Volume 1 ♥ Spring 2015
Table of Contents 10 30WELCOME IN THE SPOTLIGHT PARTIES & CELEBRATIONS3 Letter from the Editor 30 Paris in a Cup 46 A Baby Shower that’s Just4 Your Hostesses Ducky5 Our Favorite Things CONFETTI53 Capturing Memories 39 Here’s a Clue 9 Dressing Up Your DrinksSEASONAL ENTERTAINING 10 Hues of Red - Celebrating AROUND THE WORLD7 Love 911 Valentine’s Day 50 Våffeldagen - Sweden’s Waffle15 Storm Watch 14 Greetings in Your Mailbox Day24 Easter 20 Things to Do on a Rainy Day 22 Easter Traditions 37 The Benefits of Tea15 On the Cover Photo by LGorvuee9n1P1hotography2 Spring 2015
Letter from the Editor love is in the air The number one symbol for Valentine’s Day is a red heart. It’s on everything from greeting cards to decorations to heart shaped boxes filled with an assortment of chocolates. It symbolizes the love one has for another. In our Hues of Red – Celebrating Valentine’s Day, we’ve put together a list of unique ways to celebrate the holiday that will be music to your ears.Photo by: Camela Brennand Love 911 is a twist on Valentine’s Day. It’s about getting healthy with the one you love. As the saying goes “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” To find out why this fruit is so beneficial to healthy living, check out our All about Apples article. You just might find yourself grabbing one to snack on or to make our delicious apple salad.A few years ago, my sister and I visited Paris in a Cup, a beautiful tea salon featured in our In the Spotlightsection. Here you can visit the city of romance without the expensive plane ticket to Paris. For Valentine’s Day,they host a best friend’s tea in celebration of the one you love. In their boutique, they offer their own line ofspecialty teas, but during this season, they carry a chocolate Valentine’s Day tea, which is very popular. Drinkingtea offers many health benefits, as highlighted in our Benefits of Tea.Before the May flowers begin to bloom, we often get a dose of April showers. But instead of a gloomy forecast,we’ve brightened things up with our Storm Watch luncheon where you can enjoy a dose of friendship sprinkledwith some sunshine. And if the weather doesn’t permit you to venture beyond your front door, we’ve got a listof Things to do on a Rainy Day.Oh, no! I’ve just been informed that the secret ingredient to your infamous dessert is now missing. The crimescene has been searched and evidence of thumbprint cookies have been found. So gather your suspects, I meanguests, for a party they won’t forget. P.S. Here’s a Clue, the consensus is the photographer did it. After thephoto shoot, he was gone in a flash! Sheri Sheri Lamas 3www.youreinvitedmag.com
Meet Your HostessesLeft to right: Linda, Kathleen, Cindy, and Sheri Photo by: Camela BrennandCo-Founder / Editor-in-Chief / Co-Founder / Publisher / WriterCreative Director / WriterIndependent Food Editor / Writer Independent Copy Editor / Writer You’re Invited Magazine is published quarterly. All content is produced and presented in good faith, based on information we’ve researched from different sources. No liability for their use or misuse exists. All rights reserved. © 20154 Spring 2015
Our Favorite Things Sheri Lamas Linda YonanW hat is y our favorite flow er? W hat is y our favorite flow er?I haven’t met a flower I didn’t like. From cheerful gerbera Red roses – do I need to say more.daisies, sophisticated roses, to elegant wisteria cascading W hat do y ou like to do on a rainy day ?over a walkway, I love them all! Even those playful Light a fire, curl up on the sofa, and watch a movie withdandelions, with their delicate petals waiting to be blown freshly popped popcorn.into the air, so they can dance. W hat genre of music do y ou enjoy most?W hat do y ou like to do on a rainy day ? Old time Rock & Roll.I love to read a good non-fiction book or workout with W hat is y our favorite springtime or Easter dec oration?weights, but then again, I like to do those things on sunny I’ve always been fascinated with dragonflies anddays, too. butterflies. They’re so colorful and unexpected to see.W hat genre of music do y ou enjoy most? Do y ou enjoy c oloring Easter eggs, hiding Easter eggs,I love a variety of music, from instrumental to hard rock. If or hunting Easter eggs?I had to narrow it down, it would be rock and alternative Hiding the Easter eggs because I love to watch the faces ofthat I listen to the most. little ones when they find them.W hat is y our favorite springtime or Easter dec oration?The Easter Bunny I tole painted.Do y ou enjoy c oloring Easter eggs, hiding Easter eggs,or hunting Easter eggs?I enjoy hiding them. And then trying to remember where Ihid them when the little ones can’t find them. Cindy M. Lloyd Kathleen R. McKissickW hat is y our favorite flow er? W hat is y our favorite flow er?Roses. Sunflowers and yellow roses.W hat do y ou like to do on a rainy day ? W hat do y ou like to do on a rainy day ?I love to cook on rainy days and while things are in the oven Stay home curled up in cozy PJs, reading a Mary HigginsI curl up with a good book and read till the timer goes off! Clark book or watching The Wizard of Oz (again), sippingW hat genre of music do y ou enjoy most? something warm, plus a tasty treat or two, all while my catsI love most genres so it’s probably easier to say what I are curled up next to me. Afterwards, maybe a long nap.don’t like - rap, heavy metal, hard rock. Everything else W hat genre of music do y ou enjoy most?from 40’s thru today is good! It is very eclectic these days. My music play list consists ofW hat is y our favorite springtime or Easter dec oration? musicals, patriotic, 1950-1970's Rock & Roll, old hymns, oldMy bunny village. country, the “Rat Pack,” funny songs, and some BarryDo y ou enjoy c oloring Easter eggs, hiding Easter eggs, Manilow.or hunting Easter eggs? W hat is y our favorite springtime or Easter dec oration?All of it! Coloring because it means egg salad sandwiches for It wouldn’t be Easter without me wearing the Easter Bunnylunch during the week. Hiding because I love to think of suit my mom, Dollie, made for me! I’ve been the Easterharder places to hide them as my girls get older and Bunny for family, friends, and my community since 1974!watching the hunt; I love seeing my girls faces trying to find Do y ou enjoy c oloring Easter eggs, hiding Easter eggs,those last hard to find eggs! or hunting Easter eggs? Hiding them of course...after all, I am the Easter Bunny!© Can Stock Photo Inc. / rawlik 5www.youreinvitedmag.com
