4th of July
Posted by Coffeemom at 6/23/2008 8:44 AM and is filed under Beauty Tips,Holidays and Seasonal,Cooking and Recipes 
Celebrate July 4th with Blueberry Cupcakes
(ARA) – Top off your Independence Day celebration this year with Wave the Flag Cupcakes for everyone.
These cupcakes look adorable and will be a hit with your family and guests. With their patriotic colors, they’re perfect for a Fourth of July picnic, or anytime you feel like “waving the flag.” The secret in these sweet delights is that there are more blueberries baked inside -- and thanks to a quick trick or two, they’re lower in fat and calories than cupcakes made the traditional way.
Need another reason to celebrate? July is National Blueberry Month! Blueberries are most abundant and least expensive in mid-summer, making it an ideal time to get your fill of these little blue gems. Stock the fridge and freezer with blueberries to make meals, snacks and desserts that are easy on the cook. Blueberries never need to be peeled, pitted, stemmed or chopped -- just a quick rinse and they’re ready to eat or add to recipes.
Try these ideas for making quick, delicious desserts and snacks that are enjoyable any time:
* Layer fresh blueberries with yogurt and crushed cereal in tall glasses for tasty breakfast parfaits.
* Toss fresh blueberries, chopped pineapple, melon and mint in a bowl; drizzle with thawed apple juice concentrate to serve as a fruit salad or a light dessert.
* Whirl frozen blueberries, cranberry juice, yogurt and ice cubes in a blender; pour into cold glasses and serve for breakfast or snack.
Recipe for “Wave the Flag” Cupcakes
Ingredients:
1 package (18- to 19-ounces) yellow cake mix
1/3 cup applesauce
3 egg whites
3 cups fresh blueberries, divided
1 package (8 ounces) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 red fruit-roll snack (from a 4.5 ounce box)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a large mixing bowl, beat cake mix with applesauce, egg whites and 1 1/4 cups water for 30 seconds on low speed, then 2 minutes on medium speed. Spoon batter into 24 (2 ½-inch) aluminum or paper lined muffin cups. Evenly divide 1 cup of blueberries onto tops of batter; do not stir. Bake cupcakes following package directions; remove to a wire rack and cool completely. In a small bowl, beat cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar and vanilla until smooth. Spoon onto cooled cupcakes; spread to the edges. Unroll fruit snack and, with a sharp knife, cut into strips 1/8-inch wide by 2-inches long. On half of each cupcake, arrange strips, trimming each to fit. Arrange remaining 2 cups blueberries on the frosting on other halves of the cupcakes, about 10 blueberries per cupcake.
Makes 24 cupcakes
Per cupcake, including frosting and toppings: 135 calories; 3 g protein; 24 g carbohydrate; 3 g total fat (1.8 g saturated fat).
Blueberries are not only convenient, they provide nutrients our bodies need every day. You can find more blueberry recipes and information at www.blueberrycouncil.org.
Help your Dog through Fireworks and Frightful Forecasts
(ARA) - Summer has arrived and the Fourth of July is just around the corner. For families, that means more fun and festivities, but for pets it can become a stressful time due to increased sudden noise such as thunderstorms and fireworks.
“The summer can be a difficult time for pets with the noise of fireworks and neighborhood commotion. However, recognizing these changes in your dog’s environment, and planning ahead, can decrease the amount of discomfort your pet experiences,” says Debra Nickelson, D.V.M. “Using pheromone-based products such as Comfort Zone with D.A.P. (Dog Appeasing Pheromone), is great for overly-agitated dogs, as it helps them remain calm in unfamiliar or stressful scenarios.”
“My dog Edy is fairly calm overall, but whenever there is thunder or loud noises he shakes uncontrollably, whimpers and hides in our bedroom,” says Eric Kardesh, pet parent of a 2-year-old vizsla. “To make him feel calm, I always make sure his favorite blanket is in his crate, and I give it a few sprays of Comfort Zone which helps him feel safe and less stressed.”
The days following the Fourth of July are often the busiest of the year for many animal shelters recovering lost dogs. To ensure your dog is safe, keep him at home and plan ahead with these simple solutions:
* Keep your dog indoors in a confined and secure area to help him feel safe and secure.
* Put a favorite toy or blanket with your dog for added reassurance.
* Calming products, such as Comfort Zone, can soothe dogs having trouble coping with stress.
* Keep the shades closed and turn on the TV or radio to drown out unfamiliar noise.
“Usually I’ll find someone to pet sit during the Fourth of July,” says Rachel Van Buskirk, pet parent of a 6-year-old pug. “But when I can’t find anyone for the day, it seems to help if I leave some music to distract my dog from outside noises.”
If you’re planning on taking your companion with you for fireworks or neighborhood festivities, it is important to make sure you are prepared. When out and about with your dog this summer season, keep in mind the following tips:
* Keep your dog on a leash or in an animal carrier at all times.
