Vegetarian...

So over the last couple of months I've been dealing with high blood pressure...scary I know. My doctor wanted to put me on blood pressure meds but I was against it and opted for water pills instead. The great thing is...the water pills are working and my blood pressure is back to normal. However, my doctor wants me to shed a few pounds, so I've been thinking about changing it all and coming a Vegan. This isn't going to be a permanent change but I really want control over my life and see if this is something that I can do for a year. My husband is completely supportive and I've been doing so much research...........so Wish Me Luck!!!

Christmas

Happy December 1st...I'm so excited about Christmas, it's one of my favorite holidays. Over the next 25 days I will be sharing with you all my favorite Christmas gift ideas for family and friends. My first gift idea is a Hello Kitty necklace. This is one of my gift ideas for my 5 year old niece Zoe.

Hello Kitty is a fictional character produced by the Japanese company Sanrio. The character is portrayed as a female white Japanese bobtail cat with a red bow. In Spring 2005, Simmons Jewelry Co. and Sanrio launched a licensing partnership called the “Kimora Lee Simmons for Hello Kitty Fine Jewelry Collection”.

The collection is targeted to women who grew up with Hello Kitty and still harbor an emotional connection to the character. The jewelry is comprised of precious metals, diamonds and gemstones, and has been seen on some of the world’s most celebrated personalities including: Dakota Fanning, Hilary Duff, Tyra Banks, Rihanna, Miley Cyrus and many more.

Check out some more great Hello Kitty jewelry at http://www.hellokittyfinejewelry.com/sk_dia.php.

Until Next Time
-TheRookieWife

Loaded Baked Potato Salad

Since its almost Thanksgiving I wanted to share some more of my favorite recipes. My dear friend Melanie is probably one of the BEST cooks on earth other than my husband and grandmother, and has the best recipes, one of my favorite recipe is called Hot Potato Salad. Hot Potato Salad is just like a loaded baked potato but you bake it and instead of using a whole potato you use red potatoes diced....yes its loaded with calories but it is absolutely delicious. Below is the recipe...enjoy.

Until Next Time

-TheRookieWife

• Ingredients
• 8 red skin potatoes, cubed (half peeled or half with skin)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 6 slices bacon, diced & crisp cooked
• 6 green onions
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 16 ounces sour cream
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup Miracle Whip or Mayo

Directions:

Prep Time: 15 mins

Total Time: 30 mins
Serves 6

• Cube and boil potatoes with salt.
• Drain.
• Crumble bacon and slice onions (including tops).
• Combine sour cream, pepper and Miracle Whip.
• Add to potatoes.
• Add bacon, onions and cheese (reserve some of each for top).
• Mix with potatoes.
• Pour into baking dish.
• Top with reserved cheese, onions, and bacon.
• Bake 350 for 10-15 minutes (until cheese melts).

Healthy and Easy to make Breakfast dish

OK last week I was on US Weekly Magazine's website trying to catch up on the latest celebrity gossip when I came across a delicious healthy and easy to make breakfast recipe by Martha Stewart. My husband is probably the healthiest person I know so he was happy that I used him as my experiment and he loved it. The recipe is hard-boiled eggs whites with avocado. If you like egg whites and avocado then you will definitely love this recipe. Check out the directions below.
Until Next Time
-TheRookieWife


Ingredients

Serves 4

• 8 large eggs
• 2 avocados, preferably Hass
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
• Freshly ground pepper
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1. Cover eggs with cold water in a large saucepan; bring to a boil. Remove pan from heat. Let eggs stand, covered, 8 minutes; transfer with a slotted spoon to an ice-water bath, and let cool. Peel eggs. Separate yolks from whites (reserve yolks for another use).Tear whites into 1-inch pieces; divide among four bowls.
2. Halve and pit the avocados. Using a spoon, scrape out pieces; divide among bowls with egg whites. Divide salt among servings, and season with pepper. Drizzle each serving with 3/4 teaspoon oil.

Per serving: 227 calories, 19 g fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 8 g carbs, 190 mg sodium, 9 g protein, 5 g fiber

Strawberry Trifle Cake

My hubs and I are gearing up for our upcoming Thanksgiving trip to see my folks. Almost every Thanksgiving my grandmother cooks everything, but this year her grandchildren will be hosting Thanksgiving dinner for over 50 people. My wonderful sister Dawn, my mother Valerie and my aunt Diane will be the chefs in the kitchen, however, I'm going to make my favorite Strawberry Trifle Cake... Just in case you don't know what a triple cake is...well its traditionally served in a punchbowl. Like other desserts in the trifle family, punch bowl cake consists of a series of layers, including a layer of sponge or yellow cake, a layer of fruit, whipped cream, it can be served chilled. It's one of my favorite dessert.

