Haute Dish Housewife: March 2016

Thursday, March 31, 2016

My Graphic Tee Love Affair

Friends, my love affair with graphic tees goes waaaaaaaaay back. I mean, what's not to love? These days the graphic tee has come back so hard for summer and you will see them paired with jeans, skirts... even pinstriped trousers. Say whaaaaaat??!!
I walked into Mainstream Boutique in Savage this week and imagine my delight to see the store has been stocked full off super fun graphic tees. Like, "kid on Christmas morning" happy.
While I'm completely open to the fitted band graphic tee or a retro team style shirt, these days it's tees with a statement that does it for me. I find it kinda fun to go into my closet and come out with something that pretty much says how I'm feeling. Literally.

Like...

Today, I remember my youth.

Today, I'd give anything to hop in the car, carefree and see where the road takes me.

Today I want to let all my partners in crime know I'm ready for a night out!

Today, I'm going to tap into my creativity, brainstorm and see what it brings.

Today I'm going shopping aaaaalllll day long!

The thing I really like about this line of graphic tees is how soft they are. Not only do they look good but they feel good too. Who doesn't love a comfy tee?

I also want you to take a good look at the super cute accessories I used in my outfit picks for this week. Mainstream Boutique in Savage has such a great selection of earrings, necklaces and bracelets to choose from. I especially love the bright yellow earrings I wore with the "gypsy soul" tee and the jeweled earrings with the "wild at heart tee." Let's not forget the shoes! They are as comfortable as they are stylish.

If you're feeling unsure about what fit flatters you most, what top goes with what bottom or which accessory would look the best with your latest purchase, fear not friends. That's what the sales associates are for at Mainstream Boutique in Savage and they love to help you out and answer any questions you may have. And they really know their stuff so they're great at it!

I hope you enjoyed looking at these outfits as much as I loved putting them together and posting them for you to check out. If you see something you love, stop on by Mainstream Boutique in Savage if you're close by! Experience that unbeatable customer service first hand. Otherwise, give the ladies a call at (952) 440-4020 and they're more than happy to help you out and ship you your purchases. Not only are they sweet... they're quick to ship because they know you're excited to get your new stuff.
You can also follow them on Instagram @mainstreamboutiquesavagemn

*you can follow me on IG or Pinterest @hautedishhousewife, on FB at Haute Dish Housewife https://www.facebook.com/hautedishhousewife or on Twitter and SnapChat @HauteDishHWife for more recipe ideas, crafts/DIY, my style and giveaways.

Tuesday, March 29, 2016

Love My Lashes

I have always said that the one beauty product I couldn't live without (other than chapstick, because, duh...) would be mascara. On the days I choose to go without or just run out of time to apply it, I get remarks such as, "Ooooohhhh, you look tired." Or even, "Are you coming down with something." Yeaaaahhhh. Then at the end of the day when I'm washing my face and removing makeup, it never fails that my mascara is the biggest pain in the butt to get off. Or, God forbid you cry during an unexcpected sad book or movie (or if your at your wits end with a crabby kid) and you find yourself looking in a mirror with mascara streaks down your face.
None of these things are fun but totally worth it to have longer looking lashes, right?? But wouldn't it be even better to have those stunning lashes without the hassle of mascara?? I've tried numerous mascaras and haven't really achieved the long, natural lash look I've been hoping for.
But behold! I've found an answer!

Check out my before and after. Sweet, right?

Before

After

I've been curious about lash extensions for a long time now. The idea of waking up, looking in a mirror and not looking like death just seemed super appealing to me.(heehee) But for real.
I hesitated because I worried they'd be super high maintenance, (wrong) maybe kinda painful to put on/have (wrong again, completely pain free and they feel like your natural lashes) and that they wouldn't be worth the money spend on them. (Totally off base as they are so worth it. Plus mention my blog and you'll get a deal. More on that later...)
I recently got in touch with my friend Mary Beth, whom I worked with years ago BK. (Before Kids)
Seriously... isn't she adorable!?!?!

