Pixtal Peep

We've got a secret for you: it's totally okay to cheat a little and serve a no-cook starter for guests -- or to bring one to a party. Afraid of it tasting like cardboard or not looking appetizing? Our editors personally did a taste test and picked out great party starters from the frozen section that will wow guests. And we promise we won't give away your secret!

You might also like

Readers Digest: 13 Secret Ingredients For Irresistible Cookies

NPR: Chef's Secret Ingredients

For Taste or Fun, Unusual Stuff Makes it into Their Dishes

Sally Bee's The Secret Ingredient

Basement Style

2012-01-20T11:42:00.000-05:00

This Old House

Read This Before You Finish Your Basement

1 of 28

BHG: Storage Solutions for Finished Basements

1 of 18

The basement is one of the most versatile areas in the house. The secret to a great lower level is having all the amenities plus lots of storage.

You might also like

HGTV: Cozy Netural Basement Makeover

Designer Candice Olson makes room for a rock band, family game night and a wet bar in this earthy, contemporary basement.

Pinboards on Pinterest

Houzz.com

HGTV

Tumbler

Houzz.com

The Way I Am

2012-01-19T10:57:00.002-05:00

Ellen Checks Her Audience's Facebook!

Lana Parrilla's Celebrity Egg Timer

The Chew

The Way I Am

Ingrid Michaelson

Who Says You Have To Stop Playing With Your Hair?

2012-01-17T11:46:00.002-05:00

Allure: 32 Hair Ideas for 2012

Who says you have to stop playing with your hair?

Here are 32 new styles—for every length and texture—to try in 2012

Photo by Fernando Milani

I'm gulity of this one.

Can you guess what it is?

LHJ: Top 10 Hair-Styling Mistakes to Avoid

1 of 11

Reform your bad hair-styling habits and you'll have gorgeous hair every single day of the week

LHJ: Top Derm Advice for Dry Skin Issues

1 of 16

We asked if you had dry skin and you told us: Yes, yes and yes! Luckily, we've got a direct line to top derms who can fix your winter skin problems.

My advice for dry itchy skin:

Let Your Skin Breath!

Delicious Weeknight Rotisserie Chicken Recipes

2012-01-16T14:50:00.001-05:00

My Recipes: Easy Rotisserie Chicken Recipes

1 of 11

Beat the heat with these oven-free chicken recipes that start with store-bought rotisserie chicken.

Barefoot Contessa- Chicken 101

Part 1

You might also like

Barefoot Contessa - Chicken 101 Part 2

PBS Parents: 10 Delicious Ways To Use Rotisserie Chicken

Food Network: Weeknight Rotisserie Chicken Recipes

What's for Dinner?

2012-01-13T11:16:00.000-05:00

Photo: John Autry; Styling: Cindy Barr

My Recipes: Smoky Pan Grilled Pork Chops

Get the flavor of grilled pork chops all year with smoky seasonings such as hot smoked paprika and toasted cumin seeds.

BHG: Hearty Slow Cooker Pork Recipes

1 of 18

These crowd pleases range from juicy, slow-simmered sandwich fillings
to zesty pork roast.

You might also like

Taste of Home: Pork Chops In Orange Sauce
Family Favorite!

Bon Appetit: Braised Short Ribs with Chocolate and Rosemary

Pioneer Woman: Pork Roast with Apples and Onions

Peppercorn Pork Tenderloin-Food Network

Healthy Appetite with Ellie Krieger

Insiders Guide To Decorating

2012-01-12T09:42:00.000-05:00

Rachel Ashwell

Country Living: Insiders Guide To Decorating With White

1 of 9

Three interior designers give advice on how to use white right.

Country Living: Traditional White Decorating Ideas

1 of 7

Physicians Anne Favret and Bill Gallagher rely on a healthy measure of white to loosen up the formal antiques in their Washington, D.C., home

Stripping Down a San Francisco Home

1 of 10

After 10 years of restoration, Rosy Strazzeri-Fridman's Victorian

forgoes bold hues for a revealing white décor.

