Who Knew?

Recipe of the Week: Bean and Rice Breakfast Bowls with Spicy Avocado Sauce

2012-02-02T14:36:00.002-05:00

When you think about quick and easy breakfasts, you think of the same old things: oatmeal. Cereal. Scrambled eggs, maybe. We decided to scour the internet for new breakfast ideas and when we found this recipe in the archives of The Whole Life Nutrition Kitchen, we were embarrassed we hadn't thought of it ourselves. Rice and beans for breakfast? So simple! So nutritious! Who knew?

Ingredients:
cooked beans (cook them yourself or buy them canned)
cooked brown rice
chopped fresh arugula, Napa cabbage, or romaine lettuce
chopped green onions
2 medium, ripe avocados
1 to 2 jalapeno peppers, seededlarge
handful of fresh cilantro
juice of 1 small lime
1/4 cup water (or more for a thinner sauce)
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

How to Make It:

1. Combine the beans, rice, arugula, and onions in a bowl.
2. To make the sauce, place the remaining ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth and creamy. Add more water for a thinner sauce. Taste and add more salt if necessary. Serve and enjoy!

Notes:

Store extra sauce in a small glass container with a squeeze of lime over the top to prevent browning.

For instructions on how to cook beans from scratch, click here.

Do you have a recipe to share? Let us know!

Tip of the Day: Clean Your Ceiling Fan

2012-02-02T12:32:00.000-05:00

To easily clean a ceiling fan, spray glass cleaner or amixture of half vinegar and half water on the inside of a pillowcase. Put thepillow case over one arm of the fan, then pull the pillowcase off whileapplying gentle pressure towards the floor. The pillowcase will wipe the top ofthe blade clean.

Tip of the Day: When Dough Makes You Say "D'oh!"

2012-02-01T21:06:00.002-05:00

You’ve just made a delicious loaf of bread and placed it inthe oven, now how about all that dough and flour stuck to the counter? Makeyour cleaning job easy by first sprinkling salt on the counter. Its abrasiveaction will help you easily scrub off any sticky spots.

Tip of the Day: Revitalize a Yellowed Countertop

2012-01-31T14:11:00.001-05:00

If the enamel on your counter or tub has turned yellow, add a handful of salt to turpentine and rub onto the enamel, then wash as usual. Make sure to test in a small area of the counter to ensure it doesn’t harm it.

Spending Less on Make-Up: Easy Ways to Save on Cosmetics and Make Them Last Longer

2012-01-31T13:21:00.000-05:00

Make-up is one the most expensive household items you buy -- in fact, most women spend an average of $84 a month on cosmetics.

If you're trying to rein in your make-up budget, we can help! Here are some easy ways to cut back on your spending and make your make-up last longer by using your cosmetics more wisely.

How to Save on the Cost of Make-Up
Good make-up doesn’t have to be expensive! When shopping for make-up and other cosmetics, remember that a higher price doesn't mean higher quality. One of my favorite places to buy make-up online is E.L.F. Their prices are far lower than just about any other store.

No matter where you shop, department stores are usually one of the worst places to buy cosmetics. Because of sales commissions and the cost to rent the space at the store, they’re never a bargain. Instead, check out your local grocery store or discount store such as Walmart or Target -- they almost always have the exact same brands for much less. If you still can’t find your brand, consider switching to another brand you can find. Choose one a good friend uses, and ask her if she’d be willing to buy it from you if you don’t like it. It shouldn’t be too hard to find one you like just as much that costs much less.

Want to take advantage of coupons and sales on make-up? Here's a great tip so you always know what color to buy, even if it's not your usual brand: Keep a make-up index card by rubbing a bit of your favorite lipsticks, blushes, and/or eyeshadows on the card, then write down the brand and what the color is called. When you need more make-up, you can easily compare the colors of the sale brand with your card. Then write down what that color is called on your make-up card. You’ll soon have a list of all your favorite colors from each brand.

Minimize the Make-Up You Use
When it comes to conserving the make-up you already have, remember that you don't have to wear everything every day. Try using eyeliner one day and mascara the next. Use some make-up -- like perhaps lipstick or eye shadow -- just for special occasions. Ask a close friend if she notices you're wearing less make-up and she'll probably say no!

Most people use far more foundation than they need -- and since it’s one of the most expensive types of make-up, that’s money down the drain! To make sure you’re using the proper amount, simply apply one dot to each of your cheeks, your forehead, and your nose, then blend thoroughly. Follow with blush and the rest of your make-up. Don’t be afraid to leave some areas bare. As for powder, apply it everywhere except the cheekbones, down the center of the nose, and the middle of the forehead. Those areas will still be able to reflect light and will keep a glow on the skin.

Maximize the Make-Up You Have
The good news is that there are some easy tricks to make the make-up you do have last longer. First, store away from light and heat to make sure your cosmetics' volatile chemicals don't go bad -- your bathroom cabinet may not be the best place for them. Here are some other easy ways to make your make-up last longer than you ever thought possible:

Make foundation and powder last longer by buying a shade darker than your natural one, then mixing it with moisturizer (for foundation), or baby powder (for powder) until it matches your normal color. You’ll have more than twice as much, and you’ll never be able to tell the difference!
When your mascara starts to clump, you don’t have to toss it out! Smooth it out again by setting the tube in a teacup of near-boiling water for five minutes.
Make lipstick last longer by making it bind to your lips better. Dab some baby powder on your lips before applying and it will make multiple applications a thing of the past.
Before you apply eyeshadow, lightly dampen your make-up brush with water. This will not only make the eyeshadow adhere better, it will make the color brigther.

Do you have any tricks for making your make-up last? About how much do you think you spend on cosmetics each month? Let us know in the comments below.

Tip of the Day: Folder Reinforcement

2012-01-30T17:35:00.001-05:00

For a pocket folder you know is going to take a beating—like the one we keep near our tool kit that holds instructions—reinforce it on the sides and pockets with duct tape. It will last forever!

Tip of the Day: Shockingly Easy Carpet Tricks

2012-01-29T18:13:00.000-05:00

If you can’t escape static electricity on your carpet, here’s an easy fix. Mix 3 cups water with 1/2 cup liquid fabric softener, put it in a spray bottle, and apply to your carpet. Not only will the static electricity disappear, but the mixture will serve as a carpet deodorizer too.

Tip of the Day: More Than One Way to Skin a Chicken

2012-01-27T16:40:00.001-05:00

The easiest way to skin poultry is to partially freeze it first. The skin will come right off the bird with almost no effort.

