Well Denim Divas…..it’s almost February and while I set here writing this, it is snowing outside here in West Chester, Pa. I must admit…I am not the biggest fan of winter but I do love how pretty the snow is coming down. February has always been a big month for me….I was born on the 13^th and my Mom always considered me her Valentine's Day present…so as a kid, I always had some type of valentine themed party. I do get sentimental when I see all of those heart inspired decorations around. I hope all of you have a special valentine’s day and enjoy with loved ones.

While we are waiting for February to arrive, check out a few of the new items coming from Denim & Co soon. Also, Blue is the color of the month here at QVC…so check out what that is all about below and for good measure…I have added some favorite red items...just in case you need a “pick me up” for Valentine’s Day.

As always, be safe and let me know your thoughts! How do you celebrate Valentine’s Day?

A few new items coming from Denim & Co. soon!

Shades of blue really inspire. A calming and serene color that looks good on everyone! 

Blues that range from sky to cobalt continue to add a vibrant edge while navy blues, replace black as a go-to color.  Variations of blue palettes refresh home interiors and accessories. Think of a poolside paradise!

Denim is everywhere! Rich Indigo washes make this color easy to wear both casual or dressy!

Denim & Co. Active French Terry Tunic with Seaming Detail

Denim & Co. Pull-On Front V-Yoke Pants with Pockets

Denim & Co. Perfect Jersey Floral Print Long Sleeve Top

And, let’s not forget red for Valentine’s day!!

Denim & Co. Heavenly Jersey 3/4 Sleeve Cardigan Duet

Denim & Co. Stretch Twill Jean Jacket w/Bling Buttons

Denim & Co. 3/4 Tab Sleeve Sweater Tunic With Front Pockets

Don’t forget to check out what’s "trending" and follow me on QVC.com!

-Gary

My avocado trees are laden with fruit and the entire village is enjoying the harvest! I wish I could share with you.

I am in full preparation for my trip to visit you at QVC ... I have been designing none stop and have been traveling in search of the most beautiful pearls and gemstones for all my pieces!

So much to show and tell you ... where to start?? 

OK!  First, I must share one my most stunning necklaces from my Kalos Collection!

I am so pleased with the positive response to this new collaboration with Pearly creating her exquisite handmade pieces of glass that perfectly fit my new designs. This Kalos necklace is an extraordinary design of highly polished veins of sterling silver that come to life with a mesmerizing center of Mediterranean colored oversized teardrop of handmade glass. Over 3” long with scalloped edges of bright sterling silver.

Can’t wait to show you  … decided to incorporate into the design a supple leather cord with 4-inch extender let you decide what length works best for you. 

{Kalos Necklace}

A passion of mine, my Heart Designs! I have designed for this trip a toggle closure multi-leather bracelet with my signature style HEART motif. Always feel good when I am wearing my signature heart styles … and a perfect gift to give .… 

{Silver Heart Bracelet}

Perfection in the Round!  A sphere of sterling silver entwined with feminine curves smooth and bright ... wear it LONG a statement pendant with a 32 inch chain and create a constant pattern-play of light throughout your day! 

{Sterling Silver in -the -round Pendant / yes, that is my new over-sized cabochon of amazonite ring … not to be missed}

I am most excited about sharing this ring with you! 

Feminine ... Bold … Dramatic … North / South statement ring that will have everyone talking! Very highly polished sterling silver intertwining dazzling sterling silver with 3 gorgeous luminous pearls bezel set to complete the look. I am loving wearing this ring ... I have been traveling recently and believe me this is going to become your signature ring … it elongates the finger and is so flattering comfortable with a low profile ... Powerful statement-piece that is a dream to wear! 

{Pearl Ring}

OK I must stop, get packing and watching the weather … hope all my Northeast friends stay safe and warm! 

Mark your calendars sets your alarms you are going to want to see each sterling silver piece up close and personal ... I hope my collection will brighten your winter days! 

DESIGNER JEWELRY GALLERY 

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 1  2-3AM and 7-8AM 

Quick question: when was the last time you opened your cable bill and had a smile on your face?  OK, I get it. You never actually opened any bill and smiled, but the cable bill has a reputation to sting a little more than the rest. There are all kinds of extra charges in there. Rates always appear to fluctuate, and you know that you are locked into a deal that is tighter than a supermax prison. However, like everything else in the evolving world of tech, the days of basic cable service may soon be on the way out. The number of TV shows, movies, and other online content is growing every day, and not surprisingly, the number of people jumping off the big cable cruise ship is growing as well. So, are you ready to swim? I’m not quite there yet, but I am standing on the diving board.

