So, it was my first time chatting on AM Style with Leah Williams last week. If you didn’t catch the show and missed the fun we had celebrating fashion and loving that it was Kentucky Derby day so we could sport our fancy hats, here are a few pictures to recap such a fun day. I am constantly telling everyone how much I love working here at my new home at QVC, and these pictures show it. I hope you will join us on Saturday mornings at 8AM ET and see what we are up to each week! 

Leah and I sharing a laugh wearing our Derby hats. I now realize I need one in pink!

Work it....lol

Girl talk with the fabulous Linda Davies.

So, Rise and Shine and come chat with me Saturday mornings!

-Stacey

to come

We're looking to hear from you, QVC Community! Did you already vote on the Community Poll this week?  What's your favorite way to shop QVC?  Do you prefer ordering via the QVC app, online, by phone, or automated ordering? Or maybe you aren’t a customer yet?

Please share your comments below, after you vote, and tell us why that is your favorite way to shop QVC.

Hi, everyone!

I’m REALLY excited about this Wednesday’s You’re Home with Jill…we’re doing a whole Southwestern theme and making crafts and recipes that will whisk you away to New Mexico, Texas, Nevada, Arizona—wherever your mind goes when you think about that beautiful area. I’ve always loved the people, culture, and rich history that stems in that region and the color palate is by far my favorite from which to work and decorate—especially during the summer months when bright colors like turquoise, yellow, and purple are everywhere.

I’m sure most of you have heard of a dream catcher, yes?

Dream catchers are handmade Native American creations designed to ward off bad dreams. According to some research I’ve done, it’s common for Native American parents and grandparents to weave these and hang them above a baby’s crib. The bad dreams get caught in the web, while the positive dreams slip through the hole in the center of the dream catcher and glide down the feathers to the sleeping child below.

I love the symbolism behind these crafts as well as their decorative beauty, and so I decided to gave making my own dream catcher a try. I was surprised how easy it is once you get the hang of the looping!

To begin, you’ll need two spools of yarn—one thick and wooly, one thin and tightly spun. Take the wooly yarn and wrap it around an embroidery hoop you can find at your local craft store—it doesn’t matter the size. After you’ve covered the wood, knot a loop on one end and create a hanging loop.

To make the “web” of the dream catcher, circle the yarn around the hoop and knot it. Turn the hoop (like a steering wheel) and create another knot 1-2” away from the first. The string should be taught, but not too tight, otherwise it may not lie flat when you’re finished. Repeat all the way around the hoop.

Then, start tying more knots on the first “row” of strings, so the web continues. Don’t tie the knots on previous knots, otherwise you won’t get that woven effect. Just keep telling yourself, “find the centers!”

When you’ve got a 2-3” hole in the center, allow 6-8” of string to hang down from the center and tie a feather or two at the bottom.

Isn't it beautiful!

I wholeheartedly encourage you to look up the symbolism behind these spiritual creations…many dream catchers are woven with a single bead, which represents a spider, or even several beads—all of which carry their own meaning. Some are also made with feathers from noble birds—like eagles. To make yours unique to you and your family, see how you can personalize your dream catcher. A wealth of knowledge is at your fingertips with one Google search!

I hope you’ll join me on Wednesday for our Southwestern-inspired You’re Home with Jill. You can watch it at 7pm ET on QVC Plus or on QVC.com anytime you like.

From my home to yours,
—Jill

Since I grew up in an Army family, I was surrounded by soldiers—from all branches of the military—my whole life. Our house was full of cavalry, midshipmen, air assault, rangers, jumpmasters…you name it, we fed them! My intro to the Marine Corps was through my dad’s dear friend, Sands Robnick. (Here’s a picture of Dad and Sands at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas in 1981.) He was big and tall, a good Dad, and a great combat-ready soldier. His weakness? Peanut M&Ms. My mom kept a bag in the kitchen just for him.

My father-in-law is also a Marine. Yes, both Sands and my father-in-law are retired now, but once a Marine, always a Marine…you may not be considered active-duty, but Marines take an oath to be a Marine forever. The Marine Corps symbols (Eagle, Globe, and Anchor) are earned by each soldier. Anchor symbolizes the Corps heritage, the Globe stands for worldwide presence, and the Eagle symbolizes defense. The Marine Corps motto is “Semper Fidelis,” which literally translates to “always faithful,” but it pertains to many categories: your unit, your family, your honor, your country. “Ductus Exemplo” – lead by example.

One of the most visually distinguishable signs of a Marine in uniform is the Mameluke Sword. There are two different versions of the sword…one for Enlisted and one for Officers. In the early 1800s, the original sword was given to Lieutenant Presley O'Bannon by a gracious Mameluke chieftain in North Africa. By 1825, all Marine officers carried the sword as a reminder of this important battle. It was adopted in 1859 and is used for ceremonial purposes. Look up the Mameluke story though and see where “the shores of Tripoli” story started.

