THE SAVVY SHOPPER

Personalize Your Home With Prints On Canvas

2013-05-22T00:00:00.000-04:00

Prints on canvas by Splendiz Arts

The slogan says, "Turn your memories into masterpieces." Indeed ... surrounding yourself with images of family and friends on gallery quality canvas is a brilliant idea! You can have just about anything you fancy printed on a canvas: a wedding photo, fine art, the Eiffel Tower, pets, pumpkins or diamonds ... whatever brings you happiness, reflects your personality and makes your house a home.

Photo by Magnipic

With online retailers like Easy Canvas Prints, you upload a favorite picture, then select options for your canvas, such as size and wrap thickness. The company prints and stretches your image; and your canvas arrives, with a semi-gloss finish, ready to hang. You can elect to frame it, but it looks great unframed.

There are also competitors to google and compare.

Having pictures printed on canvas is often less expensive than having them framed. Work with a website you can call for help. Customer service will walk you through the process of creating your canvas.

When it comes to home decorating, the number one rule is to surround yourself with personal touches and the things you love. Ordering prints on canvas is an affordable way to turn cherished photographs into art, and they stay vivid and pristine for years to come.

Photos by Easy Canvas Prints

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Banana Pudding

2013-05-20T00:45:00.001-04:00

Photo by M Kasahara

Banana pudding is one of my favorite Southern desserts, and I won't lie: The higher the milk fat used in the recipe, the richer and better tasting the pudding is. Cream makes a heavenly banana pudding, but in the interest of staying healthy and slender, I make a few concessions. I try to retrain my tastesbuds to like lighter versions of the most decadent sweets. Most of the time, here is how I eat banana pudding:

Banana Pudding

Ingredients:

3 eggs, separated

1/3 cup sugar, plus 2 tablespoons of vanilla sugar (if you have it)

3 tablespoons flour

Dash of salt

3 cups milk

3 teaspoons vanilla

Cinnamon graham crackers (or the traditional Vanilla Wafers)

3-4 ripe bananas

Directions:

1. Beat the egg yolks and sugar together. I use an electric hand mixer and beat it right in a large saucepan, so I have one less bowl to wash. (Yes, I am lazy!)

2. Save the egg whites in a separate mixing bowl for later.

3. Add the flour, cornstarch, salt and milk to the saucepan and beat smooth.

4. Heat this mixture on the stovetop, whisking until it thickens into a custard.

5. Turn off the flame and add the vanilla. Let cool.

6. Next pour a little of the custard onto the bottom of a deep baking dish.

7. Layer with the graham crackers (or vanilla wafers), then top with slices of bananas.

8. Keep layering. Alternate: custard, graham crackers, banana slices.

9. Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites with about 2 tablespoons of vanilla sugar into a meringue and spread it on top of the banana pudding.

10. Bake at 400 degrees F for about 10 minutes. Watch closely. When the meringue is slightly brown and the pudding is bubbling, remove from the over. Eat warm or cold.

Even if you're a healthy eater, I can't see totally depriving yourself of treats. Graham crackers contain less sugar than vanilla wafers, but are equally delicious. You can also use 1% milk to make banana pudding, and it will be tasty. But for special ocassions, use whole milk and cream. As long as you eat fattening food the way your grandparents did -- a serving for dinner on Sundays -- you can indulge.

THE SAVVY SHOPPER features food as one of its topics because it's such an important part of our lives. We spend a huge amount of our disposable income (money after taxes) on food. Gathering, preparing and serving meals takes up lots of our time too. You can forgo buying a pair of shoes, but as my mother notes, "You have to eat every day!" So if you know how to cook, you can save a bundle, entertain on a budget and most of all, eat well. Bon appétit!

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How To Pick Sunglasses: Form And Function

2013-05-13T00:28:00.000-04:00

Protecting your eyes is a top consideration:

Just like your skin, the lens and corneas of your eyes need protection from the sun's harmful rays. Wearing sunglasses helps reduce your risks of cataracts and vision damage.

1. Always choose sunglasses that block 99% - 100% of the sun's UVB and UVA light.

2. Sunglass lenses should offer UV 400 protection -- meaning they block up to 400 nanometers (measurements in wavelengths) of ultraviolet light.

3. With sunglasses, bigger is better, and wraparound frames offer the best eye protection against damaging rays.

Select The Right Lens Hue:
The coating that blocks the sun's utltraviolet light is clear. Hence, darker lenses do not necessarily offer more protection than lighter lenses. But lens hue will alter how you perceive color.

1. Grey tints block light without affecting contrast or distorting colors.

2. For automobile drivers, grey, green and brown lenses are better. You can still distinguish between the changes in traffic lights and not miss vital information registering on your dashboard.

3. For golfers, copper lenses will mute the blue sky and green grass against a white golfball.

4. For tennis players, blue and green tints will increase the contrast of a yellow tennis ball.

5. Other lens tints like violet, rose, yellow and orange are good for very specific sports and outdoor activities like shooting targets, but definitely bad for driving!!!

Polarized Lenses:

Polarized lenses do not block ultraviolet light; they reduce the glare produced when sunlight bounces off other surfaces, like water.

They help boaters, water skiers and snow skiers not be blinded by reflected light. But, they make the digital displays of cell phones and a car's dashboard harder to read.

Choosing Lens Material:

Consider your lifestyle. The most expensive isn't always necessary.

