Check me out here on Joelle's fabulous blog, Love is Home, talking about just a few of the things that make California the.best.state.ever.
Baklava Love :: Hannah :: Culture Connoisseur
Friday, July 8, 2011
10
To finish up my guest posting I have a second Baklava recipe from the blogger I would defiantly want to teach me the ways of international cooking and living. Hannah from Culture Connoisseur is an expert at all things international - browse her culture and travel posts for tips about food, safety, and travel etiquette when you are done marveling at her baklava skills.
I want to thank Julie so much for allowing me to share one of my favorite desserts with you today. Baklava has been around for ages and making it is an art of labor and love. I'm Hannah from Culture Connoisseur and I love taking the best recipes and cooking tips from my international friends and sharing them with you
The first time I ever made this I was hosting international students in my home for a movie night. I had many friends from the Middle East coming and I was nervous to hear their judgements. They loved the recipe and argued for a good thirty minutes over which of them could claim its history! My Turkish friend was confident that Turks owned its past. My Persian friend spoke loudly and emphatically that "Perrrrrsians" had developed the tasty treat. Before I knew it my house was an all out war zone of Saudis, Turks, Persians, and Libyans fighting for rights. See? Everyone wants a piece of this action!
Anyways, having had it tested and approved by "the real deal" I'm confident you'll love it.
I've adapted this recipe from DedeMed's Kitchen. (link- http://www.dedemed.com/#
2 cups water
2 cups sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
3/4 cup honey
1 (16 oz) pkg. phyllo dough
1 lb. chopped nuts (I use walnuts)
1 cup butter (melted)
1 and 1/2 tsp cinnamon
To begin place the water and sugar in a medium saucepan over med-high heat until the sugar is melted. Add the vanilla and honey and bring to a rolling boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes. Then let cool on the stove top.
*While you are cooking the syrup set out the frozen phyllo dough to let it warm up enough for unrolling.
Next, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Butter the bottom and sides of a 13x9 pan. Place two sheets of phyllo dough in the bottom of the pan and brush on the melted butter lightly with a pastry brush. Repeat until you have 8 sheets layered. (Be sure to cover the unused dough with a damp cloth to keep it from drying out.) Working with the dough can be frustrating, but even if it tears and breaks it will still taste the same!
Sprinkle the 8 sheets with a small handfull of the chopped nuts that have been tossed with cinnamon. Top with two sheets of phyllo dough and brush with butter. Continue layering nuts, 2 sheets, butter leaving 6-8 sheets for the top layer as you did the very bottom (just layering 2 sheets with melted butter).
Once you've finished layering, cut the baklava into the shapes you desire before baking. I like to do the little triangles, but simple squares work fine to. Bake for 50 minutes, until golden and crisp.
Once the baklava is done baking, pour the syrup over each piece with a spoon while it is still hot. Even though it looks like too much syrup, be sure to use it all. It will make for a sweet, mouth-watering ethnic dessert!
Let it cool, and be sure to lightly cover it with a cloth. Covering with plastic wrap or foil will make the baklava soggy.
Now, in honor of Julie's trip, play a little Greek or Turkish music and enjoy the fruits of your labor! :)
GREEK DREAMS {are sweet dreams} :: Brynn :: Chartreuse and a Twist
Thursday, July 7, 2011
9
Today's fantastic guest poster is Brynn from Chartreuse and a Twist, a great blogging friend of mine! She is describing her ultimate Greek Dream and I can only hope I am having this amazing of a time on my vacation right now!
After exploring the gorgeous beaches, I wandered into town and popped into an adorable little tavern…
Once I was finished with lunch, I met up with a girlfriend and we set out on a shopping adventure around town…
A little later in the evening, I made a wardrobe change into my most lovely Greek goddess inspired ensemble {hair & all!} …
erin fetherston, village – here, ouzotini – here, bar – here}
 |
| {photo credits: here} |
I had a dream last night…
that I was wandering the Greek Isles…
I stayed at the most heavenly villa where the view just took my breath away…
After exploring the gorgeous beaches, I wandered into town and popped into an adorable little tavern…
Where I feasted on ladenia {a greek sort-of pizza}…oh, it was soooooooooo delicious!!!
I also enjoyed a little ouzo! {when in Greece…}
Once I was finished with lunch, I met up with a girlfriend and we set out on a shopping adventure around town…
I found the most gorgeously perfect pair of Greek sandals, an amazingly beautiful necklace with a vintage brass stamping of an Ancient Greek woman thinking {totally suited for a goddess!}, and the coolest vintage Greek typewriter {definitely couldn’t pass that one up!}
Ahhh…it was such a perfect afternoon!
