Hi, everyone!
I hope you had a truly magical Christmas with your family. I'm still celebrating with mine, so I hope you'll forgive me for writing a shorter post today...
This Flashback Friday video is something you can think about as soon as you're ready to put your holiday decorations away for the season.
VIDEO
Enjoy the rest of your holiday weekend...
From my home to yours,
—Jill
Dear D&CO Divas -
It's hard to believe 2014 is coming to a close! We've seen lots of wonderful new happenings in Denim and Company in the past year! Two of my favorite things have been getting to introduce you to our wonderful Designer, Gary Goben, who we all love having on our Denim and Company shows from time to time! My other favorite thing has been introducing you to our wondering new collection within the Denim and Company brand, called"Denim and Co Active"!! The Active collection of French terry, comfy, stretchy knit separates has been phenomenally popular and many of us already have quite a few pieces to mix and match and make outfits that we LOVE to wear! In fact, the entire fashion industry is in love with the look of "active wear" and it's becoming a huge trend in fashion for 2015!! You'll be seeing lots of new "active" pieces from Denim and Company coming throughout the New Year!
A few days ago, we presented a brand new TSV (A261551)...our Denim and Company Active French Terry Tunic with princess seaming details and pockets. It was wildly popular and lots of customers ordered more than one…including me!! SO.....for today's Designer vs Diva Poll, Gary and I have put together two "total looks" which are "active" looks that incorporate the TSV!
We would love for you to vote on which "look" you like the best!! Gary did one look and I did the other one. Of course we are not going to reveal WHICH of US did WHICH LOOK until two weeks from now, during a special Designer vs Diva Denim and Company Tuesday morning show on January 13th! As always, we BOTH love each look, but it's fun to hear what YOU think of the fashions and to read your comments, so be sure to leave them here when you vote!! See if you can determine which of us did which outfit?
Meanwhile, here are some details on each look:
Look Number 1: "Active Inspired"
This look features the recent D&Co Active Tunic (A261551) in an outfit that would be great year round, and is terrific for running around doing errands, taking care of your busy lifestyle with kids, grandkids and pets OR making a stop at the gym or yoga class along the way! It works really well with all of your current and/or new Active pieces in your wardrobe.
The first piece is A261707, a D&Co fleece zip front jacket with pockets, princess seams, long sleeves and a stand collar, with a length ranging from 25 1/2 to 29 3/4 inches. The second piece is A260069, our D&Co Duo Stretch leggings with pintuck detail. These are fitted and slimming, with a wide elastic waistband with sits just slightly below the waist. They are 90% cotton and 10% spandex. This outfit would look great paired with your favorite Rykas or Skechers in lots of fun colors.
Look Number 2: "Weekend Casual Inspired"
This look features the recent D&Co Active Tunic (A261551) in an outfit that can also be worn year round, and is comfortable yet suitable for a casual workplace or lunch with friends, as well getting out and about to check off your daily "to do" list. It is versatile enough to work with many things in your wardrobe.
The first piece is A261846, the D & Co stretch denim jacket with mandarin color, long sleeves, button front, on seam pockets and high-low hem. It is semi-fitted and made of 98% cotton, and 2 percent spandex. The length ranges from 23 3/4 to 28 inches. The second piece is A260392, the Denim and Co "How Modern" slightly boot cut jeans. These are a 5-pocket style, with fly front and button closure. They sit slightly below the waist, and are fitted. The inseam is 31 1/2 inches in Missy or Plus sizes.
So look these outfits over, and let us know which one you like the best to showcase your new Denim and Company TSV Active French Terry Tunic!! VOTE HERE and LEAVE YOUR COMMENTS TOO!
We'll reveal the one that gets the most votes AND which of us picked it...Designer Gary, or yours truly, the resident Denim Diva!! Meanwhile, check out Gary's recent blog all about how to wear your Denim and Company Active pieces…and check out MY blog, all about our recent D&Co Active TSV Tunic!!
See you Tuesday's at 11am weekly for Denim and Company fashions on QVC!!
Happy New Year!!
Carolyn
You know how I always say "go bold or go home" ? Well, that was my philosophy in 1998, our first Christmas in our new home. The ceiling is 18 feet high, so Bill, Tiffany, Miles and I set out on a quest for a tree worthy of this new space. We found it!
You should have seen Bill and the tree-lot attendant strapping this mammoth tree to the roof of our SUV, and the looks we got on the drive back around the mountain to our home on the Turquoise Trail. A possible sequel to Christmas Vacation is what probably ran through many minds! Caught up in the magic of the moment, we hadn't considered many important logistics....like how we would get this tree into the house, how would our tree stand support an 18 foot tree, and do we even have a ladder that size in order for me to decorate this thing?! The four of us hoisted the tree through a sliding door of a deck 6 feet off the ground ...the kids, not so happy; me, smiling through the pain; Bill, a VERY good sport! Of course the stand didn't support it and we had to wire it to the walls....and we also had to rent a huge A-frame ladder, which required another journey into town. It's a good thing we started early! Oh, one more thing...regular sized ornaments DO NOT fill a tree this size....another trip into town was required. The tree was beautiful, very fresh, and I ended up needing to wear a stocking cap and old sweatshirt while decorating as I got covered in sap! Oh, the things we do when we're wrapped up in the magic of Christmas!!! It was all worth it . A friend of ours from New York City walked in and exclaimed "Am I at Macy's Herald Square?" Just the look I was going for!
Any Christmas decorating snafu's to share? Come on, we ALL have them!!
