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Puerto Rico Bound

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It’s always fun to find time to get together with girlfriends, and when that includes a trip to San Juan, Puerto Rico it’s even better!

I traveled with my friend Allison; we’ve been friends for 35 years since college. She lives in New York, and I’m outside of Philadelphia -- both areas that are in the throes of the the coldest weather of the season. So Puerto Rico with its tropical 85 degree climate was the perfect getaway destination for us. It’s easy to get to from the east coast, you don’t need a passport, and the weather is good year-round.

I left right after AM Style last week, and was able to enjoy a few glorious days relaxing and catching up. You don’t need a ton of time for a great getaway, just good friends and a good destination! And don't forget to take pictures, so you can enjoy your memories again and again.

Here are my pictures from this trip.

Enjoy!

Leaving the Q in my winter hat and coat; it was 9 degrees.

In the car and on my way!

Here I am with my girlfriend, Allison, on the plane. We were just a "little" excited. ;) I don't leave the house without my readers. If you like them too, take a look by clicking here

Overlooking the beach from the hotel window

On the beach

The Spa Lobby 

The Spa lounge

This must be what heaven looks like. 

A laid-back luncheon featuring grilled shrimp ......

grilled asparagus ...... 

and stuffed mushrooms ..... everything was delicious ..... so fresh!

Exotic foliage with gorgeous color

A real gecko crawled out from the greenery and his color was amazing!

Here I am in the courtyard wearing Legacy skirted leggings, by the way. 

If you like them too, you can see more by clicking here

Relaxing on the beach

Enjoying a tropical beverage

Sunny and warm .... perfect for lounging!

In the ocean

Watching a kite-boarder sail into the air

On the plane for the flight home

I'll see you tomorrow for a special accessories edition of AM Style

Enjoy your evening!

Leah :)

 

 

 


Tomato Crostini - Join Me Sunday at 1pm ET for QVC's Garden Special

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Hello, foodies…

Do you have a garden? If so, I commend you. While I do grow some herbs, I really don’t have a robust garden with veggies and lots of flowers. It’s been a goal of mine for some time, but I just haven’t gotten there yet. Maybe this year will be my year! Anyway…why am I talking about the garden in February? This Sunday is QVC’s all-day Spring Fever™ Garden Special and while I won’t be joining you at Noon ET for In the Kitchen with David, I will be with you from 1-4pm ET helping you get ready for the growing season ahead.  

We don't usually create recipes on days when we won't have an ITKWD, but how could I talk about the garden and not make something fresh? So here’s a BONUS easy, five-ingredient recipe (and remember—you already have salt, pepper, and olive oil at home so they’re not part of the “five”) with European influence and American appeal: Tomato Crostini.

 

Tomato Crostini

Tomato Crostini
Serves 12

This recipe was prepared with the Genius Salad Chopper 2-Piece Blade Set (K37615).

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

Ingredients:

  • 6 vine-ripe tomatoes
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 Tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 ciabatta bread loaf
  • 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Preparation:

  1. Halve the tomatoes horizontally. Gently squeeze them to remove most of the seeds and discard the seeds. Place a metal grater over a large mixing bowl and gently rub the face of the tomatoes into the grater until all of the flesh is grated. Discard the skins.
  2. Grate the garlic clove into the bowl. Add the salt, pepper, olive oil, and tomato paste to the bowl and stir until evenly incorporated. Place the mixture in an air-tight container and refrigerate until needed.
  3. Position an oven rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 350°F.
  4. Cut the ciabatta into 6 rectangles. Then, halve the pieces horizontally so you have long, thin pieces. Pull out some of the soft insides, so just a little is left in the crust. Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until lightly browned on the edges. Cool on a wire rack for 1 minute.
  5. Divide the tomato mixture evenly among the warm bread pieces and spread. Sprinkle a little chopped fresh parsley on top, as a garnish, if desired.

Keep this recipe handy for the summertime when tomatoes are in peak season. As for now, I'd be willing to bet your local grocery store carries vine-ripened tomatoes. Find them, buy them, make this crostini, and you’ll be able to taste the summertime—in February.

If you’re hosting a party this weekend, serve this because it's basic and it’s easy. But, you can also appeal to lots of different tastes by adding ingredients on top. Olives, bacon, cheese, mushrooms, scallions, fresh herbs, or any combination thereof would personalize the crostini for your guests.

Foodies, let’s go back to thinking about the garden for your blog question today. What plants are you most looking forward to seeing this spring and summer? Hydrangeas? Fresh tomatoes? Forsythia? You don’t need to have your own garden to weigh in. Remember, I’ll see you this Sunday at 1pm ET.

Keep it flavorful!
—David

Time to Get ExcitED for Spring with Lots of NEW from Ellen!!

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Ellen has been busy! (Did you ever imagine she wasn’t?!) But I am excited to let you know my friend Ellen DeGeneres and her popular  home décor collection created especially for QVC, ED on Air, will soon be launching a whole new collection of fun, fresh, functional and fabulous items ……and you are going to LOVE what’s in store for Spring!  Earlier this week, I joined our on-air guests from the E.D. team, Tania Nayak and Dannielle Kyrillos, for a “sneak peek” at the  new Spring collection!  All I can say is WOW!! From home to garden, kitchen to patio, and every nook and cranny that needs a fresh update, this collection is crazy good! Beautiful colors, vintage inspired designs, Parisian flea market finds, transformed into modern accents of the finest quality for your home at very affordable prices! Ellen loves great quality and neutral designs….. she loves entertaining outside….she loves functional décor items….vintage textiles….season-less and classic décor that will fit seamlessly into every decorating style and of course, animals!! You will find all of this and more, throughout the new collection! There are lots of surprises in store and many new and creative ideas to freshen up your indoor and outdoor living spaces!  I can’t wait to show them to you throughout the coming weeks, beginning Thursday, February 19th at 10pm eastern.  Stay tuned to my Facebook page and check back often on QVC.com to find out what’s new from ED on Air this Spring!!  

