Happy Birthday, Leah!

In celebration of your birthday, here's a look back at your life over the last year in photos. 

January 2014

Fashion Friends Day with Leilani of Ryka Shoes and Sally Combs with Earth Origins

February 2014

Girl-Time Lunch with Angel Smedley of Quacker Factory

March 2014

Leah and friends have lots of "hatitude"! 

April 2014

Relaxing in Arizona

May 2014

Cinco de Mayo with Isaac Mizrahi on set at QVC

June 2014

Leah at the QVC "Style Out" learning all about Fall Fashions 

July 2014

Getting ready for a little fun in the summer sun 

August 2014

This picture was taken just before Leah and her family went zip lining in Mexico! Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee 

September 2014

Leah feeling "rich" in It Foundation with Jamie Kern Lima

October 2014

Halloween ... no caption needed! : ) 

November 2014

Thanksgiving with the family 

December 2014

A Christmas party with Lena McCllwain and friends AND Santa!

I hope you enjoyed your trip down memory lane!

Happy birthday!

With love,

Erika

Tonight was a “what do I have in the freezer that I can throw together for dinner” night.  I usually defer to my pressure cooker when that happens and once again, success!! This is a sweet and savory recipe that is sure to please.  I made it with chicken breasts this time but I think I would like it even more if I used chicken thighs.  I hope you like it!

Pressure Cooker Bourbon Chicken

3 LBS boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

¼ cup chopped mushrooms

3 tsp. cornstarch

Sauce

4 clove of garlic, minced

½ tsp. fresh grated ginger

½ tsp. Chili powder

1/3-cup apple juice

2 TB honey

¼ cup brown sugar

¼ cup ketchup

¼ cup Bourbon whiskey

3 TB apple cider vinegar

¼ cup water

¼ cup soy sauce

Mix all ingredients for the sauce.  Add chicken to the pressure cooker.  Pour sauce over it and cook for 30 minutes.  Remove chicken from the pressure cooker and cut into bite size pieces.  Pour liquid into a saucepan.  Add cornstarch, bring to a boil.  Pour the sauce over the chicken to coat.  Serve over rice. 

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I was thrilled to be able to attend the 186th PHS Philadelphia Flower Show earlier this week and wanted to share some of the beauty, exciting creativity, and talented artistry with you, my fellow gardening enthusiasts!!

[The creativity was so inspiring!]

The Philadelphia Flower Show, presented by the esteemed Philadelphia Horticultural Society, is an annual event and it's HUGE! In fact, it is the world's LARGEST INDOOR FLOWER SHOW!  In 2014, it was honored with the Grand Pinnacle Gold Award as the world's top event, by the International Festivals and Events Association!

My day at The Flower Show was spent admiring the amazing displays, following this year's theme, "Celebrate the Movies". The very talented Floral and Garden Designers used Disney and Disney-Pixar films as inspirations for their exhibits. The Cinderella exhibit, for instance featured not only gorgeous flower displays fit for a princess, but atop the display was an exact replica of the glass slipper featured in Disney's new Cinderella live action film!

[Cinderella Exhibit, notice the slipper!]

[Aladdin & Peter Pan Exhibits]

[The Emerald City!]

I was also excited to participate as Emcee of the annual professional Floral Arranging Contest in the Designer's Studio area of the Flower Show. My co-emcee was Mr. Tim Farrell, President of the Board of Directors of the American Institute of Floral Designers. We had a packed crowd for each of the two competitions, which featured some of the most talented and creative floral designers I've ever met, who came from some of the most prestigious Florist establishments in the Philadelphia area, including Valley Forge Flowers, Robertson's Flowers and Events, Edgemont Flower Shop, and Flowers by Jennie Lynne.

[The Winners!]

The audience asked lots of questions throughout the timed competitions, which were answered by the designers themselves, as well as by Tim Farrell. I had quite a few questions myself! We all learned quite a lot about flower arranging and how to keep our arrangements looking beautiful for as long as possible!

In the end, the audience chose the winners of each round via their applause! The first round ended in a three-way tie and the second round was won by John Lynch of Valley Forge Flowers (which is the shop owned by our Gardening Expert Barb King!)

[The Clap-o-Meter Determining the Winner!]

Of course there was definitely some time for shopping, in the amazing gardening vendor area! I came home with some beautiful decorative items for my garden (including some bunny statues, of course!) and several interesting new tools as well!

It was a wonderful day and I encourage anyone in the Philadelphia area to come and visit the Philadelphia Flower show this year! It runs daily through Sunday, March 8th. You can find out more details at www.PHS.org or www.theflowershow.com!! And don't forget to check out ourGardening Guide on QVC.com for more inspiration this garden season!!

Perfect foundation application seems like an impossible feat at times. You know I'm slightly obsessed with trying the "next big thing" in beauty, well here it is.... Color Me foundation applicator.

Don't worry, it looks intimidating, but there are super easy-to-follow directions included on the pamphlet inside the box.

Underneath the shiny metal cap is a soft, smooth foundation applicator pad. 

Apply your choice of foundation to the applicator pad. I used a dollop of Tarte foundation from the Miracles collection.

The applicator works with vibration to give you a smooth, airbrushed look. (It feels like a tickle for your skin!)

