Author: muffinchanel.com

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Organic Gluten-Free Vegan Vanilla Cupcakes | Wholesome Chow

Organic Gluten-Free Vegan Vanilla Cupcakes!

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

These cupcakes were a lot of fun and very easy to make!

Pre-heat your oven to 350 degrees

In a medium bowl combine:

  • 1 1/4 cup Milk — we used Coconut Milk
  • 1 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar

Let mixture sit for about 5 minutes or until foamy

  • Add 1/4 cup oil (we used avocado oil) and whisk well

Whisk Baking Mix into the liquid ingredients and blend until smooth

So easy, right!? Then we poured the mixture into our cupcake pans, greased with coconut oil, and popped the tray into the oven for 18 minutes.

Bake for 18 minutes at 350 degrees
Bake for 18 minutes at 350 degrees

While the cupcakes were baking, we made the Organic Gluten-Free Vanilla Frosting Mix! Yay!

Wholesome Chow Vanilla Frosting
Wholesome Chow Vanilla Frosting

The mix was super easy to make — just combine vegan margarine (we used Coconut Oil) and the mix and voila!

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By the time we were done, so were the cupcakes!

Mmmmm, fresh cupcakes warm from the oven!
Mmmmm, fresh cupcakes warm from the oven!

After letting the cupcakes cool for 15 minutes, we added the frosting.

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These cupcakes are awesome! Even if you don’t have a food allergy or dietary preferences, you will enjoy this mix and frosting. You can order this and other organic, gluten-free baking mixes from wholesomechow.com.

I want to try their Lemon Poppy Blueberry Muffins next!

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Blog Health + Beauty

What’s In My Makeup Bag?

muffinchanel make up what's in my makeup bag

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

This is pretty much what I wear on days when I wear makeup! My go-to bag of goodies!

From Left, up, then Right, down:

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Blog Health + Beauty

Glow, Baby! Glow! | Highlighters/ Luminizers

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

I love a nice ethereal glow on the face during winter — really all year long, but there’s something really pretty about a nice shimmer right above the cheekbones during the holidays.

Highlighters can give your skin a more youthful appearance. Not only can you apply it to the cheekbones, but also under the eyes, on your brow bone, down your nose, right above your lip — in your cupid’s bow, and along your clavicles.

Here are a few products to use to give you that holiday glow!

High Beam – Benefit

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I’ve used this for years and it’s great for a pinkish, metallic silver highlight. It’s a creamy, kind of watery consistency that comes in what looks like a nail polish bottle. A LITTLE GOES A LONG WAY with High Beam. I dot a small amount onto my cheekbones, under my eyebrows, and down my nose to highlight and just blend it out.

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Too much highlighter can give you an unnatural, frosty “glow”

Since it is very metallic, you may want to mix it with your moisturizer or some foundation before applying, to give it a more natural look.

Watts Up – Benefit

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I really like this highlighter. It comes in a gel-like creme stick — like a chap stick. The consistency is similar to a chap stick too, maybe a little grainier and not sticky, but then it turns into a powdery feel. You can apply the product directly on your face and then use the opposite end of the stick, which has a little foam pad, to blend it out. I prefer to blend it with my fingers. The color is a kind of champagne gold with shimmer — a deeper colored highlighter. This might be a good highlighter for you if you have a tan complexion or if you prefer a highlighter without a pink undertone. Application is easy and it’s very forgiving if you apply too much.

Hello Light – it Cosmetics

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This gel/creme highlighter comes in a silver compact and is very subtle. I apply this with my fingers and as it comes in contact with your fingers, the product warms and becomes very easy to smooth on. It’s a pale white/silver shimmer color that gives a very natural, youthful look. Perfect for that happy, natural glow without looking like you are wearing a highlighter.

Candlelight – Too Faced

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This highlighter is a powder that comes in a mirrored compact. With real gold flecks in this slightly yellow powder, you’re sure to get a warmer glow to your complexion. It’s slightly sheer, but in the sun, you’ll see the subtle gold glow.

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Blog Lifestyle

Make your own | Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

I attempted to recreate the Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich from Panera and it was a success! I loved the result! Here’s what I did to make my own version of this amazing sandwich:

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Blog Lifestyle

Top 10 – September Favorites

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

  • Skillful Means by Tarthang Tulku

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This book is all about improving your life by being mindful of what is happening right now. I first read this book a couple of years ago and it’s great. How many times are you walking to class or your car or at the mall and you’re on your cell phone? Or how often are you thinking about the XYZ you have to do tomorrow or next week instead of paying attention to what you are doing right now? All we have is the present — this moment. Skillful Means is all about living in the moment you are in; being mindful about what is going on around you. No distractions — just really being self aware and clearing your mind. It’s a great book that will help you focus and appreciate what’s happening all around you.

