School Boy Crush + VOTE, VOTE, VOTE!

Spent another day in the city, this time in the Sunset district, exploring and doing one of my favorite things -- eating. Originally, I intended to do some shoots for my blog, as I've gathered quite a few outfits I've been dying to photograph. But, the San Francisco sun finally went into hiding the one day I had off (soooooo typical, right?), so instead of settling for mediocre photos, I decided to save my outfits for the sun and spend the day chowing down. DJ took me to this delicious Pho spot (which you will see later this week or next), and a cute little ice cream shop, Polly Ann's, for some dessert, where I got a scrumptious junior sized pistachio-almond flavored ice cream. I have to take a moment to talk about how adorable this ice cream shop is. First of all, the prices are meant to tempt all the after school kids. You can get a scoop for just $2.20, they have an endless and ever-changing array of flavors, you can bring your pup and (s)he will eat free, and, if you can't decide on a flavor, you can spin the wheel and let them choose for you! I don't really know how much better it can get. Basically, I'm pretty much hoping to score a Valentine who will buy me flowers (tulips are my favorite) and bring me back to this ice cream shop for a date. Speaking of, I'm now accepting Valentine's Day offers, so holla at yo gurlll. Just kidding...kinda... unless you really want to wine and dine me, haha!

Okay guys, this little girl was sitting next to me, and her mom stepped away for a few minutes. She was staring at me with those cute little button eyes, so, naturally, I couldn't resist snapping a photo. Look at how absolutely precious she is with the ketchup on her face and her little hands holding on to that hot dog with the jaws of life. I'm pretty attached to my food too, so I can totally understand.

Tights, bag, and socks: Forever 21; Boots: Cathy Jean; Flannel Shirt: Nordstrom (Men's Department); Sweater: Random; Necklace: c/o MyNameNecklace; Photos of me by: DJ Lan; All other photos by: Chandamheer

As for my outfit, a few weeks ago, I did that thing where I like something so much, I buy them in two's or three's. Apparently, I can no longer blame that on being an Aquarius, because some funny guy named Ophiuchus decided to ruin the party for the rest of us and cause an astrological-identity meltdown for us humans. But, from what I have gathered, these new horoscopes only apply to those born after 2009, so I think my Aquarius traits are here to stay. So back to what I was saying before that lengthy digression, I bought three flannel shirts. I remember scanning through the rounders and thinking, "Man, this would look AWESOME...on me." And, since I know you are waiting for the point of this story, here it is: I bought all three in the men's department. When one of the salespeople saw one of the shirts I got, she made a point to mention that she just got the same shirt for her boyfriend, and he now "lives in it." I politely chuckled, while imagining myself all warm and toasty in my comfortable new flannel shirts. I have always been a firm believer in wearing what makes you comfortable...and warm.

In other news, I've finally created a Facebook page for my blog and a Chictopia account! Both are slightly confusing and I'm still trying to figure out the nuts and bolts. I invite you all to "like" my Facebook page, and "fan" me on Chictopia. Apparently, I need 25 people to like my page before it officially becomes a page, so if that link doesn't work, just search "pancakeSTACKER." So pretty please click that little like button for me!

FINALLY, I've decided to enter Refinery 29's Next Big Style Blogger contest. 

I would really, really, appreciate it if you would VOTE for my blog! All you have to do is search for my picture (Chandamheer)  and click the little red heart next to my photo! Since, I just entered, I should be found in the "most recent" category. In order to vote, you must log in with your Facebook account, and since you are already going to be logged in because you just liked my page, you don't even have to worry about it! But really, it would mean so much! Right now, the top contender already has 370 votes! Since you can only vote once, every vote counts, and I need your help. Thank you all! :)