I found out that she has been doing lash extensions for women all over the Twin Cities area for SIX years. That makes for many happy clients! (She recently applied lash extensions to her first post-chemo patient and said that seeing her so happy at the end of the appointment was one of her best moments being in this profession) She owns her own business called Love My Lashes by MB and works out of a cute, cozy little office in Savage. I decided to take the plunge and make an appointment.
Not only was it wonderful to see MB, catch up on life and get advice on motherhood, I got to lay down, relax and just let her go to work on making my eyes beautiful. Mary Beth gently glued the extensions onto my own eyelashes, one by one and it was completely pain free to apply them. No pulling or poking. In fact, she said many of the women who come into her office fall asleep during their appointment. Imagine that! Then you get to wake up to lush, gorgeous looking lashes?!?! I'd call that a positive experience, FOR SURE!
I was absolutely thrilled when I opened my eyes and saw my new lashes. It was even better knowing that I was going to wake up the next day and they'd still look just as long and pretty. I'm totally addicted and I'm so glad I gave Love My Lashes by MB a try. I'm a super happy client!

So here's the big bonus for you...
Call Mary Beth to make your appointment (or just to have her answer any questions you may have) and mention my blog. You will get your lashes (reg. $200 for a full set) for $100. Seriously. 50% off... that's to good of a deal to pass up. Let your curiosity get the best of you and give these lashes a try. I really couldn't be happier with my results and I'm willing to bet you'll be thrilled with yours as well.
You can follow Love My Lashes by MB on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/LoveMyLashesBymb/?fref=ts or feel free to email Mary Beth at imhoff.mb @gmail.com with any questions.
And, of course, you may give her a call as well...

*you can follow me on IG or Pinterest @hautedishhousewife, on FB at Haute Dish Housewife https://www.facebook.com/hautedishhousewife , Snap Chat username: HauteDishHWife or on Twitter @HauteDishHWife for more food, fashion and family.

Thursday, March 24, 2016

Campanelle Carbonara

I. Can't. Even.
Friends, this is the real deal. If you're looking for perfect carbonana, this is it. Even if you weren't seeking out the perfect carbonara recipe, you need to try this. I urge you. It's easy and incredibly delicious.

So, a few weeks ago a friend of mine had a meeting scheduled and asked if I wouldn't mind driving her daughter (who is in the same class as my oldest) home from school since her husband was out of town with work. Of course! Us mama friends have to stick together! We figured since I was over there that we'd let the kids play while we chatted and caught up. She's one of my fav people to talk to and hours just pass by so quickly when we are together. She insisted we stay over for dinner and wanted to treat us to her very favorite recipe... carbonara. Not one to turn down a plate of pasta and fantastic company, I graciously accepted her invitation and then proceeded to watch her every single move as she created the most mouth watering, incredibly delicious bowl of pasta ever. Feast your eyes...

It's so simple, but it tastes so amazing. She insisted that if I share this recipe with you, that you must understand the importance of using fresh garlic, the correct cheeses and, perhaps the most important of all... Nueske's brand bacon. It makes a world of difference. It can be found at Cub, Lund's or Byerly's.

Most people make carbonara with spaghetti but we are not most people. You're certainly welcome to use any shape of pasta you'd like, but my friend used Barilla's campanelle and I thought it was perfection.

Here it is, my dear reader. The treasured recipe for the most amazing bowl of carbonara you'll ever taste. It's better than in a restaurant and perfectly easy to whip up when you have guests over. They'll be totally impressed... I know I was!

Campanelle Carbonara

*one pound of Barilla brand campanelle (or whichever pasta shape you choose)

*3 egg yolks

*6-8oz thinly sliced Nueske's bacon

*one shallot, thinly sliced

*3 tablespoons of olive oil

*4 cloves of garlic, minced

*1/2 teaspoon of red chili flakes

*8oz of parmigiano-reggiano & romano, grated

Boil a big pot of water and once the pasta goes in, start your cooking. Heat olive oil over low-medium heat in a sauté pan. Add bacon, garlic, & shallot. Stir often and until bacon is cooked. You do NOT want crisp bacon or overdone bacon.