I made sure to apply 2 coats, so I could get even medium coverage. You can build your coverage as much as you'd like, depending on the occasion. Tip: I found it easier to apply the foundation directly to my skin (forehead, nose, chin & cheeks)

This applicator gives really great coverage. It's definitely best suited for a special occasion where you want that "airbrushed look" of perfection. Tip: Give your foundation 2-3 minutes to settle before applying the rest of your makeup. 

Happy foundation-ing!

XO,CC

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Now that its March, I am excited that St. Patrick's day is almost upon us.

We have lots of new items coming to the St Patrick's day celebration, and I am giving you a little 'sneak peek' at a few of them and sharing the inspiration behind the pieces.

Whilst writing my book on The History of Connemara Marble, I found one of the earliest souvenirs created from Connemara marble. Dating from the 19th Century, these little shamrock charms were made in simple workshops and sold to the early tourists who came to visit Connemara . In later years soldiers going into battle used to carry these charms with them to keep them safe.

Inspired by this we have designed a new stretch bracelet (coming soon).

On our quarry we have a fairy tree, and it was part of the inspiration behind the new tree of life pendant (coming soon).  The way the branches are twisted from the wild Atlantic winds show the rugged strength of these hardy trees, and the leafs  are actual Connemara marble stones!  I also had come across a Victorian  piece of jewelry that I saw in a little shop that inspired the design too.

I think this is a beautiful piece, and am really proud of what I am bringing to QVC.

The countdown is started, and I will look forward to seeing you all soon.

Stephen

Be sure to follow me on Facebook!

It is so good to be back with my new ‘Patrick’s Pick Of the Month!  As I’ve said before, I am deeply passionate about making sure that each of you is looking – and FEELING – your best, every single day when you wake up!!

I’ve got a question for you – how many nights have you dreamed about being able to wake up in the morning and walk straight into your closet and having a coordinated outfit just waiting for you to put on – without even having to think about it?!  Wouldn’t it be Quack-Tabulous to have your own personal wardrobe stylist – like the stars do?!

Guess what?!  Your dreams have just come true, because our incredible Design Team has done that just for YOU!

Ladies, let me introduce you to the newest clothing concept from Quacker Factory!!!  It’s like having your own personal shopper and stylist all rolled into one!

Presenting the Quacker Factory DreamLook!

DreamLook is our exciting new concept in ensemble fashion design.  We’ve created gorgeous coordinated tops and pants that work together—or separately - to create a variety of looks that YOU choose! It’s a fabulous way to boost your wardrobe for Spring!  Say goodbye to trying to decide what goes with what in your wardrobe – and say HELLO to some complete Quack-Tastic head-to-toe looks!

‘Spring’ into March like a ‘Lady Leopard’!

Jeanne Bice LOVED animal print!  So it was only fitting that we honored Jeanne with our first 3 items in the new DreamLook collection.  This month’s theme is Lady Leopard – and I promise that it will bring out the animal in all of you!

The Lady Leopard DreamLook is made up of 3 different items – that you can mix and match – or wear on their own.  That’s the joy (and FUN!) of each month’s DreamLook.

Making An Entrance!

For Lady Leopard, we started with the most beautiful cardigan that you could ever hope for.  It comes in FIVE color options – Brown, Green, Grey, Pink or Blue – the rainbow’s the limit with this one ladies!  Here’s the link to see how beautiful these colors look:  http://qvc.co/leopardcardigan

Here is Kerin wearing the Brown option – I think you’ll agree that she looks absolutely stunning in this one!

Wild About DreamJeannes!

And if you’re asking yourself if those DreamJeannes are new and are part of this DreamLook, the answer is YES!  Say HELLO to the latest and greatest DreamJeanne – the Lady Leopard DreamJeannes Crop Pants!  Kerin is wearing the espresso option – but you can choose between that one and also Misty Jade, Dark Indigo, White and/or Black.  Want to see them up closer, just click here!  http://qvc.co/leopardpant

And guess what?!  Not only do they have a little bit of leopard design bling at the hem lines (after all, Jeanne Bice always said that the thinnest part of a woman’s body was her ankles – so Jeanne LOVED putting some embellishment that would draw people’s attention to your great ankles!) – but they also have some Leopard Bling on the back pockets as well.  And how clever was our design team to raise the back pockets a little so that if you wanted to cover up the bling on the pockets, you could do so with your shirt or cardigan?!  Here’s our beautiful Angel in the Dark Indigo color option in the new Crop pants showing off that adorable bling:

Looks That Will Get You Noticed!

And just wait until you see the 3^rd piece we’ve come up with in our first DreamLook collection – it’s the Lady Leopard Novelty Top! http://qvc.co/noveltytop  Not only does this top come in 5 coordinating colors to the cardigan and DreamJeanne Crop Pants, but each color has a different design on it!  Drum roll please for your options:

1)      The fluttering Butterfly – will coordinate back to the green cardigan & Misty Jade DreamJeannes

2)      The cutest dressform –  coordinates with the brown cardigan & Espresso DreamJeannes

3)      Cutie kitty – will coordinate beautifully with the grey cardigan & Black DreamJeannes

4)      Pink perfume bottle –  is a wonderful match for the pink cardigan & White DreamJeannes

5)      Perfect purse – is perfect with the blue cardigan & Dark Indigo DreamJeannes

Here are pictures of 4 of the designs and ‘looks’:

You loved our ‘Weekender Sets’ in the past and have been writing to Angel and me to PLEASE bring them back.  Well, we’ve listened and your wish is our command.  We also listened when you told us that you wanted coordinating items, but could be given the choice to order the tops in one size, and the bottoms in another – after all, as Jeanne used to say:  “Ducks come in different sizes – and not everyone is the same size on top as they are underneath!” 