pancakeREVIEW: Driscoll's Berries

Last week, I received a kind email from Melissa, of The Baddish Group, with an offer for coupons to try Driscoll's fresh blueberries in celebration of National Blueberry Pancake Day. As a follower of my blog, you know that I basically can't say no to offers for free and/or discounted food. And, I especially cannot turn down offers for anything pancake affiliated. So, without giving it a second thought, I accepted and waited for my snail mail to arrive. Now, what I'm about to say will probably completely taint my credibility as a pancake lover, so please skip the rest of this sentence if you would like to remain in ignorant bliss, but, I had no idea that National Blueberry Pancake Day even existed. I know...shocking, right? I completely understand if you just can't think of me in the same way, but I just had to be honest with you. Anyways, thanks to Melissa, now I am completely aware of its existence, and January 28th has a whole new significance. After I received my stash of coupons, I headed over to my local grocery market and stocked up on Driscoll's berries.  I originally intended to just try out their blueberries, however, I really couldn't stop my right hand from also grabbing a carton of Driscoll's strawberries, since my left hand was busy carrying my shopping basket. So, because I knew I would only be losing a battle with myself, I stepped into the 10 items or less line and checked out. As soon as I got home, I decided to make a batch of blueberry pancakes and a stack of strawberry-banana ones.  And this is what happened...

Photos by: Chandamheer

Banana Pancakes - Jack Johnson

What is pictured above is something I would like to call, "Berry Heaven." Yeah, that's right. Driscoll's berries are fresh, enjoyable, and sweet to the taste buds. So sweet, in fact, that there's really no need to add syrup to your pancakes, unless you're like me, and you love upsetting your dentist. I definitely encourage everyone to try out Driscoll's the next time you're in need of a berry good snack. Haha, get it?? Thanks again to Melissa! Below, you'll find more information on Driscoll's berries and a recipe for blueberry pancakes!

Blueberry Whole Wheat Pancakes

2 cups whole wheat flour
¼ cup natural sugar
2 ½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½  teaspoon salt
2 cups low-fat buttermilk
2 large eggs
½ cup low-fat margarine, melted
2 packages (6 ounces each) Driscoll’s blueberries

• Whisk wheat flour, sugar, baking soda and salt in bowl until blended and set aside.  In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk with eggs.
• Using a wooden spoon, stir wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined. Add melted butter, then blueberries, and stir gently.
• Heat a non-stick griddle or pan over medium heat. Let a few drops of cold water fall on the surface. If bounces, sputters or instantly evaporates, your pan is ready.
• Pour 1/4 cup of the batter onto the skillet. Cook for 2 minutes, or until bubbles that appear on the surface are beginning to break and bottom is golden.
• Turn pancakes over, cook 1 minute or until lightly golden.
• Place pancakes on heatproof platter and keep warm in a 200˚F preheated oven.
• Repeat with remaining batter.

Yield:  12 Pancakes (3 pancakes per serving)  

Calories (per pancake):  159.0/Protein:  5.7 g/CHO:  23.8 g/Fat:  5.4 g/Cholesterol:  46.6 g/Sodium:  348.7 mg
 
"Driscoll's is a fourth generation family owned company that has been involved in berry farming for over 100 years.  As the leading provider of fresh and organic berries, Driscoll’s works with independent farmers to produce the highest quality strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and blueberries in the world in an effort to continually delight all berry consumers. Driscoll's is the preferred berry partner of some of America’s leading chefs and culinary institutions." 

Check out Driscoll's Facebook page for your chance to win up to $150 in Driscoll coupons and a griddle pan! Have an amazing weekend everyone! And, don't forget to stop by again soon because I have a lot of extremely exciting posts to share with you all!

San Francisco Soul Food

Welcome to Off The Grid!