With Spring, comes Spring Break!

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Can you believe Spring Time is right around the corner? I know that may seem hard to believe for many of you that have been stuck under mountains of snow these past couple of months, but there is hope for warmer weather in the not too distant future! I promise!

With Spring, comes Spring Break which I absolutely love because that means precious time spent with my family! The Hamlin household packs up and heads to Cancun, Mexico for a week of fun, warmth and adventure. This spot is particularly special to us because Harry used to travel down to this particular beach, pop his tent and enjoy life on this gorgeous Mexican beach for a month at a time.

We’re looking forward to playing in the warm water, relaxing on the beach, hiking and exploring what the Ruins have to offer. So now it’s time for me to start thinking about which of my yummy springtime clothes to pack for our family vacation.

Do you have Spring Break plans yet? It’s not too soon to start thinking about the warm weather, fun colors and delicious clothes to go along with the season!

~Lisa

It’s taken me 8 years to be ready to write this!

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That’s how long it’s been since I lost 40 pounds. I’ve mentioned it on air a few times, usually during fitness and nutrition shows. I mention it because I know the struggle, and I want those who see me on tv talking about it know: that I’m not just talking about health because it’s the topic on my schedule that day, but because it has a place close to my heart and history. We’ve begun an initiative here at QVC and on air called “Living for Me,” with a focus on fitness, fun, and health. So there’s no better time for me to open up and share.

Why would it take so long to write about it? Well for me, and I know for so many others, issues with weight go a lot deeper than the surface. I’m an emotional eater. And I have been for as long as I can remember. I was brutally bullied in grade school, and struggled with anxiety in high school. So I took to food to be comforted. And after the birth of my daughter, I took to food to handle the pressures of being a single parent. Of course I tried whatever the fad was at the time for losing weight, and consistently failed and reverted back to unhealthy habits. And with a full time job and a daughter, exercise was often left on the backburner.

It wasn’t until I had a bit of a revelation, an epiphany, an “a-ha” moment, that things began to change. I remember exactly where I was. At home, having just dropped Gabby off and getting ready for work. I was mentally “beating myself up” for how I looked, how I felt. And it was as if my guardian angel were right next to me all of a sudden, saying to me:

“It’s time for you.”

I heard it loud and clear. I even repeated it out loud.

 

“It’s time for me.”

I realized that I needed to make changes because I wanted to, for me. Not because the media told me I should look a certain way, not because my grade-school bullies called me fat, not because it might help me find a perfect partner. I’d been motivated by all the wrong reasons. And I’d been motivated by sadness to eat. It was time to declare myself happy and let the healthy habits follow.

I changed my habits. I met with a doctor to make sure I was on the right track with my nutrition and exercise. I began reading books about happiness, joy, and positivity. I meditated. And I let everyone in my family know, my then-six-year-old daughter included, that I was excited about the journey I was taking. And also that I’d need their help and encouragement. And that encouragement poured in. Forty pounds later, I realize the weight loss isn’t the biggest change that happened to me. The bigger change happened in my emotions and life perspective. I found out things about myself as I journeyed through this challenge, including what I really wanted to do with my life. Hint: I’m doing it now! And I learned forgiveness. Forgiving anyone who had cast hurtful words my way growing up, and forgiving myself for seeing Jennifer as anyone but the best she can be everyday.

I’m not sharing this to get pats on the back; thousands of people have succeeded in far better feats of physical and emotional changes than I have. But I am sharing it for two important reasons:

1)            I hope that my story may help some people who read this. I’ve been there and technically, I still am. It’s a lifelong process making changes and sticking to them. Please know it is never too late to declare that you are doing it “for you.”

2)            My other reason is for me…I feel like the one missing element in this journey was my being ready to share photos of where I was before this journey began. And I’m ready! Because if there is one thing all my meditating and education has taught me, it’s that fearing  the judgment of others is about the most pointless fear there is.

 

I’m living for me now. I hope you are too. And if I can share in your journey in any way, I’m grateful to do so! Please join me at www.facebook.com/jennifercoffeyqvc and let’s do this together! 

My Cruisin' Vacation!!

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Ahoy, my friends!

My husband and I recently returned from a wonderful cruise vacation to the Eastern Caribbean, aboard the brand new Royal Caribbean ship, Quantum of the Seas. We enjoy going on cruises, and this was certainly not our first, but it was one of the most fun and relaxing yet!! As promised, I'm posting a photo blog of some of my favorite photos from our vacation, to share with you.

We visited St Thomas, in the US Virgin Islands, as well as St. Kitts and St. Maarten, in the West Indies. The weather was beautiful and warm, as only the Caribbean can provide!

We did not meet any swashbuckling pirates this time, but we did make friends with two tiny and very clever green top monkeys, found some fabulous shopping finds, did lots of walking, caught up on our reading, enjoyed the fun poolside, and were treated to delicious food and incredible entertainment all week long! We also met several lovely QVC customers who happened to be on board the same cruise. :)

Our stateroom attendant, Gusti, from Indonesia, has quite a talent for creating cute animals out of bath towels!! He made us a swan, a sloth, a monkey and a pig! 

 

Of course, the Caribbean sunsets are spectacular!!

I highly recommend taking a cruise vacation sometime if you can.....the enjoyable memories you'll make will last a lifetime! AND, we have some great things at the Q to help you plan :)

See you soon on the Q!!


Carolyn  :)

PUT A NEW SPIN ON YOUR GARDEN, DAY OR NIGHT with our PLOW and HEARTH TSV!!