My personal entertainment setup is without a doubt an overly costly one. I still have my basic cable contract which includes HBO. Plus, I subscribe to Netflix and Amazon Prime that I access through Apple TV or an iPad. Currently, I’ve got too much stuff, and 2015 will likely be the year to trim things down.

The big sticking point for me is live sports and HBO. Interestingly, 2015 will make access to those things easier. For the first time ever, cable behemoths ESPN and HBO are expected to make their content available to non-cable subscribers, and this is going to be huge. That means all you’ll need is wifi and a tablet to watch your favorite show or game. Instead of signing up for a basic cable service that includes hundreds of channels, you can pay a monthly fee to access just ESPN on your favorite device. The big cable networks will have all the power in this shift since millions of people want their channel and will pay for it. However, what will happen to all those ancillary channels you only watch randomly while flicking through the channels on a boring Thursday night? How much will you pay for a channel you only watch once or twice a month? 2 bucks? 3?

Personally, I think that I’ll be scaling back. Outside of sports, news, HBO, and of course the Q, there isn’t much else out there that I need. Channels like QVC already stream live on an app which is free, so I don’t have to turn on the television. My favorite TV series currently running isn’t really on TV. It’s House of Cards on Netflix. I can also watch previous seasons of shows like Downton Abbey or Breaking Bad through Amazon Prime. Sure, I have to wait a few extra months to see them, but I don’t mind. Trust me, I’m not going to miss any channel that is running a Real Houswives of Sante Fe marathon or another angry cook/designer/restaurateur screaming at people. I like my screaming when it’s directed at a ref who blows a call.

The one thing for certain is that change is on the way. How is it going to look, and how can we save some money? Those questions are yet to be answered, but like everything else in the world, I suggest you just hang on and enjoy the ride.

As the Susan Graver brand expands, it was important to bring additional talent and expertise to my brand. QVC is a global, worldwide network and often requested my presence in countries outside the U.S. 

{Working with my QVC UK buyer, Alison Wood}

{On air at QVC UK with one of my favorite hosts, Charlie}

For the past 20 years I've been squeezing trips to QVC UK between shows in the US, often making the round trip in 3 days. I never want to miss a show or an opportunity to connect with woman here in the US.

{On my way to QVC UK!} 

{Arrived in London}

Stacey Rusch to the rescue! QVC introduced me to Stacey to develop my brand globally... the perfect missing link. Stacey has traveled the world and recently lived in Germany for 2 years. I was immediately attracted to her beautiful smile and her sense of style. 

As Stacey becomes more familiar with my brand, you will see her on air from time to time when I'm not available. Eventually she will be traveling quite a bit for me so I can be here in the US with my loyal QVC family, friends, and loved ones. 

​Please welcome the addition of Stacey to the QVC family! 

xoxo,

Susan

Hi everyone. We made it through January. After the holidays, winter can feel never-ending but so far, 2015 is off to a great start. Even though the holiday season is over, there are lots fun things to brighten up this time of year. 

Will you be watching the big game tomorrow? Whether you watch for the football, the commercials or the half-time show, the Super Bowl is always an enjoyable event. This year, I'll be at QVC hosting some exciting shows.  Every year, Ron watches from the green room and flips between the Super Bowl and watching me on QVC. Ron is the best. He always patiently waits for me while I’m working.

I have a show tonight and shows all day tomorrow. So, DVR the game and spend Super Bowl Sunday with us! Every good athlete starts a game with a warm-up. Be sure to join us for our version of a warm-up and watch the Saturday night and Sunday morning shows. I don’t want you to miss out on anything — you are going to be so delighted when you see all of our new pieces and the fantastic specials. 

Every Super Bowl game has an MVP — a Most Valuable Player, and this year, we want you to pick out your MVP — your Most Valuable Piece! What are your current MVPs? I think of my MVPs as the items that I reach for the most — my tried and true staples.

One of the biggest trends this year is colors of metal and my new Verona Chain Necklace is offered in 5 metal colors — Sterling Silver, Black Rhodium Plated Sterling, Chocolate Plated Sterling, 14K Yellow Gold Clad over Sterling, or 14K Rose Gold Clad over Sterling. This necklace would look gorgeous if two colors were layered together — Sterling Silver with Black, Chocolate with Rose, or Black with Yellow. You can wear it long for a dramatic look or double it for a layered style.

Tennis bracelets are one of my go-to's and I love the rich color of blue in this new London Blue Topaz Tennis Bracelet. This particular blue is very unique and it’s rare to see London Blue Topaz stones cut in a heart-shape. The alternating gemstones give the bracelet added beauty and maximum sparkle. 

Get your own version of a winning Super Bowl ring with this Three Stone Ring! With a great wearable silhouette and amazing colors, it’s the perfect size to be one of your signature pieces. This also makes a great gift and you can choose from Blue Topaz, Amethyst or Citrine. Amethyst is February’s birthstone so this is a perfect present for any of your loved ones with February birthdays.

