The_frugal_style | The Frugal Style

Yummy Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Saturday, September 10th, 2011 | By Melissa Vest | 1 Comment »

I know it’s been forever since I last posted. I have been so busy, caught up in the whirlwind of summer, that when I finally looked up – it’s starting to be fall outside! Oh, how time flies!

This morning, the air outside was crisp and cool, and there were even a few trees in the backyard with a hint of fall on the edges of their leaves. It inspired me to bake something warm and cozy, something to slow down with, enjoy and start getting in the mood for fall. Nothing is quite as cozy as the smell of banana bread baking in the oven. It’s even better if it’s filled with chocolate chips, and a little on the healthier side. Here’s how to fill your own home with the smell of yumminess, and the joy of eating it:

Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

2 Cups All-Purpose or White Whole Wheat Flour

2 Teaspoons Baking Powder

2 Teaspoons Baking Soda

1 Teaspoon Cornstarch

1/2 Teaspoon Salt

1 Teaspoon Cinnamon

1/2 Cup Earth Balance Spread

1/2 …

Kneading a Business with No Dough

Thursday, August 4th, 2011 | By Melissa Vest | 1 Comment »

Image from imgfave.com

It didn’t used to be this easy.

I know the changing game has made a lot of good people nervous. But, as a creative, I feel this new business world has been tailor-made with me in mind.

When Melissa asked me to guest post on The Frugal Style – I was elated! First because of the mad love I have for this blog – and second because this season in my life is teaching me great deal about the art of embracing both frugality and wealth.

These days, it’s easier than ever – not only to start your own business, but to do it with little or no start-up money. I’d like to share with you some of my favourite resources for savvy entrepreneurs.

I’ve had an ongoing love affair with the library since I was 15. I can get lost in a pile of books for hours. Nay, days. Since I began building brandyglows, the space where free books grow has taken on new meaning.

Scope out the business section and you can learn the equivalent of an MBA. Or, hone your craft. …

diy honey oatmeal facial mask

Monday, July 25th, 2011 | By Melissa Vest | 4 Comments »

Hey there everyone, I am sorry I haven’t been posting very often this summer. I have been working on my thesis, which is taking up quite a bit of my time. I’ve been stressed out from it all, so this week I’ve decided to take more time for myself. I thought about how nice going to a spa would be, to really unwind. But that’s just not in the cards for someone in grad school, since one facial is almost $100.

So, I decided to take thirty minutes a few days this week and do some sort of spa treatment for myself at home. Today it was this Honey Oatmeal Yogurt Facial Mask, made with ingredients I had in the kitchen. It was really easy to make, and I sat around the house with the mask working its magic this morning. It was nice and cool and really felt good. The oats are great for sensitive skin, which I have, and the honey really made my skin soft. I suggest using a hot towel over the mask at the end of the ten minutes, so …

Let’s Go for Under $100

Wednesday, June 8th, 2011 | By Melissa Vest | 3 Comments »

Each of these outfits comes in at under $100, which leaves more room in your wallet for snowcones and pool passes to help you stay cool! Whether you’re at the beach or out with friends, here are 3 budget-friendly outfits that will make this summer a breeze: