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The Beauty of Hydration

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“If you were stuck on a deserted island, what would be your must-have beauty product?” As a skin expert, I’m consistently asked this question. My answer, every time: DermalQuench Liquid Oxygen Treatment!

Hydration is essential for healthy-looking, beautiful skin. DermalQuench contains ultra-small hyaluronic acid molecules to quickly deliver instant hydration to the skin—and hyaluronic acid can hold a thousand times its weight in water. When your skin is dehydrated, it doesn’t have that youthful glow. Think about how your skin feels when you’re traveling or exposed to dry, arid climates. It may look dry or fatigued, or it may feel tight. That’s why I always carry DermalQuench Liquid Oxygen Treatment on my flights. I love how my skin feels dewy and refreshed after using it. It offers both immediate and long-term results, with a unique foam formula designed to deliver fast release of ingredients to the skin. The secret to the formula is the HydraFill Complex, an advanced blend of ingredients to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, increase skin moisture, and improve skin radiance.

The inspiration for DermalQuench Liquid Oxygen Treatment was taken directly from my most sought-after clinic treatment. My celebrity clients booked DermalQuench for red carpets and special events because it helped produce flawless, glowing, beautiful-looking skin. It took me years to develop an at-home version of this treatment, but it was well worth it! It’s ideal for people concerned with the visible signs of aging, such as wrinkles and dryness. It also primes the skin perfectly for your other products and for makeup!

Tip: Always apply a moisturizer after DermalQuench to seal in the hydration.

See you on the Q!

Wishing you complexion perfection,

—Kate Somerville


Wedding Countdown!

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 It’s 2:30 in the afternoon on Friday September 12th.  I can’t help but think that this time next week I will be with my best friends and family getting a mani/pedi, talking about the Rehearsal Dinner complete with DJ, southern food, and funny stories.  I’m counting down the minutes. 

 

I can’t believe my wedding is just one week away.  It’s weird to even type that out.  It’s crazy to think that almost a year ago I wasn’t sure that I was going to be engaged anytime soon.  Now it’s full on crunch time to marry the man of my dreams!

 

Working at the Q day before I got engaged

 

Good News: Even though I’m having to call and reconfirm table linens, décor, flowers, food, table decor, exit vehicles, and food… I am ENJOYING every minute!  I honestly can’t wait to see how this is all pulled together because planning from so far away, you have your vision, and I can’t wait to see how this turns out.  You can RSVP to our BIG Day Video here: Wedding Video RSVP

 

 

My dress: Tuesday I will be headed up to the BIG Apple to get my beautiful Mark Zunino Gown.  Mark and his team have a been a dream come true to work with.  I absolutely LOVE my dress.  If you haven’t already RSVP’d to the Courtney Says I do… there will not only be all the behind the scenes footage leading up to the big day, coverage of our wedding, but you will get a see a BIG surprise when it comes to my dress.  Hint: You won’t see it coming :)

 

Emergency Bridal Kit: I’ll be honest; I have no idea what to pack for.   So far I can think of foundation, lipstick, tissues, band-aids, mints, and that’s about it.  Here’s where you come in… 1) What else do I need to put in my clutch? 2) What was the most surprising part of your BIG day? 3) Was there anything that came up you weren’t expecting? How did you handle it? Did you prefer not to know?!

 

My last question, any last words of advice for the upcoming week?  I’m trying to take it all in and secretly I want it to go by as slow as possible so I can remember and document everything. 

 

Don’t forget to RSVP to #CourtneySaysIdo and don’t forget to follow me on Twitter.  My friend Jennifer will be keeping you updating on Twitter during the reception so you can feel more apart of our big day.  I hope you’ll join us!

 

Until then,

XO,CC

http://www.facebook.com/CourtneyCasonQVC

http://twitter.com/CourtneyQVC

http://instagram.com/courtneycasonqvc

http://gather.qvc.com/member/CourtneyCason/

 

Find More Wedding Inspiration at Southern Living :)

bareSkin Beauty Today’s Special Value® offer- Featuring our latest complexion innovations

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bareMinerals bareSkin Beauty Radiant 7-piece Collection

The day is finally here! On Monday, September 15, get ready to be wowed again with our latest and greatest Today’s Special Value® offer, bareSkin Beauty 7-Piece Collection. Our first ever TSV® featuring the ground-breaking bareSkin Foundation and our brand-new bareSkin Perfecting Veil. These two complexion innovations are our latest superstars, changing the way women feel about foundation…again.