So what do you all think?!   Would you like to see MORE DreamLook’s in the future?!  If you said yes (and we’re pretty sure you did!), you won’t have to wait too long, because we’ll be bringing you more complete DreamLook’s over the next few months!

In the meantime, sit back, relax and enjoy this video of Kerin showing you more of our purrrrrfectly delightful Lady Leopard DreamLook Collection!  In the comment section below, tell me what your favorite color combination is in our first DreamLook collection!

Quacker Hugs & Love From Across The Pond!!!

Patrick

Xoxoxo

Click on each link below to see more detail about each of Patrick’s picks

A262868 – Lady Leopard Cardigan – http://qvc.co/leopardcardigan

A262869 – Lady Leopard DreamJeanne Crop Pant – http://qvc.co/leopardpant

A262565 – Lady Leopard Novelty Top – http://qvc.co/noveltytop

A262867 – Lady Leopard Set of 2 T-Shirts – http://qvc.co/tshirtset

To stay up to date at what’s Quackin’ at the Quacker Factory, join the email list! Click here to sign up to receive emails from Quacker Factory - http://bit.ly/PH_EmailLists

To follow Quacker Factory with Angel on Facebook, click here:  http://bit.ly/A_Facebook

To follow Patrick on Facebook, click here:  http://bit.ly/P_Facebook

Hello, foodies…

I blogged early because I’ll be at the Philadelphia Flower Show later today for my Light and Bright recipe presentation at 11:30. Hope to see you there!

In other news, winter is holding on with an iron fist. The West Chester, PA area was hammered with at least 8” of snow yesterday—as was most of the East coast. Lots of folks had (hopefully the last!) snow day of the year. But I made the most of it…with Snow Cream!

Snow cream is a lot like ice cream...it's something my mother made for my brother, sister, and me when we were small and it was such a treat. It was the first time I made it all winter…in fact, the first time in a LONG time. So I'm grateful I had one last chance to do it.

BUT—my mind is still on springtime. And this Sunday, we’ll get back to that tangible goal with a brand-new recipe: Carrot-Ginger Soup!

Carrot-Ginger Soup
Serves 6–8

This recipe was prepared with the Vitamix Creations GC 48-oz 13-in-1 Variable Speed Blender (K41984).

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

Ingredients:

• 2 Tbsp oil
• 2 cups diced onion
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 3 Tbsp minced ginger
• 7 cups peeled large diced carrots
• 2-1/2 cups large diced Granny Smith apple
• 1-1/2 cups large diced peeled Idaho potato
• 6 cups vegetable stock
• 1 (13.5-oz) can coconut milk
• 1 Tbsp curry powder
• 2 tsp salt
• Pinch of dried chili flakes

Preparation:

1. Heat the oil in a 6-1/2 quart stock pot over medium-high heat. Add the onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the carrots, apple, potato, stock, coconut milk, curry powder, salt, and chili flakes. Bring the soup to a simmer and then reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the carrots are soft.
2. Purée the soup in batches in a blender, being careful with the hot liquid. Place the puréed soup into another large stock pot. Repeat until all the soup is puréed and stir to combine. Reheat before serving.

This is a wonderfully flavorful soup packed with vitamins, minerals, and good fats, thanks to the coconut milk. If you’ve never cooked with coconut milk before, you’ll find it in the baking aisle and/or the ethnic foods aisle. When you open it, there will be a solid section of coconut on top; don’t discard that. Simply spoon it out along with the liquid into the pot. It should break down as it heats up, but you could also use a whisk to incorporate it into the broth.

Time for this week’s recipe pairing. You’ve already got the Coconut-Ginger Soup as a starter. Now how about Easy Vegetarian Pad Thai for an entrée…

And Mimosa Cupcakes for dessert!

For your blog question today, tell me if you have a favorite spring soup recipe. Do you love a cream of asparagus? Split pea soup? Maybe a St. Patrick’s Day Guinness Beef Stew? I’ll see some of you at the Philadelphia flower show tomorrow. I’ll see the rest of you on Sunday at Noon ET for In the Kitchen with David.

Keep it flavorful!
—David

Nothing cures a sweet tooth quite like Irish Potatoes. And another thing I love about them is they can be shaped into ovals or balls in any size you want. Make them bite size and watch how fast they disappear! 

This recipe was given to me by Karen Kennedy. The recipe is from Kilkenny County, which is between Tipperary and Wexford in Southern Ireland. That is where Karen Kennedy's family resided. 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of powdered (confectioner's) sugar
• 1 cup sweetened coconut
• 1-1/2 tablespoons Half & Half creamer
• cinnamon

Place coconut in a mixing bowl and spring sugar over top. Stir in the half and half. Form into "potatoes" in the size of your choice. I like bite size. Set aside on a plate.

