Evans Family Christmas Tree

Christmas season begins! :-)

Leigh and Taren Fireplace Project

My hubby and I recently moved into a new place. It's huge and we love it, but the fireplace situation was just weird, as you can see in the first photo. It's awesome because it gives off heat but the lack of mantle just make it look odd. The previous person obviously took theirs with them and left marks on the wall.

Cost:
$10 for shelf/mantle at Michaels. I had a 50% off coupon, it was $20. I love Michaels coupons!!
Leigh's parents had paint, sandpaper ect. So total cost was $10! Can't beat that! Here's our results:

Favourite Things Christmas Blog Swap

When Leigh from All You Need Is Love posted about her Favourite Things Christmas Blog Swap, I signed up right away. I have connected with so many awesome people through blogging so something like this seemed so fun. If you haven't checked out Leigh's blog, definitely add it to your list! She is awesome! We also have the same birthday!

I mailed my package on the last day. I am me, after all. I suspect Stacy, the girl who got me is a lot more organized because I got my package from her in the mail today! I took pictures of my goodies!

Individually wrapped boxes, numbered with an explanations! So organized!

My goodies!!

List of my goodies!

It's hard to read so I'll tell you what's in there - Elf! One of my favourites and I don't have it anymore so yay!, an AWESOME travel mug thing, mitten warmers, a cookie decorating kit that Stacy suggested I use with my nephew (Which is so funny because Jack LOVES cookie decorating stuff), white chocolate and fudge face masks, (can't wait to use these!), hot chocolate, tea, gift card holders, and a super cute penguin magnet!

So much fun to open everything, thank you so much Stacy, you made my day! :-) And thank you so much Leigh for organizing this!

xoxo,
Taren

Jandrei wedding reception

Well, I did it. I missed a day of nablopomo. Yesterday was my sister and her hubby's wedding reception. I meant to post these pics last night. Oh well.
Amazing reception! My sister looked amazing and it was so much fun! Here is a few pics I took on my phone.

A mini post. Still counts.

Some days blogging is so easy. I have a million and one ideas to blog about, of course they involve trying things and taking pictures. Today is a day where I don't feel like doing anything. In the last 24 hours I have broken a 10 year old snowglobe, ruined our Christmas stockings, and ruined my favourite jeans. I am not in the mood to blog. 

Tomorrow will be a better day, it's my sister and her husband's wedding reception and it should be a lot of fun. 

Today, all you get is a pouty face. At least it's cute.

xoxo,

Taren

A Pumpkin Pie Protein Shake!

Happy Thanksgiving to my American blog friends! I hope you are having a fantastic holiday. I am jealous that our Thanksgiving is in November. I have always thought that was the ideal time, because it kicks off the holiday season. Thankfully (hehe) my mother-in-law agrees with me, and for the past few years we have celebrated the holiday with full force. She grew up in California, so it's not cheating. We are doing it tomorrow though!

Today, I thought I'd share something different! A delicious pumpkin pie treat that's super healthy! A Pumpkin Pie Protein Shake! They are so yummy and satisfy you without that heavy dessert feeling. 

Honestly, you could throw whatever in the blender and it will probably turn out but here is a recipe to start with:

Pumpkin Pie Protein Shake

Ingredients

•  1 Scoop Vanilla Protein
• 3 Tbsp Pumpkin Puree
• 3-4 ice cubes, or more if you like it thicker
• 1 Cup Unsweetened Almond Milk (Vanilla is the best)
• 2 Packets of Sweetener such as Splenda or Stevia
• 1 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp Nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp Cloves
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

Throw it all in a blender and enjoy your healthy treat guilt free!

xoxo,
Taren

Shopping Is Serious Business!

Last night thousands of women and about ten guys gathered at Coquitlam centre.

It was the 2nd annual Unwrapped event. The mall was only open to adult ticket holders. I went with my mother in law and sister in law and I got to meet up with my girlfriends for a bit!
The event was a huge success, it raised $68,000 for local charities!

Here are a few pics from last night including some of my Starbucks treat , a peppermint brownie cake pop and a map of my girlfriends shopping plan! Too funny!

Sophia Grace and Rosie on the AMA Red Carpet!

The newest stars of hollywood are at it again!

I seriously love them so much!

xoxo,
Taren

Life Wish List

One day I will...

My Style Icon

Whenever I need a bit of style inspiration, there is always one girl I can count on. She may be an ex reality star but she is an adorable well dressed one with two clothing lines and a style book, plus three novels and a beauty website. Which is more than we can say for Snooks.
I just love her whole look, she always looks comfortable and fun! Plus she is always doing cool things with her hair.
I am constantly stumbling across Lauren's outfit photos, so I thought I would share some with my girly readers. And whatever guys have crushes on Lauren Conrad.

