What to Gift Your Garden Buddies This Christmas

August 18th, 2010
Marcus Peter asked:




Christmas is nearing and if you are still wondering what to get for your garden buddies this time around, here are some gift ideas to help you out.

1.) Gardener gift basket: Who doesn’t love gift baskets? Your friends will too and what better way to give a gift with a personal touch. Gift baskets can be ordered right from a garden shop or even made by hand. All you need is a basket to get started. You can use a wire hanging basket or a harvesting basket. Once you have decided on what type of basket to use, simply fill it up with what ever stuff a gardener might need. For instance, garden books, small tools, exotic seeds etc. Make your gift basket stand out by sticking to a specific theme.

2.) Garden Plants: Garden plants make for a great gift considering the fact that they are ever lasting and the right plant will remind your friends of you every time they enter their garden. Some of the plants that make great  gifts for gardeners include amaryllis, poinsettia, kalanchoe, and roses

3.) Garden Tote bag: A hip looking garden tote bag filled with goodies is sure to make any gardener’s day! Just like a gift basket, this gift can be personalized as well. The goodies can include stuff like hand lotions, seed packets, garden footwear and some other holiday goodies like chocolates

4.) Garden Containers: Containers make great gift options given the fact that they can be brought at relatively cheaper costs and then decorated in-house to give that personalized touch. Try and purchase terra-cotta pots or plastic pots as these can be easily painted upon to create interesting designs like for instance a garden scene. If you are not good at painting, consider covering the containers with mosaic tiles to create unique colorful designs.

5.) Gardening Books: Gifting a gardening book is a great idea but just make sure that your friend does not already own that book. The market is flooded with all kinds of gardening books, so before you make the purchase try to get an idea of what your friend is into and what he or she prefers to learn about. As a bonus you can also include a garden journal and stationery along with the book. Stack all of them up together and tie them with a ribbon and a fancy bow.

6.) Gift Bouquets: Gift bouquets can be made at home or purchased from a garden shop. They are not very expensive and make for a great gift. Some popular bouquets include red or white carnation bouquet and orchid bundles. Decorate your home made bouquets with pine cones, gold leaves, twirls and sliver/gold balls.

7.) Gift a trip: Find out if there are any major flower-shows happening during this time of the season and fix up a memorable trip for two. For instance the Royal Horticultural Society’s Chelsea Flower Show starts in London between May 20 and 24, 2008. Of-course your host will need to spend the extra bucks for the travel. So make sure that they are up for it before thinking of this gift idea.

Happy Gifting!



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ladies; how long do you wash your goodies before a date?

August 17th, 2010
sweet oly asked:


fresh is best

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Food Pantry Patrol – Get Rid of the Goodies That Are Undermining Your Weight Loss

August 3rd, 2010
Arlene Pellicane asked:




You have an enemy within. Within your kitchen that is. Open your pantry or refrigerator and you may find all sorts of landmines. Candy, chips, soda, ice cream, cookies…you must declare all of these former friends as foes when your goal is to lose weight.

Do you know how to dramatically increase your odds to lose weight? Throw out everything in your kitchen and pantry that stands in your way. Give your junk food away, burn it, toss it in the trash so fast you don’t have time to change your mind. This might sound crazy but losing weight is all about access. If you have cookies available, you will eat them. Whenever there’s chocolate in the house, you will find it. But if you only have fruit and vegetables on hand, guess what? You’ll eat that instead and you will lose weight.

Nine weeks after I had my baby, I wasn’t eating sugar except for a once a month treat. But one night, we had guests over for dessert. As long as I was going to blow it, I chose my favorite cheat…ice cream. I was very proud of the small bowl I served myself. Our friends brought over a dozen donuts. After they left, I had to hide the box in the oven so those glazed goodies would stop taunting me. The next morning, my husband gave the donuts away to a business associate. The leftover ice cream went straight to our neighbors.

