deep breath and enjoy your surround and take in everything.

In front fountain at 500 Boylston St (Marshall Store)

Don’t forget to check out my Facebook Page and follow me on Instagram @allaboutme3181.

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Guacamole Recipe


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Hi There! many years ago my dad owned a Mexican restaurant in Washington D.C., and he learned to make guacamole from the chef. I made it into his own and I love his guacamole. Many time I just have the guacamole by itself. Today, I will share the recipe with you.

Ingredients:

  1. 2 avocados
  2. 1 small onion finely chopped (I sometimes add 1/2 and 1/2 small onion and green onion)
  3. 1 clove garlic minced
  4. 1 ripe tomato chopped
  5. 1 lime juiced
  6. Salt and pepper to taste
  7. little bit of cilantro of garnish
  8. Cherry tomato (I just use 1 just for garnish)

Instruction:

  1. Peel and smash the avocados in a serving bowl
  2. Mix onion, garlic, tomato, and lime juice
  3. Add salt and pepper to taste
  4. Chill for an hour for the flavor to blend
  5. Garnish with cilantro and cherry tomato if you want.

Hope you enjoy the recipe as much I have enjoyed making it.

Don’t forget to check out my Facebook Page and follow me on Instagram @allaboutme3181.

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Zoya Giada Give Away


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Hi There! I am doing my very first giveway! I am giving away from my favorite Zoya Fall Flair Collection. It is the Giada #809 lacquer. If you follow me on Instagram then you probably know how much I love my nail lacquers. I specially love this color. This is one of my favorite fall lacquers.

As a result, I have decided to giveaway this this favorite color to one lucky winner. All you have to do the following:

Instructions:

  1. Subscribe to this page
  2. Like my Facebook page
  3. Follow me on Instagram
  4. Then just comment on my instagram page to let me know that you have completed all the steps.

This is that simple. Winner will be chosen on October 16th. Remember, all steps need to be completed to be eligible to win. Each share will be counted as additional entry. So, why do I like the Giada nail polish? well, it is a purple liquid metallic with a hint of fuschia pearl. I posted a picture of it in Instagram (check below) and I absolutely love the color and I think it will be great color for the fall. 891527_121128708242082_1085102241_n

I hope you enjoy my site. Good luck on the giveaway.

Giveaway Rules:
1. Participants must be in located in the US or Canada
2. Participants under the age of 18 must have permission from a parent to enter
3. Winners will be chosen at Random.

Click Here to enter the Giveaway!

I hope you enjoy my site. Good luck on the giveaway. Please share this post. Don’t forget to comment below to let me know that you have completed all the steps.

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What is Micellar Water?


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Hi There! I subscribe to a lot of the fashion and beauty magazine and they all advertise this particular product call, Micellar water. So, I ask myself what is the heck is this micellar water and how will it benefit me? May of you might be asking as same think. Hence, to find out I did some research and this is what I came up with.

What is Micellar Water?

Micellar water takes its name from micelles, tiny round balls of cleansing molecules that float in the water. According to board-certified dermatologist Hadley King of Skinney Medspa, “micelles are attracted to dirt and oil, so they are able to draw out impurities without drying out the skin,” rather than containing a foamy solution that strips your skin and leaves behind harsh chemicals. As a result, micellar water can be used as a facial wash, makeup remover and moisturizer all in one that leaves behind a glowy, hydrated finish.

History of Micellar Water?

According to the Elle Magazine, micellar water has been around for hundreds of years, first gaining momentum in France, where it was designed to help Parisians deal with the region’s infamously harsh water supply.

How is it different from regular cleanser?

Micellar water is different from your traditional cleanser in that does not need to applied and than removed. All you need is to simply pour a little product on a cotton pad, then wipe your skin clean — and it feels delightfully refreshing. It another word, it is a dream product for any lazy girl like myself. It is great for people with dry and sensitive skin types because it is so gentle and hydrating.

What will Micellar water not take care of?

According to Huffington post, what micellar water won’t do, however, is remove heavy foundations or stubborn eye makeup like waterproof mascara. So you’ll need to use a separate makeup remover to get fresh-faced. Additionally, if you have oily skin, according to Tabasum Mir, a skincare physician in cosmetic dermatology and cosmetic laser surgery, this product doesn’t clean as well as you’d like. So she suggests those with oily skin, as well as individuals who are acne prone to supplement with a traditional facial cleanser.