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Hello fellow Patio and Garden Enthusiasts!!

Today is an exciting Gardening Event day at QVC…..filled with all the things we love for Spring, to make our outdoor living spaces more beautiful, comfortable and enjoyable! I am a HUGE fan of the Plow and Hearth brand of unique, enduring and beautiful home and lifestyle products. Their wind spinners have been a big customer favorite since we introduced them a couple of gardening seasons ago!

NOW, you will be able to enjoy the fun and beauty of your new wind spinner both DAY and NIGHT! Introducing Plow and Hearth’s First EVER Wind Spinner with SOLAR LED LIGHTS!!

That’s right! This beautiful wind spinner has a PATENTED design from Plow and Hearth that features solar powered LED lights, integrated into the spinner itself, on both front and back, so the lights spin along with the spinning rotor at night! Our QVC customers have LOVED the Plow and Hearth wind spinners we have offered in the past, and have given them many rave reviews. Today’s Special Value Wind Spinner is even more special than any we have offered before.

You’ll love the design…the solar panel is seamlessly located in the center of the flower and the lights spin along with the flower petals! The pole itself is new and improved, per our customer feedback! The threading has been doubled, and is a larger width…plus the pole is made of an even thicker gauge metal. It is very, very sturdy!! There are 24 LED lights total on the spinner and it is now truly “art in motion” and a beautiful addition to your landscape, year round!! Yes, this is Plow and Hearth quality…made for the outdoors and it will withstand the elements!! So, choose your color…the always popular MULTI, as well as the beautiful bright COPPER, and two QVC EXCLUSIVE colors as well….GOLD and BRONZE!!

Of course, our QVC price is a tremendous savings over what you would spend for this exact same wind spinner on the Plow and Hearth website…and that is due to our terrific relationship with them! Hurry to get the color that you want for your landscape…any one that you choose will equal INSTANT CURB APPEAL and any way you SPIN it….it will add  lots of interest to  your garden areas, year round!!

Your Gardening Pal,

Carolyn 

In Walked Love!!

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I was in NYC taking classes & auditioning for shows.  I had been there about 6 weeks when I finally made the decision to move to NY.   It was 2002. 

 

Ice cream has always been my favorite of the 6 food groups. (I know there are only 5; but, I feel it should be part of the official 5).  About 45 minutes before one of my classes, I found myself standing outside of the Ben & Jerry's in Times Square trying to decide if that would be dinner.  A looong 45 seconds later, I decided it would be. And in I went.  As usual, there was a long line.  I was minding my own business, making the decision to have a scoop of the pumpkin pie cheesecake AND strawberry cheesecake in a waffle cone, when in walks a super hot, tall, dark & handsome guy.  He walked in with purpose - like he owned the joint. 

 

Hold, please - I need to take a detour.  It was late August at the time.  For my 37th birthday my mom sent me a book called "The Surrendered Single:  A Practical Guide to Attracting and Marrying the Man Who's Right for You." by Laura Doyle.  At first I was offended, especially since I had chosen not to date to focus on my friends, career & me.  (I guess after 3 years she started to worry.  Not really, she was just being thoughtful.  :))  Then I read it.  (FYI - I highly recommend the book for any gal who's beginning to date again!!)  One of the pieces of advice was to look at everyone you meet in the eye and smile.  I'm tellin' you...I had been practicing this with gusto for 5 or 6 weeks and I was passing with flying colors.  But there was a problem.  Anytime I met a handsome man, I would look away, say something that made absolutely no sense, laugh real loud, hit them on the arm or do or say some other completely "unattractive" thing.  Ugh~!

 

Let's head on back to the Ben & Jerry's.  The hotty-putotty had just walked in and behind the counter.  I was up next to order and noticed he was going to ask me want I wanted.  Oh no!!  What was I going to do????  In a matter of seconds I had a devil on one shoulder & an angel on the  other & they started arguing!  (Ok, it was really me.  I said to myself (angel), " Look him in the eye & smile!"  The other me (devil), said, "No, you don't!"  The angel replied, "Yes, you will!"  The devil more aggressively replied, "NO, YOU WON'T!"  With that, when this guy came to ask me what I wanted, I looked at him straight in the eyes and shot him my biggest and best smile!!! 

 

His name was Jim.  We eloped in 2009.  And we've been married for 9 years.  He's the love of my life and the right guy for me!

This was the day Jim met my parents. We were near Rockefeller Center.

This is one of the only pictures we have of our wedding day. The camera that took all the others was stolen :(

 

If you're looking, may you find the "right" one!!

 

Happy Valentine's Day!

 

Nancy


A Weekend Getaway

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Last weekend my husband and I escaped the kids for a quick getaway to Philadelphia.  Every year the Philadelphia Auto Show holds a black tie charity event called “Black Tie Tailgate” that takes place on the floor of the auto show.  I’ve always wanted to attend but for some reason or another we could never go.  This year the stars and moon aligned and I locked in our tickets to go. 

My husband’s best friend Russell is also a bit of a car fanatic so we invited him and his wife to join us.  Russell is also on top of what is hot and cool and happening so we knew he would have some great recommendations on where to stay and eat and things to do while we were in town. 

The tailgate takes place the Friday night before the auto show opens to the public.  So after Q Check and a few meetings I left straight from the QVC studios and met up with my husband and friends at our hotel.  Thank goodness I was hair and make-up ready because I got caught in a major traffic jam that turned what should have been a 35 minute ride into 2 HOURS!!!!  I was tired, annoyed and hungry by the time I arrived but it’s funny how being around loved ones can turn your whole mood around.  My husband was waiting at the door of the hotel when I walked in and instantly everything was better.  I hustled into my gown, touched up my hair and make-up and we were out the door. 