Now, a little about Camp Lejeune…the base we're visiting this Sunday on In the Kitchen with David! Camp Lejune is named after General John A. Lejeune who was the Commandant of the Marine Corps from 1920-1929. He reorganized the Corps, made huge improvements in training, and put focus on better education for Marines. The base boasts 14-miles of beaches, making it ideal for amphibious assault training. (Say that five times fast!) Camp Lejeune’s mission does not seem to have changed much since the beginning: to remain combat-ready and maintain state-of-the-art training capability. The base and nearby towns have an active duty, dependent, retiree, and civilian employee population of approximately 170,000 people. Sounds like a large, busy community: OORAH!

We’re getting so many great entries from you all—thanks for taking time to honor the veterans in your lives! We got a great story from Karina Garcia about her husband Paolo. He joined the Corps when he was 18, served in Afghanistan in Operation Freedom, and they called Camp Lejeune home for four years. I have to say…I breathed a happy sigh when I read he’s home safe. We will never forget all of you, your fellow soldiers, and your family’s sacrifices. We know you give all that you are every single day to maintain our freedom. So my question to anyone reading this is: how would you thank a soldier? Would you shake their hand? Give them your seat? I would love to hear your stories.

See you soon,
~ Mary QVC

Happy Mother's Day!! And in honor of Mother's Day I thought I would take the opportunity to share one of my mom's favorite recipes with you. 

Mom's Swedish Rice Pudding

Ingredients:

1 heaping cup medium grain rice (not instant)

1/2 gallon whole milk

6 egg yolks (saving the egg white)

1 cup sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

2 teaspoon lemon flavor

Rinse the rice in a strainer. Heat milk on the stove top and then add rice. Cook rice over medium heat until rice is soft. Add sugar and salt to rice after it is soft. Beat 6 egg yolks then add them to the rice mixture stirring fast. Add vanilla and lemon. Remove from heat. As pudding cools, fluff every ten minutes, Great served warm or cold. Add cinnamon and/or raisins as desired. 

Hello, foodies…

I hope you all saw my special Mother’s Day post yesterday and have a sweet treat baking for mom or grandma. I can’t be with my mom on mother’s day, so I’d like to give a GREAT big shout out to her now…Happy Mother’s Day, Mom! You are my biggest cheerleader. You’ve always told me that through hard work and determination I can achieve anything. I love you with all my heart!

We’re honoring LOTS of important people this Sunday on In the Kitchen with David foodies…moms and all of our veterans! Our virtual road trip continues as we head to our next military base…Camp Lejune in Jacksonville, North Carolina. Our girl Mary kindly blogged about the Marine base and its history for us…be sure to check out her post.

And we’d like to thank Ann from Jacksonville for her entry!

Ann has lived in Jacksonville all her life and her husband is a Vietnam vet. (Thank you for your service!) In her entry, foodies, Ann wrote that Camp Lejune is really important to the economy of Jacksonville and the surrounding towns. “The locals and military families really work together and depend on each other. We are a very patriotic community and try to emotionally support our military families,” she says.

Ann also told us that the seafood in Jacksonville is some of the VERY best. (I’ll go even further and say the seafood in the entire state of North Carolina is some of the best.) So to all our friends in North Carolina and at Camp Lejune, we’d like to honor you with some Hush Puppy Fried Shrimp!

Hush Puppy Fried Shrimp
Serves 4–6

Ingredients:

• 2–3 quarts oil
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 Tbsp lemon juice
• 1 Tbsp ketchup
• 1 Tbsp + a dash hot sauce
• 2-1/2 tsp honey
• 1-3/4 tsp salt, divided
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup self-rising cornmeal
• 3/4 cup self-rising flour
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/8 cup grated onion
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup beer
• 2 tbsp. milk
• 1 egg beaten
• 1-1/2 pounds small shrimp, peeled, tail removed and deveined

Directions:

1. Heat oil in a 375°F deep fryer or large saucepan.
2. To prepare the dipping sauce, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, ketchup, 1 Tbsp hot sauce, honey, 3/4 tsp salt, and the black pepper in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and set aside.
3. Combine the cornmeal, flour, 1 tsp salt, sugar, and paprika in a large bowl. Combine the grated onion, buttermilk, beer, milk, egg, and dash of hot sauce in another small bowl. Add the liquid ingredients to the dry ingredients and whisk until smooth.
4. In batches of 8–10, dip the shrimp into the batter to coat, letting any excess batter drip back in the bowl. Carefully drop the shrimp into the hot oil and fry until golden brown. Remove and drain the shrimp on paper towels. Serve with the dipping sauce.

This recipe is prepared using the Emeril by T-Fal Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Oil Filtration (K40057).

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

Foodies, I’ll see you Sunday at Noon ET. Mother of three Marlene Koch is back with her latest cookbook, Eat What You Love Everyday. If you’re thinking about trying a healthier-eating lifestyle, or you’re looking for a terrific gift idea, consider Marlene’s book. For your blog question today tell me something about your mom, grandma, or motherly figure in your life. Does she make the best chocolate cake on earth? Does she always know exactly what to say? Is she the greatest listener you’ve ever known?

Keep it flavorful!
—David

Summer in Pennsylvania is taking a little while to get here, but that's ok with me. Spring is my favorite season, and in my opinion makes perfect outdoor grilling weather. There are fewer bugs around (I'm a bit of a baby about bugs!) and the colors of the trees and blossoms around me are spectacular and lovely to look at. Here's my view from where I do all my spring and summer cooking. You see, I could stand there for hours quite happily... 