What are some the best micellar water out there?

Some of the best micellar water that are available includes, La Roche-Posay Physiological Micellar Solution ($21); Perricone Blue Plasma Cleansing Treatment ($39);Bioderma Crealine H2O ($28); SimpleCleansing Micellar Water ($6.99). My favorite as always been the simple micellar water. I have been using it was a while now and I am in love with the product.

I hope you find this article informative. Please comment on your favorite micellar water.

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Thai Tom Kha Gai or Coconut Soup


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Hi There! Today, I will share with you the thai tom kha gai or coconut soup that I made the past weekend. I served it with corn tortilla for dinner and it came out really well. You can make it tofu to make it vegetarian instead of breast, which is what I have used here. I hope you like it has much I have enjoyed making it. Most of the items can be found in your local Asian grocery store.

Ingredients:

  1. 6 oz chicken breast sliced into bite size
  2. 2 kafir lime leaves  or lemon leaves cut in half
  3. 1 lemongrass stalk (need 5-6 slice)
  4. 1 1/2 cup coconut milk
  5. 3-4 fresh or sliced galangal (need 5-6 slice)
  6. 1 1/2 chicken stock
  7. 1/2 cup mushroom sliced
  8. 1/3 cup fish sauce
  9. 1/3 cup lemon or lime juice
  10. 3 1/2 tbsp sugar
  11. 1/2 cup cilantro
  12. 1-3 fresh thai chilies cut in half (depending on how spicy you want them)
  13. 1-2 tbsp chili oil
  14. 1 green onion thinly sliced

Instructions:

  1. Add the chicken stock in a pot.
  2. Add the lemongrass and lime/lemon leaves.
  3. Let it simmer for 5-6 minutes.
  4. Add cilantro.
  5. After the stock start boiling, add the chicken, fish sauce, and sugar.
  6. Let it boil for 5-6 minutes until the chicken is completely cooked.
  7. Add the coconut milk.
  8. Add mushrooms.
  9. Put it in medium while it is boiling for 5-6 minutes.
  10. In the serving dish add lemon or lime juice, chili oil, green onion, and then fresh thai chilies.
  11. Add the soup on top.
  12. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Again, you can substitute chicken with tofu for vegetarian dish, or shrimp for seafood dish. Additionally, you can add more vegetables of your choices, such as carrots, and cabbages.

Don’t forget to check out my Facebook Page and follow me on Instagram @allaboutme3181.

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Shredded Chicken Tortilla Soup


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Hi There! I know I am late on posting the recipe. Actually, I was out on a business trip, hence didn’t get a chance to post the recipe for you. As promised, I want to post the recipe for the shredded chicken tortilla soup that I have made. I got lots of complement on this soup. The recipe is inspired by the Cooking Light Magazine.

Ingredients:

  1. 1 6-inch corn tortilla
  2. Cooking spray
  3. 5 tsp Canola oil
  4. 1 1/2 cup chopped zucchini
  5. 1 cup chopped onion
  6. 3/4 cup chopped cilantro
  7. 1 tbsp chopped jalapeno
  8. 5/8 tsp kosher salt
  9. 2 minced garlic cloves
  10. 2 bay leaves
  11. 1/2 tsp chili powder
  12. 1/2 tsp paprika
  13. 1 tsp ground cumin
  14. 4 cups chicken stock
  15. 1 (14.5 oz) can unsalted diced tomatoes
  16. 3/4  cup canned unsalted black beans
  17. 8 oz chicken breast and dark meat
  18. 1/2 cup sliced avocado
  19. 4 lime wedges

Instructions:

  1. Cut corn tortilla into 1/2 inch strips.
  2. Coat with cooking spray.
  3. Bake at 375 degrees for 10 minutes.
  4. Heat canola oil in large dutch oven over medium heat.
  5. Add zucchini, onion, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, jalapeno, 1/8 tsp kosher salt, garlic, bay leaves and cook for 7 minutes.
  6. Stir in chili powder and ground cumin.
  7. Add chicken stock and canned tomatoes.
  8. Bring to a boil.
  9. Add black beans, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 8 oz reserved chicken.
  10. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  11. Divide among 4 bowls.
  12. Top with tortilla strips, sliced avocado, 1/2 cup cilantro, and lime wedges.