It's been a while since I've had a day like this. "Fun," without a doubt, is far too much of a understatement to even be close to the truth. Lately, the golden sun has come out of hiding, and the San Francisco Bay Area has been lucky enough to experience some of its beautiful rays. I was thrilled when I had Friday off and was able to take advantage of the sunshine, with my very good friend from college, Alex N. We started the day at Off The Grid in San Francisco's Civic Center. As soon as I got off the BART train and felt the soothing sun seep into my skin, I knew it was going to be a sublime day. It was my first time at Off The Grid and I wanted to try everything -- literally. But, Alex, my voice of reason for the day, reasoned that I should pace myself and start off slow. So, in the end, I tried the Hapa SF food truck and their "modern organic Filipino cuisine" and CupKates, the cupcake dessert truck.

Hapa SF

Even at lunch, I am always on the lookout for dressy diners. I didn't want to bother this stunningly dressed San Franciscan, so I hope my creepy, long distance shot will do her justice. Aren't her heels adorable?

My delicious Sisig Tacos from Hapa SF

The food trucks parked in front of San Francisco's City Hall

Spiced Carrot Cake Cupcake from CupKates

Alex's Lumpia from Hapa SF

Off The Grid wasn't just a treat for the tum tums; our ears were treated to the soothing sounds of these jazz players

Lemon Raspberry Cupcake from CupKates

Doug's tasty Chicken Tikka Masala Burrito from Curry Up Now

Photos by: Chandamheer

So What - Miles Davis

At first, I felt slightly unadventurous choosing familiar Filipino food for lunch, but as soon as I sat down and tried the Sisig Tacos I ordered, my mouth was in heaven. For those of you who are unfamiliar with Filipino food, Sisig is a term associated with a style of cooking meat, usually pork.  Covered in guacamole, cilantro, and the most mouth-watering and juicy meat I have ever had the pleasure of tasting from a food truck, my tacos with a twist, were worth every penny of the minuscule $6.00 I paid. Alex enjoyed Hapa's Lumpia (think egg-rolls, but way better), which featured a spicy chili dipping sauce and a citrus-infused one. Not ones to skip out on the sweets, we made sure to stop by the CupKates truck for dessert. I enjoyed a rather moist Spiced Carrot Cake cupcake, while Alex tried the tart lemon cupcake topped with raspberry butter-cream frosting.

Feeling full and very satisfied with my food truck experience, it wasn't until my friend, Doug, stopped by  and sat down with his Chicken Tikka Masala Burrito from Curry Up Now that I felt like I was missing out on the full food truck experience. Luckily, Doug was kind enough to offer a bite of his flavorful burrito, and all I have to say is, Curry Up Now, I'm coming for you next! With amazingly delicious food, soulful jazz players playing in the background, the sun smiling down on the stunning San Francisco scenery, and the company of all-around awesome friends, all in all, I felt so incredibly lucky to be able to enjoy such a marvelous day in such a marvelous city. Really, it doesn't get much better than that. In fact, as soon as I got home, all I could think was, "Wow, San Francisco, I am so in love with you." Do visit my beautiful hometown, if you ever get a chance.

If you have a food truck you think I should try next, please share your recommendations. I am always looking for yummy places to add to my growing list entitled, "Foods That Must Make it Into My Body," haha! Also, stay tuned for my next post, which will feature the rest of my beautiful day off in the city. I hope you all had a very relaxing weekend and are ready to start off the new week. Happy Monday, my loves!

pancakeFEATURES: Glamour

This is obviously my lucky outfit. Special thanks to Glamour Magazine for featuring pancakeSTACKER as their Best Dress Reader of the Day! January, you just keep getting better and better!

To see the full Glamour feature, click here! And, if you need a reminder on which outfit they're talking about, click here!

And a big thank you to all the pancakeSTACKER supporters out there! I love reading each and every one of your thoughtful comments, and I am so grateful to have such an awesome group of blogger buddies <3. 

Don't Be a Hard Rock When You Really Are a Gem

Top, trousers, ring, and shoes: Forever 21; Blazer: Nordstrom; Photos by: DJ Lan


Doo Wop (That Thing) - Lauryn Hill

  

I bet after my last post you thought my next one would be filled with vibrant colors and, anythinggg, but blue and black. But, lo and behold, you were fooled! Like those over-sized khaki shorts I sported last week, same story goes with these yummy blueberry-colored trousers. Soft and silky to the touch, I cried, internally, of course, when I put these pants on in the fitting room and they were a size too big. I carried them around in my hands for maybe 20 minutes, feigning contemplation, before saying, "Who am I kidding, really?" And with that, off to the check out line I went. I am still trying to figure out how to get more wear out of the pants, but overall, I'm a happy camper. It was quite fortuitous when we stumbled upon this setting. As soon as I drove past, I had to turn around and stop. I mean, how often is it that you find a bunch of tires, tossed alongside the road? Okay, maybe more often than not, but what most people would see as just tires, I saw a photo shoot waiting to happen.

In other news, I'd like to give a special thanks to Sarah of Burn The Blonde, for featuring me on her blog. Please take a moment and check out the interview I did, and of course, don't forget to give Sarah some of that pancakeSTACKER, sticky, syrup-sweet love.

Last, but certainly not least, I hope you will all take time to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day by continuing to live each and every day with gratitude and respect. “Never, never be afraid to do what’s right, especially if the well-being of a person or animal is at stake. Society’s punishments are small compared to the wounds we inflict on our soul when we look the other way.” Keep the dream alive.

And I Go Back To Black

Hoodie: Free People; Tank: Urban Outfitters; Skirt and necklace: Nordstrom; Tights: Target; Wedges and rings: Forever 21; Photos by: DJ Lan

Back to Black - Amy Winehouse

I got this hoodie a long, long time ago for my birthday, and just recently, I found it tucked away with the rest of my sweaters. Yes, that's right-- this is another one of my hidden treasures. I think the last time I wore it was my freshman year of college. Actually, I know that's the last time I wore it, thanks to photographic evidence. Nonetheless, I'm ecstatic that I rediscovered it. It's made of a warm wool blend, has great beading detail, and the best part is the hood! Lately, I've been gravitating towards navy blues and blacks when it comes to my daily outfits. I'm trying to get out of this bruise-colored outift slump, but I always find myself running back to black. Although, last week I did buy a delicious peach colored vintage dress, which is very unlike me, but I can't wait to share it with you all. Tell me, what are your secrets to escaping color ruts? Is there any color you would like to see me try next? Maybe a nice bright banana-yellow? Okay, maybe not, but seriously, let me know what you would like to see more of, and I'll do my best to not look like a rejected crayola crayon.

It's Many Hundred Miles And It Won't Be Long

Top, shorts, ring, purse and tights: Forever 21; Cardigan: Nordstrom; Shoes: Guess; Photos by: DJ Lan

Train Song (Cover) - Feist and Ben Gibbard

I never really talk about my outfits on here, do I? So, today, let's do just that. I got these shoes a couple Christmases ago as a gift to myself. The moment I saw them, I fell in love. In fact, my first words to these dear shoes were, "Hello, Lover," a la Carrie Bradshaw. I waited and waited until they went on sale, like I knew they would, and the minute they did, BAM...they became a part of my closet forever. The funny thing is, this is only the second time I have ever worn them, and the first time I wore them was on my 21st birthday. I think it's probably time to give these bad boys another night out on the town. Moving on, I got these Forever 21 linen shorts a while back, as well. They were (and still are) a size too big for me, but I couldn't bear the idea of leaving the store without them, especially since I knew if I didn't snag them, someone else would. So, I reasoned that since I love over-sized clothing anyways, I would love these shorts too. And I do. The purse I got just a few weeks ago, and I hardly leave home without it. It's extremely soft to the touch and has so many pockets that my whole life basically fits into it. Who says being a Bag Lady isn't stylish? Finally, I got the butterfly cardigan at Nordstrom a few months back and thought that it was such a staple item, that I got it in not one, not two, but THREE colors. I always have such a hard time deciding between things, so I usually end up getting something in at least two colors. My mom says this is because I am an Aquarius.