Idea for Thanksgiving Day Leftovers

Curried Turkey Salad

1/3 cup low fat mayonnaise
1/3 cup non fat greek yogurt (plain)
3 tablespoons cranberry relish
1 T curry powder, to taste
1/4 cup celery, chopped
1 medium apple chopped
1/2 cup chopped grapes or raisins
2 tablespoon finely chopped green onion
2 tablespoons chopped pecans, optional
2 cups diced leftover turkey
Salt & pepper to taste

Preparation:
Combine mayonnaise, yogurt, cranberry relish and curry powder in a bowl. Stir in remaining ingredients, adding a little more yogurt if needed to moisten more. Mix until well combined. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours to allow favors to develop. Serves about 4 as a main dish or luncheon salad or about 6 as a sandwich filling.


Bookmark this on Delicious

Autumn Apple Cake - A Crowd Pleaser

In honor of Apple Month and Dessert Month, here is our favorite apple dessert recipe. Perfect for fall get togethers - try it this weekend.

Autumn Apple Cake

1 c. sugar
1 c. brown sugar
2 eggs
½ c. oil
2 t. vanilla
2 T. orange juice or Grand Marnier
4 c. diced juicy tart apples (no need to peel)
2 t. cinnamon
¼ t. clove
¼ t. nutmeg
½ t cardamom
1 t. dried orange peel
2 t. soda
2 ½ c flour
1 c. dried currants, raisins or dried cranberries
1 c. chopped walnuts

Mix sugar, oil, eggs, vanilla and orange juice. Beat until light. Mix in apples and combine well. Add remaining dry ingredient and stir until well blended. Bake in greased 13” x 9” pan at 350F for 40-45 minutes until tester comes out dry. Cool.

The first day the top crust is almost crunchy and it is good without frosting – just dust with powered sugar. Or frost with cream cheese icing. Or serve with whipped cream. Also good warm, unfrosted with caramel sauce & ice cream.

If unfrosted and wrapped in foil, stored in a cool place, it keeps for 7-14 days. It gets mellow as it ages.

Recipe can be doubled – needs large baking pan.

Bookmark this on Delicious

Apple Crisp Recipe for Apple Month

We found this recipe posted on www.allrecipes.com and loved it. Easy to follow and delicious for a fall evening accompanied with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients:4 cups sliced apples
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup water
1 cup white sugar
1/2 cup butter
3/4 cup all-purpose flour

Directions:Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.
Place apples in prepared dish. Sprinkle with cinnamon. Pour water over all. In a bowl, cream together sugar and butter. Blend in flour. Sprinkle mixture evenly over apples.

Bake in preheated oven 30 to 40 minutes, until apples are tender and crust is golden.

This recipe is for 6 servings. Estimated prep time is 20 minutes and cook time is 40 minutes.

Recipe submitted by Emily, http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Apple-Crisp-III-2/Detail.aspx
Photographer is Linda, allrecipes.com.

Bookmark this on Delicious

October is National Apple Month

Whether you like them crisp or tart, enjoy an apple (or a bushel full) this month.

There are too many types of apples to list but here is a website that lists all of them: www.allaboutapples.com.


Bookmark this on Delicious

Fall is Finally Here - For Most of Us

The leaves are finally starting to change, the fog is setting in and the pumpkin patches are now open. Although the first day has past on the calendar, it is finally starting to look and feel like Fall has finally arrived in the Northwest.


Bookmark this on Delicious

20 Days of Giveaways

Beginning on 10.20.10. Spread the word to friends and family members to check back and see what great items we are giving away. If you win, you could give it for a holiday gift, hostess gift or keep it for yourself.

Save the date, it all begins on 10.20.10


Bookmark this on Delicious

September is National Preparedness Month

Are you ready for a natural disaster? Do you and your family have a plan on where to meet or how to contact one another should cell phones and communication be down? Do you have enough staples to get by for 2 to 3 days for your entire family?

