Show Stopper Bite-sized Party Food

When it comes to parties, it’s often a good idea to have bite-sized versions of everyone's favourite treats ready to go. This allows people to snack as they like and also try a range of different things that you have prepared. I like to have a big spread if I am having a lot of people over for an event. This makes it equally important to have a range of snacks but also to make sure there is something for everyone. Here are some great ideas for party food that won't steer you wrong.

Nachos
Nachos always seem to do really well at parties and by that, I mean they are usually always eaten. Kraft has a simple recipe for beef nachos. You can visit their website for more information about all of their different creative nacho ideas.


It is always a good idea to add a healthier spin to nachos. If that is your goal, you might try using ground turkey instead of beef and using higher-quality foods instead of the cheaper off brand versions. Usually, organic versions have a lot to offer nutritionally speaking.

Mini-quiches
Mini-quiches seem to be less frequent in the list of party snacks and are a great idea if you want to mix things up. Having the same tired party foods can sometimes be boring. So, take a break from your old favourites and try something new.

Mini-quiches are very easy to make. To add a healthy spin to them, you can use almond flour for the crust, to avoid those blood sugar spikes. You can also opt to use organic, free-range eggs for your quiche. Free-range eggs have a higher amount of omega 3 which is an essential nutrient that we are not getting enough of these days.

Add whatever ingredients you like to your mini-quiches such as onion, back, chicken, mushroom or tomato. First add cheese to the miniature crusts. Then just remember to include cream in the scrambled eggs before you divide it up among the other pies. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.

Cake Balls
This is quickly becoming a party favourite in my house. Cake balls are very easy to make and allow you to mix and match cake flavourings with different types of icing and sprinkles.

To get round balls, you are going to need a special pan but it should be easy to find. Just look for a pan that has indentations for half spheres. You will 'glue' the cake halves together with icing after they cool.

Get creative with cake balls by adding wooden sticks to make them look like suckers or add a range of coloured toppings, like sprinkles. You might even want to add some food colouring to your vanilla frosting for extra wow factor! Why not get the kids involved and add a touch of personality to your spread.

If you want to add a healthy spin to cake balls, try using almond flour and a homemade coconut oil icing. For a sweetener, you can use xylitol or stevia. Get crazy!

With this range of offerings, no one should go hungry at your party. Remember to stock up on drinks and have plates and napkins ready to go.

This article was written by Amanda Walters, an experienced freelance writer and regular contributor to Huffington Post. Follow her here: @Amanda_W84

Show Stopper Bite-sized Party Food

When it comes to parties, it’s often a good idea to have bite-sized versions of everyone's favourite treats ready to go. This allows people to snack as they like and also try a range of different things that you have prepared. I like to have a big spread if I am having a lot of people over for an event. This makes it equally important to have a range of snacks but also to make sure there is something for everyone. Here are some great ideas for party food that won't steer you wrong.

Nachos
Nachos always seem to do really well at parties and by that, I mean they are usually always eaten. Kraft has a simple recipe for beef nachos. You can visit their website for more information about all of their different creative nacho ideas.

Social Benefits of E Cigarettes in a Nonsmoker’s World

In recent years, smoking has become a less accepted endeavor, as many public businesses have banned individuals from smoking on their premises. This can pose a problem for the social smoker, who enjoys lighting up along with getting a drink with friends or during a night on the town. E cigs can be a great option for individuals who smoke both regularly and socially. Here’s a little more information about e cigarettes, how they work, and some of the benefits they offer to regular and social smokers alike.

Function and Use
E Cigarettes are battery-powered devices that simulate the experience of smoking. They are called vapes, because they use a heating element to vaporize a solution. They don’t contain tobacco, but many do contain nicotine. Some solutions include flavoring as well as nicotine. There are also solutions available that have a flavor without nicotine. Unlike traditional cigarettes, the battery-powered device is not disposable, so once you purchase one, you’ll have it a while and just need to restock it with the solution of your choice. Most E cigs are made to look like a traditional cigarette, but pipe and cigar forms are also available. More info on E cigarettes is available at www.21stcenturysmoke.com.