Just as I love getting back into the kitchen in the fall, it's so liberating to get out of the kitchen in the spring and summer. This summer, I plan on doing a lot of cooking outside. With a grill that you like and the tools to make grilling easy, there's really nothing more fun than cooking outdoors. My gas grill is not huge, but it's solid and kicks off a good amount of heat. It was actually a gift from my lovely neighbors, which warms my heart every time I use it. 

I've used several different types of BBQ baskets and pans in my time. Some of them are simply to help prevent foods from falling through the cracks. Others are to help prevent flare-ups on the grill. Others still are just cookware pieces that are grill safe. Today's Special Value BBQ pan (K40443) has three great benefits from its design. First of all, it does help prevent a flare up on the grill, which is fantastic. It keeps your food from getting charred on the outside before being cooked on the inside. Though many people think flame and fire is good for food, honestly soot on your food doesn't taste good! Even if there is a flare-up in your grill, the BBQ pan protects the food from it. The pan is also non-stick, which makes moving your food around the grill stress free! And, yes, the BBQ pan means that you can put small foods in the pan and they won't fall through the cracks. 

All that is great, but there's one more thing that I really love about this pan that isn't really advertised. I think this pan makes THE most moist burgers and chicken breasts! A grill can really dry out foods with its intense heat, but this pan helps protect a little from that heat, while still imparting the BBQ flavor. Try it! You will agree, I know you will! I also love that I can remove all the food from the grill with one movement, but that's second to the food results you can get with this pan.

It's also fun to grill things you might not have grilled before... like my grill tribute to David Venable - Brussels Sprouts and even Brussels Sprouts pizza!

There's no doubt you can have fun outside on your grill. But there's more to cooking outside than just cooking. I love the feeling of freedom you get when you're outside doing something that you usually do inside. It's exciting and peaceful at the same time. Plus, I get to just hanging outside with Sadie who also loves the freedom.  I think she appreciates nature's colors too!

Comment below with your favorite foods to cook on the grill and let's get this grilling season started!

ML

I always get asked if our QVC guests and hosts are really as nice in person as they seem on TV.  In Susan Graver’s case the answer is that she is even nicer in person! 

I happened to see a Christmas day segment on Susan and her family filmed at her little beach getaway.  A couple months later I asked her where it was and how she liked it since my family still hadn’t found the beach location on this coast that we feel a strong connection with.  We got to talking and next thing I know she is offering up her place for me to take my hubby for his 40^th birthday!  Truly, I was overwhelmed with gratitude. 

We drove up on a Sunday in April (coincidentally right after I got off the air with Susan) and we were giddy with excitement.  It was a gorgeous spring day.  We arrived at her place, located on a strip of land between the bay and the sound, and wasted no time heading to the shore.

The water was so clear and different shades of blue.  The colors played off the off white sand and rock beach and made you feel like you were in the Caribbean.  The area is rather protected so there wasn’t any wind on the sound side.  We grabbed a couple of Susan’s gravity free chairs and took in the view.

We walked no more than a half city block, across the small rural street, through the side yard and we were in the Gravers' back yard on the bay. I could imagine family picnics and Fourth of July parties spent on the lawn, the small dock that could be home to a boat that the kids could paddle out to the bay on, or even a larger boat that the family could use to sail south for the winter.

We weren’t more than an hour from bustling civilization but the home felt like it was a world away.  I found myself wondering what the people who lived out here did for a living and how I could do that too!  It feels like island life.  We drove to the nearest grocery store and bought some food & wine for a dinner at home.  While we were in “town” we browsed the few quaint shops and followed the main street down to the water where this boating community came to life.  

Hubby and I are both big boaters in fact you can read all about how we used to live on a boat in a previous blog, so just to see the sail boats made us happy.  Our perfect retreat is one that’s on the water and close to boats.  Looking back at this picture I snapped with the harbor behind us, I feel like we even look younger just by taking a step back in our own history, if only in our minds.

When we got back, I had to explore the house a little…. I mean after all I was in Susan Gravers house!  It was a surreal experience.  Such an awesome amazing woman who designs gorgeous clothes and accessories and linens and I was getting to sleep in her guest room!

As you can imagine the place was decorated brilliantly.  It’s a mix of shabby chic and old English with accents of artwork from her talented son and soon to be daughter in law.  After cuddling up as the sun set (in a plush white Dennis Basso throw we found on her couch) we fell asleep early because that’s what parents of young children do when they have a night away. 

We woke to a gorgeous sunrise over the water in front of our plush bed. Wow, just wow!

I took a run on the beach and let the birthday boy sleep. I ran for miles and saw not a soul; my footprints the only ones in the sand.  The shore was wild and you could see the impact of the winter, but it was all so beautiful.  There were very few homes mixed between farm and forest land. I even saw a ton of horses in stables during my run on the beach! I was inspired to keep going and was rewarded with finding this little home all alone by the water.  It is honestly my dream cottage.  Right on the water, lots of windows.  Oh to dream…

After coffee by the water, hubby and I took a walk so I could show him my find.  We did so much exploring that I ended up well over my goal on my daily steps. Bonus!

