The Bluebird Patch

Moments Of Happiness

2012-02-13T10:30:00.000-08:00

MOMENTS OF HAPPINESS ARE NOT THOSE THAT YOU SEIZE BUT THE ONES THAT SEIZE YOU.

“Happiness are little moments in life that we cherish and hold so dear. Screaming at the top of our lungs as we slide down the mountain, roasting marshmallows over a campfire, sipping hot cocoa with a Snow Angel, and building your own fort to protect you from a furious snowball battle are the kind of memories you'll always cherish. The secret of happiness lies in learning to pause and recognizing these small moments that make life so meaningful."

Liza Cardona

See your lover more clearly this Valentines day

2012-02-12T07:36:00.000-08:00

Shopping for your loved one is not an easy task, especially when you’re trying to find the perfect Valentine’s Day gift. Why not put some extra thought into this Valentine’s Day and get the perfect gift? Zenni Optical provides gorgeous glasses for the Valentine’s Day. Give your lover a new vision in 2012. Cute and useful!

It's no secret we are a huge fan of this company. Zenni Optical is the #1 online eyeglasses store offering high quality prescription eyeglasses from $6.95. We feel prescription eyeglasses are a health necessity for most wearers, and to that end we take considerable pride in offering very high-quality eyeglasses online at truly unheard-of affordable prices.

They way they keep their prices so low is by having no middlemen, no retail overhead, and practically no advertising budge. They do do not pay for or sell expensive, or even inexpensive, brand names, but only their own manufactured brand ZENNI.

The best part about Zenni optical, besides quality and affordability, is the ability to upload your face to Zenni Frame Fit™. This is simple brilliant!!! Just upload your picture and you can virtually try every pair of eyeglasses on their store. I love this feature!!!!!

Check out their latest arrivals. I love how cool an trendy these eyeglasses are. To see the full line please visit Zenni Optical.

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Zenni Optical. All opinions are 100% mine.

Inspirational Photo Manipulations

2012-02-08T16:19:00.000-08:00

These photo manipulations were created by Mary Bailey. She sees herself as a curator (of sorts) of all the wonderful images - past and present - that people share on Flickr. On January 2010 she took her first Photoshop course and discovered what a wonderful creative tool it is. "It was sort of like falling down a rabbit hole. When I went looking for inspiration, I found it here. I discovered how much I enjoyed searching through your photos for just the right image for a digital collage or photomanipulaton".

To see more of her work please visit her at: miles beyond the moon

In Celebration of Black History Month the Center for Puppetry Arts Presents "Ruth and The Green Book" (GIVEAWAY)

2012-02-08T13:17:00.000-08:00

"One day our descendants will think it incredible that we paid so much attention to things like the amount of melanin in our skin or the shape of our eyes or our gender instead of the unique identities of each of us as complex human beings."

Franklin Thomas

"It's no secret that I'm a fan of the Center of Puppetry Arts. Their puppets shows are not only educational but are full of humor, songs, and audience participation."

Liza Cardona

In celebration of Black History Month the Center For Puppetry Arts Presents "Ruth and the Green Book". Chronicling a relatively-unknown chapter in Civil Rights history, Ruth and the Green Book follows an African American family as they travel from Chicago to Alabama in the Jim Crow South of the 1950s. After being turned away from hotels, gas stations and restaurants, 8-year-old Ruth and her parents are introduced to "The Green Book," a travel guide for black motorists conceived as a response to the humiliation and violence experienced by African Americans while traveling.

Using an innovative combination of puppetry and animated projections that are inspired by the book's evocative illustrations, this collaboration between Artistic Director Jon Ludwig and author Calvin Alexander Ramsey celebrates this great guidebook that helped Ruth's family, like many others, find safe routes to welcoming places and people.

As part of the Teen & Adult performance series, Ruth and the Green Book is recommended for ages nine and up. Produced by special arrangement with Lerner Publishing Group.

Ruth and The Green Book runs from Feb 7th to 26th at the downstairs theater.

Showtimes:
•Tues-Thurs: 11am
•Fri: 11am & 7:30pm
•Sat: 3pm & 7:30pm
•Sun: 5pm

"This story touches on a little-known moment in American history with elegance, compassion and humanity." --Kirkus Reviews

This project is supported in part by an award from the Nation

Talkbacks: following every performance
Puppetry Style:
Rod, Projections

Teen & Adult Education Workshop:
Meet the Author of Ruth and the Green Book
Presented by Calvin Alexander Ramsey of Atlanta, GA
Saturday, Feb 11, 2012: 9-10pm
Learn more here!

"Ruth and the Green Book" books are available for sale in the Center's Museum Store!
Cost: $16.95

Awards for the children’s book, Ruth and the Green Book

2011 ALA Notable Children’s Book Award www.ala.org

Jane Addams Children’s Book Award www.janeaddamspeace.org

Gold Medal in the Children’s Picture Books (All Ages) category of the Independent Publisher Book Awards www.independentpublisher.com

Capitol Choices Noteworthy Books for Children (Ages 7-10 category) www.capitolchoices.org

School Library Journal – Starred Review www.schoollibraryjournal.com

For tickets please visit: http://www.puppet.org
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Live Compassionately - Take the Pledge

2012-02-07T09:38:00.000-08:00

“Compassion is the force that allow us to empathise with the suffering of other species and in doing so manifest our own uniqueness. Cultivating compassion is critical for humankind. As human beings if we don't learn to work in harmony, side by side, in respect and understanding, the survival of humanity could be endangered”.

Liza Cardona

The Charter of Compassion is a cooperative effort to restore not only compassionate thinking but, more importantly, compassionate action to the center of religious, moral and political life.

Why a Charter for Compassion?

The Charter for Compassion movement believes the principle of compassion lies at the heart of all religious, ethical and spiritual traditions, calling us always to treat all others as we wish to be treated ourselves. Compassion impels us to work tirelessly to alleviate the suffering of our fellow creatures, to dethrone ourselves from the centre of our world and put another there, and to honour the inviolable sanctity of every single human being, treating everybody, without exception, with absolute justice, equity and respect.