Pour a few tablespoons of cinnamon into a gallon size ziploc bag. Add a few potatoes at a time and shake the bag gently until all of the potatoes are fully coated with cinnamon. Pop one, or four, in your mouth and enjoy the luck of the Irish.

Irish Onion Soup.

Ingredients:

• 4 large onions
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups boiling milk
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 egg yolks
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1/2 teaspoon mace or sage
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk or cream

Thinly slice all off the onions. Sautee the onions in butter until translucent. Shake flour onto onions. Stir well, so that all the butter is absorbed.

Add boiling milk and bay leaf and continue to stir.

Add chicken stock and seasonings.

Simmer until onions are cooked and soft.

In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks and evaporated milk.

Pour the egg mixture into large soup pot and gradually add onion soup mix and stir. 

Simmer, stirring occasionally approximately 20 minutes.

Counting our blessings,

Mary Beth Roe

As part of our ongoing efforts to keep QVC.com fresh and easy to use, we’re making changes to the site navigation to help give you an even better online experience. We see you as an important member of our QVC family, which is why we want to share this information before the changes go live over the next several days. 

Here’s a quick summary of what to expect: 

Your complete satisfaction is important to us. If you have any questions or comments regarding the new changes, feel free to provide feedback here or call QVC Customer Service at 888-345-5788, and a representative will be happy to assist you. We thank you for your patience and look forward to a smooth and easy transition. 

Thank you for shopping with QVC!

Hi Everyone!

Steve and I will be answering answer your questions all day today, about our beautiful TSV, starting at Midnight ET. 

We're excited to hear and read your questions and comments throughout the day today.  We'll be chatting LIVE during our 12am, 10am and 7pm ET shows today, so be sure to join us!

And don't forget to join us on-air at 10am, 7pm and 11pm ET for some great Vionic shows.  

-Liam

Each week I try to bring you some great cleaning ideas and help you with getting your home ready for spring. When you have had a tough winter like most of us, things really need some sprucing up.  A good friend of mine Pete Chicarielli has come up with a product that has become a best seller for us here at QVC and from personal experience with it, I can tell you the stuff is like magic.

The product is called Instagone.  It comes with an empty spray bottle and seven packets of pre-measured cleaning solution.  Just mix with hot water and you’re ready to tackle your toughest cleaning issues. Have you ever had a water stain on ceiling tiles, maybe from that skylight leaking or other problem?  Well ceiling tiles are almost impossible to clean.  With Instagone you just spray the tile and the stains can disappear.

Outdoor resin furniture gets dingy and black spotted when left outdoors for a long period of time, his product has helped me to keep my patio furniture looking like new.  Yesterday, I sprayed it on some mold that had built up on the siding of my home and in ten minutes it was gone.  I will hit it in the spring with a power washer to get the left over dirt from the winter but I was impressed it removed the mold build up.  (OK the Christmas lights are still up but in my defense it has been 6 degrees here)......

Here is a photo of the before and after on the threshold to our front door. I sprayed it and ten minutes later simply wiped it and it is clean again.

I have used it before on vinyl boat seats that I thought would have to be replaced.  My wife and I were able to salvage a twenty year old patio awning that would not come clean before.  I urge you to try it on your toughest outdoor cleaning needs and try it indoors for tough bathroom cleaning as well.  wherever green mold might have built up on your deck, patio, or outdoor wooden furniture, give it your own test and see if you like it the way we do here on the farm.

The product has a bleach like odor that dissipates quickly, but unlike bleach that has harmful stabilizers in it this is safe for most surfaces. QVC has a "LOVE” it or send it back guarantee.  As with any cleaning product I can't promise it will solve all your cleaning needs, but try it and let me know what you think.

Thanks for reading this and remember spring is just around the corner.

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

Twitter: www.twitter.com/danhughesqvc

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Hi Everyone! This is Jenn, Courtney's friend & social helper here. I'm "taking over" Courtney's blog because I want to wish her a very happy birthday today! Some of her other friends around the Q wanted to share their birthday wishes too!

Aimee Kestenberg

Alberti Popaj

Dear Courtney, I hope that this birthday brings you all that your heart desires… a wonderful home and the husband of your dreams…. Oh wait….you already have that! Ok…then…to be surrounded by friends, family and pets who love you….Ohh… hmm… ok you’ve got that too.  Well, let me think for a second… Ohh Ohhh I’ve got it!! A job in television where you have an infinite number of wardrobe choices! Hmmm….well….you’ve got that too!! And you deserve it all!!! May this year bring you bigger smiles, louder laughs, and higher heels!! Love Always, Alberti :) XOXO

Mally

Happy Birthday my Sweet Little Lady Courtney!!!  You are fun, hilarious, awesome, smart, loving and obviously GORGOIS! I am so blessed to work with you and call you my friend! Thank you for sharing your priceless Courtney-ness with the world. I love you and here's to your best year EVER! Now let's go break it down! XXX

Mary DeAngelis

Happy birthday, gorgeous! It has been a joy getting to know you, to work with you, and to watch you win the hearts of everyone that watches you on QVC. You are a joyous addition to our Q-family and thank you for sharing your light with all of us. As far as your birthday celebrating is concerned, remember: anything worth doing is worth overdoing! XOXOXO, Mary D

Dan Wheeler

Happy birthday to a lady who brings a "Ray of Sunshine" with her when she enters the room!  Enjoy your special Day Courtney!!!