That may sound silly but while you’re losing weight, you are at war with foods like donuts and ice cream. You must be radical in your desire to lose weight. Health coach Rich Brennan refers to things containing white flour or sugar as poison. If you and your family are committed to weight loss, you must purge your pantry of all poisons.

Maybe you’re thinking if you lived alone, this might work. But how can you throw away your husband’s food, or worse, your kids? Here are a few suggestions and you can probably think of more.

1. Ask your husband and kids to eat healthy with you for a certain length of time. Try eating healthy at home for one month.

2. Put all the junk food in a big box and seal it up with shipping tape. Store it in a closet and don’t open it until a certain date or until you lose a certain amount of weight. Label it clearly, “Do not open before May 1″ or “Do not open until mom weighs 130 pounds.”

3. If asking your family to give up their junk food is next to impossible, then label the junk food in your house. Put your husband’s name on the bag of chips. Your kid’s name on the soda can. These things belong to your family; they do not belong to you. They are off limits.

Today’s action step: Go to your pantry. Now purge – throw away junk food, label it with your kid’s names, give it away to your skinny friends. Go and do it now, before you change your mind!

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Christmas In Germany, An Experience You Will Never Forget

July 26th, 2010
Joshua Spaulding asked:




The Christmas holiday begins December 24th and ends on the 26th. On the 24th (Christmas Eve), most Germans work a half day and shops are open until the early afternoon. Gifts are usually opened on the evening of the 24th. Christmas day is a little different. Unlike the U.S., Germany celebrates two Christmas days, the 25th and the 26th.

Christmas weather in Germany is usually around 28-40 degrees fahrenheit. Snow is not very common during this time. You may get lucky if you are visiting a town which is located at a higher elevation. On average Germany probably gets snow one out of five years in lower areas.

Christmas in Germany may be one of the most unique experiences you ever have. With the famous Christmas markets in almost every town you come across, you are sure to have a time of your life. Whether you visit Germany during the Holidays Season for business or pleasure, you will have a lot to talk about when you return home. The way Germans celebrate this holiday is not much different than the way Americans do. The tradition of the Christmas tree with the presents underneath is of course the main tradition. You will find lights all over the place as you will in the U.S. Stockings are traditional as well as they are hung and filled with goodies for the kids. Santa Claus (Weihnachtsmann) is no different. The big, bearded man dressed in red who rides in a slay pulled by raindeer. Children are always excited to see what Santa left them under the tree. Lets talk about some of the things you will experience during the Christmas holiday in Germany.

Christmas Fests (Weihnachtsfest) – Possibly the number one attraction during Christmas time in Germany. These exciting functions usually start toward the end of November and end on the 22nd or 23rd of December in bigger cities like Frankfurt, Berlin and Munich. In smaller cities they are normally held on one weekend in December. Each town holds their own fest so it is not uncommon for the fests to be held on different weekends. Traditionally the Mayor of the town opens the Christmas fest by lighting an enormous tree.

Christmas fests are a place you can go with your family to enjoy the Christmas season and take in every wonderful thing this season brings. Fests are usually held at the city center in a public, open area. You just walk up to the area and enjoy. You may not want to drive to the fests. Germany has very limited parking spots during normal months and it is almost impossible to get a parking spot anywhere close to a Christmas market. There is one option if you wish to drive, you can park in a garage and pay approximatly two euro an hour but I will warn you, the Gluehwein tends to sneak up on you. There are several things to experience during these fests. Below are just a few of the more traditional ones.

Gluehwein (Glow Wine) This is a very popular alcoholic drink during the Christmas holiday in Germany. Gluehwein is a warm red wine that is served out of small shacks at these fests. Gluewein is normally only served during the Christmas season but you can purchase it year-round at a German liquor store.

Gingerbread (Lebkuchen) The traditional gingerbread that you will see is covered in chocolate. You will see several shapes and sizes, decorated or not as you wonder through the fest. The city of Nuremberg provides the most famous gingerbread that can be found all over Germany during the holiday season.