The Charter, crafted by people all over the world and drafted by a multi-faith, multi-national council of thinkers and leaders, seeks to change the conversation so that compassion becomes a key word in public and private discourse, making it clear that any ideology that breeds hatred or contempt ~ be it religious or secular ~ has failed the test of our time. It is not simply a statement of principle; it is above all a summons to creative, practical and sustained action to meet the political, moral, religious, social and cultural problems of our time.

For more information or if you wish to make a lifelong commitment to live with compassion please visit: charterforcompassion.org

Humble Meals: Creamy Chicken Potato and Cauliflower Soup.

2012-01-31T03:44:00.000-08:00

Creamy Soups 101

"Ever since I moved down south I learned to appreciate the power or a warm bowl of soup on a cold winter night. The thing about soups is that even when your fridge has slim pickings with a little love and some creativity you can always make it work".

Liza Cardona

Learning the basics.

The way I approached this "recipe" was by NOT following one.

For creamy soups that are made with starchy vegetables such as potato, I learned the best way to cook it is by roasting (in this case) the potato and the cauliflower.

To create the flavor base for ANY soup you need to sautee some veggies. Onions, garlic, celery or whatever you have available (mushrooms, leeks, carrots, shallots).

For this specific soup I used celery, onions, and garlic.

To build your soup you need liquid. Add your broth of choice (vegetable, chicken, veal, organic, etc), and milk (whole, reduced or in my case fat free). If you don't have milk you can always use heavy cream, plain yogurt, or evaporated milk (just eyeball it until desired taste and consistency).

Puree everything on the blender.

Simmer on low heat, season with salt and pepper and if you want add fresh or dried herbs. You can use rosemary, thyme, cumin, a dash of nutmeg you named it. Your call ;D

When it comes to toppings the sky is the limit. For this soup, which by the way, the photo is a quick snapshot of my plate (with no photo styling whatsoever), I added chicken, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheese.

Other great options for this soup could be green onions, sour cream, roasted corn, avocado, broccoli, tomatoes, or ham.

The thing is there's is no need to feel intimidated by making a soup. What's the worst thing that could happen? You burn it? Do it again. You didn't like it? Adjust the ingredients.

Remember, when it comes to cooking my motto is practice, practice, practice.

So what are you waiting for? Let's get cooking!!

Blast off on a galactic journey and explore the cosmos with "SPACE!" at the Center of Puppetry Arts

2012-01-25T12:43:00.000-08:00

Photo © Center for Puppetry Arts

"There's no better way of storytelling than teaching through the use of fantasy and puppetry. The work done by the Center of Puppetry Arts is critical for our community since storytelling is essential for children's development. The Center of Puppetry arts not only helps disseminate knowledge but helps our children become more intimate with their cultural heritage".

Liza Cardona

This January join the Center for Puppetry Arts for an intergalactic journey of discovery. Space! takes the audience on a fun-filled rock-n-roll exploration of the cosmos.

Written and Directed by Jon Ludwig and music composed by John Cerreta this 2011-2012 family series runs from January 26 through March 11 at the main stage theater.

Show description:

In space, no one can hear you... learn! Blast off on a galactic journey of scientific facts and pure fantasy with your hosts, Ot and Eema! Discover out-of-this-world facts about planets, stars, meteors and more! Feel the gravitational pull with Sir Isaac Newton, gaze at Saturn's rings with Galileo, rock out on the asteroid belt, and cheer on the moon landing of 1969. Ever wonder what kind of gas fuels the sun, or where the planets got their name? Find out in this galactic trip filled with cosmic special effects, non-stop action, and an eclectic musical score fit for a universe as vast and diverse as our own.

Blending rod, shadow and blacklight puppetry with projections, this show offers a unique take on science for families, schools and other groups. Kids can bop along to 15 original songs, gaze with awe at hundreds of NASA images and get silly with a host of unusual characters.

SPACE! Opening Weekend
On Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 28 & 29, the Center invites patrons to take part in our S.T.E.M. activities to learn more about the science, technology, engineering, and math of puppetry. Families can visit different stations throughout our museum exhibits, and after completing all the activities, children can become S.T.E.M. Stars on our Galllactic Bulletin Board!

S.T.E.M. Activities will take place:

Saturday 1/28: 10am – 4pm

Sunday 1/29: 12pm – 5pm

Particpation in these activities are free with the purchase of a SPACE! ticket. Activities are appropriate for children in grades K – 6. Ideal for 3rd and 4th graders.

Puppetry Style:

Rod, Shadow, Blacklight

Show times are as follows:

January 26 to March 4:
· Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
· Saturday: 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
· Sunday: 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.

March 6 to 11:
· Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
· Saturday: 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
· Sunday: 2:00 p.m.

Single show tickets include admission to the Museum Exhibits as well as the Create-A-Puppet Workshop, where kids can make their own Extraterrestrial Hand Puppet. Tickets are available for $9.25 (members) and $16.50 (nonmembers) and can be purchased online at www.puppet.org or by calling the ticket sales office at 404-873-3391.

Goodwill Find of the Week: Creative Tops Mugs

2012-01-24T09:13:00.000-08:00

ONE MAN'S TRASH IS ANOTHER MAN'S TREASURE

"I absolutely adore white dinnerware. I love the look and the feel of it. It makes any home-cooked meal look like it was made at a five star restaurant".

Liza Cardona

While most people believe white dishes are boring I find then extremely appealing. Many chefs prefer white plates because white goes with anything, makes the food “pop” visually and allows for a more diverse meal presentation.

I've been collecting white dinnerware over the years. The most unique pieces have been found interestingly not at major retail stores but at local Goodwill's or thrift stores. I have several vintage pieces that are my favorite that I love displaying around the house.

In an effort to stand by one of my new year's resolution (live simply and never beyond my means) I went to my local Goodwill store in hopes to find a dresser that I could paint for one of my kids rooms. Furniture's re-do has become a new obsession of mine but that is a completely different post ;D

Unfortunately, I couldn't find a dresser I like, however, just before I was about to leave these mugs caught my eye.

They are from Creative Tops , one of the UK's leading suppliers and manufacturers of quality design-led tableware and giftware. Creative Tops is the proud custodian for some of the UK’s foremost heritage brands including the Victoria and Albert Museum and The Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew.

Apparently the mugs are from a previous collection since I can't seem to be able to trace them online.