Even though it was his 40^th birthday, we still had life and children to return to, so our trip was short, but oh so sweet.  We drove home feeling like we had escaped reality for 24 hours.  I am so grateful to Susan for her generosity and for making us feel so at home in such a magical place.

Follow my daily adventures at www.facebook.com/kerstinlindquistqvc

Have a blessed day!

Kerstin

I can’t imagine any greater gift than having a wonderful mother. I had one, and I’m grateful every day. I love the Abraham Lincoln quote, “All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.”

This weekend, we’ll be celebrating and honoring mothers. So to all the moms I say -- Happy Mother’s Day!

Below are pictures of my three favorite moms........

My mom and me

My sister, Mona and me

My sister-in-law, Denise (with my brother Clint and nephews Blake and Andrew

See you in the morning for AM Beauty and AM Style!
Leah 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are there minutes included with this phone? A: Yes, offer includes 1,200 minutes, 1,200 texts, and 1,200 MB of data with 1 year of service when activated within 60 days.

Q: Exactly how do these minutes work? A: You receive 1,200 minutes to use for talking (incoming and outgoing calls), 1,200 text messages for texting (sent and received) and 1,200 MB of data for web browsing.

Q: Who is the carrier/network provider? A: TracFone.

Q: Is there a model number? A: SA S738C.

Q: How soon do I have to add the minutes? A: You have 60 days from QVC order date to receive the Promotional Airtime PIN from the automated system (1-888-238-0828).

Q: Do I need to activate my phone right away? A: You have 60 days from the QVC order date to activate service using the Promotional Airtime PIN.

Q: Can you use the phone's other features on Wi-Fi without activating the service? A: Certain apps may function on Wi-Fi but not all. Talking and texting will not work solely on Wi-Fi, service must be activated.

Q: If the phone is returned before using all the time purchased, will there be a refund on unused time? A: No, refunds on funds paid to TracFone.

Q: Is a complete owner's manual included? If not, where can it be found? A: No. You may visit TracFone for interactive tutorials: http://tracfone.deviceanywhere.com/tracfone/home.seam? custId=TFSAS738C&locale=en_US

Q: Do you use minutes if you are texting on a Wi-Fi network? A: Yes, while connected to a Wi-Fi access point; you will still be deducted minutes for talking and text messages for texting.

Q: Will it work with Adobe Flash programs? A: No.

Q: Can I move my existing cell phone number to the new phone? A: Yes.

Q: If I move my phone number from a different carrier, will the unexpired minutes transfer? A: Other carrier airtime/minutes will NOT transfer to TracFone.

Q: If I transfer my number from a different Tracfone phone, will the unexpired minutes transfer? A: Yes, certain restrictions may apply. You must keep the existing TracFone number and select "transfer my number and service from one TracFone device to another". Only Pay As you Go or Value Plans TracFone numbers are eligible and the number transfer must be done at time of device activation. Safelink, lifeline, Straight Talk and other TracFone programs may not be eligible to transfer to Android Device or transfer minutes/unused balances. See TracFone for complete details.

Q: Can I transfer my landline phone number to this phone? A: Yes, please allow up to five days for the port to complete. You may be without service during this time. Once the port is completed, your landline phone will cease to operate.

Q: Can you make calls to Canada or Mexico? A: Yes, visit www.tracfone.com/ild for full listing of TracFone's International Destination calling.

Q: Can you use the phone in Canada to call the US? A: No, this phone will not work in other countries/overseas.

Q: Can the phone be used for international calls? A: Yes, visit www.tracfone.com/ild for full listing of TracFone's International Destination calling.

Q: What are the names of the countries you can call? A: Visit www.tracfone.com/ild for full listing of TracFone's International Destination calling.

Q: Can I download Android apps to this phone? A: Yes.

Q: Where do you get the apps? A: Download apps at Google Play Store. You must have a Google/Gmail account to access the Play Store.

Q: Does the phone have speech-to-text capability? A: Yes, press the microphone on the Google Search bar and tell the phone what you would like to do.

Q: How many megapixels does the camera feature? A: 3MP.

Q: Does it have a flash for the camera? A: No.

Q: Is the phone 3G- or 4G-capable? A: 3G.

Q: Is the phone Wi-Fi capable? A: Yes.

Q: Can it be used as a wireless hotspot? A: No.

Q: Are minutes charged if I text where there is Wi-Fi? A: Yes, while connected to a Wi-Fi access point, you will still be deducted minutes for talking and text messages.

Q: Can you watch videos or download music to the phone? A: Yes.

Q: Does it support YouTube video? A: Yes.

Q: Can you get AOL and Yahoo email on this phone? A: Yes.

Q: Can you give different ringtones to different contacts? A: Yes.

Q: Does it have visual voicemail? A: You can download an app for visual voicemail.

Q: Does this have voicemail and caller ID? A: Yes.

Q: Do I get free 911 calls? A: Yes.

Q: Can I send and receive pictures on this? A: Yes.

Q: Can the firmware be updated? If so, how? A: Firmware is currently up to date and any further updates would come directly from Tracfone.

Q: Does it have a GPS app for getting directions? A: Yes.

Q: Does this have Internet access? A: Yes.

Q: Does it require an antivirus program? A: No.

Q: Does it have push-to-talk like a walkie talkie? A: No.

