Showing posts with label Casey Nighbor. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Casey Nighbor. Show all posts

Beauty 911: Quick fixes for all your beauty emergencies




Beauty disasters can strike at any moment, but don’t panic! Here are some clever and quick fixes for the most common beauty crises.

Broken Nail Desperate times call for desperate measures. Use the back of a matchbook to file down the damage until you get home for a proper fix.

Greasy Locks If you are lucky enough to have makeup or baby powder, dust a little product and massage into your roots for an uplift. Anything with alcohol in it also will work if you are powder-less. The alcohol soaks up oil. Alcohol hand wipes are especially effective for bangs, and hair spray works for larger areas like your roots.

Puffy Eyes Grab some spoons! Pop them in a freezer for a couple of minutes, and rest them on your eyes. The coolness of the metal will help drain the fluid around your eyes. Follow with an eye cream and your usual makeup.

Frizzy Hair Lotion is not only great for your skin but can smooth out your hair, too. Use a dime-sized dab and flatten over fly-aways. Be careful not to use too much though or you’ll end up looking greasy.

Shiny T-ZoneIf you find yourself with an oil slick and no oil blotting paper, toilet paper or a disposable seat cover works in a pinch. Just gently dab where you are feeling a little greasy, and watch the oil disappear.

Onset of a Pimple When a pimple starts brewing, ask for a glass of ice water with lemon. Hold the ice cube on the area to reduce the swelling. Finish with a dab of lemon on the blemish to dry it out quickly.

By: Casey Nighbor

Insta-Inspiration: 5 Makeup Artists to Follow on Instagram


In need of some beauty inspiration? Try Instagram. The social media app is allowing users to get real-time inspiration, tips and tricks from some of the best makeup artists in the business. Getting quick tidbits on your Insta-feed makes getting a daily dose of beauty painless. Here are five great accounts to follow and see through the eyes of some beauty gurus.

1. Pat McGrath @patmcgrathreal
McGrath is one the biggest names in the make-up business and has been called the most influential makeup artist in the world by Vogue. If you just want to follow one beauty Instagram, make it this one.

2. Carmindy @carmindy_beauty
If her name sounds familiar, it’s because of her long time stint with TLC’s “What Not to Wear.” Her Instagram is jam-packed with tips, tricks and insider information.

3. Charlotte Tilbury @ctilburymakeup
She provides a great mix of beauty and fashion along with tips and tricks. Tilbury’s clients include Kate Moss and Penelope Cruz and top designers such as Tom Ford often make appearances.

4. Gucci Westman @gucciwestman
If more than just beauty tips is what you desire, follow Gucci. Her Instagram is filled with beautiful things that extend beyond makeup; however, her clients include Halle Berry and Elle Macpherson, so her beauty tips are definitely worth checking out, too.

5. Sonia Kashuk @soniakashuk
Kashuk owns her own national makeup line, but her Instagram goes beyond promotion of her products. Throwback Thursdays are especially great with Cindy Crawford and Christy Turlington making appearances.

By Casey Nighbor | Image: Source

Too Much Fun in the Sun?: How to Heal Your Beauty Routine


We’re nearing the point in the summer where too much fun in the sun can lead to some serious beauty damage. Chlorine, sand and sunshine can start to take a toll on your skin, hair and nails if you don’t take steps to repair the damage. Thankfully, a little TLC can leave you glowing well into August.

Treat Your Hair
Either whip up your own or buy one of the many fantastic masks that restore hair health. A personal favorite is Neutrogena’s Triple Moisture Deep Recovery Mask. In less than five minutes, dehydrated hair can return to its pre-summer glory. You can even up the ante and wrap your head in a warm towel so that the mask can penetrate deeper. Plus if you are feeling extra ambitious, put the mask or deep conditioner on wet hair and combing it through before hitting the beach. It will make hair more manageable later. Plus it creates pretty waves.

Cool and Clear
Summer wear and tear can leave strands greasy or worse, green from too much pool time. A natural and quick option is to add a tablespoon of baking soda to your regular shampoo. If you’ve been logging some serious pool time (talking to you, lifeguards), I’d recommend a weekly wash with a clarifying shampoo. Neutrogena Shampoo Anti-Residue formula works great. But be sure to only use it once a week and follow with a good conditioner, otherwise you’ll dry out your hair and create new problems.

Preventive Maintenance
It’s usually a whole lot easier to prevent the damage in the first place then it is to repair it. Add a hair BB cream to your routine and watch your hair woes disappear. A classic is It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-in product. Buy it once and you’ll be hooked to its amazingly awesome abilities to make your hair look great. Another great option is Pantene Pro-V Ultimate 10 BB Crème. This multi-tasking product works wonders and is easy on your wallet.