The are so cute and fit perfectly with my collection of eclectic dinnerware. I can't wait until my next brunch and use these. I think I need to buy a farmhouse to complete the look. Ha!

So what do you think? Did a score or not? Are the mugs a yayy or nayy? Let us know by posting in the comments section below.

Make Your Own Birthday Candles

2012-01-22T06:12:00.000-08:00

COOKIE CUTTERS ARE MORE THAN JUST MAKING HOLIDAY SWEETS

"Some people believe you can't have a birthday without a cake but I think you can't have a birthday if you don't have candles to blow out and make a wish".

Liza Cardona

As it turns out, putting candles on birthday cakes is a tradition that has been around for centuries. It has been traced back to the Ancient Greeks, who often burned candles as offerings to their many gods and goddesses.

In Germany, mainly for religious reasons, people would place a large candle in the center of the cake to symbolize “the light of life”.

Scholars also say that the custom of placing candles originated because people believed that Gods lived in the skies. They thought that lit candle helped to send signals and prayers to the god so that they could be answered more effectively.

Even today people hold a lot of superstitious beliefs about birthday candles. The person celebrating his or her birthday makes a silent wish while blowing out the candles on the cake. It is said if the person is able to blow out all candles in one breath it signifies that the wish would be answered and that the person would enjoy good luck in coming year. However, if the person reveals their birthday wish it will never come true.

I've to say from all the crafts at the Martha Stewart website, this is by far my favorite one, mainly because of it's history and meanings among different cultures. I also love this project because it's so ridiculously simple that even a kid can do it.

I love the idea of baking cake, covering it with chocolate ganache or anything you wish and creating a scene with your own customized birthday candles. Seriously, you will have the cutest cake in town if you are able to pull it off.

The "hubster" birthday is coming up so I better start looking for the perfect cookie cutters to create toppers for his cake. I am thinking planes...

These candles are also great for Valentine's day. Can you imagine? It would look so pretty. Is the little touches that count and make things special.

But first things first. To make these extra special and incredible clever candles you will need:

Honeycomb beeswax sheets
Cookie cutters
Hair dryer
Toothpicks
Cotton Braided Wick

Cutout Letter Candles How-To:

1. For each candle, cut out 4 of the same letter from beeswax sheets, using cookie cutters. If the wax is hard to handle, soften it using hair dryer (on low).

2. Make 2 stacks of 2 letters.

3. Press a toothpick vertically into 1 stack.

4. Vertically press in the end of the candlewick above the toothpick, so the toothpick and the wick meet. Trim wick to 1 inch above the top of the letter. Press second stack of letters down on top, sandwiching toothpick and wick between them; press to join the stacks of letters together.

I see a blue velvet cake with bluebird candles in my future ;D

All photos via http://www.marthastewart.com

Red Bull Soapbox Race is Back!

2012-01-19T08:18:00.000-08:00

RED BULL SOAPBOX RACE RETURNS TO ATLANTA

Applications Now Being Accepted for June 9 Race in Midtown

"Soapbox derbies are close to my heart. As A kid I remember the stories of how my father spent hours building and perfecting one. He eventually won first place and was lucky enough to fly to the United States and represent Puerto Rico in the All American Soap Box Derby.My father eventually became a very successful engineer and although he is not building soap box cars anymore he still enjoys telling the story to his grandkids".

Liza Cardona

Now is the time for Atlantans to have fun and put their noodles to work. Gather your family and start making plans because the Red Bull Soapbox Race, featuring some of the wildest legal street racing around, is set to once again screech into Atlanta for a 2012 pit stop.

While the city is renowned for its traffic gridlock, on Saturday, June 9 the usually clogged streets of Midtown near Piedmont Park will transform into a bona fide drag strip! Approximately 40 teams will compete in this non-motorized racing event, which encourages gear heads and adrenaline junkies alike to break out their toolboxes and build outrageous human-powered vehicles designed to thrill the masses. Although it’s the same location as the 2009 Red Bull Soapbox Race Atlanta, racers beware - you’re in for a whole new set of challenges!

CALLING ALL SPEED DEMONS

Ever wanted to speed past a crowd of thousands as they cheer you on to victory? Well, Red Bull Soapbox Race is calling! Teams can enter their engineering marvels and crazy concepts with a formal application found at www.redbullsoapboxrace.com starting on Wednesday, January 18. Don’t delay – get that concept submitted ASAP, as applications MUST be submitted by Monday, April 16.

Teams will need more than just courage to claim victory on these city streets as they will be judged on three criteria: speed, creativity and showmanship. So, make it fast… and fun! Previous events have proven that the most outlandish crafts are typically the big winners, so put on your creativity caps and let loose. Past podium finishers have included a Philly Cheese Steak, the Mach I from “Speed Racer,” a Giant Troll and the flying Winnebago from “Spaceballs.”

DRIVERS, START YOUR IMAGINARY ENGINES

Each soapbox must be powered by gravity and imagination, which means no stored power or external energy sources allowed. And size does matter! All vehicles must be less than six feet wide and 12 feet in length, no more than seven feet high and cannot weigh more than 176 lbs (not including the driver). Drivers must be at least 18 years old, but engineers and grease monkeys of all ages are welcome to be part of the five person team.

The Atlanta event will be the 12th U.S. Red Bull Soapbox Race to ever take place, with the first stateside race held in St. Louis in 2006. The global event dates back to 2000, when it first took place in Belgium, and has since visited almost 30 countries. Other stateside pit stops planned for 2012 include Red Bull Soapbox Race Texas, which is set to take place in Dallas on September 15.

For more information and to apply, visit www.redbullsoapboxrace.com. A selection of high-resolution event photos from around the world can be downloaded at www.redbull-photofiles.com.

Join the conversation on Twitter: @redbullATL / #RBsoapbox
Want to share the release via social media? You can link to it here: http://tinyurl.com/7x6hmxx

SOPA and The Pursuit Of Happiness

2012-01-18T14:03:00.000-08:00

The First Amendment to the Constitution states:

“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

This amendment guarantees Americans the right to speak, write and publish anything they like without fear of punishment. Censorship existed in the United States from it beginnings. The federal government began censoring the press since 1798.

In the south, around the 1800's, people wanted to silence the abolitionists by not allowing newspapers to publish articles supporting abolition. Even the postal service refused to deliver mail to the abolitionists.

