Breakfast Quesadilla

Are you looking for something new in the morning? Do you need to spice up your breakfast choices? Well... this easy breakfast quesadilla recipe is the perfect find that will also fit into the 3-A-Day dairy goal!

Prep time: 10 min

Cook time: 5 min

What you will need:

1/2 cup egg substitute 

1/2 cup grated Cabot 50% Light Jalapeno Cheddar cheese 

2 soft fat-free tortillas (6 inch)

1 tablespoon diced green pepper

1 tablespoon diced onion

nonstick cooking spray

2 tablespoons grated Cabot 50% Light Cheddar 

How to prepare:

In a skillet, prepare egg substitute with green peppers, onion, and 1/2 cup cheese. 

Flip once.

Cook until done.

Heat tortillas in the microwave about 30 seconds, until warm.

Layer a tortilla, egg mixture, and tortilla with cheese on top.

Cut into six pieces and enjoy!

Target Beauty

Target has become known for brining in big name designers to design affordable apparel lines for the masses. So, it is no surprise that they have brought in 3 make-up artists who are known for their high-end beauty lines. JK Jemma Kid, NP Set from Napolean Perdis, and Pixi by Petra are now available in Target stores and on Target.com. Products range in price from $12 to $39 with electric eye colors by JK to 20 shade lip palettes by Pixi. Affordable beauty products are always a plus and we can't wait to get our hands on these products and give them a try! 

* Breaking News *

John McCain has chosen Sara Palin as his vice-presidential nominee! Palin is 44 years old, a mother of 5, and the governor of Alaska. 

Post your thoughts under "comments."

A Day of Remembrance*

AUGUST 29, 2008- 3 years after Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans has made great strides to revive our vibrant city! We urge everyone to remember those who lost their lives, homes, or loved ones on this tragic day, but we also ask you to join the residents of New Orleans in their inspirational progress by visiting the great American city for your next weekend getaway*

The New Starbucks Breakfast

On September 3rd, Starbucks will be debuting their better-for-your breakfast menu! The food will contain fewer calories, more protein, fiber, and fruit. 

For example:

Apple Bran Muffin: Made with whole-wheat flour, oats, wheat bran, apples, cherries, and honey. (Pictured above) 

Cost: $1.75

Calories: 330 

Multi-Grain Roll: Made with seven seeds and grains, served with a side of almond butter or strawberry preserves. 

Cost: $1.50

Calories: 280

Chewy Fruit & Nut Bar: Energy bar made with nuts, oats, dried fruit, seeds, and honey.

Cost: $1.75

Calories: 250

Perfect Oatmeal: Served hot in a cardboard to go bowl with 3 available mix ins on the side (dried fruit, nuts, or brown sugar).

Cost: $2.45

Calories: 140 (without mix ins) 

Starbucks wants consumers to be able to make healthier decisions inside, not outside, Starbucks. What do you think of this new menu?! Is this something that you are going to try?

* DNCC 08 *

Has this year's Democratic National Convention inspired you?! With the continuous uplifting speeches by great Americans we have been truly moved. Joe Biden said last night that his mother's words of wisdom are what inspired him and taught him the ways of the world. Biden stated last night that "you are defined by your sense of honor and you are redeemed by your loyalty." His mother believes that "bravery lives in every heart and her expectation is that it will be summoned. Failure, failure at some point in your life is inevitable, but giving up is unforgivable." 

Post your thoughts on this year's convention and more under "comments."

Recipe For Hair Care

Jet Rhys, founder of Jet Rhys Salon in San Diego, has come up with a great color-enhancing hair rinse! Everyone wants to prolong their next visit to their hair stylist and this tip will help make the time between color touch ups longer. 

What you need:

2 peppermint tea bags 

2 tea bags tailored to your hair color: chamomille tea for blonde or light brown; black tea for brunette or black; red hibiscus tea for red

What to do:

Boil 1 gallon of water; steep all 4 tea bags for 3 minutes.

Let tea cool to room temperature (or add ice to hasten).

After shampooing and conditioning, place a large bowl in the sink and lean over it, flipping your hair over your head.

Pour the tea over your hair, letting it drip into the bowl.

Pour mixture in bowl back over your hair.

Squeeze out any excess liquid and then style as usual. 

This rinse should also help rid the summer damage of chlorine, salt water, and the sun. 

Source:Self

Flip Flops May Be Bad For Your Feet!

