Ellesse Jordan Tzinberg

3 Week Mark!

2011-08-08T12:02:00.000-07:00

After 3 weeks of eating clean, weight training with Joe L of Next Level Personal Trainer, motivation from Christy and Tina of Skinny fat fitness, cardio, yoga and surf/sup activities here are the slight changes

Some things Ive noticed- I actually struggle reaching my required caloric intake. Its kinda nice to think "I have to eat this egg salad!" rather than "I cant eat that". Ive also noticed some slight weight gain but I feel like this is muscle weight!

I do notice though the increase in ab definition (yay we're getting there). More shape to my body and is that a little bit of a butt?? I think so!! haha I wont get my hopes up but thought Id show you followers. Also this is the time where a lot of women and I feel like quitting. Why might you feel that? Well its because of that slight weight increase you will feel like going back to the starving calories but dont! Make sure you push through and stick with your program! It takes time a dedication! Just keep visualizing your transformed body!

Some Before Photos!

2011-08-08T10:56:00.000-07:00

Hello hello! So in my first post you all saw my "skinny fat" photos! You know- the ones with the collar bones, lack of curves and tone?

Well here are the photos after eating my necessary caloric intake... though pretty darn healthy i of course gained a little weight but still looked quite little. The one thing I noticed though was my lack of core definition and well any definition. Also I noticed I definitely need to attain some sort of a butt!! :P

So here are the pics from before my workout program began and in a few hours I will post my photos after 3 weeks of 3 times a week strength/weight training, 3 times a week cardio and yoga 3 times a week! Its been hard and there are days Ive just wanted to rest but Ive got to stick with it!!! :) along with these set workouts I also incorporate horse riding, surfin/SUPing, and dancing (zumba with Gabe at Culture Shock and Striptease dance with Anissa Eve).

What's for Dinner?

2011-08-03T10:33:00.000-07:00

Green Salad, Tri-color Pepper Quinoa, Basil Tilapia

Here's what I had for dinner last night! It was delicious and filled me up :-)

Calories: 300

Fat: 8mg

Protein: 23g

Carbs: 25g

Key thing to remember: easy on the dressing! There's so much flavor in all the other components of the dish you really dont need any dressing! But if you must use straight Balsamic vinegar (Trader Giotto's is pretty good :P)

Way back when...

2011-08-02T09:17:00.000-07:00

Hello readers!

Again it has been quite a while since my last post and have things seriously changed since then!

Where to start where to start... Yes modeling. So yes modeling is fun, luxurious and full of all the perks one imagines however what a lot of people aren't told or simply ignore are the difficulties and struggles it inflects on their members/victims. Granted there are several models out there or are blessed with a teeny tiny body and can put away a burger and friends without showing the slightest weight gain. However not all of us are like that and I found myself slowly being sucked in by the demand of what models should look like and what you need to look like to get jobs.

Id like to public say and share today that it became too much for me. I wasn't happy trying to balance school, riding and modeling while maintaining a figure that was unnatural for me and made me controlling and obsessive over my build. It was in may when I decided I couldn't continue on if I kept feeling the way I did. I felt unhealthy, I looked skinny yet because I wasn't getting the right amount of calorie intake I had no tone definition or muscles... it was fat and bones.

It bewilders me how that stick, lanky, hanger looking shape is so attractive in the industry however I must emphasize that its the girls who obviously are NOT meant to be that tiny are the ones who look sickly. I came to this realization when I saw a picture of me a few months back of myself and I could count the ribs on me and had arms smaller that my shoulder joints. I looked strange. I looked like a bobble head. and I certainly did not look sexy at all (from a guys perspective lol)

At that point I decided it had stop and I wanted to reshape and change my body. I wanted sufficient food intake that was wholesome and clean. I wanted a body where I had muscle definition, abs, back muscles and actually had a bust and a booty. I wanted to be able to workout and not feel like fainting within 20 minutes. I needed this change.

I have to say that it was not easy! The first thing I had to change was my eating. I needed to learn to be okay with putting calories in my body that was healthy and clean. I needed to be okay with it. I had to vamp up my metabolism which would only come from eating more. This was my first step. Thought this step made me feel immediately better, stronger and happier- it came with gain. My body wasn't used to the amount of food going in it naturally reacted with some additional pounds (lbs that i needed tho). This caused some anxiety and panic attacks but I stuck it out and tried not to have many relapse days.

I then began a fitness regime on my own and discover how much I actually enjoyed it when I wasn't dropping to the ground from lack of fuel. This was my next stage- I wanted to be able to teach others how to workout and give them the strength and support to break a bad habit and start the good habit of working out. So... there began my fitness cert and teaching.

It is now August 2nd, Yes according to the scale I am heavier. Yes that freaks me out and scares. And No I am not quitting and sooner than later I will look ridiculously good. Ok maybe not that intense but this whole obsession with the scale thing is just stupid! For me, its the aesthetics, the muscle tone and the body fat numbers that matter more. Oh and what about the fact that I feel better each day than before and am getting more attention from both women and actually men now! Maybe its because I dont look like I'll snap in a second and now i have some curves.

I have been training with Joe L, Trainer of the girls of "From Skinny Fat to Skinny Fit" for a week now and this is the next step of my transformation! Ive also been doing yoga at Corepower (Chelsea and Melissa G are my favs at Pt Loma), some Pure Barre Classes as well as Saturday TRX circuit class at Aire Urban Fitness with Mike Sherbakov Getting in amazing shape and feeling confident again in a body that Ive worked hard for, is strong and can kick some a** in, and is healthy! Throughout this transformation I will post progress photos as well as before and after kinda stuff, recipes, workouts, etc etc. I contemplated this for a while but I want to share my change and transformation with all you out there so that maybe... just maybe... I change a couple skeptics and prove that transformations do happen and being healthy and strong will not only bring a positive vibe to your life but will make you a healthier happier individual.

Thanks you for reading my story and for supporting me all this time. I hope to bring a positive change and perhaps bring some of you along the transformation ride! Share this with some one you know or that will enjoy this and feel free to comment or send me messages.

Take care. namaste.

GONE BANANAS!

2011-04-12T09:26:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! So this is a little bit of a last minute post but Ive been asked a lot for so many of my banana recipes I thought instead of sending multiple different emails I thought why not share them with everyone!

Bananas are a fruit that have such mixed opinions about. Some people love bananas and think its the most healthy thing in the world, some people hate how it kinda isnt. But here are some healthy ways to use those bananas you have sitting on your kitchen counter :)

YUMMY Ice-cream alternative! (Vegan, dairy free, gluten free!)
- 1 frozen banana

Put an over-ripe (browning) banana in the freezer. Remove from freezer. Peel, chop, put in food processor and pulse until it becomes a custard like consistency. Its a yummy treat and you can top it with various things like nuts, choc chips, honey, go crazy and experiment! Let me know how it goes!

Low Fat, Healthy, Banana Bread!

