tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86755381300150755122024-03-13T00:59:44.297-04:00Let's Dish!Diva Elisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12652583619173356425noreply@blogger.comBlogger186125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-44573624578755457392010-03-29T06:28:00.000-04:002010-03-29T06:29:41.873-04:00What's For Supper Ya'lll - Carne Asada!Carne Asada is a Mexican recipe for marinated, grilled beef served in in tortillas. This is not your run of the mill taco. This is a flavorful and delicious meal that is great for any occasion.<br /><br />Prep Time: 30 minutes<br />Cook Time: 12 minutes<br /><br />Ingredients:<br />2 pounds skirt steak<br />12 flour tortillas<br />1/2 cup tequila<br />1/4 cup lime juice<br />1/4 cup lemon juice<br />1/4 cup orange juice<br />4 cloves garlic crushed<br />1 medium onion chopped<br />2 teaspoons black pepper<br />1 cup salsa<br />1 cup guacamole<br />2 teaspoons Tabasco<br /><br />Preparation:Mix juices, garlic, onion, tequila, Tabasco and pepper in a bowl. Add meat and marinate both sides. Cover and refrigerate, turning meat over occasionally. Let steak marinade for 6 to 8 hours. Preheat grill. Place a few drops of water on each tortilla, stack and wrap in aluminum foil. Place on grill. Remove meat from marinade, reserving marinade. Place on grill. Turn steak and tortillas once during cooking. Brush steak with remaining marinade. Cook to your liking (12 to 15 minutes for medium-rare). Cut into thin slices. Place a few slices of steak on each tortilla with salsa and guacamole and serve.Diva Elisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12652583619173356425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-47685021518343452222010-03-26T06:19:00.004-04:002010-03-26T06:24:52.354-04:00It's okay to eat vegetables that don't talk!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidCEfc0zbzGRuvOD9ZMUp0mhHGoCirW0CyaNtJ4v2h4BYpGt5wVBT6kLTWoPTgIPr9gK5v0oTf9ZVvTB6RO4sSI2YvU5eKSsT9UypbnjglmvEubx0pWgdQEbKLxJwz53BpdMJOLQBqeW4/s1600/veggie.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452886376021386018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidCEfc0zbzGRuvOD9ZMUp0mhHGoCirW0CyaNtJ4v2h4BYpGt5wVBT6kLTWoPTgIPr9gK5v0oTf9ZVvTB6RO4sSI2YvU5eKSsT9UypbnjglmvEubx0pWgdQEbKLxJwz53BpdMJOLQBqeW4/s320/veggie.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><div>Looking for a meaningful project to do with your kids this weekend? Plant a small garden!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>My daughter and I stumbled across these at Lowe's this week! Veggie Tales Garden Kits!! So precious! They have every vegetable you can imagine and the best part is their slogan: "It's okay to eat vegetables that don't talk!"</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>You can buy the kits, or you can buy the individual seed packets. The price seems to range from $1.99-$10 for the whole kit!</div><div> </div><div>Get outside and do something that will teach your kids the value of planting their own food!</div>Diva Elisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12652583619173356425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-42400672533070932010-03-19T00:01:00.001-04:002010-03-19T00:01:03.429-04:00Divas Item of the Week - Hot Tops! for Haiti<a href="http://www.cookies4acause.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=27&products_id=51&zenid=e4b0c5aae69a6a2c962f87a58687834d"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449625960589861266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 221px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 166px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxgK5NFMSmSegVDJ4wOsNH8-co4XKgV-y_ltg9GkSUvxVglhE9XHxwHqbg4yAifNKpu_SraVWSpinmKM0PQONL-xq0dpXYzxJcO0Tmls3Mtw-wpgbE4xQjWt9Dgo5EJC2hT_UkIfqYxEk/s320/helphaiti1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Help support the children of Haiti! </div><div></div><div>$2.50 from the purchase of each Hot Tops! for Haiti goes to Haitian relief organizations. Please specify at the time of ordering if necklace is for boy or girl. Also indicate pink or black suede cord.</div><div></div><div>These children need your support!</div>Diva Elisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12652583619173356425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-75773563571194741332010-03-18T00:01:00.000-04:002010-03-18T00:01:02.108-04:00Entertaining Tip - Handle Your Cookies With CareHandle Your Cookies with Care<br /><br />Cookies are a great dessert for many reasons.<br /><br />First, they go great with milk. Second, almost everyone, young and old, has a favorite cookie. And for the host they are a great make ahead treat that can be served as part of a dessert buffet, on top of ice cream, or just offered with a nice cup of tea or coffee.<br /><br />If you decide to make cookies a part of your dessert menu, be sure to store them in an airtight container such as a plastic storage container, cookie tin, or even a plastic bag. But before you store freshly made cookies, be careful that they are completely cooled, and any frosting or decoration has completely dried. This way you can be assured they won't be soggy or spoiled when you finally put them out for serving.<br /><br />About.comDiva Elisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12652583619173356425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-57927572980921960092010-03-17T00:01:00.001-04:002010-03-17T00:01:02.168-04:00DIVA FIND: Little Divas - Fashion Sticker Time!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRu32J5rBesMLLT8smJa5Knb9er_vt7ti3Hz9smsR4N4cgyPZhwuUdz9atS2TqU2paddZ4WQe11ggpyuaiRH3A_grAKqgQW0PUPDh-9BjwV17TFU3C4KOUxj1QxidzbXqWfdkZyv6TRHc/s1600-h/stickers.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449301714181775826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRu32J5rBesMLLT8smJa5Knb9er_vt7ti3Hz9smsR4N4cgyPZhwuUdz9atS2TqU2paddZ4WQe11ggpyuaiRH3A_grAKqgQW0PUPDh-9BjwV17TFU3C4KOUxj1QxidzbXqWfdkZyv6TRHc/s320/stickers.jpg" border="0" /></a> <div>I stumbled across this great sticker fun for my 3 year old. She hasn't stopped playing with it for 2 days! </div><div></div><div>It's the Melissa and Doug Sticker Collection - Fashion! With over 600 stickers, 10 pages of fashion and lots of room for creative interpretation, let your little diva show off her fashionista skills!</div><div></div><div>I bought mine for $10 at the airport, but found <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Melissa-Doug-Sticker-Collection-Fashion/dp/B002W5U03S/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=toys-and-games&qid=1268764069&sr=8-3-spell">Amazon </a>carries it for just $5.74! Melissa and Doug also carries a Pink and Blue Sticker collection. The pink set include princesses and other girly stickers while the boys have firetrucks, reptiles and other fun boyish designs. </div><div></div><div>A local toy store in my area also recommended I try the Usborne collection of stickers. They, too, seem to have a huge range of sticker games and fun!</div><div></div><div>Let us know if you have any fun sticker games we can check out!<br /></div><div></div><br /><div></div>Diva Elisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12652583619173356425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-80810347647364577212010-03-16T00:01:00.001-04:002010-03-16T00:01:01.000-04:00I met a lady on a plane last night that was in the wig business. She got me thinking about the time Kristi needed a wig after cancer treatment. I thought Kristi would appreciate me passing on this information to others who may have the same need.