Monday, November 29, 2010

Bearing Gifts...For the Men in Your Life

Since I was a little, every Friday after the American Thanksgiving my mother and I have headed over to the States for some bargaining on a grand scale. Unfortunately this year, I came down with the flu right before the doorbusters began. But like any true shopper, I did not let that keep me down. With Christmas right around the corner (less then a month!) I was busy browsing online stores for the perfect gifts for the people in my life. Sadly, when it comes to the men in my life, it's very difficult to buy. After some careful consideration, here are some great ideas for dad, the boyfriend and brother. 

Fist Pumping Fun

U2 Concert

For the men in your life who love music, buying them concert tickets is a great option. With lots of great bands currently on tour, there are so many options and price ranges available to you. Not sure who he's into? raid his iPod one day or check out what type of music he listens to most while driving- that's usually a good tip off. Currently U2 is on tour (tickets sold here!) - a great show, for the dad or boyfriend =D
 
Let The Games Begin
 hotties Andre Ethier and James Loney mmmm good!

Maybe you're like me and feel like sweaty fist pumping should be left up to DJ Pauly D and Snooki. If so, another great gift, is the gift of sports. However, buying season tickets of your man's favorite team can be pricey, especially for us girls on a budget. That being said, perhaps buying him tickets to the season opener or tickets when his team plays their rivals is a great alternative. Either way you look at it you will have hit a home run in his books *cheese* 
check out local sports websites for pricing information and dates.

Bluffin with my Muffin
awwwww yeaaaahhhhh

Are you sick of your little brother holding fort in front of the family computer for hours insisting he only has 5 more levels left before he becomes a Night Elf Druid in World of Warcraft *punch* or your boyfriend being late because his buddies and him were in a call of duty raid?? me too. As girls we know men love their games- but we also know how they completely destroy what little social skills he has. To kill two birds with one stone, how about a poker set! you can thank me later. Not only will a poker set allow him to be competitive, but he will be forced to interact with his buddies *gasp* face to face. As he practices his poker face a- la- gaga, you can finally delete that second life account =D
for a special touch, have the poker case engraved. Not only will it help him to remember his name, but also will make him feel a little bond.
some great options at different prices can be found here

Cashmere...mmm

If the man in your life likes to look and feel good, how about a cashmere sweater. While he may not appreciate the fabric as much as you, he will love the soft material and be forever grateful for the loose fitting neck. Banana Republic has an excellent selection- prices vary among styles.

I'm the bomb like tick-tick

I'm a firm believer that you can tell a lot by a man who wears a watch- he obviously has no excuse for being late and he will always be prepared when I'm too lazy to hunt for my phone in my purse. That being said, a watch is a wonderful gift for every man in your life. With so many styles to choose from, you really need to know what type of person you are buying for. If you are buying for someone who works outside a lot- make sure the casing is shatter resistance. For a more formal businessmen type, the above is an excellent option. Just make sure with whatever one you purchase it has a timeless appeal-you know- something that will stand the test of time *cheese X2!!*
some great options are available at overstock.com

Straight to DVD
 

Another great gift for any man in your life. His favourite show on dvd. Whether he loves Dexter, How I Met Your Mother or my personal favourite The Office- it's sure to be a crowd pleaser. He will enjoy all his favourite episodes, as well as special extras included in most dvds. For more information on pricing and availability- check out amazon.ca or head over to your local hmv. 
Maybe dad doesn't like the tv shows of today? Many older sitcoms are available on dvd. Do a little research before ruling this one out for dear old dad. 

It's That Good

The final gift on my list is the Apple iPad. This gift really needs no introduction- but I will still give one :). The Apple iPad is capable of doing almost anything- literally. With the ability to house thousands of apps, read from a library of books, paint pictures- you name it, the iPad does it. This gift would be great for every man in your life, just make sure the receiver is willing to share with you from time to time =D  Pricing available on the apple website
 
Though this post is quite lengthy, I hope it has helped shorten your shopping list for the men. But let's be realistic, regardless of what you get the boys, they will love it...because it came from you =D
Happy shopping everyone!

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Turkey,Brie and Apple-Cran Grilled Cheese


If you love grilled cheese but are finding yourself bored of the same old two slices and cheese routine, you'll be pleasantly pleased with this creation! I came across this sandwich while visiting a cute cafe in the GTA and just had to try my hand at it. Turns out it is equally delicious at home as it was at my cozy booth tucked  between students and business men. Only difference? A mildly sloppier presentation, quieter surroundings and fifteen dollars still in my pocket for another day. The mild taste of brie cheese mixed with the sweet and saltiness of fruit and turkey is a mouthwatering mix for your taste buds!

Take two slices of bread, your choice. Sunflower or italian are both tasty choices. Butter both sides and pile on your 'stuffings'. Brie cheese, cranberry [for this recipe I used dried cranberries. A cranberry jam, jelly or even a cran-mayo is a nice touch],sliced apple [Gala or Green are my favorite], and lean turkey. Place frying pan on medium heat and cook sandwich for 3-4 minutes on both sides, or until toasted and cheese has melted. Serve and enjoy :)

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Brooke Fraser Live At The Opera House


Last night Je & Je had the pleasure of seeing Brooke Fraser live at The Opera House, Toronto. Our journey began starting at 9am and took us on a 3 hour trip to the big city of T.O. We then took subways, street cars and buses to get from destination to destination. From our hotel, to the mall, to dinner and finally our most anticipated point of interest, The Opera House. It was there we stood and eagerly waited 3 hours for a "well worth the wait" concert to begin. Not only was Brooke a fantastic performer on stage, she is equally musically talented as she is humorous and bubbly. Her personality captured the audience and she drew us in with her genuine, heartfelt lyrics and acoustic sound. 
    Check out her website, download her music on itunes and keep an eye out for a concert near you. Brooke Fraser is definitely at the top of our list!