{photo credits: Greek street – here, vintage girls in Greece – here, sandals – here, clothesline – here, necklace – purchase here, typewriter – here>
A little later in the evening, I made a wardrobe change into my most lovely Greek goddess inspired ensemble {hair & all!} …
And headed to a rooftop bar overlooking the Isles, where I met some friends…we found ourselves sipping away on fancy Greek cocktails all night long {including this very scrumptious ouzotini!}
…And then I woke up…
and realized that it was Julie who enjoying all of this lovely Greek goodness!
Thank you so much, Julie, for inviting me to do this guest post! It is such an honor J
I hope that you have an amazing trip & the time of your life!!! I can’t wait to see the photos!
xoxoxo
Brynn
What I Wish I Were Wearing Had Julie Taken Me On Her Trip With Her Wednesday
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
8
My post today is a dream outfit from one of my most inspiring blogging friends, Laura from You Stir Me. I seriously love this girl and I wish I could fly her here for the next year to plan my wedding.
Hi lovelies! I'm thrilled to bits and pieces Julie asked me to come over here and keep this little blog of her's company while she's off having the time of her life in Greece and Turkey! Can you imagine a more romantic place to unwind and celebrate your recent engagement? I suppose that's why she didn't invite me. No hard feelings, Julie! If she had let me hop in her suitcase, here's what I would have packed for a wonderful day gallivanting around one of the most picturesque areas of the world.
I pack light. All I need is a comfy dress, a pair of sandals, a cute bikini and some fun accessories. Throw in a camera to capture everything and I'm ready for my getaway. Sigh...someday I'll make it to Greece and Turkey, but until then, I expect a postcard, Julie!
xox Laura
Hi lovelies! I'm thrilled to bits and pieces Julie asked me to come over here and keep this little blog of her's company while she's off having the time of her life in Greece and Turkey! Can you imagine a more romantic place to unwind and celebrate your recent engagement? I suppose that's why she didn't invite me. No hard feelings, Julie! If she had let me hop in her suitcase, here's what I would have packed for a wonderful day gallivanting around one of the most picturesque areas of the world.
I pack light. All I need is a comfy dress, a pair of sandals, a cute bikini and some fun accessories. Throw in a camera to capture everything and I'm ready for my getaway. Sigh...someday I'll make it to Greece and Turkey, but until then, I expect a postcard, Julie!
xox Laura
Summer Vacation :: Tamuna :: A Journey to Style
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
5
Today's post is a totally inspiring group of images from Tamuna of A Journey to Style. I hope all my future vacations are filled with such lovely outfits, accessories, and strawberry slushies.
Hi there all Love, Julie readers, it's Tamuna from A Journey to Style. Today I'm sharing with you this colorful collage inspired by my thoughts of summer vacation. I'm planning a trip to California in early July and can't wait to get my feet soaked in the ocean water, lay on the beach for hours enjoying strawberry slushies away from all the worries...
What is your dream vacation like?
VA-cation :: Leslie:: Fresh Out of Lemons
Monday, July 4, 2011
9
I am oh-so excited to have one of my first and favorite blogging friends guest posting today. Leslie from Fresh out of Lemons is funny and charming and after reading her posts I sometimes want to live at her house full time. Is that weird?
Anyway... here is the traumatic story of her childhood vacation. I hope mine is going slightly better at this point in my trip. After you are done laughing, check out Leslie's blog here for more fun.
When my husband was a kid, his family traveled all over the country. Two trips to Disney
World, a few west coast tours, and a drive up the east coast into Canada. My experience was
quite different and is probably why I'm a bigger fan of “staycations” rather than vacations.
Aside from a handful of expeditions from Georgia to South Carolina to visit family when I was
really young, the only true "family vacation" occurred the summer before I entered the sixth
grade. My mom, grandmother, sister, and I loaded up in the Ford Aerostar minivan and pointed
north to Virginia, where my aunt and uncle lived. The idea of staying in a hotel would have
been thrilling, but I figured that a week with Ray and Jan would be more familial and hospitable
so I was game. And they promised a neighborhood pool.
I remember very few details of the week that ensued, other than to share with you that my
adventure bubble was burst. Ray and Jan, who worked full time and only had one car, were
thrilled to have another mode of transportation— our minivan— in their driveway. From dawn
to dusk they left us stranded in their house. The only distinct thing that I can recall about being
there was their cat, which spent all day lying in the bathroom floor gnawing at its skin, which
was a surface of bare spots and scabs. To go to the bathroom, you had to step over him. They
assured us that we weren't disturbing him, and they were right. He wouldn't even look up.