Hope you enjoy the recipe as much I have enjoyed making it.

Don’t forget to check out my Facebook Page and follow me on Instagram @allaboutme3181.

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Fall 2015 Denim Trend in Budget


Hi There! Hope you are ready to start your long weekend, I just read this article in Elle website, which mentions the 7 denim trends to try this Fall. However, as I read through the trends none of the examples they provided seemed within my budge. As a result, I did what I always do, I did some homework and looked for some affordable alternative. Like, if you find the article helpful. Additionally, comment on your favorite ways to wear your denims.

1. Kick Flares

DL1961 Joy Kick Flare Jeans
DL1961 Joy Kick Flare Jeans ($54)

Kick Flare Ankle Jeans
Kick Flare Ankle Jeans ($50)

When I first read about kick flare the first question I asked myself is that what is the difference between regular flare and kick flare jeans? The answer to that is kick flares are more shaped than the regular flares. They have more of a flare from the knee downwards, whereas the flare don’t have such a defined line.

2. Frayed Edges

Forever 21 Frayed Chambray Shift Dress
Forever 21 Frayed Chambray Shift Dress ($25)

H&M Denim Vest
H&M Denim Vest ($15)

Forever 21 Frayed Denim Utility Jacket ($40)
Forever 21 Frayed Denim Utility Jacket ($40)

Frayed edges are edgy and gives that unique look to any denim. For my modest style I like wearing my shift dress with a legging and a short sleeve shirt underneath, with a sneaker to give me the weekend look. I would wearing the vest with any light t-shirt.

3. Wide Leg Ankle Skimmer

MOTO Wide Leg Cropped Jeans
MOTO Wide Leg Cropped Jeans ($75)

Urban Outfitters Cheap Monday Omega Cropped Jean - Flow
Urban Outfitters Cheap Monday Omega Cropped Jean – Flow ($50)

I looked through the examples of the ankle skimmer wide leg denims that Elle provide, most of them are over $200 and I for one think that is way above my budget and hence I kept looking through and searching for affordable ankle skimmers and found the above denims. I also find that regular wide leg denims are much affordable and I just trim it and now I have a frayed edged wide leg ankle skimmer.

4. 70s Inspired Midi Skirt

Kosher Casual Women's Modest Knee Length Flared Denim Skirt
Kosher Casual Women’s Modest Knee Length Flared Denim Skirt ($39)

Forever 21 Denim Midi Skirt
Forever 21 Denim Midi Skirt ($30)

Forever 21 Button-Front Denim Skirt
Forever 21 Button-Front Denim Skirt ($25)

Again, I searched to find much more affordable alternative to the Elle examples. The above midi skirts are inspired by the 70s looks and shape are as flattering as they are timeless.

5. Popover Shirt Dress

Forever 21 Chambray Shirt Dress
Forever 21 Chambray Shirt Dress ($20)

H&M Lyocell Shirt Dress
H&M Lyocell Shirt Dress ($40)

Forever 21 Life in Progress Chambray Shirt Dress
Forever 21 Life in Progress Chambray Shirt Dress ($35)
Forever 21 Chambray Shirt Dress
Forever 21 Chambray Shirt Dress ($25)

The above shirt dresses are great and can be dressed up or down with boots for sneakers. I myself would wear the long sleeve shirt dresses with leggings. These dresses are styles and much more affordable than the ones shown in Elle website.

6. Fancy Flares

Forever 21 High-Waisted Flared Jeans
Forever 21 High-Waisted Flared Jeans ($30)
 Free People Striped Floral-Print Flared Jeans ($100)

Free People Striped Floral-Print Flared Jeans ($100)

Well guys, I tried my best but I got you from $30 to $100 fancy flares for you here. I know $100 might be not what you might be looking for in fancy flare that’s why I looked high and low for to find design similarities to the Elle example, which cost more that $350. I would love to hear if you found your low cost alternative.

