The New Year brings a fresh start or as we say at our house, “a fresh page”. For me, a fresh page for my home means going through closets, drawers, cupboards and even book shelves to sort through for those things I really want to keep out, what I want to put away for a while, what I can give away, and what is beyond “giving” and needs to be tossed. I was fortunate to find time to do this over the long holidays. Now that I’ve “cleaned out” I can look at my home, how it’s arranged and accessories with a fresh eye. Here are some budget-friendly steps to help you transform your home:

1 - Re-access your home one room at a time:

Look at each room/each space in your home with a fresh eye, as if you had never seen it before, much as a new friend or guest would see it for the very first time. First impressions speak loudly, so start with your entry way and move on from there.

2 - Re-Organize (A place for everything and everything in its place):

De-cluttering is the easiest and most affordable way to transform any room. Sort through papers and belongings into four categories: Keep, Store, Give away and Toss. Try not to tackle more than you have time to complete, then the process won’t seem over-whelming. As you clean out drawers and closets you reclaim new space that gives you room to re-arrange what you “really need” into more easily retrievable locations. It’s fun to use decor-friendly storage options such as ottomans, suitcases or caddies. The process of losing the clutter brings serenity to your space and makes your rooms feel larger.

3 - Re-arrange your furniture and accessories:

Re-arrange the furniture - the most budget friendly way I know to give a room a fresh look is to take what you already have a move it around. A simple rule in buying furniture and accessories is to “Buy what you love!” Then when you decide to move things around they will mix and match from one room to another more easily because they were all selected from your point of view.

4 - Re-fresh with color:

You can easily and affordably give your space a fresh look with color. Pillows and throws are the easiest and most affordable way to layer color into your rooms. If you have carpeting, an area rug placed on top of the carpeting in the conversation area of your family room will bring texture and color to your space. The wonderful variety of patterns and colors available in ready-made drapes gives you lots of choices in window treatments. Fabric curtains bring a layer of texture and warmth to any room. Giving your walls a fresh coat of paint is another way to give a room new life. Whether you call the painter or roll up your sleeves and do it yourself, new color on the walls will transform your space. Don’t be afraid to be bold with your color choices. I choose a Benjamin Moore Dill Pickle green for our kitchen walls recently and when I first walked into the room the paint was still wet and I thought, “Oh no!” But once it dried it was just fine. It’s pretty perky but we have very little wall actually exposed in our small kitchen, so I’m really glad I dared to go bold!

While these four budget-friendly steps are intended to help you give your home a fresh look, at the end of the day just be sure you are decorating your home with things you love and are special to you. Decorating is really just setting the stage for memory making. Making memories with those we love and care about is the most important thing that will ever happen in our homes. So happy memory making at your house!

Valerie

I started practicing yoga long ago, and though I do lots of other types of workouts, I always come back to yoga as something that grounds me, that "gets rid of the crazy." It has a way of unwinding you, of making you look inward, and give you a sense of calm that last the rest of the day. It doesn't have to be intimidating--it's truly something for EVERYONE. Here are a few tips that will hopefully get you as excited as I am about yoga. Please remember, you can ask me questions any time on my Facebook page, and post pictures of your progress to help motivate us all!

XO,

Kerstin

1. Keep a Practice Journal

So that you are not distracted with random thoughts during your yoga time, keep a journal next to you to write them down as they pop into your head. This way, you don’t have to worry about remembering them as you continue your practice. Write down questions that come up during your meditation, observations about the class (if you are in one), poses you want to try/ find difficult, or anything else you see fit- it is YOUR journal.

2. Make Space in your Home

When at home, practice in the same space every time. This will train your mind and body to know that when you are in this space, it is time for yoga; your mind will know it’s time to slow down and your body will know it’s time to begin relaxing. Keep props in this space to remind you of that, such as an inspiring picture or quote, a statue, an indoor fountain, a special rug, cushion, etc.

3. Take “Breathing Breaks”

Throughout the day, if your find yourself stressed, take a few deep breaths. Since your body will begin to realize you do this during your “relaxed” (yoga) time, it will begin to realize this is a sign to relax. Place reminders around your home, office, car, etc. to remind you to do so.

4. Do Not Compare yourself to Others

If you are in a mixed class (experienced and beginners), do not compare yourself to others. If you can’t do what the person next to you is doing, don’t worry about it. Focus on what you are doing; modify your pose if need be to a position that is more comfortable for you. No one is focusing on you, they are there to clear their own minds and worry about themselves. Remember, they were once in your shoes!

5. Wear Appropriate Clothing to Class

Since there is a lot of movement in yoga, it’s not ideal to wear baggy clothing. You don’t want to turn the wrong way and have the person behind you see right up your shorts! However, you don’t want to be in uncomfortably tight clothing. Shop around a bit to find a pair of yoga pants and shirt that works well for you. I love our new Cheryl Burke Line, and Denim and Company has some great Active Pieces!

 Well the cold weather is in full gear! We’re living in all those snuggly sweaters and cozy knits. Winter is such a great time for quality textures and fabrics; you just want to find that perfect material to wrap yourself in like a comfy blanket. We’re talking about having accessibility to all types of fabrics for the cold outside and the heat inside. We want the warmth but also non-constricting and heavy cumbersome pieces. Whether it be our cashmere-blends for heat, soft French terry for lounging or breathable cotton for layering, LOGO offers so many yummy colors and styles to choose from and as always, all these pieces are made in fabrics for easy wearable fashion!