Though he did emerge once to throw up on the carpet.
Oh, and the "neighborhood pool" that they told us was in walking distance? Turns out this
mecca was at least a mile away and the route was along a fairly significant and heavily traveled
State road. No sidewalks. Just me, my mom, sister, and almost 70 year old grandmother
pilgrimaging along in the high grass.
My sister and I did get to go to the beach for the first time. On their schedule. Which only
allowed for an hour.
Do I sound bitter? Really, I can laugh about the adventure now. But Ray and Jan weren't
invited to my wedding. ;)
I’m wishing Julie happier travels and wonderful memories (that don’t involve an obsessive
compulsive cat!)
Anyway... here is the traumatic story of her childhood vacation. I hope mine is going slightly better at this point in my trip. After you are done laughing, check out Leslie's blog here for more fun.
When my husband was a kid, his family traveled all over the country. Two trips to Disney
World, a few west coast tours, and a drive up the east coast into Canada. My experience was
quite different and is probably why I'm a bigger fan of “staycations” rather than vacations.
Aside from a handful of expeditions from Georgia to South Carolina to visit family when I was
really young, the only true "family vacation" occurred the summer before I entered the sixth
grade. My mom, grandmother, sister, and I loaded up in the Ford Aerostar minivan and pointed
north to Virginia, where my aunt and uncle lived. The idea of staying in a hotel would have
been thrilling, but I figured that a week with Ray and Jan would be more familial and hospitable
so I was game. And they promised a neighborhood pool.
I remember very few details of the week that ensued, other than to share with you that my
adventure bubble was burst. Ray and Jan, who worked full time and only had one car, were
thrilled to have another mode of transportation— our minivan— in their driveway. From dawn
to dusk they left us stranded in their house. The only distinct thing that I can recall about being
there was their cat, which spent all day lying in the bathroom floor gnawing at its skin, which
was a surface of bare spots and scabs. To go to the bathroom, you had to step over him. They
assured us that we weren't disturbing him, and they were right. He wouldn't even look up.
Though he did emerge once to throw up on the carpet.
Oh, and the "neighborhood pool" that they told us was in walking distance? Turns out this
mecca was at least a mile away and the route was along a fairly significant and heavily traveled
State road. No sidewalks. Just me, my mom, sister, and almost 70 year old grandmother
pilgrimaging along in the high grass.
My sister and I did get to go to the beach for the first time. On their schedule. Which only
allowed for an hour.
Do I sound bitter? Really, I can laugh about the adventure now. But Ray and Jan weren't
invited to my wedding. ;)
I’m wishing Julie happier travels and wonderful memories (that don’t involve an obsessive
compulsive cat!)
A Classic Greek Dessert :: Jill :: Sincerely Jill
Friday, July 1, 2011
3
I am super excited for today's guest post because it involves one of my all time favorite things, dessert- and one of my favorite bloggers, Jill from Sincerely Jill. Enjoy!
I can’t begin to tell you how excited and flattered I am to be a guest blogger for Love,
Julie! While I’m extremely jealous of her future travels (Greece, really?!), I thought it
would be only right to celebrate her incredible trip to Greece by making their most
well-known dessert: Baklava.
I can’t remember my first experience with baklava. I’m sure I didn’t care for it much
when I was younger… nuts in things wasn’t really my bag.
However, I do remember when my now husband and I were first dating he brought
my Nana a piece of baklava from the bakery he worked for, and she LOVED it! He
100% won her over. That and he played golf in high school; I’m sure she would
have passed out if he were Catholic.
There has always been this intimidation factor that has kept me for attempting to
make baklava. People would always say that it was so challenging. Me, being a bit
of a perfectionist, decided it would be best to steer clear of this dessert at least for
the time being rather than mess it up.
What was I to do when Julie asked me to write a guest post? I knew that the oven
and baklava recipe were calling my name. So I decided to take that challenge.
After reading through the recipe, I didn’t get what the big deal was about the recipe.
Seemed pretty straightforward to me. But oh, no, no, no! Phyllo dough is one tricky
beast it is! Rips without cause, doesn’t lay where you want it to...
But I persevered! And so will you! Co-workers and friends will annihilate this
sweet treat within minutes. Don’t be scared. You can do it.