Rough Life
A great tan comes with the unfortunate price of dry skin. Even if you’ve avoided the pain of sunburn, skin can turn to leather if you don’t moisturize. Slather on Hawaiian Tropic After Sun Moisturizer Lotion morning and night and watch your skin glow. It will extend your tan, and it smells like the beach. If you’ve done some serious skin damage, try coconut oil. I recommend putting it on at night so you aren’t greasy all day but you’ll wake up smooth and soft.

Tip Top Tips
UV rays can penetrate nails just like they do skin, making them dry and brittle. OPI Nail Envy Natural Nail Strengthener will make them stronger in just a few applications. Follow with an application of cuticle oil to keep your hands looking beach party ready.

Pucker Up
Wind and sun can leave your kisser chapped and sore. Soften up with a quick lip scrub. Add a little sugar to some lip balm and scrub away the flakes. Follow with a thick coat of Eucerin Aquaphor Healing Ointment, and kiss your way through the last days of summer.

This article is a part of Casey's column focusing on the best products and tips from your makeup counter to help you look and feel your best.
By: Casey Nighbor

Nail Polish: The Many Shades of Summer


With the days of summer in full swing, you’re probably showing off your full range of sandals. Don’t be caught with unpolished toes especially with this season’s beautiful variety of nail polish colors. Here are six great colors that are bright, bold and perfect for summer.

Mint
This trendy color has been showing up on everything from dresses to phone cases. Lucky for you it looks great on nails, too. Try painting it over a coat of white polish so the color really pops.


  • Try: China Glaze Nail Lacquer in Re Fresh Mint




Silver
Metallics always look great no matter what. But silver looks especially great in the summer because it accentuates a tan. So whether you’ve been soaking up the sun or you wish you were, try this sparkly option.

Try: Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Nail Color in Silver Sweep


Creamsicle
Nothing says summer like ice cream. Paint this fun color on your feet and hands for a delicious treat.

Try: Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Nail Color in Sorbet Peach



Coral
Coral is both trendy and summer-friendly. It’s bright and adds a pop of color to tan skin.

Try: OPI Chihuahua Bites


Cobalt
Much like the water summer-lovers flock to, blue is having a very big moment this year. Paint on any shade from turquoise to navy. My personal favorite is cobalt because it is trendy but still sophisticated.

Try: Essie Butler


Lavender
For those who wish to keep it a little tamer, try pretty lavender. It is subtle but still captures the essence of warm weather.

Try: China Glaze Tantalize Me



This article is a part of Casey's column focusing on the best products and tips from your makeup counter to help you look and feel your best.

By: Casey Nighbor

CG Mizzou's Guide to BB Creams



If you haven’t given these miracle products a try, you are really missing out. And the press they’ve gotten recently isn’t just another passing trend. These creams pack a serious punch with primer, sunscreen and moisturizers all in one bottle. But not all BBs are created the same. Here are some options that suit your skin and your needs.

Best for Dry Skin: Garnier BB Cream Skin Renew Miracle Skin Perfector

One of the first brands to launch a BB cream in the U.S., this cream is silky smooth and packed with moisture. It has a fuller coverage and adds a glow to skin while still protecting it with SPF 15. Apply this cream over your regular moisturizer for flake-free, flawless skin all summer.

Best for Oily Skin: L’Oreal Paris Studio Secrets Magic Skin Beautifier BB Cream


This BB cream comes out colorless until you apply it onto your skin, which causes the pigment beads to blend into the perfect color. You’ll love the primer-like balm that creates a matte finish for those on the oiler side.

Best for Acne Prone Skin: Aveeno Clear Complexion BB Cream
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Don’t want to clog pores? Try this cream that brightens the complexion, and its oil-free formula won’t make you breakout. It also provides enough coverage to hide any acne you might already have.

Best for Full Coverage: L’Oreal Youth Code BB Cream Illuminator

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While you might shy away from a product with “youth code” in the name, don’t be so quick to judge. This cream is infused with skin lightening ingredients, and although its original marketing is towards age spots, it can do wonders for imperfections, such as acne scars. It’s also ideal for those who want coverage without wearing a full face of foundation.

Best for Sheer Coverage: Too Faced Tinted Beauty Balm

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This lightweight formula feels great on the skin and creates a dewy finish. It creates a youthful glow and is perfect for those who want the benefits of a BB cream but want a more natural finish.