These are some of the fabrications we love in our LOGO line that will serve all your wearing and comfort needs through the harsh winter months.

Cotton Cashmere: Our signature fabric choice for many of our sweater knits. This is such a perfect cold weather blend that provides softness and warmth. [See styles like A255756, A261076, A255744]

[Rachel]

Soft French Terry: For those cold wintery days when you’re staying in and want a cozy material that is substantial yet lightweight, extra softness is always a plus. [See styles like A256458, A261018, A259245]

[Sharon & Lori]

Rayon Spandex: Our signature! Truly a go-to blend that’s perfect to build an outfit around. Have all your LOGO essentials around for layering under those sweaters. [See styles like A235467, A266228, A258742]

[Amy]

Cotton Spandex: Keep out your LOGO pieces made in this fabric blend that will provide a layer of warmth and is snug and stretchy for a comfortable fit. Definitely a perennial staple! [See styles like A251899, A233505, A252772]

[Lori & Albany]

Stay warm out there!

xx,

Lori

Shop the complete LOGO by Lori Goldstein collection

Be sure to follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter with #LOGOFIED

It’s no secret I love outdoor living and to my great surprise, a lot of people do too!  When reading about the gardening trends for 2015, much of it has to do with the fact that people everywhere continue to love plants, gardening and all things nature.  Our indoor homes and the live effects we place in them, say as much about our lifestyles as our outdoor spaces and what we create in them.

As we are settling into the New Year, it’s a great time to consider what will make our outdoor spaces even more of an extension of ourselves and families.  Here are two of my plans – let’s call them “green resolutions” for 2015:

-Whether you have a large property or small patio space, we can all benefit from some fruit bearing trees and shrubs.  Although I spend a lot of time with my gardens every year, I simply forget to take advantage of fruit trees and shrubs that are self sufficient and large in harvests. 

There are many varieties of fruit shrubs and dwarf trees available at your local greenhouse or garden centers that are mature enough to bear fruit this season.  Another great benefit to plants such as these is that they can remain in containers if this fits your needs, or can be planted directly into the soil.    I am especially excited about blueberry plants this season – be sure to look for many new varieties!

 -It has been estimated that this year people will spend more time enjoying their outdoor spaces and have fun decorating with outdoor furniture and accessories.   Why not treat yourself to a piece or two for your outdoor living area?  I already have my eye on some wonderful pieces made just for the outdoors – sofas, chairs, tables, kitchen appliances, rugs, pillows…it’s will be hard for me to choose.  And as I have said before, the outdoor items are so stylish you can even select some for your indoor home too.

Enjoying all of our spaces – whether indoor or outdoor – is something we all can do and all deserve!  

Barbara

Hi, everyone!

We’re organized all kinds of stuff last week…have a look!

We love our stuff…laptops, magazines, remotes. And we need our stuff. But the stuff shouldn't be part of our décor. Here's how I keep our essentials out of sight, but not out of mind. We photographed these in the living room, but I really use my Valerie Parr Hill ottomans throughout my home…in my entryway, in my kids’ rooms, and all those social areas. You can instantly clean up any space by tucking essentials inside. Or, flip the top up and use the lids for serving trays when guests are visiting.

Keep this holder in your closet and fill it up with hangers during the week. When it's time to do your wash, take it—hangers and all—to your laundry room. I have a hook on the wall where I hang this. When our nice shirts and clothes come out of the dryer, I grab a hanger and hang them up. It’s one of three essentials I always have in my laundry room. What are the other two? The first is a lingerie bag and the second is a tennis ball, which fluffs blankets and down jackets beautifully.

We've all been there. You reach for the toilet paper and it's empty. Then, you yell for backup…can someone please….Next, you learn you’re out of toilet paper. Inevitably, I got smart. I started numbering the rolls in the bathroom…1 to 6. As soon as "6" goes on the toilet-paper roll, I know it's time to buy more. Even the kids tell me when lucky #6 is up. I also do this with my paper towels and we’ve never been without!

Brusky is my Rottweiler. I love him, but I don’t love his hair. So, I've lined my furniture with these Sure Fit covers to help with the shedding. When company comes, off they go! Now, I’ve heard that you can use a wet rubber glove to remove pet hair off cloth surfaces. I intend to try that the next time my blanket needs some TLC. Give it a try and let me know your thoughts, would you?

No matter where your junk drawer is…mine happens to be in the kitchen, Lock & Lock can keep you organized. I just love them!

Furniture has to be functional. Almost every piece of furniture I own has built-in storage space. You just need it for all of life's little things. This mirrored jewelry cabinet by Lori Greiner is a perfect example. On the outside, it’s my trusty full-length mirror. Inside, it holds up to 350 pieces of jewelry.

And now in the bedroom…how do you keep all those unmentionables in order? Lock & Lock comes through again!

Hope you’re having a great week! Don’t forget to check my Facebook and toGather pages for new tips.

XOXO,

—Jill

Over the last five years, you all have heard me talk about Glen.  Many of you have also commented on FB when he was going to “pop” the question.  Well, he did last Saturday.  This proposal came at the perfect time for us in our relationship, and I could not be more thrilled!

I was completely surprised, I really had no idea.  So our morning started out with Glen saying come on, let’s take Lucy for a hike at the college.  We have been taking her to hikes at Swarthmore College since we have been together.  So to me—this was just another day.

I did not shower, I thought I’d shower when we got home.  Plus I had plans with my sister Vickie to go shopping in the afternoon.  Oh and my nails were a disaster, because I had just peeled off my gel manicure!!!  I had NO IDEA what was about to happen!!! 