Recipe of the Week: Maple Apple Crunch

2012-01-26T19:59:00.000-05:00

Our recipe of the week comes to us from Anna in Los Angeles, CA. She offers this dish as an alternative dessert for those who love pie but don't have the time to bake it. Who knew one could make dessert in a slow cooker? It can be easily adjusted for those who have food allergies, as well!

Ingredients:
2 cups peeled, chopped apples or persimmons
2 cups granola
1/2 cup melted butter
1/2 cup maple syrup or agave
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

How to Make It:
1. Grease the Crock Pot or slow cooker with butter. Put the fruit at the bottom and top with granola. Drizzle the other ingredients on top.

2. Cook on low for five hours. Serve warm. Tastes delicious with ice cream!

Notes:
Those with dairy allergies can substitute the butter for Earth Balance. Those with gluten allergies can use gluten-free granola.

Do you have a recipe to share? Let us know!

Tip of the Day: Steam Out that Filthy Bathroom

2012-01-26T19:45:00.000-05:00

If you’ve let the bathroom get so dirty that it now resembles a gas station restroom, turn on the hot water in the shower for 10 minutes with the door closed. The steam will loosen the buildup of mildew and mold. Then, get in there and clean.

Tip of the Day: When Your Watch Isn't Waterproof

2012-01-25T21:09:00.000-05:00

If you’ve ever seen condensation under your watch face, you know how frustrating it can be! Luckily, there’s a solution. Simply strap the watch to a light bulb and turn it on for a few minutes. The heat from the bulb is the perfect amount to make the water disappear.

Tip of the Day: Oven Love

2012-01-24T20:12:00.000-05:00

When using your oven this winter, don’t let all that warm air go to waste! As long as it won’t pose a safety hazard to children or pets, keep your oven door open after cooking to help heat the house. A little goes a long way!

Tip of the Day: Save a Scalded Coffee Pot

2012-01-23T19:56:00.006-05:00

Did you forget the coffee maker was on and scald the last remaining bit in the pot? Wait til the pot is room temperature, then add 1 cup crushed ice, 1 cup water, and 4 teaspoons salt. Swirl it around and the stain will lift off easily. This is a good tip for regular old coffee stains as well!

Tip of the Day: Vinegar for Diapers

2012-01-22T15:29:00.000-05:00

If you use cloth diapers, soak them before you wash them in a mixture of 1 cup white vinegar for every 9 quarts water. It will balance out the pH, neutralizing urine and keeping the diapers from staining. Vinegar is also said to help prevent diaper rash.

Tip of the Day: Splinter Hint

2012-01-21T13:27:00.002-05:00

Got a splinter you can’t get out? Try soaking the area in vegetable oil for several minutes. It should soften your skin enough to allow you to ease the splinter out.

Tip of the Day: Scrunchie Saved

2012-01-20T20:34:00.002-05:00

Stop hunting around the house every time you need a hair band! Get a toilet paper tube and wrap the bands around it. Keep it in your bathroom or on your dresser and you’ll never be without a ponytail holder again.

Recipe of the Week: Peanut and Squash Soup

2012-01-19T20:43:00.000-05:00

This yummy soup from Seventh Generation will warm your tummy and warm your soul this winter. It's a Senegalese dish with a wonderful sweet/spicy flavor.

Ingredients:
1 1/2 teaspoons peanut oil
4 cups (1/2-inch) cubed, peeled butternut squash
1 cup chopped onion
2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 6 cloves)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon coriander
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

How to Make It:
1. Heat peanut oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add squash and next 5 ingredients (through coriander) to pan. Sauté 5 minutes or until tender.
3. Add broth, peanut butter, tomato paste, and crushed red pepper, stirring well to combine. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes or until the squash is tender.
4. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve.

Makes 6 one-cup servings.

Tip of the Day: These Deals Are on Fire

2012-01-19T15:28:00.003-05:00

At Cellfire.com, you can sign up to get coupons sentdirectly to your cellphone! Browse the offers with a built-in organizerapplication for your phone. Many deals you must call to receive, but others yousimply call up on screen and then show to the cashier at stores as various asHollywood Video, Caribou Coffee, and Gamestop.

Tip of the Day: Glove Love

2012-01-16T13:50:00.001-05:00

You’ve just come in from outside, and your snowy gloves have quickly turn into sopping wet ones. To dry them out in time for your next excursion into the winter air, pull them over the bottom of a jar, then place the jar upside down on top of a radiator or heating vent. The warm air will fill the jar and dry out your gloves in no time.

Tip of the Day: Panhandling

2012-01-15T19:42:00.002-05:00

The handles on pots and pans can get very hot, hence the invention of potholders. If you have hollow handles, however, you can place some aluminum foil inside to keep them cool. It seems counterintuitive, but the foil blocks heat from traveling up from the burner. Don’t tell anyone how you did it. Use your bare hands. Impress your friends!

Tip of the Day: Candle Clearance

2012-01-14T16:20:00.000-05:00

If you like decorating your home with candles, buy them on clearance at after-holiday sales. There’s nothing wrong with burning a pumpkin-scented candle in spring or a Christmas-scented one in January. If that feels weird, though, just stash the seasonal scents in the closet until next year’s holidays come around.

Tip of the Day: Visor Advisory

2012-01-13T16:14:00.002-05:00

Turn your car’s visor into a handy place to store paper and other flat items by using rubber bands. Wrap several rubber bands snugly around the visor, then slip papers, CDs, or anything else under the rubber bands.

Tip of the Day: Sew Organized

2012-01-12T13:59:00.000-05:00

If you use a sewing machine often, mount a small bulletin board on the wall next to it. Then fill it with pushpins or straight pins. That way when you’ve got your hands full, you can use the pins to hang extra thread, buttons, bobbins, and other miscellany on the board until you need it.

Tip of the Day: Refresh Your Lettuce

2012-01-11T17:25:00.002-05:00

You’ve left the lettuce in the crisper for a few days, and now it’s too wilted to use for a salad. Perk it right up by submerging it in a bowl of cold water and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Let sit for 5–10 minutes and it will be as good as fresh.

Tip of the Day: Ring A Ding Ding

2012-01-10T17:21:00.002-05:00

Screw a small hook into the wall near your kitchen sink. It will make a handy place to store your rings while you’re doing the dishes.

