I had a pretty adventurous birthday. The first thing that happened, on Thursday night, was that my camera broke! Well, actually BF’s camera broke. I’d been using his for the blog. But I didn’t have my own!

I tried taking pictures with the camera on my [...]]]> Thank you all so much for the birthday wishes!

I had a pretty adventurous birthday. The first thing that happened, on Thursday night, was that my camera broke! Well, actually BF’s camera broke. I’d been using his for the blog. But I didn’t have my own!

I tried taking pictures with the camera on my cellphone, but then realized this morning that I have nothing to upload them onto my computer with. Whoops.

So, on Thursday night, JH and I went to opening night of Sex and the City 2. It was kind of a circus. Our night…and the actual movie. It included huge crowds, an employee collapsing, ambulances, fire trucks, being forced to wait outside the theatre for a LONG time, getting into the theatre only to find it was almost FULL! …Luckily, I found us decent seats. But still, not cool AMC Loews Village 7, not cool.

The day of my birthday included a NEON PINK manicure with JH (Who got neon green).

The picture doesn’t do the neon justice. My nails could blind you

Then we ran (literally, because JH was going to be late for work) to Babycakes for some cupcakes and more!

Didn’t get a picture of my delicious lemon spelt cupcake. But I did snap one of my doughnut that I haven’t tried yet!!!

Can’t wait to dig into this later

After dropping JH off at the subway, I wandered around the lower east side while returning birthday phone calls from my family

And I stopped into my two favorite places. The Pickle Guys and Russ & Daughters for some goodies.

My quart o’ pickles

So, I’ll bet you’re wondering how I took those pictures above with a broken camera. Well…I got an accidental birthday gift!

And I LOVE IT!

And before I knew it, I was off to GLEE at Radio City!

I’m such a gleek

Some of my favorite scenes from the evening…

Defying Gravity
 
Bad Romance
     
Jump!
 
Mr. Shue and Sue!
 

The HUGE crowd. Which included many many small children

We ended the night with drinks and snacks at Cafeteria in Chelsea.

Huge beer for BF!
   
Lychee and Lavender cocktail for me
 

We split their famous mac and cheese app.

BF got a hearty sandwhich
 

While I got an amazing heirloom tomato and mozz salad/sandwich thing!    

It was all delicious!

SUCH a fabulous birthday

Janna is still in an exam state of mind so I thought I’d jump in and try my hand at [...]]]> I have my second final exam tomorrow so JH has kindly agreed to take over for the third instalment of “Some Things I’m Loving  Right Now”!
Take it away JH!

Janna is still in an exam state of mind so I thought I’d jump in and try my hand at a “Some Things I’m Loving Right Now” post which is, coincidently, one of my favorite features on Just Flourishing. Word of mouth is a powerful tool and, as much as I love venturing out on my own to discover new treats, wears, and trends, having someone do a bit of the exploration leg-work for you isn’t always so bad! Here goes!

1) Burt’s Bees Lifeguard’s Choice Weatherproofing Lip Balm

With predicted highs in the 80’s today, I’d say summer is officially creeping its way into the U.S. so why not pucker up and protect those lips? You’d do the same for the rest of your skin, right? Infused with peppermint oil it has a nice little tingle and an icy cool tint plus it scored only a 2 out of 10 on the “Skin Deep Cosmetic Safety Database” aka a low hazard choice! Better yet, it protects against those powerful, reflected sunrays when the snow starts to fall so this lip balm is handy year round!

2) Joseph’s Tahini Hummus-Roasted Red Pepper

Pair this delish’ dip with some whole wheat pita bread and you’ve got an instant after work, after school, after whatever snack! It has the refreshing, filling quality of regular chickpea hummus but with an added flavor kick that goes a long way! I can’t get enough.

3) Gaps’ Roll-Up Bermuda Shorts

I’m not the biggest fan of shorts-how they fit, how I look-which is major a bummer when it’s a billion degrees out! But, I’ve found solace in Gap’s recent line of below-the-belt wear. Feeling the summer heat, I reluctantly tried on a pair and instantly fell in love. They hit where they’re supposed to and didn’t make me feel like my stems were on FULL display while still remaining figure flattering and pretty cute. I bought a pair in Olive Green and have had fun dressing them up and dressing them down for a variety of occasions.

4) Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything

So, I have been riding the subway like it’s going out of style lately. I try to use my travel time wisely and as of late, have pretty much been putting away a book a week. Next on my reading list is “Freakonomics” which hit shelves in 2005 OR its successor, “SuperFreakonomics, ” released in 2009. I’ve only read segments of each so far so this is more like a hypothetical “Thing I’m loving Right Now” but I already know I’m going to love it and so will you! The books are described as a melding of pop culture and economics; they help to gain a better understanding of how people and the world around us function and why. And if you spend more time at your computer than on the subway be sure to check out the Freakonomics blog; a cyber extension of the literary discussion: http://freakonomics.blogs.nytimes.com/

5) 30 Day Shred

Janna has most likely already reviewed this workout DVD in some capacity before but I’m still at it and still lovin’ it. I haven’t had a gym membership since I moved to NYC but rather relied on my home remedy of memorized moves, DVDs, and outdoor runs. Welcome to Gym JH! Anyway, I love 30 Day Shred because it requires minimal equipment and you can get a lot accomplished in a little amount of time. The workouts are motivating and really get you sweating! Thanks, Jillian!

What are some things you’re loving right now?

At school all day again today so here’s a fun quick post of some interesting search terms that have led people to my site:

If you have a [...]]]>

At school all day again today so here’s a fun quick post of some interesting search terms that have led people to my site:

• “flying kettlebell”
• “getting veggies into man and cheese”
• “different types of eggs in a movie with julia roberts”
• “husband hates beans and meat”
• “subway restaurant smell”
• “crack blog”
• “i love 2 cook naked”

If you have a blog, what are some funny search terms that have led people to it?

Happy Friday!

In between classes right now, just finished exam #1, and thought I would jump on the Smile Friday bandwaggon.

SMILE FRIDAY: The “My BF is AMAZING and got us tickets to see GLEE Live at Radio City Music Hall…ON MY BIRTHDAY!” Edition.

Glee Live AND The Sex and The City 2 Movie Premiere?!?! It’s a lot in one birthday, [...]]]>

In between classes right now, just finished exam #1, and thought I would jump on the Smile Friday bandwaggon.

SMILE FRIDAY: The “My BF is AMAZING and got us tickets to see GLEE Live at Radio City Music Hall…ON MY BIRTHDAY!” Edition.

Glee Live AND The Sex and The City 2 Movie Premiere?!?! It’s a lot in one birthday, but I think I can manage ! Now all I have to figure out is the perfect restaurant to go to…I guess I still have 3 months to figure that out

What are you smiling about today?

Just a quick yesterday recap before I begin….

Yesterday JH and I went to visit my friend Alex who just had his appendix out! He’s doing just fine

We stopped into Dylan’s Candy Bar (love!) on the way over 

And bought him this adorable Chanukah bear!    

Also, I [...]]]> Happy Happy Friiiiiday!

Just a quick yesterday recap before I begin….

Yesterday JH and I went to visit my friend Alex who just had his appendix out!
He’s doing just fine

We stopped into Dylan’s Candy Bar (love!) on the way over 

And bought him this adorable Chanukah bear! 
  

Also, I stopped into TJ’s Wine Store and picked up some “Two Buck Chuck” Cabernet Sauvignon. 

Bf and I enjoyed some last night. Not Bad! Not bad at all!

Have you ever tried “Two Buck Chuck”?

OKAY…SO….

I can’t believe I’m going to say this but… I think oatmeal and I need to take a break.

This has happened before actually. When I first started eating oatmeal, like many of you, I became slightly obsessed with it and would eat it every morning. And then one day, I just couldn’t have any more. So I switched it up with cold cereal, big smoothies, pancakes and eggs and felt MUCH better. And then going back to oats was such a treat afterwards.

And… I think it’s about that time again. I’ve had A LOT of oatmeal in the past couple months. I then switched over to oatbran for a change, and then switched back to oats. And now… all I want are BIG, cold, delicious SMOOTHIES!  Weird, because the weather is getting so much colder! But, hey, can’t argue with what I’m craving.

So, smoothies it is! I usually make very similar combos each time; so any suggestions on smoothie combos would be much appreciated. I may have to check out Angela’s Green Monster page for some ideas!

*What are your favorite filling and delicious smoothie combos?*

Have a LOVELY Friday!

In our first year of university a friend of ours nicknamed her “Madders” and it stuck around for a little while but then most of us went back to calling her Amanda. It [...]]]> Today is my good friend/old college roomie Amanda’s birthday!
So this post is dedicated to her

In our first year of university a friend of ours nicknamed her “Madders” and it stuck around for a little while but then most of us went back to calling her Amanda. It definitely brings back memories though.

I met Amanda very early in first year. We were on the same floor in residence (dorms).
 
[Us at the begininng of first year university Back when she was still “Madders”]
 
I knew we would be good friends because she was tons of fun, outgoing, and had an amazing sense of direction so when I was with her I’d never get lost!

I also loved that she appreciated good food just as much as I did.
 
[Second year About to enjoy our favorite sushi…on the floor like the classy ladies we are!]