1. Glass – Has excellent optical clarity and scratch-resistance, but is heavier and will shatter when dropped.

2. NXT polyurethane: Has excellent optical clarity, scratch and impact resistance; is flexible and lightweight, but is the most expensive.

3. Polycarbonate: Has good optical clarity; is impact resistant; lightweight and affordable, but is less scratch resistant than NXT polyurethane or glass.

4. Acrylic: is inexpensive and lightweight, but has less optical clarity or durability than glass, NXT polyurethane or polycarbonate. Acrylic lenses are ideal for casual sunglass wear. If lost or broken, it's not a big deal since you pay less for them.

Consider Fashion:

Don't pretend otherwise, you know you want to look rock star cool and movie star glamorous in your shades, therefore:
Determine the shape of your face, then remember that opposites attract.

1. Rounded frames are great on a square face.

2. Square frames complement a round face.

3. Rectangular frames flatter a heart-shaped face.

4. Oval faces have more leeway (because the face is balanced). Nearly all shapes of sunglasses look good on an oval face, though square frames with rounded corners will complement ovals especially well.

5. Oversized glasses will balance an oblong face, making it look shorter.

6. Aviator glasses not only look good on all face shapes, they make faces look younger.

7. Always try on sunglasses standing in front of a full length mirror. Never trust the small mirror on a sunglass rack. You need to see how the frames look on your entire face or you will arrive home wondering, "What happened!?!" when, "I looked sooo good in the department store!" Has this ever happened to you?

Here are a few examples of sunglasses matched to face shapes. Don't worry about remembering every point. When you try on an assortment of sunglasses, your eyes will inevitably tell you when you are wearing the perfect frames.

By the way, the studded Prada frames in the top photo are perfect for my oval face, but not my wallet. So Marshall's and TJ Maxx ... here I come.

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Happy Mother's Day

2013-05-09T10:05:00.000-04:00

Every year my Mother tells me not to buy her a gift because she doesn't need anything. It's a good thing I ignore her when she's wrong. She values a phone call and a thoughtful card, so I'm doing a round-up of images that would make lovely cards. A paper one is in the mail too. Happy Mother's Day, Mam'ma. xoxo.

This silhouette looks strikingly like my Mom. That's her nose, hair and earrings, and she has a dress with a similar collar.

A sweet painting. Love the colors too.

I cannot believe my luck in finding this Superman logo. Read my account of a mother/daughter interaction. My Mom is still clueless!

You can find pretty images on the internet and use them in creative ways:
1. Print on good paper, fold over and make your own cards.
2. Print it (set on full page) and use to line the inside bottom of a box.
3. Print on full page and use as wrapping paper.

To all Mothers, enjoy your special day.

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Probiotics To Balance Good And Bad Bacteria

2013-05-07T00:10:00.001-04:00

"Need help in keeping your digestive system in sync," asks a TV ad? It's a valid question. If you travel, take antibiotics, are hormonal or stressed, you might. Apparently, as we age some of us will because everything slows down. Something else to look forward to ... yikes!

Probiodics are single-cell organisms introduced into the body to support good bacteria. Already, you have bacteria living in your gut. These microorganisms help your intestines breakdown proteins and carbohydrates, moving them though your system. Ideally, you should get friendly bacteria from eating fermented food like yogurt. A balance of good and bad bacteria keeps both your digestive and immune systems healthy.

However if you feel discomfort, bloated and/or irregular ... and are not getting friendly bacteria from the food you eat, it might help to take a probiotic supplement with the following strains:

1. Lactobacillus Acidophilus - Found in the small intestines; helps digest milk.

2. Lactobacillus Salivarius - Found in the small and large intestines; reduces unfriendly bateria.

3. Lactobacillus Rhamnosus - Found in the small and large intestines; supports digestion.

4. Streptococcus Thermophilus - Breaks down food.

5. Bifidobacterium Bifidum - Fights unfriendly bacteria; helps make B vitamins.

Another question arises: In choosing a supplement how many live probiotics do you need? As it turns out, a lot! Here's a guide:

10 billion - to maintain healthy digestion.

20 billion - to relieve bloating and discomfort.

30 billion - to re-balance your intestines with friendly bacteria

I rarely stop to consider the microorganisms living in each of our digestive tracts. It's like composting when you think about it!

Indeed, probiotics are the latest health craze. Although a natural remedy (pro), they are expensive (con). So you might first try eating a balanced diet, including yogurt. Yogurt is only about 50 cents a serving and tasty. If that doesn't work, move on to probiotics, which will have a high concentration of good bacteria to put you back in balance.

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Refreshing Bourbon Slush

2013-05-02T09:24:00.001-04:00

Photo: Courtesy of The Kentucky Derby Museum

The Kentucky Derby has many traditions. Bourbon is a popular drink served at the races, as well as, at parties. Many people are familiar with a mint julep, but another treat is the refreshing Bourbon Slush. Usually, I would much rather eat my calories than drink them, but this icy cocktail is worth it! Here is how to make a batch:

Bourbon Slush

Ingedients:

6 cups water

3 cups very fine bourbon

12 oz. lemonade from concentrate

6 oz. orange juice from concentrate

1 cup sugar

2 cups strong tea (Use 2 cups water with 4 black tea bags.)

Top off with: Limon-lime carbonated soda – 7 Up or Fresca

Directions:

1. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil and add 4 tea bags. Let steep for 5 minutes. Allow to cool.

