Brand name fashion and vintage can cost the name if found at the right place. Who says that a beautiful dress has to cost more than your rent? A gorgeous pair of leather boots does not have to fuse person’s toes together. Flat or two-inch high heels can still count as fashionable.

Source: GoodHousekeeping.com

Fashion can also help the environment. Etsy shop owner Caroline Darkey sells up-cycled cardigans.
“For less than $30, my customers receive a rescued thrift sweater that has been given a second chance at charm. I embellish the sweaters with special details, including vintage and handmade trims,” said Darkey.

According to Darkey, The sweaters are very similar to the classic styles being sold by J Crew, Ann Taylor and other major clothing chains. Readers can see the attached a link to her Etsy shop to get an idea of how women keep in with current styles, all while maintaining budget and being green: www.carolinejoyhome.etsy.com.

Of course there is the occasional awkward moment where someone notices something on your outfit that shouldn’t be showing. Creator and owner of Tuk-its “ The cure for the hanger loop hang” Adrianne Denise created an accessory to correct this issue.

According to Denise, this transforming accessory prevents garment loops from slipping out of your clothes causing an unsightly appearance.

“My goal is for tweens to seniors everywhere to maintain the neat look they envisioned while wearing their favorite blouse, gown, evening wear, etc. Tuk-its are available online with free shipping for only $6.99,” said Denise.
Interested buyers can arrange for their free sample of Tuk-its by emailing Denise at Tuk-its@clearwire.net and read more about this product on her web page at www.Tuk-its.com.

First Date Jitters? Make him eat his heart out!
It’s always fun to get all dressed up but not so fun when sending the wrong message. Showing too much skin portrays an invitation to an “open house”, not enough skin illustrates someone who is too shy. Image experts give their opinions and advice on the matter.

“First and foremost, you want to wear something you feel comfortable in”.
Tugging at a too short skirt or self-consciously dealing with a top that shows too much cleavage is not what you should be dealing with on a first date,” said Mary Kincaid, Chief Vintage Crusader at Zuburbia.com (an eco-friendly web-based vintage clothing boutique)

Casual Suggestions:
Tugging at a too short skirt or self-consciously dealing with a top that shows too much cleavage is not what you should be dealing with on a first date.

You can get this at www.Calyso-Celle.com

Dressier Options:
Vintage wrap dresses

Certified Image consultant Margaret Batting suggests that women need to think about how they want to be perceived and dress accordingly.

“If you want to come across as confident, smart and fun, then your clothes need reflect these messages. Wear colors that compliment your natural coloring and bring out your eyes. You’ll be talking a lot on a first date and you want the person focused on your face and what you are saying.” Banning insists on making sure you are comfortable in an outfit that is not frumpy or too loose, meaning that you feel good in clothes that fit well and flatter your shape.

To portray a sexier side of you is a little tricky. Skin should be shown in moderation.

For example, Batting suggest that any woman with great legs should show them off but keep the top half of the body conservative and vise versa.

“If you have great legs, then rock a mini on the bottom half and wear a less revealing top. If you have great arms, wear a top that shows off your arms with a pair it of hot jeans or skinny pants and heals.”
Interested shoppers can refer to Batting’s website for more tips at www.eleve-style.com.

Stella & Dot stylist Tracy Bennett suggests a nice light merino sweater, complimented with a simple blouse and nice jeans or cuffed jeans for a first date. Not too dressy, not too casual.
“If you are going to a nicer place, I would suggest trousers or slacks.”

For the slightly heavier woman:
Bennett insists on not wearing items that are too fitting. Nice jeans with a boot cut or flare would be a good choice. As for the top, it should show little to no pattern and dark in colour, flows in style but not too big.

For the thinner woman:
According to Bennett, a thinner, not so curvy lady looks best with a tunic, slimming jeans and boots. Bennett feels that is look is quite classy, assists in creating height and doesn’t play too much on the thin look, very voluptuous.

As for accessories, readers can check out www.fiveaccessories.com. Founded by Christine Hutchison, Five Accessories has everything from eco-friendly handbags to jewelry that will compliment any outfit at reasonable prices.

Meeting the parents:
It’s definitely not essential to look sexy when meeting the parents. Look and be classy all the way. Look confident, smart, sweet and as innocent as possible.

Depending on the venue, casual or dressy outfits could both come into play. Stylists and image consultants give their tips on this scenario.

Maragaret Batting: “For a casual meeting with the parents you can wear pants, a ruffled or feminine blouse topped with a stylish cardigan and maybe add a belt for interest. If it is a dressier occasion, a dress may be more appropriate. Either way, you want to come across as confident, approachable and friendly. This is not the time to wear revealing clothing. Again you want to come across as comfortable and authentic.”