We started on the hike, and were having a good time, and we finally reached this outdoor amphitheater area.  There were two ladies there with their dogs and we all started chatting & Lucy began to play with the dogs.  She really prefers people to other dogs, it is really funny!

Then I saw Glen on the other side of the amphitheater & he was on the phone.  Now this is nothing strange, he is a busy man!!  Finally the ladies started to make their way out of the theater & Glen said let’s sit down for a minute, I’m tired.  I said OK, after about a minute I said, why don’t we just go & walk back to the car.  He said—“no let’s stay here”.  He got up and came over to me, asked me to stand up for a hug.  He then said ”you know today is a very special day for us”.  I was so confused!!!   I asked ”why”, while in my, mind I was trying to think if I had missed a special event on our lives!!! 

Then he released me from the hug and said ”look at this cool tree trunk, check out all the beehives”.  So I looked in the tree trunk, it felt like it was forever, then I finally saw the black velvet box.  I turned to him and said—“what is that!!!????”  As I said that to him, he got down on one knee and asked the question—“Will you marry me”.  I started crying immediately & shook my head yes.  He then grabbed the box and showed me the ring, and then placed it on my finger.  I could not stop crying.   I was just so, so happy.  I am 46, and I have never been engaged before.  This was such a special moment in my life, as well as Glens.

{The hollowed out tree trunk & Lucy’s new friend –Luna}

After a few moments we began to walk back to the car.  I continued to burst into tears of joy.  Somewhat laughable at this point!!  At this point I was freezing, my toes were frozen as well as my fingers.  So I suggested we go to the coffee shop to get something.  After I got my hot chocolate, I wandered outside to call my sister Vickie.  (Little did I know she was in on the entire thing).

As we started to drive home, I began to call my closest girlfriends & family members.  NO ONE ANSWERED THEIR PHONES!!!  I was getting very upset with these girls!!!  I was able to reach my other sisters Kim & Diane, and my friend Susan.  Then Keri & Andrea called me back.  And I shared our wonderful news with each of them!!  Then I chatted with my cousin Christy who told me –she knew I was getting engaged that day.  I thought—“what?!?!?!”.

On our way home, as we pulled into our development, Glen said, I have another surprise for you.  I could not believe it.  As we pulled onto our street, I noticed Susan & Andrea's cars in our driveway.  He told me—all of your girlfriends are here to celebrate with us.

We walked into the house and everyone was gathered in the kitchen to welcome us home & to celebrate our big day!!  

{Glen, Andrea, Ben, Keri’ Sydney, Lisa, Alex, Chris, Vickie, Mina & Susan.  My peeps!!!!!  LOL}

Glen & Vickie organized everyone; they all brought food & champagne & even a cake!!!!  A very delicious red velvet cake no less!!!

I was so overwhelmed with joy!! I could not believe it.  And they really surprised me!!  I truly had no idea!!  Remember, I hadn't even showered or anything that morning!!!  LOL

Everyone stayed for hours, Vickie & her family stayed till after 7 pm that night, which I loved to have more time with my nephews.  Everyone was just so thrilled to be a part of our day!  I don’t think Glen could have planned a better day for us.

Ladies, in my day I have kissed a lot of frogs, but I have finally found my prince, and boy am I a lucky girl!

Stay tuned for more wedding planning info!  It is going to be a great year!!

Love & hugs--

Angel & Glen

Like Angel on Facebook to be kept up to date on the wedding plans…  http://bit.ly/A_Facebook

This week’s episode of Project Runway All Stars is EXTRA special! Before our friend Lisa Robertson’s departure from QVC, she had the chance to guest judge an episode of Project Runway All Stars! In this episode, the designers were challenged to create a piece for the sophisticated, yet totally wearable, G.I.L.I collection to be sold on QVC. I know --- How cool?!?

Because we all got it and we all LOVE IT. I reached out you, to my loyal FB girls, to share photos of your favorite GILI item in your closet. I am never surprised by your amazing fashion sense, but I’ve got to tell you.. you ladies look amazing!!

Meet the GILI lovers that posted photos to my page!

Luanna is rocking our last GILI TSV, the Leather Motorcycle jacket.

Lisa Croft has the full GILI look going with her faux leather jacket and GILI handbag.

Love the way Sue layers a longer tunic under her Leather Motorcycle jacket! Looking good lady!

My friends Kathy & Phylis have their hands full with a fabulous collection of GILI handbags!!

Surama is keeping it edgy- chic with her sunnies and faux leather GILI jacket!

This is our FB friend Jessica, and I think she made a very wise choice investing in that amazing GILI Pieced Leather Jacket!

Linda Gant has us “blushing” with her GILI wardrobe – Get it.. Both items are blush! LOL!

There is nothing sharper than a bold and classic time piece. I bet this looks amazing on our friend Linda’s wrist!

Phylis is fierce from her phone case to her GILI! Love the look of the motorcycle jacket on you 

Love this photo that Albany Irvin posted to her Facebook page. It looks like while she was in Las Vegas for Consumer Electronics Show, she bumped into a GILI gal! I think the kids are calling it “twinning” these days! Both ladies serving the GILI Moto Leather Jacket justice!

Tune in tomorrow for the GILI Episode of Project Runway All Stars on Lifetime at 9pmET!

For Meal Make-over Monday this week, I was inspired by the snack bar at all of the Little's games lately. Whether it was basketball, lacrosse, field hockey, or soccer – every single snack bar seem to serve something called "walking tacos."  I have no idea why they are so fascinated with walking around with their food?!?!