Right now in Washington D.C., Congress is considering two bills that would censor the web and impose burdensome regulations on American businesses.

They’re known as the PROTECT IP Act (PIPA) in the Senate and the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA) in the House. SOPA is an acronym for the Stop Online Piracy Act. It's a proposed bill that aims to crack down on copyright infringement by restricting access to sites that host or facilitate the trading of pirated content.

Here’s what they’d do:

PIPA & SOPA will censor the web. These bills would grant new powers to law enforcement to filter the Internet and block access to tools to get around those filters. We know from experience that these powers are on the wish list of oppressive regimes throughout the world. SOPA and PIPA also eliminate due process. They provide incentives for American companies to shut down, block access to and stop servicing U.S. and foreign websites that copyright and trademark owners allege are illegal without any due process or ability of a wrongfully targeted website to seek restitution.
PIPA & SOPA will risk our industry’s track record of innovation and job creation. These bills would make it easier to sue law-abiding U.S. companies. Law-abiding payment processors and Internet advertising services can be subject to these private rights of action. SOPA and PIPA would also create harmful (and uncertain) technology mandates on U.S. Internet companies, as federal judges second-guess technological measures used by these companies to stop bad actors, and potentially impose inconsistent injunctions on them.
PIPA & SOPA will not stop piracy. These bills wouldn’t get rid of pirate sites. Pirate sites would just change their addresses in order to continue their criminal activities. There are better ways to address piracy than to ask U.S. companies to censor the Internet. The foreign rogue sites are in it for the money, and we believe the best way to shut them down is to cut off their sources of funding. As a result, Google supports alternative approaches like the OPEN Act.

Millions of Americans oppose SOPA and PIPA because these bills would censor the Internet and slow economic growth in the U.S.

The beating heart of SOPA is the ability of intellectual property owners (read: movie studios and record labels) to effectively pull the plug on foreign sites against whom they have a copyright claim. If Warner Bros., for example, says that a site in Italy is torrenting a copy of The Dark Knight, the studio could demand that Google remove that site from its search results, that PayPal no longer accept payments to or from that site, that ad services pull all ads and finances from it, and—most dangerously—that the site's ISP prevent people from even going there. It translates into the elimination of our right to express individual ideas and opinions publicly on blogs, in forums and in online newsletters.

The problem with SOPA & PIPA is that it translates into the deprivation of our right to “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness”

The Senate will begin voting on January 24th. Please let them know how you feel. Sign this petition urging Congress to vote NO on PIPA and SOPA before it is too late.

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http://protestsopa.org/ http://sopastrike.com/ http://americancensorship.org/ https://www.google.com/landing/takeaction/ http://stopthewall.us/ http://voteforthenet.com/ http://www.copyblogger.com/sopa/ https://wwws.whitehouse.gov/petitions/%252F!/petition/veto-sopa-bill-and-any-other-future-bills-threaten-diminish-free-flow-information/g3W1BscR

Camp Sunshine Presents The Wizard of Oz

2012-01-18T11:43:00.000-08:00

"There's no place like Camp Sunshine, There's no place like Camp Sunshine, There's no place like Camp Sunshine"

"Camp Sunshine is an organization that is close to my heart. Mere words can't describe Camp Sunshine, because it's more than a place. It's more than a camp. It's more than a house. It's a program that offers an infusion of love, support, fun, acceptance and hope for children with cancer, and it's in full swing all year long. Help them reach their fundraising goal by donating or supporting their events".

Liza Cardona

Introduce your children to the kind of magic only found in the Land of Oz.

Join Camp Sunshine at the Alliance Theatre on Sunday, February 26, for one of two magical performances of The Wizard of Oz! Performances are at 1:00pm and 3:30pm.

We are so excited to partner with our Presenting Sponsor, The Coca-Cola Company and Atlanta's nationally acclaimed Alliance Theatre to offer an exclusive private charity event for Camp Sunshine.

Proceeds from this exciting family-friendly event will help provide all of our year-round programs for children with cancer and their families.

The classic story of the Wizard of Oz is about finding strength, love and courage, and it speaks so much to Camp Sunshine's mission and vision.

This 70-minute production features iconic songs from the movie score and is filled with characters that are like childhood friends one never tires of visiting. We hope you will join us for this heart-warming musical that reminds us of the importance of love, friendship and home.

Tickets and Sponsorships are now available for individuals and corporations! If you have any questions, please contact Lindsey Monroe at 404-325-7979 or lindsey@mycampsunshine.com

http://mycampsunshine.givezooks.com/events/camp-sunshine-presents-the-wizard-of-oz

https://www.facebook.com/campsunshine

http://www.twitter.com/mycampsunshine

Bring in the New Year with Style

2012-01-17T18:03:00.000-08:00

In a profession like mine where every appointment needs to be at least 45 minute but never greater than 60 you quickly learn to never leave your watch at home. These days watches seem to loosing out to cell phones for time keeping across the younger demographics. But what makes a watch special? Could it be the tech inside of it? The person who gave it to you? The meaning of it as a gift?

For me a watch is the perfect accessory to lift your spirits boost your outfit. My favorite style are the leather strap watches. What can I say, I love classic pieces that I can wear forever and goes well with every of outfit. Jacqueline Kennedy was notoriously know for wearing a black leather strap watch.

The leather strap Seiko watches at BlueDial.com are quite fabulous. One of my favorite is the Seiko SXGN42. This one is basically a carbon copy of the Jackie O watch.

Blue Dial have some of the best top name brand watches at the lowest prices. Plus they have FREE 2 day shipping available so you can get your watch quick and on time for the holidays! They have some of the coolest watches that I have personally seen. Their web site is easy to use and well organized to help you find your perfect watch. When you're ready to order they have several options available for ordering and payment to make everything fast and convenient for you as well.

Blue Dial scores high on customer service. You can read what others have to say about them by visiting http://www.bizrate.com

Check out the watches Blue Dial has to offer. I would love to know which ones are your favorite! Feel free to share your experience or favorite piece of their collection in a comment below!

http://www.bluedial.com/

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Blue Dial. All opinions are 100% mine.