shake, drop, buffThere has been a lot of buzz about this collection, and rightfully so! bareSkin Foundation has taken the beauty world by storm. It’s our first ever liquid foundation that is like nothing you’ve ever seen or felt before. I describe the texture as "liquid silk." The ultra-thin fluid is a tone-correcting foundation and skin-care serum in one. The moment you buff a drop of this foundation onto your skin (with the Perfecting Face Brush that has blown everyone away), you will see and feel the difference. Finally…a liquid foundation that is super-lightweight, blends easily, gives buildable coverage, and the best part? Because it’s bareMinerals®, you know it’s something you'll love. Our products are formulated with our "less is more" philosophy. No oil. No silicone. No parabens. No fragrance. This foundation is our proudest product launch to date. Being the complexion experts we are, if we launch a foundation, it has to be THE BEST. This foundation will blow you away. I especially love it for the fall season— it gives me all the coverage I want, but still feels like nothing on the skin.

bareSkin Perfecting VeilbareSkin Foundation is the star of this TSV, but make way for its partner in crime…. Introducing the brand-new bareSkin Perfecting Veil. You know how some things are better together than they are apart? That is definitely the case with our new visionary veil, designed in tandem with bareSkin Foundation. This finishing product is so luxurious, so fine, it feels like cashmere on the skin. I want you to apply this right after bareSkin Foundation. And get ready for some blurring effects. At the office, we call this the "blurring machine." Believe me…you want to jump on the blurring machine bandwagon! When you buff this on the skin, it becomes one with bareSkin Foundation. They work in harmony to help soften and diffuse the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles, and help blur the appearance of pores, and imperfections. This blurred effect on the skin makes everything look and feel smoother and younger. Plus since the ingredient base is the same, you get additional brightening effects! We developed two shades, light-to-medium and tan-to-dark. You will get the perfect shade for you, based on the foundation shade you choose. I cannot wait to hear your reviews on this new Perfecting Veil. And its name is spot on, because it is pretty much perfect. :)

And now onto the gorgeous eye, cheek, and lip colors in the collection—all brand new! These colors scream fall, but what I love about them is that they truly are seasonless and will become staples in your beauty bag. They are some of the most gorgeous shades we’ve ever developed. Vintage Carnation Blush is a clove pink shade that sweeps the most natural looking color onto the cheeks, for that perfect fall morning blushing tone. And then for your eyes…(I’m seriously obsessing over this color—it reminds me of my favorite bareMinerals Eyecolor, Celestine, but better.) Luminous Umber Eyecolor is honestly the perfect mid-tone taupe brown shimmer. It’s a one swipe wonder, and gives you the most stunning eyes in just a few seconds. Just add your favorite eyeliner (I recommend the new Smoke & Define Duo) and mascara, and you’re ready to go. The bareSkin Beauty look is completed with a few swipes of Natural Beauty Marvelous Moxie Lipgloss—a soft garnet shade that is THE color for fall, a true must-have when it comes to lip!

Eyecolor in Luminous Umber, a cinnamon brown shimmer; Blush in Vintage Carnation, a clove pink shade

Marvelous Moxie Lipgloss in Natural Beauty, a soft garnet shade

There you have it, bareSkin Beauty. I am so thrilled about this TSV collection. It’s the best of both worlds—all about your most beautiful complexion, with the perfect complementing colors. Wait until you see this on YOUR skin! Please, please share your bareSkin Beauty stories with me on my Facebook page. I want to hear all of your comments and feedback! I just know you’re going to adore this TSV as much as I do.

Here’s to a beautiful fall, with even more beautiful skin…

—Jessica

Have a question about bareSkin Beauty, or any other bareMinerals products? We would love to chat with you! Post your questions here and we will be answering them from 12:00 am to 5:00 pm on Monday, September 15! Also, look for me on Facebook.

Mary Beth's Menu - Chicken Parisienne

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Chicken Parisienne
  • 4 to 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • salt, pepper and paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon rosemary or fresh sprigs (optional)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup
  • small container of sliced mushrooms 
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup flour
Sprinkle the chicken breasts with desired amount of salt, pepper, paprika ad rosemary. Place chicken in a roaster or crock pot. Mix water, soup, sour cream and flour until well blended. Pour over chicken and place mushrooms on top. Cover and cook on low (225 degrees) for 4-6 hours. Serve chicken and sauce over rice or noodles.
Counting our blessings, 
Mary Beth Roe

Marc Fisher Footwear Premiere Show 9/15 at 11:00 PM ET!

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Marc Fisher

There’s no other way for me to say it other than to simply state, I LOVE SHOES.  I always have. Having grown up in the footwear industry, shoes are in my DNA!

For me, its about bringing you beautiful, chic and wearable trends that fit, feel great and offer tremendous value.  

I want a woman to look down at her feet and smile.

See you on-air, Monday September 15th!

Marc

Shop QVC's full selection of Marc Fisher Footwear

 Marc Fisher Leather Ankle Strap Pumps - Hebe  Marc Fisher Leather Pointed Toe Ankle Boots - Julita

 Marc Fisher Leather Mid-shaft Boots - Deni Marc Fisher Leather and Stretch Over-the-knee Boots - Monica Marc Fisher Analosa Boot

The #FrugalFashionista Story

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You may have been seeing my #FrugalFashionista post on my Facebook page, I say it all the time on air: I consider myself a "frugal fashionista!"

And I know you probably do too! I don't know too many people who don't check the price tags before indulging their fashion sense. But I also don't know too many people who don't love growing their collection of accessories, jewelry, and clothing!

Before I came to QVC, I owned and operated four fashion boutiques in Texas. And I made it my mission to outfit my gals in super-cute styles at super-low prices. I ran fashion shows in the area using my own customers who put together their own looks on low budgets! It was so fun to see what us gals could put together on a dime. And I love continuing to do that on a national platform.

I thought it might be fun to throw together a few looks every now and then and share with you what I've done on my "mom budget" (you may spy some QVC goodies in there!) Keep checking my "Frugal Fashionista" collection on ToGather for bargain finds at the Q. I'll keep adding so we can all score some goodies and still have funds to spare. AND you can always count on your Frugal Fashionista to let you know about clearance deals and event pricing on things you love here at the Q :)

Share with me your clearance-rack finds using the #FrugalFashionista and let's do this on the regular! Here we go!

You'll often see me wearing this dress during jewelry shows...I got it at a consignment shop for $13!! Here I've added a Hobo handbag for "night-out" flair.

 

 

Ok, these jeans have to be over 10 years old...and I got them for no more than $20 but they are my favorites and I've worn them threadbare! I paired it with a G.I.L.I clearance blouse and (get this) a Tarte cosmetic bag than came with one of our TSV's!

Snagged this scarf by ordering via text message during one of Shawn's accessories shows! That short-sleeved turtleneck underneath is another thrift-shop find at $5.

Here's a selfie from right before going on air..jewelry by Honora, dress by mall clearance rack at $21.95.

from our recent QVC host photoshoot! I'm wearing shoes I used to carry at my shops. I think I sold them for $14.99.

 

See Ya on Tuesday!

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Hello my QVC family…how was everyone’s summer? (I know, I know… everyone says it is too short.)

I had a life-changing summer. And I am not exaggerating. I launched a series on NBC’s Today Show where I asked our viewers (and anchors) to give up something for 30 days…we called it the 30 Day Detox.  People gave up sweets, carbs, shopping…even negative self-talk…. so what did I give up? You won’t believe it…I gave up my Iphone. No email, no text, no computer., no internet for 30 days. For much of it, I travelled the world (with my best friend Shari… but mostly by myself.) I learned what it was like to just BE, with no distraction of modern technology (the only thing I had was a flip phone – so people had to call me if they wanted to talk to me.)  I am so much more present now…and happier. I am reading way more, am WAY more focused, and my interpersonal skills are WAY better. When I want to speak to someone …I call them…no more texts or emails because, “I don’t feel like calling.” I am so grateful for the time I had to dedicate to myself and getting myself centered and back-on-track.  Again,  for those of you who did it with me …THANK YOU!

Ps- I even learned how to fold towels into shapes! Now back to reality!

Now it is back to life…and back to my favorite topic, GETTING ORGANIZED! You know, that is my thing, and nothing makes me more excited than seeing a messy closet or a disorganized home, instantly transformed.

I am thrilled to be coming back to QVC with some of my best-sellers, but also with some new items, that will help you CLEAN UP! I am super pumped about my vacuum (all my friends are using the, “it far from sucks” joke. Vacuum puns haven’t stopped!)

I live in an apartment in Manhattan, and let’s just say, my closets are not as big as I would like them to be (understatement of the year.) I had this big, bulky vacuum that was taking up so much space & was so cumbersome. I always dreaded having to clean something up (which I do all the time) because I couldn’t bare to schlep that vacuum out of the closet. SO…I came out with a piece of art (I call it) that combines fashion and function. It is super-powerful, quick, easy-to-use, lightweight & fashionable…and it is affordable without compromising great quality. I pride myself on that & am so excited for you to get this home. This one piece of equipment will make your life so much easier. Now, let’s talk colors! 