These questions may sound scary or a even not something that you want to think about but it is important to formulate a plan. Many agencies, including the American Red Cross and the US Coast Guard, are participating in campaigns in the month of September to make National Preparedness a priority. The theme this year is “Plan Now. Work Together. Be Ready.”

If you answered no to any of these questions above, start thinking about how you can say yes. Spending a little bit of time in advance could really be key if there should ever be an incident. Stick to the plan and have family members know and understand what they should do so that everyone can safely meet and find each other. Now in a time where people are commuting long distances from home, a plan could be crucial in case the span of communication is longer than expected.

What should you include in your kit? There are options out there to but and if there is a Costco in your area, there is an option called Food For Health™ Extreme Emergency Kit (7-day, 4-person Kit -Item # 240231)and a coupon to provide savings. But you can also put together your own kit. Here are some items to include (from www.ready.gov/america/npm10/getakit):

Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Supply Kit: - Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
- Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Whistle to signal for help
- Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
- Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)
- Local maps
- Cell phone with chargers

Additional Items to Consider Adding to an Emergency Supply Kit:
- Prescription medications and glasses
- Infant formula and diapers
- Pet food and extra water for your pet
- Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container
- Cash or traveler's checks and change
- Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from www.ready.gov
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate.
- Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate.
- Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
- Fire Extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
- Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels
- Paper and pencil
- Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

Follow the theme and “Plan Now. Work Together. Be Ready.”

Bookmark this on Delicious

Fall Dinner Party

Many areas have had a change in the weather already from summer to fall and other areas may not much later this month. As the change from one season to next occurs, why not enjoy the end of summer weather and host a gathering with friends.

Southern Living has the perfect arrangement of recipes for a fall get together in the article article “A Fall Harvest Dinner Party”
(http://www.southernliving.com/food/entertaining/fall-recipes-00400000056720/). All of them sound wonderful and perfect for an outdoor get together with friends or neighbors.

•Caramelized Onion Flatbread
•Hearts of Romaine Salad
•Rosemary-Garlic Pork With Roasted Vegetables & Caramelized Apples
•Roasted Grape Chutney
•Rich Chocolate Tart

Other ideas would be to choose a themed get together like "End of Summer" and serve only summer influenced dishes or a "Welcome Back Football" get together with game time appetizers.

When having a get together, whether planned or impromptu, do not forget to incorporate decorations to tie the theme all together. If is it fall themed, then spread changing leaves from your yard on your table and use as a centerpiece. If the weather begins to change the day of your get together, move the party inside and light spiced candles to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. There are so many fall ideas in magazines right now for inspiration. Enjoy and start celebrating as we embark on the upcoming fall season.

Visit Southern Living for more great recipes and articles (www.southernliving.com)


Bookmark this on Delicious

See Our Latest Ads in OK Magazine

Look for our ads in OK Magazine and find a coupon code to use on Striking Skin Care products. (image updated 9/8/10)

Bookmark this on Delicious

Does Your Exercise Routine Need a Tune-Up? (Part 2)

Part 2

New Type of Exercise
Try something new even if it may be out of your comfort zone. There are a lot of benefits to working your core and burning calories when dancing. Have you ever thought about Bollywood dancing or belly dancing? Both of these exercises work your core and you can have fun doing them.

Belly Dancing can be found at local exercise gyms or community centers. Many of the classes are for all levels of dancing and encourage beginners to participate. The art of belly dancing is not really the belly it is the hips. By moving the hips in a rotating fashion or shaking them it helps to increase core strength. Here is a link to a great article by Paige Waehner that defines core strength and the importance of increasing it.

To try belly dancing at home, DVDs are available online at Amazon.com as well as instructional books.

Another type of exercise that is fun and burns calories is dancing Bollywood style. Many of us got a taste of the vibrant and amazing dancing in Slumdog Millionaire. This type of dancing is high energy and easy for most to do at home. There are many options online and here is one called Learn to Bollywood with Pallavi who has been training this style of dance for years and have incorporated it into a DVD for at home use.

