Volume 1 ♥ Spring 2015
Table of Contents
10 30 WELCOME
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
PARTIES & CELEBRATIONS
3
Letter from the Editor
30
46
4
Your Hostesses
5
Our Favorite Things
53
Capturing Memories
Paris in a Cup
Ducky 39 9
Dressing Up Your Drinks
10
Hues of Red - Celebrating
AROUND THE WORLD
Valentine’s Day
50
14
Greetings in Your Mailbox
7
Love 911
20
Things to Do on a Rainy Day
15
Storm Watch
22
Easter Traditions
24
Easter
37
The Benefits of Tea
15
Cover On the y Photo b
Spring 2015
Here’s a Clue
CONFETTI
SEASONAL ENTERTAINING
2
A Baby Shower that’s Just
1 Love 91 raphy Photog Gruen
Våffeldagen - Sweden’s Waffle Day
Letter from the Editor
love is in the air The number one symbol for Valentine’s Day is a red heart. It’s on everything from greeting cards to decorations to heart shaped boxes filled with an assortment of chocolates. It symbolizes the love one has for another. In our Hues of Red – Celebrating Valentine’s Day, we’ve put together a list of unique ways to celebrate the holiday that will be music to your ears.
Photo by: Camela Brennand
Love 911 is a twist on Valentine’s Day. It’s about getting healthy with the one you love. As the saying goes “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” To find out why this fruit is so beneficial to healthy living, check out our All about Apples article. You just might find yourself grabbing one to snack on or to make our delicious apple salad.
A few years ago, my sister and I visited Paris in a Cup, a beautiful tea salon featured in our In the Spotlight section. Here you can visit the city of romance without the expensive plane ticket to Paris. For Valentine’s Day, they host a best friend’s tea in celebration of the one you love. In their boutique, they offer their own line of specialty teas, but during this season, they carry a chocolate Valentine’s Day tea, which is very popular. Drinking tea offers many health benefits, as highlighted in our Benefits of Tea. Before the May flowers begin to bloom, we often get a dose of April showers. But instead of a gloomy forecast, we’ve brightened things up with our Storm Watch luncheon where you can enjoy a dose of friendship sprinkled with some sunshine. And if the weather doesn’t permit you to venture beyond your front door, we’ve got a list of Things to do on a Rainy Day. Oh, no! I’ve just been informed that the secret ingredient to your infamous dessert is now missing. The crime scene has been searched and evidence of thumbprint cookies have been found. So gather your suspects, I mean guests, for a party they won’t forget. P.S. Here’s a Clue, the consensus is the photographer did it. After the photo shoot, he was gone in a flash!
Sheri Sheri Lamas
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Meet Your Hostesses
Left to right: Linda, Kathleen, Cindy, and Sheri Photo by: Camela Brennand
Co-Founder / Editor-in-Chief / Creative Director / Writer
Co-Founder / Publisher / Writer
Independent Food Editor / Writer
Independent Copy Editor / Writer
You’re Invited Magazine is published quarterly. All content is produced and presented in good faith, based on information we’ve researched from different sources. No liability for their use or misuse exists. All rights reserved. © 2015
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Our Favorite Things Sheri Lamas W hat is y our favorite flow er? I haven’t met a flower I didn’t like. From cheerful gerbera daisies, sophisticated roses, to elegant wisteria cascading over a walkway, I love them all! Even those playful dandelions, with their delicate petals waiting to be blown into the air, so they can dance. W hat do y ou like to do on a rainy day ? I love to read a good non-fiction book or workout with weights, but then again, I like to do those things on sunny days, too. W hat genre of music do y ou enjoy most? I love a variety of music, from instrumental to hard rock. If I had to narrow it down, it would be rock and alternative that I listen to the most. W hat is y our favorite springtime or Easter dec oration? The Easter Bunny I tole painted. Do y ou enjoy c oloring Easter eggs, hiding Easter eggs, or hunting Easter eggs? I enjoy hiding them. And then trying to remember where I hid them when the little ones can’t find them.
Cindy M. Lloyd W hat is y our favorite flow er? Roses. W hat do y ou like to do on a rainy day ? I love to cook on rainy days and while things are in the oven I curl up with a good book and read till the timer goes off! W hat genre of music do y ou enjoy most? I love most genres so it’s probably easier to say what I don’t like - rap, heavy metal, hard rock. Everything else from 40’s thru today is good! W hat is y our favorite springtime or Easter dec oration? My bunny village. Do y ou enjoy c oloring Easter eggs, hiding Easter eggs, or hunting Easter eggs? All of it! Coloring because it means egg salad sandwiches for lunch during the week. Hiding because I love to think of harder places to hide them as my girls get older and watching the hunt; I love seeing my girls faces trying to find those last hard to find eggs!
© Can Stock Photo Inc. / rawlik
Linda Yonan W hat is y our favorite flow er? Red roses – do I need to say more. W hat do y ou like to do on a rainy day ? Light a fire, curl up on the sofa, and watch a movie with freshly popped popcorn. W hat genre of music do y ou enjoy most? Old time Rock & Roll. W hat is y our favorite springtime or Easter dec oration? I’ve always been fascinated with dragonflies and butterflies. They’re so colorful and unexpected to see. Do y ou enjoy c oloring Easter eggs, hiding Easter eggs, or hunting Easter eggs? Hiding the Easter eggs because I love to watch the faces of little ones when they find them.
