KnoxvilleMommies

How Well Do You Know Your Neighbors?

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Originally posted on CharlotteMommies

How Well Do You Know Your Neighbors?

If you grew up in the kind of neighborhood I did, then you remember people sitting out on their front porches in the evenings, kids playing out in the neighbors yard til it was too dark to see and the mad rush to the ice cream truck when that little jingle was first heard on the street.

Nowadays, that scene is almost non-existent. Many parents are working late, then have to pick up the kids from their day care provider and rush home to make dinner, spend a little quality time with the kids and then off to bed to start all over again. Parents are worried that the streets aren't safe. People drive everywhere, and the most you see someone is when you are both getting into your car at the same time.

There are many benefits to having a close relationship with your neighbors. Research shows that neighborhoods where people know each other by name and are connected to one another have lower crime rates. It has even been shown that kids who live in tight knit communities do better in school.

Maybe it is time for us to bring back the days of yesterday, and get to know our neighbors. One way you can do this is by making a neighborhood directory. Send a letter (or even better, deliver it in person) asking your neighbors if they would like to be included in a neighborhood directory. A sample letter can be found here. Have them complete a form that provides you with information to put in the directory. A sample form can be found here. Once you have collected the completed forms, print a directory and distribute it to your neighbors. You can also email the directory to them to save on paper costs.

Another idea is to start a website for your neighborhood. You can get a free website from Geocities (http://www.geocities.com) or Neighborhood Link (http://www.neighborhoodlink.com). You can put a calendar of events in your area on the site, or perhaps list the email addresses of the residents. A bulletin board can be used to post announcements or special needs.

What about an old-fashioned potluck dinner or backyard barbecue. Invite your neighbors and ask them to bring a covered dish or dessert to share! What a wonderful way to get to know the people in your neighborhood. You might enjoy it so much that you turn it into a monthly event!

In this day and age, it is even more critical that we know those who live around us. Our very safety might depend on it. But there is also so much joy to be found right in your backyard! A host of new friends (and babysitters!) can be found just a stone's throw away from your front door. And perhaps, all of your neighbors are just sitting there waiting for you to make it all happen!

Applesauce Cake

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000

An tasty old-fashioned cake your whole family will enjoy!

Applesauce Cake

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups applesauce
1 1/4 cups sugar
2/3 cup shortening
1/2 cup milk
2 eggs
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup raisins
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
powdered sugar for dusting

Preheat oven to 350*. Grease and flour a bundt pan (or can use a 13x9 in a pinch). Mix together flour, applesauce, sugar, shortening, milk, eggs, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and ground cloves in a mixing bowl with a mixer on low speed until blended well. Beat on high speed with mixer for 3 minutes more. Stir in nuts and raisins. Pour into prepared pan. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes til pick inserted comes out clean. Let cool. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Do You Have Flower Power?

noreply@blogger.com (The Mommies Network) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Are you looking for some curb appeal? Do you need to beautify your backyard? Spring planting season may be a few months away, but there's no better time than now to grow with KnoxvilleMommies! We've partnered with Flower Power to bring you a fabulous fundraiser to help you plan the garden of your dreams.

Flower Power sells quality flower bulbs with a 100 percent money-back guarantee. Gorgeous geraniums, tantalizing tiger lilies, and beautiful begonias are just a few of the many bulbs available and ready to be shipped to your door. This fundraiser runs Jan. 22–March 20, 2012, and your bulbs will arrive in April and May, just in time for beautiful summer blooms.

So save some gas and the trip to your local nursery or big-box store, and plan your perfect garden from the comfort of your computer. Visit http://www.flowerpowerfundraising.com/i/t/240212/PJO9s0rzFtID to view the enormous array of flower bulbs, and spring into Flower Power and KnoxvilleMommies' fabulous fundraiser!

Special bonus: Spend $40 or more to receive a free bag of 10 Twilight gladiolus, a $10 value.

Grow with us!

Profits made through our fundraising link go toward our chapter's operating expenses.

Reminder: Ring in the New Year With TMN!

noreply@blogger.com (The Mommies Network) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

The New Year's parties may have ended, but our sponsorship promotion hasn't! We're still ringing in the New Year at The Mommies Network with an incredible deal that will have you reaching for your noisemakers.

Moms may have the greatest buying power, sharing business experiences and trends with one another. And since women make more than 80 percent of all purchasing decisions and control two thirds of the nation’s disposable income, targeting this group benefits your company. Resolve to reach this influenial portion of the population by taking advantage of this limited-time promotion.

With all new/renewed sponsorship agreements, your business will receive a complimentary blog feature (advertorial to include logo/product image and 500 words). Prepaid agreements receive a 5 percent discount and a complimentary two months on one sponsorship listing. Sponsors also receive 20 percent off event sponsorships. Offer expires Jan. 31, 2012.