Social Benefits
E cigarettes typically give off a less intrusive smell than traditional cigarettes, so they are great for social gatherings with friends who may be sensitive to second-hand smoke. Rather than leaving your group of friends to go off for a smoke, they offer the potential to remain in the social circle for the entire course of the evening. In fact, some of the solutions for e cigs may even be pleasant to those around you. Because E cigarettes are not disposable, you also avoid having to find an adequate container to dispose of unsightly cigarette butts.

Personal Benefits
Even if you only smoke E cigarettes at home, they can still offer some benefits over traditional cigarettes. They are much cleaner, so there’s less risk of ash spilling onto your clothes, furniture and flooring. The smell also doesn't linger like second-hand smoke from traditional cigarettes. Most people who choose E cigs also save money, because E cigs are reusable and only require the ongoing purchase of solutions to smoke. You can read more about the benefits of E cigarettes at 21stcenturysmoke.com. See if they’re right for you.

Social Benefits of E Cigarettes in a Nonsmoker’s World

In recent years, smoking has become a less accepted endeavor, as many public businesses have banned individuals from smoking on their premises. This can pose a problem for the social smoker, who enjoys lighting up along with getting a drink with friends or during a night on the town. E cigs can be a great option for individuals who smoke both regularly and socially. Here’s a little more information about e cigarettes, how they work, and some of the benefits they offer to regular and social smokers alike.

Function and Use
E Cigarettes are battery-powered devices that simulate the experience of smoking. They are called vapes, because they use a heating element to vaporize a solution. They don’t contain tobacco, but many do contain nicotine. Some solutions include flavoring as well as nicotine. There are also solutions available that have a flavor without nicotine. Unlike traditional cigarettes, the battery-powered device is not disposable, so once you purchase one, you’ll have it a while and just need to restock it with the solution of your choice. Most E cigs are made to look like a traditional cigarette, but pipe and cigar forms are also available. More info on E cigarettes is available at www.21stcenturysmoke.com.

Traumatized By My Cat

I was sitting at home relaxing watching Netflix... said bye-bye to cable, when my cute fur-baby cat came to cuddle. Since it's winter I was happy to have my furry friend get close to me... it's quite cold here in Toronto. Naturally I had to pet him since he curled up on my tummy... I was laying on my futon on my back. He was purring away while I watched the 7th season of Weeds, when all of a sudden I hear this funky noise. Yes, my fur-baby vomited a hairball right in my face. Naturally he ended up flying across the room, while I screamed in horror.

Anyone else have a similar experience? We all love our pets... but what's the grosses thing to ever happen to you?!

Traumatized By My Cat

I was sitting at home relaxing watching Netflix... said bye-bye to cable, when my cute fur-baby cat came to cuddle. Since it's winter I was happy to have my furry friend get close to me... it's quite cold here in Toronto. Naturally I had to pet him since he curled up on my tummy... I was laying on my futon on my back. He was purring away while I watched the 7th season of Weeds, when all of a sudden I hear this funky noise. Yes, my fur-baby vomited a hairball right in my face. Naturally he ended up flying across the room, while I screamed in horror.

Anyone else have a similar experience? We all love our pets... but what's the grosses thing to ever happen to you?!

Sporty and Chic Ways to Wear Sneaker Wedges

Fashion trends come and go but when something comes up that has all of the things we like in one package, you can bet your favorite pajama bottoms that it’s here to stay. Enter the wedge sneakers—chic and tall like a wedge but having the sporty style characteristic of sneakers. These shoes can make you up to three inches taller and when paired with the right bottoms, make you look great even when you’re just wearing a plain white tee. The shoes often have padded lining which makes wearing them a snug and comfortable experience, even when you’re in for a whole day (or night) of running around town.

