tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75315633870675881942024-03-13T20:01:38.072-07:00ALL ACCESS: LIFEA compilation of new ideas, thoughts, opinions, product reviews and humor of everyday life. Start you day with something new!Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11342438278933107502noreply@blogger.comBlogger10125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7531563387067588194.post-21934532965228331622013-08-02T10:10:00.002-07:002013-08-02T10:12:53.084-07:00I...HAVE A BRAIN CLOUD<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9lceeNQMwk" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivnr7HXWITwkfBCfLfQeIGwV38j9YCrijAA6L-D0rlHnO8q6eX-EdYJKFJTSZD90pX_T8Bgr-CR-qQIYtJhtL-1IVyhejCFx0BY7j7zCedOuVBidiaslJx5JhZHGTAgpByRK8_1cnI4oA/s320/220px-Joe_Versus_The_Volcano.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In 1990 Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan stared in the first of what would be, three, movies together...Joe Versus the Volcano. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9lceeNQMwk">Joe Versus the Volcano Trailer 1990</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Since I was a big Tom Hanks fan (who didn't LOVE The Burbs, Turner & Hooch, Bachelor Party...okay...dating myself here) I decided that I would welcome this movie with open arms as I needed a good chuckle. The first time I watched this movie...I fell asleep. I was confused by the depressing overtones in the beginning and the slow dragging scenes that made me somewhat uncomfortable. Where was the slap-stick comedy...where were the light over tones? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It wasn't until a few years later at a Tony Robbins seminar that he referred to the movie and explained the premise of this brilliant story that I went back and watched it...dozens of times. It was in that moment I recognized myself in that movie and decided that was NOT going to be me. I would not get a Brain Cloud.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Robert Wilson brilliantly gives a three-part overview on YouTube explaining the nuances of each scene and overall theme of the movie, in case you are interested.</span><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lwI7pVtreT0"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Joe vs. the Volcano: Losing My Soul Part 1</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNABE5hcosc"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Joe vs. the Volcano: Losing My Soul Part 2</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yKwPTdMTf78"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Joe vs. the Volcano: Losing My Soul Part 3</span></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx3T7uPWy4ClTU1VEUYo02IaD0yul_M3vuV27jXTj_KtVGh45QKqLBAwbTJZufjL2VGExTDTQBmU3qC6KK7F-l5hdN4_fnHBLs9BEfUI6H94tV7PCvt7WfvjReh8vxqOatFjlN7TQmaqQ/s1600/volcano.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx3T7uPWy4ClTU1VEUYo02IaD0yul_M3vuV27jXTj_KtVGh45QKqLBAwbTJZufjL2VGExTDTQBmU3qC6KK7F-l5hdN4_fnHBLs9BEfUI6H94tV7PCvt7WfvjReh8vxqOatFjlN7TQmaqQ/s1600/volcano.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Fast forward to August 2, 2013. I am at Penn Station getting off my morning train from Long Island as I do every other day, Monday through Friday, and it hits me!...the opening scene of Joe Versus the Volcano where everyone files into work on the same path looking like they are half dead and miserable. I..had a Brain Cloud!</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ytS4yFM4Oxw"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Opening for Joe Versus the Volcano</span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">How the hell did I get here? Oh yeah...that's right...this was the goal...to work in the big city with a fancy office and a fancy title doing what I love, convincing myself that THIS is where I wanted to be. But somewhere along the way, my ideas and goals for my life changed...as well they should, I guess. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now don't get me wrong...I DO love my job....what I do, where I work, the people I work with...I have it VERY good and I do know that, so please understand that I am not one of those people who sold their soul to the devil for a pay check. I have just been stuck for awhile now inside my own head, with voices shouting at me that you are not happy...you are not doing what your soul is screaming to do....but what is that???</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For months I have been racking my brain tried to figure out what makes me happy (work wise). It's funny how when all of the other pieces of your life come together and you are truly happy, that ONE (or two or three) area of your life you are not happy with gets magnified a million times more. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am a VERY creative and a visual person and have always been my best when making things or creating ideas...it's what lights the fire in my soul and one of the main reasons I went into pubic relations. But now, I fell that fire is dim and the creative spark lost to the day to day management of simple things and the same ideas regurgitated a dozen times to produce the same results. DEFINITION OF INSANITY: Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result!</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/LOVEnZEN" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX1YdCvVwtG9HysQLT6R-P8pNIWrx9OxO9lQdwMx8AgrJPEyL59ryUY1Oie5V63YFUkkaRRcD5OvkwMesnGPl10yuYcCOkZeywWPExst5LUGwitG3dTIZopMSIwUZNC_y2tZtS3tipZuo/s200/644675_363355420440373_116965356_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have always been a jewelry designer and maker and found solace in keeping a small business on the side to feed my creative spark...but for some reason, it wasn't cutting it now and I wanted more. I always envied those DIYers who are the McGyvers of Dumper Diving...I never had that vision. But I am suddenly inspired to take the old and make it new...to live a much simpler life...to value the people that matter and do what makes me happy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, today, I had the revelation that I desperately need to feed my soul some happiness pills in the form of creativity and inspiration and do what makes me happy...and I am...starting now. And who knows, maybe someday I will quit my job, move to a small town and have a shop where people can admire my beautiful creations and feature other artists and soul-happy people. I believe you cannot make beautiful things without a happy soul and a passion that is unexplainable for what you do. That is what I long for. And for now, I will have to settle for that introduction into my life...I am realistic that bills need to be paid here...and slowly transform my life into something artistic and beautiful and happy...that does not involve high rise buildings, long commutes and working for a paycheck. Keep you posted. :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">MY FAVORITE QUOTE OF ALL TIME...</span></div>