The end of the month is just around the corner, so what are you waiting for? Celebrate with TMN by taking advantage of this amazing deal.

For more details on how your business can ring in the New Year with moms across the nation, please contact Jessica Van Dyke at Jessica.VanDyke@TheMommiesNetwork.org.

Tips to Prevent Colds and Flu

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 18:15:00 +0000

It's that time of year again. Everyone is cooped up inside hiding from the cold winter weather, which gives ample opportunity for the spreading of germs! There are no known cures for colds or flu, so prevention is your best chance of staying healthy. Here are some simple tips to keep you and your family safe from colds and flu this winter:

1. Wash your hands!

This is the number one tip offered by most health experts and for good reason. Most colds and flu viruses are spread by direct contact from someone that has the virus or has gotten their germs onto an object that you then come in contact with and infect yourself. It could be a phone, a computer keyboard, a shopping cart handle, etc. Germs can live for hours or in some cases weeks on objects. So wash your hands often and teach your children to do the same. Make sure your child knows to wash their hands before they eat, after using the restroom, and after blowing their nose. And make sure they know how to wash correctly, with soap and water for at least 30 seconds, to make sure they are washing away the germs.

2. Don't sneeze or cough into your hands

Germs and viruses can cling to your bare hands, so using them to cover your coughs and sneezes can result in passing along your germs to others. When you feel a sneeze or cough coming, use a tissue, then throw it away immediately. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into the inside of your elbow.

3. Don't touch your face!

Cold and flu viruses enter your body through the eyes, nose, or mouth. Touching their faces is the major way children catch colds, and a key way they pass colds on to their parents. Teaching kids to not touch their face can also prevent other infections from getting into their eyes, such as conjunctivitis, so this is a good tip to practice year round.

4. Drink lots of fluids

Water flushes your system and washes out toxins as it hydrates you. A typical, healthy adult needs eight 8-ounce glasses of fluids each day. How can you tell if you're getting enough liquid? If the color of your urine runs close to clear, you're getting enough. If it's deep yellow, you need more fluids. Also, make sure your kids are getting enough water, and use juice and other sugary drinks in moderation.

5. Get in some aerobic exercise

Exercising helps get your blood pumping, makes you breathe faster, and makes you sweat, all of which help your body fight off infections.

6. Eat healthy foods

Make sure you eat plenty of dark green, yellow, and red fruits and veggies. They contain natural chemicals that give vitamins found in your foods an extra boost. Yogurt is another healthy option and has been shown to lower the risk of catching a cold by 25%, due to the natural bacteria contained in yogurt.

TMN Weigh-In Challenge News

noreply@blogger.com (The Mommies Network) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Hello, and Happy New Year to everyone!

My name is Karen Skidmore, and I am the owner of Completely Fit, a personal training and fitness company located in Mount Airy, Md. I am a team leader for one of the groups in The Mommies Network Weigh-In Challenge.

All my team members have started off strong and are working very hard to accomplish their goals. They were asked to fill out a detailed questionnaire about their current nutritional and fitness habits, and answer questions about what changes they wanted to create. Based on that information, I have helped each person come up with a detailed action plan that will not only help to accomplish her goals, but more importantly, help to improve her lifestyle.

If you are looking to make a change in your life but are not a part of the Weigh-In Challenge, you too can do it with just a few small changes at a time.

If your nutrition is off track, start by taking away one unhealthy food once a week and replacing it with a healthy food.

If your exercise routine is off track, start by finding something you really enjoy doing — walking, biking, or swimming — and adding 10 minutes of that exercise to your day. Before you know it, exercise will have become a daily routine.

Be sure to track your results, as we do much better when we can see our progress.

I am very excited to be a part of this group and team, and I look forward to reporting our successes back to you each month. — Karen Skidmore, Completely Fit

Taco Stew

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Here is a delicious recipe perfect for the colder weather. It also freezes very well, so make some extra to pop in the freezer and you'll have a trouble-free meal for another night!

Taco Stew

2 pounds ground beef
2 cans pintos (do not drain)
1 can black beans (do not drain)
2 cans whole kernal corn (do not drain)
1 large onion, diced
1 packet taco seasoning
1 (15oz) can tomato sauce
3 cans mexican-style tomatoes, pureed in a blender til smooth
1 can Rotel tomatoes with green chiles
2 cups water (optional if you'd like to unthicken stew to make more soupy)

Topping options: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and tortilla chips

Brown meat with the onion and a dash of garlic powder. Drain off grease. Put into a big mixing bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together tomato sauce and taco seasoning. Add to the meat in the mixing bowl and stir well. Add the pinto beans, black beans, and corn with their juices. Add the pureed tomatoes and the tomatoes with green chiles. Stir well. (You can freeze at this point if you'd like. Before cooking, thaw, and proceed as follows. I usually double the recipe and end up with dinner one night and several bags frozen in the freezer for later.)

