Try this on a rye or whole-wheat bagel with a lettuce leaf. Even though the taste of the curry powder is barely noticeable, if curry isn’t your thing, leave it out and add a little Dijon mustard instead.
What You’ll Need:
Serves 2 Vegetarian
2 hard-boiled eggs
1 stalk celery, finely chopped
2 green onions, finely chopped
2 tablespoons low-fat mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon curry powder
A pinch of cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste
What You’ll Do:
1. Place the eggs in a small sauce pan; fill with cold water until the eggs are covered. Place over high heat just until it starts to boil. Lower the heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Chill the eggs for at least two hours or put them in a bowl of ice-cold water for 20 minutes.
2. In a small mixing bowl, stir together the other ingredients. The easiest way to peel an egg is to peel it under cold, running water. Place it in an egg slicer; first one way and then the other so the egg is diced. Add to the bowl and stir, mashing the egg yolks.
3. Refrigerate until the next morning and assemble your sandwich then. (If you make it the night before, the bread will get soggy.)
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Friday, June 19, 2009
Burger Bar!
Treat dad and the fam to a good old fashioned meat and potatoes meal for Father's Day. Not having a big family dinner?
Cook up one for dad and make him his own unique burger based on his faves (see some of our all-new add-ons below!). Either way, it's delish din that's as simple as the pie you'll serve for dessert (Get a great recipe RIGHT HERE!)
What You'll Need:
1 Box of hamburger patties from the grocery store freezer section1 Bag of hamburger bunsVeggies like shredded lettuce, tomatoes onions, relish, pickles, olives, chili peppers, etc.
The fun part? Go topping cuh-razy!
Make your patty oh-so-perf with some of these cool substitutions. Mix and match for your own unique creation.
*Instead of American cheese, use: cheddar, mozzarella, provolone or add a li'l spice with pepperjack.*Instead of mustard, ketchup or mayo top your burger with a fave salad dressing like blue cheese or ranch.*Add a li'l bit of kick with a touch of hot sauce or your fave spice sprinkled on top of the patty.
What You'll Do:
1. Set the table up like a good ol' fashioned picnic (red-checkered cloth, a few fresh flowers, maybe some cute framed pics of you and dad).
2. Have mom (or daddyo himself) help you cook the hamburgers on the grill.
3. Put hamburgers in buns out on a big plate.
4. Place the bowls of toppers and condiments on the table near your burgers.
5. Let everyone dig in and make their burger just how they like it, with tons of different combinations. See who can come up with the craziest (and most delicious!) burger.
Cook up one for dad and make him his own unique burger based on his faves (see some of our all-new add-ons below!). Either way, it's delish din that's as simple as the pie you'll serve for dessert (Get a great recipe RIGHT HERE!)
What You'll Need:
1 Box of hamburger patties from the grocery store freezer section1 Bag of hamburger bunsVeggies like shredded lettuce, tomatoes onions, relish, pickles, olives, chili peppers, etc.
The fun part? Go topping cuh-razy!
Make your patty oh-so-perf with some of these cool substitutions. Mix and match for your own unique creation.
*Instead of American cheese, use: cheddar, mozzarella, provolone or add a li'l spice with pepperjack.*Instead of mustard, ketchup or mayo top your burger with a fave salad dressing like blue cheese or ranch.*Add a li'l bit of kick with a touch of hot sauce or your fave spice sprinkled on top of the patty.
What You'll Do:
1. Set the table up like a good ol' fashioned picnic (red-checkered cloth, a few fresh flowers, maybe some cute framed pics of you and dad).
2. Have mom (or daddyo himself) help you cook the hamburgers on the grill.
3. Put hamburgers in buns out on a big plate.
4. Place the bowls of toppers and condiments on the table near your burgers.
5. Let everyone dig in and make their burger just how they like it, with tons of different combinations. See who can come up with the craziest (and most delicious!) burger.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Dad's Day Craft – Make a Memory Mug!
Father's Day is next Sunday...eek! What are you gonna give dear ol' Dad to say thanks for cheering you on at all those soccer games, cooking you pancakes on the weekends or taking you to baseball games? Give him a presh li'l prezzie and remind him of all the good times when you make your own memory mug.
It's easy to do and super fun, too!
What You'll Need:
White coffee mugEnamel paints – any colors you want
Paint brush
Mementos of you and your Dad – pics, concert tix, sea shells from a vacay
What You'll Do:
1. Buy a new coffee mug, or use an old one – just make sure that it's clean and dry before you use it.
2. With the enamel paint, be creative and decorate the mug with all sorts of fun stuff. Write "I Love You, Dad," draw hearts, stars, and other patterns with all different colors. With a thinner paint brush, you can even do stick figures of you and your dad together, or write a longer message to him.
3. Once you're finished decorating, bake the mug in the oven at a low temp. See the directions on the enamel paint bottle for how long to bake it. You can also leave the mug out to dry, which can take a few days.
4. Once the mug is all dry, get ready to load the inside with all sorts of goodies for dear ol' Dad. Include funny pics, movie ticket stubs from your fave flicks, silly sayings that you two share and of course a little note about how much you love him! Another great idea? Slip in some coupons that entitle daddyo to some favors. Taking out the trash, doing dishes or making his fave dish will def put a smile on dad's face!
It's easy to do and super fun, too!
What You'll Need:
White coffee mugEnamel paints – any colors you want
Paint brush
Mementos of you and your Dad – pics, concert tix, sea shells from a vacay
What You'll Do:
1. Buy a new coffee mug, or use an old one – just make sure that it's clean and dry before you use it.
2. With the enamel paint, be creative and decorate the mug with all sorts of fun stuff. Write "I Love You, Dad," draw hearts, stars, and other patterns with all different colors. With a thinner paint brush, you can even do stick figures of you and your dad together, or write a longer message to him.
3. Once you're finished decorating, bake the mug in the oven at a low temp. See the directions on the enamel paint bottle for how long to bake it. You can also leave the mug out to dry, which can take a few days.
4. Once the mug is all dry, get ready to load the inside with all sorts of goodies for dear ol' Dad. Include funny pics, movie ticket stubs from your fave flicks, silly sayings that you two share and of course a little note about how much you love him! Another great idea? Slip in some coupons that entitle daddyo to some favors. Taking out the trash, doing dishes or making his fave dish will def put a smile on dad's face!
Friday, June 12, 2009
Easy Peanut Butter Pie
Difficulty: 1
Ingredients:
(1) Store bought pie crust
1 Cup - Confectioners' Sugar
1/2 Cup - Crunchy Peanut Butter
1 Package_ Pudding (chocolate or vanilla)
Materials:
Pie Tin
Spatula
Directions:
1. Open your pie crust from the store. It can be graham cracker or whatever you like.
2. Mix 1 cup confectioners' sugar and 1/2 cup crunchy peanut butter with spatula and spread in bottom of crust.
3. Make a package of vanilla or chocolate instant pudding as directed on package,
4. Spread pudding above the peanut butter and sugar mixture.
5. You can decorate it with Reeses Pieces, chocolate chips...or try it with bananas!
Ingredients:
(1) Store bought pie crust
1 Cup - Confectioners' Sugar
1/2 Cup - Crunchy Peanut Butter
1 Package_ Pudding (chocolate or vanilla)
Materials:
Pie Tin
Spatula
Directions:
1. Open your pie crust from the store. It can be graham cracker or whatever you like.
2. Mix 1 cup confectioners' sugar and 1/2 cup crunchy peanut butter with spatula and spread in bottom of crust.
3. Make a package of vanilla or chocolate instant pudding as directed on package,
4. Spread pudding above the peanut butter and sugar mixture.
5. You can decorate it with Reeses Pieces, chocolate chips...or try it with bananas!
Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake
Are you a chocoholic who loves strawberry shortcake? Well, we've got the perfect recipe for YOU! Bring this simple and satisfying dessert to your next sleepover, BBQ or pool party.
The combo of mouthwatering chocolate and fresh strawberries is sure to be a huge hit.
What You’ll Need:
Boxed brownie mix and all the ingredients called for on the box (water, oil, eggs, etc.) If you have a healthier recipe for brownies, don’t hesitate to use it!Low fat vanilla yogurt or whipped cream Strawberries
What You'll Do:
1. Prepare and bake brownies according to the instructions on the box.2. Once the brownies are done, let them cool off completely. 3. Cut the brownies into equally sized squares. 4. While the brownies are baking or cooling off, take fresh strawberries and slice them vertically (recommended thickness: ¼ inch) 5. Take a piece of brownie and spread a good amount of vanilla yogurt or whipped cream on the top surface. 6. Place sliced strawberries on top.7. Add another layer of yogurt.8. Place another brownie piece on top. Decorate your mini cake any way you want! (You can use the strawberries for more fruit or sprinkles, icing, chocolate etc.)
The combo of mouthwatering chocolate and fresh strawberries is sure to be a huge hit.
What You’ll Need:
Boxed brownie mix and all the ingredients called for on the box (water, oil, eggs, etc.) If you have a healthier recipe for brownies, don’t hesitate to use it!Low fat vanilla yogurt or whipped cream Strawberries
What You'll Do:
1. Prepare and bake brownies according to the instructions on the box.2. Once the brownies are done, let them cool off completely. 3. Cut the brownies into equally sized squares. 4. While the brownies are baking or cooling off, take fresh strawberries and slice them vertically (recommended thickness: ¼ inch) 5. Take a piece of brownie and spread a good amount of vanilla yogurt or whipped cream on the top surface. 6. Place sliced strawberries on top.7. Add another layer of yogurt.8. Place another brownie piece on top. Decorate your mini cake any way you want! (You can use the strawberries for more fruit or sprinkles, icing, chocolate etc.)
Thursday, June 11, 2009
BFF Summer Special: Unique Envelopes!
Yay! It's summer and that means it's time for tonsa vacays and fun travels...but also lots of time away from your BFF. How are you gonna let her know how fab it is when you're at the lake with your fam? Who can you dish to the next time that dude at the snack shack smiles at you?
Whether you're traveling far and wide, or she's the one cutting loose at sleepaway soccer camp, you two can keep in touch the old school way – letters. Check out these oh-so-easy envelopes to send 'em in. Feeling more short 'n' sweet? Check out these collage postcards RIGHT HERE.
What You'll Need
Your fave old mag
Glue
What You'll Do:
1. Find a magazine and pick out your fave page or any colorful page.
2. Take one of those pages and fold two of the longer sides over a half an inch and glue down.
3. Fold the bottom end of the page and glue the sides together to make a pocket.
4. Take the top and fold the corners over then glue them down.
5. Fold the top over the bottom and voila you have your own unique envelope!
Whether you're traveling far and wide, or she's the one cutting loose at sleepaway soccer camp, you two can keep in touch the old school way – letters. Check out these oh-so-easy envelopes to send 'em in. Feeling more short 'n' sweet? Check out these collage postcards RIGHT HERE.
What You'll Need
Your fave old mag
Glue
What You'll Do:
1. Find a magazine and pick out your fave page or any colorful page.
2. Take one of those pages and fold two of the longer sides over a half an inch and glue down.
3. Fold the bottom end of the page and glue the sides together to make a pocket.
4. Take the top and fold the corners over then glue them down.
5. Fold the top over the bottom and voila you have your own unique envelope!
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Summer Entertainment Survey!
Summer vacay’s almost here, and that means ya have loads of free time to watch your fave shows, jam out to your fave artists and even mellow out with your fave reads. So dish the entertainment buzz, babe – what are you most thrilled to tune into?
What movies are you most excited to watch this summer?
Who’s your current fave recording artist?
What movie can you not wait to release on DVD?
What’s this month’s beach read obsession?
What’s the one video game that you cannot stop playing?
Who’s your all-time fave celebrity?
Celebrity crush?
What TV show is always on your must-watch list?
Which show are you most excited to see next season?
What movies are you most excited to watch this summer?
Who’s your current fave recording artist?
What movie can you not wait to release on DVD?
What’s this month’s beach read obsession?
What’s the one video game that you cannot stop playing?
Who’s your all-time fave celebrity?
Celebrity crush?
What TV show is always on your must-watch list?
Which show are you most excited to see next season?
Have the funnest summer...EVER!
Woo hoo! School's out (or just about)! Who's excited for summer? The girlies here at GL are! Sure, this is a great time to sit back, relax and do nada, hit the beach or travel to cool new cities...but you might get a li'l bored of the same ol' day-to-day. Lucky for you, we've found 100 ways to revamp your summer vacay.
Check out the first 25 right now. Then, check back every Saturday in June to get 25 more!
1. Plan a sizzling BBQ with your buds
A barbeque is simple to put together and it is great way to soak up the summer sun while socializing with friends. Just grab some grill-friendly foods, invite over some friends, and lounge around eating, gossiping and getting your tan on (with SPF of course!)
Make it a Healthy BBQ – Want to plan a BBQ but worried about the extra fat that comes with the burgers and the buns? Instead, choose a healthier choice, like chicken, so you can have fun and still look great in a bikini. PLUS, check out this great pasta salad recipe RIGHT HERE.
2. Be a cool clothing designer
Have lots of clothes that are just sitting away in the closet collecting dust? Why not make them into somethin' new with a pair of scissors? If you have a pair of jeans that you've outgrown in length but still fit around the waist make them into stylish pair of jean shorts instead. Or learn how to make a cool bag from those old pants RIGHT HERE.
3. Clean out the clutter
With no school on your hands there's puh-lenty of time to organize the mess of papers and junk that's accumulated around the house throughout the year. Help your parents out and get rid of the things you no longer need. Put the stuff you wanna keep in a safe spot that is visibly out of the way and easy to remember. PLUS, CLICK HERE for tips on how to clean out your closet!
4. Rock on at a cool concert
A concert is a great way to let loose and have a good time with friends. Look up your favorite band’s tour sched and see if they'll be at a venue near you. Get ready to dance and sing the night away!
5. Have fun in the sun with a relaxing romantic novel
School is out, which means you no longer have to read the boring books your teachers require. Instead why not curl up outside with a book of your choice? CLICK HERE to see some of our top summer reads!
Tip – The library may sound old school but it's actually a cheap and efficient way to get tonsa good reads.
6. Take a walk on the wild side
Planning day-trips is always way fun, so why not head to the nearest zoo? Take a friend and explore the diff animals and fun facts. And who knows...maybe will meet a sensitive, animal-loving cutie while you're at it.
7. Picture perfect
Aspiring photographer or not, photos are always fun to take. Start a summer photo album or scrapbook with your new snapshots. Arts and crafts are always fun, so get creative and start taking lots of pictures of family and friends to fill a scrapbook with your summer memories.
8. Game on!
Bored on a Friday night? Get your fam together and play a competitive game of Monopoly, Scrabble, Catch Phrase or any other fun game of your choice.
9. Amuse yourself
The summer weather is perf for a nice day at an amusement park. Head out early to avoid all the long lines. Ride the rollercoaster at least three times, and eat all the cotton candy you can stomach. Our tip? Invite your crush along and hold his hand in the haunted house.
10. Spruce up your space
Is it too dull in your bedroom? Brighten up your bed by changing your sheets to a bright summer pink or yellow. GO HERE for some free DIY tips.
11. Gym haters rejoice!
Are you the type of person that wants to workout but the sight of elliptical machines all lined up makes ya think AHHH? No problem, start exercising around the house, play tennis, or take long walks on the beach to get that heart rate up.
12. Fine-tune your talents
Have a hidden talent that you are dying to share? Organize a talent show with your besties at your next sleepover. Create cool programs and have each girl perform. Is Gia great at guitar? Have her strum a song! Does Tia totally love tap dancing? She should show off her routine.
13. Be a summer job genius
What gal doesn't love a summer gig? It's a great way to earn moolah and gives ya something to do during the dog days of summer. But what to do if your job starts to bore you?
Spice it up by taking initiative and asking your boss what other tasks you can do. Or, if you have your eye on the cute waiter that works your shift be courageous and ask him out. You never know!
14. Dance party divas!
Dancing is always fun, not to mention a great way to burn off the calories. Get your friends together for a night out at a dance party or host your own. All you need are some sweet tunes and you're all set to shake what your momma gave ya!
15. Get golfin'
Mini-golf is a lot less time-consuming than real golf and requires little to zero experience. Hit the golf course for a fun day activity and make a bet that the losers buy ice cream afterwards.
16. Set the scene for summer
Put up a hammock or grab a couple lounge chairs to make your backyard the ultimate summer layout spot. Choose an area that's not so shady...but always remember to later up with tons of sunscreen!
17. Sp-aaah
Bond with your Mom or your BFF and take a day trip to the spa. Get matching polish on your nails and fun facial masks.
Too Pricey? – If a spa is too expensive, have a spa party with do-it-yourself kits! Get some great DIY tips RIGHT HERE!
18. Bold new bathing suits
Bored of all your same old swim suits? Start making new ones by pairing different tops and bottoms together for a fab new style.
Tip – Black bathing suit bottoms are very versatile and can be matched with almost any top!