3/4 cup Stevie Baking Sweetener (its all natural unlike splenda)
3/4 cup flax seed meal or Peanut flour (available at Trader Joes)
5 ripe bananas, mashed
1/4 cup skim milk or fat free or almond milk or 1/3 cup unsweetened apple sauce
1/4 cup fat free sour cream
2 teaspoons egg whites (like Lucerne Organic egg whites or egg beaters whites)
2 cups whole wheat pastry flour or you can use a multigrain flour like TJs multigrain baking flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
How ever much Cinnamon you'd like to add and a pinch of nutmeg

Raw Cupcakes (courtesy of Raw Star Desserts) Serves 2-3

Ingredients for “dough”2 large organic bananas
1 1/2 c. organic pre-ground flaxseeds
3 to 4 Tbsp. coconut nectar or Blue agave nectar

Ingredients for toppings (optional)
coconut nectar
coconut oil
carob powder
cinnamon
pistachio nuts
goji berries
fruit and nuts of your choice

For the “dough,” peel bananas and mash them with a fork in a large mixing bowl. Pour flaxseeds into the bananas and mix until evenly coated, adjusting the amount of flaxseeds for the desired firmness of the cupcakes. (As flaxseeds are absorbed into the bananas, the mixture will firm up. Depending on the size of the bananas used, adjust accordingly.)

Put the “dough” into fancy gold or paper cupcake cups, then embellish with your favorite toppings, such as coconut nectar or raw chocolate sauce. Add “sprinkles” (optional) such as chopped pistachio nuts and goji berries.

To make donuts, shape the “dough” into balls, poke a hole in the middle, and flatten slightly with your hands. For a glazed donut, drizzle coconut nectar, coat lightly with coconut oil, then drizzle a little more coconut nectar. For a chocolate donut, mix carob powder with coconut nectar to make “chocolate sauce.” Add a little water to make it glossier and lighter, then drizzle or coat the coconut. For a cinnamon donut, lightly drizzle with coconut nectar and sprinkle cinnamon on top.

To make chocolate cake, add 4 to 6 Tbsp. of carob powder to the “dough,” adjusting for taste. Grease a medium cake pan or two small cake pans with coconut oil. Press the dough into the cake, then flip onto a serving dish. Use the same “chocolate sauce” as the chocolate donut to frost the cake. Garnish with fresh berries, your favorite fruit, or chopped nuts. Sprinkle with cinnamon.

Some photos from my trip!

2011-03-31T11:36:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos from my trip in Asia! Check them out and the next time you want to getaway- think about Asia!!

Amazing Thai version of Pancakes! My favorite was the banana with Peanut butter, and the condensed milk with sugar!

This is the condensed milk with sugar

My hotel view

out of control excited

I wanted to smuggle him in my purse and run!!

At the elephant sanctuary!

Attempting a balancing act

helping out at Riders Lodge and teaching little Anabelle some balance skills :)

I fell in love with Pad Thai on PhiPhi Island- I went to every restaurant and tried it so id find the best one! Here is a little (well kinda complicated) recipe to make pad thai at home! Totally worth it!

Pad Thai Recipe
Good for 1 to 2 people

Pad Thai sauce ingredients: (You can always go to the ethnic section of your grocery store and buy Thai Kitchen's Pad thai sauce in the jar)
4 cloves of minced garlic
½ cup of palm sugar
1 ½ tbl. white sugar
1/3 cup of fish sauce
½ cup of tamarind juice concentrate

Pad Thai noodle stir fry ingredients:Dried rice stick noodles – ¼ of the package
1 egg
4 cloves of garlic, chopped
6 tbl. of vegetable oil
¼ cup of red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup of bean sprouts
1 cup of carrots, sticks
¼ cup of green onion cut diagonal in ½ inch segments
¼ cup of cilantro
1 ½ cups of either thinly sliced chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu (I like tofu)
¼ cup of toasted peanuts chopped.
Lime wedge

To make pad thai sauce, heat a small pan on medium low and add fish sauce, palm and white sugar, tamarind concentrate, and garlic. Cook sauce until palm sugar has completely dissolve. To make it more spicy add a little Thai chili powder. Remove from heat and allow to cool 10 minutes before storing it in a jar or plastic container.

To Stir fry the noodles,
Boil noodles for 4-5 minutes and drain immediately rinsing with cold water for a few seconds. Noodles should be slightly firmer than Al dente. Using kitchen scissors, cut the noodle clump in half. This will make it easier to fry and eat. Heat 3 tbls. oil in a wok or frying pan on high and cook raw chicken, pork, beef, tofu or shrimp for 3-4 minutes. Remove meat/tofu/seafood into a small bowl. Heat up 3 tbls. of oil and then add garlic and red onions to the hot pan and stir fry for 1 minute stirring the garlic mixture (careful not to burn). Add noodles and stir for 1 minute. Add 3-4 tbls. Of Pad Thai sauce continually stirring noodle mixture until well coated with sauce. Add cooked meat/tofu/seafood back and fry for 2-3 minutes. Move the noodle and meat mixture to one side of the pan and crack an egg on the other side. Scramble the egg with a wooden spoon and cook for 30 seconds. Add carrots, green onions, and sprouts and cook for one more minute frying everything together. Test the firmness of the noodle. If the noodle is too firm, fry for an additional minute. If your noodles need more flavor, add another tbl. of sauce and fry another half minute. Remove from heat and serve. Top with remaining raw carrot match sticks, spouts, cilantro, toasted peanuts, and a wedge of lime.

There you have it! You'll feel like you're in Thailand! :)

MIA I know :( But BACK! :)

2011-03-31T11:20:00.000-07:00

It's been too long and I have much to share!!

Where to begin? Im guessing from the statrt? Chronologicall? Where I left of last? So the last I posted I was in beautiful Malaysia! Well I did a shoot for an editorial spread (14 pages!!) for the fabulous InTrend Magazine!! Check out a few of the pictures from these tearsheets! :)

Like them? Well to match all these bright spring colors, here's a fun colorful recipe for a delicious spring salsa! Ive been putting this on top of grilled salmon, veggie sandwiches and dipping chips in it! Delish!

Spring Salsa!

- 1/2 pineapple, cored, peeled, sliced in about 1/4 inch rings

-1 mango, peeled and pitted and chopped in little cubes

-1/2 red bell pepper chopped

-1/2 red onion chopped

-3 tbsps chopped cilantro leaves

-3 tbsps olive oil

-1 tbsp peeled minced fresh ginger

-about 1 jalapeno (your choice of heat) chopped

- juice of 1 or 2 limes

- salt and pepper to taste

- sprinkle of cayenne pepper

1) Grill the pineapple rings on both side, transfer to chopping board a chop

2) In a bowl, combine all ingredients well but turning gently (you dont want squash the flavors, you want to infuse!)

Voila! How simple! Your done and are looking at a colorful delicious salsa! Dig in!! :) This can be kept for about 2 to 3 days too :)

Look out for lots and lost of more posts! :)

Hello from Asia!

2011-01-11T08:43:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! So it has been quite some time since anything has been posted here but travels have been going well and I have some great photos and experiences to share!

Landed first in beautiful and of course familiar Malaysia (KLIA)! Greener than ever, I was thankful to finally be with my parents after such a long time apart! I was also thankful to be in close reach of the irreplaceable local Malay food! Within hours of arriving home, we headed for a wonderful restaurant in the Bangsar Village area called Chawan for some great local delights. It wasnt long till I was delighted with the fresh aromas of Malaysian food and spices, greatly pleasing my eager senses. Id been craving these feelings for a long long time!

Nasi Lemak! yummm!

