This is for all my effing fancy fabulous friends out there looking for something fun to drink this weekend. I'm looking at you, B.Fein.
I don't know what you call it but it sure is delicious.
Here's what you need:
Vodka
Club Soda
Limeade
Fresh lime
Cherries
Martini glass
Shaker
Now you can make it more sour or sweeter to taste, that is up to you but here is how I like it:
Fill the shaker with ice.
3 parts vodka
2 parts limeade
1 part club soda
Pour into glass
Squeeze fresh lime.
Garnish with Cherry and Lime
For something more sweet use cherry limeade.
For something more sour use fresh squeezed lime juice.
For something stronger, you can always drink straight out of the bottle.
Actually, I'm joking...kind of. But seriously, don't drink straight out of the bottle. Unless it's Goose, then you can blame it on the goose if anything happens, not me.
Hey now everybody! Didya miss me? Things have been crazy!
I hope you guys didn't think I would forget about you and not continuing to update you on everything that's awesome.
Here's what's been awesome since last Thursday!
I took my very favorite Manhattan recipe with the dry and sweet Vermouth and had about three last week to kick off the long weekend. Needless to say blogging about my drink of the week wasn't going to happen.
Here's what was going to happen.
Stoli orange and club.
Half and half.
With a splash of cranberry or grenadine for some pink.
Don't forget the cherry.
Then came Friday and the hangover of doom.
Fashionista Friday was more like "I'm just gonna sit here and watch Star Trek until I can move again" Friday.
I did manage to have a BEACH WEEKEND in the weirdest place--Wildwood, New Jersey. It was a great time none-the-less.
Fashionista Friday was going to have a tutorial on victory rolls by the same girl I use for all my retro hair styles, Lisa Freemont.
This was my attempt on victory rolls on Karyn!
Thanks girls for a great weekend!
Also, I'm trying out this look which was inspired by my bestie! HAPPY BIRTHDAY WEEK BETHANY !!!!!!
Check out the hoop. What do you think?
Monday's art project was totally nonexistent because I fell asleep on a raft in a pool. Sorry.
Tuesday tasty treat was left over BBQ! Here's a treat for you to try--go get some tacos.
Which brings us to Wellness Wednesday!!! BUM BUM BUM.
Guess who lost another pound? This girl!
That brings us from 192 down to 189.6. Awesome! Next week, I will be doing my measurements to see how many inches I have lost.
For all you weekend beach goers out there, I hope you seriously consider running on the beach. It is something I have never done, until this weekend. I ran for 5.5 miles. It truly is a very zen experience, plus freaking hard.
This is what I think I look like.
This is what I probably really look like.
Oh well. If you are interested in someone who actually KNOWS what they are doing, follow my sister-in-law's blog. She's running her THIRD New York Marathon this year for Team McGraw in honor of my amazing brother, Chris.
This week I'm focusing on my latissimus dorsi aka the lats. This is a key muscle in the exercise called a pull-up.
Which I found out, I CAN'T DO even a little bit. I can barely hang there for 5 seconds. If I were dangling to my death like in the movies and waiting for someone to save me, I'd be dead. *sigh*
This is Amanda Balding, a triathlete. She loves her lats. Yea well, I love them to Miss Balding.
Here are the exercises I'm using off of sparkpeople.com, which is a fantastic website for healthy living/ healthy eating all the good stuff.
Starting Position
Select desired weight. Stand near left side of cable cross machine and adjust that pulley to the highest position. Place straight T-bar attachment onto the pulley’s carabiner. Stand facing the weight stack with an overhand grip on the bar, arms reaching straight up to the bar. Keep back straight, feet hip-width apart and abs engaged.
Action
EXHALE: Keep arms straight (but not locked) as you pull the bar down towards the front of the thighs.
INHALE: Slowly return arms back up to the start position to complete one rep.
Special Instructions
Do not lean back as you lower the bar. For greater balance and stability, stand with feet wider than the hips. Keep elbows just slightly bent throughout movement.
Muscles Worked: Back (lats), triceps
Starting Position
Follow machine instructions for set up and select desired weight. Sit so that knees are under pad, feet are flat on floor. Grab the bar, placing hands wider than the shoulders, palms facing forward. Engage abs, keep spine straight, and lean backward just slightly.
Action
EXHALE: Pull the bar down towards your chest by bending the elbows.
INHALE: Slowly release the bar overhead by straightening at the elbows to complete one rep.
Special Instructions
Never pull the bar behind your head. When leaning back, make sure spine is straight. When returning to start position, make sure elbows do not lock. Adjust placement on hands on bar if necessary (a closer grip is easier; a wider grip is more challenging).
Muscles Worked: Back (lats)
I going to use the rowing machine as well.