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Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11342438278933107502noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7531563387067588194.post-6814336758305173842013-05-15T12:22:00.000-07:002013-05-15T12:31:19.670-07:00ROOMATES DECALS FEATURE ONE DIRECTION...AND SO MUCH MORE!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4OqsVnUpSNYf2D27N1GJaBXHgGddD3vlOkHQPElK-BG6I2Q1tEKYhoO2Vl1UmVG25crDrJUIBXPx5qN_D05fF3S7PhAsXlfggftEQoiH0VakmFWvW5DjldDjWYZG0V-tRyTCULQu5_sk/s1600/logo.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="60" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4OqsVnUpSNYf2D27N1GJaBXHgGddD3vlOkHQPElK-BG6I2Q1tEKYhoO2Vl1UmVG25crDrJUIBXPx5qN_D05fF3S7PhAsXlfggftEQoiH0VakmFWvW5DjldDjWYZG0V-tRyTCULQu5_sk/s200/logo.gif" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ok....so as a mom of a teenage girl I have lived through the many boy band crushes through the years starting with 'NSYNC when she was just 4 years old waving to me from the back seat signing "Bye, Bye Bye". I think it was probably because they were the only lyrics she could understand with ease, not for their boyish good looks...which she did come to appreciate as only a little girl could.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Posters lined each wall of her room, concert t-shirts were a must and of course...we had to have the very trendy NSYNC tennis shoes complete with the colorful band logo on the sides. The one thing she didn't have was wall decals...didn't even know they made them for things other than nurseries to be honest. So, when I was told of these One Direction Wall Decals from RoomMates, I have to say I was curious. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieGjV59Cw1YPSP8H_Sf6j3VW7xMPPRCng4-xKFbLnIOBmNLNSz6w7WW05vqgDvvgdMVmmiWlMLsG5VdVRJcItVW1B7UXGADKQ0s464IIACMlyebHjW7whC5y0mk-KFLCd7dD4KS5hvrww/s1600/One+Direction.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieGjV59Cw1YPSP8H_Sf6j3VW7xMPPRCng4-xKFbLnIOBmNLNSz6w7WW05vqgDvvgdMVmmiWlMLsG5VdVRJcItVW1B7UXGADKQ0s464IIACMlyebHjW7whC5y0mk-KFLCd7dD4KS5hvrww/s320/One+Direction.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Although my daughter has grown out of that "boy band" phase and has moved on to being a "dead head"...yes she listens to the Grateful Dead (the new "boy" in her life, the boyfriend is into them) ...I can still appreciate being a parent of a blushing young girl who just can't get enough of Harry!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">These really cool decals let your raving fan bring Louis, Harry, Zayn, Liam, and Niall to their walls</span> <span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">in just seconds! And they are removable! Even better! Nothing like covering up thumb tack holes!</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> A</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">nd you can move them and they stick. You can put them </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">on walls, doors,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">windows, ceilings, laptops, or anywhere else you can think of...pretty cool I think. Now, if I can just get them to do some Johnny Depp wall decals for me! LOL!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Although, I must say....check out the RoomMates store. There are great things in there for mom and home decor. They even have some chalk and dry erase boards that are very cool. Think I may have to pick up some to give my house a little redecorating style for summer. :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Want more info...<u>see below.</u></span><br />
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<b><u><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">One
Direction Wall Decals ($16.49)<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span class="productpropertylabel"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">● Number of Wall Decals: </span></span><span class="productpropertyvalue"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">27</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="productpropertylabel"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">● Wall Decal Dimensions: </span></span><span class="productpropertyvalue"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">2
sheets of 9" x 40"</span></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"><br />
<span class="productpropertyvalue"> decals range from 3" x
3" to 5" x 12.25"</span></span><span class="productpropertyvalue"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">About
RoomMates<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Founded in
2006, RoomMates is the largest manufacturer of <span style="background: white;">removable,
repositionable, and reusable </span>wall decals, wall stickers, and peel &
stick wall decor in North America. A key division of York Wall coverings, <span style="background: white;">the oldest and largest Wallpaper manufacturer in North
America,</span> RoomMates wall decals are manufactured in the U.S. RoomMates
wall décor products can be purchased at leading retail stores, decorating and
nursery specialty stores, and at <a href="http://www.roommatesdecor.com/">www.roommatesdecor.com</a>.
