Simply mussels

I made dinner tonight and it was a success if I do say so myself. It literally only took me 3 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes of baking time. SUPER EASY! Follow these steps for a quick and delicious dinner:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 300 degrees.
Step 2: Place mussels in a pan.
Step 3: Finely chop garlic.
Step 4: Mix the garlic with melted butter and add a pinch of garlic salt.
Step 5: Brush garlic and butter mixture over mussels.
Step 6: Place in the oven and bake for 20 minutes.
Step 7: Enjoy!

Num, num, in my tum!

He's leaving on a jet plane

Happy MANday! It seems to me that nearly half of my friends are getting ready to jet set off into the abyss over the holidays. I absolutely love travelling; it's definitely something I wish I could do more of. However, there is one thing I hate about travelling - PACKING! [I am the worst at packing but I'll save that for another post.] Even though out of all the luggage you will pack, your carry-on is probably the easiest, there is nothing worse than strapping up your seat belt and realizing you've forgotten your iPod. To prevent this tragedy from occuring, I suggest making a list! [Did I mention that I love lists?] For all you lovely gentlemen who I know won't make a list, I've saved you the trouble and made one for you! This isn't just a random bunch of paraphernalia thrown together; everything has a purpose...

iPad/iPod + noise cancelling headphones: for entertainment; just make sure your battery is fully charged. 

loafers: you'll want to wear a pair of comfy shoes for a long flight and loafers are practically like slippers.

sunglasses: not only will they come in handy when you land in the sunny Maldives but they'll also hide your sleepy, jet-lagged eyes.

passport: I think this one is a given? Just don't forget it or it will ruin your trip.

camera: you never know when you're going to come across a photo op! Besides, you should be documenting every waking second of this trip.

scarf: you may get a bit chilly being at such high altitudes or get stuck beside a passenger who refuses to close their air vent even when they're buried under a blanket. 

cardigan: this is the easiest thing to throw on when it gets a bit cool, it won't take up a lot of room in your carry-on and can double as a pillow if your airline doesn't offer them.

bag: another given; you need something to carry it all in, don't you? But specifically, I mean a bag. Not only are you a man, you are a stylish man. No mini rolling suitcase. Just get a bag. Preferably structured and leather.

Bon voyage my babies!

Puff - be gone!

They say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder; but there's nothing wrong with keeping those beholding eyes beautiful. No more cucumber slices, no more refrigerated spoons, no more raw potato skin strips and no more tea bags! If you're anything like me, the chance that you're getting the recommended 8 hour sleep on a regular basis is slim to none. And of course, people seem to enjoy to remind me that I look tired and run down [as if I don't know that I'm running on 4 hours of sleep - thanks tips]. For those days that you're looking a little more haggard than usual, use an eye cream to de-puff, revitalize and restore those radiant eyes of yours. Look for a cream or serum that contains antioxidants and vitamins. If you can find one that contains yeast extract, it will help reduce the look of dark circles as the extract increases microcirculation in the skin. One of my personal favorites is Clinique - All About Eyes Rich. At $47.50 for the 1 oz jar or $29 for the 0.5 oz jar [from Sephorah], you can't go wrong; this moisturizing eye treatment helps minimize the appearance of dark circles, shadows and puffiness while brightening the eye area and boosting natural collagen production.

Bye-bye puffy eyes!

I come, I conquer

"In life we do things; some we wish we had never done, some we wish we could replay a million times in our heads. But they all make us who we are and in the end, they shape every detail about us. If we were to reverse any of them, we wouldn't be the person we are. So just live, make mistakes and have wonderful memories. But never, ever second guess who you are, where you have been and - most importantly - where it is that you're going."

This quote was a good reminder to me, especially since I've been going through some hard times lately. You may have noticed that I haven't been posting as much but I'm back at it now. Not to sound cliché but what doesn't kill you really does make you stronger. And it sometimes helps you step back and reassess your life. Not everyday is going to be rainbows and butterflies but the strength we find within ourselves to carry on and pull through is what makes us who we are. When life knocks you down and sets you back, you have two choices - let it keep you down or get up and conquer.

Calling all Angels

Hello Angels! As we all know, the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show took place in New York last Wednesday. If seeing all of these dazzling beauty's just short of perfection wasn't enough to get you to the gym then I just assume you are a lost cause. This $12 million fashion show featured some of the most beautiful women in the world and a lot of sweet and sexy lingerie. Just because these women are supermodels doesn't mean they are superhuman. Adriana Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio and Miranda Kerr have all had babies meaning they gained the baby weight... But seeing them on runway also means they worked it off! Please note the word - work. It's not easy stuff but in the end it is definitely worth it. Here are some more photos that will hopefully get you inspired and motivated.

Adriana Lima

Alessandra Ambrosio

Miranda Kerr

Gimme gimme

1. Lanvin. Embroidery Ballet Flat

2. Tom Ford. Private Blend Lipstick Nude Vanilla

3. Marc by Marc Jacobs. Bianca Leather Clutch

4. Deborah Lippmann. Glitter In The Air

5. Robert Geller. David Reading Glasses

6. Stella & Dot. Soiree Pearl Pave Bracelet

7. Zara. Angora Beret

8. Juicy Couture. Bows for a Starlet

Gimme, gimme never gets. Don't you know your manners yet? Well, in this case it does! My birthday and Christmas are both coming up and last year I made the mistake of not making a wish list. Lesson learned. [I won't be doing that again - unless I want nothing.] This year I'm planning ahead and I'm being specific; sizes, store names, colors, styles, etc. I may even map out where each store is so my mother and father have NO excuse as to why they weren't able to find something. Here are a few things on my list that you may want to add to yours as well. Also, if your parents are anything like mine - pictures help!

Macaroon or macaron?

Regardless of the correct spelling of these decadent desserts, MACARONS [Hah! Spell check thinks it should be macaroons] are my all time, absolute favorite confectionery. A macaron is basically a cookie-sandwich filled with buttercream, jam or ganache. The cookie part is a mixture of egg whites, icing sugar, granulated sugar, cream of tartar, almond flour and food coloring. There are so many different variations and flavors of macarons; my two favorites are pistachio and raspberry. Usually I purchase from Thomas Haas or Thierry or kindly ask my best friend [and pastry chef] to whip up a batch. Most recently I came across tea-infused macarons at Urban Tea Merchant; these ones are imported all the way from Singapore and run at $4 a piece. Although these delicious desserts are supposed to be a treat meaning once in a while, I've somehow incorporated them into my diet as a staple food item; I literally go through a 12-pack [in one sitting] every single week. Macarons are my weakness!

Chunky Knits

If I had to choose my favorite piece of clothing for everyday wear, it would have to be a chunky knit! By chunky knit, I don't mean something my grandmother made or the powder blue, cable knit sweater my mom decided to buy me from the Gap one Christmas [she honestly did]. I'm referring to the sweater you throw on as soon as you get home; the one you dress up with a pair of leather leggings and wedge booties; the one you dress down with thermal pants. That sweater.

As Winter creeps upon us, I notice my chunky knit collection growing. From sweaters and eternity scarves to earmuffs, beanies and socks! With so many to choose from, I can't seem to get enough.

My first giveaway

First off, I'd like to thank all of my @realmofrachel Twitter followers! This giveaway wouldn't have been possible without you. I chose COAST restaurant for my gift card giveaway because I have been here so many times and have never had a bad experience. Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, Coast brings only the best of the sea straight to your table. So now, here is the moment you all have been waiting for... The winner of the $50 Coast restaurant gift card is @TinaLum604! Makesure you try one of their glorious Caesars! I hope you enjoy.