Mary Kincaid: “When in doubt, it’s probably a good idea to border on the conservative side when it comes to meeting the parents, so stay away from trends. A tailored pair of trousers might make a nicer impression than jeans. A khaki skirt with a crisp white blouse looks pulled together. It still allows you express a bit of personality when you pair the outfit with a vintage scarf, necklace or beaded sweater.”

For additional tops and advice, please refer to the websites listed throughout the article. The experts mentioned can also be contacted through their web pages.

Sources:
Caroline Darkey (www.carolinejoyhome.etsy.com)
Adrianne Denise (www.Tuk-its.com)
Mary Kincaid (www. Zuburbia.com)
Margaret Batting (www.eleve-style.com)
Tracy Bennett (www.stelladot.com/sites/tracybennett)
Christine Hutchison (www.fiveaccessories.com)

Photo Source: http://www.outandaboutnewspaper.com/article/2714

Everyone knows somebody who just can’t get enough of celebrity news, celerity gossip, celebrity on goings, celebrity this celebrity that. Somebody who is constantly ranting about Brangelina, JLo like they are all that matter in this world. They consider these celebrities to be in the same social circle as they that is how bad they obsess over them, well for people like this here are gift ideas that they will go googoogaagaa over.

Find out the celebrity that your friend is most crazy about and get her a relevant autograph. Wondering how are you then Ebay is your answer. Spend a little time looking and you will find it.

Another idea is a collection of DVDs of her favorite movies with her favorite stars; it can be favorite music collection too. You know your friend best so improvise some if you need to.

Photo by: http://www.pixbond.com

Celebrity trend is mostly unaffordable so most of us just get to drool all over their style statement. Faux designer products are as good as the real thing till your star savvy friend knows Jennifer Aniston was wearing it she will love it.

One idea that can never go wrong is purchasing tickets to a special event. It can almost be a dream coming true for your friend. It can be a red carpet event or a movie premiere or a concert backstage party, work a little hard and you will get your hands at the right places.

Most of the celebrity struck people are keen readers of social pages and magazines so a year long subscription is a great idea to keep them logged on to latest happenings and news.

Find out if anywhere around you is a celebrity’s favorite hangout, the information will be hard to find but your friend would be thanking you for the rest of her and yours life.

Celebrities enjoy tell all autobiographies and authors enjoy tell all biographies about celebrities equally. Look up a juicy book doing rounds on the hot book list. Memoirs are a great gift idea and don’t need too much work either.

Celebrity craze is a funny thing for those not affected but for those who have been struck with this craze it is a very serious matter. Hence no matter what gift idea you pick make sure it is not mocking their obsession.

Photos Source URL:
http://www.outandaboutnewspaper.com/article/2714
www.pixbond.com

In the early 70’s I was a child at the age of 12, full of life and heading towards being a full fledged teenager. Full of vigor worrying only of when summer would arrive, what time my favorite shows were on television, when winter was going to come so I could continue figure skating lessons and what I was going to do the very next day.

Little did I know the magnitude of wonderful event that would occur in the summer days ahead. My Grandmother, (Whom we called Nanny) was scheduled to come from Wilcox Pennsylvania to visit with us and along with her she was bringing my cousin Lori Carlson. Since we are the same age and we were close this was going to be fun for the two of us.

Neither had ever been to Minnesota and I was sure the time spent with them was going to be fun and adventurous. My mother Mary Phillips had migrated to Minnesota immediately after high school to continue education and become an airline stewardess. She had met my father when they were both in college which and their relationship became a marriage, thus keeping her in Minnesota.

Oblivious to the itinerary was set of which historic places, tours we would take or people we would visit. I only knew this was going to be a adventure of a life time. Of course at that age I had no idea how these memories would follow me my entire life and be held in my mind through some of the most tumultuous events that would personally occur for me.

On a bright and sunny day Mom loaded us up in the car and off we drove heading towards Minneapolis to see the sites of the beautiful city and tour the Betty Crocker Kitchen’s that were located west of Minneapolis.

The tour consisted of a trip through the plant showing us every step to the processing of the cakes, muffins and breads and then on to the kitchens. The history of the plant was discussed and we were allowed to walk through the model kitchens that were used for contests and promotions.

We received a wonderful bag full of kitchen goodies including a cake mix, recipes, wooden spoons, measuring spoons and sample treats. The tours were discontinued in 1985. It seems such a shame that they have ended for even though I was child the memory is implanted in my mind and others will not experience it.

