2010 is quickly approaching and with it a new decade, and hope breathes in all of us for the new year to be better in some way. We all have the ability to make positive changes in our lives and here are some tips to help you stick to your New Years Resolution:
1. Don't bite off more than you can realistically chew. Start with the principle that one and only one resolution at a time is required.
2. Break the change down into small manageable steps. Use a chart or other visual manifestation of the tasks you will need to accomplish to reach your goal. For instance, if you want to lose weight, break down the goals by number of hours to exercise - increasing the amount of time you exercise as more time passes. Or think of how much weight you want to lose per month or per quarter. Remember this is a New YEARS resolution - you can take all year to reach your goal.
3. Visualize the positive end result. Put pictures around your home that reflect the end goal you want to achieve. There is no big "secret" relative to the attraction theory that you can achieve what you want by focusing on it, visualizing the goal and as a result, motivating your actions to achieve it.
4. Ask others to help you achieve your goal - ask them for their support or assistance. Having a support network can be extremely helpful.
5. As you move forward and the old familiar rationalizations pop back into your head, tune them out and start telling yourself positive and motivating statements.
6. If you do slip up a bit, don't punish yourself - instead be kind to yourself (as you would a child who made a simple mistake), forgive yourself and move forward. Each day allows you start over if you allow yourself to do so.
7. Have faith in yourself. You can do anything if you set your mind on that goal. Remember, it is never to late to make changes in our lives and become the person we truly want to be.
Good luck and we wish you a happy and prosperous New Year in 2010!
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Dear Just Be: I want to be more organized in 2010. Do you have any tips?
That is a great resolution, who can’t be more organized? Below are six steps in getting organized and staying organized.
1.) Acknowledge that it isn’t just fancy boxes and devices that will help you become organized and stay organized, but a change in habit. Like many things in life, you have to change your mind set. You won’t succeed if you don’t really want to change.
2.) Make a plan. Write down which area or rooms you want to tackle. In the plan decide what the purpose of that area or room is. Is it to be an office, a sitting/reading area, craft room, etc.
3.) Go into each room/area and jot down what the problem is (a pile of mail, clothes all over the floor) and why it isn’t working. Is it lack of closet space, tools, items that don’t fit the purpose of the area or room? If you are trying to create a relaxing reading room then a video game console or foosball table is not right for that space. Once you have analyzed the problem then develop solutions.
4.) Implement your plan. Don’t bite off too much; just work on a section of a room or area at a time. Trying to tackle too much at a time can be overwhelming and that will more than likely deter you from becoming organized and staying organized. De-clutter the room or space by throwing away or donating items you don’t use. Don’t purchase containers or dividers that are going to be too difficult to use.
5.) Invite people over. Inviting people over to show off your new space or the progress of the new space will motivate you to get organized. Asking a friend or family member to help with organizing a space can also get you motivated with your project. Like a work out buddy, friends and family are great motivators.
6.) Each day or at least once a week take a few minutes and straighten out areas or rooms. If you see mail or clothes piling up go through it or put things away. This may seem like it will take too much time, but it is not nearly as much time as spending half a day or a whole weekend de-cluttering and reorganizing a room or area.
Again, keep in mind that becoming and staying organized is not something that happens over night. It is a change in habit and way of thinking. If you take little steps and approach your plan with a different mind set you will succeed.
1.) Acknowledge that it isn’t just fancy boxes and devices that will help you become organized and stay organized, but a change in habit. Like many things in life, you have to change your mind set. You won’t succeed if you don’t really want to change.
2.) Make a plan. Write down which area or rooms you want to tackle. In the plan decide what the purpose of that area or room is. Is it to be an office, a sitting/reading area, craft room, etc.
3.) Go into each room/area and jot down what the problem is (a pile of mail, clothes all over the floor) and why it isn’t working. Is it lack of closet space, tools, items that don’t fit the purpose of the area or room? If you are trying to create a relaxing reading room then a video game console or foosball table is not right for that space. Once you have analyzed the problem then develop solutions.
4.) Implement your plan. Don’t bite off too much; just work on a section of a room or area at a time. Trying to tackle too much at a time can be overwhelming and that will more than likely deter you from becoming organized and staying organized. De-clutter the room or space by throwing away or donating items you don’t use. Don’t purchase containers or dividers that are going to be too difficult to use.
5.) Invite people over. Inviting people over to show off your new space or the progress of the new space will motivate you to get organized. Asking a friend or family member to help with organizing a space can also get you motivated with your project. Like a work out buddy, friends and family are great motivators.
6.) Each day or at least once a week take a few minutes and straighten out areas or rooms. If you see mail or clothes piling up go through it or put things away. This may seem like it will take too much time, but it is not nearly as much time as spending half a day or a whole weekend de-cluttering and reorganizing a room or area.
Again, keep in mind that becoming and staying organized is not something that happens over night. It is a change in habit and way of thinking. If you take little steps and approach your plan with a different mind set you will succeed.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Dear Just Be: How can I make this time of year less stressful?
The end of the year is upon us and many of us are getting ready for New Years Eve events, clearing out closets, drawers, etc. to begin the new year off with a clean start or tying up year-end tasks. At work, there may be end-of the-year reports you are preparing. All of this can add up to a decent amount of stress. Starting out the new year already stressed is not what any of us wants.
There are a variety of relaxation techniques you can incorporate into your life to reduce stress levels. Try out a yoga or tai chi class at your local gym, or buy a DVD to follow along in your own home. (Check out your local library, many libraries carry a wide selection of work-out videos including yoga or tai chi.)
Other techniques include meditation, visualization, deep breathing and muscle relaxation. To get the most out of these techniques, it is advised you set aside 10-30 minutes every day to practice. To make the practice really work, first schedule a set time either once or twice a day for your practice. You may find that it’s easier to stick with your practice if you do it first thing in the morning, before other tasks and responsibilities get in the way. Second, do not practice when you are sleepy. You'll get better results if you are wide awake and alert during your practice. Lastly, choose a technique that appeals to you, your lifestyle and level of fitness.
Though there are many techniques you can use, we suggest a practice of deep breathing, which is easy to learn and can be practiced almost anywhere.
The key to deep breathing is to breathe deeply from the abdomen, getting as much fresh air as possible in your lungs. When you take deep breaths from the abdomen, rather than shallow breaths from your upper chest, you inhale more oxygen. The more oxygen you get, the less tense, short of breath, and anxious you feel. So the next time you feel stressed, take a minute to slow down and breathe deeply:
1. Sit comfortably with your back straight. Put one hand on your chest and the other on your stomach.
2. Breathe in through your nose. The hand on your stomach should rise. The hand on your chest should move very little.
3. Exhale through your mouth, pushing out as much air as you can while contracting your abdominal muscles. The hand on your stomach should move in as you exhale, but your other hand should move very little.
4. Continue to breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. Try to inhale enough so that your lower abdomen rises and falls. Count slowly as you exhale.
If you have a hard time breathing from your abdomen while sitting up, try lying on the floor. Put a small book on your stomach, and try to breathe so that the book rises as you inhale and falls as you exhale.
Rest, relax and unwind so you can start off the new year stress free!
There are a variety of relaxation techniques you can incorporate into your life to reduce stress levels. Try out a yoga or tai chi class at your local gym, or buy a DVD to follow along in your own home. (Check out your local library, many libraries carry a wide selection of work-out videos including yoga or tai chi.)
Other techniques include meditation, visualization, deep breathing and muscle relaxation. To get the most out of these techniques, it is advised you set aside 10-30 minutes every day to practice. To make the practice really work, first schedule a set time either once or twice a day for your practice. You may find that it’s easier to stick with your practice if you do it first thing in the morning, before other tasks and responsibilities get in the way. Second, do not practice when you are sleepy. You'll get better results if you are wide awake and alert during your practice. Lastly, choose a technique that appeals to you, your lifestyle and level of fitness.
Though there are many techniques you can use, we suggest a practice of deep breathing, which is easy to learn and can be practiced almost anywhere.
The key to deep breathing is to breathe deeply from the abdomen, getting as much fresh air as possible in your lungs. When you take deep breaths from the abdomen, rather than shallow breaths from your upper chest, you inhale more oxygen. The more oxygen you get, the less tense, short of breath, and anxious you feel. So the next time you feel stressed, take a minute to slow down and breathe deeply:
1. Sit comfortably with your back straight. Put one hand on your chest and the other on your stomach.
2. Breathe in through your nose. The hand on your stomach should rise. The hand on your chest should move very little.
3. Exhale through your mouth, pushing out as much air as you can while contracting your abdominal muscles. The hand on your stomach should move in as you exhale, but your other hand should move very little.
4. Continue to breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. Try to inhale enough so that your lower abdomen rises and falls. Count slowly as you exhale.
If you have a hard time breathing from your abdomen while sitting up, try lying on the floor. Put a small book on your stomach, and try to breathe so that the book rises as you inhale and falls as you exhale.
Rest, relax and unwind so you can start off the new year stress free!
Monday, December 28, 2009
Dear Just Be: Do you have any New Years Eve ideas?
Like many I'm sure, thinking about New Years Eve doesn't occur until the day before or the day of. But not this year. Below are a few ideas on what to do to ring in 2010. These ideas range from fancy to casual and from LoDo to the DTC.