2. Mix in the rest of the water and the other ingredients (except for the limon-lime soda).

3. Pour into a container and place in the freezer for 24 hours, stirring occasionally to produce a slush.

4. Scoop into Old Fashioned glasses.
5. Top with Fresca, or 7-Up soda - regular or diet works. This adds fizz and gets the slush to melt slightly, making the drink extra goood!

Take a batch of Bourbon Slush to all your summer parties. Freeze it in Tupperwear for portibility. When word gets out, you will feel the love.

The Kentucky Derby is this coming Saturday. Post time: 6:30 pm. Enjoy!

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Design Your Own Shoes

2013-04-30T12:04:00.000-04:00

Have you ever had a certain shoe style in mind, but after a day of shopping came home empty handed? Shopping for new shoes without finding what you're looking for is frustrating, right?

Well as it turns out, there are online shoe companies who are set up to let you design your own shoes. Craft your perfect shoes part by part. You pick the material, color, toe, heel and embellishments. You end up with shoes that are uniquely yours ... well almost.

I can see a bride going this route for bridesmaids who are different heights, or have different tastes. You can create shoes with elements that are uniform yet individual, so that each member of your wedding party can wear their shoes after your wedding; or you may have a special occasion and need a very specific style and color of shoe that you can't find in stores. So to own it, you will have to design it yourself.

Prices range from $150 to about $300, depending on the details you choose. It isn't dirt cheap, but still affordable for what is essentially customized shoes.

Retailers include:

Milk And Honey - Fashion shoes

Shoes of Prey - Fashion shoes

The Shoe Design Studio - Fashion shoes

iShoes by iTailor - Men's shoes

NikeiD - Sports shoes

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Is It One Space, Not Two?

2013-04-28T11:22:00.000-04:00

Photo: The Unpaid Marketer

THE SAVVY SHOPPER needs to break a bad habit. Starting right now! Look at past posts. Most of the time, I use two spaces after a period to separate sentences. That was correct at one time, but with the arrival of computers and more fonts than we know what to do with, it no longer is. And to tell you the truth, I've been struggling with the question for awhile. This morning I decided to check several sources for correctness. All say one space only. If you'd like an explanation, go here.

It takes repetition to replace an old habit with a new one. But starting today, I'm on it! Want to play a game? Going forward, let's see how many times I slip-up.

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Essential Oils Are A Household ... wait for it ... Essential

2013-04-26T09:53:00.001-04:00

Photo by Plantlife Natural Body Care

It's still green week ... and the beginning of Spring! So let's talk a bit more about botanicals.

An essential oil is a concentrated liquid containing aromatic compounds from a plant. It is often extracted by steam distillation. Different parts of the plants, the flowers, bark or leaves are used in the different oils. Steam heats the plant, breaking it down into components. The oil is separated from the water and filtered to produce an essential oil.

It takes many pounds of plant matter to get one pound of any given essential oil. An essential oil may not be cheap, but a little goes a long way. You only need a few drops at a time. A 2-ounce bottle will last a few years and not lose its potency.

Essential oils have several uses. They are used in aromatheraphy (in massage or baths) to promote natural healing and well being. Their molecules are tiny, so they are easily absorbed into the skin as ingredients in lotions to heal, moisterize and norish.

Essential oils have antibacterial, antiviral and anitfugal properties. You can use them to make homemake cleaning solutions, or add a few drops to your shampoo as a remedy for oily hair.

Because essential oils are concentrated, most varieties should not be used undiluted on your skin. They need a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil or almond oil. Add a few drops to your favorite massage oils, or body lotions and butters. Despite their beneficial properties, never use undiluted essential oils on babies, children or pets. Their skins are sensitive.

To see if a brand is pure, put a drop on a piece of paper. It should dry and disappear. If the drop leaves a residue, the essential oil isn't pure, but is diluted with another ingredient.

Here are five Essential Oils I like to use at home:
1. Tea Tree Oil - You can safely apply undiluted tea tree oil to skin abrasions and zits. Add a few drops to your shampoo, or wipe down sweaty exercise mats and germy household surfaces with a mixture of 20 drops of tea tree oil to one cup of water.
2. Peppermint Oil - I add several drops to shampoo and bath oil. It tingles the skin.
3. Rosemary Oil - It's invigorating. Also can be added to shampoo or cleaning preprations.
4. Lavender Oil - One of my favorite aromas, so I put it in lotions and hand creams. I find it both refreshing and calming.
5. Geranium Oil - Very sweet smelling around the house. You can make disinfectant sprays with any of these essential oils by adding 20 drops to one cup of water.

These are the ones I buy. There are tons of other essential oils. Never injest them, but learn what they do and experiment.

Do you have a favorite essential oil?

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Vegan Beauty Products To Try

2013-04-19T14:14:00.000-04:00

Photo by Dermstore

Vegan products are popular with consumers who are concerned about staying healthy, animal curelty and protecting the environment. Made with pure, wholesome ingredients that are not tested on animals, they are very often organic, as well as, biodegradable and come in minimal, recyclable packaging, according to veganpresence.com. Being more mindful of the products we buy is a good thing. Finding products that are good for the planet and the people who live on it is common sense, right?