We always love it when we get to celebrate a hosts’ birthday. To start the New Year, we have a bonus by having two hosts, Alberti Popaj and Jennifer Coffey, that share the same birthday, January 5th. Since they are both Capricorn’s, we thought it would be fun to find out who is a truer Capricorn by answering a few questions about their personality.
Let's start with Jennifer:
Q) Who do you rely on most?
A) Besides God? My daughter! She's my rock. And helps me put it all into perspective. If I had a dollar for every time she reminded me that "Mom, life's too short to worry!"
Q) If your best friend swears she knows the name of the song you’re listening to, but you know she’s wrong, would you correct her or let her think she’s right?
A) My BFF is the ONLY person I'd correct...we bicker like sisters!
Q) When you have your heart set on a goal, how do you go about reaching it?
A) My process is to "Imagine, Believe, and Gratefully Receive." I visualize what I want, I hand it over to God, and I begin acting grateful as though it's already in my life. Two words: It. Works.
Q) Have you ever started a project and not finished it?
A) There's a 1,000-piece puzzle I was determined to finish before my 40th birthday...let's just say I won't be posting a pic of the progress I've made on January 5th!!
Q) How much of a Capricorn do YOU think you are?
A) 95% Capricorn...except for the stubborn part. And I'm sticking to it! :-)
Tell us a joke!
There were three men on a hill with their watches.
The first man threw his watch down the hill and it broke.
The second man threw his watch down the hill and it broke.
The third man threw his watch down the hill, walked all the way to the bottom, and caught it.
The other two men were puzzled and asked the third man how he did it.
The third man said, "Easy. My watch is 5 minutes slow!"
Now it's Alberti's turn;
Q) What’s your favorite way to spend a free day?
A) I love spending a free day with friends. Inviting them over, making a meal or just watching a classic film in my family room makes me the happiest person ever (That and having a clean house!!).
Q) What’s the biggest thing you’ve ever achieved?
A) I always set mini-goals for myself, and find that they sum up to big achievements in life all together. But If I was going to separate one out as my “biggest achievement,” it would have to be getting my job at the Q. It involved countless auditions, lots of pep talks from my friends and family, and a very big move from Los Angeles to West Chester – and it all happened within a 3-4 month time span! It was the most “life changing” experience for me, and it wasn’t “easy” by any means. I’m glad I did it though, because it has also been the biggest blessing for me.
Q) What’s your morning routine?
A) First thing in the morning I throw on my sweats and take the dogs (Prince Charming and Coco) out for a quick walk! They are my #1 priority, and I want to make sure that they have a happy life. When we come back to the house, we all get our breakfast. Most days I have a smoothie, but sometimes I indulge in something heartier. Then it’s time to clean up the house, myself, and head out for that day’s adventure!
Q) What’s your most Capricorn-like trait?
A) Ambitious and Disciplined
Tell us a joke!
Q: Why did the dinosaur cross the road?
A: Because the chicken joke wasn't invented yet. HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!
This was fun and we hope it gave you a little insight to their personalities.
Thanks and Happy Birthday Jennifer and Alberti!
Happy New Year, everyone! I hope you’re reading this snuggled up somewhere cozy, enjoying some well-deserved post-holiday R&R!
Now that the holiday parties and New Year’s festivities are behind us, it’s all about the resolutions, right?
Hmmm…For me, that answer depends on a lot of things. J
I do love the feeling of starting fresh in a new year. Whether it’s cleaning out my closet, organizing my kitchen or researching healthy meal options, it just comes a little easier when I know I have the whole year ahead of me.
But…it’s also a little too easy to get carried away and start piling up resolutions left and right. Before I know it, I’m facing at a huge list of well-intentioned but unrealistic resolutions. And there’s nothing more challenging than starting a new year feeling like you’re already overwhelmed.
So this year, I’m not thinking about resolutions, I’m thinking about balance. Here’s my plan for keeping my goals achievable in 2015!
1. Make wellness a treat, not a chore. Yoga is a big part of my wellness routine. But just because I love it doesn’t mean it’s always easy to hop out of bed at the crack of dawn to do it. J This year, my goal is to take 5 minutes at the end of every session to appreciate where I am…wherever I am.
These two pictures are from two of my favorite places on earth – my back yard and a beautiful retreat in the islands. When I look at them side by side, the similarities are striking…a great reminder you can find beauty and inner peace wherever you are. But you have to be quiet enough to appreciate it!
2. Music, music and more music. You know how Mary Poppins sings “a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down?” Well, for me, music makes everything easier…running, cleaning, grocery shopping. Everything is better with a soundtrack, right? My favorite jam lately: “I Lived,” by One Republic. It’s amazing. Even if I don’t feel like running, just a few notes can completely turn my mood around.
3. Make healthy choices, delicious choices. Healthy eating is always a goal for me. But that doesn't mean I have to sacrifice the flavors and foods I love best. Sometimes, it’s just about finding new and enticing ways to combine them. So instead of focusing on cutting back, I’m focusing on what yummy things I can add to my menu. Like this delicious – and gorgeous – salad from my new cookbook!
ORANGE POPPY SEED SALAD
8 cups torn romaine
1 can (15 ounces) mandarin oranges, drained
3/4 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
2/3 cup canola or olive oil
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup cider vinegar
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
In a temp-tations 3.5 quart serving bowl, combine romaine, oranges and walnuts. Place oil, sugar, vinegar, poppy seeds, salt and mustard in a jar with a tight-fitting lid; shake well. Pour desired amount over romaine mixture; toss to coat. Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds. Refrigerate remaining dressing.
