Hendrikas Blog

The Benefits Of Broccoli - Eating Is Believing

2011-12-06T00:31:00.001-08:00

Broccoli is a plant in the cabbagefamily, whose large flower head is what we know as this familiarvegetable, often found on a vegetable snack tray at parties rightclose to the Ranch dressing. But, broccoli has so much more tooffer. That's why broccoli is a favorite vegetable worldwide. Let'stake a look at this flowering veggie that looks like a tiny tree. Youmight just be surprised at where it was first discovered.

1. What is it?

The word broccoli stems (pun intended)from the Italian plural of broccolo which means "the floweringtop of a cabbage." Broccoli has large flower heads, usuallygreen in color, resembling a tree with branches sprouting from athick edible stalk, or stem. Broccoli most closely resemblescauliflower, which is a different variety from the same species. Thecooking aroma of broccoli is most often referred to as 'cabbagelike.'

2. History

The broccoli we know and love todayevolved from a wild cabbage plant somewhere in Europe. That solvesthe 'cabbage like' aroma mystery. The earliest documentation of thesmall green, edible tree was discovered to be about 2,000 years ago.Since the rule of Rome, broccoli has been considered a uniquelyvaluable food among Italians. Broccoli was first introduced to theUnited States by Italian immigrants but did not become widely knownuntil the 1920s.

3. Health Benefits

Broccoli is high in vitamin C andfiber. It also contains multiple nutrients with potentcancer-fighting nutrients, such as diindolylmethane and small amountsof selenium. A single serving provides more than 30mg of Vitamin Cand a half-cup (about the equivalent ingested at any given officeparty or potluck) provides nearly double that. Broccoli also containsthe compound glucoraphanin, which can be processed into theanti-cancer compound sulforaphane.

The benefits of broccoli are believedto be greatly reduced if the vegetable is boiled, but it stillremains an excellent source of fiber and other nutrients which boostDNA repairs in cells. Broccoli has one of the highest levels ofcarotenoids and is particularly rich in lutein and beta-carotene.

A high intake of broccoli has beenfound to reduce the risk of aggressive prostate cancer and heartdisease. A compound found in broccoli appears to have moreeffectiveness than modern antibiotics against the creation of pepticulcer causing bacteria. Broccoli is one veggie everyone needs intheir diet.

4. Fun Facts

The word broccoli comes from the Latinword brachium and the Italian word braccio, which means 'arm.'Broccoli comes in a variety of colors, ranging from deep sage all theway to dark green and purplish-green. The world record for eatingbroccoli is held by Tom Landers who devoured 1 pound of broccoli in92 seconds. The tree-like shape makes this healthy veggie a popularfun food for kids. Dip a forest of broccoli trees in Ranch styledressing 'snow' and watch the kids gobble them up like hungry giants.

5. How to eat

Broccoli is usually boiled or steamedin the American culture, but has become a popular raw vegetable toaccompany creamy dips (you can make creamy dips with a hand blendersuch as the Cuisinart CSB-76 Smart Stick Hand Blender.) Boilingreduces the levels of anti-cancer compounds in broccoli, with lossesof 20% to 30% after five minutes, 40% to 50% after ten minutes, and awhopping 77% after thirty minutes. Steaming broccoli for a maximumtime of 3 to 4 minutes is recommended to maximize potentialanti-cancer compounds.

Adding broccoli to a stir fry dishhelps retain a majority of the beneficial properties, rather thanletting the nutrients wash away in the boiling water. Another methodof cooking that's getting more popular is oven roasting. Simplyspread broccoli florets (that's the top cut into tiny bush-likeshapes) and diced stem pieces on a baking sheet, coat with cookingoil, and put in oven to roast. You'll have a lightly toasted broccolidish that's almost nutty in flavor, plus the nutrients didn't getwashed down the drain.

You can enjoy raw broccoli in manypopular salads, such as the classic Broccoli Raisin Bacon Salad youfind at many potlucks. Toss tiny raw broccoli florets in with a biggreen lettuce salad for a crunchy nutrition boost. Broccoli Slaw is arelatively new idea for serving broccoli. Just peel the stalk toremove all the woody fibers, then cut the light green inside intovery thin strips. You can toss these with cabbage and carrots for aslaw, or just eat as is for a snack.

Another popular dish to serve broccoliin a main dish is Chicken Divan. This classic dish features wholebroccoli spears underneath a creamy, cheesy layer of chicken. Then,there is the classic Broccoli Cheese Soup (you can use a hand blendersuch as the Cuisinart CSB-76 Smart Stick Hand Blender to make a verysmooth soup.) I could go on and on talking about this nutrient-densedelicious veggie and all the tasty dishes you can make with broccoli.

Eat broccoli raw whenever you can forthe ultimate health food. When you do cook broccoli, keep yourcooking time short if you're steaming it. Better yet, throw it in theoven and roast it. The next time you walk through the producedepartment, grab a big bunch of broccoli and enjoy the hundreds ofways to eat it up!

There's More To An Apple Than Meets The Eye

2011-09-14T06:19:00.000-07:00

If you haven't spent a lot of time inthe apple growing regions, you may not know how versatile this fruitis. Apples come in all sorts of shapes, colors, and tastes; not justthe two or three you may know from your local grocery store's baggedproduce department. Apples grow in just about every corner of theglobe. Apples can be used in a variety of dishes from appetizers tomain dishes to desserts. Let's get down to the core and see whereapples come from and how they earned their rightful place in almostevery aspect of our dietary lives.

1. What is it?

Apples are the fruit borne from, well,apple trees, of course. They come in various shades of red, yellow,and green and most have a white flesh that varies in texture fromcrisp to soft. Spanning the taste spectrum from sugary sweet topucker-up tart, apples are one of the more versatile foods in themarketplace.

2. History

Apples have been around in one form oranother for over 4,000 years. They were first brought to the UnitedStates in the early 1600's by explorers and settlers. Apples werehighly valued and became a staple food in most households becausethey stored well fresh and were easily dried, then became the star ofthe home-canning world. Today, apples are still treated the same way– with appreciation for their versatility in recipes, ease ofstorage, and variety of preservation methods. For these reasons,apples are enjoyed by thousands around the globe.

3. Health Benefits

Apples have proven to be beneficial inevery health aspect from bone protection to alzheimer's prevention,and even diabetes management and cancer prevention. The reason applesare linked to all of these health benefits is because of the twointegral layers – the skin and the pulp – both being an excellentsource of vitamin C, just to name the most obvious and well knownnutrient. Along with the added nutrients, the things that aremissing from apples also make them noteworthy under the 'healthbenefits' tag; namely, apples are fat free, sodium free, andcholesterol free.

Pectin in the meaty part of the applehelps manage diabetes by supplying galacturonic acid which lowers thebody's need for insulin. Phloridzin, a flavanoid found only inapples, may help protect menopausal women from the frighteningoccurrence of osteoporosis. A nutrient found in apple skins, boron,has been found to strengthen bones.

4. Fun Facts

Apple trees can live for many years;sometimes well over a century. There are more than 7,500 varieties ofapples grown in the world and about 2,500 of those are grown in theUnited States. Red Delicious is the most popular and well-known applein the USA, with Golden Delicious following behind in a close second.Granny Smith apples are fast approaching these two powerhouse applesin popularity. The average American eats more than 70 apples a year,and considering apples are free of fat, salt, and cholesterol, aswell as being a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C, it's nowonder our doctors are trying to get us to eat one a day.

5. How to Eat Raw Apples

Eating a raw apple is as simple asdiving teeth-first through the crisp skin right into the sweet ortart insides, and letting the juice run down your chin. If you wishto give your teeth a more gentle approach, and keep a neater smile,you can also core and cut the apple into wedges. Once you have thesejuicy little wedges, you'll be looking for goodies to dip them into. You don't have to look much further than peanut butter for a classicsnack.

Apples can be diced and added to afruit salad, tossed into a crunchy tuna salad with celery, or dippedin chocolate and caramel (using your Cuisinart CFO 3SS ElectricFondue Maker) and topped with nuts. There are hundreds, if notthousands, of ways to eat a raw apple. If you are lucky enough to bearound an apple orchard, then there is nothing like picking a ripeapple from a tree, still warm from the sun, and enjoying each biteright in the shade of the branches of the apple tree.

6. How to Eat Cooked Apples

You can get as fancy as you want or asdown-home simple as can be with apples. From apple pie to apple crispand apple pastries to apple omelets, cooked apples are a favoritefood around the world. Looking for something simpler than a pie? Just simmer the apples until they get soft, throw in a little sugarand cinnamon, and mash them into, you guessed it, applesauce. Eat itas it is or serve over ice cream.

What if you don't have a sweet tooth? Apples are often found in side dishes with cabbage, collard greens,spinach, or other savory vegetables. You will find a delightful mixof flavors when you add apples to a skillet full of harvestvegetables, onions, and a splash of balsamic vinaigrette. And, don'tforget to try your hand at an apple glaze for your next porktenderloin. Think beyond apple pie and you'll discover a whole worldof recipes for your next bag of apples.

No matter how you decide to eat yourapples, just remember the old adage, 'an apple a day keeps the doctoraway.' Now we have the scientific studies showing all the nutrientsthere are in apples, so there's no excuse not to add this versatilefruit to your diet. Of course, that cool, crisp crunch of an applealone should convince you to take a bite!

Fun Craft Projects Using Old Clothes and Material

2011-07-23T06:41:00.000-07:00

Many children enjoy playing dress up with old clothes. However, you can do so much more with old clothes than allow children to play in them. Reuse old clothes or material by creating useful crafts with them if you can’t pass them along to someone else.

1. T-shirt quilt

T-shirts are one of the more difficult types of clothing to get rid of. They may hold sentimental value if they were from a concert you attended. Perhaps you ran in a marathon and were given a t-shirt for participating. Why not cut the logos off of the t-shirts in large squares and create a quilt from them?

Using a piece of fabric as a base to get the proper size, sew the t-shirt squares together making a rectangle the same size as the base. Place batting, which can be purchased at fabric or craft stores, between the layers and then sew the layers together. Complete the quilt by sewing along the squares to keep the batting in place. Then sew edging around the quilt, ensuring the raw edges are completely covered.

This gives you a way to keep the memories of events from your life and have something to keep you warm in the winter. You can use a similar idea with baby clothes you simply can’t bear to part with.

2. Bags and purses

Do you have old jeans that have sentimental value? You can create a wonderful bag or purse from those jeans. Using the waistband as the opening for the purse, cut the legs off a little longer than what you want the purse to be. If the length includes part of the legs, split the inseam.

You may have to use a triangle of fabric to close the leg area to make it straight across. Turning the material wrong side out, sew across the bottom to make a bag. Then, cut strips from the remaining fabric to make the straps. Sew the straps to the waist band and you have a purse or bag.

3. Bean bag toys

Make children’s bean bag toys out of old or unmatched socks. Create an animal by sewing the socks together. Then fill them with beans, dried peas, or rice. Sew yarn on them to create a mane for zebras, horses or giraffes. You can also use buttons for eyes.

4. Sock puppets

Another use for socks you can’t find a match for is to make sock puppets from them. Sew or glue yarn on the top. Sew buttons on for eyes along the sole of the sock. Make clothing for it from old pieces of fabric.

If you think about it, you can probably come up with other fun ideas of craft projects using old clothes and material. Why not use a couple of these ideas to start you off? Depending upon what you come up with, and how you make them, you can remember things from your past while reducing the clutter in your home.

So, it is possible to do crafts with your kids by buying what you need such as Alex Toys Super Knot A Quilt or Alex Toys Happily Ever Crafter or you can use what you have at hand and have a lot of fun.

“Down by the Sea” Craft for Kids

2011-07-15T01:30:00.000-07:00

During the summer it is a good idea tobring the sea into the crafts you do with kids. Just as Kids KnittingProjects are a good idea in the winter, “Down By The Sea” craftsare a good idea during the summer.

For families who travel to the beach,it’s not unusual to come home with a bucket full of shells or otherfound items from the trip. The problem becomes what to do with allthose shells. Here are two “down by the sea” crafts for kids tobe able to keep their treasures and give them some function.

Sea shell paper weights

Help your children make sea shell paperweights. This will enable them to keep the shells and make somethingwhich can be kept out in view. You’ll need the following items:

Found shells or other items from yourtrip
White tacky craft glue
Sand
Paint (optional)
Plastic tubes (similar to Wilson tennisball containers or some potato chip containers)
Plaster of Paris
Fun foam
Clear gloss spray paint

Begin by making a base for thepaperweight. Parents can cut the bottom from the plastic containers.Then cut down about another inch, leaving two or three tabs stickingup. This will be the mold for the base for the paperweight and can bereused.

Parents will want to follow theinstructions on the plaster of Paris and mix it according to thoseinstructions. Pour the plaster into the base and allow it to drythoroughly. When it is dry, turn it upside down and tap it onto atable. This should cause the base to fall out.

While you’re waiting for bases todry, you’ll want to cut a three-inch circle from the fun foam foreach base you make. These will be glued to the plaster base usingtacky craft glue.

Paint the plaster base and allow it todry unless you’re using water color; water color paint won’trequire drying time. You can go to the next step which is mixingcraft glue with sand to make it moist. The base will have animpression; fill the impression with the glue and sand mixture,making a mound.

Press several sea shells into the sand.When the sand has dried, you can spray the paperweight with cleargloss spray paint to keep the sand from coming off.

Seascape

For something less time consuming, youcan create a seascape using a glass fish bowl. You’ll need thefollowing items:

Glass fish bowl
Photos of the day you spent at thebeach
Clear tape
Sand from the beach
Treasures found at the beach (shells,sea glass, driftwood, etc.)
Wooden skewers
Nautical pictures or stickers

Begin by carefully taping a photo ofyour family at the beach onto the inside of the fish bowl. Be sure totape along the edges to keep sand from getting behind the photo. Thenpour enough beach sand (or play sand) into the fish bowl to fill itabout halfway full or until it covers the bottom of the picture.

When the sand is arranged the way youwant it, start adding the sea shells or other items collected on thetrip. Using stickers or images cut from magazines, tape the images ona wooden skewer and then trim them so the images will rest on thesand when pushed in.

There are many other ways your childrencan use their treasures from “down by the sea” to create crafts,but you may want to start with these two ideas. The point is to allowthe children to enjoy the items they found and make them functionalso they can see them and remember the fun of the day.

A Healthy Dose Of Blueberries Can Make You Stop Feeling Bushed

2011-06-21T01:57:00.000-07:00

Do you have that bushed feeling? Afeeling that is leaving you feeling tired all the time? Popping ahandful of blueberries into your mouth will make you enjoy a littleenergy boost, along with a mother-lode of nutrients. For such a smallfruit, blueberries pack a wallop! Let's take a look at this NorthAmerican favorite and learn more about this beautiful, and versatile,fruit.

1. What is it?

The actual fruit is a tiny round berrywith a flare at the end resembling a crown. The color pallet ofblueberries as they mature ranges from pale green to reddish-purple,and finally deep purplish-blue when ready to be picked and eaten.Blueberries characteristically have a whitish-gray powdery or waxy'bloom' that covers the surface as a protective coating. When ripe,blueberries have a sweet taste and a juicy inside. Blueberriesusually hit the peak of their season, depending on the region,sometime between May and October.

2. History

Blueberries are generally found inNorth America, Europe, and Asia with many native species residing inthe United States. Many North American native species of blueberriesare now also commercially grown in the Southern Hemisphere inAustralia, New Zealand, and South American countries.

Several other plants of the same familyalso produce commonly eaten blue-colored berries such as thepredominantly European bilberry, which, in many languages, has a namethat means 'blueberry' in English.

3. Health Benefits

Especially in wild species, similar toits cousin acai berry, blueberries contain anthocyanins and otherpigments high in antioxidant properties possibly having a role inreducing risks of inflammatory diseases and certain cancers.Technically speaking, blueberries contain pterostilbene,anthocyanins, proanthocyanidins, and resveratrol, all which inhibitthe cell development of cancers. Nutritionally speaking, blueberriesare a good source of vitamin C, manganese, dietary fiber, and vitaminE , and are low in calories, so you can enjoy a bucketful withoutguilt.

Many studies have found that blueberryconsumption lowers cholesterol and total blood lipid levels, possiblyreducing the risks of heart disease and high blood pressure. Evenmore studies have found that a diet rich in blueberries may enhanceshort-term memory in older adults while reducing symptoms ofdepression.

4. Fun Facts

There are two types of blueberrybushes; lowbush and highbush. The difference is the lowbushblueberries are considered wild, while highbush blueberries arecultivated in a controlled environment.

With upwards of 25% production of alllowbush blueberries in North America, Maine is the single largestproducer in the world with more than 60,000 acres. Not far fromMaine, Michigan is the world's largest producer of highbushblueberries, with more than 220,000 tons produced a year.

Since blueberries must becross-pollinated, upwards of 50,000 beehives may be needed for thejob. Due to the large amount of bees needed, in some cases hives mustactually be shipped in from other regions specifically for thepurpose of cross-pollinating the blueberries in high producing areas.

5. How to eat

Blueberries are a lot of fun to eat.They pop when you bite them and turn everything they touch into areddish-purple hue. This color change makes pancakes, yogurt, cereal,smoothies, made with a smoothie maker such as the Cuisinart SmoothieMaker, and even ice cream a fun new territory for children, theCuisinart Ice-50BC Supreme Ice Cream Maker, is a very good one totry. Blueberries are found in many breads and desserts, but also makegreat jams, jellies, and wines.

Fresh blueberries keep very well andcan be packaged and stored easily. Freezing fresh blueberries is acinch; just put them on a baking sheet in a single layer and pop themin the freezer. They will freeze quickly, and once they are frozen,just pour them into a plastic freezer container. Then when you wantblueberries, just shake out the amount you want and let them thawout. Perfect every time. Because blueberries are so moist, they don'tdehydrate well, like bananas or apples do. For that reason, you donot find too many applications for dried blueberries, unless yourehydrate them for a dish first.

No matter how you decide to eat yourblueberries, you can't beat the nutritional value. If picking wildblueberries, don't forget to be polite to the landowner and askpermission. Or, plant a few blueberry bushes in your own garden.Invite the bees in and you'll soon have your own blueberry crop toenjoy. Just a reminder: It's not easy to get away with pilferingblueberries – you are likely to get caught 'reddish-purple' handed!

Enjoy this healthy fruit. It is tastyand as you have seen used in so many products that is fun to eat.Invest in a smoothie maker or an ice cream maker for the summer andtreat the kids to this healthy and flavorful treat.

Covering the topic of Drip Coffee Makers

2011-05-27T05:30:00.000-07:00

Some of the most commonly used coffee makers in the US could be the drip coffee makers. At least one of the reasons is that often they are low-priced and easy to use. Drip coffee makers are available in a number of of styles, colors and sizes, so there's a drip coffee maker to suit any kitchen.

Two first-class examples to look at is the Hamilton Beach Brew Station and the Cuisinart DCC 1200 12 CupBrew Central Coffee Maker. It is a fact that drip coffee makers are the coffee makers the majority most people purchase. It is one of the most well known small kitchen appliances out there, tens of millions are purchased each and every year!

The Hamilton Beach Brew Station is considered one of the popular automatic drip coffee makers. Other well-known coffee maker companies include Black and Decker, Braun, Cuisinart, and Proctor-Silex.

Automatic drip coffee makers are utilized in lots of homes and businesses. They work by dripping water through a filter containing ground coffee. Two types of filters are available for these machines: paper and permanent.

Paper filters can change coffee taste as can some plastic permanent filters. Plastic filters do not last as long as metal filters. Metal filters may require that coffee beans be ground a bit coarser than is wanted for paper filters.

Automatic drip coffee makers feature a lot of special features. From basic machines to high end models that complete the whole lot from grinding the beans to brewing it at a pre-set time. Basic automatic drip coffee makers feature a water reservoir, a filter basket, and warming plate to keep carafe warm. The majority feature filter baskets that swing out or lift out and simple on/off control.

Extra features can consist of indicator lights, a brew-pause selection, digital display and /or digital control panel, clocks, timers, permanent filters an automatic shut off. Top end options include water filtration, flavor settings, and a built in grinder. Single cup machines are sold, as are machines making anywhere from 4 cups to 12 cups.