Best Crowd Pleaser: Revlon PhotoReady BB Cream
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Confused as to what you want out of a BB cream? Try this one. It has a smooth texture, semi-sheer coverage with a finish that isn’t too shiny or dry.

Hair BB Cream: Pantene Pro-V Ultimate 10 BB Cream
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Yes, they’re for hair too! Hair gains 10 great benefits in one powerful product. This hair balm repairs damage, prevents frizz, adds shine, moisturizes, heat protection and more. Use it on wet or dry hair for healthy, glossy hair.

By: Casey Nighbor

Lazy Summer Beauty: 6 Beauty Products that Save you Time


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When sunny summer days roll around, trade in primping time for extra minutes in the sun — every minute counts! These beauty tools will save you time by accelerating your readying process, so you can focus on enjoying some fun in the sun. Find out how to shave minutes off your makeup application with products that do double duty.

BB Cream


These miracle creams keep getting press and there is a reason why. These multitaskers prime, moisturize skin, protect with SPF and provide coverage all in one bottle. Think of these as your summer secret weapon with one simple step for great skin.
Available at drugstores.

It’s a Ten Miracle Leave-in spray

This cult classic has recently taken off in the hair product market and is more readily available than ever before. Much like BB creams, this product is a multitasker that helps your hair in 10 different ways. It replaces a shine spray, frizz control cream, detangler and flat iron spray. This is a personal favorite, and if you buy one bottle, I promise you’ll be hooked long after August.
Available at salons and select drugstores.

Stila Convertible Color


For quick color on your cheeks and lips, try this cream stain. It melts into skin and won’t cake in the hot sun. With its compact size, it’s easy to tote around for touch-ups. It also comes in a variety of flattering colors that are vibrant but sheer.
Available here.

Garnier Fructis Hydra Recharge 1-Minute Moisture-Plenish

Summer can be hard on your hair after hours in sun, sand and chlorine. This hair mask can revive your hair in just a minute. Hair will be silkier and softer without spending extra, precious minutes in the shower.
Available at drugstores.

Dry Shampoo


If you haven’t tried dry shampoo yet, you might want to consider jumping on the bandwagon. With a varied selection in both drugstores and department stores, you have plenty of great options to choose from at a range of prices. Not only can it extend your style another day so you don’t have to wash your hair everyday, it can also add body and texture.
Available at drugstores.

L’Oreal Studio Secrets One Sweep Blush


The name captures exactly what this product can accomplish. In one sweep, you can apply both bronzer and blush. This product can sculpt and highlight while adding a subtle glow to add to your summer tan. 
Available at drugstores.

Hopefully these products save you some time so you can continue to enjoy this beautiful summer whether in Columbia or elsewhere.

This article is a part of Casey's column focusing on the best products and tips from your makeup counter to help you look and feel your best.

By: Casey Nighbor

Spring Break Prep: No Sun Required

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With spring break and warmer weather quickly approaching, the pale skin of winter is becoming a new concern. For those who lack the time to sit in the sun or do not want to bake in a tanning bed, have no fear. Self-tanners are not only a great alternative to sun exposure but have gotten increasingly better in recent years. Gone are the days of turning orange or streaking so bad you end up wearing pants in the middle of July.

For those who have never used it, self-tanner can be your best friend. It can hide flaws and make you appear slimmer (something just about everyone wants if you plan on wearing a bathing suit soon). Here are five great products that can give you a boost of color before shorts season is in full swing.

Best Smelling

Hawaiian Tropic Island Radiance Crème Lotion Self Tanner

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One of the worst issues with self-tanners is the icky smell that accompanies many of them. However, this self-tanner smells like green apples mixed with tropical fruit and gives a great color, too. It goes on evenly and hydrates, which many self-tanners lack. The price is also right with this product and can be found at most drugstores. This is one of my personal favorite because I hate the dreaded self-tanner smell, and it gives me a lot of color in only a few days.

Best Subtle Tan

Jergens Natural Glow
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This classic product is great for those who don’t want to go from ghostly pale to Kardashian bronze overnight. It is also great for people who have naturally fair skin to begin with and are a little scared of trying self-tanners. Jergens is a slowly building self tanner that gradually gets darker over time. Although it takes some foresight to get to a darker shade, you cannot go wrong with this product. It is also really hard to mess up the application since the color is so gradual that small mistakes are not obvious. This product can also be found at most drugstores in both ligher and darker shades.