First and foremost: welcome to Living For Me at QVC! We want you to spend some time on carving out a plan to focus on YOU, please. You spend so much time taking care of everyone else: will you please do something for yourself too? Ok, thank you. We have divided our initiative into three teams: Team Advanced, headed by Captain Albany Irvin; Team Optimist, headed by Captain Jayne Brown; and Team Rookie, headed by yours truly!
Team Rookie is about getting back into the swing of things: maybe we’ve let some eating habits slip. Maybe we’ve let exercise drift by. Or, maybe a great night’s sleep is a thing of the past. No more! We will make goals, track them, support each other, and live our lives (even if just for a few minutes each day) “for me!” You don’t have to sign up for anything, you don’t have to buy anything. All you have to do is remember our team motto: “DON’T QUIT.” Then, you are in it to win it.
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts so far and I sure hope you continue to do so. (If you haven’t done so yet, you can do so on my Facebook (Mary DeAngelis) or toGather pages.) So far, what I’ve heard loud and clear is: “there is just so much I want to do, but I don’t know where to start.” I know it can be daunting, but I want you to back your focus up a little bit. You are strong, kind, smart, and you can do this. Here’s my advice for getting started: start SMALL. Make your first goal attainable. For example, my first goal this week is I HAVE TO eat a vegetable with every dinner this whole week. Mr. D. and I bought a big bowl of them and we have to eat them. If we don’t get to it during the week, we have to eat them ALL Friday night! HA! We’re doing great so far, basically, because we’re afraid of what could happen Friday night…
If you need some help getting your thoughts organized on how to start, here’s something I made for myself. If you find it useful, PLEASE feel free to do it at home for yourself! I started with a blank sheet of paper, and drew a grid: four columns wide and eight rows down. Then, I labeled the column across the top with the following: number, problem, solution, frequency.
Under the “problem” section, I did a brain-dump. ALL of the major things, that in a dream-world, I would love to FIX. Need more rows? ADD THEM. Just download your whole brain. Need LESS rows, don’t worry…you’ll fill them later! But be sure to leave yourself some room to grow.
Under the “solution” section, add your “weeks” so you can track the ideas that you try! Maybe they work, maybe they don’t … IT’S ALL OK. There WILL be failure along this road. The failure is fabulous: it means we tried. TRYING means you’re alive! If one of your solutions does not work out along the way, cross it out! If it works, celebrate it! Highlight it, add a sticker, make it fun!
Your “frequency” box is your suggested amount of times to “check in” on this part of your journey. If you do it less, if you do it more, that is also OK! Customize all of this for YOU. The first column is your “numbers” column and that’s where you’re going to track how often you ACTUALLY did this. Make tick marks, use a pencil with an eraser, whatever works best.
And there you are! You have downloaded your brain and you are ready for action! Most importantly, you are putting in the effort to take care of yourself and that’s what matters. It may sound silly to you because we may not have met in person, but I am truly proud of you for doing this. We’re all in Team Rookie together and supporting each other is what it’s all about. Remember, whatever it is you choose to do: DON’T QUIT!
To end each blog for this project, I’ll be sharing a “Team Rookie Inspiration.” And for today, I want to talk to you about Kerstin Lindquist. She’s a great mom, great host, and someone to SERIOUSLY look up to as far as fitness is concerned. She’s a lovely friend and WAY FUN to follow on social, which is where I saw her love of the Fitbit! I mean, how can you get to where you want to be if you don’t know where you’ve been, right?! Done and done. I’ve been wearing mine for about a week and am learning more from it every day! It tracks food, water, sleep patterns: it’s crazy-cool! And so is my friend, KL. Thanks for the inspiration, my friend. Big ‘ol Team Rookie salute to YOU!
Hola, everyone!
I’m spending a few days in Puerto Rico with my family…the hustle and bustle is over and we’re getting some much-needed down time. If you’re on Facebook, you might have seen a few pictures I posted, but if not, allow me to send a little sunshine your way!
This was taken on Saturday…the sun and surf greeted us as we landed in the beautiful island of Puerto Rico!
That’s the view from our hotel. I think I could get used to this!
On Sunday, we hiked through the El Yunque rainforest and cooled off with some fresh coconut water...it really hit the spot!
Yesterday, we spent some time at the beach. How do you all feel about a QVC studio in Puerto Rico???
More photos to come…in the meantime, I have to share a recipe with you. We went to dinner last night and I had a dish that reminded me very much of my Southwestern Taco Bake, which would be great for your New Year's party! You can make this a dip, entrée, casserole…you decide. I’ve served it hot with chips, made it the "meat" for tacos, and often use it to fill my stuffed peppers.
Southwestern Rice Bake
Ingredients:
Preparation:
See you in 2015! I pray you have a very happy—and safe—new year.
XO,
—Jill
As a host at QVC, it’s part of my job to try out products before I present them on-air, so that I can better speak to them (definitely not complaining about this job responsibility!!!!). One day, I saw a small package in my mail box. It was like it was glaring at me, and I was glaring right back at it. I knew EXACTLY what it was, and I didn’t want ANYTHING to do with it. This little box that was causing me such a big headache was a Fitbit.
About a week went by, and I still hadn’t removed the Fitbit from my mailbox. I was hoping it would disappear!!!! But then our fitness buyer called me and asked me to just “Give it a try, Antonella!” So, I (very) reluctantly pulled it out of the packaging, and slapped it on my wrist….It was sort of like an accessory, so already I was warming up to the idea LOL!!!
I even wore it for jewelry shows!!!