Up to 2 cups of water can be added at this point if you want to unthicken and make more of a soup, but I find it is pretty soupy as it is. Put into a big pot over low to medium-low heat, and simmer for 1 1/2 hours until hot and bubbly, stirring occasionally. When serving, top with cheese and sour cream, and serve with tortilla chips.

7 Ways to Make New Year's Resolutions That Stick

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Originally posted on CharlotteMommies

New Year's resolutions have a tendency to be made with enthusiasm and determination. Unfortunately, very often they're forgotten by the time February rolls around. Here are 7 simple ways to make New Year's resolutions that stick and help you accomplish your goals.

1. THINK SHORT TERM. For most people, making a resolution for the entire year is way too difficult. Instead, make your resolutions once per month; January resolutions, February resolutions, etc. They're much easier to achieve and the accomplishments can be celebrated sooner. Plus, if you don't quite reach what you want to accomplish in any given month, you can simply move that resolution into the next month--no more feeling so guilty that you have to wait an entire year to start over again!

2. FOCUS ON A FEW. It's nearly impossible to do everything you've always wanted to do in a short period of time. To be sure you don't forget about the goals you'd like to accomplish, write them all down on a Master Goals List. Then, each month throughout the year, focus on the one or two that are most important to you. You won't get overwhelmed and you'll be amazed at what you can accomplish.

3. MAKE YOUR RESOLUTIONS S-M-A-R-T:
o SPECIFIC: Your resolutions must be specific. For instance, saying that you'd like to spend more time with your kids in the new year is too
general. However, saying that you vow to spend 1 hour of quality time with your kids each Friday and Wednesday, immediately following dinner,
is very concrete and specific.
o MEASURABLE: Resolutions that are worked on and achieved, are those that can be measured and tracked. When you think of making a
resolution, think in terms of numbers. Perhaps you'd like to lose weight. Thinking in numbers, you might state that you'd like to lose 5 pounds--1
pound per month for the next 5 months. Or possibly you'd like to go on a short vacation. Thinking in numbers, you may state that you'd like to save $100 per month, so you can go on a bed and breakfast weekend in June.
o ATTAINABLE: You can certainly make challenging resolutions, but don't make them so difficult that they're going to be almost impossible to
achieve. You can always break your resolution down into smaller goals. For instance, if you'd like to put aside $50 per month, make a resolution to set aside $12.50 per week.
o REALISTIC: You might want to be a pro golfer this year, but if you haven't even started training yet, then this resolution is going to be
unrealistic and unattainable. Instead, set more realistic goals, such as taking a few basic golf lessons or playing golf once per week on Tuesdays for practice.
o TIMELY: The word 'someday' is indefinite. Yet, often people say they have so many things they'd like to accomplish ... someday. Resolutions
with no start or end date in mind never get accomplished. Be sure all of your resolutions have both a deadline, and a starting date. For example,
you might say you'd like to change your job. Your deadline might be March, 2001, and your start date might be next week--determining what
you'd like to do, seeking available positions, etc.

4. TELL THE WORLD. It's so important to be motivated about the things you'd like to accomplish. When you make a resolution, tell your spouse or a friend. Post a message on a discussion forum. Tell a co-worker. You'll be more determined to accomplish your goal, if other people are cheering you on.

5. GIVE YOURSELF SOME VISUALS. If you're constantly staring your resolution in the face every day, you're bound to keep it uppermost in your mind. If you'd like to lose weight, keep a photo of an actress or actor you want to use as a model, on your refrigerator. Want to go on a vacation? Post a photograph of your dream destination where you're sure to see it throughout the day.

6. CONQUER MINOR SETBACKS. There are so many things going on in your daily life, and you may experience a day or two when you lose track of the resolutions you set. That's ok. Get right back on track. No need to wait until next year, or the 1st of next month. Simply make any day of the week DAY ONE, and begin working on your resolution again. Winston Churchill once said, in the shortest speech ever made, 'Never, never, never give up.' Heed his words of wisdom.

7. CELEBRATE YOUR WINS. Celebrating your accomplishments along the way will give you the motivation to keep going! Set appropriate rewards for each mini resolution you make, and have a small celebration for each one you achieve. Let's say you'd like to put aside $10 per week in January. For every $10 you're able to save at the end of each week, you might indulge yourself in an hour's worth of free time to enjoy one of your hobbies. Reward yourself. You deserve it!

Peach Bread

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Here a yummy recipe to try to give you a taste of summer during the rainy weather we're expecting this week. Enjoy!

