Food Find Reviews!!

Weekly Review
OATMEAL PANCAKE MIX

&

NATURE BURGER'S

 

Hello all, Happy Monday!!

I have really been on a healthy food kick lately. So, in an effort to start eating healthier, I find myself spending a little extra time browsing the isles in the grocery store. Trying to find alternatives for the foods that I already enjoy eating. Well, this past week when my boyfriend, and I went grocery shopping we actually made two stops.

 First stop was to a local grocery store here in Saint Louis, called Schnucks. I usually make a grocery list and on my list I haad Pancake mix. Now pancake mix isn't usually something I buy on a regular basis because we don't make it that often so it usually last us a while. I made my way down the cereal/breakfast isle and while trying to compare prices between the Aunt Jemima brand and the store brand pancake mix. I saw for the first time "Oatmeal Pancake Mix". Like anyone else I was curious to find out how it tasted and if there was a difference in texture compared to the regular mix. So, I grabbed it and dropped it in our shopping cart.

I was anxious to make breakfast the next morning. I grabbed a mixing bowl and the mix and followed the directions. Ok, lets be honest with the regular aunt jemima mix I never ever follow the instructions. I did this time due to the simple fact that when I measured out the mix in my measuring cup I noticied that the textures was that of cream of wheat. I didn't want to mess it up and risk not liking it. I followed the instructions step by step. Once I added the eggs and milk the consistency was very similar to regular pancake mix. I heated my pan on medium to high heat added some butter to the pan and started to add the mix. These pancakes take just as long to cook as the regular stuff. Once cooked and tasted them I really couldn't tell the difference in taste or texture at all. These Oatmeal Pancakes were nice and fluffy. They tasted great. Not only did they taste great but, these pancakes are good for you

I also made scrambled eggs with onions and peppers and country style sausage patties to accompany these fabolous oatmeal pancakes.



 

Second stop I made was to the Whole Foods Market.Where I picked up some soy milk, Gluten free chocolate chip cookie mix, terriyaki chicken from the deli and a box of wait for it, wait for it "Vegetarian Nature's Burger". I know what you are thinking, What on earth is that? it sounds horrible. Trust me I was thinking the same thing but the packaging made me buy it and plus I was looking for a meat alternative for burgers.

When I opened the box, I noticed that the packaging were very simple. All I had to do was open it and pour it into a mixing bowl and add 1 1/2 cups of boiling water. I would have to say that this was easier than making actual burgers. Now, because these are meat free and the instructions did not call for eggs I had to taste the mixture before I added the water. It did taste good. I was surprised it had a little kick to it.

After I added the water, I let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes so it can form and cool. Once it had cooled, I started to form my patties.  I pan fryed the patties with a 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive about 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Each package can make 6 vegan patties. I toped my burger with cheddar cheees, sauteed onions and peppers, a slice of tomato, and pickles. served with home fries.

 Now, I am going to be honest these vegan burgers do not, I repeat DO NOT taste like meat. With that being said please do not purchase this, thinking that it is going to taste like a real burger. the texture is very similar. I have had veggie burgers before so, I knew what to expect. I personally enjoyed it. I'm will not be giving up regular meat burgers for these, but I will definatley start keeping a box in the pantry for rainy days and you never know when a vegetarian is coming over for lunch or dinner.

 

I hope you all found these reviews helpful and hopefully try them out yourselves.

Please come back next week to see what new items I picked up at the grocery store.

Have a Triple Fresh Monday!

Alice Ornella

Giveaway

Spring Giveaway!

 

I am happy to announce The Triple Fresh3's First giveaway.

 

The first 100 people to join the site will be entered for this giveaway. Two lucky members will receive two gift cards each and a gift bag. Each prize is valued at $50.

Two lucky winners will be randomly picked on the first day of Spring on March 20,2013.

 

Rules:

1) Deadline is March 19, 2013 11:59 p.m. central standard time.

2) Must be a public member, Private members will not be entered. due to the fact that I do not know who my private members are. Only those who are following the blog publicly will be entered.

3) Once you become a member you will automatically be entered for the giveaway.

 

What is Whole Foods Market?

I had the pleasure of meeting with Jessica Serrati, Director of marketing and Community relations for the Whole Foods Market, at the Brentwood location in Saint Louis, Mo. If you have ever visited a whole foods market you have a pretty good idea of how busy they are on a regular basis. The doors open at 8 a.m. and by 7:45 customers are standing outside waiting for them to unlock the doors. I must say standing out there I was thinking to myself there must be a sale going on. I have never in my life seen customers standing outside of a grocery store 10-15 minutes before they opened. I soon found out why?.