Kathleen R. McKissick W hat is y our favorite flow er? Sunflowers and yellow roses. W hat do y ou like to do on a rainy day ? Stay home curled up in cozy PJs, reading a Mary Higgins Clark book or watching The Wizard of Oz (again), sipping something warm, plus a tasty treat or two, all while my cats are curled up next to me. Afterwards, maybe a long nap. W hat genre of music do y ou enjoy most? It is very eclectic these days. My music play list consists of musicals, patriotic, 1950-1970's Rock & Roll, old hymns, old country, the “Rat Pack,” funny songs, and some Barry Manilow. W hat is y our favorite springtime or Easter dec oration? It wouldn’t be Easter without me wearing the Easter Bunny suit my mom, Dollie, made for me! I’ve been the Easter Bunny for family, friends, and my community since 1974! Do y ou enjoy c oloring Easter eggs, hiding Easter eggs, or hunting Easter eggs? Hiding them of course...after all, I am the Easter Bunny!
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Confetti
A
All about pples
They say “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” The original adage goes, “Eat an apple on going to bed and you’ll keep the doctor from earning his bread.” Although all fruits are good for you, what is it that makes an apple so beneficial? Here are just a few of their wonderful benefits.*
Cholesterol
Brain Function
Studies indicate that eating apples regularly helps reduce your total cholesterol, especially the bad LDL cholesterol. Apples contain pectin, a soluble fiber which lowers cholesterol from building up in the lining of the blood vessels.
Apples may help reduce Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. The powerful antioxidant quercetin helps protect brain cells.
Weight Loss Eating a small apple before each meal can decrease your overall calorie intake. With only 50-80 calories, apples fill you up due to their water and fiber content.
Heart Disease Apples can decrease your risk of heart disease by slowing the oxidation of cell membrane fats, which is a main factor in clogged arteries.
Tooth Decay Referred to as nature’s toothbrush, an apple can help reduce tooth decay. By stimulating the gums and increasing saliva, it reduces the bacteria in the mouth causing less tooth decay.
Blood Sugar Apples help stabilize your blood sugar, by slowing the digestion of food, which then converts to glucose and enters the bloodstream. The polyphenols contained in apples can reduce your blood sugar from spiking.
Certain Diseases Several studies have shown apples help reduce the risk of certain cancers, such as lung cancer and colon cancer. The antioxidant properties in apples protects the lungs from toxins and improves lung function. They also have an anti-carcinogenic effect in the colon, helping fight colon cancer.
Asthma Studies show there is a strong link between apples and asthma. Apples contain anti-inflammatory benefits which may help calm the inflammation in the airways allowing one to breathe easier.¨
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
“Any fool can count the seeds in an apple. Only God can count all the apples in one seed.” Robert Schuller 6
Spring 2015
Seasonal Entertaining
♥
Photography by Gruen Photography www.youreinvitedmag.com
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Of all the cheeses, blue veined cheeses are the best for heart health.
Apple Salad Makes 2 servings Ingredients 2 red delicious apples 1 bag of baby spinach or spring mix lettuce ½ cup of Gorgonzola cheese Ÿ cup chopped walnuts Cut apples horizontally in two using a sawing motion. On the bottom portion of the apple, place a few greens, crumbled cheese, and walnuts. Place the middle portion of the apple on top and repeat with the next layer until the apple is complete.
Balsamic Glaze Ingredients 1 cup balsamic vinegar Âź cup brown sugar Mix balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in a saucepan. Heat until sugar is dissolved. Simmer on low until glaze thickens. Cool before serving.
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When ready to serve, drizzle balsamic glaze onto the place. Serve with champagne dressing, which may be purchased in the grocery store.
Pomegranate Juice We purchased from the market.
Confetti
Dressing up Your Drinks By Sheri Lamas and Kathleen R. McKissick
So you’ve got a party to attend and you want to look snazzy for your guests.
Since you’ll be
interacting with them all, you want to look good. No ordinary attire will do. You need something special. Something that will make you stand out! After all, you’re a fabulous looking drink! Here are some ways to dress up your drinks:
• Freeze a variety of juices in ice cube trays. This adds color and flavor to your drinks without diluting them as • Place melted chocolate they melt. on the bottom of a glass • Cut a slit in the middle and give it a swirl. Allow of a doily or cupcake liner the chocolate to coat the and place over a mason jar. glass with a unique design. Position a straw through • Place a small slice of the slit. fruit on the rim of a glass • Use wine charms (or (e.g., pineapple, lemon, make your own) to add strawberry, etc.). sparkle to your stemware. • Use cotton candy as a • Decorate a wide rubber topper. band with craft items (do • Tie a beautiful ribbon on not use hot glue on the the stemware of your glassrubber band). Make sure es. it fits snug on a glass (not • Instead of ice cubes, too high, as you’ll still toss frozen bite size pieces need to drink out of it, of fruit into your drinks. unless you are using a • Use colored/patterned straw). straws or fun curly straws • Use molds to create in your drinks. special ice cubes or an ice • Tie a bandana around a ring for a punch bowl. © Can Stock Photo Inc. / yekophotostudio • Using a zester or potato mason jar for a country look. peeler, peel the skin from • Create lip and mustache cut outs and tape to a straw. a citrus fruit to create small curls. Place on the rim of Leave room at the top for actual lips. the glass. • Who says marshmallows are just for hot chocolate. • Create other cut outs that pertain to your party’s Toss a few into dark colored drinks for a pop of white. theme (e.g., famous characters, baby items, tropical • Decorate paper cups with craft items. items, etc.).¨
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Photography by Gruen Photography
Confetti
By Linda Yonan and Sheri Lamas
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Spring 2015
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For Your Sweetheart 1. Send your sweetheart a dozen red roses, but ask that one of them be white. Add a note that reads, “In every bunch, there’s always one that stands out.” 2. Take a bike ride together through a vineyard, country road, or along the beach. 3. Purchase tickets and attend his favorite sporting event or her favorite musical. 4. Give your sweetie a bag of Hugs® and Kisses® candy with a note that reads “XOXO.” 5. Write a love letter inviting your honey to dinner. “I noticed your beautiful eyes and was wondering if you would like to gaze into mine over dinner?” 6. Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride or sleigh ride depending on the climate you’re in. 7. Cook a gourmet meal together. Can’t cook? Dine at a fancy restaurant and order something lavish. 8. Get crazy at a photo booth. Or have a professional portrait taken together. 9. Send a photo of the beach with a caption, “Would love to watch the sunset with you.” 10. Tailor your entire meal around chocolate or something decadent. 11. Learn to tango, salsa, or line dance together. 12. Wink at your darling! They won’t expect it. 13. Take a dinner cruise out into the harbor. 14. Have a caricature drawn of the two of you. 15. Leave a rose petal trail into the dining room where you have a candlelit dinner waiting and music playing softly in the background.