Tip of the Day: Foil Foible

2012-01-09T13:35:00.000-05:00

Very acidic or salty foods can eat through foil. Don’t store leftovers with lots of tomato sauce, lemons, or pickles in foil as it can affect the taste of your food and even pose a health risk.

Tip of the Day: Don't Be Corny

2012-01-08T21:35:00.001-05:00

To get rid of corns, soak a Band-Aid in apple cider vinegar, and apply it to the corn for a day or two. You can also try soaking your feet in a shallow pan of warm water with half a cup of vinegar. Either way, finish by rubbing the corn with a clean pumice stone.

Tip of the Day: Frost Fix

2012-01-07T20:50:00.002-05:00

If your windows are frosting over, dissolve 1 tablespoon salt in 1 gallon hot water and rub on the panes with a soft cloth. Then wipe away with a dry cloth. This will often keep your windows frost-free.

Extreme Coupons Tip of the Day: ZIP Code Trick

2012-01-06T16:16:00.002-05:00

When finding coupons online, try typing in different ZIP codes than your own. Coupons list different values and types of coupons for different parts of the country, but your store's scanner doesn't know the difference! Search from coupons from a more expensive part of the country or somewhere where coupons are less popular, and you may see significant savings.

Extreme Coupons Tip of the Day: Wholesale to the Public

2012-01-05T19:31:00.004-05:00

Just because you don’t belong to a wholesale club doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t shop there. Many states have laws that say that a store must allow anyone (even non-members) to buy prescription medication and/or alcohol there. Most stores will also allow you to shop there if a friend has given you a gift card for the store. Call the store’s customer service department and ask them what their policy is.

Recipe of the Week: Sweet Potato Pancakes

2012-01-05T08:54:00.002-05:00

Looking for something a little different to spice up your normal breakfast routine? This sweet potato pancake recipe from Bust Magazine is so easy to prepare. We left out the sugar and found it's equally good as a side dish for dinner.

Ingredients:
3/4 cup cooled, mashed sweet potato
2 Tablespoons canola oil
3/4 cup almond milk (or any other non dairy milk)
1/2 cup water
2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon each ground cinnamon and ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
pinch of ground cloves
cooking spray
maple syrup

How to Make It:
1. Prep your potato. Heat your oven to 350 and put the washed potato on the middle rack. Put a shallow pan on the bottom of your stove to catch any drips. The potato is done when you can easily insert a knife into the center.

2. Whisk together sweet potato, oil, almond milk, water, vinegar, sugar and vanilla in a large mixing bowl. Add the flour, baking powder, salt, and spices. Mix until there are very few lumps, but be careful not to over mix.

3. Preheat a large heavy bottom skillet over medium heat for at least 3 minutes. You will know it is hot enough when a drop of water dances around the pan. Spritz with a light coat of cooking spray. Pour 1/2 cup of pancake mix and cook until the top looks somewhat dry (about 3 minutes). Flip and cook for another minute. Top with pure maple syrup.

Do you have a breakfast recipe to share? Let us know!

Where to Find Free Coupons Online and Beyond

2012-01-04T17:09:00.000-05:00

What if you’re clipping coupons from your Sunday paper, checking your store’s circular, and printing coupons from the internet, but you still don’t feel like you have enough to make a dent in your expenses? Here are some great ways to get more coupons!

Trade with Your Friends
In one of our favorite movies, Mr. Mom, Michael Keaton starts a poker game where coupons are used instead of money. While you don’t necessarily have to gamble for them, trading coupons with friends is a great way to get rid of coupons you don’t need and get some you do in return.

Create a Source for Coupons
Want even more people to trade with? How about making a “Take a Coupon, Leave a Coupon” box? Set it up at your office, or ask your library or a local cafe if you can place one there. Everyone leaves coupons they can’t use, and takes what they can. You’ll love stopping by to see what you can get your hands on.

Ask at the Store
Believe it or not, many stores — especially department stores — have coupons available just for the asking. You may not see them advertised in the store, but if you go up to the customer service counter and ask for any current coupons, don’t be surprised if you’re handed some big savings!

Yellow Pages
Especially if you’re looking for coupons on services like house cleaning or plumbing, the Yellow Pages are a great source of coupons. Before you recycle your phone book, take a look to see if there’s a special coupon section, and skim the ads inside to see if there are any big coupons you may want to use.

Mall Sites
Did you know that the websites of many malls now offer coupons? If you’re headed to the mall, check their site for exclusive coupons and links to the coupons offered by the websites of the various stores inside.

The Post Office
Looking for coupons for big-ticket items for your home like washing machines, TVs, and more? Stop by your local post office and grab a packet for people who are moving and would like their mail forwarded. Even if you don’t fill out the forwarding card, these packets often contain coupons from stores targeting those who have recently moved.

Extreme Coupons Tip of the Day: Double Your Savings

2012-01-04T16:22:00.000-05:00

Find out if there's a store near you that doubles coupons by visiting this website. Even if they only double on certain days of the week or month, stores that will double your coupons will double your savings! (Naturally.)

Extreme Coupons Tip of the Day: It's All About Percentages

2012-01-03T13:51:00.000-05:00

You may be used to buying the biggest size for the most savings. But with coupons, the opposite is usually true. That's because it's all about percentages - using a $1 off coupon on an item that's $1.50 will give you 75% off, whereas $1 off an item that's $2 is only 50%. Buy the product with the lowest retail or sale price (even trial sizes, if they're not prohibited on the coupon) and you'll see the biggest savings.Stay tuned all week for more extreme coupon tips in celebration of our new book, Who Knew? Extreme Coupons premiering on HSN!

Extreme Coupons Tip of the Day: Make Coupons Multiply

2012-01-02T14:08:00.000-05:00

You can usually print out two copies of each internet coupon; just simply press the "back" button on your browser and print it again. If you have more than one computer, you can print out two copies from each! Then head to the supermarket and stock up on a good deal while it lasts by buying as many items as you have coupons for. Just be aware of your store's maximum number of coupons allowed.Stay tuned all week for more extreme coupon tips in celebration of our new book, Who Knew? Extreme Coupons premiering on HSN!

Extreme Coupons Tip of the Day: Combining Coupons with Store Sales

2012-01-01T18:00:00.000-05:00

Getting the best prices at the supermarket is all about matching up store sales with currently available coupons. Luckily, there are a lot of websites that have done the work for you. Some of our favorites are For the Mommas, Living Rich with Coupons, and Southern Savers. Don't see your grocery store on any of their lists? Comment here and we'll tell you a coupon matchup site just for you.