- Ritz Carlton – White Rose Gala 9. (Formal and Upscale)
- Tango Du Masque - Grand KC Ballroom (Formal)
- Hyatt Regency DTC - Champagne Hotel NYE 2010 (Semi-formal)
- Tryst Lounge – Tryst’s NYE Soiree (Semi-formal)
- Wynkoop Brewing Company & Impulse Theater-NYE 2010 (Casual)
- Comedy Works – Downtown with Billy D Washington or South at the Landmark with Rocky LaPorte (Casual)
- Lucky Strike Lanes and Lounge - Denver Pavilions (Casual)
Thanks for the great questions. We hope to have twice as many in 2010. Happy New Year!
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Dear Just Be: I have a large family gathering for Christmas Eve and don't know if we should open gifts tonight or wait until morning. Help!
Ahhh...the age-old question....when do most people open their Christmas gifts? Christmas Eve? Christmas Day?
While I was growing up my parents allowed my brother and I to open gifts that had arrived from out-of-state (from aunts, uncles, grandparents, etc) on Christmas Eve. All other gifts had to wait until Christmas morning. I am not entirely sure of the reasoning behind this tradition, but my brother and I always liked being able to open something on Christmas Eve, but saved much of our anticipation for the following morning.
But there are many cultural traditions that may help answer this question....
If your family members are from Argentina, Austria, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Quebec, Romania, Uruguay, Sweden or Switzerland you may want to opt to open gifts on Christmas Eve in keeping with those countries traditions.
However, in Italy, the United Kingdom, Ireland, English Canada, South Africa, New Zealand and Australia people typically open gifts the morning of Christmas Day. The tradition in some Latin American countries is to stay awake until midnight on Christmas Eve and open presents at that time.
Aside from cultural preferences, you may want to keep in mind the other activities planned for Christmas Eve. Will you have a large meal? Are you planning to attend a church service? Will there be enough time for everyone to open gifts? You may want to ask guests if they have a preference and make sure everyone is aware of the tradition you will be following.
Whatever you decide, we here at Just Be want to wish you and yours a "Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night."
While I was growing up my parents allowed my brother and I to open gifts that had arrived from out-of-state (from aunts, uncles, grandparents, etc) on Christmas Eve. All other gifts had to wait until Christmas morning. I am not entirely sure of the reasoning behind this tradition, but my brother and I always liked being able to open something on Christmas Eve, but saved much of our anticipation for the following morning.
But there are many cultural traditions that may help answer this question....
If your family members are from Argentina, Austria, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Quebec, Romania, Uruguay, Sweden or Switzerland you may want to opt to open gifts on Christmas Eve in keeping with those countries traditions.
However, in Italy, the United Kingdom, Ireland, English Canada, South Africa, New Zealand and Australia people typically open gifts the morning of Christmas Day. The tradition in some Latin American countries is to stay awake until midnight on Christmas Eve and open presents at that time.
Aside from cultural preferences, you may want to keep in mind the other activities planned for Christmas Eve. Will you have a large meal? Are you planning to attend a church service? Will there be enough time for everyone to open gifts? You may want to ask guests if they have a preference and make sure everyone is aware of the tradition you will be following.
Whatever you decide, we here at Just Be want to wish you and yours a "Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night."
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Dear Just Be: I'd like to treat my family to homemade eggnog...do you have an easy recipe?
So many of us have long-time family traditions at the holidays and one of those in my family was to sit around the fireplace on Christmas Eve and enjoy a small glass of eggnog together. We'd have Christmas music playing in the background while we played a family game or we'd watch a family Christmas show on the television. Whatever we did that evening it didn't really matter; we were guaranteed the treat of eggnog while we enjoyed each others company.
A number of years ago I stumbled upon this fairly easy to make eggnog recipe and it was a hit with my family and friends. I hope you enjoy it as well!
6 beaten eggs
2 1/4 cups milk
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons sugar
1 cup cream
4 teaspoons cinnamon
Stir together first 3 ingredients in large heavy saucepan over medium heat. Simmer until mixture is thick enough to coat spoon. Stir in vanilla and 2 tsp cinnamon (or nutmeg or both). Remove from heat and cool. Chill until very cold, about 4 hours. Meanwhile whip together cream and 2 tablespoons sugar until peaks form. Fold into eggnog mixture.
Pour into small tumbler glasses and sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg before serving.
A number of years ago I stumbled upon this fairly easy to make eggnog recipe and it was a hit with my family and friends. I hope you enjoy it as well!
6 beaten eggs
2 1/4 cups milk
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons sugar
1 cup cream
4 teaspoons cinnamon
Stir together first 3 ingredients in large heavy saucepan over medium heat. Simmer until mixture is thick enough to coat spoon. Stir in vanilla and 2 tsp cinnamon (or nutmeg or both). Remove from heat and cool. Chill until very cold, about 4 hours. Meanwhile whip together cream and 2 tablespoons sugar until peaks form. Fold into eggnog mixture.
Pour into small tumbler glasses and sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg before serving.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Dear Just Be: Any last minute gift ideas?
Christmas is just three days a way, but who is counting?
Well, you probably are counting if you haven’t finished your holiday shopping. If you are one of those looking for last minute gifts then your time is valuable.
Below is a list rather than a paragraph for you to view of the top last minute gift ideas (in no particular order). Happy shopping!
1. Groupon
2. Gourmet Monthly Clubs
3. Gifts for you Now
4. iCARD
5. Kazoo Toys
6. Golf Week
Monday, December 21, 2009
Dear Just Be: Isn't today the Winter Solstice? What does that mean and are there any traditions associated with the event?
Yes, December 21, 2009 marks the Winter Solstice, which is the longest night of the year. North Americans view this event as the beginning of winter. Traditions surrounding the Winter Solstice go back as far as ancient times and the day was (and is) celebrated with fires, singing, dancing and festivals.
The Winter Solstice is a time of transition in the annual war of light vs darkness, cold vs warmth, and abundance vs shortage. To mark this day, bring light and warmth into your home- burn candles and make a fire (or turn on a fire pit outside.) Show appreciation for forthcoming abundance by giving to a food drive, shelter or other organization in need. And test your knowledge of the day by taking this Solstice Quiz.
So rejoice that this shortest day of sunlight, for from here on out we will incrementally have longer days (that is until the summer solstice in June) to enjoy being outside!
For a more specific and scientific explanation of the Winter Solstice, visit the Farmers' Almanac.
The Winter Solstice is a time of transition in the annual war of light vs darkness, cold vs warmth, and abundance vs shortage. To mark this day, bring light and warmth into your home- burn candles and make a fire (or turn on a fire pit outside.) Show appreciation for forthcoming abundance by giving to a food drive, shelter or other organization in need. And test your knowledge of the day by taking this Solstice Quiz.
So rejoice that this shortest day of sunlight, for from here on out we will incrementally have longer days (that is until the summer solstice in June) to enjoy being outside!
For a more specific and scientific explanation of the Winter Solstice, visit the Farmers' Almanac.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Dear Just Be: I need to relax this holiday season but I can't fit in the time to see a massage therapist. Any pointers?
We've all heard that stress and tension can lead to health issues, and that is not a "gift" any of us want this holiday season. So as you feel your stress levels rising and the tension in your neck and shoulders getting worse, take a break - for even a few minutes, and take care of yourself. Allowing ourselves to just a few minutes of relaxation is a gift we can give ourselves and it doesn't cost a cent. (In fact it may prevent other health problems and in fact save you money in the long run!)
First, find a quiet place (even if it is in the bathroom) and sit or lay down in a comfortable position. Focus on breathing; taking deep breaths,inhaling through your nostril and exhaling through your mouth. Let your body relax.
Pay attention to your body....where do you feel tension or tightness? Focus on that area and tense the muscle for 10 seconds and the relax the same muscle for 15 seconds. Repeat this for every uncomfortable muscle from your feet to your head. Some examples of this method include, curling your toes to tense the muscle and then letting of or spreading your toes apart to relax or clenching a fist and then releasing your fist.
Another great technique is to give yourself your own foot massage. Rest one foot on the opposite leg and rub from your toes to your ankle. If you wear high heels, continue the massage up your calves. Sit with your knees bent and feet on the floor. Grasp one ankle, placing your thumb just above your Achilles tendon. Press your thumb into the bottom of your calf muscle, hold for 5 seconds, and release. Move an inch up your calf and repeat the pressure. Continue pressing and releasing until you get to your knee, then switch legs.
Especially important this time of year, when there are many parties to attend and we tend to overeat, is to rub your belly after eating. Place one or both of your palms on your tummy and rub in a clockwise direction. This will aid in digestion and help prevent uncomfortable feelings later.
If you have time and space, grab a tennis ball, place it on the floor and lie on it either between your shoulder blades, in your lower back or hip region. (These are areas called trigger points.) Just lay on the ball, rolling around a bit, to help release the muscle. It may hurt a bit, but shouldn't cause too much pain. If it does cause too much pain, then stop.
You can also use the tennis ball as a tension release in your hands. Squeezing the ball revives tired hands and fingers (from those long computer sessions, or from wrapping gifts!)
Do you experience tension in your shoulders? Give yourself a big bear hug, squeezing and releasing your shoulders three times. You can continue down your arms, repeating this motion, until you reach your wrists.
For more ideas visit Readers Digest.
If you aren't feeling yourself or up to par, you won't be able to enjoy the end of the year festivities. So be sure to take time for yourself and give yourself a small 5-10 minute gift of relaxation and massage!