19. Tune in to the tube
If you missed some of your favorite TV shows while you were busy studying this school year, summer is the time to catch up so you can be ready for next season. Buy the whole season on DVD or download a specific episode on iTunes.
20. Collect 'em all
If you are traveling a lot this summer or have nothing better to do, compile a collection. Get a souvenir from every place you visit or go to a beach and gather pretty shells to make a necklace.
21. Fun summer flings
Keep your mind and heart open and you'll find the ultimate summer crush. How to catch him? Prove you can let loose and hang with the guys by playing Frisbee or enjoying a friendly game of beach football.
22. Film fanatic
Plan an all day movie extravaganza! Invite a couple friends over and tell them to each bring their favorite movies. Then pick out your favorite movie, microwave the popcorn, and enjoy some back-to-back films. Perf for a rainy day!23. Bust traveling boredom
No one enjoys long hours of driving in a car or riding on a plane, so prep yourself. Pack snacks, games, and anything else that will help take your mind off of the traveling boredom.
24. Make your own version of Nanny Diaries
Just like in the movie The Nanny Diaries, starring Scarlett Johanson, you too can document while you babysit this summer. Ask around to find 'rents that work and need a daytime sitter. You can get your tan on and make money at the same time! Get all the babysitting tips you could ever want RIGHT HERE!
25. Throw your own campout
Can't take a real summer vacay? A great getaway is just minutes away...right in your own backyard! Ask mom and pops to help ya pitch a tent and invite your girlies over with their sleeping bags. Get set to cook s'mores, tell scary stories and sing silly songs. For more camp sleepover ideas GO HERE.
Check out the first 25 right now. Then, check back every Saturday in June to get 25 more!
1. Plan a sizzling BBQ with your buds
A barbeque is simple to put together and it is great way to soak up the summer sun while socializing with friends. Just grab some grill-friendly foods, invite over some friends, and lounge around eating, gossiping and getting your tan on (with SPF of course!)
Make it a Healthy BBQ – Want to plan a BBQ but worried about the extra fat that comes with the burgers and the buns? Instead, choose a healthier choice, like chicken, so you can have fun and still look great in a bikini. PLUS, check out this great pasta salad recipe RIGHT HERE.
2. Be a cool clothing designer
Have lots of clothes that are just sitting away in the closet collecting dust? Why not make them into somethin' new with a pair of scissors? If you have a pair of jeans that you've outgrown in length but still fit around the waist make them into stylish pair of jean shorts instead. Or learn how to make a cool bag from those old pants RIGHT HERE.
3. Clean out the clutter
With no school on your hands there's puh-lenty of time to organize the mess of papers and junk that's accumulated around the house throughout the year. Help your parents out and get rid of the things you no longer need. Put the stuff you wanna keep in a safe spot that is visibly out of the way and easy to remember. PLUS, CLICK HERE for tips on how to clean out your closet!
4. Rock on at a cool concert
A concert is a great way to let loose and have a good time with friends. Look up your favorite band’s tour sched and see if they'll be at a venue near you. Get ready to dance and sing the night away!
5. Have fun in the sun with a relaxing romantic novel
School is out, which means you no longer have to read the boring books your teachers require. Instead why not curl up outside with a book of your choice? CLICK HERE to see some of our top summer reads!
Tip – The library may sound old school but it's actually a cheap and efficient way to get tonsa good reads.
6. Take a walk on the wild side
Planning day-trips is always way fun, so why not head to the nearest zoo? Take a friend and explore the diff animals and fun facts. And who knows...maybe will meet a sensitive, animal-loving cutie while you're at it.
7. Picture perfect
Aspiring photographer or not, photos are always fun to take. Start a summer photo album or scrapbook with your new snapshots. Arts and crafts are always fun, so get creative and start taking lots of pictures of family and friends to fill a scrapbook with your summer memories.
8. Game on!
Bored on a Friday night? Get your fam together and play a competitive game of Monopoly, Scrabble, Catch Phrase or any other fun game of your choice.
9. Amuse yourself
The summer weather is perf for a nice day at an amusement park. Head out early to avoid all the long lines. Ride the rollercoaster at least three times, and eat all the cotton candy you can stomach. Our tip? Invite your crush along and hold his hand in the haunted house.
10. Spruce up your space
Is it too dull in your bedroom? Brighten up your bed by changing your sheets to a bright summer pink or yellow. GO HERE for some free DIY tips.
11. Gym haters rejoice!
Are you the type of person that wants to workout but the sight of elliptical machines all lined up makes ya think AHHH? No problem, start exercising around the house, play tennis, or take long walks on the beach to get that heart rate up.
12. Fine-tune your talents
Have a hidden talent that you are dying to share? Organize a talent show with your besties at your next sleepover. Create cool programs and have each girl perform. Is Gia great at guitar? Have her strum a song! Does Tia totally love tap dancing? She should show off her routine.
13. Be a summer job genius
What gal doesn't love a summer gig? It's a great way to earn moolah and gives ya something to do during the dog days of summer. But what to do if your job starts to bore you?
Spice it up by taking initiative and asking your boss what other tasks you can do. Or, if you have your eye on the cute waiter that works your shift be courageous and ask him out. You never know!
14. Dance party divas!
Dancing is always fun, not to mention a great way to burn off the calories. Get your friends together for a night out at a dance party or host your own. All you need are some sweet tunes and you're all set to shake what your momma gave ya!
15. Get golfin'
Mini-golf is a lot less time-consuming than real golf and requires little to zero experience. Hit the golf course for a fun day activity and make a bet that the losers buy ice cream afterwards.
16. Set the scene for summer
Put up a hammock or grab a couple lounge chairs to make your backyard the ultimate summer layout spot. Choose an area that's not so shady...but always remember to later up with tons of sunscreen!
17. Sp-aaah
Bond with your Mom or your BFF and take a day trip to the spa. Get matching polish on your nails and fun facial masks.
Too Pricey? – If a spa is too expensive, have a spa party with do-it-yourself kits! Get some great DIY tips RIGHT HERE!
18. Bold new bathing suits
Bored of all your same old swim suits? Start making new ones by pairing different tops and bottoms together for a fab new style.
Tip – Black bathing suit bottoms are very versatile and can be matched with almost any top!
19. Tune in to the tube
If you missed some of your favorite TV shows while you were busy studying this school year, summer is the time to catch up so you can be ready for next season. Buy the whole season on DVD or download a specific episode on iTunes.
20. Collect 'em all
If you are traveling a lot this summer or have nothing better to do, compile a collection. Get a souvenir from every place you visit or go to a beach and gather pretty shells to make a necklace.
21. Fun summer flings
Keep your mind and heart open and you'll find the ultimate summer crush. How to catch him? Prove you can let loose and hang with the guys by playing Frisbee or enjoying a friendly game of beach football.
22. Film fanatic
Plan an all day movie extravaganza! Invite a couple friends over and tell them to each bring their favorite movies. Then pick out your favorite movie, microwave the popcorn, and enjoy some back-to-back films. Perf for a rainy day!23. Bust traveling boredom
No one enjoys long hours of driving in a car or riding on a plane, so prep yourself. Pack snacks, games, and anything else that will help take your mind off of the traveling boredom.
24. Make your own version of Nanny Diaries
Just like in the movie The Nanny Diaries, starring Scarlett Johanson, you too can document while you babysit this summer. Ask around to find 'rents that work and need a daytime sitter. You can get your tan on and make money at the same time! Get all the babysitting tips you could ever want RIGHT HERE!
25. Throw your own campout
Can't take a real summer vacay? A great getaway is just minutes away...right in your own backyard! Ask mom and pops to help ya pitch a tent and invite your girlies over with their sleeping bags. Get set to cook s'mores, tell scary stories and sing silly songs. For more camp sleepover ideas GO HERE.
Vanilla Freeze (Non-Dairy Ice Cream)
OK, so this isn’t “Ben & Jerry’s” but it’s a creamy-rich ice cream for vegans, those who are lactose intolerant, and anyone else who wants to cut back on the dairy fat. Soy milk has the consistency of cream without all the fat. The refrigerated soy milk has a richer flavor.
What You’ll Need:
Serves 41 quart (4 cups)
vanilla soy milk – not the 1% fat brands (I use White Wave’s “Silk”.), very cold
1/2 cup real maple syrup
2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
What You’ll Do:
1. Put the chilled soy milk in a blender with the rest of the ingredients. Blend on high until smooth and foamy. (Taste to see if it needs additional maple syrup or vanilla since different brands of soy milk vary in flavor.)
2. Pour into an ice cream freezer or a shallow pan according to Method II*. The freeze is ready when it's the consistency of soft-serve ice cream. Eat plain or with toppings.
*Method II: Freeze 'n Whisk (You guessed it, you're the machine.)
Pick out a shallow baking pan or plastic container such as a 9"x9" cake pan. (It needs to have enough room to whisk the ice cream.) Arrange the food in your freezer so there's a flat spot for the pan. Pour the ice cream mixture into the pan and place carefully in the freezer. Cover the pan with foil or plastic wrap.Set the timer for 30 minutes. Remove the pan from the freezer after the timer goes off. Using a wire whisk, beat the ice cream until the frozen pieces are mixed into the mushy stuff. Return the pan to freezer and set the timer for 30 minutes. Keep repeating this process 3-5 times, depending on the temperature of your freezer. What happens if you forget about it for 12 hours? It'll be rock-hard; break it into chunks and pulse it in the food processor to make it creamy again.
What You’ll Need:
Serves 41 quart (4 cups)
vanilla soy milk – not the 1% fat brands (I use White Wave’s “Silk”.), very cold
1/2 cup real maple syrup
2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
What You’ll Do:
1. Put the chilled soy milk in a blender with the rest of the ingredients. Blend on high until smooth and foamy. (Taste to see if it needs additional maple syrup or vanilla since different brands of soy milk vary in flavor.)
2. Pour into an ice cream freezer or a shallow pan according to Method II*. The freeze is ready when it's the consistency of soft-serve ice cream. Eat plain or with toppings.
*Method II: Freeze 'n Whisk (You guessed it, you're the machine.)
Pick out a shallow baking pan or plastic container such as a 9"x9" cake pan. (It needs to have enough room to whisk the ice cream.) Arrange the food in your freezer so there's a flat spot for the pan. Pour the ice cream mixture into the pan and place carefully in the freezer. Cover the pan with foil or plastic wrap.Set the timer for 30 minutes. Remove the pan from the freezer after the timer goes off. Using a wire whisk, beat the ice cream until the frozen pieces are mixed into the mushy stuff. Return the pan to freezer and set the timer for 30 minutes. Keep repeating this process 3-5 times, depending on the temperature of your freezer. What happens if you forget about it for 12 hours? It'll be rock-hard; break it into chunks and pulse it in the food processor to make it creamy again.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Collage Postcards!
Is your BFF leaving you for a long time this summer? Whether your go-to gal is travelin' to her mom's for the whole vacay, spending time at summer camp or you're the one jet setting to super cool getaways, collage postcards are a great way to keep in touch.
Our tip? Use local mags – if you're the one staying put you'll give your bestie a sweet 'n' funny reminder of home, and if you're the one traveling you can show her all the cool places that you've seen. You could also send these to grams, gramps or good ol' Aunt Edna.
What You’ll Need:
Old Magazines
Scissors
Glue stick
Paper or index cards
Marker or pen
What You’ll Do:
1. Cut out words and pictures from the inside pages of the magazines.
2. Tear off the back or front cover (your choice!) of a magazine (this is where you will glue down your cut-outs).
3. Glue down words and pictures onto the magazine cover. Cover the entire page using big and small pieces.
4. When you are finished let your collage dry and cut it into four rectangular pieces.
5. Write your message on a piece of paper or index card and glue it to the back of the collage. Make sure to write your message on the left and the address and place a stamp on the right.
6. Use these pieces as a puzzle for a family member or friend. Send the same person one of the collage pieces (from the same collage) four different times that you write to them so they can put them back together and make a big collage.
Our tip? Use local mags – if you're the one staying put you'll give your bestie a sweet 'n' funny reminder of home, and if you're the one traveling you can show her all the cool places that you've seen. You could also send these to grams, gramps or good ol' Aunt Edna.
What You’ll Need:
Old Magazines
Scissors
Glue stick
Paper or index cards
Marker or pen
What You’ll Do:
1. Cut out words and pictures from the inside pages of the magazines.
2. Tear off the back or front cover (your choice!) of a magazine (this is where you will glue down your cut-outs).
3. Glue down words and pictures onto the magazine cover. Cover the entire page using big and small pieces.
4. When you are finished let your collage dry and cut it into four rectangular pieces.
5. Write your message on a piece of paper or index card and glue it to the back of the collage. Make sure to write your message on the left and the address and place a stamp on the right.
6. Use these pieces as a puzzle for a family member or friend. Send the same person one of the collage pieces (from the same collage) four different times that you write to them so they can put them back together and make a big collage.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Savory Summer Pasta Salad
Want another healthy lunch choice that's perfect for summer? Try a refreshing and easy-to-make pasta salad. The mixture of whole wheat pasta, fresh veggies, and tangy Italian dressing will be a great way to fill you up and get you re-energized! A great side for BBQ's, too!
What You'll Need:
Box of whole wheat pastaBell PeppersBroccoli piecesOlivesTomatoes Asparagus *Or add any other veggies of your choiceAny Italian dressing
What You'll Do:
1. Cook the box of pasta for 8-10 min as recommended.
2. Drain pasta and let cool till room temperature. (It helps to place in the fridge for a little).
3. Cut pieces of all veggies into bite-size pieces.
4. Mix in veggies and dressing with pasta (as much as desired!)
5. Serve and enjoy! A great side for BBQ's too!
What You'll Need:
Box of whole wheat pastaBell PeppersBroccoli piecesOlivesTomatoes Asparagus *Or add any other veggies of your choiceAny Italian dressing
What You'll Do:
1. Cook the box of pasta for 8-10 min as recommended.
2. Drain pasta and let cool till room temperature. (It helps to place in the fridge for a little).
3. Cut pieces of all veggies into bite-size pieces.
4. Mix in veggies and dressing with pasta (as much as desired!)
5. Serve and enjoy! A great side for BBQ's too!
Fun, Artsy Photo Frames!
Sigh. Sick of the same ol' plain bedroom walls staring back at ya, but mom and pop say you can't wallpaper or paint 'em? Well, picture this: you can jazz up your bedroom in minutes with simple and funky photo frames.
What You'll Need:
Wooden photo frames in 5" x 7" (try Ikea!)
Swatches of your favorite fabric.
Think: scarves, pillow cases, or wallpaper, and make sure that they are larger than your frame.
What You'll Do:
1. Using the frame as a template, cut the fabric swatch to the size of the cardboard inside of your photo frame.
2. Staple the edges of the fabric swatch to the back of the cardboard, completely covering one side of the cardboard with the fabric.
3. Slip the cardboard back into the frame and close it up. Hang on your wall in groupings. Try mismatched colors and patterns for a funky look.
What You'll Need:
Wooden photo frames in 5" x 7" (try Ikea!)
Swatches of your favorite fabric.
Think: scarves, pillow cases, or wallpaper, and make sure that they are larger than your frame.
What You'll Do:
1. Using the frame as a template, cut the fabric swatch to the size of the cardboard inside of your photo frame.
2. Staple the edges of the fabric swatch to the back of the cardboard, completely covering one side of the cardboard with the fabric.
3. Slip the cardboard back into the frame and close it up. Hang on your wall in groupings. Try mismatched colors and patterns for a funky look.
Over-Night Fruit Salad
This fresh fruit salad comes from an Italian dessert called "Macedonia di frutta fresca" which is a combination of fresh or dried fruit, jam or marmalade, and wine or fruit juice. (We're using juice.) What's great about this salad is that you can prepare it a day ahead so it's ready for your eat-and-run breakfast or as a fruit cup in your sack lunch. The fruit juice prevents the fruit from turning brown. If you like bananas, add them just before serving.
What You’ll Need:
Serves 3-4
Cut up about 3 cups fruit -
1 kiwi
2 apples
1 navel orange
1 cup red or green grapes
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
2 tablespoons orange marmalade
What You’ll Do:
1. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the orange juice and marmalade. Wash the apples and grapes and pat dry with paper towels. Cut the kiwi into quarters. Peel the kiwi pieces with a small paring knife. Cut the kiwi into pieces and put into the bowl.
2. Cut the orange into quarters, peel off the rind, then cut into bite-sized pieces. Cut the apples into quarters, cut out the apple seeds, and cut into bit-sized pieces. Add the grapes. Mix the fruit and juice mixture together with a wooden spoon.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or put the fruit into a plastic container. Refrigerate overnight or for at least an hour if you want to eat it right away. Serve with a tablespoon of yogurt if you like. (Omit the yogurt if you're packing the salad in your lunch bag.)