I mean, look at that. Beautiful!

Place three egg yolks in the bottom of a large serving bowl. Cook pasta to al dente and drain. Add the hot pasta to the large serving bowl along with the bacon mixture. Toss it all together, add half the cheeses and toss again. Serve with the rest of the grated cheese, some black pepper, and be sure to place some fresh garlic on the side for those who can never get enough garlic.

Share, share, share! Share with family, friends or anyone else that may need a delicious, comforting bowl of carbonara. This one can't be beat. Enjoy!

Monday, March 21, 2016

My (afforable and pretty) Spring Tablescape

Confession: I just recently (like, we are talking a few weeks ago) removed the snowmen and Christmas table runner from my dining room table. Seriously. So ashamed.
I took down my other winter décor back in January (I want to point that out so you know I kinda got my sh*t together) but when it comes to my dining room table, it just drives me crazy to leave it bare and I was super indecisive about what I wanted. In fact, I made the decision NO Easter egg colors. I'm not a big fan of pastels on my table... or so I thought.
I was at Target with both girls and on a mission. Actually, I decided I was on a mission while standing in the dollar section (if you can resist that little area of the store, you have some kind of freaky super human power) and I came across some small, glittery Easter egg ornaments, a wooden "spring" sign and pretty yellow pails. I suddenly had an idea and accepted that YES... as a matter of fact, I DO want a bit of pastel on my Spring table. I thought of what I had at home that could go with this and I decided some pretty tulips in one of my old vases would be pretty. I could cut the strings off the egg ornaments and place them in wine glasses. (I bought a package of 4 for $5 from Target this past winter to use on my Winter tablescape)
I struggled a bit with napkins and napkin rings. I had nothing at home that would work so I grabbed a new set of napkins (4 for under $10) and my mind went back to the dollar section where I saw a package of flower clips for $1. I figured since I couldn't find napkin rings that I loved, I'd use the flower clips and some twine from home to make my own.
I did splurge on a hurricane candle holder for $20. Mostly because I knew I could reuse it all year throughout the house. That makes it definitely worth the $20.
Then, or course, after I thought I was done I came across the little succulents for under $5 so I grabbed a few of those as well. (Damn you Target, with your strategically placed objects!!)
So anyway, I've never claimed to be an interior decorator buuuuuut, I'm proud of my first official Spring tablescape. I hope you like it too.

Happy Spring!

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

Hippity Hoppity

Last week was a busy one around here and it about killed me not to hop on my computer and start writing about all the wonderful new outfits Mainstream Boutique in Savage had in store. But then I arrived this morning and saw even MORE new arrivals that I thought would be absolutely perfect to wear for Easter in a few weeks. They'd also dub for super cute vaca wear.
When I shop, I tend to look for a certain occasion, but buy something that I will wear for more than just that occasion. It drives me crazy to come across something in my closet and then think to myself, "Hmmm. That was really cute for that one day I got to wear it."
I shop the same way for my children. While I'm tempted by all the super cute Easter dresses (and had given into that temptation for a few years) I don't want to buy something that will be worn for that one day. I like to buy something that will be super cute for that one day, plus would look great to wear at a wedding, birthday party, etc. I like to chose pieces I can dress up or down.
I'm a big fan of a super cute jean jacket thrown over a dress. Or a pretty cardigan. Heels or flats? Even make-up can make a difference in how to help your outfit come across. Go for a lighter girl-next-door look if your dressing down or maybe a more dramatic eye or lip if you're wearing it for a night out.
That's something I really love about the associates at Mainstream Boutique in Savage. They have a trained eye to help you pull off the look that your going for. Bonus? They have what you need right there in the boutique to get you head to toe ready.