  • Starbucks Star Dash

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From now until October 1, Starbucks is doing their Star Dash. Basically, it’s another incentive for you to go to Starbucks during certain times of the year in order to accumulate stars to earn a gift card. This “Star Dash” is different from the stars you earn with the Rewards Card, although, you do need a rewards card to participate. Separate from the regular stars you earn with the Rewards Card, these “Star Dash” stars will give you $5 or $10 gift cards depending on how many you get before the deadline. Each transaction will ear you one star. I’m on my way to earning the $10 gift card!

  • Mediterranean Veggie sandwich (Panera)

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New favorite sandwich for sure. I was looking for some meatless options at different restaurants and a friend suggested I try this sandwich from Panera. It’s amazing —  lettuce, tomato, cucumber, red onion, red peppers, cilantro/jalepeño hummus, and feta swiss cheese (I prefer swiss) on tomato basil bread. I bought ingredients today to make my own version at home! YAY!

  • iOS7

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I love the clean look and feel of the iOS7 update. I have the iPhone 4S and my camera app is faster and I really like having the “live filters”. Command Center is great and I really like all the new ringtones/sounds. It’s neat to have the option to block contacts and to be able to multi-task between apps.

  • Clear

Clear is a simple task management/list application. It’s clean and easy to navigate with lots of color schemes to choose from.

  • iTunes Radio

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iTunes radio is basically like Pandora. I prefer it because it’s already integrated into iTunes and it remembers the songs I’ve listened to and makes it easy for me to purchase them if I choose. You can create your own “stations” and mark that you like certain songs. There’s even a Top 100 iTunes radio and you can listen to a shuffle of all the Top 100 songs on iTunes. I think this is awesome for getting high quality audio for more than just a preview of a song you might be interested in buying.

  • The Killers – Shot At The Night

It was actually through iTunes Radio that I first heard “Shot At The Night”. ^^^

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The Killers songs are always a little vague, but this one seems to be about taking this once in a lifetime opportunity to get out of a situation that is stale and move on to a life that is exciting and full of happiness. I love this. Plus who doesn’t love a nice 80’s synth ballad! Yay for new music from The Killers! I’m excited for Direct Hits to come out in November.

  • Lighted Makeup Mirror

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This mirror is great for applying makeup or tweezing your brows. With 8xs magnification and 360 degree rotation, you’ll be sure to see exactly what you are doing!

  • SEPHORA COLLECTION – Pro Stippling Brush #44

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I’m surprised this brush doesn’t have better reviews online. A lot of people are saying the brush sheds, but I’ve never experienced any shedding. I really like this brush. I use it to apply my Marc Jacobs Genius Gel Foundation. The brush gives my skin an even, airbrushed yet natural look. The natural and synthetic fibers work together to give a streak-free application that looks great all day.

This dress is super cute. I bought it for a friend’s wedding next month but I can see myself getting a lot of use out of it. The lace design is really pretty, but durable — this isn’t some dainty-be-careful-or-it’ll-rip lace. The A-line makes it flattering for all body shapes and it’s very comfortable on.

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Blog Lifestyle

Sephora Shares | A Beautiful Mess

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

Sephora’s Instagram posted yesterday that, courtesy of SephoraShares, you can download A Beautiful Mess for free. This app cost $.99 through the iTunes App Store, but it’s free if you go through sephora.com/sephorashares. Yay!

Sephora Shares A Beautiful Mess MuffinChanel 2




I had wanted to download this girly photo editing app before this free download, but the numerous reviews about all “the good fonts and effects” only being available through in-app purchases and the initial $.99 price seemed like a waste. I’m glad I got it for free through Sephora though. The app has enough cool fonts and doodles to make your pictures more fun.

It was super easy to download onto my phone

Sephora Shares A Beautiful Mess MuffinChanel 1Sephora Shares A Beautiful Mess MuffinChanelThanks for the free app, Sephora!

Starbucks has a similar program through their iPhone app; you can download a free song of the  week and sometimes, a free app as well. Definitely a cool way to discover new music/apps!




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Blog Lifestyle

Vegetarian Diet

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

I stopped eating meat about a week ago after watching the documentary, Earthlings. If you haven’t seen it, definitely check it out. It’s terrible how they mistreat and abuse animals all for human consumption.

