There's no need to diet – just cut down on treats

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I don't know about you, but I find it pretty much impossible to go on a diet. When you enjoy eating food and you're a fussy eater, there's nothing more difficult than trying to cut out all the things you love from your daily meals.



You don't really need to diet to lose weight and stay healthy though – you can just limit the amount of sweet treats and unhealthy snacks in order to do that. 


Rather than starving yourself or embarking on the not-so-appetising cabbage soup diet, why not just reduce the number of chocolate bars you eat each week or just try to snack on crisps a bit less?
You might want to start taking your own lunch into work, made with homemade bread – then at least you'll know what ingredients and how much salt goes into making it.
Sandwiches are a fantastic thing to have at lunchtimes, as they're bound to fill you up properly and if you go for decent bread and healthy fillings, they'll help you lose some weight in the long term too.
Just take a look online at some sandwich recipes to get some inspiration, then put together the healthiest bits and pieces you can and presto, you've got a healthy snack for lunch!
If you need a sweet treat to get you through the day, fruit is definitely the way forward. Just stock up on some apples and bananas, or whatever else takes your fancy, and munch away whenever the moment takes you!
Nuts are another fantastic thing to have to hand, so long as there's very little salt on them – they'll tide you over to your next meal without a doubt!

Olivia's Birth Story

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First and foremost, I am writing this story so that others will see God’s faithfulness throughout my labor and delivery. God has been so faithful to Jon and I throughout this entire process and we want Him to receive all the honor and glory that He is due! Next, I want to make sure that I tell Olivia’s story in the most complete and accurate way that I can. This is Olivia’s birth story and it is important to me that I write out all the details, so that we can remember them for many more years to come.

Almost 40 weeks pregnant

Tuesday, August 28th, 2012 was a very important day in my pregnancy, because it was my due date. After nine long months of waiting my due date had finally arrived! I had been looking forward to this day since I first found out that I was pregnant. I spent the entire day wondering if I would go into labor. It was so hard to focus on my work, but I did my best while I worked from home.

After I finished working, I thought it would be fun to bake Labor Inducing Ginger Cookies. My friend, Meagan, had told me about these cookies weeks ago, but I had not made them yet. I knew that they would not really send me into labor, but I thought it would be fun to make them anyway. I ate three of these cookies before going to bed. During the middle of the night, I started having cramps that felt very similar to my monthly menstrual cramps.

At 12:15 am, the morning of August 29, 2012, I got up to go to the bathroom like I had been doing for weeks, only this time, I experienced my “Bloody Show”. I got back in bed and told Jon what had happened. He assured me that everything was fine and I needed to try and sleep. We called Jon’s Mom, Lisa, our doula to let her know what had happened. Lisa also encouraged me to get as much sleep as possible and explained that it still could be another week before I went into labor.

Needless to say, after my bloody show, sleep proved to be next to impossible! It was a very sleepless night for both Jon and me. Not only was I still experiencing cramps in my back and lower abdomen, but I was also anxious to know when my labor would actually begin!

Around 5:00 am I finally decided to get up, because I was not sleeping. I took my Bible and journal into the living room, so that I could spend time with the Lord before my day began. Looking back, it was so sweet to be able to spend time with the Lord this way, because this was the last time I would have set apart like this before Olivia’s arrival.

I went off to work like it was any other day. I had an early meeting to attend and projects at work that I needed to finish before going into labor. I just had this feeling that I was going to go into labor with Olivia before the end of the weekend. I was exhausted from my lack of sleep the night before, so I asked if I could leave work early to go home and rest.

That evening Jon’s family came over to hangout. We ate dinner, played games, and just enjoyed one another’s company. Jon, Josh, Hannah, and I even played the push up game, except I didn’t do push ups, I did pelvic rocks instead, and played Settlers of Catan! It was a great way to distract me from the menstrual like cramps that I had been having all day and night.

Jon and Hannah enjoying Settlers of Catan

Jon’s family left that night sometime around between 10:00 and 11:00 pm. Again, Jon’s Mom encouraged us to try to get as much sleep as possible and to call her if anything changed. Jon and I both needed some down time before going to bed, so we decided to watch an episode of CSI.

As Jon and I watched our episode of CSI, my menstrual like cramps become more and more intense. Jon asked if I wanted to go lie down in bed and try to get some sleep. I declined Jon’s offer to go to bed, because I wasn’t sure that I would be able to sleep. I told Jon that he should go to bed and I would stay up for a while. Jon refused to go to bed and said that he would stay up with me.

Thursday, August 30th, 2012
 My contractions became more and more regular. Sometime around 1:00 am, I decided to start tracking my contractions. I had an app on my iPhone that allowed me to track my contractions. By this time, Jon had fallen asleep on the couch next time me. I knew that Jon needed his rest, so I wasn’t going to wake him up unless I really thought I was in labor.

After an hour of tracking my contractions, they were coming every 5 minutes and were lasting for 30-45 seconds. Everything that I learned in my childbirth class had told me that I was in early labor. Not only that, but my contractions were becoming more intense. Reluctantly, I woke up Jon to let him know what was happening. We called Lisa to let her know that we thought I was in labor. Lisa told us to try to sleep and call her back when we wanted her to come over to our apartment.

The last thing I felt like doing was curling up in bed to sleep. Jon and I tried watching another episode of CSI, but I was too restless. I decided to take a shower, because if I really was in labor, I did not want to have greasy hair all day long. After my shower we decided to go for a walk. My cramps were really starting to hurt and it was even hard to walk.

Jon was exhausted from the lack of sleep the night before. As a result, I agreed to lie down in bed and try to sleep. However, my contractions seemed to be coming more frequently and with every passing contraction they got more intense. Jon was supposed to be helping me through these contractions, but he was so tired that he could not stay awake.

It was at this point that I seriously considered throwing our Birth Plan out the window. I was in pain and Jon was too tired to help me. I tried to explain to Jon that I could not do this on my own. I needed his help and if he couldn’t stay awake then it was time to call in reinforcements. Around 6:00 am we finally called Lisa to ask her to come to our apartment and help us. It took her about an hour before she arrived.

After Lisa arrived Jon had gotten his second wind. However, I am so thankful that we called Lisa when we did! Lisa was such an answer to my prayers. She came with her midwife bag that was full of wonderful tools to help me through labor. She also came with apple juice and other snacks to help me keep up my energy. She was also an outside voice that could observe what was going on and encourage us on how we could do it better.

In Lisa’s professional opinion I was still in the early stage of labor. I couldn’t believe it! These contractions were really hurting and both Jon and I had been convinced that I was already in active labor. I decided that it was important for me to accurately communicate when my contractions started and stopped. My contraction would begin and I would tell Jon to start the timer. We would breathe through the contraction and I would tell them when I was done.

I labored all day long.

Me in labor

There were several things that were important for me to do while I labored. First, I needed to stay hydrated. I drank water, Gatorade, and apple juice to accomplish this goal. Next, I needed energy, so I tried to eat but I was not hungry. It was also important that my bladder was empty, so I went to the bathroom every hour. Finally, I changed laboring position every half hour.

Gradually, my attitude changed and I began focus and concentrate more than I had all day. It helped to have counter pressure, so Lisa used a rolling pin to rub my back during each contraction. I was exhausted from my lack of sleep, so in between contractions I tried to sleep.

At lunchtime, Lisa left to go to Chick-fil-a to get something for all of us to eat. Jon tried to get me to eat chicken strips, but again I wasn’t hungry.

I had been cold all morning, so I was wearing Jon’s sweatshirt. I would get warm and then cold, so the sweatshirt was on and off all throughout the day. It also became so hard to go to the bathroom so Lisa put peppermint oil in the toilet to help me pee and empty my bladder.

Lisa explained that we would labor at home until my water broke. After, my water broke we would pack everything up and head to the hospital. That seemed reasonable, because with most people, their water breaks during active labor…at least, that is what I thought.

As time went by my contractions became more intense and were lasting for a longer amount of time. We continued to cycle through our same pattern: contraction, breathe, finish, change positions, drink water, go to the bathroom, and repeat. If it weren’t for the clock on the wall, I would have completely lost track of time, because I was so focused on controlling my pain.

That afternoon, Lisa decided that Jon needed to go take a nap. She said that she would labor with me while Jon rested. I know it sounds strange, but my two favorite labor positions were on the couch and on the toilet. However, while I labored with Lisa she encouraged me to continue to change positions to help Olivia move down the birth canal.