Emily and I were totally thrilled that while the weather was a bit on the dreary side today, it was warm enough to get outside and take some pics. YAY! A change of scenery and a breath of fresh air while I tried on my Easter picks... Love!

She had me try on the #ootd, which is posted on their IG and FB pages daily. (See below for deets on how to follow Mainstream Boutique in Savage on social media.) The white shirt & jeans were super cute and comfortable and I kinda fell in love with the kimono. And the shoes. If you read my previous posts you'd already know how I feel about these shoes with their perfect heel to chase after my little ones.

I obviously can't keep my eyes off them...

Look at this statement necklace. GORGEOUS.

Ok. I actually may have let a tear or two fall when I had to return this dress and poncho back to the racks. The dress alone was gorgeous and then the poncho just made it over the top lovely.

Again... drooling over the shoes. *sigh* I just need to give in and stock up on all shoes in Mainstream Boutique in Savage, for crying out loud.

How cute are these stackable bracelets? Adorable, right? (I can't hear you but I'm pretty certain you're totally agreeing with me right now.)

Gasp! Floral dress. Statement necklace. Wedge heel.

That's about all I have to say about this because it hits every criteria for the perfect Spring outfit. Which makes it the perfect Easter outfit. Grab yourself a cardi (or, if you love jean jackets as much as I do, grab that!) and you're good to go!

Look. At. This. I'm not sure why there's not a picture of my gawking at those gladiator sandals because I seriously did. A lot. They're my favs and not just because they're totally swoon worthy. They are completely comfortable as well. No suffering for beauty with these!

I have to say that this was an easy pick for me. It was all put together on a mannequin, I took one look, picked her up and carried her into the dressing room with me. This outfit is gorgeous, warm, the cardi can be removed if the weather heats up... it's a dream.

Last, and most certainly not least, is this gorgeous coral colored dress.

I've always been a huge fan of this beautiful color. It's bright, fun AND will make your tan (notice I say "your tan" because mine is gone) more noticeable. Such a bonus to this impressive color. I added a cute belt to match the shoes and then stacked up some bracelets to add a tiny bit of turquoise to the outfit.

Coral and turquoise together are about as attractive as it gets, don't you agree?

Thursday, March 3, 2016

Comforting Tuna Noodle Casserole

Nothing says comfort and warmth quite like a good ol' casserole in the oven. My mom made casseroles all the time when I was growing up and I remember I'd usually hesitate at the idea. Or groan. I just flat out didn't appreciate good food in my youth. (Trust me when I say I'm paying for that now with two picky kids of my own... my mom laughs as she knows just how that goes!)

With my own children, the rule is one bite for every year of your age. My four year old should take four small bites when giving something new a try. Some nights this works like a charm and others take a bit more coaxing. My seven year old is at the point now where she will try pretty much anything without having to be persuaded and her palate has really expanded the last year or so.

Now, I'm not saying this is just a MN thing but we sure do love our casseroles/hot dishes. I make them pretty regularly (once every two to three weeks or so) and have a variety of different recipes. One of the most comforting, warming recipes I can think of is for tuna noodle casserole. It's creamy, filling and I top mine with cheese and potato chips. I mean... #nobrainer

My recipe is as follows and is pretty basic. I'm not a big lover of peas, but if you want to add some color you can always throw in some peas or carrots. If you want to kick it up a notch, add some diced peppers and rather than the Velveeta cheese, use pepper jack.
This recipe is so versatile and there are so many possibilities to make it your own.

Tuna Noodle Casserole

*3-4 cups cooked (al dente) medium egg noodles

*one small can of tuna, drained

*one can cream of mushroom soup

*one can cream of celery soup

*one cup of crushed potato chips

*half of one small block of Velveeta cheese, cut into chunks

Mix all ingredients together except for potato chips and cheese. Spoon into greased casserole dish. Add chunks of cheese to the top. Bake at 350 for 40 minutes. Top with crushed potato chips.

Classic comfort food. Enjoy!