Later in the week, after adjusting and adapting to the country change, it was time I gave my body a little TLC and treat. As a Christmas gift, my mother gave RJ and I the "Ok" to enjoy Hammam Baths and the exotic treatments they have to offer. We went for the classic Hammam and Gommage with the extra Henna for a smooth, hydrated complexion. If you have no idea about what Im going on about, its basically an intense bath, mud, scrub, rinse, hydrate process that originated in Morocco for royalty (they say it was a favorite of Cleopatra herself :P). My skin was unbelievably smooth, radiant and glowing after the experience and we were able to relax in the lounge like chairs, sip tea and savor a sweet baklava treat. I definitely recommend this to everyone (both men and women), its an experience well worth it and effective! Go to www.hammambaths.com to find out more information on prices and the services they offer!

Upcoming in the agenda: a trip to the comfortable and fun Riders Lodge nestled in the jungle of Sedenak, Johor, New Years in Phi Phi Island Thailand, exciting singapore, more of KL and lots of exciting experiences to come!! :)

A success!

2010-12-21T09:11:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to let everyone know- the Cupcake etc Event was a SUCCESS!!

Thanks to everyone who purchased boxes and bags! I sold about 18 cupcake boxes and 30 chocolate chip cookie dough pop bags!!

Im very thankful for the kindness and heart those of you who helped with this cause, and I hope that you all enjoyed your little treats of yumminess!!

Till the next Cupcakes etc Event!! Thank you all!

My Favorite Fitness Gifts to Give!

2010-12-18T13:47:00.000-08:00

Today I've compiled my selection of my favorites gifts for the holiday season! There's something for everyone in this list at every price! Click on the links to get one for yourself to give our simply enjoy on your own! :)

The Fitness Gal:

a) Fitness tone ball!! These bouncy balls are great for home workouts or even any workout at the park, beach, hotel room, etc! The places are endless! This is a great idea for a fitness girl especially if going to a gym or fitness facility isn't convenient. These balls are great for core workouts, balance training and yoga/pilates series! Personally, I always incorporate this piece of equipment into my workouts! Best thing too is it isn't expensive at all!

Here's a wonderful, reliable and good priced ball: Tone Fitness 65cm Anti-burst Stability Ball

b) Yogi Gifts! Yoga and pilates themed gifts are great options for the women in your life! Listed below are some of my favorite place to get yoga and pilates gifts for myself and others! :)

Splits59 Apparel- its comfortable, great to workout in (no matter what type of workout), and it looks awesome so you can go from work to workout without changing!
Wai Lana Yogi Bars- Delicious so good for you bars that have an awesome zen vibe to them!
Toe Soxs- NOT JUST ORDINARY TOE SOX these are awareness toesox which is always so so so much better! These socks are perfect for pilates as they have little rubber dots on the soles of the socks making foot work and reformer work more effective and less slipy slidey!

For both Men and Women:

Hot Body Pilates DVD! Buy this Pilates based workout on DVD by Hot body pilates and you'll get to workout with head instructor Kloey Hanson as she shows you how to get that Hot Body! RJ and I tried out the DVD and we're not only hooked on it, but sore and sweaty every time we do this revolutionary, one of a kind workout! Get it here on amazon or go to the Hot Body Website!

The Fitness Guy:

a) Water-proof Headphones! These "mi sport" headphones are almost too good to be true! They're super hi-tech, waterproof headphones that resist sweat and you can even swim in them! Click on the link to see these amazing headphones!

b) Vapur water! This is a new concept of drinking bottle. Its no so much a bottle, more like a flat bag/pouch! It stores way more convenient and you're helping the environment! They come in all different sizes and the brand even is helping the UNICEF tap project! Sounds like a good deal to me! Click on the link to see this new concept!

c) Leather Jump Rope! A take anywhere you go, anytime workout equipment that is not only one of the best cardio exercises to do but also can be done anywhere! There's several types out there even ones with weights in the handles! Try walmart, target or any sports store and you'll find a variety at all sorts of prices! Click on the link to go to Everlast's leather weighted jump rope!

For the Equestrian Athlete:

The classic GPA

a) The GPA Helmet! My own choice for a helmet, this gift says to your equestrian athlete "I care about you safety". One of the safest, most reliable and best looking helmet- the GPA is sold in every tack shop and online store for a reason! Its a great gift for the equestrian athlete in your life! My favorite design is the titanium but the speed air is a great one too! Here is a link to where it's sold in San diego, CA----> Mary's Tack

The Titanium

The GPA Speed Air

b) Equestrian Themed Gifts! Back in the Saddle is a great website for finding the cutest gifts for equestrians! Check it out here!

"Cupcakes Etc" for Charity!

2010-12-16T15:13:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! So this Christmas who wouldn't want 1) some treats 2) to put a smile on a child's face?!?!?!

Well this Xmas you can purchase a Cupcake box of 4 cupcakes ($4.00) OR a Cookie dough Pop bag of 4 pops ($3.00) and all of the money collect is going to St Germain Children's Home! These Kids will smile because your donations and Ill of course be whipping up treats for them too :)

So feel free to email me ellesset@yahoo.com IF you live in the city of SD area for your purchase of treats!! Here's the description from the event on facebook for more info!

"From today until sunday purchase one of my Cupcake Boxes or cookie pops as a xmas treat or maybe as a study buddy for finals and every penny you pay for it is going to a wonderful children's charity! (if you came to the thanksgiving dinner event its the same children's home for abused and neglected children!!)

The Options!

Cupcake Option ($4.00 for a box of 4 good size cupcakes!)- A box of 4 cupcakes! Choose out of these flavors- you can mix it up, 2 by 2 it or have all four the same flavor!

a)Roasted Banana w/ honey cinnamon cream cheese frosting
b)Banana chocolate chip w/ Peanut butter frosting
c) Vanilla Peppermint w/ peppermint butter cream frosting
d) Chocolate peppermint w/chocolate peppermint ganache
e) Peanut butter filled Chocolate w/ peanut butter frosting

Cookie Dough Pops option ($3.00 for a bag of 4 bigger than bite-size pops)- A bag of cookie dough pops covered in a shell of milk chocolate! (Think cookie dough on a stick) Dont worry- the way i make it there is no egg what so ever so you are not in danger!

how to order and help the charity!

1) Decide on what you'd like to treat yourself to
2) Facebook message or email me your request/order to ellesset@yahoo.com
3) Include in your message the option, the flavor and where to you'd like these delivered!

Delivery Info: Keep in mind I cant ship or drive these wherever but If its in the city of san diego area and I can get to eat within 40 minutes you got your self some yummies!

4) Wait from 2 to no more than 24 hours for your treats to arrive to ya!
5) Receive your treats, pay with cash, and nom nom nom the rest!

Hope to hear from you all soon! This is going on Today until Sunday (Last delivery is Sunday evening)! Email me if you have questions!

Thanks from yours truly as well as thanks from the kids at St Germain!"

My Favorite Holiday Song Right Now!!

2010-12-15T10:58:00.000-08:00

So Im absolutely in love with this holiday song right now! I fell in love with this song when one day I was feeling a little low... sad... tired... and all of a sudden this song came on while listening to Pandora.... I immediately perked up! Toes began to tap... head began swinging and within the first minute I was on my feet twirling round my room to the songs fun, lively, happy beat!! Please enjoy! :) I hope it has the same effect on you all! :)

Fox 5 News Spice Up Your giftlist! :P

2010-12-14T12:23:00.000-08:00

I KNOW THE SHOES TOTALLY DONT MATCH RIGHT!!

So... this isnt something you probably see every year around christmas time but hey the story has a point! lol Check out this clip and enjoy the gifts I guess haha

Holiday Posts!

