Iāve seen this cute succulent gardens in all types of containers lately. One day while looking through some boxes I had in storage, I found one coffee cup that did not match with any of the other coffee cups in the box, so I decided to create this little succulent garden and gift it to someone I love.
Looking online I found this webpage (Succulents & Sunshine) that has very useful information. Not only it gives you tips on arranging succulents in various containers, it also teaches you how to take care of the arrangements afterwards (hint: how much you water it is super important!). And it has plenty of videos and a succulent for beginners course. Other great websites to take a look at are The Spruce, Succulent City and Crafty Chica.
Things you’ll need: Cute container (I used a coffee cup, but you can use any cute container you’ll like. For those who love thrift stores, I’m sure you can find many vintage containers at an affordable price). Assorted succulents (I already had the succulents, I’m trying to save them, so they are sorta like a rescue succulent arrangement). Cactus/succulent soil (make sure you use a well draining soil with large particles). A drill (this is optional. I didn’t drill my coffee cup. However, if I had, I need to make sure a drill safe for ceramic is used). A watering container with a sprout for watering afterwards (a measuring container that everyone already has at home is great for watering succulents, plus you can measure the how much water you’re putting in the arrangement. Other great options are a squeeze bottle or a pipette). Again go check out Succulents and Sunshine IG page and webpage, I love it!
Arrangement steps: Add a little of soil to the bottom of container. Add succulents. Add more soil around, making sure you are covering the roots (get your hands dirty). Water and voila! š xoxo Elisa
I am featuring an esthetician this month who is close to my heart.
Her name is Courtney and she is a fabulous skin expert. She works at a company in Fort Lauderdale, Revivify and specializes in medical grade skincare.
She is amazing at delivering a relaxing experience with clinical results.
Courtney has been a licensed esthetician for the last 12 years and is OBSESSED with all things skincare. Her treatment room will have you feeling so good. From start to finish, the knowledge, expertise, and professionalism is felt.
She offers incredible custom facials that are designed to give you the GLOW you want. She also offers the Hydrafacial system with boosters and the Keravive system for hair growth.
One of her favorite procedures is to rejuvenate the skin and scalp with PRP (platelet enriched plasma) though microneedling with the SkinPen.The SkinPen is an FDA approved device that provides treatment with little downtime. It is a perfect treatment for patients with a busy schedule.
Natural Recovery: SkinPenās mechanical process is versatile and usable year-round.
Safe for all Skin Types: Clinically proven effective on all skin types, Fitzpatrick 1 ā 6 (classifies the different skin types and shades).
I had no business planning a trip this past October. Travel was kind of frowned upon, and I was kind of scared actually. Deep down in the pits of my soul, I knew I had to put myself in a new environment. Work was intense (but was lucky to have a job) and home – work – home – work was not good for my creative and mental state.
We had an accommodation credit in Joshua Tree (we had to cancel a massive West Coast road trip that we had planned in the summer) and we were not sure we could fit this trip in next year. We additionally used flight credit to get us there (yep, from the cancelled summer trip and the Spring trip we cancelled to Mexico – damn you Covid 19).
Joshua Tree has been calling me for years, though I am not sure why. I learned when people asked me where I was going, that JT was not as well known as I thought it was. It is an AmericanĀ national parkĀ in southeasternĀ California, east ofĀ Los AngelesĀ andĀ San Bernardino, nearĀ Palm Springs. It is named for the Joshua trees native to theĀ Mojave Desert. We opted to fly into Las Vegas, and rented a car. I love Vegas, I have some very good friends there so it made sense for us to take this route. We planned a 6 day trip (2 days travel) – and yes, that was such a short time for the length of travel, but like I said my soul was speaking to me loud and clear!!
My go to website and app is Roadtrippers. Their site is super user friendly. You type where you start and end your trip, and it shows not only the route but everything in-between like attractions, where to eat, nature spots, accommodation and more.
First stop was Seven Magic Mountains – absolutely worth stopping by. This artwork has been said to be taken down some time in 2021 – so get your asses there before it goes.
Renowned Swiss artist Ugo Rondinoneās colorful large-scale, public artwork Seven Magic Mountains is an exhibition located in the desert outside of Las Vegas, Nevada, featuring seven, 30 to 35-feet high day glow totems comprised of painted, locally-sourced boulders. Visible across the desert landscape along Interstate 15, Seven Magic Mountains offers a creative critique of the simulacra of destinations like Las Vegas. According to Rondinone, the location is physically and symbolically mid-way between the natural and the artificial: the natural is expressed by the mountain ranges, desert, and Jean Dry Lake backdrop, and the artificial is expressed by the highway and the constant flow of traffic between Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
Along the way
We definitely took a couple of wrong turns, lol. We were in no rush other than to get to Cholla Cactus Garden by sunset – that was a must for me. With a couple of stops to stretch our legs we stumble across this interesting collection of blown out shoes at Shoe Fence, Rice. Rice is a little ghost town on Route 62, south tip of The Mojave Desert.