You might also like

House and Home TV Show: Hip Family Home

How do you transform a neglected, 100-year-old home into a fun and functional family hub? Homeowner Danielle Nicholas shows us how as she tours her renovated home — from living room with custom fireplace to industrial kitchen, and converted principal suite to third floor kids' bedrooms. (It's the same cool space the she and her actor husband Greg Bryk featured on the W Network show Building Bryks.) Learn her tips for where to save and where to splurge, and how to add quirky accents to kids' spaces.

Good Life

2012-01-10T09:30:00.000-05:00

Bad weather always looks worse through a window.

Tom Lehrer

Technology is so much fun but we can drown in our technology.

The fog of information can drive out knowledge.

Daniel J. Boorstin

The atmosphere of libraries, lecture rooms and laboratories

is dangerous to those who shut themselves up in them too long.

It separates us from reality like a fog.

Alexis Carrel

Diplomats are useful only in fair weather.

As soon as it rains they drown in every drop.

Charles de Gaulle

Don't knock the weather;
nine-tenths of the people couldn't start a conversation

if it didn't change once in a while.

Kin Hubbard

Living without faith is like driving in a fog.

OneRepublic - Good Life

A Plateful of Happiness

2012-01-09T10:21:00.003-05:00

My Recipes: Serve Breakfast For Dinner

Mix up your midweek menu by serving sweet-and-savory Saturday morning fare any night of the week.

The Secret to Scrambled Eggs-Cooking Channel

The Best Thing I Ever Ate - Combos

Food Network

A plateful of happiness... Sausage Gravy and Biscuits!

Buttermilk Biscuits with Country Sausage Gravy

Chef Lisa Schroeder from Mother's Bistro & Bar in Portland, OR makes these tangy biscuits with heavy whipping cream and extra butter on top, but we found them to be plenty rich made with half-and-half and a little less butter. Schroeder also likes to toast the biscuits in a frying pan before topping with gravy.

The Dandelion Pub: Fish and Chips Recipe!

My New Go-To Green

2012-01-05T09:26:00.002-05:00

Bon Appetit: Spaghetti With Braised Kale

How did Cooking Life columnist Molly Wizenberg learn to not only stop hating kale, but make it a go-to green? Read the story behind this recipe to find out.

Bon Appetit: Kale and Mushrooms With Creamy Polenta

Chopped pancetta Italian bacon) perfectly complements the robust flavor of kale in this recipe.

Give Me Flour: Kale and Heart of Palm Dip with Caipirinha Cocktails!

This recipe is a spinach and artichoke dip with a twist.

Simple Tips To Keeping A Gratitude Journal

2012-01-04T09:16:00.000-05:00

Gratitude by Sarah Ban Breathnach

Simple Tips To Keeping a Gratitude Journal Video

Cold Weather Charm

2012-01-02T10:09:00.000-05:00

Coastal Living: Winter Wonderland

1 of 12

Canada's Prince Edward Island is known as an idyllic summer getaway, but it's also loaded with cold-weather charm.

A Taste of Honey

2012-01-01T09:35:00.000-05:00

My Recipes: Baked Honey-Raisin Brie

Baked Brie cheese topped with orange liqueur, raisins, and honey is a superfast, yet

elegant appetizer that's perfect for taking to parties.

A Busy Nest: Creamy Yougart Honey Poppy Seed Dressing

I chose to call this a "creamy vinaigrette", because it's not quite a thick dressing, like say ranch dressing, but still has that creamy feel for which poppy seed dressing is known...

Tasty Kitchen: Honey Bear Chicken

My sister shared this recipe with me several years ago. I like that you can prepare your meat the day before you want to grill. It is very simple and inexpensive. It is also gluten-free.

Pretty Good Food: Balsamic Honey Pulled Pork Sliders

This is a crock pot meal. My thoughts on the crock pot are, “why not?" It offers you a great slow cooked meal and you don’t have to babysit it. No lifting the pot every 30 minutes to stir or re-glaze, it’s a “set it and forget it situation.” I should be using it more often.