Confetti They say “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” The All original adage goes, “Eat an apple on going to bed and you’ll keep about the doctor from earning his bread.” Although all fruits are good for you, what is it that makes an apple so beneficial? Here are just a fewA pples of their wonderful benefits.*Cholesterol Brain FunctionStudies indicate that eating apples regularly helps re- Apples may help reduce Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’sduce your total cholesterol, especially the bad LDL disease. The powerful antioxidant quercetin helps pro-cholesterol. Apples contain pectin, a soluble fiber which tect brain cells.lowers cholesterol from building up in the lining of theblood vessels. Weight LossHeart Disease Eating a small apple before each meal can decrease yourApples can decrease your overall calorie intake. Withrisk of heart disease by only 50-80 calories, applesslowing the oxidation of cell fill you up due to their watermembrane fats, which is a and fiber content.main factor in clogged ar-teries. Tooth DecayBlood Sugar Referred to as nature’s toothbrush, an apple canApples help stabilize your help reduce tooth decay. Byblood sugar, by slowing the stimulating the gums anddigestion of food, which increasing saliva, it reducesthen converts to glucose the bacteria in the mouthand enters the blood- causing less tooth decay.stream. The polyphenolscontained in apples can reduce your blood sugar from Asthmaspiking. Studies show there is a strong link between apples andCertain Diseases asthma. Apples contain anti-inflammatory benefits which may help calm the inflammation in the airwaysSeveral studies have shown apples help reduce the risk allowing one to breathe easier.¨of certain cancers, such as lung cancer and colon cancer.The antioxidant properties in apples protects the lungs * These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drugfrom toxins and improves lung function. They also have Administration.an anti-carcinogenic effect in the colon, helping fightcolon cancer. “Any fool can count the seeds in an apple. Only God can count all the apples in one seed.” Robert Schuller6 Spring 2015
Seasonal Entertaining♥Photography by Gruen Photography 7www.youreinvitedmag.com
Of all the cheeses, blue veined cheeses are the best for heart health.Apple Salad When ready to serve, drizzle balsamic glaze onto the place. Serve with champagne dress-Makes 2 servings ing, which may be purchased in the grocery store.Ingredients2 red delicious apples Pomegranate Juice1 bag of baby spinach or spring mix lettuce½ cup of Gorgonzola cheese We purchased from the market.¼ cup chopped walnutsCut apples horizontally in two using a sawingmotion. On the bottom portion of the apple, placea few greens, crumbled cheese, and walnuts.Place the middle portion of the apple on top andrepeat with the next layer until the apple iscomplete.Balsamic GlazeIngredients1 cup balsamic vinegar¼ cup brown sugarMix balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in asaucepan. Heat until sugar is dissolved.Simmer on low until glaze thickens. Cool beforeserving.8 Spring 2015
ConfettiDressing up Your Drinks By Sheri Lamas and Kathleen R. McKissickSo you’ve got a party to attend and you want to look snazzy for your guests. Since you’ll beinteracting with them all, you want to look good. No ordinary attire will do. You need something special.Something that will make you stand out! After all, you’re a fabulous looking drink!Here are some ways to dress up your drinks: • Freeze a variety of juices in ice cube trays. This adds color and flavor to your drinks without diluting them as• Place melted chocolate they melt.on the bottom of a glass • Cut a slit in the middleand give it a swirl. Allow of a doily or cupcake linerthe chocolate to coat the and place over a mason jar.glass with a unique design. Position a straw through• Place a small slice of the slit.fruit on the rim of a glass • Use wine charms (or(e.g., pineapple, lemon, make your own) to addstrawberry, etc.). sparkle to your stemware.• Use cotton candy as a • Decorate a wide rubbertopper. band with craft items (do• Tie a beautiful ribbon on not use hot glue on thethe stemware of your glass- rubber band). Make surees. it fits snug on a glass (not• Instead of ice cubes, too high, as you’ll stilltoss frozen bite size pieces need to drink out of it,of fruit into your drinks. unless you are using a• Use colored/patterned straw).straws or fun curly straws • Use molds to createin your drinks. special ice cubes or an ice• Tie a bandana around a ring for a punch bowl.mason jar for a country © Can Stock Photo Inc. / yekophotostudio • Using a zester or potatolook. peeler, peel the skin from• Create lip and mustache cut outs and tape to a straw. a citrus fruit to create small curls. Place on the rim ofLeave room at the top for actual lips. the glass.• Who says marshmallows are just for hot chocolate. • Create other cut outs that pertain to your party’sToss a few into dark colored drinks for a pop of white. theme (e.g., famous characters, baby items, tropical• Decorate paper cups with craft items. items, etc.).¨ 9www.youreinvitedmag.com
Photography by Gruen Photography Confetti By Linda Yonan and Sheri Lamas 10 Spring 2015