RoomMates is located in York, Pennsylvania. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt;">For more information
visit <a href="http://www.roommatesdecor.com/">www.roommatesdecor.com</a> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; text-align: center;">Find us on Facebook: </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/roommatesdecor" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; text-align: center;">www.facebook.com/roommatesdecor</a><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; text-align: center;">Follow us on Twitter:
@roommatesdecor </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; text-align: center;">Pinterest</span><a href="http://pinterest.com/roommatesdecor/" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; text-align: center;">http://pinterest.com/roommatesdecor/</a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b><i>Disclosure Notice:</i></b> <i>I was given a sample of One Direction Decals to review for this post. In addition I work at the agency that represents this brand, but my opinions are my own.</i></span>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11342438278933107502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7531563387067588194.post-6116687721593360472011-05-03T11:03:00.000-07:002011-05-03T11:22:28.679-07:00MOTHER'S DAY MAKE-UP TIPS FROM COVERGIRL AND CELEBRITY MAKE-UP ARTIST, JAKE BAILEY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihvdFwhxum5k852ElkXhREGfpSJDmKNEfcM9dAJSImj9GL_sUYS7W1Cl4p1bmGThoifhT0_UuB0TUkttywItRVuexDhZTvGr8AvXCx8rvGcRvIOm3vV3eO1WB4wDXxRrd-gBgUpI3W2bM/s1600/Mother%25E2%2580%2599s+Day+Tips.NEW_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihvdFwhxum5k852ElkXhREGfpSJDmKNEfcM9dAJSImj9GL_sUYS7W1Cl4p1bmGThoifhT0_UuB0TUkttywItRVuexDhZTvGr8AvXCx8rvGcRvIOm3vV3eO1WB4wDXxRrd-gBgUpI3W2bM/s640/Mother%25E2%2580%2599s+Day+Tips.NEW_0001.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For more information on the <strong><em>COVERGIRL</em></strong> Simply Ageless line go to: </span><a href="http://www.covergirl.com/"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">www.covergirl.com</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You can also become a fan on <strong><em>FACEBOOK</em></strong> to keep up with all the news and latest info:</span><br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/covergirl"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/covergirl</span></a><br />
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<em><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Disclaimer: Please note that I am working with COVERGIRL on their public relations outreach.</span></em>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11342438278933107502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7531563387067588194.post-39061020088473092162010-07-20T15:14:00.000-07:002010-07-21T11:26:01.822-07:00Summertime Relief: Tips on Treating Your Child’s Summer Cold from Children’s Advil®<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Summertime Relief:</span></strong></div><strong><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Tips on Treating Your Child’s Summer Cold from Children’s Advil®</span></strong></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaskAprOUJ7bdxmy0Rtm0kxDKRc_OOBPYS5UwLCYeIR95UXZA-eruTEIeQ_rLcfx9RZ0EbZ9U95NFGW87ImcQsjA-OMade5JHIrIajLfstOnNcoUMOZg9_cvUcvMVS5phf9caIcso_x_s/s1600/sus_left.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaskAprOUJ7bdxmy0Rtm0kxDKRc_OOBPYS5UwLCYeIR95UXZA-eruTEIeQ_rLcfx9RZ0EbZ9U95NFGW87ImcQsjA-OMade5JHIrIajLfstOnNcoUMOZg9_cvUcvMVS5phf9caIcso_x_s/s320/sus_left.gif" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">School’s out for summer! And while parents of young children are busy coordinating family vacation, summer camp and play dates at the pool, an unexpected summer cold can put the brakes on all those activities. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Preschool and elementary school children may get up to 12 colds per year, and while colds are more common in the fall and winter, summer colds occur more frequently than you might think. Exposure to air conditioning, airplane travel and summer camp playmates may put your child at risk. And most parents agree that summer colds are particularly annoying as the symptoms – fever, sore throat, and other aches and pains – often disrupt the very activities your child most looks forward to in summer.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This year, however, treating a summer cold may be a source of confusion to parents because of a recent recall of many over-the-counter products for children. The good news is that, Children’s Advil®, manufactured by Pfizer Consumer Healthcare, is <strong>NOT </strong>part of the recent recall and is currently available nationwide. Children's Advil® relieves aches and pains due to the common cold or flu, as well as sore throats and headaches, and also reduces fever faster* and lasts longer than Children’s Tylenol®*. In fact, Children’s Advil® lasts up to eight hours.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">*Based on reducing fever below 100°F</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here are answers to some common questions about treating your child’s summer cold...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>How do children get colds?</strong> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A cold is a viral infection of the nose and throat that is spread in a number of different ways. For example, colds are passed through physical contact with another child with a cold or with contaminated item that was previously touched by someone who has a cold. Also, colds can be passed by breathing in germs from someone who is coughing or sneezing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>How can I treat my child’s cold?</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Symptoms of a cold can include runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, fever, and loss of appetite:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">o Runny nose: There’s not much you can do for a runny nose, except for periodically clearing it for easier breathing. It’s best to have your child sniff and swallow the secretions, rather than blow them out, which could cause the virus to spread to the ears and sinuses.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">o Stuffy nose: You can help clear you child’s nose by instilling three drops of warm tap water into the nasal passages and using cotton swabs to wipe out loosened mucus. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">o Sore Throat: Help relieve your child’s sore throat by giving your child warm salt water to gargle with. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">o Fever: Reduce your child’s fever fast with Children’s Advil®. It reduces fever faster* than Children’s Tylenol® and lasts up to twice as long. When your child has a fever, it is important that you dress him or her lightly. DO NOT overdress or cover your child with heavy blankets as overheating can actually increase the fever. Encourage your child to drink lots of fluids to avoid dehydration.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">* Based on reducing fever below 100°.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">o Loss of Appetite: When your child has a cold, it’s important that he or she doesn’t become dehydrated. Encourage your child to consume lots of fluids, like chicken soup, even if he or she doesn’t feel like eating or drinking. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>What product(s) are available to treat my child’s cold this summer?</strong> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Children’s Advil® is <strong>NOT</strong> part of the recent recall and is safe and effective when used as directed in children 2 to 11 years of age. Children’s Advil® works to temporarily reduce fever, and relieve minor aches and pains due to the common cold, flu, sore throats, headaches and toothaches. You can repeat the dose every 6 to 8 hours, as needed. Do not use more than 4 times per day.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">o For more information please visit ChildrensAdvil.com or contact a customer service representative toll-free at: 800-88-ADVIL or 800-882-3845, Monday-Friday; 9:00AM-5:00PM EST or write to Product Quality, Pfizer Consumer Healthcare, P.O. Box 26609, Richmond, VA 23261-6609.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>What if my child has a fever?</strong></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A fever is the body’s way of responding to an infection and can make your child uncomfortable and irritable. It is important to gauge your child’s fever accurately. Your child has a fever if his or her temperature reaches 100° F when measured orally or in the ear, or if the temperature reaches 100.4° F when measured rectally, or if the temperature reaches 99° F when measured under the arm.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Encourage your child to drink lots of fluids when he or she has a fever. A fever can cause your child to lose fluids and may lead to dehydration. Water, soup, ice pops or flavored gelatin are all helpful.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>How do I know if the cold is severe enough to call the doctor?</strong> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you are worried about your child’s cold, you should call your doctor. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>What is the difference between a summer cold and allergy symptoms?</strong></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Both colds and allergies can cause nasal congestion -- that's what can make them difficult to tell apart. However, a key difference is itching of the eyes that is commonly seen with allergies.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>What do I need to know about giving my child medication?</strong> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">o Read package labels carefully. Make sure you are giving your child the right amount of medicine.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">o For liquid medicines, only use the measuring device that comes with that particular product to be sure you give the right dose. An ordinary kitchen teaspoon may not hold the right amount of medicine.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">o You should use all medications according to the label directions and speak with your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>What’s the best way to prevent future colds?</strong></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are preventative measures parents and children can take to reduce their risk for colds, including:</span><br />
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</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">o Wash your hands often (as germs spread from a contagious person to a healthy person typically by hand) or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">o Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and maintain body fluid levels</span><br />
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</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">o Get plenty of rest</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">o Spend time outdoors because it is more common to catch a cold indoors rather than outdoors. Air conditioned environments and tight closed spaces, such as airplanes, pose many virus-sharing risks and ultimately increase the likelihood of catching a cold. Also, the sun’s ultraviolet rays can kill cold viruses </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Brands herein are trademarks of their respective owners.</span></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong>Need more information?</strong></span> </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span> </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Go to </span><a href="http://www.advil.com/childrensadvilsolutions/index.asp"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://www.advil.com/childrensadvilsolutions/index.asp</span></a> </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> </div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You can also vist </span><a href="https://www.wyethallbrands.com/coupon_registration.aspx?OfferNumber=Xgv2KKRnz75vfrapS32sQw%3d%3d"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Coupon Offer</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> to register for a $1 off coupon towards your next purchase of Children's Advil.</span> <br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">***Disclaimer - Please note that I am currenting working with <strong><em>Pfizer</em></strong> and <strong><em>Children's Advil</em></strong> on this campaign.</span></div>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11342438278933107502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7531563387067588194.post-31541312760829899662010-03-17T10:14:00.000-07:002010-03-17T10:14:58.943-07:00SPRING...A Time for Cleaning...of YOU!<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, the weather is gorgeous, warm and sunny and I am so excited for Spring and Summer to arrive. Let's just say I am not a fan of snow! As you can tell from my lack of blogging, I tend to hybernate in the winter and come alive in the warmer months.