If you are not familiar with these, walking tacos consist of opening a snack size bag of chips, ladling in a scoop of chili, and topping it with shredded cheese. Perfectly portable and not very good for you at all ....hence my Meal Make-Over!

Turkey Taco Lettuce Wraps

 Here’s what you’ll need:

1 T olive oil

1 T  minced garlic

2 T diced green chiles

2 T diced Jalepenos

1 Med Onion-finely chopped

1 1/2 tsp. ground cumin

1/4 tsp. ground chipotle chile powder

1 1/2 lbs. ground turkey

1/2 tsp. salt

1 large bunch cilantro, finely chopped

2 T fresh lime juice

2 heads butter lettuce or Lettuce wraps

Cherry tomatoes-finely chopped (garnish)

Cotija Cheese - grated (garnish)

**Save some onion and cilantro to garnish tacos

Heat olive oil in heavy frying pan then add minced garlic and diced green chiles and saute about 1 minute.

Add cumin and ground chipotle or cayenne and cook about 1 minute more.

Add turkey and salt and cook over medium-high heat-- about 5 minutes, or until turkey is starting to brown.  Make sure you crumble the meat as it cooks.

When turkey is lightly browned, turn off heat and set aside.  Fold in the Cilantro.

Top with your favorite garnishes:  Cilantro, onion, tomatoes--- I like avocado too!

Spoon 2-3 large spoonfuls of turkey mixture into each piece of lettuce wrap.

Garnish with shredded cheese.

Happy Littles/Happy Mom.... great combo!  

Albany

BTW:  If you're on the 21 Day Fix plan, double up the recipe.  This makes for a Fabulous on-the-go lunch.  Fill one red container with your Turkey mixture.  Fill a green container with all your fixin's:  Cilantro, Tomatoes, Onion, Jalapeno, etc.  Fill a second Green container with lettuce.  If you want to "spend" a Healthy fat, add some Avocado.  I like to use Salsa instead of dressing.  This makes for a Flavor Packed Brown Bag Lunch!!!

On a cold snowy night, a thick hearty soup is good for the soul.  Here is a recipe my sister, Cathy, shared with me.  It is really easy.  You basically throw everything in the slow cooker in the morning and 4 - 6 hours later it is done.  I love one pot meals. 

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken & Spinach Tomato Soup

Ingredients:

3 Large boneless chicken breasts

1 small onion, chopped

2 cups spinach, chopped

1 14 oz can coconut milk

1 cup chicken broth

1 14 oz can diced tomatoes

1 8 oz can tomato sauce

2 TB Italian seasoning

1 TB dried basil

1/2 tsp sea salt (to taste)

fresh ground pepper (to taste)

Directions:

Mix coconut milk, chicken broth, tomato sauce & diced tomatoes with seasonings in your crock pot.  Add chicken, onion & spinach, cover and cook on high 4-6 hrs until chicken shreds easily with a fork. 

Shred chicken and return to slow cooker until ready to serve.  

When I was reading about the gardening trends for 2015, much of it has to do with the fact that more and more people enjoy gardening and especially eating fruits and vegetables they have grown.  I am fortunate that between Joe and me, our gardens produce a lot of vegetables.  And while we do have some fruit harvests too – I think there can always be more.   Who can have too much fruit right outside their door?  Not me! 

Whether you have a large property or small patio space, we can all benefit from some fruit bearing trees and shrubs.  Although I spend a lot of time with my gardens every year, I simply forget to take advantage of fruit trees and shrubs that are self sufficient and large in harvests.  There are many varieties of fruit shrubs and dwarf trees available at your local greenhouse or garden centers that are mature enough to bear fruit this season.  Another great benefit to plants such as these is that they can remain in containers if this fits your needs, or can be planted directly into the soil.  My Meyer Lemon and Kumquat trees (pictured), I keep in containers on my patio during the summer months and overwinter in the colder months.  Here in Pennsylvania we are Hardiness Zones 5-7, and citrus plants such as these require Zones of 8-11 to be soil planted outdoors.   

 I am especially excited about blueberry plants this season again with new varieties that flourish in containers or soil planted.  I plan to plant a few more blueberry plants throughout my yard this summer and can’t wait to see the harvests I will get each season. 

Another fruit to consider planting in your backyard this year are grapes.  Grapes do well in many climates – and I was surprised to hear Pennsylvania is one of the largest producers of this wonderful fruit.  So guess what Joe and I will be planting this season?   And in anticipation of my bounty of grapes – I am going to read-up on making jellies and jams!   And don’t forget about the new varieties of strawberries too that can produce double the usual harvest as most.   

~Barbara

In honor of it being "National Pie Day," it felt appropriate to share one of my favorite pie recipes.  I can't take credit for it though.  It is Karen's recipe, my younger sister.  She is an amazing baker and entertainer!  Can't you tell how much this recipe is loved by the worn recipe cards in the photos?!  :)

For the Dough:

For the Filling:

{My Sister's and I}

Enjoy and let me know how it turns out!

Pat

The New Year is a great time to think about new pieces you’re going to need to pull your spring wardrobe together. And here is the good news: The new soft dressing trend will only be more important going forward, as comfort and fashion meet in the middle!

Our collection has always been about blending classic style with what’s trending. It’s about carefully selecting the right new pieces that are going to work with things you currently own and love. Keep in mind, Joan knew that looking fabulous shouldn’t mean having to break the bank. Your closet is filled with wonderful favorites that should work perfectly with new items.