To celebrate Earth Day on April 22, THE SAVVY SHOPPER is highlighting three vegan, all-in-one products. As more shoppers lean towards vegan and eco-friendly goods, the production for them will go up, making them cheaper to buy. Another way to lessen your carbon footprint is to look for products that do double, or even quintuple duty. The following are beauty products with several benefits that yours truly is eager to try:

1. Pur Minerals 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup Foundation - Lightweight coverage with built-in skincare ingredients. It's a face powder, concealer, sunscreen and moisterizer all-in-one. Smooths away fine lines, plumps, lifts and firms the skin's appearance. Bring it on, sister! Costs: $27.
2. Salon Grafix Healthy Hair Nutrition Conditioning Cleanser Line - Sold as a new concept in hair care. It's sulfate-free and lather-free. Cleans and conditions without stripping hair of its natural oils. Takes the place of 5 hair products: shampoo, daily conditioner, deep conditioner, leave-in conditioner and detangler. Revitalizes damaged hair leaving it shiny and full of body. Costs: $8.
3. Medicine Mama's Sweet Bee Magic All In One Healing Cream - It's certified organic and contains healing bee properties like honey, bee pollen and royal jelly, plus olive oil to nourish, smoothe and protect the skin. Treats cuts, dry and sensitive skin. Costs: $25. (But, you can find it for $16.98)

I am always on the lookout for products, containing top-notch, all natural ingredients that work, and I love double duty products. One product -- with multi-benefits and several uses -- saves time, money and reduces clutter.

If you want to explore other vegan merchandise, go t0 VeganEssentials and VeganStore.

Happy Earth Day!

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A Nutmeg Mill ... Nice!

2013-04-10T22:00:00.000-04:00

William Bounds Nutmeg Mill, Chrome

My mom and aunt (her sister), add nutmeg to nearly every dish they prepare, including meats, vegetables, soups and desserts. They have all the cooks in the family believing that nutmeg makes nearly every food taste better; and like medicine, nutmeg is very good for us. We simply must sprinkle some into whatever we whip up. Well ... I have been brainwashed, and mostly I comply!

Recently, I received a gift I did not even know I wanted -- a nutmeg mill. Had I read the product reviews, I would have been reluctant to buy it. Some of the reviewers are unhappy with it, but mine is fantastic. It's easy to hold and turn and seems to have the right amount of tension. The rotary blades are stainless steel. They grind a fair amount of nutmeg quickly, and the shavings are not exactly a powder, but a fine texture. My trick is the turn the handle in both directions to keep the shavings coming.

I love my new hand-cranked, kitchen gadget. Fresh shaved nutmeg is superior to already ground nutmeg.

The nutmeg mill comes with 4-5 whole nutmegs, which are conveniently stored inside a clear acrylic chamber. I find that unscrewing the top to pop in a new nutmeg is simple and hassle-free. Several reviewers say, the mill doesn't grind as well with old nutmegs. So a tip is to always use fresh, hard nutmegs to have the ease and just-right-size shavings of nutmeg. Plus using the mill, you will save your fingertips too! It's a handy, not to mention, attractive kitchen tool. $24-$30.

By the way, ever wonder what a nutmeg is? It's a seed or kernel, not a bulb or nut.

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Rubbermaid Easy-Find-Lids Set(s) At Walmart

2013-04-07T10:38:00.002-04:00

Plastic food containers have a way of disappearing or wearing out. So I needed a new set. Although I would rather have glass, plastic is far more practical. It takes up less room in a cupboard and won't break when dropped. That's why I selected this rubbermaid set.

Walmart is offering a super deal. 2 sets: 56 pieces for $20. Here is what you get:

Rubbermaid Easy Find Lids 24-Piece Plus 4 Food Storage Set x 2 =

(16) ½-cup containers with lids
(8) 1 ¼-cup containers with lids
(8) 2-cup containers with lids
(8) 3-cup containers with lids
(8) 5-cup containers with lids
(8) 7-cup containers with lids

Microwave, freezer and dishwsher safe, the containers are sturdy and cleverly designed. Despite being BPA-free, I never microwave food in plastic. But here's a useful feature, the lids snap to each other and also to the bottom of the containers, so you are less likely to lose them.

Another fantastic deal is, you can order merchandise online from Walmart and receive free shipping. The online-retailer will ship an order that is under $45 to a Walmart store, or to your nearest Fed Ex Office for you to pick up. And, if your order is $45 or more, you get it shipped free to your home. You can order toilet paper, or paper towels to make up the difference and enjoy the convenience of home delivery. Bargains, plus convenience, make shopping online worthwhile.

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Spring Forward In Style : Five Easy Pieces

2013-04-04T00:07:00.000-04:00

Photo by Anita Martinz/Flickr

Spring is here again, and not a moment too soon. Some mornings there's a chill in the air, but now the days are bright, sunny and getting longer. Garden flowers are in full bloom, and it's time to think about a transitional wardrobe. Here are Five Spring Essentials to add to your closet:

1. A City/Resort Ruffle Shaw from April Marin - Versitle and easy to take on trips to wear with dresses, troussers and skirts. Occasionally, they go on sale for under $30.

2. Scarves from Old Navy - Keep chills away while making your outfits pop. They are lightweight, inexpensive and absolutely functional against a strong wind. $10-$15.
3. Big Shirts from LL Bean - They fall low at the hip, are made of plush corduroy; are a relaxed fit; and are great to layer. Wear with dark leggings and skinny jeans to look polished. Under $40 on promotion days.
4. T-shirts from Landsend - Made of durable, soft 100% cotton. They are colorful and cozy to wear under your shawl, big shirts or sweaters.
5. Converse Chuck Taylor All Star sneakers from Zappos - Cute, comforable and casual smart. Perfect when paired with jeans or shorts. $40-$50

You can't go wrong with these five easy pieces. Easy, breezy to wash and fun to wear.