What You’ll Need:
Serves 3-4
Cut up about 3 cups fruit -
1 kiwi
2 apples
1 navel orange
1 cup red or green grapes
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
2 tablespoons orange marmalade
What You’ll Do:
1. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the orange juice and marmalade. Wash the apples and grapes and pat dry with paper towels. Cut the kiwi into quarters. Peel the kiwi pieces with a small paring knife. Cut the kiwi into pieces and put into the bowl.
2. Cut the orange into quarters, peel off the rind, then cut into bite-sized pieces. Cut the apples into quarters, cut out the apple seeds, and cut into bit-sized pieces. Add the grapes. Mix the fruit and juice mixture together with a wooden spoon.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or put the fruit into a plastic container. Refrigerate overnight or for at least an hour if you want to eat it right away. Serve with a tablespoon of yogurt if you like. (Omit the yogurt if you're packing the salad in your lunch bag.)
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Host a Patriotic Party!
GL’s fabbin’ up your Memorial Day weekend with fun and festive ideas!
Decorations
It’s all about the red, white ‘n’ blue for Memorial Day. Check out your local party store – they’ll have tons of inexpensive decorations to turn your backyard from plain to patriotic! Pick up some red, white ‘n’ blue paper streams and nab a few flags to line your driveway, or plop them in a vase as a centerpiece for your table. Running low on change? Make your own! Just remember 13 stripes and 50 stars!
Looking for other festive ways to decorate? Stars are totally cute and can make your party sparkle! Cut out star shapes in all diff sizes using a sturdy material, like poster board, cover with a glue stick and dip in silver or gold glitter, sequins, anything that shines bright! Dangle them from nearby trees, place underneath a clear tablecloth, get creative!
Food
Memorial Day is the kickoff to summer, so stick to everyone’s warm weather fave: BBQ. Ask your ‘rents if they can work the grill to make delish BBQ staples like burgers and hot dogs. But buns and dogs can’t stand alone. It’ll be your job to cook up tasty sides with BBQ classics, like baked beans, potato salad, corn on the cob and mac ‘n’ cheese.
For dessert, whip up a super yummy strawberry shortcake. All you need are strawberries, whipped cream and biscuits. Start by slicing the biscuits in half. Take one half and top with strawberries and whipped cream. To finish, plop the second half right on top. Dig in!
Fun ‘n’ Games
Can’t see the fireworks this Memorial Day? Have your own…well, almost your own! Check out your local supermarket or party supply store and pick up some sparklers for you and your guests. Ask your ‘rents first just to make sure that they’re OK with it!
Relay races are another totally fun activity to do with your friends and fam. Put everyone into teams and start competing in activities like an egg toss, a potato sack race and a hula hoop contest. And make sure you have a prize for the winning team! You can make gold, silver and bronze medals and have a ceremony at the end just like the Olympics! To make it extra goofy, play the National Anthem.
Wanna make your party extra memorable? Tell your guests to wear patriotic costumes! Not sure what to wear? Dress up as presidents, first ladies, the Statue of Liberty, or whatever else comes to mind when you're thinking about the great US of A! Make sure to give out prizes for the best costumes! Don't forget the camera though! You'll wanna make sure to take tons of pictures that you and your besties can laugh about later!
Happy Memorial Day, everyone!
Decorations
It’s all about the red, white ‘n’ blue for Memorial Day. Check out your local party store – they’ll have tons of inexpensive decorations to turn your backyard from plain to patriotic! Pick up some red, white ‘n’ blue paper streams and nab a few flags to line your driveway, or plop them in a vase as a centerpiece for your table. Running low on change? Make your own! Just remember 13 stripes and 50 stars!
Looking for other festive ways to decorate? Stars are totally cute and can make your party sparkle! Cut out star shapes in all diff sizes using a sturdy material, like poster board, cover with a glue stick and dip in silver or gold glitter, sequins, anything that shines bright! Dangle them from nearby trees, place underneath a clear tablecloth, get creative!
Food
Memorial Day is the kickoff to summer, so stick to everyone’s warm weather fave: BBQ. Ask your ‘rents if they can work the grill to make delish BBQ staples like burgers and hot dogs. But buns and dogs can’t stand alone. It’ll be your job to cook up tasty sides with BBQ classics, like baked beans, potato salad, corn on the cob and mac ‘n’ cheese.
For dessert, whip up a super yummy strawberry shortcake. All you need are strawberries, whipped cream and biscuits. Start by slicing the biscuits in half. Take one half and top with strawberries and whipped cream. To finish, plop the second half right on top. Dig in!
Fun ‘n’ Games
Can’t see the fireworks this Memorial Day? Have your own…well, almost your own! Check out your local supermarket or party supply store and pick up some sparklers for you and your guests. Ask your ‘rents first just to make sure that they’re OK with it!
Relay races are another totally fun activity to do with your friends and fam. Put everyone into teams and start competing in activities like an egg toss, a potato sack race and a hula hoop contest. And make sure you have a prize for the winning team! You can make gold, silver and bronze medals and have a ceremony at the end just like the Olympics! To make it extra goofy, play the National Anthem.
Wanna make your party extra memorable? Tell your guests to wear patriotic costumes! Not sure what to wear? Dress up as presidents, first ladies, the Statue of Liberty, or whatever else comes to mind when you're thinking about the great US of A! Make sure to give out prizes for the best costumes! Don't forget the camera though! You'll wanna make sure to take tons of pictures that you and your besties can laugh about later!
Happy Memorial Day, everyone!
Friday, May 22, 2009
MEMORIAL DAY SPECIAL: Cool Coleslaw!
Just ‘cause you can’t man the BBQ doesn’t mean you can’t help out at your Memorial Day cookout! Side dishes are just as important as whatever Dad’s grillin’ over there, and this quick and easy recipe will help make you the star of the party!
Cool Coleslaw
This coleslaw takes no time at all, so throw it together the day of the party at least two hours before you serve it—it’ll get soggy if you do it the day before.
What You’ll Need:
2 Packages of broccoli slaw (1 lb. each)
1 Cup of your favorite bottled Ranch or Caesar dressing
¼ Cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
What You’ll Do:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the dressing and lemon juice. (If your bottled dressing is thick, you may want to add extra lemon juice.)
2. Taste the dressing to see if it needs sugar, salt, pepper or cayenne pepper.
3. Toss the dressing in the slaw until it’s evenly coated.
4. Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to a plastic container with a lid and refrigerate until serving time.
Cool Coleslaw
This coleslaw takes no time at all, so throw it together the day of the party at least two hours before you serve it—it’ll get soggy if you do it the day before.
What You’ll Need:
2 Packages of broccoli slaw (1 lb. each)
1 Cup of your favorite bottled Ranch or Caesar dressing
¼ Cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
What You’ll Do:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the dressing and lemon juice. (If your bottled dressing is thick, you may want to add extra lemon juice.)
2. Taste the dressing to see if it needs sugar, salt, pepper or cayenne pepper.
3. Toss the dressing in the slaw until it’s evenly coated.
4. Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to a plastic container with a lid and refrigerate until serving time.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Makeover Your Closet!
Cleaning your closet doesn’t have to feel like a chore! We’ll show you how to turn that dark, disorganized cave into your personal boutique. Here’s what you need to do:
Get messy. Make sure you clean your room first, or you’ll end up with a huge mess. Next, take out everything (yes, everything!) you’ve stuffed in your closet over the years—including that old Teletubbies T-shirt!
Get a game plan. Before you just pile things back into your closet, take a time-out to decide where it will go. Make three piles: Keep, Trash and Donate. Keep what you love, throw away anything that’s damaged and donate anything that you don’t wear.
Get crafty. You don’t have to shell out major bucks to get organized. There are shelves and boxes for every budget. Adjustable shelves and racks allow you to have control over the size of your closet. Are you a shoe lover? Treat yourself to an over-the-door shoe rack. You can also use see-through bins to store easy-to-lose accessories, like belts, scarves and gloves.
Get to grouping. Think of your clothes as cliques. Dresses hang with dresses; pants cling with other pants; and shirts never, ever hang out with skirts. Get the idea? If you want to go the extra mile, coordinate the colors, too. Just follow the rainbow!
Get into the habit. Keeping your closet clean is probably a bigger commitment than getting it clean in the first place. At the end of the day, put your clothes back where they belong. You’ll need to make an effort for a few weeks, but after that, you’ll be on auto-pilot tidyin’ up your space.
Get messy. Make sure you clean your room first, or you’ll end up with a huge mess. Next, take out everything (yes, everything!) you’ve stuffed in your closet over the years—including that old Teletubbies T-shirt!
Get a game plan. Before you just pile things back into your closet, take a time-out to decide where it will go. Make three piles: Keep, Trash and Donate. Keep what you love, throw away anything that’s damaged and donate anything that you don’t wear.
Get crafty. You don’t have to shell out major bucks to get organized. There are shelves and boxes for every budget. Adjustable shelves and racks allow you to have control over the size of your closet. Are you a shoe lover? Treat yourself to an over-the-door shoe rack. You can also use see-through bins to store easy-to-lose accessories, like belts, scarves and gloves.
Get to grouping. Think of your clothes as cliques. Dresses hang with dresses; pants cling with other pants; and shirts never, ever hang out with skirts. Get the idea? If you want to go the extra mile, coordinate the colors, too. Just follow the rainbow!
Get into the habit. Keeping your closet clean is probably a bigger commitment than getting it clean in the first place. At the end of the day, put your clothes back where they belong. You’ll need to make an effort for a few weeks, but after that, you’ll be on auto-pilot tidyin’ up your space.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Free DIY Room Redos!
Need some rad ideas to revamp your room? We've got four free easy to do DIY ideas!
All Polished Up
Have an old dresser, chair or knick-knack lyin' around? Spice it up in seconds with fun, sparkly nail polish. Swirl on different designs, pretty patterns or multi-colored dots. Just ask mom and dad first.
A Mirror with Some Moxie
Make your reflection oh-so pretty by gluing gems, stones or buttons around the edges of your mirror frame. You can also add inspirational quotes with lipstick. Clean it off and put up new quotes depending on your mood!
Hug a Hottie Pillow
Get a pic of your fave heartthrob, a clear Ziploc, scraps of old fabric, a needle and some thread. Cut the bag to size of pic. Sew straps of fabric onto bag to create a frame. Sew onto a pillow or pillowcase leaving one side open, like a pocket. This way, you can always change the photo up to another hottie.
Haute Ways to Hang Stuff
Have an old broken necklace? Reuse it to make a way cool picture hanger. Holding it lengthwise (make sure it’s unhooked!), space colored paper clips about six inches apart. Clip pictures. Attach two paper clips to the ends to hang on the wall. Works best with longer necklaces!
BONUS: Have old, mismatched earrings? Use 'em to hang pictures, cards or any souvenirs on a bulletin board as a pretty alternative to plain pushpins.
All Polished Up
Have an old dresser, chair or knick-knack lyin' around? Spice it up in seconds with fun, sparkly nail polish. Swirl on different designs, pretty patterns or multi-colored dots. Just ask mom and dad first.
A Mirror with Some Moxie
Make your reflection oh-so pretty by gluing gems, stones or buttons around the edges of your mirror frame. You can also add inspirational quotes with lipstick. Clean it off and put up new quotes depending on your mood!
Hug a Hottie Pillow
Get a pic of your fave heartthrob, a clear Ziploc, scraps of old fabric, a needle and some thread. Cut the bag to size of pic. Sew straps of fabric onto bag to create a frame. Sew onto a pillow or pillowcase leaving one side open, like a pocket. This way, you can always change the photo up to another hottie.
Haute Ways to Hang Stuff
Have an old broken necklace? Reuse it to make a way cool picture hanger. Holding it lengthwise (make sure it’s unhooked!), space colored paper clips about six inches apart. Clip pictures. Attach two paper clips to the ends to hang on the wall. Works best with longer necklaces!
BONUS: Have old, mismatched earrings? Use 'em to hang pictures, cards or any souvenirs on a bulletin board as a pretty alternative to plain pushpins.
Mediterranean Pita Pockets
Recipes don’t have to be crazy confusing. This how-to for Mediterranean Pita Pockets lets YOU make the choices (like which veggies to use) and will come out yummy no matter what you pick.
For a quick and healthy snack, these stuff-able pita pockets rock! Add a few spices or fave crunchy veggies of your own, then pack it up and head out to school or enjoy a fast meal with the fam.
What You Need:
1 or Pieces of Pita Bread
1 Container of Hummus (pick your fave flavor)
A handful of Greek Olives (without pits!)
1 Cucumber
1 ounce of Feta cheese
What You'll Do:
1. Microwave the pita bread for 10-20 seconds—exactly how long you need depends on your microwave.
2. Take the warm pita and rip along the top of the bread to open it like an envelope.
3. Stuff the inside of the pita bread with hummus by the spoonful (as much or as little as you like), then add slices of cucumber, cubes of feta, and as many olives as you want.
4. Close up the pocket and enjoy!
For a quick and healthy snack, these stuff-able pita pockets rock! Add a few spices or fave crunchy veggies of your own, then pack it up and head out to school or enjoy a fast meal with the fam.
What You Need:
1 or Pieces of Pita Bread
1 Container of Hummus (pick your fave flavor)
A handful of Greek Olives (without pits!)
1 Cucumber
1 ounce of Feta cheese
What You'll Do:
1. Microwave the pita bread for 10-20 seconds—exactly how long you need depends on your microwave.
2. Take the warm pita and rip along the top of the bread to open it like an envelope.
3. Stuff the inside of the pita bread with hummus by the spoonful (as much or as little as you like), then add slices of cucumber, cubes of feta, and as many olives as you want.
4. Close up the pocket and enjoy!
Friday, May 15, 2009
Healthy Lettuce Wraps!
Looking for a way to cut back on the carbs? This healthy lettuce wrap recipe is a great sandwich substitute. Super for your school lunches AND a good way to get in shape for swimsuit season!
What You'll Need:
Large piece of lettuce
Sliced turkey (or deli meat/salad of you choice)
One slice cheese (Provolone, Mozzarella, Cheddar, etc.)
Tomato slices (optional)
Honey Mustard
What You'll Do:
1. Take a few slices of turkey and a slice of tomato and place on top of lettuce.
2. Add a slice of cheese.
3. Put on some honey mustard to taste.
4. Wrap up, and eat. If the wrap isn't staying together too well, use a toothpick so it stays put.
What You'll Need:
Large piece of lettuce
Sliced turkey (or deli meat/salad of you choice)
One slice cheese (Provolone, Mozzarella, Cheddar, etc.)
Tomato slices (optional)
Honey Mustard
What You'll Do:
1. Take a few slices of turkey and a slice of tomato and place on top of lettuce.
2. Add a slice of cheese.
3. Put on some honey mustard to taste.
4. Wrap up, and eat. If the wrap isn't staying together too well, use a toothpick so it stays put.
Sweet Sugar Scrub
Want a full-on fab body scrub? We’ve got a sweet one you can whip up at home. It’s gentle on your skin and less dehydrating than a salty variety. Use this all-over body scrub before bathing as an exfoliator before you self use self-tanner. Like a trip to the spa, but wayyy friendlier on your wallet!
Ingredients:
*1/4 cup granulated sugar
*2 tablespoons light oil, such as almond, canola, or sunflower
*2 tablespoons milk
Directions:
Mix together all the ingredients into a smooth cream. To use: Before bathing, gently massage the mixture all over your body to increase circulation and remove dry, flaky skin. Make sure you are standing on a towel or inside the shower. Rinse your skin with warm water and moisturize well. Makes 4 ounces, enough for one treatment!
Ingredients:
*1/4 cup granulated sugar
*2 tablespoons light oil, such as almond, canola, or sunflower
*2 tablespoons milk
Directions:
Mix together all the ingredients into a smooth cream. To use: Before bathing, gently massage the mixture all over your body to increase circulation and remove dry, flaky skin. Make sure you are standing on a towel or inside the shower. Rinse your skin with warm water and moisturize well. Makes 4 ounces, enough for one treatment!
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Fly-Away Hair Fix-it
Woo hoo! Warm weather is ALMOST here. But unfortunately, those rising temps also mean tons of tress troubles. Check out this easy, at-home recipe to fight annoying fly-aways. Spray your way to awesome summer hair. You'll be the mane event at any BBQ.
What You'll Need:
1/2 tsp. lemon juice
1/4 tsp. lime juice
1/2 cup water
spray bottle
What You'll Do:
1. Put all ingredients in spray bottle.
2. Shake to mix evenly
3. Spray onto your hair to tame static and pesky fly-aways.
4. Store any remaining mixture in the fridge for later.
What You'll Need:
1/2 tsp. lemon juice
1/4 tsp. lime juice
1/2 cup water
spray bottle
What You'll Do:
1. Put all ingredients in spray bottle.
2. Shake to mix evenly
3. Spray onto your hair to tame static and pesky fly-aways.
4. Store any remaining mixture in the fridge for later.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Watermelon Pops
INGREDIENTS
1 cup sugar
1 (3 ounce) package JELL-O Lime Flavor Gelatin
2 cups boiling water, divided
Ice cubes
1 cup cold water, divided
1 (3 ounce) package JELL-O Strawberry Flavor Gelatin
3 tablespoons miniature semi-sweet chocolate chips
4 ounces PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened
1 1/2 cups thawed COOL WHIP Whipped Topping
DIRECTIONS
Mix 1/3 cup sugar and lime gelatin mix in medium bowl. Add 1 cup boiling water; stir 2 min. until completely dissolved. Add enough ice to 1/2 cup cold water to measure 3/4 cup. Add to lime gelatin; stir until ice is completely melted. Refrigerate 25 min.