7. Jean Accessories

H&M Denim Shoe ($17)
H&M Denim Shoe ($17)

Forever 21 Drawstring Denim Backpack ($33)
Forever 21 Drawstring Denim Backpack ($33)

Forever 21 Cities Denim Convertible Clutch ($15)
Forever 21 Cities Denim Convertible Clutch ($15)

The last denim trend of fall is jean accessories and I found the perfect accessories for you, from H&M shoe to Forever 21 backpack. I hope you love budget friendly denim trend for this fall. Like if you love the trend. Comment on your favorite jean trend.

Hope you have wonderful long weekend. Stay tuned for the next blog where I will share my experience on a healthy soup that I will try to make this weekend.

Don’t forget to check out my Facebook Page and follow me on Instagram @allaboutme3181.

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Chic Fall 2015 Work Lookbook in Budget


Hi There! Now that we figured out how to style in budget, I asked myself why can’t we do the same for our work wardrobe? I asked was reading an article in Who What Wear showing some of the chic Fall 2015 work lookbook. I for one, thought they were little too expensive for me. Therefore, I went online and went to the same places, yes I am talking about H&M and Forever 21, and started looking for inspiration. I will now share with my findings. I hope you will find my findings helpful. My findings were inspired by the Who What Wear article.

H&M Turneck ($13)
H&M Turtleneck ($13)
 hmdressedpantH&M Suit Pants ($30) hmjacketH&M Crepe Jacket ($35)

H&M Handbag ($40)
H&M Handbag ($40)

The above outfit is chic and the handbag is versatile. Structured handbag is also the trend of this fall. This outfit is much more affordable than the Who Wear What Mango outfits and it will not break your wallet. You can pair the outfit with ankle boot which will make it more chic.

H&M Wide-cut Jersey Top ($10)hmtop H&M Suit Pant ($25)
hmslimpant
 H&M Weave Coat ($60)hmweave coat

The above outfit gives you the style you need at a reason and affordable price, under $100. Moreover, it will keep you warm during the cold fall days. You can pair the outfit with H&M handbag, shown in the first outfit. This style is not only styling but chic and affordable as well. You can save even more if you decide to pair this outfit with the same pants from the first outfit.

Forever 21 Batwinged Sleeve Dress ($30)
Forever 21 Batwinged Sleeve Dress ($30)

One thing I love about the above outfit is the unique design, and it cost less than $30. I myself would pair it with a contrasting tank underneath, opaque tights, and ankle boots for my fashion style. However, you can style it with ankle boot. The above outfit is fun and chic as well, and it is very affordable.

H&M V-Neck Blouse ($20)
H&M V-Neck Blouse ($20)

H&M Slim-fit Pants ($15)
H&M Slim-fit Pants ($15)

H&M Jersey Blazer ($35)
H&M Jersey Blazer ($35)

H&M Loafers ($15)
H&M Loafers ($15)

The above outfit is chic and the loafer is versatile. This outfit is much more affordable than the Who Wear What Mango outfits and it will not break your wallet. Additionally, both loafers and white pants are trendy this fall and you are going to look chic at work under $100. You can pair the outfit with the versatile and structured H&M handbag.


Forever 21 Dotted Bow Blouse ($15)
Forever 21 Dotted Bow Blouse ($15)

Forever 21 Houndstooth Plaid Trousers ($25)
Forever 21 Houndstooth Plaid Trousers ($25)

Forever 21 Side-Slit Satin Vest ($33)
Forever 21 Side-Slit Satin Vest ($33)

The above outfit gives you the style you need at a reason and affordable price, under $75. It will also look great with the black layered crepe mock neck top ($18) from yesterday’s blog. You can pair it with a long boot that is perfect for the fall season. I myself would pair mine with a mock-neck dolman top ($20) and long boots. Again, this outfit is not only chic and stylish but it is also affordable.

H&M Long-Sleeved Blouse ($25)
H&M Long-Sleeved Blouse ($25)

H&M Wool-Blend Coat ($129)
H&M Wool-Blend Coat ($129)

Last but not least, you can pair the above outfit with H&M Suit Pant ($25) and the black handbag and you got yourself a chic work outfit that will you keep you warm during the cold days. The coat is of neutral camel tone that is always trendy and chic. Pair the outfit with black boots and wallah you are all set. I hope you enjoy this blog as much I enjoyed writing them for you. I would love to hear about your trendy and affordable chic work lookbook.

Don’t forget to check out my Facebook Page and follow me on Instagram @allaboutme3181.

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