Best Department Store Brand

Clarins Self Tanning Instant Gel

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If you don’t mind paying a little more for your self-tanner, Clarins is definitely worth it. One application of this fast drying gel, and you’ll wake up looking like you just spent a week on the beach. Your tan will show up in about two hours, so if you need to be tan in a hurry this is your product. This gel is also great for maintaining your tan after you get it. I also really like this because it leaves my skin feeling soft rather than sticky like some products.

Best Drugstore Brand

Neutrogena Build-a-Tan

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This product is similar to Jergens Natural Glow, but I find that the results show up a little faster. It is a great value too because you get a pretty big bottle for a drugstore price. Application is easy, and it’s almost impossible to streak with this product. I really like that you can build up a tan over time with this because it looks more natural. I highly recommend this for people who don’t go anywhere on spring break but want some natural looking color.

Best Overall

Victoria Secret Beach Sexy Self-Tanning Tinted Lotion

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This product is the all-star of self-tanners, which makes sense if you have ever watched the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show. They understand how a tan can make someone look better, especially if skimpy clothing is involved. This product delivers a bronzed glow without looking orange. It smells great, like a tropical beach. It even has shimmer in it. It looks great no matter what shade you start with. Even pale skin looks naturally tan with this product. Plus the price is affordable. This is a really great product and definitely worth a try especially if you’ve never used a self-tanner before.

By: Casey Nighbor 

Hot Yoga: A Beginner’s Guide


The Experience:

I walked into hot yoga after an incredibly stressful week and knew pretty much nothing about what I was getting myself into. I had the false notions that 1) I didn’t sweat very much and 2) I was good at yoga. This class completely blew those ideas out of the water. Hot yoga proved to be a very different experience that gave me a run for my money.

Hot yoga is a derivative of Bikram yoga and features traditional yoga moves in a room heated to about 105 degrees. Columbia recently acquired a hot yoga studio called Sumits Hot Yoga, which is located off Nifong. A typical class lasts about 90 minutes and combines upbeat music, relaxation moves, cardio and strength training all in one class. For new clients, you can buy two weeks of unlimited classes for only $25. After that drop-in classes are $15 or you can purchase class cards for 10, 20, 30 or 50 classes.

I purchased the unlimited 2-week package and ventured into the world of hot yoga. The studio is pretty spacious and has both men’s and women’s locker rooms. The locker rooms feature cubbies for your things, showers, changing rooms and other amenities like blow dryers and plastic bags for your wet clothes. They highly encourage you to bring a towel and a very large bottle. They also don’t allow cell phones in the actual yoga room. If you don’t own a yoga mat, do not worry. The studio will provide you with one for $2. After putting away my things, I walked into the yoga room and prepared for what I thought would be an easy yoga experience.


I walked into the room and my first thought was “oh it’s not that hot in here.” That thought would be quickly proved wrong. The room starts off comfortably warm, and then the heat is raised throughout the class so your body can adjust accordingly. Then the class started and I began the longest 90 minutes of my life.

It does not matter how athletic you think you are, this class will be near impossible your first time. They tell you this coming in and me, having taken maybe five yoga classes in my life, scoffed at them. Then the warm-up began, and by the end of the decently easy series of poses I was not only covered in sweat but also questioning why I had signed up to do this. It does not matter if it is your first time doing hot yoga or your 100th time, you will sweat like you’ve never sweat before. Everyone pretty much looks like they jumped into a swimming pool with their clothes on when they walk out of class. It is that hot.

The class starts with a warm-up then progresses into a series of traditional yoga poses like warrior. There is then a cardio session, which features upbeat music and the hardest part of the class. It finishes with some strength training and finally gentle stretching. The heat allows your muscles to stretch farther and relax further, a big difference I noticed from regular yoga. Beginners are advised to take it slow and encouraged to sit down as much as they need. And if you are worried that you’ll be the only one sitting at any given point, don’t be. In the classes I’ve attended, the only one who never has to sit down is the yoga instructor.

After class ends, you are free to go to the locker room and use the showers if you’d like. Most people bring a change of clothes and leave to take a shower at home. If you rented a mat, they clean it for you. Sumits also provides bottles of water, coconut water and snacks for purchase after class.

The Pros

What I enjoyed most about hot yoga is that I was literally so hot that I had no time to think about anything else. For someone who has trouble turning their mind off, I was surprised at how little I thought during the entire class. It was nice to be able to not think about my classes, work or my to-do list for a whole 90 minutes.

As much as I hate sweating and as hard as this class is, it did make me feel significantly better the next day. I felt like I had way more energy than usual despite having a 9 a.m. class. It did get easier after the first time, and I still received the same benefits.