I have always loved what Joan called her “blank canvas” style of dressing.  By that she meant a little black dress (the LBD!) or simple top paired with a slim skirt (or well-cut trousers).  For these basics (we call them Wardrobe Builders®), her favorite colors were usually black, navy or charcoal.  That “blank canvas” formed the backdrop for an amazing jacket or colorful drapey sweater or shirt.  It is also a fantastic way for Joan to showcase statement jewelry and accessories. 

{This was Joan’s recipe for dressing – starting with the “blank canvas”}

Here are some of my favorite pieces that are perfect to add to your closet come spring:

Denim Boyfriend Shirt with Long Sleeves  {Regular: A252135 & Petite: A259657}

Denim is NEVER out of style. Ever. I love that this boyfriend shirt can be worn as a shirt OR relaxed as a jacket. Great over a turtleneck right now and fabulous on its own as the warmer weather arrives (someday……!) 

Love & Polka Dots Scarf (watch out- this item is coming soon!)

Graphic prints. Black and white. Pop colors. Dramatic scarves are my favorite way to wear a trend and not have the trend wear you!  And the perfect way to update your existing wardrobe. 

Crystal & Opaque Jeweled Clusters 18.5” Necklace (watch out- this item is coming soon too!)

You all know how Joan loved a statement necklace! Her outfit wasn’t complete without at least one necklace!! The STATEMENT NECKLACE is the number one most important accessory in fashion today. Period.  Layer it on top of a boyfriend shirt or fill in a neckline of a cardigan sweater. Add it to that little black dress. You will thank me….

It might seem a tad early to be talking about spring but I get very frustrated when spring finally arrives and all of the good stuff is sold out or not in my size. And it’s never too early to think about fashion!

I hope this blog has helped you to start thinking about spring and updating your look. Please join me for my end-of-the month shows!

UPCOMING APPEARANCES:

Follow Joan’s FACEBOOK at www.facebook.com/joanrivers

Or INSTAGRAM at www.instagram.com/joanrivers

Follow David on FACEBOOK at www.facebook.com/daviddangleqvc

Or on INSTAGRAM at www.instagram.com/daviddangle

Or on TOGATHER at http://qvc.co/DDprofile

www.joanrivers.com

Did you know today is 'National Soup Swap Day'? It's similar to a Cookie Exchange, but instead of exchanging cookies, everyone exchanges soup. What a fabulous idea during the colder months. The article I read about a soup swap suggested 6 to 8 participants, exchanging 1 quart each of soup. You could make a night of it bringing an extra quart to share together during a girl's night with dinner. Sounds fun to me!!!

However you decide to make and share my "Cream of Potato Soup", I hope you will love it as much as we all do. Let me know what you think if you do try it.

Cream of Potato Soup

• 6 cups frozen hash brown potatoes
• 1/2 cup sliced carrots
• 6 slices bacon
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 chopped onion
• 1-1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups light cream or half and half
• shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• parsley sprigs (optional)

Place the frozen hash browns and fresh carrots (cut in bite sized pieces) in a stock pot.  Then add just enough water to barely cover them. Boil until tender. Don't drain. 

Sautee bacon until crisp, drain and crumble.

Sautee onion and celery in 2 Tablespoons bacon fat or butter. Combine all remaining ingredients, except cheese and parsley, and simmer for 30 minutes. (Do not boil)

Garnish with cheese and parsley, if desired. 

Note: If desired, you may combine all ingredients in a crock pot without any pre cooking and cook on low all day. However, you will still want to cook the bacon separately or choose bacon bits. 

I love winter so much that I wanted to do another Winter Walk photo blog. We shared these photos during Shoe Shopping and I thought you would like to see them! 

Happy Winter and I'll see you for Shoe Shopping!

-Jane

Hello, foodies…

We’ve got an exciting day coming up this Sunday. It’s QVC’s Cooking on Q Kitchen Makeover event and there will be 2 In the Kitchen with David episodes! Now, I’m hosting a BIG 4-hour show with you starting at 8pm ET. That means, my friend Jill Bauer will be hosting ITKWD at the regular hour, Noon ET. I hope you can join us for both shows!

Jill will be making a recipe of her own on Sunday…Cornbread Biscuits, which you can find on my recipe page as well as her own recipe page. At 8pm ET, I’ll be making our next Budget-Friendly Make-Ahead Meal, Taco Soup.

Taco Soup

Serves 12

This recipe is prepared with Circulon Hard Anodized Cookware Set (K41696).

Go to David's Recipe Item Page for the full list of items that David has used in his recipes.

Ingredients:

1 Tbsp olive oil

1 (16-oz) bag frozen chopped onions, red peppers, and green peppers mix, thawed

2 lbs lean ground beef

2 (1.25-oz) packs low sodium taco seasoning

1 tsp ground black pepper

1/2 tsp crushed red pepper

2 (8-oz) cans Spanish-style tomato sauce

8 cups low-sodium beef broth

1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Sour cream, for garnish

Crushed hard taco shells, for garnish

Preparation:

Heat 1 Tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat in a 5-quart pot. Add the bag of thawed onions and peppers, and ground beef. Cook until the meat is no longer pink, about 8–10 minutes.

Add the taco seasoning packs, black pepper, and crushed red pepper. Stir until the meat is evenly coated. Pour in the cans of tomato sauce and the beef broth and stir until evenly combined. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 5 minutes. Add the chopped cilantro, stir, and serve. Top each bowl of soup with a dollop of sour cream and some crushed hard taco shells.