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For Your Sweetheart 1. Send your sweetheart a dozen red roses, but ask that one of them be white. Add a note that reads, “In every bunch, there’s always one that stands out.” 2. Take a bike ride together through a vineyard, country road, or along the beach. 3. Purchase tickets and attend his favorite sporting event or her favorite musical. 4. Give your sweetie a bag of Hugs® and Kisses® candy with a note that reads “XOXO.” 5. Write a love letter inviting your honey to dinner. “I noticed your beautiful eyes and was wondering if you would like to gaze into mine over dinner?” 6. Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride or sleigh ride depending on the climate you’re in. 7. Cook a gourmet meal together. Can’t cook? Dine at a fancy restaurant and order something lavish. 8. Get crazy at a photo booth. Or have a professional portrait taken together. 9. Send a photo of the beach with a caption, “Would love to watch the sunset with you.” 10. Tailor your entire meal around chocolate or something decadent. 11. Learn to tango, salsa, or line dance together. 12. Wink at your darling! They won’t expect it. 13. Take a dinner cruise out into the harbor. 14. Have a caricature drawn of the two of you. 15. Leave a rose petal trail into the dining room where you have a candlelit dinner waiting and music playing softly in the background. Love Songs 16. The Lady in Red ~ Chris de Burgh 17. Endless Love ~ Diana Ross and Lionel Richie 18. The Power of Love ~ Celine Dion 19. I Want to Know What Love Is ~ Foreigner 20. It’s Your Love ~ Tim McGraw with Faith Hill 21. Wonderful Tonight ~ Eric Clapton 22. Lady ~ Kenny Rogers 23. Into the Night ~ Benny Mardones 24. Unchained Melody ~ The Righteous Brothers 25. Amazed ~ Lonestar 26. Just a Kiss ~ Lady Antebellum 27. All of Me ~ John Legend 28. Beautiful ~ Jim Brickman with Wayne Brady 29. Take My Breath Away ~ Berlin 30. (Everything I Do) I Do It for You ~ Bryan Adams12 Spring 2015
For Those You Care About 31. Next time you send flowers write, “From someone who thinks you’re terrific!” 32. Put a special treat in their lunch box. One they’ll love, but won’t expect. 33. Write “I love you” on the bathroom mirror in soap. 34. Make heart-shaped pancakes or waffles for dinner. 35. Don’t forget your single friends, send a box of truffles or bouquet of flowers letting them know you’re thinking of them. 36. Make a lunch date and show up with a picnic basket with all the goodies. 37. Enjoy coffee and dessert or tea with scones. Just be sure chocolate is on the menu! 38. Watch a chick-flick or a romantic comedy with your girlfriends. 39. Get your mixology on and enjoy a night of red and pink mocktails/cocktails (e.g. red velvet milkshakes, Shirley Temples, strawberry daiquiris, cosmopolitans, etc.). 40. Host your own night of karaoke or name that tune. Only love songs allowed. Upbeat Love Songs 41. Call Me Maybe ~ Carly Rae Jepsen 42. I Love You Like a Love Song ~ Selena Gomez 43. Two of Hearts ~ Stacey Q 44. Crazy Little Thing Called Love ~ Queen 45. Love Shack ~ B-52’s 46. I Got You Babe ~ Sonny and Cher 47. Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now ~ Starship 48. Kiss You All Over ~ Exile 49. Can’t Get Enough of Your Love Babe ~ Barry White 50. Addicted to Love ~ Robert Palmer ¨ 13www.youreinvitedmag.com
Confetti in your Mailbox To welcome the season, here’s a great way to send a long distance friend or relative a greeting that they’re sure to enjoy. Before the first day of any given season, send one of these cute, adorable mugs filled with a seasonal packaged drink mix. For example, tea for spring, lemonade for summer, apple cider for fall, and hot chocolate for winter. You could also use the mugs as a gift card holder. Download the mug template, which is located on our website.14 Spring 2015
Seasonal EntertainingStorm Watch Come inside for a cheerful lunch that’s sure to blow those storm clouds away.Photography by Gruen Photography 15www.youreinvitedmag.com
Make sure your guests don’tleave without their umbrellas. We choose a whimsical theme with soft colors for our Storm Watch Luncheon. We also made sure each guest had a candy filled umbrella. After all, you don’t want your guest leaving without their umbrellas.16 Spring 2015
Chicken Salad SandwichMakes 6 servingsIngredientsCroissants1 bag of grilled chicken breasts (1 1/2 pounds)1/2 cup mayonnaise1 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar3 teaspoons honey1 teaspoon poppy seeds1/2 cup pecans, chopped1 cup red seedless grapes, halved1 stalk celery, finely choppedSalt and pepper to tasteCut croissants in half and set aside. Place chicken infood processor and pulse until desired consistency.Pour into large mixing bowl and add all remainingingredients; mix well. Spread chicken mixture oncroissants and serve immediately. 17www.youreinvitedmag.com
Green CloudsMakes 6 servingsIngredients1 16 ounce container of cottage cheese,small curd1 small can crushed pineapple, drained1 8 ounce container whipped topping1 package sugar free lime gelatin*Mix all ingredients together and chill.* Use lime gelatin powder only, do notprepare according to package.18 Spring 2015
Strawberry Dump Cake Preheat oven to 350º F. Grease a 13\"x 9\" pan.Makes 10 servings Dump pineapple with juice into pan. Spread evenly. Dump in pie filling and strawberries.Ingredients Sprinkle cake mix evenly over filling (do not mix).1 20 ounce can crushed pineapple, undrained Slice butter and top cake mixture.1 can strawberry pie filling1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped Bake 50 minutes until top is lightly browned.1 package yellow cake mix Serve warm or at room temperature.1 stick butterTwister TeaMakes 8 servingsIngredients1 pint fresh raspberries4 cups brewed tea, chilled1/3 cup sugar1/4 cup lemon juiceLemon, thinly slicedPlace raspberries in blender and puree. Strain into pitcher;add tea, sugar and lemon juice, stir until sugar is dissolved.Chill. Serve over ice. Garnish with lemon slices twistedaround straw. 19www.youreinvitedmag.com