If a watch is more likely to become your MVP, you’re going to be so happy that this best seller is coming back. In the past, we only offered it in Silver-tone Stainless Steel but now, you can also get Gold-tone Stainless Steel with ionic plating. This is a watch that can easily be an MVP in your collection and after so many of you asked for it, we are so happy to be bringing it back. 

WOW! This Multi-Gemstone Necklace makes a glorious statement in rich gem colors! The best part? It can be clasped at any link — wear it as a long necklace with just the end teardrop dangling, or wear it clasped closer to the neck with a long lariat drop for a sophisticated style.

So, I know you’ll want to see Katy Perry sing during the halftime show, but I hope that you’ll spend the rest of Super Bowl Sunday with us. Get your Super Bowl treats ready, wear your MVPs and join us for shows Saturday, January 31 from 9pm – 11pm and Sunday, February 1 at 4am – 6am, 12pm – 2pm, and 8pm – 10pm.

XO, Judith

I thank everyone who took the time to read my latest blogs on Redecorating, Home remodeling and the Room design. Let me say I don't consider myself to be an expert but with many projects now under my belt I have found some creative ways to save some time and definitely save money.  In one of my recent blogs we showed some pictures of the new "Man Cave" here on the farm.  I have received a lot of questions on how we did the large television stand and I wanted to share a tip with you.  With armoires no longer fitting the popular big screen TV's and storage always being at a premium, we came up with a simple and quite affordable solution.

If you look closely at the photos you may notice that the base for my entertainment system is actually kitchen cabinets. I purchased them unfinished and with a couple coats of cherry stain and another couple coats of Polyurethane I was able to build my own TV/Storage center for a fraction of what a pre -built system would have cost. And this way I got a much larger display base for even less money.  Cabinets come in all different sizes, so for the niche area were my bar is I was able to find pre-made unfinished cabinets that fit perfectly.  You can also get matching trim pieces that will fill in any gaps and it gives a nice "built in look" to the overall project.

The entertainment center is comprised of two floor cabinets that would usually reside underneath a kitchen sink. Make sure you use "floor" cabinets and not "wall" cabinets because that way you have a kick board already on the bottom.  The counter tops were made from 3/4 inch particle board which is readily available at any home center.  By cutting 4 inch strips of particle board and gluing and clamping them to the outer edge of my larger sheets of particle board I was able to get the appropriate thickness of 1 and 1/ inches for the counter tops.

The final finish for your counter tops is up to you.  A good sealer and paint will work or if you are handy with contact cement than Formica will also work. I chose to use large sheets of copper that we had left over from another project and I burnished it to look older and more rustic. If you’re looking for an industrial look, than roofing tin works nicely too.   By spraying contact cement on both the counter top and the material you will be adding as your surface material, allow both sides to dry.  Placing wooden dowels on your particle board so the top surface does not make contact with the particle board (Once contact cement surfaces touch each other they stick ..very well).   Pull out one dowel at a time at one edge and press firmly with a kitchen rolling pin.  Then remove one dowel at a time and keep pressing and rolling for the entire length.  A little cutting and gluing and rolling on the edges and your countertops are done.

We love our new room and it feels even better to be able to say we did it ourselves. Hope that helps you and more hints to come .

Enjoy.

Dan Hughes

You can find me on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/DanHughesQVC

Twitter: www.twitter.com/danhughesqvc

toGather: www.gather.qvc.com/member/DanHughes

Talk about “exploding” at Valley Forge Flowers, we have outgrown our 7,000 square feet of floral and retail store!  This gave me the perfect reason to create a new space to celebrate my love of outdoor living and here it is - The Barn at Valley Forge Flowers.  Under one very large roof – complete with a silo - we hope The Barn will inspire everyone to take advantage of the outdoors in their own backyard and to create exceptional outdoor living areas.  

The Barn features everything comfortable and stylish that you might want inside your home that is actually created for outdoor living – tables, chairs, sofas, lighting, linens, pillows, plants, plates, stemware…And creating these spaces is as easy as imagining them.      

These are my steps to taking advantage of your own outdoor spaces:

Have an area in mind – whether it is a patio space, leveled area on your lawn or a deck.  You do not need a structured area or building.  Be sure that this space is easily accessible – right outside your door.  Take into consideration outdoor elements such as light, wind, and view. 

Outdoor living is truly the epitome of “The Sky’s The limit!”      

I am thrilled that I have been asked again this year to create the entryway for the largest indoor Flower Show in the world – the Philadelphia Flower Show.   You know the saying “It takes a village?”  Well, when it comes to welcoming over 250,000 people and hoping to impress each and every one, it truly takes a village and some of the villager’s friends, family members… Thank the stars for the volunteers who come and help us.  I do not know what we would do without them.  