Our trip moved us through the day and out of the cities towards the west out of Minneapolis 45 miles to the town of Waverly, where Hubert H. Humphrey and his family held residence. We pulled up to the front gate of his beautiful lake home estate only to find him standing in the front yard.

My grandmother and my mother were very excited to see him wave and then he walked towards the fence. My cousin and I peeked our heads out of the window as we had heard them discussing this great man and how famous he was when to our surprise he waved and headed towards us.

He smiled and welcomed us to his home and opened the gate. He came to the car and shook hands with my Grandmother as she and my mother explained how it was such an honor to meet him. He turned towards the back seat where my cousin and me sat and winked at us as he spoke.

He was kind and gracious as could be and leaned on the edge of my Grandmothers open window as he conversed with her. After a few minutes they exchanged goodbyes and as we drove away he smiled and waved, then went back into his yard and closed the gate.

This was the first time I had encountered Hubert H. Humphrey. I did not know it would not be the last time I would encounter him or hear of him after his passing, as over the years I was reminded of that little friendly grandpa type wink from a great man and politician.

That wink, which caused a spark of curiosity that I could not forget and followed me my entire life. I had the pleasure of speaking briefly with him and shaking his hand at a couple political functions in the following years. Watching his career and learning from him as well as watching his famous life until the end.

To look back at career of H.H.H., his time in office not only included 38th Vice President of the United States. He served as a Minnesota State Senator and served as Democratic Majority Whip. He was a founder of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor-Party with as the President of the Americans for Democratic Action. He also served as Mayor of Minneapolis Minnesota from 1945 to 1949.

I attended many political functions as well as benefits with my mother over the years, giving me insight. My mother, Mary Elizabeth Phillips is retired President of the A.F.L./C.I.O. Central body Willmar Trades and Labor Union, Retired Vic-President of the local 701 A.F.C.M.E. Union. She served on the State board of A.F.C.M.E. Retiree’s, she is a member of retired A.F.S.M.E Union and she also served on the Private Industry Council Board of the State of Minnesota.

It’s very interesting to me how this meeting with H.H.H. occurred years before my mother’s union career and anything political began to step to the front of our lives. Though Meeting him seemed to be a prelude to how much of our time in our lives was spent in the future.

Hubert H. Humphrey died on January 13th, 1978 of Bladder Cancer. Before he passed he spent his time with his family, on the telephone with old friends and acquaintances and roaming the halls of the hospital visiting others to cheer them up.

He spread cheer where ever he went in life, even to the end. He was a strong man, strong willed, loving, ready and eager to take on any challenge life would hand him. He believed in the United States. He believed that we should never give up and strive to be the best we could be and that everyone deserves an honest and good chance for the great American life. He believed we all deserved a chance to prosper, move forward and persevere. He was and should be an Icon to all generations, including those to come.

This is a man who is missed; history has and will continue to tell most of his story. Many will learn and others remember his attributes which are great, but the man, those of us who have looked into his eyes and shook his hands know of his true strength, will and determination he had for people of United States.

I am thankful to have met this man.

© 2010. This article was excerpted with permission from Laura Elizabeth at: http://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraelizabeth. Permission to reprint is granted by the author. All reprints must state, “Reprinted with permission by: Laura Elizabeth from http://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraelizabeth. Originally published in www.WomensOnlineMagazine.com, March of 2010.

DISCLAIMER: The information and opinions reflected in this article are solely those of the author and do not reflect on the publisher, editor, or editorial staff of Women’s Online Magazine. This article has been written and reviewed by the author. Any errors should be brought to the attention of the author.

Would you believe Italian Wedding Soup actually did not originally have anything to do with marriage between a man and woman? It got the term “wedding” from a slight misinterpretation where “wedding” should have been “marriage” and was referring to the blending (or marriage) of the flavors!

When you have Italian wedding soup, you will understand why it was given this term. The base of the soup is chicken broth, but as the flavorful meatballs cook while in the broth, the flavors begin to transform into something utterly wonderful – just like a marriage.

There are various versions of this recipe ranging from my simple recipe below to ones which take 2 days to prepare. Personally, the recipe here tastes better than any Italian wedding soup I’ve had at any restaurant… but you can be the judge when you make it yourself! It is easy and requires basic ingredients.