The event had food and bar stations from award winning chef Jose Garces set up all around the show and the first order of business was to eat.  And eat, and eat.  After food we enjoyed checking out all the new rides and fantasizing about what we would love to own. My top picks were the Bentley Continental GT and the Maserati Quattro Porte. 

I will probably never own one but it was fun to see them up close and take a few photos.  Jeep had an off roading exhibit set up that took you on an exciting adventure ride that was pretty cool. 

We had a great time overall and wound up staying until the very end.  We were enjoying ourselves so much that we didn’t want the night to end so we returned to our hotel and hung out in the lobby bar until closing.  By then the munchies set in and we decided to order room service and catch up on the episode of Scandal we missed earlier that week (OMG!  that episode was CRAZY!!!).  It was a fun night and although I was burning the candle at both ends it was exactly what I needed.

We rounded out the weekend with a trip to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, brunch at the Four Seasons, dinner at an amazing restaurant called R2L and of course a cheesesteak. 

Philadelphians take their cheesesteaks very seriously.  Everyone has their favorite and I’ve decided that I will try to taste them all.  This trip we gave Jim’s South Street a try.  The line was out the door when we arrived and we waited about 20 minutes to get to the front.  The classic way to order a cheesesteak is “whiz wit”-Cheese Whiz ‘wit’ onions.  I prefer provolone with onions, lettuce, tomato and lots of mayo and mustard.  By the time we sat down with our subs the cheese was nice and melted and the sliced ribeye was still steaming.  I will say it was well worth the 20 minute wait! 

With two kids we may not get out as often as we would like but best believe we will make the most of it when we do!

Check back every week for a new blog from me.   Next week I reveal some of my all-time favorite QVC products.  Talk to you soon!

There's a First Time for Everything!

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There was a lot of “5’s” in my life in 2014.  I celebrated my 5th anniversary with QVC; Isabella turned 5; I hit my 5-year cancer-free mark; and, I turned 50.  Gratefully, turning the big 5-0 was easy for me. (Now, 30?  That was an entirely different story for a different day.  Ugh!)  But, 50 also meant it was time for me to schedule my first colonoscopy.  Since I’m all about preventative care (i.e. getting your mammos, regular pap smears, going to the dentist, etc…), I sure as heck had better “practice what I preach”.  So, scheduled & had my exam this past September.

In case you’re scared, think it will hurt, and/or will hate the prep, I thought I’d take some of the mystery out of the process and will walk you through my journey.

The first step was to find the right Gastroenterologist for me.  Because I am still under the care of my Medical Oncologist, I asked her for a recommendation.  And gave me Dr. Hameed’s name.  I’m so glad she did!!  He made me feel comfortable out of the gate.  When we met , he talked me through the details of the colonoscopy; so, I knew exactly what to expect when I came back in September.

The worst part about a colonoscopy is the prep!  (After this, I promise, it’s easy breezy!)  I had to drink some nasty tasting medicine (in 4 waves) to clean my entire colon so the doc could get a “clean” look.  I spent the night by myself…reading, journaling, and playing “Farm Saga”.  It wasn’t fun.  But, I kept reminding myself that this is nothing compared to finding out years later that I had cancer, or some other thing, that could have been caught in the earlier stages. 

Jim & I got up early and left home by 8am to get me to my appointment on time.  (BTW – you need to have a friend/spouse/neighbor/caregiver go with you to the procedure.  You will need them to get you home safely since you will not be able to drive after having anesthesia.)

Once I was called back, the nurse took my vitals, made me don this attractive gown and put in my IV.  (I’m a big baby when it comes to needles! So, asked the nurse to be gentle.  Of course, she was.  I didn’t feel but a tiny prick.  Whew!)  Then it was time to say hello to Dr. Hameed.  He went through everything again…what was going to happen, how long it would take, that he would be taking a few baseline pictures inside of the colon and that he would give me a full report when I woke up.  I gave the thumbs up, the Anesthesiologist, Dr. Garcia- Munoz, gave me my meds, & I was out in about 5 seconds. 

Next thing I know, I was awake, feeling a little groggy, but with no pain or discomfort!  It was over.  Just like that.

Dr. Hameed stayed with me until I was awake and gave me the findings.  He told me everything looked good; but, He did want to see me for a follow-up in 9 months for tiny spot.  I’m grateful he’s being extra cautious, especially with my history of breast cancer.  As I said in the beginning, I would rather catch something early, not late!

I wanted to catch the before & after experience on video.  :)  A big thank you to Dr. Hameed for willingly and enthusiastically talking to us! (The man in the background was my Anesthesiologist!)  (Video)

I hope this takes the mystery out of the “dreaded” colonoscopy.  It wasn’t a big whoop at all.  Don’t be scared.  Talk to your doctor & get a recommendation for a Gastroenterologist in your area.  Knowledge is power.  Remember, you’re the only one of you in this world!

Sending you Love…Nancy

The New Casual

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Hey Everyone!!!

Cannot even believe we’re two months into 2015 and prepping for another fashion season! I’m so excited to see what new trends will takeover the runways in the coming months. As you all know, comfort is so important to our LOGO line and for the longest time it seemed that all the “comfy” clothes were never polished or stylish enough. But right now it is all about the ‘Athleisure’ trend, which we can all jump on board with! Finally we can embrace being comfortable AND be fashionable when we’re working, when we go out or simply just lounging around on a Sunday afternoon. It’s about mixing those touches of activewear, from sweatshirt fabrication and styles to mixing and matching pieces of clothes and accessories from our workouts. This is simply the modern workingwoman’s uniform and I just can’t get enough of it!!!