Newsweek is reporting that the beloved comfort shoe, flip flops, may actually be bad for your feet! Justin Shroyer, a doctoral student in biomechanics at Auburn, has discovered through testing that flip flop wearers take shorter steps. These shorter steps put more stress on the body because you are moving more to go the same distance as people wearing other kinds of shoes. This could mean a higher risk of muscle and joint pain in the legs. Shroyer also reports that toes are a problem when wearing flip flops. So should we swear off flip flops forever?! Shroyer says that everything in moderation is alright.

What do YOU think of this study? Do flip flops cause you heel or leg pain? Would you kick the habit of throwing on these easy comfy summer shoes?

THE HILLS

Did you watch it last night!? If not, you MUST catch a re-run today! Who is Stephanie more faithful to- Spencer or Lauren? What's Lo's problem with Audrina REALLY stemming from? And is Whitney EX-CITED about her new promotion or weary of a bi-coastal lifestyle? Post your thoughts under "comments" so we can talk about it!

"Rain Rain Go Away..."

With the non-stop rain that we have been experiencing this summer, it is quite frustrating! Luckily, last fall, designers started to produce beautiful and unique umbrellas for the fashion forward. Fashionable wellies, such as Hunter boots, have also been flooding the  market for awhile now. So, even though the rain can be dreary you can step out in style with a cute pair of wellies and toting a fabulous umbrella! We recommend pareumbrella.com and zappos.com for your rain gear shopping needs. 

LABOR DAY IS ALMOST HERE*

Believe me, we're as EX-cited as you are for a 3-day weekend, and we're already planning how we're going spend it! A few ideas so far include:

- Hosting a CREPE party: that's right, crepes are extremely easy to make (think pancakes), and there are SO many different ways to prepare them. We're thinking crabmeat & spinach, goat cheese & vegetables, and of course, chocolate & banana...delicious*
For an easy recipe, check out http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/crepes-recipe/index.html

- Visiting our local AQUARIUM: grabbing an ice cream cone and scoping out some underwater creatures...what could be more fun than that! Take your grandpa who's been dying to see you... or your niece who's parents could use a break...either way, it's sure to be fun*

- SUPPORTING our troops: that's right....we're going to Target and stocking up for our soldiers. Care package items can range from Q-tips and lip balm to DVD's, dried fruits, candy, and socks. We have a specific unit we are sending to, but if you'd like to help and don't have a personal contact, visit www.TroopCarePackage.com to obtain a name and mailing address for a deployed troop*

Have other ideas for this Labor Day weekend? Post them under "comments" and share ours with your friends!

* Celebrity Relationship News *

Everyone is talking about the reunion of Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling!!!

What do YOU think about the pair? Do you think they will make it work this time? Is everyone cheering them on because of their infamous movie The Notebook? Let us know your thoughts under "comments." 

Pasta Substitute

A perfect pasta substitute is "zucchini pasta!" This delicious and different dish resembles fettuccine and can be served as is or tossed in your favorite tomato sauce. 

What you will need:

2 pounds of zucchini (or a combination of yellow and green zucchini) 

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

3/4 cup fresh tomato sauce (optional)

1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan, for serving (more to taste)

How to prepare:

1. Use a vegetable peeler to cut the zucchini into lengthwise ribbons. Continue to peel until you get to the seeds at the core of the zucchini and discard the core. 

2. Cook the zucchini strips in 2 batches. Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. When it is hot, add the zucchini ribbons and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook, tossing and stirring the zucchini, for 2 to 3 minutes, until softened and beginning to turn translucent. Adjust salt and add freshly ground pepper to taste, and transfer to a serving dish. Repeat with the remaining olive oil and zucchini. 

3. Serve, topping with the tomato sauce and freshly grated Parmesan if desired.

Source:NYTIMES

* Bling Alert *

You MUST check out all of our new BLING! From diamond tennis bracelets to a diamond heart necklace to a ton of diamond rings (pictured above) you will definitely be able to find something special. The best part are the prices! Make sure to check out all of our new inventory and keep an eye out for more beautiful items that are being uploaded daily! 

If you need any shopping tips or advice we would be more than happy to help out! E-mail us at info@excessories.com if you have any questions or need tips on a gift for that special someone. Happy shopping*   

* Ex-cessories.com Welcomes Bvlgari *

Ex-cessories.com now has a beautiful vintage Bvlgari gemstone bracelet for sale! Bvlgari has been creating timeless and beautiful jewelry since 1884. Bvlgari draws inspiration from Greek and Roman art while also giving their jewelry their own contemporary touch.

Make sure to check out our fabulous Bvlgari bracelet and enjoy!

Organic Alcoholic Drinks?!