<br /><br />Free Wigs for Cancer Patients<br />5 Places to Get a Free Wig During Cancer Treatment<br />By <a href="http://breastcancer.about.com/bio/Pam-Stephan-18869.htm" rel="author">Pam Stephan</a>, About.com Guide<br />Updated July 31, 2009<br /><br /><a href="http://breastcancer.about.com/od/newlydiagnosed/a/chemo_basics.htm">Chemotherapy</a> fights cancer but it also causes hair loss. <a href="http://breastcancer.about.com/od/treatmentoptions/tp/radiation_methods.htm">Radiation therapy</a> to your head can also cause hair loss. And that leads us to the need for a popular head covering -- a wig! <a href="http://breastcancer.about.com/od/lifeduringtreatment/qt/wigs_basics.htm">A wig</a> can cost from $40 to thousands of dollars. But when your budget is already strained by the cost of <a href="http://breastcancer.about.com/od/treatments/a/surgery_overv.htm">surgery</a> and other treatments, even a $40 wig on sale may seem out of reach. Fortunately, there are ways to find free wigs. Here are five places to look for a free wig during cancer treatment.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cancer.org/" target="_blank" zt="-o1/XJ">American Cancer Society</a>1-800-227-2345The American Cancer Society accepts donations of wigs, which they collect in wig banks at their local chapters. These wigs have been cleaned and kept ready for use. If you have no health insurance and are in need of help, contact your local American Cancer Society office and ask about patient services. Some of the wigs are distributed through ACS and some are given out at local <a href="http://www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org/" target="_blank" zt="-o1/XJ">Look Good Feel Better</a> meetings, along with cosmetics and head coverings.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cancercare.org/" target="_blank" zt="-o1/XJ">CancerCare</a>1-800-813-HOPE (4673)<br />As part of their Women's Cancer Program, CancerCare offers financial assistance and counseling, support groups, and patient education. They also provide free wigs and <a href="http://breastcancer.about.com/od/lifeaftertreatment/tp/prosthese_ov.htm">breast prostheses</a> to women who have lost their hair or a breast as a result of their cancer treatment.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.networkofstrength.org/programs/wig-prosthesis-bank.php" target="_blank" zt="-o1/XJ">Breast Cancer</a> Network of Strength1-800-221-2141<br />When the Y-Me National Breast Cancer Organization changed its name to Breast Cancer Network of Strength, it didn't change its mission. BCNS provides wigs, prostheses and mastectomy bras to women whose budget just won't stretch to cover the cost of those items. Contact them to find out where the closest affiliate office is located that has a Wig & Prosthesis Bank. BCNS offices often have salons where women can try on items before taking them home.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.crickettsanswerforcancer.org/" target="_blank" zt="-o1/XJ">Crickett's Answer for Cancer</a>1-301-935-4411<br />This nonprofit organization provides free wigs, mastectomy products, mastectomy and lymphedema massage, facials, and other pampering services, as a way to keep a woman feeling feminine and beautiful despite losing her hair and/or breasts. Crickett's was founded in honor of Crickett Julius, who passed away in October of 2006, only four months after being diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer at the age of 39. Crickett's is based in south central Pennsylvania, Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C. areas. Carole Trone, a co-founder of Crickett's says, "We provide assistance to women all across the U.S. We mail or email an enrollment packet, and then either order wigs online or arrange for other products or services with vendors in the client's local area.<br /><br />"<a href="http://www.cancer.ca/" target="_blank" zt="-o1/XJ">Canadian Cancer Society</a>1-416-961-7223<br />In Canada, <a href="http://www.beautifullengths.com/" target="_blank" zt="-o1/XJ">Pantene Beautiful Lengths</a> and the Canadian Cancer Society have joined forces to encourage women to donate their hair for wigs that will be made and distributed to women who have lost their hair due to cancer treatment. Pantene provides the hair requirements, a donation kit, and advice about how to hold a hair cutting event. Six ponytails are required to create one wig, which will be given away through the Canadian Cancer Society.<br /><br />Pay It Forward<br />When your hair has grown back and you feel ready to show off your chemo curls, donate your wig to a cancer support organization, so someone else can enjoy it. If you have trouble finding a place that will take donated wigs, contact your local hospital and ask if they have a cancer clinic - they may be looking for donations of cancer care items. You may also donate money to <a href="http://breastcancer.about.com/od/supportineveryway/tp/pink_ribbon_charities.htm">registered charities</a> that supply wigs to women who are in treatment for breast cancer but cannot afford the price of a wig. Having a flattering wig can help a woman feel that she looks attractive -- this can lift her spirits greatly during a time when she is fighting cancer. After a wig has served you well, consider giving it a new life with another survivor.Diva Elisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12652583619173356425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-81812278047956508652010-03-15T16:30:00.001-04:002010-03-15T16:31:34.357-04:00What's For Supper Ya'll - Taco RingServes/Makes:8<br /><br />Ingredients<br /><br />1/2 lb (.2 kg). ground beef, cooked and drained<br />1 1.25 oz (35 grm) package taco seasoning mix<br />1 cup (225 ml) shredded cheddar cheese<br />2 tbsp (30 ml) water<br />2 8 oz (224 grm). pkgs. refrigerated crescent roll dough<br />1 med. green bell pepper<br />1/2 head lettuce, shredded<br />1 med. tomato, cubed<br />1 small onion, chopped<br />1/2 cup (125 ml) whole pitted black olives, sliced<br />1 cup (225 ml) salsa<br />sour cream<br /><br />Preparation<br /><br />Preheat oven to 375 degrees (200 C.).<br />Combine meat, seasoning mix, cheese and water in 2 qt. batter bowl.<br />Arrange crescent triangles in a circle on a 13" round baking stone, with bases overlapping in center and points to outside (there should be a five inch diameter circle in center).<br />Using medium stainless steel scoop (approx. 2 T) spoon meat mixture over rolls.<br />Fold points of triangles over filling and tuck under base at center (filling will not be completely covered).<br />Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown.<br />Using V-shaped cutter, cut off top of bell pepper.<br />Place bell pepper in center of ring; fill with salsa.<br />Mound lettuce, onion, tomato and olives around pepper.<br />Using easy accent decorator, garnish with sour cream.<br />Cut and serve.Diva Elisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12652583619173356425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-61100470324559700642010-03-12T00:01:00.001-05:002010-03-12T00:01:02.997-05:00Hearts For Haiti NJ 2010 - Unite and Inspire<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsGBGI1Dc7lu2usor3o87kMyJSeHaf_Ngf7ra9PeUkPR-Vjv6T1H4fWqu5CC7W82W__SNfWTqIUtM3thv8pHiGMTszVNeD4yz0TaT2ZOulzuvvFh_4MJTCgbhFQltP-vzV1yWnHvNLAyc/s1600-h/HeartsforHaiti_logo_red.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447432681892809314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 77px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsGBGI1Dc7lu2usor3o87kMyJSeHaf_Ngf7ra9PeUkPR-Vjv6T1H4fWqu5CC7W82W__SNfWTqIUtM3thv8pHiGMTszVNeD4yz0TaT2ZOulzuvvFh_4MJTCgbhFQltP-vzV1yWnHvNLAyc/s320/HeartsforHaiti_logo_red.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>I want to introduce you to a wonderful organization - Hearts For Haiti NJ 2010 - co-created by a friend of mine, Lauren Cantor!