Until Next Time
-TheRookieWife

Hula Hoop Dance Class

Ok this has been an interesting week for me and to top it off I was invited to take a hula hoop dance class, yes you heard me a Hula Hoop class. Initially I thought it was a joke until I did some research and it appears that this is becoming popular. Hula hooping for fitness is fun and apparently a no-to-low impact workout perfect for all fitness levels and ages. I've listed some of the benefits to hula hooping below. Enjoy hooping...
Until Next Time
-TheRookieWife

• Builds core strength
• Tones the entire body
• Burns approximately 400-600 calories per hour
• Provides an intense cardiovascular workout with no or low impact
• Increases energy
• Develops balance and coordination
• Increases flexibility
• Clears and quiets the mind
• Reduces stress
• Improves self confidence
• Generates joy and laughter
• Improves one’s mood
• Enhances creativity

~Happy Birthday To My Husband~

I love birthdays...my husband not so much. He isn't keen on the idea of getting older. To him it's another day but for me I love the idea of being the queen of the day sorta speak. I love being showered with love, presents and mainly sharing my special day with my love ones.

With that being said, I won't post a long blog night but rather relish the remainder of the night in the arms of my birthday king.

...to my husband, my best friend, the love of my life, you have another year to make the best out of. A fresh start to achieve the goals you will set yourself and I promise to be by your side every step of the way. I love you.

Until Next Time
-TheRookieWife

Cool Printable Pumpkin Carving Patterns

Hey looking for free pumpkin carving templates? Check out fun and easy to use patterns and stencils for your carving needs from Better Homes and Gardens. You can carve regular pumpkins or be creative and carve spooky jack o lanterns from scary patterns. Check out some instructions below for "How to Carve Patterns In Pumpkins.

Until Next Time

-TheRookieWife

1. Cut out a lid in the top of the pumpkin large enough to fit your hand and a spoon inside.
2. Add a small notch in the back of the lid. The notch will remind you how the lid is positioned, allow smoke and heat to escape, and ensure that the candle receives enough air to remain lit.
3. Scoop out the pulp and seeds. Retain the seeds for roasting.
4. Scrape the inside of the pumpkin in the area where you'll be using the pattern, until that area is about 1 inch thick.
5. Trim and make small incisions in your pattern so that it lies flat on the face of the pumpkin. Tape the edges of the pattern to the pumpkin.
6. Transfer the pattern by poking small holes along the pattern lines with a drill tool or needle.
7. Remove the pattern.
8. Saw carefully along the dotted lines. Gently push the pieces through with your fingers.
9. Create a glow effect by scraping designs into the shell of your pumpkin with a melon baller, wood gouge or linoleum cutter.
10. Anchor a candle in the bottom of the pumpkin and light the candle. You're now ready to display your best jack o lantern ever.

Print Pumpkin Pattern at  www.BHG.com

Leather "Table"

Just this past weekend I was online looking at kitchen tables and chairs, when I came across this unique black leather table. It reminds me of something you would see in a Japanese restaurant. Very versatile....perhaps it could be used as an ottoman. What do you think?

Until Next Time

-The RookieWife

New Fave (UV Gel Nail Polish)

A couple of weeks ago I went to get my normal manicure/pedicure and my manicurist asked me if I wanted to try the new UV Gel Polish. Initially I was skeptical but I kinda trust my manicurist and he knows how frustrated I get because my normal manicure lasts about a day and then starts chipping. So I tried it and I LOVE IT, its two weeks later its still on... NO chips, NO going back to the salon to get polish again two or three days later...NOPE. 
The UV Gel Polish is a four-coat process similar to polishing nails. There is a base coat, two coats of color, and a top coat. All of which must be cured under a lamp – but it’s no ordinary lamp. Nail Harmony, the company that created Gelish, created an LCD lamp that cures the product in 30 seconds! Once applied, it dries instantly and can last up to 3 weeks. Check out my nails done two weeks ago...