The pink-lace is so feminine- perfect for any room and ideal for a dorm room (as it takes up little space) and it is so chic you can leave it out !  (People StyleWatch featured it this month as a must-have!) Plus—it is so gift-able for the holidays. What girl isn’t looking for a little lace?!

Also, I want to thank you all for your feedback on our blogs, Facebook and twitter pages. Because of all the comments, I brought back many of my best-sellers…excited to show you them again!

I am busting about my new hangers! So many of you got your closet organized with our 1stset and I know they have changed your lives for the better…giving you more time in the morning. I have come back with a pack bigger and better & have made adjustments that many have you have asked for. They will still give you up to 70% more room in your closet...and they are even stronger, have new cascading features & come in the most vibrant colors. Organize your bedroom closet, the man-in-your-life’s wardrobe & your hall closet with these…you’ll will be surprised at how much more room your have and how much nicer your closets will look. (plus!!! They come with this jewelry organizer that so many of you flipped over…for free!)

 

The rest of the items are all dedicated to make travelling look chic (and organized.)

Do you dread unpacking when you go away for a week or even a night? I sure do. So…I invented a duffel bag that turns into a hanging garment bag and back again. You pack your hanging clothes and the bottom of the bag on a hook…then your other belongings inside…when you get to your location…you just hang it right up! Presto! So happy everyone loved this item and we were able to bring it back! 

These accessory bags are great for makeup, toiletries, toys, crayons, and chargers…each pouch velcros out so you can easily transfer from bag to bag. Also, it comes with a hook so you can hang it right up. 

This tote will get you from the beach, to shopping, to a BBQ without missing a beat. The clutch detaches from the tote so you can go from day to night in a flash! This make a great gift for the holidays as well.


Can’t wait to see everyone on the 16th at 7am and at noon!

Happy to be back and let’s start the fall organizing…together!

Xo,

Jill 

Shop my simple solutions to help you stay organized!

Autumn Bread Pudding & Skinnytaste Recipes

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Hello, foodies...

It was a true pleasure working with Mario Batali yesterday...he is a talented chef with a dynamic personality and the cookbook he brought to QVC yesterday, America Farm to Table, is a celebration of fresh, local, healthful ingredients. If you missed his appearance and our Cookbook Corner(R) presentation, you can still purchase the book on QVC.com. And, in case you weren't aware, we now record the presentations of all of our on air items, so you can even watch yesterday's clip of Mario and me right on QVC.com. 

Lucky for me, QVC has a dynamite September planned with celebrity guests on In the Kitchen with David. This Wednesday, we're welcoming Gina Homolka, author, photographer and recipe developer of the very popular blog, Skinnytaste.com with her new book, The SkinnytasteCookbook. It's difficult to imagine that  Grilled Steak Sandwiches or a fall treat like Pumpkin Obsessed Vanilla Glazed Scones could be "lighter" recipes, but they are. And, I'll share those with you in a moment...first, I want you to keep painting this autumn picture for you with my recipe on Wednesday: Apple Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding. Foodies, sometimes the best recipes are some of the easiest. Watch and you'll see what I mean:

Apple Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding

Serves 12-15

Ingredients:

3 cups half-and-half

4 large eggs

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 Tbsp vanilla extract

3/4 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp salt

1-1/2 lbs store-bought, already baked cinnamon rolls, cut into 2" pieces

2 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and chopped into 1" pieces

4 oz cream cheese, cut into 1/2" pieces

Maple syrup, for drizzling 

Preparation:

Move an oven rack to the bottom of the oven and preheat to 300°F. Grease a 9" x 13" baking dish. Set aside. 

Whisk together the half-and-half, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated. Add the cinnamon rolls, apples, and cream cheese and gently toss until the custard completely coats all of the cinnamon-roll pieces and all of the liquid is absorbed. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan.

Bake until the custard is set and the top is lightly browned, about 60–70 minutes. Cut into portions and drizzle maple syrup on top of each serving. 

This recipe is prepared with the Temp-tations® Figural Floral 13" x 9" Baker with Wire Rack (K39671).

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

Apple Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding

​Many thanks to Gina for sharing both of these recipes with us...look for two more on my Facebook page. 