Q: Is there a credit check? A: No.

Q: Do minutes round up or down? A: Round up.

Q: Does billing begin at the start of the ring or at the beginning of the call? A: Beginning of the ring.

Q: Does this one price per month include all taxes and fees? A: This is a pay-as-you-go service, not a monthly service. Purchase TracFone airtime. Taxes and fees are additional.

Q: Are local and long distance calls the same price? A: Yes.

Q: Is mobile-to-landline included? A: You are deducted minutes for any outgoing/incoming call.

Q: How do you activate the phone? A: Follow instructions on the Welcome Guide titled Start Here, enclosed with your shipping package. Call 1-888-238-0828 to receive your Promotional Airtime PIN number. Once you have the Promotional Airtime PIN number, contact TracFone to activate the phone by visiting www.tracfone.com and select Activate Phone. If you call TracFone at 1-800-867-7183, activate through the phone-automated system.

Q: Are there activation fees? A: No.

Q: Do the airtime minutes expire? A: Yes.

Q: Are there termination fees or penalties if I stop using the phone? A: No.

Q: Can I buy airtime for this phone at Walmart, CVS, etc.? A: Yes, you can purchase TracFone Airtime Cards.

Q: Is termination required? A: Termination is not required, but your line and service will be terminated if you do not add service by your designated service end date.

Q: How do I find out which areas will not provide wireless service? A: Please visit the coverage link on QVC.com or contact Tracfone directly to verify coverage in your area.

Q: Will it scan bar codes? A: No.

Q: How do I check my Airtime Balance? A: TracFone has launched their Account Balance App, available for the Android device through the Google Play store.

• Go to the Google Play store (you must have a Gmail account to access the Google Play Store)      
• Search "Tracfone"
• Select the APP called "Tracfone My Account" (the developer will be TracFone)
• Click INSTALL
• ACCEPT the APP permissions
• The TracFone My Account App and Widget will download to your device
• Open the App to view your current Airtime Balance

• Add the TracFone MY Account WIDGET to one of your screens. Click on Update Balance on the widget to receive real time airtime balance information. Click on your MENU button Select the WIDGETS tab at the top Scroll until you find MY ACCOUNT Press and hold the Widget and place on one of your screens.

Q: Can you transfer a contact list from another phone to this phone? A: Contacts can be transferred from another phone via Bluetooth or other third-party apps.

Q: If you transfer minutes from another Tracfone, will they expire at the same time the included Promotional Minutes expire? If not, when would they expire? A: When you add the promotional minutes and service days to your new TracFone Android with an existing minute and service day balance from a previous TracFone, the promotional minutes and service days will be added to your current balances - nothing is erased or overwritten. This is known as TracFone Unlimited Carry Over. This benefit is available anytime you add an Airtime card to your TracFone. You do not need to wait until your service end date to replenish your service since minutes and days are added to your current balance.

Q: Will my existing minute balance triple from my old TracFone Android to my New TracFone Android? A: No, your existing minute and service day balances will transfer "AS IS" to your new TracFone Android device when you transfer your existing TracFone wireless number to you new TracFone. Your promotional minutes and service days will be added to your existing balances with TracFone's Unlimited Carry Over benefit.

Q: TracFone transferred my existing balances to my new TracFone Android. How do I add my Promotional Airtime PIN number I received from the Wireless Center? A: You may add your 15-digit promotional Airtime PIN number in the following ways: visit www.tracfone.com and select ADD AIRTIME then select ADD CARD ONLINE. A pop-up window will appear. Enter your 15-digit Airtime PIN number and your TracFone Wireless Phone number in the appropriate fields. Do not enter anything in "Have a promo code? field. Click on SUBMIT . Or, download the TracFone My Account APP from the Google Play store (this is your airtime display for TracFone Android). Select "Add PIN" from the APP and enter the 15-digit PIN number in the field. If you need further assistance, please contact The Wireless Center, provide your QVC order number, and they can add your PIN for you.

Information provided by TracFone.

On Wednesday, we’re taking a virtual trip to the Army base in Ft. Campbell, KY (which is technically in Kentucky AND Tennessee) It’s a huge training base and home of the Screaming Eagles of the 101st Airborne – the Army’s only Air Assault Division. Similar to some of the other bases we’ve talked about, Ft. Campbell also has active duty service men and women working side-by-side with civilian contractors to provide the latest and greatest in training for our soldiers headed to war zones.

One of those companies is General Dynamics IT Systems at the Ft. Campbell Kinnard Mission Training Complex. They have 65,000 employees comprised of civilians and active soldiers on base. Soldiers get the opportunity to train here with cutting edge virtual technology. One employee states, “It’s a privilege to have a training facility like this one.” A personal note: to all of the employees and soldiers there, thank you for keeping our active duty soldiers safer in active zones.

As we honor Army soldiers this week, I’d also like to take a moment to recognize Army Reservists! THANK YOU for your service and for your readiness in mobilizations. Your participation in Battle Assembly, Annual Training, and Individual Ready Reserve is selfless. We owe you our sincerest gratitude.