Until Next Time
-TheRookieWife

Camera Shopping

About a year ago I accidentally left my Kodak camera in my car and totally destroyed it. It wasn't the most expensive camera but since I love taking pictures of everything and everyone it was a huge loss. Needless to say its been long overdue and now I desperately need a camera.  However, instead of replacing my camera with another basic camera, I've decided to focus on a little more expensive Digital SLR Camera, such as the Nikon D3000. The Nikon D3000 is a new entry-level digital SLR camera designed to make photography simple and accessible. As a beginner I read that this SLR is easy to use and the guide book helps with taking excellent pictures. Hopefully this camera will be a new addition to my family before Thanksgiving...Wish me luck!!
Until Next Time...
-TheRookieWife

Yummy Halloween Treats

Who said that Halloween was only for ghosts and goblins?!?! Check out southernliving.com for some yummy Halloween treats.

Until Next Time...

-TheRookieWife

My "new" Scrapbook find

I'm totally addicted...to all things weddings, arts, crafts, etc!! It all happened when I started planning my wedding. I became a HUGE scrapbook & wedding blogger "junkie". Needless to say, I'm a newbie at scrapbooking so when I find any "new" or any fun ideas I get really excited. For example, my new Scotch ATG Taped Dispenser 714. This is the perfect tool for scrapbooking.
I initially started out using this teeny weeny double sided tape that drove me insane...probably good for smaller projects. However, the ATG Taped Dispenser 714 is amazing; it's kinda cumbersome and not something to be tucked away in your tool bag but it’s light weight and easy to load. However, I do recommend watching the video online on how to load it for the first time. Also, the trigger system keeps tension on the tape so you only need to release the trigger and pull to rip the tape. Finally the adhesive lasts forever, which is a plus for me so no more late night runs to Wal-Mart when I run out of adhesive, yay!!!!
Until Next Time...
-TheRookieWife

Rain Boots for Rainy Days

Some of my friends thought I was crazy for buying a pair of rain boots but last year it seemed like I was living in the rain forest. I also got tired of ruining my shoes, so I thought I'd give them a try. To my surprise I actually got so many compliments...and thankfully the look has changed. NO more plain old black or yellow ones. They are super girly with good treads, a little heel and really cute patterns. You can find some cute rain boots at Target, Amazon, shoes.com just to name a few. Check them out and trust me your feet will thank you.

Until Next Time...

-TheRookieWife

Some of my Marriage Perks ;-)

He makes me smile!

He takes my car in for oil changes and puts gas in my car.

He makes my laugh every single day.

I have a personal chef.

I live with my best friend!!! How cool is that?!

He's my body guard.

He is so spontaneous! He takes me on the best dates and the most fun vacations.

He's my secret keeper.

He gives the best back rubs.

He's my financial advisor.


He's my everything...

My Wedding Makeup Artist

Since my last post was about a beauty product I have to talk about my dear makeup artist Corey Marshall. When I was looking for someone to do my makeup for my wedding and engagement pictures I was blessed to meet Corey.  Not only is Corey a cutie but he is such a nice, down to earth person, extremely professional and his prices are awesome!!! I loved how educated he was about skin care and makeup products. He uses the right products in the right places to highlight a woman's best features and natural beauty. Corey makeup specialties include Natural Beauty, Glamour, Special Effects and Bridal Beauty. When we met it was an instant connection, later to find out that we are both August Virgos (love it). I now consider Corey a true friend forever. So please if you are in the Atlanta GA area or anywhere please check him out.

His business operates under MAKE UP BOY INC., Corey has been in the make up industry for 10 years. Email me for his contact information!!!!
Until next time...
TheRookieWife

One of my Favorite Things...

OK my goal is to update my blog weekly and hopefully each week share some of my favorite things. Tonight I will share my favorite makeup...so for the record I'm a huge makeup lover. When I was a kid I loved watching my mother apply her Fashion Fair makeup and red Lipstick. She would look so beautiful, she was my Donna Sommers ...so naturally I developed her love of makeup. Initially I started off wearing Zuri Makeup, I think my sister is still a fan of their Ruby Red Lipstick... Then I tried MaryKay,  next it was Cover Girl and to be honest I still wear Cover Girl mascara. Finally I was introduced to MAC Cosmetics which brings me to talk about my favorite thing... MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural Deep Dark. 

