Well, I am pleased to announce that on Monday, at 5pm eastern, I will be with you for my second Wishful Dish show!  I am excited, and I have some amazing foods to present to you! 

One of them is from Graham and Rollins.  A family business that has been around for decades, providing incredibly fresh crab cakes to the masses.  Since it comes frozen, when you order it from my show on Monday, you will have it by the weekend, and I can’t think of anything better than to serve crab and lobster cakes at the end of a long week!  I decided to include a recipe for a very simple (but very fresh!) tomato and avocado salad, which makes the perfect compliment for the crab cakes. 

You will need:  1 ripe avocado

1        ripe medium tomato (preferably Heirloom)

¼ cup of chopped red onion

1/8 tsp of minced garlic (if fresh is too strong, then sprinkle in a little garlic powder)

Salt and pepper to taste

Chop the avocado and tomato as large or fine as you like, and mix in the onion, garlic, salt and pepper.  Super easy, right?  It’s also very colorful, and looks great when served.  But if you don’t know much about avocados, I can help.  I figured this would be a wonderful tip, since I did not grow up with a family that ate avocados, I was pretty clueless when I first used them on my own. 

How do you pick the best avocado?  First, you have to decide when you are going to eat it.  If it's that night, pick one that gives a bit when squeezed, but doesn't feel mushy.  If you're not going to eat it immediately, you can pick a firmer one, and squeeze it every day, until it feels right.  If it gives a bit, and you are not ready to eat it, put it in the fridge to slow the ripening process until you are ready. 

How do you cut an avocado?  First, you need a very sharp knife.  If your knife is dull, then it will be hard to get through the tough, wrinkly skin, and you could bruise the flesh on the inside.  Cut it the long way, around the oval, all the way to the large seed on the inside.  Twist the halves apart, and then take the knife (be very careful!) and whack it into the seed.  With the knife inside, twist gently to release it, and throw it away.  If it's your first time, cover the hand holding the avocado half with a thick dish towel, to protect your hand and wrist. 

To serve it, you can wedge a spoon between the skin and the flesh, and just scoop it out.  Or, if you want to serve it cubed, you can take your knife and score it inside all the way to the skin, and when you scoop it out, you have instant cubes! 

I hope these tips are helpful to you, and happy eating!

Hello, foodies…

While I’d love to pack you all in a big boat and go to England for the weekend, I’m not sure it would work. Especially since we’d need to ship out tomorrow.

So, if we can’t all go to England to learn about and taste its best cheeses in honor of ITKWD“Cheese Month,” here’s the next best thing courtesy of QVC UK host Simon Biagi:



Barkham Blue may be a new variety to you. But, cheddar is most certainly not. Just as it is here in the US, cheddar cheese is the most popular cheese in Britain and it’s the star of my recipe this Sunday: Cheddar & Ale Cheese Sauce.



Cheddar & Ale Cheese Sauce
 
This recipe is prepared with the Technique® Hard Anodized Dishwasher Safe Cookware Set (K36575).
 
Go to David's Recipe Item Page for the full list of items that David has used in his recipes.

Ingredients:
 
4 Tbsp butter
4 Tbsp flour
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup small onion, diced
1 cup ale-style beer
1 cup chicken stock
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
5 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
3/4 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1/2 tsp dry mustard powder
 
Directions:
 
Add the butter to a medium-size saucepan set over medium heat. When melted, add the onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion has become translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the flour and continue to cook for another 2 minutes while stirring. Add the beer, stock, milk, and cream and simmer until thickened. Add the cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.



I promise you, foodies, that sauce is as good as it looks. You can find some great dipper ideas on my recipe page on QVC.com. I’m thinking roasted broccoli, Toasted Garlic Pita Wedges, and Crispy Cottage Fries…with or without the Gorgonzola. A few notes on cooking with ale (and beer, in general):

•    Ales are perfect for adding depth to recipes and are also complex enough to pair with red meats and pork.
•    Most important rule when cooking with any beer: as with wine, never cook or bake with a beer you wouldn’t drink. You won’t like the recipe.
•    Never reduce a beer as you would wine or broth. When the liquid cooks off, you’re left with the hops which may make recipes too bitter.
•    Improvising can sometimes yield delicious results. But, if you’re baking with beer, the chemistry of your recipe will change because of its effervescence and yeast. For best results, use baking recipes that specifically call for beer.

We’ve got four BIG hours together this Sunday. Mary’s joining us live from Cabot Creamery in Vermont! And, Lisa Lillien is our Cookbook Corner® guest on Sunday with her Hungry Girl: Just Desserts Cookbook. There are over 200 recipes in here, foodies, and they’re all under 200 calories. Imagine NOT feeling guilty about eating dessert. It doesn’t get better than that!

We’re at the height of "Cheese Month" and I’ve never asked you to share your favorite kind! So what is your all-time favorite cheese? Do you love cheddar, Swiss, Parmesan, or Gouda? My heart has always been set on cheddar. I just can’t get enough.

Keep it flavorful!
—David

P.S. If you’ve got an iPad, I urge you to join us on our interactive app! It’s available during every show and we’ve made some terrific enhancements…including a bigger, better CHAT! Here’s a little how-to guide for how to get up-and-chatting. Thanks for giving it a try!

I was very deliberate when I put my outfit together for lunch with girlfriends this week. I knew I wanted to wear a necklace I got at "Send The Trend".