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">After starting my own business this year and having many of the pieces of my life fall into place, I have decided once again to take a crack at changing my health and body for the better. I am sick of feeling tired all the time and that's definitely not me. I am supposed to be the life of the party! LOL! It's a Gemini thing! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">I was watching yet another PBS special...which by the way I highly recommend. They are fantastic and feature a vast number of my favorite authors. But this one in particular got my attention due to the changes I am trying to make in my life...but then again I am always looking for the "next steps". If you don't grow...you die.</span><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg1jIMATtD6EqZvHM2oHSj2faIAVuIIh2wWHrhph7jK1XKGOl3oto2eKCIbvwElmg7F9hhth3BY9646WmFs40np6xxAbhn3wkuz-zPdi4cQUmX5sGmLluWOVQbXXZdJjz43urKigvQHZk/s1600-h/Change+Book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg1jIMATtD6EqZvHM2oHSj2faIAVuIIh2wWHrhph7jK1XKGOl3oto2eKCIbvwElmg7F9hhth3BY9646WmFs40np6xxAbhn3wkuz-zPdi4cQUmX5sGmLluWOVQbXXZdJjz43urKigvQHZk/s320/Change+Book.jpg" vt="true" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial;">Ok, so where was I? Oh yes...PBS...Dr. Daniel Amen was on. He is a physician, child and adult psychiatrist, brain imaging specialist, bestselling author, Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and the CEO and medical director of Amen Clinics, Inc. (ACI) in Newport Beach and Fairfield, California, Tacoma, Washington and Reston, Virginia . He has a new book and special entitle, <strong><em>Change Your Brain, Change Your Body</em></strong> which is truly facinating. It's about using your brain to get and keep the body you have always wanted. </span></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">For more information go to: <a href="http://www.amenclinics.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=249">http://www.amenclinics.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=249</a>. </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">To take the FREE online tests go to: </span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.amenclinics.com/cybcyb/online-tests-calculators/"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://www.amenclinics.com/cybcyb/online-tests-calculators/</span></a> </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These are amazing and are really key in helping you understand your brain and body.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">After staying up way past my bedtime for this, I began to realize why I ate the foods I was eating and what was stopping me from truly getting healthy. Everyone has a different perspective on what "healthy" is, but for me it is having my "dream body", being thin, great skin, an abundance of energy and being physically active every day. It's not having to drag my butt out of bed every morning feeling still tired from the 8 hours sleep I did get and about putting things in my body that are all natural and not processed and loaded with hormones, perservatives, salt, sugars and fats.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">So, I went shopping the other night and proceeded to buy Eggplant, Squash, Cucumbers, Lettuces, Tomatoes, Plums, Peaches, Berries, Carrots, Nuts, Natural Cheeses, Whole Grains, beans, water, green tea, lean chicken and fish (I don't eat red meat, so that's not a problem.). It's been two days and I already feel so much better...now I just have to drag my butt to the gym everyday or at least find the time and energy to work out everyday. I'm getting there.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">I've never been really overweight or completely out of shape, but I've never been to my ultimate healthy potential and that's not ok by me. This past year, I did pack on some pounds and stopped going to the gym and it really had an effect on me...one I was not happy with. This summer I intend to be proud of my body, be active every day, be filled with energy and set and example for my daughter and those around me. My daughter has already started to eat better as well and that's a definitely plus from the soda and cookies.</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Oh, one last thing...my snack/meal of the day. I made this yesterday for lunch and it was actually really good!</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">6-9 Triscuts</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">2 Laughing Cow Light Swiss Chees Wedges</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">European Cucumber slices</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Spread a tab of cheese on a cracker and place a cucumber slice on top. Delicious!</span></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><span style="font-family: Arial;">Only 180-260 calories depending on cracker amount. If you want to reduce your calories more, opt for the reduce fat Triscuts. These were the regular ones. I got whole grains, protein and a vegetable. And it was yummy!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial;">Check back soon for more cool recipes and resources to help you with your Spring Cleaning of YOU! Wish me luck!</span>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11342438278933107502noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7531563387067588194.post-58219011954927453532009-09-20T19:24:00.000-07:002009-09-21T07:39:02.944-07:00DECISIONS...DECISIONS...DECISIONS. PLEASE VOTE ON A RECIPE!!!PLEASE VOTE!!!<br />
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Ok, so a couple of weeks ago, I told you that I was inspired to start cooking at least once a week and that Betty Crocker was going to help me. Well...it's been two weeks and still no cooking...no Betty Crocker. Due to my usual procrastination and my fear of blowing up the kitchen and making something as my daughter would say was...Ewww...Gross, I have not started on my culinary journey. However, that does not mean I am giving up.<br />
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I need you, my readers to help me decide what my first attempt at a "real" dinner should be. As discussed, I will NOT be <em>Mastering the Art of French Cooking</em>, so PLEASE no Julia Child's recipes! In doing some research I have discovered a delightful, fun, down-to-earth, home-made chef that can help me...supposedly in 30 minutes...Rachel Ray. Now, she makes cooking look fun and easy, but until I attempt this task, I reserve the right to remain judgemental. I also am still giving Betty Crocker some love!<br />