How I prepare for Christmas

I went to the mall today for the first time this "Christmas season" Yes, it is still November. You would think it was mid December at the mall. Decorations are up, sales are on, the Salvation Army bells are ringing and there is people EVERYWHERE. I like to use this time of year as Christmas prep time. I thought I would share a few of my favourite tips I stick to (or try to):

-Buy and write out your Christmas cards if you do them. If you don't do them, you should. Getting things in the mail is a dying art and it's sad. If you would like a Christmas card from moi, send me your address. Also, watch for sales on cards! You can get them cheap!

-If you were on the ball, you may have bought wrapping paper at 75% off after Christmas last year. If you didn't, don't fret grasshopper. You are still young and have time to learn. :-P Also, go to a good quality dollar store and stock up on gift bags, tons of tape, those sticky gift tags, ribbons and one or two extra pairs of scissors.

-Write out your calendar of Christmas parties and events. That way you can schedule your own party, christmas dates or activities Make a list of activities you want to do with your significant other, family and friends. Plan dates now before you get too busy!

-Make a list of what you want to bake and stock up on your ingredients. Buy doing this you avoid going to the store and frinding a big empty space where the cinnamon, sugar or pumpkin should be. Not fun. Also watch for sales!

-Keep a list all year of gift ideas (more on my lists in a later post) so every time I get a brilliant idea for a gift for someone, I just write it down. If you listen carefully, people give a lot of hints!

-Several years ago I got rid of all my DVD cases and put all my DVDs in a cd book. I have a separate CD book for Christmas movies and music. I can't tell you how much aggravation this has saved me.

-Most importantly of all: there is a big difference between preparation and expectation. Prepare, but don't have any expectations. Christmas can get a little crazy. Focus on what's important to you and spending time with loved ones.

I would love to hear how you prepare to the holidays!

xoxo,
Taren

My Favourite Trick for Colds (and it's free!)

I forgot to mention one other souvenir I brought home from Mexico - a wicked cold. It's actually better now and obviously there are a lot worse things I could bring home from Mexico! I really wanted to do this naturopathic trick I picked up from my Naturopathic Doctor a few years ago but I didn't have socks! It sounds so weird but I almost get a little excited if I start to get sick because I love doing this! I don't care how nuts I sound, don't knock it until you try it people!

I think it feels so nice after a few minutes and you feel all warm and tingly and I always have an amazing sleep. Here it is:

 

 

The Wet Sock Treatment (I know, I know. Just trust me okay?)

 

 

Indications: Sore throat or any inflammation or infection of the throat, neck pain, ear infections, headaches, migraines, nasal congestion, upper respiratory infections, coughs, bronchitis, and sinus infections.

Contraindications: Use with caution in diabetes, Raynaud’s phenomenon or syndrome, arterial insufficiency or advanced intermittent claudication. The warming phase is especially important for these patients. Please consult your physician.

 

Supplies

• 1 pair white cotton socks
• 1 pair thick wool socks
• Towel
• Warm bath or warm foot bath

Directions

 

1.Take a pair of cotton socks and soak them completely with cold water. Be sure to wring the socks out thoroughly so they do not drip.
2.Warm your feet first. This is very important as the treatment will not be as effective and could be harmful if your feet are not warmed first. Soaking your feet in warm water for at least 5-10 minutes or taking a warm bath for 5-10 minutes can accomplish warming.
 3.Dry off feet and body with a dry towel.
 4.Place cold wet socks on feet. Cover with thick wool socks. Go directly to bed. Avoid getting chilled.
 5.Keep the socks on overnight. You will find that the wet cotton socks will be dry in the morning.

 

 Effects of the Wet Sock Treatment: This treatment acts to reflexively increase the circulation and decrease congestion in the upper respiratory passages, head, and throat. It has a sedating action and many patients report that they sleep much better during the treatment. This treatment is also effective for pain relief and increases the healing response during acute infections.The wet sock treatment is best if repeated for three nights in a row, or as instructed by your physician.

(Please note, I got these specific instructions from this site, as I don't have them written down anywhere, I've just done it so many times I do it by memory)

 

Let me know if you are brave enough to try it!

 

xoxo,

Taren

It´s always time for soup

Even though I am in Mexico, I am still eating soup. Today was tortilla. When I get home and I am freezing my tanned ass off, I will make this potato soup, because it´s the easiest soup on the planet.


Crock Pot Baked Potato Soup
(from Pearls, Handcuffs and Happy Hour)


Ingredients:

• 1 30oz. bag of frozen, shredded hash browns 
• 3 14oz. cans of chicken broth
• 1 can of cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 1/4 tsp. ground pepper
• 1 pkg. cream cheese, either low fat or full (fat free will not melt)

Instructions:

In a crockpot, combine everything EXCEPT for the cream cheese.  Cook for 6-8 hours on low heat.  About 1 hour before serving, add cream cheese and keep heated until thoroughly melted. Add whatever toppings you feel like: cheddar cheese, sour cream, bacon bits, whatever! Enjoy!

xoxo,

Taren

Cutting it close...