The theme for the 2015 Flower Show is “Celebrate The Movies; Lights, Camera, Bloom.”  And although I want to keep the entry design a surprise, I can say that our design team and volunteers began decorating set pieces earlier this month.  Think a lot of color, textures and we hope a lot of “awes” too!

The pictures show what it took to create the Flower Show entryway last year.  The theme was “Articulture” and we created a display based on the artwork of Alexander Calder.

-We used over 10,000 flowers.

-Over 20 volunteers worked daily for nearly a month decorating with flowers.

-It took our designers a week to install and complete the designs at the Convention Center.   

Wish us luck – and hopefully a few hours of sleep along the way – creating a very special, surprise entrance to the 2015 Flower Show.  It is one of the greatest events,  and I am certainly proud to be a part of.

I love everything about vegetable and fruit gardens, and it’s no secret that one of the reasons is that I love food too!  Along with the questions I get regarding gardening, I do get many people asking about the latest in produce and farming vocabulary.  I hope I can adequately answer some of these questions – with this disclaimer – I did have to do a bit of fact checking just to make sure I wasn’t off the mark.

What Does Heirloom Mean?

Heirloom plants are grown from seeds that are at least 50 years old and have been passed on through generations.  The popularity of heirloom plants - especially vegetables - has increased over the past few years as people prefer to eat produce they consider more “natural” and are not chemically treated.  There has also been a boom with heirloom produce as many popular chefs have taken to highlighting this too.  A wonderful effect of the attention has been that it easier than ever to purchase heirloom seeds of our very own.  (see my favorite Rustic Tomato Soup recipe below.  During the winter months, I substitute good canned tomatoes – but come the tomato season – the sky’s the limit with tomatoes you can use!)

What Are “Sustainable” Ingredients?

This refers to foods (vegetables, fruits, meats, herbs) that are raised to actually enhance the environment and or to “sustain” it.  Simply stated, a farmer or gardener is helping/improving the planet and us too.

What Is The Difference Between A “Cooperative” and a “Famers Market?”

I consider them one in the same as both refer to an organization of group of farmers marketing their products or supplies.  I love shopping at both as it doesn’t get better than supporting local farmers and artisans.

What Is Hydroponic Indoor Gardening? People in the “know” forecast that many more of us will try a hydroponic garden in our homes in 2015.  Growing fruits and vegetables in a soil-free liquid solution, rich in nutrients is said to be economical and produces vegetation at a faster rate of growth than soli-based plants (some say upwards of 50% faster).  Another plus is that harvests can be on-going as the plants are contained and not reliant on seasonality or weather conditions.   

My Rustic Tomato Soup

Roasted Tomatoes

• 1 1/2 pounds chopped fresh tomatoes or 2 cups canned tomatoes rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees.  Toss tomatoes with some oil, salt and pepper and place evenly on a cookie sheet.  Roast in the oven about 45 minutes.

Soup

• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, crushed 
• 2 cups Chicken Broth
• A few sprigs of fresh basil
• 2 teaspoons flour 
• Saute onions, garlic and flour over medium heat in a large sauce pan. They should be softened and slightly browned.  Add the broth, roasted tomatoes and basil. Bring the soup to a boil and then simmer for about 25 minutes.
• Remove soup from the stove top and let it cool. Puree the soup in a blender and top with Parmesan cheese (or your favorite type – cheddar, mozzarella, goat...)  

I really enjoy a good restaurant and I look forward to an annual Philadelphia event which takes place in January called, “Restaurant Week”. Dozens and dozens of restaurants participate by offering their menus with specialty dishes at budget-friendly prices.

My cousin, Lytania and me at the restaurant of Iron Chef Morimoto

It’s a great way for the city to spotlight local restaurants, and for diners to try places and dishes they never tried before. I even tried alligator once (not my fave).

Today is the last day of Restaurant week. This year, I got to try a great Asian place. I’ve taken pictures of some of my favorite dishes at restaurants over the years and here are just a few.

Bon Appetit!

Mixed Greens with Grilled Shrimp and Garlic Bread

Filet Oscar (steak topped with crab and hollandaise)

Roasted Sweet Potatoes topped with Cranberry Chutney

Pan Seared Scallops

 Chocolate Ganache Pyramid

Lobster Bisque

 Brûlée Cheesecake with Fresh Berries

Crab Cake (one of my favorites)

 Grilled Veggie Burger with Baked Veggie Chips

 Sausage and Mushroom Flatbread

Vanilla Pound cake topped with Ice Cream

What is your favorite dish to order at a restaurant?

See you tomorrow for Am Beauty and AM Style!