Baklava
Recipe adapted from Emeril Lagasse (link: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/
emeril-lagasse/baklava-recipe2/index.html)
Ingredients
For the Syrup:
• 1 cup honey
• 1 cup sugar
• ¾ cup water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 (1-inch) strip lemon zest
• Pinch of clove & cardamom
For the Filling and Dough:
• 1 ½ pounds combination of walnuts and almonds
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground clove
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 sticks unsalted butter, melted
• 1 pound phyllo, thawed according to package instructions
Directions
To make the syrup: Combine the sugar, honey, water, lemon juice, cinnamon sticks,
lemon zest, cloves and cardamom in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat,
stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon, until the sugar has dissolved. Reduce the
heat to medium-low and cook until the syrup is slightly thickened, about 10 minutes.
Remove the cinnamon sticks and lemon zest and set syrup aside to cool.
Using a Chef's knife, finely chop the nuts. (Alternatively, if you have a food processor,
pulse the nuts until finely chopped.) In a medium mixing bowl, combine the nuts,
cinnamon, and salt and stir well to combine.
Melt the butter over low heat in a small saucepan.
Using a pastry brush, lightly coat a 13 by 9-inch or 15 by 10-inch baking dish with some
of the melted butter.
Open the package of thawed phyllo and lay the thin sheets on a clean work surface.
Measure the phyllo sheets; if the type you have purchased measures approximately the
same size as the baking dish you are using, then proceed from here. If they are larger
than your baking dish, use a sharp knife to cut the phyllo sheets approximately the same
size as your baking dish. Discard any scraps. Cover the sheets with a piece of plastic
wrap and a lightly damp kitchen towel, as the sheets of phyllo dry out very quickly if left
uncovered.
Position rack in center of oven and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Place 1 of the sheets of phyllo in the bottom of the buttered baking dish and lightly brush
with some of the melted butter. Repeat this procedure with 6 more sheets of phyllo, for
a total of 7 layers. Measure about 3/4 cup of the nut mixture and spread the nut mixture
evenly over the buttered phyllo sheets. Repeat with 7 more sheets of phyllo, buttering
each layer as before, and top these sheets with another 3/4 cup of the nut mixture.
Continue this layering process, buttering 7 sheets of phyllo and topping each 7 sheets
with 3/4 cup of the nuts, until you have used all of the nut mixture. Layer any remaining
sheets of phyllo on top, buttering between each layer, until all of the phyllo sheets have
been used.
Use a sharp knife to make 4 cuts lengthwise through the layered phyllo at 1 1/2 inch
intervals. (You should end up with 5 lengthwise strips 1 1/2 inches wide.) Now use your
knife to cut diagonally across the strips at 1 1/2-inch intervals to form diamond shapes.
You should end up with approximately 36 diamond-shaped pieces of baklava in the
baking dish.
Bake the baklava until golden brown, about 40 minutes.
Using oven mitts or pot holders, remove the baklava from the oven and set aside on a
wire rack to cool for 5 minutes. Using a ladle or small measuring cup, slowly drizzle the
cooled syrup over the warm baklava. Allow to stand several hours before serving.
I can only hope I am lucky enough to be eating this delicious desserts A LOT during this vacation! Thanks Jill!
I can’t begin to tell you how excited and flattered I am to be a guest blogger for Love,
Julie! While I’m extremely jealous of her future travels (Greece, really?!), I thought it
would be only right to celebrate her incredible trip to Greece by making their most
well-known dessert: Baklava.
I can’t remember my first experience with baklava. I’m sure I didn’t care for it much
when I was younger… nuts in things wasn’t really my bag.
However, I do remember when my now husband and I were first dating he brought
my Nana a piece of baklava from the bakery he worked for, and she LOVED it! He
100% won her over. That and he played golf in high school; I’m sure she would
have passed out if he were Catholic.
There has always been this intimidation factor that has kept me for attempting to
make baklava. People would always say that it was so challenging. Me, being a bit
of a perfectionist, decided it would be best to steer clear of this dessert at least for
the time being rather than mess it up.
What was I to do when Julie asked me to write a guest post? I knew that the oven
and baklava recipe were calling my name. So I decided to take that challenge.
After reading through the recipe, I didn’t get what the big deal was about the recipe.
Seemed pretty straightforward to me. But oh, no, no, no! Phyllo dough is one tricky
beast it is! Rips without cause, doesn’t lay where you want it to...
But I persevered! And so will you! Co-workers and friends will annihilate this
sweet treat within minutes. Don’t be scared. You can do it.
 |  |
Recipe adapted from Emeril Lagasse (link: http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/
emeril-lagasse/baklava-recipe2/index.html)
Ingredients
For the Syrup:
• 1 cup honey
• 1 cup sugar
• ¾ cup water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 (1-inch) strip lemon zest
• Pinch of clove & cardamom
For the Filling and Dough:
• 1 ½ pounds combination of walnuts and almonds
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground clove
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 sticks unsalted butter, melted
• 1 pound phyllo, thawed according to package instructions
Directions
To make the syrup: Combine the sugar, honey, water, lemon juice, cinnamon sticks,
lemon zest, cloves and cardamom in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat,
stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon, until the sugar has dissolved. Reduce the
heat to medium-low and cook until the syrup is slightly thickened, about 10 minutes.
