My Thoughts On The Grammys...

Because you're all dying to know them.

Oh The Grammys.  You annoy me every year and yet I still come back like a Cyndi Lauper song - time after time. The awards are given to old, over played songs and albums.  Most often, they go to the overrated artists. How was Call Me Maybe even nominated for an award?! The live acts are very hit and miss and most of all - acceptance speeches are painful to watch. With that being said, there were still a few highlights, as well as my favorite lowlights.

First off - you made me stay up so late just to hear your Bob Marley tribute and it wasn't even that good.  Allen Stone did a much better job and he isn't even nominated for best new artist. Cryin' Shame. 

TSwift, sorry, but you're annoying. You should also not be allowed to dance to reggae music.

Adele, you are always my favorite. Cheeky is probably the best way to describe your greatness.

JLo, we have discussed this before.  We get it. You're hot for 40 don't actually know her age and am too lazy to Google but please stop dressing like a whore.

Overall, I was not impressed with the fashion at the Grammy's this year, maybe it was because there was a dress code for the evening.  Rumor on the street was no side boob was allowed. Don't worry, most still found a way to slut it up, I am looking at you Katy Perry.

Speaking of fashion - JT is back wearing his suit and tie, being sexy as ever.

Frank Ocean ran the Grammys, just like Forest Gump. See what I did there? It's the title of his song.

PS. How pretty is Frank Ocean's Mom?

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It was a good night for the Urban Contemporary boys, because that is evidently what the Grammys call R&B, the hell?  Miguel, has a beautiful voice, I wish he had had more time to show everyone, Frank Ocean won a few awards, and Chris Brown didn't win sheeeeet. Hooray! 

Really this is the only way to highlight the Grammys.  In gif form. 

Is anyone else tired from staying up late to watch the boring Grammys? 

<3 BB 

Hitting the Links :: 2.8.13

Happy Friday!

Quick question, am I the last gal in the world to figure out the secret of putting your hair in a braid before bed to quicken the curly hair process in the morning?! And by that, what I actually I mean is, I was running a little late super lazy this morning and when I took my hair out of my braid, I realized that all I needed to do was fix a few curls instead of showering and I was good to go! dirty hair, don't care.

Don't mind me, just taking selfies in my cube. Typical. 

I have some good things to look forward to this weekend.  Things such as sleep and this:

I have been waiting patiently to use this and I am thinking it may be the perfect treat over the weekend.
With that being said, I am still annoyed that Starbucks changed their rewards system and have been boycotting them a bit.  Instead, I have been hitting up the local drive through spot right by my apartment for my weekend treat. Double bonus - they give you free chocolate covered espresso beans with your order! Suck it, Starbucks.


Also, The other day I went to Trader Joe's to pick up a few goods.  Almonds Butter was one of those goods. I would say that 73% of the reason why I bought almond butter as opposed to peanut butter was not for it's nutritional value or taste, but so I can use the term nut butter on the regular.  No, I am not embarrassed by my immaturity.

Totally double dipping. don't be a hater. The answer to your questions is yes, I am lazy and picked the pre-cut apples even though they are more expensive, but I just hate when apple gets caught in my retainer! #orthoproblems 

Now onto the links!

First, let's discuss how I am famous and not because of this blog, because The Biggest Loser retweeted me yesterday.  Ask Brad, I ugly cry every time I watch an episode of this show.  Their commitment to change and their success is so inspiring.

If Schmidt isn't your favorite New Girl character, we can't be friends.

This Samsung commercial and this extended version were the best thing that the Super Bowl had to offer.  Mainly because Paul Rudd is in them.

What if guys and girls switched roles at the gym?

Pictures of hipsters taking pictures of food.

What is your ugly face?

I am a Tom Boy at heart, hence the North Face vest in the above pic, so this Portland brand is right up my alley. Plus Megan Rapinoe is a fan. Can't go wrong there.  It also reminds me of one of my favorite blogs, Tomboy Style.

Speaking of style, who wants to buy me these for Valentine's Day?!

Since Riri and Chris Brown are back together, I thought this TED Talk was applicable.