 Grilled Steak Sandwiches

Grilled Steak Sandwiches

SERVES 4

STEAK

14 ounces sirloin steak, trimmed of fat

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Freshly cracked black pepper

Cooking spray or oil mister

SANDWICHES

8 ounces whole wheat baguette, cut into 4 pieces

2 tablespoons yellow mustard

1/4 cup light mayonnaise

2 cups shredded romaine lettuce

1 large beefsteak tomato, sliced

For the steak: Season the sirloin with the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to taste.

Preheat a grill to high (or preheat a grill pan over high heat). Lightly rub the grates with oil or spray a grill pan with oil and add the steaks. Grill for about 3 minutes, turn the steaks over, and grill another 3 minutes for medium (cook longer or less according to your preference). Transfer the steak to a cutting board to rest for 5 minutes.

For the sandwiches: Split open each piece of bread, then spread each with 1/2 tablespoon mustard and 1 tablespoon mayonnaise. Divide the lettuce and tomatoes among the sandwiches.

Thinly slice the steak and divide it among the sandwiches and serve.

per serving (1 sandwich)

calories 350

fat 11 g

saturated fat 2.5 g

cholesterol 64 mg

carbohydrate 35 g

fiber 4 g

protein 28 g

sugars 5 g

sodium 571 mg

skinnyscoop

Always let cooked steak rest at least 5 minutes before slicing so that you don’t lose all those delicious juices. I’d rather keep them in my sandwich than let them collect on the cutting board.

Pumpkin Vanilla Scones

Pumpkin-Obsessed Vanilla-Glazed Scones 

Makes 12 scones

These light and fluffy buttermilk scones—made with pumpkin puree, fall spices, and a vanilla bean glaze—will warm up your home and fill it with an intoxicating scent that no fancy candle can come close to replicating. I’ve lightened these up substantially by using low-fat buttermilk instead of cream and replacing some butter with pumpkin puree. They taste just as good as any scone you would buy in a fancy coffee shop with half the calories.

Scones

Cooking spray or oil mister

1⁄2 cup cold lowfat 1% buttermilk

k1 large egg

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

5 tablespoons canned unsweetened pumpkin puree

1⁄4 cup packed dark brown sugar

1 vanilla bean

1 cup white whole wheat flour (I recommend King Arthur)

1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour, plus more for the work surface

1 tablespoon baking powder

2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

1⁄4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1⁄4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1⁄2 teaspoon kosher salt

3 tablespoons very cold butter, cut into small pieces

 

Glaze

2 tablespoons cold fat-free milk

1 cup powdered sugar, sifted

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Spray a baking sheet with oil.

For the scones: In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, vanilla, pumpkin puree, and brown sugar. Using the tip of a sharp knife, cut along the length of the vanilla bean to split it open. Scrape half of the seeds into the bowl and whisk well; reserve the remaining seeds for the glaze.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flours, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt. Using a pastry blender or 2 knives, cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Add the buttermilk mixture and stir until just moist.

Turn the dough out onto a floured work surface and knead lightly four times with floured hands. Transfer the dough to the baking sheet and shape in into a 9-inch round about ¾ inch thick. Using a knife, cut the dough all the way through into 12 wedges.

Bake until golden brown, 18 to 20 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool for about 10 minutes before glazing.

For the glaze: Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, whisk together the remaining seeds from the vanilla bean and the milk. In another medium bowl, add the powdered sugar. Using a spatula mix in the milk and combine well until it is mixed through and forms a thick glaze.

Put the scones on parchment or wax paper and drizzle the vanilla glaze over the scones using a spoon. Alternatively you can dip the tops of the scones into the glaze, and then let them sit on the paper to harden

Serve warm. Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers for up to 2 days.

Per serving (1 scone)

Calories: 172

Fat: 4g

Saturated fat: 2g

Cholesterol: 24mg

Carbohydrate: 32g

Fiber: 2g

Protein: 4g

Sugars: 15g

Sodium: 214mg

I'll see you on Wednesday at 8pm ET, foodies. 

Keep it flavorful!

--David


Flattitude!

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The legend of the ballet flat in fashion goes back to icon Audrey Hepburn.  Of course, the first flat shoe dates back 1000's of years, but fashion took notice when Audrey made it famous!  The story goes that Miss Hepburn was in Paris and went to see legendary designer Givenchy, in pencil slacks, a crisp white shirt, and ballet slippers. The look was born!  Here's a photo of my buddy, Amy Oselkin, in a classic Audrey Hepburn pose wearing theClarks Haydn Gloss Bendables Leather Loafer!