Like most of us, I understand the power of accessories. They communicate so much more than our personal style. They can define an occasion -- casual vs. dressy. They can create a mood -- pearls for “classic”, studded leather for “rock and roll”. Accessories can capture a trend, convey a level of status, evoke an era, and transform and outfit into a “look”. What’s a “look”? A “look” is what your outfit has to “say”.

Take a simple white tee shirt --  just by adding accessories, you can create a look that says playful or sophisticated, workday or weekend.

Accessories communicate a lot. And no good wardrobe is complete without them. So grab your favorite accessories and make a “look”. Because we all have something to say!

Here’s my list of essential accessories.

Hoop Earrings

Sunglasses

Leather Handbag

Statement Necklace

Colorful Scarf

Chain Belt

Ballet Flats

Nude Pumps

Bracelet Watch

What's on your must-have accessories list?

"See" you tomorrow morning!
Leah

If nothing else, portable power from HALO gives you peace of mind. Peace of mind in knowing you can always make or receive that important call. That you will never be without the ability to contact those you love. I know that is a great comfort for me! Here are a few ways HALO has come in handy for me in my everyday life.

My HALO makes sure I am always powered up while takes to kids to all of their sporting events and practices!

With Summer coming up, I don't have to worry about being far away from a wall outlet when spending all that time outside enjoying the sun.

My HALO keepy my MP3 powered at all time so I always have music to keep me motivated while working out!

I can enjoy my time out to dinner with family and friends and never worry about missing an important phone call.

Check out this video where I walk you through the features of the HALO Starlight!

If you have any questions visit my facebook page, Albany Irvin QVC, or check out my new Dear Albany blog series.

- Albany Irvin

Have questions about the HALO Starlight 2800 mAh Portable Power Charger? Our experts are here to answer your questions!

Here are the most frequently asked questions from our customers about the HALO Starlight 2800 Portable Power Charger. Reply to this blog with your questions and check back on Wednesday, April 24th starting at Midnight ET and get live answers from our HALO experts.

Q: Is the HALO Starlight 2800 Pocket Power Charger compatible with all cell phones?
A: It is compatible with all cell phones that utilize one of the three supplied tips: micro USB, mini USB, or 30 pin. It is also compatible with all phones equipped with a USB male connection cable.

Q: How do you charge this unit?
A: Charge the HALO using the supplied USB cable. Plug the micro USB connector into the Halo charger and plug the other end with standard USB connector to a computer or an AC power source with a USB 5V input.

Q: How long does it take to charge this device?
A: It takes about 5 to 6 hours depending on the charging power source.

Q: How big is it?
A: Weighs approximately 3 oz. and a little over 4 inches in length.

Q: Can it charge a GPS?
A: Yes.

Q: Will this charge an iPhone 5?
A: Yes, the user needs to use the white charging cable that was supplied with the Apple iPhone 5 or purchase a lightning tip converter connector sold separately in the marketplace.

Q: Will this charge tablets, including different versions of the iPad?
A: It is not designed to charge tablets or the iPad.

Q: What do the different colors on the indicator light mean?
A: When the light is blue, the unit is on and ready to charge other electronic devices. The blue light turns off when the battery is empty. The light turns red when the unit itself is being charged, and turns off when it is fully charged and plugged into a power source.

Q: Does it charge a laptop computer?
A: No.

To see the full set of FAQ's, click here!

What other questions can our experts answer for you today?

Last Saturday we had the very fun job of “working” the Social Media Mom Mixer event in Philadelphia.  We say “working” because it really felt more like a girl’s day out.  We teamed up with our friends at Send the Trend to create a STTyle Bar at this amazing event where 150 moms (who are also full time social media mavens) had the chance to style themselves in the latest trends for spring and summer.    Here’s a peek inside the Social Media Mom Mixer and some of the looks the moms created!

Meet Colleen and Whitney – the hosts of Social Media Mom Mixer who made it all happen!  They’re sharing great pictures and videos from the event on their blogs Classy Mommy and Mommies with Style.

Here’s Colleen and her daughter, Kenzie – a fashionista in training!  Colleen styled herself in the Susan Graver Braided Seed Bead necklace and Kenzie chose the Isaac Mizrahi Live! striped scarf.  We adore how they match in pink!

We loved seeing Whitney in her green watch from Judith Ripka– it’s the perfect pop of color!  Whitney also spotted the Lori Greiner Jewelry Safe Keeper at our STTyle Bar (how else were we supposed to showcase all of the great accessories?)  She deemed it “the best solution for your jewelry I’ve ever seen” and is sharing a full review of it on Mommies with Style today.  

Stephanie, editor of Latte and Legos, captured this beautiful picture of our STTyle Bar.  When it came to styling she went bold with a green stone necklace from Send the Trend and an Aimee Kestenberg bag (complete with a pocket for a tablet).  Both really popped against her outfit!  She’s sharing more styled looks on Latte and Legos featuring one of my favorite pieces from Susan Graver. 

Lauryn, also known as The Vintage Mom, added this Joan Rivers Bright Signature Jacket to her look.  The salmon color played up the pattern of her top and was an unexpected pop against her light blue pants.  After trying this on, she’s officially hooked on jackets!  