</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>It all started as a discussion between a mother and her child. Elle Cantor, a third grader at Torey J. Sabatini Elementary School in Madison, New Jersey, was watching “Good Morning America” with her mom, Lauren Cantor, as part of a daily morning routine before school. On this particular day, the GMA team was covering the story of the the devastating earthquake in Haiti. Elle was very disturbed by the images she saw on television, especially those of the Haitian children, so she asked her mother how she could help. Like many other children affected by this disaster, she started brainstorming about how to raise money in her school. Her initial ideas included a lemonade stand, a bake sale, and a toy sale; then she came up with the idea to have an art sale at school. With the assistance of her mother, the idea was expanded, and the concept for Hearts for Haiti was born. </div><br /><br /><div><br />The concept: Recruit local artists to create original art inspired by the tragedy in Haiti. These designs would then be converted into 4×6 note card replicas of the original art and sold at Torey J. Sabatini Elementary School in time for for Valentines Day. Eventually, some of the designs would also be made into T-Shirts and sold at the school, as well. As soon as the first Madison artist committed to the project, Lauren pitched the idea to Elle’s school Principal, Michael Post. He liked it so much that he asked to share the idea with some of the other Principals in the school system, and Dr. Richard Noonan, Superintendent of The Madison Public Schools . What started as a small fundraiser for one little elementary school, within hours turned into a fundraiser for the entire school system. </div><br /><br /><div><br />In a period of just one week, the word spread even further. The response was awe-inspiring. Fifteen local artists willingly enlisted, businesses joined in as sponsors, private Madison schools signed up to implement the fundraiser in their own schools, and residents generously volunteered to roll up their sleeves and jump in to help. With the support and endorsement of the local chapter of the American Red Cross, The Madison Chamber of Commerce, several Madison schools, local and family owned businesses and a very talented artistic community, our small suburban town of Madison, New Jersey, with a population of approximately 16,500, banned together to rally for the cause. Miraculously, Elle’s idea for a single elementary school fundraiser turned into a major community initiative.</div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div>(the above text taken from Hearts For Haiti NJ 2010 website)</div><br /><div></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF90WI58XVevEAM_bS46E8ORxJxHWe-rbDIMBJQn52w0ejGcbaK2dkXZiah_6nUsjNQEaInr6xM4AulxyauzmdcYgoiHl4myVE9R3093Im9fTGwfR1d9-t7VJ6S2YZTjEgg7L8WlS_GHo/s1600-h/cupckae+pink.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5447433409216355458" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 307px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 230px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF90WI58XVevEAM_bS46E8ORxJxHWe-rbDIMBJQn52w0ejGcbaK2dkXZiah_6nUsjNQEaInr6xM4AulxyauzmdcYgoiHl4myVE9R3093Im9fTGwfR1d9-t7VJ6S2YZTjEgg7L8WlS_GHo/s320/cupckae+pink.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Also, if you'd like to support Hearts For Haiti NJ 2010 by purchasing a Hot Tops!(tm) Bottlecap Necklace, go to <a href="http://www.cookies4acause.com/shop">www.cookies4acause.com/shop</a>. In the comments section of your order, specify you'd like $2.50 from the purchase of your Hot Tops!(tm) to go to Hearts For Haiti NJ 2010.</div>Diva Elisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12652583619173356425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-45023372364335084482010-03-11T00:01:00.001-05:002010-03-11T00:01:02.290-05:00Make Up 101 - Rosy Radiance<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZEXjScTGA7xrc0_DOb0tuKFuuWXcxW2z9NNpB8GAbjaLdbESICCBk0fEMt21bA7ecRh1-vvVzyxK8-mcB0csYABUQrj9m3z_sSNQul3Uy_CJ-QIj2obVa-o0V1H7NMv95yL8eMu34re4/s1600-h/cheeks.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446967813551957154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 181px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZEXjScTGA7xrc0_DOb0tuKFuuWXcxW2z9NNpB8GAbjaLdbESICCBk0fEMt21bA7ecRh1-vvVzyxK8-mcB0csYABUQrj9m3z_sSNQul3Uy_CJ-QIj2obVa-o0V1H7NMv95yL8eMu34re4/s320/cheeks.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Creating a natural, rosy radiance.</div><div></div><div>When applying blush, you want the color to look soft and natural, as if it comes from within. Read below for tips on how to put on make-up. </div><br /><div><br />1. Tap or lightly blow on the applicator brush to remove any excess blush before applying to prevent a harsh and uneven application.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>2. Apply your blush on the apple of the cheek and carefully blend towards your natural hairline.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>3. If you have two shades, apply the darker one on the apple of the cheek first, then use the lighter shade to highlight. Blend well so there is no visible line between colors.4. Highlight your temples, forehead and chin. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Tip: To know "where to glow" bend over for 30 seconds, then slowly stand up. Where your cheeks are flushed is where you are meant to blush. Apply your blush there and it will be naturally rosy every time. </div><br /><div><br />Tip: Cheek color should be used to enhance your complexion, not to change your natural skin tone. Use sparingly for daytime, then add more or a deeper shade for a more dramatic nighttime effect. For special occasions, dust a lightly frosted powder over your cheekbones for a subtle but alluring glow.<br />Tip: Make sure to blend your blush into your foundation well or it will tend to look unnatural and add the appearance of 5 years to your looks.<a href="http://www.principalsecret.com/"></a></div>Diva Elisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12652583619173356425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-62511173594819977222010-03-10T00:01:00.001-05:002010-03-10T00:01:03.530-05:00A night of Glamour and Giving!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyUsYAUxIzVSXkzsJaYY3j_DfH9xAVNN0_alINzREe4Tgc0RkxiGnEnMHx19jFAA_B8dC9s6UKKwGNaj90L3lIlBQNz7lk9TAU4aXA5kCvDqnG1YBBV47RhfXQq28lWkCC6tQuaYXw7fc/s1600-h/rmh.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446601183206595266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 206px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyUsYAUxIzVSXkzsJaYY3j_DfH9xAVNN0_alINzREe4Tgc0RkxiGnEnMHx19jFAA_B8dC9s6UKKwGNaj90L3lIlBQNz7lk9TAU4aXA5kCvDqnG1YBBV47RhfXQq28lWkCC6tQuaYXw7fc/s320/rmh.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div>Diva Elisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12652583619173356425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-9785745535444297532010-03-09T06:13:00.003-05:002010-03-09T06:21:45.192-05:00We're Back!<a href="http://www.cookies4acause.com/shop/"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446592222949421074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 221px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 166px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp5I8wnkeg9FZRXnL2GJbd-LPM6OyXJI7uBSxCa5gJWbORNF3xbucXN_BP6l4TRZIVVMRNVOrSfFSA5K9ddOob_CpG0QtBC8WebgGHLxzfdjpnX4FK9czS2UFxIZaBpVeHz8GeeCNElmE/s320/hottop4.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>And we're stronger than ever! Sorry for the long sabbatical!! This past year has been wonderful and full of changes. My son was born last April and since then we've been on the go!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>The Divas In The Kitchen has had a major overhaul and is spreading like wildfire! There are so many divas out there doing so many good things!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Then, there is <a href="http://www.cookies4acause.com/shop/">HOT TOPS!