Healthy Vanilla Chocolate Chip Cake - With Regenerative Skin Care Benefits

That's right Gorgeous, here is a delicious cake recipe that will have you begging for seconds and help regenerate stressed and damaged tissue at the same time. My BFF, Cassie (aka Liscious) gave me this recipe yesterday and I can't stop raving about it.

Cassie's husband was recently diagnosed with Stage 3 rectal cancer. That's right, I said rectal. Get over it and start bringing some attention to this very real form of cancer. As a result of the diagnosis, Cassie and her husband have made significant life changes to their diet, especially trying to eliminate as much refined sugar, dairy, and white flour as possible. She has educated me more than I could ever imagine about the dangers of sugar and dairy and the effects it can have on our bodies.

Also, I've recently discovered the benefits of using Grape seed Oil as opposed to other forms of oil for baking and cooking. Guess what ladies, the benefits of this oil are astounding. This oil is actually great for reducing LDL- cholesterol levels (those are the bad ones) and increasing HDL levels (those would be the good ones). Yeah, yeah, I know who cares if you're still young, right? Well, check this out:

"Grape seed oil is a preferred cosmetic ingredient for damaged and stressed tissues, possessing regenerative and restructuring qualities which allow for strong control of skin moisturization. It can help skin retain the normal structure of epithelium cells and nerve cells via supporting the cell membranes". (You can even use it around your eyes to help reduce and prevent fine lines).

(Nash, DT (2004). "Cardiovascular risk beyond LDL-C levels: Other lipids are performers in cholesterol story". Postgraduate Medicine 116 (3): 11–5.)

Alright ladies, take out your booty shorts and grab your apron (my man LOVES that) and let's get baking! Here's what you'll need:

Vanilla Chocolate Chip Cake Recipe

2 2/3 cup Brown Rice Flower

1 cup Agave Nectar

2 teaspoons Baking Powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup low-fat vanilla soy milk

1/2 cup water

3/4 cup Grape seed Oil (**warning: not to be used if family or friend is undergoing chemotherapy)

1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract

2 Eggs

1 cup of mini chocolate chips **(these aren't too high in sugar, so we throw them in as a treat, you can eliminate them and the cake is still super yummy)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and prep your cake pan(s) for baking. I have heart shaped silicone ones that don't stick, but if you don't have those, you may want to grease and flour your pan.

Mix the flour, agave, baking powder, and salt. Combine soy milk, water, grape seed oil, eggs and vanilla in separate bowl and whisk until mixed. Then combine all ingredients, mix until smooth. Add chocolate chips.

Pour into cake pan(s) and bake for 20-25 minutes.

Let cool and serve for IMMEDIATE yumminess! We had it for breakfast with mixed berries for added fiber and antioxidants.

Let me know what you think and until then, stay GORGEOUS!

A little SEXY Inspiration from the Movie Trailer, Nine

If this doesn't inspire you to feel beautiful then I don't know what will. Check out the preview for Bob Marshall's film Nine at http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/1810053986/video.

Environmental Beauty for the Holidays

My favorite beauty pick of the day is the Sage and Citrus Candle by Yankee Candle. Some of you may be saying to yourself, "But that isn't beauty related." On the contrary my friend; environmental beauty is quickly becoming a top grossing category in this beautiful industry. Candles, diffusers, room sprays, etc. all are considered products that make us feel more beautiful. Your home is an extension of yourself, it is your castle my dear. Making your home look and feel beautiful is equally as important as making yourself look and feel beautiful.

I search high and low for new candles, but I must admit that I don't like buying cheap candles. Yankee Candles gives you the most candle for your buck, not to mention they have an array of colors and scents that will leave your house smelling anywhere from fresh baked cookies to an island get-away. No matter what your taste, Yankee Candles will be sure to delight. I love the Sage and Citrus because it's light smelling, it's not too feminine for my honey, and gives our home a welcoming touch.

For all you beauty snobs out there who are saying, "But, I don't like the packaging," I have a secret for you too. I'm not a country style kind of girl and these candle holders aren't as sophisticated as some of their edgier competitors, but I just turn the label around to face the back of the room and I get a candle that doesn't have Martha Stewart's name written all over it (hypothetically speaking that is). Yankee Candles also offers a newer, more savvy glass candle, but it is a little more expensive and has about 20 hours less burning time as they're other candles. So, you do the math. I may be a snob, but I'm a thrifty snob!

Yankee Candles can be bought on-line at http://www.yankeecandle.com/ or go on-line to find the location nearest you. Last time I was at the mall (like two days ago) they were having a buy one get the second for half off deal on all of their candles in any size. These are great gift ideas for men and women or the host of your next Christmas gathering.

Here's to keeping your home looking just as GORGEOUS as you! Enjoy!