Peach Bread

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup shortening
2 eggs
2 1/4 cups pureed peaches
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (or cinnamon if you'd like)
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and shortening until blended. Add eggs and beat well. Add the peach puree and the dry ingredients, and blend well. Stir in the vanilla and chopped pecans until blended. Pour into two greased and floured regular-sized loaf pans. Bake at 325* for 55 minutes to 1 hour, or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Let bread cool for about 5 minutes before removing from pan. Cool completely on wire racks.

Spicy Vegetable Chili

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000

A yummy chili recipe for the crock pot submitted by Brandy.

2 28-oz cans diced tomatoes - undrained
2 15-oz cans dark kidney beans - rinsed and drained
2 15-oz cans pinto beans - rinsed and drained
2 cups chopped onions
2 cups chopped green bell peppers
1 15.25 oz can whole kernel corn - drained
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup water
1 6-oz can tomato paste
2 tbsp chili powder
8 cloves garlic - minced
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp bottled hot pepper sauce
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper - optional

In a slow cooker combine all the ingredients and cook on low for 9 to 10 hours.

January Birthdays!

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Happy Birthday to all of our members who are celebrating their big day this month!

hpyday05 - January 01
minchu86 - January 01
brandygss - January 02
mommyof3boys1girl - January 06
ninnymuggins - January 07
adora1977 - January 07
serendipitydoo - January 07
jadamcmanus - January 10
JustJanie - January 12
alexandrianunn - January 13
elizabeth13 - January 14
flatham - January 14
smlovingood - January 15
juststardust - January 17
cmkillian - January 17
Andie - January 18
MamaLela - January 19
Ssheldon81 - January 29

New Year's Superstitions and Traditions

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Do you know why most people eat black-eyed peas and greens or cabbage for dinner on New Year's Day? Or why we yell and cheer at the stroke of midnight? Let's shed some light on New Year's traditions and superstitions.

Loud noises at midnight - Using fireworks, noisemakers, cheering, and singing on New Year's Eve are thought to scare away evil spirits. You should also open all the doors at midnight and let the old year out so the new one can come in.

Resolutions - Most people believe you should spend the first day of a new year looking back over the past year and thinking of changes you can make in your life to improve yourself. Not all changes have to be big though, and you should take this opportunity to make small changes to make your life better.

Pay off debts - You should try not to go into the new year owing money so you'll have a clean slate, and make sure not to loan and money or pay out any money on New Year's Day as this is supposed to show you losing money during the coming year.

Kissing at midnight - The midnight kiss, and having your loved ones around you, is supposed to single the closeness you'll have throughout the year.

First guest of the New Year - It is considered good luck for a man to be the first person to cross your threshold (you have to let him in; he shouldn’t use a key to let himself in). It’s even better luck if he’s tall and good looking with dark hair, and is bringing a gift of wine, bread, fruit, or salt. Don't let a woman be the first guest across your threshold, as it is said they'll bring disaster on your house during the year.

Nothing leaves the house - It is said that you should remove nothing, including trash, from your house on New Year's Day, as that's a sign of things leaving you in the coming year. It is also said that you should not wash the dishes or laundry on New Year's (since you “wash away” luck and these can cause a death in the family in the coming year), and not to wash your hair.

What you do today you'll do all year - They say that whatever activity you engage in today, will carry on throughout the year, so whatever you do make sure you enjoy it. And try not to break anything or cry today, as that is not something you'd like to continue doing all year! And don't forget to try to wear new clothes in hopes that you will get more new clothing during the year.

Traditional Foods - Some foods are supposed to bring good luck and prosperity in the new year. Enjoy these foods while you're resting up after your New Year's Eve fun.
Grapes – 12 of them, one for every month of the year
Pork – because pigs root forward when they eat
Black eyed peas - brings you good luck
Lentils – which resemble coins
Greens - such as collard greens, chard, cabbage and kale – the folds of the greens resemble money
You should also avoid eating chicken or turkey on New Year's Day, as to avoid the fate of those animals who have to dig in the dirt for their food.

Getting Healthy in the New Year

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Most people make some kind of resolution for the new year, and most of them resolve to lose weight or get healthier. Here are some tips for getting your healthier new year off to a good start.

Wear a pedometer - Research has shown that wearing a pedometer on a routine basis will cause most people to walk an extra mile a day. You should try to work in 10,000 steps per day.

Don't forget strength training - This is especially important for women and helps prevent bone loss with age. Aim for 20 to 30 minutes at least three times a week.

Eat fish - Include fish in your menu once or twice per week, particularly fish such as salmon or tuna, to help benefit your heart and brain, and possibly even lower your risk of cancer.

Drink water - Yes, I know it's been run into the ground as the best thing you can do to help keep you healthy and help you lose weight, but there is a reason for that. It's because it works!

Get your beauty sleep - Make sure to get a full 8 hours of sleep each night! It helps you to feel better, keeps you more alert, and can even help keep your heart healthy.