Sandra Bennett

Happy Birthday Courtney! We’ve had a lot of adventures together, from sharing your first trip to NYC to taking on the red carpet in LA. With you I’m always guaranteed a good time! I hope you have a wonderful day!!

Mary Beth Roe

Ever since Courtney came to QVC, I've wanted to adopt her as my own daughter! I love her that much! So on your special day, Courtney, I say 'Happy Birthday', Darlin', you sweet beautiful girl!!! Love, MB!

Albany Irvin

Happy birthday to my fun, flirty, friend! Love your contagious smile and your bubbly personality!  xoxo A

Rachel Boesing

Happy Birthday to my super-witty, vivacious, hecka-stylish, warm & generous friend. May this year be your most exciting yet :) Love ya girl, Rachel 

Amy Stran

Happy Birthday Court!! Hope you have an amazing year and all of your birthday wishes come true!!

Jennifer Coffey

Hey there birthday girl! Here's hoping this year brings even more blessings and joy to your life. I'm blessed to call you a friend! Enjoy your special day! 

Join me in wishing Courtney a very Happy Birthday by leaving your wishes in the comments below!

I've always said you can tell a lot about a person by their favorite music. There's something about the lyrics and rhythms that we are drawn to that can give clues about who we are deep inside. At least I think so. Since our TSV today is from Bose, I thought it would be a great time to share my top five favorite songs with you, and hopefully find out what your favorites are as well!

In no particular order:

1. Coldplay, "Lost"- this is a song about triumph, endurance, and never giving up even when it seems you've exhausted every possibility in your quest to make dreams come true. I've listened to it many a time when I've felt downtrodden. It randomly came on the speakers during my first photoshoot after being hired at QVC. No one in the room knew at the time, but I was fighting back tears of joy when it did.

2. New Order, "Bizarre Love Triangle"- a funny name for one of the best dance tunes ever! There's still video floating around of my daughter and me dancing our hearts out to this when she was about nine years old! And I still say I can't be held responsible for myself when this song comes on, even if it's in the grocery store.

3. The Beatles, "And I Love Her"- I'm a sucker for a sweet love song! Plus I fell in love with Paul McCartney when I watched him sing this in "A Hard Day's Night!"

4. Sam Smith, "Make it to Me"- see above about sweet love songs! 

5. Coldplay, "Charlie Brown" -at this point you may have figured out which band is my all-time favorite!

BONUS: Bruno Mars/Mark Ronson, "Uptown Funk" -okay so this one is more of a "favorite of the moment," but still. Infectious, fun, confident, and a great dance tune to beat!

In every Bose presentation I do you'll hear me say that you've never truly heard your favorite songs until you've heard them through Bose speakers. They open up nuances in music that you just can't hear anywhere else. Check out the TSV here, and my Facebook page here. And above all, don't forget to dance like nobody's watching!

OK, your turn! What are your favorite tunes???

When I was a kid growing up in St. Joe, Michigan...

I LOVED playing sports.  Since I was always small for my age, I had to use my quickness and speed to overcome my lack of size.  Because of that speed, and my last name, my Little League baseball coach called me “Wheels.”  The nickname has stuck with me ever since and, in fact, today many of my friends and co-workers at QVC still call me “Wheels.”

I have always liked my nickname.  But for the last five years I have found a new nickname that I love even more.  My grandsons, Cole and Gavin, call me “Papa.”  I love the name mainly because I love the way my little guys say it.  They say it with tons of love.

Being a parent is awesome.  My two girls, Kirstyn and Kelsey, are wonderful daughters and I could not be more proud of the young women they have become.  Kirstyn is an amazing wife, mom, nurse and daughter.  She has always been a very hard worker and is instilling those values in my grandsons.  Kelsey is finishing her senior year in college and may graduate with honors.  Not bad for a girl who was diagnosed early on with a pretty serious learning disability.  She has overcome it with hard work, organization and determination.  

Our kids grow up way too fast.  It seems like every time I turned around when they were growing up, they were another year older and four inches taller.   Several QVC shoppers have told me they remember when I first started as a host on CVN in 1988 that Kirstyn was a precocious toddler playing with the toys on the show.   Others remember that Kelsey was born my first year as a host on QVC.  They will turn 29 and 23 respectively in April.

When our children are young we, as young parents, are extremely busy.  We work hard to support our young families and to keep up with all of their activities.  But  as I look back now, I wish I would have worked a little less and played with my daughters more.  Don’t get me wrong.  I did play with them a lot but I didn’t realize how quickly the time was sailing by.

The great thing about being a Papa is I can slow down and enjoy my grandkids a little bit more.  I know too well how fast these years will go by and are already!  It seems like Cole was born about a month ago and he is now is now 5 ½ years old. Gavin is 1 ½ years old.  I use the fractions because every six months counts.  Really every hour of every day counts.  Of course, one of the great advantages of being a grandparent is that when you are done playing with them you can give them back to their parents. 