Drip Coffee Maker Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I clean my coffee maker?

Coffee makers have to be cleaned no less than once a week. Some pros advocate using dish detergent and water. Other experts often recommend running one fourth part vinegar and three fourths part water through the brewing cycle a time or two followed by running plain water through the cycle. This gets rid of hard water deposits and other buildup.

2. What affects the quality of a cup of coffee?

Several things have an affect on the quality of brewed coffee. The cleanliness of the brewing machines, the quality of the coffee beans, how long it has been since the beans were roasted, how long it has been since the beans were ground and the quality of the water used in brewing.

3. What is the best temperature for brewing coffee?

Most gurus agree that 200 degrees is the right temperature for brewing coffee. Many restaurants do not allow the temperature to get that high mainly because of liability issues should a customer spill coffee and get burned.

4. Can Espresso beans be used in drip coffee makers?

Yes.

5. Where did the term 'cup of joe' come from?

Quite a few think that Admiral Josephus (Joe) Daniels once outlawed alcohol on ships, rendering coffee the most used beverage, ergo the 'cup of joe.' Others say that the saying comes from 'Joe' as 19th cent, slang for coffee.

Automatic drip coffee makers allow coffee lovers to indulge their senses whenever they please.

Okay, so coffee makers are an essential part of our daily lives. This makes it vital to spend some time to check several of them out before you make your choice. Coffee is not simply a drink, but a culture worthy of time and care.

Getting Your Coffee Fix In A Jiffy

2011-05-10T01:06:00.000-07:00

I am a Coffeeholic, no doubt about it. I cannot start the day without at least two cups of coffee. So, getting my coffee in a jiffy in the morning is very important to me.

Now I have owned many coffeemakers in my life and I have looked at even more. The problem with most of them is that you have to wait for your coffee as it has to finish brewing before you can drink it.

The other problem is that if you have to keep it hot for quite a while you normally end up with burned coffee that tastes like vinegar. What a waste of good coffee! So, to me, that is just not good enough.

Now I am wondering if there are more people out there that feel the same about coffeemakers. Do you have a coffeemaker that you are simply not happy with?

So, if you are considering a new coffeemaker there are a few things to think about when you look for a coffeemaker. You have to make sure you get one that is suitable for your needs.

I think, a coffeemaker that is programmable is a very good idea. This way you can program you coffeemaker to have the coffee ready when you get up in the morning. It will than also be possible to have the coffee ready when you get home after a long day.

Another thing to keep in mind is the capacity of your coffeemaker. A good idea is if it can make one to twelve cups of coffee. You want to be able to make coffee just for yourself or you may want to make coffee for a crowd. So being able to make as many cups as you require is a big help.

Two of the coffeemakers I have been looking at are the Hamilton Beach Brew Station Deluxe and the Cuisinart DCC 1200 12 Cup Brew Central Coffeemaker. They are completely different, but they have very good benefits that differ from each other and will influence your choice. To be honest with you, I am leaning towards the Hamilton Beach Brew Station, but you may prefer something a little more traditional.

I think the choice of a coffeemaker is very personal. It is not only the great cup of coffee you want, but it is also how it looks in your kitchen, whether you want to be able to pour it from a jug at table and more.

So, when you are considering a coffeemaker, do your homework and get the one that is right for you.

Mother's Day Crafts - How to Make a Special Mother’s Day Paper Flower Bouquet

2011-04-28T04:46:00.000-07:00

Now is the time for Mother's Day Crafts. Kids love them and mom loves receiving them.

All mothers love receiving flowers from anyone, but especially from a child. What will be even more endearing is flowers made from construction paper or tissue paper. So, start helping your kid to make flowers for mother's day with these ideas. Mom will love them and they will last for a long time.

Hand-traced Flowers as one of our Mother's Day Crafts:

This is a good one for toddlers and younger children.

Materials:

Green pipe cleaners
Construction paper
Glue
Scissors
Pencil

Directions:

Make at least four tracings of your child's hand on various colors of paper.
Bend the end of each pipe cleaner into a small hook shape. (The bent part of the pipe cleaner keeps the flower from slipping off the end and looks like a flower center.)
Cut out the hand shapes.
Take each cut-out hand and wrap it around the end of a pipe cleaner. Make sure the "fingers" are pointing upward and the small hook you bent in the pipe cleaner is inside.
Using glue, secure the hands in their wrapped shape.
Bend the "fingers" outward a bit to look like petals.
Place the flowers into a vase, or tie the stems with ribbon.

Tissue Paper Carnations or Roses, another of our Mother's Day crafts:

Here is another type of paper bouquet you can make for Mom (or any other special person in your life!).

Materials:

Tissue paper of various colors
Green pipe cleaners
Scissors

For Carnations:

Cut 8-10 circles from whatever color tissue paper you like - you don't have to use all one color.
Stack the circles.
Poke one of the pipe cleaners through the center of the stack (or do one circle at a time).
Bend the end of the pipe cleaner to hold the circles firmly.
Push and shape the circles, separating them a bit, so that they look like a layered carnation shape.

For Roses:

Cut 8-10 circles from red or pink tissue paper, but make the edges scalloped.
Proceed as for carnations.

Add any finishing touches you like, such as leaves made from construction paper or pipe cleaners, or flower centers made from beads or construction paper.

Now that you are all busy with kids crafts why not keep the momentum going and do some more crafts. Kids love crafts and it has many benefits for them. You can also look at crafts such as Kids Knitting Projects or salt dough projects such as you can find in Salt Dough Just 3 Ingredients More Than 100 Projects.

Have fun with these easy Mother's Day Crafts for kids.

Tasty Football Bratwursts Recipe

2011-04-19T06:08:00.000-07:00

If you have a charcoal grill, such as the Weber One Touch Charcoal Grill, or if you are the one to provide for a grill, this recipe is ideal for you. It is easy to make and exceptionally tasty. Even if the weather is not suitable for a grill, and you have a griddler, such as the Cuisinart GR-4 Griddler, you can use it as an indoor grill and still make these tasty bratwursts.

So, I will not keep you any longer, here is the recipe for your bratwursts:

What You Need:

8 bratwursts
1 (12 oz) can of beer
1 onion, chopped
2 TBSP vegetable oil
1 lb sauerkraut, drained well
2 TBSP sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
8 (10 inn) tortillas
8 TBSP Dijon mustard
8 slices smoked Swiss cheese

How to Make It:

Pour the beer into a large pan and place on medium high heat.
Add the bratwurst and bring to a rapid boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover and cook 15 minutes.
Remove from the heat and allow the bratwurst to lie in the beer until cooled.
Place the vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium high heat.
Add the onion and cook 6 minutes or until just beginning to brown.
Stir in the sauerkraut, sugar, salt and red pepper flakes and cook 5 more minutes.
Heat the grill to medium high temperature.
Place the bratwurst on the grill and cook 8 minutes, turning often to cook all sides.
Spread some of the sauerkraut mixture down the middle of each tortilla.
Place two halves of the bratwurst on top of the sauerkraut.
Spread the bratwurst with the mustard and add a slice of cheese.
Fold the tortilla over the cheese and fold the bottom and tops in to close.
Over medium heat grill the tortilla 3 minutes per side until toasted and the cheese is melted.

These are great to make for a tailgate party. Mix all your ingredients together, grab the grill, and be on your way. They will be such a hit that you’ll be asked to double the quantity next time around.

If I were you, I would not even wait for the next suitable occasion, I'll try this recipe out right now and see how my family loves it. Make it indoors if you do not want to grill outside, it will still be a hit with your family.

Tasty Baked Blueberry Crepes

2011-04-12T07:02:00.000-07:00

These Baked Blueberry Crepes are really tasty and very easy to make. Preparing the batter is a breeze if you have a stand mixer, such as the Hamilton Beach Stand Mixer 63220. As the baking do take a little time these crepes are more suitable for a leisurely weekend breakfast than for a weekday morning when you are rushed.

Good for You Blueberry Crepes

What You Need:

2 egg whites
2/3 C of fat free milk
2 tsp canola oil
1/2 C of flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 C of reduced sugar orange marmalade
1 C of unsweetened blueberries
Splenda, equivalent to 8 tsp of sugar
1/2 C fat free sour cream
1/8 tsp of cinnamon

How to Make It:

Place the egg whites, milk and oil in a bowl and whisk until well blended.
In a separate bowl combine the flour and salt.
Add the flour mixture to the egg white mixture and blend it in well.
Place the marmalade into a saucepan.
Stirring constantly, cook the marmalade over low heat until completely melted.
Remove from the heat and stir in the blueberries and Splenda.
Mix the sour cream and cinnamon together.
Coat a small skillet with cooking spray.
Place the skillet over low heat and add 2 tbsp of the batter.
Lift the pan to evenly coat the bottom with the batter.
Cook until the top is dry and the bottom is lightly browned.
Remove the crepe to a wire rack to cool and continue cooking the batter until all the batter is used.
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
Spread each of the crepes with 1 tbsp of the sour cream mixture.
Roll each crepe up over the mixture and place in a baking dish.
Spoon the blueberries over the top of each crepe.
Bake 15 minutes.

Makes 4 servings

This is a wonderful healthy breakfast to serve to your family on a lazy Sunday morning. Use raspberries, blackberries or strawberries in place of the blueberries if you prefer.

What a treat to be able to serve your family a breakfast that is not only delicious, but also very healthy. This is an easy way to start the day this way with part of the five fruit and veggies of the day. Try these and see how your family loves them.

Mother’s Day Projects For Teenagers That Love Crafts

2011-03-14T05:30:00.000-07:00

As they grow older and they become teenagers, they are more independent and can do crafts on their own. Mother's Day is the ideal opportunity to make a gift for mom as Mother's Day Crafts are a lot of fun. Mom is sure to appreciate and treasure such a gift far more. Very popular is Beginner Scrapbooking And Greeting Card Basics, but with a little imagination, any craft can be used.

Here are a few ideas for you that you can use for Mother's Day crafts:

A. Make Jewelry

Make a necklace for Mom that she will wear with pride. Here's how:

Materials:

Beads. You can get creative here - think of Mom's favorite colors and style. You can use beads of natural stone, wood, or metal; or use brightly colored seed beads interspersed with interesting beads, ending in a large, fun pendant. As an added bonus, use a bead for the pendant that is a hollow circle or triangle, and Mom can slip her glasses into it when she's not wearing them.
Upholstery thread
Medium needle
Lighter or match

Directions:

1. Cut a length of thread that is long enough to go over Mom's head. Use your own head or one of her existing necklaces as a measurement so you don't spoil the surprise.

2. Thread the needle.

3. Using the needle, string the beads in any pattern you think Mom would like. You can be free-form and random, or design a symmetrical necklace. Some tips are:

-Lay the beads out on a table to see your design first.
-Count beads on either side of the main pendant (if there is one) to make sure the same number of beads are on both sides.

4. When you have all the beads strung on the thread, tie a knot in the upholstery thread, bringing the end beads as close as possible. Repeat the knot several times.

5. Cut off excess thread.

6. Use the lighter to singe the ends of the thread to prevent the knot from slipping and the ends from fraying.

B. Coupons

Making coupons for Mom can really give her a boost, and if you are artistically inclined, they can be attractive and funny. Here is how to make a book of Mother's Day coupons.

Materials:

Thin card stock, poster board, or index cards without lines
Hole punch
Yarn or ribbon
Colored pencils, water colors, markers, etc.

Directions:

1. If you are using card stock or poster board, cut it into rectangular pieces about the size and shape of a dollar bill or index card.

2. Punch two holes on the edge of each card. You will be stringing them together, so decide if you want them to lie horizontally or vertically.

3. Decorate each card to represent a different chore you can do, or breaks you can give Mom. Some examples of things to write on the coupons are: Good for one dinner and clean-up, Good for two bubble baths without interruption, etc.

4. When the cards are all decorated and written, lay them so that the holes line up and tie them together with ribbon or yarn.

Well, there you have two very good ideas. For jewelry crafts you can also consider Macramé Beaded Jewelry as it is a lot of fun and as a teenager you will be able to manage it without a problem.

For ideas to help a kid brother or sister with Mother's Day Crafts you can have a look at a book such as Creating With Fimo Acrylic Clay, where you will get really cool ideas for crafts with Fimo Clay.

Benefits Of The Kurt Kinetic Road Machine Indoor Trainer

2011-03-07T07:09:00.000-08:00

We all know that a bicycle trainer is a very good piece of equipment to have if you are a cycling enthusiast during the winter. It is not always possible to go outside to train and with a bicycle trainer, such as the Kurt Kinetic Road Machine Indoor Trainer, you can train indoors if the weather is very bad.

Now, let's have a look at the benefits of a Kurt Kinetic Road Machine Indoor Trainer:

Well, of course the first is that you can train whenever you want; the weather plays no role in it at all.
If you want to have the maximum benefit from your indoor trainer, you must be able to assemble you bicycle on it easily. Well, with the Kurt Kinetic Road Machine Indoor Trainer that is the case. You can go from outdoors to indoors very quickly.
You should be able to ser the resistance and with this bicycle trainer you have calibrated resistance and you can set it to your needs.
A very important benefit of the Kurt Kinetic Road Machine Indoor Trainer is that the fluid resistance makes it quiet. You will not find any other indoor trainer that is quieter. If you want to listen to music or watch TV while you are training then this is for you.
It is also important the fluid resistance chamber must be leak proof. You do not want to end up with a mess and a damaged indoor trainer because the fluid leaked out!
The trainer is solid and strong and this will ensure years of pleasurable service from your Kurt Kinetic Road Machine Indoor Trainer.

How Many Calories Should I Eat To Lose Weight

2011-03-02T00:15:00.000-08:00

So often people as "how many calories should I eat to lose weight." Well, the problem is that the amount of calories you should eat depends on your level of activity. So, even though in How To Lose Weight Calories are important, it is far easier to look for other ways to cut down on calories and lose weight.

So, if you are asking the question "how many calories should I eat to lose weight?" it is better to look at a healthy eating plan and some moderate exercise. This would ensure that you eat fewer calories and burn more.

It is very important to keep a food journal for about a week so that you can see what you are actually eating and drinking. This will show you exactly where you are going wrong. Start by replacing all the "bad" choices with healthy ones and you will already be cutting down on a lot of calories.

To this strategy, add some moderate exercise. Many people get so afraid when exercise is mentioned, but there is not need. A brisk walk for thirty minutes will go a long way in burning some calories.

So if you are asking the question "how many calories should I eat to lose weight?" if will be far easier to look at a healthy eating plan and moderate exercise than counting calories. If you have a look at "How To Lose Weight Calories" you will see how easy it is to move to a healthy eating plan.

Onion Soup with Mozzarella French Bread Recipe

2011-02-21T04:17:00.000-08:00

What can be more welcoming than returning home to the smell of fresh soup cooking. The heavenly smell! Well, with a slow cooker, such as the West Bend Slow Cooker you can. Simply do the preparations in the morning and leave your West Bend Slow Cooker to it.

To give you and idea here is a recipe for a tasty Onion Soup for you to try:

Ingredients:

4 C beef broth
1/4 C butter
3 C onion, sliced
1 t salt
1 T sugar
2 T flour
1/4 C dry Vermouth
1 loaf French bread cut into slices
1 C Mozzarella cheese, shredded

How to Make It:

Pour the beef broth in the crock pot and cover.
Set the crock pot on high and allow the broth to cook while preparing the onions.
Place the butter into a small skillet over medium heat.
Once the butter has completely melted add the onions and stir to cover with the melted butter.
Reduce the heat to low and cook the onions for 15 minutes,
Stir in the salt and sugar and continue cooking about 5 minutes or until the onions are a nice golden brown.
Stir in the flour being sure it is completely incorporated into the mixture.
Place the mixture into the crock pot.
Pour the dry Vermouth into the crock pot and stir to incorporate.
Cover and cook on the high temperature setting for 3 hours.
When the soup is ready to serve fill oven proof bowls about 2/3 full with the soup.
Turn on the broiler and allow it to heat up.
Place a slice of the bread onto the top of each bowl of soup.
Sprinkle the bread slice with the cheese.
Place the bowls on a baking sheet and place them in broiler just long enough for the cheese to melt.

Serving Size: 6

The dry Vermouth gives this soup a bold taste. Cognac or even water can be used in its place if you prefer.To be honest, most of the time I use dry wine and the end result is very tasty. Keep in mind that whatever you decide to add to your soup make sure you add good quality. The rule is: If you will not drink it, do not add it to your food. This is really important as you can spoil a lovely dish with some inferior product.

This Onion Soup with Mozzarella French Bread Recipe does not need such a long cooking time, which is ideal for when you want to have a meal ready in a shorter time, but you still do not want to have to watch your stove all the time. Shorter cooking time with the benefits of your West Bend Slow Cooker.

How To Keep Fit During The Winter With Home Exercise Equipment

2011-02-14T04:34:00.000-08:00

It is always difficult to try and keep fit during the winter. There is no fun in going out for a jog or some cycling. It is also so cold you do not relish the idea of making the effort to go to a gym. Do what to do?

The best idea is to find a way you can keep up with your training at home. Decide on some home exercise equipment that you will enjoy using and simply train while watching TV or listening to music.

Possible home exercise equipment you may enjoy using:

1. If you are into cycling looking at a bicycle trainer is a good idea. With a bicycle trainer you simply mount your bicycle on the trainer and you are ready to go. The best one I know about is the Kurt Kinetic Road Machine Indoor Trainer. It is quiet and you can watch TV or read while you are on it.

2. For those that are not into cycling and would like to get something that does not have a hefty price tag, I would suggest something like the Stamina Spacemate Folding Stepper. This is relatively cheap and does not take up a lot of space ad it folds away for storage.

3. Now for the option I like, treadmill. If you get a good treadmill, and you have the space to put it, you will get a really good cardio workout and you will enjoy it. For a gym quality treadmill without the price tag you should really have a look at the Sole S77 Treadmill. It has everything you need for a stimulating workout.

So, these are only three of the options you have. Unfortunately, no more excuses veging out in front of the TV! Get some home exercise equipment and enjoy keeping fit during the winter.

Enjoy Your Bicycle Training In Winter

2011-02-07T03:42:00.000-08:00

If you are a cycling enthusiast you probably hate the winter when it is not very pleasant out. Trying to keep up with your bicycle training in winter, to train in wind, snow and rain is no fun and it can result in a lack of exercise during the winter.

Of course there are many alternatives you can use. Lots of home exercise equipment can be used to stay in top condition during the winter without taking your life in your own hands and training outside in bad whether.

You have quite a few options and your final choice will be a matter of personal choice. Some people enjoy a stationary bike while others prefer a treadmill or even a cross trainer.

What is important here is not only your choice of equipment to keep up with your training in winter is obviously also the cost of the equipment. A very good and economical choice is a bicycle trainer.

With a bicycle trainer you mount your bicycle on it and do your bicycle training on your bike inside. A trainer, such as the Bell Motivator Mag Indoor Bicycle Trainer, is affordable and the ideal solution to your problem.

With the Bell Motivator Mag Indoor Bicycle Trainer you can read or listen to music, or even watch TV. This prevents boredom and can also save a lot of time as you can do two things at a time.

Old Fashioned Orange Bread Recipe

2011-01-31T06:40:00.000-08:00

Tasty sweet bread is always very welcome at any tea table. Often the soda breads involve creaming of the butter and sugar. Without the help of an electric stand mixer, such as one of the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixers, it is hard work. With a mixer though it is easy and anyone can accomplish it.

To give you an idea, here is a recipe for a good old fashioned orange bread.

Old Fashioned Orange Bread Recipe

Ingredients:

2 cups of flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon bicarb
2 eggs, well beaten
1/2 cup butter
The grated rind of one orange
1/4 cup orange juice
1/2 teaspoon salt

Method:

Prepare a brad pan
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees of Fahrenheit
Sift the dry ingredients together three times
Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy
Slowly add the rest of the ingredients while beating well in between, alternate the eggs, flour mixture and the orange juice
Lastly stir in the orange rind
Pour the dough into the well greased and lined bread tin
Bake the bread for one hour
Let the bread cool down and ice with orange icing and sift with cocoanut.