And lastly, here are 5 reasons to not be excited about the upcoming Grammys.


Cheers to the Weekend!

<3 BB

Fresh Veggie Salsa

For the Super Bowl get-together I attended at Jessi and Dan the Man's place over the weekend I wanted to bring something that was super delicious, but wouldn't make me feel horribly guilty eating, so I decided to make my favorite fresh veggie salsa. I got this recipe from my dear friend's mom back in high school and have been loving it ever since.  I may or may not have lost the actual recipe a long time ago and have kind of just adapted my own version, but it's really not something you can screw up! The original also calls for Cilantro, but since I believe the Devil invented Cilantro I choose not to include it.  

{Here Is What You Need} 

::2-3 Tomatoes:: 

::2 Avocados::

::1 Red Onion::

::2 Green Peppers::

::1 Jalapeno::

::1 Can of Corn::

::1 Can of Black Beans::

::1 Can of Garbanzo Beans:: 

::Cilantro::

::1-2 tablespoons Olive Oil::

::Dash of Lemon Juice::

::Red Pepper Flakes:: 

::1-2 tablespoons Vinegar:: 

:: Dash of Hot Sauce:: 

::Salt & Pepper::

{What To Do With The Goods} 

First, lay them out all nice and pretty for your viewing pleasure. Maybe make a nice pyramid with everything, you know which items need to be the base, even if they dream to be on top like the other tiny flyers. Wow, I jut went wayyyy too far into detail about that cheer leading joke and I didn't even know what a flyer was until Brad told me. His besties in high school were some of the top cheerleaders in Indiana, so he says. I personally think he was on the team himself, but I have yet to find video proof. 

Anyways, back to the salsa. I like to get the beans and corn out of their cans right away and drain their excess liquid before putting them in the bowl, to keep the salsa from getting mushy later.

Next, chop up all of the veggies (and fruits - don't want the tomatoes and avocados to feel left out!).

Try not to cry while cutting the onions.  There is really no need for the emotional attachment to them. You'll be eating them later anyway.  

You want to try and keep all of the diced goods a consistent, bite-able size.

I also like to throw the tomatoes in the strainer too, to get rid of their excess juice as well.  

If you're like me and love avocado, it wouldn't be the worst thing in the world if you added 7 to the mix, but then it may be more of a guacamole at that point... but really, who's keeping track?!  

I don't have them pictured, but if you don't want the salsa to be overly spicy, make sure you gut the jalapeno seeds, that is where most of their hotness comes from! Also, not that I know from experience or anything, but make sure you either use gloves or realllllllly wash your hands after you handle jalapenos.  They can do a number to your eyeballs and ruin a good pair of contacts.... Again, not that I know from experience or anything.  I just read it on Google once.  

After you have all the veggies chopped up, throw everything into a big bowl and mix together.  I just use my hands, but I suppose you could also use a big spoon.  

Next, add your Olive Oil, Vinegar, Hot Sauce and Lemon Juice. Now, I just add according to taste and don't usually measure anything.  You want enough OO for a light coating, but you don't want there to be so much that the salsa is sitting in liquid on the bottom.  

Add a dash of Vinegar and Lemon Juice for a nice acidic kick,

For the Hot Sauce I used Tapatio, but Tobasco is also a winner. 

Lastly, add S&P and some Red Pepper flakes and you're ready to enjoy. 

I like to pair the salsa with the greatest chips known to man.. JUANITA'S! They can be found at most grocery stores and they are gluten free! #winning 

Rumor has it, if you keep the avocado seeds in the bowl it helps them from browning.  Not sure if it actually works, but it can't hurt, right?


The best thing about this salsa is it is super versatile   It can be used on it's own as a side salad, in wraps, on a pizza like Brad and I did the other night, you name it - I'll probably try it. Hope you enjoy!!!!


Cheers to Salsa!