Today was a day that I almost didn't blog. I really didn't want to miss one day of my challenge. 


Soo...Jenn and Andrei are married!!! 


It was an amazing wedding. It felt so surreal because we were just hanging out by the pool in the morning all relaxed but it was Jenns wedding day. She was relaxed and so was Andrei which was great.
Amazing ceremony, their vows were beautiful and they both looked freaking amazing! I cant show you any pics because they are being shown at the reception. After the reception later this month I can post them.


Also, I broke my baby toe on another persons foot. Didn't know that was possible. I also have a wicked cold, which I also didn't know was possible to get in Mexico.


Still was an amazing day.


More tomorrow,


xoxo,
Taren

For Jenn and Andrei

xoxo,

Taren

What I'm Loving Wednesday - Cabo edition

What I'm loving Wednesday is not hard today. Its easy to love Wednesday from Mexico. Although blogging from Mexico is turning out to be hard. Still have no way to upload pictures without paying extra for wireless internet.


Today I am loving the following:

• The awesome group of people I'm with and getting to spend time with people I dont get to see often.
• Fresh salsa and guacamole with real tortilla chips
• Tequila (is it just me or is it easier to drink in Mexico?)
• My ever improving tan
• The fact that when I get home there is a lot to look forward to because things are changing in a good way and Im excited. Also, I get to decorate for Christmas soon. YAY!
• One more thing, today I am loving the arches in Cabos, they are so unbelievable in person.

Cabo, Christmas and Chili

Unfortunately sharing my photos from this trip seems to be not happening until I get back. Oh, well, it will give me more to post when I get home. This trip is a blast so far, the resort is amazingly beautiful. I actually love the decor, I feel like it´s up to the minute and I love it. The food..oh my god the food. Unbelievable. I haven´t tasted things like this in my entire life. I used to be the pickiest eater ever, ordering plain spaghetti in restaurants. Something has changed, I am eating things I don´t even normally like and loving them. Like tomatoes, I never ate them before this trip and I love them here. So weird!
We went across the street to this little mall this afternoon, it has a Starbucks. It totally threw me off seeing all the Christmas decorations in Mexico. I couldn't believe it was November before I left and now its Christmas in Mexico. I am suntanning in Cabo with a frozen drink and thinking about where I am going to put my Christmas tree.
It gave me an idea for my post today, since I am photoless. I made this chili the other day and I LOVED it. I am actually craving it so I will make it when I get home. Thankfully I had it in my email so I can share it with you guys. Its based off the fast food Wendy's chili which freaked me out. Apparently they use actual hamburgers chopped up in their chili. Obviously you can use fresh ingredients to make it better! I added a little scoop of fat free sour cream and reduced fat cheddar and it was amazing. This chili is a little more soup like than really chunky which is how I like it.


Homemade Chili


1 qt. tomato juice 
1 (29 oz.) can tomato puree 
1 (15 oz.) can red beans, drained 
1 medium onion (1 1/2 c.), chopped 
1/2 cup celery, diced 
1/4 cup green pepper, diced 
1/4 cup chili powder 
1 tsp. cumin (if you like real flavor, add more) 
1 1/2 tsp. garlic powder 
1 tsp. salt 
1/2 tsp. black pepper 
1/2 tsp. oregano 
1/2 tsp. sugar
1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper 

In a frying pan, brown the ground beef; drain. Put the drained beef and the remaining ingredients into a 6-quart pot. Cover the pot; let it simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, stirring every 15 minutes.

Enjoy!

xoxo

Taren

Update from Cabo

Ola!
Sooo...here is the deal. I am in Los Cabos, in a fantastic room with internet on a flat screen TV. Except I cannot figure out how to get pictures onto the computer. Also, I have stripper length nails for the wedding so it takes me forever to type. This is a mini post for today until I figure it out.
This place is AHHHMAAAZZING.  I have never stayed at a hotel like this, ever. Ocean views, amazing food, slushy drinks, wicked gym with ocean views. Oh, and pool chairs IN the water. I love my life at this moment. The bride and groom have a ridiculous honeymoon suite. I may have broken a champagne glass 30 seconds upon entering. 
I have done nothing since my wicked workout this morning and postworkout mimosa. We are going to a french restaurant tonight. I am told they do not have french fries.
Oh yeah, and we are staying at Barcelo. Best resort ever. Since I cannot get a picture from my camera on here, I took one from the website. This is exactly what our room looks like.

And we're off!

By the time anyone human reads this, I will on my way to the airport, to go here:

To enjoy this:

To read a few of these:

 

Maybe have a few of these:

But mostly, and most important of of all, to celebrate these two and watch them  get married:

 YAY!!

xoxo,

Taren

PS I will be continuing NaBloPomo from Cabo! :)