Stay tuned all week for more extreme coupon tips in celebration of our new book, Who Knew? Extreme Coupons premiering on HSN!

Tip of the Day: Personalize Champagne Glasses

2011-12-31T10:05:00.000-05:00

Having a New Year’s party? Put your child’s inexplicable Silly Bandz obsession to good use! These rubber bands in fun shapes are perfect for putting around the stems of champagne glasses so your guests can tell whose are whose.

Tip of the Day: Why to Buy Candy Canes Now

2011-12-30T13:15:00.002-05:00

Now that Christmas is over, snag a bag of tiny candy canes that are on sale and use them for these heart-shaped cupcake toppers. Flip one cane over and place them together (“hooks” and bottom edges touching). Bake on a non-stick baking sheet at 325º for 3–5 minutes. Pinch together to sear, then cook and remove with a spatula. It'll be a hit come Valentine's Day!

Recipe of the Week: Raspberry Holiday Punch

2011-12-29T16:00:00.001-05:00

If you're having a New Year's Eve get-together and want to include non-alcoholic drink options, Bigelow Tea has a surprising wealth of resources for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks that incorporate tea. Who knew? Here's their recipe for a festive, fruity, punch that would also be a great refreshment for a baby shower, wedding shower, or other daytime affair.

Ingredients:

2 cups cranberry juice or cran-raspberry juice
juice of 1/2 lime
2 cups ginger ale or lemon lime soda
raspberry or lime sherbert
4 tea bags of raspberry herbal tea

How to Make It:

1. Bring 1 quart plus 1/4 cup of water to a boil. Add to 4 tea bags in a tea pot or a Pyrex measuring cup. Let steep for at least five minutes. Remove tea bags and chill the tea in the refrigerator.

2. Combine all the ingredients in a punch bowl, adding the sherbert right before the guests arrive. Enjoy!

Do you have a drink recipe to share? Let us know!

Tip of the Day: When Mats Matter

2011-12-29T12:09:00.001-05:00

If your car gets stuck in an icy patch and your wheels aren’t getting any traction, help free it by using your car’s floor mats. Take them out and place under the tires, then drive to a safe place, retrieve the mats, and be on your way.

Tip of the Day: Easy Tree Disposal

2011-12-28T18:15:00.002-05:00

Now that Christmas has come and gone, it’s time to think about taking down the tree! When you’re storing Christmas tree lights, wind each strand around a piece of cardboard cut to fit in a plastic bin, and they’ll stay perfectly untangled. Think of the time you’ll save next year!

Tip of the Day: Save on Holiday Cards

2011-12-27T10:36:00.000-05:00

The best time of year to buy holiday greeting cards is after Christmas, since stores will have them marked at clearance prices to get them off the shelves.

Tip of the Day: Quick Eyeglasses Fix

2011-12-26T10:29:00.000-05:00

Screw fall out of your eyeglasses? A stud earring is the perfect just-for-now replacement that will keep you from having to tape your glasses together for the trip to the optometrist. Just poke it through the hole and fasten its back.

Tip of the Day: Good Gravy

2011-12-25T19:27:00.000-05:00

Did your clumsy uncle spill gravy all over your best holiday tablecloth? Not to worry! Just blot up what you can with a paper towel, then sprinkle artificial sweetener or flour over what remains on the tablecloth. After dinner, soak the tablecloth in the washer with your regular detergent for half an hour, then wash as usual.

Tip of the Day: Let Your Light Shine

2011-12-24T11:24:00.000-05:00

Make your holiday lights even more festive by poking each bulb through a cupcake liner. The foil kind will make them even sparklier, while the paper kind will give off a soft light.

Tip of the Day: Good as Gold

2011-12-23T10:21:00.000-05:00

Here’s the recipe that my mother always used to wash her gold jewelry: Mix 1 teaspoon dishwashing liquid with ½ teaspoon ammonia and 1 cup warm water. Dip the jewelry into the solution for 10 seconds, and use an old toothbrush to brush off any marks. Your gold will look sparkling new!

Tip of the Day: Keep Your Suitcase Clean

2011-12-22T15:17:00.000-05:00

When you get plastic shower caps at hotels, save them for your suitcase. They make the perfect covers for dirty shoes!

Recipe of the Week: Rib Roast with Two Sauces

2011-12-22T10:40:00.003-05:00

You've agreed to host the entire family for the holidays, but you don't want to prepare the same old ham or turkey dish you made last year. Luckily, Kraft saves the day with this fantastic rib roast recipe.

Ingredients:
1 beef rib eye roast (5 pounds), 2 or 3 ribs
2 teaspoons whole black peppercorns, cracked
4 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, divided
1 cup sour cream
1/4 cup horseradish
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon butter
1 sweet onion, very thinly sliced
1 package (8 ounces) sliced fresh mushrooms
1 tablespoon flour
1 cup fat-free reduced-sodium beef broth
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

How to Make It:
1. Place meat, fat-side up, in roasting pan. Press peppercorns and 2 teaspoons thyme onto surface of meat. Bake 2 to 2-1/4 hours or until 135°F. (To check for doneness, insert probe of instant-read thermometer 2 to 2-1/2 inches into thickest part of meat.) Meanwhile, mix sour cream, horseradish and sugar in serving bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

2. Remove meat from oven. Cover meat with foil; let stand 15 to 20 minutes or until medium-rare doneness (145°F).

3. Meanwhile, melt butter in large skillet on medium heat. Add onions; cook and stir 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown. Add mushrooms; cook and stir 6 minutes or until tender. Sprinkle with flour; cook and stir 1 minutes. Stir in broth; simmer 5 minutes or until thickened, stirring constantly. Remove from heat; stir in mustard and remaining thyme.

4. Slice meat. Serve with sauces.

Serves 15.

Do you have a recipe to share? Let us know!

Tip of the Day: This Takes the Cake

2011-12-21T13:15:00.000-05:00

If you’re throwing your child a birthday party, opt for cupcakes rather than a large cake. That way, you’ll save on forks, plates and cleanup! (Just serve on napkins.)

Tip of the Day: Drip-Free Candles

2011-12-20T10:05:00.002-05:00

Celebrating Chanukah tonight? Keep your candles drip-free by storing them in the freezer. The cooler temperature will harden the wax and make them drip much less.

