Monthly Archives: February 2014

World’s Best Nail Treatment

nails

I’m blessed to have long, strong natural nails. I’ve done them myself since I was a teen, yet many times I’m asked what nail salon I frequent. I’ve found that polish doesn’t matter much. I’ve used everything from OPI to NYC. What does matter is the nail treatment.

My secret weapon is Nailtiques. I hate to call it a miracle product, but truly, it is! Broken nails, peeling nails, weak nails, nails that simply will not grow—this is the product for you. It will even work for those transitioning away from artificial nails.

Nailtiques comes in Formula 1, 2, and 3. I have always used the Formula 2. It’s clear in color and I use it as both a base and top coat. With regular use—give it at least a month—great improvement will be visible.

 

Do you have problem nails?

Sheila G’s Brownie Brittle

brownie2

The wonderful folks at http://browniebrittle.com/ generously sent me some of their products. I wasn’t quite sure what “Brownie Brittle” would look or taste like. It’s basically slivers of super-crunchy brownie that resembles a cookie.

brittle

I’m used to brownies that are moist and chewy, but these are absolutely delicious! They make a good snack by themselves, but as a topping for ice cream, they’d be out of this world!

sundae

Brownie Brittle comes in 4 flavors: Chocolate Chip, Mint Chocolate Chip, Salted Caramel, and Toffee Crunch. I personally sampled the Chocolate Chip.

You can buy them in-store or online. Single bags start at only $3.99. If you’re feeding a crowd, go for the huge party pack.This is something I see myself buying again soon.

 

Have you ever tried Brownie Brittle?

How To Save On Insurance

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Insurance is a necessity we all buy, but not everyone is aware of the huge price variations. It’s well worth your time to shop around for the best rate. Try these price-savers to avoid paying more than needed:

1.  Compare Prices

It’s easy to compare rates online. I’d suggest a minimum of 3 quotes. Start with https://www.geico.com/ and http://www.progressive.com/.

2.  Talk to an Agent

Agents often sell multiple policies and work with more than one company. Sometimes, they can be even cheaper than online quotes. This was certainly the case for me. I got a quote at AAA because they were giving out free water bottles. Their rate was $300 less than what I had been paying! Needless to say, I switched immediately.

3.  Bundle

If you pay for Homeowner’s, Life, Auto, or any combination of policies, bundle them into a package. The more policies you have, the cheaper the overall rate is.

4.  Discounts

Check if you qualify for a Professional, Alumni, or Group discount. Also, there are Safe Driver discounts, Senior discounts, New Parents, etc.

5.  Pay in Full

If you can pay the bill in full or semi-annually, rather than monthly, it will be less.

6.   Protect your property

Install deadbolts, alarms and smoke/carbon monoxide detectors. There was a 5% discount on my policy for using the above.

7.   Increase your Deductible

A jump from a $500 deductible to a $1,000 deductible can result in huge savings—often as much as 25%!

8.   Review your policy annually

Make sure you have the proper level of protection for your family. Accidents happen, natural disasters happen; don’t think it won’t happen to you! Don’t skimp.

 

How do you save on insurance?

Vegetarian Stir Fry

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Don’t be afraid to think outside the box when cooking (ok, bad pun). I created this recipe from a salad mix, because it was all I had on hand and it was dinnertime.

salad

I started with an Asian blend. The mix is cabbage, carrots, and celery—all of which are good raw or cooked. Take out the toppings and set aside. Put the veggies into a sauté pan with 1 Tsp of chopped garlic. Cook for approximately 5 minutes, or until crisp-tender.

veggiepan

Add any other veggies you have on hand—broccoli, peppers, onions, corn, etc. Be creative! I tossed in a little broccoli.

Put the veggie mix into a bowl and wipe the pan clean. Add soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, the salad dressing packet, and 1 Tsp of oil.

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Cook for a minute or two. Return the veggies to the pan and add the toppings last, so they don’t get mushy. This kit comes with sliced almonds and wonton strips.

toppings

Stir fry makes a great vegetarian entrée or side dish. To make this into a more substantial meal, bulk it up with some rice or pasta.

 

Do you like vegetarian meals?