Meanwhile, repeat Step 1 using strawberry gelatin mix and omitting the refrigeration step. Pour into 16 (3-oz.) paper cups. Freeze 20 min. Stir 1/2 tsp. chocolate chips into gelatin in each cup.
Beat cream cheese and remaining sugar with mixer in medium bowl until well blended. Stir in COOL WHIP; spread over gelatin in cups.
Pour lime gelatin over cream cheese mixture. Insert wooden pop stick into gelatin in center of each cup. Freeze 3 hours or until firm. Remove pops from cups just before serving.
FOOTNOTES
Note: Look for wooden pop sticks in craft or hobby stores. If you don't have pop sticks, you can use plastic spoons for handles instead.
How to Easily Remove Frozen Pops from Cups: Dip cups in warm water for 15 sec. Peel off cups. (Do not twist or pull pop sticks.)
1 cup sugar
1 (3 ounce) package JELL-O Lime Flavor Gelatin
2 cups boiling water, divided
Ice cubes
1 cup cold water, divided
1 (3 ounce) package JELL-O Strawberry Flavor Gelatin
3 tablespoons miniature semi-sweet chocolate chips
4 ounces PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened
1 1/2 cups thawed COOL WHIP Whipped Topping
DIRECTIONS
Mix 1/3 cup sugar and lime gelatin mix in medium bowl. Add 1 cup boiling water; stir 2 min. until completely dissolved. Add enough ice to 1/2 cup cold water to measure 3/4 cup. Add to lime gelatin; stir until ice is completely melted. Refrigerate 25 min.
Meanwhile, repeat Step 1 using strawberry gelatin mix and omitting the refrigeration step. Pour into 16 (3-oz.) paper cups. Freeze 20 min. Stir 1/2 tsp. chocolate chips into gelatin in each cup.
Beat cream cheese and remaining sugar with mixer in medium bowl until well blended. Stir in COOL WHIP; spread over gelatin in cups.
Pour lime gelatin over cream cheese mixture. Insert wooden pop stick into gelatin in center of each cup. Freeze 3 hours or until firm. Remove pops from cups just before serving.
FOOTNOTES
Note: Look for wooden pop sticks in craft or hobby stores. If you don't have pop sticks, you can use plastic spoons for handles instead.
How to Easily Remove Frozen Pops from Cups: Dip cups in warm water for 15 sec. Peel off cups. (Do not twist or pull pop sticks.)
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Sun Hat Mother's Day Card
What you'll need:
Lace hat
Artificial flowers
Glue gun
Scissors
1/4" W x 20" L ribbon
1/8" W x 10" L ribbon
Design cardstock
Sculpting scissors
How to make it:
Step 1: MAKING THE CARD
Place lace hat on design cardstock and trace around edge.
Cut out hat shape using sculpting scissors.
Turn design cardstock shape over with white side facing up and design on back.
Glue cardstock shape and hat together at top sculpted edge allowing hat to flip up to reveal the message on the front of the card.
Step 2: MAKING THE HAT DESIGN
Cut off stems of artificial flowers.
Glue flowers around hat.
Tie a double bow with 1/4" W x 20" L ribbon.
Glue bow to the bottom of hat.
Fold 1/8" W x10" L ribbon in half.
Glue ribbon to the center of bow.
Tips:
Replace lace hat with a small straw hat.
Friday, May 8, 2009
French Toast Breakfast In Bed!
Stumped on what to get mom for Mother's Day? Surprise her with a French Toast breakfast in bed. Add her fave toppings to make it a super sweet treat. Throw the toast on a tray, alongside a card and a li'l vase of fresh flowers and go surprise the greatest mom ever.
What You'll Need:
For French Toast:
1 1/2 cups milk
6 eggs
24 slices of your fave bread
Butter or nonstick cooking spray
Toppings: (pick one, or a few, depending on mom's faves)
Butter
Syrup
Whipped Cream
Sprinkles
Fruit (try slices of bananas, apples or oranges)
Chocolate chips
Powdered sugar
M&Ms, Reese's pieces or other candy
What You'll Do:
1. Beat eggs and add milk.
2. Take a slice of bread, and dip it in the egg mixture. Press down so the mixture soaks in the bread.
3. Fry in butter or other shortening.
4. Brown (be careful not to burn!) on both sides.
5. Repeat until you have used up all of the bread.
6. Serve with desired toppings.
What You'll Need:
For French Toast:
1 1/2 cups milk
6 eggs
24 slices of your fave bread
Butter or nonstick cooking spray
Toppings: (pick one, or a few, depending on mom's faves)
Butter
Syrup
Whipped Cream
Sprinkles
Fruit (try slices of bananas, apples or oranges)
Chocolate chips
Powdered sugar
M&Ms, Reese's pieces or other candy
What You'll Do:
1. Beat eggs and add milk.
2. Take a slice of bread, and dip it in the egg mixture. Press down so the mixture soaks in the bread.
3. Fry in butter or other shortening.
4. Brown (be careful not to burn!) on both sides.
5. Repeat until you have used up all of the bread.
6. Serve with desired toppings.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Kids' Cardboard Frame
Children will love crafting this adorable cardboard picture frame.
Tools and Materials
Cardboard pieces or boxes
Box cutter
Grid ruler
Pencil
Photo for framing
Frame back (stand) template for your frame size: 8-by-10-inch portrait or 8-by-10-inch landscape
Transparent tape
Double-sided tape
Tools to make embellishments: hand punches, border punches, scissors, and/or craft knife
Pre-made embellishments: stickers, chipboard shapes, adhesive ribbon, etc.
Cardboard Frame How-To
1. With a box cutter, cut three pieces of cardboard to 8-by-10-inch rectangles.
2. To make the windowed part of the frame, mark and cut out a rectangle in the center of one piece of cardboard that is slightly smaller than the photo you would like to frame. Our photos were 5 by 7 inches, so we cut 4 1/2-by-6 1/2-inch windows.
3. For the back of the frame, mark the center of the bottom of a second piece of cardboard with a pencil. Place the template for your frame size on top of this piece of cardboard, lining up the horizontal line with its bottom edge matching the center marks. Tape in place. Cut the cardboard on the solid lines and score (cut halfway through the cardboard) on the dotted lines. Fold out the flaps on the scored (this will be the stand for your frame).
4. Tape the photo to the back of the windowed piece so it shows through the front of the frame, using transparent tape.
5. With double-sided tape, secure the center piece of cardboard to the back of the windowed piece. Do the same to attach the back piece (the stand) to the back of the frame.
6. Embellish the frame with punched paper, stickers, chipboard and card stock shapes, ribbon, and almost anything else you can think of.
*From marthastewart.com
Tools and Materials
Cardboard pieces or boxes
Box cutter
Grid ruler
Pencil
Photo for framing
Frame back (stand) template for your frame size: 8-by-10-inch portrait or 8-by-10-inch landscape
Transparent tape
Double-sided tape
Tools to make embellishments: hand punches, border punches, scissors, and/or craft knife
Pre-made embellishments: stickers, chipboard shapes, adhesive ribbon, etc.
Cardboard Frame How-To
1. With a box cutter, cut three pieces of cardboard to 8-by-10-inch rectangles.
2. To make the windowed part of the frame, mark and cut out a rectangle in the center of one piece of cardboard that is slightly smaller than the photo you would like to frame. Our photos were 5 by 7 inches, so we cut 4 1/2-by-6 1/2-inch windows.
3. For the back of the frame, mark the center of the bottom of a second piece of cardboard with a pencil. Place the template for your frame size on top of this piece of cardboard, lining up the horizontal line with its bottom edge matching the center marks. Tape in place. Cut the cardboard on the solid lines and score (cut halfway through the cardboard) on the dotted lines. Fold out the flaps on the scored (this will be the stand for your frame).
4. Tape the photo to the back of the windowed piece so it shows through the front of the frame, using transparent tape.
5. With double-sided tape, secure the center piece of cardboard to the back of the windowed piece. Do the same to attach the back piece (the stand) to the back of the frame.
6. Embellish the frame with punched paper, stickers, chipboard and card stock shapes, ribbon, and almost anything else you can think of.
*From marthastewart.com
Mother's Day Gift Purse
Package gifts in a charming purse this Mother's Day.
Tools and Materials
Purse templates Part 1 and Part 2
Decorative paper or cardstock
Stapler
Craft knife
Bone folder
Screw punch
Double-sided adhesive, such as Double-Tack or Xyron permanent
Adhesive, or a glue stick
1/4-inch ribbon
Pearl or gem sticker
Adhesive foam dot
Tissue paper
Gift Purse How-To
1. Print templates. Lay templates on decorative paper and staple all around each shape to temporarily hold in place. Score on dotted lines and cut on solid lines to create "Part One" and "Part Two" of the purse. Fold creases where scored. Punch holes where indicated.
2. Cover one side of the "Part One" shape with double-sided adhesive, leaving out the "tab" of the shape (do not apply adhesive from curved end to two folds down from curved end).
3. Remove paper backing from double-sided adhesive and lay the "Part One" shape along the length of the "Part Two" shape. Burnish to smooth out any bumps. Fold up into a purse shape, pushing the smallest folds in the opposite direction, in toward the center.
4. Thread a ribbon handle through the punched holes and knot on both ends. Add an adhesive jewel to the front of the tab for a "clasp," and an adhesive foam dot under the tab.
5. Put a square of tissue paper and a small gift in the purse. Remove backing from adhesive foam dot and press in place to secure.
*From marthastewart.com
Tools and Materials
Purse templates Part 1 and Part 2
Decorative paper or cardstock
Stapler
Craft knife
Bone folder
Screw punch
Double-sided adhesive, such as Double-Tack or Xyron permanent
Adhesive, or a glue stick
1/4-inch ribbon
Pearl or gem sticker
Adhesive foam dot
Tissue paper
Gift Purse How-To
1. Print templates. Lay templates on decorative paper and staple all around each shape to temporarily hold in place. Score on dotted lines and cut on solid lines to create "Part One" and "Part Two" of the purse. Fold creases where scored. Punch holes where indicated.
2. Cover one side of the "Part One" shape with double-sided adhesive, leaving out the "tab" of the shape (do not apply adhesive from curved end to two folds down from curved end).
3. Remove paper backing from double-sided adhesive and lay the "Part One" shape along the length of the "Part Two" shape. Burnish to smooth out any bumps. Fold up into a purse shape, pushing the smallest folds in the opposite direction, in toward the center.
4. Thread a ribbon handle through the punched holes and knot on both ends. Add an adhesive jewel to the front of the tab for a "clasp," and an adhesive foam dot under the tab.
5. Put a square of tissue paper and a small gift in the purse. Remove backing from adhesive foam dot and press in place to secure.
*From marthastewart.com
Coupon Book for Mom
Make Mom something special this Mother's Day -- a book full of coupons that make her feel special long after the holiday has passed.
Tools and Materials
Scrapbook paper
Craft knife
Edge punch
Craft glue
Coupon templates Part 1 and Part 2
Paper ribbon-style labels
1-inch circle hole punch
Double-sided tape
Foam dots
Letter stickers
Butterfly punch
Coupon Book How-To
1. Start with a 12-by-12-inch piece of scrapbook paper. Fold paper in half, then in half again, and then in half again, ending up with a 3-by-6-inch folded piece.
2. Open folded paper piece. With a craft knife, cut a slit along the center fold, leaving 3 inches at the top and bottom intact. Fold to make coupon book (see video, to be posted Monday, May 11, for demonstration of how to fold).
3. Cut a 3-by-6-inch strip of scrapbook paper, and use border edge punch along edges. Use double-sided tape to adhere to front cover of coupon book.
4. Embellish cover strip with letter stickers to say "MOM."
5. Punch a butterfly out of paper and fold in half. Put a dot of craft glue on the fold of the butterfly and adhere to the cover.
6. Download and print coupon templates. Cut coupons to size. Attach ribbon-style label to blank space on coupon using double-sided tape. Write "Happy Mother's Day" on label.
7. Punch circles out of card stock, and write a message for Mom on them. Place foam dots on the back of the punched circles, and adhere them to blank circles on coupon template.
8. Using double-sided tape, attach coupon to coupon book. Repeat for the number of coupon book pages desired.
Tools and Materials
Scrapbook paper
Craft knife
Edge punch
Craft glue
Coupon templates Part 1 and Part 2
Paper ribbon-style labels
1-inch circle hole punch
Double-sided tape
Foam dots
Letter stickers
Butterfly punch
Coupon Book How-To
1. Start with a 12-by-12-inch piece of scrapbook paper. Fold paper in half, then in half again, and then in half again, ending up with a 3-by-6-inch folded piece.
2. Open folded paper piece. With a craft knife, cut a slit along the center fold, leaving 3 inches at the top and bottom intact. Fold to make coupon book (see video, to be posted Monday, May 11, for demonstration of how to fold).
3. Cut a 3-by-6-inch strip of scrapbook paper, and use border edge punch along edges. Use double-sided tape to adhere to front cover of coupon book.
4. Embellish cover strip with letter stickers to say "MOM."
5. Punch a butterfly out of paper and fold in half. Put a dot of craft glue on the fold of the butterfly and adhere to the cover.
6. Download and print coupon templates. Cut coupons to size. Attach ribbon-style label to blank space on coupon using double-sided tape. Write "Happy Mother's Day" on label.
7. Punch circles out of card stock, and write a message for Mom on them. Place foam dots on the back of the punched circles, and adhere them to blank circles on coupon template.
8. Using double-sided tape, attach coupon to coupon book. Repeat for the number of coupon book pages desired.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Valentine's Day Hearts in the Snow
Celebrate Valentine’s Day by welcoming your guests with a lovely yard or sidewalk!
Materials:
Empty spray bottle, red powdered drink mix, and heart shaped cookie cutters
Directions:
Mix the red powdered drink mix with half the water you would usually use.
Pour the red liquid into a spray bottle.
Place the cookie cutter in the snow and spray the red liquid inside the shape.
Line your front side-walk with hearts to greet everyone on Valentine's Day.
Variations
Use different colors of powdered drink mix to have even more variety!
No snow? Make hearts from construction paper, doilies and stickers; run a small wooden skewer through the hearts, then stick the skewer in the ground along your sidewalk.
Materials:
Empty spray bottle, red powdered drink mix, and heart shaped cookie cutters
Directions:
Mix the red powdered drink mix with half the water you would usually use.
Pour the red liquid into a spray bottle.
Place the cookie cutter in the snow and spray the red liquid inside the shape.
Line your front side-walk with hearts to greet everyone on Valentine's Day.
Variations
Use different colors of powdered drink mix to have even more variety!
No snow? Make hearts from construction paper, doilies and stickers; run a small wooden skewer through the hearts, then stick the skewer in the ground along your sidewalk.
Color Someone’s World
Turn a plain old postcard into a masterpiece with a simple marbleizing technique. Then make someone’s day by sending them your work of art with a special message on the back.
Materials
Used plastic food container (cleaned out of course) that is big enough to hold your postcard, water, small plastic eyedroppers, enamel paint, toothpicks or sticks, white postcards or index cards
Directions
1. Fill your container halfway with water. Using an eyedropper, add a few drops of paint in different colors to the water. Swirl the colors with a toothpick or stick.
2. Drop a blank card on the water. After a second or two, carefully lift the card straight up and set it aside to dry on newspaper or paper towels.
3. When it's completely dry, if the card curls, place it beneath a heavy book for a couple of days to flatten the edges.
You may want to clear the water between card dips by dragging a toothpick through the water.
Variation
Skip the mailing step and put these babies in some frames for eye catching wall art to bring some color to your life every day.
Materials
Used plastic food container (cleaned out of course) that is big enough to hold your postcard, water, small plastic eyedroppers, enamel paint, toothpicks or sticks, white postcards or index cards
Directions
1. Fill your container halfway with water. Using an eyedropper, add a few drops of paint in different colors to the water. Swirl the colors with a toothpick or stick.
2. Drop a blank card on the water. After a second or two, carefully lift the card straight up and set it aside to dry on newspaper or paper towels.
3. When it's completely dry, if the card curls, place it beneath a heavy book for a couple of days to flatten the edges.
You may want to clear the water between card dips by dragging a toothpick through the water.
Variation
Skip the mailing step and put these babies in some frames for eye catching wall art to bring some color to your life every day.
Special Sleepover Pillow
Dream on girlz with a pillow like no other. The sky’s the limit with this super fun project. Be careful though you might have so much fun making them that you forget to do any sleeping.