Puffed Pumpkin Rolls

2011-01-26T23:47:00.000-08:00

Pumpkin is not only for Halloween and Thanksgiving; a tasty pumpkin roll will be welcome any time of the year. Making these with and electric stand mixture, such as one of the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixers, will make this recipe very easy to do.

What You Need:

2 TBSP solid shortening
1 1/4 C sugar
2 lg. eggs, beaten
1 C pumpkin puree
1 tsp. vanilla
3 C all purpose flour
3 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1 C milk

How to Make It:

Place the shortening and sugar into a large mixing bowl.
Cream the two together with an electric stan mixer, such as one of the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixers, on medium speed until smooth.
Add the eggs and mix until they are just incorporated into the batter.
Place the pumpkin puree and vanilla into the mixture and continue mixing until well combined.
In a separate bowl sift together the flour, baking powder and salt.
Sprinkle in the cinnamon and nutmeg and toss to combine.
Alternating back and forth between the flour mixture and the milk add each a little at a time being sure to mix slightly after each addition.
Place the dough, covered, in the refrigerator for 1 hour to chill.
Once chilled, roll the dough on a flat, lightly floured surface to 1/4in. Thickness.
Use a cookie cutter, dusted with flour, to cut out the puffs.
Bring the oil in a deep fryer to 365 degrees.
Drop the puffs a couple at a time into the hot oil and fry until a light golden brown.
Place on paper to drain.

12 Servings

Replace the pumpkin puree with squash puree for something a little different. Puffs can also be glazed by using a little confectioners’ sugar dissolved in milk and spread over the puffs while still slightly warm.

It is even possible to replace the pumpkin puree with apple sauce for something completely different. So, experiment with this recipe and come up with your own combinations.

Veggie Crudités Dip

2011-01-25T00:44:00.000-08:00

Veggie Crudités Dip

A dip for your veggies does not have to be unhealthy and over processed with all kinds of preservatives. Try this recipe and make your own healthy and tasty dip that will delight family and friends.

Ingredients:

2/3 cup mayonnaise
2/3 cup sour cream
1 TBSP dried parsley flakes
1 TBSP dried green onion flakes (or regular onion flakes)
1 tsp garlic salt
1 tsp honey
1 tsp hot sauce

Method:

In a large bowl, blend together all the ingredients with a hand blender, such as a KitchenAid KHB300 Hand Blender, until smooth and creamy.
Put in jar with good lid and refrigerate until needed, up to 3 or 4 weeks.

As you can see this is really a quick and easy recipe. It is tasty and can be whipped up in no time. Try this the next time when you want to serve cool veggies and dip on a hot summer's day.

Cycle Training Indoors When It Is Cold Out

2011-01-24T02:34:00.000-08:00

If you are a cycling enthusiast I'm sure you find it hard to keep in shape during the long, cold winter. When it is very cold and there is a lot of snow it may be impossible to go outside and then you need and alternative indoors.

For cyclists this is actually very easy. The best idea is to get a indoor trainer such as the Bell Motivator Mag Indoor Bicycle Trainer or the Kurt Kinetic Road Machine Indoor Trainer. With there trainers you fit your bicycle on it and you have converted your bike to an indoor bike.

The indoor trainers that you choose will depend on your needs. What is it that you really expect from your trainer? Here it is perhaps a good idea to look at a comparison between the Bell Motivator Mag Indoor Bicycle Trainer and the Kurt Kinetic Road Machine Indoor Trainer.

When comparing the benefits and features of each trainer you get an idea of what is available out there and what would be the best for your needs. Of course, the price will differ and that would be one of the considerations to take into account.

Go to my other blogger article and have a look at Comparing The Bell Motivator Mag Indoor Bicycle Trainer To The Kurt Kinetic Road Machine Indoor Trainer and decide for yourself.

Easy Fast Breakfast Smoothies

2011-01-13T04:07:00.000-08:00

Making smoothies and serving them for breakfast is not only a fun treat your kids will love, but they will also give you the needed nutrition to start your day. Next time you don’t have time to cook breakfast, think smoothie. With a hand blender, such as the KitchenAid KHB300 Hand Blender, you will whip them up in no time.

No Monkey Business Here Smoothie

Kids will enjoy this one, as well as adults.

1 cup milk
1/2 cup vanilla ice cream
2 tbsp. peanut butter
1 banana, frozen

Break banana into chunks, then combine with other ingredients and blend until smooth. This smoothie is thick enough to eat with a spoon. To thin it out some, add more milk until you get the desired consistency.

Berry Fruity Smoothie

This recipe calls for frozen fruit and you can use whatever combination of fruit you like or have on hand.

1 cup frozen fruit
1 cup milk
1 tsp. vanilla
1/4 cup sugar

Combine all ingredients and blend until smooth. Easy-schmeezy and ready in just a couple of minutes.

Easy Homemade Hummus Recipe

2011-01-10T03:27:00.000-08:00

Making this homemade hummus recipe is very easy if you have a food processor, such as one of the KitchenAid 700-Watt 12-Cup Food Processors. Make sure you take a little time with the oil and get the consistence just right for your taste.

Homemade Hummus Recipe

Ingredients:

1 can (16 oz) garbanzo beans (chick peas), drained
1/2 cup sesame seeds
3 TBSP lemon juice
1 clove garlic
1 TBSP fresh parsley
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup olive oil (more or less until consistency is right)
cayenne pepper to taste
black pepper to taste
salt to taste

Method:

In food processor, blend together garbanzo beans, sesame seeds, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, and vegetable broth, until smooth.
With processor on, start to drizzle in olive oil.
Watch closely and add more if consistency is too thick.
Stop and taste, then add seasonings, mix, stop, taste, add more... and continue until the hummus is seasoned the way you like it.

There you have it, fast and easy and very tasty. I like the idea that you are in control of the taste when you make this Homemade Hummus Recipe.

Easy Breakfast Mixed Vegetable Frittata Recipe

2011-01-07T04:52:00.000-08:00

If you are like me, you are always on the lookout for tasty and easy breakfast recipes. The one I have for you today involves some chopping and slicing, but with a food processor, such as one of the KitchenAid 700-Watt 12-Cup Food Processors, that should not present a problem.

So, try this tasty frittata recipe when you want to serve something special for breakfast.

Breakfast Mixed Vegetable Frittata Recipe

What You Need:

1 yellow squash, sliced thin
1 zucchini, sliced thin
1 onion, chopped
1 C of low fat mozzarella cheese
1 tomato, sliced
1/4 C feta cheese, crumbled
4 eggs
1 C of skim milk
1/4 tsp basil
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1/4 C Parmesan cheese, grated

How to Make It:

Set the oven temperature to 375 and preheat.
Spray a 9 inch pie plate well with a nonstick cooking spray.
Place the squash, zucchini and onion into a microwave safe bowl.
Cover and microwave on high for 7 minutes or until tender.
Drain well and place in the prepared pie plate.
Top the vegetables with the mozzarella cheese and then the tomatoes.
Spread the feta cheese over the tomatoes.
Whisk the eggs, milk, basil, garlic, salt and pepper together well.
Pour the mixture over the top.
Sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese.
Bake for 45 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let stand 10 minutes before cutting.

Makes 8 servings

This is a great way to use up all those extra garden vegetables. Use whatever mix of vegetables you have on hand.

Healthy, Sweet Crunchy Oatmeal Granola Recipe

2011-01-06T02:00:00.000-08:00

When you do not have the time to cook a healthy breakfast these oatmeal granola bars can come in very handy. If you have a toaster oven, such at the Cuisinart TOB 195 Exact Heat Toaster Oven Broiler Stainless, you can make these very cheaply. The Cuisinart TOB 195 Exact Heat Toaster Oven Broiler Stainless is smaller and heats up a lot faster and keeps it heat a lot better, so, all in all you will be saving a lot of energy.

Enough about that now, here is your recipe for Healthy, Sweet Crunchy Oatmeal Granola

Sweet Crunchy Oatmeal Granola

Ingredients:

1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup honey
2 TBSP water
4 cups old fashioned oatmeal
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 cup sunflower seeds
1 cup chopped nuts (any combination you like)
1 cup raisins

Method:

Put butter, brown sugar, honey, and water in a 9x13 baking pan. Turn oven on to 375 degrees and set pan inside oven to melt ingredients.
Remove pan from oven when butter, brown sugar, and honey are melted, stir, then add the remaining ingredients and stir together well.
Put back in oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, stirring every 10 or 15 minutes while it bakes.
Remove from oven, let cool, and add raisins, mixing again. Let cool completely.
Store in tightly sealed container in the refrigerator. Serve with milk as a cereal or as a snack.

With this granola in the refrigerator you will never be at a loss of what to serve for breakfast on the run.

Healthy Top of the Morning Shake Recipe

2010-12-17T00:00:00.000-08:00

If you have a blender such as the KitchenAid 5 Speed Blenders with Polycarbonate Jars you can make this healthy shake recipe with ease. If you want to add a little more to it, add some protein powder for more saying power.

What You Need:

1 1/2 C of fat free milk
1 C of unsweetened raspberries
Splenda to equal 2 tbsp of sugar

How to Make It:

Pour the milk into the blender.
Add the strawberries and sprinkle with the Splenda.
Cover and blend until smooth and thick.
Pour into glasses and serve.

Makes 4 servings

This tasty breakfast shake can be made with any type of fresh berry. Try strawberries, blackberries or blueberries for a change of pace. It’s nutritious and quite healthy so fix yourself a different shake each day of the week.

Nutritional Information: (approximate values per serving)
Calories 152 ; Fat 2g; Saturated Fat 1g; Carbohydrates 25g; Fiber 2g; Protein 9g; Cholesterol 7mg; Sodium 161mg

So, even as it is, this shake has 9g of protein and it will last you quite a while. Remember you can use full cream milk if you prefer, but then the protein will be less as the fat will be more.

Fancy Party Strawberries Recipe

2010-12-13T01:57:00.000-08:00

This time of the year we all tend to have a lot of parties, even if it is only family visiting you want to serve something tasty and exceptional. Well, with this recipe you will give strawberries a whole new dimension. To chop the nuts that you need for this recipe a Cuisinart SG 10 Electric Spice and Nut Grinder will come in very handy.

What You Need For This Recipe:

1 qt. fresh whole strawberries
1 C of vanilla ready to spread frosting
Miniature semisweet chocolate chips
Chopped nuts
Colored sugars
Candy sprinkles
Grated chocolate
Shredded coconut

How to Make It:

Rinse the strawberries under cold water and place on paper towel to dry.
Place the frosting into a microwave safe bowl.
Heat on high for 15 seconds or until the frosting is melted and smooth.
Place the chips, nuts, sugars, sprinkles, chocolate and coconut into separate shallow bowls.
Cover a cookie sheet with wax paper.
Dip the bottom of each strawberry about 1/3 up into the frosting.
Quickly dip the frosted strawberry into one of the toppings.
Place the strawberry on the wax paper.
Continue until all of the strawberries have been dipped.
Place the strawberries into the refrigerator for 5 minutes or until the frosting has hardened.

Makes 40 strawberries

Place these strawberries on your appetizer table for the kids to enjoy. They will definitely feel special when they know these little goodies are just for them. Any type of frosting can be used such as chocolate or strawberry. Use your imagination when it comes to the toppings.

Preparation Time: approximately 40 minutes
Chilling Time: approximately 5 minutes
Total Time: approximately 45 minutes

Nutritional Information per strawberry: (approximate values)

Calories 50; fat 2 g; sodium 0 mg; carbohydrates 8 g; sugar 8 g; protein 0 g

With this recipe you move away from the normal strawberries dipped in melted chocolate and the extra sprinkles you toll it in gives it a nice crunchiness to it.

A Slightly Different Cheese Fondue Recipe With Your Cuisinart CFO 3SS Electric Fondue Maker

2010-12-07T00:38:00.000-08:00

If you have a really good fondue maker, such as the Cuisinart CFO 3SS Electric Fondue Maker, you will be able to treat your friends to this cheese fondue that is a variation of the typical Swiss fondue.

Ingredients for your cheese fondue recipe:

1 pound grated cheddar cheese
3 tablespoons chopped onions
2 tablespoons brandy
2 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons flour
Garlic
1 pinch of ground nutmeg
¾ dry white wine
Salt and pepper to taste
Cubed pieces of crusty bread

Method:

Rub your fondue pot with the garlic
Melt the butter and brown the onions in the butter taking care to prevent burning
Add the wine and stir until boiling point to prevent burning
Mix the cheese and flour and add slowly while stirring
Add salt and pepper
Add the brandy and pour the mixture into your Cuisinart CFO 3SS Electric Fondue Maker
Serve with the bread

This recipe is delicious and far tastier than the traditional Swiss recipe and I am sure your friends will love it.

How to Make a Clay Menorah

2010-12-02T01:42:00.000-08:00

This craft is a very good craft and ideal for Fimo clay. If you, however want to go into more Fimo clay projects I would recommend that you have a look at Creating With Fimo Acrylic Clay. On that page I discuss a book that you will find very handy for creating more Fimo Acrylic Clay projects.

The menorah is one of the most recognizable symbols of Israel. The Festival of Lights, or Hanukkah, is celebrated each year to commemorate the miracle where one day’s worth of the specially made oil remained lit for eight days until more could be made. Each year families light their own menorahs to celebrate. If you’d like to learn how to make a clay menorah, you can use it to celebrate Hanukkah this year.

To make a menorah, or hanukkiah, you’ll need the following items:

Self-hardening polymer clay such as Fimo or Premo
Ruler
Butter knife to cut the clay
Hanukkah candles
Cardboard
Acrylic paints and paintbrushes (have a look at Acrylic Paint Sets)

How to make your clay menorah:

Use a clean work surface when making the menorah. Roll the self-hardening polymer clay into a cylinder which is about one inch in diameter. Make the roll as long as you can and then mark off ten lengths of about 1 1/2 inch each. Cut eight of the lengths off and leave the remaining two lengths together to make the Shamash. Re-roll the cylinders if they flattened out while cutting them.

Push one of the Hanukkah candles into one end of each cylinder so it will be able to hold the candle. Try to make sure each hole is created so each candle will stand about the same height. Reshape the cylinder if becomes flattened or misshapen.

Line the cylinders next to each other with the tallest cylinder in the middle. There will be four cylinders on each side of this one which is called the ‘helper’ candle or the Shamash. Brush a little bit of water on the cylinder and then gently press them together so they stick.

If you want your menorah to be taller, why not make small blocks of clay and adhere the cylinders to them? You can then brush water on the sides of the blocks to ensure they stay together.

Using other polymer clay, create decorations for your menorah. Create a very small coil and wrap it around the menorah, make a Star of David or other shapes which are customary for Hanukkah. If the clay isn’t sticking very well, use a little bit of water.
Allow the menorah to dry for several days. You can also use the directions on the clay package to bake them in the oven.

Paint the menorah using white, silver and blue paint and allow it to dry thoroughly. When you’re ready to begin lighting your candles, pick up the Shamash candle and light one candle each night starting on the left. You would light the Shamash which would then be used to light the candle all the way to the left. The next night you would use the Shamash to light the first and second candles from the left and so on until all candles are lit.

It is possible to find menorahs in many different materials. They can be metal, wood, stone or glass. They also come in all shapes and sizes. Learning how to make a clay menorah is something you can do to celebrate Hanukkah each year.

Colorbok Learn to Kit - To Knit & Crochet Spool Critters

2010-11-29T00:25:00.000-08:00

Kids very often like to knit and for that you can have a look at Kids Knitting Projects. However, some do not have the perseverance to do a whole project and that is where spool knitting comes into mind as a viable alternative.

Spool knitting is a fun activity for children who enjoy craft. It uses a spool to create a narrow tube of knitting without the need for knitting needles. This is ideal for little children as it teaches them the basics of knitting before they move on to proper knitting.

The Colorbok Learn to Kit - To Knit & Crochet Spool Critters includes one plastic spool knitter, one plastic safety needle, a craft stick, yarn in different colors, pipe cleaners, pom-poms and other decoration bits and pieces. With the help of the instructions, your kids will have fun making little knitted animals, such as a fish, lion, cat, or butterfly and can decorate them with googly eyes and pom-poms.

Overall, I think this would make a great and fun gift set for any crafty child.

Subs That You Can Make Ahead Recipe

2010-11-22T04:23:00.000-08:00

As we all know it is sometimes quite difficult for a busy mom to always have a tasty meal ready on a busy day. So, having these subs ready in no time will really help a lot. What is important though, is that some chopping is necessary and for that you can use a food processor such as the Cuisinart 11 Cup Pro Custom 11 Food Processors that are also easy to clean up and will save you some time.

So here is the recipe for your subs you can make ahead Recipe:

What You Need For Your Subs That You Can Make Ahead Recipe:

1 (16 oz) loaf of French bread
1/2 (8 oz) container of sour cream ranch dip
3/4 C of pkg. shredded carrots
1 C of lettuce, shredded
1/2 of a cucumber, peeled, seeded and shredded
2 oz thin sliced deli roast beef
2 oz. thin sliced deli ham
2 oz. thin sliced deli turkey
2 oz thin sliced deli chicken
4 oz thin sliced provolone cheese

How to Make It:

Cut the bread loaf in half lengthwise.
Spread the sour cream ranch dip onto the cut sides of the bread.
Layer the carrots, lettuce, cucumbers, all 4 types of meat and the cheese onto one side of the cut bread.
Close the bread over the top.
Wrap tightly in saran wrap and refrigerate for up to 8 hours.
To serve, cut into 8 slices and secure with a toothpick.

Makes 8 servings

Have plans on Saturday and know your going to be rushed when it comes to eating? This sub will help you out. Use your favorite deli meats and your favorite type of cheese. Purchase already shredded carrots and lettuce, if you do not have a food processor, and if you prefer use sliced pickles instead of the cucumbers.

Keep in mind that if you purchase already shredded carrots and lettuce you will be losing quite a lot of nutrition from these foods. Fresh is always better as you are going to store these subs in the refrigerator already.

Cherry Blossom Smoothie Recipe

2010-11-15T03:36:00.000-08:00

I love smoothies, winter or summer, they are always a tasty treat. So, if you have a Cuisinart Smoothie Maker or a Cuisinart CBT 700 Blender you will love this Cherry Blossom Smoothie Recipe. If you use the sweet cherries this smoothie is a real sweet treat. So, try it, even though it is now winter in the most places, you will love it.

Cherry Blossom

What You Need:

2 C cherries, sweet or tart and frozen
1 banana, peeled and cut into pieces
1 C cherry juice
Maraschino cherries

How to Make It:

Place the frozen cherries, the banana pieces and the juice into the blender.
Blend until smooth.
Pour into glasses and top with the maraschino cherries.

Sweet cherries make this drink quite a sweet delight. Tart cherries take away some of the sweetness but they still make a delightful drink.

Remember, the Cuisinart CBT 700 Blender is a strong blender and will be able to handle anything you throw its way. If you use the cherries frozen you will see that you get a "soft" and thick almost ice cream texture. If you want this kind of almost "ice cream" smoothie you can also freeze the banana before making it.

A food idea is to cut fruit and freeze them in byte sizes ready to make smoothies when you need them. This way you can make use of specials on fruit etc.

Easy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Recipe

2010-11-08T05:04:00.000-08:00

This time of the year, with all the holidays coming, you may enjoy making a few pumpkin dishes that differ from those that you bake every year. Pumpkin and cream cheese is a very good combination and that is why this recipe is such a winner.

To make this recipe successful you will need either one of the KitchenAid 5 Speed Blenders With Polycarbonate Jars or a food processor such as one of the Cuisinart 11 Cup Pro Custom 11 Food Processors.