 Around 4:30 or 5:00 pm, during one of my contractions on the toilet my legs started shaking. Lisa asked if I was cold, but I told her, “No.” As soon as my contraction was over Lisa woke Jon up and told him that it was time for us to start getting ready to go to the hospital.

I didn’t know it, but Lisa also went outside to call her midwife friend. Lisa explained to her friend that she wasn’t sure about what stage of labor I was in, because I had been doing such a good job controlling my pain. Lisa’s friend told said that I was probably pretty close to a 10, so we should go to the hospital now.

Lisa came back and told me that we were going to go to the hospital. She told me that we would go and have them check me to see how far along I was in labor. She warned me that I might only be at a 6 or 7, but that it was okay. Lisa encouraged me that we had gotten this far and would finish this together. That was not what I wanted to hear! I was in so much pain and my contractions were so close together, how could I only be a 6 or 7? I prayed that God would give me the strength I needed to finish this labor and delivery process strong.

 Jon got everything ready to take to the hospital while Lisa helped me through my contractions and left our apartment around 6:00 pm. My contractions were coming every two minutes and I was not sure how I was going to make it to the car. I had a contraction upstairs in our apartment and I told Lisa that it felt like I needed to push. Lisa told me not to push and that we needed to make sure I was a 10 before I started pushing.

As soon as my contraction was over we walked out the door and down the stairs. I had just made it to the bottom of the stairs when I had another contraction. We stopped and breathed through my contraction, before getting in the car.

Our apartment is less than ten minutes away from the hospital. However, we had to stop at every red light between our home and the hospital. I was trying my best to continue to breathe through each contraction. Thankfully, Lisa was sitting behind me and helped me breathe through those contractions while we made our way to the hospital.

Jon parked the car and we began the long walk to the ER entrance. We had to stop at least once maybe twice before we made it to the desk in the ER where laboring Moms are supposed to check in. We arrived at the desk and no one was there!

Up until this point, I had done a great job controlling my pain and emotions. However, our experience at this desk sent me over the edge.

A woman finally came back to her desk and asked if we needed anything. Jon explained that I was in labor and that we needed to go up to labor and delivery. The woman behind the desk told us that I needed to stay there and sign forms, before I could go up. As she was saying this I had another contraction and I told Lisa that I needed to push. I could feel Olivia’s head right there ready to come out! Lisa told me not to push and helped me breathe. The woman behind the desk said that Jon could sign the forms and that she would call to have someone bring me to labor and delivery.

A few minutes later, a man came with a wheelchair to take me to labor and delivery. Lisa came with me while Jon stayed to sign the forms. On our way to labor and delivery I focused on my breathing, “he, he, he…” and I also tried panting to keep myself from pushing Olivia out.

Upon our arrival, we were taken into a small labor and delivery room. It was a room that they keep you in to get your information and check your medical history before taking you into an actual labor and delivery room. The nurses began their normal procedures and told me that they needed me to give them a urine sample. However, with every contraction I told anyone who would listen that I needed to push.

After a minute or two of trying to pee in the cup without success, the nurse let me get on the hospital bed where she began to strap me up to the fetal monitor.

“Is anyone listening to me?” I thought. “How many times would I have to tell them that I needed to push?”

Jon arrived in my room while I was screaming through a contraction, trying my best not to push our daughter out. At this point, I lost control, because no one was listening to me. Both Jon and Lisa begged the nurses to just check me to see whether or not I was complete and ready to push. The nurse finally checked me and explained that I was complete and my bag of waters was bulging. With my next contraction, my water broke!

The nurses told us that they did not have any labor and delivery room available and that I couldn’t give birth to Olivia in this tiny room, because it wasn’t sterile. Their solution was to take me into the operating room, so that I could give birth to Olivia. The nurses started to wheel me in, but they did not want Lisa and Jon to join me. After a while the doctor on call that was going to deliver Olivia agreed that they could come back into the O.R. to be with me.

I was so happy to see Jon and Lisa come into my room! I knew that I could not do this by myself! After what seemed like a very long time the doctor came in and I was finally able to push, which is what I had been my desire for over an hour.

Three contractions and six pushes later, Olivia was born at 7:22 pm!!

Olivia Jane 7 lbs 0 oz and 19 1/2 inches long

All of that hard work was worth it the moment I laid eyes on my baby girl. I could not take my eyes off of Olivia as the nurse cleaned her up and checked to make sure she was okay. I tore a little, so while the doctor stitched me back up I kept my eyes focused on my sweet baby girl. A rush of emotions swept through my body as I watched Olivia; peace, joy, happiness, thankfulness, and more!

I had been given the honor of carrying Olivia for the last nine months and it was important to me that Jon got to hold Olivia first. When it was my turn, I did not get to hold Olivia for very long, but those first moments with her felt like time had slowed down to let me drink in and savor this moment forever.

Jon and Olivia

Me and Olivia

In the hours and days ahead, we had Jon’s family and other friends come to see Olivia! It was such a joyful time! I am so thankful that God answered our prayers and brought Olivia into this world safely. Even now, I cannot help but look at her and praise God for His amazing faithfulness in our lives!!

Our family

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Recipe Review: Potato Lover's Soup with Crispy Bacon

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I have not posted a recipe review since BEFORE Olivia was born. I have missed writing these posts so much!! I cannot promise that I will post a recipe review every week, but I will try not to let so much time go by in between now and my next post.

As you know Weight Watchers 360° launched this week. In honor of this special occasion, I wanted to try a recipe from my newest Weight Watchers cookbook, "What to Eat Now". This cookbook comes in the Ultimate Weight Watchers 360° kit, that we talked about yesterday.



This new cookbook has 150 recipes, meal ideas, and more for your first 12 weeks on plan. I really like this, because so many people ask me what they should eat now that they are on Weight Watchers and this book helps to get your weight loss journey off to a good start!

The Ingredients

Instead of using three small potatoes, I weighed out 24 ounces of potatoes.

 

First, I cooked the turkey bacon.

Next, I cooked the green onions and garlic.

Then I added all the other ingredients except the potatoes.

 

I added my soup mixture to the Crock Pot with the potatoes and let it cook all day.

This is the final product! It was so good!

. . . . . . . . . .Potato Lover's Soup with Crispy BaconSource: What to Eat Now By, Weight Watchers______________________________Servings: 4Serving Size: 1 1/2 cupCalories: 215Fat: 4 gFiber: 5 gProtein: 10 gOld Points: 4 ptPoints+: 5 pts+______________________________ Ingredients3 large (8 ounce) baked russet potatoes3 strips bacon3 garlic cloves, minced4 scallions, thinly sliced2 3/4 cup reduced sodium chicken broth1/4 teaspoon salt1/4 teaspoon hot pepper sauce3/4 cup fat free half and half
Instructions1. Leaving skin on, coarsely chop potatoes; set aside
2. Cook bacon in large nonstick saucepan over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels and set aside. Pour off and discard all but 1 teaspoon of drippings.
3. Add garlic and half of scallions to drippings in saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 3 minutes. Add broth, salt, pepper sauce, and potatoes, mashing potatoes with wooden spoon to break them up slightly. Bring mixture to boil. Reduce heat and simmer until heated through. 2-3 minutes
4. Stir in half and half and return to simmer. Serve soup sprinkled with crumbled bacon and remaining scallions.
*For your information This soup is especially convenient if you have leftover baked potatoes on hand. If you don't, preheat the oven to 425°F, pierce each potato a few times with a fork, and place on the middle rack of the oven. Bake until tender, 45 to 50 minutes. Pin It

Weekly Weigh In - New Year's Resolutions

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Merry (late) Christmas and Happy New Year!! 

Olivia in her Christmas pajamas on Christmas Eve 2012

. . . . . . . . . .

source

Did you all have a good Christmas and New Year!? How did it go? Were you able to stay on plan?

I gained 0.8 pounds in the two weeks that I was off from work on Christmas break. I enjoyed my Christmas holiday, but I am excited to get back on track and start 2013 off on the right foot!

I LOVE making New Year's resolutions! Normally, I am the first one to announce my resolutions on New Year's Day, because I am excited about the fresh start that the New Year has to offer. However, making a resolution for the entire year can be very overwhelming! How can I say that I will exercise every day of the New Year, when I do not know what tomorrow will birng?