Here’s Thien-Kim, editor of I’m Not the Nanny, proudly modeling the Susan Graver Seed Bead Necklace and her friend Onica from Mommy Factor.  We loved meeting both of them and talking all things stylish.  Thien-Kim is a David Venable fan, too!

So there you have it – a look inside the exclusive Social Media Mom Mixer event.  Tell us!  What accessories will you be wearing this spring and summer?

 -Jessica and Lauren, Social Team

I wanted to share some photos with you from when I was here on April 8^th to bring you my ¾ Sleeve Knit Top with Ruched Pockets and celebrate the Look Your Best event. I had so much fun!

How gorgeous are these gals?! Loved working with them for a fabulous full day of all that is Instant Chic.

On air!

With Dennis and Mally! Major day and major faces! So much love xx

Getting ready to go on air

Our set

With QVC employees sporting my LOGO tops!

Shop the complete LOGO by Lori Goldstein collection. 

Be sure to follow me on myFacebook and Twitter pages, as well as on www.lorigoldstein.com.

You just know what would make the perfect present for the special mom in your life, and now's the time to share!  Take our Customer Choice Wish List poll & vote for your favorite Mother's Day gift.

Hurry, voting ends Sunday, 4/21, at 11:50 pm ET!

Vote here > Meant for Mom

Greetings from NYC!

I wanted to share something with each of you that is very near and dear to my heart.  I have a very blessed life, a wonderful family (expanding as I write this), good health, supportive and loving friends, and a job that allows me to grow as a person and share my life experiences in a very creative and fulfilling way.  My parents taught me at a very young age to always respect and appreciate the blessings which have been bestowed upon me and to pay it forward every chance I get.  Working with the amazing team at JAI affords me the ability to do this in ways I would have never dreamed.  I look forward to sharing not only my travels and inspirations for JAI, but also sharing with you how my work allows me to pay it forward.

This past Wednesday, I was invited to the annual Breast Cancer Research Foundation Hot Pink Party in New York City.  This is an amazing foundation that raises money to fight the battle against breast cancer and raises awareness of this devastating disease.  The event was held at the iconic Waldorf Astoria, emceed by the gorgeous Elizabeth Hurley, with special presentations by Kate Hudson and a private performance by Sir Elton John.  The night was marked by touching speeches of remembrance of Evelyn Lauder, stories of friends and families lost, and insight into the latest research developments.

Besides the amazing cause and the breathtaking venue, it was a real thrill to meet and see so many amazing artists, designers, and pioneers in the world of philanthropy.  My head was spinning as I sat by Michael Kors, William Lauder, Donna Karan, and the beautiful Kate Hudson sitting beside Sir Elton John.  I found a new respect for my fellow friends in the world of fashion and design!  They have made it their responsibility to give back in a way that raises funds and awareness to so many causes, and for that, I commend them and promise to continue in my support.  I look forward to sharing this part of my life with each of you as we introduce our new designs at JAI John Hardy.

Please feel free to share your stories of which causes are dear to your heart and how you like to pay it forward.  I look forward to sharing this journey together.

Please enjoy the snap shot below from the Hot Pink Party.  I can’t wait to meet all of you during my first show on May 30th at 8pm!

Safe Travels,

Scott Grimes

I have to admit, I’m absolutely loving this year's must-have fashions...As Jayne always says, it is back to pretty! Crochet is so much fun, and it’s everywhere this season! It reminds me of being back in high school with my crochet sweaters, so I guess fashion is really cyclical! I dare say, I cannot really pull out my old sweater, but there is a lot to have fun with from our LCNY crochet shrug to our top designers like George Simonton who use it as an accent on lots of tops.

Crochet is also used as an accent on handbags, sandals, headbands, and so much more!

If I am being honest, the bright bottom trend was a lot harder for me to wrap my fashion sense around, but I think I have got it! I am loving that there are no rules with how to style them...monotone, color-blocking with red and pink, and so much more!

Try red or blue or maybe pink bottoms for summer, and pair with a pretty floral print!

You can get lots of inspiration from catalogs, magazines, and, of course, on the Q! These are rules that are fun to break in fashion!

Now that I’ve shared my favorite must-haves with you, I’d love to hear what your favorite must-have is! Place your vote below and let us know in the comments section how you are styling your favorite must-have this season! You have until 11:59 PM on Monday, April 29^th to cast your vote, and then during Fashionable Early on Monday, May 6^th we will reveal which must-have received the most of your votes!

Can’t wait to hear from you!

Hello, foodies…

Please keep our fellow New Englanders in your thoughts and prayers.

We have so much to be thankful for…friends, family, and wonderful food. All of life’s most precious things and moments should and must be celebrated. So we’re marching forward with “Cheese Month” on In the Kitchen with David and this Sunday, we’re off to Germany!

But first—we’ve got one more delicious recipe to share with you from our QVC UK correspondent Simon Brown. Many thanks to all of our international partners for sharing their recipes and passion.



And now, let’s go to Deutschland, shall we?



So what are we making to honor Germany’s cheese heritage? Spaetzle! But we’re Americanizing it just a bit and making Spaetzle & Cheese.



Spaetzle & Cheese
 
This recipe is prepared with the Cook’s Essentials® 14-Piece Porcelain Enamel Nonstick Cookware Set (K34143).
 
Go to David's Recipe Item Page for the list of items that David has used in his recipes.