First, find a quiet place (even if it is in the bathroom) and sit or lay down in a comfortable position. Focus on breathing; taking deep breaths,inhaling through your nostril and exhaling through your mouth. Let your body relax.
Pay attention to your body....where do you feel tension or tightness? Focus on that area and tense the muscle for 10 seconds and the relax the same muscle for 15 seconds. Repeat this for every uncomfortable muscle from your feet to your head. Some examples of this method include, curling your toes to tense the muscle and then letting of or spreading your toes apart to relax or clenching a fist and then releasing your fist.
Another great technique is to give yourself your own foot massage. Rest one foot on the opposite leg and rub from your toes to your ankle. If you wear high heels, continue the massage up your calves. Sit with your knees bent and feet on the floor. Grasp one ankle, placing your thumb just above your Achilles tendon. Press your thumb into the bottom of your calf muscle, hold for 5 seconds, and release. Move an inch up your calf and repeat the pressure. Continue pressing and releasing until you get to your knee, then switch legs.
Especially important this time of year, when there are many parties to attend and we tend to overeat, is to rub your belly after eating. Place one or both of your palms on your tummy and rub in a clockwise direction. This will aid in digestion and help prevent uncomfortable feelings later.
If you have time and space, grab a tennis ball, place it on the floor and lie on it either between your shoulder blades, in your lower back or hip region. (These are areas called trigger points.) Just lay on the ball, rolling around a bit, to help release the muscle. It may hurt a bit, but shouldn't cause too much pain. If it does cause too much pain, then stop.
You can also use the tennis ball as a tension release in your hands. Squeezing the ball revives tired hands and fingers (from those long computer sessions, or from wrapping gifts!)
Do you experience tension in your shoulders? Give yourself a big bear hug, squeezing and releasing your shoulders three times. You can continue down your arms, repeating this motion, until you reach your wrists.
For more ideas visit Readers Digest.
If you aren't feeling yourself or up to par, you won't be able to enjoy the end of the year festivities. So be sure to take time for yourself and give yourself a small 5-10 minute gift of relaxation and massage!
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Dear Just Be: Do you have a simple drink recipe I can make and take to work?
A simple drink recipe is cider.
Combine:
1 gallon of apple cider
1 package Aspen Mulling Spice mix
Serve hot or cold. I prefer hot. Combine these items in a slow cooker, put on warm and walk away. Drinks will be ready in minutes.
A cider that is great for after work: simply replace the apple cider with 1.5 liters of red wine. Again serve hot or cold.
Aspen Mulling Spice packages can be found at your local Hallmark stores and at participating Tony’s Meats & Specialty Foods.
Combine:
1 gallon of apple cider
1 package Aspen Mulling Spice mix
Serve hot or cold. I prefer hot. Combine these items in a slow cooker, put on warm and walk away. Drinks will be ready in minutes.
A cider that is great for after work: simply replace the apple cider with 1.5 liters of red wine. Again serve hot or cold.
Aspen Mulling Spice packages can be found at your local Hallmark stores and at participating Tony’s Meats & Specialty Foods.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Dear Just Be: My family is coming to Denver for the holidays. What fun events can I take them to?
Denver has some fantastic activities and promotions to participate in this holiday season. Listed are just a couple of the activities available for couples, families and friends.
- Denver Zoo Lights
- Denver Botanic Garden Blossom of Lights – This is a great coupon!
- Wonderlights at the Wildlife Experience
- New Year's Eve Fireworks Downtown
- A Christmas Carol at the Denver Center for Performing Arts
- Dickens of a Christmas Train
- Denver Chophouse and Brewery – Unbelievable deal!
- Kevin Taylor’s at the Opera House
- Stueben’s on New Years Eve
- Swingin’ in the New Year with The Denver Brass and Hot Tomatoes
This is just the tip of the iceberg on great ideas for holiday activities. For more ideas and information visit the following websites:
http://www.denverkids.com/
http://www.denver.org/what-to-do/museum-art/denver-new-years-eve
http://www.denver.org/milehighholidays/DealsAndDiscounts.aspx
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Dear Just Be: The kids will soon be on break for the holidays, what can we do to stay active during this time?
Ah yes.....Winter Break! Much anticipated by children and somewhat dreaded by parents who aren't sure how to keep their children occupied and active versus watching TV or playing video games everyday while they are not in school. Not to worry, we have some fun ideas for the whole family this winter!
Luckily we live in a state that has a great deal of sunshine even as we head into the shortest day of the year (Winter Solstice is Monday, Dec. 21). So take advantage of the sunshine...when dressed properly it won't even feel cold to be outside! So grab some walking/hiking shoes, gloves, a hat and coat and head out to one of Denver's great parks - Washington Park is great for people and dog watching and City Park is centrally located. Check out one of the State Parks such as Chatfield, Cherry Creek, Roxborough, Castle Wood Canyon and others for a more outdoorsy, rugged feel. There is a lot of wildlife in these parks so keep your eyes peeled!
Another great idea is to walk around the Denver Zoo (Zoo Lights is running until January 3, 2010 for a fun evening activity), the two different locations of the Botanic Gardens or one of our fine museums. (Plus it can be an educational activity for everyone.)
If walking doesn't get enough energy out of your little ones, think about pulling out the bikes and hitting one of the many trails in the Denver area. If you head into downtown, stop at a coffee shop near Confluence Park and watch the rivers and the people while sipping on a latte or hot chocolate.
We can remember when there was a great ice skating ring downtown at the May D & F building on 16th Street, but is sadly no longer there. But that doesn't mean ice skating isn't available. Check into local small rings throughout town in downtown or Cherry Creek, head up to Evergreen Lake or look into public hours at local ice arenas in Lowry or at the University of Denver. (For more ice skating options, check out Belmar, South Suburan, or more.)
Another fun idea, which can burn calories is to go swimming at a local indoor pool and then warm up afterwards in a whirlpool, steam room or sauna.
And if you want real winter fun....go sledding, have a snowball fight together, make snow angels and you'll be burning calories the whole time.
All of these ideas can be great fun for the entire family and be sure to bring the in-laws and other visiting company along too! There will be plenty of time to sit around fires, eating homemade cookies, listening to holiday music - but you'll feel better if you've had some exercise each day.
Luckily we live in a state that has a great deal of sunshine even as we head into the shortest day of the year (Winter Solstice is Monday, Dec. 21). So take advantage of the sunshine...when dressed properly it won't even feel cold to be outside! So grab some walking/hiking shoes, gloves, a hat and coat and head out to one of Denver's great parks - Washington Park is great for people and dog watching and City Park is centrally located. Check out one of the State Parks such as Chatfield, Cherry Creek, Roxborough, Castle Wood Canyon and others for a more outdoorsy, rugged feel. There is a lot of wildlife in these parks so keep your eyes peeled!
Another great idea is to walk around the Denver Zoo (Zoo Lights is running until January 3, 2010 for a fun evening activity), the two different locations of the Botanic Gardens or one of our fine museums. (Plus it can be an educational activity for everyone.)
If walking doesn't get enough energy out of your little ones, think about pulling out the bikes and hitting one of the many trails in the Denver area. If you head into downtown, stop at a coffee shop near Confluence Park and watch the rivers and the people while sipping on a latte or hot chocolate.
We can remember when there was a great ice skating ring downtown at the May D & F building on 16th Street, but is sadly no longer there. But that doesn't mean ice skating isn't available. Check into local small rings throughout town in downtown or Cherry Creek, head up to Evergreen Lake or look into public hours at local ice arenas in Lowry or at the University of Denver. (For more ice skating options, check out Belmar, South Suburan, or more.)
Another fun idea, which can burn calories is to go swimming at a local indoor pool and then warm up afterwards in a whirlpool, steam room or sauna.
And if you want real winter fun....go sledding, have a snowball fight together, make snow angels and you'll be burning calories the whole time.
All of these ideas can be great fun for the entire family and be sure to bring the in-laws and other visiting company along too! There will be plenty of time to sit around fires, eating homemade cookies, listening to holiday music - but you'll feel better if you've had some exercise each day.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Dear Just Be: Recently I downsized to a smaller home and don't have room for holiday gifts. What should I do?
The holidays are upon us and it means getting stuff….I mean gifts. Yes, it is the thought that counts but majority of the “gifts” we receive aren’t needed or used. Gifts go unopened and shoved into a dark closet or the corner of a closet never to be used or seen until spring cleaning or a move. Why live like this? Below are two tips to make your life a little easier this holiday season with the exchange of gifts.
1.) When asked what you want for the holidays be honest; if you don’t want or need anything, say so. If you know that this response will not be received well, then request edible items (restaurant gift cards, food of the month clubs, etc.) or ask for one big, expensive needed item that several people can go in on – there goes all the little gifts that you would be getting.
2.)Clean house before the holidays. Go to that dark corner or closet where you store your un-wanted/un-used gifts and donate them to charity. There is always someone else who can use and appreciate your old gifts. And don’t stop with the “gift closet,” go through the rest of your closets and rooms and find those items that just collect dust and give them away. You will be amazed by all the things you have collected and rarely or never use. Keep in mind, it took you years to collect all these items, so don’t think you can get rid of it in a day. This is a project that you can tackle throughout the year. Please, when donating items make sure they are in good condition.
