For the Love of Watermelon

Few things are more refreshing than some sweet watermelon on a hot summer day. Watermelon is rich in water, up to 92%, which makes it a great alternative to aid with hydration. It is the perfect snack right off the rind, but if you are looking to add an extra punch, here are two great ways to make watermelon more interesting.

If you are looking for an interesting way to dress up this snack and one that will impress your guests at a summer BBQ. Take three simple ingredients for this tasty treat!

  • 2 cups watermelon
  • 1 lime
  • handful of mint

Cube watermelon, muddle the mint and lime together, and then drizzle the mint/lime mixture over your cubes.

photo 3(1)

Now, if you prefer something to sip on, Watermelonade is perfect to refresh and rehydrate. Simply add chunks of watermelon, lime juice and mint in your blender and voila-the perfect summer sipper!

  • 2 cups watermelon
  • 2 limes
  • handful of mint
  • handful of ice

photo 1(1) photo 2(1)

Not only are these both refreshing and delicious, but there are some added health benefits that come along with watermelon:

  • Vitamin A: Benefits eye health and boosts immunity. Also helps maintain healthy skin, teeth, and skeletal and soft tissue.
  • Vitamin B6: Helps build antibodies needed to fight disease. The body uses B6 to help break down protein and converts it to energy.
  • Vitamin C: Strengthens immunity, to defend against infections and harmful free radicals. Heals wounds, prevents cell damage, promotes healthy teeth and gums.
  • Potassium: Benefits muscle and nerve support. Necessary for water balance which helps with muscle cramps.
  • Lycopene: Benefits Cardiovascular and Bone Health. Aids in disease prevention and lowers the risk of developing heart disease

Refresh Yourself & Enjoy! xx

The Short Suit

I am definitely digging the ensemble of a Short Suit. Top up it’s a regular suit, but instead of your typical trouser, this style is cropped at the knee.

Although, this new trend is quickly becoming mainstream, it is NOT for everyone. It’s still not suitable for all office environments, but if you can make it work, give it a try and have fun with it. This trend is bang on with hitting the smart-casual look, while keeping guys fashionable and cool.

With the Short Suit, the look has to be just right. The style of the short has to be tailored, hitting just above the knee and the shoes are definitely key, sans socks. Don’t be afraid to mix and match but remember to let the suit make the statement and don’t overdo it with patterns and bright colours.

Here are a few of my favourite looks-

collageLook Smart, Keep Cool. xx

1-  Michael Bastian X Grant 

2- House of Fraser

3- H&M

4- ASOS

5- Pepe Jeans

6- J. CREW

7- H.E by MANGO

 

YAMCHOPS

This sweet spot just opened up around the corner from my place on College Street and it is amazing! Yamchops is a Vegetarian Butcher shop, the first of its kind and a dream come true for those on a vegan/vegetarian diet or those who are looking to reduce their meat intake. There are so many interesting options that will definitely keep me going back there for more. You must go check it out!

Last night for dinner, we had a veggie style BBQ. While we were heating up the grill, we served Carrot Lox, made with organic carrots cured in a secret marinade, smoked to a soft texture, and then topped off with cashew sour cream, capers, and dill. It was simple and light and ever so tasty- perfect for a summer evening.

Carrot Lox

Next, we grilled up Beet Burgers and Yam Chops, which were both out of this world. I love a good veggie burger and my beets, so I am glad someone has finally perfected this concoction, these will definitely be a staple at our BBQ’s from now on. The Yam Chops were sweet and savoury, a great accompaniment to the burger.

Beet Burgers & Yam Chops on the Grill

Beet Burg

I can’t wait to return and try some other items- next on the list- No Pork Pulled Pork, Tuna-less Tuna, and No Crab Crab Cakes.

Eat Clean! xx

Simply Green

For those of you who know me, you know that I love my greens and am always finding new interesting ways to get my daily fix. A while back I was looking to switch up my daily green routine and I had done a 30 day Green Smoothie Challenge through Young & Raw (which I highly recommend!) Not only did I have this new found energy in the mornings, but it was super interesting. Each week, a new herb was introduced along with a list of benefits it provided. Side note: I highly suggest you download their app for new ideas- you will not be disappointed!

One variation of Greens that is so easy and simply delicious; and now part of my regular roster is as follows:

  • 1 cup of water
  • 2 cups of kale
  • 1 ripe banana
  • 1 tbsp of chia seeds
  • Handful of parsley
  • Handful of ice

Now I have never been a big parsley fan, but I am glad I gave it a go, because it was truly so refreshing!

And the benefits of parsley- who knew!

  • Rich in  vitamins, C, B12, K, A, and minerals iron and potassium.  Aids in keeping the immune system strong, strengthens bones, heals the nervous system and fights off pathogens
  • Flushes out excess fluid from the body, supporting kidney and bladder function
  • Helps with detox and cleansing of the colon, aiding in digestion
  • Regular use can help control your blood pressure
  • Anti-inflammatory properties, relieve joint pain
  • Freshens your Breath

IMG_3504Go Green! xx

 

What’s your Favourite Hue?

Who doesn’t love a bold lip. Personally, I usually have anywhere from 4 to 6 options in my purse from day to day. My Nonna ALWAYS had to have her lipstick on, at her best and worst of times, she would be found applying her favourite hue to add an instant pop. I definitely channel her that way and embrace a bright lip whenever I can. I find it to be the easiest way for an instant pick me up. Some of my favourite go to’s are:

1– NARS – Roman Holiday – An everyday staple  (I think I am on tube # 9)

2– MAC – Zen Rose – Pantone’s 2014 Colour of the Year – a MUST have!

3– MAC – Relentlessly Red – The PERFECT red tone & does not budge for hours!

4– YSL – Le Orange – The IT colour right now, so Hot!

photo 2-2

Pucker Up! xx