2010-12-13T11:33:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!

So asides being BOMBARDED with final exams, projects, etc etc etc... Ive been great! :P I want to let you all know that during the next week or so up to New Years I will be posting Holiday posts! (YAY holidays!)

Now what are holiday posts? Well they can be anything holiday related!! I'll holiday recipes! Holiday gift suggestions! Holiday workouts to burn the holiday recipes! Holiday pictures! Ideas! and of course- I'll keep you updated on my travels of where I am the next month!

This is going to be an exciting holiday and Im so glad you all are having fun with me!

SO KEEP ON COMING AND CHECKING BACK FOR MORE HOLIDAY POSTS!!!

New Jan Kaar Images! :)

2010-12-06T21:56:00.000-08:00

Check out these new shots photographed by Jan Kaar!

The Warmth of a Vanilla Chai Cupcake...

2010-12-03T11:54:00.000-08:00

If you've never smelt the wonders of freshly ground chai spices (a blend of several different spices) then oh man you are missing out. Try this recipe on a cool chilly day or on a day where you're in need of just that little but more warmth. You can find all the spices at your local Henry's market, whole foods, or organic store. :)

Vanilla Chai Cupcakes

The Chai Spice Mix
-1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
-1 1/2 tsp. ground cardamom
-1/2 tsp ground ginger
-1/4 tsp ground cloves
-1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

What you need for the cupcakes:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
- 3 tsp chai spice mix
- 1 1/4 cups flour, sifted
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp apple cider vinegar

What you need for the Buttercream
- 1 cup butter
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 2 cups powdered sugar sifted
- chai spice mix (add the amount you'd like :P)
- 1 tbsp cold milk (add for desired consistency)

What to do:
In a small bowl combine the chai spice mix and set aside.
Cream the butter and sugar. Add the vanilla and beat in the eggs one a time. Stir in 2 tsp of the spice mix. Fold in the flour and buttermilk alternately and stir until combined. Dont over work your batter! Mic together the baking soda and vinegar in a separate bowl, then add it to the batter and mix until combined.

Spoon into prepared muffin cups 3/4 full. Bake in a 325 degrees oven for 15-20 minutes.

Buttercream:

Beat the butter until creamy. On low speed, mix in the vanilla and chai spice. Slowly beat in powdered sugar about 1/2 to 1 cup at a time. If your frosting is too thick add a little bit of milk to thin it. Then pipe the frosting on the cooled cupcakes and sift powdered sugar for a nice touch :)

Easy, shortcut Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes!

2010-11-30T15:25:00.000-08:00

A wonderful treat for the holidays!

So you're rushing and trying to throw together a dinner party for the holidays and after putting all your time, energy and heart into the turkey, ham, potatoes and casserole, you're falling short on passion and energy for dessert! Well do not be afraid! Here's a quick easy recipe for DELICIOUS Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with a yummy honey cinnamon cream cheese frosting!

Here it is!

What you need:

-A box of Spice Cake mic (I like the Duncan Hines Deluxe Spice Cake!)

-1 can on pumpkin puree (Try Libbys or Trader Joes Organic Pumpkin)- Dont use pumpkin pie filling!

-3 large eggs (or egg substitute)

-1/3 cup vegetable oil (or you can do what I did and do half of the 1/3 applesauce and half vegetable oil

-1/3 cup water

-1/2 tsp cinnamon

-1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

What to do:

Preheat oven 350, grease muffin cups.

Blend all ingredients together using an electric mixer until just combined, careful not to overwork your batter.

Pour into muffin cups 3/4 full.

Bake for 18-22 minutes. Check after 18 minutes with a toothpick- if comes out clean theyre ready! Its better to under cook than overcook!

COOL before frosting!

FROSTING!! Yummm...

What you need:
-1/2 cup butter
-5 oz cream cheese
-1-2 tsp cinnamon
-1-2 tbsp honey
-2-4 cups powdered sugar
-1-2 tbsp milk (for texture)

What to do:
Cream together the butter and cream cheese. Add the cinnamon and honey. Beat in the powder sugar and milk adding the sugar slowly until desired texture! :) Use the star tip of a icing/frosting tool to create those pro looking frosted tops! I also sprinkled some festive sugar sprinkles for the holidays :)

Hope you enjoy this cupcake as much as i did!! :)
xoxo

Some new pics of me from work!

2010-11-21T21:04:00.000-08:00

Photographer: Jeff Gotlieb!

More to come! :)

Photographer: Dove Shore

A delicious and successful dinner it was!

2010-11-21T20:39:00.000-08:00

Well what a wonderful weekend I had! :) Spent the entire Friday whipping up some delicious thanksgiving recipes for the Fundraising dinner friday night! Cooked several dishes and had such a blast doing so!

Yes there was a little drama though- when we tried to transfer the food to the event room we were unpleasantly surprised by the fact that management had locked the room!! They forgot to tell late night maintenance! :( Luckily... I managed to track down emergency maintenance and phew he had the magic key to open the doors!! Thank the lord! I wasn't sure how I could fit the amount of people into my own living/dining room! :S

Anyway... here are some pictures I managed to take of the food! Could only take a couple coz people were diving in so fast into the food!!! Scroll down to see some of the favorite dishes of the night and the recipes (as a lot of people have requested them)!

Thanks to all who attended and made the night so wonderful! Also thank you to all who donated to St Germaine Childrens Charity- you have made some San Diego children extremely happy and thankful! Will be going out there again soon and will take some photos! :)

Thanks!!

So in this picture you see the pumpkin spice cupcakes w/ cream cheese frosting, pumpkin pie (courtesy of Michael Fox), the stuffing cups and mac & cheese cups, there are the yams, cranberry sauce, and gooey pumpkin pie butter cake bars! :)

In this picture to the right you see the cornbread muffins in a basket, the honey glazed turkey, the gravy, the sides tray (cream corn, mac & cheese, whiskey glazed carrots), next to that is the orange honey glazed ham, the rosemary sage stuffing, then theres the favorite bacon chives mash potatoes, and finally the gravy! :)

The Cupcakes get their close up! :P

RECIPES

Bacon Chives Mashed Potatoes (4-6 servings)

What you need!
- 4 golden yukon potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
- 1 3/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 heavy cream
- 4 tbsp sweet cream butter
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 8 slices of bacon cooked really crispy and then crumbled by crunchy them in a paper towel in your hands (draws excess oils and fat)
- 1/2 lb sharp cheddar cheese
- handful of gruyere cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives

What to do!
- Place potatoes and salt in heavy 4-quart sauce pan and cover with water by 1-inch. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, cook until potatoes are tender when touched by a fork. (about 20 minutes.) Drain and return to cooking pot. Add the cream, butter, remaining salt, pepper and place pan over medium low heat and mash with a masher to incorporate ingredients beware not to over mash- be gentle, you want a light fluffy texture. Add the bacon, cheese, sour cream and chives and stir thoroughly until nicely combined. Season to taste with italian herbs, paprika or some garlic powder! (I used all of those! :P) Serve warmed and enjoy!!

More recipes to come of the TURKEY and an easy, extremely quick version of the pumpkin spice babycakes!! :)

Thanksgiving- a time for thanks

2010-11-15T23:56:00.000-08:00

SO thanksgiving is coming up and I just wanted to let everyone know what Im doing to help a wonderful charity called the St. Germaine Children's Charity. For more info on this kind place and their mission click on the link.