We had a lot of good times together Many of them involved dressing up for the various theme parties we attended throughout our university years.
 
[Third year – Dressed up for a “Euro” party]

Even after all those theme parties, we made it to graduation!
 
[Goofing off on Graduation Day!]

I’ve learned a lot from Amanda:
- She’s introduced me to tons of new bands/singers 
- She taught me that you can wear ribbons as belts!
- I learned that The Sims is an excellent procrastination tool
- And that kitties are aweeesome  
- And I learned how to make the Best. Quesadillas. Ever.

In honor of her b-day I will be making some of her Mango Brie Quesadillas today. And you should too!

They’re super easy and a total crowd pleaser! All you need is some tortillas, brie, mango and scallions (green onions)

Preheat oven to 350. Thinly slice the mango and brie cheese and chop the scallion. Then put the mango slices, slices of brie cheese and a sprinkling of scallion on 1 tortilla and then cover it with a second tortilla (or you can fold it in half). You can then brush the outside of the tortillas with a little oil, then put on a baking sheet and bake until golden brown. (Correct me if any of this is wrong Amanda!)

They are SO TASTY! The combination of mango and brie is perfection.

So here’s to having lots of tasty meals today and TONS of fun tonight!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMANDA!

Janna

To indulge in the Halloween Candy… or not to indulge? That is the question.

There are as many “Healthy Halloween Ideas” floating around the web as there are encouraging words to “just indulge”.

Especially if you have kids, and even if you don’t, it’s hard not to feel the urge to have a couple [...]]]>  
[source]

To indulge in the Halloween Candy… or not to indulge? That is the question.

There are as many “Healthy Halloween Ideas” floating around the web as there are encouraging words to “just indulge”.

Especially if you have kids, and even if you don’t, it’s hard not to feel the urge to have a couple mini chocolate bars, a handful of candy corn or a few lollipops.

But, what exactly is IN those much loved Halloween treats?

Let’s take a look:

One popular mini chocolate is the Twix Bar. 
 

[source]

The ingredients consist of:
milk chocolate (sugar, cocoa butter,chocolate, skim milk, lactose, milkfat, soy lecithin & PGPR (emulsifiers), artificial flavors), sugar, enriched flour (flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamine mononitrate,riboflavin, folic acid), partially hydrogenated soybean oil, corn syrup, skim milk,dextrose, lactose, salt, cocoa powder, baking soda, soy lecithin, artificial flavor
[source]

Let’s evaluate:

• Lots of sugar… but we already suspected that would be in there
• There is quite a bit of soy for those who may be sensitive to it or choose to avoid it.
• hydrogenated = TRANS FAT = bad!
• PGPR or “Polyglycerol Polyricinoleate” is an emulsifier made from castor beans which reduces the viscosity of chocolate.  … Yum?
• “Artificial flavor” …doesn’t sound like the best idea to me.

Now lets take a look at the ingredients in the much loved Halloween treat – Candy Corn.

[source]

Sugar, Corn Syrup, Confectioner’s Glaze, Natural and Artificial Flavors, Salt, Artificial Colors, (FDC Yellow 6 Lake, Red #40, Red 40 Lake, Yellow #5, Yellow #6, Blue 1 Lake, Blue #1, Yellow 5 Lake), Egg Whites, Honey Glycerin, Mineral Oil, Carnauba Wax[source]

Let’s evaluate:

• Again, TONS of sugar
• Artificial flavors – yuck!
• And OMG an OVERLOAD of artificial colors. EW EW EW and EW.

I don’t know about you, but I would rather avoid ingesting partially hydrogenated soybean oil and Red 40 Lake, thanks very much.

Once you know what these candies are actually made of, I think it definitely helps you to choose whether it’s worth it to “indulge”.

That said, you don’t have to restrict yourself from eating treats on Halloween! There are lots of choices out there that you don’t have to feel bad about indulging in:

• Dark chocolate (the darker the more antioxidants!)
• Mints
• Home-made treats!
• Dried Fruit
• Chocolate covered nuts – such as these ones or these ones.
• Soft Eating Liquorice – but make sure to look at the ingredients list (the kind made by Darrell Lea is tasty and has a pretty good ingredients list) 
• Pumpkin – always a favourite at Halloween time – try my recipe for Pumpkin Scones!

Have a HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

______________________________________________

Question of the day:

If you’re dressing up, what are you going as?

I’m going as a CARE BEAR! Specifically, Cheer Bear! So mature.

Maybe I’ll even post a pic of my costume tomorrow. Maybe

Updated to Add: I just want to clarify that I am dressing up to go to a Halloween PARTY, not to go Trick-or-Treating.