As you all may know, I have a soft spot in my heart for Army soldiers, as my dad is a retired officer and he did A LOT. He started out in Armor (tanks and horses) and ended up in Aviation. I asked him once why he switched and he said, “Well, helicopters are like trucks that could jump trees.” I get it! My dad was an attack helicopter pilot for 22 years. He flew every type of helicopter that the Army had and his very favorite helicopter (to fly) was the Blackhawk because it was big, fast, stable, and all-weather. He was also Airborne-qualified, Air Assault-qualified, Ranger-qualified, Jumpmaster-qualified, and a Naval Dunker School graduate. (Back then it was extra schooling; now it’s required.) In Desert Storm, he was the Corps Aviation officer and watched over all the helicopters in the 18^th Airborne Corps (1,200 birds)!

My dad was born to lead. He commanded three companies as a Captain and a Major; he commanded two battalions as a Lt. Col; and he commanded a brigade as a Colonel. He is also a Veteran--Dad had two tours in Vietnam and a tour in Desert Storm. Please forgive my gratuitous boasting…I have to do it here because he won’t let me do it when he’s around. He doesn’t see his commands, various medals, and commendations as a proud story, it was his honor. And, all of the Army soldiers I have had the privilege of knowing in my life feel exactly the same way.

Today I got the chance to write about my Army Dad, so I sure would love to hear about the military men and women in your family! Was your mom, dad, aunt, or grandfather in the service? I sure would love to hear about them. Please pass on our thanks to them, if you are able! ~ Mary QVC

Hello, foodies…

I feel like we’re playing a MUCH more exciting version of the license plate game this month on In the Kitchen with David. You know, the first person to spot as many out-of-state license plates wins! We’ve been to Washington, Rhode Island, and North Carolina and this Wednesday night we’re heading to Kentucky to honor the Army troops at Fort Campbell. Mary DeAngelis has been our military correspondent this month and of course she wrote a blog for us about Fort Campbell—thank you, Mary!

I’d like to give a great big shout out to Abbey from Clarksville, Tennessee for nominating her husband’s base!

I was going to try to tell you a little about Abbey, but I just love her entry and wanted to share it!

I'm an army wife and my husband is stationed at Fort Campbell Kentucky. He's currently deployed to Afghanistan but would love to know that y'all might come to Fort Campbell! Fort Campbell is home of the 101st Screaming Eagle Airborne Division—the soldiers of the 101st are some of the most famous in our country's history! They were the first to parachute into Normandy on D-Day in WWll.

The series Band of Brothers was based off of 101st soldiers and the division is one of the most highly decorated in the entire army. The pride that all of the soldiers have for their country and their division is just awesome. The sense of community is really a wonder to see. This was my husband’s first duty station and I was terrified to move so far from Dallas and all of our family but we were welcomed here with open arms! The support from the surrounding community is enormous. The city of Clarksville is very proud to have the 101st as a part of the community.

A unique place to eat here (which happens to be my absolute favorite)is the Blackhorse Pub! They brew their own beer (5 or 6 kinds) and all of the food is awesome. We've been here for 3 years in May and we've eaten at Blackhorse as a family of two, three, and now four! There is something for all of us. It can be a place for a fun date night or a great place to get out and have a wonderful meal with your family.

I have been watching you religiously for at least the past 5 years! And my now 18 month old son loves to watch you and for us to "read" your cookbook! I would be so incredibly honored if you all came to the post that we call home!

Abbey, I’m honored to “know” someone like you and think I speak for our entire family of foodies when I say, THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR SACRIFICE! We are indebted to you and pray your husband returns safely—not to mention soon!

When we first got Abbey’s entry and she told us about the Blackhorse Pub, I got a craving for a Flat Iron Steak Sandwich. So, Abbey, hungry Fort Campbell soldiers, this is for you!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 3 Tbsp prepared horseradish
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 3 tsp salt
• 1-1/2 tsp black pepper
• 4 cups sliced onions (1/4"-thick slices)
• 2 Tbsp butter
• 2 lbs flat iron steaks, room temperature
• 2 Tbsp oil
• 8 (5-6" long) club rolls, split vertically 3/4 of the way through
• 2-1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

Preparation:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Combine the mayonnaise, horseradish, Worcestershire, mustard, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. Melt the butter in a medium-size skillet over medium heat. Add the onions, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper to the pan. Sauté the onions until they're browned and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Season the steaks on both sides with 2 tsp salt and 1 tsp pepper. Heat the oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steaks to pan and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they're browned. When second side has browned, place the skillet into oven. After 5 minutes, flip the steaks and continue to cook until the internal temperature has reached 135°F (medium-rare) or 140°F (medium), about 10-15 minutes. Remove the pan from the oven, cover the steaks with foil, and let them rest for 5 minutes.
5. While the steaks are resting, place the rolls on a baking sheet, cut side up, and divide the cheese among the rolls. Then divide the caramelized onions among the rolls. Place the baking sheet with the rolls into the oven and bake until the cheese has melted, about 5-8 minutes.
6. When the steaks have finished resting, transfer them to a cutting board and thinly slice the steaks across the grain. Divide the meat among the rolls and top with about 1 Tbsp of the horseradish sauce.

This recipe is prepared using the Prepology® Revisable Use Carving Station with 8" Serrated Knife in Red (K38876).

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

Foodies, I’ll see you this Wednesday at 8pm ET.