Sneaker wedges let you mix and match outfits for a stylish and sporty look. These chunky shoes are best worn with tights or skinny jeans but they won’t stop you from wearing a skirt or a dress, either. Wedge sneakers come in a variety of designs and you are sure to find a pair or two (or ten!) that would match the outfits you already have in your closet. You don’t have to buy a whole new wardrobe if you want to have a new look—just put on a pair of these chic and sporty shoes and you’re good to go!

The versatile style of wedge sneakers makes them a perfect match to any outfit. Rock your wedge sneakers in these basic styles:

Sporty casual. Go for leg-hugging skinny jeans or leggings that make your legs look long and slender. Tuck the bottoms into the sneakers and wear a fitted shirt or tank top with a jacket. Add a few sporty accessories like a baseball cap or a chunky watch and you’re ready to play.


Classy but comfy. Women who like the comfort of free-flowing tops can keep it classy by wearing soft, button-down shirts on top of their jeans and leggings. Those who are blessed with a full figure would also look great in a tailored blazer over a plain cotton blouse, worn with neutral-colored sneaker wedges.

Short and sweet. Who says strappy heels, sandals and ballet flats are the only things you can wear with dresses? Sneaker wedges can add a bit of funk to your feminine ensemble anytime. If you like short, patterned dresses, pair these off with neutral sneakers. If you want to bring attention to your feet, you can wear a dress top over sleek black leggings. High-low skirts also work to show off your legs and shoes perfectly.

Artful accessories. The key to accessorizing with sneaker wedges is to keep things balanced. As the sneakers are statement pieces by themselves, there’s no need to wear bulky belts and statement bracelets—you can let your shoes speak for your lower half. Keep the accessories on top: wear a hat, layer on the necklaces, wrap a scarf around your neck or put on those eye-catching dangle earrings. See which ones work best together but don’t wear them all at once!

Still can’t decide on how to wear your sneaker wedges? Just follow this basic fashion rule: no clashing! If you have printed or patterned wedge sneakers, wear an outfit or a scarf in a solid color and vice-versa. Try everything and don’t be afraid to experiment with looks to let your own fashion style shine through.

This article was written by Amanda Walters, an experienced freelance writer and regular contributor to Huffington Post. Follow her here: @Amanda_W84

Sporty and Chic Ways to Wear Sneaker Wedges

Fashion trends come and go but when something comes up that has all of the things we like in one package, you can bet your favorite pajama bottoms that it’s here to stay. Enter the wedge sneakers—chic and tall like a wedge but having the sporty style characteristic of sneakers. These shoes can make you up to three inches taller and when paired with the right bottoms, make you look great even when you’re just wearing a plain white tee. The shoes often have padded lining which makes wearing them a snug and comfortable experience, even when you’re in for a whole day (or night) of running around town.

Sneaker wedges let you mix and match outfits for a stylish and sporty look. These chunky shoes are best worn with tights or skinny jeans but they won’t stop you from wearing a skirt or a dress, either. Wedge sneakers come in a variety of designs and you are sure to find a pair or two (or ten!) that would match the outfits you already have in your closet. You don’t have to buy a whole new wardrobe if you want to have a new look—just put on a pair of these chic and sporty shoes and you’re good to go!

The versatile style of wedge sneakers makes them a perfect match to any outfit. Rock your wedge sneakers in these basic styles:

Sporty casual. Go for leg-hugging skinny jeans or leggings that make your legs look long and slender. Tuck the bottoms into the sneakers and wear a fitted shirt or tank top with a jacket. Add a few sporty accessories like a baseball cap or a chunky watch and you’re ready to play.

The Secrets of Burlesque

Since the 1990s the popularity of burlesque has been on the rise. But what is it about the delicate art of tease that has us hooked?

In an interview in The Guardian in 2011 burlesque star Dita Von Teese explained that: “you can’t dictate to a woman what should make her feel sexy” (watch the full article here). There is no doubt that part of burlesque’s appeal lies in the way it allows an individual to explore what beauty and glamour means to them. Exploring the makeup, accessories, lingerie, corsets and jewellery, like those featured by Burlesque Dolls, is all part of the fun. You can even share it with your friends by hosting a Burlesque party or hens’ do.