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After Easter Vittles

2013-03-31T21:44:00.000-04:00

Photos: Deviled Eggs courtesy of Food and Wine/Butter Cookies by Debra Turner via iphone

On the left are classic deviled eggs topped with paprika (plus I added freshly ground nutmeg).

On the right are my (baked this morning!) butter cookies. We can taste vanilla, butter and a hint of pecans in every bite. Into a recipe for butter cookies, I threw in a cup of ground, uncooked oatmeal and about 1/3 cup of pulverized pecans. [Note: I reduce the butter to ½ cup (1 stick) and the sugar to ¾ cup.] So tasty, there's no need for frosting. A chocolate chip eye is the perfect finish. We served the more perfect-shaped bunnies to guests. From the same batch, I made some star-and-heart-cookies for an after Easter tea party. Those I can decorate with a dusting of powdered sugar.

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Happy Easter From The Savvy Shopper

2013-03-29T10:00:00.000-04:00

Photo by Orbmiser/flickr

Easter is a holiday of bright, lively colors ... from dyed eggs ... to budding flowers ... from baby ducks ... to big girls'-and-little girls' dresses.

Photo by Almaharri

Easter is a time of renewal and new beginnings ... in nature and religious faith.

Photo by Handful Of Quietness

This little bunny reminds me of A Tale Of Peter Rabbit. He is perfectly content resting in gentle hands unlike Peter Rabbit, who was chased after by mean, old Mr. McGregor after entering Mr. McGregor's garden and eating his "lettuces, green beans and radishes." Had Peter not gotten away, Mr. McGregor would have hit him with a rake and served him up as a pot pie! This little guy is in much safer hands.

1909 Wessler Easter postcard - on Ebay for $2.99 here

Now that a new season is here, stop to notice the flowers ... enjoy the Spring ... and a Happy Easter Everyone!

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Hearty Split Pea Soup And Cornbread For Meatless Mondays

2013-03-26T10:07:00.001-04:00

Photo by EatMoreBalance.com

Recently I stopped buying canned soups. As I said in previous posts, either my tastes have changed, or canned soups have changed. I used to like them; now not so much. These days I make a batch of homemade soup, eat a meal, then freeze the rest in 16 ounce containers to be nuked (i.e. microwaved) later for quick meals. One of my favorite soups to prepare is hearty split pea. Sometimes I make it with smoked ham, and sometimes I make it vegetarian. Even without meat, you have a complete protein by pairing the soup with corn bread or Irish soda bread. It's definitely a stick-to-your-ribs-square-meal. Below are my recipes:

Split Pea Soup

Ingredients:
16 ounce bag of dried split peas

8 cups water

1 large onion, diced

3 large carrots, diced

2 stalks celery, diced

1 small tomato, diced (if you have one, if not omit)

1 bay leaf

1 ½ double bouillon cubes, or 3 small cubes (contains salt, so don't add salt, separately)

1 tablespoon dried garlic

12 turns of the black pepper mill

a sprinkle of dried celery

a tiny sprinkle of red pepper flakes

a dash of Worcestershire sauce
a spinkle of nutmeg
a spinkle of parlsey flakes

Directions:
Throw all the ingredients into a stock pot on a stovetop, bringing it to a boil, cover with a lid, then lower the heat and simmer for about one hour, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon.

Golden Yellow Corn Bread

Ingredients:
1 cup yellow corn meal

1 cup whole wheat flour

1 teaspoon sea salt (or smoked salt)

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 egg, beaten

1 ½ cups buttermilk You can substitute milk, Russian kefir, plain yogurt, or sour milk, whatever you have on hand will work.

Optional spice:

12 turns of the black pepper mill

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

A sprinkle of garlic powder

A sprinkle of onion powder

Directions:
1. Put all the dry ingredients into a mixing bowl; follow with the wet ingredients.
2. Mix with a folk.
3. Pour into an oiled cast iron skillet and cover with a lid.
4. Cook on the stove top until golden brown. Flip over and cook the 2nd side until golden brown. (Or you can bake in the oven about 30 minutes until golden brown.) When done in the center, remove, let cool slightly. Cut and eat.

I like the idea of meatless Mondays for several reasons. Many of us grew up eating too much meat. Several studies suggest eating less meat can reduce your risks of preventive illnesses like cancer, heart disease, diabetes and obesity.

Meatless Mondays also help reduce your carbon footprint. It takes alot more water and fossil fuel to raise livestock than to grow vegetables and grains. So going meatless one day a week is good for your health and the environment. With so much hunger in the world, it's a painless and delicious way to make a tiny difference.

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Papyrus Greeting Cards

2013-03-20T00:05:00.003-04:00

Greeting cards by Papyrus

Recently my mom said, "Now that everyone carries a phone everywhere, you can't get ahold of anyone!!! Years ago when you called someone at home, a child ... or someone answered the phone and it lead to a conversation!"

Imagine that. You didn't need to text, email, or tweet a "friend," nor wait for a typed reply. No peck, peck, pecking ever.Goodness, I know we can't live in the past, but let's keep it simple ... and meaningful.

Personally, I'd rather have one telephone call in lieu of 50 text messages, a face-to-face chat over 100 emails and a handwritten card instead of a column of electronic greetings. To tell you the truth, sometimes I don't even open electronic greetings. But I would never leave a handwritten card unopened, plus I save cards with heartfelt notes. They become memories.