So, this year I have decided to do something different.

My overall goal a.k.a. New Year's Resolution for 2013 is to lose my baby weight. However, I know that for myself, I need to make smaller  mini goals to help me accomplish such a huge task!

My baby goal for this week, is to drink my water/liquids. This is hard for me during the winter, which is why I know that I need to work on this healthy habit.

What are your New Year's Resolutions? What baby steps do you need to take this week, so that you can become one step closer to accomplishing your goal?Pin It

Summer Lovin'

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Ahh...Summer time. What goes better with warm summer nights than that distinct smell of your favorite food grilling to perfection on your trusted barbecue, most likely not much can compare.  In this era of technology it is soothing to know we will go back to the basics of fire and meat.  Although I have to admit there are some pretty cool gadgets for grilling on the market now, and in trying a few, my culinary senses were heightened to a whole new level.

First things first, are you a charcoal griller, or a gas griller?  I find a novice grill man should begin with gas, just for the simple fact grilling over an open flame is quite an art. And with gas you have a little more control over your heat. There are grills out there ranging from $25 up to $350 and beyond.  I actually got my hands on an infra-red gas grill.  WOW.  That was an experience, defiantly for the more experienced.

Now myself, I am a charcoal/char wood girl all the way.  In fact I just trimmed my maple tree and will be infusing my coals with the trimmings.  I would have to say my preferred brand of grill is Weber, they produce a wide variety of gas and charcoal grills.  They are durable through the crazy springs and sizzling summers.  And yes, I'm that guy in my snow suit in the dead of winter, firing up my grill for that perfect steak only achievable on the grill. 

Which brings me to your grill accessories.  Defiantly invest in tongs, spatula, grill brush especially designed for barbecues, this will save your arms and face from the extreme heat, big safety precaution. A grill cover is also a big essential piece of your accessory collection, a grill is a great investment and why not protect it from the elements of mother nature.  Once you start getting accustomed to your new way of the BBQ genre there are some pretty cool novelties as well.  Ribs anyone?  Yep that's right you can now purchase a rib rack which allows your rack to sit up right preventing burning and even cooking.  So cool.  There is also the rotisserie attachment, some even self turning, this is great not only for chicken, but hams, roasts, and even slow roasted pineapple.  Ever heard of chicken on a beer can?  I tried it the old school way, a little tricky and requires a bit of attention, although now they make a stand for this innovative way of grilling.

No matter if your a gas griller, charcoal griller, or even consider yourself a pit master, I am confident you will discover new culinary adventures with your barbecue this summer.

Happy Grilling

BBQ selecion guide

Weekly Weigh In - New Year's Resolutions

To contact us Click HERE
Merry (late) Christmas and Happy New Year!! 

Olivia in her Christmas pajamas on Christmas Eve 2012

. . . . . . . . . .

source

Did you all have a good Christmas and New Year!? How did it go? Were you able to stay on plan?

I gained 0.8 pounds in the two weeks that I was off from work on Christmas break. I enjoyed my Christmas holiday, but I am excited to get back on track and start 2013 off on the right foot!

I LOVE making New Year's resolutions! Normally, I am the first one to announce my resolutions on New Year's Day, because I am excited about the fresh start that the New Year has to offer. However, making a resolution for the entire year can be very overwhelming! How can I say that I will exercise every day of the New Year, when I do not know what tomorrow will birng?

So, this year I have decided to do something different.

My overall goal a.k.a. New Year's Resolution for 2013 is to lose my baby weight. However, I know that for myself, I need to make smaller  mini goals to help me accomplish such a huge task!

My baby goal for this week, is to drink my water/liquids. This is hard for me during the winter, which is why I know that I need to work on this healthy habit.

What are your New Year's Resolutions? What baby steps do you need to take this week, so that you can become one step closer to accomplishing your goal?Pin It

unintelligent Cupid-Valentine's Day Mush and How to Spoil Your Loved Ones

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Watch out for Cupid's arrow, or better yet, avoid the greeting card aisle. Valentine's Day is approaching and love is in the air. For many hopeless romantics out there, February 14th is a wonderful, starry-eyed occasion to give and receive extra tokens of affection like flowers, chocolates, and of course, store-bought or homemade valentines. If your considerable other is not so romantic the rest of the year, it's practically mandated on Valentine's Day. On the other hand, singles can enjoy being exempt from all this romantic (and financial!) pressure and focus thoroughly on spoiling themselves. And besides, there are always abundance of ridiculously fun Anti-Valentine's Day parties going on in most cities. In that spirit, I'll start with a extra chocolate spa day designed just for singular women. Chocolate Is a girl's best friend. Fascinating on to the mushy stuff, I'll tell you how to spoil the loved ones in your life, whether it's your kids or your hubby. In the true spirit of Recipe4Living, the way to anyone's heart is the stomach. Enjoy!

History? I got your history

Large Baking Sheet

Okay okay, if you must know Why we celebrate this silly holiday called Valentine's Day, let me interpret briefly. Valentine's Day began with a priest, St. Valentine. Rumor has it that during the third century in Rome, Emperor Claudius Ii decided that singular men made better soldiers than married men and thus outlawed marriage for young men. Recognizing the injustice of this, St. Valentine continued to marry young citizen in inexpressive and was imprisoned and ultimately killed. Other rumors say that St. Valentine helped Christians escape harsh Roman prisons and that he may have even sent a love letter from prison to an admired woman, signed "From Your Valentine." As St. Valentine was later a favorite saint in France and England, Valentine's Day became popularly renowned in the seventeenth century. In 1840, the first mass-produced "valentines" appeared in America. Today, 85% of Valentine's Day cards are purchased by women. Is this because men are buying flowers?

unintelligent Cupid-Valentine's Day Mush and How to Spoil Your Loved Ones

Boycott this Silly Holiday and Spoil Yourself!

Chocolate Foot Spa

Here is a list of "needed" supplies for an indulgent foot spa experience.

Ingredients

Marbles

A foot basin

Whole milk

Vanilla extract

Chocolate extract

Brown Sugar

White sugar

Olive oil

Directions

Put a handful of marbles in the foot basin or any large holder to soak your feet in. Fill halfway with cold water. Warm sufficient whole milk to fill the basin and whisk until frothy. Add 1 Tbs. Each of vanilla extract and chocolate extract. Soak feet for 5 minutes while you are rolling them over the marbles. The lactic acid in the milk plainly sloughs off dead skin and softens them. Next, mix a handful of each brown sugar and white sugar with sufficient olive oil to form a paste. Massage this paste into the feet, ankles, knees and calves. Rinse with warm water and pat dry. Desist with lotion that has been warmed in the microwave. You can add a few drops of vanilla extract in your lotion to keep the vanilla scent on your skin.

Chocolate Bubble Bath

So sweet and indulgent, it's the perfect bath for chocoholics - but please, don't drink the bath water.

Ingredients

1 C. Unscented bubble bath

1/3 C. Unsweetened Soya Brand Milk

3 oz. Dark chocolate

Directions

Heat the Soya milk and add in the chopped chocolate, stir well until melted. Do not boil. Allow cooling down. Mix with the bubble bath and pour into your bath and enjoy.

Homemade Chocolate Truffles

This is a truly easy way to make a commonly complex dessert. Enjoy these while you are lounging in the tub.

Ingredients

1 12 oz. Pkg. Semi-sweet chocolate chips

1/4 C. Orange-flavored liqueur or 1 tsp. Orange extract

1 can chocolate or fudge frosting

Toppings: Coconut, chocolate sprinkles, ground nuts and cocoa

Directions

Melt chocolate chips in medium saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly; remove from heat. Stir in orange liqueur and frosting; blend well. Refrigerate 1-2 hours or until firm. Place coconut or other toppings in pie pan. Scoop combination into 1" balls; drop onto topping. combination will be sticky. Roll to coat. Place in foil candy cups, if desired. Store in refrigerator.

Yield: 6 dozen

Love Bites

Ingredients

1 shot vodka

Splash of peach schnapps

Equal parts cranberry and grapefruit juice.

Lime for garnish

Directions

Mix together all ingredients and pour over ice. Ornamentation top of glass with a lime wedge.