I knew going into this that there was NO WAY I was going to join a gym, exercise , or go on a crazy diet. I mean, I’m Italian, and so far, I haven’t come across any all pasta diets!!! I told myself I was just going to wear my Fitbit for 1 week just so I knew where I was at as far as activity level. BOY was it eye opening! It seemed like I barely even moved all week!!! I was a bit stunned, so I decided that I needed to make some changes. I still wasn’t planning on joining a gym, or giving up the wonderful Italian food I know and love!
I knew I needed to make some changes, but I didn’t want to set an unreasonable goal that I would never achieve or place harsh restrictions on myself that I would never be able to follow. I didn’t want to set myself up to fail. The little (but loud) voice inside my head was saying, “You know what Antonella….you CAN handle little changes. No one is asking you to move mountains!”
Slowly but surely, I incorporated small changes into my lifestyle. When I went to the cafeteria at work, I started choosing bananas over bagels, and water over sweet, sugary drinks.
I stopped looking for the closest parking spot and decided that walking a few extra steps wouldn’t hurt!!! When I got a chance, I would go out for some fresh air, and just walk a little bit!!
Every week, when I looked at my Fitbit results, I couldn’t believe it!! These minimal changes were actually making a big difference!! I actually lost 16 lbs over 3 months! And I did it not by trying to move mountains, but by setting small, achievable goals and making very small changes in my day to day life. These small changes made me feel so accomplished!
I think the Fitbit is perfect for not only those of you who are fitness fanatics, but also for those who want to monitor and get a better handle on your activity. It’s a fun, easy way to be on the road to looking better, feeling better, and living better.
Here's to a New Year, and a New YOU!
Xoxo, A
It’s a brand “New Year” at Quacker Factory! 2015 is going to be very special, as we get ready to celebrate “20 years of Happy!” Jeanne Bice’s legacy is here to stay and we couldn’t be more thrilled for you to share in the celebration, so we are kicking off the year with some exciting NEW Designs. We hope you enjoy this ‘sneak peek’ of designs that The Quacker Team DREAMED up …just for you!
There are Two! Two Hearts in One… with this beautiful Quacker Factory ¾ sleeve Set of Two Hearts Love T-Shirts! Just in time for a Valentine… this sweet set has a rhinestone trimmed heart neckline you’ll fall madly in LOVE with!
Shimmer and Shine with a delicate feminine touch! This rhinestone and sequin embroidered Quacker Factory Silver Floral Bracelet Sleeve Top is a must have! A year round fun T-shirt, available right now for your “Flower Picking” pleasure!
Quackers have “Wings that Soar!” So… take off in Quacker Factory’s Golden Winged Things Top! Two fabulous motifs to fly in and choose from! “BEE” Happy and buzz around in this vibrant Ultra Pink T-shirt! OR… Flitter around in our bold and beautiful, rhinestone studded Butterfly design!
Spring will be here before you know it! So, be ready to Sparkle, Hop & Grow into Spring with Quacker Factory’s Spring Has Sprung Sparkle ¾ Sleeve T-shirt. Hop, Hop & Sparkle into Spring with our Bunny on Lavender or Water your garden in beautiful Watering Can on Lime! Both will make you Happy!!
Can you hear them, Can you hear them?? The birds are whistling our song… Let this Quacker Factory Embroidered Birdcage ¾ Sleeve T-shirt brighten each and every day… They will be sure to put a smile on your face every time you wear this beautiful top … Perfect in your choice of White or Lt. Navy.
If you loved this little ‘sneak peek’ of BRAND NEW designs, be sure to sign up to receive email alerts from Quacker Factory. Just click HEREand you’ll be the first to know when these NEW items available to purchase!
It’s going to be a BANNER year at the Factory and we promise lots of beautiful NEW styles and LOTS of FUN…to make you tickled pink and HAPPY! So sign up today and don’t miss out on any Quacker FUN! It’s going to be the year of HAPPY!!!!
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Hey Ladies,
First, I want to wish you a Happy Holiday? Don't you just love this time of the year? The other night me and Steve were thinking about how we never want the holidays to end. The home is cozier, the food is tastier, and the memories are that much sweeter. ANYWHO! The reason I am writing this blog (other than to chat with you!) is to thank you for all of the kind words you have shared about our Christmas special featured on the Q. We had such a blast shooting it and we were able take some really great professional photos (something I haven't been able to pull together just yet-- I promise it is next on my list after the laundry!)
So many of you asked for the Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies that we made during our Holiday video. I'm sorry it took me a while to get it to you, but it's finally here!! I realize Christmas is technically over, but it's never too late to have delicious cookies lying around the house!
Enough out of me! The recipe is below! I hope you enjoy and have a very safe, healthy, and happy New Year!
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
Ingredients:
• 2/3 cup (58g) old-fashioned rolled oats*
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup (250g) peanut butter at room temperature or cold* (see notes)
• 6 Tablespoons (90g) light brown sugar (see notes)
• 1/2 cup (90g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
Directions:
In a medium bowl, toss the oats, cinnamon, and baking soda together. Set aside. In a medium bowl, beat the egg. Mix in the peanut butter and brown sugar with a large rubber spatula until combined. Pour in the dry ingredients and slowly mix until everything is combined. Depending how thick and/or cold your peanut butter is, you'll have to use some arm muscles. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350F degrees. Line two large baking sheets with silicone mats or parchment paper. Scoop the dough, about 1.5 Tablespoons each, onto prepared baking sheet. Bake two batches - 7 cookies on each baking sheet. Gently press down on the dough mounds with the back of a spoon to slightly flatten as pictured in this recipe. If you find the cookie dough balls are oily-looking from your peanut butter, blot each with a paper towel.