It is an amazing workout. Hot yoga is a huge calorie burner. One 90-minute class burns almost 1,000 calories or the equivalent of running full speed on a treadmill for an entire hour. Immediately after finishing the class there is a great sense of accomplishment. I definitely felt like I had done something good for myself.

The Cons

It’s hot. Like sitting in the middle of the desert in July hot. If you don’t like sweating, then this class is not for you. You will be literally dripping in sweat the entire class, and for some people it is a little too much. I felt a little like I was going to pass out for half the class. If you can get over how hard the heat makes the class then you’ll enjoy it. However, if you pass out frequently or get overheated easily, I’m not sure this class is for you.

You have to prepare. Doing hot yoga requires scheduling it heavily into your day. You have to make sure you drink lots of water throughout the day or hot yoga could become very dangerous. Hot yoga is also easier on an empty stomach. Sumits recommends that you stop eating two hours before each class, which can be inconvenient for some.

It’s expensive. After the new client trial period, hot yoga becomes a significant investment. Even with the student discount, you will be paying top dollar. A class card for ten classes is $96 with the discount, and it only goes up from there. As a college student, I have trouble justifying paying that much for a class when I can go somewhere like the Rec for free. Even a semester’s worth of Tiger X classes is cheaper than hot yoga for a month.

Bottom Line

Hot Yoga is a great option if you really need a challenging workout or want to try out something new. However, prepare to shell out a lot of money for the benefits.

By: Casey Nighbor | Images: Source

Keep Calm and Beat the Flu


If you are anything like me, the start of school always means getting sick. However, in the wake of the worst flu season we’ve had in years, this could mean serious trouble for your body at the start of the semester. These tips won't necessarily prevent you from getting the flu completely, but taking preventative steps can seriously reduce your chances.

Get Vaccinated
Many people think it’s too late to get vaccinated, but most flu seasons last until almost March. While it’s ideal to get vaccinated early, getting the shot late is better than not getting it at all. Here in Columbia you can get the flu shot at the Student Health Center, Walgreens or even at the Hy-Vee Pharmacy. Plus, if you’re really terrified of needles, most of these places carry the flu nasal spray so you can still help your health, minus the pointy objects.

Be OCD…
...about washing your hands. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists hand washing as one of the most important steps to preventing the spread of germs. Take the time to really wash your hands, especially after class, going to the Rec or the Student Center. All these places have high levels of germs because of the high concentration of people touching things, so stay safe by washing frequently. Be sure to use warm water and sing "Happy Birthday" twice to ensure a proper hand washing. If obsessive hand washing isn’t going to fit into your routine, then at least stick an alcohol-based hand sanitizer in your bag or backpack. It takes 10 seconds and could prevent you from sitting in bed all week with the flu.

Wipe it Down
Invest in some Lysol wipes and sanitize the things you touch the most. Your phone is a huge germ catcher that most people overlook. Also wipe down pencils, laptop keys, doorknobs, car keys and reusable water bottles. Get in the habit of spending two minutes wiping everything down, and your immune system will thank you later.

Boost Your Immune System
Taking care of yourself and making sure you’re as healthy as possible can do wonders in helping protect you from germs. Drink lots of water, exercise regularly and eat foods with antioxidants like fruits and vegetables. Although research surrounding the health benefits of vitamin C is not concrete, it couldn’t hurt. I’m a big fan of L’il Critters Immune C Gummy Vitamins, which you can pick up at Target. Not only do they taste like gummy bears, but they really help your immune system! In addition to taking vitamins and eating healthy foods, try taking a few minutes to de-stress yourself. Less stress leads to better sleep, which is an essential immune booster. Plus, now you have an excuse to sleep more, eat better and take delicious gummy vitamins.


Hands Off
The spread of viruses occurs when you touch your nose, eyes or mouth. It may seem simple, but try to avoid touching or rubbing your face. If the urge is just too great, then at least wash your hands first or use a tissue.

The Worst Case Scenario
If you do happen to contract the flu after all of these tips, be sure to take some time off. As college students we tend to ignore our health because we are too busy to do so. However, if you don’t slow down, the flu can escalate from nothing to something serious, which will lead to even more time off. So rest up, drink lots of fluids and take ibuprofen to manage fever/aches. Also, MU has a policy of not requiring documentation for flu absences, as long as you communicate with your professor in a timely manner. Put your health first at the beginning of this semester and your body will thank you.