ConfettiThings to do on a Rainy Day By Linda Yonan and Sheri LamasGet Cozy on the Sofa Get Busy with a Home MakeoverRainy days are a great time to grab a blanket and watch a Even your home need a makeover from time-to-time. Gomovie, catch up on your recorded TV shows, or read a through your closets and drawers and get rid of unwantedgood book. If young ones are around then watch a things you’ve been accumulating. Redecorate a room bychildren’s animated film and discuss it with your child rearranging the furniture or painting the walls a newafterwards. color for a fresh look.Get Creative with your Hands Get Moving All OverIf you’re crafty, today is a great day to paint, draw, or There are some great workout DVDs you may want tosketch. Even kids love to draw or color in their coloring purchase and save for a rainy day. Ballet, yoga, Pilates®books. Whatever your craft, sewing,knitting, crocheting, needlepoint, and Zumba® are all popularscrapbooking, or making jewelry – workouts. If you love to dance, tryjust do it. For the guys, start that something new like belly dancing, hipwoodworking project you’ve been hop, or ballroom dancing. Learn toputting off. hula like the Hawaiians.Get Cooking in the Kitchen Get Competitive with the GuysTry a new recipe or make a special Get a game of poker going, throwmeal and invite some friends over, some darts or if you have a pool table,weather permitting. Let the little shoot some pool. Guys just want tocooks help in the kitchen as well. have fun, too!Try baking some delicious home-made cookies. Their little tummies Get Connected with Loved Oneswill love it. Just be careful theydon’t overdo it! Write a letter, send a card, or pick up the phone and call someone you’veGet Close with your Family been meaning to connect with. Using social media may be quick and easy,Have fun with your family playing cards, board games, but taking the time to communicate the old fashioned waycharades, or work on a puzzle together. If you have small speaks volumes to its recipients. There’s nothing likeathletes in your family, create an indoor bowling alley or hearing someone’s voice on the phone or receiving ashoot hoops with crushed paper and a trash can. hand-crafted card in the mail!Get Relaxed for the Day Oh, and don’t forget to toss those pennies into your piggy bank for the next rainy day!¨Create your own “spa day” by giving yourself a mini facial,manicure, and pedicure. Unwind in a warm bubble bath.Or take a nap and catch up on your sleep.20 Spring 2015
Lightning can light up the sky and put on a dazzling show, but did you know that it can fertilize the ground? Lightning occurs when negative charges in the clouds encounter positive charges in the soil. Electrically charged light- ning then separates the nitrogen atoms in the air and bonds with hydrogen and oxygen atoms in (rain) water, which falls to the ground and fertilizes the earth.© Can Stock Photo Inc. / valdezrl 21www.youreinvitedmag.com
Confetti By Sheri Lamas My mom loved to sew and, back in the day, that was an economical way of dressing your family. So it’s only fitting that this Mother Hen made matching outfits for her four little chicks on Easter. Every year, she would choose a pastel color, find the perfect fabric, and sew our Easter outfits. Of course, no ensemble would be complete without a hat to top it off – a white wide- brim hat with matching fabric around the base. After church, we’d waltz out into the parking lot while the other church goers commented on our matching outfits. I guess you could say we had our own little Easter Parade out west. So just how did the Easter Parade get started? Or where did some of our Easter traditions begin?© Bigapplestock | Dreamstime.com - Easter Parade And Easter BonnetFestival PhotoEaster Parade eggs based on a child’s behavior. If a child was good, when they awoke they would find colored eggs placed inThe Easter Parade began in 1880 when the upper class the garden by the Easter Bunny.would stroll out onto New York’s Fifth Avenue afterattending church showing off their new outfits and hats. Easter BasketsMany would come to see what the latest fashion trendswere for spring. In 1948, MGM released the musical In France and Germany during the 19th century, children would use straw from hats or baskets to makefilm Easter Parade staring Fred Astaire and Judy nests, so the Easter Bunny could leave special eggs for them. The tradition spread and when it came to theGarland, which popularized the parade. Today, states, the nests were replaced with baskets. Easterelaborate outfits and hats are worn by men, women, and baskets are now lined with plastic grass to resembleeven pets, as they walk down Fifth Avenue on Easter nests and filled with all sorts of goodies, including eggs,Sunday. candy, and small gifts.Easter Bunny Easter EggsThe Easter Bunny is the most recognized critter at Eggs have long been viewed as a symbol of fertility andEaster time. When German immigrants settled in new life and several ancient cultures used them in theirPennsylvania, they introduced the Easter hare (alsoknown as the Easter Bunny) who would leave special22 Spring 2015
Ninety million chocolatebunnies are made each year.Boy, those bunnies sure do multiply!spring festivals. During Lent, eggs were forbidden, so House held its first official egg roll. Easter egg huntsmany boiled their eggs to preserve them during this involved hiding hard-boiled eggs, typically hidden by theperiod. Chicken eggs were originally dyed or painted Easter Bunny. It is believe this custom came from thered to symbolize the blood of Christ that was shed on the German’s tradition of the Easter hare.cross for our sins. The egg represented new life, whichcame to those who believed in Jesus. Today, Easter eggs Growing up, the Easter Bunny would often visit us onare dyed in a rainbow of spring colors. Easter Sunday, hide candy-filled plastic eggs, and even pose for pictures. I guess that’s the advantage of havingEaster Candy a friend whose mother didn’t sew a new spring outfit for her, but a bunny suit instead!¨Chocolates and jelly beans and marshmallow Peeps®,oh my! No Easter basket would be complete withoutsome sweets to go along with those hard-boiled andplastic Easter eggs. Next to Halloween, more candy issold at Easter time than any other holiday. Ninetymillion chocolate bunnies are made each year. Boy,those bunnies sure do multiply! With their egg-likeappearance, jelly beans jumped onto the scene in the1930s. They come in a variety of flavors, but cherry stilltops the list as everyone’s favorite. Chicks are all therage these days, hence the name Peeps®. The companystarted with yellow chicks, but has expanded their lineto include bunnies. Today, both are available in avariety of colors and flavors.Easter Egg Roll or Egg Hunt © Can Stock Photo Inc. / urbanlightEaster egg rolls and egg hunts are popular games played 23www.youreinvitedmag.comat Easter time. Egg rolling, where hard-boiled eggs arerolled down a hill, was very popular in England andother countries. Many historians believed First LadyDolly Madison was the first to bring the idea to theUnited States. Initially, the egg rolls were held at theCapital, but moved to the White House after Congresspassed the Turf Protection Law. In 1878, the White