Tip of the Day: Park Place

2011-12-19T08:46:00.002-05:00

Traveling for the upcoming holiday? Find out where the cheapest place to park is at your nearby airport by visiting BestParking.com. Find out about lots close to the airport that aren’t run by the airport itself—and are often half the price.

Tip of the Day: Hang It Up to Dry

2011-12-18T19:04:00.002-05:00

Make your clothes last longer by taking your cotton and denim clothing out of the dryer 20 minutes before the cycle is about to end and letting them air dry the rest of the way. Excess dryer heat can break down the fibers in your clothes prematurely.

Inexpensive Last-Minute Gift Ideas

2011-12-18T18:19:00.001-05:00

Sometimes it seems that no matter how far in advance you start your holiday shopping, there’s always a couple people on your list you still haven’t bought gifts for just a day or two before the holidays. Or maybe you’re the type of person who has waited till the last minute to buy gifts for everyone on your list! No judgment here: we present to you our five favorite last-minute gift ideas.

Online Gift Cards
Is there someone on your list for whom you have no idea what to get? The benefit of gift cards from iTunes and Amazon.com is that everyone in the world can find something they love on these sites. Even better, you choose the dollar amount, so this is a gift that fits any budget. You can send them via email to your recipient, so they’ll arrive immediately.

Shoes and Clothes
Whether it’s a beautiful necklace for your wife or a new pair of sneakers for your teenage nephew, clothing, shoes, and accessories from Endless.com and Zappos.com ship for free. We found dresses for as low as $29 and watches for $20. There’s even still time to place an order that will arrive before Christmas! These sites have generous return policies, in case your gift idea doesn’t quite match the recipient’s taste.

Homemade Soaps
If you prefer to add a personal touch instead of gift-giving with a few mouse clicks, you can make your own soap. Start by grating white, unscented soap into a bowl with warm water. For color, add a few drops of food coloring appropriate for the holiday. Next, a drop or two of an essential oil (lavender or rose are lovely) then knead like pizza dough and make into little balls. As an alternative, use candy molds for fun shapes. Leave them to dry on wax paper for a day or so.

Frequent Flyer Miles
It’s easier than you think to give the gift of travel. Airlines with frequent flyer programs will allow you to use your miles to buy plane tickets for someone else, or will allow you to transfer the miles in your account to someone else’s account with that same airline. If you don’t have any frequent flyer miles, some airlines (such as Delta) will allow you to purchase miles outright to add to an existing account, for as low as 3 cents per mile. Check the website of your airline's reward program for details.

Incredible Experiences
Provide someone with an experience they’ll never forget with a gift from XperienceDays.com. Here you’ll find something for everyone, whether it’s a culinary tour across their favorite city, the opportunity to drive a race car, a day at the spa, cooking classes, a hot air balloon ride, or dance lessons. Outdoorsy types will enjoy excursions that take them whitewater rafting, surfing, fishing, kayaking, or whale watching. Prices start around $45 for events such as pottery classes and can be as high as $2000 for the chance to fly a fighter jet.

Tip of the Day: It's a Wrap

2011-12-17T14:40:00.000-05:00

Is today the day to begin wrapping the presents? Make sure you save those little bits of unusable wrapping paper when doing so. When you’ve collected a good amount of scraps, run them through a paper shredder for a colorful, inexpensive alternative to bubble wrap or packing peanuts.

Tip of the Day: Make Shampoo Go Further

2011-12-16T10:38:00.000-05:00

Here’s a quick and easy way to halve the amount you spend on your shampoo: Just use half the shampoo! Fill a bottle with half water and half shampoo and you’ll have plenty of suds to get the job done at half the cost.

Recipe of the Week: Homemade Eggnog

2011-12-15T22:32:00.000-05:00

'Tis the season for eggnog, but you don't have to buy the pre-made kind to enjoy this holiday treat. Heidi of Frantically Simple shows us how to make it at home.

Ingredients:
6 eggs (farm fresh if you can get them)
3 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
6 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

How to Make It:
1. Place eggs, milk, cream and sugar in blender. Blend on high until slightly thickened and frothy.
2. Add vanilla and nutmeg; blend well.
3. Chill until serving.

Note from Heidi:
"Consuming raw eggs does carry a risk of salmonella. Eggs fresh from a reputable farm may decrease this risk. (They also may be richer and tastier.)"

Do you have a holiday recipe to share? Let us know!

Tip of the Day: Be an Ace of Spades

2011-12-15T15:20:00.000-05:00

Before going out to shovel snow, coat the blade of your snow shovel with cooking spray. That way the snow and ice will slide right off the shovel instead of sticking to it. This works on both plastic and metal shovels!

Tip of the Day: How 'Bout Them Apples?

2011-12-14T21:06:00.001-05:00

If you ever get one of those plastic containers apples sometimes come in, make sure to save it for your Christmastime storage. They’re the perfect holders for holiday ornaments, especially the classic glass orbs.

Tip of the Day: Draft Dodgers

2011-12-13T18:30:00.000-05:00

Do your kids have lots of stuffed animals? This winter, put those they play with less often to good use: Line them up in front of their bedroom windows to prevent drafts from coming in underneath.

Tip of the Day: Price Watch

2011-12-12T16:56:00.000-05:00

When you’re at the supermarket, make sure you keep a close watch while your items are being rung up. A recent study found that 10 percent of items are scanned in at the incorrect price.

Tip of the Day: Wrapping Paper Idea

2011-12-10T15:39:00.000-05:00

Use pages from the past year’s calendar (photo-side up, obviously) to wrap smaller gifts. Two taped together are great for books or DVD sets at Christmastime.

Tip of the Day: Make Christmas Last Longer

2011-12-09T15:39:00.000-05:00

Count down the days till Christmas with this fun family activity: Pull together all your holiday-themed books and wrap them as individual gifts. Let your children open one gift per night, and read the book together; save “The Night Before Christmas” for the 24th. The pre-holiday festivities might keep your kids satiated enough to lay off the presents under the tree until Christmas!

Tip of the Day: Playing Chopsticks

2011-12-08T14:22:00.001-05:00

The next time you get chopsticks with your Chinese take-out, keep a few for your kitchen. Even if you haven’t mastered the art of eating with them, they’re perfect for leveling off cups of flour and other dry goods.

Recipe of the Week: Baked Salmon Teriyaki

2011-12-08T09:23:00.003-05:00

We're always looking for new ways to jazz up old dishes. This salmon teriyaki recipe from blogger Tammy proves that salmon can be just as versatile as chicken, and it's incredibly easy to make. Check out Tammy's Recipes for other great meals to prepare for your family.