Je & Je Favorites
C.S. Lewis Song
Albertine
Arithmetic
Hosea's Wife
Shadowfeet
Flags
Coachella
Scarlet
Something In The Water


Check out Something In the Water from her latest cd Flags:






Sunday, November 21, 2010

Soundtrack To My Life: Morning Motivators

If you are anything like me, leaving the comfort of my bed on a winter morning is less than desirable. Unfortunately, I'm not able to stay wrapped up in my ball of blankets for three months. To help jump start the day, I have created a playlist of morning motivators to help make the transition from bed to work that much easier. some are upbeat, and others a little more mellow, but will be sure to get you moving.
enjoy!



She's So Lovely- Scouting For Girls                buy it - youtube
Beautiful Day- U2                                               buy ityoutube           
Love You Madly- Cake                                      buy ityoutube
It's A New Day- Will.I.Am                                 buy it youtube
You Got Me- Colbie Caillat                                buy it - youtube
Everyday People- Sly &The Family Stone      buy it - youtube
Magic- B.O.B ft Rivers Cuomo                          buy it - youtube
Viva La Vida- Coldplay                                       buy it - youtube
No You Girls- Franz Ferdinand                          buy it - youtube
Don't Stop Believing- Glee Cast                        buy it - youtube
Make My Dreams Come True- Hall & Oates   buy it - youtube
I Feel It All- Feist                                                 buy it - youtube
California Waiting- Kings of Leon                    buy it - youtube
When Did Your Heart Go Missing- Rooney   buy ityoutube
Suddenly I see- KT Tunstall                              buy ityoutube
Bigger Than My Body- John Mayer                buy it -   youtube
Everything- Michael Buble                                buy it  -  youtube
Hey, Soul Sister- Train                                        buy ityoutube


want to create your own playlist? make sure to check out playlist.com




Thursday, November 18, 2010

Men with flaws are usually for keeps...

Men of the gingerbread sorts of course!  While in search for the perfect recipe to satisfy our cravings for holiday treats I stumbled upon this yummy recipe. Be forewarned,  this is a chilled recipe dough. “Refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight” requires a little patience. I must admit,  it wasn’t the most appealing line for my needy sweet tooth. This one however won't disappoint. Although my batch of men had a few missing limbs and lopsided bodies  the taste is what kept us coming back for more. These cookies are slightly crunchy on the edges, chewy on the inside and mildly spicy. A fairly simple gingerbread recipe for your basic gingerbread needs.  

3 cups flour
2 teaspoons ginger
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/ 4 teaspoon cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 cup molasses
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract


Directions

1.Mix flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, nutmeg and salt in large bowl. Beat butter and brown sugar in large bowl with electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. Add molasses, egg and vanilla; beat well. Gradually beat in flour mixture on low speed until well mixed. Press dough into a thick flat disk. Wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate 4 hours or overnight.
2.Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness on lightly floured work surface. Cut into gingerbread men shapes. Place 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheets.
3.Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until edges of cookies are set and just begin to brown. Let cool on a wire rack for about 2 minutes and eat!


Note:
The recipe above has been slightly altered from its original. A little more nutmeg and cloves where added to the recipe to enhance the flavours. If you prefer your gingerbread a bit more spicy add a little more nutmeg, cloves and cinnamon.

Final verdict? I give this gingerbread a “B“ for not bad! When it comes to the ginger sorts I’ve always been the more Snappy type. Keep reading for a future post on a family favourite Ginger Snap recipe.

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Time To Dazzle- Holiday Dresses Under $150

With the holidays right around the corner, it's time to start thinking about what you will be wearing to all those parties that seem to all fall in one weekend. To get you started, here are some budget friendly options that will help you make it all the way til new years. If you have any other favourites, please comment and let us know!

Sparkle and Shine
from left to right: Asos, Forever 21, Charlotte Russe, Asos Curve

Black, White and Red all over
from left to right: Ricki's, Forever 21, Torrid, Torrid  

Be-Jeweled
from left to right: Asos Curve, Charlotte Russe, Ricki's, Asos


Tuesday, November 16, 2010

Je & Je

After many attempts at searching the web for "what to wear on a first date" and "how to make a meal for under $10" we came to the realization, that there are limited resources out there that cater to all the things that are important in a 20 somethings life. This blog, was created, in part, to help weed out all the opinion blogs, and bring a resource full of ideas for fashion, makeup, cooking and lifestyle issues. 
    Here at JeandJe, we realize that not all young girls are the same- which is a great thing! We all need to love ourselves and express ourselves just the way we are. We hope as you continue to read, you will gain a sense of self-worth and appreciate yourself even more for the beautiful woman you are.
So raise your glass as we embark on this journey; to love, life and friends!

JeandJe