Independent We Stand - Don’t Be A Loser – Buy Local for Valentine’s Day

2012-01-17T07:36:00.000-08:00

"One of my resolutions this year was to live simply, keep it local and buy more made in America products. So when I recently came across with the "Independent We Stand" movement I knew I had to share it with my readers. Supporting local business and not "big box stores' not only benefits our community but is essential if we want to teach and encourage entrepreneurship among the current and future generations".

Liza Cardona

This Valentine’s Day, the average person will spend $116.21 on presents like cards, flowers, lingerie or dinner, for a total of more than $15.7 billion on gifts nationwide.

If each person spent that $116.21 at a locally owned independent business rather than in a national chain, $79 would stay in their community thanks to local payrolls and taxes. More than $10.67 billion would be reinvested in local communities throughout the country. If each person bought their gifts only at national chains instead, that reinvestment number drops to $6.7 billion.

Can you imagine the effect you would have on the local economy if you bought your honey’s Valentine’s Day gifts from locally owned flower shops, card shops, chocolate shops, etc, etc? Don’t be a loser this Valentines – buy local.

To search for local business in your community please visit http://www.independentwestand.org/support-independent-business/search/

All Aboard With The Nautical Look - Honoring a Timeless Fashion Trend

2012-01-13T07:08:00.000-08:00

"From all the timeless fashion trends the “nautical” look has always been my favorite. I really need to restrain myself from not buying too many striped shirts and dresses but this season the trend is hitting the stores hard. The nautical look is such an easy look, classic, timeless, unpretentious, playful, a true reflection of my personality".

Liza Cardona

The nautical look is the new trend for spring 2012. Is everywhere from Old, Navy, Gap, to Michael Kors, Kate Spade, Yves Saint Laurent, and Dior. The nautical look is an easy look to achieve and has proven to be a fashion staple over the years.

From Kate Middleton, Reese Witherspoon to Jacqeline Kennedy, this look seems to be a favorite among celebrities and members of the royal family.

So if you love this look, as much as I do, let's dressed up and rock our stripes. Navy lovers unite. The nautical look is back!! <3

Kate Middleton

Blake Lively

Pippa Middleton

Modern Nautical

Reese Witherspoon

Jacqueline Kennedy

Lauren Santo Domingo wearing chic stripes in Paris.

Audrey Hepburn

Pablo Picasso

Betsey Johnson

If you love this trend you can always follow our "Coastal Living" board on Pinterest for daily pins and lots of inpirations. Need an invite? Use our contact form :D http://pinterest.com/bluebirdpatch/

Support for ‘Bald Barbie’ Goes Viral Thanks to Social Media

2012-01-12T09:14:00.000-08:00

“Gray hair is to be honored; a bald head deserves a bow.” – Proverb

Bald women (and young girls) of the world unite! Let your inner light shine. Be bald and be free.

A new facebook campaign "Beautiful and Bald Barbie! Let's see if we can get it made" was started by Rebecca Sypin and Jane Bingham a few days before Christmas and has already generated more than 35,000 likes.

The movement wants toy maker Mattel Inc. to create a bald Barbie in support for children with cancer or suffering from hair loss. The bald barbie is a great tool to help these kids overcome the trauma of hair loss and develop self-acceptance. The proceeds from this doll would go to a pediatric Cancer research facility.

Several news outlets have reported that Mattel didn't return calls on Wednesday seeking comment, but the women said they have contacted the company through some general form letters. In return, they said, they've received form letters that say Mattel doesn't accept ideas from outside sources.

According to the Amarillo Globe-News, the movement is also asking Mattel to create headscarves and hats for the bald dolls.

A petition has also been started on Change.org lobbying for the manufacture of the hairless dolls. As of Wednesday, Jan. 11, the petition had garnered 817 signatures.

Tracey Kidd, whose daughter is suffering from cancer, told the Sunday Mail that she agreed with the campaign.

"There's so much emphasis, especially on little girls, on their hair and how they (cancer kids) look," Kidd told the paper. "It's important for them to feel good, especially in hospital."

It would be interesting to see how this story ends. If Mattel refuses to make the doll there's always a possibility that another toy maker will do it. The law of “DEMAND” always prevails. If people are willing and able to buy this type of doll is just a matter of time when we will be able to buy one. Who know, maybe we can get Disney on board ;D

If you would like more information on this movement please visit:

Bald Barbie Facebook Campaign

Beautiful and Bald Barbie on Facebook

or email baldbarbie@gmail.com.

Eye Candy: Vintage English Garden Turquoise Inspired Wedding

2012-01-09T11:38:00.000-08:00

Charming, romantic and oh so dreamy! This gorgeous vintage inspired garden was captured in the mountains of Malibu will leave you breathless. Events by Heather Ham and Picotte Photography along with many other incredible vendors (listed below), did an amazing job creating this modern shoot filled with charming details. The beautiful shades of pink and turquoise blue, unique vintage elements, and gorgeous flowers such as peonies and garden roses, came together just perfect. There were also many fun and unexpected areas created by the talented team including a photo booth, drink station, cake table, and entrance table.

We could go on and on! Now it's your turn to devour the sensational eye-candy from this marvelous shoot! Enjoy!

♥

The flowers were just marvelous...whimsical…breathtaking. The arrangements, many of which were in white ceramic pitchers added a little country home feel to the day, a bit more casual, but still classy.

♥

The flowers consisted of peonies, garden roses, hanging amaranthus, moss, berries, and herbs in an eclectic mix of vessels in shades of pinks and blues.

♥

Moss and flowers were peaking out of the top drawer. On top were stacked vintage suitcases and pitchers overflowing with peonies, garden roses, and amaranthus.

♥

To offset the very meticulous grounds and stone laid walkways and walls, vintage pieces were incorporated from a farm table, to mismatching chairs, antique glassware, and some fabulous vintage suitcases.

♥

Fantasy Frostings created a simple, yet truly unique cake with custom made fondant flowers that looked like fabric that had been folded to form whimsical roses. The cake was placed on top of a vintage suitcase and antique aqua sideboard in front of a custom photo booth backdrop.

♥

A custom photo booth was created by Picotte Photo with sewn fabric panels in coordinating patterns and colors to go with the color scheme and the vintage vibe of the whole inspiration. How fun!