Cholla Cactus Garden
You can find the Cholla Cactus Garden on the Pinto Basin Road. This area is dominated by the famous jumping Cholla Cactus, also known as the Teddy Bear Cholla. There is a nice Ā¼ mile loop hike through the middle of this beautiful cactus garden and they really seem to light up around sunset. Just a word of caution, avoid sandals and stay on the trail. Do not attempt to touch or rub up against them! They easily attach to you and are very unpleasant to remove – yes, I walked backwards into one and Eddie had to pull the spikes out of my butt cheeks lol. Why was I walking backwards off the trail you ask? Because I wanted to get “THE” photo! Lucky I wasn’t on the edge of the cliff!! We arrived about an hour before sunset, and boy were we in for a treat. It was beautiful, the reds in the sky was deep and intense. Once the sun set, the full moon rose above the hill and bats flew above us. This was Halloween night, it was perfect.
Our Accommodation
We stayed at a converted water tower. I think because of it being Halloween, all the campsites were full at the parks. Again, we had the credit so we used it. It was interesting. We slept well, but the space in the water tower was not so comfortable. The bathroom situation was a little shocking – even for a seasoned backpacker (yes, me). It was in the low 40’s, so it was cold, cold to be outside. But when the shower and the portaloo is outside in the 40’s it was not ideal. The shower temperature was hot and perfect but the shower stall had only 3 walls, what happened to the door? I don’t know why there wasn’t one, I had Eddie be my body guard. Then once you dried up you had to walk on the sand back, there was no walk way. I don’t know, it was expensive to stay and I’m not sure I’d be back there but overall – the Tower was immaculate, cool interior design and had a fun rooftop. With that said and my complaint out of the way; we had a lovely night by the fire pit (you can see in the photo inserted) eating Chinese, drinking red wine and listening to the neighbors playing Talking Heads. It was literally perfect.
The Hikes
We chose a few of the mini hikes for the few days we were there. Arch Rock, Cap Rock, Skull Rock, 49 Palms and Split Rock. I can’t even begin to describe this area – ok, a lot of rocks but gigantic rocks. Big gigantic rocks that some how have another massive rock on top as if someone put a cherry on top to decorate it. This area took my breath away – this is where my soul started singing. I didn’t want to leave.
Joshua Tree
Near Skull Rock
Skull Rock
49 Palms
Arch Rock
Arch Rock
Cap Rock
Golden Hour
Bonsai and Balanced Rock
Sunset
Cool Stuff – Crochet Museum and Art Queen Complex
Just a short walk from theĀ Joshua Tree Visitor CenterĀ you have little to no excuse not to visit theĀ World Famous Crochet Museum. Take some timeĀ browsing the strange, adorable, and extensiveĀ collectionĀ of crochet creatures,Ā along with theĀ Art QueenĀ Installations and Art and ClothingĀ GalleryĀ located atĀ 61855 Highway 62 in Joshua Tree, California.
On the way home
I love an interesting road trip and the the drive back on Route 66 back to Vegas did not disappoint. There were ghost towns, an inactive volcano with lava matter all over and my favorite – the Mojave Desert. I love the beach and the mountains but the Desert has my heart. I will be back dear desert.
This maybe my favorite photo of the trip – I don’t know though there were many for me : )
Okay so I know what youāre thinking, and your right I usually donāt blog about food well I have never blogged about food. But after learning that today is National Bacon Day I had to share my candied bacon recipe with you. This candied bacon is sure to be a hit on game night, movie night, or if youāre enjoying an ice cold beer or Martini at home!
What youāll need:
1 pkg. of extra thick cut peppered bacon 1/4 cup of brown sugar 3 tbsp. of maple syrup You will need a wired rack and a baking sheet. Please trust me and use foil to line the backing sheet . This makes cleanup much easier . Mix brown sugar and maple syrup together. Place bacon on the wired rack and coat the bacon with the brown sugar mixture. Cool at 425ā¢ for about 8 min ten flip the bacon over and repeat the process, place bacon back into oven for 10-12 min or until crisp. Remove bacon from the wire rack and allow to cool ! Bacon should be delicious and crisp!