Several years ago, an elderly neighbor sent me an Easter card that I still have. She said, when my parents first moved next door to her, she watched my dad carry me outside in a snowsuit to show me the falling snow. She wished me a Happy Easter and told me to enjoy the Spring ... then passed away a short time later. I'm glad she took the time to write and reminisce, and she inspired me by her example. It's quite nice getting an Easter card.

Papyrus has unique and beautiful selections of stationery and greeting cards for all occasions. Expect to find rich paper with glitter and foil at reasonable prices. If you hit a sale, you can get a box of expensive cards for under $5. It's always a good time to let someone know you care.

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Irish Soda Bread: Sweet Or Savory?

2013-03-15T10:03:00.000-04:00

Photo by All About Food

I can't claim any Irish ancestry, but aren't we all Irish on St. Patrick's Day? I do love meat and potatoes, Irish stew, cabbage, root vegetables and Irish soda bread. I started making soda bread because it tastes similar to buttermilk biscuits, but you can substitute healthier ingredients: like butter instead of lard and whole grain flour in lieu of all white flour. Soda bread is delicious served warm. Here is my recipe:

Irish Soda Bread

For Savory

Ingredients:

3 cups whole wheat flour

1 cup all purpose flour

1 ½ teaspoons sea salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

2 eggs, lightly beaten

4 tablespoons cold butter, cubed

1 ¼ cups buttermilk - I use low fat (1.5% milkfat).

For Sweet

You will add ½ cup sugar, 1 cup raisins. (= Irish American soda bread)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.

2. Stir the first 5 dry ingredients together in a mixing bowl.

3. Mix in the beaten eggs.

4. Next incorporate the cubes of butter until you get a coarse mixture.

5. Here is where you add the sugar and raisins, if you want to sweeten your soda bread. I always opt for savory, skipping the sugar and raisins. Does that make me a salty girl?

6. Pour in the buttermilk and mix until a dough forms.

7. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it a little bit, then shape it into a round, slightly flatten loaf. Be careful not to over knead, or the bread will turn out tough. Aim for a sticky dough.

8. Place the round dough on an olive oiled baking dish. I use a cast iron skillet.

9. Cut a cross [like this +] about 1 inch deep into the dough with a sharp knife. By scoring the top, the bread bakes evenly and is easy to slice.

10. Bake about 55 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and done in the center. Cool, cut and eat.

Extra tips: Soda bread is tasty fresh out of the oven, so I often split the dough into two loaves, bake one and wrap the other in aluminum foil, freezing it for another day. On a busy day, I just pop the frozen one into the oven and bake. Voilà, fresh bread without the work! At times, I will sprinkle the tops with raw oatmeal before baking. For savory soda bread, I like to toss 1/3 cup of caraway seeds into the batter -- provided my guests like caraway seeds (Delish!). Have a happy St. Patrick's Day.

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Are You A Downton Abbey Fan?

2013-03-11T19:50:00.000-04:00

Photo: itv

I am spending far too much of my leisure time re-watching seasons 1, 2 and 3 of Downton Abbey. It's so well written and cast that I catch little details with each viewing. Isn't it the best series to air in a long time? Unlike so many other shows, Downton's twists and turns make perfect sense while being totally unpredictable. Worth the price of the Blu-ray or DVD.

Each season the cast has grown, both in numbers and as a result of their experiences. There are 24+ characters featured-in-detail, and I love the ensemble acting. Even the bad characters are layered and gain your sympathy as plots thicken. I truly appreciate how neither the series, nor the characters are black and white. The creator, Jullian Fellowes, writes about times and a class system he knows very well. Mr. Fellowes' wife is the daughter of an earl.

Downton Abbey is a series in which you invest in the characters. As complicated as events get -- and whether you agree or disagree with how characters behave -- you understand and root for them.

Watching Downton Abbey makes me think about a bygone era and the evolution of mores. My God, were times harsh for everyone both upstairs and downstairs. The days were long, while the years were short, and if you were a servant, the work was endless.

After watching a Downton episode, certain thoughts run through my mind. Far from being original thoughts; they are clichés, but they are nonethess true. Life is over in a heatbeat. The world doesn't begin nor end with our present age. Nothing and I mean, nothing ... people, places or things last forever. Time changes things. People can change with time and be changed by the times, but the more times change, the more people stay the same. As Mr. Carson notes, "Human nature is a funny business."

Downton Abbey gets human nature right, and I can't wait for seaon 4. Although the show would survive it, I hope none of the remaining characters want to leave. I'd like to see a season 5 also. Just saying.

The cast on a press junket in New York City. Photo by just jared.

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Remembering Patsy Cline 9/8/32 – 3/5/63

2013-03-05T09:12:00.000-05:00

It's been 50 years since the world lost one of its most iconic singers. Because there will never be another talent like Patsy Cline, let's take a moment to remember her.

Patsy began singing on a radio show in Winchester, Virginia as a teenager to help support her family. She had perfect pitch, and through determination and hard work went on to become one of the most respected and influencial female singers of the 20th century. She was a pioneer, crossing over from the country charts into pop music and leading the way for female artists to headline music concerts ... which was unheard of for women in her day.

Patsy's lively personality, emotionally expressive voice and pivotal role in the music industry will never be forgotten by anyone who listens to her songs.