♥

♥ Now wouldn’t you agree this was amazingly gorgeous!
Inspiration Shoot . Vintage English Garden from Picotte Weddings on Vimeo.

VENDOR CREDITS:

– Floral Designer: Peony & Plum

– Event Designer: Events by Heather Ham

– Photography, Cinematography, & Photo Booth: Picotte Weddings

– Location: Stone Manor

– Rentals: Archive Vintage Rentals

– Linens: La Tavola

– Cake: Fantasy Frostings

– Invitations & Calligraphy: Calligraphy Katrina

– Dress: Alina Pizzano Couture

– Hair & Makeup: Stacy Bisel Make-up & Hair Design

Zenni Optical Is My New Hero

2012-01-04T17:23:00.000-08:00

When every single member of your family require eye exams every two years you quickly learn where to get the highest quality eye wear at the lowest possible price. My prescription lenses always tend to cost more, because I swear I'm almost blind, and on top of it I have astigmatism and myopia.

I was very excited when Zenni optical contacted The Bluebird Patch for a sponsor post. I have been keeping an eye on this company for a while. They way they keep their prices so low is by having no middlemen, no retail overhead, and practically no advertising budge. They do do not pay for or sell expensive, or even inexpensive, brand names, but only their own manufactured brand ZENNI.

http://www.zennioptical.com/

What I like the most about Zenni optical, besides quality and affordability, is the ability to upload your face to Zenni Frame Fit™. This is simple brilliant!!!

Last time I purchased eye wear I relied on my husband and kids to help me choose a frame that fits my face and I DEEPLY regret it.

When I was finally able to see how they really look I swear I almost had a heart attack. I was mortified, angry, and flabbergasted. I could not believe my eyes. The glasses were HIDEOUS. I swear, I almost started crying. Thank goodness the store had a return policy and I was able to order a new pair.

I absolutely HATE trying on glasses and not been able to see how they look, even if my face is one inch from the mirror. .. Can anyone relate to this? It’s the most annoying and frustrating experience in the world.

Choosing the right eye wear is a huge deal. You need to take in consideration that you will be stuck with them for a verryyy long time. You'll have to wear them at least 18 hrs a day, you need to make sure they look cute with every type of outfit, and they must match the shape, color and style of your face. No pressure...

After reading all the positive reviews I'm convinced Zenni Optical is my best option. They are so affordable that the average customer have at least two pairs.

OMG!! two pairs? Really?? Are you kidding me?

I have NEVER been able to have two pairs of glasses at the same time in my entire life. With my prescription I usually have to pay a 400-500 deductible, so basically, I have to milk those glasses for a very long time. Two or even three years. Not fun...

But not anymore, with Zenni optical I can now have more than one pair, order my prescription sunglasses that I've always wanted and still have some money left to buy a cute outfit or two ;D

I've already favorite some of their frames. Here's my top choices:

#223025

cheap eyeglasses

Even if you don't wear prescription glasses I recommend you check them out. For more information please visit http://www.zennioptical.com/

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Zenni Optical. All opinions are 100% mine.

Nopalea Wellness Drink

2012-01-04T14:13:00.000-08:00

Want to kick off the new year with a healthy start? Is silent inflammation burning you up? Do you suffer from muscle, joint and body, respiratory, arterial, digestive tract or wide spread body cell inflammation? If you said yes, then you should checkout Nopalea.

Nopalea (No-pah lay’uh) is a tasty natural wellness drink that blends antioxidant-rich Nopal cactus (Opuntia Ficus Indica), naturally sweet Agave nectar and an array of beneficial nutrients. These fresh ingredients are carefully harvested from the Sonoran Desert and aseptically bottled to deliver scientifically proven health benefits. Nopalea drives down inflammation created by trauma, toxins, allergy, infection and nutrient deficiency. It contains rare and potent antioxidants that are scientifically proven to help the body reduce inflamation when you take Nopalea daily.

Nopalea can help your body experience an optimal state of wellness by:

Relieving pain
Improving breathing
Reducing swelling in joints and muscles

These changes may in turn help your body feel increasingly energized.

Nopalea contains a rare and potent class of antioxidants called Betalains. Of all the known sources for Betalains, the Nopal cactus fruit supplies some of the highest amounts found in all of nature.

1. Nopalea, full of Betalains, is swallowed.

2. The Betalains in Nopalea permeate the body.

3. A close-up of Betalains, surrounded by cells.

4. The Betalains approach unhealthy cells and drain out the toxic waste.

5. The body then can turn an unhealthy cell into a healthy one.

6. A macrophage (a special immune system cell) seeks any leftover dead cells.

7. The macrophage engulfs the dead cells.

8. Betalains continue to surround cells, protecting against daily assaults.

The Betalains in Nopalea may help protect against toxicity and reduce inflammation that may lead to serious conditions.

Watch how Nopalea helps your body reduce inflammation on this video:

You can always try Nopalea for free (only pay $9.95 for shipping) by calling 1-800-203-7063. For more information please visit Trivita . Trivita, the manufacturer of Nopalea, is a 12 year old company that “helps people pursue physical, emotional and spiritual health”. Over 3 million bottles of Nopalea have been sold.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Children, women who are pregnant or nursing, and all individuals allergic to any foods or ingredients should consult their healthcare provider before using this product. You should not stop taking any medication without first consulting with your healthcare provider. In addition, I have been compensated for this review. Neither I, nor payperpost has any affiliation with Trivita/Nopalea. I have tried to do my little research into what has been written and accepted the facts produced by the company regarding their product in good faith. I believe this information could be useful for some readers of this site.

Before I die I want to______. The story behind the wall.

2011-12-28T17:25:00.000-08:00

Can art save a city? Yes it can!!!

Talk about putting your bucket list out in the open. I recently stumbled across a very unique story about an interactive art project that transforms abandoned houses into a giant chalkboard. Residents are allowed to stop and write down their hopes and dreams and what's important them for everyone to see.

The blackboard, known as the “Before I Die” wall was originally created by Candy Chang, an artist, designer, and urban planner who likes to make cities more comfortable for people. She's a TED Fellow, Urban Innovation Fellow, and co-founder of Civic Center and Neighborland.

By combining street art with urban planning and social activism, she has opened up civic engagement in public space and provided people with easy and innovative ways to have a voice.