This month, QVC has a whole spotlight on this fantastic new trend and our LOUNGE collection is so perfect for this!!! This is a collection of unique loungewear made in our luxuriously soft French terry that can all be mixed and matched with other LOGO pieces to add casual athletic touches — allowing you to be comfy and looking fabulous!!! Enjoy because its #TheNewCasual :)

Style away,

xx, Lori

Shop the complete LOGO by Lori Goldstein collection

Be sure to follow me on FacebookInstagram and Twitter with #LOGOFIED

A Jar Full of Love!

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A jar full of love….

I love all things crafty, and I wanted to share with you a fun little craft that you can create for your spouse, your best girlfriends, your parents, even your kids!!  Just please don’t get them mixed up! 

The jar will contain messages to your loved one loaded with all of the reasons why you love them!!

To begin you will need a jar with a chalkboard area.  You can buy the jar with this already done for you—I found on at TJ Maxx for $3!!!  It even came with a few pieces of chalk!!  Or you can create your own by purchasing some chalkboard paint at your local craft store.  Also grab some markers—you could even use a chalk marker from your craft store.  Get some colored paper, and if you like a heart stamp or paper cutter, and if you want to be really fancy—get some stick on jewels.

Using a paper cutter I cut several pieces of the colored papers into strips.  And then used the heart  shape cutter to add a little something extra.

I created this jar full of thoughts for my new fiancé Glen, so when you are thinking about what to write, just think about the things that they do to make you happy!!

Fold the strips of paper & place into the jar.  I also added the heart cutouts and let them fall to the bottom of the jar.  There are so many things you can do to personalize this project!!  

I then placed the jar with the other items in my Valentine’s Day display!! 

Happy Valentine’s Day!!

Angel xo

 

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Be Mine

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I have to admit, I LOVE Valentine's Day! Over the years I've heard so many people, especially men, say it's not their favorite holiday.  Maybe because they think the effort feels forced. The expectations are high, and of course, as we've all heard, "everyday should be treated as Valentine's Day".  Well as a busy woman who's always on the go, I really appreciate having a day dedicated to celebrating the ones I love, including my cockapoo Carly!  No matter if you're single, dating or married, Valentine's Day is the perfect time to put a little extra effort into showing how much love you have for those special people in your life.  Whether it is a card, a gift, a big hug or flowers. Even the smallest gesture is so meaningful.  Here's how I celebrate with my loved ones!

{Sean and I}

This Valentine's Day will be extra special because it's Sean and my first Valentine's Day as Husband and Wife.  We got married last July in South Carolina at Palmetto Bluff.  You can see more of our Wedding details here. He has something special planned this Saturday, but it's a secret so I will have to update you on my next blog! I love a good surprise. Two years ago he surprised me after work with tickets to the Broadway show, Phantom of the Opera.  He has the biggest heart and I am so grateful I met him.

{Planning our wedding in Palmetto}

Last V-Day was my absolute favorite.  Sean and I made a trip down to South Carolina to plan our wedding. On top of that, our parents met for the first time!  Since Sean proposed over Thanksgiving and we wanted to get married the following summer, with our busy schedules, we had to plan the bulk of our wedding over that weekend. Thankfully I had an incredible wedding planner, Ashley Rhodes, who made it happen.  And as "icing on the cake", our parents had a wonderful time together and have become great friends.  

I honestly never expect more than flowers and a heartfelt card, but Sean always surprises me with something special.  I love this initial necklace he gave me last year.  To me, giving is most of the fun on any holiday.  I usually buy Sean his favorite cologne or a pair of sunglasses he's been eyeing for Valentine's Day.

I love a red lip, but I feel its a little predictable on V-Day.  It can also be a little messy when out to dinner. And let's be honest, guys don't want to wear your lipstick either ; ) so this V-Day I’m going retro! With 2 coats of volumizing mascara, an eyeliner flick, shimmery pink eyeshadow, rosy cheeks and a bright pink lip stain, all from Wander Beauty, I'll be ready for whatever Sean has planned!

Are you ready for the best brownie you've ever tasted? This is my Aunt Jenny's Decadent Brownie family recipe.  Use a heart shaped cookie cutter for added cuteness.  

1 cup butter, softened

1 cup sugar

Dash salt

4 eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 (16 oz) can Hershey’s chocolate syrup

1 cup + 2 tablespoons flour

1 cup walnuts

Beat butter, sugar and 2 eggs.  Add 2 more eggs, chocolate syrup, flour and nuts. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.


Frosting:

½ cup butter

½ cup milk

2 cups sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 (12 oz pkg) chocolate chips

Stir butter, milk and sugar over medium heat until it comes to a boil.  Remove from heat.  Add chocolate chips, beat well.

Enjoy!


It seems like everyday is Valentine's Day for dogs.  They are just so full of love!!  This is my little cockapoo Carly. We found her in California. She was the smallest of her litter and the last one left, so of course I had to have her!  She's now 2 years old and so healthy and happy. We are so in love.  She's definitely getting a new toy and some extra treats as well as lots of cuddles and kisses...ok that's a typical day in her life. I just can't help but spoil her!

What are your favorite Valentine's Day traditions?  How do you plan on celebrating your loved ones? I hope everyone has a very special weekend!


xo,

Lindsay


Chocolate Month Pinterest Sweepstakes

Feb Fashion Trends

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I hope you don’t mind me calling you that. It’s one of my terms of affection for ladies I love. (Hey, at least I didn’t call you 'Booger Butt', that’s what I call Joe as a sign of affection)…

I have been shopping, salivating, and admiring what’s hot and happening lately in fashion and accessories. I’ve also been wishing I had more money because a girl could do a lot of damage with a blank check and all the juicy treats to be had right now in store windows. Because I can’t wait to join you for PMStyle starting March 2 as your new host, I thought I would share what I’m seeing, what’s happening, and what is downright wicked cool. (Especially since it’s exhausting keeping up with all these trends on your own. I mean c’mon, a girl has a life to live, kids to feed, pets to let out, jobs to work, corporate ceilings to break through, dreams to chase, wounds to heal. Who’s got the time to be a slave to the Top Ten trends?? I got you)  Starting Marc h2 at 10pET (new time) tune in to see our new set, our new show, our new everything. And get ready for quirky, spontaneous, real-deal, down to earth, ridiculously fun and candid moments of shopping pleasure. Plus, just really cool stuff!