Timmy's Christmas Telethon



Hi Everyone,

On December 4^th, 2011 the BC Lions Society is hosting their annual Christmas telethon which airs on SHAW and its affiliate stations throughout British Columbia. This is something that I am so incredibly honored to participate in. For those of you who aren’t familiar with the BC Lions Society, they are a registered charitable organization dedicated to enriching the lives of children with disabilities by promoting self esteem, confidence and independence. The funds that are donated to this charity go towards specialized services like the Easter Seals Camps, Easter Seal Houses, the Lions Laser Skin Care Centre, Patient Care Grants and the Lions Vancouver Hospital Helipad. They also assist in funding college scholarships to support youth with disabilities to further their education.

I ask that you join me in helping the kids by donating to Timmy’s Christmas Telethon. I will be part of a panel from 4 – 5pm; please call and give your support to a child in need. I strongly encourage you to watch as there will be an opportunity to see the kids you are helping. Together, we can help these children focus on their abilities rather than their disabilities; something every child deserves.

Sincerely,

Rachel Meyers
Realm of Rachel

Run

Run through fat days. Run despite whoever loves you or doesn't. Run through regret and guilt. Run through frusterations. Run through lonliness. Run through those blissful days. Run despite your dysfunctional family. Run through people drifting in and out of your life. Run through your own fits of self doubt. Because we are no longer the people who think constantly of their struggle to dissappear. I choose to be healthy, to grow stronger, to be as alive as I possibly can. Run.

- Unknown



Starting today

HAH! I literally laughed out loud when I saw this because it speaks directly to me. Everyday I say "I'll start tomorrow." Well, tomorrow has come and is now today... And will soon enough be yesterday so I'm going to go exercise now!

Bundle up, baby!

Happy MANday! As we transition from Fall to Winter, the days keep getting colder and colder. Pretty soon a sweater isn't going to cut it so I've posted a few pieces I think that every man needs to invest in. A thick, cable-knit sweater is great for layering; I chose a button up rather than a pull over because it's easier to take off... For when you step indoors! [Get your mind out of the gutter.] Next, three key Winter items are scarves, gloves and hats; these seriously make all the difference in the world. I would suggest a scarf and hat made of wool or cashmere for extra warmth. Try to find either leather, sheepskin or suede gloves because they'll lock in heat better than cotton. We can't forget about your feet - boots, boots and more BOOTS! Not only are they this seasons "IT" shoe, they keep the cold rain and snow out while keeping your toes warm and dry. [Stylish and purposeful.] Last but not least - my favorite - the parka! Canadians don't live in igloos but Canada Goose Inc. makes their jackets as if we do. These jackets are designed for extreme cold weather conditions; they are filled with goose and duck down which locks in warmth. Some designs [like the one shown above] are accompanied by coyote fur which has caused a bit of havoc with animal rights activists and groups such as PETA. If you don't support the use of fur, you can opt for one without! If you're out with your lady and she is shivering, be a gentleman and lend her your Canada Goose - no matter how hard it may be to part with [it will earn you brownie points]... Just make sure she gives it back!

Seafood for breakfast?

This morning I stopped by The Boathouse in Port Moody. The view of Burrard Inlet on a brisk but sunny morning is absolutely breath taking. So, it wasn't exactly breakfast but brunch. Regardless of what it's called, I had never eaten seafood before the P.M. hours before. I must say, I quite liked it. Lobster-Eggs-Benny FTW!

Eat, drink and be merry!

I've been so blessed to be the type of person that doesn't stress easily or let 'things' phase me often. Some people might not necessarily see it as a good thing but I think it's a great thing! Although, my spontaneous, carefree, careless, type B personality can sometimes get me into trouble [a lot of trouble], for the most part, I'm a positive person. However, I'm still human; I have feelings and I feel pressure! With work piling up, trying to figure out school in the Spring, finding a house and regular day to day crap that every twenty year old has to deal with, I finally cracked. BUT lucky for me, a bad day can be turned right around with a little shopping, a box of Parisian macarons, a big bottle of wine and dinner with good company!