In my summers during college my job was working in a bridal salon. Loved it! And I remember that my boss told me that when the ladies wanted to wear a flat shoe, to make sure to tell them they needed a little lift. There was a trend for brides to want to wear real ballet slippers, and because there was no support or lift they would not feel good by the end of the event.   So when my wedding day came years later, I wanted to dance (and did!) so I wore a satin pump with a 2" heel.

But, today the flat is back and it has attitude, hence "flattitude!" This season shoes are having fun, and flats are having a ball! Go for some interesting accents like the great shoes below;

The Cat flat - Cliffs by White Mountain Roar Flats

The floral accent - Bella Vita Trish Suede Leather flats


The Flat with Accents - Sole Society Dylann Braided T-Strap Suede flat

The Patterned Flat - Bella Vita Patent Bow Detail Olivia Skimmers



Kindergarten, Preschool, and Life Lessons for Mom

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I’m living in this moment...or so I keep reminding myself. It’s taken me 36 years of constant worrying about tomorrow to get to a point where I’m not even thinking about tomorrow. Well actually, it took my baby going to kindergarten to get me to stop focusing on the next sunrise and just bask in this one.

You all told me when we adopted Grace and when I got pregnant with Georgia that we needed to cherish every moment because they grow so fast.

I did, and they did. 

But as a mom of practically twin babies, at the time, there is a lot of worrying about them. Wondering how to pay for them and focusing on the next time they (and I) sleep. Not so much living in the moment. But, I did savor every second of their babiness, maybe even more than most because it took me more than three years to get them. I honestly thought I might never be a mother and they are both truly miracles. There were none that survived before them, and though we've tried for years, no babies since. So yes, they are miracles… and yes, I am a very present mom. 

But in the days leading up to kindergarten something changed for me. I was taken by a physical overwhelming panic that I need to stop time.  

On back to school night I curled up in my five year olds chair at her cute little classroom table and looked up at her shiny new teacher. I felt nothing but faith in this adorable young woman. I believed she would love and care for my child for the seven hours each day that I would not. But, when one of the dads asked about first day drop off and this sweet little brunette teacher said in a loving way that we kind of "just push them out the door" the tears started to fall.  

And well, they kept falling for a couple days.

I wasn't the only one. Georgia and Grace were both weepy little mush puddles the days leading up to the first day of school. After a hard couple hours with fighting and pouting I finally asked what was going on and Grace burst into tears and said, "I'm just going to miss my sister."  Georgia cried her eyes out two years ago when Grace left our home headed to preschool (for all of two hours,) so I knew Kindergarten was going to be a huge adjustment for the little sister.

But On her first day, Grace was all smiles.  

She was adorable in her little blue dress and perfect pink backpack that dwarfed her little girl body. She was ready. I was not.

At drop off we all kept it together and cheered as we watched our first-born pulled into the arms of a caring counselor. My husband left for work and Georgia and I started out on our first day alone without Grace since the girls were born. I was okay for about an hour but then I got a text from hubby…

"I can't believe she is in Kindergarten, Now I’m crying."

…and just like that so was I. I tried to keep it from Georgia so she wouldn't be upset. But I couldn't stop crying. We went to Calista Grande to get my haircut and Maria was so kind and tried to keep my mind off missing my baby.

We then went to get Georgia’s toes painted for the first time. She loved it and we got to have a first together, something that is rare for the second born.

And slowly between haircuts & hugs there was a shift. I watched my second born relax into our new one-on-one role and I remembered that this moment was a gift. Instead of wishing that the clock would hurry up and get to three so I could pick up Grace, I started to savor every sweet slow second without her. I still missed her, but I didn't wish any time away.  

I have always thought, I can't wait until... winter is over... or this or that vacation...or the girls can tie their own shoes...or we can finally afford....?? But not anymore. I don't want to get to another moment but this one. Each second is a blessing. 

At the end of that first day of kindergarten, when I held my sweet girl in my arms after seven long hours apart, I felt so thankful that I had made it to that point. I savored that little girl’s body snuggling up against me. I knew in the back of my mind there would be a day that she wouldn’t jump into my arms after school but I wasn’t thinking about that. I was living in the moment. The lightly lingering baby smell, the sweet sound of her high voice, the feel of her smooth skin next to mine.

We celebrated with frozen yogurt …

…and a much needed nap.

…All that living in the moment is tiring.

The next week Georgia started preschool.  