Limit sugar and caffeine - Limiting sugar and caffeine can give you more energy than indulging in them, because it helps curb the highs and lows that occur with consuming them, helping keep your energy levels steady.

Don't smoke - If you smoke, the easiest way to get a little healthier is to quit!

Don't diet, make lifestyle changes - Don't think of what you are doing a diet, and don't just jump right in to a diet. Instead pick a couple of changes that you can make for life, such as giving up soda or switching to whole grain pasta and breads, and start with those. Just those two changes can make a huge difference in your health, and when those become second nature, add a couple more changes. Taking things slowly is the key to successfully keeping that lose weight resolution!

Ideas for Using Leftover Ham

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Looking for a way to use up the rest of the ham left from your family's Christmas dinner? Try one of these suggestions!

The easiest thing to do would be to dice up your leftover ham and add it to your favorite casserole, potato dish, fritatta, or omelet recipe. Other ideas are:

Potato Soup with Ham

3 medium red potatoes, peeled, cut in small cubes
2 cups water
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
ground black pepper
3 cups milk
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1 cup cubed leftover cooked ham
pepper to taste

Bring the water and salt to a boil, then add potatoes and cook until tender. Drain, reserve 1 cup of the cooking liquid (add water to measure 1 cup if necessary). Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion in the hot butter until tender. Add the flour to the butter and onion mixture, then stir until smooth. Season with a little pepper to taste, then continue to cook and stir for 1 minute. Gradually add potatoes, the reserved cup of cooking liquid, and the milk. Stir well, then add cheese and ham. Simmer over low heat, stirring frequently, for about 20 minutes. Serves 6 to 8.

Baked Noodles and Ham

6 to 8 ounces of noodles, cooked and drained
3 Tablespoons butter
3 Tablespoons flour
1 Tablespoons mustard
1 1/2 cups milk
2 cups cooked ham, chopped fine or shredded
1 cup celery, chopped fine
salt and pepper to taste
bread crumbs
butter

Combine 3 Tablespoons butter, flour and mustard in a saucepan. Add milk gradually, stirring constantly, and cook until thick. Add ham, salt, pepper and celery, then stir in the noodles. Pour into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle with bread crumbs and dot with butter. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-45 minutes.

Merry Christmas!

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000

KnoxvilleMommies would like to wish all of our members a very Merry Christmas and a huge Happy Holidays!!! We have loved spending this last year getting to know all of you and your families, and we're very excited to see what next year has in store for KM! Have a fantastic weekend, safe travels, and be sure to come check in and tell us all the fabulous fun you're having!

See you soon!

The Story of St. Nicholas

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000

The History of St. Nicholas

St. Nicholas was a bishop who lived in the fourth century AD in a place called Myra in Asia Minor (what is now Turkey). His parents died when he was young and left him a lot of money, making him a very rich man. He was also a kind man with a reputation for helping the poor and giving secret gifts to people who needed it. There are several legends about St. Nicholas, although no one knows for sure if they are true!

The most famous story about St. Nicholas tells how the custom of hanging up stockings in hopes of finding presents in them first started! It goes like this...

There was a poor man who had three daughters. He was so poor, he did not have enough money for a dowry (back then, and even in some countries today, the parents of the bride paid the groom a sum of money on the wedding day called a dowry, and without it there could be no wedding), so his daughters couldn't get married. One night, Nicholas secretly dropped a bag of gold down the chimney and into the house (the money was meant to be used for the oldest daughter's dowry, so that she could be married). The bag fell into a stocking that had been hung by the fire to dry! This was repeated later with the second daughter. Finally, determined to discover the person who had given him the money, the father secretly hid by the fire every evening until he caught Nicholas dropping in a bag of gold. Nicholas begged the man not to tell anyone what he had done, because he did not want to bring attention to himself, but soon the news got out and when anyone received a secret gift after that time, it was thought that maybe it was from Nicholas.

Because of his kindness Nicholas was made a Saint. St. Nicholas is not only the saint of children, but also of sailors. One story tells of him helping some sailors that were caught in a fierce storm off the coast of Turkey. The storm was raging around them and all the men were terrified that their ship would sink beneath the giant waves. They prayed to St. Nicholas to help them. Suddenly, he was standing on the deck before them. He ordered the sea to be calm, the storm died away, and they were able to sail their ship safely to port.

St. Nicholas was exiled from Myra and later put in prison during the persecution by the Emperor Diocletian. No one really knows for sure the year in which he died, but they do know it was on the 6th of December in either 345 or 352 AD. In 1807, his bones were stolen from Turkey by some Italian merchant sailors. The bones are now kept in the church named after him in the Italian port of Bari. On St. Nicholas Day (December 6th), the sailors of Bari still carry his statue from the cathedral out to sea, so that he can bless the waters to help give them safe voyages throughout the year.