Leah

We were Winter Walking again on Shoe Shopping and here photos of Sally Comb's of Earth Brand shoes. They are a sneak a peek into her holidays with her little guy, Viggo, and her adorable little nephew. Enjoy!

See you next time for Shoe Shopping!

-Jane

As promised, here is my go to recipe when my family gets together to watch the BIG GAME.  If you customize it, let me know what you did!

Enjoy and WE ARE SO READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL!!!!!!  :-D

XO,

Albany

MVP Sweet Potato Skinz 

INGREDIENTS:

6-8 Medium Sweet Potatoes

2 c. minced or shredded meat of choice.  I had pulled pork on hand, so that is what I used.  Leftover chicken would work too. Season well. 

1 c. chopped fresh tomatoes

1 c. chopped fresh onions

1 small can chopped green chilies (use sliced jalapenos for more heat)

*****You can get crazy with this.....add whatever you and your family like or even try a brand new combo.... goat cheese and salsa, ham and maple syrup...

2 cups shredded cheese

Olive oil

Balsamic Vinegar

Salt and Pepper to taste

Kale chips for garnish (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

Wash and dry sweet potatoes.

Place in 350 degree oven for approximately 45-60 minutes depending on the size of the potatoes.  Cook until tender, but not mushy.

Take potatoes out of oven and let cool. 

Slice cooled potatoes in half length-wise.  Place on parchment lined cookie sheet.

Scoop out potato leaving only about 1/4 attached to the skin.  Save the scooped out flesh for another use.

Salt and pepper halves.

Place meat of choice into potato half.  Use as much or as little as you prefer.

Top meat with chopped onions, chilies and tomatoes.

Lightly drizzle the potatoes with a good aged Balsamic Vinegar.

Top potatoes with shredded cheese.

Bake in 350 degree oven 20 minutes until cheese melts and potatoes warm through. 

Optional:  Top with Kale Crisps

This will make a meal if you leave the potato in halves.  Cut into smaller pieces for hors d'oeuvres.

I woke up this morning with that happy, almost giddy little feeling…it’s my birthday! No matter how many candles are on my cake, I hope I’ll never outgrow feeling like an excited little kid on my birthday. Because there’s nothing better than waking up feeling super special, before you even get out of bed. Like the whole day is the perfect present, just waiting to be opened.

I think I get so excited about my birthday because my mom, Gail, always made the day so special. Not just the day…when it came to birthdays, my mom was a big believer in stretching out the celebration as long as possible!

Weeks before the big day, my family would spend hours talking about special birthday meals and party plans. It’s funny because I know there was always a special birthday gift, too. But looking back, it’s the meals and celebrations I remember, not the gifts.

Every year my mom would make my favorite recipe for my birthday. And even though my favorite meals changed over the years, there was one thing I always asked for – my mom’s special Lemon Sheet Cake.

It’s so simple. But so delicious! And maybe, like my birthday memories, it’s because that’s what’s really important. Simple pleasures and celebrations with family that make great memories.

Here’s the recipe…and it’s so good, you don’t need to wait for a birthday. It’s perfect for everyday celebrations, as well. Just like temp-tations!

Easy Lemon Sheet Cake

Cake

nonstick cooking spray

1 ½ cups cake flour

5 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

1 3/4 cups sugar

7 Tablespoons vegetable oil

2 eggs

3 egg yolks

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/4 cup bottled lemon juice, well shaken

1 cup lemon yogurt

1 cup flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

Glaze

3 cups powdered sugar

1⁄3 cup bottled lemon juice, well shaken

Optional toppings: Colored sprinkles, coconut, white chocolate chips

1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees and spray a 4-quart temp-tations dish with nonstick cooking spray. Dust the pan with flour, knocking out any excess. On medium speed, cream the butter, sugar, and oil

together until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes; scraping down the mixing bowl with a rubber spatula as

needed.

2. Add the eggs and yolks one at a time, waiting until each addition is fully incorporated and scraping

down the mixing bowl with a rubber spatula as needed. Add the vanilla and beat until combined.

3. In a small bowl, whisk the lemon juice and yogurt together and set aside. In a separate bowl, sift the flour, cake flour, baking powder, and salt together and, on low speed, add the flour mixture to the mixing bowl in three additions, alternating with the lemon juice/yogurt mixture, and beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Scrape down the mixing bowl with a rubber spatula as needed. Beat on medium speed for a few seconds more, until batter is smooth.

4. Transfer the batter to the prepared dish and bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in

the center comes out clean.

5. To make the glaze: Whisk the powdered sugar and lemon juice together. Using a toothpick, poke

holes in the warm cake and coat with glaze. If desired, top with your favorite toppings. Let the cake come to room temperature before slicing with a sharp paring knife and serving.