All of us hit a rut and need a tune-up in our workout routine. Instead of giving up altogether, try something new and fun to keep the momentum going and help stay fit.


Bookmark this on Delicious

Does Your Exercise Routine Need a Tune-Up? (Part 1)

Is your exercise routine dragging you down with a lack or variety? Do you need something new to spice it up? It could be as simple as a new pair of shoes or a new workout routine.

New Pair of Shoes
There are funny looking shoes out there that have had quite a following in recent months. They looked like shoes with a curve on the bottom and are offered by a few different brands but the one I keep seeing is from Sketchers. They are called Shape-Ups and can range in price but are around $100 per pair. The shoes claim to increase calorie burn, improve posture and help to tone muscles while working out and during daily activities. Once you get used to the look of them they might be worth a try. As for the results there was a review on The Gloss last spring. For more information and to look at styles, visit their website here.

New Equipment
Maybe it is time to bring back the old to start something new. We read about the Hula Hoop as a strengthening exercise in a Wall Street Journal article. Watch this video to learn more about the benefits of hula hooping and bring back some fun to your exercise routine.
height="363">

Here is an online store called Sports Hoop that sells weighted hula hoops similar to the one seen in the video.

Bookmark this on Delicious

What to Wear When You Are Mother of the Bride/Groom

Need suggestions for what to wear if you are mother of the bride or groom? Here is a fun video on ideas from Ivone Gillon and WeddingTV.com.

Mother of the bride outfit

Bookmark this on Delicious

Camera Day - June 29th

Today is photo day and is a great reminder for all of us to slow down and capture the moment. We are so caught up in fast pace of daily life that sometimes we forget to enjoy the moment. Stop and breathe life in even if it is only for a pause while a photo is taken. Photos erupt emotion that create smiles and laughter. Many of the happiest moments in peoples' lives are remembered in a photo. Having a baby, getting married, celebrating birthdays or other special events. But why not take those special moments and make everyday life a lasting memory.

Say cheese - it is time for your next memory making moment; reading this post. (I couldn't help myself.)

Bookmark this on Delicious

Mother of the Bride & Groom Makeovers

We all want to look our best and what better time to "spruce" up a look than to try something new for your child's wedding. Mothers of the bride and groom are typically showcased along side the bride as part of the wedding party. Guest lists will consist of your family members, your children's friends as well as your close friends who were part of your child's upbringing. There will be many photos taken and lots of talking and you want to look your best and feel great.

The article provides before and after photos of 6 women and describes what they had done. They look fabulous and definitely ready for a celebration like a wedding.

Christopher's book can be purchased here.

Photo is a before and after makeover by Christopher Hopkins.

Bookmark this on Delicious

FIRST for Women Magazine - On Stands Until July 5th

See us in this month's FIRST for Women issue on newsstands until July 5th. Get your copy today!

Bookmark this on Delicious

Mother of the Bride - What is Your Role Before the Wedding?

Being the Mother of the Bride is an important role in a mother's journey. It takes on a new sense of pride and also can be overwhelming.

Do you know the do's and don't of being a MOTB (mother of the bride)?

Are you overstepping your boundaries or driving your daughter crazy?

Here is a refresher list of the Mother of the Bride duties so that you can keep yourself in check and your daughter happy.

1. Be excited for your daughter, this is one of biggest events of her life and she needs your support and also excitement as reassurance.

2. Extend a warm welcome to the groom and his family. There is always an undertone of protection or tension of a mother/daughter and mother/son. Try to avoid any signs of this as your daughter knows that you support.

3. Review your financial plans and then plan a casual meeting with daughter and groom to discuss their plans. At this time, early in the process you can discuss what you can or plan to help with. Then they will not be stressed about asking or assume on your participation in the wedding.

4. Feel out whether your daughter would like your input or help on wedding location. If so plan on visiting with her and ask about availability. Availability is key in setting the date.

5. If there are details about the wedding planning that you would like to be part of, speak up. Examples: bridal gown, guest list, music, etc.