Ingredients you will need:
1 lb of ground beef or bison meat (Federal law prevents hormone injections into any bison).
1 egg
1 clove of garlic finely chopped
6 cups of chicken broth
3 cups of water
1/3 cup of unseasoned breadcrumbs
4 Tablespoons Romano cheese
1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
¾ lb. (3/4 of the box) orzo past

Instructions:
1. In a large bowl mix the beef, egg, garlic, breadcrumbs, cheese and parsley to form a ball.
2. Meanwhile, bring the broth and water to boil.
3. Form little meatballs (about ½ inch in size) and drop into the boiling liquid.
4. Maintain a light boil and cook for about 1 hour until the meatballs are fully cooked.
5. Meanwhile, cook the orzo according to package instructions, drain and set aside.
6. When ready to serve, put some orzo in a soup bowl, and then add the soup on top.
7. Sprinkle with extra cheese (optional).
Tip: Reduce the fat content by keeping the soup in the fridge overnight and then easily discarding the hardened fat which solidifies and floats to the top.

This recipe will impress your friends and family. It serves as a great first course or a nice light meal served with salad and glass of red wine. Mangia!

Elizabeth Krause grew up with her Italian family and now enjoys sharing her Italian recipes with friends and family online. Her online recipe box can be viewed at www.simpleitaliancooking.com/recipebox.htm. She writes a weekly newsletter and posts only recipes which are simple because she understands not all good recipes have to be complicated. With a busy schedule to maintain – simple is always a good thing.

© 2010 This article was excerpted with permission from Elizabeth Krause at www.simpleitaliancooking.com. Permission to reprint is granted by the author. All reprints must state, “Reprinted with permission by Elizabeth Krause from www.simpleitaliancooking.com. Originally published in www.WomensOnlineMagazine.com, March 2010”.

DISCLAIMER: The information and opinions reflected in this article are solely those of the author and do not reflect on the publisher, editor, or editorial staff of Women’s Online Magazine. This article has been written and reviewed by the author. Any errors should be brought to the attention of the author.

Before I started working in the fashion and public relations’ industries, I felt uncomfortable in social situations, was petrified of meeting and talking to new people, and hated public speaking for many reasons but shyness topped the list. Yet, once I learned effective networking skills, my network of fashion and media contacts exploded.

Networking can be scary especially if you feel uncomfortable in social situations. However, effective networking skills are essential to meeting other individuals, generating good contacts, and building solid and relationships.

When you have a solid network you can rely on, connecting with potential clients, partners, and employees becomes much easier because you don’t have to wait for an awkward introduction. Additionally, the more individuals that view you and your business positively, the more leverage you will have.

Follow these tips to build a strong network:

1. Sincerity is a must. Most business people can smell phoniness from a mile away.

2. Determine your goals and objectives. Before attending any networking event – conference, luncheon, holiday party or any other business or social event, make sure it is for the right reason. Some events are for making contacts, while others are for learning a certain trade or industry. If you are a make up artist, I don’t think you would attend the American Bar Association Mid Winter Conference for Surety and Fidelity.

3. Join as many associations and groups to expand your professional circle. Many groups allow prospective members to preview how groups are organized by sitting in a seminar or attending an event.

4. Offer to volunteer in different organizations and events.

5. While networking, ask questions – who, what, where, when and how as opposed to questions that can answered with a simple “yes” or “no.”

6. By joining different groups and associations, your brand becomes transparent and you become a resource to others. It will also help you become an expert within your industry.

7. If you have a certain person that would like to speak to, make sure you have a clear approach. You don’t want to sound like you have no idea what you are talking about when you open the conversation.

8. Have a clear mission of how you can help networking professionals.

9. Respond quickly and efficiently to referrals. Don’t make others look bad by not delivering results that you promised.

10. Don’t try to sell yourself. Networking is about gaining leverage by building relationships with other professionals within your industry.

11. Dress appropriately for the occasion. Most networking events require business attire. Remember, first impressions are the only impressions that count.

In this day and age, networking is a must. It doesn’t matter whether you are looking to expand your business network or looking for a job, networking is critical to a healthy career. The more resources you have, the more leverage and opportunities will be readily available.

Photo by: Incitro

About the Author:
Kristin Marquet is a savvy media personality, the President of Marquet Media LLC, a full service public relations and marketing firm for the fashion, beauty, and accessory industries located in New York City as well as the Accessory Editor to Stylemom.com magazine. Kristin has written for a variety of business and fashion magazines such as Enterprising Woman magazine, CoutureintheCity.com, and theInsider.com. For more information on how Kristin can help your business get media attention, visit www.marquet-communications.com.

© 2010. This article was excerpted with permission from Kristin Marquet at www.marquet-communications.com. Permission to reprint is granted by the author. All reprints must state, “Reprinted with permission by Kristin Marquet at www.marquet-communications.com. Originally published in www.WomensOnlineMagazine.com, February 2010”.