Keep it flavorful!
—David

If you ask me what I am most passionate about (besides my family), I will always say “travel.” When I was a little girl, I was fascinated with the idea of visiting foreign lands. I would pour over National Geographic magazines and watch 60 Minutes with my dad, hoping to catch a glimpse of what the rest of the world looked like. 

During my 20’s, time and money were constricted as I was busy putting myself through college and vacations were far from feasible. However, as soon as I got my first real job in television news, I started figuring out a ways to see the world. For work or pleasure, it didn’t matter. During my time spent as a reporter, I was given the opportunity to travel to both Europe and Africa. As I have gotten older and left my career in journalism, my desire to travel has only grown stronger, because now I am able to take my children with me!

I keep a separate bank account for travel and try to contribute to it during the year.  Once the bills are paid, if I have to choose between shoes and handbags, household projects, or a trip – I’ll pick the trip every time! Over the years, I have figured out ways to cut costs. Sometimes the less expensive route has taken me places I could never have imagined.

For instance, during a backpacking trip through Vietnam, my friends and I paid about three or four dollars to sleep on the floor of a Hmong family’s home. To get there, we hiked through fields, miles from the closest town, Sapa. When we arrived at their village, it was just a couple of mostly dirt floor buildings nestled in a small patch of jungle, surrounded by gorgeous, terraced fields.  I'll never forget walking across a narrow bridge over a wet rice paddy to use the outhouse. When I opened the door, a chicken flew out and into my face! Thinking about that still makes me laugh. But the highlight of that trip was certainly spending time and eating dinner with our hosts, a beautiful couple and their five children.

It was just a few weeks after September 11, 2001, but our hosts knew nothing about the attack on the World Trade Center and they were confused as to how we traveled from New York to Vietnam.  Through a translator, the father asked if we drove to his country. The idea that we had flown to Vietnam hadn’t occurred to him. He said he had never seen an airplane but had once seen a train years before. He was very excited to learn about our flight experience. Never had I felt so important for having been on an airplane before!

Another culture shock moment for me was how fascinated the five children were by our digital cameras. They had never seen pictures of themselves before. Can you imagine?

It was such an honor to be a guest in their home. They may have long forgotten me, but I will never forget them. I often wonder how much of the modern world has since changed their daily lives. For all I know, they are hooked on their iPhones now, but at that point in time, the outside world had rarely touched their daily regime. That adventure changed my perspective on the world and will always be one of my greatest life experiences. Plus, I somehow managed to spend way less on that trip than if I had gone to Disneyworld or the Jersey Shore (two other destinations I also like.)

Since that first trip to Asia, I’ve been to China five times and spent a few weeks in Northern Thailand. In fact, the most important trip of my life was traveling to Lanzhou, China to adopt my oldest daughter.  Becoming a mom so far away from home was surreal and magical. I’ll never forget how it felt to feel my heart expand, so full of love, as I looked down at my baby during morning walks along the Yellow River. 

In recent years, my husband and I have come up with affordable ways to keep traveling with children in tow.  Two years ago, after coming home from a wonderful trip to Spain, so many people asked us how we enjoyed the food. We joked that with two kids, ages nine and two, we didn’t eat at many fancy restaurants, but we managed to visit every public playground in Barcelona! 

Here we are in Mallorca, Spain.

My oldest daughter and husband in Paris being photo-bombed by the Mona Lisa! 

My family in Ireland.

My husband actually laid on his back to capture this picture of my oldest daughter, her ice cream cone, and the Eiffel Tower!

Not all of our trips are abroad. In fact, now that my youngest is able to walk longer distances, I’m anxious to start hiking more of our National parks.

Here we are in Telluride, CO. We were visiting lifelong family friends!

Looking at ants (and enjoying some incredible scenery)— at Mt. Tamalpais, California.

I’m not sure exactly why I love travel so much. Maybe it runs in the family. My parents have the same travel bug.. and now my kids can point at a globe and tell you exactly where they want to go next. I’m thinking Iceland, but I’m always open to suggestions! What is your most memorable travel moment and where would you like to go most?

You can find traveling photos and more my on Facebook page {Sandra Bennett QVC}, and be sure to follow me on Twitter @SandraQVC! 

Sweeps

Hello my LCNY fashionistas....happy belated Mother's Day.  I hope you had a wonderful weekend with family and friends.  I was lucky enough to have all of my children, plus my son in law and one soon-to-be and my parents.  Both Bryan and Matt's parents joined us which made it even more of a special event.  I was reflecting on mothers day and after reading the wonderful cards my children gave to me.......we as Moms really do shape the future.

We start off with a newborn in our arms with NO knowledge of what to do, no classes, no license or learners permit.  We go home just having that instinct.  As they grow older we have rocked them to sleep, bandaged bad knees and broken hearts, stayed up all night fighting fevers and bad dreams, made school projects out of nothing, cheered lovingly from the stands, fought many a battle over homework and most importantly taught them how to be a good person. In a wink of an eye they are out the door to college, new apartment and perhaps marriage.