By: Casey Nighbor | Images: 1, 2, 3

4 Healthy Recipes For A New You

With the beginning of the new year, many make an effort to make a resolution to improve themselves. Weight-loss seems to be a popular choice, but many people aren’t sure where to start, which can lead to giving up quickly. One great way to kickstart weight-loss in the new year is to start cooking foods that are both wholesome and also delicious. Here are some healthy recipes that will leave you satisfied.

The Green Monster


Don’t be alarmed by the bright green color of this smoothie; it’s caused by the spinach that’s rich with antioxidants, vitamins and fiber. And the best part is that you can’t even taste it. Feel free to add or substitute any extra frozen fruit that you enjoy. And if you are feeling extra healthy and ambitious, add protein powder for an additional protein boost.

1 frozen banana (or just a regular banana and add ice)
½ cup yogurt (preferably Greek)
1 cup milk
½ cup frozen pineapple
2 tablespoons peanut butter
4 cups fresh baby spinach (more or less depending on how much you can fit in your blender)
1 cup protein powder (optional)

Combine all ingredients in a blender until smooth.

Stuffed Peppers


These peppers are a great meat-free option that taste awesome and are super easy to prepare. The peppers add fiber, while quinoa is a health superfood because it’s a tasty whole grain. I promise it will taste so good you’ll forget you’re dieting!

1 bell pepper (red or yellow preferably)
½-1 cup of quinoa (plain or flavored)
1/3 cup reduced fat feta
Juice of 1 lemon
1 clove of garlic, minced
⅓ cup toasted pine nuts
Any combination of herbs to taste (I like basil, rosemary and mint)

1. Bring a pot of water to boil.
2. Cut off the top of the pepper and remove seeds. Submerge the pepper in the boiling water for 7-9 minutes.
3. Make sure pepper is tender but not mushy so it can hold the rice. Remove from water.
4. Prepare quinoa according to package directions.
5. In a small bowl, combine quinoa, lemon juice, garlic and herbs.
6. Spoon the mixture into the pepper and enjoy.

Roasted Chickpeas


My mom has been making these for years, and I never even realized they were healthy. Chickpeas are high in fiber, and you can customize the flavors to something you’ll enjoy

1-2 cans of chickpeas (also known as garbanzo beans)
2-3 tablespoons of olive oil (or enough to coat beans)
Combination of spices that you like (suggested combinations below)
Kosher salt

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees.
2. Rinse and drain the chickpeas. Dry them on paper towels.
3. Combine chickpeas, olive oil, spices and salt in a small bowl. Toss to coat all the beans evenly. Spread them out in one layer on a cookie sheet.
4. Bake until golden and crispy. Depending on your oven it could be 30-45 minutes or as much as an hour. They should be a deep brown and be crunchy all the way through. Taste them periodically and add time as needed.

Spice Combinations
  • Cumin, paprika, pepper
  • Rosemary, garlic powder
  • Chili powder, lime zest 

White Bean Dip


This dip is one of my favorites because it has great flavor and is still super healthy. If you have trouble eating your vegetables, this dip is better for you than ranch.

3 cups packed arugula
4 garlic cloves
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 can of white beans (Cannellini or Great Northern)
Salt and pepper
Pita chips or vegetables to serve with

1. In a food processor, combine arugula, garlic, olive oil and lemon juice. Pulse until smooth.
2. Add beans and pulse until the dip is chunky but combined. Put into a serving bowl and add salt and pepper to taste. Serve with pita chips or vegetables.

Recipe Source: Glamour Magazine

By: Casey Nighbor | Images: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

How to Achieve the Best New Year's Eve Beauty Looks


New Year’s Eve is a holiday where taking out all the stops is encouraged, if not required. Grab the attention with a show-stopping outfit (check our our post with ensembles from downtown Columbia) and a glamorous makeup look to match. Here are some ideas for fabulous makeup looks to bring in the New Year.

Don’t Be Shy
Anything that seems a little too much for everyday wear is perfect for New Year’s Eve. Thought liquid liner was too bold for your 9 a.m. class? Be sure to break it out for a test drive tonight. That bright shade of lipstick that has been sitting in your makeup drawer all year would look great, too. This is a night where a little too much seems like just enough.

Back to Basics

Any look starts with flawless-looking skin. Start with a primer, they really aren’t overrated, and create a great base for makeup to stick to. My current favorite is Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired by Carmindy Luminizing Face Primer ($20). It helps my makeup stick and fits a college girl’s budget. Setting spray would also be a great idea tonight, especially if you plan on making it a long night. I’m a huge fan of Urban Decay All-Nighter Long Lasting Setting Spray ($12-$30). It keeps your makeup looking fresh all night and controls shine.