DISCLAIMER: The information and opinions reflected in this article are solely those of the author and do not reflect on the publisher, editor, or editorial staff of Women’s Online Magazine. This article has been written and reviewed by the author. Any errors should be brought to the attention of the author.

You must get a handle on your fear and anxiety, as those behaviors will definitely hinder your successful job search and have you spending your limited funds on doctor visits and antidepressant meds. You may be unemployed but you are employable. The key is: regardless of how anxious you feel, not to sound wimpy or act afraid; speak with confidence and act like a winner! Don’t beg; instead sell your value. Selling, promoting and expanding your value are the actions that will lead to re-employment.

The majority of people entering or leaving the workforce today will not be getting a gold watch for twenty-five years of service. In fact, The U.S. Department of Labor has stated that the average employment cycle includes workers having six to seven jobs and three to five career changes. You should be prepared to move on, continue to grow and learn, keep your skills up-to-date and take calculated risks. So be bold, confident and courageous and start interviewing…

Interviewing Strategies:

1) Establish and Sell Your Brand:

What does your personal brand reflect? What do people think of when they hear your name? What does your personal story say about who you are? With a well established brand, your reputation starts to precede you and companies come a calling. You’ve developed great contacts, relationships, experience, and a personal brand. Continue to maximize your good name and good work ethnic while seeking employment. Contact everyone within your social network circle and beyond and request an informational interview, investigate pro bono opportunities with ‘targeted companies’ to showcase your talent to a potential employer risk free. There are many free and inexpensive ways to promote and expand your brand. Seek out writing and speaking opportunities with your alma mater, non-profit organizations and newspaper and magazine editors to share your knowledge. The reach of your brand expands with each speaking engagement and writing assignment.

2) Define Your Experience and Knowledge in Broad Terms:

Using broad terms will open up doors to many different types of careers and industries. Whatever your particular sets of skills, maximize and sell them to targeted companies within many different industries. Jenny Sanford went from the world of investment banking to running her husband’s congressional and gubernatorial political campaigns. They won both. I went from construction management to becoming a motivational speaker and career coach. You must define your experience in broad terms because excellent skills are needed in many industries.

Follow the stimulus money to determine where it has gone and where the next influx of cash will go. Research the following sectors: education, healthcare, technology, green jobs, energy and utilities, transportation and the government. Over one billion dollars have been doled out to wind energy companies. Be smart and knowledgeable. Don’t waste time and energy on industries/companies that are not hiring.

3) Don’t Go in Blind:

Perform due diligence. The first task you must complete is research. Research ‘targeted companies’ that you have interest to identify how your skill, talent and personality will best fit their needs. Based on your research, what can you do for the company? How can you save time, money, improve operations, increase customers or improve its image? Have quantifiable examples of past successes and what you can achieve for them. Read and evaluate their mission statement. Know their philosophy before you arrive.

Remember every interview is about what you offer, want and expect from the employer versus what the employer is looking for, needs, offers and will provide. Make sure you can discuss intelligently and succinctly the needs and wants of the employer and how you can satisfy them.

Steven Greenberg, publisher of Jobs4pinto.com said: “The thing to avoid is thinking by sending out a ton of resumes, you’re looking for a job. You’re not.” I could not agree with Greenberg more, you are wasting valuable time and energy; invest more quality time up front.

4) Research the Interviewer:

Will it be one person or a panel of people? You may have things in common with your interviewer(s). You may have gone to the same college, or you may attend the same place of worship or your children may play on the same little league team. Find out what’s most important to them and then find the point of connection. You want to know going in so you can weave a story of authenticity, familiarity and similarity. What hasn’t change in the American workforce is people hire who they like and trust. Remember, your competition will look very similar to you on paper. Performing these tasks up-front will absolutely set you apart. I’ve heard many interviewers say, “I have a good feeling about that guy.” Those words are visceral and usually have very little to do with cold hard data. The world has changed but what will never change is employers hire talented, smart people that they like and trust.

5) You Have 30 Seconds:

Judgment is made within the first 30 seconds of the interview; it may not be fair, but that’s how long it takes the interviewer to size you up. When you walk in the door have a smile on your face, stand tall and look directly in the interviewer’s eyes, hold their gaze and tell them how absolutely enthusiastic you are about the position. In the US, research has proven that holding someone’s gaze establishes trust. When seated, sit up straight and don’t slouch; slouching makes you appear sloppy, tired, lazy and unprofessional. Over 80% of communication is nonverbal. Having good posture and smiling transmits the proper nonverbal messages: I’m trustworthy, confident, smart and likable.