There were a few tears and my usually brave and independent child was clingy and shy. But, I didn't wish her insecurity away. I sat with her in her class on that first day and held her and allowed her to stay my toddler a little longer. No need to push her to grow up. But she did. She eventually peeled herself out of my arms and sat with her schoolmates and stood to say the pledge, and I savored that moment as well.

It’s not easy yet. I still miss Grace every day, and I value our weekends even more.  Grace and Georgia are getting more used to school but there are still some tears and an odd dynamic when they are back together at the end of the day. However, I’m not wishing away even this rough transition period. I’m living in it and learning from it. Who would have thought that back to school for the kiddos would mean mom learns a lesson of a lifetime.

"Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.”

James 4:14-15

Xoxo

Kerstin

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Carolyn & Dan's PAW-Parazzi Showcase: The "La-Z" Edition!

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Happy Monday, pet lovers!!

Thank you for sending in your pictures of how you and your fur babies like to spend a "La-Z" Sunday!! Your kitties and pups (and goats and bunnies!) looked like they were pretty happy to be lazy!! Don't forget, you can always see tons more pictures of your fellow pet lovers' furry friends on my Facebook page!

XOXO,

Carolyn and Dan

Jules & Grayson:

Luke:

Kizzie:

Miss Bella:

Ollie:

Phoebe:

Clancy:

Dave:

Josh:

Sophie:

Sun Joe Q&A

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Ready for fall clean-up? Have outdoor projects to conquer? Sun Joe is here with Today's Special Value, and to answer your questions!

Whether you have questions about assembly, where to use, or how to make the most of your Sun Joe Electric Pole Chain Saw, Sun Joe is here for you. 

Step into Fall!

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As we step into September, fall is upon us. I always hate to see the summer go, but, somehow, fall clothes and autumn take over beautifully. It's always exciting to begin building and refreshing your fall wardrobe. This season, more than ever, is the very strong return of genuine suede. Nothing is more luxurious then that feel. Done in various designs, from ready-to-wear to outerwear, it has become a fashion staple. In particular, I have designed my own creation of one of the most popular designs of the season - 'The Moto Jacket.' It is done in all butter soft, machine washable suede. How great to have the luxury of real suede and the practicality of it being washable. The style is modern and chic.

Early in the season it will work as an outerwear jacket and come winter think of it as a 'blazer' and easily slip your 'Dennis Basso' faux fur over it. One can never have enough real suede pieces as it truly elevates your outfit and turns it into a fashion statement. This jacket, with its zipper detailing and slightly side closing zipper, comes in these beautiful rich colors - Black, Grey, Walnut, Lake Blue, Wine, Terracotta - that will coordinate with other fall selections. So if you're adding one fashion piece to your wardrobe, and to be right on trend, suede is your perfect choice.

Many of you have several different designs from my washable suede collection and know how soft and beautiful the quality is. Please join me on September 16th and see my first ever brand new Today's Special Value "Moto Jacket" for the true Dennis Basso woman affordable luxury at its best.

Xxx DB

Smores Delight - No Campfire Required!

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Hi, everyone!

Summertime and campfires go hand-in-hand. And even into the fall, it’s so nice to cozy up to a campfire with friends and family and roast marshmallows…or, if you’re lucky, make smores! But what do you do in the winter and spring when you’re craving a warm campfire and those toasty treats? Use your oven.

Smores Delight

Ingredients:

  • 1 box chocolate cake mix
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 (5-oz) cook & serve chocolate pudding (not instant!)
  • 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into tablespoon sized pats
  • 6 whole graham crackers, broken in half
  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
  • 40 large marshmallows

Preparation:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 13" x 9" baking dish.
  2. Combine the milk and pudding mix in a large bowl and then pour it into the baking dish. Place the graham crackers on top of the pudding mixture with space in-between each one and then add the mini chocolate chips. Dump the cake mix into a separate bowl to break up any clumps. Then, spread it over the chocolate chips. Drop the pats of butter on top.
  3. Bake for 25 minutes. Mix slightly so there aren't large areas of dry ingredients. Then, add marshmallows and bake for another 8–10 minutes. If you want to "toast" the marshmallows a bit more, place the dish under the broiler for about a minute. Keep your eye on it, though, because it can burn quickly!

This recipe is prepared with the Temp-tations® Vintage Grace 9" x 13" Baker with Wire Rack (K37922).

Smores Delight

That’s tomorrow’s recipe on You’re Home with Jill everyone…I’ll see you at 7pm ET.