On Friday evening while browsing Holt Renfrew for a new purse, I came across a delicious [literally] pop up shop - Kitchening with Carly. I had been meaning to try Carly's macarons for a while so you can only imagine my delight to see a plethora of these beautiful, pastel-colored desserts right in front of me. I couldn't help but purchase a 12 pack and devour the entire box not even 10 minutes later; my two favorites are Pistachio and Raspberry-Lemon. After nearly spoiling my dinner with the glorious desserts, I headed to Cioppino's Mediterranean Grill & Enoteca with a few friends. I don't think I can rave enough how amazing the food was. We had Proscuitto di Parma, Carpaccio, Calamari, Roasted Rack of Lamb and Duck...Duck... paired with dirty martini's [extra olives, extra juice] and a bottle or two... or three of Errazuriz Max Reserva 2007. Everything was absolutely immaculate. Chef Pino Posteraro even personally made us a round of 'Burt Reynolds' and jauntily stopped by our table; it was truly a wonderful night making me completely forget about the havoc I had been dealing with only a few hours prior.

On the hunt

As you may already know, I am on the hunt - for a house! So far it has been a very exciting, nerve racking, stressful and enticing experience. I began looking for humble abodes thinking it was going to be a breeze and that I would fall in LOVE with the first place I set my eyes on but it definitely hasn't been easy-peasy-lemon-squeezy... I have yet to find a place and my time crunch is getting tighter. Not only have I not settled on a house, I haven't even settled on a city! At least not every decision is a tough one. Putting together the perfect outfit for this coming Sunday's House Hunt was nearly effortless. I chose jeans and a cardigan because I want to be comfortable while still looking put together. If I were fully going for comfort I would probably show up to meet with the realtor in sweatpants but there's a good chance he'll be wearing a suit; even if I didn't just roll out of bed, compared to him it will look like I had. Next, I chose loafers. These are my favorite style of shoes at the moment so maybe I am biased and trying to wear them with everything but how can you not adore these shoes? They're like the fancy version of slippers! Lastly, I've dressed up my look with some statement jewelry and added a structured bag [because I am here for BUSINESS]. Now I'm just praying that the weather holds up so I won't have to sub my loafers for rain boots!

Pumpkin + Papaya Face Mask

I came across this DIY pumpkin and papaya face mask so I'm going to try it out this weekend. It will be a great way to use up my left over pumpkins from Halloween; I just have to makesure papaya's are still in season!

Magic in the makeup

We all know that girl who looks like a completely different person without makeup; I'm not that girl! Thank God. I'd like to invite you all for a peek inside my makeup bag! Even though I'm almost always late for everything, I swear it literally only takes me 20 minutes to get ready! Here is my routine:

1. Prep and prime. A simple cleansing face wash and moisturizer will do.
2. Base. I cannot stress enough the importance of getting your foundation matched [professionally]. There is nothing worse than when the color of your face doesn't match the rest of your body. Next, dust a translucent powder across your entire face to set your foundation.
3. Bronze. One solid color across your entire face ends up making you look lifeless and fake. Add some sun by lightly dusting a bronzer across the areas of your face that would normally be hit by the sun; forehead, cheeks, a tiny bit on your chin and down the bridge of your nose.
4. Blush. Smile and apply in circular motions to the apples of your cheeks. Next, gently glide the brush from your cheeks into your hairline to create a more blended look.

*For a daytime look I would usually stop here, finish with some mascara and head for the door.

5. Eyes. Shadow --> mascara --> liner; in that order. Then give your lashes a good curl once the mascara has fully dried.
6. Perfect your pout. I always coat my lips with Burt's Bees - Beeswax Lip Balm before putting on my lipstick. If I'm going out and need to look extra perfect, I'll do one coat of lip balm, one coat of lipstick, blot with a tissue, do another coat of lipstick and finish with a touch of gloss.
7. Scent. Lastly, but most definitly not least, is to add a spritz or two [or three] of your favorite signature scent; neck, wrists and behind your ears.

There we go, you are done! [I feel like I need one of those 'easy' buttons from Staples because that was easy!]