Bake for 9 to 10 minutes. The cookies will look very soft and underbaked, but that's ok. For crispy cookies, bake for up to 12 minutes. Sometimes I press a couple more chocolate chips into the tops of each cookie immediately after coming out of the oven. This is optional and only for looks!
Allow the cookies to cool for 10 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Cookies stay fresh stored covered at room temperature for up to 7 days, if they last that long! Cookies freeze well, up to 3 months.
*Gluten intolerant readers: make sure your oats are certified gluten free.
*I typically use 3/4 cup of oats in these cookies, however 2/3 cup makes the cookie dough a little easier to handle and the baked cookies less crumbly. Make sure you use old-fashioned oats, not quick oats.
*About the peanut butter: you may use homemade, natural, or commercial peanut butter, however the type you use will alter their texture slightly. I found the best texture was with 1 cup of my homemade honey roasted peanut butter or 1 cup Skippy Natural Peanut Butter. If using my homemade peanut butter, make sure it is at room temperature or cold. Freshly processed, it's quite warm and you do not want to use warm peanut butter in the cookie dough. If using natural brand peanut butter: be sure to stir in any excess oil on top and get it completely mixed in. Otherwise, your cookies will spread. An equal amount of almond butter may be used instead of peanut butter.
*About the sugar: you may use white sugar instead, but keep in mind you'll lose the mild molasses flavor from brown sugar. If the peanut butter you are using is not sweet and on the salty side, increase brown sugar to 1/2 cup.
Hey Ladies!! WOW, what an exciting year. Today someone asked me to describe my year in 3 words and I was stumped. How could I possibly consolidate all of the amazing memories, events, and milestones we've experienced over the last year into just three words.
Well it was a question and every question deserves an answer... So this is what I came up with.
3 words I would use to describe 2014:
Life-Changing. Happy. Wonderful.
Because not everyone has a Facebook, I wanted to share some of my favorite memories throughout the year that I've posted on my page. Starting with the gender reveal!!
This is how we announced to our family (and you of course) that our baby was going to be a girl and that her name would be Bree!
I couldn't believe I had just hung my baby's first stocking! It wasn't long before we shared the big reveal.
Here are my parents, Steve's parents, our siblings, my grandmother, and my nieces after the big reveal!
Then came all of the prepping for Bree! QVC came to our home for a little photo shoot and this is one of my favorite photos.
This photo is right after we left the police station -- lol, IT'S NOT WHAT YOU THINK! Before Bree was here, the police station asks all parents to come by so they can do a safety check on car seats. We passed with flying colors!
A couple of months before Bree arrived we met our nephew (and Bree's cousin) Drew.
Before we knew it, it was time!!! On Easter Sunday morning (1:20 am to be precise) we headed to the hospital and after what felt like the longest night of our lives, Bree arrived at 11:27 am and measured 7.3lbs and 20in.
Bringing Bree home from the hospital and also the first time I have ever been in the backseat of my car, lol. I was in great company!
I had an emotional moment as we were sitting in the waiting room during Bree's first doctors appointment. I looked up and read this sign and my eyes filled with happy tears.
I absolutely love this photo from Bree's first time going out to dinner. I can tell already she will love food as much as her Mommy and Daddy.
Here is a photo of Bree meeting her cousins Drew, Reese, and Abby for the first time!
This is us from my very first Mother's Day brunch as a Mom. Feeling very special, blessed, and full from a delicious meal.
All smiles at Bree's 2 month check up!
The very first Father's Day card I gave to Steve.
Our first family photo from our favorite beach town. This was an amazing last vacation with my entire family before it was time for me to head back to work.
A face that says, "Are we done with running errands yet??" Hopefully this was the first and the last stink eye I'll get from my daughter lol!
The flowers I received from Steve and Bree on my first day back at the Q!
Reunited!!! (and it feels so good), lol! Sorry the word reunited made me think of that song. After one of my first couple of days back at work it felt so great to sweep that baby into my arms. It also felt great to have a delicious meal with my two favorite people.
I was all set to jump on the treadmill before I heading into work but when someone smiled at me I changed my mind. I think story time is a better way to spend the morning:)
And this was somebody's third outfit of the day!! Lots of spit up action was happening but it looks like she didn't really mind.
And this is when Bree "told" me she just wasn't digging the barrette. LOL! Worth the experiment and photo!
One day while I was at work Steve sent me this pic and said, "take your time at work but look who's waiting for you." I think he was very ready to start Sunday Funday and that was actually his way of saying, don't take your time, lol!
Our favorite time of night -- Bath time!
A summertime Sunday Funday with a new seat at the table! I love everything about this view.
Like mother like daughter... I promise it was just a long blink lol!
We were out running errands in the part of town where the local college is. It must have been move in day because a ton of parents and their freshman children were walking around. Daddy was sad saying goodbye just for the day before he went to work, so how are we ever going to do college, lol!!!!
Our very first family vacation with just the three of us. We spent the week in Florida and it was REALLY tough to come back!
Our little beach bum!
Sunday Funday walks in the fall is one of favorite things to do... besides eating delicious foods and enjoying pumpkin spiced everything!
Another Sunday Funday favorite is visiting our family! After a weekend of pumpkin patches and family fun, we went to my niece Abby's field hockey game. My brother in law Mike took this pic of us from across the field. I think you know everybody by now but just in case, from left to right is dad, Steve, mom with Bree on her lap, me, lil sis Sarah with Drew on her lap, big sis Jess who is clearly Abby's mom with her game face on!
