Weekend…What Took You So Long?

Thank goodness, per usual, it’s Friday! Everyone ready for the weekend? I am quite a busy bee these next few days. I am getting my hair did; a mani and pedi are scheduled; packing for my trip to Italy; getting a camera case (currently using a ski goggle case… EMBARRASSING); and having a bit of a photo shoot!

I decided last month I need to get a cute “About Me” photo to post on my blog. Plus I have some big plans coming up in the future! I am using the most talented photographer and HIGHLY recommend her. Since I am usually posting about things to do in the Windy City, I have used “tourism” as my theme. Here is my source of inspiration:

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What do you think?! I plan on wearing bright colors, fun patterns and lots of props (i.e. a Chicago map, glasses, coffee, camera, shopping bags, Chicago magazine, cupcakes, etc.). The plan is to shoot at a small cafe, as if I am doing “blogger research” around the city. I cannot wait to show you my looks! I just might need some assistance in deciding which ones to chose.

On another note, I actually tried one of The Everygirl’s meal plans. If you are unfamiliar, it is ten meals (5 recipes, 2 serving each) all for under $50!

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Two of my main concerns were that the portions would be tiny and difficult to make (I literally DO NOT COOK). But I was MORE than pleasantly surprised! Let me tell you…the pricing and meals are an A+. To be honest, although I purchased everything for all five meals, I only made three. I know, I know! But as a city girl, it impossible to cook five nights in a row. We are too tempted by the hustle and bustle and chalkboard beer specials!

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But of the three dinners I did make, they were absolutely delicious, satisfying and filled up both myself and the bf (who is 6’4, 215 lbs. by the way). I even got a “this is the best meal you have ever made” regarding the chicken lettuce wraps and peanut sauce noodles. Yum!

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I shopped all ingredients at Trader Joes and came to $47. Some items were less than the price listed and some were more. But in the end, they all balanced out. I made the Lettuce Wraps, Pizza and Orzo with Feta Meatballs.

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The bottom line is…it actually works. No fluff, filling and seriously cheap. You can check out the rest of the recipes here. And if these eats don’t tickle your fancy, there are 10 Vegetarian Meals and 10 Entree Salads less than $50 too. Looks like I have some cooking to do!

What is everyone else up to this weekend? Cinco de Mayo? The Derby? Hopefully enjoying yourselves. Happy Friday!

xoxo

Nicole