Some Essentials for Spoiling Loved Ones

Flower Meanings- Every flower has a meaning, many of which have endured for centuries. So unless you want to give a woman the seal for mourning this Valentine's Day, make sure you look into these meanings before picking a bouquet. Not only will you have the perfect gesture with the flowers, but you'll impress that extra man with your knowledge. He or she will think you are quite thoughtful (just don't let on I told you).

Amaryllis or Iris- Both of these flowers are perfect for the artists or actors you know. Amaryllis is dramatic and the iris is inspiring.

Carnation- To be blunt, many women view carnations as a "filler flower," but if you know this man likes carnations go with yellow or pink. These express cheerfulness and gratitude respectively.

Gardenia or Day Lily- Symbolizing joy and enthusiasm respectively, these are great universal flowers to brighten anyone's Valentine's Day.

Lilac- Have a serious case of puppy love? Lilacs are the seal for first love. Your spouse or fiancé will giggle.

Orange Blossoms- Do you have a friend or considerable other trying to get pregnant? Or one that has recently become pregnant? Orange blossoms are the seal for fertility.

Orchid or Hibiscus- As would be expected, orchids and hibiscus symbolize delicate beauty. Depending on the person, this can whether be touching or somewhat offensive.

Pansy, Yellow or Red Tulip- While all these flowers are gestures of love, the pansy is the least strong, and the red tulip is a great first declaration. Yellow denotes a hopeless romantic devotion.

Rose- Red roses are the extreme gesture of passionate love. If you have only been dating a short time, this is too strong a gesture. White roses are a seal of lucidity (making them particularly favorite at weddings). Pink roses symbolize friendship. A combination of red and white denote unity, manufacture them perfect for a married couple of many years.

Sunflower- These unique flowers show adoration. You can't help but smile when you see a sunflower.

Chocolate

Melting Chocolate- Because chocolate is very delicate to heat, you have to melt chocolate slowly, well-removed from heat. always heat chocolate over low heat or it will speedily become an unappetizing mass. Use a duplicate boiler, or place the saucepan with chocolate on top an additional one saucepan with boiling water on the stovetop. Keep in mind that chocolate will continue to melt even after removing it from a heat source, so be just not to overcook.

• Unsweetened chocolate will truly liquidize when melted, but sweetened chocolate must be continually stirred.

• Chocolate flavored coating contains cocoa and vegetable oil, rather than cocoa butter. Coatings are favorite because they are easier to use for things like dipping, but the taste and capability are nowhere near real chocolate.

For the Kids

Cherry Bubbles

Sweeten bath-time for the kids or for yourself with this yummy recipe.

Ingredients

1/2 C. Unscented shampoo

12 drops cherry fragrance oil

2 drops red food coloring

1/2 tsp. Salt

3/4 C. Water

Directions

Mix together the shampoo and water in a jar. Add the salt and stir again until the combination thickens up. Add the cherry oil and the red food coloring and stir the combination thoroughly once more. Bottle the combination until ready to use in your bath. To use; add 1 Tbs. To running bath water. Soak as desired.

Crafts for Kids (Compliments of our Rsvp writer Sarah Potts)

Valentines- Go out and buy a bunch of colored building paper and have a "card making" station. Have scissors, heart patterns, stickers and markers supplied so the kids can make their family and friends Valentine's Day cards.

Candy Lollipop Flowers- This is a great and non-messy action for children. All you will need is wrapped heart-shaped lollipops that you should be able to find any where in the seasonal section, green chenille stems and scissors. First have the children start at the top of the lollipop stick (just before the end of the sucker) and tightly wrap the chenille stem in a coil colse to the lollipop stick. Once this is done, cut off the extra chenille. You can use the extra piece or an additional one piece of chenille and wrap this colse to the stem as well to make the "leaf," just make sure the leaf is secure. There you go- your child can now have a fun bouquet of tiny hear shaped flowers to give to anyone.

Foam Love Letters- Give your child the gift of love this Valentines Day. These easy to make foam letters spell out the word "love" and would be adorable in any tiny girl's room. Click here for how to make!

Rose Valentine Coffee or Tea Mug- Here's an uncostly Valentine's Day gift that you can make yourself for your extra valentine. It is easy and it is fun, any child could make this for his or her mom. The Web site provides the free, full-sized rose stencil pattern (at right) - or you could use your own romantic theme. Click here for how to make!

Spoil Your Sweetie- In my mind, there is no greater gift for a loved one than a fancy meal. Here are a couple fancy menus perfect for Valentine's Day, and a few more ideas to inspire you.

Menu 1

Shrimp in Champagne Sauce With Pasta

This dish takes some effort to prepare, but is the perfect touch for a romantic dinner for your extra Valentine.

Ingredients

1 C. Sliced mushrooms

1 Tbs. Olive oil

3/4 lb. Medium shrimp, shelled

1 1/2 C. Champagne

1/2 Tbs. Garlic pepper seasoning

2 Tbs. Minced shallots or scallions

1 large tomato, diced

1 C. Heavy cream

1/2 lb. Dried thin spaghetti

3 Tbs. Chopped parsley

Grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Sauté mushrooms in medium saucepan in hot olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook just long sufficient to publish mushroom juices and let them evaporate. remove mushrooms and set aside. In same saucepan, couple shrimp, champagne and garlic pepper seasoning. Over high heat, heat to simmer. When liquid just boils, shrimp are done. remove shrimp from cooking liquid with a slotted spoon immediately. Set shrimp aside.

Add chopped shallots and tomatoes to cooking liquid. Boil over high heat until liquid is reduced to about 1/2 C., practically 8 minutes. When liquid is reduced, add 3/4 C. Heavy cream and boil 1-2 minutes, until slightly thickened and reduced. Add shrimp and mushrooms to sauce; heat through. Taste and add more seasoning if needed. Meanwhile cook pasta according to directions on package. Drain thoroughly and return to cooking pot. Toss with remaining 1/4 C. Cream and parsley. To serve, divide pasta in the middle of two plates. Spoon shrimp and sauce over pasta. Ornamentation with parmesan to taste.

Strawberry Spinach Salad

If you have never tried mixing spinach and strawberries together then you must try this recipe. It is very easy and easy and so good.

Ingredients

2 Tbs. Sesame seeds

1 1/2 lb. Fresh spinach

1/3 C. Vegetable oil

1/3 C. Red wine vinegar

1 Tbs. Sugar

2 tsp. Minced green onion

1/2 tsp. Paprika

1/4 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

2 C. Fresh strawberries, washed, hulled and halved

Directions

In a 7 inch skillet over medium heat, stir sesame seeds until golden; set aside. Wash spinach thoroughly; dry on paper towels and tear into bite size pieces. Wrap and chill. Blend oil, vinegar, sugar, onion, paprika and Worcestershire sauce. In large glass bowl, mix together spinach, strawberries, dressing and seeds.

One Bowl Spicy Chocolate Cake

Don't be scared of the cayenne pepper and spice up your boring chocolate cake.

Ingredients

1 1/2 C. All-purpose flour

1 C. Sugar

1/3 C. Unsweetened cocoa powder

2 tsp. Ground cinnamon

3/4 tsp. Baking soda

1/4 tsp. Hot red pepper (cayenne)

1/4 tsp. Salt

1 C. Water

1/2 C. Vegetable oil

1 Tbs. White vinegar

1 tsp. Vanilla

2 Tbs. Confectioners' sugar

Directions

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Generously grease 8"-square baking pan. In medium bowl, stir together flour, sugar, cocoa, cinnamon, baking soda, hot red pepper and salt. Add water, oil, vinegar and vanilla. Beat with a fork just until all dry ingredients have been moistened. Bake cake 35 to 40 minutes or until town springs back when gradually pressed. Cool cake in pan 5 minutes. remove to serving platter. Cover and set aside until ready to serve. Just before serving, sift confectioners' sugar over top. Cut into 4 squares; cut each square diagonally in half to make 8 triangular pieces.

Yield: 8 servings

Menu 2

Crab-Stuffed Fillet Mignon with Whiskey-Peppercorn Sauce

Incredibly elegant and flavorful, this is the perfect meal to impress that extra someone. perfect for anniversaries, Valentine's Day or any day!