<3 BB

Valentine's Day Cards

Sometimes Brad and I are not good with words. Okay, I shouldn't throw Brad under the bus.  It's mainly me that has trouble articulating my feelings. Although one time when Brad and I were first dating he did try and use an analogy about sticking his foot into the puddle of love I just threw him under the bus there, didn't I?  Then again, I may have one time tried to compare our love to Houdini...but that's not what this post is about...

What this post is actually about is VD and not the sexually transmitted kind.  I am talking about Valentine's Day, people. You know that 'Hallmark Holiday' people either love or hate.  My thoughts on the day are pretty simple.  I don't need anything over the top, but I don't mind doing something to show a little extra love and appreciation.  I know people come back with the argument that you should love and appreciate your special person every day, but it also doesn't hurt to show some extra love every now and then, even if Hallmark has to be the one giving you the extra push and chocolate.

Honestly, this is really all I ask for on Valentine's Day:

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One of my favorite things about Holidays and VD in particular is picking out the perfect card whether it be for your significant other or even close girl friends. With all that being said though, I have never been one to pick a card that is super lovely-dovey and traditionally sentimental.  Not my style, nor is it Brad's either.

This brings me to my favorite type of Valentine's Day cards. The ones that are super awkward, but still show how much I care about the person :)

::Cookies and Ice Cream::

::<3 U::

::I love you more than chocolate::

::Mr Darcy::

::You are not bad:: 

Fine you caught me, there is one presh card in there, but who doesn't love a Mr. Darcy quote?!


Cheers to St. Valentine,

<3 BB

Tuesday Tunesday :: 2.5.13

You want to know what the best life decision I made this week was? (Bold statement to make as it is only Tuesday, I know.) Taking the day off from the gym yesterday and hitting up Mellow Mushroom's Happy Hour with a few friends since I had time to kill before picking Bradley up from the airport.

The good part is I had gotten some good workouts in over the weekend and didn't feel too guilty about the amount of carbies I consumed... That was until I headed to my Grandparent's house to visit with them after HH and Grandma had made a huge dinner...Couldn't offend her by not eating some right?! Wrong  Two meals later I was feeling full, guilty, and ready for bed, but still had to wait until 10pm for his flight to land. Best GF of the Year Award goes to: this girl

I am a happy girl now that the apartment is no longer quiet.  I enjoyed some solo-dolo time, but am glad he is back and I have someone to watch the Bachelor visit with.

Here are my thoughts wrapped up into one corny printable you can buy on etsy.  

Anyway, enough of my blabbing, let's get to the important stuff this fine Tuesday... MUSIC! I went to finish up the post this morning and realized I had stockpiled a lot of music for you this week.  Hope you enjoy!


Penny and Sparrow :: Creature
I'm a creature for your love. Big fan of those lyrics, it reminds me of how we are a little bit (or a lot a bit in my case) creatures of habit. I read that this band has some pretty big ties to faith in their music, but at the end of the day, the great thing about music and lyrics is you can interpret it however you need.

Flightless Bird :: Iron & Wine 
I have been in an Iron & Wine mood lately. I blame January. Not that being in an Iron & Wine mood is a bad thing, but just that their music can give off a very January Grey type of vibe sometimes.

Iron & Wine :: 4AD Session
Like I said, Iron & Wine kind of mood. Also, the first song in the set is my favorite Iron & Wine song of all time.  Super nostalgic and I think it's safe to say everyone has an experience like the one he is describing.

Sleeping At Last :: Turning Page 
Some of you Twilight fans might recognize this song and for those of you who have not see the movies, give it a chance in spite of KStew.  It's beautiful.

Robin Thicke :: Lost Without U 
Taking it back a bit here with this baby makin' jam.  Popped up on my shuffle the other day and took me back to college.  My old roomie and I used to rock out to this song in my car. Gosh it just never gets old for me.

The Lighthouse and the Whaler :: Under Mountain, Under Ground
My friend Creshea reminded me about this band.  She has good taste in music, guys! This is one of my faves by them, but check out the rest of their work.  You won't be disappointed.

The Neighbourhood :: Sweater Weather
This song is fitting right now, because it really is too cold for you here.