Love Songs 16. The Lady in Red ~ Chris de Burgh 17. Endless Love ~ Diana Ross and Lionel Richie 18. The Power of Love ~ Celine Dion 19. I Want to Know What Love Is ~ Foreigner 20. It’s Your Love ~ Tim McGraw with Faith Hill 21. Wonderful Tonight ~ Eric Clapton 22. Lady ~ Kenny Rogers 23. Into the Night ~ Benny Mardones 24. Unchained Melody ~ The Righteous Brothers 25. Amazed ~ Lonestar 26. Just a Kiss ~ Lady Antebellum 27. All of Me ~ John Legend 28. Beautiful ~ Jim Brickman with Wayne Brady 29. Take My Breath Away ~ Berlin 30. (Everything I Do) I Do It for You ~ Bryan Adams
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For Those You Care About 31. Next time you send flowers write, “From someone who thinks you’re terrific!” 32. Put a special treat in their lunch box. One they’ll love, but won’t expect. 33. Write “I love you” on the bathroom mirror in soap. 34. Make heart-shaped pancakes or waffles for dinner. 35. Don’t forget your single friends, send a box of truffles or bouquet of flowers letting them know you’re thinking of them. 36. Make a lunch date and show up with a picnic basket with all the goodies. 37. Enjoy coffee and dessert or tea with scones. Just be sure chocolate is on the menu! 38. Watch a chick-flick or a romantic comedy with your girlfriends. 39. Get your mixology on and enjoy a night of red and pink mocktails/cocktails (e.g. red velvet milkshakes, Shirley Temples, strawberry daiquiris, cosmopolitans, etc.). 40. Host your own night of karaoke or name that tune. Only love songs allowed.
Upbeat Love Songs 41. Call Me Maybe ~ Carly Rae Jepsen 42. I Love You Like a Love Song ~ Selena Gomez 43. Two of Hearts ~ Stacey Q 44. Crazy Little Thing Called Love ~ Queen 45. Love Shack ~ B-52’s 46. I Got You Babe ~ Sonny and Cher 47. Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now ~ Starship 48. Kiss You All Over ~ Exile 49. Can’t Get Enough of Your Love Babe ~ Barry White 50. Addicted to Love ~ Robert Palmer ¨ www.youreinvitedmag.com
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Confetti
in your
Mailbox
To welcome the season, here’s a great way to send a long distance friend or relative a greeting that they’re sure to enjoy. Before the first day of any given season, send one of these cute, adorable mugs filled with a seasonal packaged drink mix. For example, tea for spring, lemonade for summer, apple cider for fall, and hot chocolate for winter. You could also use the mugs as a gift card holder. Download the mug template, which is located on our website.
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Seasonal Entertaining
Storm Watch Come inside for a cheerful lunch that’s sure to blow those storm clouds away.
Photography by Gruen Photography www.youreinvitedmag.com
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Make sure your guests don’t leave without their umbrellas.
We choose a whimsical theme with soft colors for our Storm Watch Luncheon. We also made sure each guest had a candy filled umbrella. After all, you don’t want your guest leaving without their umbrellas.
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Chicken Salad Sandwich Makes 6 servings Ingredients Croissants 1 bag of grilled chicken breasts (1 1/2 pounds) 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 3 teaspoons honey 1 teaspoon poppy seeds 1/2 cup pecans, chopped 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved 1 stalk celery, finely chopped Salt and pepper to taste Cut croissants in half and set aside. Place chicken in food processor and pulse until desired consistency. Pour into large mixing bowl and add all remaining ingredients; mix well. Spread chicken mixture on croissants and serve immediately.
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Green Clouds Makes 6 servings Ingredients 1 16 ounce container of cottage cheese, small curd 1 small can crushed pineapple, drained 1 8 ounce container whipped topping 1 package sugar free lime gelatin* Mix all ingredients together and chill. * Use lime gelatin powder only, do not prepare according to package.
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Strawberry Dump Cake Makes 10 servings Ingredients 1 20 ounce can crushed pineapple, undrained 1 can strawberry pie filling 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped 1 package yellow cake mix 1 stick butter
Preheat oven to 350ยบ F. Grease a 13"x 9" pan. Dump pineapple with juice into pan. Spread evenly. Dump in pie filling and strawberries. Sprinkle cake mix evenly over filling (do not mix). Slice butter and top cake mixture. Bake 50 minutes until top is lightly browned. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Twister Tea Makes 8 servings Ingredients 1 pint fresh raspberries 4 cups brewed tea, chilled 1/3 cup sugar 1/4 cup lemon juice Lemon, thinly sliced Place raspberries in blender and puree. Strain into pitcher; add tea, sugar and lemon juice, stir until sugar is dissolved. Chill. Serve over ice. Garnish with lemon slices twisted around straw. www.youreinvitedmag.com
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Confetti
Things to do on a Rainy Day By Linda Yonan and Sheri Lamas Get Cozy on the Sofa
Get Busy with a Home Makeover
Rainy days are a great time to grab a blanket and watch a movie, catch up on your recorded TV shows, or read a good book. If young ones are around then watch a children’s animated film and discuss it with your child afterwards.