Ingredients:
1 to 1 1/4 pounds fresh or frozen salmon fillets
1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 clove minced garlic (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
2 tablespoons finely chopped onion (or 1/2 teaspoon onion powder)
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Dash of crushed red pepper flakes, optional
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
1 teaspoon brown sugar

How to Make It:

1. In a gallon-size resealable bag, combine the teriyaki sauce, oil, garlic, onion, pepper, red pepper (if using), and sesame seeds. Squeeze the bag a little to mix everything together.

2. Add the salmon fillets (fresh or still frozen) in a single layer. Remove excess air from bag, seal, and make sure fillets are covered on both sides in the marinade.

3. Put salmon in the fridge to marinate for a few hours (if fresh) or for a day or two to thaw/marinate (if still frozen).

4. When you're ready to cook the salmon, remove the fillets from the bag and place them in a shallow dish in a single layer (skin side down if the salmon has skin). Pour 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the marinade over the fillets, and sprinkle the teaspoon of brown sugar over the top.

5. Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 20 minutes, or until salmon flakes with a fork (145 degrees internal temperature). Don't bake too long, or salmon will be dry!

Serve hot (immediately) with rice or rice noodles, and/or stir fried vegetables.

Serves 4.

Do you have a recipe to share? Let us know!

Tip of the Day: Repel Dust From Blinds

2011-12-07T15:20:00.000-05:00

Dusting the blinds is always a pain, so after you’re done make sure you won’t have to do it for a while: Spray Static Guard (usually used for clothing) onto your blinds to repel dust!

Tip of the Day: Sweet 'n' Spicy

2011-12-06T16:21:00.000-05:00

Overspiced your dinner? Just add a bit of sugar, honey, or maple syrup. The sweetness allows your taste buds to handle more hot spiciness, saving your meal.

Tip of the Day: Reusable Lint Roller

2011-12-05T13:19:00.000-05:00

If you have a Velcro hair roller you no longer use, repurpose it as a lint roller! It’s perfect for rolling over sweaters and other clothes to pick up any stray pet hair or pills.

Tip of the Day: Ketchup Catch Up

2011-12-04T18:16:00.002-05:00

Can’t get the ketchup out of a stubborn bottle? Just stick a straw inside. Now when you turn it upside-down, the airflow through the straw will make the ketchup flow right out.

Tip of the Day: Lipstick on Your Collar?

2011-12-03T10:51:00.001-05:00

To remove a lipstick stain from fabric, cover it with petroleum jelly for five minutes, then wash as usual. The glycerin in the jelly will break down the oils in the lipstick, making it easy to wash away.

Tip of the Day: Battery Booster

2011-12-02T18:35:00.002-05:00

There’s a blackout, and you just realized your flashlight is out of D batteries. Even if you don’t have any of these jumbo batteries around the house, there may be a solution: Place a couple of C-sized batteries inside and fill up the extra space with a ball of aluminum foil. You won’t get as bright of a light, but it will help shine the way.

Tip of the Day: Stop Zits in their Tracks

2011-12-01T15:42:00.000-05:00

If a giant pimple sprouts up at work, here’s a way to make it less noticeable without applying a face mask at your desk: Place an ice cube on it for 30–60 seconds, then place a few eye drops onto a tissue and hold it on the spot for 3 minutes. This will cause the blood vessels below your skin to contract, making the pimple less red and easing some of the irritation.

Recipe of the Week: Pizza Fondue

2011-12-01T08:57:00.003-05:00

One of our readers recently turned us on to Better Homes and Gardens’ treasure trove of slow-cooker recipes. They have some fantastic ideas for easy holiday hors d’oeuvres, including this fun and festive pizza fondue.

Ingredients:

4 ounces bulk Italian sausage
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 30 ounce jar meatless spaghetti sauce
1 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
2/3 cup chopped pepperoni or Canadian-style bacon
1 teaspoon dried basil or oregano, crushed
1/2 cup sliced pitted ripe olives (optional)
1/4 cup chopped green sweet pepper (optional)
Dippers such as focaccia bread or Italian bread cubes, mozzarella or provolone cheese cubes, cherry tomatoes, or cooked tortellini or ravioli

How to Make It:

1. In a large skillet cook the sausage, onion, and garlic until meat is brown. Drain off fat.

2. In a 3 1/2- or 4-quart crockery cooker combine spaghetti sauce, mushrooms, pepperoni or Canadian-style bacon, and basil or oregano. Stir in the meat mixture.

3. Cover; cook on low-heat setting for 3 hours. If desired, stir in ripe olives and sweet pepper. Cover; cook on low-heat setting for 15 minutes more. To serve, spear the dippers with fondue forks and dip into the fondue.

Makes 10 servings (about 5 1/2 cups).

Do you have an easy recipe to share? Let us know!

Tip of the Day: Online Coupon Codes

2011-11-30T16:51:00.000-05:00

Ever go to buy something online and see that little box to enter a promotional or coupon code? Well now you never have to wish you had something to enter into that box again. At RetailMeNot.com, you can find hundreds of codes that will give you savings at a large variety of websites, including Kohls.com, Amazon.com, and JC Penney online.

Tip of the Day: Stop Topping Off

2011-11-29T09:20:00.000-05:00

Have you ever “topped off” your car’s gas tank to round out the price at the pump? You should know that since the pump is only pumping out vapors at that point, they’re automatically sucked back into gas station’s tank. In other words, even though you now have exact change, you didn’t get any extra gas!

Holiday Decorating on a Budget

2011-11-28T21:14:00.001-05:00

Whether it’s sprucing up last year’s decorations or making new decorations from items you already have lying around the house, your home can be both festive and frugal this holiday. Here are our five favorite decorating ideas for the season.

Wreath Reviver
If you’re getting tired of that old drab-looking Christmas wreath, don’t get rid of it—just spruce it up a little. Use a glue gun to attach some pinecones from your yard onto it, or buy some cheap doo-dads at your local crafts store and do the same. You’ll get a brand-new wreath for a fraction of the cost.

Proud as Punch
Put those unused holiday ornaments to good use by using them for an inexpensive centerpiece. Simply pick your favorites and put them in a clear punch bowl, and add tinsel or pine sprigs around the base. It works great with those solid-colored orbs we always seem to have so many of!