How St. Nicholas Became Santa Claus

In the 16th Century in Europe, the stories and traditions about St. Nicholas became very unpopular.

However, someone had to "deliver" presents to children at Christmas, and that is how the legend of St. Nicholas became the story of Santa Claus! In the U.K., he became 'Father Christmas', a character from old children's stories; in France, he was then known as 'Père Nöel'; and in Germany, the 'Christ Kind'. In the early history of the United States, his name was 'Kris Kringle'. Later, Dutch settlers in the US took the stories of St. Nicholas with them on their journeys home and Kris Kringle became 'Sinterklaas' or as we now say 'Santa Claus'! The UK Father Christmas and the American Santa Claus became more and more alike over the years and are now one and the same.

Many countries, especially ones in Europe, celebrate St. Nicholas Day on December 6th. In Holland and some other European countries, children leave clogs or shoes outside their doors in hopes of finding them filled with presents when they awaken. They also believe that if they leave some hay and carrots in their shoes for Sinterklaas's horse, they will be left some sweets.

Some people say that Santa lives at the North Pole. In Finland, they say that he lives in the north part of their country called Lapland. Everyone agrees that he travels through the sky on a sleigh that is pulled by reindeer, and that he comes into houses down the chimney at night and places presents for the children in socks or bags by their beds, in front of the family Christmas tree, or by the fireplace.

Easy Holiday Appetizers

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Just in time for those holiday parties, here are a couple of our family favorite appetizers you may enjoy!

Meatballs (in sauce)

For meatballs:

3 pounds ground chuck
1 cup finely chopped onions
1 1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cup soft bread crumbs
3/4 teaspoon pepper
1 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 cup plus 2 Tablespoons milk

Mix everything together. Shape into 1 inch balls. Fry in oil, turning over as needed, until browned and cooked through. Remove to baking dish (13x9 pan).

For sauce:

3/4 cup worcestershire sauce
3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup plus 2 Tablespoons vinegar
3 (8oz each) cans tomato sauce

Mix together in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer on low for one minute stirring constantly. Pour over the meatballs in the baking dish, then bake at 325 degrees for 30 minutes.

Sausage Balls

1/2 pound sausage
1/4 cup milk
1 1/2 cup pancake mix
2 Tablespoons dry onion soup mix
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 egg
8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
paprika

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Lightly grease two cookie sheets and set aside. Combine sausage, shredded cheese, egg, and milk. (Use hands to mix like you would a meatloaf.) Add pancake mix, cayenne pepper, and onion soup mix. Blend well. Shape into 1 inch balls, and place onto prepared cookie sheets. Sprinkle with paprika. Bake 10 to 15 minutes until browned and sausage is cooked through. Let cool a bit, then serve.

Homemade Dough Ornaments

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Need a cute gift idea or decoration for the tree? Let the kids help make dough ornaments! Easy for you and fun for them!

Salt Dough Ornament Recipe

2 cups flour
1 cup salt
1 cup water

Directions:

1. Mix salt and flour.
2. Add in half the water, then gradually add the remaining water.
3. Knead until the dough is smooth, this can take up to 10 minutes.
4. For flat dough ornaments roll out the dough on baking paper, or you can make odd shapes and wreaths if you like but they will take longer to bake.

Use cookie cutters, cut-out templates, or just use your hands.Dust dough with flour and begin to add details to the ornaments with a toothpick. Use a straw to make a hole so you can hang the ornament.

Baking time varies based on thickness of ornament, basically 1 1/2 hrs or until dry. Bake at 325 degrees. Let cool completely before you decorate them. You can paint them with acrylic paints or glue on beads, buttons, etc. To help preserve them you can coat the ornaments with acrylic varnish when everything is dry. Then thread a ribbon through and hang up or use as a gift.

Cinnamon Dough Ornament Recipe

2 cups flour
1 cup salt
5 tsp cinnamon
3/4 to 1 cup water

Directions:
1. Combine dry ingredients in a bowl
2. Stir in water gradually to make dough (if sticks to hands add more flour, and if crumbly add more water)
3. Knead for 5-10 minutes until smooth
4. Refrigerate for 30 minutes
5. Roll out dough to desired thickness (can be between 1/4 and 3/4 inch thick, but the thicker it is the longer it takes to dry)

Use cookie cutters to create teddy bears, gingerbread people, and holiday shapes. Use a straw to make a hole so you can hang the ornament.

Bake at 325 degrees for 1 1/2 hours or until dry (based on thickness), checking after 45 minutes to an hour. Let cool completely before decorating with paints, beads, buttons, etc. Coat with acrylic varnish to preserve, then use a ribbon to hang or give them as gifts.