Ingredients

Crab Stuffing:

2 Tbs. Olive oil

1 tsp. Minced onion

1 tsp. Minced green onion

1 tsp. Minced garlic

1 tsp. Minced celery

1 tsp. Minced green bell pepper

2 Tbs. Shrimp stock or water

1 6 oz. Can crab meat, drained

2 Tbs. Bread crumbs

1 tsp. Cajun seasoning

Peppercorn Sauce:

1 1/4 C. Beef broth

1 tsp. Cracked black pepper

1 oz. Whiskey

1 C. Heavy cream

Steaks:

4 6 oz. Filet mignon steaks

4 slices bacon, cooked lightly

Salt and cracked black pepper to taste

1 Tbs. Olive oil

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tsp. Minced shallot

1 C. Crimini mushrooms, sliced

1 oz. Whiskey

1 tsp. Dijon mustard

Directions

To make crab stuffing, heat 2 Tbs. Olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté onion, green onion, garlic, celery, and green pepper until tender. Stir in shrimp stock, crab meat, bread crumbs, and Cajun seasoning. remove from heat, and set aside. To prepare peppercorn sauce, in a small saucepan over medium heat, couple beef broth and cracked black pepper. Simmer until reduced to 1 C., stirring frequently. Add 1 oz. Whiskey and 1 C. Cream. Continue simmering until reduced to 1 C. remove from heat, and set aside. To prepare steaks, slice a pocket into the side of each steak, and stuff generously with crab stuffing. Wrap bacon colse to side, and accumulate with toothpicks. Season to taste with salt and pepper; set aside. Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic and shallot for 1 minute. Stir in mushrooms, and sauté until tender. remove mushroom mixture, and set aside. Place steaks in skillet, and cook to desired doneness. remove from skillet, and keep warm. Deglaze skillet with 1 oz. Whiskey. Reduce heat, and stir in peppercorn sauce and Dijon mustard. Add mushroom mixture, and Reduce sauce until thickened. remove toothpicks and bacon from steaks, and dispose steaks on a plate. Top with sauce.

Note: Partially cook the filets in the pan, and Desist them on the grill. This method works well with roasted red potatoes and a nice glass of wine.

Yield: 4 servings

Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Fresh Herbs

The perfect side dish to just about anything.

Ingredients

4 quarts water

1 tsp. Salt

3 - 4 lb. Golden potatoes

2/3 C. Cream

1/4 C. Butter

1 Tbs. Fresh parsley, finely chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Bring water to a boil, add salt. Meanwhile, peel potatoes and slice in quarters. Place potatoes in boiling water and cook until tender. Drain water and mash. Add cream, butter, salt, pepper, and parsley. Serve at once. You may vary the herbs by substituting dill or chives for the parsley.

Carrots in Sherry

A sophisticated way to serve up this base orange vegetable.

Ingredients

2 lb. Carrots, scraped and quartered

1/4 C. Butter or margarine

1 tsp. Salt

1/8 tsp. Pepper

1/4 tsp. Sugar

1/2 C. Sherry

1-2 tsp. Minced parsley

Directions

Sauté carrots in melted butter, turning until well coated. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and sugar. Add sherry and simmer gradually for 5 minutes. Add water just to cover; simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until tender. remove cover and cook over medium heat until most of the liquid has evaporated. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Yield 6-8 servings

Strawberry Fudge Truffles

These tiny goodies are perfect for a Valentine's Day gift or a romantic occasion.

Ingredients

6 oz. holder semi-sweet chocolate morsels

1/2 C. Almonds, toasted and finely chopped

8 oz. Cream cheese (at room temperature)

3/4 C. Vanilla wafer crumbs (approximately 20 wafers)

1/4 C. Smucker'S® Strawberry Preserves

Directions

In a small saucepan, melt chocolate over low heat. Put almonds in a small bowl. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until plane and creamy. Add melted chocolate, beating until smooth. Stir in vanilla wafer crumbs and preserves, mixing well. Cover and chill combination for 1 hour. remove from refrigerator and shape combination into 1- inch balls or "truffles." Roll each truffle in the almonds; chill truffles until serving time.

Yield: 48 truffles

Sweeten Your Sweetie- It truly is all about the sweets on Valentine's Day. Here are a few ideas for homemade gifts.

Hershey Kiss Roses

This Valentine's Day, give your sweetheart a bouquet she'll truly love: chocolate!

Ingredients

10 wooden skewers or 18-gauge florist wire

Red and silver Hershey Kiss candies

Green florist tape

Silk green leaves with wired stems

Directions

Pull tiny labels from each Hershey Kiss. Stick two foil- wrapped Kisses together, lowest to bottom. Insert the skewer into the tip of one Kiss and at this point begin winding florist tape down the skewer. Add several leaves along the way.

Cherry and Chocolate Pastry Hearts

Ingredients

1/2 of a 17-1/4-oz. holder frosty puff pastry (1 sheet), thawed

3/4 C. Cherry pie filling

8 tsp. Fudge ice-cream topping

2 Tbs. Chopped nuts

Directions

On a lightly floured surface, unfold thawed pastry. Using a 3-1/2- to 4-inch heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut pastry into shapes, discarding pastry scraps or reserving for an additional one use. Place pastry hearts on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake in a 375 degree oven for 15 to 18 minutes or until puffed and golden. Cool on racks. Split hearts horizontally; fill each with some of the pie filling. Place hearts on sweetmeat plates. Drizzle with fudge topping and sprinkle with nuts. Serve immediately.

Yield: 8 servings

Tip: prepare pastry hearts; cool. Place in airtight freezer container; place crumbled paper towels colse to hearts to prevent breaking. Seal, label, and ice up to 2 weeks. Thaw at room climatic characteristic before serving.

Find more Valentine's Day Ideas at Recipe4Living.com.

unintelligent Cupid-Valentine's Day Mush and How to Spoil Your Loved Ones

It's not too late to start a New Year detox…

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Just because the end of January is edging ever closer, doesn't mean it's too late to start doing a detox for the New Year.



It may be the end of the month soon, but you needn't worry – you'll still feel the full effects of taking things easy and cutting down on those unhealthy foods even if you start now.

Just remember, there are various different levels of doing a detox. If you don't really think you're capable of cutting out everything from crisps to white bread and chocolate, you could just give them up for a couple of days every week. Or, try just limiting your intake of one of your favourite treats, like alcohol for example.
If you do that and you give yourself a deadline when you can start eating your favourite things again, it'll be something to aim for and, if you're particularly competitive, you're bound to feel a great sense of achievement at the end of it.You can save some money if you go on a detox too – which you're bound to be grateful for later in the year. Why not make your own lunch for work with healthy sandwich fillings or even your own soup? The savings will soon begin to mount up and when your detox period is over, you'll be able to buy yourself a nice new outfit to show off your fantastic figure!The best thing is, you don't need to detox for too long. If you want to just feel a little healthier, you can get away with just doing a few weeks or a month. Or, if you want to extend it further than perhaps consider detoxing for just a couple of days every week.You're bound to feel healthier at the end of it, but as long as you eat a balanced diet all of the time, you'll really reap the benefits anyway. So what are you waiting for? Get detoxing now!

There's no need to diet – just cut down on treats

To contact us Click HERE
I don't know about you, but I find it pretty much impossible to go on a diet. When you enjoy eating food and you're a fussy eater, there's nothing more difficult than trying to cut out all the things you love from your daily meals.



You don't really need to diet to lose weight and stay healthy though – you can just limit the amount of sweet treats and unhealthy snacks in order to do that. 


Rather than starving yourself or embarking on the not-so-appetising cabbage soup diet, why not just reduce the number of chocolate bars you eat each week or just try to snack on crisps a bit less?
You might want to start taking your own lunch into work, made with homemade bread – then at least you'll know what ingredients and how much salt goes into making it.
Sandwiches are a fantastic thing to have at lunchtimes, as they're bound to fill you up properly and if you go for decent bread and healthy fillings, they'll help you lose some weight in the long term too.
Just take a look online at some sandwich recipes to get some inspiration, then put together the healthiest bits and pieces you can and presto, you've got a healthy snack for lunch!
If you need a sweet treat to get you through the day, fruit is definitely the way forward. Just stock up on some apples and bananas, or whatever else takes your fancy, and munch away whenever the moment takes you!
Nuts are another fantastic thing to have to hand, so long as there's very little salt on them – they'll tide you over to your next meal without a doubt!