Even your home need a makeover from time-to-time. Go through your closets and drawers and get rid of unwanted things you’ve been accumulating. Redecorate a room by rearranging the furniture or painting the walls a new color for a fresh look.
Get Creative with your Hands
Get Moving All Over
If you’re crafty, today is a great day to paint, draw, or sketch. Even kids love to draw or color in their coloring books. Whatever your craft, sewing, knitting, crocheting, needlepoint, scrapbooking, or making jewelry – just do it. For the guys, start that woodworking project you’ve been putting off.
There are some great workout DVDs you may want to purchase and save for a rainy day. Ballet, yoga, Pilates® and Zumba® are all popular workouts. If you love to dance, try something new like belly dancing, hip hop, or ballroom dancing. Learn to hula like the Hawaiians.
Get Cooking in the Kitchen Try a new recipe or make a special meal and invite some friends over, weather permitting. Let the little cooks help in the kitchen as well. Try baking some delicious homemade cookies. Their little tummies will love it. Just be careful they don’t overdo it!
Get Close with your Family Have fun with your family playing cards, board games, charades, or work on a puzzle together. If you have small athletes in your family, create an indoor bowling alley or shoot hoops with crushed paper and a trash can.
Get Relaxed for the Day Create your own “spa day” by giving yourself a mini facial, manicure, and pedicure. Unwind in a warm bubble bath. Or take a nap and catch up on your sleep.
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Get Competitive with the Guys Get a game of poker going, throw some darts or if you have a pool table, shoot some pool. Guys just want to have fun, too!
Get Connected with Loved Ones Write a letter, send a card, or pick up the phone and call someone you’ve been meaning to connect with. Using social media may be quick and easy, but taking the time to communicate the old fashioned way speaks volumes to its recipients. There’s nothing like hearing someone’s voice on the phone or receiving a hand-crafted card in the mail! Oh, and don’t forget to toss those pennies into your piggy bank for the next rainy day!¨
Lightning can light up the sky and put on a dazzling show, but did you know that it can fertilize the ground? Lightning occurs when negative charges in the clouds encounter positive charges in the soil. Electrically charged lightning then separates the nitrogen atoms in the air and bonds with hydrogen and oxygen atoms in (rain) water, which falls to the ground and fertilizes the earth.
Š Can Stock Photo Inc. / valdezrl
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Confetti
By Sheri Lamas
My mom loved to sew and, back in the day, that was an economical way of dressing your family. So it’s only fitting that this Mother Hen made matching outfits for her four little chicks on Easter. Every year, she would choose a pastel color, find the perfect fabric, and sew our Easter outfits. Of course, no ensemble would be complete without a hat to top it off – a white widebrim hat with matching fabric around the base. After church, we’d waltz out into the parking lot while the other church goers commented on our matching outfits.
I guess you could say we had our own little Easter Parade out west. So just how did the Easter Parade get started? Or where did some of our Easter traditions begin?
© Bigapplestock | Dreamstime.com - Easter Parade And Easter Bonnet Festival Photo
Easter Parade The Easter Parade began in 1880 when the upper class would stroll out onto New York’s Fifth Avenue after attending church showing off their new outfits and hats. Many would come to see what the latest fashion trends were for spring. In 1948, MGM released the musical film Easter Parade staring Fred Astaire and Judy Garland, which popularized the parade. Today, elaborate outfits and hats are worn by men, women, and even pets, as they walk down Fifth Avenue on Easter Sunday.
Easter Bunny The Easter Bunny is the most recognized critter at Easter time. When German immigrants settled in Pennsylvania, they introduced the Easter hare (also known as the Easter Bunny) who would leave special
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eggs based on a child’s behavior. If a child was good, when they awoke they would find colored eggs placed in the garden by the Easter Bunny.
Easter Baskets In France and Germany during the 19th century, children would use straw from hats or baskets to make nests, so the Easter Bunny could leave special eggs for them. The tradition spread and when it came to the states, the nests were replaced with baskets. Easter baskets are now lined with plastic grass to resemble nests and filled with all sorts of goodies, including eggs, candy, and small gifts.
Easter Eggs Eggs have long been viewed as a symbol of fertility and new life and several ancient cultures used them in their
Ninety million chocolate
bunnies are made each year. Boy, those bunnies sure do multiply!
spring festivals. During Lent, eggs were forbidden, so many boiled their eggs to preserve them during this period. Chicken eggs were originally dyed or painted red to symbolize the blood of Christ that was shed on the cross for our sins. The egg represented new life, which came to those who believed in Jesus. Today, Easter eggs are dyed in a rainbow of spring colors.
Easter Candy Chocolates and jelly beans and marshmallow Peeps®, oh my! No Easter basket would be complete without some sweets to go along with those hard-boiled and plastic Easter eggs. Next to Halloween, more candy is sold at Easter time than any other holiday. Ninety million chocolate bunnies are made each year. Boy, those bunnies sure do multiply! With their egg-like appearance, jelly beans jumped onto the scene in the 1930s. They come in a variety of flavors, but cherry still tops the list as everyone’s favorite. Chicks are all the rage these days, hence the name Peeps®. The company started with yellow chicks, but has expanded their line to include bunnies. Today, both are available in a variety of colors and flavors.