That't the focus group for this week ladies and germs. Enjoy your sexy LATS ;)
Update: I'm down 1.4lbs. 192lbs last week. This week 190.6lbs. My mile is getting much faster from 13 minutes to 12:15 with the fastest (a total fluke in my opinion) at 11:30. However doing my long runs, I am still having trouble keeping my average speed up and my mile average is still hovering in the 13 to 14 minute range. TOO SLOW!!! Keep going, keep going Lemonlime.
TOTALLY TASTY TUESDAY! (all caps are always so exciting)
Do you want to make your Memorial Day BBQ f*cking classy!?
Well try this dish that I just made. It's better than boring old hot dogs and burgers. (Joke, there is nothing better than those burgers and hot dogs, but seriously, try this.)
It's so easy too!
Filet Mignon Kabobs
Start with chopping up some of your favorite grilling veggies. I used red and yellow bell peppers, yellow squash, zucchini, and vidalia onions.
Lightly coat with olive oil and S&P.
Then, cut your filet into cubes. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and S&P.
(Filet is so damn good, if you put sauce on it you're an idiot. If you want flavored beef go get yourself a strip steak or whatever and soak it in marinade. Do NOT ruin the amazing flavor in a filet.)
Skewer the meat and veggies separately.
Why?
Because I said so.
Just kidding, the veggies take longer to cook and you do NOT want to over cook the filet or, again, you are and idiot because you have just ruined the filet.
Put the veggies on first then the filet.
The filet will come off about 8 minutes before the veggies, but that's okay because you want the filet to rest a bit.
I know what you all are thinking. I slacked on Thursday.
Well, That's just not true.
I did in fact have my Thirsty Thursday cocktail and was going to post about it when...I got drunk. Smashed,even. Actually, just super weird. Ask Tyler.
Like Wifey weird. This is Wifey. I love you.
I was recommended a drink by a patient of mine. A gin martini. Now, I haven't had gin since I "accidentally" tried it when I was 18 and thought it was poison. Yet in my wiser years, I thought it was time to broaden my horizons.
If you are not a gin drinker (which I am definitely NOT), I probably wouldn't recommend this drink. While it is delicious, it's extremely potent and not for light weights. You people can stick to vodka with cranberry juice and sour mix with other stuff.
However, for science, try this surprisingly tasty beverage.
To make this super weird cocktail, you will need this stuff.
And this stuff.
With a cucumber slice.
Half and Half over ice. Shake. Pour. Serve with a slice of cucumber and shaker rocks on the side.
It was so very tasty like sweet rose water. It had a bit of a pin-sol aftertaste, but I guess gin drinkers get use to that or like that or whatever. I guess that's why they like gin.
I would say limit yourself to one. Anymore than that, you might just rob a bank or barf. Either Or.
For this week's wellness Wednesday, I'm going to talk about diet.
I know some of you will probably hit the back button after that but what I'm going to share anyway. It's more of an experiment on my part. If I manage to get the desired results I will encourage you all to try it!
Until then, I won't tell any of you to do it.
Here is what is happening,
I am attempting to try a new diet.
I have been plateauing at 192lb for about a month now. Yes, I said it 192 POUNDS! I know it's just a number but it is still a lot of weight to be carrying on a 5'8" frame.
Some people say, I carry it well. I don't believe them. Regardless, I am still in love with myself or I obviously wouldn't be sharing it with you people.
I have been kicking myself at the gym trying to make myself faster and stronger! I recently started weighing myself. While I know that I am gaining muscle, I still feel as if I should be losing all this fat around my butt, thighs, and tummy.
I figured it's my diet. Actually, I KNOW it's my diet.
Here is what I'm doing.
I'm going to eat every 2-3 hours. Small meals.
I'm using the app Calorific.
I'm trying to make 50% of my daily diet good green things, such as, veggies, fruits, and whole grains.
I will keep you updated on my progress. It's my little experiment for the summer.
Edit: Here are my measurements: I'll be monitoring them as well. (Thanks Kimmy)
Now you may be thinking to yourself, "Hey Lemons, why would I possibly need another goofy gadget in my kitchen like your mother?" Why? OH, I'll tell you why.
IT MAKES FRUIT INTO ICE CREAM WITHOUT IT BEING ICE CREAM!
I'll show you.
First of all, it comes with its own little recipe book which is a) Awesome and b) I don't plan to follow exactly because, well, it's me.
Notice how I only made one frozen banana because I don't read directions.
Whatever, I'll just make it more peachy.
It's also the frickin' easiest thing to do.
Just put the frozen fruit in the top.
It come's out like this.
Stir.
Cherry.
No GUILT! No DAIRY! No SUGAR!
My mind was literally blown.
Now you may be asking yourself, "But Lemons, can't I just use a food processor? Isn't that the same thing? I already have one of those."