Ciao Bella,

Farrah

xoxo...

Become a Model This Holiday Season

This holiday season indulge in a professional modeling shoot with acclaimed photographer, Cherie Carlson. Cherie is a friend that I met a couple of years ago when I booked my first photo shoot with her. She has a fun, outgoing personality that makes you very comfortable in front of the camera. I believe what makes her so great is that she is a model herself. She began modeling as a young child and she's a natural in front of and behind the camera. She knows exactly what the camera loves and she will put you in every which position to get you the sexiest shot possible. I am not just pimping this girl out because she is a friend; I'm getting her name out there because I believe she is truly gifted in what she does. Cherie is not only one of the most beautiful women I know, but she will inspire you to be the most beautiful YOU! Please check out her website at http://www.cheriecarlson.com/ to set up a shoot today. It's a great gift for yourself or for someone you love.

SOME OF MY FAVORITE THINGS

I don't think there's any one of us who has not been affected by today's economy. Times are challenging for all of us, but I hope you will join me in staying positive. We may not be able to afford the Tori Burch shoes we dote over as we pass them by in Nordstroms, however, I come home everyday and dote over my amazing husband to be our four kitties. Life is full of blessings, you just have to be open to receiving them. Although I am blessed with a wonderful home, I still like to indulge in some of my favorite beauty products that keep me looking gorgeous, even when things seem bleak. Won't you join me in reading through my first annual favorite things list.

1. Osacar Blandi's dry shampoo: Voted one of Allure magazine's editors choice awards, this product will simplify your daily hair routine and leave you feeling like a million dollars even when you didn't have time to wash. If I were stranded on a deserted island and could only bring one thing with me, Osacar Blandi's dry shampoo would forever remain my keepsake. Sephora sells this product for approximately $20.00 and one bottle lasts me about two or three months.

2. Bliss's Triple Oxygen - Instant Energizing Mask: This is another personal favorite. Because our skin begins to lose oxygen up to 70% after the age of 30 years, our skin often times looks dull and tired. I've been using this product for nearly three years and it has changed my skin for the long haul. Every time I use this mask, people ask me why my skin is glowing. Bliss's Triple Oxygen - Instant Energizing Mask will give you the skin you've always dreamed of. I guarantee will you see instant results! Sold in all Sephora stores, some Nordstroms, and On-line at Bliss.com.

3. Philosophy's Help Me: This is a retinol night time treatment that helps eliminate fine lines and wrinkles, reduces dark spots, and evens out skin tones. This is also great to help fight some forms of acne. Remember when our mom's used to use Retin-A for wrinkles and doctor's prescribed it for acne? No prescription necessary. This product is great for any age and skin care specialists suggest using a retinol product in your twenties to help prevent skin damage and aging. Sold in Sephora and Nordstroms department stores.

4. Clarisonic MD: Okay, so it would be a toss up to leave this behind on my deserted island. I have been using this product for two years and it's been an absolute savior to my acne prone skin. 80-90% of skin problems are from incorrect cleansing. This product was created by the company what brought you the Sonicare, an eclectic toothbrush that helped clean teeth where regular brushes couldn't reach, deep within the surface. This is a similar device. This dynamic tool comes with a 1.5 inch brush head that rotates and vibrates while cleansing your skin. This also helps to even out skin tone, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and help combat pimples.

Sold at Sephora for $195.00. Totally worth the investment for gorgeous skin!

5. Ardell Accents False Lashes: This is one of make-up artists best kept secrets. Why spend $15.00 on false lashes when you can get buy these at select drug stores for a quarter of the price. These lashes are easy to use, come in an array of styles and are CHEAP-A-RA-MO! My favorites are the #305's as they are the most natural looking in my opinion. I always receive compliments when I wear these bad boys. Sold at many drug stores in your area.

6. Bliss the youth as we know it moisturizer: "This incredibly effective anti-aging skin care formula contains many simultaneously high-performance ingredients that will produce a regenerative effect like no other. Be prepared for some unforeseen sensations like incredible results, radical wrinkle reduction, and constant receipt of compliments." (Blissworld.com) This product is a little expensive for a moisturizer and is primarily good for normal/combination skin types. It's been very hydrating for my winter skin.

7. Bigelow Rose Salve: This is another inexpensive indulgence. Rose salve can be used on lips, nails, dry spots, and even to help heal wounds. I love it during the dry winter months for my lips and cuticles. I keep it in my purse and use it on my nails when I'm waiting in line at the grocery store, getting the car washed, etc. It's cheap, easy, and best of all it's effective! This product can be found at Bath and Body Works, Sephora and other local beauty stores. The cost for this product is around $6.00.