Thanksgiving is a time for thanks; to be thankful of your family, your religion, your faith, your opportunities, your friends, your health and the wonders we are blessed with each day. However there are some out there who are ever so thankful for the things they have but in reality are victims of others rage and disrespect. These victims at the St Germaine Children's Charity are as young as newly borns and as old as 18. They are bright, smiling, thankful children whom are heroes to us all and particularly me, for being strong and surviving some of the most unforgiving, hurtful acts of abuse.

On Friday 19th of November 2010, I will be hosting a fully home-cooked Thanksgiving meal of about 10 or more dishes (incl. turkey, ham, potatoes etc) for several people within San Diego Community who have dedicated their time and kind donations to the Charity. I will be collecting donations at the dinner for the charity and donating it the following morning where, unlike most charities, the centre in la jolla will put the money straight into benefiting the children (and not into administration).

In a way its yummy food and drinks and fun for donation! Some may ask- well why dont you just give the money you'd spend on the food to the children? Well its not just a dinner, its a gathering of friends who are far from their families. Its a gathering of kind people willing to give their time and money to a wonderful charity. And hopefully because of the generosity of many of the dinner guests, we will collect more than the money spent on dinner! :)

If you'd like more information on how to donate please email me at ellesset@yahoo.com or paypal it to that email! It is a wonderful charity for unlucky but heroic children! Please find it in your heart to not only be thankful for your blessings but be thankful for the strength of these children and for your capability to be able to help these children today!

busy busy bee

2010-11-15T11:58:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone! So asides trying to cope with the crash of work that my University has bombarded us with, Ive been shooting quite a bit too!! :)

Here is a behind the scene picture from Wunder Management's shoot with Jan Kaar! :) Make up by the beautiful Nikki Star :P

Also! The next day was more excitement! Shot for BVIKA Swimwear and Runway Icon's feature spread! Dont have all the pictures yet but check out these!! Photo:Runway Icon!

Some new pics!

2010-11-08T22:55:00.000-08:00

Some new pics! Fantastic Photographer: Ben Duarte. Make Up & Hair: Jodi (I absolutely loved the make up she did!)

Hope you all like these :)

Seventeen Editorial Images!

2010-11-05T10:48:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!! Just got a glimpse of some of the pics from my Prom Seventeen shoot!! Dont forget to grab the Seventeen Prom issue on newsstands christmas eve!! :) Hope you like them! :)

Behind the Scenes Jeff G Shoot

2010-11-04T22:49:00.000-07:00

Check out this behind the scenes video of my shoot with photographer Jeff Gottlieb! Keep an eye put for the upcoming post of pictures!! :)

Tearsheets from Apparel Magazine/news!!

2010-11-03T12:04:00.000-07:00

Check out my pictures in Apparel News! :)

Bottom left corner! :P

Bottom

Top left!

Bottom left!

Nasi Lemak Twist

2010-11-01T23:14:00.000-07:00

If you dont know already, I grew up in the beautiful, always sunny Malaysia (in SEA). Something that I really miss from home is the famous much loved Nasi Lemak for breakfast (or any time of the day!). So even though i was very limited on ingredient available to me here in the US I tried out this recipe! Everyone loved it and it was super easy to make as a lot of the stuff is found in stores!

For the Rice!
- Jasmine rice
- Coconut milk
- Salt

Cook rice as direction on bag say except instead of using water, use coconut milk! mmm it'll smell amazing!

For the Sambal!
- Sambal Olek (found in most groceries)
- Roland Red Curry paste

Mix together 2 part paste 1 part sambal olek

For the Egg!
- One egg

Crack the egg, flip egg and poke the yolk with you spatula, put on plate after about 10 seconds (you want the yolk to be firm but still run when you cut through it

For the Chicken Curry!
So this time since I was running short on time and unable to get to a store with the right type of ingredients for authentic homecooked curry I went for the quick store bought option.
- Quality Red curry sauce (Rolands is pretty good and its a product of malaysia! :P)
- 1 tbsp Garlic
- 3/4 cup Onions diced
- 2 Potatoes (i used russet) sliced
- Carrots- sliced
- 1 1/2 tsp Red curry paste or curry powder
- Chicken fillets or a half a chicken or if vegetarian add more vegetables like eggplant, green beans, peppers etc.

In a pan, heat vegetable oil, toss garlic and onions in until golden brown.
Put potatoes and carrots in pan and chicken.
Cover with pan top until chicken is pretty much cooked through.
Add red curry paste or curry powder & stir.
Add the sauce and let simmer for about 8 minutes or until chicken and vegetables are cooked through. If the curry is too hot/spicy add coconut milk or regular milk (it has a cooling effect)

Finally, once you plate everything, serve it with sliced banana so that if things get a little too spicy the banana is there to cool things down!

So there you have it! My quick fix, make do with what you got, Malaysian Nasi Lemak- It was a hit here!! :)

Kelly Nishimoto's 5th Anniversary Event!

2010-10-29T22:06:00.000-07:00

WHAT A NIGHT!

Call time was 5pm and it was straight into hair and makeup!! Check out these pics from Kelly's Show and see her demure, classy, cofortable, glamourous, Couture, collection! The clothes were so amazing she even gave us pants from her Cute booty collection and a Kelly Tank! SO cute Im wearing it so much now! lol

Thanks to Runway Icon for there pics!

Hmm anyone remember him from power ranger days?? :P

Wunder models walk for Kelly Nishimoto

2010-10-29T21:54:00.000-07:00

some of my fav pics from Project Ethos! :)

2010-10-27T21:10:00.000-07:00

Hope you like these! It was such a wonderful event showcasing some amazing talent in the designer world!!

CardiWrap- First face and show opener :)

LAMIXX- first face! :)

2nd Outfit for LAMIXX! Thank you to the amazing designer Jacqueline for the opportunity!

BVIKA- Closing girl!! SO honored! :)

Look out for footage from Kelly Nishimoto's 5th Anniversary event show and pictures! :)

Project Ethos with Wunder Models

2010-10-27T02:23:00.000-07:00

Check out this video I made! Excuse the lack of light! First time using the flip and realized there's no flash! Hope you like it! More pics from Project Ethos coming soon! Plus footage from KELLY NISHIMOTO'S 5th ANNIVERSARY EVENT AND RUNWAY SHOW! (I Opened the show/was first face!!)

Keep coming back everyone! Ive got lots to post!! :)

XOXO

More New Stuff!

2010-10-24T22:34:00.000-07:00

OUT NOW! The Spring 2011 Bailey Blue Clothing collection is showing online on their website www.baileyblueclothing.com! See me as their main model for spring 2011 in their fun, flirty, for every girl, clothes! Thanks to Nico (photographer) and Jackie (designer) for such an amazing day! :)

Go online www.baileyblueclothing.com

Also... Look out for Seventeen Magazine's Prom Issue- OUT ON STANDS CHRISTMAS EVE! Check out me editorial with Windsor Clothing shot by the amazingly talented Celeste!

Here are some sneak peeks in the meantime :)

Travie McCoy Music Video Premiered on Top 20!!

2010-10-21T12:00:00.000-07:00

Here's the link! Check out Travie's new video for his song Need You! Watch me be his loooove interest and enjoy the wonderful scenes from iconic downtown chinatown (LA). Hope you like it!! :)

Travie McCoy "Need You" Official Music Video! CLICK ME!