Ingredients:
 
Spaetzle:
4 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
2 cups flour
 
Cheese Sauce:
2 Tbsp butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1-1/4 cup onions, diced
2 Tbsp flour
2 cups milk
4 oz Neufchatel cheese, room temperature and cut into 4–6 pieces
2 cups Gouda cheese, grated
3/4 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1/2 tsp ground mustard
1 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
 
Topping:
1 cup mini pretzels, crushed in a food processor
2 Tbsp butter, melted
1/2 tsp paprika
 
Directions:
 
To make the Spaetzle, beat the eggs in a medium-size bowl. Whisk in the milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Add the flour and mix until a smooth, thick batter forms. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
 
Bring 4-5 quarts of water to boil in a large pot. Find a colander with large holes. Place the colander over the water, and in 2–3 batches, push the batter through the holes with a rubber spatula. When the dumplings begin to float, remove them with a slotted spoon and shock them in ice water. When all the dumplings are cooked, drain the water and ice, and set aside.
 
To make the cheese sauce, melt the butter over medium heat in a 2–3 quart saucepan. Add the garlic and onion and sauté until caramelized, about 15–20 minutes. Add the flour and cook for another 2 minutes. Add the milk and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the Neufchatel and Gouda and stir until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the salt, pepper, parsley, and mustard. Remove the pan from the heat and set aside.
 
Preheat the oven to 350°F. To assemble the casserole, toss the crushed pretzels, butter, and paprika together in a small bowl; set aside. Pour the Spaetzle and cheese sauce into the Spaetzle cooking pot and toss to coat. Spoon the mixture into a 1.5-quart casserole dish. Top with the crushed pretzels and bake until brown and bubbly, about 50 minutes.

After you give this recipe a go, keep this basic Spaetzle recipe handy…in Germany, it’s often served as a side dish with a pork chop or roast…and covered with gravy. Or, you can simply mix it with cheese (like Emmentaler or Swiss) and sautéed onions, as is also common and absolutely worth trying.

Since my recipe today is, in essence, mac & cheese, tell me about your signature recipe for today’s blog question. What makes your mac & cheese special? Do you use a blend of cheeses? Maybe some bacon? By now, I’m sure you’ve all seen my recipe on QVC.com and in my cookbook. I use both methods: lots of cheese and bacon. And it just doesn’t get any tastier!

Keep it flavorful!
--David

P.S. I almost forgot! Southern Living is bringing a brand-new title this Sunday to Cookbook Corner. It’s Off The Eaten Path: Second Helpings and it takes you into some of the South's most tucked away eateries with food critic and travel writer, Morgan Murphy. Each chapter charts a tasty trail through a southern sub-region, giving you recipes and eateries specific to that region. Here are two recipes you’ll find in this inventive title. See you Sunday!

In honor of QVC & CEW Present Beauty With Benefits, philosophy Senior Director, Heidi Guest, is sharing her advice for moisturizing exceptionally dry skin to achieve a radiant, healthy glow.

Shop philosophy and other beauty products for charity during QVC and CEW Present Beauty with Benefits benefiting Cancer and Careers April 25 from 9-11pm ET.

Learn more and shop for charity: Beauty with Benefits

Calling all Geller Girls!  In honor of QVC & CEW Present Beauty With Benefits, Laura Geller is sharing her best tips for creating a natural looking eyebrow with makeup.

Shop Laura Geller Beauty and other beauty products for charity during QVC and CEW Present Beauty with Benefits benefiting Cancer and Careers April 25 from 9-11pm ET.

Learn more and shop for charity: Beauty with Benefits

Hello LCNY fashionistas... What a weekend!  It was Sarah's bridal shower. Let me just say that 25 years ago she was this little bundle of joy. Now she has blossomed into this incredible wonderful woman.  Oh my where did the time go.  I remember her dressing up as a bride when she was 5 years old and thinking it was so far away.  Unfortunately for her Mom this time in her life is a time of reflection and wondering, "where did the time go". This time in Sarah's life is filled with great excitement, possibilities and undying love for her soon to be groom aka best friend. I think upcoming weddings make us pause for great reflection.  How important friends, family and the joining of two families is.  Sarah and Bryan are on their way to starting their own nucleus.  Newlyweds embarking on a new adventure, maybe parents one day. My prayer for her and wish is for peace, love and happiness.  We all know life has its up and downs, but if you can ride the roller coaster with the right one, those deep dips are easy to navigate.  I am sure many of you have had children get married so you understand a mother's reflection, almost bitter sweet. But ever so proud and happy.  So... The shower was awesome, the gifts were incredible (ps. Boy could I use all the new stuff she got... a bit jealous) Nah... I love my 27 year old favorites.  Check out the picture of yours truly with the bride to be and her twin.  Recognize the shrug? LCNY...

Linda :)

In honor of QVC & CEW Present Beauty With Benefits, Chaz Dean is sharing healthy hair tips and demonstrating how to apply treatment oil to the scalp to promote healthy hair growth.

Shop Wen for hair and other beauty products for charity during QVC and CEW Present Beauty with Benefits benefiting Cancer and Careers April 25 from 9-11pm ET.

Learn more and shop for charity: Beauty with Benefits

Enter the sweepstakes on David's May is Gold Month Sweepstakes blog!

QVC, Inc.