Easy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Recipe

What You Need:

1/3 C lite margarine, at room temperature
2 C graham-cracker crumbs
1 (24 oz.) container no fat cottage cheese
1 (12 oz.) container lite cream-cheese
1 1/4C light brown sugar, packed firm
2 lg. egg whites
2 lg. whole eggs
2 C pumpkin puree
2 TBSP cornstarch
2 tsp. pumpkin-pie spice
1 tsp. vanilla extract

How to Make It:

Place the margarine in a small mixing bowl.
Add the graham cracker crumbs and mix together until the crumbs are completely moist and stick together well.
Spray a spring form pan with a non stick cooking spray.
Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom and up the sides of the pan and set aside.
Place the cottage cheese into the blender or food processor.
Add the cream cheese and blend for 2 minutes until mixture is thick and smooth.
Place the brown sugar into the cream cheese mixture and blend until dissolved.
Add the egg whites and the whole eggs and blend until completely combined.
Use a rubber spatula to scrape the mixture into a large mixing bowl.
Add the pumpkin, cornstarch, pie spice and vanilla.
Mix with a rubber spatula until completely combined and smooth.
Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust.
Place the oven temperature on 325 degrees and allow the oven to heat.
Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes until set.
Cool to room temperature then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

8 Servings

Be sure to allow the pie to come to room temperature before covering and placing in the refrigerator. This keeps condensation from building on the top of the pie which leads to a mushy consistency. The pie can be kept in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days.

This pie can be a lifesaver when you are entertaining as it is one less thing you have to do on the day itself. Make it the day before and leave you and your stove free for the other dishes you plan on making. So, try this Easy Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Recipe

Tips on How to Sell Your Crafts Online

2010-11-05T02:10:00.000-07:00

If you think Silk Painting Is Fun, you may end up with articles that you cannot use as you have too many. This means you may want to sell some of it. So here are a few ideas to help you.

It’s not unusual for people to enjoy crafting as a hobby. People have been doing it for years, either because they simply enjoy it or because they want to share an activity with a loved one. Many people wonder about selling their craft items and decide to go the craft show route. Wouldn’t selling your hard work elsewhere be good? Here are some tips on how to sell your crafts online.

Attending and participating in craft shows and fairs can run into a good amount of money. Not only do you have to make the crafts you plan to sell, you also have to have tables, ways to display your crafts, possibly a tent if the shows/fairs are outdoors, and the money to participate. By the time you’ve spent all that money, you may be lucky to make a profit or even break even.

Selling crafts online can be a much better option. Not only do you have less overhead, you can actually sell craft items online at any time of the day or night, even while you sleep. Selling online also enables you to reach a much larger clientele than what would possibly attend a craft show during a weekend.

It’s a great idea to have a large amount of crafts pre-made before trying to sell them online. This will help ensure that you have enough for everyone who is interested and are able to give those purchasing your crafts some choices. Know ahead of time what your cost is to produce the crafts to ensure you make a profit on each item sold.

Start out by finding a way to accept payments. One of the easiest ways to accept payments from anyone is with a PayPal account. You don’t have to pay to set up an account but they will charge you a small fee for each transaction. After you’ve been selling your items for a while successfully and profitably, you may want to consider a merchant account but it does have its limitations.

Next you’ll want to think about where you’ll sell your crafts online. Most people think of eBay, but that’s not the only option. Other auction sites specialize in home-made items, such as Etsy.com. Both eBay and Etsy are free to set up an account but you’ll have to pay a transaction fee for each item listed and sold. Free options include eCrater and Love.li. Whichever website you choose, include photos of your items to help potential customers see what you have for sale.

Depending upon your skill on a computer, you may want to set up your own crafting website. The process includes buying a domain name, finding hosting, and designing a website. If that seems too ambitious to begin with, continue to sell on Etsy or eBay while you do research and learn about websites.

Don’t forget to let others know about your crafts. You can do this by joining crafting forums, mentioning items you have for sale on either auction website or by printing out business cards with your craft website address on it.

Offer to give away some of your craft items on a blog you admire. Giving away a few items may seem counter-productive, but it will give people a reason to visit your website or your current auctions.

Using these tips on how to sell your crafts online, you could be well on your way to a new career. Most people selling craft items online start out small. Best of luck in your endeavor!

Homemade Soup Recipe - Short Rib Soup Beans Recipe

2010-11-01T02:25:00.000-07:00

What can be tastier than hot soup with freshly baked homemade bread on a cold winter's day? I think it is the ultimate comfort food.

If you have a breadmaker such as the Cuisinart CBK 100 Programmable Breadmaker and a slow cooker such a Cuisinart PSC 350 3 1 2 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, producing such a meal will not be a problem.

With your slow cooker you can be away all day and the soup will be ready when you return and the same goes for the breadmaker as it is programmable and you can set it to have the bread ready at the time you want it.

Here is a soup recipe to try out and serve with your homemade bread. It may be a little too big for a Cuisinart PSC 350 3 1 2 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, but as it is for 8 people it is easy to half the quantities for a small family.

Short Rib Soup Beans Recipe

What You Need:

1 lb Great North Beans, soak overnight then rinse and drain
3/4 C onion, chopped
1/8 t pepper
11/2 lb beef short ribs
6 C water
1 t salt
1 C barbecue sauce

How to Make It:

Place the soaked beans into the slow cooker.
Add the onion and pepper.
Place the short ribs into the slow cooker.
Pour the water over the top and stir gently.
Cover and cook on low heat setting for 10 hours.
Remove the short ribs from the crock pot and use to forks to shred the meat off the bones.
Return the meat to the crock pot and discard the bones.
Pour in the barbecue sauce.
Recover, turn the heat setting to high and continue cooking 30 minutes.

Serving Size: 8

If you want a little more of a beef taste reduce the water to 4 C and add 1 can of beef broth to the crock pot. Always be sure to soak the beans. This will ensure a soft bean when the soup is done.

Baby Shower Gift Ideas

2010-10-25T05:06:00.000-07:00

The main purpose of a baby shower, apart from all the fun, is to give the mommy-to-be gifts. The general idea is that these gifts are gifts the mom will need once the baby is born.

Whether you are looking for baby boy shower ideas or baby girl shower ideas, the gifts still need to be practical. Of course there will be some difference in the color of the gifts you buy etc.

With the popularity of baby gift registries today, looking for that perfect gift that the baby will need and the couple will truly appreciate has become easy. But for those will-be parents who did not sign up for a gift registry, or if you want to choose a baby gift on your own, this list of baby shower gift ideas may truly be helpful.

1. Disposable Diapers

Diapers may not be the fanciest gift to give for a baby shower. But this would definitely be the most thoughtful and most appreciated.

Diapers are expensive and babies will use them up very quickly. The new parents will appreciate them. Even those parents who opt to use cloth diapers may also find disposable diapers useful when traveling.

A tip when buying diapers, pick the larger size ones instead of newborn diapers. After all, babies nowadays grow very fast and the newborn-size diapers may not be useful for very long. And while you are at it, why not thrown in some baby wipes as well.

2. Bottles and Pacifiers

Babies may sometimes be picky about bottles and pacifiers. Some babies prefer to use only a particular brand or shape for these items.

If the parents-to-be have specified in the baby registry a brand or shape of bottles, nipples, and pacifiers, these items may be a safe choice for a baby shower gift. Otherwise, just steer clear from these baby items.

3. Baby Clothes

Choose larger sized baby clothes instead of the newborn sizes. Babies grow quickly.

If you know the gender of the baby it will help you with the choice of color. If you do not, it is best to go with colors suitable for both boys or girls.

4. Toys for Baby

Give the gift of fun baby toys. You may buy toys for older babies that the baby can use when it grows a bit older. For the sake of safety, stick to the toys suitable for kids aged 3 and under.

5. Knowledge for Baby

Boost baby's brainpower with educational baby items. Choose a classic baby book, educational videos, music CDs.

For educational videos, Brainy Baby and Baby Einstein DVDs are highly recommended.

As for books, a selection of your own favorite books from childhood would be a great gift idea. Choose books with bright and bold pictures, and those new interactive toys that feature counting or touching.

6. Bath Time Goodies

Baby's bath time is a high (or low!) point of the day. A nice selection of baby bathroom essentials would be very thoughtful. Stick to products developed specially for babies.

Well, these are only a few of the possibilities for baby shower gift idea. Remember, even though a lot of stuff are "cute" practical will always be very important to the mommy-to-be!

Looking At The LeapFrog Tag Reader Pink

2010-10-20T06:24:00.000-07:00

You may be wondering why I am looking at the LeapFrog Tag Reader Pink. Well, the reason is that getting kids reading, as soon as possible is very important. It has to be fun so that they develop a love of reading.

We can never underestimate the power of reading. Our kids cannot excel in school if they cannot read properly. For you in the US it may sound strange, but here in South Africa we see many kids reaching grade 12 without having the necessary reading skills to make it.

So, for me as a South African, getting kids to read is a very important thing. So that is why I think the LeapFrog Tag Reader Pink is such a good idea. It is fun and there are many stories that the kids can "read."

The LeapFrog Tag Reader uses amazing touch technology. The tag reader makes learning to read an exciting experience as words talk, pictures sing and stories live out loud. There is no better way to get kids reading.

You will be amazed at what the LeapFrog Tag Reader offers. The tag reading and activity books have over 20 books and games available, including favorite TV and movie characters and classic stories. This is sure to keep your kid reading for a very long time.

So, I think having a look at the LeapFrog Tag Reader Pink is a very good idea.

Disney Princess Party

2010-10-18T06:31:00.000-07:00

I am very sure that if you have a little with a birthday coming up you will not go wrong with a Disney Princess Party. All little girls love princesses and they so not outgrow them as fast as they do fairies.

What is even more amazing is that you will not have to go shopping for Disney Princess Party Supplies! You will find it all on line. Everything you need can be bought online.

Imagine all the fun you can have with all the decorations, and the preparation of the party food, you can have if you are not all stressed out about getting Disney Princess Party supplies.

You will be able to get it all online. Invitation cards, plates, napkins, table covers, you name it and you will find it all online.

So, this year it is actually very easy to make a little one's dreams come true. You can even get a kit to help you with decorating the cake! Your biggest worry is who you are going to invite.

Consider a Disney Princess Party this year for your little princess and you cannot go wrong.

Bread Machine Magic

2010-10-15T01:23:00.000-07:00

If you have a breadmaker such as the Cuisinart Cbk 100 Programmable Breadmaker, you will be looking for good breadmaker recipes. This is where and excellent book such as Bread Machine Magic, Revised Edition: 138 Exciting Recipes Created Especially for Use in All Types of Bread Machines, comes in.

Once you have mastered your breadmaker you will want to make more and exciting breads than only the recipes in the recipe book. I do advice you to stick to those first until you really know how to use your machine. After that it is time to experiment.

With Bread Machine Magic, Revised Edition: 138 Exciting Recipes Created Especially for Use in All Types of Bread Machines you get recipe that are suitable for 1, 1.5, and 2 lb. loaf sizes for each recipe! This means that it does not matter which size loaves your machine makes, you will be able to use all the recipes in this book.

Let us have a look at what a user says. This is what Boggart has to say about this book:

"The recipes are good, but even more importantly is the information accompanying the recipes. This book provides information that allows flexible use of a bread machine. Both my machine and I were glad to have it."

So, I think if you have a breadmaker having a look at Bread Machine Magic may not be a bad idea.

The Complete Book of Decorative Knots

2010-10-13T06:03:00.000-07:00

Knots are used all the time. Some we use for practical purposes and some for their decorative qualities. Even in macramé, such as macramé beaded jewelry, we make use of knots. So, getting to know them can really be fun.

The book “The Complete Book of Decorative Knots” is a fantastic collection of more than eighty different knots. Knots have a useful and practical purpose, but they can also be very decorative. This book shows you step-by-step, together with photographs, how to accomplish each and every one of the 80-plus knots. They vary in difficulty, from the very basic knots to the more tricky, but stunning looking, knots.

The book is divided into different chapters with each chapter focusing on a different type of knot and their uses, from button and globe knots, lanyard knots, Turk’s Heads, Mats and Hitching to Plaits and Braids. In addition, the book also explains the various tools that can be used to help you master the many knots. You learn about fids and prickers, splicing needles, netting needles and pliers and how to use them. The terms associated with knotting are also explained in great detail.

Overall, if you enjoy tying knots, whether for practical use or to finish off some textiles, I find this book very appealing. It comes with useful historical information about each knot and how it was and can still be used. Knot tying is also a great way of passing time while sitting in an airplane or on a long road trip.

Go to Amazon now and have a look at The Complete Book of Decorative Knots

How to Make an Apple Turkey

2010-10-11T06:56:00.000-07:00

All kids love doing fun and easy beginners crafts. With the holidays coming, turkeys will become popular crafts again. You can make this fun Apple Turkey or you can have a look at making Pine Cone Turkey Crafts that is part of our Crafts Using Pine Cones

It is also true that children love to help in the kitchen, but parents often think they’re in the way. They also love to do crafts. Here’s one way for your child to help make a treat for Thanksgiving and be crafty at the same time. Teach them how to make an apple turkey.

Apple turkeys are a fun craft which can be eaten. Each child will need the following items to create one turkey. You may also want to have enough of the items to create one turkey for each person who will be attending the Thanksgiving meal.

One large red delicious apple for each turkey to be made
Ten toothpicks for each turkey
Gum drops, small colored marshmallows or raisins to create feathers
One large marshmallow for the head
Two chocolate chips per turkey for the eyes
One piece of candy corn for the beak
One small piece of red shoelace licorice for the wattle

Before your children begin making their apple turkeys, be sure the apples are washed and allowed to dry completely. Start by giving the children the items they’ll need to create their turkeys or have quantities of each item in a bowl the children can use. They can construct their turkey on a paper plate or directly on the table.

Place each apple on its side, pointing the smaller end to the child’s right. Hold the apple down and have the child place five toothpicks into the smaller end in the shape of a fan to create the feathers. To complete the feathers, ask your child to carefully push a couple of gum drops, marshmallows or raisins onto the toothpicks to look like feathers.

Carefully push another toothpick into the fat end of the apple. This will be where your child will push a large marshmallow onto the toothpick for the head. With safety scissors they can cut two small slits into the marshmallow for the eyes, one for the beak and a very small snip for the wattle.

Ask the child to push the candy into the places the marshmallow was snipped. The chocolate chips should be placed pointed end first into the area prepared for them. Push a piece of candy corn with the pointy end facing out into the marshmallow for the beak. Finally, using a small piece of red licorice, push it into the hole at the bottom for the wattle.

Turn the turkey over so the child can push four more toothpicks into the apple. These will be placed in such a way the turkey will be able to stand on its own. Rather than merely using these apple turkeys as a snack, why not create a name card and place it against the feathers so everyone will know where they’re to sit?

Your child will love making these edible crafts. Once they learn how to make an apple turkey they may decide that having them at Thanksgiving isn’t often enough. And why shouldn’t they want to make them all year long? They’re fun to make and even more fun to eat.

Leapfrog Tag Reader Pink

2010-10-08T00:52:00.000-07:00

Literacy is one of the most important things in life. The key to a bright future, for our kids, is learning to read well at an early age. It has been proven by studies that children who learn to read well at an early age are more successful students throughout their lives.

How can you, as a parent, help your children learn to read at an early age? One way is to start reading to your children as early as possible. Another way is to give them learning tools that aid their development and understanding of language. One of these vital tools is the Leapfrog Tag Reader System Pink

LeapFrog has really established a collection of learning toys and tools that help children at any age learn to speak, read and learn. The LeapFrog Tag Reading System Pink engages all of the child’s senses to capture their attention and get them interested in the words. Leapfrog Tag Reading System Pink is a type of pen device that children touch on the pages of a book. When the Tag reader touches the pages, it recites the words on the page, helping children learn the sound of the word while correlating that word to its written form.

Leapfrog Tag Reading System Pink works with special Tag reader-enabled book. The Tag reader has a tiny camera on the tip that looks at the images of the words and recites them back to the child. The best part? The amazing technology behind the Leapfrog Tag Reading System Pink allows it to adjust to a child’s level, allowing the child to easily understand what is being read back to them. You won’t have to worry about frustrating your child with Leapfrog Tag Reading System Pink!

The Leapfrog Tag Reading System Pink is interactive for you as a parent as well. You can connect the Leapfrog Tag Reading System Pink to your computer and track your child’s progress through the books and reward their growth by developing a learning path made specifically for them!

Why not use this year to make a difference in your child's literacy? Why not give your kid the LeapFrog Tag Reading System Pink as a Christmas gift? Using the LeapFrog Tag Reader System Pink will help them to read really well in a short period of time.

Creamy Pumpkin Cake Slices Recipe

2010-10-06T03:47:00.000-07:00

Fall is upon us and pumpkin recipes are becoming important again. This is a really tasty recipe and with a mixer such as the Hamilton Beach Stand Mixer 63220 it will be very easy to make. So, grab your Hamilton Beach Stand Mixer 63220 and start baking!

Creamy Pumpkin Cake Slices Recipe

What You Need:

3 eggs
1 C sugar
2/3 C pumpkin puree
1 tsp. lemon juice
3/4 C flour
1 tsp. baking powder
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. ginger
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 tsp. salt
1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, room temperature
4 TBSP butter
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1/3 cup nuts
1 cup powdered sugar

How to Make It:

Break the eggs into a large mixing bowl and beat on high speed 4 minutes.
Continue beating the eggs while gradually adding the sugar.
Add the pumpkin and stir with a rubber spatula to combine.
Pour in the lemon juice and mix until well incorporated.
Sift the flour into a separate bowl.
Sift the baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and salt in with the flour.
Add the dry mixture to the pumpkin mixture and stir to combine together well.
Bring the oven temperature to 375 degrees.
Line a 15 in X 10 in pan with wax paper.
Spread the batter into the pan evenly.
Bake 12 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean.
Sprinkle the powered sugar completely over a kitchen towel.
Turn the cake out onto the towel and roll up together.
Place the cream cheese, butter and vanilla together and beat until light and fluffy.
Unroll the cake and spread the mixture evenly on the cake.
Sprinkle with the nuts.
Roll the cake again and place in the refrigerator for 2 hours or until completely chilled.
Remove and cut into 1 1/2 in slices before serving.

14 Servings

As you can see, you cannot very well make this recipe without a mixer and the Hamilton Beach Stand Mixer 63220 is a very good choice.

A look At Home Exercise Equipment - Your Needs

2010-10-04T01:02:00.000-07:00

You may be wondering why I say we have to have a look at home exercise equipment. Well, the reason is that our lives have become so busy that we simply cannot fit in a jog or going to the gym anymore.

When you look at home exercise equipment you have to consider your needs and the space available.

1. If you are only looking for something to keep you fit and healthy, and not getting super fit like an athlete, you will not need the same kind of equipment that a serious marathon runner, for instance will need. You can look at something such as the Stamina Spacemate Folding Stepper that does not take up a lot of space an will give you the workout you are looking for.

2. On the other hand, if you what to fit in some toning as well, looking at an elliptical trainer or even a 2-in-one trainer that will keep you fit while firming your muscles as well. Here it is a good idea to look at something such as the Body Champ BRM3671 Cardio Dual Trainer.

3. Now, if you are really serious about getting fit you will need a treadmill such as the Sole S77 Treadmill. With the Sole S77 Treadmill you get a gym quality treadmill without the price tag. This will come in very handy even if you normally train outside. Very often bad weather makes it difficult to go outside and them it is possible to keep up with your training with the Sole S77 Treadmill.

So, consider your needs and choose the correct home exercise equipment.

LeapFrog Tag Reader, Worth It Or Not?

2010-10-01T02:29:00.000-07:00

I find that many people are thinking about Christmas gifts already. You may be wondering if a LeapFrog Tag Reader is worth it. Will it really help your child with his or her reading? Well, yes it will.

With a LeapFrog Tag Reader you kid will have lots of fun without even realizing he or she is learning to read? With the Leapfrog Tag Reader the words talk, the pictures sing and the stories come alive in front of your kid's easily.

These days the kids are simply not reading enough. I heard someone using the word "stupidifying" our kids in front of the TV these days. They do not read and expand their minds anymore. Do not think the TV is stimulating them, you are simply fooling yourself.

By connecting the LeapFrog Tag Reader to the online Leapfrog learning path you can see what your child is learning and find ways to expand your kid's learning journey. The games will stimulate your kid and the whole experience will be pleasurable.

The LeapFrog Tag Reading System Pink is designed for children four to eight. The tag reading system works with a broad library of more than 20 books and games. You are sure your kid will find lots to read that is interesting!