No-Bake Cinnamon Dough Ornament Recipe

1 1/2 cups ground cinnamon
1 cup applesauce
1/4 cup white school glue

Directions:
1. Mix cinnamon, applesauce, and glue together in a bowl
2. Mixture should have a consistency of cookie dough (if it seems hard add a little water)
3. Knead dough for 5-10 minutes, place in bowl, cover with plastic wrap so it doesn't dry out, and let sit for 30-45 minutes, then knead again until smooth.
4. Roll out dough between waxed paper until thickness is 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick.
5. Use cookie cutters to create teddy bears, gingerbread people, gingerbread house panels, and holiday shapes. Use a straw to make a hole so you can hang the ornament.

Place ornaments on wax paper for drying. Drying will take 3-5 days, turn ornaments over a few times a day in order for them to dry flat and prevent curling of the edges. Ornaments will shrink a little while drying. When completely dry, use a ribbon to hang or give away as gifts.

Winter Beauty Tips

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000

The cold winter months can do damage to your skin and hair. Here are some tips to keep you looking beautiful throughout the year.

Winter Skin Care

Indoor heating can dry out your skin. To help deal with this, switch to a heavier moisturizing cream to add extra hydration to your skin. Try to lock in moisture by doing this while your face is still damp.

Avoid taking an overly hot shower or bath, and allow the water to cool before you get out. Your skin will retain more moisture this way and you won't be hit by the chill so much when you get out. Rub body lotion on your arms and legs and feet, particularly on your elbows and knees, right after your shower. Leaving the skin damp to do this keeps skin moist.

Use an eye cream at night to help combat dryness. If you do this on a regular basis, you'll probably notice a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles.

Get your beauty sleep! It helps lower stress and keeps skin looking great!

Treat your hands the same as your face and they'll stay soft and smooth all winter long.

Prevent Chapped Lips

Avoid licking your lips and use a moisturizing lipstick in the daytime hours.

Apply lip balm before you go to bed.

To remove any unwanted dry skin off of your lips, you can exfoliate them with your toothbrush when you brush your teeth.

In a pinch, add a dab of Vaseline to protect lips and hydrate them.

Winter Hair Care Tips

Not only does your skin dry out when the weather turns cold, so does your hair. It only needs to be washed twice a week, but it's important to wash out any styling products that weigh down your hair.

For a quick fix, apply a leave-in conditioner for extra moisture and shine.

If you notice your hair drying out, use a deep-conditioning treatment to revive it.

Chocolate Sandwich Christmas Cookies

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000

These are a family favorite that I think you'll enjoy!

2 boxes devil's food cake mix
4 eggs, lightly beaten
2/3 cups vegetable oil
1 package (8oz) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
3 to 4 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Red and green food coloring

In a mixing bowl, beat cake mixes with eggs and oil; batter will be stiff. Roll into 1 inch balls and place on ungreased baking sheets. Flatten slightly. Bake at 350* for 8 to 10 minutes or until a slight indention remains in cookie when lightly touched. Cool completely. In another bowl, beat cream cheese and butter. Add sugar and vanilla, then mix until smooth. Divide mix in half, then use the food coloring to tint one half red and one half green. Spread filling onto bottoms of half of the cookies, then top with remaining half.

Christmas Mouse Ornament

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Here is a cute and easy craft for the holidays that the kids will love. All you need is a couple of pieces of felt in two different colors, a candy cane, two googly eyes, and a small pompom for a nose.

Step one: Cut out a teardrop shape about 6 inches long from one of the felt pieces. Then cut two slits in the top about 1 1/2 inches from the nose. This is where your ear piece fits through.

Step two: Cut out a figure eight shape from the other piece of felt (about 4 1/2 to 5 inches long or however big you'd like your ears), then push it through the holes to make your mouse's ears.

Step three: Glue the small pompom to the tip of the teardrop to make his nose, then glue to two googly eyes about halfway between the nose and ears.

Step four: Tape a full-sized candy cane to the underside of the mouse, bringing the hook over the top of the mouse body. This is your tail, and you can use it to hang your mouse on your tree if you'd like. It should look like the picture below when finished. Enjoy!

Safety Tips for Your Christmas Tree

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Christmas is a joyous time of year, but it's also known for the amount of fires that occur due to Christmas trees and lights. Here is a list of safety tips from the National Fire Protection Agency on how to keep your home and family safe.

Each year, fire departments respond to an average of 210 structure fires caused by Christmas trees. Carefully decorating Christmas trees can help make your holidays safer.

Safety tips

Picking the tree

If you have an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled, certified, or identified by the manufacturer as fire retardant.

Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.

Placing the tree

Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 1–2” from the base of the trunk.

Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights.

Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.

Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily.

Lighting the tree

Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.

Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of mini string sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of LED strands to connect.

Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.

Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

After Christmas

Get rid of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home. Check with your local community to find a recycling program. Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.