Incorporating these tips into the holidays will help you physically by not tripping and fussing over un-wanted/un-used items, but mentally you will feel more relaxed and free. Our possessions carry a lot of emotional weight that can bog us down from enjoying our family, friends and life.
1.) When asked what you want for the holidays be honest; if you don’t want or need anything, say so. If you know that this response will not be received well, then request edible items (restaurant gift cards, food of the month clubs, etc.) or ask for one big, expensive needed item that several people can go in on – there goes all the little gifts that you would be getting.
2.)Clean house before the holidays. Go to that dark corner or closet where you store your un-wanted/un-used gifts and donate them to charity. There is always someone else who can use and appreciate your old gifts. And don’t stop with the “gift closet,” go through the rest of your closets and rooms and find those items that just collect dust and give them away. You will be amazed by all the things you have collected and rarely or never use. Keep in mind, it took you years to collect all these items, so don’t think you can get rid of it in a day. This is a project that you can tackle throughout the year. Please, when donating items make sure they are in good condition.
Incorporating these tips into the holidays will help you physically by not tripping and fussing over un-wanted/un-used items, but mentally you will feel more relaxed and free. Our possessions carry a lot of emotional weight that can bog us down from enjoying our family, friends and life.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Dear Just Be: Hanukkah starts soon and I don't have any great recipes to share with my family as we celebrate. Please help!!
Yes the Festival of Lights, otherwise known as Hanukkah, starts at sundown on December 11 and lasts for 8 days and 8 nights. Over the holiday festive food is prepared and we have some recipes just for you.
Potato Latkes are a favorite of many and there are different variations of them. Martha Stewart provides an interesting twist with her Potato, Sweet Potato and Onion Latkes:
1 large all-purpose or Yukon Gold potato, peeled
1 large sweet potato, peeled
1/4 large white onion, peeled
1 large egg, at room temperature
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt, or more to taste
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying
1. Grate potatoes and onion using the largest holes of a four-sided grater. Combine in a small bowl; add egg, flour, salt, and pepper, and stir well to combine.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Drop batter by heaping tablespoonfuls into the pan, and cook until golden brown around the edges, about 3 minutes. Turn latkes over, press lightly with a spatula, and cook about 3 minutes more. Continue cooking latkes in batches until batter is used up. Serve with applesauce or sour cream.
3. Potato, carrot, and parsnip variation: Use 2 all-purpose potatoes, 1 medium carrot, and 1 small parsnip. Potato, onion, and horseradish variation: Use 2 Yukon Gold potatoes, 1/4 large white onion, and 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish, liquid pressed out.
Yield: 12 servings
Egg Salad with Lemon & Fennel
8 large eggs
1 garlic clove
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 fennel bulb, finely chopped (1 cup), plus 1 tablespoon finely chopped fronds
Cover eggs with cold water in a medium saucepan. Cook eggs, uncovered, at a gentle boil 10 minutes. Pour off hot water. Shake pan gently so eggs bump one another (to crack shells). Run cold water into pan to stop cooking. Let eggs stand in cold water 15 minutes, adding more water to keep cold.
Mince and mash garlic to a paste with a pinch of salt. Whisk together with mayonnaise, lemon juice, zest, mustard, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
Chop eggs and stir into dressing with fennel and fronds.
Note: Egg salad can be made 1 day ahead and chilled. Bring to cool room temperature before serving.
Easy Wine-Marinated Brisket
1 cup dry red wine
2 Tablespoons soy sauce
1 small onion, finely minced
1 celery stalk, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, finely minced
3 to 4 pounds beef brisket
1 medium-sized onion, thinly sliced
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Feel free to add root vegetables around the brisket, if you wish. Keep an eye on the liquid level and add more if it evaporates.
Combine wine, soy sauce, grated onion celery, and garlic in a heavy-duty zip-top freezer bag large enough to accommodate the brisket. Add the brisket to the bag, squeeze out the air, seal, and refrigerate 3 to 4 hours or overnight, turning occasionally.
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Remove brisket and place fat-side up in a roasting pan or dutch oven. Spread sliced onions around brisket and cover with the marinade. Sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cover tightly with heavy foil or a lid. Bake 3 hours, until tender. Check midway during roasting time and add water, if needed, to keep brisket from drying out.
When done, remove brisket from oven and let rest 15 minutes. Carve slices against the grain and place on serving platter. Cover slices with pan juices and cooked onions to serve.
Yield: about 8 servings
Doughnuts
6 ounces (175 grams or 1-1/4 cups) flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 ounces (125 grams or 1/4 cup) margarine
1 ounce (25 grams or 2 tablespoons) sugar
1 egg
2 Tablespoons milk
A little raspberry jam
Extra sugar for dusting
Cinnamon
Oil for frying
Sieve flour, salt, and baking powder. Cut and rub in margarine and add sugar, mixing to a light dough with beaten egg and milk. Turn mixture on to a floured board and roll out 1/4 inch (0.5 cm) thick. Cut into small rounds. Put a little raspberry jam on half these circles. Brush the other half with milk and put 2 together, pinching carefully round the edges to fasten securely.
Fry in oil heated to 360 degrees F - preferably in an electric deep-fryer for 6 to 8 minutes. Toss in sugar or a mixture of sugar and ground cinnamon.
Yield: 12 doughnuts (best eaten same day or freeze for 3 months)
Potato Latkes are a favorite of many and there are different variations of them. Martha Stewart provides an interesting twist with her Potato, Sweet Potato and Onion Latkes:
1 large all-purpose or Yukon Gold potato, peeled
1 large sweet potato, peeled
1/4 large white onion, peeled
1 large egg, at room temperature
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt, or more to taste
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Vegetable oil, for frying
1. Grate potatoes and onion using the largest holes of a four-sided grater. Combine in a small bowl; add egg, flour, salt, and pepper, and stir well to combine.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Drop batter by heaping tablespoonfuls into the pan, and cook until golden brown around the edges, about 3 minutes. Turn latkes over, press lightly with a spatula, and cook about 3 minutes more. Continue cooking latkes in batches until batter is used up. Serve with applesauce or sour cream.
3. Potato, carrot, and parsnip variation: Use 2 all-purpose potatoes, 1 medium carrot, and 1 small parsnip. Potato, onion, and horseradish variation: Use 2 Yukon Gold potatoes, 1/4 large white onion, and 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish, liquid pressed out.
Yield: 12 servings
Egg Salad with Lemon & Fennel
8 large eggs
1 garlic clove
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 fennel bulb, finely chopped (1 cup), plus 1 tablespoon finely chopped fronds
Cover eggs with cold water in a medium saucepan. Cook eggs, uncovered, at a gentle boil 10 minutes. Pour off hot water. Shake pan gently so eggs bump one another (to crack shells). Run cold water into pan to stop cooking. Let eggs stand in cold water 15 minutes, adding more water to keep cold.
Mince and mash garlic to a paste with a pinch of salt. Whisk together with mayonnaise, lemon juice, zest, mustard, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
Chop eggs and stir into dressing with fennel and fronds.
Note: Egg salad can be made 1 day ahead and chilled. Bring to cool room temperature before serving.
Easy Wine-Marinated Brisket
1 cup dry red wine
2 Tablespoons soy sauce
1 small onion, finely minced
1 celery stalk, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, finely minced
3 to 4 pounds beef brisket
1 medium-sized onion, thinly sliced
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Feel free to add root vegetables around the brisket, if you wish. Keep an eye on the liquid level and add more if it evaporates.
Combine wine, soy sauce, grated onion celery, and garlic in a heavy-duty zip-top freezer bag large enough to accommodate the brisket. Add the brisket to the bag, squeeze out the air, seal, and refrigerate 3 to 4 hours or overnight, turning occasionally.
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Remove brisket and place fat-side up in a roasting pan or dutch oven. Spread sliced onions around brisket and cover with the marinade. Sprinkle with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cover tightly with heavy foil or a lid. Bake 3 hours, until tender. Check midway during roasting time and add water, if needed, to keep brisket from drying out.
When done, remove brisket from oven and let rest 15 minutes. Carve slices against the grain and place on serving platter. Cover slices with pan juices and cooked onions to serve.
Yield: about 8 servings
Doughnuts
6 ounces (175 grams or 1-1/4 cups) flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 ounces (125 grams or 1/4 cup) margarine
1 ounce (25 grams or 2 tablespoons) sugar
1 egg
2 Tablespoons milk
A little raspberry jam
Extra sugar for dusting
Cinnamon
Oil for frying
Sieve flour, salt, and baking powder. Cut and rub in margarine and add sugar, mixing to a light dough with beaten egg and milk. Turn mixture on to a floured board and roll out 1/4 inch (0.5 cm) thick. Cut into small rounds. Put a little raspberry jam on half these circles. Brush the other half with milk and put 2 together, pinching carefully round the edges to fasten securely.
Fry in oil heated to 360 degrees F - preferably in an electric deep-fryer for 6 to 8 minutes. Toss in sugar or a mixture of sugar and ground cinnamon.
Yield: 12 doughnuts (best eaten same day or freeze for 3 months)
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Dear Just Be: I can feel my stress level rising with the approaching holidays. Do you have any stress release tips?