Summer Lovin'

To contact us Click HERE
Ahh...Summer time. What goes better with warm summer nights than that distinct smell of your favorite food grilling to perfection on your trusted barbecue, most likely not much can compare.  In this era of technology it is soothing to know we will go back to the basics of fire and meat.  Although I have to admit there are some pretty cool gadgets for grilling on the market now, and in trying a few, my culinary senses were heightened to a whole new level.

First things first, are you a charcoal griller, or a gas griller?  I find a novice grill man should begin with gas, just for the simple fact grilling over an open flame is quite an art. And with gas you have a little more control over your heat. There are grills out there ranging from $25 up to $350 and beyond.  I actually got my hands on an infra-red gas grill.  WOW.  That was an experience, defiantly for the more experienced.

Now myself, I am a charcoal/char wood girl all the way.  In fact I just trimmed my maple tree and will be infusing my coals with the trimmings.  I would have to say my preferred brand of grill is Weber, they produce a wide variety of gas and charcoal grills.  They are durable through the crazy springs and sizzling summers.  And yes, I'm that guy in my snow suit in the dead of winter, firing up my grill for that perfect steak only achievable on the grill. 

Which brings me to your grill accessories.  Defiantly invest in tongs, spatula, grill brush especially designed for barbecues, this will save your arms and face from the extreme heat, big safety precaution. A grill cover is also a big essential piece of your accessory collection, a grill is a great investment and why not protect it from the elements of mother nature.  Once you start getting accustomed to your new way of the BBQ genre there are some pretty cool novelties as well.  Ribs anyone?  Yep that's right you can now purchase a rib rack which allows your rack to sit up right preventing burning and even cooking.  So cool.  There is also the rotisserie attachment, some even self turning, this is great not only for chicken, but hams, roasts, and even slow roasted pineapple.  Ever heard of chicken on a beer can?  I tried it the old school way, a little tricky and requires a bit of attention, although now they make a stand for this innovative way of grilling.

No matter if your a gas griller, charcoal griller, or even consider yourself a pit master, I am confident you will discover new culinary adventures with your barbecue this summer.

Happy Grilling

BBQ selecion guide

Recipe Review: Potato Lover's Soup with Crispy Bacon

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I have not posted a recipe review since BEFORE Olivia was born. I have missed writing these posts so much!! I cannot promise that I will post a recipe review every week, but I will try not to let so much time go by in between now and my next post.

As you know Weight Watchers 360° launched this week. In honor of this special occasion, I wanted to try a recipe from my newest Weight Watchers cookbook, "What to Eat Now". This cookbook comes in the Ultimate Weight Watchers 360° kit, that we talked about yesterday.



This new cookbook has 150 recipes, meal ideas, and more for your first 12 weeks on plan. I really like this, because so many people ask me what they should eat now that they are on Weight Watchers and this book helps to get your weight loss journey off to a good start!

The Ingredients

Instead of using three small potatoes, I weighed out 24 ounces of potatoes.

 

First, I cooked the turkey bacon.

Next, I cooked the green onions and garlic.

Then I added all the other ingredients except the potatoes.

 

I added my soup mixture to the Crock Pot with the potatoes and let it cook all day.

This is the final product! It was so good!

. . . . . . . . . .Potato Lover's Soup with Crispy BaconSource: What to Eat Now By, Weight Watchers______________________________Servings: 4Serving Size: 1 1/2 cupCalories: 215Fat: 4 gFiber: 5 gProtein: 10 gOld Points: 4 ptPoints+: 5 pts+______________________________ Ingredients3 large (8 ounce) baked russet potatoes3 strips bacon3 garlic cloves, minced4 scallions, thinly sliced2 3/4 cup reduced sodium chicken broth1/4 teaspoon salt1/4 teaspoon hot pepper sauce3/4 cup fat free half and half
Instructions1. Leaving skin on, coarsely chop potatoes; set aside
2. Cook bacon in large nonstick saucepan over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels and set aside. Pour off and discard all but 1 teaspoon of drippings.
3. Add garlic and half of scallions to drippings in saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 3 minutes. Add broth, salt, pepper sauce, and potatoes, mashing potatoes with wooden spoon to break them up slightly. Bring mixture to boil. Reduce heat and simmer until heated through. 2-3 minutes
4. Stir in half and half and return to simmer. Serve soup sprinkled with crumbled bacon and remaining scallions.
*For your information This soup is especially convenient if you have leftover baked potatoes on hand. If you don't, preheat the oven to 425°F, pierce each potato a few times with a fork, and place on the middle rack of the oven. Bake until tender, 45 to 50 minutes. Pin It

Summer Lovin'

To contact us Click HERE
Ahh...Summer time. What goes better with warm summer nights than that distinct smell of your favorite food grilling to perfection on your trusted barbecue, most likely not much can compare.  In this era of technology it is soothing to know we will go back to the basics of fire and meat.  Although I have to admit there are some pretty cool gadgets for grilling on the market now, and in trying a few, my culinary senses were heightened to a whole new level.

First things first, are you a charcoal griller, or a gas griller?  I find a novice grill man should begin with gas, just for the simple fact grilling over an open flame is quite an art. And with gas you have a little more control over your heat. There are grills out there ranging from $25 up to $350 and beyond.  I actually got my hands on an infra-red gas grill.  WOW.  That was an experience, defiantly for the more experienced.

Now myself, I am a charcoal/char wood girl all the way.  In fact I just trimmed my maple tree and will be infusing my coals with the trimmings.  I would have to say my preferred brand of grill is Weber, they produce a wide variety of gas and charcoal grills.  They are durable through the crazy springs and sizzling summers.  And yes, I'm that guy in my snow suit in the dead of winter, firing up my grill for that perfect steak only achievable on the grill. 

Which brings me to your grill accessories.  Defiantly invest in tongs, spatula, grill brush especially designed for barbecues, this will save your arms and face from the extreme heat, big safety precaution. A grill cover is also a big essential piece of your accessory collection, a grill is a great investment and why not protect it from the elements of mother nature.  Once you start getting accustomed to your new way of the BBQ genre there are some pretty cool novelties as well.  Ribs anyone?  Yep that's right you can now purchase a rib rack which allows your rack to sit up right preventing burning and even cooking.  So cool.  There is also the rotisserie attachment, some even self turning, this is great not only for chicken, but hams, roasts, and even slow roasted pineapple.  Ever heard of chicken on a beer can?  I tried it the old school way, a little tricky and requires a bit of attention, although now they make a stand for this innovative way of grilling.

No matter if your a gas griller, charcoal griller, or even consider yourself a pit master, I am confident you will discover new culinary adventures with your barbecue this summer.

Happy Grilling

BBQ selecion guide

unintelligent Cupid-Valentine's Day Mush and How to Spoil Your Loved Ones

To contact us Click HERE

Watch out for Cupid's arrow, or better yet, avoid the greeting card aisle. Valentine's Day is approaching and love is in the air. For many hopeless romantics out there, February 14th is a wonderful, starry-eyed occasion to give and receive extra tokens of affection like flowers, chocolates, and of course, store-bought or homemade valentines. If your considerable other is not so romantic the rest of the year, it's practically mandated on Valentine's Day. On the other hand, singles can enjoy being exempt from all this romantic (and financial!) pressure and focus thoroughly on spoiling themselves. And besides, there are always abundance of ridiculously fun Anti-Valentine's Day parties going on in most cities. In that spirit, I'll start with a extra chocolate spa day designed just for singular women. Chocolate Is a girl's best friend. Fascinating on to the mushy stuff, I'll tell you how to spoil the loved ones in your life, whether it's your kids or your hubby. In the true spirit of Recipe4Living, the way to anyone's heart is the stomach. Enjoy!

History? I got your history

Large Baking Sheet

Okay okay, if you must know Why we celebrate this silly holiday called Valentine's Day, let me interpret briefly. Valentine's Day began with a priest, St. Valentine. Rumor has it that during the third century in Rome, Emperor Claudius Ii decided that singular men made better soldiers than married men and thus outlawed marriage for young men. Recognizing the injustice of this, St. Valentine continued to marry young citizen in inexpressive and was imprisoned and ultimately killed. Other rumors say that St. Valentine helped Christians escape harsh Roman prisons and that he may have even sent a love letter from prison to an admired woman, signed "From Your Valentine." As St. Valentine was later a favorite saint in France and England, Valentine's Day became popularly renowned in the seventeenth century. In 1840, the first mass-produced "valentines" appeared in America. Today, 85% of Valentine's Day cards are purchased by women. Is this because men are buying flowers?

unintelligent Cupid-Valentine's Day Mush and How to Spoil Your Loved Ones

Boycott this Silly Holiday and Spoil Yourself!