Foodies, we added up the total cost of this soup and it was $20.91 at our local supermarket. Per serving, that calculates to $1.74 per serving. Now, your ingredients might cost a little more or a little less…especially if you bought the family-sized pack of ground beef I talked about in my last blog. But this recipe feeds 12. If there are 4 in your family, freeze two-thirds of this soup for later. That’s 3 meals for $21!

In addition to a special In the Kitchen with David this Sunday, we also have something special to share to support the “kitchen makeover” aspect of the day. We asked some of your favorite QVC guests to build us a dream kitchen and we posted those photos on QVC.com. Search “Kitchen Makeover” to find it and see who participated!

Finally, it’s my privilege to welcome Harry London back to QVC! On Thanksgiving Day, a fire destroyed the Harry London warehouse and distribution facility located in Maple Heights, Ohio. Since the warehouse and distribution facility was severely damaged by the fire; Harry London’s peak holiday season operations were affected significantly. Lucky for all of us who love Harry London chocolates, the company rallied, and the employees have working around around the clock to literally rise up from the ashes. They’ve returned for the first time today with their one-of-a-kind chocolates. A great big “welcome back” to Ed Seibolt and the Harry London team.

I’ll see you this Sunday at 8pm ET for a special edition of In the Kitchen with David. I hope you can join Jill at Noon ET!

Keep it flavorful!

—David

Hi my friends,

I hope this finds you and your family happy & healthy.  My family had an amazing Christmas & welcomed in the New Year while asleep in bed.. ha ha. My year is off to an amazing start, I spent 2 weeks exploring the islands of the Andaman Sea off the coast of Southern Thailand & then headed north to the border of Burma and explored the jungles of Northern Thailand.  I’m so grateful for the opportunity to experience all these amazing locations and bring my inspirations to life exclusively for you here at QVC. After the successful launch of our Croco Collection (thank you), I’m excited to share with you my newest figurative collection.

{July 2014, exploring the Elephant Nature Park in the jungles of Northern Thailand}

The elephant, with its enormous power & gentle heart is a powerful symbol around the world but holds an extra special place in the hearts of the people of Thailand.  It’s an icon of Thai tradition, culture, and royal power.  Since the beginning, the elephant is to Thailand as Thailand is to the elephant; connected emotionally, symbolically, regally, and royally.

Buddhist legend states that the Buddha’s mother dreamt of a white elephant and was soon pregnant with her son. The elephant quickly became a symbol of good fortune and is also known as a symbol of royalty, intelligence, power and strength.

Over the past 2 years, I’ve had the opportunity to explore much of Thailand.  Everywhere I go, the elephant is prominently featured throughout the gorgeous temples, the beautiful works of art, textiles, & in the personal tales shared with me from our local guides.

{January 2014, centuries old temples in the ancient capital of Sukhothai, Thailand}

Yet, it wasn’t until last Fall, while exploring Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand that I really understood the true beauty of this majestic being.  I had the opportunity to visit the Elephant Nature Park in the beautiful Mae Taeng Valley and experience these gracious & peaceful animals.

This unique sanctuary is the result of a dream held by a woman named Sangduen Chailert, better known as Lek.  An award winning conservationist, Lek has created this 300 acre sanctuary which acts as a refuge for more than 30 mistreated elephants that she has rescued from exploitation and abuse. Here she has rehabilitated them and they are free to live their lives in small herds, feed at their leisure, play in the river, or wander through the jungle where their true elephant nature can breathe again.

{Elephant Nature Park, July 2014}

I’ve since learned so much about elephants.  Did you know, universally, this majestic being  is the symbol for marriage, where the front legs represent the husband, choosing the direction while the back legs represent the wife providing the power?  Sound familiar?  Ha Ha….  A beautiful symbol of peace, the elephant today remains the largest animal to roam the earth.  Many believe the elephant survives because the true will of the universe is that peace will always prevail.

Over the period of six months I’ve worked with my team to recreate the beauty & compassion I experienced with these unbelievable animals.  The designs are intricately carved solid sterling silver and will feature the figurative elephants with accents of solid 14k , gemstone eyes of faceted garnet all framed within figuratively designed banana leaves.

{It took several months of renditions & carvings to perfect our grand Elephant pearl cuff.  Shot on location in the Andaman Sea off the coast of Southern Thailand}

The Elephant Collection will debut on Feb 1^st during our 2pm ET show with Jill Bauer and will feature 4 designs.  For the launch, I’ve designed that perfect medium all silver elephant hoop, a gemstone ring fit for royalty in your choice of a sparkling turquoise doublet or midnight amethyst (purple amethyst over hematite doublet).  If you are looking for that WOW piece, then you will love the new Elephant Cuff featuring a deep blue pearl and a fully paved tusk of white topaz all with an exquisite enhancer to match.

{Amazed at the level of craftsmanship that brought this collection to life. Shot on location in Phuket, Southern tip of Thailand}

I hope you can join me for my first show on Feb 1st at 8am ET with (….) where I have even more new JAI designs from our Croco & Sukhothai collections and then come back for our 2pm show when we will debut our new Elephant Collection.

Until then please join me on my JAI Jewelry for QVC FB page & our JAIJewelry_ Instagram account to experience more of my travels & get first hand sneak peeks of all our new designs before the show.

-Safe Travels /\ Scott

Hello Everyone!