Remove the cinnamon sticks and lemon zest and set syrup aside to cool.
Using a Chef's knife, finely chop the nuts. (Alternatively, if you have a food processor,
pulse the nuts until finely chopped.) In a medium mixing bowl, combine the nuts,
cinnamon, and salt and stir well to combine.
Melt the butter over low heat in a small saucepan.
Using a pastry brush, lightly coat a 13 by 9-inch or 15 by 10-inch baking dish with some
of the melted butter.
Open the package of thawed phyllo and lay the thin sheets on a clean work surface.
Measure the phyllo sheets; if the type you have purchased measures approximately the
same size as the baking dish you are using, then proceed from here. If they are larger
than your baking dish, use a sharp knife to cut the phyllo sheets approximately the same
size as your baking dish. Discard any scraps. Cover the sheets with a piece of plastic
wrap and a lightly damp kitchen towel, as the sheets of phyllo dry out very quickly if left
uncovered.
Position rack in center of oven and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Place 1 of the sheets of phyllo in the bottom of the buttered baking dish and lightly brush
with some of the melted butter. Repeat this procedure with 6 more sheets of phyllo, for
a total of 7 layers. Measure about 3/4 cup of the nut mixture and spread the nut mixture
evenly over the buttered phyllo sheets. Repeat with 7 more sheets of phyllo, buttering
each layer as before, and top these sheets with another 3/4 cup of the nut mixture.
Continue this layering process, buttering 7 sheets of phyllo and topping each 7 sheets
with 3/4 cup of the nuts, until you have used all of the nut mixture. Layer any remaining
sheets of phyllo on top, buttering between each layer, until all of the phyllo sheets have
been used.
Use a sharp knife to make 4 cuts lengthwise through the layered phyllo at 1 1/2 inch
intervals. (You should end up with 5 lengthwise strips 1 1/2 inches wide.) Now use your
knife to cut diagonally across the strips at 1 1/2-inch intervals to form diamond shapes.
You should end up with approximately 36 diamond-shaped pieces of baklava in the
baking dish.
Bake the baklava until golden brown, about 40 minutes.
Using oven mitts or pot holders, remove the baklava from the oven and set aside on a
wire rack to cool for 5 minutes. Using a ladle or small measuring cup, slowly drizzle the
cooled syrup over the warm baklava. Allow to stand several hours before serving.
I can only hope I am lucky enough to be eating this delicious desserts A LOT during this vacation! Thanks Jill!
Travel Dreams :: Schue Love :: Natasha
Thursday, June 30, 2011
18I am so excited to have one of my favorite bloggie friends here today to post about a dream relaxing vacation. I am in love with the gorgeous places, outfits, and cocktails Natasha from Schue Love has chosen and I hope I am anywhere even half as wonderful right now on my own vacation!
Hi Love, Julie readers! It's Natasha from Schue Love! I told Julie I would help fill in while she takes off to Greece and Turkey for three weeks...lucky girl!!! When I think of vacation...I ultimately think of crystal clear waters, a cocktail with an umbrella, and sleeping in crisp white sheets. In other words...pure relaxation. This type of ultimate vacation is not in the cards anytime soon, but I thought I would take advantage of Julie's absence to dream about the possibilities! :)
Hi Love, Julie readers! It's Natasha from Schue Love! I told Julie I would help fill in while she takes off to Greece and Turkey for three weeks...lucky girl!!! When I think of vacation...I ultimately think of crystal clear waters, a cocktail with an umbrella, and sleeping in crisp white sheets. In other words...pure relaxation. This type of ultimate vacation is not in the cards anytime soon, but I thought I would take advantage of Julie's absence to dream about the possibilities! :)
For starters, I would forget the traditional bungalows...I would love to sleep on a boat like this...be rocked to sleep every night!
But of course, I would want a tub like this in the room...along with lounge areas outside. Perfection!
I would relax here....
or here!
And I would wear this...
And drink this!
And I would sleep here...
or here!
