Lemon, Honey & Cinnamon Yogurt Mask | #FWCon Recap

Hi there! I'm finally fully recovered from attending the Food Wine Conference I mentioned a few weeks ago, and that means that 1. My head is swimming, and 2. I have so much to do. Nothing new there.

It was a great weekend, although the conditions going into it were definitely NOT ideal. My late-teether of a son decided to have some real doozies start to break ground, which meant fever, pitifulness and major grumps to deal with. Luckily, my husband tied on his Super Dad cape and came along for the ride, staying with him all weekend in our hotel room and keeping him mostly meltdown-free while I did my blogger thing. {As a side note, The Rosen Shingle Creek is not a terrible place to have to be trapped in a hotel room, should the need arise.}

The view from our room

I'm not going to give you a play-by-play of the entire weekend; that would be impossible since they manage to cram so much information, food and fun into such a short period of time. Here's the highlight reel!

Tell Me Everything You Know!

This year's speakers ran the gamut between renowned chefs {Donatella Arpaia to be exact}, farm owners and vintners, etiquette coaches, Instagram rockstars and hospitality professionals. Every year I think I can't possibly learn something new, but without fail I come to find I'm happily mistaken! The most useful session for me this year was a presentation on creating videos {like those viral ones you see from Tasty.com}, which was given by Denise and Lenny from Chez Us. Not only was I shocked to find out how simple they are to create, but I was also motivated enough to try it out at home right away. I definitely need practice, but not too shabby, right??

I am so thankful for the pros who have acquired a wealth of knowledge and are kind enough to share it with little 'ol me!

Make New Friends, But Keep the Old

I'm a pretty social kinda gal. I like meeting new people and enjoy chatting with strangers. But sometimes, things like conferences and large-scale events are kind of intimidating, even for social butterflies.  

In the past, I've attended conferences where I knew a few people, and ones where I didn't know a soul. I can tell you from experience that it makes such a difference to put yourself out there and make friends! Just a friendly "Hello" can open up a whole gateway to conversation, opportunities, and even friendships. Since FWCon isn't a huge conference compared to others, I remembered many of the folks there from the year before, and it was nice to see familiar faces {Shaina, Betsy, Terri, Sondra & so many more!}

I also ran into a blog buddy who I've followed for some time {Katie from Katie's Cucina}, and I felt like we really connected after attending the same conferences over the last few years, having babies that are close in age, collaborating in the past, and, yes, having a few cocktails together! We had so many laughs, and in between talking business, it was nice to feel like I was just hanging out with girlfriends. Katie introduced me to her friend April from Mama Loves Food, and I loved getting to know her and learning about how she does 90 minute {!!!} Facebook Live videos from her kitchen several times a week. {As a side note, April has FIVE small children, so there is NO excuse for me on finding the time to work on my business!} No matter how tempted you might be to keep to yourself or stick with only people you know, I highly suggest putting on your confident pants and getting out there!

Let's Eat {And Drink!}

There's no denying that part of the reason why I love food blogging conferences so much is because of the food. At Food Wine, they go all out and really try to make everything special for their guests. As far as I'm concerned, everything in life should have snack breaks featuring things like a Cabot mac & cheese bar, Duda Farm Fresh Foods produce, and Stoneridge Montmorency Cherries. End of discussion.

The formal lunches and dinners were even more elaborate. From beautiful displays of sushi and small plates made by Rosen's best chefs, to a full-blown Idaho Potato extravaganza to Certified Angus Beef's Denim & Diamonds themed dinner on Saturday night, you could tell that a lot of work was put into making these dining experiences memorable. {As a side note, since I don't eat beef, I got the vegetarian option for Saturday's dinner, and it was lovely!}

We were so fortunate to have CK Mondavi as one of the sponsors this year, so there was no shortage on wine. I even found a few new ones that I really enjoyed!

Work Hard, Play Hard

If you're not into blogging or social media, then this might all sound like a snoozefest to you... but I can assure you that there is as much time set aside for fun as there is for business. Between contests and giveaways, silly photo opps and cocktail receptions, there are good times-a-plenty!

Giant wine glasses, massages, playing with your food & porch-sittin'. Yup, plenty of fun.

Remember last year I played The Price is Right and won all the things? Well, it happened again! {Clearly, I've got some fabulous FWCon mojo!} This year, there was a Chopped-style cooking competition sponsored by Wish Farms called "#Hashed." Several teams competed against one another to create a dish using only the ingredients provided by our sponsors, and wouldn't you know it, my team WON! {Thanks, Terri, for literally taking the heat for our bunch in the kitchen!} We got so many gifts from the sponsors, and a free ride for next year's FWCon! WOOHOO!

