Friday, January 18, 2013

I am throwing a dinner party for the women in my family. I would like a theme or planned activity. Any ideas?

Q. Ages range from 19 - 80. We are Italian. It will be a large group.

A. How about a gardening theme? You could do something like "sowing the seeds of love," "harvesting love", "Batali Family: How does your garden grow?" or something like that. Decorate w/ garden accoutrements purchased at the Dollar Spot at Target or Walmart (garden glvoes, trowels, seed packets, etc). Use potted plants as table decor, then give as gifts to oldest and youngst attending, or as door prizes, etc.

Do you have to eat Italian food? If so, I'm sure you have that covered! If not, I love to serve an entree-type Chicken Salad for a bunch of ladies, along w/ a basket full of various muffins, croissants, and scones. A nice fruit salad and maybe a green salad would be good, too, along w/ it.

A couple recipes:

New SEVEN LAYER SALAD

Dressing:
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup crumbled Feta cheese (about 2 ounces) (I bought a container with more than 1/2 cup so I could sprinkle over top)
1 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon dried dill weed
1/4 teaspoon dried basil leaves
1/8 teaspoon ground white pepper

Salad:
1 (9 oz.) package cheese tortellini, boiled according to package directions; drained and cooled
2 cups shredded red cabbage
6 cups torn spinach leaves
1 cup Colby cheese
1 cup Cheddar cheese
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Crumbled real bacon from bag or jar (however much you like)
Smoked sliced almonds (however much you like) (I find it in produce areaâ I think its by Sunkist.)

1. In electric blender or food processor, blend yogurt, buttermilk, mayonnaise, Feta cheese, sugar, dill, basil, and pepper until smooth. Chill.

2. Rinse cooled pasta with cold water.

3. In 2½ quart glass bowl, layer cabbage, spinach, tortellini, cheese, and tomatoes.

4. Sprinkle with left over Feta cheese, bacon, and sliced almonds.

5. Pour dressing over salad, cover in plastic wrap, then chill for 2 to 4 hours. Lightly toss before serving.
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Curried Chicken Salad

1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, poached, cut into ½â cubes
1 red onion,diced fine
1/4 cup dired currants
3 celery stalks, diced fine
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup Madras curry powder
2 Tbsp. honey
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

Break up the walnuts with your fingers, letting them drop into a big bowl. Add the chicken, celery, currants, and onion to the bowl as you cut them. Stir the sour cream, mayonnaise, curry powder, honey, salt, and pepper together in a small bowl. Pour this curry sauce into the bowl with the chicken mixture and toss with a wooden spoon until the chicken and vegetables are coated.

Side note... they are serving this on a warmed flour tortilla.

--Once Upon A Tart cookbook
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Spinach, Orzo and Chicken Salad

3 oz. julienne-shredded fresh spinach
3 oz. grilled chicken, sliced and chilled
1 oz. ripe Roma tomatoes, diced
1/2 oz. pine nuts, lightly toasted
1/2 oz. sun-dried tomatoes, julienne cut
1/2 oz. capers
1/2 oz. sliced black olives
1/2 oz. julienne-cut radicchio
5 oz. orzo pasta, cooked and chilled
3 oz. Roasted Garlic Lemon Vinaigrette (recipe below)
1/4 oz. shaved Parmesan cheese
Fresh cracked pepper, for garnish

In the order listed, place all ingredients, except Parmesan cheese, in a chilled mixing bowl.
Toss and serve on a decorative wide bowl. Garnish with shaved Parmesan cheese and fresh cracked pepper.

ROASTED GARLIC LEMON VINAIGRETTE
-- Birmingham News - August 30, 2002

1/4 cup red wine vinegar
3 tablespoons honey
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 oz. roasted garlic
3/4 cup virgin olive oil
1/2 lemon, juiced (no seeds)

Place vinegar, honey, salt and roasted garlic in a food processor. Puree until garlic is chopped very fine. With the food processor still running, add olive oil and lemon juice. Refrigerate until ready to use.
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Honey Lime Fruit Toss

1 (20 oz.) can pineapple chunks, drained, reserve juice
1 (11 oz.) can mandarin oranges, drained
1 kiwi, peeled, halved, and sliced
1 cup quartered strawberries
1 large banana, sliced
¼ tsp. grated lime peel
2 Tbsp. fresh lime juice
1 Tbsp. honey

Gently stir fruit in large bowl. In small bowl, combine lime peel, lime juice, and honey to make dressing. Pour dressing over fruit and toss. Chill until ready to serve.