* Do not leave your dog in the car, they heat up quickly and can cause health problems.
* Double-check to make sure your dog is wearing current identification.
* Consider getting a microchip for your dog.
* Make sure to bring some treats and a water bowl to keep your dog hydrated.
* Know your dog’s temperament. If your dog is not good with crowds, leave him at home.
Pet parents looking for additional tips and advice can visit www.petcomfortzone.com/dog_behaviors.htm.
Summer Beauty Starts with Protection
(ARA) – Break out the patio furniture and light up the barbeque – it’s time for summer entertaining! Whether you’re hosting the neighborhood Fourth of July cook-out or dolling up for a romantic evening under the stars, make sure you are protecting your skin before you head outdoors for summer fun.
For those who think the sun is the only thing they need to protect themselves from during the summer months, guess again. Mosquito bites are not only unsightly, but last year, West Nile Virus affected 121 people in the U.S. according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). However, women especially, don’t have to let ugly insect bites ruin their summer fun.
"It doesn’t have to be hard to keep your skin beautiful all summer long,” says Rebecca Borman, former Survivor contestant, and two-time Emmy Award-winning make-up artist on The View. “Keep your summer beauty routine low-maintenance with products like OFF! FamilyCare Smooth & Dry, which protects skin from mosquito bites and feels dry and comfortable.”
For those summertime occasions when you’d rather wear a sundress or shorts, she recommends quickly spraying on the repellent and going about your day. The unique cornstarch formula dries on contact and feels smooth and weightless on skin (unlike greasy, oily repellents).
Whether you’re attending a backyard barbeque or an outdoor concert, in addition to putting on bug repellent, Borman recommends you do the following:
* Protect your skin.
When stepping outside, protect your skin from the sun by wearing a high SPF sunblock (at least 15) to help avoid sunburn and premature wrinkles. Also, don’t forget to wear repellent to prevent ugly and potentially dangerous insect bites.
* Avoid smeared make-up.
Use a weatherproof powder to set and prevent make-up smudges and meltdowns. Facial blotting tissues can also help with quick touch ups.
* Stay hydrated.
Pack a water bottle in your beach bag, and when you stop for lunch, be sure to ask for that extra refill so you can top it off. Drinking cool liquids will help beat the summer heat and will help replenish your skin's glow.
With these few tips you should be ready to enjoy an afternoon at the beach or evening on the patio without letting annoying mosquitoes or other summer elements disrupt your beauty routine!
For more tips on keeping mosquitoes at bay, visit www.offprotects.com.
Articles courtesy of ARA Content.
Brought to you by Old Fashioned Images
(ARA) – Top off your Independence Day celebration this year with Wave the Flag Cupcakes for everyone.
These cupcakes look adorable and will be a hit with your family and guests. With their patriotic colors, they’re perfect for a Fourth of July picnic, or anytime you feel like “waving the flag.” The secret in these sweet delights is that there are more blueberries baked inside -- and thanks to a quick trick or two, they’re lower in fat and calories than cupcakes made the traditional way.
Need another reason to celebrate? July is National Blueberry Month! Blueberries are most abundant and least expensive in mid-summer, making it an ideal time to get your fill of these little blue gems. Stock the fridge and freezer with blueberries to make meals, snacks and desserts that are easy on the cook. Blueberries never need to be peeled, pitted, stemmed or chopped -- just a quick rinse and they’re ready to eat or add to recipes.
Try these ideas for making quick, delicious desserts and snacks that are enjoyable any time:
* Layer fresh blueberries with yogurt and crushed cereal in tall glasses for tasty breakfast parfaits.
* Toss fresh blueberries, chopped pineapple, melon and mint in a bowl; drizzle with thawed apple juice concentrate to serve as a fruit salad or a light dessert.
* Whirl frozen blueberries, cranberry juice, yogurt and ice cubes in a blender; pour into cold glasses and serve for breakfast or snack.
Recipe for “Wave the Flag” Cupcakes
Ingredients:
1 package (18- to 19-ounces) yellow cake mix
1/3 cup applesauce
3 egg whites
3 cups fresh blueberries, divided
1 package (8 ounces) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 red fruit-roll snack (from a 4.5 ounce box)
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a large mixing bowl, beat cake mix with applesauce, egg whites and 1 1/4 cups water for 30 seconds on low speed, then 2 minutes on medium speed. Spoon batter into 24 (2 ½-inch) aluminum or paper lined muffin cups. Evenly divide 1 cup of blueberries onto tops of batter; do not stir. Bake cupcakes following package directions; remove to a wire rack and cool completely. In a small bowl, beat cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar and vanilla until smooth. Spoon onto cooled cupcakes; spread to the edges. Unroll fruit snack and, with a sharp knife, cut into strips 1/8-inch wide by 2-inches long. On half of each cupcake, arrange strips, trimming each to fit. Arrange remaining 2 cups blueberries on the frosting on other halves of the cupcakes, about 10 blueberries per cupcake.