 

Ok I’m big on, “make it short and just give me the straight scoop, the bottom line!!”…so here are the top trends this 2015:

 

1. Jumpsuits - they are everywhere! The fit can be tricky when slipping into one singular pull on garment. But I just bought two jumpsuits and Walter Baker for QVC makes an adorable one. They are the ultimate in sport lux. They are basically, the pants version of a dress. Fear not. Its fresh, easy and amazingly easy to look “plugged in” with a jumpsuit. Plus, I consider it a romper, like the adult version of footie pajamas-All in one dressing .. but delightfully tres chic.

2. Culottes - baby, short pants are back! When ELLE mag and the Wall Street Journal are smitten, well, need I say more?

3. Sneakers with sequins and gemstone / rhinestone studs - athleisure just got blinged!

4. Shirt dresses - I have always loved these, kinda like getting permission to wear your husband’s dress shirt, out in public

5. Fringe! Bows! Chain! Oryany, Tig, Prada, GILI, Gucci…bows on bikinis, pumps. Fringe oozing from messenger bags, and leather jacket

 

6  Studs!! On bags and shoes, it’s insane! Pointy little studs that are at once punk and then again, chic. YSL, Rafe for QVC…everyone is showing studs! 

7. GREY!! Word is, grey is huge. (Yes I know they keep saying the color of the year is actually ‘Marsala’) Isaac calls it "Grey-ge" as in grey married with beige. Elephant. Dove. Smoke. Call it what you will, grey is indeed, the new black!

8. Ponchos - Vogue and others say these are Indie-chic-boho-folk. See Layers by Lizden, Lisa Rinna, Louis Dell Olio...

9. Black & White - Black & white is having a real moment this year. And this season!! 

10. Gingham! - This is not your 'Dorothy in Kansas' Gingham. Check out Joan Rivers doing Gingham for QVC. And Isaac has a cardi coming soon. At runway, Dolce and others are showing the glorious ‘G’

 

So gorgies (short for gorgeous women), i must slumber. shopping and trend-tracking is exhausting. Plus, tomorrow is Spring Accessories Day on QVC. 24hrs, lotsa Spring loot. Isaac and others would want me at my best. (although I am secretly dreaming of the tortilla chips in the cupboard and wishing I could stay up late to indulge) 

 

x


Valentine's Day Cookies - What's Your Best Semi-Homemade Dessert?

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Hello, foodies…

Did you remember that it’s Valentine’s Day this Saturday? If not, you’ve officially been reminded. Might I suggest a sweet treat for you—or that special someone?

Valentine's Day Cookies
Makes 14–16

This recipe was prepared with the KitchenAid 5-Quart 325-Watt Tilt-Head Stand Mixer with Flex Edge (K41660).

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

Ingredients:

  • 1/3 cup chopped hazelnuts
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 (16.5-oz) package refrigerated sugar cookie dough
  • Seedless raspberry jam
  • Two heart-shaped cookie cutters (one slightly larger than the other)

Preparation:

  1. Move the oven racks to the lower levels of the oven and preheat to 350°F. Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.
  2. Pour the chopped hazelnuts and flour into the bowl of a food processor and pulse until finely ground. Place the hazelnut mixture and cookie dough in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Mix on medium-low speed until evenly incorporated. Remove the paddle attachment and work the dough with your hands to form a disk.
  3. On a floured surface, roll the dough until it's 1/4" thick. Cut the dough with the larger heart-shape cookie cutter. Then, cut out the centers of half of the cookies with a smaller cookie cutter. Work the scraps back together, roll, and cut out more cookies. (Do not roll the scraps for a third time. The dough will be too brittle.)
  4. Carefully place the cookies onto the prepared cookie sheets, using a large spatula to transfer them. Bake for 10–11 minutes, rotating the trays halfway through the baking process. Cool the cookies on a wire rack.
  5. When the cookies are completely cool, spread a thin layer of jam on the bottom surface of the full cookie. Then, place the cut-out cookie on top and gently sandwich them together. Use a small spoon or piping bag to fill the cutouts with a little more jam.

Valentine's Day Cookies

Note that there are four ingredients in this recipe. FOUR! I just love how easy these are. Treat yourself, make them for your special someone, your kids, grandkids, friends, anyone you care about. They’ll be really impressed and you’ll have time left on your hands to do something else!

Your blog question today, foodies, is what’s your best semi-homemade dessert? Frosted brownies? A dump cake? A pudding pie? I’ll see you this Wednesday at 8pm ET on In the Kitchen with Davidand then again this Sunday (hooray!) at Noon ET.

Keep it flavorful!
—David

A Craving for...

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Hi Foodie Friends!

Do you get seasonal cravings? I usually get a craving in the fall for butternut squash soup and a pot roast with potatoes and carrots. In winter, I really love baked potato soup with a crusty tomato and mozzarella panini. Oh and spring, I crave lemon bars and fresh salads. And the summer, I can’t resist the smell of a charcoal grill and crave a juicy burger or steak.

And sometimes I get a crazy craving I can’t explain and that’s why I made a very delicious carrot cake! I’ve been craving carrot cake for weeks now. I’m really not sure why. And no, I am not pregnant. Come to think of it, I didn’t really have cravings when I was pregnant. Maybe I’m a backwards kind of person!