At Algenist, skin is our passion and biotechnology is our expertise! We leverage our knowledge of microalgae to offer powerful anti-aging benefits for your skin. Microalgae are lovers of the extreme: they survive in the harshest environments —from the highest altitudes to the depths of oceans — with the extraordinary ability to thrive and regenerate. Our scientists were able to extract proprietary ingredients to design patented formulas that deliver never before seen, visible skin results — in just 10 days!

I’m very excited to share with you two of our MOST powerful firming and anti-aging products — and the Super-Sized duo of these best sellers is available only at QVC! I put these two products together to give you real and meaningful skin improvements that you can see immediately. The results are scientifically measured, they’re proven, and they’re exciting!

This face cream and eye gel duo increases firmness and at the same time decreases the appearance of large deep wrinkles. If you are seeing a loss of firmness and large and deep wrinkles across the forehead, around the eyes, in the cheek area, around the mouth, along the jawline, or under the chin, then these proven formulas are for you.

Super-Size Firming Cream (4 oz.)

Not just any moisturizer — this is our most powerful firming and anti-wrinkle face treatment. As we age, key structural proteins in our skin, collagen and elastin, breakdown. This leads to a visible loss in firmness, elasticity and suppleness in our skin, causing large, deep wrinkles to form. This powerful formula combines Alguronic Acid and ProPeptide, our flagship protein technology, a unique concentrate of three powerful skin-firming peptides and three key proteins. In a clinical study, women had a 15% measured increase in both firmness and elasticity in just 10 days.

This lush, velvety cream absorbs instantly. It is not greasy and never shiny. It leaves a powdery, satin finish that works beautifully with your makeup. I’m addicted to the cool softness of this cream!

Super-Size Firming Eye Gel (1 oz.)

The eye area is fragile, sensitive and especially vulnerable to losing firmness and quickly developing deep lines and wrinkles. This region requires specific, targeted 360° treatment — under the eye, at the corners and on the lid. Firming Eye Gel is our most firming eye product. This unique gel formulation contains high concentrations of Alguronic Acid, ProPeptide, Caffeine, and Oligopeptides. In just 10 days, women reported that their lines and wrinkles appeared minimized and their eye area looked firmer.

What’s truly exciting is the immediate results! 90% of women reported skin texture was immediately smooth. This means the very first time you use it, your eye makeup will glide on more beautifully and your entire eye area will look fresher and younger the very first time you apply it. And the icing on the cake is the silky-soft, cushioning, melting fresh feel.

Best of all, its so easy to integrate these two products into your daily skincare routine. My general rule is to apply products in the order of lightest to heaviest texture.

Step 1. After cleansing, apply the Firming Eye Gel twice a day using your ring finger. Gently dab and pat from the inner corner, working your way to the outer corner, below and above the eye.

Step 2. Apply the Firming Cream to the entire face twice a day, focusing on key target areas – forehead, cheek area, around the mouth, jawline and under the chin.

I’m so excited for you to experience these two heroic products and hope you’ll share with me your superstar results!

- Tammy Yaiser

I showed up at the nail salon this week with three different polishes in tow. I sat down for my manicure and placed each bottle slightly off to the side. The manicurist began with the usual routine; remove old polish, soak, buff and file. The whole time, we were chatting about different things -- the cold weather, how quickly the month of January seemed to be passing by, what was on sale at the supermarket. You know how it goes -- nail salon conversations run the gamut.

When she was finally ready to apply color, she looked down at the three bottles and asked, “which one?”. The reason I brought three was because I couldn’t decide. I was hoping to be inspired, and I was, but .... in the oddest way.

Our chit-chat about the grocery store, prompted me to remember that I had eggplant at home that I needed to cook before it got too ripe. One of the nail polish colors I brought along was aubergine. Aubergine! Thinking about about that eggplant inspired me to pick the brownish-purple bottle of polish over pink or red.

Inspiration can come from anything, and color is certainly a great source. A red rose, a green clover, even a ripe eggplant can all provide inspiration just when you need it.

In case you were wondering, I roasted the eggplant for dinner later that night, and it was delish!

What colors inspire you and where did the inspiration originate? I would love to know!

See you tomorrow!

Leah

Did someone say Makeover? No matter what kind of makeover it is – beauty, fashion, décor, recipes – count me in! I’m a sucker for before/after pix, paint chips, fabric swatches, and – best of all – the big reveal. 

The only downside to makeover mania is that it’s so easy to get excited about fun project, then lose steam mid-makeover if it stretches out too long. As a designer, I’ve gotten really good at making big and beautiful changes happen fast. That’s why I was so excited to sit down with my friend Jill Bauer recently and trade ideas and inspiration about her kitchen makeover project. The next best thing to your very own makeover project is talking makeovers with a friend!

That’s why I rounded up some of my favorite easy, instant makeover tips to share with you!

Step 1: Start with something you love. For Jill, it was a gorgeous striped textile she chose for her window valences (that just so happens to look wonderful with temp-tations Old World Harvest and Fall-fetti!).

It doesn't matter if it’s the focal point of your room or an accent. I once made over my studio/office based on an adorable frog sculpture I found in an antique shop. Picking one, single thing to design around make all the other decisions easier, because everything – from colors, to materials, to mood – matches back to that. It’s like a guidepost that helps make your whole makeover more manageable.

Step 2: Stay Neutral. This is a great tip for everything from home décor to personal style. As much as I love color, I start out with neutrals for things like walls, countertops and cabinets. That gives me a great base to start layering on pops of color…which I’ve found actually have more impact than big solid blocks of color.

Also, it’s easier and faster to change your look when you just have to swap out a few pieces instead of redoing a whole room. I can transform my kitchen from warm and summery to cozy and autumnal overnight with just a few strategic swaps!