LA FASHION WEEKEND SS 2011

2010-10-20T11:18:00.000-07:00

What an amaaazing weekend! Fabulous shows! Fabulous Designers! Fabulous parties! Fabulous Venue too- Sunset Gower Studios!

Im absolutely blessed and so thankful that THE Mikey Koffman gave me the oppurtunity to walk the shows :) I cant thank her enough!

All the models were absolutely stunning and all such sweet girls! Really learnt a lot from each of them and made some wonderful friends.

Check out these photos from the show! Wish you all were there too!

Some online articles:

http://www.disarraymagazine.com/2010/10/la-fashion-weekend-wrap-up-day-1.html
http://www.disarraymagazine.com/2010/10/la-fashion-weekend-daytime-review-day-2.html

Back & blogging!

2010-10-18T20:38:00.000-07:00

Hey all!!

So i haven't blogged in what seems like forever but... im making it up to you by first this awesome video of the KTLA segment of LA fashion weekend Eco show.

Check it out and tell me what you think! I hope you guys like it! Keep checking back coz' i'll be uploading photos from the runway and backstage!! :)

KTLA ECO SHOW VIDEO! CLICK HERE!

Skip the Starbucks stop today!

2010-10-10T12:14:00.000-07:00

While dealing with this temper-mental weather conditions here in southern california, one day Im craving some warm soup and bread then the next day Im needing something cold and icy!

This weekend is a warm one and much appreciated- especially after all the heavy downpour and chilly temperatures last week! So of what am I craving? Something cold... icy... perhaps a little chunky?

Try this delicious "Mocha chip banana Crush" and skip the Starbucks stop today!

What you need! (for 1 serving)
- 3/4 cup milk (be healthy and use 1% or even better use almond milk!b)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsps granulated sugar (be a healthy super star and use stevia instead or 1 tbsp agave sweetener!)
- 3 tbsps mocha flavored instant coffee mix (get creative! try different types, flavors etc. Or if you dont have instant mocha use instant coffee and cocoa powder like Hershey's!)
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (be healthy again and use carob chips instead!)
- 1 whole banana
- 1 cup ice

What to do!
Put all ingredients in a blender and blend and ta daa... there you have it!
Pour the mocha deliciousness into a glass, decorate it with some classic whip cream, mini chocolate chips and a curly straw and you'll be sippin' n smilin'!

KTLA & La Fashion Weekend!

2010-10-08T21:06:00.000-07:00

Hi hi hi everyone!

So... wunderful news! I booked fashion week spring/summer 2011 and will be walking the runway from Oct 15-17th! Produced by Mikey of The Gallery LA, the show will be 3 days of fabulous designers, parties, launches and amazing music! Here's the link for LA fashion weeks website ---> http://losangelesfw.com/

Also, if your in the LA area, catch jessica and I on KTLA next week promoting the Fashion weekend along with other beautiful models from the show, Mikey and some of the amazing designers that will be showcasing their collections! It should also be online at some point :)...

It truly will be a spectacular event and Im so excited to be a part of the event and to be given the opportunity to represent the designers! :) Thank you thank you thank you :)

Here's some photos from the early morning we filmed for KTLA! Call time was 5:45am! I left San diego at 3:30.... at least there was no traffic! :)

Mikey and her angels! :)

The beautiful Jessica Serfaty

Wonder what Wunder is up to...

2010-10-06T22:03:00.000-07:00

Hey all!

Just a little shout out! Wunder management has a blog where they post what all their models are starring in and what we're all up to in the media world! Go to http://wundermanagement.blogspot.com/ to see me and all the other wunder girls!

In the recent posts they share some of the stuff Ive been working in on :) Check it out!! :)
http://wundermanagement.blogspot.com/

Barking Birthday!

2010-10-05T14:37:00.000-07:00

So many reasons to celebrate! Life, friends, family, opportunities, success and.... My pup Coco's birthday! So I thought what a great excuse to bake a cake! I also just so happened had 4 over-ripe bananas sitting on my kitchen counter so I decided to do (no not banana bread or banana muffins or cupcakes) ........ ----->

Banana chocolate chip birthday cake! :P

What you need:

-1 1/2 cups bananas, mashed

-2 tsps lemon juics

-3 cups flour

-1 1/2 tsps baking soda

-1/4 tsp salt

-3/4 cup butter softened

- about 2 cups of sugar (2 and 1/8)

- 3 large eggs

-2 tsps vanilla

-1 1/2 cups buttermilk (if you dont have butter milk, add some lemon to milk and you'll be fine :P)

Topping- Brown sugar and cinnamon

What to do!

Preheat oven 275F (yes 275!)

Grease and flour a 9x13 pan

In a small bowl, mash bananas with the lemon juice, set aside.

In a medium bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt, set aside

In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time.

Stir in vanilla. Beat in the flour mixture alternately with the buttermilk to make sure texture stays smooth.

Stir in banana mix. Fold in chocolate chips.

Mix brown sugar and cinnamon (you wanna have more sugar than cinnamon)

Pour in pan, sprinkle sugar cinnamon mix and bake for one hour/just over an hour. Keep checking at that hour point with a toothpick if it comes out clean.

Remove from oven and immediately place in the freezer for 45 minutes. This makes the cake suuuper moist! Remove from oven and cut a little slice of banana chocolate chip heaven! :)

TIP: try a cream cheese frosting or chocolate frosting on this!

In oven!

In freezer- don't skip this part!

All done! The cake was moist and banana-ey and the chocolate chips added a chunk bite once they cooled! Great with ice cream (perhaps cinnamon ice cream? it is a birthday after all :P)

Behind the Scenes photos with Travie McCoy

2010-10-04T00:01:00.000-07:00

Check out some photos from the shoot for Travie Mc Coy's new video Need You! These were taken at 6:50 am roughly so excuse the tired faces lol

Taking it easy

2010-10-02T09:34:00.000-07:00

SO have had a pretty easy week this past week. After such a wild week of shows and filming it was nice to turn my attention to school for a bit. I got to experiment too with some fun foods!

Here is the first I tried and loved-

Crunchy Oven baked fries/chips

What you need!
-2 tsps olive oil
-2 large baking or red potatoes
-1 large egg white
-2 tsps seasoning <--- get creative!! My creation recipe follows this one!

What to do!
Preheat oven 425F & grease a large non-stick baking sheet with the olive oil.
Slice potatoes into either steak fries size, fries size, or potato chips.
Soak the potatoes in water, pinch of salt and pinch of sugar for at least 10 minutes.
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk the egg white until very light and foamy. Add the potatoes and the seasoning to the egg whites and toss to coat evenly.
Spread the potatoes on the prepared sheet- not touching each other. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Halfway through cooking time, turn the potatoes over using a spatula.

Seasoning!

2 1/2 tbsps paprika
2 tbsps salt
2 tbsps garlic powder
1 tbsp pepper
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tbsps cayenne pepper
1 tbsp italian herbs

Combine all ingredients well!

These fries were so delicious!! I hope you like them too! :)

All Nighter!

2010-09-30T15:58:00.000-07:00

What an experience!! The Travie McCoy shoot was awesome!! It sure did start a little sticky (especially as it was just over 100F and the generator in the Hair & make up trailer died)! However it quickly began at a swift pace as everyone was working with a time crunch! We were all pressed for time a we had to shoot the entire video by sunrise!! Oh and have a meal break at 1am ;) Travie was suuuch a nice guy!