LuLuLu At Home: Honey Beer Bread

I found this recipe last evening, and I could’t wait and tried it right away. First, it took me only 5 minutes to whip up the batter. Second, the bread is insanely tasty – buttery, honey, malty…..Not any traditional white bread can compare with. TRY THIS!

Jenna Laughs: Grapefruit Honey Yougart Cake

This cake ...is a different texture, slightly chewy like a sponge cake. I drizzled some honey over my slice to add some sweetness.

Something Old, Something New + 2011 A Year In Review

2011-12-30T16:39:00.000-05:00

Something Old...

The Sum Of All Crafts: Bottlecap Downloads

Here's a little something different for this Sunday's Digital Download. These are images that are designed to fit inside of bottlecaps. All you need is a 1" circle punch and you are on your way to making oodles of charms for yourself.

Something New....

Today's Creative Blog: Ten Printable 2012 Calendars!

Just like clockwork, we go into organizing mode right after Christmas. We suddenly need that 2012 calendar. There are so many free printable calendars online now, there’s no excuse not to have one...

+ 2011 Year In Review

Cheers To A New Year!

2011-12-27T08:34:00.001-05:00

Food and Wine: Our Best New Year's Eve's Recipes

Featured Recipes: New Year’s Eve Champagne Pairings, Party Recipes for a Crowd

Party Dips, Party Punches and New Year’s Day Brunch!

BHG: Easy Slow Cooker Appetizers

1 of 22

Hosting a casual get together? Turn to one of these simple appetizers for a fuss-free starter your guests will love, from dips to chicken wings.

Love the Smore's

Flights of Fancy: Inspired Intern! Happy New Year

Clean white and shimmering gold feel that often comes to mind when you think of New Year’s celebrations. The white may signify a fresh start, while the gold shares a striking resemblance with the bubbly!

You Might Like:

Katie Brown's Luxe-for-Less New Year's Eve Party

Money Crashers: 11 Fun New Year's Eve Party Ideas

She Knows: Ring In The New Year With Kids

Whatever way you choose to ring in the New Year,

may it be happy and safe!

My Virtual Black Monday

2011-12-26T11:21:00.002-05:00

Houzz.com: Traditional Kitchen

Plushpalate.blogspot.com

Love this outfit!

Nordstrom.com

Martha Stewart: Chocolate Meringue Pie

Mmmm good

Black Olive and Cream Cheese Dip

1 can black pitted olives drained and chopped

1 bar of soften cream cheese

1 teaspoon of mayo

1/2 cup of chopped pecans

Blend well, and serve with your choice of crackers.

You might also like these recipes

Marinated Black Olives with Feta and Sundried Tomatoes

The Neely's Black Bean Soup

Paula Deen's Spicy Black Eye Peas Recipe

Chicken and Black Bean Tostadas

Simply Recipes: Blackberry Pie

Chocolate Black-out Cake with Ganache Drizzle

When Love Was Born

2011-12-24T08:52:00.012-05:00

May you have the gladness of Christmas which is hope;

The spirit of Christmas which is peace;

The heart of Christmas which is love.

Ada V. Hendricks

Boldly Proclaiming Good Tidings of Great Joy

“And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold,

I bring you good tidings of great joy,

which shall be to all people.”

Luke 2:10

When Love Was Born

He Made A Way In A Manager

Twas Two Nights Before Christmas

2011-12-23T08:27:00.001-05:00

Food and Wine: Reindeer Tracks

Rudolph’s nose won’t the only one shining bright after one of these...

What's for dinner Christmas Eve?

A very warm and tasty soup recipe that's Mmmm good.

Katrina Runs: Lights Are Twinkling, Soup Is Simmering

Am I the only one who goes to Olive Garden just for the soup? And when they ask me if I want more Zuppa Toscana, I have to bite my tongue in tiny pieces so I won’t say “yes, and just bring the pot”?