That is correct... organic alcoholic beverages are now available! A couple of examples are wines by Organic Vintners and the Organic Wine Company, Wolaver's and Butte Creek beers, Square One Vodka and Rain Vodka, as well as the mixed drink by Veev. The best part of these organic drinks can be seen the next day. Apparently, drinking these organic beverages will eliminate the next day headache/hangover! If you have ever given any of these drinks a try, please let us know your thoughts and how they made you feel the next day.  

If your food and home are going GREEN why shouldn't your drinks?  

Trend Alert: Winter Florals

A trend for the fall season is winter florals. To get you all started off on this look we recommend Free People's "Fall Flowers Gauze Scarf." The scarf is $28 and can be worn now with a tank top and jeans or layered with a sweater and leather jacket for fall and winter. This scarf can be found on one of our favorite websites, www.revolveclothing.com. Enjoy*

"THE WOMEN"

We're waiting for September 12th when the new movie The Women is finally released! Meg Ryan, Eva Mendes, and Annette Benning star in the latest chick flick where Meg's character finds out some pretty disturbing news at her weekly manicure...her husband's INFIDELITY! Her friends help her cope as they begin to question their own RELATIONSHIPS...producing what we all love most: gossip, laughs, tears, and ultimately, closer FRIENDSHIPS. The Women seems to be right in-line with EX-CESSORIES.COM...where we realize that relationships can come and go, but your friends will be there forever*

What is he listening to?!

We have been struck with a little Michael Phelps mania...a long with the rest of the world! The question everyone has been asking is what exactly was Phelps listening to on that iPod of his?!?! He gave up a little hint saying that in Beijing he has been listening to Lil Wayne's "I'm Me" (the song states "Yes, I'm the best, and no I ain't positive, I'm definite. I know the game like I'm reffing it"), but the rest of his play list has been a huge mystery that everyone wants solved!

So, what do YOU think Phelps was listening to on his iPod?!

~THE HILLS~

THAT'S RIGHT GUYS & GALS...THE HILLS SEASON 4 STARTS TONIGHT!!


Who is Lauren's new beau? Is Justin Bobby out of the picture for good? Are Heidi and Spencer even together and has she become a rock star yet? Is Lo to blame for Lauren & Audrina's dwindling friendship? This DRAMA and much more begins TONIGHT at 10pm/9pm on MTV. Post your "comments" and start planning your evening*

BE PREPARED!!

With hurricane season in full force, Ex-cessories.com wants YOU to be prepared! Follow these tips so that you don't find yourself scrambling last minute:

* STAY CALM- anxiety will only slow you and those around you down
* HAVE A PLAN- know your evacuation route and landing spot; share that location and its phone number with friends, co-workers, and loved ones
* BACK UP your hard drive and important documents and make sure to have them ready to go
* PACK extra cash, credit cards, and blank checks- you never know which form of payment you may need on the road or how long you'll be gone
* FILL UP your gas tank- gas could be sparse along your high-traffic route
* CLEAN OUT your refrigerator
* BRING your most valuable possessions with you, i.e. family heirlooms, valuables, and pets- EVERYTHING else can be bought and/or replaced

What's your tip? What's your concern? Post it under "comments" and STAY PREPARED*

True Sportsmanship

Last night, as the last heat of the semi-final round of the 50 meter freestyle was to step up to the blocks, an Australian swimmer's swimsuit ripped! This could have been a huge problem for this swimmer, who is the reigning silver medalist in this event, but the American Dara Torres, saved the day! Torres ran over to the head official telling her what had happened and that they needed to postpone the race until the Australian swimmer was able to put a new swimsuit on. Torres also informed the other swimmers of what was going on and the race did not begin until the swimsuit change was made. This is an example of true sportsmanship!

Make sure to check out Dara Torres go for GOLD in the final round of this race!

* Birthday Announcement *

Happy 50th Birthday to Madonna! She is a timeless, ground breaking, and fashion forward female!

"The Boyfriend Jean"

One of this season's hottest new trend is "the boyfriend jean." Everyone from Victoria Beckham and Heidi Klum to Rachel Bilson is sporting this new trend! Victoria Bekham actually wears David Beckham's jeans, but Rachel Bilson opts for her own Current Elliot jeans.

We want to know what YOU think of "the boyfriend jean." LOVE it or HATE it?! Post your answer under "comments."

Kid's Day!

Commerce National Bank & Trust in Winter Park Florida is hosting a Kid's Day Event this Saturday, August 16, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.! If you are in the area make sure to stop by the bank for a FUN and FREE day with your kids. The event will feature a performance by Mr. Richard, a Moon Bounce, and a Toddler Bounce. Everyone will be able to enjoy FREE hotdogs, snow cones, drinks and MUCH MUCH MORE!!!