Materials
Pre-washed white or light-colored pillowcases, felt-tipped fabric pens, cardboard
Directions
Slip a piece of cardboard inside each case to keep the ink from seeping through to the other side.
Use the fabric markers to decorate your very own pillowcases! You could be sure to record your special time together by having all your friends autograph your pillowcase.
Variation
Make a pillowcase as a gift and include a special goodnight message for a special person.
Materials
Pre-washed white or light-colored pillowcases, felt-tipped fabric pens, cardboard
Directions
Slip a piece of cardboard inside each case to keep the ink from seeping through to the other side.
Use the fabric markers to decorate your very own pillowcases! You could be sure to record your special time together by having all your friends autograph your pillowcase.
Variation
Make a pillowcase as a gift and include a special goodnight message for a special person.
Harbor View Sand Dough & Stepping Stones
Making these treasures is a day at the beach (even if snow is falling outside your window!). Have a fabulous time playing in the dough. If you want to go a “step” further…the stepping stones are gifts to remember!
Ingredients
1 part white glue
2 parts flour
2 parts sand
2 parts water
Mix together to create a dough. You may need to add water or flour depending on the consistency.
Stepping Stones
Materials (shaped cake pan or mold, sand dough, paint, cooking spray, weather proof paint)
Spray a cake pan with cooking spray (Vaseline works too).
Fill it with sand dough.
Let dry for 3 days.
Paint the stepping stones when they come out of the pan.
Variation
Press glass jewels or colorful pieces of glass in the dough before it dries.
Ingredients
1 part white glue
2 parts flour
2 parts sand
2 parts water
Mix together to create a dough. You may need to add water or flour depending on the consistency.
Stepping Stones
Materials (shaped cake pan or mold, sand dough, paint, cooking spray, weather proof paint)
Spray a cake pan with cooking spray (Vaseline works too).
Fill it with sand dough.
Let dry for 3 days.
Paint the stepping stones when they come out of the pan.
Variation
Press glass jewels or colorful pieces of glass in the dough before it dries.
Real Girl Lip Gloss
Your lip gloss. Your way. The possibilities are endless with this awesome recipe and how cool to know exactly what you are putting on those smackers.
Materials
Vegetable shortening, honey, unsweetened drink mix (eg. Kool-Aid), hot water
Directions
1. Use a small bowl to mix 1 tbsp of the solid vegetable shortening and 1 tsp of honey.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the drink mix and 1/4 tsp of hot water until it is dissolved. Stir in as much of the drink mix as possible. The actual amount will depend on the temperature of water. The more you can dissolve, the stronger the flavor will be.
You can choose the color and flavor of you lip gloss by the type of drink mix you use.
3. Add one drop of the water mixture to the shortening/honey base. Stir well. Repeat until you get the color/flavor combination you want.
4. Pour into a clean container or old lip gloss pot.
5. Store in the refrigerator. Keeps for 3 days, but it tastes so good that you will use it up very fast!
Variation
Use some glitter for cake decorating to add some sparkle to your lip gloss.
Materials
Vegetable shortening, honey, unsweetened drink mix (eg. Kool-Aid), hot water
Directions
1. Use a small bowl to mix 1 tbsp of the solid vegetable shortening and 1 tsp of honey.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the drink mix and 1/4 tsp of hot water until it is dissolved. Stir in as much of the drink mix as possible. The actual amount will depend on the temperature of water. The more you can dissolve, the stronger the flavor will be.
You can choose the color and flavor of you lip gloss by the type of drink mix you use.
3. Add one drop of the water mixture to the shortening/honey base. Stir well. Repeat until you get the color/flavor combination you want.
4. Pour into a clean container or old lip gloss pot.
5. Store in the refrigerator. Keeps for 3 days, but it tastes so good that you will use it up very fast!
Variation
Use some glitter for cake decorating to add some sparkle to your lip gloss.
Beauty Lab Bath Salts
Make your own fancy bath salts for gifts or to use relaxing at home with your favorite Faithgirlz! books.
Material List
Epsom Salts, Course Salt,_Large Jar with lid (peanut butter size works great!),_Food Coloring, Essential Oil (ex. lavender or vanilla),_Small piece of fabric
Instructions
In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of Epsom Salt with 1 cup of Course Salt.
Stir in 2-3 drops of food coloring (not too much- you don’t want to permanently change color!)
Stir in 5-6 drops of essential oil.
Pour the finished bath salt into the jar and put on a lid.
Put a square of fabric over the lid and secure with an elastic band or ribbon.
Use 1/3 to 1/2 cups of your bath salts in your next bath.
Variations
1. Put salts in baby food jars and wrap with tulle and ribbon for special gifts or party favors. Make a fancy label to put on the front of the jar.
2. Make different colors and layer them to create a look like sand art (but only use one oil for all colors).
Material List
Epsom Salts, Course Salt,_Large Jar with lid (peanut butter size works great!),_Food Coloring, Essential Oil (ex. lavender or vanilla),_Small piece of fabric
Instructions
In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of Epsom Salt with 1 cup of Course Salt.
Stir in 2-3 drops of food coloring (not too much- you don’t want to permanently change color!)
Stir in 5-6 drops of essential oil.
Pour the finished bath salt into the jar and put on a lid.
Put a square of fabric over the lid and secure with an elastic band or ribbon.
Use 1/3 to 1/2 cups of your bath salts in your next bath.
Variations
1. Put salts in baby food jars and wrap with tulle and ribbon for special gifts or party favors. Make a fancy label to put on the front of the jar.
2. Make different colors and layer them to create a look like sand art (but only use one oil for all colors).
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Strawberry Tart
Ingredients
Serves 8
FOR THE CRUST
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled), plus more for handling dough
1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1/3 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
FOR THE FILLING
1 bar (8 ounces) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sugar
1 1/2 to 2 pounds strawberries, hulled and halved
1/4 cup seedless red currant jelly
Directions
Make the crust: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a food processor, blend flour, butter, 1/3 cup sugar, and salt until moist crumbs form (this may take up to 1 minute). Transfer dough to a 9-inch round tart pan with a removable bottom.
With floured fingers, press dough evenly into pan and up sides. Dip a dry-measuring cup in flour, and use it to press dough firmly into bottom and against sides of pan. Freeze crust until firm, 10 to 15 minutes.
Using a fork, prick crust all over. Bake until golden, 25 to 30 minutes, pressing down gently once or twice with a spoon during baking if crust puffs up. Cool completely in pan.
Make the filling: In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese and remaining 1/4 cup sugar until smooth; spread mixture evenly in bottom of baked crust (still in tart pan).
Starting from outside edge, arrange strawberry halves, stemmed side down, in tight concentric circles on cream cheese.
In a small saucepan, heat jelly on medium-low until liquefied. Gently brush strawberries with jelly; let set at least 20 minutes. Chill in pan at least 1 hour (and up to 6 hours); remove from pan just before serving.
Serves 8
FOR THE CRUST
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled), plus more for handling dough
1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1/3 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
FOR THE FILLING
1 bar (8 ounces) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sugar
1 1/2 to 2 pounds strawberries, hulled and halved
1/4 cup seedless red currant jelly
Directions
Make the crust: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a food processor, blend flour, butter, 1/3 cup sugar, and salt until moist crumbs form (this may take up to 1 minute). Transfer dough to a 9-inch round tart pan with a removable bottom.
With floured fingers, press dough evenly into pan and up sides. Dip a dry-measuring cup in flour, and use it to press dough firmly into bottom and against sides of pan. Freeze crust until firm, 10 to 15 minutes.
Using a fork, prick crust all over. Bake until golden, 25 to 30 minutes, pressing down gently once or twice with a spoon during baking if crust puffs up. Cool completely in pan.
Make the filling: In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese and remaining 1/4 cup sugar until smooth; spread mixture evenly in bottom of baked crust (still in tart pan).
Starting from outside edge, arrange strawberry halves, stemmed side down, in tight concentric circles on cream cheese.
In a small saucepan, heat jelly on medium-low until liquefied. Gently brush strawberries with jelly; let set at least 20 minutes. Chill in pan at least 1 hour (and up to 6 hours); remove from pan just before serving.
Cream Scones
Ingredients
Makes 8 to 10
2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for work surface, hands, and cutter
3 tablespoons sugar, plus more for sprinkling
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1/3 cup heavy cream, plus more for brushing
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
Strawberry preserves, for serving
Softly whipped cream, for serving
Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.
Sift flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt into a large bowl. Using a pastry blender or 2 knives, cut in butter until largest pieces are the size of small peas.
Using a fork, whisk together the cream and eggs in a large glass measuring cup. Make a well in the center of flour mixture, and pour in cream mixture. Stir lightly with fork just until the dough comes together (do not overmix).
Turn out dough onto a lightly floured work surface. With floured hands, gently pat dough into a 4 1/2-by-8 1/2-inch rectangle, about 3/4-inch thick. Using a floured 2-inch round cutter, cut out 8 to 10 rounds, and transfer them to lined baking sheet. Brush tops with cream, and sprinkle with sugar. Bake scones until golden brown, 16 to 20 minutes. Transfer scones to wire racks, and let cool. Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with strawberry preserves and whipped cream.
Makes 8 to 10
2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for work surface, hands, and cutter
3 tablespoons sugar, plus more for sprinkling
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1/3 cup heavy cream, plus more for brushing
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
Strawberry preserves, for serving
Softly whipped cream, for serving
Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.
Sift flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt into a large bowl. Using a pastry blender or 2 knives, cut in butter until largest pieces are the size of small peas.
Using a fork, whisk together the cream and eggs in a large glass measuring cup. Make a well in the center of flour mixture, and pour in cream mixture. Stir lightly with fork just until the dough comes together (do not overmix).
Turn out dough onto a lightly floured work surface. With floured hands, gently pat dough into a 4 1/2-by-8 1/2-inch rectangle, about 3/4-inch thick. Using a floured 2-inch round cutter, cut out 8 to 10 rounds, and transfer them to lined baking sheet. Brush tops with cream, and sprinkle with sugar. Bake scones until golden brown, 16 to 20 minutes. Transfer scones to wire racks, and let cool. Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with strawberry preserves and whipped cream.
Heart Pancakes
Ingredients
Makes twelve 4-inch pancakes
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly, plus 1 tablespoon for griddle
Directions
Preheat griddle to 375 degrees, or heat griddle pan over medium-high heat. Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in medium bowl. Add egg, milk, and 2 tablespoons melted butter; whisk to combine. Batter should have small to medium lumps.
Preheat oven to 175 degrees. Test griddle by sprinkling with a few drops of water. If water bounces and spatters, it is hot enough. With paper towel, brush 1/2 teaspoon butter onto griddle. Wipe off excess.
Fill a pastry bag fitted with a 1/4-inch plain round tip with batter; twist end of bag, and secure with rubber band. Working in batches, pipe heart shapes, drawing V of batter in center of hearts to fill, on heated griddle. When pancakes have bubbles on top and are slightly dry around the edges, about 2 minutes, flip over. Cook until golden on the bottom, about 1 minute.
Repeat with remaining batter, using 1/2 teaspoon butter on griddle for each batch, keeping finished pancakes on a heat-proof plate in the oven until ready to serve.
Makes twelve 4-inch pancakes
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly, plus 1 tablespoon for griddle
Directions
Preheat griddle to 375 degrees, or heat griddle pan over medium-high heat. Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in medium bowl. Add egg, milk, and 2 tablespoons melted butter; whisk to combine. Batter should have small to medium lumps.
Preheat oven to 175 degrees. Test griddle by sprinkling with a few drops of water. If water bounces and spatters, it is hot enough. With paper towel, brush 1/2 teaspoon butter onto griddle. Wipe off excess.
Fill a pastry bag fitted with a 1/4-inch plain round tip with batter; twist end of bag, and secure with rubber band. Working in batches, pipe heart shapes, drawing V of batter in center of hearts to fill, on heated griddle. When pancakes have bubbles on top and are slightly dry around the edges, about 2 minutes, flip over. Cook until golden on the bottom, about 1 minute.
Repeat with remaining batter, using 1/2 teaspoon butter on griddle for each batch, keeping finished pancakes on a heat-proof plate in the oven until ready to serve.
Blueberry Blintzes
Ingredients
Makes 12; serves 6
FOR THE CREPES
3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons whole milk
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
3 tablespoons canola oil
Confectioners' sugar, for dusting
FOR THE SAUCE
1 pint (about 2 cups) blueberries
6 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
Pinch of coarse salt
FOR THE FILLING
16 ounces cottage cheese
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup plus 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 vanilla bean, halved lengthwise, seeds scraped and reserved, bean discarded
1/2 pint (about 1 cup) blueberries
Directions
Make the crepe batter: Whisk together milk, 1/2 cup water, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and the eggs in a medium bowl. Whisk in flour and salt; set aside.
Make the sauce: Stir blueberries, sugar, butter, lemon juice, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Bring mixture to a low boil. Reduce heat; simmer, stirring often, until berries begin to break down and release their juices, about 10 minutes. Set aside.
Make the filling: Puree cottage cheese, cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla seeds in a food processor. Transfer to a medium bowl; stir in blueberries. Set aside.
Make the crepes: Stir together remaining 3 tablespoons melted butter and the oil in a small bowl; reserve 1/4 cup for cooking blintzes. Heat an 8-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat. Lightly brush pan using remaining butter-oil mixture. Pour a scant 1/4 cup batter into pan; swirl to form an even layer. Cook until bottom is lightly browned, about 1 1/2 minutes. Using a heatproof spatula, flip crepe; cook 30 seconds. Transfer to a plate. Repeat with remaining butter-oil mixture and batter.
Transfer a crepe to a clean work surface. Spoon 2 heaping tablespoons filling onto crepe 1 inch from bottom and sides. Fold bottom over filling. Fold in sides, and roll up. Set aside, seam down. Repeat with remaining crepes and filling.
Heat the reserved 1/4 cup butter-oil mixture in clean pan over medium heat. Working in batches of three, fry blintzes, turning once, until golden and crisp, 2 to 2 1/2 minutes per side. Place two blintzes on each plate. Spoon warm sauce over top, and dust with confectioners' sugar.
Makes 12; serves 6
FOR THE CREPES
3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons whole milk
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
3 tablespoons canola oil
Confectioners' sugar, for dusting
FOR THE SAUCE
1 pint (about 2 cups) blueberries
6 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
Pinch of coarse salt
FOR THE FILLING
16 ounces cottage cheese
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup plus 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 vanilla bean, halved lengthwise, seeds scraped and reserved, bean discarded
1/2 pint (about 1 cup) blueberries
Directions
Make the crepe batter: Whisk together milk, 1/2 cup water, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and the eggs in a medium bowl. Whisk in flour and salt; set aside.
Make the sauce: Stir blueberries, sugar, butter, lemon juice, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Bring mixture to a low boil. Reduce heat; simmer, stirring often, until berries begin to break down and release their juices, about 10 minutes. Set aside.
Make the filling: Puree cottage cheese, cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla seeds in a food processor. Transfer to a medium bowl; stir in blueberries. Set aside.
Make the crepes: Stir together remaining 3 tablespoons melted butter and the oil in a small bowl; reserve 1/4 cup for cooking blintzes. Heat an 8-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat. Lightly brush pan using remaining butter-oil mixture. Pour a scant 1/4 cup batter into pan; swirl to form an even layer. Cook until bottom is lightly browned, about 1 1/2 minutes. Using a heatproof spatula, flip crepe; cook 30 seconds. Transfer to a plate. Repeat with remaining butter-oil mixture and batter.
Transfer a crepe to a clean work surface. Spoon 2 heaping tablespoons filling onto crepe 1 inch from bottom and sides. Fold bottom over filling. Fold in sides, and roll up. Set aside, seam down. Repeat with remaining crepes and filling.
Heat the reserved 1/4 cup butter-oil mixture in clean pan over medium heat. Working in batches of three, fry blintzes, turning once, until golden and crisp, 2 to 2 1/2 minutes per side. Place two blintzes on each plate. Spoon warm sauce over top, and dust with confectioners' sugar.
Mother's Day Breakfast
Here's a present you know she'll love.
Using a cookie cutter or a knife, cut out a small heart shape from the center of a thick slice of bread. Spread each side of bread with herb butter.
Heat skillet over medium heat. Saute bread until golden, 2 to 3 minutes. Lower heat, and gently flip toast.
Break an egg into heart-shaped hole. Cover, and cook until egg white turns opaque, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate along with the heart-shaped piece of cutout bread, perfect for dipping into yolk.
Serve with a cup of hot cocoa or cafe au lait.
Using a cookie cutter or a knife, cut out a small heart shape from the center of a thick slice of bread. Spread each side of bread with herb butter.
Heat skillet over medium heat. Saute bread until golden, 2 to 3 minutes. Lower heat, and gently flip toast.
Break an egg into heart-shaped hole. Cover, and cook until egg white turns opaque, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate along with the heart-shaped piece of cutout bread, perfect for dipping into yolk.
Serve with a cup of hot cocoa or cafe au lait.
Cinco de Mayo: FIESTA FUN!