I try to schedule a “play day” with my grandsons every two weeks.  These are days that are dedicated to one on one time with them.  Cole is at that great age where we can go to the park, bowling alley, ball field or anywhere else.  We often grab lunch on the way and have the best talks.  I love watching his expressions when he tells me about something that is a big deal in his life.  He tells me about his latest adventures at pre-school and play.  It inspires me to look at life through his young, fresh eyes that are filled with so much hope and happiness.  He tells me he wants to grow up to be a bone doctor so he can work with his mommy at the hospital.

Gavin is not quite old enough to go on these types of excursions but I love playing with him at our home or his.  As soon as I walk into the room he comes walking up to me with his arms “wide open” wanting me to pick him up.  He talks non-stop in his own language of jibber- jabber and I am actually learning to understand him.  If he can’t speak it he can certainly point to whatever it is that he wants.  The best thing in the world is when he just puts his face next to mine and lets me hold him close.  This only lasts for about five seconds but I savor each and every one of them.  

There is a wise old saying that says, “the days are long but the time is short.”  I think of that often as I schedule my time.  At 6o years old I have truly learned that “the best things in life aren’t things” and that time is the most precious commodity that any of us has. 

Many of you know that our dog, Sadie, recently crossed over the Rainbow Bridge.  I decided that I didn’t want to wait too long to find another little Bichon to love.  We soon found our new puppy, Zoey.  Cole and Gavin are so in love with her that they not only enjoy stopping by our house to play with her but they get upset if we come to their house and don’t bring her. 

Puppies seem to know intuitively how important it is to take the time to give and receive unconditional love.  As “Papa” I am understanding and loving that concept more than ever!

-Dan

Please join me on my Facebook page; Dan Wheeler QVC

For this week's blog, I thought I would introduce you to our adorable PMS stylist Amanda. She just joined the team.

Since my secret dream is to be Barbara Walters and interview people for a living, I decided to sit down w Amanda and probe "Our Girl Monday" (get it, "Our Girl Friday"?! :) about well...her! You get to see me, but there are lotsa gifted show elves making magic happen behind the scenes. And I love putting faces with voices with names with...Since you will be seeing her creative prowess every week through how she styles me and the PMS models, it's time to make the introductions and put this cutie on the hot seat. Here we go...!

Name: Amanda Liptock

Age: 27

Hometown: Yardley, PA  

Years at QVC: 3.5! Time flies

What other QVC shows do you work(ed) on:  

The Thursday 9am Susan Graver show & the Friday 1pm IML Show are my static shows. I have also worked on LOGO, D&CO, Fashion's Night Out, Spring Designer Preview. I also style the models for jewelry event days. Needless to say, there is never a dull moment here at the Q.

Styling with Susan Graver

What is your favorite color for spring/summer 2015?:

Yellow! It makes such a bold statement & there are so many great shades of color to play with. It also makes me happy.

What is your favorite fashion trend for 2015?:
I am loving the active wear trend! I love the idea of pairing a sporty looking jacket or top with a skinny, more feminine jean & strappy heel or sandal. I am also big on being fashionable, yet comfortable! Active wear is my go to attire, even when I am not working out.  

What is your least favorite fashion trend of 2015?:

I’ve never really been a fan of a wide leg jean/trousers. It covers the shoe! A shoe should never be covered… especially a good shoe!

What is your style philosophy?:

It is all about experimenting! I love playing with different patterns, textures & prints. Styling is like creating artwork. It’s fun to try different things and break some rules. When all is said and done, it’s about confidence. I feel a woman can make any outfit work as long as she is confident.

All fancy with my boyfriend, Matt

What designers inspire you?:
I love the creativity behind Marc Jacobs, the classic American designs of Michael Kors & the feminie yet sexy styles of Stella McCartney

What are your top three current favorite QVC fashion/accessory items?:

I love Sole Society, orYANY bags & LOGO. I am a sucker for detail and all 3 of these brands add little touches to simple designs that make them stand out.

What are your favorite tv shows?:

I don’t watch a ton of TV, but Project Runway always holds my interest. I recently got into 'Game of Thrones' & I can always count on 'The Tonight Show' for a good laugh.

What is your guilty pleasure?:

Cheese and Wine…  and chocolate!

What do you like to do when you are not styling for QVC?:
I love spending time with the people that matter most to me; my family, my friends and my boyfriend. I am the happiest when I am with them. I have an extremely loving and supportive family and my friends are like a second family to me. I also love going to concerts, working out and I love to cook! I love to travel too! I have been fortunate within the past two years as I have been to Italy, Paris & London.

My first time in Paris

My brother, me, my sister and my Dad

If you could dress any celebrity, who would it be?:
This is a tough one…I love a challenge so I would have to say Christina Aguilera. But for a celebrity that will look good in anything, I’d say Kate Hudson or Jennifer Lawrence.

What was your first job? :(throwback photo of poss):

I was a grocery bagger at our local food store. I guess I was destined to be around bags Ha!

What is your favorite food?
Anyone that knows me, knows I love to eat! I love seafood, especially when my step-dad cooks it!

Indulging with girlfriends

What is your favorite quote?:
“Surround yourself with people who make you laugh” – my mom. She has been telling me this for as long as I can remember.