We have heard people counting down to the holidays, observed people already sending packages to loved ones at the post office and have noticed people's calendars are filling up & quickly! So with all the hustle and bustle this time of year brings, it is no wonder stress levels rise. We think some basic yoga poses can restore your peace of mind and lower your stress levels so you can enjoy this time of year versus stressing throughout the next few weeks.
As your time permits, try one of these poses. Or if more time allows, put together a flow of the poses.
Childs Pose:
1. Kneel on the floor. Touch your big toes together and sit on your heels, then separate your knees about as wide as your hips.
2. Spread the knees as wide as the mat, keeping the big toes touching.
3. Bring the belly to rest between the thighs and the forehead to the floor.
4. There are two possible arm variations:
Either stretch the arms in front of you with the palms toward the floor or bring the arms back alongside the thighs with the palms facing upwards. Do whichever feel more comfortable to you.
Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose:
1. Sit next to a wall with the side of your body on the wall and your knees bent into the chest.
2. Bring the lower back onto the floor while bringing the legs up the wall. Keep the upper body supported with the elbows on the floor.
3. Slowly release the elbows and lower the whole back down to the floor.
4. If you are comfortable, stay here several minutes.
5. To come out, bring the knees into your chest and roll to your side.
You may wish to support the low back with a bolster or several folded blankets placed right at and parallel to the wall. This also increases the angle of inversion.
Corpse Pose:
1. Come to lie down on the back.
2. Let the feet fall out to either side.
3. Bring the arms alongside the body, but slightly separated from the body, and turn the palms to face upwards.
4. Relax the whole body, including the face. Let the body feel heavy.
5. Let the breath occur naturally.
6. To come out, first begin to the deepen the breath. Then move the fingers and toes, awakening the body.
7. Bring the knees into the chest and roll over to one side, keep the eyes closed.
8. Slowly bring yourself back up into a sitting position.
Just by engaging in just one of these exercises, you will feel more relaxed and centered and able to tackle your holiday shopping, entertain friends and family with a smile on your face and more.
In yoga there are many poses, so continue to with the practice and learn more poses that fit your needs and lifestyle.
As your time permits, try one of these poses. Or if more time allows, put together a flow of the poses.
Childs Pose:
1. Kneel on the floor. Touch your big toes together and sit on your heels, then separate your knees about as wide as your hips.
2. Spread the knees as wide as the mat, keeping the big toes touching.
3. Bring the belly to rest between the thighs and the forehead to the floor.
4. There are two possible arm variations:
Either stretch the arms in front of you with the palms toward the floor or bring the arms back alongside the thighs with the palms facing upwards. Do whichever feel more comfortable to you.
Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose:
1. Sit next to a wall with the side of your body on the wall and your knees bent into the chest.
2. Bring the lower back onto the floor while bringing the legs up the wall. Keep the upper body supported with the elbows on the floor.
3. Slowly release the elbows and lower the whole back down to the floor.
4. If you are comfortable, stay here several minutes.
5. To come out, bring the knees into your chest and roll to your side.
You may wish to support the low back with a bolster or several folded blankets placed right at and parallel to the wall. This also increases the angle of inversion.
Corpse Pose:
1. Come to lie down on the back.
2. Let the feet fall out to either side.
3. Bring the arms alongside the body, but slightly separated from the body, and turn the palms to face upwards.
4. Relax the whole body, including the face. Let the body feel heavy.
5. Let the breath occur naturally.
6. To come out, first begin to the deepen the breath. Then move the fingers and toes, awakening the body.
7. Bring the knees into the chest and roll over to one side, keep the eyes closed.
8. Slowly bring yourself back up into a sitting position.
Just by engaging in just one of these exercises, you will feel more relaxed and centered and able to tackle your holiday shopping, entertain friends and family with a smile on your face and more.
In yoga there are many poses, so continue to with the practice and learn more poses that fit your needs and lifestyle.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Dear Just Be: I need ideas for making crafts with my kids over the holiday break
Below are three easy crafting ideas you can make with kids.
1.) A miniture Christmas tree.
This craft is ideal for decorating a kids room. The craft can be placed on the child's dresser or nightstand.
Materials
•Evergreen clipping
•Glass jar or cup
•Salt
•Pipe cleaner
Instructions
a.) Trim and shape the evergreen clipping so that it resembles a conical tree with a trunk.
b.) Fill a glass jar or cup with salt, and push the bottom of the tree deep enough into the salt to keep it from toppling.
c.) Finally, fashion a pipe cleaner into a star and attach it to the tip of the tree
2.) Old-fashioned garland
Materials
•2/3 cup unpopped popcorn
•Medium paper bag
•Dried apricots
•Dried cranberries
•Needle and thread
Instructions
a.) To microwave the popcorn, pour the kernels into the paper bag and loosely fold the bag closed. Place the bag in the microwave. Cook on high for 3 to 6 minutes or until the popcorn has popped (the exact time will depend on the power of the microwave). It's done when the pops slow to a near stop.
b.) Carefully remove the bag from the oven and open it to let the steam escape (an adult's job). Pour the popcorn into a large bowl and let cool. Open the bags of dried apricots and dried cranberries and pour into separate bowls.
c.) Next, thread a needle with about 36 inches of white thread doubled to make the thread strong and a workable 18 inches long. Tie a knot at the end.
d.) Choose a pattern to repeat, for example, two pieces of popcorn followed by a dried apricot, then two more pieces of popcorn followed by a dried cranberry. String several short garlands, then hang them on the tree
3.) In-door Icicles
Materials
•White glitter felt
•Paper
•Glue stick
Instructions
a.) Cut white glitter felt into a strip 6 1/2 inches wide and as long as your shelf. On the non-glittery side, draw long, pointy icicles with a pencil and cut them out, leaving a border of 1 1/2 inches on the top edge.
b.) Cut a strip of white paper about 4 inches wide and as long as your shelf (tape multiple pieces of paper together as needed). Fold over 1/2-inch of one edge, then join the felt piece and the folded paper with a glue stick as shown.
c.) Clear a shelf, lay the paper on it so that the icicles hang down, and replace the objects to keep the shelfsicles in place.
For more crafting ideas visit Disney's Family Fun page.
1.) A miniture Christmas tree.
This craft is ideal for decorating a kids room. The craft can be placed on the child's dresser or nightstand.
Materials
•Evergreen clipping
•Glass jar or cup
•Salt
•Pipe cleaner
Instructions
a.) Trim and shape the evergreen clipping so that it resembles a conical tree with a trunk.
b.) Fill a glass jar or cup with salt, and push the bottom of the tree deep enough into the salt to keep it from toppling.
c.) Finally, fashion a pipe cleaner into a star and attach it to the tip of the tree
2.) Old-fashioned garland
Materials
•2/3 cup unpopped popcorn
•Medium paper bag
•Dried apricots
•Dried cranberries
•Needle and thread
Instructions
a.) To microwave the popcorn, pour the kernels into the paper bag and loosely fold the bag closed. Place the bag in the microwave. Cook on high for 3 to 6 minutes or until the popcorn has popped (the exact time will depend on the power of the microwave). It's done when the pops slow to a near stop.
b.) Carefully remove the bag from the oven and open it to let the steam escape (an adult's job). Pour the popcorn into a large bowl and let cool. Open the bags of dried apricots and dried cranberries and pour into separate bowls.
c.) Next, thread a needle with about 36 inches of white thread doubled to make the thread strong and a workable 18 inches long. Tie a knot at the end.
d.) Choose a pattern to repeat, for example, two pieces of popcorn followed by a dried apricot, then two more pieces of popcorn followed by a dried cranberry. String several short garlands, then hang them on the tree
3.) In-door Icicles
Materials
•White glitter felt
•Paper
•Glue stick
Instructions
a.) Cut white glitter felt into a strip 6 1/2 inches wide and as long as your shelf. On the non-glittery side, draw long, pointy icicles with a pencil and cut them out, leaving a border of 1 1/2 inches on the top edge.
b.) Cut a strip of white paper about 4 inches wide and as long as your shelf (tape multiple pieces of paper together as needed). Fold over 1/2-inch of one edge, then join the felt piece and the folded paper with a glue stick as shown.
c.) Clear a shelf, lay the paper on it so that the icicles hang down, and replace the objects to keep the shelfsicles in place.
For more crafting ideas visit Disney's Family Fun page.
Dear Just Be: I’m planning a holiday party. Do you have any helpful tips?
To some people throwing holiday parties is fun, and to others just stressful. Keeping parties fun is not hard to do. Below are a few simple tips for you to use when planning your holiday party.
The first, and really only rule to live by when planning an event is, don’t sweat the small stuff. The small stuff always comes together and no one notices the small stuff except you. (I learned this during my five plus years in event planning.) Just make sure you have covered the basics: food, drinks, plates, utensils and fun.
When it comes to food, don’t make it too extravagant. People do nothing but eat during the month of December, so majority of your guests are not going to eat too much, so don’t waste the time. Keep in mind how your guests will be partaking in the food. Will they be sitting down or standing up mingling with guests. It might be obvious, but don’t serve an item that needs to be cut, or that has a lot of liquid to it if you want people to stand around with their plates.
For drinks the general rule is two drinks per person for the first two hours and then one drink per each extra half hour. Don’t go out buying every kind of wine or hard liquor there is. Do be sure to have: vodka, rum, whiskey, wine, beer, cranberry juice, club soda, Coke, tonic water, and lots of lemons (the last five items are for mixers). Buy more of the wines and beers you like because you will be the one consuming what is left over.