Instant Frost
If you want your windows to look like they’ve been touched with frost this holiday season, just mix 1 tablespoon Epsom salts with 1 cup beer, then brush onto the window with a small paintbrush. When you’re ready to remove the frost, just wash it off with ammonia and water.

Skirt the Issue
Don’t waste your money on an expensive tree skirt. Instead, look for a small, round table cloth from a department store—they usually have a big selection and they’re inexpensive, too. Cut a round opening in the center for the tree stand, and a straight line to one edge. Place the opening in the back of the tree and you’re done!

Don’t Stand for It
Instead of buying a stand for your Christmas tree, simply fill a bucket with sand. You can still water it, and you won’t have to deal with the hassle of re-adjusting the stand so the tree isn’t crooked.

Tip of the Day: Perfect Lampshade Cleaner

2011-11-28T13:34:00.000-05:00

If you have a pleated lampshade, you know how hard it can be to clean the dust out of those crevices. Our secret weapon? An old paintbrush. It’s the perfect size for its soft bristles to get between each crease.

Tip of the Day: Toothbrush Sense

2011-11-27T18:42:00.002-05:00

Never cover your toothbrush between uses. Allowing the brush to air-dry is better than creating a closed, moist environment for bacteria to grow. You should also keep your toothbrush at least six feet away from your toilet, to keep it safely away from any bacteria that can become airborne when you flush.

Tip of the Day: Deter Thieves

2011-11-26T19:53:00.002-05:00

If you park your car on the street, make sure to remove any electronics from it, as well as their holders. Thieves will often break into cars if they have a GPS holder attached to the windshield, assuming that the unit is in the glove compartment

Recipe of the Week: Santa Fe Turkey

2011-11-25T12:55:00.004-05:00

It's that time of year again! No, we're not talking about Black Friday; we're referring to the time where you have to figure out what to do with all that leftover turkey. Thanks to the blogger at Body As Art, we have at least one great idea.

Ingredients:

3 cups shredded turkey breast
1 roasted Anaheim chili, diced
1 cup black beans
1 cup kidney beans
1 tomato, chopped
1 roasted red pepper, chopped
2 shakes cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1 tsp chili powder
salt (optional)
lemon wedges

How to Make It:

1. Combine all the ingredients except the lemons and warm in a saucepan or serve cold.

2. Squeeze the lemon wedges over the mixture and enjoy!

Do you have a turkey recipe to share? Let us know!

Tip of the Day: Prepare for Black Friday

2011-11-25T09:11:00.000-05:00

Our favorite website for the best Black Friday tips and deals is FatWallet.com. They even have an app you can download for your iPhone!

Tip of the Day: The Best Way to Dispose of Grease

2011-11-24T09:50:00.000-05:00

When flushing grease down the drain, don’t use hot water (like many of us were taught). The grease coats the pipes, cools, and will collect bits of debris. Instead, use cold water. It will make sure the grease solidifies in chunks that will easily get flushed through the pipes. Better yet, empty your grease into a soda can and throw it away!

Tip of the Day: Make Thanksgiving Last

2011-11-23T17:30:00.001-05:00

Now is the time to stock up and save! Go to your grocery store and grab bargains on things like turkey, stuffing, canned pumpkin, and baking supplies. Then freeze the turkey and store the rest. When you’re missing Thanksgiving food, you’ll have a bunch in your cabinet, all bought at a bargain price.

Tip of the Day: Extra Garbage Space

2011-11-22T16:49:00.002-05:00

Having guests over and need an extra trash bin? Repurpose your hamper. (Your dirty clothes will be fine in a garbage bag in the closet.)

Tip of the Day: Small Business Saturday

2011-11-21T12:45:00.001-05:00

The Saturday after Thanksgiving is now known as Small Business Saturday, a day for all of us to support small businesses. Use your American Express Card for a purchase of $25 or more at a small business on November 26, 2011 and American Express will credit your account $25. Get more details on the Facebook page for Small Business Saturday.

Tip of the Day: Wax On, Wax Off

2011-11-20T16:34:00.001-05:00

If you’re waxing off hair, you know it’s not going to feel pleasant. But you can take a little of the “ouch” out of the job with some baby powder. Sprinkle it on your skin before you wax, and it will form a barrier that protects your skin and makes the hair adhere to the wax better.

Tip of the Day: Eggshells to the Rescue

2011-11-19T13:16:00.001-05:00

If you’ve ever gotten eggshell in your bowl of cracked eggs and tried to fish it out with your finger, you know how hard it can be. A better tool than your finger, and even a spoon? An eggshell half that you were able to break cleanly. Its edge cuts through the egg whites easier than other implements.

Tip of the Day: Misleading Sales Circulars

2011-11-18T17:16:00.001-05:00

Don’t be fooled by sales circulars, especially the ones from supermarkets. They often advertise a product just to call attention to it, not because it’s on sale. So before you snatch up what you think is a deal, make sure to consider the prices of similar items.

Tip of the Day: The Fullest Lashes

2011-11-17T14:46:00.002-05:00

To make your mascara last longer (and your lashes look fuller than ever), apply two coats every time you do your lashes. But here’s the secret! In between the first and second coats, apply a thin layer of baby powder with a make-up brush. The mascara will adhere to the powder, making it stay on your lashes longer.

Recipe of the Week: Stuffing with Sausage and Apples

2011-11-17T08:58:00.000-05:00

In the tradition of our favorite cranberry sauce recipe, here's a recipe for Thanksgiving stuffing that's fast, easy, and delicious. We owe it to blogger and photographer Tara Whitney, who's participating in a fun project called Lazy Susan. She and a handful of other bloggers are sharing their favorite seasonal recipes for you to click through as though you're spinning a lazy susan. Visit her blog for photos of the stuffing dish.

Ingredients:

1 box of dressing, such as Mrs. Cubbison’s Class Seasoned Dressing (or two 6 ounce bags)
1 pound sage sausage, chopped
2 green apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
1 cup celery, chopped
1 cup yellow onion, chopped
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup butter
1 cup pecans

How to Make It:

1. Saute the sausage and the onions until the sausage is browned and the onions are golden.

2. Melt the butter in a large bowl and add the stuffing to the bowl. Stir and coat. Add the celery, apples, and pecans. You may want to crush the pecans first with the butt of a knife, which is easier to do while they're still in the bag.

3. Add the chicken broth to the bowl and stir everything, coating it well. Drain the sausage and onions and add those to the mix.