(tm)</a> - our bottlecap necklace fundraiser! We customize these bottlecaps to fit any design or logo, sell them to charities, schools and organizations, and help them raise money for their own cause!</div><div> </div><div>Also, we're getting to re-launch our website: <a href="http://www.thedivasinthekitchen.com/">www.thedivasinthekitchen.com</a>. Thanks to our web designer, Brent Friar of BNR Branding, we will have a new look coming soon.</div><div> </div><div>Thank you for visiting us and start tuning in again!</div>Diva Elisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12652583619173356425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-65757189045164966352009-05-20T08:06:00.000-04:002009-05-20T08:07:16.217-04:00Great tips!Crying for you onion~<br />Chopping onions making you cry? Here is a great solution: Put your whole unpeeled onions in the freezer for about five minutes before chopping. Then peel and chop... no more tears!<br /><br />Cleaning your toothbrush??<br />Even after rinsing your toothbrush there are still germs on it; I keep a cup of rubbing alcohol on the sink and after each use I dip the brush in it and leave it overnight. Next morning rinse it and use it again. Your breath is always clean.<br /><br />Hiding Christmas~Great idea for older children<br />For the family members still living at home, I wrap presents and put numbers on them instead of names. That way I can put the presents under the Christmas tree and only have to hide the master list instead of hiding all the presents until Christmas.<br /><br />White Tennis shoes~ Toothpaste is great for this!<br />To keep your tennis shoe soles clean, just take an old toothbrush and some toothpaste, and scrub around the soles. The dirt will come off -- even red mud. It works great!DIVA Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15925559502825125753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-56300438654257392002009-04-29T07:41:00.001-04:002009-04-29T07:43:16.573-04:00Tips<strong>Desk Organizer for Free~<br /></strong>I hate to throw away the clear medicine bottles we all get from the pharmacy. Arrange the different sizes to design a desk organizer that either stands up or lies on its side. Use a glue gun and carefully glue the bottles together. You could paint on them or spruce them up however you desire. It won't cost you a dime and you'll help the environment.<br /><br /><strong>Stain Removers~<br /></strong>I put a little Oxy-clean on a stain, let it sit, then gently scrub with a toothbrush and a little water. Wash as usual after you treat the stain. The stains come out every time!<br /><br />Great tip<br /><strong>Striped Popsicles~<br /></strong>Pour watermelon juice into popsicle containers until they are half full. Fill them to the top with unsweetened pineapple juice, then freeze. These are a sweet, low-sugar popsicle that will add a cooling and delicious juicy treat to your children's summer fun.<br /><br />I love this idea!<br /><strong>Keeping Track of Passwords~<br /></strong>I like to store all my favorite website user names and passwords on a Rolodex wheel. It is a quick reminder. Let your fingers do the walking!DIVA Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15925559502825125753noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-51175748239503192112009-04-27T00:01:00.000-04:002009-04-27T00:01:00.677-04:00Hunter's Closet - Consignment is All the Rage!<span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc33cc;">GRAND OPENING<br />HUNTER’S CLOSET<br />Kids Consignment Store<br />Opening Sat. May 2, 2009<br />1236 Hwy 16 N, Denver NC<br />(beside Captain’s Cap Restaurant)<br />Doors open 9:30 am – 3:00 pm<br />Brand Name Clothes & Accessories<br />Refreshments & Door Prizes <br />704.770.5829<br /></span><a href="mailto:hunterscloset@gmail.com" target="_blank"><span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#cc33cc;">hunterscloset@gmail.com</span></a>Diva Elisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12652583619173356425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-66065328267813216942009-04-23T00:00:00.001-04:002009-04-23T00:00:00.960-04:00Lake Norman Divas<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">are on a mission to make a difference in their community. They just finished a <em>book drive</em> and donated them to the <strong>Ada Jenkins Center</strong>. They were very happy to receive the books! The adult books are for people to take, read and keep and the kids books are going into the after school area. </span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">It is amazing---what a difference 1 group of Divas can make!</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:78%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">Join a chapter or start your own! It is simple and lots of fun to do with your girlfriends!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>"Together we are making a difference."</em></span>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-75159086759126836602009-04-22T07:32:00.005-04:002009-04-22T07:57:58.108-04:00thrifty tips<strong>Food Friendly</strong><br />Brown bagging isn't just for your child any more. We as adults can pack a lunch. It is cost efficient and healthy to boot! Don't buy a prepackaged lunch they are rather expensive and not very nutritious.<br /><br /><strong>Kids eat FREE!!</strong><br />Many places offer a childs plate if buying a regular entree. A great way to save some money and not have to cook.<br /><br /><strong>Clip a few coupons</strong><br />You can either get the Sunday paper or join a coupon website. Check the local paper ads for the grocery store that you use and try using the coupons you have to buy whats in the ad.<br /><br /><strong>Bulk up</strong><br />Buy in bulk. Buying in bulk is agreat idea. You can save time and energy by doing this. Less time at the store, less gas and milage on your car. But be careful not to over buy because you think you getting a good deal!<br /><br /><strong>Cards</strong><br />Those wonderful store cards. Everybody has them. You carry about 15 or more of them on your key ring. You have one for every store you shop at! You could always just use your phone number. That is what my husband does.DIVA Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15925559502825125753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-58332757944108318112009-04-21T08:44:00.003-04:002009-04-21T08:50:21.929-04:00Earth Day 2009<div align="center"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:180%;color:#009900;">Happy Earth Day 2009!</span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:180%;color:#009900;"></span> </div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:130%;color:#009900;">Earth Day is a day to recognize our Earth. </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:130%;color:#009900;"> It is up </span><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:130%;color:#009900;">to us to make some changes to help </span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:130%;color:#009900;"><em>preserve</em> it!</span></div><br /><p align="center"><span style="font-family:Verdana;color:#009900;">What have you done for our earth?</span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-family:Verdana;color:#009900;">What will you do for our earth?</span></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327125297411590754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 278px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 278px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_gEATf7jKPnU/Se3AO9I3CmI/AAAAAAAAFXA/kiaJfXmuzR4/s400/earth+day+pic.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"><span style="font-family:Verdana;color:#009900;"></span></p><p align="center"><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;color:#cc66cc;"><em>"Together we are making a difference!"