Nutcracker Soldiers and Drummers, These famous figurines can be found throughout any fest you visit as well. They range from miniature sizes to extremely large and there are several different styles to choose from.

Chestnuts (Maronen) Just like the famous song, chestnuts are ,roasted on an open fire, and served to you very warm. You will notice many people munching on these goodies throughout the fests as well.

Christmas Food, Some of the tradional Christmas dishes are:

Christmas Goose (Weihnachtsgans) This dish traditionally consists of a stuffed goose, potatoe dumplings, red cabage and a wine flavored sauce. There is no special technique in fixing this dish but the sauce consists of wine, the juices produced while cooking the goose and a gravy. You can find this at many German restaurants during the Christmas season and many German family make it as well.

Weihnachtsstollen, There is no English translation that we know of but this German bread consists of raisins, almond paste, candied orange peel and many other ingredients. The bread is topped with powdered sugar. You can find this bread in any supermarket in Germany during the Christmas season.

Candy Apples (Bratapfel) These flavorfull caramel covered apples are very popular during the Christmas season in Germany as well as America and many other Countries. You can find these treats mainly at the Christmas fests.

Christmas Cookies (Weihnachtsgebaeck) Christmas cookies are made in many different variations and flavors throughout Germany. You are sure to find some that suite your taste buds. There is no single traditional Christmas cookie made in particular but you will find Christmas cookies throughout Germany during Christmas.



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Holiday Gifts and Baskets – Finding the Perfect Gift For Mother’s Day

July 9th, 2010
Raymond Spiessbach asked:




Mothers Day: If you are thinking of the perfect present for your mom or that special lady in your life, you should think about giving gift baskets. These holiday baskets are full of unique presents that your mom will surely appreciate and enjoy. Instead of giving only one present, why not give a collection of goodies that will delight your loved ones and show her how you appreciate them?

Finding ideas for the perfect gift can be hard. Mother’s Day is that special time of the year when people celebrate their love for the women who brought them into this world. Children remember all their mom’s sacrifice and hardships in raising them by celebrating this special occasion with her. And one good way to tell your mom how important she means to you is to give a special gift. Giving a present to your mom on this special day is also a good way to say thank you. To know more about these holiday baskets, check out the tips and information below.

This type of gift is a great idea because they come in different kinds and prices. If you have a limited budget, you can choose an affordable gift basket like fruit baskets or cheese baskets. Fruits and cheese are not so expensive and they are great presents for moms who are health conscious. If you have the budget, you can buy gourmet gift baskets or wine gift baskets. You can also choose a basket which is filled with all sorts of goodies like wine, sweets, relaxing oils or perfumes, and so on. You can pick something which is within your budget and something that your mother will surely love.

1. These collections of goodies are also more unique than other more common or ordinary presents. Which do you think shows more effort and thought-a special basket with your mom’s favorite things or a typical gift like a kitchen appliance? Of course, the basket is more special and appealing. Sure, a kitchen appliance is more practical but practical gifts are normal and boring gifts. It is good to be impractical once in a while especially if it is a special occasion.

2. Another reason why you should consider giving a basket of presents is because they can be easily bought online. There are so many websites that sell baskets like these. However, it is important that you buy them from a reputable seller. Make sure that you do your research first about these gifts so that you can choose the perfect one for your mom. Buying these baskets online is very convenient and simple.

3. You can make the gift basket more special by adding flowers or a card. You can pick carnation since it is the flower usually given on Mother’s Day or you can choose your mom’s favorite blooms. Tie the flowers on the basket or insert it in between the gifts and your mom will surely feel loved and appreciated when she receives the gift. You should also write a short note on a card. This way, you are not only showing your mom how much you love her, you are also telling her in your own words.

4. You can also give small baskets of goodies for all those mothers you know. Of course, your own mom or wife should receive the most special basket but you should not forget giving a present to the other moms in your life. This includes your friends, co-workers, sisters, and grandmothers who are also moms. You can buy several small baskets that have the same contents and give them to these women. It only means that this type of gift can be very personal or a bit impersonal depending on whom you are planning to give it to.