I still trying to stretch my birthday celebrations out as long as possible, just like Gail taught me. But I’m also focusing on making great memories and remembering loved ones who aren’t here to celebrate with me, like my dad. I always take a moment to think back on the memories of birthdays past…it’s my birthday gift to myself. 

Over the past few days, I have received so many incredible birthday wishes from my temp-tations and QVC family (including an amazingly delicious birthday cake on In the Kitchen with David).

Thank you to everyone for making me feel so loved! I hope you have a chance to test out my mom’s cake recipe, it will be just like celebrating with all of you. And, don’t forget, to help you celebrate, QVC is offering Easy Pay on select temp-tations, in honor of my birthday!

Do you have a favorite birthday recipe that was famous in your family? Then share it in the comments below! I’ll always celebrate with Gail’s cake. But I’m always on the lookout for new birthday meal ideas. ;)

XOXO

Tara

Over the past week, a video of one of our segments has been shared over social media that has caused some concern and misunderstanding. While the clip has been perceived by some as a moment of cultural insensitivity, it was, in reality, a misinterpreted comment combined with an ill-timed camera cutaway. Our host referred to a situation that many of us have experienced – looking back at a photograph and regretting a fashion, make-up or hairstyle choice made years earlier. To suggest that the host’s comments were anything other than a reference to such a situation simply does not reflect the intent of what was said on-air or our company values. We do, however, recognize how the video clip may have been misperceived and apologize for any offense that it caused.  QVC is committed to diversity and inclusion and we celebrate the uniqueness of every team member, partner and customer.

Here is the personal statement that our host, Sandra, shared on her Facebook page earlier this week:

“Hi everyone. I want to apologize to anyone I offended during a recent Dooney & Bourke show. I made a comment along of the lines of when you carry a Dooney, you look good even if you don't do your hair. It was meant to be lighthearted, but in the middle of my comment, the camera cut to Michelle, an African American model. I want to be clear that I was in no way talking about her. It was just terrible timing. In fact, despite how it may have appeared, I didn't even realize this had happened until today when I saw some comments on Facebook and received a phone call. I have since called Michelle to apologize and thankfully, she didn't remember the comment or even know any of this had happened. I'm confident that anyone who knows me personally understands I would never even think to make such a connection. Still, in our business perception is reality and I'm mortified that I gave that impression. So again, I'm very sorry to our viewers who felt hurt or angered by my comments.”

Hello, foodies…

I just got home from a fast, but great trip to San Antonio…I’m so glad I went. Two years ago, when my first cookbook came out, we made arrangements to head out to the Lonestar State for a book signing. But, a nasty hurricane interrupted our travel plans. Luckily, we were finally able to reschedule and yesterday Jonathan, our ITKWD producer, and I went to QVC’s Call Center in San Antonio to meet our fellow employees, their families, and friends.

Afterwards, we went to a nearby hotel and everyone had a chance to come and have their books signed. It was terrific…we had about 75 folks come and some drove all the way from the Houston area, which I understand is about three hours away.

Afterwards, we walked along the river walk and got some great Tex-Mex for dinner. To all of you in San Antonio and the surrounding communities, thank you. Thanks for coming, thanks for your kind words, and thanks for being as passionate about this new book as I am. We have one more signing on our calendar at this time and it’s a very special event…the Philadelphia Flower Show! I’m honored to be presenting there again this year and you’ll have an opportunity for signing then. More to come on that!

In the meantime, happy February! This Sunday on In the Kitchen with David we’re kicking off a brand-new theme…5-Ingredient Party Foods! February is national snack month. And, it’s no wonder…there are lots of reasons to snack. The big game is this weekend, Valentine’s Day is the week after, Mardi Gras and the Chinese New Year come after that, and then Hollywood’s biggest awards night happens at the end of this month. So parties, yes. Complicated, time-consuming recipes, no. Almost every recipe this month will have right around 5 ingredients or less. Here’s our first appetizer…Ham and Cheese Sliders.

Ham and Cheese Sliders
Serves 12

This recipe is prepared with the Temp-tations® Floral Lace 5-Piece Concentric Bowl Set (K41278).

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

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup horseradish-flavored Dijon mustard
• 1 Tbsp + 2 tsp poppy seeds
• 12 small sweet dinner rolls
• 12 slices deli ham
• 6 slices Swiss cheese, halved

Preparation:

1. Combine the mustard and poppy seeds in a small bowl. Refrigerate until needed.
2. Slice each roll in half and spread the mustard mixture onto the top and bottom. Fold the cheese and ham slices in half and build each sandwich.