Here are some sneak peak photos but I cant put photos that are going to give away the video BUT as soon as the vid is released Ill be sure to put some great ones up with Travie and behind the scenes!

Regarding the food on set, there was the typical Kraft services which consisted of sodas, Lays, cheetos, Doritos, Vickies chips (step up! lol), Ritz crackers, fruit and veggies and this one had PB and J sandwiches! Not bad huh. But of course not the most nutritional.

For the meal though I thought by far this one was sooo good compared to others Ive had! It was all homemade by the lady who brought it (i checked with her :P) and consisted of 2 types of salads, meat pasta, vegetarian pasta, grilled veggies, chicken, carrot cake, chocolate chip cookies and juices! I was in heaven! Her veggie pasta was so simple but delicious and the carrot cake was so light and fluffy!

It kinda all inspired me to try/come up with a new recipe! Check this out!!

Fusilli Pasta with Spinach and Cheese (I recommend Asiago! :P)

What you need!
-1 pound fusilli pasta (Wheat or original)
-1/4 cup olive oil
-1 garlic clove, minced
-1 (9-ounce) bag fresh spinach, roughly chopped
-8 ounces (1/2 pint) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
-1 cup (about 3 1/2-ounces) grated Asiago (or the cheese of your choice!)
-1/2 cup grated Parmesan (Freshly grated is waaay better!!)
-1 teaspoon salt (Try Mediterranean salt!)
-3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

What to do!
Cook Pasta as package suggests. Beware not to overcook the pasta! Drain Pasta, save 1/2 cup of the liquid.

Warm olive oil in large, heavy skillet over medium high heat. Add garlic and cook until you get that wonderful aroma, about 2 minutes. Add the spinach and tomatoes and cook until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes. Add the cooked pasta and toss. Add the cheeses, salt and pepper as well as the cooking liquid you saved and stir. (Mmmm smells good huh)

Plate the pasta and enjoy! Pretty & delicious huh!! :) mmmm & healthy!

A Few More Photos from Audreys Night Out!

2010-09-30T00:21:00.000-07:00

Here's a few more photos! :)

Me, Kimmy and Jessica

CC Couture

Mik Imik

Dress Im wearing is Alexander Wang :) In red is model Patricia

Shoot Tonight

2010-09-27T13:25:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,

So Im super excited for tonight because I got the job as the Lead Female in Travie McCoy's new video "Need you"!! Click here for you tube video! Im so excited to shoot it that the idea of shooting from 7pm to probably 3 or 4 in the morning doesn't sound too horrible. Wish me luck!! :)

Also I just wanted to make sure that all of my readers who are in california- Yes there's a heat-wave this week! Temps in the 100 are expected! SO please everyone stay hydrated!! SPF up!! and make sure if you have pets they're hydrated and have shade!

The pro about this weather- we finally have summer sunshine! :)

So here's a fun drink recipe I like to cool down with on a day like this! :)

Watermelon chill (this recipe will serve about 6 drinks)

5 pounds/about 1/2 medium size watermelon
16 ounces lemonade (try homemade lemonade or buy some good quality lemonade at the store- its a heat wave after all!! lol)
If your over 21 or legal to drink- you could totally pour in your favorite alcohol like vodka or tequila. However keep it a mocktail to stay healthier and lighter!

Working in batches of cut up watermelon, puree the chunks in a blender until its a liquid juice texture. Strain through a sieve if your not a pulp person. You should at this point have about 4 cups of pretty pinkish red juice!
Combine the juice with the lemonade in a pitcher.
Pour into tall glass filled with crushed ice and add a watermelon wedge for decor (and a pretty finish) and voila! Stay cool with this healthy, yummy chiller!

Sunday Brunch- finally a day to myself :)

2010-09-26T21:30:00.000-07:00

So its sunday and wow am I exhausted! On Saturday I had such a busy day starting with a drive up to LA at 6am for Bailey Blue's Spring/summer 2011 look book and then a couple hours after that ended I shot a Nicki menaj feat Will.I.Am music video (their new song Check it out- its quite catchy actually :P).
BUT I dont want to focus on that this post as Im gonna dedicate a separate post to that day and how it went down but in this post I want to share with you my recipe for what I made this morning! :)

I wanted to make something a little more special than a usual breakfast (especially since I was having breakfast with RJ so it had to be some what impressive :P) but at the same time I was craving some sort of comfort type food to add to the relaxed, lazy sunday atmosphere. Soooo i decided I want FRENCH TOAST!!

But not just any french toast! I wanted to experiment with French Toast Casserole!! mmm yummm!

Oh and I also decided to play with a banana bread recipe as I had 3 perfectly over-ripe bananas!! :) :)

Here's the recipe and some pics! :)

Playing with Banana Bread

What you need:
-1 2/3 cups all purpose flour
-1 tsp baking soda
-1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
-pinch of nutmeg
-1/2 tsp salt
-3/4 cup sugar
-1/4 cup brown sugar plus 2 tablespoons
-2 eggs
-1/2 cup oil
-3 large very ripe bananas mashed
-2 tbsp creme fraiche or milk if you dont want to use cream
-1 tsp vanilla extract
-2/3 cup walnuts (toasted and chopped) or substitute it with chocolate chips (yummm) or do half and half! (its what I did and its gooood)

Preheat the oven 350F. Line bottom of loaf pan with parchment paper. (or grease a lof pan)
Sift/mix together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt.
Beat sugar and eggs with a whisk until light and fluffy (it took me like 8-10 minutes to get a gooood texture). Drizzle in oil. Add mashed bananas, creme fraiche and vanilla.
Fold in the dry ingredients carefully. When well mixed, gently fold in the walnuts/chocolate chips.
Pour into your pan. Sprinkle the 2 tbsps of brown sugar on top of the batter. Bake for about 45 minutes. :)

French Toast Casserole

What you need:
-5 cups bread cubes (you can use any bread, I prefer challah, whole wheat or if your feeling sinful- TEXAS TOAST! mmmm!)
-4 eggs
-1 1/2 cups milk
-1/4 cup white sugar (divided-means we'll use 2 tbsps at a time)
-1/4 tsp salt
-1 tsp vanilla extract
-1 tbsp butter or margarine softened
-1 tsp ground cinnamon

Preheat oven 350F. Lightly butter an 8x8 inch baking pan or casserole dish
Line bottom of pan with bread cubes. In a bowl beat together eggs, milk, 2 tbsp sugar, salt, and vanilla.
Pour egg mixture over the bread. Dot with butter/margarine and let it stand for about 5-10 minutes.
Combine the remaining sugar with cinnamon and sprinkle over the top. *Drizzle some maple syrup over the top for a delicious kick!
Bake in oven for about 45 to 50 minutes, until the top is a beautiful golden color with hits of brown crusts! Mmmm you'll love this! :)

MMM baking in the oven... getting excited!

So... Im thinking it was a success! ;)

Finally found some photos! :)

2010-09-26T12:44:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!

So ive been searching and searching and I finally found these pics. Not the greatest but theyre better than all the iphone's and Droid's attempts :P

First face and opening girl of show for designer Yumi Kim

Designer: Mik Imik

CC Couture

Jenny Han

Fleurt (Final face and closing girl of show)

Loving the crowd!! :)

until the next post! :) xoxo

Fittings, rehearsals, hair & make up!