Pretty presentation: a carrot cake to crave

Anyway, I’m a big Pinterest fan and found this incredible recipe from Ree Drummond, The Pioneer Woman. You may have seen her a couple times on our own In the Kitchen with David. I just adore her. She is so down-to-Earth and her food is absolutely delicious. I’ve made a couple of her recipes and they are so easy and oh so good.

Sigrid's Carrot Cake

Recipe by Ree Drummond, The Pioneer Woman

Prep Time: 20 Minutes

Cook Time: 45 Minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Servings: 12

Ingredients

Cake

  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 whole eggs
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups grated carrots
  • Butter, for greasing

Icing

  • 1 stick butter, softened
  • 1 package (8 Ounce) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 pound powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 1 cup pecans, chopped really finely

Preparation Instructions

For the cake: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Mix together the granulated sugar, oil and eggs in a large bowl. In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and salt. Add the flour mixture to the sugar mixture and combine. Then add the carrots and mix well. Pour the batter into a greased and floured Bundt pan and bake until done, about 45-50 minutes. Leave to cool completely.

(Note: you can also make the cake in a sheet pan, cupcake pan, or loaf pan. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.)

Meanwhile, for the icing: In a larger bowl, cream the butter and cream cheese together. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla and blend. Then mix in the pecans. Spread the icing on the completely cooled carrot cake, then sprinkle some reserved chopped pecans all over the top.

A craving for carrot cake

Hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family and I have!

Your Foodie Friend Lori

#QChat with Joe Zee

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Hi everyone! I hope you enjoyed chatting with me during the very first #QChat! I had a blast! For those of you who missed the chat here is a recap. 


Q: I’m 5feet zero and a size 8. What is the best dress style to flatter my pear shaped figure? {Emcee1000}

A: I love my swing dress with lace sleeve inserts for you…I love the idea of a black one for you, it will be very flattering!

Q: Any ideas for styling maxi skirts for winter or are they strictly for summer? I love them, but have no idea how to work them in to my winter wardrobe. {Cmetcalf711}

A: You can absolutely wear maxi skirts for winter. I always recommend it with tights, a boot and then a cozy, thick knit sweater on top.

Q: I’m loving this new line! {Kelliandetc}

A: THANK YOU! And thanks for watching! Xo

Q: What #NYFW shows are you most excited to see? Any tips for what to wear right now, February into March in PA weather?  {Kelseykruk}

A: I love watching new young designers during #NYFW like Jonathan Cohen but of course I also love the regulars like Marc Jacobs and the new designer at Oscar de la Renta. My recommendations for now would be to wear a great knit/sweater with leggings and boots until we are done with the snow!

Q: Who are your fashion inspirations? {Stephaniepiano}

A: I am inspired by many different things from music and books to style icons like Kate Moss and Sarah Jessica Parker and even the red carpet.

Q: How can I wear white before spring without looking like a fashion disaster?! {Sweetjacobs}

A: The best white to wear in the winter in a great winter wool, either with a great peacoat or a fun piece of outerwear or else a nice chunky white fisherman knit sweater.

Q: Hey Joe, watched the show. Nice Spring Fashions. Whoo hoo! {68bobbie}

A: THANK YOU! Thanks for watching! Xo

Q: Hi Joe! What’s your favorite “fashion rule” you love to break? {lv_pace}

A: I hate fashion rules. I love the idea that we should be able to wear anything that we love anytime we want. I love breaking the rule of no white after Labor Day and red for red heads! I think both are fabulous!

Q: Hi Joe! Thrilled to be part of your first chat!!!! Would you please share what are you most excited to see in spring fashion 2015 and what is a must have for us? {patjamesdementriqvc}

A: I am so excited for all the fun pastel colors we are going to see for Spring. Its time after a tough winter to see all those lovely Easter colors. The absolute spring must have is my Boyfriend shirt that I designed. I LOVE IT. And also the pointelle knit sweater I did in coral and mint. Perfect colors to mix with white and khakis for spring and summer.

Q: Hi joe, What website do you recommend for new designers? {Stella.and.me}

A: Maybe I am biased but I always recommend young designers to go to my site, YahooStyle (yahoo.com/style) because we are always reporting on the latest news and styles. Also of course, style.com has all the latest runway collections which is good inspirations for new designers. Good luck!

Q: Joe I love various animal prints how can I freshen up my wardrobe on a budget I usually stick with basics NO trendy items that are for one season thanks Hedy from New York {whisperfairy60}

A: I like the way you think. I'm not a big fan of trendy either, but being on trend is important. First of all, i LOVE animal prints but try mixing it with a bright color for spring and summer instead of a neutral. And of course, if you're adventurous, mix all your different animal prints together for something fun.

Q: What has been your favorite red carpet look so far this awards season? {tt_chelle}

A: I am loving how Julianne Moore has been looking this whole season and all the risks that she's been taking on the red carpet but everything works. Plus I always love Reese too.

Q: Any advice for hard working young fashion editors in the industry? We’re buying into a dream but does it become a reality? {Rustybeukes}

A: I was a young fashion editor at one point too and yes, it does become a reality. Don't give up but if anything, there are so many more options today then when i started, with digital and social media options. Good luck!

Q: Love your sense of fashion! I am a shoe freak. What kinds of shoes are in this year? :) {brebelle05}

A: First of all, WHO isn't a shoe freak? LOL But this season its time to invest in FLAT SHOES and even flats with a bit of height that we were calling a Flatform. Give your ankles a rest with those heels and do a flat!