La costumbre Argentina se remonta al siglo VIII en la regiĆ³n del nordeste de Italia de Veneto. SegĆŗn cuenta la leyenda, cuando el joven y mĆ”rtir San PantaleĆ³n pasaba sus dĆas predicando y curando enfermos en esa localidad, todo vestido con andrajos, un dia 29 tocĆ³ a la puerta de una familia de pescadores que lo invitĆ³ a comer y le pusieron en la mesa un plato de Ʊoquis. Como forma de agradecimiento en ese acto de amabilidad, en un aƱo muy bueno para la pesca, el santo les pronosticĆ³ una notable mejorĆa en la actividad en los prĆ³ximos meses. Cuentan ademĆ”s que cuando el joven se fue, la familia encontrĆ³ debajo del plato vacĆo monedas de oro, con las que inauguraron esa temporada de prosperidad, por las que la familia de la regiĆ³n, adoptaron esta fecha para degustar esta pasta.
La tradiciĆ³n de poner dinero debajo del plato, como sĆmbolo de buenos deseos, simboliza el deseo de nuevas dĆ”divas. Es costumbre dejar un billete o moneda debajo del plato para poder atraer de esta forma suerte y prosperidad al comensal.
Not sure how I obtained a subscription to Southern Living Magazine, I have been getting it in the mail at least for the last 6 months. I have to say, I have enjoyed flicking though, turning the glossy pages, reading the good articles BUT best of all – the fabulous recipes!
I stumbled on this recipe in the November issue, initially as a sauce to go with Thanksgiving dinner. As soon as I tasted it I knew I was going to not eat it – I was going to drink it!!
I’m not sure if I’m allowed to copy and share their recipe (I’ll wait to see if they tell me to take it down) so write it down while you can!! I made a batch of this to make my cocktail of the month.
Spicy Citrus-Cranberry Relish
4 cups frozen cranberries ( I used fresh)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 jalapeno (it says to take out seeds, I keep them – I like the heat)
1/4 cup flat leaf parsley
2 tbsp fresh orange
1 tsp grated lime zest
Process all ingredients in a food processor until mixture is chopped and sugar has devolved, about 30 seconds. Transfer to a bowl. Cover and chill at least 4 hours. Store covered in refrigerator for up to a week.
Now for the cocktail recipe……..
Santa’s Helper
In a tall glass: Half fill with ice, add 2 tablespoons of the cranberry relish, fill the rest of the glass with ice
This year has been quite a rollercoaster. But, I always like to say thereās a positive side to every challenge life throws your way. A couple of years ago Alessa, Ana, and Gisella had an idea to do something together as they were enjoying a pleasent afternoon at a cafe. This idea took some time to materialize since they were all busy with work and everyday life. Later they met Tasha who also loved the idea and joined the team. I was the last to be added to the group, not sure if it was hearing about the idea for so long or Alessaās persuasiveness to convince me to be part of it … and here we are!
Letās start with the BRE Ladies (BRE as in Bondi Road Everyday of course!).
One of the things we wanted to accomplish with this blog is to support other women with their goals, dreams, and businesses. Thatās why we love to feature a guest of the month. As the holiday season is fast approaching, I would like to reintroduce these amazing ladies and their holiday gifts for those special people in your life.
Alessa is so creative and a multitasker. We are always telling her that she definitely has way more hours in a day that most of us. So, here are a few things she currently has for sale. DM her at AlessaDel on Instagram for more information.
Make sure to follow Anaās Hello Petals on Instagram and contact her for all your holiday flowers, and of course for all the special events (right now small, but in hope that soon we will be able to celebrate big events again).
Gisella has been concentrating on the flowerās healing powers, which she recently shared here on the blog, stay tuned for her business coming soon! In the meantime she has prepared this awesome gift for the holidays. Please contact her through DM at Gi Gaudini IG page for more details.
Ana – Hello Petals
Alessa
Alessa
Alessa
Gisella
And now our amazing featured guests …
Melissa is almost booked up for the holidays, so make sure you schedule your appointment with her soon at Melyās Nail Studio. Iām ready with my red hot Christmas nails!
Who doesnāt love cookies for the holidays! Maita has delicious Holiday Chewy Gift Sets on the Cookies by ME website.
Megan is making handmade mini boho macrame and macrame backdrops, wall hangers, plant hangers, dreamcatchers, and many more gifts. Take a look at 9 Lives Designs Shop Section.
Pronoia 11:11 Skincare is offering great kits for the holidays such as The Goddess Vibes, The Fancy Fanny, and Secret Santa. Check out Pronoiaās webpage for these and other holiday gift ideas.
And don’t forget to get Gold Milk from Ayurvita and skin care from Vilot for you and your friends, so we can all start the new year beautiful and healthy!
Mely Nail Studio
Cookies by ME
9 Lives Designs
Pronoia
Ayurvita
Vilot
I want to thank all the ladies that have participated in the blog this year. Stay tuned for even more great articles and guest in 2021. Wishing everyone a beautiful holiday season. And donāt forget to support your local shops and restaurants.