</em></span></p>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-77478297111186673162009-04-16T00:00:00.002-04:002009-04-16T00:00:00.348-04:00March For Babies<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gEATf7jKPnU/SePTT1EeQVI/AAAAAAAAFU8/HEcAXKKHKFc/s1600-h/march+of+dimes+logo.png"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5324331522098872658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 198px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 90px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_gEATf7jKPnU/SePTT1EeQVI/AAAAAAAAFU8/HEcAXKKHKFc/s400/march+of+dimes+logo.png" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">The March of Dimes is hosting it's annual <strong><em>March for Babies</em></strong> in downtown Charlotte on <strong><em>Saturday, April 25th</em></strong>. The walk begins at 10 am and is just under 4 miles. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">Proceeds raised through the efforts of the walkers and corporate sponsors go to help the March of Dimes research many issues that effect babies today, including premature birth and low birth weight. </span></div><div><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">LakeNormanMommies.com is participating in the event for the second year. Last year, LakeNormanMommies.com raised just over $4,000. This year, we have raised $740 to date toward our $3,000 goal. If you would like to walk with our team, or make a donation towards our fundrasing efforts, please visit </span><a href="http://www.marchforbabies.org/lakenormanmommies"><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">www.marchforbabies.org/lakenormanmommies</span></a><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">.</span> </div><div></div><br /><div><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>"Together we are making a difference."</em></span></div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-32635923454096322062009-04-14T00:00:00.000-04:002009-04-14T00:00:00.813-04:00Ten Tips to Reduce Your Risk of Cancer<strong><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">Facts:</span></strong><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">In 2008, an estimated 1.5 million people in the United States were diagnosed with cancer, including over 700,000 new cases in men and nearly the same number of new cases in women. </span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">There were also over 650,000 cancer deaths last year, which ranks cancer second only to heart disease as a leading cause of death.</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"><strong>What is Cancer?</strong><br />Cancer is caused by changes in genes that control the growth and death of cells. The disease develops when cells continue to grow and divide instead of dying off when they get older as they would normally do. As cancer cells multiply, they can damage nearby tissues and can also spread to other parts of the body and develop into new tumors. </span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">While improvements in detection, diagnosis, and treatment have increased the survival rate for many types of cancer, we also encourage doing all you can do to prevent the disease as a core strategy of your prescription for optimal health. </span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"><strong>Prevention: </strong>10 things we can all do to reduce the risk of developing cancer: </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"><em>1. Avoid tobacco products and second-hand smoke</em><br />Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States for both men and women. Ironically, it’s also the most preventable type of cancer. Some 87-percent of lung cancer deaths are attributable to exposure to tobacco smoke including roughly 3,000 deaths each year in non-smokers due to second-hand smoke. Of the 45 million Americans who still smoke in 2007, 30-percent of male and 21-percent of female high school students reported using some form of tobacco in the prior month. If you smoke, take the necessary steps to quit for the health of you and your loved ones. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"><em>2. Achieve and maintain a healthy weight<br /></em>Being overweight increases your chance of developing certain types of cancer, including cancer of the esophagus, colon and rectum, and pancreas. Obesity also increases the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women by roughly 50-percent, and endometrial cancer by about three fold. And carrying too much extra body weight is believed to account for up to 30-percent of kidney cancers in both men and women. Make smart food choices, control portion sizes, and fill up on fruits and vegetables to help manage your healthy weight and reduce your risk of cancer. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"><em>3. Get moving<br /></em>The American Cancer Society recommends regular exercise as a way to prevent cancer. Regular exercise burns calories and can help you reach and maintain a healthy weight. Pick something that gets and keeps you moving like walking, hiking, cycling, swimming, team sports, and even dancing. Consider biking or walking to work, or take a walk during your lunch break. Be sure to gradually work up to 30-45 minutes of exercise a day for five or more days per week. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"><em>4. Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains<br /></em>Fruits and vegetables are naturally rich in dietary antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and a whole family of carotenoids that may help to protect your healthy genes from oxidative damage. Recent research suggests that eating tomatoes may help to protect against developing prostate cancer, while eating cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts may help to protect against bladder cancer. Fruits and vegetables are also rich in fiber which can speed the transit of food through the digestive system and may reduce the absorption of cancer-causing chemicals. So eating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables may be the best way to ensure broad spectrum protection. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"><em>5. Fresh is best<br /></em>Until about 20 years ago, stomach cancer was the most common cancer worldwide, perhaps due to cultural preferences for eating large amounts of salt-preserved foods such as cured meats and pickled vegetables. This finding underscores the point that when it comes to eating most foods, it’s generally best to eat fresh rather than salted, cured, or pickled. In general, the less processed the food, the healthier it will be for you. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"><em>6. Limit alcohol intake<br /></em>Excess alcohol consumption is associated with increased risks of cancers of the oral cavity, throat, voice box, esophagus, liver, breast, and possibly the colon and rectum. Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer diagnosed in women, and aside from carrying too much body weight, alcohol intake is the only other established risk factor for this disease. It’s recommended that men who drink alcohol should limit their intake to no more than 2 drinks per day, while women should limit their intake to no more than 1 drink daily.</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"><br /><em>7. Practice sun safety and check for changes in your skin</em><br />Ultraviolet radiation from the sun is damaging to your skin. The genetic damage it can cause to skin cells can lead to skin cancer, a disease that is increasingly common, especially among young people. Be aware that the sun’s peak time is between 10 am and 3 pm and that sunlight exposure can be intensified by up to 50-percent when reflected from sand, water, snow, ice, and concrete. When outdoors, cover up exposed areas and wear sun screen with an SPF of 15 or more. Know your skin and be aware of the location, size, and shape of moles and skin spots, and report any changes promptly to your physician. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"><em>8. Reduce your exposure to potential carcinogens</em><br />There are many substances in the environment with the potential to put you at higher risk for developing cancer. On the job, minimize your exposure to fumes, dust, solvents, and chemicals. Try to reduce your everyday exposure to potentially-toxic environmental chemicals in the home and…<br />Dust and vacuum regularly to rid your home of toxins attracted to dust<br />Open windows and use fresh air to freshen and minimize indoor pollution<br />Filter your drinking water to remove pollutants<br />Switch to green cleaning products that are safe but still powerful </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"><em>9. Know your family history and get screened</em> </span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">Some 5-10-percent of cancers are due to a genetic predisposition to cancer. Family history is a risk factor for common types of cancer including breast, ovarian, colon, and prostate cancer. If you have a family history of cancer your physician may recommend genetic testing to see if you have the type of gene that can increase your chance of developing cancer. For individuals with an average risk of cancer, the following cancer screening guidelines are recommended:<br />Breast cancer: Women should begin yearly mammograms at age 40 and conduct regular breast self exams starting in the 20’s.<br />Colon and rectal cancer: Men and women should have one or more screening tests including a colonoscopy starting at age 50.<br />Cervical cancer: All women should begin cervical cancer screening no later than 21 years of age.<br />Prostate cancer: Men should have the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test and digital rectal examination annually beginning at age 50. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"><em>10. Choose your dietary supplements wisely</em><br />Whether it’s vitamin D, folic acid, calcium, the antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and the carotenoids, fiber, or emerging phytochemicals, nutrition surveys have made it clear that your diet is unlikely to be providing all the essential nutrients and other dietary factors you need to be at your healthiest. And dietary supplement studies have yielded compelling evidence that supplements can help to reduce the chance of developing cancer in undernourished individuals.<br /></span>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-3654194697282382772009-04-01T08:22:00.005-04:002009-04-01T08:54:53.136-04:00EGGSELLENT EVENTS!<div><strong>Underwater Egg Hunt</strong></div><div>Rays Splash Planet April 2 </div><div>10 a.m. til 1230 p.m. OR 5 p.m. til 7 p.m. </div><div>Children will be hunting for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Easter</span> eggs in Splash Park. Photos with the Easter Bunny will be taken and prizes given away! </div><div>The cost is $10 per child.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWZXCLgBrSiCzYaKfMsnYAziE0z0DioTfrl5IDITH31ZRSKurUC7CnyVwJdL_vKXdC5ob_0TvVATCpXWfNYlwotrBri6TFWMvwPVHALmO9joiVirYGTsK27P5i-GL3eghZRJR8__tecG9b/s1600-h/pumpkin-ghost.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319704475793782818" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 160px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 119px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWZXCLgBrSiCzYaKfMsnYAziE0z0DioTfrl5IDITH31ZRSKurUC7CnyVwJdL_vKXdC5ob_0TvVATCpXWfNYlwotrBri6TFWMvwPVHALmO9joiVirYGTsK27P5i-GL3eghZRJR8__tecG9b/s400/pumpkin-ghost.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><strong>Bunny Trail Train Ride and Egg Hunt</strong></div><div>521 Rec Center at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Elon</span> Park April 11</div><div>10 a.m. til 1 p.m.</div><div>Come join Peter Cotton Tail in a tour of his home on his <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Choo</span>-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Choo</span> Train while hunting for eggs!</div><div>The cost is $5 per child.</div><br /><div><strong>Egg Hunt</strong></div><div>Mallard Creek Recreation Center April 9</div><div>9 a.m. til 10 a.m.</div><div>Bunny hop while searching for eggs! Some filled with prizes. Plus eat a healthy snack that is provided.</div><div>The cost is $3 member/ $6 nonmember. </div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgy9BYYZAJ5OAE6azgDf8HwvKBzLB11T6Gq32xY9CKNDupVw3J_roca6Kx4bUcb2TkbyMA5mKTbHjTdvTCaI9Y8LKQQGvvB4BZ0EMk1mjP25PQPnR1Q5rMwkOTpAKuDIAhqCA6Ja1W5wAx/s1600-h/IMG_1607.JPG"></a></div>DIVA Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15925559502825125753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-14452332210691689772009-03-31T00:00:00.000-04:002009-03-31T00:00:00.660-04:00<strong><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;">10 Healthy, Green Snack Tips for School Kids</span></strong><br /><strong><span style="font-family:Verdana;font-size:85%;"></span></strong><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:100%;">This article was written by Alexandra <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Zissu</span><strong> </strong>and what a fantastic idea and how easy it would be if more of us did this at our schools!</span><br /></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:78%;"></span><span style="font-size:85%;"></span><br /></span><span style="font-family:verdana;">Follow these ideas to ensure your child is eating a healthy, nontoxic diet. It's a recipe for learning. I'm happily in the process of helping to green my daughter's preschool. I've aided them in their search for gentle industrial green products, and more <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">eco</span>- and kid-friendly hand soap. And I'm currently involved with a snack committee. The goal is to make sure our children are snacking on healthier things by setting up shopping guidelines and suggestions for parents. We're all already being mindful not to bring in anything that could cause allergic reactions, so the committee is thinking it won't be a huge leap to make to scan ingredient lists for a few more best-to-avoid items. </span><br /></span><span style="font-family:verdana;">Here's a working draft of a "top ten" list (in no particular order) which I recently sent to the committee, and which will eventually be sent out to the school. Is there something I'm not thinking about? Or is there a great snack your kids love? </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"><strong>1. Buy Whole Foods<br /></strong>The best items to bring in are whole foods, and this doesn't mean things from Whole Foods but rather items that are whole/entire, and are close to how they came out of the earth -- i.e. unprocessed. Carrots, apples, nuts (though of course not the ones banned for food allergy reasons) etc.<br /><strong>2. Choose Processed Foods With Short Ingredient Lists<br /></strong>When it comes to things that are processed and then packaged like crackers and pretzels, ingredient lists should be very, very short. Michael <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Pollan</span> has some rule of thumb about things not having any more than <strong>five</strong> ingredients in them. He also contends that if you can't pronounce or say an ingredient, you shouldn't eat it. These are simple and wise commonsense guidelines. We also obviously want to be avoiding trans fats.