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo the whole month of May with a special Mexican themed party for you and your amigos! We got the deets that will help transform any same ol' soiree into a real Mexican fiesta!
Add Some Color...Ole!
Decorations can be pretty simple. Mexican restaurants are decked out in bright, bold colors so keep this in mind. Maybe buy a roll of steamers which are very inexpensive from the local party store. Or, try making a few large tissue paper flowers like you did in pre-school in bright colors to liven up the place.
If you forget how to make ‘em, here’s a quick recap:
With some pipe cleaners and a few sheets of tissue paper, take a sheet of tissue paper and pinch it in the middle of the square. Gently pull up the surrounding sides of the tissue paper towards you with your free hand as you firmly grip this center portion. Slowly twist this original center pinch until you are able to nicely loop one end of a pipe cleaner around it as the stem and make sure it is secure. These are quick, easy and not something that take much effort to look perfect so don’t stress. If they all look diff, it’ll give your place a nice, colorful effect.
Cinco de Mayo Chow
What's on the menu at this Mexican fiesta? Salsa, chili con queso dip, enchiladas and a nice lemon-lime drink to wash it all down!
Ingredients for salsa can be as easy as looking through your fridge to see what you already have.
What You'll Need:
2 tomatoes
an onion
mango
pear
apple
avocado
corn
olives
peppers (red, green, jalapeno..whichever you prefer)
beans
a pinch of fresh cilantro
a hint of basil
minced garlic or garlic powder
salt and pepper to taste (about a teaspoon)
What You'll Do:
Take whatever you like, but stick to combos you know work well together. We like to use tomatoes as our base and add in things as they are fresh or available. We wouldn’t suggest throwing in everything in our list but keep adding and mixing until you're totally satisfied.
Another surefire way to fab up your fiesta? Chili con queso can be made any way. The easiest way to prep it for your party?
What You’ll Need:
chili (leftover or canned)
sour cream
shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, Cheddar, Mexican, any mixture…whatever you have)
What You'll Do:
Grab that leftover chili your mom made the day before or buy a can of pre-made chili from the grocery store. Spread it into a small square pan. Next, layer about 8 oz. of sour cream on top of the chili. Keep the layers separate, don't mix 'em. Then, layer the top with the shredded cheese you have on hand. Stick the dip in the oven at 300 degrees until the top layer of cheese bubbles or for about 10 minutes. Delish!
Grab your fave nachos, crackers, veggies and start dig into those dips!
OUR TIP: Another great fiesta grub is to make your own taco bar. Set out some plain tortillas with all the taco fillin' and toppin's. Then, let your guests build their own!
For the party bev, grab any lemonade or lemon-lime drink you have on hand. We suggest Crystal Light or Country Time powder Lemonade, this is way less expensive then buying it ready made plus it is quick to whip up a batch as necessary. For an extra touch, make a batch about a day ahead of time and pour it into your normal ice trays. This way, after you make a batch for your guests, this lemonade ice will add more pop to your drink and it won't be too watered down all day. Add a few lemon or lime slices to throw into the pitcher of your drink to keep it looking fresh 'n' fancy.
Fire Up That Fiesta With...
Grab that broomstick and start up the limbo! You’ll really be shocked when you see how flexible your friendsreally are. Don’t forget to take turns holding that limo stick so everyone can go. Find that embarrassing copy that your old sis still has of the “Macarena” or other upbeat music and get ready to limbo!
Tell your pals 'bout the theme before you throw your soiree. It’ll be the perf occasion for them to wear that sombrero they bought on the trip to Mexico with the ‘rents or other South-of-the border-inspired attire. If you have some spare cash from your allowance that week, maybe think about picking up a sombrero or 2 at the local party store for even more fun! Other fun fiesta stuff? Maracas to use out on that dance floor.
Add Some Color...Ole!
Decorations can be pretty simple. Mexican restaurants are decked out in bright, bold colors so keep this in mind. Maybe buy a roll of steamers which are very inexpensive from the local party store. Or, try making a few large tissue paper flowers like you did in pre-school in bright colors to liven up the place.
If you forget how to make ‘em, here’s a quick recap:
With some pipe cleaners and a few sheets of tissue paper, take a sheet of tissue paper and pinch it in the middle of the square. Gently pull up the surrounding sides of the tissue paper towards you with your free hand as you firmly grip this center portion. Slowly twist this original center pinch until you are able to nicely loop one end of a pipe cleaner around it as the stem and make sure it is secure. These are quick, easy and not something that take much effort to look perfect so don’t stress. If they all look diff, it’ll give your place a nice, colorful effect.
Cinco de Mayo Chow
What's on the menu at this Mexican fiesta? Salsa, chili con queso dip, enchiladas and a nice lemon-lime drink to wash it all down!
Ingredients for salsa can be as easy as looking through your fridge to see what you already have.
What You'll Need:
2 tomatoes
an onion
mango
pear
apple
avocado
corn
olives
peppers (red, green, jalapeno..whichever you prefer)
beans
a pinch of fresh cilantro
a hint of basil
minced garlic or garlic powder
salt and pepper to taste (about a teaspoon)
What You'll Do:
Take whatever you like, but stick to combos you know work well together. We like to use tomatoes as our base and add in things as they are fresh or available. We wouldn’t suggest throwing in everything in our list but keep adding and mixing until you're totally satisfied.
Another surefire way to fab up your fiesta? Chili con queso can be made any way. The easiest way to prep it for your party?
What You’ll Need:
chili (leftover or canned)
sour cream
shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, Cheddar, Mexican, any mixture…whatever you have)
What You'll Do:
Grab that leftover chili your mom made the day before or buy a can of pre-made chili from the grocery store. Spread it into a small square pan. Next, layer about 8 oz. of sour cream on top of the chili. Keep the layers separate, don't mix 'em. Then, layer the top with the shredded cheese you have on hand. Stick the dip in the oven at 300 degrees until the top layer of cheese bubbles or for about 10 minutes. Delish!
Grab your fave nachos, crackers, veggies and start dig into those dips!
OUR TIP: Another great fiesta grub is to make your own taco bar. Set out some plain tortillas with all the taco fillin' and toppin's. Then, let your guests build their own!
For the party bev, grab any lemonade or lemon-lime drink you have on hand. We suggest Crystal Light or Country Time powder Lemonade, this is way less expensive then buying it ready made plus it is quick to whip up a batch as necessary. For an extra touch, make a batch about a day ahead of time and pour it into your normal ice trays. This way, after you make a batch for your guests, this lemonade ice will add more pop to your drink and it won't be too watered down all day. Add a few lemon or lime slices to throw into the pitcher of your drink to keep it looking fresh 'n' fancy.
Fire Up That Fiesta With...
Grab that broomstick and start up the limbo! You’ll really be shocked when you see how flexible your friendsreally are. Don’t forget to take turns holding that limo stick so everyone can go. Find that embarrassing copy that your old sis still has of the “Macarena” or other upbeat music and get ready to limbo!
Tell your pals 'bout the theme before you throw your soiree. It’ll be the perf occasion for them to wear that sombrero they bought on the trip to Mexico with the ‘rents or other South-of-the border-inspired attire. If you have some spare cash from your allowance that week, maybe think about picking up a sombrero or 2 at the local party store for even more fun! Other fun fiesta stuff? Maracas to use out on that dance floor.
Monday, May 4, 2009
MOTHER'S DAY SPECIAL: DIY Gifts For Your Mom!
Hey, gals! Do you ever have moments where you just want to give your mom a gigantic hug and tell her you love her? Well, Mother's Day is right around the corner and it's time to let her know just how great she is! Our mamas do so much for us, so give your mom a break and let her know you care. Here are some great ideas to give your leading lady big props!
Cutesy Coupons
One super easy and fun idea is to make a coupon book for your madre! Cut a piece of white or lined piece of paper into thirds. On each piece write one nice thing you can do for your mom. What to give her coupons for? Try extra chores or pampering stuff you could do for mama, like – "Good for a half an hour of gardening and planting flowers", "Good for a fab French Toast breakfast in bread," or "Good for one night of babysitting for free." Be sure to use different colored markers and maybe even draw illustrations to make the coupons look extra cute!
Fab Frames
Are you an awesome painter or aspiring photographer? Your mom will totally love a hand painted frame to put some pics in. Go to your local art store to get a plain wooden frame and make sure you have tons of acrylic paints, some funky nail polish to fab, buttons, fabric scraps, gems or other cute trinkets to fab up your frame. If you wanna get super fancy buy little decorations like letters that spell out things like "#1 MOM." Add a pic of you and your mama or you and your sibs. She'll love it!
Delish Dining
Another idea your mom will totally L-O-V-E is to let her have off for the night from cooking. Plan a delish dinner for the whole fam on Mother's Day! Ask you dad to help with the grocery shopping and using the oven. Mama will totally appreciate being able to sit back, relax and have dinner made for her for once! Get some easy-peasy recipes RIGHT HERE and HERE!
Babysitting Babe
If you have younger siblings, offer to babysit for the night. Let your mom go out on a nice dinner and see a movie. She'll love not having to worry about anything and just have a few hours to herself!
Soulfully Simple
Don't forget that even a simple homemade card will make your madre feel super special. Add something that's meaningful to you...like a poem you came up with, or a quote that says how you feel about her or maybe there's a picture you took for photography that she loves. Write her a li'l list of reasons telling her why you think she's the best mom ever. Make your card oh-so-unique and your mama is sure to be impressed!
Cutesy Coupons
One super easy and fun idea is to make a coupon book for your madre! Cut a piece of white or lined piece of paper into thirds. On each piece write one nice thing you can do for your mom. What to give her coupons for? Try extra chores or pampering stuff you could do for mama, like – "Good for a half an hour of gardening and planting flowers", "Good for a fab French Toast breakfast in bread," or "Good for one night of babysitting for free." Be sure to use different colored markers and maybe even draw illustrations to make the coupons look extra cute!
Fab Frames
Are you an awesome painter or aspiring photographer? Your mom will totally love a hand painted frame to put some pics in. Go to your local art store to get a plain wooden frame and make sure you have tons of acrylic paints, some funky nail polish to fab, buttons, fabric scraps, gems or other cute trinkets to fab up your frame. If you wanna get super fancy buy little decorations like letters that spell out things like "#1 MOM." Add a pic of you and your mama or you and your sibs. She'll love it!
Delish Dining
Another idea your mom will totally L-O-V-E is to let her have off for the night from cooking. Plan a delish dinner for the whole fam on Mother's Day! Ask you dad to help with the grocery shopping and using the oven. Mama will totally appreciate being able to sit back, relax and have dinner made for her for once! Get some easy-peasy recipes RIGHT HERE and HERE!
Babysitting Babe
If you have younger siblings, offer to babysit for the night. Let your mom go out on a nice dinner and see a movie. She'll love not having to worry about anything and just have a few hours to herself!
Soulfully Simple
Don't forget that even a simple homemade card will make your madre feel super special. Add something that's meaningful to you...like a poem you came up with, or a quote that says how you feel about her or maybe there's a picture you took for photography that she loves. Write her a li'l list of reasons telling her why you think she's the best mom ever. Make your card oh-so-unique and your mama is sure to be impressed!
Dreamsicle Smoothie
Before you say, ”Carrot Juice – ugh”, give this shake a try. Fresh carrot juice can be found at some supermarkets and health food stores but be sure that the carrot juice is sweet, not bitter. “Odwalla” carrot juice, which is sweet and delicious, can be found nationwide.
What You’ll Need:
o 1/2 cup vanilla soy milk or reduced-fat milk
o 1/2 cup fresh orange or tangerine juice
o 1/2 cup fresh carrot juice
o 3-4 ice cubes
What You’ll Do
Pour the ingredients into a blender, starting with three ice cubes. Hold down the blender top with one hand and blend until smooth. Add more ice cubes if you want a thicker smoothie.
Other ideas: Add 1/2 cup frozen peach slices instead of ice cubes.
What You’ll Need:
o 1/2 cup vanilla soy milk or reduced-fat milk
o 1/2 cup fresh orange or tangerine juice
o 1/2 cup fresh carrot juice
o 3-4 ice cubes
What You’ll Do
Pour the ingredients into a blender, starting with three ice cubes. Hold down the blender top with one hand and blend until smooth. Add more ice cubes if you want a thicker smoothie.
Other ideas: Add 1/2 cup frozen peach slices instead of ice cubes.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Straw Flowers
Make charming straw flowers inspired by vintage crafts of the 1960s, the decade in which Lilly Pulitzer's brightly colored prints first rose to fame.
Tools and Materials
Synthetic raffia in two colors
Flower loom
Tape
Large craft or tapestry needle
Small pointed-tip craft scissors
Optional:
Needle and thread
Hair clip or pin back
Straw Flowers How-To
1. Start with 4 yards of synthetic raffia, or pull straight from the spool; tape raffia to edge of loom to secure, leaving a 24-inch tail.
2. Wrap raffia in figure-eight patterns around opposite pairs of outer pegs. Work clockwise until all pegs are wrapped, and go around two or three more times, creating three or four layers. Tape tail of raffia to side of loom to secure.
3. Wrap the inner pegs of the loom with a different color, using the same technique to create two or three layers.
4. Thread a craft needle with the 24-inch tail from the first color.
5. Bring the needle up from the bottom of the loom through to the top, between a pair of petals near the center of flower. Avoid piercing the raffia as you do this. Sew small and large petal layers to one another by back-stitching the small petals to the large petals below them, around their bases.
6. Turn the loom over and secure all loose ends by knotting the tails. Snip off excess raffia and gently remove the flower from the loom.
7. Optional: Thread a 6-inch length of raffia through the loops of the small petals and tie ends together, cinching the petals, to create the look of the raised center of a daisy.
8. Fluff the petals by placing the point of a pair of small scissors into a petal loop and opening up the scissors.
9. Optional: Add a hair clip or pin to the back by sewing in place with needle and thread and wrapping with more raffia.
Tools and Materials
Synthetic raffia in two colors
Flower loom
Tape
Large craft or tapestry needle
Small pointed-tip craft scissors
Optional:
Needle and thread
Hair clip or pin back
Straw Flowers How-To
1. Start with 4 yards of synthetic raffia, or pull straight from the spool; tape raffia to edge of loom to secure, leaving a 24-inch tail.
2. Wrap raffia in figure-eight patterns around opposite pairs of outer pegs. Work clockwise until all pegs are wrapped, and go around two or three more times, creating three or four layers. Tape tail of raffia to side of loom to secure.
3. Wrap the inner pegs of the loom with a different color, using the same technique to create two or three layers.
4. Thread a craft needle with the 24-inch tail from the first color.
5. Bring the needle up from the bottom of the loom through to the top, between a pair of petals near the center of flower. Avoid piercing the raffia as you do this. Sew small and large petal layers to one another by back-stitching the small petals to the large petals below them, around their bases.
6. Turn the loom over and secure all loose ends by knotting the tails. Snip off excess raffia and gently remove the flower from the loom.
7. Optional: Thread a 6-inch length of raffia through the loops of the small petals and tie ends together, cinching the petals, to create the look of the raised center of a daisy.
8. Fluff the petals by placing the point of a pair of small scissors into a petal loop and opening up the scissors.
9. Optional: Add a hair clip or pin to the back by sewing in place with needle and thread and wrapping with more raffia.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Tiramisu Twinkies
For a sweet treat that'll dazzle them, do a twist on an old Italian dessert. It's fun, easy to make and great to share with your fam or your friends at your next party!
What You'll Need:
1 pack of 100 Calorie pack Twinkies (mini Twinkies)
1 container Cool Whip Whipped Cream (If you can find it, you can also
use Mascarpone Cheese)
1 teaspoon Cinnamon
1 bottle Manhattan Special Coffee drink
What You'll Do:
1. Cut each mini Twinkie in half and place four halves face-up on a plate
2. Pour Manhattan Special drink over the Twinkie halves.
3. Pour a few spoons of whipped cream in a bowl and mix with cinnamon.
4. Spoon whipped cream mixture on top of Twinkie halves.
5. Place other halves of Twinkies on top of whipped cream mix
6. Pour a li'l Manhattan special over it, top with cinnamon and a dollop of whipped cream.
Let cake chill in 'fridge for a li'l or eat it up right away!
What You'll Need:
1 pack of 100 Calorie pack Twinkies (mini Twinkies)
1 container Cool Whip Whipped Cream (If you can find it, you can also
use Mascarpone Cheese)
1 teaspoon Cinnamon
1 bottle Manhattan Special Coffee drink
What You'll Do:
1. Cut each mini Twinkie in half and place four halves face-up on a plate
2. Pour Manhattan Special drink over the Twinkie halves.
3. Pour a few spoons of whipped cream in a bowl and mix with cinnamon.
4. Spoon whipped cream mixture on top of Twinkie halves.
5. Place other halves of Twinkies on top of whipped cream mix
6. Pour a li'l Manhattan special over it, top with cinnamon and a dollop of whipped cream.
Let cake chill in 'fridge for a li'l or eat it up right away!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Bloomin’ Baskets
Mama's Day is almost here. What are you gonna give your mom to show her how much you care? A springy basket is pretty 'n' perf for the occasion. Moms love clever ways to organize their things, and you can help her do it with some style. Transform any everyday basket into a chic catch-all.