Wednesday, March 2, 2016

Heel to Toe Appeal

I completely refuse to let Minnesota's bi-polar attitude shatter my spring fever. I must admit, Sunday & Monday's cold weather left me feeling pretty down after such a gorgeous Saturday. My attitude quickly turned around when I made my weekly trip into Mainstream Boutique in Savage to see what's new, and behold! Open toed shoes, gladiator sandals and wedge heels!! YEEEESSSSS! (along with lovely new clothing arrivals which come in on the daily at Mainstream Boutique in Savage)

Side Note: I know mom life isn't the only life where one needs/wants to make the most of their time. We all do. That's one of the things I like so much about Mainstream Boutique in Savage. I go in there weekly and I never feel like I'm looking at the same thing I did the week before. There's always something new to get excited and "oooh and ahhh" over. It's really a place to make the most of your time when it comes to shopping.

Ok. Back to shoes. I won't lie... it was slim pickings for awhile after all the fall and winter beauties were gone. But patience is a virtue (one that personally, I could use a bit of help with) and Dyana completely delivered with some really cute new shoes!

Here are my picks of the week at Mainstream Boutique in Savage. All of the following can be your by stopping by the store if you are local OR by calling (952)440-4020. Sales associates are extremely helpful and quick to ship because they know you can wait to get all that cuteness on your doorstep.

Step one: Get yourself this lovely little floral romper. (which are so popular right now)
Step two: Add some pretty, open toe heels.
Aaaaaand you're done. This was completely effortless and would be cute for pretty much any occasion from date day/night to park time with the kiddos. The shoes are comfortable and have the perfect amount of heel.

I'm such a fan of any nautical look. I just feel like it's flattering and I love navy and white together. This delightful little dress has waist detail to give your middle a slimmed down look which is a great feature no matter what your figure is. I added a lightweight cardigan and a chunky necklace to pull the look together. And again, these beige heels which are so versatile that I think you'll find yourself wearing them as your go to cute shoe when headed out the door.

I featured these crop jeans last week and I'm doing it again this week but with a different look. The frayed hem is cute cuffed or left alone, but with this tunic I decided to cuff them and add Mainstream Boutique in Savage's new wedge heel. A few posts ago I wrote that one of my summer must haves to update your closet would be a wedge heel. These are affordable, cute and comfortable... so here's your chance! Again, this color has endless options and will likely match many things that are currently in your closet. I added some charming little Mac & Me gold accessories to top off the look.

This next outfit is a great one to transition to Spring. A flowy maxi skirt, tank and tee are simple and pretty. The scarf is light and can be removed if you start getting warm, and then I added a super pretty necklace so your look is still pulled together even if the scarf is taken off. This necklace is so unique! These sandals are a bit lighter in color than the previous ones posted. The nude color will help give the look of longer legs. (Plus a shoe with a heel and can give legs a more toned look... always good.)

This last one might just be my fav of the bunch. This dress is lightweight and has such a versatile look. You can wear it out to dinner with a hot date, brunch with family, or throw it over a swim suit to run errands. You'll be looking pretty either way! These black gladiator sandals shall become mine. For real. I was strong enough to leave them behind but they haven't left my mind. They are really comfortable and obviously cute to the extreme. I chose a black tassel necklace and black/gold bracelet to complete this look. Simple!

If these outfits didn't cure your cold weather blues, I'll be posting a comforting casserole recipe up on the blog in the next day or so. Perfect to warm you up until the weather starts to heat up a bit here in the coming days.

I hope you enjoyed looking at these outfits as much as I loved putting them together and posting them for you to check out. If you see something you love, stop on by Mainstream Boutique in Savage if you're close by! Experience that unbeatable customer service first hand. Otherwise, give the ladies a call at (952) 440-4020 and they're more than happy to help you out and ship you your purchases. Not only are they sweet... they're quick to ship because they know you're excited to get your new stuff.
You can also follow them on Instagram @mainstreamboutiquesavagemn