Photo: Patsy Cline website here

Aside from Cline's remarkable talent, people who knew her always mention what a geniune and likeable person Patsy was. Often described as generous and big hearted, she accomplished so much in just 31 years. Not only did she reach the top of her profession, she was a devoted wife, mother and daughter and much loved by friends and Nashiville's music community.

Why not remember her spirit, as well as, her talent?

To understand what I'm saying, take another moment to click and read The Dash, a poem written in 1996.

R.I.P. the one and only Patsy Cline. In every way, you used your dash well.

Patsy Cline's remastered albums are a must-have for anyone who loves a great voice. Click here and here to listen to two of her signiture songs. Faded Love (a Bob Wills cover) is gorgeous.

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Happy 4th Birthday To THE SAVVY SHOPPER

2013-03-03T00:30:00.000-05:00

Photo courtesy of pinkcakebox.com

THE SAVVY SHOPPER turns 4 years old today. Where does the time go? This site started because I wanted to see what all this blogging business entailed.

My least favorite part of blogging is futzing with photos and the layout.

In the print world, it takes a team. Either you work on the editorial, or the business side. On the editorial side, staffers work as reporters, writers and editors. There are separate art, photo and copy departments within the editorial side. All these separate, but linked departments worry about different aspects of a magazine (or newspaper), with all their roles and efforts coming together to close (i.e. publish) an issue (or edition).

Until I began this blog I didn't worry about pictures, layouts or copy editing. I don't think fussing with layouts and spotting misspelled words are my forte, but I like trying ... and stretching myself, as well as, succeeding.

And, I love how direct and democratic blogging is. I don't have to pitch nothin'. Anybody with a computer and a voice can do it. If you enjoy learning, coming up with story ideas, have the skills to do some digging (research) ... use good judgment ... then have the ability to make it understantable for readers, you can be a blogger. No capital required, but you will have to invest your time. Oh ... and you should enjoy fiddling with words. In fact, that's my favorite part, the writing. On this blog, it starts and ends with the words.

THE SAVVY SHOPPER now gets a few hundred savvy readers a day, and YOU are awesome! Thank you for stopping by. Here's to another year of fun facts and entertainment. Please let me know if there are topics you want to explore. Let's learn stuff. Share your thoughts under comments. Click here for free birthday gifts.

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Oscar Dresses 2013: What Did You Think?

2013-02-25T11:26:00.000-05:00

All photos are courtesy of IN STYLE. Click to enlarge.

1. Jennifer Hudson is wearing a glittering dark blue Roberto Cavalli dress; 2. Kristen Stewart selected a cream Reem Acra gown. It doesn't photograph well, but cute details; 3. Jennifer Aniston's red dress is by Valentino; and 4. Sandra Bullock is wearing Elle Saab.

Some years you see lots of wow at the Academy Awards. Standouts, both good and bad. Not so much this year. What you saw on the red carpet this time was tasteful dressing and pretty packages. Tame, but elegant and smart. Here are a few of my favorite Oscar gowns. What about you?

(Another gorgeous dress was worn by best actress winner, Jennifer Lawrence, to Vanity Fair's Oscar after party. She changed from the earlier Dior Haute Couture one. I like the second dress better and posted it on our facebook page.)

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Cheap Botanical Beauty For Body And Hair

2013-02-20T09:21:00.000-05:00

Lavender Photo courtesy of Flower Picture Gallery

Your skin, measuring 20 square feet, is your largest organ and the first line of defense, keeping all kinds of wicked microbes from entering your system. At the same time, everything you rub on your skin can penetrate it and get absorbed into your blood stream. As winter sets in many of us slather on moisturizers from head to toe to counter the dryness. Some of us wonder: Are the chemicals in the beauty products we use every day harmful?

Although I haven't given up commercial products (I still love my corner drugstore); when all things are equal, such as performance, price and convenience, I prefer products with certified organic, or 99% all natural ingredients. Patricia, writer of the Red Cardinal blog, asked me to feature a few paraben-free products from time to time, and I'm happy to oblige.

If you live in the US, UK or Australia, you can order many certified organic lotions, potions and creams, as well as, vitamins and supplements from Puritan's Pride, an online manufacturer of vitamins. They offer low prices and super sales, but more importantly, they guarantee that their products are of the highest quality. I placed several orders with them at different times ... all positive experiences. Once I had to cancel an order, and customer service was very helpful. And finally, I find their website easy to navigate. (Some aren't.)

Here are a few botanical beauty products I like ordering from Puritan's Pride:

1. Perfectly Pure Argan oil - It has only one ingredient, argan oil. I use it on skin and the ends of my hair right after a shower. 2 oz./various deals - 5 for $55.
2. Organic Health Emollient Lavender Lotion with Antioxidants - This smells lavender-amazing; it's non-greasy and moisturizes skin with essential oils. 12 oz./various deals - 5 for $20.
3. Organic Health Invigorating Tea Tree Oil Shampoo - Tingles your scalp; great for oily, dry, fine, limp and most hair types. 12 oz./2 for 1 and other deals - 5 for $19.98.
4. Organic Health Invigorating Tea Tree Oil Conditioner - Leaves your hair tangle free, shiny and silky smooth. 12 oz./2 for 1 and other deals - 5 for $19.98.

And one from Amazon:

5. Everyday Shea Moisturizing Body Lotion Lavender (also available in vanilla and unscented) - The ingredients include shea butter, lemongrass extract and vitamin C. In winter I mix in olive oil, argan oil and Burt's Bees Diaper Ointment (or Boudreaux's Butt Paste) to make a thick hand cream. By itself, the Everyday Shea lotion is light and completely absorbes into your skin. It is formulated for sensitive skin. 32 oz. for $10.