MAY IS GOLD MONTH SWEEPSTAKES

OFFICIAL RULES

QVC, Inc. (“Sponsor”) is sponsoring the May is Gold Month Sweepstakes ("Sweepstakes").

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY.  A PURCHASE OR PAYMENT OF ANY KIND WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. MUST BE 18 YEARS OR OLDER TO ENTER. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.

By entering this Sweepstakes, entrants agree to abide by all terms of these Official Rules and the decisions of the Sponsor whose decisions shall be final and binding.

1. 1.    ELIGIBILITY: The Sweepstakes is open to legal residents of the United States and District of Columbia, excluding Rhode Island, who are 18 years or older as of date of entry.  Employees and agents of Sponsor and their parents, affiliates and subsidiaries, and their immediate families (parents, children, siblings and spouses) and their same household members are not eligible. Void outside of the United States and District of Columbia, and where prohibited by law. Void in Rhode Island and Puerto Rico.  Subject to all federal, state and local laws and regulations.

1. 2.    SWEEPSTAKES ENTRY: There are two (2) ways to enter the Sweepstakes, online via www.qvc.com (“Website”) or by mail.  

To enter the Sweepstakes by mail, send your name, address and daytime telephone number on a standard 4 inch by 6 inch postcard addressed to the May is Gold Month Sweepstakes Studio Park Mail Code 202, West Chester, PA 19380 (“Mail Entry”).

To enter the Sweepstakes online, sign into your QVC account at www.qvc.com and access the QVC Community Blog page. If you do not have an existing QVC account, you must create one to enter the Sweepstakes online. No purchase is necessary to create a QVC account. Creating a QVC account requires providing your email address, a pin number, your title (i.e. Mr., Mrs.), your first name, last name, address and telephone number.Then go to the Sweepstakes Blog post (“Blog”) on the QVC Community Blog page, click the “New Reply” button and submit your response to the question, “What’s your favorite QVC Gold?”(“Submission”). A Submission includes any story, text or any other information or data in any form that an entrant submits in any manner, directly or indirectly, to Sponsor in connection with the Sweepstakes.  Your Submission constitutes your entry into this Sweepstakes (“Online Entry”).

Once submitted, Submissions become the sole property of Sponsor, cannot be modified by entrant, and will not be returned. Receipt of Submission may be acknowledged, but such acknowledgment does not constitute any representation by Sponsor as to Sweepstakes eligibility.  By submitting a Submission, entrant gives permission (and warrants and represents that he/she has obtained all rights necessary to give such permission, including from the creator, if other than entrant) to Sponsor and hereby grants Sponsor a royalty-free, irrevocable, perpetual, worldwide, sublicensable, non-exclusive license to post entrant's Submission, name, likeness and all other information about the entrant contained in the Submission on the World Wide Web, and to otherwise use entrant's response, name, likeness and all other information about the entrant in the Submission without compensation in accordance with the requirements of this Sweepstakes and the advertising, promotion, and publicity of the Sweepstakes, and otherwise, as stated in these Official Rules (as solely determined by Sponsor). Such Grant of Rights will be confirmed by potential winner upon Sponsor’s request and potential winner agrees to sign any and all necessary confirming documents without compensation of any kind (other than the prize).

Entrant further warrants and represents that he/she has fully complied with these Official Rules and that his/her Submission: (1) does not violate any law or regulation; (2) does not violate or infringe any right of any third party, including but not limited to intellectual property rights, such as but not limited to rights of copyright, trademark or patent, or rights of publicity or privacy (without in any way limiting the preceding, entrant represents and warrants that he/she has obtained permission from the recipe creator if not him/herself (upon Sponsor’s request, winner must submit proof of obtaining all necessary consents); (3) is not defamatory, slanderous,  libelous, scandalous or obscene; (4) is entirely entrant's own original work and entrant owns or controls all right, title and interest in the Submission, including but not limited to its copyright; (5) has not been submitted in any other competition or Promotion; (6) does not contain any virus, bugs, or other deleterious material; (7) does not contain the trademark, tradename or logo of any third party (but may contain a trademark, tradename or logo of the Sponsor); (8) does not name, depict or describe any person (living, dead, or fictional) unless entrant has first obtained the consent of any named/depicted/described person as per (2) above; (9) without limiting the foregoing, does not  contain any material that is protected by copyright other than the copyright owned exclusively by the entrant, including but not limited to product labels that are subject to others’ copyright. Submissions may not (and Sponsor reserves the right to disqualify any Submissions that do): 1) include nudity or what Sponsor, in its sole discretion, considers to be obscenity, pornography, racially offensive, sexually explicit, and/or offensive language/content, hate speech or drug usage; 2) disparage Sponsor or any other party, including brands or trademarks other than those of Sponsor (this includes but is not limited to the brands/trademarks of Sponsor’s competitors); 3) depict acts of violence or aggression; 4) advocate illegal conduct of any kind.  If a Submission is unable to be viewed by Sponsor for any reason whatsoever, that Submission shall be disqualified (and Released Parties, as defined below, will not be responsible or liable for any such inability).By entering a Submission, entrant agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Released Parties (as defined below) from any action or liability resulting from the publishing of his/her Submission and/or use of the Submission.

By submitting an Online Entry or Mail Entry, you are signifying that you have read, understand and agree to these Official Rules.  