8. Wish by Lollia/Eau de Parfum: For a romantic and sophisticated fragrance you must try Wish by Lollia. I know fragrances are personal to everyone and not everyone will love this, but I just think it's precious. Wish by Lollia is an Oriental Vanilla favorite with notes such as woods, resins, flowers and spices; along with sweet notes like cinnamon and vanilla. Trust me when I tell you that your man will want to take a bite out of your neck. This product is found exclusively on-line at Lollialife.com.

9. Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray: The description is in the title. This is a weightless mist that you spray on your face after finishing your make-up. Skindnavia makeup finishing spray keeps your face hydrated and your makeup fresh throughout the day. This product even keeps my smokey eyes in tact after a long day at the office or in the classroom. I LOVE it and have added it to my daily make-regimen. I feel naked without it. Purchase it at Skindinavia.com.

10. Cherie Carlson Photography: Get your sexy on this holiday season and have a keepsake item that will last a lifetime. I had my pictures done with Cherie over a year ago and nothing made me feel sexier. She is an amazing photographer that knows how to capture the beauty in everyone. Take a look at her portfolio at cheriecarlson.com. A photo shoot starts at $200.00. I believe this is one of the greatest gifts I've ever received. Get in quick before she realizes how amazing she is and raises her prices. Cherie spealizes in sexy photos primarily for modeling, but she takes amazing photos for any occasion. She is an amazing model herself and has recently done the advertisment photo layouts for the Tapout clothing line, popular amongst MMA fighters. (Photo at top of post is taken by Cherie Carlson).

I hope you've found my list helpful and you will send me feedback after your purchases. Happy Holidays to all and to all a good night!

Ciao Bella,

Farrah

xoxo...

Look Your Sun Kissed Best (**Warning: Skin Cancer Not Included)

Mystic tan booths are a day of the past my friend. Say "Good-bye!" to orange hands, a ring around your head from the shower cap, and the green light that never quite turns on in the booth until you're just about to call for help. Say "Hello!" to a gorgeous sun kissed glow without the drama. Today I will rate my favorite faux tans, based on price, convenience and most natural appearance. Before we get started, let's take a little trip down memory lane with Ross's spray-tan experience from Friends:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kqSc1f0NlpA

Faux Spray Reviews

1. Airbrush Tan: An airbrush tan is by far the best and most natural looking faux tan you can get! The only downfall to them is that they can be on the more expensive side compared to at home tanning sprays. I save these tans for my special occasions, such as vacations or special events. You can get a beautiful airbrush tan at many tanning salons for about $35.00 per tan. They usually vary on price depending on the number of tans you purchase at any one time. Don't be afraid to bargain with your tanning salon associate, as the price it actually costs per tan is well under the cost they charge. A couple of tanning salons I love in Los Angeles and Ventura County are:
Insatiable Sun (Encino & Woodland Hills) http://www.istanning.com/
Tan LA (Thousand Oaks & Agoura) http://www.tanla.la/

2. Bliss -A Tan For All Seasons: This is my new FAVORITE at-home tanning spray. This product can be found at Sephora, on-line at http://www.blissworld.com/, and select Nordstrom's stores. The cost is $36.00 for a 4.4 oz tin bottle. It has a 360 degree spray nozzle to reach those hard to reach areas, like your back and tush. My favorite part about this product is that it smells like grapefruit. Most tanning sprays have an odd odor for the first several hours, Bliss' product smells blissful. The most innovative feature about this product is that it won't leave you orange. While most tanning sprays come out brown or orange in color, Bliss'- A Tan For All Seasons sprays on purple. That's right, purple!! The R&D team at Bliss discovered that purple is the furthest color from orange on the color wheel, leaving your skin a beautiful bronzed look once it dries. Don't worry, you don't look like a grape when you first spray it on, as you rub it in for a natural bronzed glow.

3. Body Drench - Quick Tan: This is a great bang for your buck, with the darkest bronzed effect you can get. The bottle can be purchased at participating tanning salons, like the one's mentioned above for about $30.00 for a 6 0z bottle. I also found this product on Amazon.com at a fraction of the price. The best feature about this product is that it goes on bronzed right away, so I will often spray my chest and arms if I'm in a hurry for a quick glow. It comes out dark, like you've been in the Carri bean for days. The scent is also fun, as it comes out like a caramel apple; just don't lick your self in public.

4. L'oreal Sublime Glow Spray: This is the best mass market product available at your local drug stores. A 4.2 oz can will cost about $11.99. It's affordable and convenient. The tan is an amazing bronzed look with an easy to apply 360 degree spray top. The only down side, is that it flies off the shelves, so you'll often be left begging it for it drug-store to drug-store like a tanning spray addict. When you do find it, buy several cans at one time. The smell is less than desirable and it can often leave you with orange streaks. Once you learn to apply properly, this is the BEST bang for your buck!