Sounds pretty nice, right? It's fun to dream!!! Thanks to Julie for allowing me to do so today!
xo natasha
What I Wish I Were Wearing Wednesday :: Guest Post :: A Daily Something
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
13
My next guest poster for my What I Wish I Were Wearing series is the fabulous Rebecca from A Daily Something. She has come up with an amazing causal summer outfit I hope I will be wearing every day this year, I especially love those bright shorts!
 |
Hi, it's Rebecca from A Daily Something. Thanks so much to Julie for giving me this opportunity to let you all know what I wish I were wearing Wednesday! I'm so incredibly jealous that Julie's in Greece and Turkey - I hope to one day visit the Greek island of Santorini (Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2, anyone?)...
I graduated college in May (yay!) and decided to take a few months to do nothing (read: I didn't want to work in an office). I've been living at home (New Jersey), spending my time thrifting, blogging, planning some pretty parties, and generally having a good time with my family. I don't want to think about business clothes for a long time since my school had a business casual dress code.
This is the sort of outfit I want to wear everyday this summer (especially since it's been in the high 90s and like 90% humidity)...a pretty feminine top, grecian sandals, and high waisted skirts/shorts. A big bag is a must - I always want my laptop close by!
I'd love to have you visit A Daily Something! Thanks again, Julie :)
Greece Outfit Inspiration :: Drew :: Coral Cafe
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
8Today's post is the second amazing outfit from Drew of Coral Cafe. describing her ideal outfit for a perfect day in Greece. I love the pops of color (Drew's specialty!) and the gorgeous gold bracelet; I hope I am looking this stylish right now on my trip!
Hello! Drew, back again from Coral Cafe, as promised! Hoping Julie had just an amazing time in Turkey! Today I've put together an outfit that will be appropriate while strutting around the gorgeous streets of Greece, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world!
Greece has a Mediterranean climate, much like Julie's home in California. Summers are hot and dry, yet a nice breeze is felt here and there, especially at night. I chose this lightweight, bold patterned tunic to fit comfortably all throughout the day and into the night. You can wrap this scarf around your head for breezy moments or ferry rides and then you'll definitely need to put on your sunglasses for the bright sunlight that comes out more days than none in Greece during the summer months. You'll need to bring a larger handbag to tuck away all of the souvenirs you'll stumble upon along the way. Mainly little trinkets, maps, jewelry and even munchie snacks. (pistachios are pretty abundant!) Jewelry and accessories are pretty popular in Greece as it was in Turkey. Only difference, Greece jewelry can be more bold and extravagant. I picked out the lovely amber-jeweled earrings and matching 2-wholed ring and of course the famous leaf cuff bracelet. Jeweled sandals will also leave you feeling styled to the nines when walking around other tourists and fancy art, architecture and landscapes.
I believe since I've done the research and put the outfits together for Turkey and Greece, I might as well jet off to these lovely, infamous lands myself! (Trying to) "patiently" await the arrival of Julie to get more inside scoop on her experiences in such a long, fun filled 3 week journey!
Tukey Outfit Inspiration :: Drew :: Coral Cafe
Monday, June 27, 2011
10One of my sweetest blogging friends, Drew, from Coral Cafe has generously offered to make me not one, but two, dream outfits for my travel destinations, Turkey and Greece. Today's outfit is for a perfect day in Turkey and after you are done drooling over it, go check out Drew's blog here. She is has some amazing design inspiration and you will totally fall in love with her, I promise!
Hi there! It's Drew from Coral Cafe, having the nice pleasure to be over here to share a bit with you, while Julie has been whisked away to the beautiful lands of Turkey and Greece. Since Julie is going to be touring around Turkey enjoying the sites, taking in the culture and admiring the ancient ruins and architectural heritage, I wanted to put together an outfit that resembles somewhat of Turkey's fashion, with a little twist from American fashion, because of course she is a lovely tourist and can do just that.
Turkey is known for their abundant source of leather, so I had no problem choosing this beautiful gray leather skirt and leather sandals, with a touch of bling. Around the turkish region, many embrace silk and it is made into dresses and scarves. The scarf I chose matches nicely with the gold toned embellishments on your red and white racerback tank. Of course, if you ask anybody, Turkey is most famous for their handmade carpets and kilims. In fact, it's hard to go anywhere around the city without being stopped or summoned to check out the finest kilims in town and being impulsed to purchase one! This handbag will definitely stand out with its carpet-like fabric and you can even convince the sellers of it's fine quality and detail ;) Of course authentic jewelry can be found on many streets of Turkey and I have chose just a few to finish off your casual and inspiring Turkey look.
Thanks for letting me stop by and stay tuned for a look that will have Julie set for Greece!
Greek Food by Sam of Fitness, Food, and Faith
Friday, June 24, 2011
7To celebrate all the amazingly delicious food I will be hopefully eating right now on my trip, I am happy to introduce Sam from fitness food and faith!. Her blog is full of healthy recipes and great tips on how to live a healthy life. It is a must read!