Limit of one (1) entry per person during the entry period either by Mail or Online.  Any person who attempts to participate with entries in excess of these entry limitations will be disqualified.Any other attempted form of Sweepstakes entry is void. Any person who attempts to participate under multiple identities or uses any device or artifice to enter in excess of this entry limitation will be disqualified; use of programmed, automated or like means of entry is prohibited. All duplicate entries will be discarded. Use of multiple email addresses or QVC accounts by the same individual to enter is prohibited and such multiple entries shall be voided. In the event of a dispute regarding the identity of the person submitting an entry, the entry will be deemed submitted by the authorized account holder of the email address associated with the QVC account of the entry, which the entrant will have the obligation to establish. Sponsor is not responsible for late, incomplete, misdirected, delayed, or undelivered entries, including without limitation inability to access Website or entries not timely received due to hardware or software errors, other technological malfunctions or failures and disruptions of any kind, Internet service provider problems or lost, late, mutilated postage-due mail. Incomplete information may result in disqualification of entry. No entries may be effected on behalf of someone else. All Mail Entries are the non-returnable property of Sponsor. All eligible entries carry an equal chance of winning.

1. 3.    SWEEPSTAKES PERIOD: The Sweepstakes begins on April 26, 2013 and ends 11:59:59 pm ET on May 10, 2013 (“Sweepstakes Period”).  Online Entries must be submitted by 11:59:59 pm ET on May 10, 2013. All Mail Entries must be postmarked by May 10, 2013 and received by May 15, 2013.

1. 4.    WINNER DETERMINATION:  Five (5) Winners will be determined by a random drawing from all eligible entries on or about May 16, 2013.  Sponsor reserves the right to delay the random drawing. The number of eligible entries received will determine the odds of winning. Winning entries are subject to validation.

1. 5.    WINNER NOTIFICATION: Sponsor or a representative of Sponsor shall contact Potential Winners on or about May 16, 2013.  Potential Winners may be required to execute and return an affidavit of eligibility, liability release, and (where legal) an affidavit of publicity prior to receiving the prize. Potential Winners will have forty-eight hours from the time he/she is contacted to respond as directed and accept the prize. Noncompliance with the time period described above will result in disqualification and an alternate winner selected. Potential Winners may be required to present proof of identification prior to claiming prize. Acceptance of any prize shall require acceptance of the terms of these Official Rules and shall grant Sponsor the right to use Winners’ first name, last name and city and state of residence for any publicity associated with this Sweepstakes.

1. 6.    PRIZES: Winner 1 will receive an EternaGold 18" Polished Infinity Necklace 14K Gold (J281046) Approximate Retail Value: $209.00. Winner 2 will receive an EternaGold Crystal Cut Bead Earrings w/ Secura Clasp, 14K Gold (J268651) Approximate Retail Value: $290.00.  Winner 3 will receive VicenzaGold 1-1/2"Oval Diamond Cut Hoop Earrings 14K Yellow Gold (J279845) Approximate Retail Value: $278.00.  Winner 4 will receive a VicenzaGold Satin Rectangle Bangle 14K Yellow Gold (J269826) Approximate Retail Value: $265.00. Winner 5 will receive an Affinity Diamond 1/7 ct tw Baguette and Round Band Ring, 14K
   (J279631) Approximate Retail Value: $275.00.  Total Approximate Retail Value of all five (5) prizes combined: $1,317.00.

If a Winner is unable or unwilling to accept the prize he/she will be disqualified and the prize forfeited; and, in such event, an alternate Winner shall be selected from among all remaining eligible entries received. Prize cannot be substituted or transferred by Winner. If a Prize must be forfeited, Winner will not be given the cash value of the prize. Prize Winner is solely responsible for all expenses not expressly included. All taxes are the responsibility of the Winner. Winner and/or parent or legal guardian may be required to sign an IRS Form 1099, Form W-9, or the equivalent for all prizes valued at $600 or greater, or for any prize as to which Sponsor, in their sole discretion, believes it is warranted. Prize provided by QVC, Inc.

7. USE OF SUBMISSIONS; LICENSE:  By entering the Sweepstakes or making any Submission to or for the benefit of the Sponsor, entrants hereby irrevocably grant to Sponsor a non-exclusive, sub-licensable, royalty-free, fully paid license and right to use, distribute, make derivative works from and otherwise exploit the Submission, in any manner and in any medium now known or hereafter devised, throughout the world in perpetuity, including, without limitation the right to use the Submission in whole or in part in merchandising, advertising, marketing or promotion or for any other commercial or non-commercial purpose related to the Sweepstakes or not related to the Sweepstakes.  Entrants hereby forever waive and relinquish all so-called “moral rights (droit moral)” now or hereafter recognized.  Entrants agree that Sponsor shall havesole discretion in determining the extent and manner of use of Submissions and is not obligated to use any Submission.   

1. 8.    CONDITIONS AND LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: By participating, participants agree to be bound by and abide by these Official Rules and the decisions of Sponsor, which shall be final and binding in all respects and not subject to appeal. Sponsor reserves the right in its sole discretion to disqualify any individual it finds to be tampering with the entry process or the operation of the Sweepstakes or to be acting in violation of these Official Rules.  Sponsor’s failure to enforce any term of these Official Rules shall not constitute a waiver of that provision. By participating in this Sweepstakes, entrants agree to release and hold harmless Sponsor, their respective parent, subsidiary, affiliated and successor companies, advertising and promotion agencies , and each of their respective officers, directors, agents, representatives and employees, as well as each of their respective successors and assigns (collectively, the "Released Parties") from any and all actions, claims, loss or damage to person(s) or property arising in any manner, directly or indirectly, in whole or in part from participation in this Sweepstakes or any Sweepstakes-related activity, and/or acceptance, possession, misuse or use of any prize.