I love the combination of ham, Swiss, and mustard but if you prefer another meat and cheese mix, do your own thing. In fact, if you’re making these for a game-day party this weekend, you could even do a variety of sandwiches so everyone is pleased. Think roast beef and cheddar, turkey and brie, even chicken salad. For vegetarians, how about egg salad or cucumber and cream cheese.     

Your blog question today is what’s your go-to party sandwich? Do you do burgers? Hot dogs or sausage sandwiches? Pulled pork? I've got lots of other sandwich ideas on QVC.com if you're looking for more inspiration. I’ll see you Sunday at our usual time...Noon ET. 

Keep it flavorful!
—David

Chili is a great dish for making ahead, so when dinner time comes, you have more time to spend with your loved ones rather than spending it in the kitchen. It is easy to prepare and there are so many different variations. It's a great dish for the beginner cook, as it doesn't have to be prepared perfectly to taste perfectly delicious. Plus, you can experiment with chili powder and/or hot sauce to make it as mild or as hot as you like. 

EZ Chili

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped celery 
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/3 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 Tablespoon brown sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vinegar
• 1/8 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1 can kidney beans, including liquid 
• 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes
• 8 oz. tomato sauce
• 2 teaspoon chili powder OR 12 oz. Chili sauce

Make a Chili bar and offer several different sides. This will allow your family and friends to top the chili anyway they want and whether someone is gluten-free or watching their waistline, everyone will be satisfied.

How about a bowl of chili topped with sharp cheddar cheese?

Or try a salad if low fat and counting calories is on the table for you.

Top your lettuce with a little bit of everything and voila ...... a Taco Salad

Top tortilla chips with chili and cheese and you're all set with Nachos!

And if you have leftover, put the chili in the freezer for next time! You definitely can't go wrong with Chili.

Enjoy and counting our blessings,

Mary Beth Roe

Hello my LCNY fashionistas.  My blog this week is a bit different.  It is about an act of kindness and how it trickled forward. 

A couple of Saturday's ago I was waiting to go on air for AM STYLE and  I had an opportunity to sit and chat with Jamie from IT COSMETICS.  We talked about my being a new empty nester, how I missed my kids and my New Year's resolution to put LINDA first.  Believe me this is a foreign concept to me.  As a mother of 4 you know ......you are last in line by the end of the day.  I told her about my upcoming trip to Florida I planned on the spur of the moment, new workouts, diets, dating, you name it. We discussed how excited I was to see Meghan's new home and how I could not wait to hug and smell my darling daughter. Her eyes welled up and she said "Linda ....I can just tell you are a great Mom". I do not think many people have ever said that to me. 

Truth be told my Gang of Four is my greatest accomplishment in life.  We laughed how 2015 is supposed to be about me, yet my excitement for the weekend was about me going to see Meg... ironic, right?

As I was getting ready to leave Jamie found me and gave me a beautiful gift bag filled with IT COSMETICS and said "here is to you and YOUR year.....all about Linda".  I was overwhelmed.  It was so kind of Jamie and very generous of her.  I have the bag sitting on my bathroom counter. It is a reminder to stick to my new motto of peacefulness and everyday to do something for myself.  That gift bag has empowered me. 

Two days later ........I was with a friend who tragically lost her daughter.  She is struggling so.  I remembered I purchased a pair of earrings for Christmas that I never gifted. I immediately knew who they should go to.  She put them on immediately.  I told her in this time of darkness to touch these in her ears and know how loved she is and to try to shine on.  A week later she was doing what she does generously with her free time and was able to secure a large donation of items for women in a shelter.  Thank you Jamie.....you started a chain reaction.  Paying it forward is double sided..... the recipient is so grateful and the giver has a full heart.

So my wonderful LCNY FASHIONISTAS.  You touch MBR's and my heart every Wednesday.  As you know our show is about shopping, chatting and most importantly, girlfriend time.  If you know of someone that needs a little extra TLC then pay it forward.....a full heart is so rewarding and is now at the top of my list for 2015. See you Wednesday from 9am to 11am for two BIG hours together. 

Linda D.

Hello, foodies…

I’m so sorry lots of you couldn’t find the show on QVC PLUS yesterday. Not all cable networks carry QVC PLUS just yet. BUT you can watch the show on QVC.com! We stream the show right on the In the Kitchen with David page—and we always will.

Now onto some great news…I’m back with you for In the Kitchen with David this Wednesday night at 8pm ET and we’ve got one of the most creative recipes we’ve ever made on the show…a Meatball Sub on a Stick!

Meatball Sub on a Stick
Serves 12

This recipe is prepared with the OXO Good Grips 4-Piece Angled Measuring Cup Set (K39810).