There are no rules in burlesque, you don’t have to be tanned, or skinny, or blonde. And whilst there is no doubt it is about striptease, this is an art form that puts much more emphasis on the tease than the strip.

So, what are the secrets of a successful burlesque performance?


Confidence is key
Leading burlesque teachers and performers like The World Famous Bob (famous for mixing martinis with her cleavage) and Legs Malone, cite body confidence as the most important factor. Burlesque is open to all sizes and shapes and provides a safe space to explore and express.

Learning to love the body you’re in is easier said than done. It’s a process, and the first step is to ditch patterns of thought that are destructive and lower confidence. Most of us don’t even realise that every day we bombard ourselves with downbeat chatter. This kind of negative ‘self-talk’ reinforces unhelpful thoughts we hold about ourselves. Burlesque performers have learned to dismiss these thoughts and stop feeding their insecurities. They reject prescriptive views on what beauty is and appreciate their physical form.

And if that seems like an impossible task, just remember that even the pros have to work at it. Even Dita, who told Bwatt Magazine, “Just like everyone else, I am not always confident, I have all the same self-doubt. I just try to love myself and accept things that I don’t like about myself. It’s about learning to love those things too.”

Take it slow
The skill of seduction is in not rushing things. American burlesque pioneer Gypsy Rose Lee became famous for her striptease act in the 1920s and 30s. Her casual strip style has influenced many modern performers with its emphasis on making the audience savour the experience. In some ways burlesque is the opposite of sex. The latter is all about satisfying desire and gratification. The former is about creating desire as well as building tension and anticipation. It’s the gift, before it’s been unwrapped.

Establish a signature look
Whether it’s trademark bright red lipstick, peacock feathers, a beauty spot, lace and leather, or a particular choreography of moves, burlesque provides an opportunity to experiment and figure out what works for you. The most popular burlesque acts know what suits them and what makes them feel glamorous and confident. They might push the boundaries by introducing new accessories or themes, but most have a developed personal style that stands the test of time.

This article was written by Amanda Walters, an experienced freelance writer and regular contributor to Huffington Post. Follow her here: @Amanda_W84

The Secrets of Burlesque

Since the 1990s the popularity of burlesque has been on the rise. But what is it about the delicate art of tease that has us hooked?

In an interview in The Guardian in 2011 burlesque star Dita Von Teese explained that: “you can’t dictate to a woman what should make her feel sexy” (watch the full article here). There is no doubt that part of burlesque’s appeal lies in the way it allows an individual to explore what beauty and glamour means to them. Exploring the makeup, accessories, lingerie, corsets and jewellery, like those featured by Burlesque Dolls, is all part of the fun. You can even share it with your friends by hosting a Burlesque party or hens’ do.

There are no rules in burlesque, you don’t have to be tanned, or skinny, or blonde. And whilst there is no doubt it is about striptease, this is an art form that puts much more emphasis on the tease than the strip.

So, what are the secrets of a successful burlesque performance?

A Healthy Weight for a Healthy Back

Many people can trace their back pain to specific incidents such as falling off a horse or being injured in an automobile accident. But they might not realize that weight gain is a common cause of back pain, producing muscle strain, bulging spinal discs and painful joints. Low back pain may originate from belly fat that pulls the abdominals forward, causing back strain, according to a population-based study on disc degeneration. Additionally, researchers are reporting a strong association between being overweight and disc degeneration. Exercise is important to back health. Dr. Mehmet Oz recommends getting enough sleep to allow sore back muscles to refresh and regenerate and stretching for 10 minutes each morning to strengthen back muscles. Exercises such as partial sit-ups, pelvic tilts and stretching lower back muscles improve back health, strengthen the back and protect it from pain and injury, states the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Belly Fat and Back Pain

Belly fat puts people at risk for serious health problems including insulin resistance, hormone imbalance, high blood pressure and cancer. It causes back pain because carrying extra weight in your belly pulls your pelvis forward, which in turn can cause skeletal imbalance resulting in muscle strains. Lower back strains from carrying an uneven weight load of abdominal fat is painful and risks more serious back injury such as ruptured or slipped discs.