By accepting the prize, Winner authorizes the Sponsor and its designees to use his/her name, voice, likeness, photograph, prize information, biographical data and city and state of residence in any media now known or hereafter discovered, world wide, including on the World Wide Web and Internet, in perpetuity, at any time or times, in programming, advertising, trade and/or promotional material relating to this Sweepstakes or on a Winner's List (if applicable) without additional compensation or notice, review or approval (unless prohibited by law). Sponsor is not obligated to use any of the above mentioned information or materials, but may do so and may edit such information or materials, at Sponsor's sole discretion, without obligation or compensation.

TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, RELEASED PARTIES MAKE NO WARRANTY, REPRESENTATION, OR GUARANTEE, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, IN FACT OR IN LAW, RELATIVE TO THE USE OF THE PRIZE, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ITS QUALITY, MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.

1. 9.    DISPUTES: Arbitration/Choice Of Law: To the fullest extent permitted by law, entrants agree that: (1) any and all disputes, claims, and causes of action arising out of or connected with this Sweepstakes, or the prize, or the determination of the Winner, shall be resolved individually, without resort to any form of class action, and exclusively by arbitration pursuant to the Rules of the American Arbitration Association, then effective, and (2) any and all claims, judgments and awards shall be limited to actual out-of-pocket costs incurred, including costs associated with entering this Sweepstakes (if any) but in no event attorneys’ fees; and (3) under no circumstances will entrant be permitted to obtain awards for and entrant hereby waives all rights to claim punitive, incidental and consequential damages and any other damages, other than for actual out-of-pocket expenses, and any and all rights to have damages multiplied or otherwise increased. All issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules, or the rights and obligations of entrant and/or Released Parties in connection with the Sweepstakes, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, without regard for conflicts of law doctrine, and all proceedings shall take place in the City of Philadelphia, County of Philadelphia.

1. 10.  PRIVACY POLICY: The entry information provided is subject to The QVC Privacy Statement accessible via www.qvc.com. To read the QVC Policy, access the QVC Website and then click on the Privacy Statement link under the “Policies & Information” heading.

1. 11.  WINNER’S LIST: For the names of prize winners, mail a self-addressed, stamped envelope to May is Gold Month Sweepstakes QVC Studio Park Mail Code 202, West Chester, PA 19380.

Enter the sweepstakes on David's May is Gold Month Sweepstakes blog!                                                                                                                     

What could be better than color cosmetics, fragrance, and skin, body, and hair care from leading names in the beauty industry? I can think of a few things, like no charge for shipping and handling, receiving a special gift with every purchase, and, best of all, supporting a great cause. If these incentives excite you, too, you should join me in shopping QVC & CEW Present Beauty with Benefits tomorrow, April 25 from 9–11pm ET!

This extraordinary event proves a little makeup can make a big difference, not only in the way you feel about yourself, but also in the lives of others. Net proceeds benefit Cancer and Careers, an organization that was established by the Cosmetic Executive Women (CEW) Foundation to help people with cancer thrive in their workplace. Through the expert advice, interactive tools, and educational events this program provides, it has become the go-to resource for cancer patients and survivors nationwide.

Just in case you need more reasons to tune in to QVC tomorrow night, check out the impressive list of brands that’ll be in the show. With names this notable, no charge for shipping and handling, a special gift with every purchase, and net proceeds benefitting Cancer and Careers, I’m willing to bet these products will be in high demand (to say the least). I suggest marking your calendar, setting an alarm, and writing sticky-note reminders so you don’t miss your chance to change lives by treating yourself to beauty’s best.

Let me know which brands you’re most excited to see and the items you were lucky enough to score! I’m making a beeline for the offerings from Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare (my latest love), Dior, Givenchy, and Fresh.

—Missy

Hello my lovely QVC ladies!! I have not written a blog in months, please forgive me!  I don't even know where to start it’s been so long.  Is it ok with you if I start talking about life backwards because I remember yesterday but I don't know if I remember March, lol!

So excited that spring has sprung!!  Steve and I are outdoor people so we love when it starts to warm up and we can eat, sit, walk, and live outdoors!  In fact we've been working on our deck as far as decor goes and starting to plant in the front of the house.  We moved into our house last year and though we did get deck furniture we didn't have all the finishing touches and that's what we are getting now.  I'll take pics when it’s all together and show you but I need to get one more thing, flameless candles from my fave, Candle Impressions. 

Our half finished deck! Note cute QVC flower boxes and the tree in the corner is a Roberta's lemon tree. 