So how do we know we have succeeded in the most important job we will ever do? Ahhhhhh, that is the ultimate test.  My mother, my best friend, the love of my life on Mother's Day said to me " your father and I do not tell you enough but we are so proud of you .....of the woman you have become and the incredible mother you are".  "You are the wind beneath their wings." Her words meant the world to me. The job never ends...very little pay, exhausting at times, always second guessing yourself, but.......the best title I have ever had .......MOM.  For all the Moms out there from my mom's lips to your ears....you are the wind beneath their wings... See you tomorrow at 9am with MBR.

Linda:)

Veggie / Fruit Salad

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch of broccoli
• 1 cup seedless red grapes
• 1 cup seedless green grapes
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 bunch chopped green onions (scallions)
• 1/2 pound bacon
• 1 cup slivered almonds
• 1 cup Mayonnaise or Miracle Whip
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar

We all have our beauty secrets, don't we? And, at the same time, we all can get stuck in a routine that may no longer be an ideal fit. That's why we designed our Beauty Truth or Dare event to show a whole new side of beauty.

Our hosts and guests know how hard it can be to break away from old habits and take risks. But they also understand that the end result can be something truly fabulous—even more so when it's unexpected. That's why you'll see some of your favorite QVC faces in two special videos we put together just for this event!

First, see who's dishing up beauty truths, divulging everything from the products they can't be without to demonstrating unique ways to get your look just right. And they didn't stop there. We've got gutsy volunteers daring to take on challenges to get them out of their comfort zones and make a real difference in their daily routines.

Making a new discovery—whether it's a great product or something you just didn't know about—is a wonderful way to kick-start a beautiful day and inspire a fresh point of view! Thank you so much for joining us. We wish you a journey filled with enlightening experiences and the desire to never stop trying new things.

Our first pool party of the year was wonderful!  The weather was a little unpredictable.  It was warm and sunny in the morning then by afternoon the clouds started rolling in.  We fired up the grill for the burgers, chicken, ribs and hot dogs of course (can't have a BBQ without hot dogs slightly burned on the outside).  Our family pitched in with side dishes, potato salad, green salad, pasta salad & deviled eggs.  

Later in the afternoon it started to rain again so everyone moved inside. Perfect timing because everyone was ready for round two of the food.  Some went for the savory others went for the sweets.  Mini cheese cakes, lemon squares, German chocolate cup cakes & apple cobbler. (Sorry, I was having so much fun I forgot to get pictures of the food)  The sun came out again so we headed outside for some more pool time and line dancing.  My cousins Dorelle & Donna taught us some new moves.  By the end of the day my Fitbit registered over 18,000 steps!!  On Sunday, James, Ricky and the girls cooked breakfast for us and we spent the day relaxing by the pool.  It was a great weekend!  

We couldn't get my niece Avery out of the pool.  Kennady was the photographer for the group selfie.  All the women of the family posed for a Mother's & Daughters photo.Aunt Sylvia, Aunt Helen, Aunt Priscilla, Gramps, Grammy, cousin Donna, cousin Dorelle, my sister Cathy,  cousin Trish Lauren, Chelsea and I.

Uncle Walt was snoozing with a full belly.

Sunday was warm and sunny. We had breakfast outside then headed for the lounge chairs.

Cathy & Chelsea selfie

Buzz was tired after all of the events of the weekend. 

Thank you for reading!

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

Twitter: www.twitter.com/jaynebrown1

Instagram: www.instagram.com/jaynebrownqvc

Hi, everyone!

The newest episode of You’re Home with Jill airs tomorrow! All of my DIY projects and recipes have a Southwestern flair and I just love everything about this episode because I’m in love with that region of our country. I love the history, the people, the colors, and the incredible décor. On Friday, I shared one craft you’ll see tomorrow, DIY Dream Catchers, which turned out GREAT. (Who knew I could make an authentic dream catcher!?) Here’s the featured recipe you’ll see in tomorrow’s show: Sangria!

Red Wine Sangria

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of your favorite red wine (Merlot of Pinot Noir work well)
• 1 (48-oz) bottle of pomegranate-blueberry juice
• 6 oz brandy
• 1 cup fresh blackberries
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 1 cup fresh blueberries

Directions:

1. Combine all of the ingredients in a large pitcher and let steep for 3 hours, or overnight. When ready to serve, garnish with a sprig of fresh basil.

White Wine Sangria

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle of your favorite white (Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay works well)
• 1 (48-oz) bottle of Lemonade
• 6 oz Lemoncello liqueur
• 1 cup fresh lemon slices
• 1 cup fresh lime slices
• 1 cup fresh star fruit slices

Directions:

1. Combine all of the ingredients in a large pitcher and let steep for 3 hours, or overnight. When ready to serve, garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.

Do you recognize him? It’s Phillip Watson from Cottage Farms!? He’ll be stopping by tomorrow to help me with a gardening project. And, I may or may not have talked him into helping me make my sangria!

The sangria-making process can be a beautiful thing…

Because the flavors of the sangria need time to marry, you can’t make this drink on the spot for your guests. But, you can have some sangria already made and chilling in the fridge. This second batch can be a conversation starter and the backup in case your guests are really thirsty!

I’ll see you tomorrow at 7pm ET on QVC Plus or ANYTIME on QVC.com. You can access the video right from our homepage. And, after tomorrow, anytime on the You’re Home with Jillpage.

From my home to yours,
—Jill