6) Interview the Interviewer:

Prioritize a list of five to seven questions that indicate a long-term interest in the company. Let your questions be a reflection of the type of research you’ve done, so don’t ask simple questions that can easily be answered by reading the company’s website. Ask questions that reflect your IQ & EQ, think Albert Einstein meets CNN Hero. You may get answers that shock and surprise you and that lead you towards another company. Remember you are interviewing to get an “offer” not to take the job necessarily.

7) SSHH – Listen-Up:

When the interviewer is talking that person will be giving you direct information about the position you are going after, the company’s culture and what its expectations are. Let the interviewer talk 80% of the time and pay close attention. This will give you the opportunity to gain valuable insider knowledge to use at the time of the interview and during your follow-up. So listen-up and think on your feet, you’ll soon be hearing “You’re Hired.”

To learn more about the company or to purchase its how-to products on job interviewing call 404 567-5790 or log onto www.dgsconsultingllc.com. Korean Americans, log onto http://korean.dgsconsultingllc.com.

One dollar from every CD purchase will be donated to the American Red Cross/Haiti until June 12, 2010.

DISCLAIMER: The information and opinions reflected in this article are solely those of the author and do not reflect on the publisher, editor, or editorial staff of Women’s Online Magazine. This article has been written and reviewed by the author. Any errors should be brought to the attention of the author.

A lot of people are skeptical about finding love, especially when it comes to finding it online. With so many people to choose from and so much dishonesty, it there really any hope?

You can always seek the greener pasture over the next hill, but eventually you will come to the desert. When you look back to reconsider your “green pasture” options, you may find that that land has been already claimed and spoken for. Once you find that person who you’re comfortable with, you can trust and will treat you with respect, dignity and love, STOP LOOKING!

Kaylee and I met online through one of the more prestigious dating sites and started corresponding right away. Emails, texts, instant messaging and phone calls. We sent each other recent photos and found we had many things in common.

The potential catch was distance, I from San Diego and she from Phoenix. We decided if we were going to meet that Yuma, AZ would be the mid-way point. We started planning it. After all, all the letters, photos and phone calls can’t really “seal the deal” until you’ve actually looked into another’s eyes and experienced their essence.

Having been remarkably candid with each other, we already knew we “loved” the person we were corresponding with. Once we met and spent quality time with each other, we knew the love was real and decided upon an engagement. Both being in our 50s and having experienced other relationships, we knew what we were looking for and once found, why delay our potential happiness?

As with all new couples and engagements, we still are learning more about each other as I fly to Phoenix and she to San Diego. It took us over two years to finally find each other, but we never gave up looking for the “right” one.

With patience, tenacity, trust and good communication, anything is possible, even finding love online.

For more information on Tell Tommy, please visit his web page at MySpace.com/howefare.

© 2010. This article was excerpted with permission from Tell Tommy at www.myspace.com/howfare. Permission to reprint is granted by the author. All reprints must state, “Reprinted with permission by Tell Tommy from MySpace.com/howefare. Originally published in www.WomensOnlineMagazine.com, February, 2010”.

DISCLAIMER: The information and opinions reflected in this article are solely those of the author and do not reflect on the publisher, editor, or editorial staff of Women’s Online Magazine. This article has been written and reviewed by the author. Any errors should be brought to the attention of the author.

Who can deny that buying a jar of premade pasta sauce is easier than making your own? No one can I’m sure. However speaking as one who loves to make their own sauce, I’ll explain why many still choose to take the time to create their own. It isn’t because all jar sauces are bad and evil, but when I have bought them they have always needed to be doctored up. Being able to control my own flavors and to know exactly what is going into my sauce is important. Many manufactures think true pasta sauce requires including every Italian herb, this is not true. I once read a recipe for Italian sauce that had over 16 ingredients! A good Italian marinara sauce does not need all these ingredients! Granted there are various types of authentic sauces which use different herbs but my goal is to talk about simple Italian cooking – not complicated Italian cooking.

My recipe is what we use in our house to make a huge pot of sauce. I freeze most of it in freezer containers and date them so I know which ones to pull out first. The recipe below is for a basic sauce, you can doctor it up to your own tastes. It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare and about 3 hours or so to cook down.

The recipe below is for a basic sauce, you can doctor it up to your own tastes.  It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare and about 3 hours or so to cook down.