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Choose Unique Containers When Making Gift Baskets

July 6th, 2010
Janet Vogel asked:




Gift baskets have become very popular gifts. They can be practical as well as delicious and beautiful. And, you can make them yourself and save some money.

Selecting the best unique containers is a good place to begin when planning to make gift baskets. Choose a container that is suitable for the number and type of items you plan on placing in the container. Keep in mind that the ideal gift basket appears to be overflowing with gift items and other goodies.

Get your creative juices flowing and choose a container that fits with your theme or the special occasion the gift basket is intended for. You may also want to use all one color such as the recipient’s favorite color. Or, if you are making a spa gift basket all one fragrance. For example; use a lavender or white container for a gift basket full of lavender soaps, candles, and other personal items.

Pails, tubs, and basins work well for themes such as barbecue, fishing, sports, or for a housewarming gift basket. These containers are rugged and the larger sizes can hold several cans or bottles of beer, soda, or other beverages. Later on, the recipient can use these unbreakable containers to chill beverages.

A planter, decorative pail, watering can, or a miniature wagon would each make a great container for a gardener or anyone who enjoys plants. This could be as a birthday gift, hostess gift, get well gift, as well as for any holiday or other special occasion. Great idea for grandparents who share the enjoyment of gardening.

Sand pails, dump trucks, lunch boxes, toy wagons, or small doll furniture pieces (cribs, carriages, strollers, etc.) are all suitable containers for young children.

Serving bowls, mixing bowls, colanders, casserole dishes, bundt cake pans, and similar items are wonderful containers for food gift baskets such as pasta, baking, and other cooking themes. These gift baskets make nice gifts for bridal showers, anniversaries, weddings, holidays, and many other special occasions.

For business related gift baskets a letter tray or other organizer would be useful containers. It’s nice to use shredded pages of the business section for filler materials to hold the gift items in place.

Popcorn containers work well for movie theme gift baskets or for anyone who loves popcorn. This is a great gift idea for teenagers or students going off to college. A pizza pan is another nice container for younger people; simply place a kitchen towel on the pan and place pizza making ingredients on the towel; wrap it in cello paper or other heavy gift wrap tied with lots of curly ribbon.

And then there are baskets: wicker, chrome, wire, and rattan. Some have no handles, others have two small handles, and some have one large handle centered above the basket (which can be stationary or moveable). Trays made of wicker with sides and handles at each end are yet another option. Think about how you will place the items and then choose the empty basket that best suits your needs and your budget.

If you have a limited budget, refresh a nearly-new wicker basket by swishing it in warm, soapy water; then rinse and allow to thoroughly dry. Another frugal idea is to keep your eyes open for wooden slat-type of crates. Some fruits, such as grapes, are shipped in wooden slat oval baskets with a wire handle; you might get one at no charge from a person who handles fresh fruits and vegetables.

Let’s talk a little about filler products as they go hand-in-hand with containers. There are two functions for fillers. One is inexpensive (floral foam or crumpled paper) and is used as a base to hold your gift items in place. This is necessary when your container is deep and your gift items will not be visible. The other filler will give your gift basket a decorate look. Purchased shred, straw, peanuts or mixed nuts in the shell, small silk flowers, and colorful wrapped candy are all good choices. Simply place small amounts between the items in your finished gift baskets.

TIPS:

If you plan to include heavy items, make sure the container has a sturdy bottom.

Use a paper shredder to make your own decorative filler materials by shredding brown paper, bags, old maps, sheet music, comics, etc.

Choose a container with a handle when including a bottle of wine or other beverage. Anchor the bottle by attaching twine, ribbon, or raffia to neck of the bottle and also to the basket handle.



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What material to buy to make a stretchy cotton headband?

July 1st, 2010
meh asked:


I like the “Goody” brand headbands at the grocery store. (Maybe they’re called wraps- they’re a couple inches wide, stretchy cotton material).
I like the ones at the store, but they don’t have a good color selection. Does anyone know what type of fabric I should buy to replicate these?