6. Supply your daughter with family members names and addresses for guest list. Although keep in mind that this is their wedding and your neighbors or tennis partner is not necessarily the right fit for your list on contributions. Also be kept up to date on your guests' reply and be prepared to follow up with them if they have not replied timely.

7. Attend all wedding showers or engagement parties and offer help. It is not customary for the mother of the bride to host any, but offering help while at the party should always be offered.

8. Another duty to is to get yourself prepared. (See upcoming post on Mom's Boot Camp for Weddings)

Above all be excited, a wedding may be a lot of work but it is a beautiful experience for everyone included, especially you.


Bookmark this on Delicious

Wedding Season...It's Here!

June is a month of celebrations for many; birthdays, father's day, graduation commencements and the beginning of wedding season. Weddings are such a joyful occasion with two people setting off on a new journey with so many possibilities and dreams to be made. But as many of us know there is a behind the scenes side to weddings; the planning. It is hard to imagine how much stress there really is until you plan or help one yourself.

Is anyone planning or are you helping with a wedding this summer?

Are you the mother of the groom or mother of the bride?

We will be featuring this topic of weddings and share tips with you on what to wear, beauty tips, preparing for and other fun topics because it is just a joy to do so. We have some fun posts in store and giveaways of Striking Skin Care as well to help you look your best whether you are in the wedding party or a guest.

Stay tuned...

Bookmark this on Delicious

Flag Day - June 14th

I look around my neighborhood and as the sun starts to reappear for the summer months and the flowers are blooming with their inviting fragrance in the air, I also noticed something else reappearing; flags. It is a tradition to put out your flag in these spring and summer months, many people fly their flag all year long and others bring them inside during the winter months.

It was 233 years ago in 1777 on this day that Congress recognized Old Glory as the flag of the United States of America. At that time it had 13 red and white alternating stripes and 13 white stars in a blue square.

When looking around, I see ole' Red, White and Blue reappearing around Memorial Day and then a few more on Flag Day (June 14th) and another group on fourth of July weekend. So if you haven't already get your flag out and put it out today in honor of Flag Day.

For more information on the history of Flag Day and how it came to be visit, the National Flag Day Foundation website.

Bookmark this on Delicious

Get Outside and Weed Your Garden on June 13th

Grab your sun hat, gardening gloves and let’s get to it - it is time to weed that garden. Sunday (6/13/10) is the perfect day to do it – it is Weed Your Garden Day.

Gardening is a fabulous activity and weeding does fall under that category. It not only provides overall satisfaction when you reap the rewards of your labor it also is good for the body. It is recommended that adults need 30 minutes of physical activity each day and weeding in the garden can contribute to that time. Weeding and gardening allows your body to stretch, bend and pull. Here is more information on the benefits of gardening from Julie Garden-Robinson at INFORUM.

Remember to wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun. Sometimes we forget to apply sunscreen when we are outside working instead of outside enjoying ourselves. It is important to protect your skin with an SPF of 30 or more and try to keep your skin covered by wearing longer length clothing. A sun hat is very helpful in protecting your face and the often forgotten scalp. See fashionable options for sun hats in this post at Flashionista.com.

Bookmark this on Delicious

Ice Tea Day - National Ice Tea Month

June 10th is Ice Tea Day. A definite favorite of mine and I take it with extra ice and one pink packet. Tea is like coffee, everyone has their own way of “taking” it and people tend to prefer it that one way. Some take their tea with sugar, honey, lemon, milk, cream or sweetener. Tea can provide health benefits and also a little caffeine when needed if you drink or one that is naturally decaffeinated. Where tea is comforting, warm and cozy, ice tea is very different by being refreshing and people tend to drink it more in warmer months. Ice tea is usually only sweetened with sugar, sweetener or lemon and sometimes has a fruit flavor added to it.

Enjoy a refreshing ice tea as today is not only Ice Tea day but the month of June is Ice Tea Month.

Link to article: http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/health-benefits-tea
Bookmark this on Delicious