So far, the transition to not eating meat has been easy. I would eat chicken often and hamburgers occasionally, but after watching that documentary, I have no desire to. I’ve been eating more fruits, vegetables, and nuts which is a huge upgrade in my diet.

My fingers used be swollen in the mornings, so much so that it was awkward to make a fist. It was uncomfortable but I attributed it to eating/drinking sugar at night or not drinking enough water during the day. Since cutting out meat, however, I haven’t had any swelling at all; it’s great!

I’m looking for some vegetarian/vegan recipes that are quick and easy to make. If you know any, please let me know! 🙂

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Blog Lifestyle

Vegan Lunch – The Plum Cafe

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here20130831-133200.jpg

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We had a vegan lunch today at The Plum Cafe. I’ve never eaten at a vegan place, but it was really good. I would definitely come back here.

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Blog Health + Beauty Lifestyle

Fitbit Flex band breaks — UPDATED

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

Sad news — my Fitbit Flex‘s band is broken.

I popped the tracker out of the band to charge it, and the band separated where the view finder is. I haven’t even had the Flex for that long! This is crazy. I’m super disappointed. At least I have the larger band that I guess I can use.

I didn’t really want to buy the replacement colored bands, but I might have to.

I’m going to check Fitbit.com to see if they have a warranty or something. Or maybe I can do an exchange at Target?

muffinchanel fitbit flex break wrist band broken muffinchanel fitbit flex break wrist band brokenHas this happened to you? if so, what did you do?



UPDATE:

I sent an email through the fitbit.com website at “contact.fitbit.com“, letting them know about my defective wristband. They replied in less than 15 minutes and said they’d be happy to replace my band! So awesome! I replied providing my address, phone number and wristband details like they requested.

UPDATE #2:

muffinchanel fitbit flex break wrist band broken muffinchanel fitbit flex break wrist band brokenSeptember 4. I received my new band in the mail today! Yay! Thanks Fitbit!



Update #3

You can buy your own replacement bands in the classic colors or fun/bright colors online. They come in a three-pack which is nice for some variety & just as a handy replacement in case the band breaks :/

*** Check out my first impressions of the new Fitbit ChargeHR! It even has a heart rate monitor! I love mine!

UPDATE — my Fitbit Charge HR band broke too! 

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Blog Lifestyle

Top 10 – August Favorites

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

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I’m a little late to the party — I think this album came out sometime late last year — but I’m here now!

I first listened to the album on YouTube and then forgot about it, until recently. I’ve been listening to it a lot lately; the songs are catchy and fun.

  • Game of Thrones

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After I saw the first season, I hated this show! How dare they kill off a main character!! Not much has changed….but I like the show a little bit better. I’m rooting for the Khaleesi to reclaim her throne!

  • Natural for Her – Herban Cowboy

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I first heard of this deodorant from neo-reality.com. It prevents sweat and odors and it’s natural, what more could you ask for? This deodorant is vegan and certified organic so you don’t have to worry about chemicals and carcinogens seeping into your skin. Very happy with this purchase.

  • Pedicures (Clambake by Essie)

My mom and I recently went out for a birthday pedicure! I used Clambake by Essie because it’s so fun and it’s the perfect balance between red and orange.essie_clambake

Pedicures are a great way to relax and pamper yourself. Especially during summer, when you’ll likely be wearing flip flops, nothing can make you feel a little happier than looking at freshly pedicured toes.

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  • Korres Lip Butter

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I got these two, Pomegranate and Jasmine, for my birthday and they are both awesome! These lip butters are so smooth and make my lips feel soft and hydrated. Some of the colors are bright, but the results are mostly sheer with a hint of color. Perfect for every day and definitely one of my all time favorite lip products.

  • US Open

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All the best players all on one stage for two weeks of fun. Tennis is such a cool sport because it’s just you against your opponent — no teams, no blaming others. They’re doing some intense stuff as athletes, from sprinting to strategy. What a great game!

  • California Pizza Kitchen

screen-shot-2013-08-29-at-10-00-14-amI love the Pizza Kitchen. Their spinach artichoke dip is delicious and their BBQ Chicken Pizza is awesome.

  • Photojojo iPhone Lens

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These lenses are so cool! Thanks to my family for the perfect birthday gift! You can find these lenses at photojojo.com — all four for $50.