My best friend, my Mom

What is your hidden talent and/or something most people don't know about you?:

I am ambidextrous! I write with my right hand but throw with my left… I guess that’s cool, right?! I also have quite the blended family; stepparents, step siblings, along with my own siblings. I am pretty fortunate that I am close with all “4” of my parents and my siblings mean the world to me.

What is your dream vacation?:

Somewhere in the Greek Isles. I would want to stay in one of those cute little white houses surrounded by the bluest water like you see in the pictures.

Three words to describe yourself:

Creative, Ambitious, Curious

What would you be doing if you weren't a QVC fashion stylist?:

I would have to be in the creative field .... either designing, freelance styling, or I would own my own boutique. I really cannot see myself in any other industry.

What's your favorite thing in your closet right now?:

I bought this skirt last year from Express. I was hesitant at first but I am so glad I did. I love pairing it with a more casual tank/tee for an everyday look, or dressing it up with a black top so it looks like a dress 

So join me, Amanda and the rest of the PM Style crew on Monday nights at 10p ET. You can also catch up with me on Facebook and Instagram!

Shawn

X

The Irish welcome you with open arms! I've treasured every trip to the Emerald Isle, but the most recent trip with my family in 2011 was one I will cherish forever. Deirdre had never been to Ireland, and Cara was two years old on her only trip.  So, in the spring of 2011, we decided to take a family trip the week before Easter.  I know my Mom and Sean's parents were working on the weather, because we had glorious warm sunny days, and hardly any rain!  On our bucket list were; returning to Dromoland Castle, staying at Adare Manor - the sight of our live remote from Ireland, visiting the Rock of Cashel, and touring the Dingle Peninsula. But the best part was catching up with our friends who, thanks to the QVC Irish shows, have become more than friends, they are our Irish family!  Here are some highlights:

Taking a jaunting cart around the grounds of Dromoland Castle, on our first day in Ireland.

The girls pose outside of the famous Dromoland Castle, where we stayed for the start of our vacation.

The Rock of Cashel is an historic spot we had never visited before, and walking though the ancient cathedral was something I will never forget.

Sean and Deirdre walk hand in hand on the path from the Cliffs of Moher. I call this "May the road rise with you!" 

I thought the sign as we waited to see the famous Book of Kells in Trinity College was appropriate for QVC.

Stephen Walsh took us on a tour of Dublin Castle and his well known shop.

Cara and Deirdre dress up for a dinner in Adare Manor, sight of our remote from Ireland a few years back.

Matt Doolan brought us to Newgrange in Drogheda, where he took Sean and me in 1990 when we first met!

We posed for a family photo as we toured the Dingle Peninsula. We all wrote our names in the sand to remember this special day.

-Jane

Hit Refresh.

Happy Spring! I think we are all excited to say goodbye to the winter blues and hello to warmer days, sunshine, and a new routine. As we spring forward, I just happen to have the best answer to a flawless, fresh look. Let me introduce you to Fresh Forward, our brand new Today’s Special Value® that will have your skin, eyes, and lips looking refreshed in no time.

We are thrilled to be back on QVC with this collection, our first Today’s Special Value of 2015. This 8-piece collection will have your skin cheering as you perk up your makeup look with everything from our Original Foundation, new cheek and eye colors, a brand new lip innovation, flawless application tools, and the best makeup bag we have ever done! This collection is chic, modern, and ready to give you a radiant glow.

Every single piece in this collection is a must-have, but the complexion superstar is our iconic ORIGINAL Foundation SPF15. This is by far the most hard-working, multi-tasking, good-for-you foundation out there. For 20 years, this foundation has changed the way millions of women feel about their skin. The moment you open the jar, and the creamy minerals touch your skin, you see and feel the bareMinerals® difference. One formula, endless awards--including your 2014 Customer Choice beauty award-winner for Best Foundation--countless stories, and millions of fans. If you haven’t discovered your best skin ever, bareMinerals Original Foundation is the place to start.

To freshen up your complexion and eyes, we created two brand new READY® palettes that will be all the color you need to boost you spring beauty routine. Three gorgeous face colors that you can blend together to create your perfect shade, or try each shade individually. Think of these as beauty boosters, each giving your skin that extra little something. And these eyecolors--they are STUNNING. I’m in love with Take Off, it’s a brand new gray shade that has an unexpected twist of an Olive undertone. It’s fresh and interesting.

Your lips are guaranteed to be very happy when you swipe on our brand new Pop of Passion Lip Oil-Balm. This decadent innovation delivers big on hydration and luscious color by melting in moisture and giving a gorgeous RosewaterPink finish. Formulated with Passion fruit seed oil, it nourishes and hydrates lips, and the oil-rich formula glides on a slick-shine with a comfortable color-stain. I haven’t put this lip oil-balm down since I got it. It’s a handbag staple.

Speaking of handbags--this deluxe makeup organizer is the largest makeup bag we have done in a Today’s Special Value in years. And we thought of everything when we created this one. It holds all of your makeup, your skin care, your brushes--including the two flawless brushes that come with this collection--and the center pouch snaps right in and out so you can take your everyday essentials on the go.

I am so excited about this collection, and I cannot wait to show it to you on March 9. Come hang out with me all day and I’ll tell you so much more about this amazing Today’s Special Value, plus we have other new goodies and deluxe sizes galore that I know you will love!