Line Those Eyes

Take advantage of the colored eyeliner trend for New Year’s Eve, and watch your eyes sparkle. Jewel tones look great on almost every eye color so think deep blue, purple and emerald. A great one to try is Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeliner in Mainline. It’s a deep turquoise that adds a little extra something when drawn on your bottom lash. Metallic eyeliner also looks great tonight because anything that sparkles is perfect for NYE. Line top or bottom lashes or both for a dramatic look.

Smoke it Up
For an eye-catching look, try a metallic smokey eye. Doing metallic shadow instead of black makes this look more wearable. Gold looks great with warmer skin tones, and silver brings out cooler undertones. Crank up the drama by winging out some black liquid liner. If you are feeling extra ambitious, add some fake eyelashes and loads of black mascara. The extra work of putting them on is worth the glamour they add to your look.

Bold and Beautiful


Bold lipstick is also a great trend to try out on New Year’s Eve. Start with a smooth base by buffing lips with a baby toothbrush or a towel to remove any dead skin. Every daring color from classic red to bright fuchsia is fair game tonight. Consider using a lip stain if you don’t like reapplying. They last all night, even through that New Year’s Eve kiss. Covergirl Outlast Lipstain comes in a variety of flattering colors and easily fits into a small clutch.

Add Some Sparkle
With such beautiful makeup, don’t neglect to glam up your body. Treat your skin  in the shower before getting ready with a homemade scrub.

  • Mix 1 cup of either body oil or olive oil with 2 cups of sea salt and add the zest of one lemon. It will make your skin soft and radiant in the New Year. 


Add some shine with a shimmering body lotion to top off your look. Victoria's Secret has shimmer lotions in all their major scents, and they make your skin look and smell great. Be sure to add extra lotion on your collarbone and down your shins for a truly polished look.

By: Casey Nighbor | Images: 1, 2-3, 4, 5

Wait, Christmas is Tomorrow?: 3 Last-Minute Edible Gift Ideas

Sometimes Christmas creeps up on us a little too fast. Regrettably, the mall is a rather unfortunate place to find yourself right before the holidays. For that awkward moment when someone bought you a gift and you didn’t, or for that last minute gift you forgot, here are some edible gift ideas that are a little more original than cookies. These recipes are easy and say more than just buying a gift card.

Chocolate Hazelnut Spread

This is a homemade version of Nutella, the addictive chocolately spread that can be put on anything from toast to eating it plain with a spoon. It's guaranteed to be a crowd-pleasing gift, and you may even think it's better than the original.

2 cups hazelnuts (about 10 ounces), skinned
¼ cup sugar
1 stick of unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1 cup cream
1 pound good semisweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
¾ teaspoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Glass jars (this recipe makes about 4 cups so divide it up how you’d like)

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spread out hazelnuts on a baking sheet and roast until deep brown, about 13-15 minutes. Shake the pan every couple of minutes for even roasting. Let cool.

2. Puree hazelnuts and sugar in food processor and add vegetable oil smooth out the texture. It will form a smooth paste after a few minutes.

3. Put a large saucepan of water over medium-low heat. Place chocolate in a medium-sized bowl and set it over the saucepan of water. Stir often until the chocolate is melted. Remove the bowl and whisk in the butter. Whisk in cream and salt, then the hazelnut paste. Stir until smooth.

4. Place the mixture into jars and let cool. It will thicken as it cools. 

*It can be kept chilled for up to four weeks and room temperature for up to four days.

Barbecue Peanuts


You might want to make a double batch of these flavorful peanuts because once you try them, you won’t want to give them away. This family recipe was created on a vacation as a beach snack, but is just as delicious as a holiday gift. Don’t be surprised if you get asked for the recipe.

1/3 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce
2 tbsp. butter, melted
1 tsp. garlic powder
½ tsp. cayenne pepper
¼ tsp. cumin
1 jar (16 oz.) dry roasted peanuts

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. In a large bowl, combine the barbeque sauce, butter, garlic powder, cayenne and cumin. Add peanuts and stir until evenly coated. 

2. Grease a 13 x 9 baking pan and spread the peanuts out in a single layer. 

3. Bake for 30-35 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes. Spread out on wax paper to cool. 

4. Place in pretty jars for giving.

Candied Citrus Peels


Take advantage of the delicious in-season citrus fruit and make these colorful little treats. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create candy that tastes as good as it looks. They are sure to be enjoyed long after the holiday season.