Step 3: Choose accents that are beautiful AND functional. These days, who has room in their kitchen for something that’s just pretty? You get more bang for your makeover budget when you accent your kitchen with items that not only brighten your surroundings, but make your life easier, too. Like a baker that doubles as a fruit bowl, or utensils that tie your color scheme together.

To see more of my kitchen makeover chat with Jill, watch below.  We had so much fun…I could have spent hours paging through all that beautiful design inspiration!

And don’t forget to tune in throughout the day for more makeover tips, during the Cooking on Q – Kitchen Makeover event. We’ll even be debuting some exciting NEW temp-tations for your kitchen (and stovetop!), plus we’ll be welcoming Spring colors back in select items to help chase those Winter blues away. I hope you’ll join us!

XOXO

Tara 

It's National Compliment Day! Which in my opinion should be every day, but I love that it gets its own spot in the calendar to remind us to pass along a positive thought or two. Or 26...

I thought I would use today to share with you one thing that I love about some of my wonderful co-workers here at QVC. The challenge wasn't coming up with one for each, the challenge was keeping it to only one!! Here we go: 

Gabrielle: stays cool and calm in any situation. I'm striving to be more like her!

Kerstin: holds God and family above all else. She exudes love in everything she does.

Rachel: that girl can make me laugh anytime...and she has the sweetest, most joyful laugh herself!

David: never ever fails to stop and give a meaningful "hello and how are you, darlin'?" No matter how rushed he may be. He's every bit as kind and considerate in person as he is on air!

Jill: that gal's got style! I've never seen her be anything but polished, put together, and stylish. And of course we know that sense of style stretches to her beautiful home as well!

Antonella: has so much passion for what she does, both at QVC and in her hobbies. She chased her dream and saw it come true. What an inspiration!

Albany: one word: energy! I don't know where she gets it from but that gal is overflowing with it...she's got a zest for life!

Dan W: his memory is crazy good! I watch him rattle off sports stats like they were his kids' birth dates!!! I can barely remember what I had for breakfast! 

Rick D: this is an easy one. Best sense of humor in the bunch. There isn't a single meeting I attend with him where I don't end up ruining my mascara from laughter!

Courtney: she's got such effortless style! She puts together pieces I'd never have thought of and makes them look like they were made for each other. She always looks great!

Alberti: Alberti is a renaissance man. Educated, well-attired, gracious and full of life. And a great dancer!

Sandra: is so easy to talk to. She's relatable, personable, and is as good a listener as she is a speaker!

Dan Hughes: Dan has more than just a passion for our products, he has a passion for the people behind them as well. He loves helping the Great American Dream come true for entrepreneurs, inventors, and big dreamers. He takes a lot of extra time out of his schedule to mentor the folks you see on air!

Pat: has been a big sister to me and many here at QVC in many ways. From her warm smile to heartfelt compliments to advice given when I felt overwhelmed in this new adventure! The compassionate woman she is on air? Same in real life! 

Jayne: Jayne has a "sleeper" semse of humor...the kind that sneaks up on you and makes you belly laugh when you least expect it! I love listening to her in meetings because I know there's both endless knowledge and something surprisingly funny on the way.

Stacey: she juggles the mom and career life in a way I can only strive to! I've never once heard her complain despite effortlessly spinning a lot of plates at once! #rolemodel!

Jacque: a more loving and doting momma you will not find! Listening to her talk to her daughter or about her daughter is heartwarming and a reminder of what's really important in life. 

Leah: Leah has such a calming aura about her that you can't help but feel deep down when you're around her. When I've worked with her I've so admired her ease and happiness in the words she speaks and things she does. It makes me smile! 

Mary Beth: I could do an entire blog just about MBR!! She is a mentor to all of us here. A rock. A warm smile, a long hug, joyful laughter, wise words all come from this amazing woman. She is family, just minus the shared DNA!

Sharon: Sharon is so well-rounded and well-grounded! She makes time to explore her own passions and hobbies while still managing to be an amazing career woman and devoted mom and wife. She grows her interests while spreading love to those nearest to her. Easier said than done, but she does!! 

Carolyn: Carolyn as you know loves animals. But this love isn't just for her own pets, it's for animals all over the world looking for loving homes. She volunteers her time in many ways to bring joy to "fur babies" and joy to their humans by bringing them together. What a great cause! 

Shawn: I love how Shawn can let anything just roll of her back. She knows who she is and what she believes in, and she stays true to herself in a world that often saps individuality. You go, girl.

Nancy: Nancy once found me in tears after a stressful day struggling with a family member's illness. She dropped everything and counseled me through that trying evening. I've never forgotten that. She is compassionate, spiritual, and loyal. And beautiful! 

Amy: fashion force extraordinaire! I'm constantly inspired by her looks that appear to be pulled from the latest fashion mag or must-read blog. And she makes it look so easy!!

Jane : I'll never come close to being 10% the host she is, but I'm having fun trying! I loooove watching Jane on air. She's so well spoken, she's an educator as well as an entertainer, she's clearly having fun out there and she makes watching QVC fun too. An inspiration! 

Mary: Have you ever seen anyone with a prettier smile? The thing is, that smile comes from deep within. She's positive energy, through and through. And it draws you to her like a magnet!

How fun this was! Let's keep it going...post a compliment about someone you know below and let's start an avalanche of positivity!! I'm doing the same thing on my Facebook page; hope you'll join me there!! Happy Compliment Day!