House held its first official egg roll. Easter egg hunts involved hiding hard-boiled eggs, typically hidden by the Easter Bunny. It is believe this custom came from the German’s tradition of the Easter hare. Growing up, the Easter Bunny would often visit us on Easter Sunday, hide candy-filled plastic eggs, and even pose for pictures. I guess that’s the advantage of having a friend whose mother didn’t sew a new spring outfit for her, but a bunny suit instead!¨
Easter Egg Roll or Egg Hunt Easter egg rolls and egg hunts are popular games played at Easter time. Egg rolling, where hard-boiled eggs are rolled down a hill, was very popular in England and other countries. Many historians believed First Lady Dolly Madison was the first to bring the idea to the United States. Initially, the egg rolls were held at the Capital, but moved to the White House after Congress passed the Turf Protection Law. In 1878, the White
© Can Stock Photo Inc. / urbanlight
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Seasonal Entertaining
Photography by Gruen Photography
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Spring 2015
E A S T E R www.youreinvitedmag.com
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Roasted Rosemary Potatoes Makes 6 servings Ingredients 8 medium red potatoes 1/4 cup olive oil Fresh rosemary sprig or 1 tablespoon dried rosemary Preheat oven to 400°F. Wash and cut potatoes into quarters. Place in large bowl; add olive oil and rosemary then toss until all potatoes are coated. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 1 hour until crisp and golden brown; turning twice during baking time. Serve immediately.
Glazed Ham Makes 8 servings Ingredients 1 fully cooked ham, about 6 to 8 pounds 1/2 cup maple syrup 1/2 cup light brown sugar 1/4 cup apple juice 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon molasses Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham, fat side up, on rack in roasting pan; score fat and cover with foil. Cook about 1 and ½ hours (about 15 minutes per pound). Combine remaining ingredients in saucepan; bring to a boil, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes (do not to let it boil over). About 20 minutes before the ham is done, remove foil and spoon half of glaze over top of ham and continue to cook, then about 10 minutes before done, spread remaining glaze over ham. Serve immediately.
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Scoring fat is a method of making shallow cuts into the fat (typically in a checkerboard pattern). This allows the fat to cook more evenly, creating more juices to soak into the meat.
Green Beans Makes 6 servings Ingredients 1 1/2 pounds of fresh green beans 3 tablespoons butter, melted 2 tablespoons slivered almonds Salt to taste Wash and trim edges of fresh green beans. Bring 8 quarts of water to boil in large saucepan. Drop green beans in boiling water for 5 -8 minutes until tender; drain. Place in serving dish, drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle almonds over top. Serve immediately.
Springtime Cake Makes 8 servings Ingredients 2 envelopes Dream WhipÂŽ 1 cup shredded coconut Green food coloring
1 angel food cake (store bought in plastic container) 1 container of lime, slightly softened 1 container of raspberry sherbet, slightly softened Pastel colored jelly beans Prepare Dream WhipÂŽ according to package directions and store in refrigerator for later. In large plastic bag add shredded coconut and 5-6 drops of green food coloring, seal and shake until all coconut is green; set aside. Slice angel food cake into 3 layers. Place top layer of cake back in container. Spread lime sherbet over 1st layer, 3/4 inch thick. Place middle layer of cake over lime sherbet then repeat with raspberry sherbet. Place last layer of cake onto sherbet and freeze for at least 2 hours. 20 minutes before serving remove cake from freezer and let thaw for 10 minutes. Use knife to loosen the edges of cake from container and invert onto cake plate; frost with prepared Dream WhipÂŽ. Sprinkle green coconut around bottom and decorate with jelly beans. Serve immediately!
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Neither the hummingbird nor the flower wonders how beautiful it is. -Noted Living
Photography by Sandy Vogel
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In the Spotlight
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Paris in a Cup Photography by Sheri Lamas
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By Sheri Lamas
Would you love to travel to Paris, France to see the Eiffel Tower? Dine at a sidewalk café, with French music playing in the background? Nibble on pastel colored French macarons and shop to your heart’s content? You won’t have to travel to the City of Lights to check those things off your bucket list. Just step inside Paris in a Cup and, in an instant, you’ll be whisked away to France. No expensive plane ticket needed, however, reservations may be in order at this beautiful tea salon located in Historic Old Towne Orange, California. From the look of things you’d never know that owner, Cheryl Turner, has never travelled to Paris. That’s because she’s afraid to fly. So in order to create her lovely French inspired tea salon, Cheryl and her sister, Valerie whom she enlisted early on, watched old movies that were filmed in Paris. Movies such as An American in Paris, Funny Face, and Ninotchka just to name a few. These films gave them decorating ideas, especially when it came to restaurant and café scenes. Cheryl even
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required her contractor to watch the films, so he would share their vision. Much to her surprise, he had doors custom made to resemble those she saw in the film, Weekend at the Waldorf, which she thought he was unable to acquire for her. While the tea salon was being built, Cheryl and her sister shopped for lighting, furnishings, and décor. They scoured the internet looking at various tea rooms in France to gather more decorating and menu ideas. They noticed French tea rooms carried more bistro items, like soups and hearty sandwiches, which they incorporated into their menu. This later proved beneficial, as it brought men to the salon. Along the way, they met Sharon Sakimoto, a photo-artist who travelled to Paris nine times. She worked with the sisters on creating an image for their business cards, gift cards, and menus. Her artwork is also displayed within the salon. For their boutique, they worked with French companies who imported gourmet food and beverages, souvenirs,