"It’s also about turning a neglected space into a constructive one where we can learn the hopes and aspirations of the people around us".

BEFORE I DIE, NEW ORLEANS, FIRST STENCIL. PHOTO BY KRISTINA KASSEM.

The "Before I Die" project has received multiple accolades from several blogs, magazines, and news outlets.

Unfortunately, the house on which the “Before I Die” installation was mounted was recently sold, so the living art project is looking for a new home. Chang wants to find another location in her native New Orleans, but has been amazed that so many people across the country have requested it in their cities too.

If you are interested in starting this project in your community feel free to download the free template here or you can order the full kit.

This project got me thinking. What would you I like to do before you die? What about you? What do you want to do before you die? Share your thoughts on the comments section.

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT IN AND AROUND CALLAWAY GARDENS®

2011-12-26T10:29:00.000-08:00

PINE MOUNTAIN, GA (12/16/11) – Calling all birders! Every Christmas season Callaway Gardens^®participates in The National Audubon Society’s Christmas Bird Count Program.

Volunteer birders are needed to assist with the Callaway Gardens count on Friday, December 30, 2011. Some participants simply watch feeders from the comfort of their home, while others walk and drive through different portions of the count area to census the bird populations.

Last year between December 14 and January 5, Audubon’s official “count period,” over 61 million birds were reported on 2,215 counts. Apart from its attraction as a social, sporting and competitive event, the Christmas Bird Count reveals key scientific information about the Winter distribution of resident and migratory birds across the Western Hemisphere.

Each count has a designated circle measuring 15 miles in diameter. All the birds seen or heard during the 24-hour (midnight to midnight) count day are tallied by birders. The center of the Callaway Gardens Count circle is near the Mountain Creek^® Inn at Callaway Gardens, so the census area encompasses all 13,000 acres of Callaway Gardens, as well as the FDR State Park and a large portion of Harris County.

The National Audubon Society charges each participant a $5 fee to help offset the cost of data processing. Preregistration for the Christmas Bird Count is required by December 23, 2011. To volunteer for this exciting event, call the Preserve at Callaway Gardens at (706) 663-6745or email ccroft@callawaygardens.com .

http://www.callawaygardens.com/index.aspx

Countdown to Christmas: One-Of-A-Kind Christmas Morning Breakfast Recipes For the Foodie In You

2011-12-18T20:14:00.000-08:00

1. Scrambled Eggs with Creme Fraiche and Caviar in Eggshell Cups: Prepare this special egg dish for an elegant and delicious breakfast.

2. Silver-Dollar Pear Pancakes: I love this Martha Stewart recipe. The maple syrup keeps the pears from browning before cooking; it also adds flavor and creates a light glaze. This recipe can easily be halved.

3. Slow Cooker Pecan Bread Pudding:

Who knew that you could make bread pudding in a slow cooker? Cinnamon bread covered with vanilla custard and topped with pecans. Serve with whipped cream. Perfect for breakfast or dessert.

4. Holiday Breakfast Wreath: Sara Kate Gillingham-Ryan of The Kitchn shares her story of making a Christmas breakfast wreath, an ongoing tradition in her family.

5. Æbleskiver: (Danish meaning pple slices (singular: æbleskive)) are traditional Danish pancakes in a distinctive shape of a sphere. Somewhat similar in texture to American pancakes crossed with a popover, æbleskiver are solid like a pancake but light and fluffy like a popover.

6. Lobster Scambled Eggs: This lobster scrambled eggs recipe comes from Chef David Burke, whose whimsical and dramatic take on modern American cuisine drew us to SoHo's David Burke Kitchen, his newest venture. The key to this dish is using the best eggs you can find, free-range and fresh from the coop if possible (scope out the egg scene at your local farmers market). Very ripe summer tomatoes will also work wonders. Do that lobster justice.

7. Polenta French Toast: Fried wedges of polenta get their nuanced sweetness and spice from orange zest, cinnamon, and pure maple syrup.

8. Souffled Frittata with Leeks, Tomatoes, and Goat Cheese: The secret of this frittata is to beat egg whites to stiff peaks. The result is absolutely amazing.

9. Buñuelos de Rodilla (Mexican Christmas Fritters) Buñuelo dough is simple, but the process is labor intensive, even when one replaces hand stretching over a bended knee with a rolling pin. A mixture of flour, lard, and eggs is moistened with anise liqueur-scented sugar water (once upon a time, this water was infused with tomatillo husks, which provided a leavening agent—today many recipes rely on chemical leaveners) then kneaded for up to 15 minutes. After a resting period, the dough is shaped into wafer-thin rounds and allowed to rest once again. This second rest dries out the dough and guarantees a crisp buñuelo.

10. Jamie Oliver Black Forest Affogato: Instead of serving regular coffee why don't you serve an affogato. This coffee comes with cherries, vanilla ice cream and chocolate. This sweet treat will turn you breakfast from ordinary to extraordinary.

11. Four Seasons Lemon-Ricotta Poppy Seed Pancakes:

This delicious recipe for lemon-ricotta poppy seed pancakes is an interesting twist on breakfast and is courtesy of Joan Nathan's "The New American Cooking."

12. Blue Grits Souffle: If you like cheese grits, you’re going to love cheese grits soufflé. The soufflé is both airy and chewy and the blue cheese gives the dish a pleasant, tangy flavor. This is a perfect side dish for the holidays and can be served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

13. Venezuelan Chocolate Pancakes:

Chocolate Maple Syrup Makes For Sweet Brunch Food. This Recipe Indulgent And Naughty. Feel Free To Add Blueberries, Nuts, And Sultanas If The Fancy Takes You. The Syrup Can Be Made Days Or Even Weeks In Advance.

14. Red Grapefruit with Bruleed Meringue:The meringue in this dessert is made with brown sugar, the classic topping for broiled grapefruit.

15. Scrambled Eggs, Avocado, and Smoked Salmon on Toast This open-face sandwich makes a great meal or snack morning, noon, or night.

Weekend Best Bet: Georgia Boy Choir Christmas Concert

2011-12-14T08:41:00.000-08:00

I am very excited to be able to attend the Georgia Boy Choir Christmas Concert this year. I've been a fan ever since I saw them perform at the Fernbank Museum several years ago. I remember vividly how the room turned silent once they began singing. These kids are amazing and they sing like angels. I had such a strong emotional reaction back then that I had to wipe away a tear or two. I swear I never felt more close to God than in that moment. That is how outstandingly good these kids are.