If you’d rather chat with us online, we will be answering questions all day long right here on this blog. Post your questions and we will be sure to answer them. We love helping you find your perfect foundation shade, recommending new products, and just hearing from you in general!

“See” you soon,
Jessica

Thanks to everyone who tuned in to the first season of Style Tonight! Check out a recap of the hottest Spring trends below:

Fresh Florals

Shop Floral Handbags

Walter Baker Woven Pants

Emma & Sophia Shoulder Bag

Leather & Suede

GILI Leather Motorcycle Jacket

Mark Zunino Faux Leather Skirt

Dennis Basso Washable Suede Motorcycle Jacket

The New Casual

New Casual shop

Sheer Embellishments

LOGO Ombre Chiffon Cardigan

Dennis Basso Dress with Seam & Mesh Details

Bold Accessories

Logo Links Crystal Collar Necklace

GILI Perforated Leather Jacket

Accessories Shop

I hope you find some of your favorite new pieces for Spring here! I'd love to hear your thoughts on my Style Tonight show... What did you love/hate? What do you want to see more/less of? How was your experience watching QVC Plus? Did you watch on your tv or through your computer? Tell me in the comments below or on my Facebook page.

XO,CC

http://www.facebook.com/CourtneyCasonQVC

http://twitter.com/CourtneyQVC

http://instagram.com/courtneycasonqvc

One of our favorite things about our live shows on QVC Plus is we get to offer you something a little extra. Whether it's another look at a pair of Clarks you might have missed on the original QVC broadcast, or one of our exclusive shows such as 'Styled Out' – we have plenty of amazing options for you every week.

However, QVC Plus is on 24 hours a day, 7 Days a week and you may not have seen some of our best moments. So, In case you missed it here are our seven favorites from the world of QVC Plus this week:

7. Double the Susan Graver on Sundays!

Every Sunday on QVC Plus, we spend an hour with the amazing Susan Graver at 9:00 PM EST. However, the fun doesn't stop there! When our show ends, Susan and Sandra both go right into another live show on QVC. As you can imagine, switching between the two channels takes a lot of work (and a lot of helping hands). Every week you can see this switch live and get a behind the scenes look at what goes on behind the cameras at the Q.

6. We're Snow-ver It.

On Thursday night our West Chester studio got a nice surprise in the form of several heavy inches of snow. However, that didn't stop us from going on-air on Thursday night, bringing you four hours of live programming. This four hours included 2 hours of QVC In the Garden. It was nice to see some of our favorite garden guests in the studio and pretend it was Spring (even if it was just for a few hours).

5. Shakin' It

Tuesday night, Mally stopped by for an hour of makeup, girl talk, and even some dancing! In between showing us some amazing products to get that bullet-proof look and giving some of her expert tips, Mally and Courtney gave a Master's class in Breaking it Down 101.

4. Boldly Spring Forward  

We are so ready for some of the bold prints and bright colors that spring fashion has in store for us this season.  A perfect example would be this amazing Joan Rivers Moroccan Flair Knit Jacket featured on ‘What to Wear’.  Our styling tip for this exotic piece would be to pair it with a classic basic (such as Joan’s Wardrobe Builder’s Tank) and to finish the look with the matching earrings Joan Rivers Moroccan Earrings.

3. Even more QVC Plus this week!

That's right, we'll be live with you an extra day this week. Join us on Wednesday, March 11th for even more LIVE programming. The fun starts at 6:00 PM EST so don't forget to set yourself a reminder!

2. Our Live QVC.com Stream

Don't forget, you can always check out our live stream on QVC.com and on your mobile app. To watch our live stream, simply go to: QVC Plus Live Stream and join in on the fun!

1. Our new QVC Plus Blog!

Check back here every week for our Seven for Sunday blog. Each week we'll fill you in on anything you might have missed, give you a glimpse of what goes on behind the scenes, and even give you sneak peek of what's coming up on QVC Plus.

And as always, we're looking for your feedback!

What do you love about QVC Plus so far and what would you like to see on the channel?

~QVC Plus Team

This is a version of my Mom’s "Kerry Cake." Perfect for breakfast or coffee break!

1 tsp. cinnamon

1 ½ cups self rising flour 

¾ cup butter softened

¾ cup sugar

3 eggs

¼ cup whole milk

1 tsp. vanilla 

2 apples (we use Granny Smith) peeled and thinly sliced

2 Tbsp. sugar mixed with 2 Tbsp. cinnamon, OR 4 Tbsp. cinnamon sugar already mixed (in spice aisle)

In first bowl, add 1 tsp. cinnamon to the flour and mix well. Set aside.

In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy.  Add eggs, milk and vanilla and mix until combined.  Add the flour mixture to this and stir together until combined. 

In another bowl, toss sliced apples in with 2 Tbsp. of the cinnamon sugar mixture.  Grease bottom of an 8x11 baking pan (I am using the Belleek everyday Baker. Spread ½ the batter into the pan, layer the apples, and then top with the remaining batter. Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar on top (sometimes I add a little more because I love cinnamon!)

Bake at 350 in preheated oven for about 45 minutes, serve warm with vanilla ice cream if desired!

Hmmm...looks like someone snitched a piece. No worries - the best part is the easy clean up! 

Enjoy!

-Jane