<br /><strong>3. Buy Organic Foods</strong><br />Organic food has proven to be safest for growing children, and can be more nutritious than its conventional counterparts. Choose it. For everything. It's not that much more expensive for something as small as snacks. Not only does organic mean avoiding pesticide sprays and residues, but we're keeping those very things out of the earth and waterways they've inherited. With regard to crackers or anything that might contain some version of processed soy or corn (i.e. everything packaged), choosing organic means the corn and soy (and everything else) aren't allowed to be genetically modified. The above-mentioned five ingredient rule should also apply to organic crackers and the like -- just because something is organic doesn't mean it isn't overly processed.<br /><strong>4. Avoid the Dirty Dozen<br /></strong>When you cannot find organic fruits or veggies, or if something organic is just too expensive compared to its conventional counterpart, turn to the Environmental Working Group's </span><a href="http://www.foodnews.org/walletguide.php" target="_new"><span style="font-family:verdana;">Dirty Dozen</span></a><span style="font-family:verdana;"> list. They tested and tested and came up with a list of the 12 least contaminated and 12 most contaminated fruits and vegetables. If you're buying conventional, choose from their least contaminated list and always avoid the most contaminated list. It's a list that can be printed and put in your wallet. And certainly something we can link to off our school Website.<br /><strong>5. Avoid Sugary Snacks</strong><br />There is a time and a place for it, but I'd argue that school snack isn't it (besides birthdays, and there are ample birthdays throughout the school year). If you're buying graham cracker sorts of things, read the ingredient list. I'm not sure I think graham crackers or any food in the shape of animals (teddies etc.) are really food. I'd love to ban them, but that might be too extreme to enforce.<br /><strong>6. Choose Whole Grain Snacks</strong><br />Whole grains are proven again and again to be good for us, and excellent for growing kids. Most parents I hear from are trying to figure out how to work more grains into their diet. If you're buying things like crackers, rice cakes, and pretzels, opt for whole grain versions. There are spelt pretzels, for example, instead of white flour ones. Speaking of pretzels, low salt or no salt is a better idea for kids, as well. With (air popped) popcorn, organic is a must to avoid GM corn.<br /><strong>7. Draw a Good Food Road Map<br /></strong>To make it easy for parents, give specific instructions to go along with general guidelines. List which snacks can be purchased at which stores near the school, so people can just pick up the good stuff on the way in to school, and not have to bother trying to figure out which hummus contains sugar or which pita has an unexpected soy additive in it.<br /><strong>8. Avoid Packaged Yogurts<br /></strong>Many parents bring in cheese and crackers. Some even bring in packaged yogurt to avoid hormones and antibiotics (treatment of the animals and other environmental issues factor in here, of course, but no point in beating everyone over the head when we're trying to get them on board!). The packaged yogurts aren't great because of the packaging, but also because of the shocking amount of sugar in them (Marion Nestle, in her tome </span><a href="http://search.barnesandnoble.com/What-to-Eat/Marion-Nestle/e/9780865477384" target="_new"><span style="font-family:verdana;">What to Eat</span></a><span style="font-family:verdana;">, goes off on packaged yogurts for young kids).</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"><strong>9. Pool Resources</strong><br />Set up a pot for parents who aren't interested in being involved to put their snack cash in. Parents who like shopping for food can step up and do it for them, just as with all other duties at school.<br /><strong>10. Ban Processed Lunch Meats<br /></strong>I'm saving the best for last: meat. It's not actually the sort of thing parents tend to bring in for snack at our school, but from time to time they do bring in cold cuts. If people bring in meat at your school, stick your meat suggestions at the top of the list. Chemicals and other toxins <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">bio accumulate</span> in the flesh of animals at the top of the food chain. Organic is a must here.<br />Oh, and, don't forget to think about what you're serving these snacks on -- and the water in.<br /></span>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-20624322941925621852009-03-30T00:01:00.002-04:002009-03-30T00:01:00.357-04:00What's For Supper Ya'll? Parmesan Crusted Salmon<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwnmbWcRgihVxxDt93d7FVVyfV0Vfn8g6g-UupIDPwl28jIcTIIWjMmPPW1eApXlvx1mMV9j8FxHO_1H3ct3LzuQDgI2DlluFePHpOtgKMQqba5MGbVJZfpvlK0rkdZrwBYqF75wj2uzg/s1600-h/salmon.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318751611130604530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 149px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 99px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwnmbWcRgihVxxDt93d7FVVyfV0Vfn8g6g-UupIDPwl28jIcTIIWjMmPPW1eApXlvx1mMV9j8FxHO_1H3ct3LzuQDgI2DlluFePHpOtgKMQqba5MGbVJZfpvlK0rkdZrwBYqF75wj2uzg/s320/salmon.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>By Food Network</div><div><br />Ingredients<br />1 (6-ounce) salmon fillet, skin off<br />1/4 cup Parmesan, finely grated<br />Salt and freshly ground black pepper<br />Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Paste:<br />4 ounces sun dried tomatoes, packed in olive oil<br />1 clove garlic<br />1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil<br />Salt and freshly ground black pepper<br />Basil Pesto:<br />1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil<br />1 clove garlic<br />1/2 cup basil leaves<br />1/4 cup grated Parmesan<br />Salt and freshly ground white pepper<br />Parmesan Crisps, recipe follows<br />Sauteed Asparagus, recipe follows<br />Mashed Potatoes, recipe follows<br /><br />Directions<br />Lightly season the salmon with salt and pepper. Generously coat 1side of the salmon with the finely grated Parmesan. In a non-stick saute pan, add approximately 3 tablespoons vegetable oil and place over high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place the salmon in the pan cheese side down. Turn temperature down to medium heat and allow the salmon to cook about 4 minutes before flipping over. The idea is to form a nice crispy, lightly brown crust. Turn salmon and allow to cook another 3 or 4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside in a warm place until plating.<br /></div><div>Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Paste:<br />In a blender or food processor, add the sun-dried tomatoes along with their oil, the garlic cloves, and 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil. Process the mixture on high speed approximately 1 minute until almost smooth. The mixture should be slightly chunky. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.<br /></div><div>Basil Pesto<br />In a blender or food processor, place the extra-virgin olive oil and garlic clove. Process until smooth. Add the basil leaves, and process for about 1 minute until mixture is relatively smooth. Add the Parmesan and process again until fully incorporated. Season the pesto with salt and pepper, to taste.<br /></div><div>To plate:<br />Place a small mound of mash potatoes in the center of the plate. Place the asparagus on top of the mashed potatoes at an angle. Then put the salmon nicely on the plate, overlapping the asparagus. Drizzle the plate with both pestos and garnish the plate with the Parmesan crisp by securing it in the bed of mashed potatoes.<br /></div><div>Parmesan Crisps:<br />1/4 cup Parmesan, coarsely grated<br />Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.<br />Heavily grease a cookie sheet (parchment paper is optional, but if using parchment, make sure it is heavily greased). In a 5-inch diameter circle, sprinkle the coarsely grated Parmesan. Make sure there is just enough to fill the circle, don't over do it! Place in oven and bake for approximately 8 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from oven and allow to cool before lifting from cookie sheet. Be extremely gentle with them they are very brittle when cool.