Disc Degeneration and Being Overweight

A study in China of almost 3,000 men and women found a significant association between high-body mass index and disc degeneration. This finding is supported by the finding that underweight people are significantly less likely to have disc degeneration. Dr. Scott Boden of Emory Orthopaedics & Spine Center in Atlanta says the association between weight and disc degeneration. Doctors like Dr. Kenneth Cheung of the University of Hong Kong believe more study of this association will help researchers develop interventions to prevent disc degeneration.

Back Pain Solutions

When medications or other treatments don’t resolve back pain issues, minimally invasive alternatives to surgery may be all that’s needed. Instead of extensive back surgeries, Laser Spine locations in Tampa, Philadelphia, Scottsdale, Oklahoma City, and Houston perform minimally invasive procedures to treat conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, pinched nerves and arthritis in the spine.

The best solution for back pain caused by extra weight is weight loss, weight maintenance and exercise. Try simple stretching, crunches and pelvic tilts, all done by laying flat with knees bent. Dr. Oz recommends watching out for weight gain to avoid back pain and cautions that gaining weight puts pressure on the lower back, a common area for pain and discomfort. Exercises that strengthen back and abdominal muscles and protect the structures in the spine relieve sore, stiff muscles, prevent spinal disc problems and can eliminate back pain. Low-impact aerobic exercises, spine stabilization, strength training exercises, yoga and Tai Chi all strengthen and protect abdominal muscles and spinal structures, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center.

A Healthy Weight for a Healthy Back

Many people can trace their back pain to specific incidents such as falling off a horse or being injured in an automobile accident. But they might not realize that weight gain is a common cause of back pain, producing muscle strain, bulging spinal discs and painful joints. Low back pain may originate from belly fat that pulls the abdominals forward, causing back strain, according to a population-based study on disc degeneration. Additionally, researchers are reporting a strong association between being overweight and disc degeneration. Exercise is important to back health. Dr. Mehmet Oz recommends getting enough sleep to allow sore back muscles to refresh and regenerate and stretching for 10 minutes each morning to strengthen back muscles. Exercises such as partial sit-ups, pelvic tilts and stretching lower back muscles improve back health, strengthen the back and protect it from pain and injury, states the University of Maryland Medical Center.

12 Days of Christmas Update

I just wanted to update everyone and let them know I received all emails. I haven't been around a computer to properly reply, as I've had the flu. I'm posting this from my cellphone... So it will be very basic. As soon as I'm able to sit at the computer without passing out, I will go through each email, and CC the winners when I contact the companies regarding prizes.

Timeline... I pray that I feel better within a few days. I got so bad that I finally went to the ER yesterday. :(  I gotta rest now... Everyone take care.

12 Days of Christmas Update

I just wanted to update everyone and let them know I received all emails. I haven't been around a computer to properly reply, as I've had the flu. I'm posting this from my cellphone... So it will be very basic. As soon as I'm able to sit at the computer without passing out, I will go through each email, and CC the winners when I contact the companies regarding prizes.

Timeline... I pray that I feel better within a few days. I got so bad that I finally went to the ER yesterday. :(  I gotta rest now... Everyone take care.

Unique Brunch Party Ideas

Hosting a brunch is an easy way to entertain; the menu is traditionally simple and the décor designs are understated. It doesn't take a lot of planning to create a successful brunch, but to make an event above and beyond the norm; you must take it a step further. For the menu, learn recipes for healthy cooking to create a nutritious and tasty meal and for the design, fresh flowers and handmade details make all of the difference. Whether you are hosting a bridal shower brunch or a simple mid-afternoon gathering with friends, taking the time to consider all of your options will help to create a special day.

Theme
Creating a central theme for your brunch will give you a core from which all other details originate. Not only that, it makes the event much more fun for guests. For example, a 1920s brunch would have your guests dressing up in beautiful attire, as you serve mimosas with crepes. The decorations must fit the theme as well. For a Mexican-themed brunch, infuse a lot of color into the tableware and wall hangings. Choose a theme that fits the personality of the group attending and that is also conducive to food that you can affordably create.