Goldroom :: Fifteen
This song makes me wish it were summer.  I think it's the synth that helps This remix is also good, if you're into that kind of thing. Oh, and Creshea also suggested this band too -we have good taste, get used to it.

Annnnd lastly, happy birthday to one of my favorite blogger friends, Kait. I hear Baltimore is throwing a Parade in her honor today..... Or maybe it was for the Super Bowl win... details, shmetails. 

Either way - HAPPPPPY BIRTHDAY! Eat cake for me!!!!!



Enjoy the music and hint of sunshine while it lasts!

<3 BB

So this weekend happened ...

There was a Super Bowl.

It was pretty cool, I guess.

I got to watch it with Jessi and Dan the Man, so that was lovely.  They have a projector in their living room, it bodes well for football watching. Plus, Dan made everyone bacon cheese burgers with smoked, cracked pepper crusted bacon, salivating just thinking about them.  Brad and I eat mostly turkey bacon, so it was quite a treat to have the stuff and top quality stuff at that.  Am I going into too much detail about bacon? Is there such thing as too much detail about bacon?  Life's toughest questions.

::This guy didn't even get thrown out.
::B. rocked it so hard she shut down the power, without even singing a single word.
::We got to listen to Ray Lewis, again.
::Kaepernick may have lost, but he still has his faith tattooed on him forever.
::And this guy was my vote for MVP.


But more importantly, guys, I bought a decorative tray for my our coffee table.

I didn't buy anything extra to go with it, just used what I had around the apartment, but I am liking how it is coming together.

I also finally set out some coffee table books on the coffee table, weird concept, I know. 

The tray was on sale at Pier 1 so I decided to pull the trigger.  It was harder than it sounds though, because there were a lot of options to choose from and I am not good at making decisions. I persevered and am happy with my selection.  Plus, if I change my mind I saved the receipt and can take it back, winning!  It does have a few minor cosmetic issues, hence it being 50% off, but I have some dark stain that I think will do the trick.  If not, I will say it is part of its rustic charm.  

Overall, this was a very productive weekend, my taxes are done - thanks Mom and Lyn! Hello, Refund!

Annnnd my hair got did. Speaking of, I have come to the conclusion that the guy who does my hair is just cooler than me.  You know how sometimes you meet people and they just have that vibe. The kind of vibe where you just feel cooler by being in their presence, but understand that they are on a higher level than you.  Emmanuel at One Creativity and Design definitely has that vibe - which if you are going to have someone do your hair, I think you want them to have that trait.

Anyway, quite a successful weekend, if  I do say so myself.

Now I have to get to pick up Bradley tonight at 9:30 way past my bedtime from the airport! Don't tell him, but I kind of missed him this past week.....but only a little, let's not get carried away here, people.


Cheers,

<3 BB

Hitting the Links :: Super Bowl and More Edition

Happy Friday! Happy February! Happy Weekend! Happy It's Almost Super Bowl! So much to be happy about! (Does anyone else sometimes just randomly try and say about with a Canadian accent or is that just me?!) Maybe I watch too much How I Met Your Mother. 

Also, with it being the beginning of February and all, when is the appropriate time to give up your Snowman mug?  My mom got it for me as a gift last year and I just love it. However, if someone wanted to get me a cute Valentines Day mug, I wouldn't complain and would put the snowman down.


Sorry, off topic... let's get to this week's awesome links:



How to do the Super Bowl like a betch. Host an after party viewing of Girls and Downton Abbey to cleanse your brain of beer and Middle America.

Speaking of Super Bowl. Here is your Hater's Guide to Ray Lewis.

Make this for game day.

Beyonce, you're a boss.

Jimmy Kimmel making a fool of people, yet again!

I love menswear, maybe even more than women's fashion and I love dogs. This may be the internet's perfect pairing.

Which Pride and Prejudice character are you?! 

This is the most precious thing you will see all week. I dare you to try and top it.

Going back to yesterday's post, how cute would these look on my coffee table?!

Lastly, let Macklemore and Ryan Lewis getting you jacked up and carry you into the weekend like it is for my coworker and I.


Happy Super Bowl Weekend!

<3 BB