This weekend, the internationally renowned Georgia Boy Choir will kick off the holiday season with the very popular Christmas with the Georgia Boy Choir production on December 16 and 17 in the beautiful sanctuary of Peachtree Road United Methodist Church where they are currently serving as the Ensemble-In-Residence. This fantastic concert will feature not only the seasoned Concert Choir, but all five choirs of the Georgia Boy Choir including the Apprentice Choir comprised of boys ages 4 through 7, along with a full orchestra performing all of your favorite carols and songs to kick off the holiday season. Quickly becoming a city tradition, the evening includes a fun Christmas party for kids courtesy of Elegant Event Sitters, Atlanta’s largest performance of the “Twelve Days of Christmas” with the audience invited to join in the fun and singing, and lots of homemade Christmas treats. Tickets for Christmas with the Georgia Boy Choir are $12, $20, and $40 and can be purchased by visiting http://georgiaboychoir.ticketleap.com.

Halfway through their third year, the Georgia Boy Choir is achieving an unprecedented level of success and recognition. This past summer they traveled to Great Britain where they served as the Choir-In-Residence at Oxford Cathedral. They will cap off this season with an appearance at the Baltimore Boychoir Festival in May and a Scandinavian tour that will take them to Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Latvia, and Estonia.

About the Georgia Boy Choir

The Georgia Boy Choir comprised of 80+ boys from all over the metro Atlanta area, carries on a centuries old tradition of boys singing and developing the unchanged voice. The Choir aims to reach the highest level of musical excellence possible while developing leadership skills, teaching self-discipline and instilling character traits. David R. White, well known throughout the arts community in Atlanta, is the Conductor and Artistic Director of the Georgia Boy Choir. He developed a reputation for musical excellence as the Conductor and Artistic Director of the Atlanta Boy Choir. Prior to coming to Atlanta, he had spent over 10 years at the helm other well-known boy choirs, including the Boy Choir of the Carolinas and Florida’s Singing Sons and during his career has led choral performances in concert halls and cathedrals throughout the United States, as well as Greece, Italy, Czech Republic, Austria, Russia, and the Ukraine. White's mission is not only to make the Georgia Boy Choir among the finest in the world, but also to use music as a vehicle to teach as many boys as possible the important qualities of character, excellence, tradition, and leadership.

I'm Dreaming of a Blue Christmas

2011-12-13T07:30:00.000-08:00

When it comes to Christmas most people like to stay off from using non-traditional colors such as blue, pink, or purple. Besides Santa's suit is red and white? So why mess up with tradition?
The reality is that the original St Nicholas wore a blue suit. The standardization of Santa's image was probably due to Coca-Cola artist Haddon Sundblom who (in 1931) depicted Santa as a portly, jolly grandfatherly figure with a ruddy complexion and white-fur-trimmed red coat & cap — replacing the pipe with a bottle of Coke. Thirty-five years of annual advertising by the Coca-Cola company using Sundblom's Santa solidified the contemporary image of Santa Claus (but without the Coke). It was a fortunate coincidence that the red & white colors matched those used by Coca-Cola.

So if you really want to stick with "tradition" think outside the box and decorate your home this Christmas in white and blue. Besides making your home look unique and super chic telling the story of the "Blue" Santa Claus will surely impress your guests ;D

Photos by Monica Buck ~ SouthernLiving.com

Test Kitchen: Hugh Acheson Field Peas, Ham Hock & Mustard Green Soup

2011-12-11T09:11:00.001-08:00

Chef Hugh Acheson stopped by the Nate Berkus show to promote his latest book “A New Turn in the South: Southern Flavors Reinvented for Your Kitchen,”. He shared with the audience one of the recipes from his new book and it seemed so effortless that I decided to make it at home.

The field pea and ham hock soup is perfect for a cold winter night. Is super easy to do, and best of all is dirt cheap. For the cornbread croutons I kind of cheated and bought a cornbread mix. I added just a hint of honey and cayenne pepper just because I like my cornbread to be a little bit sweet and spicy at the same time.

Chef Hugh Acheson was named “Best New Chef” by Food and Wine Magazine and has received five consecutive James Beard nominations so rest assured this recipe is something not to be missed. Kiddos really like it and hubby ate two bowls, so thank you so much Hugh for sharing this with us.

This field peas and ham hock soup is officially a keeper at the patch. Woot!!

Now all is left to do is to ask Santa to bring me the cookbook ;D

Field Pea, Ham Hock & Mustard Green Soup
Serves 6 with leftovers

Ingredients
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1/2 cup minced sweet onion
1/2 cup diced carrot
1 celery stalk, minced
3 garlic cloves, peeled
1/2 cup dried black-eyed peas
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 smoked ham hock, about 1 pound
2 cups cubed Cornbread (click HERE for recipe)
2 tablespoons bacon fat
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
2 cups chopped mustard greens
1 cup chopped tomato
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon cider vinegar
Extra-virgin olive oil

Directions
Place a 4 to 6 quart soup pot over medium heat and add the butter. When the butter is melted, add the onion, carrot, and celery and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the garlic, black-eyed peas, chicken stock, and ham hock.

Cook until the peas are tender, about 1 hour. Skim to remove the airy white bean matter that floats to the top. White the soup is cooking, cut the cornbread into 1/2 by 1/2-inch cubes. In a large cast-iron skilled over medium heat, toast the cubed cornbread in the bacon fat until crisp. If necessary, cook the croutons in batches, making sure to toast all sides. Cool on a large plate.

Remove the ham hock from the soup pot, cool, and take the meat off the bone. Coarsely chop the meat and return it to the pot. Discard the bone and any connective tissue.
Add the thyme, mustard greens, tomato, and salt to the soup. Cook for 10 more minutes and then portion the bowls for serving. Drizzle each bowl with a couple drops of cider vinegar and a dash of olive oil, garnish with the cornbread croutons, and serve immediately.

Recipe courtesy of Hugh Acheson, "A New Turn in the South: Southern Flavors Reinvented for Your Kitchen,"2011.