Seasonal Entertaining Photography by Gruen Photography24 Spring 2015
E A S T E R25www.youreinvitedmag.com
Roasted Rosemary Potatoes Makes 6 servings Ingredients 8 medium red potatoes 1/4 cup olive oil Fresh rosemary sprig or 1 tablespoon dried rosemary Preheat oven to 400°F. Wash and cut potatoes into quarters. Place in large bowl; add olive oil and rosemary then toss until all potatoes are coated. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 1 hour until crisp and golden brown; turning twice during baking time. Serve immediately.Glazed Ham Scoring fat is a method of making shallow cuts into the Makes 8 servings fat (typically in a checker- board pattern). This allows Ingredients the fat to cook more evenly, 1 fully cooked ham, about 6 to 8 pounds creating more juices to soak 1/2 cup maple syrup 1/2 cup light brown sugar into the meat. 1/4 cup apple juice 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon molasses Preheat oven to 325°F. Place ham, fat side up, on rack in roasting pan; score fat and cover with foil. Cook about 1 and ½ hours (about 15 minutes per pound). Combine remaining ingredients in saucepan; bring to a boil, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes (do not to let it boil over). About 20 minutes before the ham is done, remove foil and spoon half of glaze over top of ham and continue to cook, then about 10 minutes before done, spread remaining glaze over ham. Serve immediately.26 Spring 2015
Green Beans 1 angel food cake (store bought in plastic container)Makes 6 servings 1 container of lime, slightly softened 1 container of raspberry sherbet, slightlyIngredients softened1 1/2 pounds of fresh green beans Pastel colored jelly beans3 tablespoons butter, melted2 tablespoons slivered almonds Prepare Dream Whip® according to packageSalt to taste directions and store in refrigerator for later. In large plastic bag add shredded coconut and 5-6Wash and trim edges of fresh green beans. drops of green food coloring, seal and shakeBring 8 quarts of water to boil in large saucepan. until all coconut is green; set aside. Slice angelDrop green beans in boiling water for 5 -8 food cake into 3 layers. Place top layer of cakeminutes until tender; drain. Place in servingdish, drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle back in container. Spread lime sherbet over 1stalmonds over top. Serve immediately. layer, 3/4 inch thick. Place middle layer of cake over lime sherbet then repeat with raspberrySpringtime Cake sherbet. Place last layer of cake onto sherbet and freeze for at least 2 hours. 20 minutesMakes 8 servings before serving remove cake from freezer and let thaw for 10 minutes. Use knife to loosen theIngredients edges of cake from container and invert onto2 envelopes Dream Whip® cake plate; frost with prepared Dream Whip®.1 cup shredded coconut Sprinkle green coconut around bottom andGreen food coloring decorate with jelly beans. Serve immediately! 27www.youreinvitedmag.com
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Neither the hummingbird nor theflower wonders how beautiful it is. -Noted LivingPhotography by Sandy Vogel 29www.youreinvitedmag.com
In the Spotlight30 Spring 2015
Paris in a CupPhotography by Sheri Lamas 31www.youreinvitedmag.com
By Sheri LamasWould you love to travel to Paris, France to see the required her contractor to watch the films, so he would share their vision. Much to her surprise, he had doorsEiffel Tower? Dine at a sidewalk café, with French custom made to resemble those she saw in the film, Weekend at the Waldorf, which she thought he wasmusic playing in the background? Nibble on pastel unable to acquire for her.colored French macarons and shop to your heart’scontent? You won’t have to travel to the City of Lights to While the tea salon was being built, Cheryl and her sistercheck those things off your bucket list. Just step inside shopped for lighting, furnishings, and décor. TheyParis in a Cup and, in an instant, you’ll be whisked away scoured the internet looking at various tea rooms into France. No expensive plane ticket needed, however, France to gather more decorating and menu ideas. Theyreservations may be in order at this beautiful tea salon noticed French tea rooms carried more bistro items, likelocated in Historic Old Towne Orange, California. soups and hearty sandwiches, which they incorporated into their menu. This later proved beneficial, as itFrom the look of things you’d never know that owner, brought men to the salon. Along the way, they metCheryl Turner, has never travelled to Paris. That’s Sharon Sakimoto, a photo-artist who travelled to Parisbecause she’s afraid to fly. So in order to create her nine times. She worked with the sisters on creating anlovely French inspired tea salon, Cheryl and her sister, image for their business cards, gift cards, and menus.Valerie whom she enlisted early on, watched old movies Her artwork is also displayed within the salon.that were filmed in Paris. Movies such as An Americanin Paris, Funny Face, and Ninotchka just to name a few. For their boutique, they worked with French companiesThese films gave them decorating ideas, especially when who imported gourmet food and beverages, souvenirs,it came to restaurant and café scenes. Cheryl even32 Spring 2015