novelty items, and much more. After attending a tea expo, Cheryl began working with Lisa Brown from Hale Tea for six months to develop custom blends for their signature line. She felt it would be a great marketing tool for the salon to offer their own line of specialty teas. Paris in a Cup began with five signature blends – Lé Jardin de Paris (Paris Garden), Lé Été à Paris (Summer in Paris), and Lé Parfumé de France (Flavors of France), which are all black teas, Les Fruits à Été (Fruits of Summer) a naturally decaffeinated tea, and a royal blend named Marie Antoinette, which is an herbal tea. Due to the popularity of these teas, they expanded their line to include other blends. Over the years the boutique has evolved, Cheryl listened to her customers and her French importers and incorporated more authentic souvenirs and products. Contrary to what one might think, she has found it a pure joy to work with the French! Cheryl’s love for tea and the French culture came from her childhood. Her grandmother would take her to Buffum’s in Long Beach, California for tea, as well as other places in Los Angeles. Getting all dressed up wearing a hat, faux fur shawl and muffs, she and her grandmother would travel by Trolley car to the upscale department store. She’ll never forget the first time they went for tea. As a little girl, she had never had a sandwich on date nut bread and thought, “Wow, this is the way to have a sandwich!” She knew this was something special and she loved it. Her grandmother also took her to the Philharmonic to listen to classical music. All of this left a huge impression on Cheryl, who lives in the past, according to many who know her. As for the French culture, she loved the food, the countryside, the glamour, and the romance. She and her mother, Gigi, always dreamt of travelling to Paris, but never did. By creating Paris in a Cup, she could bring Paris home to them…in a cute little cup, of course. Sadly, her mother died before the tea salon opened in November 1997. Every year, Paris in a Cup hosts several events. For Valentine’s Day, they offer a best friends’ tea in celebration of the ones you love. Enjoy lunch with your girlfriends, sisters, or your significant other. If your best friend happens to be a cute French poodle, lovable French bulldog, or any other type of canine you may enjoy tea on their outdoor patio with your furry friend. Their Little Black Dress event has become popular over the years and is celebrated the day before Easter. The Easter Parade was the inspiration for this ever growing event, where women would get dressed up wearing hats and their Sunday best, but it has evolved into the Little Black Dress event. Their Mother’s Day tea is also very popular. And for three weekends in December, the salon www.youreinvitedmag.com
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offers a Joyeux Noel tea. Nothing sparkles like their Christmas tea! Do check their website (www.parisinacup.com) as other happenings occur throughout the year. Cheryl’s tips for hosting a tea party at home: • It’s important to enjoy your guests, so keep it simple. • Have a buffet tea set up rather than serving tea. • Offer three teas – a black tea, a green tea, and an herbal tea. • Make your sandwiches the night before. To keep moist, wrap them in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. If you would like to converse with your friends over tea, but don’t want to tidy the house, make petite no crust sandwiches, or wash the teacups afterwards, then head on over to Paris in a Cup for some warm tea, a savory scone, and a sweet bite size taste of France. It will be a trip worth taking.¨
If you could have tea with any known figure, who would it be? “The Queen of England. That would be the ultimate.” Cheryl Turner
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Confetti
Photography by Neil Gruen Photography
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© Can Stock Photo Inc. / klenova
The Benefits of Tea By Kathleen R. McKissick
Ancient cultures have always proclaimed the benefits of tea and many people today are discovering tea’s unique qualities.
what type of tea you choose, never store your tea near a heat source or in the freezer. Tea should be stored in a double-walled stainless steel tea tin to retain the tea’s flavor, scent, and benefits.
The black, oolong, green and white teas are derived from the tea plant, Camellia sinensis and are high in beneficial polyphenol antioxidants, which help block fat-building enzymes! Although these teas contain caffeine, some are available in decaffeinated forms. You can also pre-steep the tea in hot water for 20 seconds to remove most of the caffeine. Studies show the tannates/tannins in these teas interfere with iron absorption, so, if you suffer from anemia, be sure to drink these teas either one hour before or after your meal.
The teas I’ve listed are only a small sampling of the many varieties available today. I have denoted the type of tea with a capital in parentheses after its name: B for Black, G for green, H for herbal, and W for White. Here are just a few teas and their known benefits*:
Green teas contain phytonutrients EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) and/or ECG (epicatechin gallate). These are powerful flavonoids known as catechins. They help fight inflammation, so they may also help battle cartilage and collagen destruction in arthritic joints, including issues of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Some studies suggest that EGCG may potentially prevent the onset or slow the progression of dementia. Catechins may also reduce the risk of stroke, heart failure, cancer, and diabetes.
Black (B) - Helps inhibit bacteria growth in the
Ashwagandha (H) - Excellent at bedtime for those with insomnia. An immune stimulant in patients with low white blood cells due to radiation treatments or chemotherapy.
mouth, so your breath smells sweeter. Contains polysaccharides that have glucose-inhibiting properties, so it may also help to prevent diabetes. Helps stops belly-fat before it starts. Some examples of black teas are English Breakfast, Earl Grey, etc.
Chamomile (H) - Known for its relaxation benefits, it can also be used to relieve upset stomach, menstrual cramps, and promote quality sleep. New studies indicate it may steady blood sugar and guard against the damage high blood sugar can impart.
Herbal teas come from herbs and other plant sources. Their benefits are so vast that some of them are listed with each tea below. Herbal teas do not contain caffeine, but some varieties may have side effects for some people with certain health issues or taking certain medications. Be sure to read the tea’s packaging and consult with your doctor before trying an herbal tea.
Dandelion (H) - Helps digestion issues, alleviates
Keep in mind different teas required different temperatures of water to bring out their benefits. Black and oolong prefer boiling water while greens, whites and herbals are best suited for warm to hot water. No matter
block the chemical messengers that cause a slight swelling in the brain. At onset of headache or migraine, drink a cup to stop the pain in its tracks. Also aids in digestion, too.
liver complaints, and regulates blood glucose. Can also be used as a diuretic.
Ginger (H) - Contains an anti-inflammatory agent to
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Ginseng (H) - Enhances the libido! Contains
Peppermint (H) – Soothes an upset stomach and
ginsenosides that help both women and men! Enjoy a cup after you read our article "Hues of Red Celebrating Valentine’s Day."
relieves constipation.
Green (G) - Contains EGCG that increases the hormone CCK, which creates the feeling of satiation. May be beneficial to prevent eye diseases, such as glaucoma.
Hawthorne (H) - Contains flavonoids that help keep the blood vessels strong. It may also balance total cholesterol, triglycerides and bad (LDL) cholesterol. It may even help in congestive heart failure. Can have a gentle relaxant effect on the vascular system for those with higher blood pressure due to stress hormones.