Whole Foods opened its first store in 1980 in Austin, Texas with only 19 employees. Today they are the worlds number one leader in organic and natural foods, with more than 310 stores in the United States and U.K. Whole Foods takes pride in their products and customer service. Their motto speaks for its self,

"Whole Foods, Whole People, Whole Planet"

Personally, I don't think they could have found a better motto.

My main reason for wanting to meet with Jessica was for the simple fact that, I am always running into individuals that say " Whole Foods is for the upper class" or " They don't have the types of food that I eat". False and false, Whole Foods caters to everyone. Yes, they may not have the brands that the local grocery chains carry. What they do carry is more organic and  local products. If you are a health conscious, foody, who wants to eat better and is worried about what exactly is in your food and where it is coming from. Then this is the place for you. Whole Foods Focuses on making sure that most of their produce that they sell in store comes from local vendors and farmers.

Have you ever walked into your local grocery store and you notice that beautiful display of baked breads and pastries and thought to yourself " do they make these in house?" well, at whole foods the answer to that question is, Yes. Whole foods prepares every thing in house. They have a fully functioning state of the art kitchen to prepare all of the fresh, cooked and baked goods that they sell.They value and take into consideration what their customers are looking for and what customers consume. Every whole foods team member is trained to know about the products to meet each individual customers needs. whether you are a vegan or are on a strict gluten free diet. You will find a "Team Member" that will be able to assist you.

 As for the prices, I don't see a difference to be honest. My boyfriend and I went in to pick up few items today and we actually noticed that some of the items that we had purchased earlier that day was actually cheaper at Whole Foods. I was Shocked. We had a chance to sample a few items that were delicious and to browse some more and we came to the conclusion that whole foods is going to be our new grocer of choice. Why you might ask? well, the Product is 100 times better than that of your regular chain grocer and the prices are not that much different. I  prefer to pay for a better quality product. I know what I'm buying and I don't have to worry ask myself, is this good for me?.

   I absolutely love what Whole foods stands for. This company not only works on bettering its self, but it makes a way for the communities that they serve as well. The "Whole  Kids Foundation" a organization that is geared towards improving nutrition and wellness in children. This foundation basically helps children undrestand that they can make better food choices. They also help with providing school garden grants,salad bars for schools and providing nutrition eduacation for teachers.

   After my meeting with Jessica, I had a better understanding of what Whole foods stands for they are dedicated to their customers and the communities that their customers live and work in. What more can one ask for. I know I have found my new favorite market. I know when I step foot through those doors that I will be greeted with friendly faces and I will walk out satisfied. If you have never visited a Whole Foods market? I highly recommend it. you will not be disappointed.

I would like to thank Jessica Seratti for taking time out of her busy schedule to meet with me. Also to the amazing team members at the Brentwood location for making my visit enjoyable.

To find a Whole Foods Market in a area near you please visit:

www.wholefoodsmarket.com

Hope you enjoyed this post!

Have a Triple Fresh Day,

Alice Ornella



OUTFIT OF THE DAY!

#OOTD
Today's outfit of the day comes to you from Myriam, age 25. She is the perfect example of how to be a lady, but at the same time she knows how to make a fashion statement. Her unique sense of style will always bring you the right amount of class and the right amount of sexy. All heads turn when she walks into a room. Today she is rocking A navy blue peplum top, paired with a oh so hot black &white print skinny leg tuxedo inspired pant. Oh, it doesn't stop there she finished this amazing ensemble with a pair of Zara heels, and added a few gold accessories to compliment everything. Oh, how can I forget about her hair she is rocking those curls. The best accessory to this perfect look is that amazing smile of hers.
Oh So Glam!
"Your clothes should be tight enough to show you're a woman, but loose enough to show you're a lady"
-Marilyn Monroe

Top and Bottom: Forever21

Shoes: Zara $79.99

Thank You, Myriam for being a part of The Triple Fresh3's first #OOTD.

To follow Myriam's fierce

and sophisticated style be sure to follow her on Instagram @mimiz29.

Hope you all enjoyed this post.

Have a Triple Fresh Day!

Alice Ornella



Love Is In The Air!

Is love the best gift you can receive on Valentine's day? 

 

Is love the best gift to receive on Valentine's day? I will leave that up to you to decide. I must admit, I am a hopeless romantic. I'm the girl who dreams about who I am going to spend the rest of my life with and the thoughtful amazing surprises no matter how big or small they might be. So with that being said its only fair to say that when Valentines day rolls around every year. I spend that whole week thinking about what did my boyfriend get me? Is he planing a romantic surprise?