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When "FREE" Isn’t

June 21st, 2010
Sandra Martini asked:




These days everyone and his sister is offering a FREE report, audio, ezine, teleclass, Facebook group, etc., all designed to get us “on the list” so we can be marketed to again and again.

But all these FREE goodies aren’t actually FREE:

• They take time and energy to read and digest
• In many cases, they make us feel more overwhelmed
• They take time away from the actions we should be taking “in”, and “on”, our businesses
• In many cases, they try to upsell you to something else

It’s time to be hyperselective about who you give your time, attention and energy to while unsubscribing from the rest — after all, you can read their blogs when you want to catch up with them.

The best results I’ve seen for clients are when you follow someone who’s a few steps ahead of you in their business. They’ve been where you are without being so far ahead that they no longer understand your challenges.

MY REQUEST TO YOU

The next time an ezine, newsletter, teleseminar, giveaway comes across your email inbox, ask yourself the following:

• How do I feel when I first open something from this person? Am I energized? Motivated? Or am I thinking “What is she selling now?”
• Do I take action or feel a sense of overwhelm?
• Does this “X” (ezine, teleclass, person, etc.) bring value to me and/or my business?

Based on your answers to the above, decide whether or not you stay on the list or opt out.

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Pastry Chefs – Cooking Up Delectable Goodies

June 17th, 2010
Davy Reiner asked:




Do you have people literally eating out of your hands? If making desserts, pastries and breads is your thing, then you are just perfect to become a Pastry Chef!

If you have a flair for baking up pastries and desserts, then you might want to consider becoming a Pastry Chef. In any restaurant, bistro, large hotel or bakery, the Pastry Chefs are responsible for handling the pastry kitchen.

Depending on the size of the eating establishment, a restaurant may have several chefs handling the different aspects and parts of the kitchen. As a Pastry Chef you will be responsible for the creation of desserts, pastries and such delectable goods. You will also be responsible for interacting with the other chefs while planning out different menus. Your job will also entail testing and evaluating new recipes.

In larger restaurants, Pastry Chefs are also involved with ordering for supplies, preparing and managing the budget of the Pastry Kitchen. In bigger eating establishments, you may also find a main Pastry Chef having several assistants.

As a Pastry Chef you can see yourself being employed with restaurants, bistros, large hotels, and bakeries.

Typically, Pastry Chefs have to be up early in the morning to start baking before the bakery section of the restaurant opens up for business. So you can see yourself waking up as early as 3 in the morning, and getting started! Breads, croissants, pastries, cakes, bagels, donuts, danishes, cookies – these are staples for many! So every morning, just before the ‘work day’ begins, you may see yourself dishing out bagels, donuts, croissants along with coffee to go for the morning breakfast session.

Afternoons may see much of the lunch business. And evenings start looking up with the desserts business – where you will spend your time with creating fresh desserts like cheesecakes, pies, cakes, caramels, fudges and candies – and even some desserts with exotic sounding names like flans, Blanc Manges, sherbets (or sorbets).

Many successful Pastry Chefs say that their work is the most rewarding aspect of their lives. Many have started out at smaller establishments, and moved on to working with larger hotels and restaurants. Some have even started their own specialty shops and bakeries.

So how do you go about becoming a Pastry Chef and cooking up these delectable goodies? Its really simple.

Join up for a Bachelor of Science degree course in Hotel and Restaurant Management or Culinary Management. There are also Masters Degree programs offered in Food Service Management. Some schools even offer Certificate Programs, Diploma Programs and Associate Degree Programs in these Culinary Arts. Many of these programs begin with teaching you the basics, and then you may choose a specialization that trains you to be a Pastry Chef.

Turn your delectable mouthwatering pastries and cakes into profit and fun!

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The Goodies Fan Address?

June 3rd, 2010
*adelaide* asked:


Does anyone know where I can write to the Goodies? I love them and their show heaps!

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