Another benefit of the LeapFrog Tag Reading System is that it is a very good way to keep kids occupied during long trips. We all know how difficult it can be to keep the little ones entertained on long road trips! Well, with a LeapFrogTag Reading System you have this problem solved.

Chicken Ala Barbeque Slow Cooker Recipe

2010-09-29T05:02:00.000-07:00

Barbecue chicken is always a hit. It is not always possible to do so and if you have a slow cooker such as the Cuisinart PSC 350 3 1 2 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker you do the chicken in the slow cooker and still get that lovely barbeque taste.

Try this recipe, your family will love it!

Chicken Ala Barbecue Recipe

What You Need:

1 whole chicken, cut up and skinless
1 Cup ketchup
3/4 Tablespoon brown sugar, firmly packed
3 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

How to Make It:

Place the chicken pieces in the bottom of the slow cooker.
Place the brown sugar in a mixing bowl.
Add the ketchup and Worcestershire sauce.
Blend together well being sure all the brown sugar is mixed in well.
Cover and cook on low 8 hours.

Tip: BBQ chicken is a hit any time. Serve with a side of potato salad for a delicious lunch.

As you can see, with a Cuisinart PSC 350 3 1 2 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker there is almost no work involved. You can put the chicken in your Cuisinart PSC 350 3 1 2 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, go to work and return to a fully cooked barbeque chicken!

Is Rainwater Collection From Your Roof Worth The Trouble?

2010-09-27T02:26:00.000-07:00

This is a question people in South Africa often wonder about. Is Rainwater Collection Roof really worth the trouble?

I think yes! If you set up your system correctly and maximize the amount of rainwater you can collect from your roof, it will be able to bring down your water account drastically.

That is not the biggest advantage through; the biggest advantage is that you will be able to keep your garden in tip top condition even when water is scarce without sending your account through the roof!

Where I stay, water is so scarce sometimes that we have water restrictions. Then you have to see all your hard work in the garden going down the drain! So, having a tank full of rainwater to use in such times is really a very big advantage.

But, even if you never have any scarcity of water, the potential saving is still worth it. Even if you are not that big into gardening, you can use this extra water for your swimming pool, to wash your car and to wash the paving down. So, even without a garden you will still be able to make use of the rainwater you collected from your roof.

So, I really think looking at rainwater collection roof is a good idea for everyone.

Do You Want To Get Off Grid?

2010-09-25T01:33:00.000-07:00

With winter fast approaching is it your dream to get off grid? Well there are a few options you can have a look at. If you want your independence back, maybe wind energy or solar energy is worth looking at. If you live in an area with adequate wind and have only a little space wind power will cut energy bills.

Let's have a look at these two ways of generating your own electricity and how you can save money on your energy bills.

Solar Energy

For many years we've seen solar panels on the roofs of homes all across the country. The panel absorbs the heat from the sun, converts it into electricity and than stores it for later use.

Pros

1. Once you have the panels installed it's a free source of energy
2. It doesn't pollute and it's renewable

Cons

1. It doesn't work with out sun so you will only generate energy on sunny days and for about 12 hours a day when the sun is actually up.
2. One or two panels won't generate enough electricity for your home.

Wind Power

In order to harness the energy of wind you will need a turbine that can convert that energy into electricity and store it in batteries for use later.

Pros

1. You can build your own turbine for little money so it doesn't cost much to set up.
2. Non-polluting, renewable energy source.

Cons

1. Will only work when there is wind.
2. One turbine won't be enough to meet all your household electrical needs.

This short overview should give you a pretty good idea of what you will be able to do to save on your energy bills. It is and investment that will pay for itself in a very short while and worth looking into. I know for sure, wind power will cut energy bills, even if you can only run all your appliances on it.

Planning a Baby Shower Tips

2010-09-22T02:23:00.000-07:00

To plan a baby shower is a privilege for a close friend or family member of yours that are having a baby. What is more fun than a baby shower? So, the planning should be fun as well. If you keep a few tips in mind, when you are planning the baby shower, you will have not problems. Approach the planning process systematically and everything will fall into place.

Just like any other party, a baby shower requires careful planning to ensure that it will go as smoothly as possible, and be memorable for everyone. Although there are no rules cast in stone in the planning of a baby shower, you have to keep certain things in mind.

Here are a few tips to help you with planning your baby shower:

1) Decide on the location.

I think the best location for a baby shower is your own home. You do not want to inconvenience the mom- to -be with an upheaval in her house with the preparations. It is recommended for small, intimate parties, with only the closest friends and family members. Guests also tend to be more comfortable if the party’s setting is at home.

If the expectant parents love the outdoors, a barbecue party in the garden, or a local park may also be an option. Naturally, the weather must be considered – baby shower does not literally mean soaking the guests in the rain.

For fewer complications, the host may reserve a secluded area in a restaurant or bar. It may be more costly, but at least the decoration, food and drinks, as well as the post-party cleanup will already be taken care of.

2) Choose the party’s theme.

Decorating ideas for baby shower is made easier when you decide on a theme for the baby shower. Consider the expectant parents’ favorite movies or hangouts. Another option is to decorate the party site by re-creating the place where they had their honeymoon, such as a cruise ship, or Paris-inspired café.

Since the party will also be a celebration of the future baby, a childish atmosphere may also be considered. Choose cartoon characters, bright colors, and other designs depending on the baby’s gender.

3) Finalize the menu.

The party’s menu will depend upon the time of the event. In most baby showers, the host serves finger food, pastries and other baked goods for convenience.

However, if the event will be held during lunch or dinner time, heavier meals will naturally be served.

Alcoholic drinks may also be prepared, depending on the guests’ preference. Keep in mind that the mommy-to-be cannot use alcohol and you must be sure it will not be a problem for her.

4) Design a fun program.

Contrary to what most people believe, a baby shower is not only limited to mingling around, gift giving, eating and drinking. Fun games may also be included, such as charades, or those which will bring back the guests’ childhood memories.

Remember that the main point is to make sure everyone will have a good time, and various games will surely liven up the event. There are many quick baby shower games ideas available only that you can download and print.

5) Create the guest list and send out invitations.

Prepare a list of the expectant parents’ closest friends and family members. Make sure to get their approval before sending out invitations, to avoid any embarrassing mistakes later. Bear in mind that it’s the parents’ event, and not the host’s, so their choice of people should matter the most.

Ready-made baby shower invitations are readily available in gift shops and craft stores. However, homemade invitations may also be used to provide the host’s personal touch. Keep in mind that the baby shower invitations wording must contain all the necessary information.

Send out invitations out two to four weeks before the party to give the guests time to work the party into their schedule. Remember most people are very busy these days and you must make sure they have time enough to plan their day. You should not send them out too long before the time either as that may cause them to forget about the baby shower. Baby shower invitations follow the same format as any other invitation — it indicates the date, time, place, attire preferred, gift registry, if any, the host’s contact numbers for RSVP.

With these tips you will be organized. Make sure you have a finalized list of all guest attending the baby shower so that you can know for how many people you have to prepare.

Relax and enjoy the party with the guests, that's the best advice I can give you. If you are all stressed out your guest will feel it and it will make them feel tense as well.

Coffee Sandwich Cake Recipe

2010-09-20T05:07:00.000-07:00

In this coffee sandwich cake recipe you need to use coffee extract. Your starting point for this can be your Hamilton Beach Brew Station. The reason is because you can make small amounts of coffee in it, such as 1-4 cups.

For this recipe you will need three cups of very strong coffee to make the coffee extract you will be using in your coffee sandwich cake recipe.

Coffee Extract Recipe:

Caramelize 1 cup of white sugar until it is a light brown syrup
Remove from the heat and add 3 cups of very strong coffee and 11/2 teaspoon of salt
Heat again and stir all the time until the sugar has dissolved and boil for 30 minutes.
Bottle and store in the fridge for the use in this cake and all kinds of coffee drinks such as iced coffee, mocha milk shakes or mocha frosting.

Coffee Sandwich Recipe

Ingredients:

3 table spoons cooking oil
3 tablespoons coffee extract
3 eggs
Pinch of salt
1/3 cup milk
1 cup castor sugar
11/2 cups flour
3 level teaspoons baking powder

Method:

Heat oil and milk
Add coffee extract and heat again
Beat eggs and sugar very well (in a stand mixer such as the Cuisinart Sm-55 5-1/2-Quart Stand Mixers)
Sift the flour and salt and fold into the egg and sugar mixture
Add the baking powder and gently stir it in
Lastly add the warm liquid mixture and stir in gently
Pour into paper lined and greased cake tine
Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes until the cake springs make when you gently touch it.
Use a coffee frosting between the layer and to decorate the cake.

Homemade Soup Recipes - The Old Well Loved Chicken Soup Recipe

2010-09-18T02:36:00.000-07:00

I really think that of all the homemade soup recipes doing the rounds the chicken soup recipe is the most popular. Chicken soup is smoothing, healthy and tasty. Here is one of my homemade soup recipes, chicken soup recipe.

This recipe cannot be easier and even someone that has never touched a stove before will make it without any trouble. This soup is also the ideal soup recipe for a pressure cooker such as the Cuisinart CPC 600 Electric Pressure Cooker.

Chicken Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

The bones and giblets of two chickens
2 Leeks
1 Onion
3 Sliced potatoes
Salt and pepper to taste
Pouring cream to taste

Method:

Boil the bones and giblets of chicken in 1 pint of water
Strain to get a rich stock
Fry the leeks, onion and potatoes
Add the salt and pepper
Add all the ingredients to your pressure cooker
Bring to pressure and cook for about 15 minutes until all the ingredients are soft.
Liquidize with a blender such as the Cuisinart CBT 700 Die Cast 700 Watt Blender
Add cream to taste
Serve hot, sprinkled with parsley

Inexpensive Baby Shower Favor

2010-09-16T06:40:00.000-07:00

By giving each guest an inexpensive baby shower favor add the finishing touch to all your planning and decorating. To be honest, very often the inexpensive baby shower favor forms a part of your decorations. The baby shower favors are a way of thanking your guest for attending this very special baby shower. For most guests, especially the family, an inexpensive baby shower favor often becomes a cherished memento!

Obviously you are not obliged to give baby shower favors to your guests. It is also true that your gusts shouldn’t expect to go home with something other than a good time. But still, it is a nice memento of this very special occasion. Don’t worry, you really won't have to spend a fortune on the baby shower favors.

Preparing baby shower party favors need not be take a lot of money and time. The internet can be a great source for baby shower party favors. By simply typing “baby shower party favors” in a search engine you will see a return thousands of online resources that sells or provides ideas for excellent baby shower party favors.

Shopping online for baby shower party favors is very ideal for most of us that are always pressed for time. Many online stores offer baby shower party favors like personalized, candy bar wrappers and more.

Remember to choose a seller that provides high quality and affordable baby shower party favors. When you search on the web you will be surprised that there are many websites offering unique baby shower party favors. The items range from the cute to more sophisticated baby shower favors. The items include chocolate bars, bath soaps, picture frames, figurines, stuffed toys, etc. They have an item for every taste and budget.

Of course if you are the creative and crafty type, you always have the option to make the baby shower party favors yourself. You need not be overly talented or skillful, all you need is a little artistic ability, patience and some materials and you're ready to make your inexpensive baby shower favor masterpiece.

Your project need not be complicated. It could be as simple as making wrappers and decorative boxes for candies, soaps or candles. If you are fond of baking and cooking then you can bake cookies or make chocolate in a shape appropriate for baby showers like rattles, baby bottles, babies and teddy bears. Or if you have a garden at home, you can give away plants and flowers. If you know how to paint, then you can create a masterpiece out of baby cloth diapers or bibs by painting cute and colorful designs on them.

The idea is to use whatever skills you may have to make the inexpensive baby shower favors, while you are having a good time as well. Homemade baby showers are a very good idea because they add a personal touch to the baby shower party favors. The other plus point, of course, is that you will save a lot of money and come up with an original yet inexpensive baby shower favor. Once again, a little surfing will help you come up with a good idea for an inexpensive baby shower favor.

Alex Toys Super Knot A Quilt

2010-09-13T02:02:00.000-07:00

Quilting is fun, but for little hands you need something easier. This is where Alex Toys Super Knot A Quilt comes in, it is made without sewing and all the kid needs to do is make knots.

Developing the small motor skills of a child is very important. Doing crafts in one of the ways you can so it. Teach those little fingers to work properly and you will see the results in your kid's grades at school.

Alex Toys Super Knot A Quilt is not your only choice though, there are many more crafts if this is not something your kid will enjoy.

Any craft that involves cutting and pasting will really help. A good idea is to start with a kit such as the Alex Toys My First Mosaic, Alex Little Hands Art Series. This is not a "real" mosaic, but it involves peeling the sticker and pasting them on the right place in the "mosaic."

Of course there is also the option of drawing your own picture and using seeds and beans to paste on your "mosaic." If you want an idea of how to do it, you can really have a look at Mosaic Crafts For Beginners, it is the instructions of how to make a seed mosaic for Autumn. The timing is perfect!

So, whatever crafts your kid enjoy, it is important to do them for the development of those small motor skills.

Are You Looking For A Good Baby Crib Mobile?

2010-09-08T05:07:00.000-07:00

f you are looking for a good and fascinating bay crib mobile, I'm sure you are baffled by the many choices you have! You get mobiles in every possible price range, some are wooden mobiles and others have plush toys and more.

The very first thing you need to consider is your budget, and then you have to decide for how long you want to use the mobile. Some mobiles are only suitable for small babies while others can be adapted to be used with older babies as well.

Of course you will be thinking about the decoration of the nursery as well. You do not want a mobile that looks completely out of place. This is one of the many reasons why I am crazy about the Fisher-Price Precious Planet 2-in-1 Projection Mobile, it is colorful for baby yet the colors are not so harsh that it clashes with the nursery décor.

Mobiles that can be converted into music boxes are also a good idea. This means as baby grows older you mobile can still entertain baby.

I, personally, prefer one with soft plush toys, animals or whatever is used. It simply looks a lot better as it is not so flat and hard. If you do not plan on having another baby, or selling the mobile you can even remove the plush toys for baby to play with.

So, if you are looking at baby crib mobiles, take your time and make sure you get the one that is just right for you.

The Importance Of Stretching

2010-09-06T01:46:00.000-07:00

Very often people wonder about the importance of stretching. So, when you mention a machine such as the LifeSpan Fitness SP1000 Stretch Partner Stretching Machine, they are often surprised that such a machine exists!

I know you are thinking, but I'm no athlete, why do I have to stretch. Well, stretching helps improve your mobility and as you get older it becomes more and more important.

Very often you will also find physiotherapists recommending stretching as part of rehabilitation after an injury. This is when a stretching machine such as the LifeSpan Fitness SP1000 Stretch Partner Stretching Machine comes in very handy.

The LifeSpan Fitness SP1000 Stretch Partner Stretching Machine can be set to your personal needs and if you need a deeper stretch it is possible with this machine. So, it also makes it a very good machine to have for people who do moderate exercise.

The importance of stretching cannot be over emphasized! We all need to stretch, whether it is the athlete that wants to prevent injury or whether it simply is to enhance mobility.

Of course, it is perfectly fine to do stretching without a machine; the machine simply makes it easier. For very good information on stretching it may be a good idea to have a look at the webpage "Stretching Exercises - 10 Things You Should Know About Stretching."

So, whether you use the LifeSpan Fitness SP1000 Stretch Partner Stretching Machine or do the stretches as illustrated on that page, stretching is important for everyone and should never be neglected!

Are You Thinking About Home Exercise Equipment?

2010-09-01T06:43:00.000-07:00

If you are thinking about home exercise equipment you will find that you have many options available. The Body Champ BRM3671 Cardio Dual Trainer is one of your options that I recommend for busy people.

Most of us have very tight schedules and very little time for training. We have a all these things we have to do. There simply does not seem to be time to fit in exercise. Very often it is only in the evening that you realize you have not done your exercises!

The good news is that there is a solution to your problem. You can get home exercise equipment and then you can train whenever you find a few moments to spare!

What most people also do not know, is that you can get some home exercise equipment for much lower prices than you would thought possible. All you need to do is decide is your price range and the kind of equipment you want.

I find 2-in-one Elliptical Trainers and Exercise Bikes, such as the Body Champ BRM3671 Cardio Dual Trainer a very good option. All you need in one machine saving you lots of space.

I do not know about you, but I always seem to have a problem with space and there is just no way I'll fit in two machines in my home. So, I really love the idea of a 2- in-one machine.

You always have to look around. See what is available. Once you know what is on the market it is time to decide on your price range and the kind of equipment you want and you are on your way.

Looking at the Body Champ BRM3671 Cardio Dual Trainer is not a bad idea. If your only purpose is keeping healthy and in shape the Body Champ BRM3671 Cardio Dual Trainer is all you will need.

I Love Dutch Ovens!

2010-08-30T06:43:00.000-07:00

I love Dutch ovens! They are very versatile as you can use them on top of the stove, in the oven and even over and open fire. If you have a Dutch oven such as the All Clad Dutch Oven, you will also have no cleaning problems as the All Clad Dutch Oven cleaning is also no problem as it has a nonstick interior as well as exterior.

To give you and idea of all the lovely recipes you will be able to make with your All Clad Dutch Oven here is a recipe you can try. We all love pasta, so here is a pasta recipe make in your All Clad Dutch Oven.

Turkey Pasta with Spinach Recipe

What You Need for this turkey pasta with spinach recipe:

3 C of macaroni
1 (28 oz.) cans of tomatoes
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 t of salt
1/4 t of pepper
1 t of olive oil
1/2 of an onion, chopped
1 t of basil
1 t of oregano
1 lb. of ground turkey
3 large handfuls of fresh spinach

How to Make It:

Lightly oil your Clad Dutch Oven with olive oil.
Allow the oven to preheat to 450 degrees.
Place the macaroni into the bottom of the pan.
Drain the tomatoes into a measuring cup and add enough water to make 1 1/3 C.
Add 1/3 of the garlic, the salt and pepper to the tomato juice mixture and stir to blend.
Pour the liquid over the macaroni and stir to coat well.
Place the tomatoes into a mixing bowl and add the remaining garlic.
Stir in the onion, basil and oregano until combined.
Crumble the ground meat into the bowl and mix with your hands until all the ingredients are blended together well.
Drop forkfuls of the meat mixture into the pan.
Top with the spinach leaves.
Cover the pan and bake 45 minutes or until the macaroni is soft.

Makes 4 servings

Any type of ground meat will work well with this recipe including ground pork. 2 (10 oz.) pkgs. of frozen spinach may be used in place of the fresh spinach. Add it to the meat mixture before mixing instead of adding last.

Preparation Time: approximately 5 minutes
Baking Time: approximately 45 minutes
Total Time: approximately 50 minutes

Well, a complete pasta meal in one pot, nothing can be easier than that, so, go have a look at the All Clad Dutch Oven

Easy And Fast Recipe For Breakfast - Simple Ham Frittata Recipe

2010-07-14T06:05:00.000-07:00

Coming up with ideas for breakfast is not always that easy. Time is limited, yet you want to send the family off with a substantial breakfast that will keep them going until lunch time!

This frittata is easy to make, I find using a one plate cooker that is fast and easy to control, such as the Viking Portable Induction Cooker, very handy. You have instant reaction to your heat settings and infinite settings to make sure you get just the right temperature for your frittata. This frittata is made in the oven, though, but I have made it successfully on a Viking Portable Induction Cooker many times.