<br /></div><div>Sauteed Asparagus:<br />4 green asparagus<br />1/2 tablespoon butter<br />Salt and white pepper<br />Cut off about 2 inches of the ends of the asparagus, as they tend to be very coarse and tough. Blanch asparagus in boiling, well-salted water until tender. Shock them in ice water to keep them from cooking any further and hold them until you are ready to plate. Right before plating, in a saute pan over a low flame, melt the butter with the asparagus. Once the asparagus are hot, season with salt and white pepper.<br /></div><div>Mashed Potatoes:<br />2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/8ths<br />1/2 cup cream<br />2 tablespoons butter<br />Salt and freshly ground white pepper<br />Place the potatoes in cold, salted water over high heat. Cook thoroughly and strain. In a separate pot, heat heavy cream and butter. Using a potato masher, mash potatoes. Slowly incorporate the cream and butter mixture. Season with salt and white pepper, to taste. </div>Diva Elisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12652583619173356425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-78700047870660238632009-03-27T00:01:00.001-04:002009-03-27T00:01:00.974-04:00Appetizer Tree<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYuiQLzoIQoO4u7zpLgUxEb2c_oxrgQ4lNsDjUZZNYX-QT2cjEv1ehEh9XJ5hJwBmx0f0DtYnGyyfrpPGTir8gg0ycxWWokJs_YpqcysIqLHG3yYdp80F69lkA-g600yu9V9dY5eDqRk/s1600-h/app.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317635130107003938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 145px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 170px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNYuiQLzoIQoO4u7zpLgUxEb2c_oxrgQ4lNsDjUZZNYX-QT2cjEv1ehEh9XJ5hJwBmx0f0DtYnGyyfrpPGTir8gg0ycxWWokJs_YpqcysIqLHG3yYdp80F69lkA-g600yu9V9dY5eDqRk/s320/app.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><div>Appetizer Tree</div><br /><div>By About.com</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>This appetizer tree serves double-duty as a colorful and attractive table decoration for parties </div><br /><div>and as an edible treat. If you are creative, you can carve the fresh pineapple into any shape that suits your party. Feel free to use your favorite fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and or/cooked meats in any combination. Modify the colors of the foods to fit your theme.</div><br /><div><br />Prep Time: 1 hours</div><br /><div><br />Ingredients:</div><br /><div><br />1 fresh pineapple<br />Edam cheese, cut into 1/2-inch squares<br />Cheddar cheese, cut into 1/2-inch squares<br />Summer sausage or pepperoni, cut into 1/2-inch squares<br />Cooked ham, cut into 1/2-inch squares<br />Fruit, cut into 1/2-inch squares<br />Toothpicks<br /></div><br /><div>Preparation:Select a <a href="http://homecooking.about.com/library/weekly/aa081301a.htm">pineapple</a> that freely stands upright. Slice off the green top. Cut away the outer skin, then carve into desired shape. Beginning at the bottom of the carved <a href="http://homecooking.about.com/library/weekly/aa081301a.htm">pineapple</a>, use toothpicks to attach <a href="http://homecooking.about.com/library/archive/blcheeseindex.htm">cheese</a>, <a href="http://homecooking.about.com/library/weekly/aa030298.htm">salami</a>, and <a href="http://homecooking.about.com/library/weekly/aa122099a.htm">ham</a> to the <a href="http://homecooking.about.com/library/weekly/aa081301a.htm">pineapple</a> in a decorative pattern. You can alternate colors or put similar colors in separate rings. Feel free to use your favorite <a href="http://homecooking.about.com/library/weekly/topicsubfruit.htm">fruits</a>, <a href="http://homecooking.about.com/library/weekly/topicsubveg.htm">vegetables</a>, <a href="http://homecooking.about.com/library/archive/blcheeseindex.htm">cheeses</a>, and or/cooked <a href="http://homecooking.about.com/library/weekly/topicsubmeat.htm">meats</a> in any combination. Modify the colors of the foods to fit your party or holiday theme. Serve with your favorite <a href="http://homecooking.about.com/library/archive/bldips.htm">dipping sauce</a>, if desired. </div>Diva Elisehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12652583619173356425noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-52896993061871519452009-03-26T00:00:00.001-04:002009-03-26T00:00:00.537-04:00Support Diabetes<div><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Lauren Elizabeth <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Krajewski</span>, daughter of Stan and Michele <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Krajewski</span> was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes on 9-4-08. Here is sweet way to support a great cause!</span></div><div><span style="font-family:times new roman;"></span></div><div><span style="font-family:times new roman;"></span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Wendy’s is once again partnering with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">JDRF</span> to sell Jr. Frosty coupon books in support of the Walk to Cure Diabetes.<br /><br />Please stop by your local Wendy’s to purchase a Jr. Frosty coupon book (including 7 coupons for only $1) and help find a cure! </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:times new roman;">*One 4 oz. frosty from Wendy’s is 29 grams of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">carbs</span>*</span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:times new roman;">We also encourage families to thank their local store manager<br />for their continued support of the Walk program. </span></div><br /><div><span style="font-family:times new roman;">Wendy’s has raised $718,106 since 2005 to support their goal of raising $1 million for diabetes research by 2010. Many thanks to Wendy’s for their commitment to help <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">JDRF</span> find a cure!</span> </div><div><br /> </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5316911547282362850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 289px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 135px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_gEATf7jKPnU/Scl24c3wEeI/AAAAAAAAFPg/LU2M50Y6ztA/s400/wendys.jpg" border="0" /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>"Together we can make a difference!"</em><br /></span>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8675538130015075512.post-44788691018908207012009-03-25T08:02:00.000-04:002009-03-25T08:04:31.509-04:00Great TipsEmergency Kit<br /><br />Consider adding these items to your emergency first aid kit: Scissors to easily make a butterfly bandage from tape, a small vial of rubbing alcohol (try putting it in a film canister) to kill ticks and a first aid guide. A jewelry or toiletries travel organizer with see-through pouches is very helpful in storing the items!<br /><br />Toilet Brush Holder<br /><br />If you are like me and you still use the old-fashioned, round toilet brush, consider storing it in a discarded flower vase. It's a neat/handy way to store and disguise it.<br /><br />Spray Bottles<br /><br />To organize spray-bottle cleaners, I installed an inexpensive, lightweight metal towel bar on the wall above my washer and dryer. I hang the bottles by their spray triggers -- they never tip over, and are always handy.<br /><br />Stomach and Cough<br />For an upset stomach, try sucking on a peppermint. It's soothing and really works. And for a cough that doesn't want to subside, try a drop of peppermint oil on your tongue. It will soothe your throat and work better than a cough drop.DIVA Sarahhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15925559502825125753noreply@blogger.com0