What You'll Need:
Basket
Hot-glue gun
Glue sticks
Fabric scraps
Dried or silk flowers
Ribbon
Scissors
What You'll Do:
1. Plug in your hot-glue gun, and have the glue sticks handy. Have an adult help you use the gun safely. Hot glue on the hands hurts!
2. Dot the inside of the basket with hot glue. Quickly lay fabric scraps inside. Push, tuck and glue to fit the fabric neatly.
3. If your basket has a handle, wrap it tightly with ribbon and secure the ends with hot glue.
4. Whether you are using artificial or dried flowers, you’ll need to cut off the stems. Hot-glue the flower buds around the outside of the basket.
What You'll Need:
Basket
Hot-glue gun
Glue sticks
Fabric scraps
Dried or silk flowers
Ribbon
Scissors
What You'll Do:
1. Plug in your hot-glue gun, and have the glue sticks handy. Have an adult help you use the gun safely. Hot glue on the hands hurts!
2. Dot the inside of the basket with hot glue. Quickly lay fabric scraps inside. Push, tuck and glue to fit the fabric neatly.
3. If your basket has a handle, wrap it tightly with ribbon and secure the ends with hot glue.
4. Whether you are using artificial or dried flowers, you’ll need to cut off the stems. Hot-glue the flower buds around the outside of the basket.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Easy Cheesy Mac 'n' Cheese
If boring old boxed mac won't do, try this mix of five (yeah, five!) super cheeses. School your family's pasta skills with this easy dinner proj and save the rest for lunch the next day!
What You'll Need:
1 box of store brand macaroni and cheese with yellow cheddar powder
2 slices of Swiss cheese
1 mozzarella string cheese
1 cup of Parmesan flakes
1 cup of crumbled blue cheese
1 cup of milk (your choice if it's skim, 1%, whole, whatevs!)
What You'll Do:
1. Prepare the boxed mac n cheese by boiling the water, adding the pasta, and waiting till it's cooked.
2. Strain the pasta but place it back into the cooking pot.
3. Pour in the cup of milk- be careful, the pot will make the milk hot!
4. Cut up the string cheese and Swiss slices into tiny pieces and mix it in.
5. Mix in the powder and keep turning with a spoon to melt the large chunks of powder and the other cheeses.
6. When these are mostly mixed in, sprinkle in parmesan flakes and blue cheese crumbles. Put as much or little as you like!
7. Wait till all the cheeses are slightly melted in, and spoon into your own bowl.
What You'll Need:
1 box of store brand macaroni and cheese with yellow cheddar powder
2 slices of Swiss cheese
1 mozzarella string cheese
1 cup of Parmesan flakes
1 cup of crumbled blue cheese
1 cup of milk (your choice if it's skim, 1%, whole, whatevs!)
What You'll Do:
1. Prepare the boxed mac n cheese by boiling the water, adding the pasta, and waiting till it's cooked.
2. Strain the pasta but place it back into the cooking pot.
3. Pour in the cup of milk- be careful, the pot will make the milk hot!
4. Cut up the string cheese and Swiss slices into tiny pieces and mix it in.
5. Mix in the powder and keep turning with a spoon to melt the large chunks of powder and the other cheeses.
6. When these are mostly mixed in, sprinkle in parmesan flakes and blue cheese crumbles. Put as much or little as you like!
7. Wait till all the cheeses are slightly melted in, and spoon into your own bowl.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Earth Day Exercise
We all know exercising is good for your bod. But let’s make it healthier for Mother Nature, too. Its time to revamp your workout routine and make it oh-so green!
1. Ditch the treadmill, turn off the workout DVDs and put down the iPod. Get away from the powered equipment and become besties with nature by rejuvenating with a run or even a brisk walk in the good ol’ outdoors. Even hopping on your bike will avoid using power.
2. Next time you plan to take a jog around the neighborhood, bring a garbage bag and pick up the excess wastes lying around. The community and your abs will most definitely be thanking you for the difference you’ve made!
3. Don’t forget some of the more simple things you can do to have a greener workout routine. Before you go to grab yet another bottle of water to keep you totally hydrated, wrap your hands around a reusable bottle instead.
4. Yoga and Pilates workouts are super soothing, but you can really get relaxed by lighting a few candles rather than turning on the lights. You will be conserving electricity and your method of lighting will help to completely immerse you in the zone. Just be careful!
If you’re a yoga babe, try using a mat that is 100% eco friendly. Stretch and do those breathing exercises on something that is completely biodegradable and recyclable, not to mention comes in a variety of totally awesome colors that can go great with your workout clothes/bedroom (which is totally one of the most important factors-duh!).
1. Ditch the treadmill, turn off the workout DVDs and put down the iPod. Get away from the powered equipment and become besties with nature by rejuvenating with a run or even a brisk walk in the good ol’ outdoors. Even hopping on your bike will avoid using power.
2. Next time you plan to take a jog around the neighborhood, bring a garbage bag and pick up the excess wastes lying around. The community and your abs will most definitely be thanking you for the difference you’ve made!
3. Don’t forget some of the more simple things you can do to have a greener workout routine. Before you go to grab yet another bottle of water to keep you totally hydrated, wrap your hands around a reusable bottle instead.
4. Yoga and Pilates workouts are super soothing, but you can really get relaxed by lighting a few candles rather than turning on the lights. You will be conserving electricity and your method of lighting will help to completely immerse you in the zone. Just be careful!
If you’re a yoga babe, try using a mat that is 100% eco friendly. Stretch and do those breathing exercises on something that is completely biodegradable and recyclable, not to mention comes in a variety of totally awesome colors that can go great with your workout clothes/bedroom (which is totally one of the most important factors-duh!).
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
EARTH DAY CRAFT SPECIAL: Trash to Treasure
Celebrate Earth Day in a big way by turning your family's unwanted trash into treasures! Instead of throwing some of your ol' stuff out, give Mama Earth big ups by creating a place for plants to thrive, a resting spot for li'l birdies or your very own edible garden.
Flavor In a Can
What You'll Need:
Tin cans from fruit and veggies
Herb seeds
1 cup of soil per can
What You'll Do:
1. Clean out each tin can very well with soap and water.
2. Fill the cans half way with soil
3. Dig a tiny hole with your fingertips and press the herb seeds gently into it.
4. Place the tins near lots of sunlight and water them when the soil is dry.
A Home For the Birds
What You'll Need:
1 plastic milk container
Scissors
Bird seed
String
What You'll Do:
1. Clean the milk container out with soap and water
2. Start from the middle and cut across the front and up to the top, making a U-shaped opening in the container.
3. Fill the bottom of the container with bird seed and attach a string to the top so the bird house can hang from a nearby tree.
Eco-System in a Bottle
What You'll Need:
Plastic soda bottles
Pre-planted cactus's or other very small pre-planted plants from the nursery and gardening store
Extra soil
A handful of pebbles
One or two sheets of moss
What You'll Do:
1. Cut your soda bottle in half so you have two pieces.
2. Fill the bottom half with pebbles, then moss, then a little potting soil.
3. Place your cactus into the soil, including the soil that came with it.
4. Dig it in really good and place a few extra pebbles on the top layer.
5. Put the top of the bottle back on, pushing it to the edges slide into the bottom half.
6. Leave your terrarium near sunlight – but not direct sunlight since the plant inside the bottle can get very hot!
Flavor In a Can
What You'll Need:
Tin cans from fruit and veggies
Herb seeds
1 cup of soil per can
What You'll Do:
1. Clean out each tin can very well with soap and water.
2. Fill the cans half way with soil
3. Dig a tiny hole with your fingertips and press the herb seeds gently into it.
4. Place the tins near lots of sunlight and water them when the soil is dry.
A Home For the Birds
What You'll Need:
1 plastic milk container
Scissors
Bird seed
String
What You'll Do:
1. Clean the milk container out with soap and water
2. Start from the middle and cut across the front and up to the top, making a U-shaped opening in the container.
3. Fill the bottom of the container with bird seed and attach a string to the top so the bird house can hang from a nearby tree.
Eco-System in a Bottle
What You'll Need:
Plastic soda bottles
Pre-planted cactus's or other very small pre-planted plants from the nursery and gardening store
Extra soil
A handful of pebbles
One or two sheets of moss
What You'll Do:
1. Cut your soda bottle in half so you have two pieces.
2. Fill the bottom half with pebbles, then moss, then a little potting soil.
3. Place your cactus into the soil, including the soil that came with it.
4. Dig it in really good and place a few extra pebbles on the top layer.
5. Put the top of the bottle back on, pushing it to the edges slide into the bottom half.
6. Leave your terrarium near sunlight – but not direct sunlight since the plant inside the bottle can get very hot!
EARTH DAY SPECIAL: Recycle Your Old Clothes!
We know it's hard to let go of some of those old threads. Even if they're getting a little ratty, you can totally recycle them into awesome new pieces for your wardrobe!
Have some jeans that are worn like whoa? Make them into some cute cut-offs!
1. Decide whether you want to make them into bermudas or shorties.
2. Make the jeans face inside out. Use a ruler and chalk to measure the inseam. Decide where you want to cut them off (start with 4-5 inches for short ones or 9-10 inches for longer ones).
3. Use a ruler to draw lines straight across.
4. Use a good pair of scissors to carefully cut along the line.
Old tee getting funky? Make it an art project with paint!
1. Pick up some fabric paint in the color(s) of your choice. You can find it at either JoAnn's or Michael's. Also get a few paintbrushes in diff sizes.
2. On a nice day, go outside and spread some newspaper out on the ground, laying your tee flat on top.
3. Dip your paint brush into your fabric paint.
4. Using your finger, spray paint splatters onto your shirt until you get your desired look.
5. Wait for it to dry completely. Cha-ching! Brand new shirt!
Are last year’s plain flip-flops boring ya to tears? Make ’em fresh with glam embellishments.
1. Grab some fabric or hot glue and some cool rhinestones or fake flowers and other embellishments at Michael's or JoAnn's.
2. Lay some newspaper down on the floor.
3. Lay out your jewels where you'd like them to be.
4. Use your glue to attach them.
5. Let the flips rest for 24 hours.
Other ways to recycle clothes:
Donate them to Goodwill, the Salvation Army or a shelter near you.
Cut cute screen prints off of t-shirts. Use them like patches on hoodies or bags.
Have an accessories swap with your BFFs.
Hold a yard sale and donate the money to an earth-lovin’ charity.
Cut the neck off of old t-shirts to make them 80s chic.
Chop the sleeves off of t-shirts and turn them into workout tanks.
Have some jeans that are worn like whoa? Make them into some cute cut-offs!
1. Decide whether you want to make them into bermudas or shorties.
2. Make the jeans face inside out. Use a ruler and chalk to measure the inseam. Decide where you want to cut them off (start with 4-5 inches for short ones or 9-10 inches for longer ones).
3. Use a ruler to draw lines straight across.
4. Use a good pair of scissors to carefully cut along the line.
Old tee getting funky? Make it an art project with paint!
1. Pick up some fabric paint in the color(s) of your choice. You can find it at either JoAnn's or Michael's. Also get a few paintbrushes in diff sizes.
2. On a nice day, go outside and spread some newspaper out on the ground, laying your tee flat on top.
3. Dip your paint brush into your fabric paint.
4. Using your finger, spray paint splatters onto your shirt until you get your desired look.
5. Wait for it to dry completely. Cha-ching! Brand new shirt!
Are last year’s plain flip-flops boring ya to tears? Make ’em fresh with glam embellishments.
1. Grab some fabric or hot glue and some cool rhinestones or fake flowers and other embellishments at Michael's or JoAnn's.
2. Lay some newspaper down on the floor.
3. Lay out your jewels where you'd like them to be.
4. Use your glue to attach them.
5. Let the flips rest for 24 hours.
Other ways to recycle clothes:
Donate them to Goodwill, the Salvation Army or a shelter near you.
Cut cute screen prints off of t-shirts. Use them like patches on hoodies or bags.
Have an accessories swap with your BFFs.
Hold a yard sale and donate the money to an earth-lovin’ charity.
Cut the neck off of old t-shirts to make them 80s chic.
Chop the sleeves off of t-shirts and turn them into workout tanks.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Berry Good Smoothie
It seems as though every smoothie in the world contains banana and I’m not crazy about bananas, even if they are the perfect breakfast food. For all of you banana-haters, I’ve found that if I add a quarter or a half of a banana, it’s barely noticeable to my taste buds. It’s okay to use milk instead of soy milk but we love the creamy taste of “White Wave’s Silk” soy milk. Also, us girls need to eat soy and here’s another way to get it.
What You’ll Need:
1/2 banana
1/2 cup each: frozen strawberries
frozen blueberries
apple cider or juice (or orange juice)
vanilla soy milk (or milk)
What You’ll Do:
Put all the ingredients in a blender. Hold down the blender top with one hand and blend until smooth. If the smoothie is too thick, add a little more juice and blend again. Drink immediately before the shake melts.
Cool Brunch Ideas!
Sure, it's sooo much fun stayin' up late at a sleepover – calling up your crushes, watching scary movies and giving each other makeovers – but what happens when the morning rolls around? Do you and your girls scramble for the same ol' frozen waffles, cereal and OJ? Punch up your slumber party brunch with these great theme ideas.
Our tip? Make the decor beforehand and wake up a li'l early so you can set it up and surprise the girlies. Ask mom and dad if they wouldn't mind serving them up (give them a big hug and a nice li'l thank you card after!) or DIY and get the whole gang to pitch in.
Eco Chic
Perfect for girls who love all-things green. Too chilly to go outside still? Bring your picnic indoors!
DECOR
Grab a giant blanket (or a couple depending how many girls you have), and lay it out on the grass. Use mom's dishes so you don’t have to waste any paper or plastic, and the ‘rents' cups and napkins too. If you’re feelin’ classy, pick a couple flowers from your yard and set them up in a vase in the middle of everyone. Or give each friend a flower in her fave color. Kick back, relax and enjoy those sweet nature sounds!
WHAT TO SERVE
Whole grain waffles with organic peanut butter
All-natural yogurt with honey
Apples, oranges and bananas
Sweet treat? Fresh mini blueberry tarts for everyone!
To drink: Hand-squeeze your own orange juice
Pretty Pretty Princess
This breakfast is sure to reign supreme if you and your pals love all-things regal.
DECOR
Treat yourself and your girls like the princesses you are! Break out everything pink, from the napkins to the plates, and you'll be sittin' pretty in your very own fairy tale. Use lacy doilies to make your place settings look just darlin'. Create crowns out of construction paper (or just buy 'em), add each girl's name in glitter and set the twinkling tiaras at their assigned thrones. Find any fancy fabrics (velvet and pretty floral patterns are oh-so-regal) or beads lying around the house and drap them around as decor.
WHAT TO SERVE
Heart shaped pancakes topped with fresh cut strawberries and powered sugar
Scones with your favorite jam
Fresh watermelon and grapes
Sweet treat? Strawberries dipped in pink chocolate (white chocolate with a little red food dye)
To drink: Chamomile (or your fave flavor!) tea
Tropical Time
Got cabin fever? A tropical-themed brunch is a sure cure for the hometown blues. Add some tropical tunes to up the ante.
DECOR
Give your your breakfast nook a faraway fiesta feel. For your center piece, use some brown construction paper to make a Tiki statue. Draw a face, and you can use some feathers to make it look extra fierce! Set the scene with bright colorful plates and silverware and dress it up by putting untied hula skirts around the table. You can make your own napkin rings out of the paper, too. Use a green strip for the circle around the napkin, and draw a flower on one of your bright colorful pieces. Use glitter pen to add each guest's name.
WHAT TO SERVE
Banana Pancakes
Pineapple smoothies
Tropical Breakfast Parfait (think mango, pineapple, kiwi and other tropical fruits...plus yogurt)!
Sweet treat? Key lime pie
To drink: Pineapple smoothies
Wild West
Giddy, up cowgirl. Our Western-style breakfast lassos in new takes on old brunch faves. Yee haw!
DECOR
Turn your kitchen into a way-cool corral. Using some construction paper, cut out some boot shapes and use them to decorate the walls. If you’re feelin’ super creative, make your very own wanted signs to hang around the room. Print out a pic of each girl or draw one to put on the posters (include the "crime" they're charged with of course!). For napkin rings, take red construction paper, and cut the ring, then cut a piece to look like a tied up bandana. Use a marker to give it a real western feel. Ask your ‘rents to take you to a party store to pick up a hat for each of your guests so you can dress the part!
WHAT TO SERVE
Breakfast burritos (start with eggs and line up different fillings – chopped up bacon, veggies, avocado, whatever you want to go inside each girl's burrito!)