Say hello to Bree the Lionness! She actually didn't mind wearing this costume and she spent Halloween with my parents and all of her cousins!
Like I said... she is a total foodie! Haha, Bree insisted on feeding herself and I figured I would give it a try.
Bree's first visit to NYC! We were so excited to take her to the playground and the reason why we couldn't get her to look at the camera is because she was mesmerized by all of the little kids playing around her!
Finally as we come full circle, Bree's first time ever meeting Santa!! She wasn't afraid at all!
Thank you so much for spending this amazing year with us and for all of the kind words you have shared. We wish you a safe, healthy, and happy holiday! See you in the new year!!
Love,
Amy, Steve, and Bree
Happy New Year!!! Thank you for being a part of my QVC family this year! I look forward to 2015 and the new fun and adventures!!! Be safe and HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Has everyone seen those year in review posts on Facebook? Well I decided to do my own. I picked out a couple highlights from my page. I hope you enjoy!! Here's to a new year…..
In 2014 I resolved to take care of myself and to feel good about how I look. This year 2015, I want to live a healthy, active life with a lot of energy and be able to do all the things I love to do! Welcome 2015!!
Remembering 2014………
Family and friends…
“MY” bald eagle…. went to let Buzz outside. I heard a loud bird call and looked up to see this.
I played tennis today for the first time this year. I did better than I thought considering I haven't played in over a month. I was delighted to see Kathy Levine,(who still looks amazing and is still a hoot) & Christy Turner (Tignanello) at the tennis clinic. Now it is time for a long soak in Epson salt:)
Shout out to my buddy Pat, who is one of the nicest people you will ever meet. She is warm, kind, funny and makes coming to work a joy. Love you Pat. Never change. (Selfie of me and Pat)
Bring it Home with Jayne… I had the pleasure to give you a home tour.. Check out my Home Blog >> {http://qvc.co/HomeBlog}
Here I am relaxing in my pj’s… working on a new painting..
I was thrilled to be part of ITKWD on Easter Sunday. I was trying to do my version of David Venable QVC's "Yum Yum Face". (Nobody does it like David)
In honor of national wig out day.. I am trying out a sassy new wig and sharing Rachel Boesing QVC's advice.. click here >>{http://qvc.co/RachelsWigBlog} ... BTW who do you think I look like?
It's here!!! Debuted a new show called Jayne’s Closet and the shirt that I have been working on with the Denim & Co. team came in. It is a stretch woven 3/4 sleeve peplum shirt. {http://qvc.co/JaynesCloset}
"Thank You!!!" For watching Fashionably Late...Pat, Wendy & I loved getting social with you. Fashionably Late will return weekly in late Feb/early March!
The Fashionably Early team!
Fun times with friends..Fall harvest is the time to celebrate the bounty of the growing season. Pat, Wendy & I spent a day at Linvilla Orchards in Media, Pa. We took on the challenge of the corn maze and with a little help from a friend made it to the end. Click here for the pictures: >>{http://qvc.co/CelebratingFallHarvest}
Shared many recipes.. here is one of my favorites.. my basic pork chop recipe changed up a bit. You can use boneless chicken breasts instead if you prefer. Click here: >>{http://qvc.co/PorkwithWineSauce} Do you have any twists on a classic that you would like to share?
Buzz… love my buzz..
My sister came into to town to surprise my mom on her birthday! Happy Birthday Jane Sr.
Silent Night, Holy Night. May the Peace of the Lord Be Always With You. Safe travels, and Merry Christmas to you and yours.
You can find me on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/JayneBrownQVC
Twitter: www.twitter.com/jaynebrown1
Instagram: www.instagram.com/jaynebrownqvc
toGather: www.gather.qvc.com/member/JayneBrown
I am thankful for my family… my friends and …my QVC family for sharing with me my life journey in 2014. This past year was a year of change, my little girl became a beautiful woman, graduating high school and attending college. I became an empty nester and filled up my spare time cleaning, doing crafts, and volunteering. 
Here are some of the fun moments of 2014…. Wishing you and yours the very best in 2015…. Happy New Year with hope that you and your loved ones will have many blessings in the year to come...Happy 2015!
Who let the dog out? Please leave her in! Record breaking cold and snow last winter. Misty quick get back in.. it's cold out!
Misty and I waiting for her water therapy...
Nicole's prom... {http://qvc.co/PromMomBlog}
Live from the Pennsylvania Flower Show.... with Plumeria blooms in my hair from Roberta's!
Enjoying my day with family and friends..my greatest blessings, my Mom and my daughter, Nicole!
Wishes for a lifetime of love and happiness for Meghan and Matt! Wonderful evening with dear friends celebrating Linda's daughter Meghan's wedding! The bride was breathtaking, music and food were superb and the rain held off...
My first “Host at Home Show”...I have to describe my home as well loved and lived in...>> {http://qvc.co/MyHome}
My grad is ready to go.. I am so very proud of Nicole! Follow your dreams and change the world.. Love you more than words can say... Believe and be fearless! Congrats class of 2014!
Fashionably Early has a new look!
Fun with friends… We made it out of the corn maze!!! Fun afternoon slinging apples, feeding goats and eating yummy pie and ice cream... So blessed to have great friends like Wendy and Jayne Brown QVC...
How do you think I manage to get between sets? Lol!
Fashionably Late debut..Fashionably Late returns weekly at the end of February/beginning of March.
Fashionably Early we were celebrating Halloween. My crafty pumpkin!