Hi Love, Julie fans! Sam here from fitness food & faith. I’m really excited to be sharing some of my favorite Greek food with you all while Julie is actually exploring the beautiful country. My wonderful husband, Bennett, and I had our first date at the Houston Greek Festival and have fallen more and more in love over many Mediterranean inspired meals since. Here are a few of my favorite healthy Greek recipes:
Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce
For the meatballs:
1.25lbs lean ground turkey
1 cup zucchini, grated and liquid squeezed out
1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
1 egg
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 red onion, grated
1 tsp dried oregano
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
salt and pepper
olive oil cooking spray
Combine all ingredients except cooking spray in a bowl and mix well. Shape into golf ball sized meatballs and refrigerate for about an hour. Spray frying pan with cooking spray and cook over medium low heat until cooked all the way through. Makes about 20 meatballs.
For the tzatziki sauce:
1/2 cup plain low-fat yogurt
1/2 cup low-fat sour cream
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon oregano
Combine all ingredients and serve over the meatballs or on the side as a dipping sauce.
Greek Quinoa Salad
1 cup dry quinoa, rinsed thoroughly
2 cups water
2 cups sliced cherry tomatoes
1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup sliced kalamata olives
1 cup feta cheese
1-1/2 T olive oil
1/2 lemon, juiced
1 tsp dry oregano
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
Combine the water and quinoa in a medium sized pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer and let cook for 15 minutes (or until all water is absorbed). Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool. In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, olives, and cucumber. Add quinoa and spices and mix well. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice on top and add feta cheese. Toss everything.
Thanks for having me, Julie! Can’t wait to hear all about your fabulous adventures.
Packing Advice :: Haley :: Cardigan Junkie
Thursday, June 23, 2011
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Today in my line up is a fabulous post from the stylish and savvy Haley from Cardigan Junkie. Her blog is full of style tips and great ways to look fabulous while still saving money, check it out as soon as you are done reading her travel advice here!
Hello! I’m Haley from Cardigan Junkie and I’m so glad to be filling in for Julie while she’s off enjoying the trip of a lifetime! I’m so jealous, but excited to see her photos and hear about the great style she soaked up in Europe.
Speaking of vacations, I recently took a short trip of my own and realized once again how important it is to save room in your suitcase because every bag seems to gain 15 pounds the further you have to carry it. To me, the key is packing versatile dresses that don’t take up much room, and neutral accessories that can go with anything in your bag.
Here are some options I collected to show just what I mean:
My favorite dress is the middle one, since it is unlike any I’ve seen others wear and could work in a restaurant as well as in an antiques market. What is your favorite travel dress?
Hello! I’m Haley from Cardigan Junkie and I’m so glad to be filling in for Julie while she’s off enjoying the trip of a lifetime! I’m so jealous, but excited to see her photos and hear about the great style she soaked up in Europe.
Speaking of vacations, I recently took a short trip of my own and realized once again how important it is to save room in your suitcase because every bag seems to gain 15 pounds the further you have to carry it. To me, the key is packing versatile dresses that don’t take up much room, and neutral accessories that can go with anything in your bag.
Here are some options I collected to show just what I mean:
My favorite dress is the middle one, since it is unlike any I’ve seen others wear and could work in a restaurant as well as in an antiques market. What is your favorite travel dress?
What I Wish I Were Wearing Wednesday :: Guest Post :: Sifting Thoughts
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
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I am excited to introduce a new blogging friend, Leah, from Sifting Thoughts. She is continuing my What I Wish I Were Wearing series and has come up with an elegant daytime outfit I would love to wear on a warm, summer day!
Hey everyone, I am Leah from over at Sifting Thoughts and I was so honored when Julie selected me to be one of her guest bloggers. I live in Western Canada, which means for a good six to eight months of the year I am bundled to the nines. Therefore, when the sun does decide to shine you can find me living in an outfit similar to the one I created. This outfit is composed of a lot of my favorite summer pieces… that I now wish were in my closet lol. I like to wear things that can transition from daytime chic to nighttime casual: A loose top for hot summer days and some white skinny jeans for a night out. J Brand has become one of my favorite go to brands because they make the perfect size 23 (yes, I am ultra petite) and they fit me like a glove. My all time favorite accessory in the world would have to be earrings. I recently discovered the Lauren Elan collection and have fallen in love with so many of her pieces (in particular, the Adelaide necklace). When it comes to purses, I definitely always carry one. I saw this Betsey Johnson bag in store and couldn’t get over how adorable it was. Lastly, to add a splash of color to an otherwise neutral outfit I decided on these sexy Steve Madden pumps. If only the sun were always shining…
A HUGE thanks to Julie for allowing me to do this post and please don’t hesitate to stop by Sifting Thoughts and say hi!