Lately my skin has been going through a funk phase and started to reject Studio Fix so my Dermatologist recommended that I use a Mineralize Makeup,  so I tried it and I love it...my skin can breathe plus I’m a sucker for little compacts. The Mineralize SkinFinish is a luxurious domed face powder with minerals, slowly baked to provide a dimensional yet natural-matte finish. It provides perfect low coverage.  I also recommend that you purchase the MAC 150 Large Powder Brush for complete coverage.

Until next time...

TheRookieWife

.

Upcoming Wedding

My  hubs good friend is getting married in December and I find myself  looking for something elegant to wear. My hubs is a groomsman and I want to color coordinate with him,  so needless to say I've been looking for a wedding outfit. The wedding colors are Black, White & Watermelon (Pink). I didn't want to wear pink in December so I've decided on a black dress with pink accessories. I really like the ruffle style dress...for example, ruffled one-shoulder dress, ruffled Halter Dress, or a strapless dress with Alexander McQueen hot pink sole shoes. Check out the pictures below to kinda see what I'm talking about.


Until next time...
-TheRookieWife

Our Summer Vacation

A couple of months ago my sweet husband surprised me with an amazing 5 night Bahamas cruise vacation. Normally our vacations include flying to remote destinations, so this was our first cruise together. We were both excited and ready to experience the ocean together. The first day at sea I was a little sea sick which kinda scared me because I did not want our entire vacation to be ruined. Thankfully by day 2 I was good to go and ready to experience our vacation as cruisers.   
My husband got us an ocean view suite which was amazing. Sometimes we would just sit and look out at the ocean and marvel at God's creation...it was calming and extremely peaceful.  Other times we would be out meeting guests or lounging by the pool. The staff (Carmelo and Mohammad) were fabulous. Of course, it was their jobs to caterer to us but nevertheless we relished it all. Nassau, Bahamas was one of our ports and I have to say that so far this is probably my favorite vacation spot...that is until we go to Mexico next summer :-)  We really enjoyed everything, the locals were nice and extremely helpful. Dione a local got us an amazing rate to go snorkeling, $50 less than what the cruise ship was offering, so we were amped. However, this was my first time snorkeling and I was a little nervous but my hubby being the protector that he is calmed me and assured me that this would be an amazing adventure...which it was. The coral reefs were unbelievable BEAUTIFUL. I was disappointed that we didn't have a disposable water proof camera to take pictures underwater but definitely next time we will have one. After our snorkel excursion we explored the island and went to the market and did some shopping for souvenirs. We brought this amazing sculptor of two lovers intertwined, the perfect way to end an amazing day.  Anyway, please check out some pictures from our vacay.


Until next time...
-TheRookieWife

Great Things for a Great Room...

I've always had a love for event planning, arts & crafts, scrap booking etc. My first project was designing my sister's wedding invitations…years ago. I subsequently dabbled with other projects but nothing serious. My passion was rekindled when I started planning my own wedding. I became a DIY (do it yourself) bride.  I created my invitations, programs and table centerpieces.  Since our wedding, I’ve done more floral centerpieces and started designing and making some pieces of jewelry.
Now I've started on another long term project and it is decorating our new home. I know this isn't an overnight job and my ideas will probably change a lot... but one thing that seems to be certain is my taste in color. For some reason I love contemporary and earth tones colors. Perhaps, it really is an expression of who I am...or maybe its my comfortable zone but I have promised my hubs that I would try to add color... so wish me luck!!
Lately, I've been online "window" shopping and for starters, I've decided to focus on the great room. What is a great room? It is an area within a home which combines functions of other more traditional rooms, such as the family room, the living room, and the study. In my opinion the great room should be the warmest, most inviting room in the house.  Therefore I really want furniture that is incredibly comfortable, durable and versatile. Below are some pictures that I found on Hgtv.com that I feel in love with. Check them out and tell me what you think.
Until next time...
-TheRookieWife

Hello and Welcome!!!

Hello and welcome to my blog, although this is not my first blog, it is my first blog as a married woman. My initial blog was about planning my wedding...the ups and downs that every bride experience and my inspirations and ideas . However, this blog is about my transition into married life and me sharing parts of my world. Although I have so many new projects and ideas going on, I'm not sure exactly what'll be writing from day to day therefore topics might vary from stories about my "new" marriage (i.e., the hubs), fitness inspirations, recipes, decorating ideas, shopping, and other things I find interesting. Hopefully they will inspire you...so please feel free to post comments and share your thoughts!!

Until next time...
-TheRookieWife