Chocolate Foot Spa

Here is a list of "needed" supplies for an indulgent foot spa experience.

Ingredients

Marbles

A foot basin

Whole milk

Vanilla extract

Chocolate extract

Brown Sugar

White sugar

Olive oil

Directions

Put a handful of marbles in the foot basin or any large holder to soak your feet in. Fill halfway with cold water. Warm sufficient whole milk to fill the basin and whisk until frothy. Add 1 Tbs. Each of vanilla extract and chocolate extract. Soak feet for 5 minutes while you are rolling them over the marbles. The lactic acid in the milk plainly sloughs off dead skin and softens them. Next, mix a handful of each brown sugar and white sugar with sufficient olive oil to form a paste. Massage this paste into the feet, ankles, knees and calves. Rinse with warm water and pat dry. Desist with lotion that has been warmed in the microwave. You can add a few drops of vanilla extract in your lotion to keep the vanilla scent on your skin.

Chocolate Bubble Bath

So sweet and indulgent, it's the perfect bath for chocoholics - but please, don't drink the bath water.

Ingredients

1 C. Unscented bubble bath

1/3 C. Unsweetened Soya Brand Milk

3 oz. Dark chocolate

Directions

Heat the Soya milk and add in the chopped chocolate, stir well until melted. Do not boil. Allow cooling down. Mix with the bubble bath and pour into your bath and enjoy.

Homemade Chocolate Truffles

This is a truly easy way to make a commonly complex dessert. Enjoy these while you are lounging in the tub.

Ingredients

1 12 oz. Pkg. Semi-sweet chocolate chips

1/4 C. Orange-flavored liqueur or 1 tsp. Orange extract

1 can chocolate or fudge frosting

Toppings: Coconut, chocolate sprinkles, ground nuts and cocoa

Directions

Melt chocolate chips in medium saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly; remove from heat. Stir in orange liqueur and frosting; blend well. Refrigerate 1-2 hours or until firm. Place coconut or other toppings in pie pan. Scoop combination into 1" balls; drop onto topping. combination will be sticky. Roll to coat. Place in foil candy cups, if desired. Store in refrigerator.

Yield: 6 dozen

Love Bites

Ingredients

1 shot vodka

Splash of peach schnapps

Equal parts cranberry and grapefruit juice.

Lime for garnish

Directions

Mix together all ingredients and pour over ice. Ornamentation top of glass with a lime wedge.

Some Essentials for Spoiling Loved Ones

Flower Meanings- Every flower has a meaning, many of which have endured for centuries. So unless you want to give a woman the seal for mourning this Valentine's Day, make sure you look into these meanings before picking a bouquet. Not only will you have the perfect gesture with the flowers, but you'll impress that extra man with your knowledge. He or she will think you are quite thoughtful (just don't let on I told you).

Amaryllis or Iris- Both of these flowers are perfect for the artists or actors you know. Amaryllis is dramatic and the iris is inspiring.

Carnation- To be blunt, many women view carnations as a "filler flower," but if you know this man likes carnations go with yellow or pink. These express cheerfulness and gratitude respectively.

Gardenia or Day Lily- Symbolizing joy and enthusiasm respectively, these are great universal flowers to brighten anyone's Valentine's Day.

Lilac- Have a serious case of puppy love? Lilacs are the seal for first love. Your spouse or fiancé will giggle.

Orange Blossoms- Do you have a friend or considerable other trying to get pregnant? Or one that has recently become pregnant? Orange blossoms are the seal for fertility.

Orchid or Hibiscus- As would be expected, orchids and hibiscus symbolize delicate beauty. Depending on the person, this can whether be touching or somewhat offensive.

Pansy, Yellow or Red Tulip- While all these flowers are gestures of love, the pansy is the least strong, and the red tulip is a great first declaration. Yellow denotes a hopeless romantic devotion.

Rose- Red roses are the extreme gesture of passionate love. If you have only been dating a short time, this is too strong a gesture. White roses are a seal of lucidity (making them particularly favorite at weddings). Pink roses symbolize friendship. A combination of red and white denote unity, manufacture them perfect for a married couple of many years.

Sunflower- These unique flowers show adoration. You can't help but smile when you see a sunflower.

Chocolate

Melting Chocolate- Because chocolate is very delicate to heat, you have to melt chocolate slowly, well-removed from heat. always heat chocolate over low heat or it will speedily become an unappetizing mass. Use a duplicate boiler, or place the saucepan with chocolate on top an additional one saucepan with boiling water on the stovetop. Keep in mind that chocolate will continue to melt even after removing it from a heat source, so be just not to overcook.

• Unsweetened chocolate will truly liquidize when melted, but sweetened chocolate must be continually stirred.

• Chocolate flavored coating contains cocoa and vegetable oil, rather than cocoa butter. Coatings are favorite because they are easier to use for things like dipping, but the taste and capability are nowhere near real chocolate.

For the Kids

Cherry Bubbles

Sweeten bath-time for the kids or for yourself with this yummy recipe.

Ingredients

1/2 C. Unscented shampoo

12 drops cherry fragrance oil

2 drops red food coloring

1/2 tsp. Salt

3/4 C. Water

Directions

Mix together the shampoo and water in a jar. Add the salt and stir again until the combination thickens up. Add the cherry oil and the red food coloring and stir the combination thoroughly once more. Bottle the combination until ready to use in your bath. To use; add 1 Tbs. To running bath water. Soak as desired.

Crafts for Kids (Compliments of our Rsvp writer Sarah Potts)

Valentines- Go out and buy a bunch of colored building paper and have a "card making" station. Have scissors, heart patterns, stickers and markers supplied so the kids can make their family and friends Valentine's Day cards.

Candy Lollipop Flowers- This is a great and non-messy action for children. All you will need is wrapped heart-shaped lollipops that you should be able to find any where in the seasonal section, green chenille stems and scissors. First have the children start at the top of the lollipop stick (just before the end of the sucker) and tightly wrap the chenille stem in a coil colse to the lollipop stick. Once this is done, cut off the extra chenille. You can use the extra piece or an additional one piece of chenille and wrap this colse to the stem as well to make the "leaf," just make sure the leaf is secure. There you go- your child can now have a fun bouquet of tiny hear shaped flowers to give to anyone.

Foam Love Letters- Give your child the gift of love this Valentines Day. These easy to make foam letters spell out the word "love" and would be adorable in any tiny girl's room. Click here for how to make!

Rose Valentine Coffee or Tea Mug- Here's an uncostly Valentine's Day gift that you can make yourself for your extra valentine. It is easy and it is fun, any child could make this for his or her mom. The Web site provides the free, full-sized rose stencil pattern (at right) - or you could use your own romantic theme. Click here for how to make!

Spoil Your Sweetie- In my mind, there is no greater gift for a loved one than a fancy meal. Here are a couple fancy menus perfect for Valentine's Day, and a few more ideas to inspire you.

Menu 1

Shrimp in Champagne Sauce With Pasta

This dish takes some effort to prepare, but is the perfect touch for a romantic dinner for your extra Valentine.

Ingredients

1 C. Sliced mushrooms

1 Tbs. Olive oil

3/4 lb. Medium shrimp, shelled

1 1/2 C. Champagne

1/2 Tbs. Garlic pepper seasoning

2 Tbs. Minced shallots or scallions

1 large tomato, diced

1 C. Heavy cream

1/2 lb. Dried thin spaghetti

3 Tbs. Chopped parsley

Grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Sauté mushrooms in medium saucepan in hot olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook just long sufficient to publish mushroom juices and let them evaporate. remove mushrooms and set aside. In same saucepan, couple shrimp, champagne and garlic pepper seasoning. Over high heat, heat to simmer. When liquid just boils, shrimp are done. remove shrimp from cooking liquid with a slotted spoon immediately. Set shrimp aside.