Well, here is the recipe for Ham Frittata for you to try:

Simple Ham Frittata Recipe

What You Need:

8 eggs
8 T of Parmesan cheese, grated and divided
2 T of olive oil
2 russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1/2 C of onion, chopped
1/2 C of red bell pepper, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
4 oz. Serrano ham, chopped
1/8 t marjoram
1/2 t salt
1/4 t pepper

How to Make It:

Turn on the broiler and allow it to preheat. (For this a Cuisinart TOB 195 Exact Heat Toaster Oven Broiler Stainless is ideal!)
Carefully break the eggs into a large mixing bowl.
Sprinkle the eggs with 4 T of the cheese and whisk until well combined.
Pour the oil into a large oven proof skillet positioned over medium high heat.
Add the potatoes to the skillet and cook, stirring often for 5 minutes or until browned.
Stir the onion, bell pepper and garlic into the potatoes.
Cook 2 minutes or until the onion and peppers are just beginning to tender.
Add the ham, marjoram, salt and pepper and stir to blend.
Spread out the mixture evenly in the skillet.
Pour the egg mixture over the top of the potato mixture, tilting the skillet so the eggs spread to the edges of the skillet.
Reduce the heat to medium low, cover the skillet and cook 5 minutes or until the top is set around the edges but the center is still lightly runny.
Remove the skillet from the stove and sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top of the eggs.
Place the skillet in the oven and broil for 30 seconds or until the center of the frittata is set.

Makes 4 servings

Serrano ham is the Spanish version of Italian prosciutto. Serrano ham is salt cured, air dried then aged. Serrano ham is not smoked so you get a more pure and intense ham taste. If you can't find Serrano ham smoked ham will work just as well in this recipe.

All Clad Dutch Oven For One Pot Meals

2010-07-13T03:16:00.000-07:00

Dutch ovens are ideal for one pot meals and the All Clad Dutch Oven is no exception. It is also a Dutch oven that is easy to clean and very versatile as you can use it on top of the stove, in the oven (ideal for one pot meals) or when you go camping on a gas burner or even an open fire.

To give you an idea of how easy it is to make a one pot meal in your All Clad Dutch Oven here is a tasty recipe for you to try.

One Pot Turkey Supper

What You Need:

1 lb. boneless turkey breast
1/4 t of salt
2/3 C of frozen cranberries
2/3 C of orange marmalade
1 t of lemon juice
1/8 t of pepper
1/2 C of walnuts
1/2 C of turkey broth
2 C of pearl onions
1 large sweet potato cut in 1/4 inch slices
3 C of frozen cut green beans
1 t of dried sage

How to Make It:

Preset the oven temperature to 450 degrees and allow the oven to preheat.
Spray the bottom, sides and lid of your All Clad Dutch Oven with a non stick cooking spray.
Place the turkey breast into the bottom of the pan and sprinkle the top evenly with the salt.
Place the cranberries into the blender and blend until small chunks.
Add in the marmalade, lemon juice and pepper and pulse a couple of time to mix.
Add the walnuts and broth and pulse until the walnuts are chopped into bite size pieces.
Pour half of the mixture over the top of the turkey.
Add the onions and sweet potato slices.
Pour the remaining cranberry sauce over the top of the onions and potatoes.
Spread the green beans over the top and sprinkle with the sage.
Cover and bake 35 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through.
Spread the sauce over each serving.

Makes 4 servings

This is a Thanksgiving meal all in one pot and is a great way of inducing a special meal into our everyday life without spending hours in the kitchen. The turkey, cranberries and green beans may be fresh or frozen. If using frozen ingredients there is no need to thaw, it won’t change the amount of cooking time. You may also use dried cranberries and if you’re in a pinch use orange juice with pulp instead of the marmalade.

Of course, there are many other variations on this recipe and once you get the idea and know your All Clad Dutch Oven a little better you will definitely come up with some tasty ideas of your own.

Tasty Coffee Cupcakes Recipe

2010-07-02T01:29:00.000-07:00

If you have a coffeemaker such as the Cuisinart DCC 1200 12 Cup Brew Central Coffeemaker you will have no problem with this recipe. A machine such as the Kitchenaid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixers will make the mixing even easier!

Coffee Cupcakes Recipe

Ingredients:

2 Cups of cake flour
4 Teaspoons of baking powder
½ Teaspoon salt
2 Tablespoons of sugar
1 Egg
1 cup very strong coffee (made with your Cuisinart DCC 1200 12 Cup Brew Central Coffeemaker!)
4 Tablespoons butter

Method:

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit
Sift the flour with the salt and baking powder
Beat the butter and the sugar until well creamed (With one of the Kitchenaid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixers!)
Add the egg and beat again
Stir in the coffee
Add the flour mixture and stir lightly only until mixed, do not beat the mixture
Fill your cupcakes 2/3 full and bake for 20-25 minutes until done
Decorate as desired

Easy Cooking With A Viking Portable Induction Cooker

2010-07-01T08:01:00.000-07:00

If you only need one cooker to cook a dish and you need very good control over your heat settings thinking about a Viking Portable Induction Cooker is a very good idea. The Viking Portable Induction Cooker can be set at infinite heat settings and responds immediately.

Another benefit of Viking Portable Induction Cooker, of course, is the ease of cleaning.

Here is the kind of recipe you will be able to make on a Viking Portable Induction Cooker:

Smoked Sausage and Apple Skillet Supreme Recipe

What You Need:

3 Golden Delicious apples, peeled, cored and 2 grated and 1 quartered
2 TBSP butter or margarine
6 C shredded green cabbage
1/2 C thinly sliced onion
2 TBSP water
1 TBSP cider vinegar
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1 lb. smoked sausage, cooked and pierced with a fork
2 TBSP minced fresh parsley

How to Make It:

Place a large skillet over medium high heat.
Add the butter and allow to melt completely.
Place the 2 grated apples into the melted butter.
Add the cabbage and onion.
Reduce the temperature to medium.
Cook the mixture for 4 minutes.
Carefully pour in the water and vinegar stirring to combine.
Sprinkle in the salt and pepper.
Place the sausages on top of the mixture.
Reduce the temperature to low.
Cover the skillet with a tight lid.
Allow mixture to cook for 15 minutes.
Cabbage should be just starting to tender and the sausages heated through.
Place the quartered apple on top of the mixture.
Sprinkle the parsley over the top.
Recover and cook an additional 3 minutes.
Serve immediately.

Serves 4

This can be served with a small amount of honey mustard added to the top of each serving.

The Healthiest Foods You Can Get As Part Of A Well Balanced Meal Plan

2010-06-29T01:30:00.000-07:00

The following is a list of the healthiest foods that you can get. This will help you get an idea as to what foods are the best for your body. This again will help you make healthy food choices as part of well balanced meal plans.

Fruits

1. Apricots

Apricots contain Beta-carotene which helps to prevent radical damage and also helps to protect the eyes. A single apricot contains 17 calories, 0 fat, and one gram of fiber. You can eat them dried or soft.

2. Mango

A medium sized mango packs 57 MG of vitamin C, which is nearly your entire daily dose. This antioxidant will help prevent arthritis and also boost your immune system.

3, Cantaloupe

Cantaloupes contain 117 GG of vitamin C, which is almost twice the recommended dose. Half a melon contains 853 MG of potassium, which is nearly twice as much as a banana, which helps to lower blood pressure. Half a melon contains 97 calories, 1 gram of fat, and 2 grams of fiber.

4. Tomato

A tomato can help cut the risk of bladder, stomach, and colon cancers in half if you eat one daily. A tomato contains 26 calories, 0 fat, and only 1 gram of fiber.

Vegetables

1. Onions

An onion can help to protect against cancer. A cup of onions offers 61 calories, 0 fat, and 3 grams of fiber.

2. Broccoli

Broccoli can help protect against breast cancer, and it also contains a lot of vitamin C and beta-carotene. One cup of chopped broccoli contains 25 calories, 0 fat, and 3 grams of fiber.

3. Spinach

Spinach contains carotenoids that can help fend off macular degeneration, which is a major cause of blindness in older people. One cup contains 7 calories, 0 fat, and 1 gram of fiber.

Grains, beans, and nuts

1. Peanuts

Peanuts and other nuts can lower your risk of heart disease by 20 percent. One ounce contains 166 calories, 14 grams of fat, and over 2 grams of fiber.

2. Pinto beans

A half cut of pinto beans offers more than 25 percent of your daily folate requirement, which protects you against heart disease. Half a cup contains 103 calories, 1 gram of fat, and 6 grams of fiber.

3. Skim milk

Skim milk offers vitamin B2, which is important for good vision and along with Vitamin A could improve allergies. You also get calcium and vitamin D as well. One cup contains 86 calories, o fat, and 0 fiber.

Seafood

1. Salmon

All cold water fish such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna are excellent sources of omega 3 fatty acids, which help to reduce the risk of cardiac disease. A 3 ounce portion of salmon contains 127 calories, 4 grams of fat, and 0 fiber.

2. Crab

Crab is a great source of vitamin B12 and immunity boosting zinc. A 3 ounce serving of crab offers 84 calories, 1 gram of fat, and 0 fiber.

With this information at hand, you should never have a difficulty with healthy food choices as part of well balanced meal plans.

Where Can I Find Easy Crafts Fun For Kids?

2010-06-28T02:17:00.000-07:00

Finding easy crafts for kids are not all that easy. Once of the problems you often have it what will your kid enjoy doing? Well, an easy answer to that is Alex Toys Happily Ever Crafter.

This kit, Alex Toys Happily Ever Crafter, has more that one kind of craft will all the supplies you need to t to complete the craft. Your kid can try then and decide which one she enjoys the most.

Instilling a love of crafts in your kid is very important. It is good for all those small motor skills for one and that can not over emphasized as it will influence your kids performance in school.

Another good reason for instilling a love of crafts in your kids is of course keeping them busy. With long summer vacation and rainy days kids can get pretty bored and having some crafts available for them to do will help you to keep them busy and prevent all the unruliness that goes with boredom.

Of course to make things even easier for you it is a good idea to have a specific area that is always ready for the kids to go and do crafts when they feel like it or when you can inspire them to want to do some crafts. For this it may be worth looking at the Alex Super Art Table With Paper Roll And Two Benches.

So make sure you so not have bored kids on your hands this vacation and be ready with crafts for them to do.

Preventing Yeast Infection - Taking A Step Ahead,

2010-06-25T02:02:00.000-07:00

The prevention of yeast infection is not really as difficult as it may appear to be. Keeping to basic health routines and a few lifestyle changes should be enough to make you yeast free for the rest of your life. This is why it is vital to emphasize the advantage of knowing and applying the different ways of the prevention of yeast infections. It is better to be prepared now than suffer the consequences later.

Several experts on the subject have recommended a number of methods for the prevention of yeast infection.

1. Amongst the first measures you should take are the maintaining high standards of hygiene:

Yeast loves areas that are most. The more you tolerate having these areas, the more chance you’ll have an infection on your hands. So it would be a good idea to keep the vaginal area dry whenever possible. This includes after having a swim, rigorous exercise, or after you have taken a shower. Dry the area thoroughly. Take off wet clothing immediately. You never want to give the yeast an opportunity to grow.

2. The clothes you wear:

Speaking of clothes, a better chance for the prevention of yeast infection is wearing clothes that are made from light materials and provides enough ventilation. There’s a higher chance that the yeast grow excessively in the vaginal area due to wearing tight pants, jeans and other pieces of clothing.

It would be better to wear clothes made of cotton to allow the skin to breathe and to help with the prevention of yeast infection. Cotton panties would be a better choice than nylon and lycra since the latter two can trap air which is an ideal environment for yeast growth. Panty hose is also not recommended unless you wear cotton underwear underneath.

3. Maintain a healthy and clean body.

This is a basic necessity and should be observed whether you have or don’t have an infection. Washing your heads every time you go to the bathroom would be a good start. Also be aware that scented tissues, pads or tampons, feminine spray products, and even deodorants can cause irritation to the vagina and can in turn increase the growth of yeast in the area resulting to a full yeast infection. Definitely avoid using douches since it washes away the natural protective membrane of the vagina. This leaves the vagina more susceptible to, not only yeast, but other infections as well.

4. Measures associated with sex:

Moreover, petroleum-based lubricants should be avoided during sexual intercourse. Water-based lubricants are a better option since it does not trigger the overgrowth of yeast in the vagina area.

5. The food we eat:

Sugary foods might also trigger the growth of yeast. It would be a good idea then to watch your sugar intake if the prevention of yeast infection is important to you. According to studies, yeast tends to grow faster with a higher level of sugar in the blood and in the digestive system.

You might need to avoid sugary foods but plain yogurt is good for you. Yogurt contains microorganisms that help balance out the growth of yeast. It contains “friendly” bacteria so to speak. A cup a day of plain yogurt might help prevent the growth of yeast.

The prevention of yeast infection is definitely an important move against yeast infections. Adapting your lifestyle so that it is not ideal for the overgrowth of yeast, you will have no problems with the physical stress as well as emotional effects the infection brings. Simple, small actions can do wonders for the prevention of yeast infection.

Italian Tomato Pasta Sauce Recipe To Freeze

2010-06-24T08:45:00.000-07:00

It is always handy to have something such as a pasta sauce, frozen in portion, in your freezer for those emergencies. If you have and extra freezer, such as the Frigidaire Chest Freezer, making this sauce will come in handy.

For making this sauce you will need quite a big pot and for that the Cuisinart Classic Stockpot is ideal.

Here is your recipe for Italian Tomato Pasta Sauce:

Ingredients:

8 Pints of very ripe tomatoes chopped (for this one of the Cuisinart 11 Cup Pro Custom 11 Food Processors will come in handy)
2 Chopped carrots
1 Chopped onion
2 Tablespoons of chopped sweet basil
1/2 Cup chopped celery
2 Teaspoons salt
1 Small piece of cinnamon
1/2 Teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (for this a Cuisinart SG 10 Electric Spice And Nut Grinder will come in real handy!)
1/2 Freshly ground cloves

Method:

Boil all the ingredients until all the vegetables are soft and cooked
Process all the ingredients with a Cuisinart CSB-76 Smart Stick Hand Blender until completely pureed
Boil this on a very low heat until it reached the desired thickness for the sauce as you like it
Freeze in portions

Tasty Warming Up Soup Recipe

2010-06-23T02:17:00.000-07:00

As the northern hemisphere is going in to glorious summer, the poor ones in the southern hemisphere is facing winter and still in dire need of tasty soup recipes to warm them up.

Here is and exceptional one that uses apples and it is surprisingly tasty. If you want the thyme in this recipe to be fresh and tasty you can use a Cuisinart SG 10 Electric Spice and Nut Grinder to ground it just before you use it.

Creamy Apple Cheddar Soup Recipe

What You Need For This Recipe:

2 TBSP canola oil
3 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
1 potato, peeled and chopped
1 stalk celery, chopped
1/4 C onion, chopped fine
1/8 tsp. ground thyme (use your Cuisinart SG 10 Electric Spice and Nut Grinder for this!)
1/4 C white wine
5 C chicken broth
4 C Cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 C heavy cream
1/8 tsp. nutmeg
1/8 tsp. pepper

How to Make It:

Heat the oil to hot but not smoking in a large soup pot over medium heat.
Place the apples, potato, celery and onion into the hot oil.
Cook together for 5 minutes.
Stir in the thyme and continue cooking an additional 5 minutes.
Pour the wine into the pot and stir well.
Pour in the chicken broth and continue cooking 35 minutes.
Pour the entire mixture into the blender.
Puree until smooth.
Return the mixture to the soup pot.
Turn heat to lowest temperature.
Stir in the cheese and cream.
Sprinkle with the nutmeg and pepper.
Continue cooking on low until heated through about 15 minutes.
Be careful not to being the soup to a boil or the cheese and cream will curdle.

Serves 8

This soup does wonders on a cold winter day. Serve it with a sandwich for a full and delicious meal.

The Convenience Of A Pressure Cooker

2010-06-22T02:01:00.000-07:00

Having a pressure cooker is so convenient. You can conjure up tasty meals in no time and treat your family to tasty wholesome homemade meals even if you have been away all day! With a pressure cooker such as the Cuisinart CPC 600 Electric Pressure Cooker you will have no problems with any meal.

To give you an idea, here is a tasty recipe to try:

Fiery Vegetable Stew

What You Need:

2 yellow onions, chopped
1 T of garlic, chopped
5 1/2 C of chicken broth
2 C Swiss chard, chopped
1 C dried chick peas soak overnight
1 C of dried cannellini beans, soak overnight
1/4 C tomato puree
2 carrots, chopped
2 white turnips, chopped
1 fresh red chili pepper, chopped

How to Make It:

Spray the cooker lightly with a non stick cooking spray.
Place the onion and garlic into the cooker.
Cook until just beginning to brown.
Pour the chicken broth into the cooker.
Add the chard, soaked chick peas and soaked beans.
Stir in the tomato puree.
Add the carrots, turnips and chili pepper.
Bring the cooker to high pressure.
Cook for 25 minutes then let the pressure fall on its own.

Stews are a great place to hide vegetables. Cut them into small pieces and they will never know they are there. This stew can be made without the chili pepper if you prefer a not so spicy version.

Makes 10 servings

Prevention Of Yeast Infection

2010-06-21T01:59:00.000-07:00

If you suffer from a yeast infection very often you will be wondering about the Prevention Of Yeast Infection.

Yes, we all know that sometimes that is not possible such as a yeast infection after a course of antibiotics, yet there are ways you can even try and use the easy for Prevention Of Yeast Infection and you may actually prevent it.

Most of the times we get a yeast infection that can be labeled "self-induced" yeast infection. This means that there are some things in our lifestyle that are causing the repeated yeast infections.

I do not think many people are aware of how everyday activities can cause a yeast infection. Think of things like the food you eat, the clothes your wear and how you take your bath or shower!

Who would have thought that these everyday activities can be the culprits? Well they can be, and there is actually quite a few more that can also play a role in your frequent yeast infections.

So, looking at your lifestyle and changing the habits that are making you more prone to yeast infection is well worth the effort! So go to the page Prevention Of Yeast Infection to read more about how you can, really, prevent a yeast infection. The prevention of yeast infection is possible!

Making Pumpkin Yeast Rolls with one of the Kitchenaid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixers Easily!

2010-06-18T01:42:00.000-07:00

Who says pumpkin is only for the winter? Here in South Africa pumpkin is almost a staple food! To show you have easy it is to do mixing of dough with one of the kitchenaid artisan 5-quart stand mixers, here is a tasty recipe for Pumpkin Yeast Rolls you can try. If you like them, keep the recipe handy for Thanksgiving and Christmas!

Pumpkin Yeast Rolls

What You Need:

1 (1/4oz.) pkg. active dry yeast
1/3 C sugar, divided
3/4 C milk, lukewarm
7 C all-purpose flour
1 tsp. fresh nutmeg, grated
1 tsp. salt
1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
1 lg. egg, slightly beaten
2 C pumpkin puree
1 lg. egg yolk only
1 TBSP water

How to Make It:

Pour the yeast and 1 tsp. of sugar into the lukewarm milk.
Cover and allow to rest 5 minutes or until the mixture becomes foamy.
Place the flour in a large mixing bowl and add the remaining sugar, nutmeg and salt.
Add the butter pieces and mix with an electric mixer, such as one of the Kitchenaid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixers, on low speed until the mixture becomes coarse.
Break the egg into the mixture and fold in the pumpkin puree.
Add the yeast mixture and work with your hands until a soft dough forms.
Place the dough on a flat and lightly floured surface.
Knead the dough for 8 minutes or until it has an elastic but smooth texture.
Add flour a little at a time if necessary to keep the dough from sticking to the surface.
Butter a large bowl on the bottom and up the sides.
Form the dough into a ball and place in the bowl and coat dough completely with butter.
Cover the bowl and allow the dough to rise to twice its size, about 1 hour.
Divide the dough into 12 pieces.
Butter a spring form pan well.
Place the dough pieces in the pan, cover and place in a warm area and allow them to rise for 45 minutes.
Heat the oven temperature to 350 degrees.
Place the egg yolk in a bowl and add the water and whisk until combined.
Brush the dough pieces all over with the egg wash.
Bake the rolls 35 minutes or until a light golden brown.

12 Servings

These can be made a week ahead of time, wrapped well and frozen until ready to use. To reheat, wrap in foil and place in a 325 degree oven for 20 minutes.

Ideas For A Inexpensive Baby Shower Favor

2010-06-04T01:34:00.000-07:00

Very often we think about the baby shower invitations too late. Now you have spent a lot of money on the baby shower and you are looking for the perfect inexpensive baby shower favor. Well, help is at hand. The price of the favor will depend on you and your ingenuity!

These baby shower party favors need not be expensive. They can be simple things that you can order in bulk, and then personalized for the celebration.