2 grapefruits, 3 oranges or 4 lemons (or any combination of those)
4 cups of sugar, plus more for rolling
4 cups of water

1. Using a paring knife, make six slits along the curve from top to bottom of each citrus fruit, cutting through peel but not into fruit. Using your fingers, gently remove the peel. Reserve fruit for another use. 

2. Slice each piece of peel lengthwise into 1/4-inch-wide strips. Using a paring knife, remove excess pith from each strip and discard.

3. Place strips in a large saucepan, and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, then drain. Repeat twice.

4. Bring sugar and water to a boil, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves. Stop stirring. Wash sides of pan with a wet pastry brush to prevent sugar crystals from forming. 

5. Add strips to boiling syrup, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer gently until strips are translucent, about one hour. Remove from heat, and let strips cool in syrup. (Strips in syrup will keep, covered and refrigerated, for up to 3 weeks.)

6. Using a slotted spoon, transfer strips to a wire rack placed on a rimmed baking sheet. Wipe off excess syrup with paper towels, then roll strips in sugar. Arrange in a single layer on a wire rack, and let dry for at least 30 minutes.

*Peels will keep at room temperature for up to two weeks

By: Casey Nighbor | Images: 1, 2, 3 | Recipe Source: Martha Stewart

'Tis the Tailgating Season: Healthy Recipes That Are Simple to Make


Football season is upon us, and our arrival into the SEC has brought tailgating to a whole new level. Although tailgating is one of the best things about college game day, it can also be not-so-kind on your waistline with all the fattening foods at your fingertips. But not to worry, with a little creativity you can make delicious dishes to share without anyone at your tailgate even guessing they’re healthy.

Caprese Skewers

Take a healthy appetizer, and make it into finger food. These little skewers are easy to make and easy to eat. They also have a healthy dose of vegetables and calcium.


  • Grape or cherry tomatoes
  • Mini mozzarella balls (Can use marinated or plain)
  • Basil Leaves cut in half
  • Salt & Pepper
  • Toothpicks or skewers cut in half
  • Balsamic Vinegar

1. Bring vinegar to a boil in a saucepan, and then simmer it for 10 minutes or so until it thickens. 
2. Put it in a measuring cup and let cool.
3. Assemble each skewer with one tomato, mozzarella ball and a basil leaf. Repeat with remaining skewers. 
4. Sprinkle each skewer with salt and pepper to taste. 
5. Drizzle some of the balsamic vinegar over the top and serve.

 Greek Orzo and Grilled Shrimp Salad

This salad is super versatile and a crowd-pleaser. If you don’t like shrimp, you can leave it out or substitute chicken. It’s great as a side or a main dish!
  • 3/4 lb. orzo, cooked al dente
  • 1 large cucumber, seeded, quartered lengthwise, and sliced
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill, plus extra for garnish
  • 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 cup olive oil, plus additional for brushing shrimp
  • Salt and freshly ground pepper
  • 3/4 lb. feta cheese, crumbled
  • 16 medium shrimp, peeled and de-veined

 1. Combine orzo, cucumber, green onions and tomatoes in a large bowl. 
2. Place dill, vinegar and mustard in a blender and blend until smooth. 
3. With the motor running, slowly add the olive oil and blend until emulsified. 
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 
5. Pour the vinaigrette over the orzo mixture and stir to combine. 
6. Gently fold in the feta cheese.
7. Heat grill to high. 
8. Brush shrimp with oil and season with salt and pepper. 
9. Grill for approximately two minutes per side or until just cooked through. 
10. Top with salad with shrimp and garnish with additional dill. 
*Serves 4; recipe can be doubled or tripled.

 Apple and Cranberry Crisp

Who says dessert can’t be healthy? This crisp has tons of flavor and nutrients from the fruit without extra fat. Plus it’s great served warm or cold, which is always a bonus when you are trying to juggle a tailgate.
  • Non-stick cooking spray
  • 3 lbs sweet, firm apples, peeled, cored and cut into 1/2-inch dice
  • 12 oz. cranberries (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 3 tablespoons flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice, plus 1/4 teaspoon grated orange peel
  • Crisp Topping (below)

 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. 
2. Coat a 13 x 9 pan with cooking spray.
3. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. 
4. Transfer to baking dish and sprinkle with topping.
5. Bake until topping is browned and juices are thick and bubbling around the edges, 55-60 minutes. 
6. Let cool at least 15 minutes before serving.

Crisp Topping
  • 6 tablespoons cold butter, cut into small pieces
  • 2/3 cup flour
  • 2/3 cup oats
  • 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

 Using an electric mixer, beat on low until coarse crumbs form.

 By: Casey Nighbor | Images: 1, 2, 3
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