Add chopped shallots and tomatoes to cooking liquid. Boil over high heat until liquid is reduced to about 1/2 C., practically 8 minutes. When liquid is reduced, add 3/4 C. Heavy cream and boil 1-2 minutes, until slightly thickened and reduced. Add shrimp and mushrooms to sauce; heat through. Taste and add more seasoning if needed. Meanwhile cook pasta according to directions on package. Drain thoroughly and return to cooking pot. Toss with remaining 1/4 C. Cream and parsley. To serve, divide pasta in the middle of two plates. Spoon shrimp and sauce over pasta. Ornamentation with parmesan to taste.

Strawberry Spinach Salad

If you have never tried mixing spinach and strawberries together then you must try this recipe. It is very easy and easy and so good.

Ingredients

2 Tbs. Sesame seeds

1 1/2 lb. Fresh spinach

1/3 C. Vegetable oil

1/3 C. Red wine vinegar

1 Tbs. Sugar

2 tsp. Minced green onion

1/2 tsp. Paprika

1/4 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

2 C. Fresh strawberries, washed, hulled and halved

Directions

In a 7 inch skillet over medium heat, stir sesame seeds until golden; set aside. Wash spinach thoroughly; dry on paper towels and tear into bite size pieces. Wrap and chill. Blend oil, vinegar, sugar, onion, paprika and Worcestershire sauce. In large glass bowl, mix together spinach, strawberries, dressing and seeds.

One Bowl Spicy Chocolate Cake

Don't be scared of the cayenne pepper and spice up your boring chocolate cake.

Ingredients

1 1/2 C. All-purpose flour

1 C. Sugar

1/3 C. Unsweetened cocoa powder

2 tsp. Ground cinnamon

3/4 tsp. Baking soda

1/4 tsp. Hot red pepper (cayenne)

1/4 tsp. Salt

1 C. Water

1/2 C. Vegetable oil

1 Tbs. White vinegar

1 tsp. Vanilla

2 Tbs. Confectioners' sugar

Directions

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Generously grease 8"-square baking pan. In medium bowl, stir together flour, sugar, cocoa, cinnamon, baking soda, hot red pepper and salt. Add water, oil, vinegar and vanilla. Beat with a fork just until all dry ingredients have been moistened. Bake cake 35 to 40 minutes or until town springs back when gradually pressed. Cool cake in pan 5 minutes. remove to serving platter. Cover and set aside until ready to serve. Just before serving, sift confectioners' sugar over top. Cut into 4 squares; cut each square diagonally in half to make 8 triangular pieces.

Yield: 8 servings

Menu 2

Crab-Stuffed Fillet Mignon with Whiskey-Peppercorn Sauce

Incredibly elegant and flavorful, this is the perfect meal to impress that extra someone. perfect for anniversaries, Valentine's Day or any day!

Ingredients

Crab Stuffing:

2 Tbs. Olive oil

1 tsp. Minced onion

1 tsp. Minced green onion

1 tsp. Minced garlic

1 tsp. Minced celery

1 tsp. Minced green bell pepper

2 Tbs. Shrimp stock or water

1 6 oz. Can crab meat, drained

2 Tbs. Bread crumbs

1 tsp. Cajun seasoning

Peppercorn Sauce:

1 1/4 C. Beef broth

1 tsp. Cracked black pepper

1 oz. Whiskey

1 C. Heavy cream

Steaks:

4 6 oz. Filet mignon steaks

4 slices bacon, cooked lightly

Salt and cracked black pepper to taste

1 Tbs. Olive oil

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tsp. Minced shallot

1 C. Crimini mushrooms, sliced

1 oz. Whiskey

1 tsp. Dijon mustard

Directions

To make crab stuffing, heat 2 Tbs. Olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté onion, green onion, garlic, celery, and green pepper until tender. Stir in shrimp stock, crab meat, bread crumbs, and Cajun seasoning. remove from heat, and set aside. To prepare peppercorn sauce, in a small saucepan over medium heat, couple beef broth and cracked black pepper. Simmer until reduced to 1 C., stirring frequently. Add 1 oz. Whiskey and 1 C. Cream. Continue simmering until reduced to 1 C. remove from heat, and set aside. To prepare steaks, slice a pocket into the side of each steak, and stuff generously with crab stuffing. Wrap bacon colse to side, and accumulate with toothpicks. Season to taste with salt and pepper; set aside. Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic and shallot for 1 minute. Stir in mushrooms, and sauté until tender. remove mushroom mixture, and set aside. Place steaks in skillet, and cook to desired doneness. remove from skillet, and keep warm. Deglaze skillet with 1 oz. Whiskey. Reduce heat, and stir in peppercorn sauce and Dijon mustard. Add mushroom mixture, and Reduce sauce until thickened. remove toothpicks and bacon from steaks, and dispose steaks on a plate. Top with sauce.

Note: Partially cook the filets in the pan, and Desist them on the grill. This method works well with roasted red potatoes and a nice glass of wine.

Yield: 4 servings

Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Fresh Herbs

The perfect side dish to just about anything.

Ingredients

4 quarts water

1 tsp. Salt

3 - 4 lb. Golden potatoes

2/3 C. Cream

1/4 C. Butter

1 Tbs. Fresh parsley, finely chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Bring water to a boil, add salt. Meanwhile, peel potatoes and slice in quarters. Place potatoes in boiling water and cook until tender. Drain water and mash. Add cream, butter, salt, pepper, and parsley. Serve at once. You may vary the herbs by substituting dill or chives for the parsley.

Carrots in Sherry

A sophisticated way to serve up this base orange vegetable.

Ingredients

2 lb. Carrots, scraped and quartered

1/4 C. Butter or margarine

1 tsp. Salt

1/8 tsp. Pepper

1/4 tsp. Sugar

1/2 C. Sherry

1-2 tsp. Minced parsley

Directions

Sauté carrots in melted butter, turning until well coated. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and sugar. Add sherry and simmer gradually for 5 minutes. Add water just to cover; simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until tender. remove cover and cook over medium heat until most of the liquid has evaporated. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Yield 6-8 servings

Strawberry Fudge Truffles

These tiny goodies are perfect for a Valentine's Day gift or a romantic occasion.

Ingredients

6 oz. holder semi-sweet chocolate morsels

1/2 C. Almonds, toasted and finely chopped

8 oz. Cream cheese (at room temperature)

3/4 C. Vanilla wafer crumbs (approximately 20 wafers)

1/4 C. Smucker'S® Strawberry Preserves

Directions

In a small saucepan, melt chocolate over low heat. Put almonds in a small bowl. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until plane and creamy. Add melted chocolate, beating until smooth. Stir in vanilla wafer crumbs and preserves, mixing well. Cover and chill combination for 1 hour. remove from refrigerator and shape combination into 1- inch balls or "truffles." Roll each truffle in the almonds; chill truffles until serving time.

Yield: 48 truffles

Sweeten Your Sweetie- It truly is all about the sweets on Valentine's Day. Here are a few ideas for homemade gifts.

Hershey Kiss Roses

This Valentine's Day, give your sweetheart a bouquet she'll truly love: chocolate!

Ingredients

10 wooden skewers or 18-gauge florist wire

Red and silver Hershey Kiss candies

Green florist tape

Silk green leaves with wired stems

Directions

Pull tiny labels from each Hershey Kiss. Stick two foil- wrapped Kisses together, lowest to bottom. Insert the skewer into the tip of one Kiss and at this point begin winding florist tape down the skewer. Add several leaves along the way.

Cherry and Chocolate Pastry Hearts

Ingredients

1/2 of a 17-1/4-oz. holder frosty puff pastry (1 sheet), thawed

3/4 C. Cherry pie filling

8 tsp. Fudge ice-cream topping

2 Tbs. Chopped nuts

Directions

On a lightly floured surface, unfold thawed pastry. Using a 3-1/2- to 4-inch heart-shaped cookie cutter, cut pastry into shapes, discarding pastry scraps or reserving for an additional one use. Place pastry hearts on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake in a 375 degree oven for 15 to 18 minutes or until puffed and golden. Cool on racks. Split hearts horizontally; fill each with some of the pie filling. Place hearts on sweetmeat plates. Drizzle with fudge topping and sprinkle with nuts. Serve immediately.

Yield: 8 servings

Tip: prepare pastry hearts; cool. Place in airtight freezer container; place crumbled paper towels colse to hearts to prevent breaking. Seal, label, and ice up to 2 weeks. Thaw at room climatic characteristic before serving.

Find more Valentine's Day Ideas at Recipe4Living.com.

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