When you are looking at a inexpensive baby shower party favor, make sure that you also consider the theme of the baby shower. It is best if the inexpensive baby shower favor fall in with the baby shower theme.

If your theme has something to do about fairy tales, cartoon characters, animals or toys, your baby shower favors may be a miniature version of these toys.

If you haven't selected a theme or would like to have a baby shower favor that is not all that related to the theme, here are some ideas to help you:

* Chocolates and Cookies

If you have some baking skills, this is the recommended baby shower party favor. These do not cost much if you bake them yourself. Placing an order for these is also an option, however, that may take a considerable part of your budget.

You can have chocolates and cookies personalized by shaping them into baby item shapes. You can have rattle-, baby shoes-, book-, or teddy bear-shaped pastries.

You can wraps these in fancy papers of foils and tie these in blue or pink ribbons.

* Soaps

These are becoming popular baby shower party favors. You can choose fragrant soaps and wrap them in decorative papers, or place them in decorative gift boxes or bags.

You can also make homemade soaps and shape them into baby-related items. Or you can purchase regular soap bars and carve them into baby shapes. Just make sure the soaps are hard enough that these won't crack when you start carving them.

* Picture frames

These are one of the most popular baby shower party favors. If the baby shower party is done are the baby is delivered, you can also include your baby's picture in the frame. The picture frames can be in small sizes that can be purchased at low prices.

* Figurines

Instead of picture frames, figurines are also good options. You can choose figurines that represent your theme. Angel, teddy bear and baby figurines are also popular.

* Candles

Candles as baby shower party favors are usually colored blue or pink. You may also opt to have fragrant candles. Candles can be purchased in bulk or you can also make your own candles. This even allows you to personalize the color, size, shape and fragrance.

Some candles can also come in reusable glass candleholders that can serve as decorative items.

These are just some of the options for an inexpensive baby shower party favor. Surely, you can think of more option or personalize these to fit your chosen theme.

Nevertheless, whatever baby shower party favor you have chosen, make sure that you have included thank you note on the baby shower party favor. The thank you note should include the date, the name of the baby (or the parent's names), and a message of thanks.

Everything You Need To Know About Wind Turbines - Is It Wise To Build A DIY Wind Turbine?

2010-06-03T02:30:00.000-07:00

Saving money and helping the planet is something we all want to do. One of the biggest expenses households face are utility bills. It is no wonder that people are looking for ways to cut those bills can be as easy as building a DIY wind turbine. So here is everything you need to know about wind turbines.

Your average normal person can easily build their own turbine. The kids would probably enjoy being part of the project. This can be an opportunity for some family time as well as being a good example of environmental responsibility.

Having your own turbine can save a lot of money on energy bills, but it won't work for every body.

This list will give you some things to think about and should help you decide if you want to build our own turbine:

1. Buying a turbine isn't the way to go for most people since it will cost thousands of dollars. But building your own makes a lot of sense, you will only spend around $200.

2. You don't have to be a carpenter or engineer to undertake this project. Virtually anyone can build their own turbine.

3. All the parts you'll need to assemble your turbine can be bought right at your local hardware store.

4. One turbine won't be enough to allow you to get off the grid, but it can supply over half of the energy needs of the average household.

5. In order to get the maximum benefit from your turbine you will need to have an open area where it can get wind without being obstructed by trees or buildings.

And of course, the amount of electricity that your turbine can generate will depend on the amount of wind you get as well as the wind speeds.

The list above should provide you with most of the information you need to help you determine whether building your own DIY wind turbine makes sense. You can now determine if it suits your needs and your location.

Green Power - What Is?

2010-06-02T01:44:00.000-07:00

With the continuing rise of utility costs many people are opening their minds to the concept of green power, a free, renewable and Earth friendly power source. Green power is the ultimate of all the going green tips for home.

Many homeowners simply don't realize that they have options. The days of being locked into a relationship with your monopoly of a utility company are over.

Thanks in large part to advances in technology there are viable sources of renewable energy available to any homeowner for little initial investment.

The old perception of energy sources such as solar panels, and wind turbines of being expensive, hard to maintain eyesores is simply not true.

Today's technology has made it possible for turbines and solar panels to come in many shapes and sizes and the maintenance and upkeep of these units is not more difficult that a 'traditional' heating and cooling unit.

While both wind and solar power are viable options, wind will be the better choice for many homeowners. Not everyone lives in a sunny climate and even if you do there is still a little thing called 'night'.

But virtually every area has wind. And wind power can be generated day or night.

The only potential drawback of a wind turbine is that you will need a fairly open space. But even if you have a lot of trees, it might still be possible to mount your turbine on your roof or on a tall column.

It is very easy and inexpensive to build your own turbine. You can do it for less than $300. You won't need any special parts or skills. All the parts you will need can be found in any hardware store.

If you buy a turbine be aware that they don't produce more electricity than a home made turbine yet the initial investment is considerably more so it will take you much longer to get your money back.

All in all there are many excellent reasons for using green power. If you thought it was out of reach, think again, you will be pleasantly surprised.

The Perfect Baby Shower Ideas

2010-06-01T01:26:00.000-07:00

A very good way to lessen the anticipation of the parents is having a baby shower. This is one of the most feasible ways to cut back the long-wait. So, of course, if you are organizing the baby shower you will be looking at ideas for baby shower themes.

The purpose of a baby shower is to give the mommy-to-be gift in preparation for the baby’s arrival. Normally a relative or friend of the mommy-to-be is the one who organizes the party.

The basic purpose of organizing baby showers is to help the parents manage and organize the items needed for the baby’s due arrival. It is also one way of celebrating the joy and excitement of having a new member in the family — the baby.

Hence, it is important for the organizer to come up with ideas for baby shower themes that the organizer thinks would best suit the mother’s personality or the tone of the occasion. And because it is a happy occasion, themes that will be use in the ideas for baby shower themes should reflect the joy and happiness being felt by everybody.

In reality, coming up with a good theme for the baby shower can be very tedious for the organizers. There are so many considerations that you have to take into account before deciding on a specific theme. Best of all, it has to suit the gender of the baby.

Planning for the baby shower and getting some solid information for remarkable ideas for baby shower themes would be a lot easier if the sex of the baby is known. It really helps a lot.

If you know the sex of the baby you will be able to know which colors to use, what kind of games to play, and what ideas for baby shower themes to integrate.

Where to Get Ideas For Baby Shower Themes?

For most people, coming up with great baby shower ideas is a breeze. They can easily think of something that can be really appealing.

However, there are people who really cannot generate feasible and remarkable baby shower ideas. And so, it is best that they seek the help of some magazines, advice from relatives and friends, and the Internet.

Indeed, with the advent of information technology, coming up with a notable baby shower idea is not difficult. With tons of web sites that cater to those who are planning to organize a baby shower, you can never run out of great ideas for baby shower themes.

Boiled down, people should always remember that whatever ideas for baby shower themes they will use in the party, it is best to reflect the joy and happiness of everybody for the baby’s arrival.

What Are The Characteristics Of Fad Diet Plans?

2010-05-31T01:05:00.000-07:00

With summer vacation coming and all that revealing beach wear coming to mind, many are trying to shed a few pounds very fast. It is in a time such as this that many of us fall for one of the Fad Diet Plans.

To prevent this it is a very good idea to know the characteristics of fad diet plans. Keep in mind that there are many dangers associated with fad diet plans and that the few pounds you can lose in a very short time is going to cost you dearly in the long run!

Characteristics of fad diet plans:

You are only allowed to eat very few calories per day
You are not allowed to do any exercise while you are on the diet
You have to eat mainly one kind of food for the duration of the diet
You are only allowed to stay on the diet for a very limited amount of time
You will always see the promise of very unrealistic weight loss that is possible according to the propaganda for the diet

So, if you notice the above points in a diet that you read about or a diet a friend tells you about, you can be pretty sure it is one of the many Fad Diet Plans and that you should steer clear of it.

Wind Power Will Cut Energy Bills

2010-05-28T02:00:00.000-07:00

The list for cutting energy bills is almost unlimited. One of the excellent ways to cut energy bills is by making use of wind power, yes, wind power will cut energy bills. None of the products needed to cut energy bills cost very much. It won't take much money at all to winterize my home.

But I'm looking for more, I don't want to have to buy my electricity from the utility company. I want to make my own, and after some research I've found that I can easily generate about 60% of the electricity my home needs.

Wind power has now become feasible for home use. The technology behind wind turbines has improved to the point where even a small turbine can generate decent amounts of electricity.

Just one turbine can save me around 80% off of my utility bill, and the best part, I can build it myself for only a couple hundred dollars.

I just need to get a manual that will walk me through the process, step by step, take a trip to my hardware store to buy the parts, and invest a few hours of time to build it.

I don't need any special skills or tools, which is good since I don't have any!

So I decided that the best way to cut energy bills this winter, and for years in the future, was to spend some money on caulk, insulation, window kits, etc, but to also build my own home wind turbine as I know for sure that wind power will cut energy bills. After all, what I really want is to be able to kiss my utility company goodbye forever!

Is It Possible To Make A Homemade Water Filter?

2010-05-27T05:44:00.000-07:00

Most of us are really becoming very worried about the quality of our tap water. This is the reason why so many are asking the question: "Is it possible to make a homemade water filter?" Well the short and easy answer is yes and you will be surprised at how easy it really is.

Saving you money is obviously one of the important reasons you are thinking about it. We all know buying a water filter can be an expensive exercise and maybe making your own is just as good an option.

Many people turn to buying bottled water. There are two very good reasons why this is not a good idea. The first is that it can be very expensive in the long run. Remember if you are going to go with bottled water you will have to use it in your cooking as well!

The second reason why bottled water is not a good idea is because very often bottled water is contaminated as well. Simply because it is "spring" water does not mean it is clean and healthy enough for us to drink. There may be many reason why the source of the water may be contaminating the water.

So, for the health of your family I think it is a very good idea to look into the possibility of making your own homemade water filter.

Acrylic Paint Sets Are They A Good Idea?

2010-05-04T01:30:00.000-07:00

Artists love to work with acrylic paint as it is very versatile and there are so many techniques you can use for amazing effects. If you have not used acrylics getting one of the Acrylic Paint Sets is a good idea.

With one of the Acrylic Paint Sets you get a variety of colors to start of with. Then once you know how to work with the acrylics you can buy the specific colors you need for a project.

If you are new to acrylic paint you will want to know how to paint with acrylic paint and then an acrylic paint set will come in handy to start you off. So with your brushes etc. you will be able to answer your question of how to paint with acrylic paint.

Even though artist love acrylic paint there is a problem with acrylics in that the paint dries out very quickly. Fortunately there is a solution for that as well. You can get a Moisture Retaining Palette that will keep your acrylics moist for longer. So, with a moisture retaining palette you have less wastage.

Another resource that will come in very handy if you are thinking about acrylic painting is a book called Acrylic Revolution: New Tricks And Techniques For Working With The World’s Most Versatile Medium. This is an excellent source for novices and accomplished artist alike. The book cover everything from the basics of choosing your paints and brushes to a variety of exceptional techniques you can use to get all the effects you wish.

So, if you are wondering about acrylic paints you can have a look at:

How To Paint With Acrylic Paint
Acrylic Paint Sets
Moisture Retaining Palette
Acrylic Revolution: New Tricks And Techniques For Working With The World’s Most Versatile Medium

How To Improve Ballet Turnout

2010-05-03T00:55:00.000-07:00

Are you wondering how to improve ballet turnout? I know the feeling. Especially if you started ballet late in life your turnout can be a problem.

I think the most important thing to keep in mind if you are wondering about how to improve ballet turnout, is that you should not force it. If you force your turnout it ill only result in a very bad "roll."

You have to keep in mind that your ballet turnout is a part of your over all technique. The turnout starts in your hips and does not only involve your feet. This is important to keep in mind.

One way to improve your ballet turnout is to practice. As the old saying goes "practice makes perfect!" Only problem is, you May practice in bad technique including a turnout with a terrible "roll."

What to do? Well, the best id to get a good guide to help you if you are looking at how to improve ballet turnout. The guide must include photos of the correct way of doing every exercise as well as the wrong way.

The reason for this is that you should be aware of the possible mistakes you can make in order to prevent yourself from making them.

If the guide also includes videos it is even better. Watching every step done in the correct way before you practice it at home is idea.

If know of a guide that does just that, it is called the Ballet Bible. If you want to read more about how to improve ballet turnout, have a look at the Ballet Bible.

DIY Wind Power- What You Need To Know

2010-05-01T04:37:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for ways to save money on your utility bills this winter and were wondering if DIY wind power is really a viable option, this article is for you. I will briefly explain what wind power is and what Energy Generating Windmills can and cannot do.

First of all a simple explanation of what energy generating windmills are, is that they convert energy from wind into electricity which can than be used immediately or stored for later use.

Technology will continue to advance and make this process even more efficient in the years to come, but even now the process is efficient enough to allow this form of energy to be used for households.

Many people who have installed their own wind turbines (energy generating windmills) have seen savings on their utility bills of up to 80%. Take that amount out over the next 20 years and you can see that the savings will be huge.

When it comes to a small, household wind turbine your only real option is to do it yourself. Buying one and paying to have it installed just isn't cost effective and it will take you years to recoup that investment.

But if you build it yourself you can recoup your investment in a matter of months. There are manuals you can buy that will walk you through the process of building your own turbine and you don't need any special skills or knowledge.

The parts you need to build your own turbine can be purchased at any hardware store for less than $300. The whole assembly process will take anywhere from a few days to a week depending on how much time you can devote to the project everyday.

All in all DIY wind power is a great way for you to save money on your utility bills as well as have the feeling of pride and independence that comes from doing something yourself.

Easy Baby Shower Menu Ideas

2010-04-30T01:00:00.000-07:00

When you are thinking about food for a Baby Shower it is best to keep the Baby Shower Menu Ideas simple. Do not make things more difficult for yourself than they have to be.

For a fun baby shower it is important that the food is tasty, that is true, but many simple and easy Baby Shower Menu Ideas can still be tasty and fun. Concentrate on the other aspects of the baby shower and keep the food simple.

One way of keeping things simple is by making full use of any kitchen appliances you have. Think of dishes that can be made easily in any of the appliances you have and plan your menu around those.

On the other hand, if it is summer and you are having the baby shower outside, serving cold dishes is a very good idea. What I suggest then is serving only one hot course and making the rest cold.

If you have a slow cooker such as a Cuisinart PSC 350 3 1 2 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, that is a three and a half quart slow cooker, you can serve a hot soup as a starter, for instance, and follow it with a cold main course. For your main course you can serve a variety of cold cuts, salad and fresh homemade bread.

Cold cuts does not have to work our expensive as you can make roasts etc. yourself and then slice them with a slicer such as a the Chef's Choice 632 International Gourmet Varitilt Electric Food Slicer. The fresh homemade bread can be made in a breadmaker such as the Cuisinart CBK 100 Programmable Breadmaker. For all the chopping you can use a food processor as one of the Cuisinart 11 Cup Pro Custom 11 Food Processors.

And the last appliance that can come in handy is an ice cream maker such as a Cuisinart ICE-50BC Supreme Ice Cream Maker. With this ice cream maker you can make tasty homemade ice cream in no time.

Ok, so none of us have this many kitchen appliances in our kitchens. I know, but I am only trying to show you how you should think about Baby Shower Menu Ideas. The idea is to make it as easy as possible and as stress free as possible so that you can enjoy it with your guests.

Remember, tasty food is preferable to "fancy" food that does not taste that good. A hearty meal will always be preferred over something exceptional the does not really taste all that good.

There is one more thing to keep in mind when you are thinking about Baby Shower Menu Ideas, what the mommy-to-be can eat. Ask her if there is any food that does not agree with her and make sure you do not serve it.

As far as alcohol is concerned you also have to check with her if she will be comfortable with the guests having wine with their meal while she is not allowed to use any alcohol.

So, by keeping these few suggestions in mind you should not have a problem coming up with easy Baby Shower Menu Ideas.

What About Baby Shower Thank You Cards?

2010-04-28T00:40:00.000-07:00

You are organizing a baby shower for your best friend. You are doing everything for the party, but you are unsure about the Baby Shower Thank You Cards. Do you have to provide the Baby Shower Thank You Cards or not?

Well, I think the best answer to this is it depends. What I mean, if the mommy-to-be is a person that loves writing little notes to her friends. Or if the mommy to be is a creative person that loves creating she may want to make the Baby Shower Thank You Cards.

On the other hand if she is stressed out, having a lot on her mind because of the pregnancy and more, she may really appreciate it if you supply her with suitable Baby Shower Thank You Cards, addressed and everything, only waiting for her signature to be posted.

So, you will have to rely on your knowledge of the mommy-to-be when you make this decision. If you do make them it is a good opportunity to make sure the Baby Shower Thank You Cards tunes in with the theme and "feel" of the Baby
Shower.

When designing the Baby Shower Thank You Cards it is good idea to use the same images and more that you used for the Baby Shower Invitations and to only add "Thank You" to it with a note inside thanking the guests for their gifts.

So, if you have to, fish a little and find out if the mommy to be will be glad if you supply her with the Baby Shower Thank You Cards or whether she would prefer making them herself.

Latch Hook Kits Are A Fun And Easy Craft For All

2010-04-27T02:41:00.000-07:00

Latch hooking is an easy and fun craft. It is a craft suitable for all ages and you can make really treasured items with this easy technique. That is why Latch Hook Kits are such a good idea.

With Latch Hook Kits you get all the materials you need to make a complete item. This saves you the trouble of having to get a lot of different supplies probably in quantities that are too much for what you need.

I think latch hook kits are a good way to start because they give you the opportunity to see if you and your kids enjoy the craft before you go to the trouble of getting all the supplies you will need.

Kids love making soft toys and with a kit such as The M.C.G Latch Hook Fit Huggables Stuffed 15” Monkey kit any kid will fall in love with the latch hooking craft.

The M.C.G Latch Hook Fit Huggables Stuffed 15” Monkey kit includes all the materials you will need to make this adorable monkey. This kit is of high quality and good value for money. It would make a fantastic gift for any child who loves to create things.

So, go to Latch Hook Kits to read more about the M.C.G Latch Hook Fit Huggables Stuffed 15” Monkey kit

Alternative Cheese Fondue Recipe

2010-04-26T00:39:00.000-07:00

Fondue is always a hit. It is fun sitting around the fondue table and visit. Swiss fondue is a very simple cheese fondue, but it is also possible to make and alternative fondue that does not have wine in it. If you have a fondue pot such as the Cuisinart CFO 3SS Electric Fondue Maker you can make this recipe from scratch in your fondue pot.

Alternative Cheese Fondue Recipe:

Ingredients for your alternative cheese recipe:

6 Eggs
6 Tablespoons grated cheddar or any other strong cheese
4 Tablespoons butter (do not substitute margarine for the butter)
Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

Beat the eggs lightly
Add the egg to your Cuisinart CFO 3SS Electric Fondue Maker
Add the freshly grated cheese and the butter
Stir until the cheese has melted
Season with salt and pepper to taste
Serve with fresh crusty bread (with a breadmaker such as the Cuisinart CBK 100 Programmable Breadmaker you can set it to "dark crust")

Serve your fondue with ice cold white wine. If you do not have a fondue pot such as the Cuisinart CFO 3SS Electric Fondue Maker you can of course prepare the fondue on the stove before transferring it to your fondue bowl.

Tasty Cheesy Chicken Soup With Fresh Homemade Bread

2010-04-24T03:12:00.000-07:00

Making a soup in a Cuisinart PSC 350 3 1 2 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker and serving it with fresh homemade bread made in a Cuisinart CBK 100 Programmable Breadmaker can be a really good option for a busy mom.

Why I like the Cuisinart CBK 100 Programmable Breadmaker so much is because you can program it for when you want the bread to be ready. The Cuisinart CBK 100 Programmable Breadmaker is programmable up to a 13 hours delay start.

So, you program it and the Cuisinart CBK 100 Programmable Breadmaker starts the bread on the correct time for the bread to be ready when you want it to be ready. This is the convenience of a programmable breadmaker.