novelty items, and much more. After attending a tea expo, Cherylbegan working with Lisa Brown from Hale Tea for six months todevelop custom blends for their signature line. She felt it wouldbe a great marketing tool for the salon to offer their own line ofspecialty teas. Paris in a Cup began with five signature blends –Lé Jardin de Paris (Paris Garden), Lé Été à Paris (Summer inParis), and Lé Parfumé de France (Flavors of France), which areall black teas, Les Fruits à Été (Fruits of Summer) a naturallydecaffeinated tea, and a royal blend named Marie Antoinette,which is an herbal tea. Due to the popularity of these teas, theyexpanded their line to include other blends. Over the years theboutique has evolved, Cheryl listened to her customers and herFrench importers and incorporated more authentic souvenirs andproducts. Contrary to what one might think, she has found it apure joy to work with the French!Cheryl’s love for tea and the French culture came from herchildhood. Her grandmother would take her to Buffum’s in LongBeach, California for tea, as well as other places in Los Angeles.Getting all dressed up wearing a hat, faux fur shawl and muffs, sheand her grandmother would travel by Trolley car to the upscaledepartment store. She’ll never forget the first time they went fortea. As a little girl, she had never had a sandwich on date nutbread and thought, “Wow, this is the way to have a sandwich!” Sheknew this was something special and she loved it. Hergrandmother also took her to the Philharmonic to listen toclassical music. All of this left a huge impression on Cheryl, wholives in the past, according to many who know her.As for the French culture, she loved the food, the countryside, theglamour, and the romance. She and her mother, Gigi, alwaysdreamt of travelling to Paris, but never did. By creating Paris ina Cup, she could bring Paris home to them…in a cute little cup,of course. Sadly, her mother died before the tea salon opened inNovember 1997.Every year, Paris in a Cup hosts several events. For Valentine’sDay, they offer a best friends’ tea in celebration of the ones youlove. Enjoy lunch with your girlfriends, sisters, or your significantother. If your best friend happens to be a cute French poodle,lovable French bulldog, or any other type of canine you may enjoytea on their outdoor patio with your furry friend. Their LittleBlack Dress event has become popular over the years and iscelebrated the day before Easter. The Easter Parade was theinspiration for this ever growing event, where women would getdressed up wearing hats and their Sunday best, but it has evolvedinto the Little Black Dress event. Their Mother’s Day tea is alsovery popular. And for three weekends in December, the salon 33www.youreinvitedmag.com
34 Spring 2015
offers a Joyeux Noel tea. Nothing sparkles like theirChristmas tea!Do check their website (www.parisinacup.com) asother happenings occur throughout the year.Cheryl’s tips for hosting a tea party at home:• It’s important to enjoy your guests, so keep it simple.• Have a buffet tea set up rather than serving tea.• Offer three teas – a black tea, a green tea, and an herbal tea.• Make your sandwiches the night before. To keep moist, wrap them in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.If you would like to converse with your friends overtea, but don’t want to tidy the house, make petite nocrust sandwiches, or wash the teacups afterwards,then head on over to Paris in a Cup for some warmtea, a savory scone, and a sweet bite size taste ofFrance. It will be a trip worth taking.¨ If you could have tea with any known figure, who would it be? “The Queen of England. That would be the ultimate.” Cheryl Turner 35www.youreinvitedmag.com
Confetti36 Spring 2015 Photography by Neil Gruen Photography © Can Stock Photo Inc. / klenova
The Benefits of TeaBy Kathleen R. McKissickAncient cultures have always proclaimed the what type of tea you choose, never store your tea near abenefits of tea and many people today are discovering heat source or in the freezer. Tea should be stored in a double-walled stainless steel tea tin to retain the tea’stea’s unique qualities. flavor, scent, and benefits.The black, oolong, green and white teas are derived from The teas I’ve listed are only a small sampling of the manythe tea plant, Camellia sinensis and are high in varieties available today. I have denoted the type of teabeneficial polyphenol antioxidants, which help block with a capital in parentheses after its name: B for Black,fat-building enzymes! Although these teas contain G for green, H for herbal, and W for White. Here are justcaffeine, some are available in decaffeinated forms. You a few teas and their known benefits*:can also pre-steep the tea in hot water for 20 seconds toremove most of the caffeine. Studies show the Ashwagandha (H) - Excellent at bedtime for thosetannates/tannins in these teas interfere with ironabsorption, so, if you suffer from anemia, be sure to with insomnia. An immune stimulant in patients withdrink these teas either one hour before or after your meal. low white blood cells due to radiation treatments or chemotherapy.Green teas contain phytonutrients EGCG (epigallocate- Black (B) - Helps inhibit bacteria growth in thechin gallate) and/or ECG (epicatechin gallate). These arepowerful flavonoids known as catechins. They help fight mouth, so your breath smells sweeter. Containsinflammation, so they may also help battle cartilage and polysaccharides that have glucose-inhibiting properties,collagen destruction in arthritic joints, including issues so it may also help to prevent diabetes. Helps stopsof osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Some studies belly-fat before it starts. Some examples of black teassuggest that EGCG may potentially prevent the onset or are English Breakfast, Earl Grey, etc.slow the progression of dementia. Catechins may alsoreduce the risk of stroke, heart failure, cancer, and Chamomile (H) - Known for its relaxation benefits,diabetes. it can also be used to relieve upset stomach, menstrualHerbal teas come from herbs and other plant sources. cramps, and promote quality sleep. New studies indicateTheir benefits are so vast that some of them are listed it may steady blood sugar and guard against the damagewith each tea below. Herbal teas do not contain caffeine, high blood sugar can impart.but some varieties may have side effects for some peoplewith certain health issues or taking certain medications. Dandelion (H) - Helps digestion issues, alleviatesBe sure to read the tea’s packaging and consult with yourdoctor before trying an herbal tea. liver complaints, and regulates blood glucose. Can also be used as a diuretic.Keep in mind different teas required differenttemperatures of water to bring out their benefits. Black Ginger (H) - Contains an anti-inflammatory agent toand oolong prefer boiling water while greens, whites andherbals are best suited for warm to hot water. No matter block the chemical messengers that cause a slight swelling in the brain. At onset of headache or migraine, drink a cup to stop the pain in its tracks. Also aids in digestion, too. 37www.youreinvitedmag.com