December Birthdays

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Happy Birthday to all of our members who are celebrating their big day this month!

Jamiefbrown - December 01

jessicamarie1203 - December 03

HollyStewart - December 03

tawcew - December 03

selina0111 - December 04

lpmama - December 04

SexyMommy0124 - December 06

Branflakes - December 06

mommybug - December 11

starr1402 - December 13

amber - December 15

k_kthomas - December 17

lynchgirls3 - December 19

ChelseaLynn - December 19

KnoxPPD - December 20

Missy86 - December 22

MomToMany - December 22

Jewell - December 22

GeorgiaVarner - December 24

melodythecook - December 25

brisov - December 26

MamaLaLa113010 - December 28

Jot - December 29

Ring in the New Year with TMN!

noreply@blogger.com (The Mommies Network) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 13:44:00 +0000

Ring in the New Year by reaching moms across the nation!

Women make more than 80 percent of all purchasing decisions and control two thirds of the nation’s disposable income. And moms may have the greatest buying power. What mom doesn’t share the latest trends or personal experiences with a business that has provided products or services for her family or herself?

To help you start the New Year with a bang, The Mommies Network is offering the following:
With all new/renewed sponsorship agreements, your business will receive a complimentary blog feature (advertorial to include logo/product image and 500 words). Prepaid agreements receive a 5 percent discount and a complimentary two months on one sponsorship listing. Sponsors also receive 20 percent off event sponsorships. Offer expires Jan. 31, 2012.

The Mommies Network can help your business reach moms across the nation or in your community. We are a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide a safe, secure, free place for mothers to find support and encouragement from other mothers and to empower them to be better women, parents, and community leaders. Through our online forums, our chapters connect local mothers, enabling them to ask questions, seek support, offer encouragement, find volunteer opportunities, and grow as leaders as they volunteer their time with our site. Our organization provides a valuable service to a portion of the population that is nearly always overlooked, overworked, and taken for granted: moms!

For more details on how your business can ring in the New Year with moms across the nation, please contact Jessica Van Dyke at Jessica.VanDyke@TheMommiesNetwork.org.

How are you reaching the greatest buying power in our nation?

Candy Recipes Perfect for the Holidays

noreply@blogger.com (KnoxvilleMommies) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Here are a few candy recipes that are perfect for your holiday parties or gift giving. Enjoy!

Peanut Butter Fudge
A yummy recipe we enjoy every Christmas.

2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
2 cans (5oz each) evaporated milk
1/2 cup butter or margarine (plus additional butter for buttering pot)
1 1/4 cups crunchy peanut butter
1 jar (7oz) marshmallow creme
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Line a 9" square baking pan with foil, extending foil over two sides of pan. Grease foil. Butter sides of a large heavy saucepan. Combine sugars, evaporated milk, and butter in saucepan. Stirring constantly, cook over medium-low heat until sugar dissolves. Using a pastry brush dipped in water, brush any sugar crystals on sides of pot back into mix. Attach a candy thermometer to pan, making sure it doesn't touch the bottom. Increase heat to medium and bring to a boil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until temp reaches soft-ball stage (approx. 234 to 240 degrees). Remove from heat and stir in peanut butter, marshmallow, and vanilla. Pour into prepped pan and cool completely. Chill at least 4 hours or until firm. Cut into 1" squares, and store in an airtight container in a cool place.

Muddy Buddies
Be forewarned, if left near kids for too much time, these won't last long! We go through two or three batches each holiday.

9 cups chex cereal
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cup powdered sugar

Put cereal into a large bowl and set aside. Melt chocolate chips, peanut butter, and butter in the microwave uncovered on high for one minute, then stir. Microwave an additional 30 seconds longer or until mix can be stirred smooth. Stir in vanilla. Pour chocolate mix over the cereal, stirring until evenly coated. Pour into large resealable food storage bag, then add powdered sugar. Seal bag and shake well until completely coated (my kids love doing this part). Spread onto waxed paper to cool, then store in airtight container in fridge.

*You could also add red and green M&M's for little color before storing if you'd like.

Holiday Pretzel Candies
Another favorite of the kids!

For this recipe you'll need as many bite-sized waffle shaped pretzels as you'd like to make, a bag of Hershey's kisses, a bag of Hershey's hugs kisses, and a bag of Christmas M&M's.

Heat oven to 170*. Put pretzels in a single layer on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Top each pretzel with a hug or kiss. Bake for 4 to 6 minutes (the hugs will melt quicker than the regular kisses) until the chocolates feel soft when touched with a wooden spoon. Remove from oven and quickly press an M&M into each kiss being careful not to over press or your chocolate will run. Allow to cool for a few minutes, then put the pan into the refrigerator to set for about 10 minutes. Place into airtight containers for gifting or storing.