--DOLE cookbook
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Blue Salad

8 cups mixed greens
1 carton fresh blueberries
1 pkg. blue cheese
1 cup walnut pieces
1/4 cup purple onion

Vinaigrette:
3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. fresh ground pepper
1 clove garlic minced

Whisk together dressing ingredients and then toss with salad.
Makes 6-8 servings.

How does the brain know where to send electric messages?
Q. I was reading in my psychology book, which said that you could send electricity through the brain at certain locations to stimulate various emotions, such as fear, anger, or hopelessness, or direct someone's body. How, though, is the electricity directed by the neurons? Does the body consist of pre-defined paths or links of neurons? If so, would the result be consistent every time in the same location? That would really back up my hypothesis that psychology is extremely mathematical.

A. I believe you're right that psychology is very mathematical.

The central nervous system is all wired up and (when its healthy and normal) ready to send messages when the human being is formed. The ability of it to send messages, though, can be affected by neuropeptides. ("chemicals" for lack of a better term) A psychologist to whom I brought a child for an educational evaluation once said that some messages are not correctly transmitted because (as he said) it is believed that some coating may not present.

I believe there is one formula (I'm not going to say it on here for my own reasons) that explains exactly how and why brains develop and how and why electrical connections are made or not made; because, as you know, it is entirely possible for electrical connections to not function or not develop for one reason or another.

Depending on (for lack of a more scientific way to describe it briefly) "the blend of chemicals going on", it is possible that there would not necessarily have to be consistency every time in every location.

It is possible (with equipment today) for doctors/scientists to see what part of a brain is "lighting up" during certain activites. They also have a solid understanding of what part of the brain governs what activities. When they stimulate emotions they are artificially stimulating them. Just the other night, there was a woman who had had a procedure that would allow a doctor to change her emotions artifically and separately from what was really going on around her.

As far as I know, if it were at all possible to, say, watch what happens in a brain when a child, say, is being abused, and to watch it for the time the brain was developing; it would probably show the physiological changes in the brain that, maybe, would cause either alterations in the brain itself or else changes in the "chemicals" or both. In other words, I believe you're probably right (although, again, I don't necessarily know anything) about the mathematical part.

I do think, though, that some more superficial issues of psychology may be less math and more art; or else, maybe its more a matter of the same formula at work on a different and less deep level.

Again (and I can't say it enough) I don't know anything.....

What is the Disneyland dress code you must have to work there?
Q. Also, if you work there and get a gate pass, can you only bring friends in during park hours or after?

A. Fingernails should be clean. If polish is used, it should be an appropriate, neutral color. Charms or decals on fingernails are not permitted. Fingernails should not exceed one-fourth of an inch (approximately 6 mm) beyond the fingertip.

Hair should be neatly combed and arranged in a classic, easy-to-maintain style. Extreme styles are not permitted.
Hair below shoulder length should be confined if it falls forward over the face while working.
Conservative braided hairstyles without beads or ornamentation are permitted.
Hair products may be used to create a soft, natural hairstyle within these guidelines.
Shaving of the head or any portion of the head or eyebrows is not permitted.
Artificial hair is permitted if it looks natural and meets all of the above requirements.
If makeup is worn, it should be applied in a blended manner and in appropriate, neutral colors.
Hair accessories no larger than one inch (approximately 2.5 cm) wide (approximately 2.5 cm) wide and four inches (approximately 10 cm) long are acceptable. Headbands, hair ribbons, or hair ties are acceptable, provided that they are no wider than one inch (2.5 cm).
Hair accessories must be a neutral color (silver, gold, tortoiseshell, black, clear or pearl) or a solid color that matches the costume.
No more than three small accessories may be worn at once.