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So, below, I have listed three recipes that seem easy enough for my first attempt. If all goes well, I will increase the level of difficulty. So, here is where you come in...<br />
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I need you to comment below and VOTE for the first recipe you think I should make. I will tally the votes and make that dish on Sunday 9/27/09. It is in your hands...BE GENTLE!!!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJvEpa-hReKhxhS4KaJ6NZvrl2dt_UG8h-ooH4bI60DZrZt3UgGTOwBBtF-tCd0g7CjMNUkM3T7iVGX2nE4Pa8Q7AevE2Iv7lR_3BW6xt4Fd4o6wdu6GQfKrGFGvz8Wf1nPEMjRFhRSRI/s1600-h/RR+RPT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" iq="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJvEpa-hReKhxhS4KaJ6NZvrl2dt_UG8h-ooH4bI60DZrZt3UgGTOwBBtF-tCd0g7CjMNUkM3T7iVGX2nE4Pa8Q7AevE2Iv7lR_3BW6xt4Fd4o6wdu6GQfKrGFGvz8Wf1nPEMjRFhRSRI/s320/RR+RPT.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><strong>Recipe #1</strong><br />
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<strong><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">Rachel Ray's Ratatouille Pasta Toss</span></strong><br />
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<a href="http://tinyurl.com/lfkjyj"><strong>http://tinyurl.com/lfkjyj</strong></a><br />
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Ingredients:<br />
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Salt <br />
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1 pound rigatoni <br />
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1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO), 4 turns of the pan <br />
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4 garlic cloves, crushed <br />
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1 pound zucchini, diced <br />
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1 pound eggplant, diced <br />
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1 large yellow onion, diced <br />
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Freshly ground pepper <br />
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3 whole roasted red peppers, fresh, or canned, drained <br />
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1/2 cup dry white wine, chicken stock or vegetable stock (a couple of glugs) <br />
<br />
One 15-ounce can crushed tomatoes <br />
<br />
A handful of flat-leaf parsley, chopped <br />
<br />
10 leaves fresh basil, shredded or torn <br />
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Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano cheese <br />
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Crusty bread, to pass around at the table <br />
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Directions:<br />
<br />
1.Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add salt and then cook the pasta until al dente. <br />
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2.While the pasta is working, heat a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the EVOO (4 turns of the pan), garlic, zucchini, eggplant and onion. Season the vegetables with salt and pepper and cook for 10 minutes, giving the skillet a good shake, often. <br />
3.Coarsely chop the roasted red peppers and add them to a food processor. Puree the peppers until almost smooth.<br />
4.Deglaze the veggies with the wine, then stir in the roasted red pepper puree and tomatoes. Heat the sauce through and adjust the salt and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 5 minutes, then drain the pasta and add it to the skillet. Toss the sauce and pasta together with the chopped parsley and basil. Serve with grated cheese and crusty bread.<br />
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<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-FUlbZP7622VOjwMoFa1i0NPbVG7cOvCTUIkz40GRxkphB6N_8AL_QZoKbJQIRkrMsEzLTj-nn6Xb8vA6fqUh5aFUshIndZE05LrqPWQlTmungePCaqZRpNK3JIcp5wX1IMeMsQNPDV0/s1600-h/RR+TCR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" iq="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-FUlbZP7622VOjwMoFa1i0NPbVG7cOvCTUIkz40GRxkphB6N_8AL_QZoKbJQIRkrMsEzLTj-nn6Xb8vA6fqUh5aFUshIndZE05LrqPWQlTmungePCaqZRpNK3JIcp5wX1IMeMsQNPDV0/s320/RR+TCR.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><strong>Recipe #2</strong><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #e69138; font-size: large;">Rachel Ray's Tuscan Cacciatore Risotto</span></strong><br />
<br />
<a href="http://tinyurl.com/my4vcp"><strong>http://tinyurl.com/my4vcp</strong></a><br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
<br />
<br />
One bottle (750 ml) dry red wine <br />
<br />
3 cups beef broth <br />
<br />
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) <br />
<br />
¼ pound pancetta or bacon, chopped <br />
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2 portobello mushroom caps, finely chopped <br />
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1 onion, chopped <br />
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4 cloves garlic, finely chopped <br />
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2 pinches crushed red pepper <br />
<br />
1½ cups arborio rice <br />
<br />
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh rosemary <br />
<br />
2 tablespoons tomato paste <br />
<br />
Salt and freshly ground pepper <br />
<br />
1 pound boneless chicken thighs, chopped into bite-size pieces <br />
<br />
½ cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano cheese (a couple of generous handfuls), plus more to pass around the table <br />
<br />
Directions:<br />
<br />
1.In a medium saucepan, bring the wine and broth to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low to keep warm. <br />
2.In a deep, large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon EVOO, 1 turn of the pan, over medium-high heat. Add the pancetta and cook, stirring occasionally, until crisp, 7 to 8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the pancetta to a plate; set aside. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons EVOO, 2 turns of the pan, the mushrooms, onion, garlic and crushed red pepper to the skillet and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in the rice until coated with the oil and slightly toasted, about 2 minutes. Stir in the rosemary and tomato paste, season with salt and pepper and cook for 1 minute. <br />
<br />