TGIF! Here is a progress report on my new normal life as an empty nester...good news is that Nikki is loving college and I am ...well read my blog and join me in sharing our life journey..{http://qvc.co/NewNormalEmptyNester}
Best part of my holiday is family.. Here is our Christmas picture of my mom, Nikki and my nieces and nephews...I am truly blessed... Enjoy your holiday weekend!
You can find me on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/PatJamesDeMentriQVC
Twitter: www.twitter.com/pdementri
Instagram: www.instagram.com/PatJamesDeMentriQVC
Black-Eyed Pea Garlic Hummus with Olive Oil
I absolutely love hummus – a great savory yet health conscious dish. I used black-eyed peas for good luck in the new year – a southern tradition in my house. Love that the Vitamix replaces 13 appliances on my counter-tops!
Ingredients:
2 cans (15 oz ea) black eyed peas, rinsed and drained
6 tsp. garlic puree or minced garlic
6 T fresh-squeezed lemon juice
1 tsp. salt
2 T olive oil
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
6 T tahini to taste
3T water to thin hummus as needed
2-3 T olive oil, for drizzling on hummus
Garnish with Paprika
Fresh veggies or pita bread for serving
Instructions:
Pour canned black-eyed peas into a colander placed in the sink, then rinse with cold water until no more foam appears.
Let black-eyed peas drain for a minute or two, then put them into the Vitamix with the garlic, lemon juice, salt and olive oil and process on low until black-eyed peas are pureed, about 1 minute.
Next add the ground cumin and 3 T of tahini and process until it's combined.
If the hummus seems too thick, add a few tablespoons of water and process.
Put hummus into serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with paprika. Serve with fresh veggies or whole wheat pita bread. Makes about 3 cups hummus.
Hummus will keep in the fridge for at least a week. I also put some in ice cube trays and freeze for use later on salads or in lunches.
I think that New Year’s resolutions should all be positive and fun. Maybe, just maybe, if they were cheery, easy pledges we would keep them for more than a week or so! I have a few ideas to keep us healthy and happy throughout 2015 with a little help from some green friends. 
Why not give yourself a gift of a special houseplant to get you well on your way to a wonderful New Year. Houseplants are one of the healthiest and pleasing of all additions to your health and well being. Some of the best plants for natural air purifiers are African Violets, Orchids, Snake Plants, Bamboo, Christmas cactus, Weeping Fig, Peace Lily, and Spider Plants. All of these beauties clean the air of spores, toxins and even carbon monoxide. Studies show that even just having plants in your home helps with stress and is calming. Who knew our plants were doing so much for us as we simply enjoyed them?
And, even NASA has a favorite! A NASA study declared that English Ivy is the “number one best air filtering houseplant.”
So as we enter the New Year, take a good deep breath and appreciate your indoor plants even a bit more. We have a lot to get excited about - there are so many new trends this year for us garden lovers – and I can’t wait to share it with you.
Happy New to you and yours, Barbara.
I am getting lots and lots of questions on our “Living for Me” initiative. I'm hoping I can answer them and simplify the process for you to join in the journey to living your life to the fullest!
What is it?
Living for Me allows our viewers and hosts to come together in a community to live our best together. For the next 10 weeks it will be about that journey and the challenges we both face.
How do I sign up?
It's more of a join along then a "sign up." All you need to do is "like" my Facebook page and then click the link here: Team Die Hard. Click "follow" my Living for Me toGather collection. Every week we will be posting video updates for you to comment on and share tips and tricks. We can encourage each other up.
What’s Your Level of Wellness?
Review the lists and "check off" the items that best describe which group you naturally fall into. This will help you pick which group you should follow.
Rookies:
Optimists:
Diehards:
There is also a journal page you can download to help track your success. Please feel free to post pictures of yourself on your journey. If you have a recipe that works for a timesaver – we would love to hear it. Let's keep encouraging each other as having a buddy is a proven recipe for success!
Why should I journal?
Journaling allows you to be accountable to yourself and gives you specific, measurable goals. To print off the journal click here: Living For Me.
So let’s get this started!!! Post your fun exercise pictures to stay motivated! Post them to my Facebook page: Albany Facebook
Here are some of my fun pics:
Hello, foodies...
I hope you had a fantastic New Year's. I am having an absolutely wonderful time on vacation...really taking some time to relax and think about new things we might try in 2015. Have you made any resolutions? If so, what are they?
Let’s toast to a New Year… it is going to be an exciting one on In the Kitchen with David. We are kicking off January with our new theme: Budget-Friendly, Make Ahead Meals. We have everything from mouthwatering appetizers, soups, salads, and more! And, I'll be sharing some meal-planning tips throughout the month right here in my blog. So what's our first dish of the month?A hearty, Ratatouille Soup, which freezes beautifully.
It can be very easy to plan for the week if you take advantage of your weekends. A free hour on Sunday could be time enough to make a batch of my Ratatouille Soup, which you can then refrigerate or freeze for later. It just takes a little planning, but imagine working a long day and knowing you're coming home to a healthy, hearty meal.
Tell me about a budget-friendly, make-ahead recipe you have. Do you make soup? Salad? Casseroles? My dear friend, Carolyn Gracie will be with you once again this Sunday afternoon for In the Kitchen with David at 12pm ET.
Foodies, I wish you all a happy, healthy and delicious New Year!
Keep it flavorful!
- David
I've just spent two days touring art museums with my friends Sandi and Larry, stirring up my creative juices. My first stop was the Wayne Art Center in Wayne, Pa.
The exhibit was a diverse, inspirational collection of art. From mixed media, furnishings, jewelry, and repurposed textiles, the art was overwhelming.
Wall mural made from refurbished shirts
Beautiful hand made furniture and tableware.