I have officially lived in NYC for 1 month

I’m one of those people who enjoys celebrating the months as well as the years. So to celebrate this month and to go along with my Happiness Goals I’m throwing this out to the New Yorkers out there…

So:

New Yorkers or [...]]]>  
[Source]

I have officially lived in NYC for 1 month

I’m one of those people who enjoys celebrating the months as well as the years. So to celebrate this month and to go along with my Happiness Goals I’m throwing this out to the New Yorkers out there…

So:

New Yorkers or people who know a lot about New York or people who have been to NYC many times, or just anyone who’s willing to chime in I need your help!

I’ve been in NYC for a month now and it’s been great. However, I feel like I’m not taking full advantage of where I am.

I’ve explored a little, eaten at a couple restaurants… but I haven’t truly experienced all I could have at this point. The truth is, I’m overwhelmed. There are just so many things to do and see I don’t even know where to start!

So, this is where you come in!

I want to know your favourite restaurants, sights, stores, areas, museums, galleries, fun volunteer opportunities, fun activities in general, fitness activities and anything else you can think of! On a cheap-ish budget would be extra nice …
But any and all ideas are welcome!

I am studying a lot of the time and am in class twice a week, but I feel like I want to fill in the spare time I have exploring my amazing surroundings.

Also, if there’s a place in NYC you’ve always wanted to go but haven’t gotten a chance to because you live elsewhere, let me know! I’ll check it out for you and let you know what I think! Or if there’s a restaurant or store you want me to review, fill me in, and I definitely will!

I realize how lucky I am to be living in this amazing city, so I want to do something about it!

This is very much appreciated! Thanks for your help!

You can leave me a comment or send me an email at justflourishing@gmail.com

Janna

She enjoys long walks on the beach, flowers, kittens and wearing her sunglasses at night.

I visited her in Boston this weekend!

It was a little chilly and it was a little snowy (!) but we managed to have a fabulous time. I will [...]]]> Meet my friend Amanda!

She enjoys long walks on the beach, flowers, kittens and wearing her sunglasses at night.

I visited her in Boston this weekend!

It was a little chilly and it was a little snowy (!) but we managed to have a fabulous time. I will surely be going back again! 

Here are some of our adventures….

For dinner on Friday night we went to an eclectic small plates restaurant in Cambridge called Cuchi Cuchi.

It was a very popular spot that night. It was a 90 minute wait for a table! So we decided to dine at the bar. Which was just fine

We shared Scallop Ceviche (we each got a shot glass full)
 

Endive salad with blue cheese and olives, drizzled with honey.   

And some un-pictured mushroom risotto. (The picture didn’t come out so pretty)

It was all delicious! We polished our plates! (and Amanda doesn’t even like Blue cheese OR mushrooms!.. well.. I guess she does now )

And for dessert we shared this lovely fruit confection called Cornucopia.
A pizzelle cone filled with fresh fruit, fruit kissel and whipped cream

We hated it
 

Hee Hee.  No no. Actually, we were very sad when it was finished.

The next day Amanda showed me around the city. First we ventured around the Christian Science Centre and the Reflecting pool.

Diving in! (or doing some Yoga… either one)

We did a little bit of shopping on Newbury St. and then arrived at….

J.P. LICKS! YES!
 

I got a small with a scoop of Pumpkin Custard and a scoop of Peanut Butter Cookie Dough Chip:
 
Um… YUM!

J.P. Licks on the bus!
 

We then spent a bit of time walking around Harvard Sq.

Harvard!

Getting some good luck from rubbing the John Harvard statue’s foot!   

Amanda joined in the fun!
OMG so much good luck we don’t know what to do!

Enjoying the beautiful foliage:

Dinner that night was at the one and only Anna’s!

I got a grilled veggie burrito sans rice. It was SO GOOD! Just what I wanted.

And some obligatory guac on the side:

Great fuel for our night on the town!

Mmm some dark beer to wash down the burritos. Perfection!

 
(We tend to make these particular faces a lot )

We danced the night away and then we may or may not have had some AMAZING late night pizza.

We spent Sunday at Amanda’s parents house where we played with their adorable 4 kitties and were treated to some FANTASTIC home cookin’.

We had omelettes, her dad’s homemade bread, homemade potatoes, her stepmom’s homemade cookies, more bread!, delicious cheese, hot pepper jelly… it was so good!
Unfortunately silly me did not take any pics Next time!

I did get some bread to take back to NYC with me though!

That night (my last night in Boston) we made a delicious dinner at home:

Artichoke Ravioli topped with artichoke hearts, fresh mozzarella, fresh basil,  and a little bit of tomato sauce. And a side of her dad’s homemade bread.

Yummy.
 

I had a wonderful time and will no doubt be back again to visit many times!

Thanks for having me Amanda!

Until next time Boston!