Ginseng (H) - Enhances the libido! Contains Peppermint (H) – Soothes an upset stomach andginsenosides that help both women and men! relieves constipation.Enjoy a cup after you read our article \"Hues of Red -Celebrating Valentine’s Day.\" Rooibos (H) - Has a variety of minerals, such asGreen (G) - Contains EGCG that increases the calcium and zinc, to help make your hair shinier, your skin more radiant, and help your nails grow strongerhormone CCK, which creates the feeling of satiation. and healthier.May be beneficial to prevent eye diseases, such asglaucoma. Siberian Ginseng (H) - It’s commonly calledHawthorne (H) - Contains flavonoids that help eleuthero (eleutherococcus) and not a true ginseng. It contains triterpenoid saponins that have a stresskeep the blood vessels strong. It may also balance total relieving effect on the body. It improves bloodcholesterol, triglycerides and bad (LDL) cholesterol. It circulation and enhances mental and physical prowess.may even help in congestive heart failure. Can have a It may also help the immune system fight commongentle relaxant effect on the vascular system for those viruses like rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus andwith higher blood pressure due to stress hormones. influenza. It may lower blood pressure and eliminate symptoms of angina.Hibiscus (H) - Can help lower systolic blood Safflower (H) - The antioxidants help preventpressure in people with pre-hypertension or mildlyelevated blood pressure. heart disease by decreasing inflammation in the arteries, keeping them flexible and less likely to clog.Licorice Root (H) - Contains therapeutic Turmeric (H) - Lubricates the joints and helpscompounds that soothe sore throats. relieve pain of arthritis, osteoarthritis or other chronicMatcha (G) - Boosts your metabolism, it’s a joint pain. Aids liver cells by helping clear bad cholesterol from the body. Also aids in indigestion,fat-blocker, and reduces anxiety. Plus it has stomach ulcers, and ulcerative colitis. Powerfulantioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to help anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that may help fightfight disease. It has three times the polyphenol cancer.catechin of regular green tea. Contains L-theanine, anamino acid which promotes a tranquility effect. Valerian Root (H) - Its natural compounds areBecause it is ground into a powder, you ingest the tealeaves and all their healthful nutrients. You can even used as a sedative, as they may help you fall asleep fasteradd a scoop to a smoothie! when ingested two hours before bedtime.Nettle (H) - Has antihistamine properties and can White (W) - Less processed, so the polyphenols areprevent hay fever or allergy attacks from happening in extra potent and it contains EGCG. Fights signs of agingthe first place. Relieves allergy symptoms like stuffy and it may also protect from colon cancer.nose, sneezing and itchy eyes. Brew a large pot andkeep the tea in the refrigerator during allergy season. No matter which one you decide to try, I hope you enjoy a delicious cup of tea soon. After all, the benefits areOolong (B) - Its unique catechin and caffeine endless.¨combination raises your metabolism for two hours after *Some of these statements have not been evaluated by the Food anddrinking. Drug Administration.38 Spring 2015
Parties and Celebrations It happenedOne Night© Can Stock Photo Inc. / balounm 39www.youreinvitedmag.com
Here’s a ClueMystery Meatballs Makes 8-10 servings Ingredients 1 12 ounce jar chili sauce 1 16 ounce jar grape jelly 1 package frozen turkey meatballs, thawed (25-30 meatballs) Preheat oven to 350º F. In large saucepan combine chili sauce and grape jelly; add meatballs and simmer uncovered until the sauce thickens (about 35-40 minutes). *You can also combine all ingredients in slow cooker; set on low for 6 hours and serve.40 Spring 2015
Fishy Alibi Makes 10 servings Ingredients 20 multi-grain crackers 1 8 ounce package cream cheese 2 6 ounce cans crabmeat 1 small jar cocktail sauce Parsley, finely chopped Cut cream cheese into small squares and place on crackers. Layer 1/2 teaspoon of cocktail sauce then 1 teaspoon of crab meat over cream cheese. Garnish with parsley. Serve.Photography by Gruen Photography 41www.youreinvitedmag.com
Suspiciously Stuffed Tomatoes saucepan. Bring to a boil; lower to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes. Heat oil in aMakes 8 servings frying pan and add spinach. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until just wilted. Mix inIngredients garlic and parsley, cook for a minute longer, and8 medium ripe tomatoes remove from heat. Add cooked quinoa to spin-Salt, to taste ach; mix well. Fill tomatoes with quinoa mixture.2 cups water Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove1 cup quinoa foil, sprinkle tops with parmesan cheese and1 tablespoon olive oil mozzarella cheese. Bake for an additional 54 cups fresh spinach, chopped minutes, or until cheese is melted. Serve.3 cloves of garlic, minced1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped Disappearing Date BarsSalt, to tastePepper, to taste Makes 24 barsParmesan cheeseMozzarella cheese, shredded Ingredients 2 1/2 cups pitted dates, choppedPreheat oven to 375º F. 1/4 cup sugar 1 1/2 cups waterSlice off ½ inch of the stem end of the tomatoes 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flourand hollow out the inside. Sprinkle salt in each 1 teaspoon salttomato and place hollow side up on a baking 1/2 teaspoon baking sodasheet. Set aside. Place water and quinoa in a42 Spring 2015