Rings, earrings and a classic business-style wristwatch are permitted.
Necklaces, bracelets and ankle bracelets are not permitted. A medical-alert necklace, bracelet or ankle bracelet is acceptable.
Earrings must be a simple, matched pair in gold, silver or a color that blends with the costume. One earring in each ear is permitted. Earrings may be clip-on or pierced, post, hoop or dangle and must be worn on the bottom of the earlobe. Earrings may not exceed the size of a quarter.
Only one ring on each hand is permitted, with the exception of a wedding set. A ring may be worn on any finger.



Professional options for women include dress pants with a classic style blouse or sweater, skirted or pants suit, dress with or without a jacket, and business-style walking shorts with a blouse and jacket or vest.
A blazer or suit may be required at certain times, depending on your work location and the nature of your role. Check with your area leader for more information.
Sleeveless tops and dresses are permitted provided the sleeve width is no less than three inches (approximately 7.6 cm). Tank tops, spaghetti straps, and other casual styles are not acceptable.
Traditional and professional style mid-calf Capri pants are permitted. Cotton twill, cargo, leggings or other casual styles of Capri pants do not present a professional image and are therefore not permitted.
Cotton twill full-length pants (i.e., Dockers®, khakis) are permitted only if they are neatly pressed, creased, and appear to be professionally laundered.
Non-costumed Cast Members are permitted to wear a short- or long-sleeved oxfordstyle dress shirt with property-specific embroidered logo. A blazer is optional.

Clothing not permitted includes polo or golf-style shirts (except for Sports and Recreation Cast), cargo-style pants, t-shirts, sundresses, leggings, casual shorts, wrap-around shorts, one-piece rompers and garments made of denim fabrics.
Winter jackets and coats should present a professional appearance and should be made of fabrics traditionally acceptable in business. For example, wool, leather and micro fiber offer good choices. Denim, nylon, satin and other casual fabrics would not meet these professional guidelines.
Clothing Lengths
Dress and skirt lengths may range from three inches (7.6 cm) above the top of the kneecap bone to the bottom of the ankle. The length of shorts should be from the top of the kneecap bone to three inches (7.6 cm) above the top of the kneecap bone. Slits in skirts, kick pleats and buttoned or snapped closures should not exceed five inches (12.7 cm) above the middle of the knee. Pants should be long enough to touch the bottom of the ankle.

Fabrics should be those traditionally acceptable for business, such as tweed, wool, cotton, polyester, silk, linen, rayon or blends of these fibers. Unacceptable fabrics include spandex, gauze, metallic fabrics, sheer fabrics, clinging knits, denim and chambray. Patterns that are large graphics, large company and non-company logos, and styles that suggest extremely casual sportswear are not permitted.
Dress shoes or boots in good business taste are required. Classic dress shoes are permitted to have an open toe, open heel and/or sling back. Athletic shoes, sandals, and Western boots are not permitted.
Hosiery is optional for female non-costumed Cast Members. If hosiery is worn, it should be sheer or opaque hosiery in subdued shades.

What are some great makeup tips that you have?
Q. What are some great makeup tips and ideas that you have?

A. Free Make Up Tips & Tricks
While cosmetics are something that many women can't live without, others like keep it minimal and look natural. Whether you're a young or mature woman, these tips are for those who want accent their finest features and look their best.

Remember, make-up is a great beauty enhancer, but you need to remove it every night and let your skin breathe -- so you don't end up with clogged pores and blemishes. Here you'll find free make up tips and tricks to give you a stunning look for both casual and formal occasions.


Applying Foundation
Use a foundation with a sunscreen with at least SPF 15 to prevent future skin damage.
Your foundation should match your face and neck, so don't try it on your hand or arm for color a match.
You will probably need a different shade of foundation for each season, so don't use the same one all year long. Blending colors sometimes is the only way to get a perfect match.
Don't forget to apply foundation on your eyelids, lips and into your neck for a more natural look. This also is a good setting for eye shadow and lipstick and helps it stay on longer.
For clear complexions, sometimes all you need is a tinted moisturizer for a natural look.
Liquid foundation is usually water based and is best for dry skin. Use a sponge or your fingers to blend from the nose, out.
Liquid foundation can settle and separate, so remember to shake it up before use.
Apply loose translucent powder with a large cosmetics brush to "set" your foundation and keep it from running in hot and humid weather.
For dry skin, apply a light moisturizer before your foundation.
Powder foundation is ideal for oily skin and will help reduce shine.
Use a concealer for those nasty blemishes and pat lightly with pressed powder.
If your foundation is too heavy, add a couple drops of moisturizer to thin.
After applying make-up, go outside or near a window to check for blunders.