Buttered biscuits
Slices of cantaloupe, oranges, and grapefruit
Sweet treat? Corn bread drizzled with honey
To drink: Coffee (have a few diff flavored syrups to choose from)
Our tip? Make the decor beforehand and wake up a li'l early so you can set it up and surprise the girlies. Ask mom and dad if they wouldn't mind serving them up (give them a big hug and a nice li'l thank you card after!) or DIY and get the whole gang to pitch in.
Eco Chic
Perfect for girls who love all-things green. Too chilly to go outside still? Bring your picnic indoors!
DECOR
Grab a giant blanket (or a couple depending how many girls you have), and lay it out on the grass. Use mom's dishes so you don’t have to waste any paper or plastic, and the ‘rents' cups and napkins too. If you’re feelin’ classy, pick a couple flowers from your yard and set them up in a vase in the middle of everyone. Or give each friend a flower in her fave color. Kick back, relax and enjoy those sweet nature sounds!
WHAT TO SERVE
Whole grain waffles with organic peanut butter
All-natural yogurt with honey
Apples, oranges and bananas
Sweet treat? Fresh mini blueberry tarts for everyone!
To drink: Hand-squeeze your own orange juice
Pretty Pretty Princess
This breakfast is sure to reign supreme if you and your pals love all-things regal.
DECOR
Treat yourself and your girls like the princesses you are! Break out everything pink, from the napkins to the plates, and you'll be sittin' pretty in your very own fairy tale. Use lacy doilies to make your place settings look just darlin'. Create crowns out of construction paper (or just buy 'em), add each girl's name in glitter and set the twinkling tiaras at their assigned thrones. Find any fancy fabrics (velvet and pretty floral patterns are oh-so-regal) or beads lying around the house and drap them around as decor.
WHAT TO SERVE
Heart shaped pancakes topped with fresh cut strawberries and powered sugar
Scones with your favorite jam
Fresh watermelon and grapes
Sweet treat? Strawberries dipped in pink chocolate (white chocolate with a little red food dye)
To drink: Chamomile (or your fave flavor!) tea
Tropical Time
Got cabin fever? A tropical-themed brunch is a sure cure for the hometown blues. Add some tropical tunes to up the ante.
DECOR
Give your your breakfast nook a faraway fiesta feel. For your center piece, use some brown construction paper to make a Tiki statue. Draw a face, and you can use some feathers to make it look extra fierce! Set the scene with bright colorful plates and silverware and dress it up by putting untied hula skirts around the table. You can make your own napkin rings out of the paper, too. Use a green strip for the circle around the napkin, and draw a flower on one of your bright colorful pieces. Use glitter pen to add each guest's name.
WHAT TO SERVE
Banana Pancakes
Pineapple smoothies
Tropical Breakfast Parfait (think mango, pineapple, kiwi and other tropical fruits...plus yogurt)!
Sweet treat? Key lime pie
To drink: Pineapple smoothies
Wild West
Giddy, up cowgirl. Our Western-style breakfast lassos in new takes on old brunch faves. Yee haw!
DECOR
Turn your kitchen into a way-cool corral. Using some construction paper, cut out some boot shapes and use them to decorate the walls. If you’re feelin’ super creative, make your very own wanted signs to hang around the room. Print out a pic of each girl or draw one to put on the posters (include the "crime" they're charged with of course!). For napkin rings, take red construction paper, and cut the ring, then cut a piece to look like a tied up bandana. Use a marker to give it a real western feel. Ask your ‘rents to take you to a party store to pick up a hat for each of your guests so you can dress the part!
WHAT TO SERVE
Breakfast burritos (start with eggs and line up different fillings – chopped up bacon, veggies, avocado, whatever you want to go inside each girl's burrito!)
Buttered biscuits
Slices of cantaloupe, oranges, and grapefruit
Sweet treat? Corn bread drizzled with honey
To drink: Coffee (have a few diff flavored syrups to choose from)
Friday, April 17, 2009
Earth Day Recipe Special: Healthy Salad and Snack!
Want to green-up your everyday grub in honor of Earth Day? These healthy salad and snack recipes are sure to satisfy any earthy appetite. They're packed with tons of garden-fresh fruits and veggies that'll keep you feeling just as spring-fresh as Mama Earth herself.
Citrus Surprise Salad
Since it's Earth Day, indulge in some of the very best Mother Nature has to offer. Spice up your usual salad with tasty fruits. Sweet AND healthy? We're sold!
What You'll Need:
1 bag of green mixed lettuce
4 or 5 strawberries
1 orange
1/2 pink grapefruit
1 cup of grilled chicken – try Chicken Selects prepared chicken packages at your supermarket.
1/4 cup of crumbled blue cheese
1 bottle of balsamic vinaigrette dressing
What You'll Do:
1. Chop up the strawberries and add them to the lettuce in a big bowl.
2. Peel the grapefruit and oranges and add the small slices to the
strawberry and lettuce mixture.
3. Pour in the grilled chicken pieces and mix
4. Sprinkle on some crumbled blue cheese, pour on a little vinaigrette dressing and you're done!
Perfect for Earth Day Trail Mix
Need a boost of energy while you're out hiking some trails in good ol' Mother Nature? This trail mix is yummy – and it'll keep you super energized. Race ya to the top of the mountain!
What You'll Need:
8 oz. raisins
6 oz. diced dried fruit (dried apricots, apples, pineapple, etc.)
1 qt. popped popcorn
1 cup M&M's
1 cup Chex cereal
What You'll Do:
1. Put popped popcorn into a bowl
2. Add dried fruit, raisins, Chex and M&M's
3. Mix all together
*Our tip: If you have more of a sweet tooth, substitute regular popcorn for caramel corn!
Citrus Surprise Salad
Since it's Earth Day, indulge in some of the very best Mother Nature has to offer. Spice up your usual salad with tasty fruits. Sweet AND healthy? We're sold!
What You'll Need:
1 bag of green mixed lettuce
4 or 5 strawberries
1 orange
1/2 pink grapefruit
1 cup of grilled chicken – try Chicken Selects prepared chicken packages at your supermarket.
1/4 cup of crumbled blue cheese
1 bottle of balsamic vinaigrette dressing
What You'll Do:
1. Chop up the strawberries and add them to the lettuce in a big bowl.
2. Peel the grapefruit and oranges and add the small slices to the
strawberry and lettuce mixture.
3. Pour in the grilled chicken pieces and mix
4. Sprinkle on some crumbled blue cheese, pour on a little vinaigrette dressing and you're done!
Perfect for Earth Day Trail Mix
Need a boost of energy while you're out hiking some trails in good ol' Mother Nature? This trail mix is yummy – and it'll keep you super energized. Race ya to the top of the mountain!
What You'll Need:
8 oz. raisins
6 oz. diced dried fruit (dried apricots, apples, pineapple, etc.)
1 qt. popped popcorn
1 cup M&M's
1 cup Chex cereal
What You'll Do:
1. Put popped popcorn into a bowl
2. Add dried fruit, raisins, Chex and M&M's
3. Mix all together
*Our tip: If you have more of a sweet tooth, substitute regular popcorn for caramel corn!
Six Moves to a Toned Tummy…
We chatted up Carrie Rezabek, creator of the Pure Barre workout method, to get the skinny on the must-do abdominal moves. “It’s great to have flat abs, but more importantly, if your abs are not strong, you are at a higher risk for injury and won’t be able to do the activities and sports you enjoy as effectively,” Carrie warns. Her fab ab workout can be done three times a week, in addition to your strength and cardio plan.
Forearm Plank
Start in a push-up position. Lower down onto elbows, so your palms are on the ground and your shoulders are straight over your elbows. Keep your toes curled under and your legs hip-width apart. Pull in abs and squeeze your butt, ensuring that your body is straight as a ruler. Hold for 45 seconds.
Pilates Hundreds
Lie on your back with your legs up in the air. Lower legs slightly to form a 45 degree angle. Peel your shoulder blades off the mat and place your chin on your chest. Extend your arms straight out, so they almost touch your hips. With your palms down, cup your hands into “blades.” Pull in your abs and pump your arms up and down, in small quick motions. Continue vigorously with five inhales and five exhales. Repeat 10 times.
Roll Up
Lie on your back with your legs together and your feet flexed. Keep your arms by your ears, stretched over your head. Do a huge sit-up, keeping your chin to your chest. Continue to slowly roll forward, reaching toward your toes. Reverse the move slowly, so one part of your back hits the mat at a time.
Single Leg Switch
Lie on your back with your chin on your chest. Curl into a ball by pulling your legs into your chest. Shoot your right leg straight out in front of you, keeping your left leg tucked in. Reach your right hand toward your right ankle. Switch legs and arms, using your abs to keep your core stable. Repeat 10 times on each side.
Criss-Cross
Lie on your back, with your arms behind your head. Slowly bend your right knee into your chest while crunching your left elbow to meet it. Make sure your elbow extends past the opposite knee. Slowly switch sides. Repeat 10 times on each side.
Kickstands
Lie on your back, resting on your elbows. Bend your knees and place your feet flat on the floor. “Tuck hips under, squeeze your seat and curl upper body forward,” Carrie tells us. Slide your elbows forward and lift your arms off the ground. Hold your arms up for 10 seconds. Lower arms down and repeat five times.
Forearm Plank
Start in a push-up position. Lower down onto elbows, so your palms are on the ground and your shoulders are straight over your elbows. Keep your toes curled under and your legs hip-width apart. Pull in abs and squeeze your butt, ensuring that your body is straight as a ruler. Hold for 45 seconds.
Pilates Hundreds
Lie on your back with your legs up in the air. Lower legs slightly to form a 45 degree angle. Peel your shoulder blades off the mat and place your chin on your chest. Extend your arms straight out, so they almost touch your hips. With your palms down, cup your hands into “blades.” Pull in your abs and pump your arms up and down, in small quick motions. Continue vigorously with five inhales and five exhales. Repeat 10 times.
Roll Up
Lie on your back with your legs together and your feet flexed. Keep your arms by your ears, stretched over your head. Do a huge sit-up, keeping your chin to your chest. Continue to slowly roll forward, reaching toward your toes. Reverse the move slowly, so one part of your back hits the mat at a time.
Single Leg Switch
Lie on your back with your chin on your chest. Curl into a ball by pulling your legs into your chest. Shoot your right leg straight out in front of you, keeping your left leg tucked in. Reach your right hand toward your right ankle. Switch legs and arms, using your abs to keep your core stable. Repeat 10 times on each side.
Criss-Cross
Lie on your back, with your arms behind your head. Slowly bend your right knee into your chest while crunching your left elbow to meet it. Make sure your elbow extends past the opposite knee. Slowly switch sides. Repeat 10 times on each side.
Kickstands
Lie on your back, resting on your elbows. Bend your knees and place your feet flat on the floor. “Tuck hips under, squeeze your seat and curl upper body forward,” Carrie tells us. Slide your elbows forward and lift your arms off the ground. Hold your arms up for 10 seconds. Lower arms down and repeat five times.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Cheery New Chairs
Hey there, earth mama! Want a stylin' way to spruce up your room just in time for Earth Day? Turn any ol' chair around the house into a divalicious new decoration with these easy how-tos. The bright colors will freshen up your room and you'll save it from ending up in trash. You can try this trick with other old furniture, too (ask your 'rents first, natch!). Spring cleaning AND saving the planet?
Start this up, ASAP!
What You'll Need:
Drop cloth (or newspaper!)
Sand paper
Paintbrushes
White primer
Latex paint (for your background color)
Acrylic paint (for your designs)
Permanent marker
Clear gloss Varnish
Anything Extra to decorate your chair (glitter, gems, ribbon, etc.)
What You'll Do:
Sandpaper off any old flaking paint from the surface of your chair. Paint one coat of white primer over the entire surface and give it time to dry. Using a latex paint, paint the background color of your chair. Allow this to completely dry (leave overnight!) before moving on.
Draw designs on the surface of your chair in permanent marker. (Practice drawing some design ideas on paper before you do this.) You can use store bought stencils, or make your own!
Paint right over top of your marked designs with acrylic paint. (Try to not drip paint – but if you do, don’t freak. Just sponge it up of change your design to include some polka dots). Feelin’ really creative? Add some gems and glitter to it! Dress it up with a funky ribbon or your favorite quote. You can do anything you think of to make your chair look new.
Once the paint is fully dry, cover it with clear gloss varnish. (When you’re done, you might want to sign and date the back of your “new” chair!) Kick back, relax, and admire your artistic talent!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Italian Easter Bread
INGREDIENTS
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast
1 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup warm milk (120 to 130 degrees F)
2 tablespoons butter or margarine, softened
7 eggs
1/2 cup chopped mixed candied fruit
1/4 cup chopped blanched almonds
1/2 teaspoon anise seeds
vegetable oil
DIRECTIONS
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup flour, sugar, yeast and salt. Add milk and butter; beat 2 minutes on medium. Add 2 eggs and 1/2 cup flour; beat 2 minutes on high. Stir in fruit, nuts and aniseed; mix well. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl; turn once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour. If desired, dye remaining eggs (leave them uncooked); lightly rub with oil. Punch dough down. Divide in half; roll each piece into a 24-in. rope. Loosely twist ropes and tuck eggs into openings. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes. Bake at 350 degrees F for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pan; cool on a wire rack.
Braided Easter Egg Bread
INGREDIENTS
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided
1/4 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast
2/3 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
2 eggs
5 whole eggs, dyed if desired
2 tablespoons butter, melted
DIRECTIONS
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup flour, sugar, salt and yeast; stir well. Combine milk and butter in a small saucepan; heat until milk is warm and butter is softened but not melted.
Gradually add the milk and butter to the flour mixture; stirring constantly. Add two eggs and 1/2 cup flour; beat well. Add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring well after each addition. When the dough has pulled together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes.
Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough in the bowl and turn to coat with oil. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 1hour.
Deflate the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal size rounds; cover and let rest for 10 minutes. Roll each round into a long roll about 36 inches long and 1 1/2 inches thick. Using the two long pieces of dough, form a loosely braided ring, leaving spaces for the five colored eggs. Seal the ends of the ring together and use your fingers to slide the eggs between the braids of dough.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Place loaf on a buttered baking sheet and cover loosely with a damp towel. Place loaf in a warm place and let rise until doubled in bulk, about 45 minutes. Brush risen loaf with melted butter.
Bake in preheated oven for 50 to 55 minutes, or until golden.
Healthy You Survey!
What exercises did you do (or will you do) over spring break?
Dream workout spot?
Did you eat anything healthy on Easter or just junk food?
Would you rather swim in a pool or bike around the neighborhood for exercise?
Are you planning on going to any sports, dance or cheer camps this summer?
Sports camp or yoga retreat?
Fave outfit for warm weather exercise?
Would you rather be the team captain or the MVP?
Running outside or running on the treadmill or no running?
All-time fave exercise?!
Would you rather exercise alone or work out with teammates?
Do you ever lift weights?
Dream workout spot?
Did you eat anything healthy on Easter or just junk food?
Would you rather swim in a pool or bike around the neighborhood for exercise?
Are you planning on going to any sports, dance or cheer camps this summer?
Sports camp or yoga retreat?
Fave outfit for warm weather exercise?
Would you rather be the team captain or the MVP?
Running outside or running on the treadmill or no running?
All-time fave exercise?!
Would you rather exercise alone or work out with teammates?
Do you ever lift weights?
Monday, April 13, 2009
Tea Party
Tea sandwiches, English tea time style, are dainty sandwiches made without crusts and any filling that you desire. Unlike the overstuffed sub sandwich, tea sandwiches have a thin layer of filling so that they’re not messy to eat. With permission, get out the good china plates with perhaps a few doilies and pretty napkins.
The Bread: Tea sandwiches call for a plain, soft whole wheat or white sandwich bread. Or, have a two-tone sandwich – white on the top, wheat on the bottom. As you cut the bread into shapes, keep them in a plastic bag so they won’t dry out. Serve the same day.
Triangles: Using a bread knife, slice the crusts off of each slice of bread. Put a thin layer of filling on the bottom slice and put on the top slice. Cut the sandwich in half through the corners; cut again so that you have four triangles.
Shapes: Experiment with your cookie or biscuit cutters to see which ones will cut through bread. (Most of the simple-shaped metal ones will cut bread.) We like to use simple shapes such as a circle, heart, or diamond. Cut out the bread shapes; you should be able to fit two cookie cutters on one slice of bread. (Save the scraps to make salad croutons or bread crumbs.)
When all of the bread shapes are cut, spread a thin layer of filling neatly onto one of the bottom shapes; put on the top shape. Arrange the sandwiches on a plate, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until serving time.
The Fillings: You could use Egg Salad or Red Spread for sandwich fillings, or cream cheese with jam or marmalade, sliced cheese, turkey, or ham with a little mustard or mayo to hold it together. Cheese slices, sliced turkey and ham can be cut with a cookie cutter so they fit the sandwich. (French mustard, apricot jam, or fruit chutney can be the glue that holds the sandwich together.) Traditional tuna salad works also; but not the chunky tuna salad in this book.
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