#Hashed finished products ready to be judged!

I also won 3rd place in a Florida Dairy Farmers recipe contest with my Pimento Cheese Stuffed Cornbread, so I was gifted a great basket of FL Milk goodies, $100, and reimbursement for my conference ticket. Score!

This Time Around

This year, I applied to become a brand ambassador and was paired with Duda Farm Fresh Foods. {Ambassadors receive a discounted ticket to the conference and provide social media coverage for the brand throughout the conference. I hope you saw the pics & Tweets I posted of their super-fun & tasty displays throughout the weekend!} In years past, I wouldn't have had the confidence to sign up for something like an ambassadorship {because it sounded official and scary}, and would have been worried that I wouldn't do a good job. But I did it, and I'm so happy that I did.

Sunday Brunch sponsored by Duda!  

Though I've attended a lot of conferences, something was different about this one: Me. I think I was at ease and ready to receive the information that was provided so that I can work on taking my blog to the next level. If you know me, you know that's a big step for me. {I'm constantly downplaying, sidestepping, and back burner-ing anything related to the blog. NO MORE!} Some big changes are coming for this space, and I can truly say that making time to attend conferences like FWCon has helped me get to the point where I am now.

So, 6 conferences later, this "ain't my first rodeo" anymore. Even though conferences tend to have many of the same elements {speakers, food, sponsors, networking, etc., etc.}, I always come away from each one with a fresh perspective and a unique vibe.

I left this year's FWCon feeling, above all, grateful. Grateful that I've finally reached a point in this wide world of blogging where I have made friends that I look forward to seeing. Grateful that I get to do this crazy thing that actually earns money to help support my family. Grateful that I have overcome some {not all!} of the fears and doubts that I had when I turned this blog into a business. Grateful that other brands and businesses are FINALLY starting to see the value of what we do, and that our efforts often translate to actions that in essence make products and advertising better for you as a consumer.

Food bloggers, I highly recommend this conference, especially if it's your first! I plan on returning for their big 5 year celebration in 2017!

Whew! That was longer than I thought it would be... I think I need some R&R, but maybe I'll just settle for some DIY spa time. The yogurt mask we made on Friday night with Florida Dairy Farmers is perfect for an at-home beauty break. You should try it, too!

Lemon, Honey & Cinnamon Yogurt Mask
From Health.com

1/2 cup whole milk Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon
1 tablespoon honey
Dash of cinnamon

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Mix until well incorporated.

2. Spoon into a small jar with a tight-fitting lid.

3. Use immediately by slathering on face, then wiping it off with a warm wash cloth after 15 minutes. Store the remainder of the mask in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

*Note: I actually ate this mixture with fresh berries, and it was delicious! May sound strange, but it's good for your outsides and insides! ;)

Disclosure: Though I was given a discounted ticket for my participation as a brand ambassador, the opinions shared here are all my own. 

Easy Mini Cheesecakes

We are a house divided. For me, chocolate is always acceptable when it comes to dessert. But, sadly, I married a chocolate hater. {Yes, they exist!!!}

Though we have managed to navigate around this major tiny issue, it's something that comes up again and again when I'm in charge of bringing dessert to family get togethers. {Read: Always.} Before I had a little one, I'd occasionally have enough time to make two separate full-sized desserts to please all palates; these days I'm lucky if I can crank out a bowl of instant pudding.

As many moms hone a whole new set of skills and "hacks" to make life easier, I have come up with the perfect solution for this little dilemma: Mini Cheesecakes.

First of all, cheesecake happens to be one of my top choices of indulgence, so right off the bat it's a win for me. These bite sized desserts are made with only a handful of ingredients {most of which I usually have on hand}, are partially made in the blender, and only take a fraction of the time that regular cheesecake does.

Plus, you can get multiple flavor possibilities out of just one batch! Chocolate Strawberry, White Chocolate Lemon, Peanut Butter Pretzel, Cafe Mocha... just a few simple additions and substitutions can turn the simple base into a variety of delectable little bites that everyone will enjoy.

That means chocolate for me and smiles all around. Even for chocolate-hating oddballs. {Sorry, honey!}

Head over to Stonyfield Organic's Yogurt Dish blog, where I'm sharing my super simple tips and tricks for making a batch of these cuties!

What's your favorite dessert to make for a crowd?