Food
The food that you serve can really make a statement in the minds of your guests, but it's also easy to play it safe and fall short. Traditional brunch foods are good, but to make them great, consider a personal spin on the recipes. For example, French toast is usually prepared with milk, eggs and spices; by adding orange liquor and orange zest, you'll have guests asking for the recipe. Keep in mind that brunch should have savory options to coincide with the time of day. Croque monsieurs are an elegant take on a ham and cheese sandwich that are ideal for a brunch menu.

Unique Brunch Party Ideas

Hosting a brunch is an easy way to entertain; the menu is traditionally simple and the décor designs are understated. It doesn't take a lot of planning to create a successful brunch, but to make an event above and beyond the norm; you must take it a step further. For the menu, learn recipes for healthy cooking to create a nutritious and tasty meal and for the design, fresh flowers and handmade details make all of the difference. Whether you are hosting a bridal shower brunch or a simple mid-afternoon gathering with friends, taking the time to consider all of your options will help to create a special day.

12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 2013 Winners!

It's time to announce the winners for the 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways 2013! Sorry for the delay, but it was well worth the wait. The winners are...

Frenchie B. Makeup
Visit the website and let me know the eye-shadow pallet color you would like, along with the address you would like it shipped to.

Maternity Shirts
Visit the website and let me know the shirt, color, size of choice, along with the address you would like it shipped to.

YouCopia
Visit the website and let me know the item of choice, along with the address you would like it shipped to.

The Juice Lady

Viva Editions

Snorgtees
Visit the website and let me know the item of choice, along with the address you would like it shipped to.

RoadID
$35 gift certificate will be delivered via email once you confirm info.

SPIbelt
Visit the website and let me know the item of choice, along with the address you would like it shipped to.

Annmarie

Ban T-shirts
Visit the website and let me know the item of choice, along with the address you would like it shipped to.

Quipsy
Visit the website and let me know the hat and t-shirt of choice, along with the address you would like it shipped to.

Schmelzkopf Cosmetics
Visit the website and let me know the item of choice, along with the address you would like it shipped to.

ToiletTree

ZestAvenue

Running Chics

Wink
Visit the website and let me know the size, along with the address you would like it shipped to.

Beautifully Broken
Visit the website and let me know the leather cuff, size, and what you would like written, along with the address you would like it shipped to.

Morning Glamour
Visit the website and let me know the size and color, along with the address you would like it shipped to.

Niice Stuff
Visit the website and let me know the color, along with the address you would like it shipped to.

Endorphin Warrior
Visit the website and let me know the Warrior bracelet, along with the address you would like it shipped to.

BetterThanPants

Storyteller
Visit the website to get a good idea of what you would want, select a photo that you would like to use, along with the address you would like it shipped to.

Bedroom Kandi

OhMiBod

Diane Lai Beauty

Light Affections
Visit the website to get a good idea of what you would want, select a photo that you would like to use, along with the address you would like it shipped to.

Pretty Peacock

The Pajama Shoppe

Aurorae
Visit the website and let me know the color of the bag you'd like, along with the address you would like it shipped to.

Bee Charming

Onzie

Hugrz

Smart Silk

Blue Steel

Crazydog
Visit the website and let me know the t-shirt, shape and size, along with the address you would like it shipped to.

Nachomama
Visit the website and let me know the  t-shirt, shape and size, along with the address you would like it shipped to.

Another 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways have passed, and looking forward to doing it again next year! Congrats to all the winners. Please reply with the information that I requested, including your address of where you would like your prize to be sent. SORRY FOR THE DELAY IN PUBLISHING WINNERS, I WAS STUCK WITHOUT POWER FROM THE ICE-STORM.

Winners have until January 31, 2014 to reply to the email that I will be sending shortly. If there's no response, another winner will be selected using random.org.