Decorations are not needed unless you haven’t decorated your home for the holidays. What ever you have up for the holidays keep, no need to add more especially if it means it limits the space that your guests can move around in. Don’t forget to have some background music. Music helps add to the feel of the event.
Be sure you to take small steps in organizing your party. DO NOT do everything at the last minute. Start preparing days out from your event. One day go purchase the drinks. The next day purchase plates and utensils, or polish and get out your plates and utensils. The day before the party, purchase and prepare some of the dishes. If you have a spouse or roommate that can help you, enlist their help!
The final tip. Enjoy yourself. Your guests have come to see you, and the mood of the party will be greatly determined by your energy. Guests feel and feed off of your energy and thus determine the feel of the event. Doing tasks ahead of time instead of at the last minute will help you be more relaxed and excited for the party.
For ideas on how to plan a unique holiday party check out About.com
The first, and really only rule to live by when planning an event is, don’t sweat the small stuff. The small stuff always comes together and no one notices the small stuff except you. (I learned this during my five plus years in event planning.) Just make sure you have covered the basics: food, drinks, plates, utensils and fun.
When it comes to food, don’t make it too extravagant. People do nothing but eat during the month of December, so majority of your guests are not going to eat too much, so don’t waste the time. Keep in mind how your guests will be partaking in the food. Will they be sitting down or standing up mingling with guests. It might be obvious, but don’t serve an item that needs to be cut, or that has a lot of liquid to it if you want people to stand around with their plates.
For drinks the general rule is two drinks per person for the first two hours and then one drink per each extra half hour. Don’t go out buying every kind of wine or hard liquor there is. Do be sure to have: vodka, rum, whiskey, wine, beer, cranberry juice, club soda, Coke, tonic water, and lots of lemons (the last five items are for mixers). Buy more of the wines and beers you like because you will be the one consuming what is left over.
Decorations are not needed unless you haven’t decorated your home for the holidays. What ever you have up for the holidays keep, no need to add more especially if it means it limits the space that your guests can move around in. Don’t forget to have some background music. Music helps add to the feel of the event.
Be sure you to take small steps in organizing your party. DO NOT do everything at the last minute. Start preparing days out from your event. One day go purchase the drinks. The next day purchase plates and utensils, or polish and get out your plates and utensils. The day before the party, purchase and prepare some of the dishes. If you have a spouse or roommate that can help you, enlist their help!
The final tip. Enjoy yourself. Your guests have come to see you, and the mood of the party will be greatly determined by your energy. Guests feel and feed off of your energy and thus determine the feel of the event. Doing tasks ahead of time instead of at the last minute will help you be more relaxed and excited for the party.
For ideas on how to plan a unique holiday party check out About.com
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Dear Just Be: What is an efficient way to burn calories after the holiday parties this weekend?
The holiday parties are in full swing and burning calories is at the top of everyone's wish list this year, so as to not gain the typical holiday 5 pounds. Witht eh snowfall Colorado just received in the last few days, our minds went directly to ways to burn calories with winter activities.
Did you know that skiing (both downhill & cross-country) can burn anywhere from 400-550 calories per hour for a person weighing 155 pounds. Plus you'll be outside getting some fresh air and on a perfect ski day - some sun rays!
Here are some tips to help you burn those holiday treatsoff for those of you who ski (or want to ski):
1. Be on the look out for the latest ski deals, so you don't have to pay out of the nose to get in some great outdoor exercise.
2. Check into ski or snowboarding lessons at a nearby ski resort - weekly classes are offered and provide a routine exercise program through the winter.
3. Be prepared for the weather - put together a "winter activities" box so you can always locate your gear, which can include, ski passes, sunglasses/goggles, sunscreen, lip balm, hand & foot warmers, ski socks, hats and gloves, ski helmet, and long underwear.
4. When you are not on the slopes, do some exercises to strengthen your core and to help improve your balance.
Have fun hitting the slopes and burning those holiday calories!
Did you know that skiing (both downhill & cross-country) can burn anywhere from 400-550 calories per hour for a person weighing 155 pounds. Plus you'll be outside getting some fresh air and on a perfect ski day - some sun rays!
Here are some tips to help you burn those holiday treatsoff for those of you who ski (or want to ski):
1. Be on the look out for the latest ski deals, so you don't have to pay out of the nose to get in some great outdoor exercise.
2. Check into ski or snowboarding lessons at a nearby ski resort - weekly classes are offered and provide a routine exercise program through the winter.
3. Be prepared for the weather - put together a "winter activities" box so you can always locate your gear, which can include, ski passes, sunglasses/goggles, sunscreen, lip balm, hand & foot warmers, ski socks, hats and gloves, ski helmet, and long underwear.
4. When you are not on the slopes, do some exercises to strengthen your core and to help improve your balance.
Have fun hitting the slopes and burning those holiday calories!
Friday, December 4, 2009
Dear Just Be: In the spirit of the holidays, how can I give back?
Though volunteering can be a year-round activity, this time of year presents unique opportunities in which we can give back to our communities and to others. Below are a few organized volunteer events around the Denver metro area, but don't be afraid to think outside of the box or do something on your own. Offer to shovel the walkway for an elderly neighbor (or lay down salt on ice), visit a nursing home and spend time with the residents, offer to host a simple party at your house - you never know who might be alone or facing difficulties in their life-right in your own neighborhood. If you prefer to join in on an organized event, check out these options:
- Volunteer at Trail of Lights-Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield
- Noon Year's Eve 2009 at Children's Museum
- Reception for Our Family Orphan Communities
- Project Angel Heart Meal Prep
If you want to think about volunteering throughout the year, here are a few resources for you to look into further:
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Dear Just Be: Do you have any quick & easy cookie recipes? I have a cookie exchange next week and need to bring dozens of cookies!
These seasonal pumpkin cookies are sure to be a hit at your gathering and they are simple to make:
2 cups flour
1 cup oats
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup white sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup canned pumpkin
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Combine first 5 ingredients and set aside. Cream butter and sugars, then add egg and vanilla. Alternate adding pumpkin and dry ingredients. Mix well then add chocolate chips. Drop by 1/4 cup on cookie sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes at 350F.
Share and enjoy this holiday season!
2 cups flour
1 cup oats
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup white sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup canned pumpkin
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Combine first 5 ingredients and set aside. Cream butter and sugars, then add egg and vanilla. Alternate adding pumpkin and dry ingredients. Mix well then add chocolate chips. Drop by 1/4 cup on cookie sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes at 350F.
Share and enjoy this holiday season!
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Dear Just Be: I'm on a tight budget this holiday season, do you have any ideas for gifts that won't break the bank?
Not spending hundreds or thousands of dollars on gifts during the holidays is not as hard as it seems. Below are our top ten gifts (in no particular order) that cost between $10 and $20.
1.) Photo album with a few photos of the gift recipient already in it
2.) Board games/puzzles
3.) Books
4.) Personalized cookbook. Collect your favorite recipes and compile them into a book where recipes can easily be added.
5.) Gift certificates to movie theaters
6.) Ornaments
7.) Dessert gift basket. (Line a basket with napkins in holiday colors -red and green for Christmas; blue and white/silver for Hanukkah; red, green and black for Kwanzaa- and put in recipes for cookies, brownies, pies, and candy, and/or cookie, brownie mix, nuts, pie balls, candy thermometer, etc.).
8.) Make a donation in people's name to charities such as Heifer International, your local Humane Society, or food bank.
9.) Gift certificates to restaurants
10.) Car gift bag (Fill a bag, box or even bucket with items that can be stored and used in or for a car -soap/wax, sponge, tire gauge, flashlight, air freshener, sunglasses, first aid kit, change holder, etc.).
For more frugal gift ideas check out:
Better Budgeting
Unique Holiday Gifts
iVillage
1.) Photo album with a few photos of the gift recipient already in it
2.) Board games/puzzles
3.) Books
4.) Personalized cookbook. Collect your favorite recipes and compile them into a book where recipes can easily be added.
5.) Gift certificates to movie theaters
6.) Ornaments
7.) Dessert gift basket. (Line a basket with napkins in holiday colors -red and green for Christmas; blue and white/silver for Hanukkah; red, green and black for Kwanzaa- and put in recipes for cookies, brownies, pies, and candy, and/or cookie, brownie mix, nuts, pie balls, candy thermometer, etc.).
8.) Make a donation in people's name to charities such as Heifer International, your local Humane Society, or food bank.
9.) Gift certificates to restaurants
10.) Car gift bag (Fill a bag, box or even bucket with items that can be stored and used in or for a car -soap/wax, sponge, tire gauge, flashlight, air freshener, sunglasses, first aid kit, change holder, etc.).
For more frugal gift ideas check out:
Better Budgeting
Unique Holiday Gifts
iVillage
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Dear Just Be: How do I avoid gaining weight over the holidays?
So the holiday season has officially begun, although these days it feels like it starts at Halloween. With all the sweets and decadent food everywhere it can seem like an impossible task not to gain weight; however, there are some easy tricks to avoid weight gain.
1.) Don’t skip meals. If you skip meals you are prone to overeat because you justify the fact that you missed a meal and so haven’t taken in that many calories.
2.) Eat a piece of fruit. The fiber in fruit makes you feel full quicker and longer and will help you from overeating.