4 Ingredient Breakfast Cookies | Nature's Path + Stonyfield

I am guilty of foregoing a proper breakfast for a mug of coffee more often than not. My stomach just doesn't wake up ready for food. {But a strong, boiling hot caffeinated beverage... sure, why not?! Weird.} But come 8:30 or 9 a.m., the rumbling begins and I'm usually searching for something quick to keep me full for a while since my lunchtime isn't set in stone and is often scheduled around the mood, cooperation and activities of my little guy.

When I do get to sit down and eat something that requires some assembly, I reach for the classic combo of yogurt and granola. I love that Greek yogurt has a hefty dose of protein {12 grams for a 5.3 ounce container of Stonyfield Greek in contrast to 6 grams in one large egg} and that granola adds a little crunch and flavor to the mix.

But it's not always possible to eat a yogurt parfait on the run. In fact, it's downright messy... and I don't need any help making a mess, I promise.

So, in an effort to be super efficient, I combined one of my favorite pairings into a healthy, portable cookie!

My buddies at Nature's Path Organic sent the members of Stonyfield's Clean Plate Club some of their nutritious goodies to play with in the kitchen. When I opened the box and saw their Pumpkin Flax Granola, I knew just how I'd use it! {You know, besides shoveling it into my face by the palmful.}

Along with a mashed banana, a few tablespoons of Stonyfield Organic Greek yogurt and a dash of vanilla, this granola is easily turned into a travel-friendly bite that's packed with fiber, protein and even Omega-3 fatty acids. Oodles better for you than a thermos of java.

The best part is that these couldn't get any easier to make, even for you "non-bakers" out there. Mix, scoop, bake and EAT. That's it.

Even though these are a great way to start the day, they also make a perfect snack for any time the munchies strike.

No more excuses for this gal -- whether I have time to sit down to breakfast or I'm on the run, these healthy bites make a fantastic solution for curbing my breakfast snubbing!

Disclosure: As a Stonyfield Blogger, I received samples of Nature's Path products for use in this post. As always, all opinions here are my own!

4 Ingredient Breakfast Cookies

1 large banana, mashed or beated
2 tablespoons Stonyfield Organic Greek yogurt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup Nature's Path Organic Pumpkin Flax Granola

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a baking pan by lining with parchment or a silicone baking mat.

2. In a large bowl combine mashed banana, yogurt and vanilla extract. Stir in granola and mix until well combined. {If the mixture seems too "loose", let it sit for about 15-20 minutes until the granola soaks in the other ingredients and becomes easier to work with.}

3. Using a cookie scoop or a rounded tablespoon measure, scoop the mixture into little mounds onto the prepared baking pan. If desired, press the mounds down a little to flatten -- I just left them domed.

4. Bake for 13-15 minutes or until the cookies set and slightly browned around the edges.

Cool for 5 minutes before removing from baking pan. 

Eau Spa | Manalapan, Florida + Turkey Meatball Flatbread Sandwich

If you follow me on Instagram or Facebook, you may have seen some pics of a few spa days I've given myself as a reward for making it this far in my pregnancy without having a complete meltdown. {I kid. Honestly, it really hasn't been that bad.}

My obsession with luxury spas started a while back when I treated myself to a spa day at The Breakers around the time of my 29th birthday. What can I say -- go big or go home. My birthday spa day became a tradition and for the past few years I've continued to visit The Spa at the Breakers for a pedicure and a day of relaxation. It's lovely.

This year I switched things up and decided to check out another spot - Eau Spa - with a group of my girlfriends to help me celebrate the last birthday I'll have without a little one running around.

Eau Spa is located at Eau Palm Beach in Manalapan {south Palm Beach}, a beautiful property that was given a multi-million dollar makeover in the past few years. Though they manage to maintain the hallmark luxurious vibe of other Palm Beach hotels and spas, Eau Hotel does so with a cheeky, modern twist that sets them apart.

Upon arriving at Eau Spa, we were checked in and brought back to a stunning rotunda with high, domed ceiling and a "wishing well" marking the center of the space. We were offered drinks {champagne for the girls and spa water for me, of course. Rats.} and each given a small votive candle to release into the wishing well and set our hopes adrift. How charming.

Our appointments started early to accommodate our large group {6 gals}, so no time was wasted. We were whisked back to the salon where we each had our nail services done while chatting, sipping {and nibbling on some pumpkin chocolate chip muffins I happened to bring with me... early morning pregnancy insomnia has its perks}. Once we were scrubbed, polished and moisturized, we were lead to the best part of Eau Spa -- a spa wonderland, of sorts.

After slipping into cozy robes and comfy flip flops, we each found a spot to soak in some of the serenity offered within the 42,000 square foot sanctuary.