1. Betsey Johnson Spring Me Up Flap Bag Originally $110.00 - Sale $55.00
2. Lauren Elan Adelaide Necklace $165.00
3. American Eagle Chiffon Sleeveless Cami $33.73
4. Aldo KUTZ Earrings $8.00
5. J BRAND 811 Mid-Rise Skinny Leg in Pale Cream Pants $176.00
6. Steve Madden Karmenaf Pumps $129.95
Travel Essentials :: Jillian :: Cornflake Dreams
Monday, June 20, 2011
10First on my list of fantastic, over-the-top, amazing guest posters in Jillian from cornflake dreams. She has a list of travel must haves that I will definitely be taking some notes from for my 10 hour flights to and from Greece and Turkey!
hi there! it's jillian from cornflake dreams and one of my favorite things to do is travel. i am a big planner and i usually have all my trips mapped out weeks (more like months) in advance. it's no surprise that i also like to be prepared for the actual traveling part! i get bored pretty quickly...especially on long plane rides so it's important to be prepared! here are my travel essentials::
metallic passport holder $53, sac blanket & pillow $23, ipad $499, guilty pleasure magazines, a tote bag $20, ipod shuffle $50 , nalgene water bottle $7.50 - mix with crystal light on the go (wild strawberry w/caffeine) instead of soda and a quick snack- nature valley chewy trail mix bars are the best.
a huge thank you to julie for inviting me to guest post while she is on vacation. for even more travel, design and fashion inspiration stop by cornflake dreams anytime!
what are your travel essentials?
xo,
jillian
What I Wish I Were Wearing Wednesday {Guest Post: Leslie: Fresh Out of Lemons}
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
12Today I am ultra-super excited to introduce one of my favorite bloggers, Leslie, from Fresh Out of Lemons! Her wonderfully written blog is full of funny/touching stories and great advice! After you have seen her dream outfit, go check her out! Or if you are totally inspired by her look, go take a look at her style pinboard!
Great style makes my stomach flutter. When I'm earning the kibble money (ie- in the office), my clothes usually have LOFT, Banana Republic, or J. Crew labels. However, if I'm honest, I always wish I were wearing this:
In fact, this is pretty much what you'll find me in on the weekend. I own that exact Dinosaur Jr. shirt and would love to add the blog-tee to my collection. Abercrombie makes the best jean and shorts. Substitute Jailhouse Brewing Company for the Heineken patch on the baseball hat. Substitute the sunglasses if I'm not wearing the hat. Old Navy flip flops on my feet. Classic casual.
What I Wish I Were Wearing Wednesday {Guest Post: Haley}
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
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I can't wait to introduce you all to my second fabulous What I Wish I were Wearing guest star here at Love, Julie, Haley! When you are done drooling over her dreamy spring party outfit, visit her blog here for some inspiring style and decorating tips!
Hello! I'm Haley from Cardigan Junkie. Many thanks for Julie for letting me stop in and share what I wish I was wearing this Wednesday.
Since wedding season will be here before we know it, I had fun putting together the girliest, most spring-tastic outfit I could find. In real life, I don't go to enough events that warrant dresses and accessories like these but I sure wish that I did!
If money were no object, I'd buy this pink printed Shoshanna dress since it's a huge departure from my usual style and then add basic slingbacks, a Lauren Merkin clutch, and statement necklace from Amrita Singh.
Thanks again to Julie for hosting such a fun series!
P.S. Stay posted, I am having such huge withdrawals from creating new What I Wish I Were Wearing Outfits I may be back later with an outfit of my own!
Love, Julie
Hello! I'm Haley from Cardigan Junkie. Many thanks for Julie for letting me stop in and share what I wish I was wearing this Wednesday.
Since wedding season will be here before we know it, I had fun putting together the girliest, most spring-tastic outfit I could find. In real life, I don't go to enough events that warrant dresses and accessories like these but I sure wish that I did!
If money were no object, I'd buy this pink printed Shoshanna dress since it's a huge departure from my usual style and then add basic slingbacks, a Lauren Merkin clutch, and statement necklace from Amrita Singh.
Thanks again to Julie for hosting such a fun series!
P.S. Stay posted, I am having such huge withdrawals from creating new What I Wish I Were Wearing Outfits I may be back later with an outfit of my own!
Love, Julie