3.) Use small plates. Smaller plates, like your dessert plates, limit the amount of food you can pile on.
4.) Mingle. Mingle not with the buffet, but with the people at the party, and make sure you do it away from the buffet table.
5.) Walk more. Walking is an easy exercise to incorporate into your daily routine. Park at the back of parking lots, walk the stairs instead of taking the elevator, walk around the store and look before you buy.
6.) Play. With family and/or friends have a snow ball fight, go snowshoeing, go skiing, go dancing, play board games or with a dreidel (a four-sided spinning top). All of these are great ways to stay active, stay away from food and keep your mind off of food.
These easy tricks are not only great for the holidays, but year round too.
1.) Don’t skip meals. If you skip meals you are prone to overeat because you justify the fact that you missed a meal and so haven’t taken in that many calories.
2.) Eat a piece of fruit. The fiber in fruit makes you feel full quicker and longer and will help you from overeating.
3.) Use small plates. Smaller plates, like your dessert plates, limit the amount of food you can pile on.
4.) Mingle. Mingle not with the buffet, but with the people at the party, and make sure you do it away from the buffet table.
5.) Walk more. Walking is an easy exercise to incorporate into your daily routine. Park at the back of parking lots, walk the stairs instead of taking the elevator, walk around the store and look before you buy.
6.) Play. With family and/or friends have a snow ball fight, go snowshoeing, go skiing, go dancing, play board games or with a dreidel (a four-sided spinning top). All of these are great ways to stay active, stay away from food and keep your mind off of food.
These easy tricks are not only great for the holidays, but year round too.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Dear Just Be: Most of my family lives out of state, how much time do I have to ship their gifts?
Luckily you are thinking ahead and still do have some time to shop for and send your holiday gifts to special ones who live outside of Colorado.
According to the United States Postal Service, if you have your gifts to your post office by the following "Mail-by Dates," your gifts will arrive before December 25:
Dec. 4 Military mail destined for Iraq or Afghanistan*
Dec. 16 Parcel Post
Dec. 21 First-Class Mail
Dec. 21 Priority Mail, the best bargain in shipping
Dec. 23 Express Mail
*Visit the United States Postal Service for "mail-by dates" for other international destinations.
Here are a some helpful hints to ensure your packages arrive promptly and safely:
1. Print addresses clearly and in ALL CAPS.
According to the United States Postal Service, if you have your gifts to your post office by the following "Mail-by Dates," your gifts will arrive before December 25:
Dec. 4 Military mail destined for Iraq or Afghanistan*
Dec. 16 Parcel Post
Dec. 21 First-Class Mail
Dec. 21 Priority Mail, the best bargain in shipping
Dec. 23 Express Mail
*Visit the United States Postal Service for "mail-by dates" for other international destinations.
Here are a some helpful hints to ensure your packages arrive promptly and safely:
1. Print addresses clearly and in ALL CAPS.
- Include all address elements—apartment numbers, suite numbers, directional information for streets (N, E, S, W and St., Ave., Ln.
- Spell out the entire city name and abbreviate the state.
2. Include both “to” and “from” information on packages – and only on one side.
3. Mark packages, “Fragile,” in large print on the outside of the box when shipping materials that might be likely to break.
4. Never guess a ZIP Code. NO ZIP is better than a WRONG ZIP.
5. Always use tape that is designed for shipping.
6. Place an extra label or notice with the delivery and return address inside the package. This ensures the safe return of an item that could not be delivered should the outside label became damaged or fall off.
7. Remove batteries from toys. Wrap and place them next to the toys in the mailing box. It is recommended that customers include the new batteries in the manufacturer’s packaging.
8. Customers preparing international packages can complete customs forms, pay postage, print a shipping label and receive a discount, too, online at usps.com/clicknship.
So while you are standing in line at the post office, or driving around shopping for the perfect gift, breathe deeply and relax knowing you are ahead of the game with getting your presents shipped off in time for the holidays. Enjoy this time of year instead of being stressed by the holidays, listen to the carols being played, such as Frosty the Snowman (written Steve "Jack" Rollins and Steve Nelson and recorded by Gene Autry), be kind to the person next to you and pass along the holiday spirit!
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Dear Just Be: Yikes! It is my first time hosting Thanksgiving dinner...how do I carve a turkey?
Happy Thanksgiving!
With a little confidence and by following a few simple steps, you can have a beautifully carved turkey on your holiday table! After your turkey is finished cooking, remove the turkey from the oven and let set for 20 minutes before carving.
To carve the turkey:
1. Place bird, breast up, with legs to carver’s right if right-handed and to the left if left-handed. Remove ties or skewers.
2. While gently pulling leg and thigh away from body, cut through joint between leg and body. Separate drumstick (leg) and thigh by cutting down through connecting joint.
3. Make a deep horizontal cut into breast just above wing. Insert fork in top of breast, and starting halfway up breast, carve thin slices down to the horizontal cut, working from outer edge of bird to the center.
4. Now repeat steps 1 through 3 on the other side of the bird.
Special Note: Remove and separate drumstick (leg) and thigh as directed above, and serve them whole or carve them. To carve, remove meat from drumstick (leg) by slicing at an angle, and slice thigh by cutting even slices parallel to the bone.
A special cooking tidbit is to cook the bird in a cooking bag and place the turkey upside down to ensure juicy and flavorful breast meat. For the last 30 minutes of cooking time, remove the turkey from the bag and finish cooking right-side up so as to brown the top of the turkey.
We hope this helps your holiday dinner go smoothly and you have a wonderful holiday with your friends and family!
With a little confidence and by following a few simple steps, you can have a beautifully carved turkey on your holiday table! After your turkey is finished cooking, remove the turkey from the oven and let set for 20 minutes before carving.
To carve the turkey:
1. Place bird, breast up, with legs to carver’s right if right-handed and to the left if left-handed. Remove ties or skewers.
2. While gently pulling leg and thigh away from body, cut through joint between leg and body. Separate drumstick (leg) and thigh by cutting down through connecting joint.
3. Make a deep horizontal cut into breast just above wing. Insert fork in top of breast, and starting halfway up breast, carve thin slices down to the horizontal cut, working from outer edge of bird to the center.
4. Now repeat steps 1 through 3 on the other side of the bird.
Special Note: Remove and separate drumstick (leg) and thigh as directed above, and serve them whole or carve them. To carve, remove meat from drumstick (leg) by slicing at an angle, and slice thigh by cutting even slices parallel to the bone.
A special cooking tidbit is to cook the bird in a cooking bag and place the turkey upside down to ensure juicy and flavorful breast meat. For the last 30 minutes of cooking time, remove the turkey from the bag and finish cooking right-side up so as to brown the top of the turkey.
We hope this helps your holiday dinner go smoothly and you have a wonderful holiday with your friends and family!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Dear Just Be: I have been hearing about House Bill 1094- what does it mean?
Many of us spend hours every week sitting behind the steering wheel of our cars. And during those hours many of us are multi-tasking; catching up on work, communicating with friends, etc. via our cellphones. But how and when you use or cellphone in a motor vehicle is about to change. On Tuesday, December 1, 2009 House Bill 1094 goes into effect in Colorado.
The bill prohibits:
1. Operators of a motor vehicle who are under 18 years of age from using a wireless telephone while a motor vehicle they are operating is in motion.
2. Persons who are 18 years of age and older from using a wireless telephone to send text messages while operating a motor vehicle.
According to the bill, the fines will be as follows:
$ 50.00 Fine Plus a $6.00 Surcharge for a First Offense
$100.00 Fine Plus a $6.00 Surcharge for a Second Offense
The new driving law is in response to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reporting that nearly 80 percent of vehicle crashes and 65 percent of near-crashes involve some form of driver inattention.
So next week, as we all return from the long Thanksgiving holiday weekend, remember the new Colorado state law.
The bill prohibits:
1. Operators of a motor vehicle who are under 18 years of age from using a wireless telephone while a motor vehicle they are operating is in motion.
2. Persons who are 18 years of age and older from using a wireless telephone to send text messages while operating a motor vehicle.
According to the bill, the fines will be as follows:
$ 50.00 Fine Plus a $6.00 Surcharge for a First Offense
$100.00 Fine Plus a $6.00 Surcharge for a Second Offense
The new driving law is in response to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reporting that nearly 80 percent of vehicle crashes and 65 percent of near-crashes involve some form of driver inattention.
So next week, as we all return from the long Thanksgiving holiday weekend, remember the new Colorado state law.
Dear Just Be: What do I do with the turkey leftovers from Thanksgiving?
Great question. The National Turkey Federation reports that 88% of Americans eat turkey on Thanksgiving. The average weight of a turkey purchased for Thanksgiving is 15 pounds. That is a lot of bird! And it doesn't seem to matter how many people you have over, there is always leftovers. So what do you do with all that meat?
A great leftover recipe that uses up turkey, and your other leftover ingredients that is light on the calories is: Cranberry-Turkey Spinach Salad. This light recipe is also easy to make.
Ingredients
A great leftover recipe that uses up turkey, and your other leftover ingredients that is light on the calories is: Cranberry-Turkey Spinach Salad. This light recipe is also easy to make.