2010-09-24T12:25:00.000-07:00

7:30am Im in the car, banana in hand, gas tank full and on the road to LA. Call time for Audreys Fashion night out for models was 10:30am! After fighting LA traffic and impatient drivers, I finally make it to the Petersen Automotive Museum at 10:15am- PERFECT! :)

Im the first one there and receive a lovely compliment about always being so punctual. I love it! Some of the other models start to arrive however by 11:45 only a few models are on set and several missing. IMPORTANT TIP!: no matter how big, famous, awesome, valued, wanted etc you are or think you are, dont be late and make everyone wait for you! Dont assume that others will be late so therefore you can be late. Being on time if not early is not only gonna avoid stressful situations for you, it will give you a good reputation in whatever industry you are in.

The day consisted of lots of fitting and styling into clothes for each designer/walk, practice of walks, rehearsal and of course hair and make up! :) Here are some pictures from the prep before the show! :)

Homework, banana, mini-muffins... my attempt at being productive and keeping healthy even while waiting around all day! :)

Fitting into my final outfit! A cute lingerie slip and an adorable huge bow to keep the show classy and my butt out of the spotlight! :P

My poster with all my looks, order, and Polaroids! Super helpful for my dresser and I when trying to change into the next look as fast as possible!

My rack!! Al my clothes lined up and ready for me to jump into! Check out that red coat hanging- it looks awesome on! Gotta post a pic of that on me! :)

Hair and make up setting up! They had the super squad of hair and make up artists! Amazing job!

The stage while they were building it and putting it together. You'll see it all done up in my next post and wow did it turn out well! Amazing what people can do!

Backstage in between looks! Frantically dressing as fast as possible and running to the stage (in 4 inch heels btw!! lol)! In this picture Im caught in the act of trying to rush into the final look for the lingerie designer Fleurt! I was the closing girl!! :)

Upcoming post of pictures from the show soon (hopefully some professionally taken ones for better quality :P) !! :) Thanks! xoxo

Less than 48 hours till the BIG EVENT!

2010-09-22T12:30:00.000-07:00

So there's no time to make drastic, life altering change BUT in the next couple days/less than f8 hours, I'm going to share with you some things I've found helpful to get you looking and (more importantly) feeling great for a big event- in my case Audrey's Fashion Night Out 2010!

The PLAN! A combination of the right fitness, food and sleep is essential when I prepare for an event like this!

First, before anything, make sure you get a good amount of rest before your big event. You want to look refreshed and bright eyed for the event, not haggard and tired!

FITNESS

Get moving & sweat!
  Sweat, sweat and more sweat!! Doing some form of cardio exercise will leave you feeling lighter and less bloated. Plus it's always good to get in a good calorie burn session! Try to choose a cardio workout that targets the entire body. My pick---> Kickboxing & Jumprope!

Toned & Tight!
  Apart from cardio, while preparing for a big event (especially one they may be a chance to show of that bod of yours), try to do a type of exercise that has some orm of strength, resistance and stability element to it. This may be either pilates, ballet barre work, gravity training or even a 40 minute session of strength training using light weights and lots of reps and even a bosu ball! You can even use other tools that most gyms have like med balls, yoga balls, magic circles etc to really get it tight! My Pick---> Pilates reformer session and AB blast!

DONT FORGET TO STRETCH! You don't want to be super sore for your event! Drink lots of water too so your skin looks fresh and to make sure you feel your best!

FOOD

Keep eating! A lot of people who have an event coming up believe that the best and fastest thing to do before an event is to stop eating... basically starve! That is a huge NO NO! It not only sounds unpleasant, hard, painful and uncomfortable but its doesnt work and leaves you feeling horrible! Trust me I know! It's also not to mention dangerous and unhealthy! You'll be tempted to binge eat, not work out due to fatigue, and feel sickly- all things you dont want before your big event!! So here's what I recommend and am doing :)

Eat more!... no seriously!
  Okay I obviously dont mean go out to the first In n Out or Five guys and order yourself a double double or huge burger with the works on it. I mean eat little portions, lots of times a day. You want to try and get about 5-6 small, nutritious meals in a day instead of 3 filling meals. Have something hearty when you wake up, mid- morning snack, lunch, afternoon snack, light dinner and, if you want, an evening snack. (TIP: try not to eat at least 2 hours prior bedtime) Do this and you'll feel fuller longer and wont fel any cravings and sinful desires for some sweet stuff!

But what 5 times a day?!?!?!
  So what should you be consuming less than 48 hours to your big event? From my experiences, research, experiments and finds, the best things to eat so close to an event are:
  -Veg out!- get lots of greens and colorful veggies. They can be eaten raw or cooked and can be done up soooo many different ways!! Plus even if you eat a few more than you planned on its fine because these earthy yummies are so great for you!

  -Lean protein!- White meats like chicken breast, fish, turkey or even eggs (preferably egg whites) are great for lunch eats or dinner. You'll feel energized, light, full and satisfied :). Plus there are so many ways to make a meal using these as your starring ingredient.
  -Certain fruits!- fruits are great ways to cure a sweet craving but beware what fruit you consume this close to a big event! Stick to fruits like bananas, apples, blueberries and pears. Try to avoid fruit like watermelon that have a very watery texture as these have a similar bloated affect as if you chugged a glass of water. You'll feel and look bloated.
  -Nuts and grains!- a small serving of raw nuts like almonds are great choices for snacks. Grains like quinoa, muesli, or granola are better choices if you feel the need for grain or something more substantial than veggies.
-Water!- Im a huge fan of water with a hit of lemon! Its hydration and a detox all in one!! :)

Here's a couple of great recipes you should try that I certainly will be including in my meal plan for the day! :)

Morning Smoothie

In a blender put:
-1 whole banana
-1/4 cup blueberries
-1/4 cup blackberries
-3 large strawberries (sliced)
-2 scoops of acai powder
-splash of almond milk (or more- you want just enough so it blends smooth)
-some ice cubes
Voila! A yummy morning smoothie to start your day right and light! :)
TIP: if you'd like a protein boost add a scoop of your fav protein powder or I like to put a 1/2 teaspoon of Spirulina! <-- Click for more info

Bright and light salad

In a bowl toss:
-handful of romaine lettuce
-handful of spinach
-1/4 cup walnuts or almonds
-balsamic vinegar
-olive oil
-salt and pepper
Place in bowl and add:
-sliced fruit of choice like strawberries or grape (optional)
- sliced green and red bell peppers
- a few cherry tomatoes
-some like to add black olives and sliced onions to this (optional)
-sprinkle feta cheese on top
Voila! A Bright and light, remixed greek salad!

More recipes and pictures of the outcomes in the next few posts!

xoxo

Audrey's Fashion Night Out 2010! Come see me walk the walk! :P

2010-09-22T10:34:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!

Come support me & watch me walk the runway as a featured professional model at Audrey's Night Out 2010! Its going to be glamorous, incredible and so much fun! There will be music, models, fashion, and lots of drinks! It'll be a party to remember!

Quick! Buy your tickets before you miss out!! :) Who knows... perhaps i'll be first faced.. maybe closing face... come find out for yourself!! :)

xoxo

Welcome to my new blog!

2010-09-21T11:21:00.000-07:00

Keep up to date on what's happening in my world! From modeling jobs to horse shows and training to fun fitness experiments and of course yummy recipes I've created, tried and tested! :)

Model represented by Wunder Management

Philippines Equestrian Team. Training with Rebecca Rigdon at Arroyo Del Mar!

Need to be fit+food lover= fun, new recipes to try and fun ways to be fit and in shape!