Next stop was the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Although it comprised of five buildings, we only made it to the first.
Me and Larry.
From Chigal, Miro, Andrew Wyeth, and more, I couldn't believe what I was seeing. How wonderful to see art up close that I had only seen in books.
Joan MiroI
I also found the armor exhibit fascinating.
These exhibits gave me the opportunity to nourish my artistic senses and expand my horizons.
What are some of your favorite museums? I'd love to hear!
xoxo,
Susan
Happy New Year, tech fans! QVC is kicking off 2015 by making its annual voyage to the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, NV from January 5-9. And, for the first time, three members of our copy team are joining the usual crew: Senior Editor Dave, Senior Copywriter Gabby, and Copywriter Sarah, also known as the QVC Tech Trio.
As we pack our suitcases and prepare for a week full of upcoming tech trends and walking (lots and lots of walking) around the Las Vegas Convention Center, we wanted to introduce ourselves and let you know how excited we are to be bringing you coverage from the show.
Good-bye, QVC HQ… Hello Vegas!
Dave, Senior Editor
To say I’m thrilled to be attending CES is an understatement. In my 10-plus years at QVC, electronics has been a constant. I’ve learned so much about the industry in the past decade and have thoroughly enjoyed being able to bring QVC customers the essential information necessary in making an informed buying decision. Whether that’s by explaining how the product can work in your life and make your day-to-day just a little bit easier, or by providing you with the critical technical specs of an item, it’s my hope that you have everything at your fingertips to help you make that important purchase.
I can’t wait to get to Vegas—not only for the obvious reasons (I mean, it IS Vegas), but because I’m excited to see what the electronics industry has in store for 2015. Each year, we become more and more reliant on technology; whether we’re using it to track how many calories we’re burning, to stay in touch with friends and family no matter where they are, or to keep ourselves entertained, technology is prevalent in our lives. And that’s why I’m so psyched to see what’s on the horizon in the coming months—and what could be available to you on QVC and QVC.com! I’m looking forward to sharing the knowledge—and experience—with you all!
Gabby, Senior Copywriter
Like the rest of the QVC Tech Trio, this will be my first time at CES, and I could not be more thrilled to check out the latest and greatest in consumer technology. For me, electronics are a way to make our days a little easier and a lot more fun. I love cranking up my favorite songs on my smartphone while I jog and downloading eBooks straight to my tablet for instant enjoyment. At CES, I’ll be on the lookout for new products and technologies that can make a difference in our everyday routines. I’m so excited to let you in on what we discover!
Sarah, Copywriter
As a lifelong gamer and tech fanatic, I’m super excited to be attending my first CES! After years of attending industry events and conventions like E3, PAX, and New York Comic Con, I’m ready to take on what I’m told is the biggest show of them all. Naturally, I’m looking forward to seeing the video game hardware and software on display at the show, as well as hearing about what the year’s biggest tech trends will be.
I’ve been focusing mostly on electronics in my four years at QVC, so I can’t wait to take that passion to Las Vegas and see everything that you guys are going to be watching, playing, wearing, and connecting in 2015 and beyond. Whether you consider yourself tech savvy or not, there are so many ways technology improves our lives and helps bring people together, and I can’t wait to show them to you.
Stay tuned to QVC’s electronics blog for updates from our Tech Trio all week long during CES 2015! What do you want to hear about? Be sure to let us know in the comments.
Turquoise has been honored for thousands of years. It has been named as the first gem ever recorded in history. Cultures across the globe honor its color and power. It is turquoise!
Loving gems as we do, it is interesting that most people have a very personal, lasting story of turquoise. Here is mine;
As a student at the School of the Pennsylvania Ballet, my friends were my ballet friends. Kids at school just didn't understand why I left early every day, why I never went to parties on Friday night, and, yes, they were pretty cruel at times. My ballet buddies understood it all because they experienced it too. I loved my friends and weekends were often spent in sleepovers in Germantown, University City, over the bridge in Haddonfield, and elegant homes in the northern suburbs of Philadelphia. My friend, Risa, lived in one of those beautiful homes. I remember a living room with emerald green carpeting and a white baby grand piano! I went to her sister's Bat Mitzvah and it was the most elegant party I had ever seen. When I was about 13, Risa gave me a friendship ring with four turquoise stones set in sterling. I was overwhelmed! I had never received a gift like this. I wore it every day. Since this was before the days of social media, my friends and I lost touch once we headed off to college. But I still think of my ballet friends often, and I still have the ring to this day!
That's the lasting power of turquoise! I have also seen it throughout my years at QVC. Turquoise used to be shown in only Southwestern style jewelry. Now It is seen in every style, including some set in gold. I remember a story, designer Robert Elizondo, told me. He grew up not far from the famed Sleeping beauty mine. His father would take him there on weekends. He always thought of Sleeping Beauty turquoise as a gem set in sterling. Then as a young designer he went to Paris and saw the major design houses setting the turquoise in gold, and a new world of design unfolded for him. That mine is now closed today, so finding the brilliant blue gem is getting more and more difficult - but we will have stunning jewelry to show you on gem day – Thursday, Jan. 8th! Carolyn Pollack and I spent time in Arizona loving this American gem too.
We will have so many beautiful pieces to show you this Thursday on our 24 hour Gem Day! I'll see you at midnight for two hours of Turquoise, followed by a rare Ruby, Sapphire and Emerald show. I'll be back for the grand finale at the end of the day. Look for premiere hours, gorgeous colors and stories of the legacy of gems ALL day this Thursday on QVC!
-Jane