Commerce National Bank & Trust
1201 S. Orlando Ave.
Winter Park, FL 32789
(Corner of 17-92 and Orange Avenue)
(407)-622-8181

Meals For 4 Under $15!

Whole Foods is not usually known for deals and steals, but the organic super market is now offering great recipes for "Meals for 4 under $15!" Now you really can feed a family or group of 4, healthy and all natural foods, at a great value. Whole Foods has tons of recipes on their website, which range from sloppy joes to pad thai wraps to meatless meatloaf with squash mash. Check it out on http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/recipes/list_value.html and enjoy!

Bling For Your Pets!

It isn't just people who deserve beautiful jewelry anymore. The well known jewelry retailer, Ross Simons, is now offering a unique pet boutique, which sells crystal dog collar charms, pearl and crystal necklaces, enamel hair accessories, and bead bracelets! Their items range from $12-$60, depending on the item.

Check it out and let us know if you think this is FABULOUS or just TOO MUCH. Post your opinions under "comments."

http://www.ross-simons.com/Pet/Gifts.html

STAY HEALTHY*

Did you know that some of your everyday foods have extraordinary health benefits? Make sure to add these to your diet if you haven't already:

- Tomatoes/grapes are pure heart foods (lycopine)
- Walnuts are a wonderful brain food (develop neuro-transmitters)
- Celery replenishes the bones in your body
- Avocados are THE female food- hormone balancer & prevents cervical cancer
- Figs are THE male food (enough said...)
- Sweet potatoes are perfect for diabetics
- Garlic eliminates waste from the body

So check out your local grocery store today, stock up on some of these items, and let us know your recipe suggestions under "comments"!

INTRODUCING...

THE GREATEST OLYMPIAN OF ALL TIME...MICHAEL PHELPS! A total of 11 career gold medals with only more to come!

* its-laS-tik *

its-laS-tik is the new must have recyclable bag and it is made in our hometown of NEW ORLEANS, LA! You can now support the green lifestyle in fashion - "its-laS-tik is fashionable, flexible, and socially responsible!" There are other reusable bags out there, but these actually stretch and mimic the bounce in your step. They come in fabulous prints, metallics, and solid colors so you are covered for every occasion; going to work, the grocery story, or the gym!

More importantly, 5% of all sales of the its-laS-tik bag will be donated to the Hope House. its-laS-tik takes every opportunity available to provide work for residents of New Orleans and to help rebuild the city. Go to http://www.whatsurbag-usa.com/index.html for more information and to pick up these great bags!

daSoil - The Perfect Fit

We all know that finding a perfect fitting pair of jeans can often be a long and painful process. However, daSoil jeans is here to help! Visit http://www.dasoiljeans.com and customize your own pair of jeans! This means that YOU will choose the fabric, closure, leg style, hem, and pocket. YOU will then explain your fit with describing your tummy shape, waist shape, thigh shape, seat shape, and more! This really is an amazing way to create the perfect pair of jeans and make sure to keep an eye out for their full organic line, coming soon!

* Trends On A Budget *

If you are looking to pick up some of the current big trends on a budget, Forever 21 is the place to go! We all know how quickly trends come and go, so the pricing at Forever 21 is perfect for the short lifeline of some of the top fashion trends!

Trend 1: Plaid Shirts - From $20 - $35 they have you covered in long sleeve and short sleeve styles.
Trend 2: The Members Only Jacket - For $34.80 you can pick up a great metallic jacket that will take you through every season (shown in the picture above).
Trend 3: Gypsy/Maxi Dresses - For less than $30 you can snag fabulous, bright print maxi dresses, which are great for day and night.
Trend 4: Colored Jeans - For less than $20 you can pick up a pair of red or purple jeans.

This is really just the beginning for what www.forever21.com. has to offer! At these prices you really can shop till you drop!

Olympic Update: Swimming

Another gold medal, another smashed world record, and President George W. Bush & family cheering in the stands! Team USA out touched Team France last night in the 400-meter freestyle relay to win the GOLD in one of the most exciting races of all time. Every member of the team played an integral part, but it was Jason Lezak's performance that really shines! Lezak overtook the Frenchmen to win in 3 minutes, 8.24 seconds, breaking the world record of 3:12.23.

For Phelps this makes the score 2 down 6 to go...

