Caprese Pasta August 26, 2008

2T EVOO

2 cloves garlic

1 package fusilli pasta

1 cup grape tomatoes

.5 cup basil

Buffalo Mozzarella

Grated Parmesan cheese

Nothing says summer more than fresh basil and tomatoes.  I love caprese salad, so I decided to try making it into a pasta dish.

First, I cooked the pasta according to the directions on the package. While the pasta was cooking sauteed the garlic with the EVOO for one minute.  Added the basil and tomatoes to the garlic to warm.  Once the tomato mixture was heated through, I added it to the cooked pasta. Then tossed in cubed mozzarella and Parmesan to taste.

It was so good that I ate two huge bowls.  It  does not require a lot of ingredients, making it both tasty and inexpensive. Nice to have my appetite back!

Thank You! August 24, 2008

Hi guys,

I wanted to use my first post back to say a big “thank you” to everyone for all the support as I dealt with some health issues.  All the emails, comments, texts and phone calls really made me feel supported and loved.  It is really remarkable how many friends I have met through my blog, but have never met in person.

Thank you again and you will be happy to know that I am feeling A LOT better!! I have some great posts planned for the week!

New Post In A Week August 17, 2008

Hi guys,

I got sick last week and it actually landed me in the ER twice this weekend.  I am getting better, but I am going to spend this week recovering and catching up at work.  I will have a new post next week.  Have a great week!

Budget Fashion Photo August 13, 2008

Top – Old Navy 24.99

Shorts – H&M 29.99 

I was asked to put together a budget outfit and submit photos for a couple different opportunities.  Here’s my favorite pic.  No details yet, but I will update you guys when I know more.

Budget Face Wash August 12, 2008

Face Wash – Under $5.00

Since my first break out in Jr. high, I have never settled on a face wash. In an attempt to keep my grocery shopping to just one store – I decided to purchase Desert Essence Thoroughly Clean Face Wash at Trader Joe’s.

Despite my skepticism about all things vegan, this face wash really works. Overall, its a great product. But it has some drawbacks – it smells like Pine Sol, it feels like Pine Sol if you get it in your eye, and it dries out your skin the first couple times you use it. Other than those issues, I would highly recommend this product as a great budget face wash.

Thrift Store Shopping August 10, 2008

I recently received a comment requesting vintage clothing store recommendations and I am embarrassed to say I don’t have any.  In the past, the funny smell and weird clothes distract me in my search for one of a kind items. Now that vintage has become trendy, many vintage stores have jacked out their prices.  All that being said, I would really like to explore some vintage stores for an upcoming post.  Does anyone have any recommendations?

Budget Happy Hour – Palomino August 7, 2008

I can’t believe that it is already August. Soon September will be upon us, which means goodbye warm weather and goodbye Westwood. My company is relocating from Westwood to Culver City and needless to say, everyone is sad.

One of the best parts of working in Westwood is that Palomino’s happy hour is right around the corner. I love their happy hour because the food is so tasty and cheap – 50% off appetizers, $5.00 pizzas and a $4.00 drink menu. My favorite things to order are the cosmo margarita, tomato basil pizza, and cheese fondue.

What’s better than relaxing with friends over great food and drinks and not worrying about the bill?

Again, My Love For Bird Inspired Home Design August 6, 2008

Urban Outfitters $30.00

I love this.  It’s so whimsical and cute.

Love This Pitcher August 5, 2008

Love this pitcher from Anthropologie. I’m now on a mission to find one at a better price.

Try Budget Coffee Instead of Brunch August 4, 2008

A friend’s story of $80 brunch at the Ivy got me thinking about how much money I spend on weekend lunch or brunch.  Some times when my budget is a little tight, I have mid-afternoon coffee instead of brunch.  

This weekend, I followed the advice of follow blogger Cupcakes and Cashmere and I decided to try out Clementine. Everything in this bakery is so cute and pretty. While the brunch prices are in line with brunch throughout the city. Clementine’s beautiful pastries and strong coffee are perfect for a coffee date with friends. 

 

Photo Cred – Tribune