Hibiscus (H) - Can help lower systolic blood pressure in people with pre-hypertension or mildly elevated blood pressure.
Licorice Root (H) - Contains therapeutic compounds that soothe sore throats.
Matcha (G) - Boosts your metabolism, it’s a fat-blocker, and reduces anxiety. Plus it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to help fight disease. It has three times the polyphenol catechin of regular green tea. Contains L-theanine, an amino acid which promotes a tranquility effect. Because it is ground into a powder, you ingest the tea leaves and all their healthful nutrients. You can even add a scoop to a smoothie!
Nettle (H) - Has antihistamine properties and can prevent hay fever or allergy attacks from happening in the first place. Relieves allergy symptoms like stuffy nose, sneezing and itchy eyes. Brew a large pot and keep the tea in the refrigerator during allergy season.
Oolong (B) - Its unique catechin and caffeine combination raises your metabolism for two hours after drinking.
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Rooibos (H) - Has a variety of minerals, such as calcium and zinc, to help make your hair shinier, your skin more radiant, and help your nails grow stronger and healthier.
Siberian Ginseng (H) - It’s commonly called eleuthero (eleutherococcus) and not a true ginseng. It contains triterpenoid saponins that have a stress relieving effect on the body. It improves blood circulation and enhances mental and physical prowess. It may also help the immune system fight common viruses like rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus and influenza. It may lower blood pressure and eliminate symptoms of angina.
Safflower (H) - The antioxidants help prevent heart disease by decreasing inflammation in the arteries, keeping them flexible and less likely to clog.
Turmeric (H) - Lubricates the joints and helps relieve pain of arthritis, osteoarthritis or other chronic joint pain. Aids liver cells by helping clear bad cholesterol from the body. Also aids in indigestion, stomach ulcers, and ulcerative colitis. Powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that may help fight cancer.
Valerian Root (H) - Its natural compounds are used as a sedative, as they may help you fall asleep faster when ingested two hours before bedtime.
White (W) - Less processed, so the polyphenols are extra potent and it contains EGCG. Fights signs of aging and it may also protect from colon cancer. No matter which one you decide to try, I hope you enjoy a delicious cup of tea soon. After all, the benefits are endless.¨ *Some of these statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
Parties and Celebrations
It happened
One Night
Š Can Stock Photo Inc. / balounm
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Here’s a Clue Mystery Meatballs Makes 8-10 servings Ingredients 1 12 ounce jar chili sauce 1 16 ounce jar grape jelly 1 package frozen turkey meatballs, thawed (25-30 meatballs) Preheat oven to 350º F. In large saucepan combine chili sauce and grape jelly; add meatballs and simmer uncovered until the sauce thickens (about 35-40 minutes). *You can also combine all ingredients in slow cooker; set on low for 6 hours and serve.
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Fishy Alibi Makes 10 servings Ingredients 20 multi-grain crackers 1 8 ounce package cream cheese 2 6 ounce cans crabmeat 1 small jar cocktail sauce Parsley, finely chopped Cut cream cheese into small squares and place on crackers. Layer 1/2 teaspoon of cocktail sauce then 1 teaspoon of crab meat over cream cheese. Garnish with parsley. Serve.
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Suspiciously Stuffed Tomatoes Makes 8 servings Ingredients 8 medium ripe tomatoes Salt, to taste 2 cups water 1 cup quinoa 1 tablespoon olive oil 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped 3 cloves of garlic, minced 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped Salt, to taste Pepper, to taste Parmesan cheese Mozzarella cheese, shredded Preheat oven to 375º F. Slice off ½ inch of the stem end of the tomatoes and hollow out the inside. Sprinkle salt in each tomato and place hollow side up on a baking sheet. Set aside. Place water and quinoa in a
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saucepan. Bring to a boil; lower to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes. Heat oil in a frying pan and add spinach. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until just wilted. Mix in garlic and parsley, cook for a minute longer, and remove from heat. Add cooked quinoa to spinach; mix well. Fill tomatoes with quinoa mixture. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle tops with parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese. Bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted. Serve.
Disappearing Date Bars Makes 24 bars Ingredients 2 1/2 cups pitted dates, chopped 1/4 cup sugar 1 1/2 cups water 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 cups quick cooking oats 1 cup packed light brown sugar 1/2 cup butter, softened (not melted) 1 tablespoon water Preheat oven to 350º F. Grease a 9” x 13” baking dish.
1 egg yolk 2 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 teaspoon salt Raspberry jam, seedless Preheat oven to 350º F.
In a saucepan, combine dates, sugar and water; cook, stirring frequently, until very thick. Cool. Sift flour, salt, and baking soda together in a large bowl; add oats and brown sugar. Cut in butter until mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle water over mixture; stir lightly. Press 2/3 mixture into dish and bake for 5 minutes. Spread date mixture on top of crust then sprinkle remaining crumble on top. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly browned. Completely cool then cut into bars.
Mix brown sugar, butter, vanilla and egg yolk in medium bowl. Stir in flour and salt until dough holds together. Refrigerate for 1 hour. Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Place about 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Press thumb deeply in center of each cookie. Bake about 12-14 minutes or until light brown. Immediately remove from cookie sheet to wire rack. Cool completely, about 30 minutes. Fill thumbprints with jam.
Thumbprint Cookies
The Proof is in the Pudding
Makes 30 cookies
We purchased pre-made chocolate pudding and topped with whipped cream.
Ingredients 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar 1 cup butter or margarine, softened (not melted) 1 teaspoon vanilla
Blood Orange Punch We purchased from the market.