The Cuisinart CBK 100 Programmable Breadmaker comes with a recipe book so you will have a variety of breads you can make in it.

So, I'll not give you a bread recipe as I cannot really improve on the Cuisinart CBK 100 Programmable Breadmaker's recipes. But here is a recipe for the soup you want to serve with the fresh homemade bread.

Cheesy Chicken Soup Recipe

What You Need:

3 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
2 (11 oz) cans cream of chicken soup
1 (11 oz) can cheddar cheese soup
1/4 tsp. garlic salt
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper

How to Make It:

Place the garlic salt, salt and pepper in a mixing bowl.
Combine well.
Season the chicken breasts with the mixture.
Place the chicken in the crock pot.
Pour the cream of chicken soup over the top.
Add the cheddar cheese soup.
No need to add water or milk.
Cover and cook on low 8 hours.
Do not remove the lid during cooking because the steam helps the soup to become creamy.

Tip: This recipe is so simple to do. Serve it with a salad for a hearty meal.

Quick Dinner With Your Cuisinart CPC 600 Electric Pressure Cooker

2010-04-24T03:05:00.000-07:00

With today's busy life cooking dinner can very often be a big problem. It is easy to solve the problem though, with a Cuisinart CPC 600 Electric Pressure Cooker. With a Cuisinart CPC 600 Electric Pressure Cooker it is possible to have dinner on the table very quickly.

To give you an idea of the tasty meals you will be able to prepare in a Cuisinart CPC 600 Electric Pressure Cooker, here is a recipe for a All in One Veggie Casserole.

You will not be able to place the pressure cooker in water for the quick release, of course, but you will use the pressure release function.

All in One Veggie Casserole Recipe:

What You Need:

2 C of water
1/2 C of fresh cauliflower florets
1/2 C of fresh carrots
1/2 C frozen peas
1/2 C of onion
1/4 C of red pepper, sliced
1/4 t of pepper
1/2 t of salt
2 T fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make It:

Place a trivet inside the pressure cooker then add the water.
Generously grease a casserole dish.
Layer the cauliflower, carrots, peas, onion and red pepper slices into the dish.
Sprinkle with the salt and pepper.
Tightly cover the dish with foil.
Place the dish on the trivet in the cooker.
Quickly bring the cooker to high pressure and cook for 2 minutes.
Use the quick release method under cold water to release the pressure.
Remove the casserole and sprinkle evenly with the parsley just before serving.

Want to make this recipe from frozen vegetables? It's easy just substitute frozen corn for the cauliflower, frozen pearl onions for the regular onions, frozen carrots for the fresh carrots and frozen French style green beans for the red pepper. Fresh broccoli may be substituted for the cauliflower if you prefer.

Makes 4 servings

So, grab your Cuisinart CPC 600 Electric Pressure Cooker and try this recipe.

Acrylic Revolution: New Tricks and Techniques for Working with the World’s Most Versatile Medium

2010-04-23T00:36:00.000-07:00

Acrylic paint is a well loved by artists because it is the most versatile medium. With a book such as Acrylic Revolution: New Tricks and Techniques for Working with the World’s Most Versatile Medium you will be able to make far more than you can ever imagine.

Acrylic Revolution: New Tricks and Techniques for Working with the World’s Most Versatile Medium is an easy to follow step by step guide to the techniques you can use with acrylic paint.

You will learn a variety of techniques; some will be techniques you would never have thought about. But, that is not all, it is also a guide with the basics you need it you want to paint with acrylic paints.

With Acrylic Revolution: New Tricks and Techniques for Working with the World’s Most Versatile Medium you will learn how to select materials, how to clean your brushes, preserve your artwork and other interesting topics.

Take the time to explore the wide range of techniques in the book and I'm sure you will find the techniques that works for you and for the kinds of painting you do. With Acrylic Revolution: New Tricks and Techniques for Working with the World’s Most Versatile Medium you will enter a new world where you can explore.

You must not make the mistake to think Acrylic Revolution: New Tricks and Techniques for Working with the World’s Most Versatile Medium is only for beginners, it is a reference resource that every artist should have in his or here library.

Easy And Simple Cinnamon Ice Cream Recipe

2010-04-22T01:49:00.000-07:00

Cinnamon ice cream is really one of my favorite ones. In South Africa we all love cinnamon and we use if in just about everything, so why not in ice cream.

Now this a an easy and simple cinnamon ice cream recipe for a person that does not have an ice cream machine such as a Cuisinart ICE-50BC Supreme Ice Cream Maker or the more expensive, but super, Lello Musso Lussino 4080 Ice Cream Maker.

What You Need For This Easy Cinnamon Ice Cream Recipe:

1/2 gallon vanilla ice cream, softened
3 1/2 t ground cinnamon

How to Make It This Easy Cinnamon Ice Cream:

Place the softened ice cream into a mixing bowl.
Sprinkle the cinnamon over the ice cream.
Stir until the cinnamon is blended in well.
Return the ice cream to its original container or place in a bowl covered with plastic wrap.
Freeze at least 4 hours or until firm.

Makes 1/2 gallon

This is the cheaters way of making cinnamon ice cream fast. If you have recipe for homemade vanilla ice cream add the cinnamon before placing the ice cream in the freezer canister to freeze.

Obviously if you have a ice cream maker such as the Cuisinart ICE-50BC Supreme Ice Cream Maker or the Lello Musso Lussino 4080 Ice Cream Maker you will add the cinnamon with the other ingredients in your machine.

Easy Shredded Cabbage and Beef Soup Recipe

2010-04-21T02:04:00.000-07:00

Making a soup with ingredients that takes a lot of chopping can really make life difficult. So, if you have to chop, chop, chop you are not going to make it, even if you can cook it in a low cooker and come home to a fully cooked meal!

So, for this recipe to be really easy to make you really need a food processor such as the Cuisinart 11-Cup Pro Custom 11 Food Processors to make light work of the chopping.

Other than that this soup cannot be easier to make. You can put it in the slow cooker, after the Cuisinart 11-Cup Pro Custom 11 Food Processors made light work of the chopping, and forget about it and go to work and come back to a fully cooked meal.

This is quite a big recipe, so if you want to make it in the Cuisinart PSC 350 3 1 2 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker you will have to half the recipe.

I love the Cuisinart PSC 350 3 1 2 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker because it is programmable up to 24 hours and when the cooking time is over it switches to "warm" to keep the food hot without overcooking it.

If you have a big family though, you may have to look at a bigger slow cooker such as the West Bend Slow Cooker, and more specifically to the West Bend 84716 Versatility 6 Quart Oval Slo Cooker that will be big enough for the full recipe.

Choosing between these two is purely a matter of the size of your family and which functions are the most important to you.

OK, enough of the ramblings, here is your Easy Shredded Cabbage and Beef Soup Recipe:

Shredded Cabbage and Beef Soup

What You Need:

4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
1 lb cooked ground beef, crumbled
1 onion, chopped
3 white potatoes, cubed
4 C cabbage shredded
3 C vegetable broth
1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 t salt
1/2 t pepper

How to Make It:

Place the cooked bacon and ground beef into the crock pot and stir slightly to incorporate the ingredients together.
Add the onion, potatoes and cabbage.
Stir in the vegetable broth until all the ingredients are completely combined.
Gently stir in the diced tomatoes.
Sprinkle in the salt and pepper and stir to incorporate.
Cover and cook on the low temperature setting 8 hours.

Serving Size: 8

Beef or chicken broth can be used in place of the vegetable broth. Adjust the amount of salt to 1/2 t if you use a meat based broth. These types of broth can sometimes be a little salty.

Tasty Chilled Cucumber Soup Recipe

2010-04-20T00:52:00.000-07:00

In summer, serving a tasty chilled soup is always a very good idea. What is such a lot of fun is that you do not only have to make chilled soup from vegetables, but a chilled fruit Soup is also very tasty. So, you can have a look at some Chilled Fruit Soup Recipes when you go to: Chilled Fruit Soup Recipes.

Here I am going to give you the recipe for a chilled, jellied cucumber soup that makes a great starter for a special dinner.

Chilled Cucumber Soup Recipe

Ingredients for the chilled cucumber soup recipe:

4 Cups of chicken stock, preferably a homemade Chicken Stock
1/4Cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
4 Teaspoons gelatin
11/2 Cup chopped cucumber
1/4 Cup cold water
Salt and pepper to taste
A drop of green food coloring
Lemon slices for garnishing

Method:

Soak the gelatin in the cold water
Dissolve this mixture in the hot chicken stock
Add the lemon juice
Color it very carefully with a very small amount of green coloring ( you really have to be careful as it can very easily be too dark)
Season with salt and pepper to taste
Allow the mixture to cool and become thick without actually setting
Peel the cucumber, remove the pips and chop the cucumber into very small pieces
Fold the cucumber into the gelatin mixture
Add more salt and pepper if necessary
Allow the mixture to set
Break the set gelatin mixture into small pieces for serving and serve the soup in chilled bowls decorated with lemon slices.

As a variation you can also use a dollop of cream as a garnish.

So this, this chilled cucumber soup recipe makes a good variation from the normal chilled cucumber soup recipes.

How To Improve Ballet Technique

2010-04-19T01:04:00.000-07:00

I often here people asking the question: "how to improve ballet technique?" It is often the problem of people starting ballet later in life. You are behind and you are probably moving up in the different grades too fast.

This can result in bad technique making you ask this question about how to improve ballet technique. The good news is that it is possible. With the right help, in the form of books, photos and videos you can work at home to improve your technique.

Personally I have gone through this as I only started ballet late in life and I moved up WAY to fast. With hard work and a lot of practice at home, paying attention to my technique, I was able to do my elementary examination while I was already pregnant with my first son. So, it can be done!

The big problem with exercising at home is that it is very easy to practice in bad technique making things even worse. That is why I said you need to have good info and videos and photos to make sure you are practicing in the correct technique.

When you are wondering about how to improve ballet technique make sure you get the best resources available when you practice ballet technique at home. You also have to practice your technique with a lot of attention. You have to make sure you are doing EVERYTHING correct or you will simply be practicing in BAD technique making things worse.

Having a look at a resource such as The Ballet Bible is a very good idea. With The Ballet Bible you get all you need to train at home with complete safety, providing you pay attention, of course!

So, if you are wondering about How To Improve Ballet Technique, having a look at The Ballet Bible is a very good idea.

3 Stumbling Blocks On The Road To Weight Loss

2010-04-17T01:42:00.000-07:00

With the summer on its way we are all thinking about summer vacation, sun sea and beach! Only problem, we need to lose a few pounds. So, what are the stumbling blocks on the road to weight loss that can prevent you from losing those few pounds before you have to appear on the beach with your swimsuit?

Well, there are many. I think though that one of the most important ones to mention first is unrealistic expectations. So if you are saying I cannot lose weight, it is possible that you are stumbling over this stumbling block of unrealistic expectations.

So, if you are saying I cannot lose weight - stumbling block #2 on the road to weight loss is skipping meals. Stumbling block #2 on the road to weight loss is skipping meals. It may sound strange, but in desperation you can start skipping meals and them you are definitely going to stumble over this stumbling block on the road to weight loss.

The 3rd stumbling block on the road to weight loss I want to look at is weekends. So for today, stumbling block on the road to weight loss #3 is weekends. It is so easy to throw all your good intentions overboard when the weekend comes. During the week you are busy at work and school, but weekend when you are socializing it becomes very difficult to stick to a diet.

If you want to know more about all these and other stumbling blocks on the road to weight loss you can find a list here: Stumbling Blocks On The Road To Weight Loss List

Great Ideas for Baby Shower Invitations and Baby Shower Invitations Wording

2010-04-16T01:48:00.000-07:00

What ever the theme of the baby shower is, there are certain things to keep in mind with the baby shower invitations wording. Certain things have to be part of the baby shower invitations wording no matter what else.

The starting point for planning a baby shower is by preparing the invitations and that is when you have to start thinking about the baby shower invitations wording. These invitations can be hand-made, printed, even ordered online. This all depends on the person in charge of planning the baby shower. Of course mom-to-be will love to be involved in choosing the perfect theme for the baby shower, be it for a girl or a boy.

Here are some great ideas to create baby shower invites to prepare for that oh-so-fun baby shower:

1. Create you own invitations and have total control over the baby shower invitations wording.

First, think of a theme for the party. Do you want to have a Disney-inspired baby shower? Or you might want to have an animal theme. Whatever motif you decide on, make sure that the invitations you will send out will reflect the main theme.

One specific idea is to attach the printed invitations to pacifiers or tie them with a ribbon and put them inside feeding bottles or powder puff canisters. Place them inside any baby accessory that you think will be useful. They can be in pink or blue, or both, if you do not know the baby's gender yet. These items can even be brought to the party by the guest for the mother to use after she gives birth.

2. 2-in-1 invitation ala give-away.

You can print out the details of when and where the baby shower will be held and put them in mini-picture frames. These would make great invitations, and can be kept as after-party souvenirs. Make sure that the frames reflect the theme of the party as well.

3. Personalize your invites.

A baby shower is not just a tribute to the boy or girl who is about to be born, but it also celebrates the joys and sacrifices of the mom-to-be. She is the one who deserves to have a break from taking care of the baby in her womb for the past months.

You can think of ways to show the mother’s personality on the invitations that you will give out. One web site offers unique baby shower invitations, with names like “Polka Dot Mama”, “Hip Mama” and “Tummy Love”. You can also use the mom’s work, for example, as a party theme.

If the mom-to-be dabbles in writing, you can use children’s books as invites; just stick a huge bookmark in it, where the details of the baby shower will be printed. For a mother who is a chef, or who just plain loves to cook, you can create mini-chef hats which can be made of cloth, paper or felt and just stick the invite in front.

4. Order the invitations online.

If you are in a hurry and do not have the time to make the invitations yourself, you can order them online. There are a lot of web sites where you can view samples of baby shower invites. If you have not thought of a theme yet, you can also get great ideas from these web sites. You can even download ready-made invitations, just change the wordings and print out copies in specialized paper, then, voila, you now have your own personalized baby shower invites.

There are hundreds of possibilities on how to create your special baby shower invitations. Just let your imagination run wild and you will surely come up with the perfect theme for that baby shower that is bound to be fun for everybody. The only thing to keep in mind is that the baby shower invitations wording must contain all the necessary information.

Tasty Holiday Southern Pecan Pie

2010-04-15T01:16:00.000-07:00

There were times when baking involved a lot of beating with a wooden spoon, not so anymore! Today we get amazing stand mixers that can do far more than they used to.

A mixer such as the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixers makes easy work of all baking, including the cream of butter and sugar and the mixing of bread dough. So, we now do not have to hesitate when we see a tasty recipe needing a lot of beating.

For you try your brand new KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixers out on, here is a tasty holiday Southern Pecan Pie recipe.

Southern Pecan Pie

What You Need:

1 (9 in) unbaked pie crust
3 eggs
2/3 C sugar
1/2 t salt
1/2 C butter, softened
1 C light corn syrup
1 C pecan halves

How to Make It:

Place the oven setting on 375 degrees and allow the oven to preheat.
Place the eggs in your mixer's mixing bowl.
Use an electric mixer, such as one of the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixers, and beat in the sugar, salt, butter and corn syrup until well combined.
Gently fold the pecans into the mixture with a rubber spatula.
Spread the mixture evenly in the pie crust.
Bake 45 minutes or until the pie filling is set.

Serving Size: 8

What better way to end any Holiday dinner than with a piece of that wonderful pecan pie. With this simple recipe you can have one in no time and everyone will be in ecstasy. If the crust on the pie begins to over brown cover it with aluminum foil until the last 5 minutes of baking.

Well, as you can see, with one of the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixers this is an easy and fast to make recipe. Without a mixer such as one of the KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixers it is HARD work getting it right!

Try Homemade Bread With Your Stand Mixer

2010-04-14T00:02:00.000-07:00

The modern stand mixers you get can easily handle bread dough with their dough hook. So, why not try and alter a few tasty bread recipes into Recipes For Stand Mixers? This way you can make all your favorite breads without all kneading!

Here is a recipe to give you an idea of how bread recipe can be altered to become Recipes For Stand Mixers.

Oatmeal Potato Yeast Rolls

What You Need:

1/2 C potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 C quick cooking oats
1/2 C of butter, room temperature and divided
2 (1/4 oz.) pkgs. active dry yeast
1 C of warm water (115 degrees)
2 eggs
2/3 C of sugar
1 t salt
4 C of bread flour, divided
1 C of whole wheat flour

How to Make It:

Place the potatoes in a saucepan and just cover with water.
Place the pan on high heat and bring the water to a brisk boil.
Boil the potatoes for 8 minutes or until very tender.
Reserve 3 T of the cooking water then drain the potatoes.
Place the oats into a mixing bowl and add the reserved potato water.
Stir the mixture until crumbly.
In a separate bowl mash the potatoes then stir in 6 T of the butter.
Add the oat mixture to the potatoes and stir until blended together well.
Place the yeast into a mixing bowl, add the water and stir until dissolved.
Beat in the eggs, sugar, salt, 2 C of the bread flour and the potato mixture/
Add the remaining bread flour and just enough wheat flour to form stiff dough.
Lightly flour a flat surface and turn the dough onto the surface.
Knead for 6 minutes or until smooth and elastic. (Of course with your stand mixer these two steps will be changed as you will do the kneading with the dough hook of your stand mixer.)
Grease the side of a non metallic bowl and place the dough in the bowl.
Turn the dough over once to coat all sides.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill overnight.
Set the oven temperature to 350 degrees and grease two 9 inch round pans.
Lightly flour a flat surface and turn the chilled dough out on the surface.
Divide the dough into 32 balls.
Place the balls, sides touching into the prepared baking pans.
Bake 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool on wire racks then brush with the remaining butter.

Makes 32 rolls

These rolls are pretty simple to make and taste great. Brush the tops with garlic butter or sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the tops after brush with the remaining butter.

This is how easy making bread become when you change the recipes to become Recipes For Stand Mixers.

What Can Be More Fun Than Homemade Ice Cream?

2010-04-13T00:27:00.000-07:00

I feel that homemade ice cream is the ultimate dessert and with a tasty homemade ice cream you will always blow your guests away. Fortunately it does not have to be difficult to make it anymore with a Cuisinart ICE-50BC Supreme Ice Cream Maker.

Here is the recipe for a really tasty and fun ice cream you can make with your Cuisinart ICE-50BC Supreme Ice Cream Maker. Who would have thought that pumpkin in the form of ice cream can be so tasty?

So, try this recipe in your Cuisinart ICE-50BC Supreme Ice Cream Maker. Of course, because of the hot custard it will take a little longer to freeze because the liquid is hot. It will speed the process up if you cool the custard in the fridge first. Remember the Cuisinart ICE-50BC Supreme Ice Cream Maker's bowl does not have to be cooled before use like many other ice cream machines you get.

Spiced Pumpkin Custard Ice Cream

What You Need:

2 C whipping cream
3/4 C dark brown sugar, packed
5 egg yolks
1/2 t ground cinnamon
1/4 t salt
1/4 t ground nutmeg
1/4 t ground allspice
1/4 t ground cloves
1 t vanilla
1 C canned pumpkin

How to Make It:

Pour the cream into a saucepan placed over medium heat.
Stir the brown sugar into the cream.
Cook, stirring constantly, for 5 minutes or until the sugar has completely dissolved.
Place the egg yolks into a small mixing bowl.
Stir in the cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, allspice and cloves until well combined.
Remove 1/2 C of the hot cream and slowly whisk it into the egg mixture.
Pour the egg mixture into the hot cream mixture whisking as you pour.
Cook, stirring constantly for 5 minutes or just until the mixture coats a metal spoon and a finger mark runs clear through the mixture, being sure not to allow the mixture to boil.
Pour the mixture through a sieve into a bowl.
Stir the vanilla into the mixture well.
Whisk the pumpkin into the mixture well.
Pour into the freezer canister and freeze according to the direction for your ice cream maker.
Allow to ripen 4 hours.

Makes 10 servings

Fill the freezer canister on your ice cream maker 2/3 full. This will allow room for the ice cream to expand during the freezing process. Always refrigerate any extra until you are ready to place it in the ice cream maker.