When I was younger I use to look forward to Valentine's day, just so I can see how many Valentines I would get from the boys in my class. But as I get older and am surrounded by so many people who dread valentine's day, it puts a damper on my romantic day what ever it may be. Now don't get me wrong, I agree with those that believe that you shouldn't wait for Valentines day every year to show that special someone in your life how much you appreciate them. But when that good ol' February 14th comes you don't want your significant other to feel left out just because you don't want to celebrate the day that all hopeless romantics as myself look forward to.

Valentines day doesn't mean to go out and spend all your money on champagne, roses, and diamonds. If you have been with your significant other for a while you should have a pretty good idea of what he or she likes. If your girlfriend is a box of chocolates kind of girl, get her a box of chocolates and a card. If she isn't you should know that. Although she will smile and accept your gift, she will never truly tell you how she feels about it. Valentines day is the one day out of the year to pull all your romantic cards make it special and unforgettable.  It doesn't take alot of money to do that fellas. Now ladies if you are expecting your man to go the extra mile for you on V-day. It is only right you return the gesture what ever that may be. Make valentine's day about each other, make it a day that you remind your significant other how much you truly love them whether it be with expensive gifts, a home made card, a hand written letter or a romantic stay at home dinner with candle light at the end of the night as long as love is the main reason you two are spending your night together. Than Yes, for me personally love is the best gift you can give on valentine's day.

 



Grammy's 2013

Best Dressed Grammy's 2013

 

 

The much anticipated Grammy's came and went just that fast.I think people look forward to the performances and risky fashion more than who won album of the year.I must say although CBS did send out a memo giving the ladies a fair warning that side boobs, under boobs, or see through clothing would not be allowed. but I think the ladies found there way around it. I mean what is the worst that could have happened? they would turn them away and tell them they were not allowed to partake in the festivities. Yeah right, Get over it CBS.

The ladies were beyond Fab last night. Adele showing up in an unpredictable knee length red Valentino ensemble. I'm happy she took a risk last night  and didn't wear her predictable dark outfit.I think mother hood has her coming into her own. Ashanti looked amazing and mature in a black Tony Ward couture gown. Katy Perry toned it down abit last night rocking a simple floor length  mint green Gucci gown.

Who doesnt want to look like  Jennifer Lopez when they are over 40? I know I do. She did the Angelina Jolie leg better than Angelina Jolie. looking extra sexy in a one shoulder black Anthony Vaccarrelo

gown that had a slit that almost didn't leave anything to the imagination and showed off her amazing legs with Tom Ford scandals.

 

Are you ready for my top for? well here it is!

Top 4

No.4 has to go to Kelly Rowland she looked simple, yet hot, wearing a black Shear cut-out Georges Chakras gown

No 3. goes to Beyonce, She was fierce in this black and white Osman jumpsuit with a swarovski clutch and Lorraine schawartz jewelry. She sent the trend last night with the black and white paneling

No.2 Goes to Rihanna, She shined bright like a diamond last night. Wearing a custom red Azzedine Alaia gown, and Manolo Blahnik shoes, and dripping in Neil Lane diamonds she was sizzling

 No. 1 is going to someone who was not nominated for a grammy, but her sister was.  The one and only Solange Knowles. She is always in her sister shadow. Her sense of style is extraordinary to me. She knows what she looks good in and she does it so effortlessly. Solange donned a strucutred cap sleeve emerald beaded gown by Ralph & Russo couture, with a thigh high slit. Her legs looked a mile long in pink fluorescent Chrisitian Louboutin pumps. Her hair was au naturel and she had on a few statement rings that completed her outfit for the night. She was all out glam last night. Beyonce left with the grammy but little sister Solange wins with best dressed for the night.

 

Who were your best dressed from last nights 2013 grammy awards?

Please leave your comments below.

Hope you all enjoyed this post!

Have a Triple Fresh Monday!

Alice Ornella

 

Weekly Talent

Who is this handsome young man one might ask?

Well, he is "Aston Steele" an up and coming model who just so happens to be a very good friend of mine. Aston Steele age 24, is originally from Saint Louis, Missouri. Mr. Steele is fairly new to modeling. No, Modeling is not something he always wanted to do at least, not until a year ago. When a close friend invited him to go to a casting call with him for "Manology" a show that was scheduled in April of 2012.
Aston had some reservations because modeling was not something he was interested in. But, to his surprise on arrival to the casting call he was liked by everyone there. I mean what is not to like. He was chosen to be in the show, and it was a complete success. He owned the runway that night. It was as if he had been modeling for years. Several people he crossed paths with started calling him a " Young Tyson Beckford". He decided at that point that he was going to give modeling a try and see how far it would take it.