Shut up. It doesn't work. Betsey tried. She said it didn't work. I trust her. She's a brain surgeon. Physics won't let it happen with a food processor.
So theretofore, go get one. Spend the 50 bucks and stop being fat. Especially after last weeks treats, yeesh.
Yes, I know I'm posting on a Tuesday however, the intentions were there. It was, ya know, one of the days.
Today was a sad day. We had to lay to rest a very special person. Marianne McMichael, you will be missed. We love you and hope you are resting peacefully now.
While I did have something else in mind for today's project, I thought of something different in light of today.
I painted this a while ago when I worked at Color Me Mine.
I modeled it after the Ukrainian Eggs (pysanka)
Marianne was a Ukrainian Orthodox Catholic. I was inspired to post this because of the beautiful art work in the church.
These are the real eggs which were made from real eggs (if you didn't know).
I love their intricate design and the special attention each gets.
In memory of Marianne, I'm posting these beautiful eggs in hopes to inspire you like she inspired us.
Feel free to post about who inspires you to create or suggestions about what you would like see on Mondays.
I love fashion! I think it the easiest way to define yourself. I love experimenting and trying new things with my style. My cousin is designer, so you should check out her blog.
I decided on Fashion Friday to better inspire fun outfits for the night on the town or your weekend!
This week, my very first VIDEO!! It's just little make-up tutorial I whipped up :)
Here's the finished look!
Nothing crazy.
Now, Amateur Fashion Friday can't be complete without the outfit! This outfit was going to be my original birthday outfit. My other dress ended up being better but this one is still a goody and should be shared.
It's full of unique items that I'm completely in love with.
The dress and the tights, I bought from there. The shoes, I bought a long time ago but these should work. You can find more expensive and cheaper ones. I think those are the most reasonable.
Now just when you think the shoes are the WOW factor of this outfit...
WAHBAM! Peacock feathers on the back! So FUN!
Now, for the more modest person...
Go with a plain brown tight and some simple flats.
I personally think that's totally boring! This outfit is incredible.
Duh! Drink up my friends, Thursdays are dedicated that wonderful, magical, social lubricant we call BOOZE! I will be reviewing my super fav drinky drinks and trying new ones.
Read this. It will give you a better understanding of everything whiskey.
This week, my favorite drink, Bourbon! Now, I like it on the rocks with a cherry.
Preferably this kind.
But for you guys and gals out there who prefer something a little more fancy, try this recipe!
Well now, I feel like a total fatty after yesterdays treats! In light of our little indulgence, Wednesday's are going to be dedicated to over all wellness.
This is where I work. You should go here. It's awesome.
As most of you know, I'm trying this thing called running. It SUCKS. It just one of those things I've never been good at. But, I ran my first race ever a few Sundays ago. Never ever in my life would think I could run one mile let alone four. I did it at a snails pace and finished it in 54 minutes and 18 secs. Nevertheless, I did it and I'm going to keep doing it.
If I can do it, you can. There is no excuse why YOU can't. Just GET UP and MOVE! It doesn't have to be anymore than just that. Seriously, just frickin' move. I started with taking my dog for walks. Then, I started going to the gym. I was terrible, weak, and slow. It gets you down that first week. You think you can do it, you suck blah blah blah. GET OVER IT.
Look at this guy..
He didn't give up when he had absolutely every reason to.
I am still slow but I'm getting better. Getting started is really the first obstacle and really the only one. You WERE working out? You WERE active? So what, you stopped? Get started, again. So this week just focus on moving. Go for a walk. It's nice out so go outside. It's raining? Lay on the floor and stretch. DO SOMETHING.
Tuesdays are totally tasty!!! Did that sound cheesy? GOOD!
Every Tuesday check out a fun new recipe to try, whether a new treat or a healthy alternative. I'll be cooking up something fun every week! This week something very fitting for me, LEMON BARS!!! Well not just any lemon bars, LEMON LIME BARS! (I was quite proud in my cleverness and so was Betsey!)
I got the recipe from Taste of Home and I tweaked it a little to make it a little more limey.
So start with:
1 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
2 teaspoons grated lime peel
1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
In a large bowl, cream butter and confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in lime peel. Combine flour and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well.
Press into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish. Bake at 350° for 13-15 minutes or just until edges are lightly browned.
4 eggs
1-1/2 cups sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/3 cup lemon/lime juice <---added lime juice, so much better this way
2 teaspoons grated lemon peel
Confectioners' sugar
Meanwhile, in another large bowl, beat eggs and sugar. Combine the flour and baking powder. Gradually add to egg mixture. Stir in lemon juice and peel; beat until frothy. Pour over hot crust.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool on a wire rack. Dust with confectioners' sugar. Cut into squares. Store in the refrigerator. Yield: 4 dozen.