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All eyes are on you! 44
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Caution: We Can Make You Talk Interrogating Icebreaker Questions A serious crime has been committed. The secret ingredient to your infamous dessert is now missing and it’s your job to find out who’s done it! So put on your detective hat, gather your guests, and ask your
suspects some interrogating icebreaker questions to get them to talk and get acquainted.
1. Where were you last [*] night at 7:30 pm? 2. How long have you known the host and how did you meet? 3. Where were you born? 4. Have you ever used an alias? If so, what was it? 5. Have you ever been labeled a troublemaker? If so, what were the circumstances surrounding it? 6. What kind of get-away car do you drive? 7. Do you own a pair of black gloves? 8. Are you right or left handed? 9. What size shoe do you wear? 10. Do you have any “hidden” talents? 11. What’s in your bag? 12. When was the last time you left the country and where did you go? 13. What is your relationship status? 14. What shade of lipstick do you wear? 15. What is your signature perfume? 16. Do you wear glasses or contacts? 17. What is your blood type? 18. Do you know self-defense? And have you had to use it? 19. Have you ever had a run-in with the law? And would you like to talk about it? 20. Last question, are you sticking to your story tonight or would you like to make any changes? *Depending on the date of your party, choose a day that would cause some to remember and others to think about it. Two to five days should be sufficient.¨
© Can Stock Photo Inc. / Feverpitched
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Parties and Celebrations
A
s ’ t a h t r e w o h S y Bab
Just Ducky
A great way to throw a baby shower they’ll remember is to start with a theme. Then choose two complimentary colors to carry through all your tableware. Here we chose a rubber duck theme with our complimentary colors of blue and yellow. A different rubber duck was placed at each place setting. Ducks were also used to decorate many of the desserts.
Rubber ducks became popular after a Sesame Street® episode where Ernie is singing “Rubber Duckie” in the bathtub.
Styling by Cindy Schmidt Photography by Greg Schmidt and Linda Yonan www.youreinvitedmag.com
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An inflatable duck was filled with personalized water bottles and ice for our guests to enjoy on a nice spring day.
The first rubber ducks manufactured didn’t float.
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Healthy fruit, salad, and sandwiches were on the menu that day to save room for the sweet, yummy desserts.
The icing on the cake was made to look like bubbles from a bath.
Rubber ducks in a bathtub calm a child’s fear of water immersion. The toy ducks act as a diversion.
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Around the World
© Can Stock Photo Inc. / Almgren
Våffeldagen ~ Sweden’s Waffle Day By Sheri Lamas Ever since the Tower of Babel, language has caused confusion. It can be a bit tricky. Some words can sound very similar. My great uncle Vince was born in Alabama, but lived in New Jersey most of his adult life. He taught five languages at an all-boys private school. With his New Jersey accent and southern drawl, some of his words sounded quite unusual, while others sounded very much alike. I used to joke with him about the way he spoke certain words (no worries, he loved it and would joke back). Of course, he told me I was the one who talked funny and that he talked normal. After all, he taught language for a living. In Sweden, the confusion of language played a big role in bringing forth the tradition of Våffeldagen. Våffeldagen means the waffle day, whereas, Vårfrudagen means Lady Day, which in the Christian faith is when the angel Gabriel announced to the Virgin Mary that she would be conceived by the Holy
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Spirit and give birth to a son, Jesus Christ. In the vernacular Swedish language Vårfrudagen sounded much like Våffeldagen, and the waffle day was born. Although both are celebrated on March 25th, there is no religious significance to Våffeldagen. Every March 25th, the Swedes pull out their waffle irons and celebrate the holiday with waffles, which may be eaten for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. In the 17th century, the Swedes used square irons to make their waffles over an open fire. However, by the late 1800s, heart-shaped waffles topped with homemade jam and whipped cream were on the menu. Swedish waffles are thinner and crispier than traditional American waffles and the jams are sweetened with fresh berries, such as cloudberries (a cousin of the blackberry).¨
So heat up your waffle irons and celebrate Våffeldagen with the Swedes this
March 25th © Can Stock Photo Inc. / Bogdanserban
© Sheri Lamas
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Resources Love 911
Easter
Centerpiece – Hobby Lobby Placemats – Lillian Vernon Plates – owners Silverware – Walmart Glasses – Pottery Barn Napkins – Lillian Vernon Love can – Clarice’s Cakes and Candy
Placemats – Bed, Bath and Beyond White Plates – Walmart Egg Plates – Pier 1 Napkins – Pier 1 Glasses – Pampered Chef Silverware – Walmart Cake Stand – owners
Hues of Red
Here’s a Clue
Chargers – Dollar Store Plates – Ross Glasses – Dollar Store Napkins – Joann’s (fabric), sewed by Krafty Lizard
Tablecloth – Imagination Party Services Red Glitter Paper – Michael’s Black Plates – Dollar Store Glasses – Walmart Bags – Fancy Flours Napkins – Imagination Party Services Plastic Eye Glasses – Hobby Lobby Hat Stand – Hobby Lobby Bowler Hat – Halloween Store Typewriter – owners Chalkboard – Michael’s
Storm Watch Rain boots – Michael’s Floral Runner – Bed, Bath and Beyond Chargers – Party City Silver China – owners Paisley Plates – Home Goods Umbrella favors – Wrap with Us Pink Napkins – Moskatel’s Napkin Rings – owners Glasses – Walmart Silverware – owners Rain Gage – Touch of Class Salt & Pepper – Frog2Hop
A Baby Shower that’s Just Ducky Tableware – Rental Company Centerpieces – Celebrate Rubber Ducks - Oriental Trading
Count your rainbows, not your thunderstorms. Alyssa Knight, age 12
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Capturing Memories
Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning how to dance in the rain. Vivian Greene
© Can Stock Photo Inc. / DashaPetrenko
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Thank you for coming. You’re always welcomed back. 54
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© Dpproductions - Dreamstime.com