Ingredients:

Crushed tomatoes (plain – not Italian style) Size #10
18 oz. tomato paste
4-5 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Minced garlic – about 5 cloves
Chopped yellow onions – 2 medium size
3 bay leaves
Distilled water
A washed single carrot

Instructions:

1. Heat a large pot with olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onions, stir to coat with oil and simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes until translucent.
3. Add garlic and stir. Let simmer about 3 minutes.
4. Add in can of tomatoes.
5. Fill the empty can of tomatoes 1/3 of the way with water and add to pot. Stir.
6. Add bay leaves and tomato paste. Stir until paste is fully dissolved.
7. Add carrot (This will be removed later. It helps to absorb the extra acid).
8. Turn heat to high and bring to a boil stirring frequently to prevent scorching.
9. Reduce to simmer over low heat, cover and let cook for a few hours stirring occasionally.
10. Once finished, discard carrot and let cool. Once cooled store in freezer safe containers.

Here are a few tips:

1. Do not let the garlic burn. If it does it will ruin the whole batch.
2. If you have fresh basil, add it towards the end of the cooking. This is a nice touch especially during the summer season.
3. I prefer not to use oregano. Many people think oregano is a requirement for Italian sauce. This is not true, however it is a must with pizza sauce and the two are not the same.

Mangia!

Elizabeth Krause grew up with her Italian family and now enjoys sharing her Italian recipes with friends and family at www.simpleitaliancooking.com. She writes a weekly newsletter and posts only recipes which are simple because she understands not all good recipes have to be complicated. With a busy schedule to maintain – simple is always a good thing.

© 2010 This article was excerpted with permission from Elizabeth Krause at www.simpleitaliancooking.com. Permission to reprint is granted by the author. All reprints must state, “Reprinted with permission by Elizabeth Krause from www.simpleitaliancooking.com. Originally published in www.WomensOnlineMagazine.com, February 2010”.

DISCLAIMER: The information and opinions reflected in this article are solely those of the author and do not reflect on the publisher, editor, or editorial staff of Women’s Online Magazine. This article has been written and reviewed by the author. Any errors should be brought to the attention of the author.

Anything that Celebrities do catches our attention, whether it is the fashion statement they are making or the latest trend they are endorsing or their personal lives. We want to know it all when it comes to celebrities. Here we share the gifts celebrities are giving each other; enlightening to say the least.

Guy Ritchie gave Madonna a $21k ice pick, now that is an expensive knife. To commemorate the release of her new album he purchased a jewel-studded ‘ice-pick’ designed by Jade Jagger, available at Harrods. It appears that Madge already has one and he thought she could use another.

Britney gave Kevin a Diamond Watch now that is some shopping. Britney gave Kevin a $150,000 diamond crusted watch from Jacob & Co for his 30th birthday. If you have the money might as well be generous.

Angelina gave Brad a $100,000 Motorcycle now that is not too interesting. It is luxurious but what sets it apart is that this motorcycle is custom engraved. A plaque on the handlebars reads ‘My Sweetheart, the Drunk‘. That doesn’t sound very romantic but it’s the name of a Jeff Buckley album, who is apparently Brad’s favorite musician so just maybe it is thoughtful.

Posh gives kids $50,000 Tree house now that is spoiling. Beckhams gave their three boys an out of the ordinary tree fort, but it does sound a little overpriced. The Tree Tent from Neiman Marcus is a 13-foot tall pseudo-building with a 9-foot diameter, hardwood floors and an encompassing mattress inside. With all that comfort in the tree house why would anyone need a room?

Jessica Alba’s mother gave Jessica Alba a special cake on her baby shower. What can be so special about this cake eh, well it was a diaper cake. Creative; maybe or maybe not.

Courtney Cox gave Jennifer Aniston a $12,000 Bike. It is a designer bike from Channel with quilted leather seat, and other luxurious specifications that seem rather unnecessary. But then celebrities would rather do everything the rich way.

Justin Timberlake gave Jessica & Cameron Custom Surfboards and Sex Wax. Custom surfboard from Evolution Surf with a year’s supply of Mr. Zog’s Sex Wax for their special surf boards; the same gift to two individuals is not cool no matter how ‘customized’ it is.

David Beckham gave his wife a rare, signed fashion book. David Beckham gave his wife, Victoria “Posh Spice” Beckham a very unique present no doubt it is out of the ordinary in nature and in rarity as well. It is a fashion book, titled Valentino Garavani: First Name in Fashion. There are only 2, ooo copies of the book and at present there are only 13 available. Becks spent $1,500 on the gift. He could have spent more eh.