4. Cook it in a casserole dish or stuff your turkey with it, following the directions on the box.

Do you call it stuffing or dressing? How did this recipe turn out for you? Post your comments here!

Tip of the Day: Winterize Your Deck Furniture

2011-11-16T18:22:00.001-05:00

To keep your metal deck furniture free from rust and wear all winter long, reach for the petroleum jelly. Just apply a thin layer (especially in areas where the furniture tends to rust) after cleaning the surface with simple soap and water.

Five Easy Tips for Hassle-Free Thanksgiving Turkey

2011-11-16T13:16:00.001-05:00

Nothing's worse than a ruined Thanksgiving turkey (don't ask us how we know that). So whether you're having Thanksgiving at your house or you're looking for a quick turkey tip to impress your hosts, check out our five favorite tips for hassle-free Thanksgiving turkey! Find out how to thaw it faster, get rid of an "off" smell, make sure it's tender, and more.

Need to Thaw a Turkey Fast?
The best way to thaw turkey is on a shallow baking sheet in the refrigerator, in its original packaging, allowing 24 hours for every five pounds of turkey. But if it’s Thanksgiving morning and you’ve forgotten to stick the turkey in the fridge, the fastest, safest method of thawing frozen poultry fast is to place it -- still wrapped in plastic -- in a bowl (or bucket) of cold water. Check the water regularly and change it as the water warms up -- you should never use hot water for large pieces of meat, as it will promote bacterial growth.

Easy Fix for an "Off" Smell
Turkey must be thoroughly cleaned inside and out before cooking, in order to remove any residue that may be left from the slaughtering process. If you detect a slight “off” odor when you open the package, rinse your turkey under cool water, then submerge it in a solution of water plus 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar and 1 teaspoon salt per cup of water. Then refrigerate 1-4 hours before cooking.

Brown It Beautifully
Try basting your turkey with a small amount of white zinfandel or vermouth -- it will help crisp the skin, and the alcohol imparts a brown color and glaze to the outside of the meat. Or, brush the skin with reduced-sodium soy sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking to produce a beautiful burnished color.

Use Fruit for Moistness
If your roasted chicken or turkey tends to be too dry, try stuffing a whole apple inside the bird before roasting. (Just toss the apple afterward.) You can also line the bottom of the pan with lemon and onion slices. They’ll give the bird a lovely flavor and make sure it stays moist.

Secret Weapon
For the most tender poultry you’ve ever eaten, try submerging the chicken or turkey in buttermilk and refrigerating for two to three hours before cooking. Who knew?

What are your tips for perfect Thanksgiving turkey? Let us know in the comments below!

Tip of the Day: Sneak A-tack

2011-11-15T15:38:00.001-05:00

Hanging a picture? Make it easy by first taping a thumbtack (pointy side out) to the back below the hanging bracket. Perfectly position your picture, then give it a bit of a push into the wall. You’ll now know where to put the nail or tack because there will be a small hole in the wall.

Tip of the Day: Gimme Some Sugar

2011-11-14T13:45:00.001-05:00

If you have ink stains on your hands from a marker or pen, try this: Just add a bit of sugar to your hands when washing with regular soap, and the granules will act as a gentle abrasive to help wash the ink away.

Tip of the Day: Garlic A-Peel

2011-11-13T20:42:00.000-05:00

Here’s an easy way to remove the skins from garlic! Just break the cloves off from the head and place them in a bowl or mug. Place another bowl on top and shake heartily. The skins will start to come off, making the garlic easy to peel.

Tip of the Day: Quick Purse Cleaning

2011-11-12T20:51:00.001-05:00

Even after you’ve cleaned out your purse, it stills has crumbs, grime, and little pieces of god-only-knows-what at the bottom. Quickly clean it out with a lint roller. Just roll the inside and you’re done!

Tip of the Day: Put Plastic Bags to Use

2011-11-11T19:09:00.002-05:00

Here’s yet another use for larger plastic bags you get from the store: Put one over a roller tray anytime you’re painting with a roller. When the job is done, just pull off the bag and turn inside-out to throw away, and the tray is ready to be used again!

Recipe of the Week: Spiced Cranberry Sauce

2011-11-10T12:26:00.002-05:00

This month, we'll be giving you new and interesting Thanksgiving recipes that will spice up your traditional menu while still being quick and easy to prepare. We were excited to find a group of bloggers who have embarked on a project called "Lazy Susan." Much like the revolving tray it's named for, this project allows you to spin through a virtual wheel of recipes posted by women all over the country. Blogger Amy of A Boring Photo shared her recipe for spiced cranberry sauce.

Ingredients:

1 3/4 cup cranberry juice cocktail
1 cinnamon stick
1/2 cup agave or 3/4 cup honey
2 whole cloves
1 tablespoons orange zest
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (to taste)
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
1 teaspoon fresh minced ginger
3/4 teaspoon ground coriander
1 bay leaf
12 ounces cranberries

How to Make It:

1. Combine 1 1/2 cups of the cranberry cocktail and the agave over medium heat until the agave dissolves. Set 1/4 cup of the juice aside.

2. Add the rest of the ingredients except the cranberries and let simmer for 5 minutes or so.

3. Add the cranberries and simmer on medium heat until the berries burst and the sauce thickens.

4. Remove the bay leaf, and remove the sauce from the heat. Add the remaining cranberry juice. It will thicken once it’s cool.

This can be made up to three days in advance! Keep it refrigerated.

Do you have a Thanksgiving recipe to share? Let us know!

Tip of the Day: Linen Prep for Thanksgiving!

2011-11-09T16:09:00.002-05:00

If you have a white linen tablecloth or other cotton item that has turned yellow over time, bring it back to its original brightness with baking soda and salt. Just bring a gallon of water to a boil, remove from the heat, stir in ¼ cup each baking soda and salt, and add the fabric. Let it soak for at least one hour. Then rinse and launder as usual.

Tip of the Day: Best Time for Coupons

2011-11-08T21:28:00.002-05:00

Companies release more coupons in November, December, and January than in any other months. More coupons are also available at the beginning of the month, so make sure to get a Sunday paper during these times for the most savings!

Tip of the Day: Save on Gas... Tomorrow

2011-11-07T16:54:00.003-05:00

The cheapest time to refuel your car is on Tuesday and Wednesday. People fuel up on Thursdays and Fridays for weekend trips, and on Monday for their workweek. Therefore, most gas stations do their weekly price changes on Tuesdays or Wednesdays.