3.Reduce the heat to medium and stir a ladle or 2 of the warm broth mixture into the risotto every few minutes until absorbed. After about 7 minutes, stir in the chicken along with some broth. Continue to add the broth gradually, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon to make a creamy consistency, until the rice is al dente, about 22 minutes. Stir in the cheese and adjust the seasoning. Serve the risotto in shallow bowls topped with the reserved pancetta bits. Pass more cheese around the table.<br />
<br />
<strong>Recipe #3</strong> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPsRxAJj-5JXeNee47BJzvYqeEFs7ZwZE1nJ4yfNs14r_6Ru0VhNzJn6SN7WWGiP4W8z4flHkHXvmNILVJnUAJNkuE8ido3Nma44gRhCalCt7xIC0x0WsfL3rcMfrxxGYrV-jTXC7CcnQ/s1600-h/BC+HCD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" iq="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPsRxAJj-5JXeNee47BJzvYqeEFs7ZwZE1nJ4yfNs14r_6Ru0VhNzJn6SN7WWGiP4W8z4flHkHXvmNILVJnUAJNkuE8ido3Nma44gRhCalCt7xIC0x0WsfL3rcMfrxxGYrV-jTXC7CcnQ/s200/BC+HCD.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><br />
<strong><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">Betty Crocker's Home-Style Chicken Dinner</span></strong> <br />
<a href="http://tinyurl.com/mkfwsa">http://tinyurl.com/mkfwsa</a> <br />
<strong><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"></span></strong> <br />
1 tablespoon butter or margarine <br />
<br />
4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (1 1/4 pounds) <br />
<br />
1/2 teaspoon salt <br />
<br />
1/4 teaspoon pepper, if desired <br />
<br />
3/4 cup water <br />
<br />
1 envelope (0.87 ounce) chicken gravy mix <br />
<br />
1 bag (14 ounces) frozen baby whole potatoes, broccoli, carrots, baby corn and red pepper strips <br />
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1 jar (4.5 ounces) Green Giant® sliced mushrooms, drained <br />
<br />
Chopped fresh chives or parsley, if desired<br />
<br />
<br />
1. Melt butter in 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper. Cook chicken in butter 15 to 20 minutes, turning once, until juice is no longer pink when centers of thickest pieces are cut. Remove chicken from skillet; keep warm. <br />
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2. Mix water and gravy mix (dry) in small bowl; pour into same skillet. Stir in frozen vegetables and mushrooms. Heat to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer uncovered about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until largest pieces of potatoes are hot. Add chicken; cover and simmer about 2 minutes or until chicken is heated through. <br />
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3. Serve vegetable and gravy mixture over chicken. Sprinkle with chives.<br />
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<strong>PLEASE CAST YOUR VOTE!!!</strong> Click the <strong>COMMENT LINK</strong> below to cast your vote!!!<br />
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Thanks for all the help!!!Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11342438278933107502noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7531563387067588194.post-54278682701342642302009-09-07T11:13:00.000-07:002009-09-07T19:42:34.068-07:00THE JULIE/JULIA PROJECTSo, it's been awhile and I apologize to my ummm...two readers...lol...for not being more on top of my blog. Life has gotten very busy...but in a great way...ON MY TERMS! There is no better way, I believe then having a very FULL life but on your own terms.<br />
<br />
But enough about that...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqFtuHJbFdYRZQ82rloeqiImhi3Xf6MOfgdB301aRzFYg26jntrTnYXWjRKj3NOOCDeM598JV5n4SzUUF8ed7fCStqpwG1oMF2YKPOoalwXD_GssV4yWrNaBcMJxbd3ISoyEm3CEGvlgk/s1600-h/julia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" lk="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqFtuHJbFdYRZQ82rloeqiImhi3Xf6MOfgdB301aRzFYg26jntrTnYXWjRKj3NOOCDeM598JV5n4SzUUF8ed7fCStqpwG1oMF2YKPOoalwXD_GssV4yWrNaBcMJxbd3ISoyEm3CEGvlgk/s400/julia.jpg" /></a></div>After seeing The Julie/Julia Project for the second time last night, and loving it that much more, it has not only inspired me and thousands of other people apparently to want to cook, but to blog. It made me realize I have been ignoring my "baby" and really need to focus on bringing you...whoever you are?...the best observations of life, I have. It may not mean anything to most of you, but if it sparks something in even one of you...then this will all be worth it.<br />
<br />
So back to the cooking part. I have wanted to REALLY learn how to cook forever. I even put in on my New Year's Resolution list this year. I think it would be great to serve my daughter food that didn't come from pushing a few buttons on the microwave or have the words "drive-thru" attached to it! However, the reality is, that cooking for the both of us is like cooking for one person that eats like a bird! Needless to say, we don't eat a lot!!! I have considered bringing the left-overs to my Taco-Bell, Papa John's, McDonald's eating boyfriend to stop the fast-food obsession!!! Again, the reality says, how often will that happen and my kitchen isn't big enough for Ratatouille to cook in, let alone ME!<br />
<br />
But still...I am somehow inspired to want something other than a Rancharo Chicken Soft Taco for dinner every night and would be proud of myself if I could actually make something healthy that tasted great! Don't get me wrong...I am NOT about to cook 524 recipes from Julia Child's Cookbook, but attempting to once a week go to seek Betty Crocker's help in the kitchen would not be a bad thing.<br />
<br />
I am not the recipe-following, follow the rules, in-the-box kind of girl, so I guess that is why the cooking thing never really appealed to me. Too regimented!!! I like to fly by the seat of my pants and see what happens and I have certainly found out that in the kitchen...that can be disastrous if you have NO CLUE what you are doing!<br />
<br />
So bottom line, I am inspired. Inspired to write...inspired to cook...and inspired to go for my dreams!!! The movie will definitely leave you feeling like you can do anything. For those of you who haven't see it...I suggest you do. I think it is very relateable for most people on some level.<br />
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Betty Crocker here I come! I will keep you posted on my progress. I am not making any promises or deadlines. I am just attempting to...once a week cook something that didn't come from a box, a package or a drive-thru and that in itself will be a MAJOR accomplishment!!!<br />
<br />