My zen was found in the "Self-Centered Garden", where whimsy and tranquility unite in the lavish outdoor space. Soft, plush loungers punctuate the beautifully landscaped oasis; water walls create soothing background noise that could easily put you in your happy place. Hanging chairs suspended over a shallow pool of water are pure perfection for toe-dipping reflection time.  A Wonderland-esque chessboard not only makes a pretty visual element, but also serves as yet another distraction for an indulgent playtime.

Inside, the options for relaxation are endless as well. Tons of places to perch speckle the cool, airy surroundings filled with gauzy drapes and deluxe décor. Their "Scrub & Polish Bar" features an array of aromatic ingredients where you can create a custom blend of exfoliating body scrub. Get steamy in the sauna or luxuriate in the stunning whirlpool, complete with rain shower and oversized rubber duckies to accompany you as you "Pause, Play & Perfect" {the spa's mantra}. I loved their warm tiled loungers and could have napped there for hours, but food beckoned from another part of the spa.

Because what's a day of ultimate spoiling without cupcakes?? I mean, these people really know how to make a girl happy. Every single inch of Eau Spa seems to be utilized for maximum pampering. Even the lighting -- a custom chandelier made of crystal wine glasses -- is all about opulence and extravagance.

Though it was difficult to pull ourselves away from the enchanting environment, we gathered our things and headed over to Temple Orange, their onsite restaurant, for lunch. I'd had the privilege of sampling some Temple Orange fare a while back when I was a judge for the Flavor Palm Beach kickoff event, so I knew I was in for a treat.

We were all so relaxed that we opted for a casual, laid back lunch on the patio {which was great until it started to pour!}. Several of us ordered what the restaurant calls a "Baco", which is basically a flatbread that you can order with turkey meatballs or pulled pork. I can't tell you where they came up with "Baco", but I decided that it must mean "Bread Taco" because that's sort of what it made think of!

I can't even put into words what an amazing time I had at Eau Spa... it was the perfect place for a post-birthday, pre-baby shower day of pampering and I hope to visit again {and again, and again...}. If you ever find yourself in the area, do yourself the favor of stopping in and treat yourself to a day of sheer bliss!

.................................................................

Ok, so maybe I can't head down to Eau Spa every day {though I SO wish I could!}, but there's no reason not to recreate Temple Orange's tasty lunch whenever the mood strikes.

I "copycatted" their dish right down to the flatbread, which only took TWO ingredients and a hot griddle. Totally worth making.

The rest of the dish is simple enough -- turkey meatballs, a little cumin-scented yogurt sauce, some veggies and voila! You've got yourself a spa lunch right in the comfort of your own home. 

Turkey Meatball Flatbread Sandwich

For meatballs:

1 lb. ground turkey meat

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon cumin

1/2 teaspoon dried mint

1. Preaheat oven to 400 degrees. Prepare a baking pan by lining with foil and spraying or drizzling with a bit of olive oil.

2. Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl and stir to distribute spices. Using an ice cream scoop, create even-sized meatballs and place on oiled baking pan.

3. Bake for about 16-18 minutes or until meat is no longer pink in the middle and cooked the way through.

Keep warm until ready to serve.

For flatbread:
Adapted from The Little Things

2/3 cup self-rising flour

2.5 ounces Greek yogurt

Pinch of salt

1. Heat a heavy skillet or a grill pan to medium-high heat. In a medium bowl {or in the bowl of a food processor while pulsing} combine all ingredients with a silicone spatula.

2. When the dough looks shaggy, knead it together until a ball forms. Divide dough into 4 equal pieces.

3. On a floured surface, roll out each piece of dough into a circular flatbread. Spray heated pan or skillet with a bit of olive oil or non-stick cooking spray and cook flatbreads until slightly puffed and starting to char in places, about 3-4 minutes on each side.

Keep warm until ready to serve.

For yogurt sauce:

2 ounces Greek yogurt

2 teaspoons mayonnaise

1/2 teaspoon cumin

Squeeze of fresh lemon juice

Pinch of salt

In a small bowl, stir together all ingredients until well combined. Set aside until ready to use.

To assemble: 

1 piece of flatbread

1 tablespoon yogurt sauce 

Spinach

Tomato, diced

Cucumber {or zucchini}, grated

Spread about a tablespoon of yogurt sauce on each flatbread. Sprinkle with spinach, tomato, and grated cucumber or zucchini. Place 2 meatballs on top of each flatbread and fold over into a "baco". You may need a toothpick to secure unless you plan on diving right in!