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

Ingredients:

• 1 (11-oz) can refrigerated breadstick dough
• 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 12 10" bamboo skewers
• 36 frozen, precooked mini meatballs, defrosted
• 6 thin Provolone cheese slices
• 3 cups marinara

Preparation:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Unroll the dough and separate it into 12 breadsticks. Brush each breadstick with olive oil and then sprinkle on the Italian seasoning. Thread one end of a breadstick on a skewer. Then, skewer 1 meatball. Leave 1/4" between the dough and the meatball. Thread the breadstick and 2 additional meatballs on the skewer. Place the skewer on a nonstick cookie sheet and build the remaining "subs," placing each about a 1/2" apart. Bake for 10 minutes.
3. While the subs are baking, cut the Provolone in half to make half-moon shapes and heat the marinara. After 10 minutes, place 1 half of Provolone on each sub and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Serve with the warm marinara.

What do you think, foodies? Isn’t that awesome? Now, you can use a jarred marinara sauce OR make a homemade marinara just like the recipe I have on QVC.com. The beauty of that recipe is that it makes quite a bit so you can use some now and freeze—or can some—for later.

Homemade Marinara

Ingredients:

• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 1 (28-oz) can tomato purée
• 1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 3 (28-oz) cans diced tomatoes
• 1 Tbsp dried oregano
• 1 Tbsp dried basil
• 1 Tbsp sugar
• 4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground black pepper

Preparation:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the garlic and onion until aromatic and tender. Add the white wine and simmer for 1 minute. Stir in the remaining ingredients, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for at least 40 minutes.

So how do you keep foods warm at a party? You can certainly use buffet warmers or hot plates. My mother still uses hot plates at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter and may the good Lord help the person that forgets to plug them in!!

The slow-cooker is my favorite tool for the job. Dips, sauces, soups, sandwich fillings and more can be cooked in your slow cooker and kept warm indefinitely. When I host a party, I specifically look for recipes that are suitable for a slow cooker. Obviously, there are some recipes that just won’t work…like my “subs.” But the sauce can be kept in a slow cooker! And, it can heat up your subs even if they’re not right out of the oven. You might consider that idea for your favorite recipes. If there’s a sauce or component that can be kept warm, try it.

For your blog question today, tell me how you keep foods warm when you host dinner or a party. Do you use buffet warmers? The slow-cooker? Do you have a warming drawer? I’ll see you Wednesday night, foodies...looking forward to it.

Keep it flavorful!
—David

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Awhile back I shared that I had moved Mom into my building in 2010, and then moved her on to my floor in 2013 to better care for her. Mom has Alzheimer’s. But I left a very important part of the story out: none of this would have been possible if I had not found my mother’s main caregiver, Bonnie. When I get on the train bound for QVC I am able to make that trip and focus on my passion for StriVectin because of Bonnie’s care for my mother. Bonnie is an angel on earth and one of the smartest women I have ever met. She really could have chosen any career path, but she knew that she wanted to work with seniors since she was a senior in high school. She felt a calling, and I am so thankful she did! She is more than a caregiver - she is a soul mate to her patients and a sister to their children. She is truly a sister to me.

When I am on QVC she turns the TV on so Mom can hear my voice, see me smile and approve of what I am wearing. (Mother always knows best!) It warms my heart to know that when I look into the camera “my girls” are watching. I always come into Mom’s apartment with StriVectin’s new products saying, “Bonnie, how do you like the way this feels?” So, when I learned I was going to launch a new and exclusive* treatment called Nourishing Multivitamin Cream, I knew it had Bonnie written all over it.  When she learned dermatologists, plastic surgeons and their patients gave us feedback to get this treatment just right, Bonnie popped it right into her bag!  We added green tea, rosemary and vitamin A and went on to add our signature anti-aging trio of peptides, patented NIA-114 and our proprietary Advanced Moisture Blend. Yup! All in one treatment!

So, Bonnie took it home. Actually, Bonnie keeps it in her purse. Because she is a single mother and has a long commute to Mom’s each day, she loves the convenience of using one product day and night. We had a good laugh when she told me there are some mornings when she actually applies it right there on the subway to work. Hey, we busy ladies know how that is. Make it easy, StriVectin! What I love is her face is truly reflecting the perception studies we conducted.

In a consumer perception study, 91% felt softer and soothed immediately. After four weeks of use, 97% of women felt more hydrated, softer and soothed. In those same four weeks, 91% looked more luminous, and 85% saw more resiliency, and said the skin felt firmer. Finally, by week eight, 82% saw an overall improvement in the look of fine lines. Overall!

So, please tune in on February 11^th at 4 am to hear more about our new Nourishing Multivitamin Cream, which you can only find at QVC! Who knows, “my girls” may tune in too.


xoxo

Meg

*StriVectin Labs Nourishing Cream is exclusive to QVC until 5/1/2015.