For the past couple of years, the City of Doral has really invested in bringing more hospitality businesses to the area. Downtown Doral has played a big role in making this a reality, as it describes itself as a āvibrant community of culture and commerce; where you can live, work, play, and learnā.
Welcome to Main Street – This year Main Street has been transformed into a pedestrian-only paradise, where people can dine at the different restaurants and enjoy activities, such as live music and exercise classes, all al fresco.
Art – There is plenty of art displayed around Main Street, including the Bubble by multidimensional artist Haiiileen. Also look all around for the murals painted on the walls and on the multiple containers, and the Ground Art by Chalk & Brush.
Music – Live music can be enjoyed at the Main Street Stage from Thursdays through Sundays (show times vary depending on the day). Local musicians such as Xperimento, Yoli Mayor, Leslie Cartaya, Raquel Sofia, Cortadito, and Andre Carvajal have performed at Downtown Doral. Just announced for NYE, GRAMMY and Latin GRAMMY nominated Best Latin Band in Miami, Locos Por Juana will be performing. Love them! All live music is brought to you courtesy of The Doral Yard; be sure to check their website, Instagram, or Facebook page for more info! … And don’t forget to stop by the bar inside The Doral Yard for a few cocktails before, during, and after the music (just as our friend Tasha did recently).
Speaking of The Doral Yard … itās a community gathering spot that much like the beloved The Wynwood Yard brings food, drink, live music, community, and buenas vibras to it’s new hub in Downtown Doral. At the moment they have limited seating indoors and plenty of tables outside under the tent and on the sidewalk to enjoy great drinks from the Bar at the Yard, and delicious food from Della Bowls, Un Pollo by Chef Lisseth Campos, Yip Dim Sum, Santo Dulce Churros, and Morelia Gourmet Paletas. They have happy hour Tuesdays to Fridays from 4pm to 7pm; as well other events such as Margaritas & Me on Wednesdays and Veza Sur Sundays. Stay tuned for the upcoming The Backyard, which will bring more vendors, another bar, a stage for live music, and the much anticipated Barbakoa Restaurant and Bar by Chef Eileen Andrade. (And of course you will read all about the opening of The Backyard next year here on the blog!).
Life is Definitely Sweet – One of my favorite places in Miami has recently also opened a location in Downtown Doral … and this is no other than Bachour Doral, from acclaimed Chef Antonio Bachour as executive chef, and Chef Clark Bowen as chef de cuisine (Iāve know Clark for years, heās like a brother to me. He has worked in a couple of great Miami restaurants, including as an executive chef for Chef Daniel Boulud. So, Iām super happy to see him at Bachour now). Bachour is very well known for itās excellent desserts, but make sure to check out their savory menu for extended happy hour from 5pm to 9pm on Fridays and brunch on Saturdays and Sundays until 4pm. Their brunch is amazing! I feel I need to go every weekend since I really want to try the whole menu, LOL!
While walking around Downtown Doral, don’t miss all the holiday decorations, including three Christmas trees. Also happening this month is the much-anticipated George Balanchine’s Nutcracker in the Park by Miami City Ballet from December 18th to the 31st and Gaitas at The Yard on December 23rd. And last but certainly not least, Bunnie Cakes just moved to Doral, OMG! Who doesnāt love Bunnie Cakes. If you haven’t tried their delicious vegan cupcakes, you must! Hint hint … remember to say ‘Doral goes Vegan’ at the register to get a little discount for purchases of $35 or more.
I canāt wait to see what else will be opening on Main Street in 2021. Who’s with me?!?! š
To celebrate National Brownie Day I hit the endless pages of Pinterest to find this recipe from bakerbynature.com . The title reads ‘The Best Cocoa Fudge Brownies’, and is it really ‘The Best’?? OH YES IT IS MY FRIENDS!! Head over to her page to get the recipe. She describes them as:
shiny, crispy, and crackly on top
rich and fudgy in the middle
loaded with gooey chocolate chips
made with affordable everyday ingredients
completely from scratch
sure to become your new favorite brownie recipe
always a crowd-pleaser!!!
She is not wrong! I love brownies with ice cream. I love my ice cream with cookies, coffee, cake, on its own, the list is endless- clearly I like ice cream with everything : ) Although the brownie recipe is gearing to basic ingredients that is affordable, I totally went opposite with my ice cream and headed over to my favorite adults only boozy ice cream shop Aubi & Ramsa in the Design District, Miami. I selected The Scotch and Decadence, it is a rich chocolate ice cream made with The Dalmore 12yrs with chocolate and pecan, topped with dulce de leche swirl. They have so many boozy ice creams and sorbets to choose from, just don’t go with anyone under 21!
This paired combination of the warm brownie and the cold ice cream just blew my taste buds to the moon and back – be prepared : )