In the months following the April 2012 show, Aston was booked for six shows" United States of Ambition" (August, 2012), "Banana Republic" (September, 2012), " Saint Louis Fashion Week" (October, 2012), "Fashion In the City" (November, 2012), and "Antiquity" (December, 2012). During those months,  Aston made a particularly significant decision he decided that he was going to move to New York city to pursue his modeling career.

Many of you are probably wondering where on earth did the name "Aston Steele" come from? Well, Aston is his middle name and Steele came from a customer he was helping while working at Banana Republic St. Louis galleria one day. The customer's name was "Steele" and Aston thought it was "Cool". So he decided to incorporate it into his stage name. I must admit, it is extremely catchy.
What makes Aston different from all the others? Well for one, he has tenacity, he had to have a lot of courage to be able to walk the first show. He was the under dog. Who was this new kid trying to out shine all the other models? Two, he has the look to be a successful model. Three, he has an infectious smile that lights up any room he is in. He knows how to work a room. Aston has the ambition, drive that it takes to make it in the modeling industry. In five years, Aston plans to be a global model with the possibility of cameos and being a part of some movies.

Mr. Steele is not currently signed with an agency but is working hard, and eagerly awaiting for the right company to swoop him under their wings. With the right agency and guidance, he believes he will be immensely successful.

Be sure to follow his modeling journey on instagram @ASTON_STEELE.

For booking info,  he can be contacted at aston.steele@gmail.com
I wish him all the luck and success on this new journey.

I will be following Aston and his new career. Be sure to follow the blog for future updates on where you can catch him owning the runway.

 

Have a Triple Fresh Tuesday,

Alice Ornella

 

How do you get ready for the work week?

OH SUNDAY!!!

Yes, It's Sunday!!! On Monday you couldn't wait for it to be Friday. Now its Sunday and you are wishing it was Friday again. If you are like me, you don't have kids to worry about getting ready for the school week. But that doesn't mean you don't have to get ready for the week ahead.

I usually spend my sundays resting doing as little as possible besides cooking sunday dinner and laundry. Everyone has a different way of preparing for the week ahead, whether it be preparing your meals for the week, ironing,or picking out your clothes for the week ahead we all do it differenty. I would love for you all to share your sunday rituals. Im sure many of you may have some tips and suggestions please feel free to share them.

Hope you all are having a triple fresh Sunday!!

FIT-spiration

What do get when you throw some one who is trying to better himself not just for himself but for his family?

You get Mr. Stan Dooley the triple fresh3's first weekly fitness inspiration!

Name: Stan Dooley

Age: 31

Height: 6 ft. 1

Weight: 223lbs

It's true, It is very important to know your family history because it can affect your own health in many ways. Which was the very reason why Stan started working out. With a family history of high cholesterol, diabetes, and high blood pressure that started to catch up to him at a young age he had to make a lifestyle change. What better way to do so then to start working out? oh and lets not leave out that he also needed a "Hobby" one that he now to loves and enjoys. Not only did he make this change for himself but he also did it for his wife and children. Stan and his family have a drastically changed their eating habits by cutting out fast food and incorporating more home cooked meals and also by making sure everyone eats a well balanced breakfast every morning.

Mr. Dooley, here actually eats breakfast twice because he has to be up at 5am. So he eats before he leaves his house in the morning and than again when he gets to work. Like all of us he has guilty pleasure when it comes to his diet, those things that we just can't resist, the butter pecan ice cream and anything that has the word "Cookie in it. You name it he likes it, but he doesn't let his guilty pleasures keep his eye off the prize. He works out up to 4-6 days per week and plays basketball 2 days out of the week with 1 day off. Stan has made his fitness journey one that he enjoys. He is lucky to have a great group of guys that work out with him that enjoy it as much as he does.

His personal motto is " Get Money" if you are thinking what I was thinking. What does "Get Money" have to do with working out? Well, his health is his money maker. If he is not in good health, then he is not capable of providing for his family. His health, and family are very valuable to him. His advice to those who want to start working out and don't know wher to start? Is to sit down and think about your future working out and having a healthy diet helps you prevent health complications in the future. Mr. Dooley's ultimate fitness goal is to have a body mass index (BMI) under 10 percent. Stan makes working out a priority now in his life on top of his career, and being an amazing husband and father to his wife and kids. Stan has 101 reason plus life it self for his life style change. What's yours?

Follow Stan and his journey to a fit life on instagram @dooleyischeap_dot_com

I hope you all enjoyed this post!

Do you know someone who you think would be a great candidate for FITspiration Fridays?

Please leave a comment and your email below.

Have a Triple Fresh Friday!

Alice Ornella