5. L'oreal Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Lotion: I love to mix this product in with my daily lotion and apply it in the morning. I don't have to worry about streaks or making sure my tan is perfectly even. This gives me a subtle tan to build upon day after day. L'oreal Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Lotion can also be found at local drug stores for about $11.99 for a 6.7 fluid oz bottle.

Faux Tanning How-To:

1. Always shower and exfoliate with a non-oil based body exfoliator. A dry brush works best.
2. Do not shave your legs before you tan! Your legs will never pick up the color you're looking for once you've shaved.
3. Wait 6-8 hours before showering once you have applied your faux tan.
4. Wash your hands after every application.
5. Moisturize twice daily with a water based lotion.

I hope you've enjoyed today's blog. Go get your tan on and grab a Pina Colada, so you can enjoy your island get-away while you stay cool and skin-cancer free!

Until next time, stay cool, but look HOT!!

Ciao Bella,
Farrah
xoxo...

Learn your ABCDs

With the summer months upon us we are all subject to the danger of the sun. Living in Southern California, I know all too well the importance of protecting myself from skin cancer and melanoma (the deadliest form of skin cancer) . We are exposed more often than we think to the damage that UVA and UVB rays can cause. Maybe you're one of those people who thinks that skin cancer or melanoma will never happen to you (maybe you're right), but wrinkles and skin damage due to the sun WILL happen. You'll be crinkled up and ugly before you know it. Especially on those parts we don't think about like our decollete (the delicate skin on our chest) and hands.

We rarely think about the ways in which we are constantly exposed to the sun. How many of you even consider wearing sunscreen on your hands? You can always tell the true age of a woman by her hands. Our hands are exposed to the sun everyday, especially while we're sitting in traffic. It's never okay to skip your SPF. Even going for a brisk walk when it isn't hot out yet or it's over cast isn't reason to skip your SPF. While your exposed to the sun for longer amounts of time, you should double up on protection with a BIG hat and SPF.

Speaking of SPF, how many of us are actually using the correct sunscreen that is indeed protecting us from those dangerous rays? I'll wait here while you grab your SPF, assuming you have some in your house....doo dah, doo dah. Did you get it yet? I'll keep waiting...doo, dah, doo, dah. Don't worry, I've got all day to help save lives and wrinkles.

Your SPF must contain one of these three ingredients in order to protect you from the harmful affects of UVA rays, the rays responsible for causing Melanoma,the ingredients are: titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and Parsol (avobenzone). If one of these three ingredients are not in your SPF, then you are not protected. I'll wait while you throw it out now. A great mass market brand that you can find at your local drug store is, Neutragena Chemical Free Sunblocker. For my face, I love Clinique City Block with a bronzed tint to it; that's what I use on hikes, walks, and all day activities, such as the zoo.

Now that we've discussed what to use, let me tell you a little more about the dangers of the sun.

Each year there are nearly a million new cases of skin cancer diagnosed. In the 1950's and 1960's melanoma was rare, but today we are seeing a rise in this deadly disease. Women between the ages of 25-35, who are blonds or redheads, with fair skin tones are more at risk for melanoma. (Berg; The New Beauty Basics; 101)

While I spat about statistics to you from a book, I should also tell you that I have a dear friend who had to have over 100 stitches across her entire face in order to remove a VERY small piece of melanoma. Because this piece had gone undetected and was close to her eye, they had to carefully remove this without losing her eye. Once she recovered from that surgery, she had to go in for plastic surgery, as she had been left with a large scar across the middle of her beautiful face. While plastic surgery could remove her external scars, the emotional scars she is left with will remain with her forever.

As I mentioned, this lovely friend had waited far too long to have this "sore" on her face looked at. Had she been checked sooner, it could have been a much easier procedure. The melanoma on her face looked much like a small scab that wouldn't heal. She had it for months. This is why it is important for YOU to learn about the ABCDs of melanoma.

(A) Asymmetry: Melanomas are asymmetrical and odd-shaped. One half is often marked different than the other half. Normal moles are mostly round.

(B) Border: Normal moles have smooth edges. Melanomas are jagged, irregular, or scalloped shaped.

(C) Color: Normal moles are brown. Black, blue, pink, or multi-colored are signs of abnormality.

(D) Diameter: Get a mole checked if it larger than a quarter of an inch.

If you have any other abnormal growth or sores that won't heal, it is best to be checked by a dermatologist. Please don't freak about this article! The majority of you reading this are fine, but be aware of your body and its changes. If you are one of the few that I mentioned who are more likely to be a candidate for melanoma (the deadliest form of skin cancer) then get a full body check by your dermatologist once a year.

Stay tuned for tomorrow's review of the best and most affordable tanning sprays. Just because I don't want you to get skin cancer, doesn't mean I don't want you to still look HOT!!!

Ciao

xoxo...