WISH ME LUCK!!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11342438278933107502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7531563387067588194.post-67013722726672979542009-07-06T11:04:00.000-07:002009-07-06T11:47:15.960-07:00FACEBOOK - YOU CAN BECOME A FAN OF ANYTHING!With the social media craze in full swing, it is not surprising that children and PARENTS spend an unbelieveable amount of time online. Between Facebook, Myspace, Twitter, LinkedIn, Digg, and the list goes on...people have a plethora of sites to chat with friends, co-workers and anyone who will listen to what the had for breakfast, where they are headed to and what has got them laughing or pissed off on this particular day, making REAL conversations practically obsolete.<br /><br />However, what I find most amusing about social media is all of the groups and fan pages you can join to express yourself and your overwhelming interests in well...EVERYTHING!!!<br /><br />It was my 12 year old daughter who inspired this post. She started to tell me about all of the groups she was a fan of on Facebook. Some of them were just too good not to let the general public know about!<br /><br />She has informed me that she has joined 42 fan pages/groups on loving coffee. There were many more, however, she though after 42 it was a bit much! Ya think??? I know she loves coffee (my mother's fault, not mine. I am a tea drinker) but if one fan page wasn't enough to convey this love, she wanted to let her friends know of her coffee obssesion, which I believe she has succeeded in expressing this.<br /><br />In addition to the unhealthy love of coffee, she has become a fan of pages like: I hate Mosquitoes (Big Fan!), That's What She Said (concerned about this!), Cookie Dough, S'Mores, Bubble Wrap, Texting (of course!), I Hate One Word Text Messages, Laughing When Someone Falls (in which over 2.3 million people are fans of...disturbing yet very funny!), Thunderstorms, F My Life (again concerned here) and she even told me of a fan pages, Walking the Wrong Way on Escalators and Fliping the Pillow Over to Get the Cold Side which almost 3 million people are fans of! Seriously!<br /><br />I am going to create a fan page for I hate Men Who Don't Cut Their Toe Nails (and then proceed to wear open-toes sandals) which surprisingly there is no page for that! Gross! That is a subway story for another day!<br /><br />Then of course there are the traditional fan pages for your typical musicians, celebrities and companies. If you are one of those and don't have a Facebook or Twiiter page, you basically don't exsist in this day and age.<br /><br />I think social media is a excellent way to communicate with millions of people and distribute information in a micro-second. I also think it is a fantastic way to express yourself...like in your own blog per say. :)<br /><br />So, the next time you are on Facebook and want to tell the world what you are a fan of, just search the cooky Facebook pages and you will be amazed at what you come across. At the very least, it will definitely bring a smile to your face!Jenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11342438278933107502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7531563387067588194.post-68798115516970434502009-06-28T11:22:00.001-07:002009-06-28T11:41:50.467-07:00Live Life To The FullestWith all the celebrity death this week...Ed McMahon, Farah Fawcett, Michael Jackson, and now Billy Mays, and someone dying in my family, it started me thinking about LIFE. Suddenly, all the little things that we complain about everyday mean nothing and how every minute I spend with my daughter, my boyfriend, my family and friends should be cherished because you never know when your minutes will run out. It might be corny or obvious to some, but I believe the world is made up of people just trying to "get through the day" instead of enjoying each one that comes...and that's sad.<br /><br />I'm not being hypocritical. I am just as guilty of letting everyday life get in the way of living...the bills, money, the driver who cut me off yesterday, the driver who couldn't find the gas pedal when I was in a rush to get to my next destination on my to-do list, the laundry that needs to get done, etc. etc. etc. The list goes on and on. No one is saying to ignore all of your everyday responsibilities, but stop for a moment and enjoy the fact that...your still breathing!<br /><br />Any day above ground is a good day!<br /><br />With that, I need to take my own advice and enjoy today. Enjoy the fact that the sun is trying to come out and it's NOT raining! That in and of itself is reason to celebrate! If you live in New York, you would completely understand! Enjoy the fact that it's Sunday and I'm healthy and I have people in my life that care about me and I have people to care about.<br /><br />So today, take a moment to be grateful you're alive and for all that you do have in your life. Your life may not be perfect...in fact...I can probably bet it's not...no one's is. But it's your life and you still have it to live and that is something to be grateful for today. Focus on the good, not the bad and see how much better you feel.<br /><br />I promise...it works!!!<br /><br />Till tomorrow...SMILE!!! It increases face value!!!<br /><br />-JenniferJenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11342438278933107502noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7531563387067588194.post-68309677683715048902009-06-28T10:18:00.001-07:002009-06-28T10:32:33.674-07:00The Start of Something Great!As you will see in my profile, I started this blog as a creative outlet to vent about life and share my experiences...the good, the bad, and the ugly. I then realized that this would serve a much greater purpose...to communicate in a real, down-to-earth way my opinions and reviews of life and all that is part of it. It is an umbrella for life revelations, obeservations, product reviews and everyday humor you find in the little things.<br /><br />In this day and age, I believe everyone needs a little inspiration and humor...I know I do. Let's face it, times are hard, the ecconomy is bad, celebrities are dying and the rain in New York hasn't stopped for a day in June! It's depressing! I wanted to create a community where people can comment and share their experiences and I can supply some happiness and new information to the monotony of everday life.<br /><br />I want to bring you new ideas, new ways of thinking, new music and art, new books, and just some NEW to the mondane and everyday. Do something different today.<br /><br />"We get caught up in making a living, instead of designing a life." - Tony Robbins<br /><br />So for all of those people who want to a bright side, a laugh, a smile, or just a new way of thinking...I look forward to starting this journey with you. It will be a great ride.<br /><br />- JenniferJenniferhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11342438278933107502noreply@blogger.com0