Q: Really liked the printed pull on pants. So cute. {68bobbie}

A: I LOVE those pull on floral pants. I think its a new way to wear a print thats comfortable and cool. Plus you'll live in it once you put it on! And I love how the bright color looks so different from the black pair too! ENJOY

Q: Thank you Joe I trust your comments I do love pink I wore it a lot in middle school got nicknamed pinky too lol I like the idea of mixing animal prints thanks {whisperfairy60}

A: I love pink with animal prints! ENJOY PINKY!

Q: What 3 pieces are your must haves for this spring? {amyrose722}

A: My 3 spring must haves are: a jumpsuit, a boyfriend shirt and (I'm going to be biased here) but that asymmetrical zipper skirt I designed. I just love it so much.

 

Thank you to everyone who chatted, shopped and watched QVC to see my new Styled by Joe Zee Spring collection. Check out my entire collection here

 

Easy (Yummy!) Mardi Gras Cake!

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Hi, everyone!

I’m ahead of the game! Last week I shared my Cupid’s Box of Cookies idea for Valentine’s Day this week and weekend. And today, I’m going to help you start thinking about Mardi Gras. I know how easy it can be to fit things into your schedule if you know about them ahead of time. After all, what good is a homemade Mardi Gras Cake recipe on February 17?

Anyway, I hope you enjoy this…the idea is based on a birthday cake I made for Trevor one year. He requested a colorful cake and I found a great recipe where you needn’t bake a bunch of separate colored cakes. Everything goes in in one pan…and yet it comes out looking like a rainbow.

If you'd like to add a little plastic baby for luck (as is the tradition with a King Cake), feel free!

Mardi Gras Cake

Mardi Gras Cake

Ingredients:

Cake:

  • 1 box white cake mix
  • Gel food coloring in the colors of purple, yellow/gold, and green
  • Colored sugars and/or sprinkles
  • Fondant (optional)

Cream Cheese Icing:

  • 2 (8-oz) packages cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 6 Tbsp butter
  • 2 tsp vanilla
  • 1-1/2 cups confectioners' sugar

Preparation:

  1. Prepare the cake mix as directed. Divide the cake mix evenly into four smaller bowls. Keep one bowl white. Squeeze one drop of purple food coloring into the second bowl; one drop of yellow into the third bowl; and one drop of green into the last bowl.
  2. Pour the white cake mix into baking pan. Then, then drop each additional colored batter into the pan. Bake the cake as directed. Cool on a wire rack.
  3. To prepare the icing, combine the cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and confectioners' sugar in a mixing bowl. Beat with a stand or hand mixer until fluffy.
  4. After the cake is completely cool, frost it, and then decorate it with the colored sugars and sprinkles. If desired, roll out the Fondant and use Mardi Gras-themed cookie cutters to make festive shapes.

This recipe was prepared with the KitchenAid 5-Quart 325-Watt Tilt-Head Stand Mixer with Flex Edge (K41660).

You’re Home with Jill is back tomorrow night at 7pm ET. I’ll see you then!

From my home to yours,
—Jill

super-size beauty sleep essentials collection

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at philosophy, we believe in bringing you products that are not a task to use, but ones that multi-task and bring you results, all while making you feel good. with this today’s special value, we are helping you to redefine beauty sleep with philosophy fan favorites in a super-size set that you demand and deserve!  we are thrilled to bring to you our first-ever nighttime regimen today’s special value, super-size beauty sleep essentials collection.

cleanse, hydrate, and remove makeup with purity made simple one-step facial cleanser. soothe, calm and nurture with mineral-rich, deep-cleansing sea salts to help the skin with purity made simple deep-clean mask. hydrate, and moisturize your eye and lip areas with hope in a tube high density eye and lip cream. deeply moisturizer, and smooth & soften fine lines with hope in a jar night intense moisturizer, specifically designed to boost nighttime renewal. hold your hair back and out of your face so you can perfectly cleanse and moisturize with tassi.

with this set, you will sleep your way to better looking skin.

we’ve asked dara, mari lyn and heidi to share with you why they love this today’s special value.

here is what they have to say!

dara lynn: one of the most frequently asked questions people ask is, "what products are good to use before bed?". philosophy has solved this by bringing you our first beauty sleep essentials kit. it is everything you need to get yourself the best looking skin overnight and over time. this is a universal kit for anyone who would love to awaken to the best skin of their life. why not let the products do all the work while you are sleeping? what i love most about this kit is the look and feel each product can give you. it contains our best cleansing, a super quick mask, my all-time favorite eye cream and a charged up moisturizer that does its best work when your eyes are closed. i have used every one of these products in this kit to great success personally and have recommended them countless times to rave reviews. we all know, looking beautiful requires sleep, why not take it up a notch and get the best beauty sleep of your life? sweet dreams, dara

mari lyn meier: our goal is to look our very best every day! that means nighttime is the best time to condition skin so we look radiant when we wake up. our beauty sleep essentials collection does just that, and in supersizes, so you won’t have to think about it again until november. at night, our skin works hard to correct our skin from the day’s aggressors.   sleep time is the best time to help the skin for great results. our hope in a jar night moisturizer provides the perfect balance of hydration and exfoliation needed at night for glowing and smooth skin throughout the day. 

heidi guest: this today’s special value appeals to me because it works hard while you are getting your beauty sleep. how great it is to wake up both feeling and looking great?  research shows us that night time is the right time.  this collection sets your skin up for success. you're getting four products that work together, to give you the best philosophy has to offer you: delivering on the promise of radiant, hydrated makeup optional skin.

i recommend this collection to anyone who wants to give her skin the best hydration.   every skin type, benefit from these two vital functions. oily skin looks more refined; makeup lasts longer and doesn't change color. at the same time, drier skins look radiant, full of moisture; dry skins will find that they will not experience makeup or cosmetic color fade during the day. skin remains glowing. everyone wins and your friends at philosophy are always for that!

 

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