George Clooney gave friends 100 favorite DVDs, now that is selfless. George Clooney enjoys watching movies, and so do most of his friends. He gave each of his closest friends 100 DVDs, a collection of George’s favorite movies from 1964 to 1976. Interested in knowing which movies make it to this list then write to us and we will upload the list for you.

Brad Pitt gives the kids Toy Helicopters, now that is not expensive but it is definitely paternal and so totally right. Brad Pitt recollects how one of his favorite toys as a child was toy helicopter. He was hoping to give his children the same joy.

Some celebrities just spend a lot; some spend a lot on a lot of effort and others do it true celebrity role model style. Pick out some ideas from these celebrities about what to give to the different relationships in your life. Piece of advice customize the price tag please.

Cover Photo Credit: Ramsey - People Magazine 08/01/2008

This has been a particularly brutal winter for most of the United States, with many areas getting record snowfalls, especially in the Midwest and Deep South. While there is nothing we can do about the weather, there are measures that we can all take to make sure we can cope with it to the best of our ability, particularly when traveling.

There may come a time in every driver’s life when the unexpected happens due to some hazard caused by conditions on the road beyond your control. In questionable weather, the safest behavior is to avoid driving. However, if you must be out on the road decrease your speed and leave plenty of room between you and the car in front of you, and be sure to brake gently to avoid skidding on slick roads. If you feel the wheels begin to lock up, ease off the brake carefully.

Other basic safety measures are to make sure your windshield is clear and keep your lights on so other cars can see you. In most states the laws require that your headlights must be on whenever you use your windshield wipers. However, you might want to consider using your low beams, especially when driving in snow and fog. If conditions worsen and you cannot see, pull all the way off the road and turn on your emergency flashers to let other drivers know you are there.

For night driving, you should always begin using your headlights at dusk. Remember, low beams are only effective at low speeds (below 25 mph). Any faster and you will not be able to detect animals, people or bicyclists clearly. For higher speeds use your high beams. However, don’t use your bright lights when within 500 feet of oncoming traffic as you are likely to “blind” other motorists. Additionally, never look directly at oncoming headlights. It is safer to look at the right edge of your lane instead. This will reduce the glare and improve your visibility.

Additional laws in many areas also state that drivers must clear the snow off their cars, especially the roofs before heading down the roads. Snow falling off cars while driving can end up blowing onto the vehicles behind them, blinding other motorists as well as landing on the streets and causing a variety otherwise avoidable accidents.

A lot of people become “cocky” if they have 4WD or front wheel drive, thinking their vehicles can handle anything, but that simply isn’t true. Although every vehicle is different, stopping is still an issue. If you sense your rear wheels are skidding, take your foot off the accelerator, tap the breaks, and steer in the direction you are skidding. If you are sliding right, steer right. If you are sliding left, steer left. However, if you start to “fishtail” as you recover from the skid you may have to carefully steer both right and left a couple of times to bring the vehicle back under control. If you sense your front tires are losing contact with the road, take your foot off the gas and shift into neutral, but refrain from steering immediately. As the tires skid sideways, they will slow the vehicle down and you will regain traction. As it does, shift back into drive and accelerate slowly.

If you should become stuck in either a snowdrift or deep mud spinning your wheels will only dig you in deeper. Turn the front wheels from side to side. This will help push the muck out of the way. You should then rock the vehicle back and forth by shifting forward and then reverse a few times, tapping the gas lightly. Keep a bag of sand or kitty litter in your trunk (along with a small shovel) in case of emergencies. Just spread it on the ground under your “driving” tires before trying to free yourself and it will help increase traction, making the entire task much easier.

Photos provided by Author and Boezak

About the Author
Dani is an eclectic writer who specializes in promoting wellness in mind, body and spirit, as well as an acclaimed expert on the topic of car care for women. She served as the associate editor and primary writer for Auto Trim & Restyling News for ten years, and produced The Driving Range column for Women With Wheels for several years as well. She is the author of Car Ownership for Mommies, and Girls Go Racing: Driving to Esteems (with Susan Frissell PhD). In addition, Dani writes a regular wellness column for the Hartford Examiner. Check out her website at www.musesandmeditations.com.

© 2010. This article was excerpted with permission from Dani Ben-Ari. All reprints must state, “Reprinted with permission by Dani Ben-Ari from her book Car Ownership for Mommies www.mommiesline.com. Originally published in www.WomensOnlineMagazine.com, February 2010.”

DISCLAIMER: The information and opinions reflected in this article are solely those of the author and do not reflect on the publisher, editor, or editorial staff of Women’s Online Magazine. This article has been written and reviewed by the author. Any errors should be brought to the attention of the author.