These five personal care products, made with the finest botanical ingredients, are generously sized, so you can afford to use them every day.

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A Deep Dark Chocolate Cheesecake For Valentine's Day

2013-02-12T00:00:00.000-05:00

In celebration of Valentine's Day ... a deep dark chocolate cheesecake straight from the gourmet food magazine, Bon Appetit. As this blog credits sources whenever possible, the recipe was created by Jeanne Thiel Kelley. My habit is to tweak recipes a little bit, but not this time. (Oh, no, I can't help myself -- I always cut the sugar in cakes by ½ cup.) Here are the easy steps:

Ingredients:

♥Crust

24 chocolate wafer cookies (9 ounces)

1 tablespoon sugar

¼ cup (½ stick) butter, melted

Use a high quality 70% Cocoa Bittersweet Chocolate in the following steps. The magazine recommends Scharffen Berger.

♥Filling

1 9.7-ounce bar 70% Cocoa Bittersweet Chocolate, chopped

4 8-ounce packages cream cheese, room temperature

1 ¼ cups plus 2 tablespoons sugar

¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

4 large eggs

♥Topping

¾ cup whipping cream

70% Cocoa Bittersweet Chocolate, chopped

1 tablespoon sugar

♥Bittersweet chocolate curls

Directions:

♥Crust

Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter 9-inch-diameter springform pan with 3-inch-high sides. Blend cookies in processor until finely ground; blend in sugar. Add melted butter and process until well blended. Press crumbs evenly onto bottom of oiled pan. Bake just until set, about 5 minutes. Cool while preparing filling. Maintain oven temperature.

♥Filling

Stir chopped chocolate in metal bowl set over saucepan of simmering water until melted and smooth. Remove bowl from over water; cool chocolate until lukewarm but still pourable. Blend cream cheese, sugar, and cocoa powder in processor until smooth. Blend in eggs 1 at a time. Mix in lukewarm chocolate. Pour filling over crust; smooth top. Bake until center is just set and just appears dry, about 1 hour. Cool 5 minutes. Run knife around sides of cake to loosen. Chill overnight.

♥Topping

Stir cream, 6 ounces chocolate, and sugar in heavy medium saucepan over low heat until smooth. Cool slightly. Pour over center of cheesecake, spreading to within 1/2 inch of edge and filling any cracks. Chill until topping is set, about 1 hour. DO AHEAD Can be made 3 days ahead. Cover with foil and keep refrigerated. Release pan sides. Transfer cheesecake to platter. Top with chocolate curls. Let stand 2 hours at room temperature before serving.

I say, go out to dinner and have this decadence waiting for you at home. Pair it with good coffee, or a fine tea like those from Teavana. Some restaurants charge more on Valentine's Day and may be crowded, so many couples prefer to eat at home. You can always order in.

Warm, good wishes for glitter and gold and tender loving care. Happy Valentine's Day! ♥

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Snow Boots Fit For A Fashionista

2013-02-10T00:00:00.003-05:00

Patagonia Lugano Waterproof

Trust me, I have looked. The right snow boots are a challenge to find. If you want style, comfort and function, as opposed to, sacraficing one for another ... good luck. And how much must you shell out for lightweight boots that are durable enough to track through ice, snow and slush? One week's salary? Two weeks ... or more?!?

I think Canadian companies have mastered making the perfect snow boots, giving fashionistas a lot of bang for a buck: flair, comfort and toughness. Unwittingly, I bought a great pair of Canadian snow boots a few years ago -- designed by Cougar, a company I hear cut back on their production of boots. So I'd love for Canadians to weigh in with their favorite winter boot picks. Please, if you are Canadian, we need you!

Meanwhile, my quest leads to two brands sold in the U.S.:

Patagonia Lugano Waterproof - A beautiful suede, the upper boot is a soft waterproof pigskin. Inside, they have a 200-gram Polartec lining. They keep your feet warm and dry. They are cute, that is to say, not bulky or chunky, but fashionable like regular boots. They are lightweight and provide arch support, so are comfortable for city dwellers to walk 20-30 blocks on concrete pavement. Another plus, your feet can breathe, so you will not have to change your footwear once you reach indoors. Nonetheless be aware, the boots do not have a zipper and seem impossible to slip on the first few times. You seriously think about returning them. But soon they loosen up, and it gets easier. Once on your feet, you love them. $195/without a sale.

LL Bean Women's Storm Chasers, Side-Zip Boot - These slender, lightweight snow boots keep your feet ultra warm and dry. The upper is a flexible leather, and the boot is insulated with 200-gram recycled PrimaLoft polyester. They provide comfort and support, as well as, the same protection as rubber boots. They are stiffer than the Patagonia boots, so they will last much longer, but are not as soft nor as suitable for long walks on city pavement. These boots are perfect for shoveling snow, walking through ice and slush to get to your car, or several blocks to reach a neighborhood store. If you live in the suburbs and walk to the corner to catch a bus, these offer comfort and excellent protection at an unbeatable price. And you will probably get a decade or more of wear out of them. LL Bean provides exceptional customer service. They will resole boots that wear out. $99

Extra tip: Many snow boots run small because of padding, so consider ordering up from your regular shoe size. This also gives you room to wear insoles and thicker socks.

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