This year we are tackling the front of the house too. We are in a townhouse but do have some yard.  We have a tree and a holly bush but there is room in front of them for more and we would like something that is a bush in the winter but blooms in the summer so I turned to my landscapers, mom and dad!  Now grated mom and dad are not "real" landscapers but they've been homeowners for 40 years and both have green thumbs that I did not inherit. Mom suggested Knock Out Roses because they are easy to care for but also bloom from spring to frost.  Now you know the first thing I did was go to qvc.com to place an order and boohoo they didn't have what I wanted.  I would like to put a request in with QVC where you can select your color configuration with flowers.  I needed 3 bushes but wanted 3 all the same color and we do packages of mixed colors.  So off to our local nursery we went.  Good thing was the nursery had roses on sale and in white which is what I wanted!  I'll take pics of those too!  Nothing else is really new in the house. Oh, we did get a clock from Pottery Barn and two white flower boxes from the Q that I will show you at the end of this.

Our PB clock! Please ignore the fact that the powder room door is open, lol.

How was your Easter or Passover?  We had a wonderful day that included brunch with Steve's parents and then on to my parents for a late Easter lunch.  Got to see my two favorite nieces (I only have two) and that meant I got to play baby dolls, school, spa, and my favorite; dance class!  We have so much fun with them!!  I'm looking forward to May because my parents, Steve and I , and Abby and Reese (the nieces) are all going to the beach together.  My big sis has a wedding on Martha's Vineyard so we get to keep the girls.  I love going to the beach in May because it’s not too hot and I don't feel like I have to stay on the beach all day and soak up the sun so I get to do a little more shopping, dining, and just relaxing.  We go to a wonderful town called Stone Harbor in NJ and it’s the beach I've gone to all my life so it feels like home.  Plus they have a great ice cream joint that serves peanut butter and brownie ice cream.  Hello, are you kidding me?!?! I get a cone every night!

One of the reasons why I love my nieces!!

Everything's good with the family, though we did have a scare when Steve's dad had a small stroke earlier in the year.  He is doing better and in fact back to work and finished with therapy but it certainly makes you realize how you just never know.  Makes you want to hug everyone a little tighter. I know I sure felt like that with the Boston tragedy too.  So scary, so sad, so painful.  I hope all of your family is doing well and that hugs have been given.

So let’s see, we covered house, fam, so how about work.  Things are great at the Q and I'm still loving that we get devoted time together between, Monday, Thursday and Friday.  It certainly is fun having Inspired Style on Thursday and then turning around and coming back for more fashion in The Lisa Robertson Show.  I certainly do my fair share of shopping those two nights.  Oh, speaking of.  Guess who has an Isaac cross body bag coming home to her.  Hoping it will be there when I get home today.

I'm going to start doing a lot of travelling soon for IS!!  Up to NYC, over to Philly, and way over to San Francisco!  I really can't wait especially to go out west as I do love it out there.  You know Steve always tells me he would move to LA in a heartbeat if QVC sent me there.  I don't think I would as I can't imagine being a plane ride away from the fam, I like to hop in the car whenever I want to see them.  Think my hubby secretly wants to be a surfer so I remind him he still would have to work if we moved and riding waves does not bring in income unless you are professional, lol.  Anyway, I will keep you posted on all of our trips.

You know I always find it's best to get updated with what I like to call "Amy's random thoughts", basically a bunch of run on sentences but I find that what I want to tell you doesn't always fit in its own pretty paragraph.  So here goes!

Had a great time in LA in Feb.  Didn't want to take my green dress off and had a pinch me moment when I was hanging out in Lisa Rinna's room at the end of the night with her and Jen Rade!

Stopped using Super Smile for a month and felt like my teeth looked like corn kernels instead of white Chiclets so I went back to the expensive but oh so good stuff.

I have discovered the most comfortable heels in America, they are DVF and the grey pair I wear all the time but you could run 5 miles in them, ok fine I exaggerated, 1 mile. 

Have two new favorite songs right now, for a slower/sad one, Tim Mcgraw's Highway Don't Care and for a fun/dance one Ceiling Can't Hold us.

Speaking of music, wanted to see Jay Z and JT in concert but then looked up the price for tickets and realized I could get a killer handbag, a ton of makeup, or three dresses and said never mind to the concert.

Tried a new shampoo and hated it (shh, its Loreal)

Tried Wen's Spring Gardenia and loved it!

I'm on the third Fifty Shades Of Grey book and I now see what all the fuss is about.  Though I will say from an HBO watcher I think Eric and Bill are more steamy then Christian. 

Steve and I finally sat down to watch old seasons of Breaking Bad and considering we are on season 5 in a matter of weeks I would say we are hooked. 

Got a trim and wasn't sure if I liked it at first because we put more layers in it, but I now I officially do like it!!

And lastly because I feel so close to you I'm going to tell you something that many might find over share but I Know many will find as exciting as I do.  We are trying to have a baby!!  Well, we've been trying since September and no baby yet and everyone keeps telling me not to think about it but how in the world do you not think about it!!! 

And that would be my life in a few sentences! Alright girlfriends.  Sorry again that I've been a bad blogger. As you probably know I'm a talker not a writer or as MJ would say I'm a lover not a fighter.  That is true BTW, lol!  Glad we got caught up except I do feel like I'm the only one sharing so reply and let me know what is up with you? 

Oh, before we leave each other let me tell you one more thing.  When I go to NYC in a few weeks I'm going to hang out with David Dangle.  Remember when IS did Dear Isaac?  We are now going to do Dear David.  If you have any style questions you want answered please feel free to write them in the reply section and I will ask him during the taping. 

Ok, great to talk you!!  I'll see you on the Q!

Much love,

Amy:)