Makes 24 cupcakes
Per cupcake, including frosting and toppings: 135 calories; 3 g protein; 24 g carbohydrate; 3 g total fat (1.8 g saturated fat).
Blueberries are not only convenient, they provide nutrients our bodies need every day. You can find more blueberry recipes and information at www.blueberrycouncil.org.
Help your Dog through Fireworks and Frightful Forecasts
(ARA) - Summer has arrived and the Fourth of July is just around the corner. For families, that means more fun and festivities, but for pets it can become a stressful time due to increased sudden noise such as thunderstorms and fireworks.
“The summer can be a difficult time for pets with the noise of fireworks and neighborhood commotion. However, recognizing these changes in your dog’s environment, and planning ahead, can decrease the amount of discomfort your pet experiences,” says Debra Nickelson, D.V.M. “Using pheromone-based products such as Comfort Zone with D.A.P. (Dog Appeasing Pheromone), is great for overly-agitated dogs, as it helps them remain calm in unfamiliar or stressful scenarios.”
“My dog Edy is fairly calm overall, but whenever there is thunder or loud noises he shakes uncontrollably, whimpers and hides in our bedroom,” says Eric Kardesh, pet parent of a 2-year-old vizsla. “To make him feel calm, I always make sure his favorite blanket is in his crate, and I give it a few sprays of Comfort Zone which helps him feel safe and less stressed.”
The days following the Fourth of July are often the busiest of the year for many animal shelters recovering lost dogs. To ensure your dog is safe, keep him at home and plan ahead with these simple solutions:
* Keep your dog indoors in a confined and secure area to help him feel safe and secure.
* Put a favorite toy or blanket with your dog for added reassurance.
* Calming products, such as Comfort Zone, can soothe dogs having trouble coping with stress.
* Keep the shades closed and turn on the TV or radio to drown out unfamiliar noise.
“Usually I’ll find someone to pet sit during the Fourth of July,” says Rachel Van Buskirk, pet parent of a 6-year-old pug. “But when I can’t find anyone for the day, it seems to help if I leave some music to distract my dog from outside noises.”
If you’re planning on taking your companion with you for fireworks or neighborhood festivities, it is important to make sure you are prepared. When out and about with your dog this summer season, keep in mind the following tips:
* Keep your dog on a leash or in an animal carrier at all times.
* Do not leave your dog in the car, they heat up quickly and can cause health problems.
* Double-check to make sure your dog is wearing current identification.
* Consider getting a microchip for your dog.
* Make sure to bring some treats and a water bowl to keep your dog hydrated.
* Know your dog’s temperament. If your dog is not good with crowds, leave him at home.
Pet parents looking for additional tips and advice can visit www.petcomfortzone.com/dog_behaviors.htm.
Summer Beauty Starts with Protection
(ARA) – Break out the patio furniture and light up the barbeque – it’s time for summer entertaining! Whether you’re hosting the neighborhood Fourth of July cook-out or dolling up for a romantic evening under the stars, make sure you are protecting your skin before you head outdoors for summer fun.
For those who think the sun is the only thing they need to protect themselves from during the summer months, guess again. Mosquito bites are not only unsightly, but last year, West Nile Virus affected 121 people in the U.S. according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). However, women especially, don’t have to let ugly insect bites ruin their summer fun.
"It doesn’t have to be hard to keep your skin beautiful all summer long,” says Rebecca Borman, former Survivor contestant, and two-time Emmy Award-winning make-up artist on The View. “Keep your summer beauty routine low-maintenance with products like OFF! FamilyCare Smooth & Dry, which protects skin from mosquito bites and feels dry and comfortable.”
For those summertime occasions when you’d rather wear a sundress or shorts, she recommends quickly spraying on the repellent and going about your day. The unique cornstarch formula dries on contact and feels smooth and weightless on skin (unlike greasy, oily repellents).
Whether you’re attending a backyard barbeque or an outdoor concert, in addition to putting on bug repellent, Borman recommends you do the following:
* Protect your skin.
When stepping outside, protect your skin from the sun by wearing a high SPF sunblock (at least 15) to help avoid sunburn and premature wrinkles. Also, don’t forget to wear repellent to prevent ugly and potentially dangerous insect bites.
* Avoid smeared make-up.
Use a weatherproof powder to set and prevent make-up smudges and meltdowns. Facial blotting tissues can also help with quick touch ups.
* Stay hydrated.
Pack a water bottle in your beach bag, and when you stop for lunch, be sure to ask for that extra refill so you can top it off. Drinking cool liquids will help beat the summer heat and will help replenish your skin's glow.
With these few tips you should be ready to enjoy an afternoon at the beach or evening on the patio without letting annoying mosquitoes or other summer elements disrupt your beauty routine!
For more tips on keeping mosquitoes at bay, visit www.offprotects.com.
Articles courtesy of ARA Content.
Brought to you by Old Fashioned Images
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