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My favorite lenses are the Macro and the Wide. Both lenses actually come as one and you unscrew them to separate. It took me a day to figure out how to get to the Macro lens :/ but it’s awesome. Check out my instagram: MuffinChanel for some awesome pictures!

  • Josie Maran SPF 40

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I really like this lightweight, dewy sunscreen. With Argon oil, it seems to clear up any discoloration and balance my skin. No parabens and cruelty free; it’s a silky sunscreen that absorbs well into my skin. It leaves me feeling fresh-faced, and not greasy.

  • SEPHORA Smart Liner

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This liner is so awesome — the curve of the casing give you the control you need to get the most precise line ever. The flexible felt tip makes it easy to create a fine line or build up the drama with a thick wing.

See last month’s favorites HERE

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Blog Health + Beauty

Sephora Birthday Haul

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

Yay for my birthday month and 3x’s the points at Sephora!

muffinchanel sephora birthday haul korres eyeliner marc jacobs foundation free giftI’m super excited because I picked up some awesome things at Sephora, I received a special VIB samples pouch with my purchase, and a great VIB birthday gift….AND i earned triple points!

First off, I tried out Sephora + Pantone Color IQ device to help me find the perfect foundation color for my skin tone.muffinchanel sephora birthday haul korres eyeliner marc jacobs foundation free gift pantone color iq match

The device takes pictures of your skin and tells you your Color IQ number. I’m 4Y06 — then you take your Color IQ number and plug it into your phone or their iPads they have at the makeover station and it’ll tell you what foundation colors will be the perfect match for you in each brand.

So, I picked up the new MARC JACOBS BEAUTY Genius Gel Super-Charged Foundation in shade 22 Bisque Light. (See my review HERE)muffinchanel sephora birthday haul korres eyeliner marc jacobs foundation free gift bisque light medium 22

I also picked up the Korres Lip Butter in Mango (they didn’t have the pomegranate kind in stock).muffinchanel sephora birthday haul korres eyeliner marc jacobs foundation free gift mango lip butter

And this awesome eyeliner from Sephora. The design is perfect for your finger to wear like a little claw. It gives you a lot of control and the felt tip gives you a precise line. Yay!

muffinchanel sephora birthday haul korres eyeliner marc jacobs foundation free gift liquid wingedThen, as extras for being a VIB, I got a deluxe samples pouch and a free birthday gift! So Great!muffinchanel sephora birthday haul korres eyeliner marc jacobs foundation free gift vib freemuffinchanel sephora birthday haul korres eyeliner marc jacobs foundation free gift watts up

I’m very happy with my purchases and my freebies! Happy Birthday to me!

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Blog Lifestyle

My Starbucks Rewards – Free Birthday Food or Drink

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

My birthday is this month and I’m very excited. I’ve been rather busy and it’s always a pleasant reminder when I see “birthday perk” reminders in my email from the companies whose loyalty programs I participate in. Like Starbucks! I’ve told you about Starbuck’s Rewards program before and if you visit the coffee chain more than once a month, it’s definitely worth it for you to sign up.

032812_swe4_1_missSince it’s my birthday month, I got an email for my free drink! Yay! Of course I’ll be getting a Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher!

Thank you, Starbucks!

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Blog Lifestyle

Spinach Quiche!

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

I love this spinach quiche; it tastes great and it’s easy to make.

What you need:

  • 3 egg whites
  • 1lb shredded swiss cheese
  • 1 white onion – diced
  • 3 tblspns heavy whipping cream
  • 2 deep dish pie crusts
  • 1 lb spicy turkey sausage – ground
  • Stouffer’s – spinach soufflé
  • tobasco – to taste

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Directions:

  • Cook sausage in a frying pan and grind in a food chopper. I use a Kitchen Aid one that’s perfect.
  • Defrost the spinach soufflé in microwave – or leave in refrigerator overnight.

Combine shredded swiss cheese, ground sausage, diced onion, defrosted spinach soufflé, and heavy whipping cream in large bowl. Mix with spoon until completely mixed. Fold in three egg whites and pour mixture into pie shells.

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Bake at 375 degrees for 60 – 70 minutes. Let cool and enjoy!

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Blog Health + Beauty

VIB Rouge – Sephora

This post may contain affiliate links; all opinions are my own. See Disclosures here

Sephora’s Beauty Insider program just created a new level — VIB Rouge. This top tier level is yours when you spend $1000 in a calendar year (January – December).

muffinchanel sephora vib rougeThe free shipping perk is cool and I’m curious about these “special surprise gifts”.

Has anyone reached that level yet?