Ingredients
- 8 oz of canned jellied cranberry sauce
- 1/3 cup cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons coarsely snipped fresh sage or tarragon or 1/2 teaspoon dried leaf sage or dried tarragon, crushed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 12 cups fresh baby spinach
- 8 ounces cooked turkey breast, thinly sliced, coarsely chopped, or shredded
- 1 medium cucumber, halved lengthwise, and thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
- 6 oz jicama, peeled and cut into thin bite-size strips (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 6 medium radishes, thinly sliced
- 1/2 of a red onion, cut into thin wedges
Directions
1. Cut jellied cranberry sauce into 1/2-inch-think slices. Using 1 to 1 1/4-inch cutters, cut 16 designs from the cranberry sauce slices; set aside.
2. For dressing: Place remaining scraps of cranberry sauce in a blender; add vinegar, sage or tarragon, salt and pepper. Cover and blend until combined. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, toss together spinach, turkey, cucumber, jicama, radishes and red onion. Divide among eight serving bowls. Add two of the cranberry cutouts to each serving; drizzle with dressing. Makes 8 (2-cups) main-dish servings.
Nutrition Facts
Servings per recipe 8 (2-cup) main-dish servings; Calories 120; Total Fat (g) 1
For more great leftover recipes check out:
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Dear Just Be: How can I avoid frustrations when traveling this holiday season?
The holidays are upon us and that can mean getting together with friends and family to celebrate. If your Thanksgiving holiday plans keep you around the Colorado area, you are in luck this year - the weather forecast looks pretty good with temperatures in the mid 50's, with a decent amount of sunshine up through Saturday.
But what if your gathering isn't happening locally? Keep these few pointers in mind to ease your stress when traveling this week.
1. Check in on-line if possible and avoid lines at the airport.
2. Follow carry-on rules. Remember, liquids must be in containers 3 ounces or smaller and all liquids carried on must fit in a 1-quart size plastic bag. Use your own zip-loc from home and have liquids placed inside the bag BEFORE you arrive to the airport.
3. Have your ID and boarding pass in an easy to locate place to show at the security check point.
4. Check your flight departure time the day of travel and before you leave for the airport. Try to arrive about 2 hours before departure.
Be prepared for increased traffic on our roads and crowds at the airports. AAA reports there will be a .3 percent increase in travel this week. Planes could be more full this year because airlines serving DIA have cut capacity. Luckily though, weather related issues should not be a problem at DIA this year.
For more travel information and statistics, visit AAA.
But what if your gathering isn't happening locally? Keep these few pointers in mind to ease your stress when traveling this week.
1. Check in on-line if possible and avoid lines at the airport.
2. Follow carry-on rules. Remember, liquids must be in containers 3 ounces or smaller and all liquids carried on must fit in a 1-quart size plastic bag. Use your own zip-loc from home and have liquids placed inside the bag BEFORE you arrive to the airport.
3. Have your ID and boarding pass in an easy to locate place to show at the security check point.
4. Check your flight departure time the day of travel and before you leave for the airport. Try to arrive about 2 hours before departure.
Be prepared for increased traffic on our roads and crowds at the airports. AAA reports there will be a .3 percent increase in travel this week. Planes could be more full this year because airlines serving DIA have cut capacity. Luckily though, weather related issues should not be a problem at DIA this year.
For more travel information and statistics, visit AAA.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Dear Just Be: How good are the Black Friday deals?
31 days to Christmas
18 days to Hanukkah
32 days to Kwanzaa
With the holidays right around the corner and the economy not at peak performance people are looking for deals to help make their holidays bright. But Beware!
The deals aren't always what you think. Below are two key points to keep in mind so you don't feel cheated when you go to cash in on these "deals."
1.) Look at the fine print. Retail experts are noticing the phrases "limited quantities," or "while supplies last" in more and more of retailer's mailers. Retailers are using this tactic of offering unbelievable rates on hot ticket items to lure customers in, but doing so with a limited supply or on a product that is not equal to the advertised item.
2.) Shopping online guarantee. Don't think that because you ordered your gifts online you will get what you ordered. Retailers generally don't have live inventory online, so be aware that you could receive an email weeks after your purchase telling you your order has been delayed or even canceled because they no longer have the item in stock.
On top of all of this, some retailers are opting out of rain checks.
So bottom line, to watch your bottom line.... do your research.
More on Black Friday tricks and deals.
18 days to Hanukkah
32 days to Kwanzaa
With the holidays right around the corner and the economy not at peak performance people are looking for deals to help make their holidays bright. But Beware!
The deals aren't always what you think. Below are two key points to keep in mind so you don't feel cheated when you go to cash in on these "deals."
1.) Look at the fine print. Retail experts are noticing the phrases "limited quantities," or "while supplies last" in more and more of retailer's mailers. Retailers are using this tactic of offering unbelievable rates on hot ticket items to lure customers in, but doing so with a limited supply or on a product that is not equal to the advertised item.
2.) Shopping online guarantee. Don't think that because you ordered your gifts online you will get what you ordered. Retailers generally don't have live inventory online, so be aware that you could receive an email weeks after your purchase telling you your order has been delayed or even canceled because they no longer have the item in stock.
On top of all of this, some retailers are opting out of rain checks.
So bottom line, to watch your bottom line.... do your research.
More on Black Friday tricks and deals.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Dear Just Be: I don't have much time, so need a quick and easy centerpiece idea for Thanksgiving.
A quick centerpiece idea is to take pumpkins, big and small, orange and white, and arrange them across the center of the table. To add more color and height, add a vase of flowers to the mix. Peach spray roses, miniature carnations in burgundy and/or daisy pompoms in butterscotch color make a great arrangement.
Keep in mind that you do need room on the table for the food, so don't go overboard with the centerpiece. The adage, "Less is more" is appropriate in so many ways during the holidays.
Visit Better Homes and Gardens for more centerpiece ideas.
Keep in mind that you do need room on the table for the food, so don't go overboard with the centerpiece. The adage, "Less is more" is appropriate in so many ways during the holidays.
Visit Better Homes and Gardens for more centerpiece ideas.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Dear Just Be: Help! I need an easy-to-make appetizer for Thanksgiving. Do you have any ideas?
The holidays are quickly approaching and the invitations are already starting to flood in. We don't always have time to make something from scratch, but prefer not to bring a store-bought dish, so what can we do? Here is a quick and easy (and delicious!) appetizer recipe that wins crowds over and is perfect for office pot-lucks, neighborhood festivities and gatherings with family members. With only 3 ingredients, this meatball dish is a snap to make!
Ingredients:
1 - 16 oz can of jellied cranberry sauce
1 - 12 oz bottle of chili sauce
1 - 2lb bag frozen, pre-cooked cocktail size meatballs
Optional ingredients for additional spice: 1 tsp of cumin and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper.
Place meatballs in a crock-pot or slow cooker. Pour cranberry and chili sauce over meatballs. Stir to combine ingredients. Cover and cook on HIGH for 4 hours. Makes about 30 appetizer servings.
Serve and enjoy!
PS Don't forget either a large spoon and/or toothpicks to serve the meatballs.
Ingredients:
1 - 16 oz can of jellied cranberry sauce
1 - 12 oz bottle of chili sauce
1 - 2lb bag frozen, pre-cooked cocktail size meatballs
Optional ingredients for additional spice: 1 tsp of cumin and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper.
Place meatballs in a crock-pot or slow cooker. Pour cranberry and chili sauce over meatballs. Stir to combine ingredients. Cover and cook on HIGH for 4 hours. Makes about 30 appetizer servings.
Serve and enjoy!
PS Don't forget either a large spoon and/or toothpicks to serve the meatballs.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Dear Just Be - I'm selling a home, what can I do to entice prospective buyers?
Recent reports show that existing home sales are at their highest levels in over 2 years. Here are 3 quick tips on how to prepare your home for sale and you won't break the bank!
1. Bring in the light- Add lighting to dark rooms, this can make your home feel warm and inviting.
2. Create Space - Remove clutter and over-sized furniture to make your home feel more spacious.
3. Replace Flooring - Tear out old carpet and replace it with today's newer hardwoods and laminates to give it an updated feel.
More information on selling or buying homes.
1. Bring in the light- Add lighting to dark rooms, this can make your home feel warm and inviting.
2. Create Space - Remove clutter and over-sized furniture to make your home feel more spacious.
3. Replace Flooring - Tear out old carpet and replace it with today's newer hardwoods and laminates to give it an updated feel.
More information on selling or buying homes.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Welcome
My name is Brenda, and I am one of the founders of "Just Be Personal Assistants." After years of listening to friends, colleagues & family members mention how difficult it is to manage work, family, fun and the never ending "to-do" list, I decided it was time to combine my 15 years of business experience and my desire to help others in a new venture. I feel that in our busy society, where people are constantly on the go, there is not enough time to "just be." That's where we come in. Our mission at Just Be is to make your life easier, less frantic and more enjoyable.
On future postings, we will provide you with great tips for managing your home, staying healthy, making the most of your time and more. We are here to help you, so feel free to post your questions on how to juggle life's little details.
We look forward to helping you, and hearing from you!
Brenda Parker
P.S. Check out the services we provide in the Denver, CO metro area at http://www.justbeassistants.com/.
On future postings, we will provide you with great tips for managing your home, staying healthy, making the most of your time and more. We are here to help you, so feel free to post your questions on how to juggle life's little details.
We look forward to helping you, and hearing from you!
Brenda Parker
P.S. Check out the services we provide in the Denver, CO metro area at http://www.justbeassistants.com/.
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