Eye Make-up
Overly plucked eyebrows look unnatural and make your eyes appear smaller.
Use Eye shadow to shape and define your eyes. Three shades are ideal with the darkest on the lid and the lightest just below the brow bone.
Neutral tones are the best for daytime.
Cream eye shadow is best used sparingly and only in cool weather. It has a tendency to crease. If you prefer the cream look, try a frost powder shadow that has a similar look.
Powder eye shadow stays on the longest.
Matte eye shadow looks better than frost if you're tired. Frost shadow draws attention to wrinkles.
Extend your eye shadow above the lid (crease) and use a light shadow or highlighter right beneath your brow to open up your eyes and make them appear larger.
Using an eyelash curler before you apply mascara will shape your lashes and extend them to the fullest potential. To prevent damage, do not hold the curler too close to the roots.
Black/Brown mascara and eyeliner flatters most faces, blondes, brunettes, and redheads. Black is usually too harsh, especially for blondes.
For extra thick, fuller eyelashes, apply mascara to the top and bottom of your lashes.
When applying mascara to your bottom lashes, fold a sheet of toilet paper or tissue underneath the lashes and apply. This keeps mascara from getting on your face.
Mascara is best when two coats are applied. Make sure the first coat is dry before applying the second.
Use unscented baby wipes to remove eye make-up. Rub lightly.
If you use liquid eye liner for a more dramatic effect, practice making straight lines. Crooked eyeliner will ruin your look.
Eyeliner on the lower lids can make your eyes appear smaller. To open them up, line only the upper lids.
Put your eye pencils in the freezer for a few minutes before sharpening.
If your mascara is getting dried out and thick, soak the entire tube (closed tightly) into a glass of hot water. Let cool before applying.
Waterproof mascara is a must if you're participating in swimming and outdoor sports. Same goes for emotional events such as weddings and funerals.


Lips
Keep lips moisturized at night with petroleum jelly or lip balm.
Use a lip liner that matches your lipstick.
To make thin lips appear larger, apply your liner just outside of your natural lip line. Add a final touch with lip gloss.
Apply pressed powder on and around your lips if your lipstick has a tendency to "bleed."
If you're blond, avoid dark colors that appear too harsh.
Never apply lipstick testers to your lips in a store. It's not hygienic. Try applying it to the back of your wrist instead.
Unless your teeth are sparkling white, avoid coral and orange lipsticks. Instead, try red, pink or plum.
To avoid getting lipstick on your teeth, after application, run your finger through the middle of your lips and pull it back out. The excess will come off on your finger -- not your teeth.


Cheeks
For tan or dark skin, apply bronzing powder to cheeks in lieu of blusher.
Pinch your cheeks for an instant glow.
Use a medium-sized blush brush to avoid a striping affect.
Apply blush from the apple of your cheeks outward, to your forehead and just underneath your jaw.
Try peach colored blush for a great sun-kissed look.
If you don't wear foundation, try a liquid or crème blush.


General Makeup Tips
Always use good lighting and a clean mirror.
Keep your make-up light in the summer. Heavy foundation will cake and melt off in the summer heat and humidity, leaving you with a streaked look.
For proper hygiene, don't use outdated cosmetics, particularly around the eye area and never share your make-up with anyone.
Try bronzing powder underneath your cheeks and jawbone to make your face appear slimmer.
To make your nose appear smaller, apply bronzing powder carefully down the sides. Add a little shimmer creme or powder down the bridge of your nose.
Use Q-tips to blend in any eye shadow that has fallen on your cheeks or face.
Clean your make up brushes and applicators often to reduce bacteria and oil.


Make-up Trick
If your powder blush or eye shadow breaks up in the compact, use alcohol to press it back together.

Learn From a Professional
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