From my home to yours,
—Jill

QVC Girlfrends Weekend with a Stan Herman Fashion Show!

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Last Friday night, I was asked to host one of the events taking place as part of another super FUN QVC Girlfriends Weekend! This was to be a special Fashion Show put on by none other than the wonderful Stan Herman and Stan asked if I would help him host  the show. Of course I said YES and then, he added, that he would love for me to bring along one or two of my sweet doggies to help "model" some of the PJ's! (Actually they modeled part of a set of PJ's Stan designed for the entire family...Mom and Dad, kids AND pets! (There were PJ's for cats too, but none of mine were brave enough to come along!) 

Our lovely QVC lady guests enjoyed delicious finger foods, and drinks, provided by the Desmond Hotel restaurant and I had a chance to mingle and chat with them while waiting for the fashion show to begin!

 

Stan had also asked some of his favorite QVC models to be there, including Jackie, Monica, Maria and Joy! Jackie and Monica both brought their 8 year old sons along to help model the kids PJ's!

They were both so cute and looked adorable!

At the start of the show, Stan asked if he could speak for a few minutes about his good friend, Joan Rivers. Stan, like all of us, was so very sad to hear of Joan's passing. He shared several wonderful (and funny) anecdotes about Joan over the years.

Later, we all tried on pairs of Joan Rivers Sunglasses and took "Red Carpet/Hollywood Style" photos!

My little fur babies, Daffodil and Maisie stole the show when they came out in their Stan Herman doggie PJ's! You could tell they just KNEW how extra-cute they looked in those comfy, cozy, pet-friendly outfits!

 

As an extra special surprise, our team presented Stan with a Happy Birthday Cake, as his birthday is this week! He was so surprised and delighted to see a cake in the shape of a beautiful bath robe!

Overall, it was a wonderful evening and everyone had a terrific time! Thank you Stan Herman, for being such an incredible guy and designing such beautiful and comfortable PJ's and loungewear for our QVC customers! And thank you to all the wonderful ladies who came out and had such fun with us!

XO,

Carolyn


Suarti is Back!

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Suarti is back!

The Balinese Queen of Artisan Crafted is back on QVC for the first time since June of 2013.  We are thrilled and her new pieces are a wow!  Her new Abalone pendant (J294847) is spectacular and reminds me of the movements in the water of the Bali Sea with a full moon.  To top it off, there are two butterflies and a heart hovering above the water!

Opals are the hottest thing in the market right now and Suarti has brought a ring and matching earrings using this fabulous gemstone, J294796 and J294799.  Her use of Australian Opal Triplets showcases her amazing workmanship.  Suarti, who is a professional dancer and has danced for the likes of Queen Elizabeth, translates her talents in the movements and details in her jewelry.

I have been lucky enough to visit her house many times in Bali and we always work in the gazebo in her back yard overlooking the Bali Sea.  It is the perfect place for inspiration.  Suarti will be featured throughout the 1PM show on Thursday, September 18.

This is our last Artisan Crafted event of the year and there will be many more interesting guests and exciting stories.  Stephen Walsh will be here from Ireland to talk about his Connemara Marble bracelet and ring.  Holly Chmil will be telling wonderful stories about Baltic Amber from Poland and Sandra Singh is back with her royal designs from India.

Take care,

Peyton

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MY GOOD FRIEND JOAN RIVERS

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For the last 24 years the QVC family welcomed my friend Joan Rivers into their lives. Twenty-four years of fun, heartwarming stories and some pretty fabulous style, to make sure we all looked great and felt great every day.

I want to thank all of you, my QVC family, for the incredible outpouring of love and support during this very difficult time. Joan’s love for QVC was evident each time you saw her on air or met her backstage.

Your concern for Joan’s family and for me during the past two weeks has been remarkable. I am truly humbled by your kind words and thank you from the bottom of my heart.

David Dangle

"On Tour" with Shawn Killinger - Our Kitchen

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That island we are having tipped out and redone in rustic pine. 

 

that is a wooden angel hanging from my oven range hood. It's a Christmas ornament mom sent me that I couldn't bare to pack away. I need gods intervention and anointing when I cook so seemed fitting 

 

The Wooden bull above the cabinet is from my childhood kitchen in Mexico City Mexico 

 

 

Joes contribution to the kitchen is two fold: he washes the dishes, and he hangs his baseball hats from the cabinets. Guess which I appreciate more? ;) 

 

this spag pic is one of my favorites .. From the saks outlet. :)

 

 

 

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