PAMPERED SOULS

Get ready for fall by updating your shoe collection...but do it on a budget! We're so sick of paying sky-rocketing prices for designer shoes and LOVE what we're seeing at OLD NAVY. Satin ballet flats in a wide range of colors (we like the eggplant), snake-skin sling backs (we love the silver/grey), and even the summer sandals on sale that we can wear into fall are all MUST-HAVE's. Check out your local OLD NAVY or visit www.OldNavy.com today*

A Gold Medal, A New World Record, & The President

Michael Phelps has won his 1st gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympic games! Phelps won the gold in the 400 meter individual medley and set a new world record time of 4:03.84. In the stands, during the race, was none other than President George W. Bush! Bush was happily waving the American flag and accompanied by the first lady, his daughter Barbara, and his father (a former U.S. President). Phelps said, "I looked up he waved the flag and nodded his head. That was a pretty cool feeling to have the President say congratulations and have him in the crowd." Congratulations to Michael Phelps! 1 down 7 to go...

Do you think that Phelps will be able to achieve the title of the 1st Olympian to win 8 gold medals in 1 Olympic game?! Post your thoughts under "comments."

Michael Kors Loves Gossip

Designer and Project Runway judge, Michael Kors, will appear as a guest on the next season of the hit show, Gossip Girl. Kors is a huge fan of the show stating, "I was glued into 'Gossip Girl' from day one, I think it truly is the 'car-crash-that's-glamorous.'" When asked to appear on the show the producers called and said "Your are very Gossip Girl." Kors then thought, "Finally, I am a teenager."

We can't wait for the new season to start, September 1st, and are excited to see if Kors really is "very Gossip Girl!"

Teal Toes

September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness month and teal is the awareness color. So, a fabulous organization called Teal Toes has asked women all around the globe to paint their toes teal for the month of September. You may ask why teal toes? Well, they say it makes your toes look pretty and teal is striking enough to make people ask about it!

We think this is a wonderful idea to get people involved in the cause and we will definitely be painting our toes teal in September! Book your pedicures now and make sure to stock up on teal polish to help spread the word about Ovarian Cancer!

Please visit www.tealtoes.org for additional information, including teal nail polish recommendations!

Olympic FASHIONISTA

So in case you missed Project Runway this week, we wanted to fill you in on the Olympic fashions they designed as we all prepare for tonight's opening ceremony: our favorites were the outfits by Leanne and Kelli (pictured above). Both classy, simple, and sporty without losing their feminine edge, we are so happy that both girls made it to the next round!

What was your favorite design? Visit www.BravoTV.com to check out the gallery and post your thoughts under "comments".

* A Sweet Treat *

Are you looking for an excuse to indulge in a sweet treat?! Well... today is our 4 month anniversary and we have found the perfect sweet treat for the occasion... ice cream cupcakes!

PhillySwirl is the creator of these delicious chocolate and vanilla cupcakes with vanilla ice cream, which is then topped with icing and sprinkles. Enjoy this sweet treat*

www.phillyswirl.com

Are You Ready?!

The 2008 summer Olympics in Beijing begins this Friday! We can't wait to check out the opening ceremony, which will be held tomorrow, at the National Stadium in Beijing. It should be a 1 of kind, over the top, spectacle!

This year's Olympics features 38 different sports - from archery to swimming to taekwondo. We can't wait to check out swimming and see if Michael Phelps can become the 1st person to ever win 8 gold medals during 1 Olympic game!

What is your favorite Olympic sport? How do you feel about Phelps' new mustache...shave it or leave it?! Post your answers under "comments."

NEW RECIPE*

We tried this one last night and it was a major hit! Impress your friends at your next dinner party with this easy to make and absolutely delicious WALNUT CHICKEN:

Ingredients:
1 egg
2 T olive oil
2 T butter (we use SmartBalance)
8 oz package walnuts
salt
pepper
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Jar of pesto

Melt butter and combine egg and olive oil. Whisk well and set aside. Crush walnuts and combine with salt/pepper in separate bowl. Dip each breast into the egg mixture then walnut mixture and place in baking pan. Bake at 400 for 20 minutes, spread pesto on top of each breast, and bake for 5-10 more minutes. Voila, your entree is ready to serve...enjoy*

$2 Drink Special!

Starbucks has announced their new afternoon special - $2 beverages after 2 p.m.! This deal is perfect for devoted morning fans. If you present your receipt for your morning beverage after 2 p.m. you can order any iced grande coffee drink (including Frappuccinos!) for just $2. So save your receipts...this promotion has already started and will run until September 2nd. Enjoy your coffee indulgence!