1 1/2 cups quick cooking oats 1 egg yolk1 cup packed light brown sugar 2 cups all-purpose flour1/2 cup butter, softened (not melted) 1/4 teaspoon salt1 tablespoon water Raspberry jam, seedlessPreheat oven to 350º F. Grease a 9” x 13”baking dish. Preheat oven to 350º F.In a saucepan, combine dates, sugar and water; Mix brown sugar, butter, vanilla and egg yolk incook, stirring frequently, until very thick. Cool. medium bowl. Stir in flour and salt until doughSift flour, salt, and baking soda together in a holds together. Refrigerate for 1 hour. Shapelarge bowl; add oats and brown sugar. Cut in dough into 1-inch balls. Place about 1 inch apartbutter until mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle water on ungreased cookie sheet. Press thumb deeplyover mixture; stir lightly. Press 2/3 mixture into in center of each cookie. Bake about 12-14dish and bake for 5 minutes. Spread date minutes or until light brown. Immediatelymixture on top of crust then sprinkle remaining remove from cookie sheet to wire rack. Coolcrumble on top. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until completely, about 30 minutes. Fill thumbprintslightly browned. Completely cool then cut into with jam.bars.Thumbprint Cookies The Proof is in the PuddingMakes 30 cookies We purchased pre-made chocolate pudding and topped with whipped cream.Ingredients2/3 cup packed light brown sugar Blood Orange Punch1 cup butter or margarine, softened (not melted)1 teaspoon vanilla We purchased from the market. 43www.youreinvitedmag.com
All eyes are on you!44 Spring 2015
Caution: We Can Make You TalkInterrogating Icebreaker QuestionsA serious crime has been committed. The secret suspects some interrogating icebreaker questions toingredient to your infamous dessert is now missing and get them to talk and get acquainted.it’s your job to find out who’s done it! So put on yourdetective hat, gather your guests, and ask your 1. Where were you last [*] night at 7:30 pm? 2. How long have you known the host and how did you meet? 3. Where were you born? 4. Have you ever used an alias? If so, what was it? 5. Have you ever been labeled a troublemaker? If so, what were the circumstances surrounding it? 6. What kind of get-away car do you drive? 7. Do you own a pair of black gloves? 8. Are you right or left handed? 9. What size shoe do you wear? 10. Do you have any “hidden” talents? 11. What’s in your bag? 12. When was the last time you left the country and where did you go? 13. What is your relationship status? 14. What shade of lipstick do you wear? 15. What is your signature perfume? 16. Do you wear glasses or contacts? 17. What is your blood type? 18. Do you know self-defense? And have you had to use it? 19. Have you ever had a run-in with the law? And would you like to talk about it? 20. Last question, are you sticking to your story tonight or would you like to make any changes? *Depending on the date of your party, choose a day that would cause some to remember and others to think about it. Two to five days should be sufficient.¨© Can Stock Photo Inc. / Feverpitched 45www.youreinvitedmag.com
46 Spring 2015
Parties and CelebrationsJust DuckyA Baby Shower that’sA great way to throw a baby shower they’ll remember is to start with a theme.Then choose two complimentary colors to carry through all your tableware.Here we chose a rubber duck theme with our complimentary colors of blueand yellow. A different rubber duck was placed at each place setting. Duckswere also used to decorate many of the desserts. Rubber ducks became popular after a Sesame Street® episode where Ernie is singing “Rubber Duckie” in the bathtub.Styling by Cindy SchmidtPhotography by Greg Schmidt and Linda Yonan 47www.youreinvitedmag.com
An inflatable duck was filled with personalized water bottles and ice for our guests to enjoy on a nice spring day. The first rubber ducks manufactured didn’t float.48 Spring 2015
Healthy fruit, salad, and sandwiches The icing on the cake were on the menu that day to save was made to look like room for the sweet, yummy desserts. bubbles from a bath. Rubber ducks 49www.youreinvitedmag.com in a bathtub calm a child’s fear of waterimmersion. Thetoy ducks act as a diversion.
Around the World © Can Stock Photo Inc. / AlmgrenVåffeldagen ~ Sweden’s Waffle Day By Sheri LamasEver since the Tower of Babel, language has caused Spirit and give birth to a son, Jesus Christ. In theconfusion. It can be a bit tricky. Some words can vernacular Swedish language Vårfrudagen soundedsound very similar. My great uncle Vince was born in much like Våffeldagen, and the waffle day was born.Alabama, but lived in New Jersey most of his adult life. Although both are celebrated on March 25th, there isHe taught five languages at an all-boys private school. no religious significance to Våffeldagen.With his New Jersey accent and southern drawl, someof his words sounded quite unusual, while others Every March 25th, the Swedes pull out their wafflesounded very much alike. I used to joke with him irons and celebrate the holiday with waffles, whichabout the way he spoke certain words (no worries, he may be eaten for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. In theloved it and would joke back). Of course, he told me 17th century, the Swedes used square irons to makeI was the one who talked funny and that he talked their waffles over an open fire. However, by the latenormal. After all, he taught language for a living. 1800s, heart-shaped waffles topped with homemade jam and whipped cream were on the menu. SwedishIn Sweden, the confusion of language played a big role waffles are thinner and crispier than traditionalin bringing forth the tradition of Våffeldagen. American waffles and the jams are sweetened withVåffeldagen means the waffle day, whereas, fresh berries, such as cloudberries (a cousin of theVårfrudagen means Lady Day, which in the Christian blackberry).¨faith is when the angel Gabriel announced to theVirgin Mary that she would be conceived by the Holy50 Spring 2015
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