Last minute baking ideas...

Bonnie Sterns Rugelach Pastry Cookie Recipe

Raspberry jam, pecan and brown sugar-filled pastries ? perfect for holiday entertaining.

You might also like

Donna Hay's Jam Drop Cookie Recipe
(Delicious Cookies that are easy to make)

House and Home: Holiday Cookies and Squares

Martha Stewart's Eggnog Recipe!

Twas The Night Before Christmas

Elegant Recipes

2011-12-21T09:41:00.001-05:00

My Recipes: Hanukkah Celebrations

1 of 11

Observe the Festival of Lights with special menus and recipes that reflect the spirit of the season.

Southern Living: Elegant Holiday Entrees

1 of 20

Center your meal around one of these festive and hearty main dishes.

Our Best Christmas Cake Recipes

1 of 37

Impress your holiday guests with a show-stopping cake that tastes as great as it looks on the dessert table. Here are 37 of our favorite festive cake recipes.

Do You Hear What I Hear?

The Christmas Shoes

2011-12-20T11:04:00.001-05:00

Etsy: Handpainted Santa Claus Sneakers

Ho Ho Ho! Santa is definitely on his way! Santa will visit your little one with a hand painted fun sparkley red hat, curly no-tie laces and with the joy of the season in his heart! Infant/Toddler whole sizes 1 - 10 $23.00

Etsy: Charlie Brown Christmas Shoes

A Charlie Brown Christmas: Snoopy on one side and Charlie on the other. Inside is lined with natural colored fleece to keep toes toasty. Perfect for Christmas. This soft sole shoe has an elastic band that keeps shoes on your little ones feet. $11.00

The Christmas Shoes!

You might also like

Etsy: Handmade Baby Christmas Hat

Winter Hats At REI

Free Vintage Crochet Hat Patterns

DIY: Cleaning Tips

2011-12-19T11:48:00.000-05:00

Yellow Brick Home: DIY Laundry Suds

The last time I purchased laundry soap, I threw a fit in the cleaning aisle and spent the drive home moaning over the high coast of detergent. I always knew I was thrifty, but even that took me by surprise...

DIY: Dryer Sheets!

Take your favorite liquid fabric softener and soak an old hand towel or flour cloth completely with it. Wring it out and let it dry completely, then throw it in with your next load. This mega-fabric softener sheet should be good for at least 40 loads of laundry, stretching out softener use and lessening waste.

Baby Oil as Chrome Polish

Real Simple: Surprise Cleaning Uses

More hidden tricks to get your house sparkling in record time.

What's Your Favorite Yuletide Tradition?

2011-12-18T09:16:00.000-05:00

This week Better Recipes is hosting a Blog Giveaway For A Silver KitchenAid Stand Mixer just in time for Christmas. To enter all you have to do is leave a comment on their blog telling them one of your favorite family traditions during the holiday season. Deadline is midnight tonight!

What's Your Favorite Yuletide Traditions?

Nancy: I think my favorite tradition for the holiday season is at the very start… I pull out all my light-up houses and start setting up the seperate villages throughout the house. I love setting it all up and creating the different stories to each scene. When guests come in they tend to walk around and discover the different villages and seem to almost put themselves into the story as they visually walk through the scenes that I’ve created. I love watching their faces as they discover each display!

Lucy: Our favorite family tradition for Christmas is staying up late on Christmas Eve to open presents just after midnight.

Brenda: Christmas Eve pyjamas! On Christmas Eve, one gift is allowed to be opened, and we all know it’s going to be pyjamas, which we love! Also, when she was little, our daughter would sleep under (beside) the Christmas tree with Daddy

Karen: We go to Christmas Eve Mass at 4:30 then everyone comes over for the evening of food and games.

Kristin: my favorite tradition is Christmas Eve dinner by candlelight with the children. We then read the story of Christ’s birth in the bible. To finish off the night, we drive around town looking at all of the lights and sing Christmas carols together. It is a wonderful and magical night together!

Stephanie: We love to ride around and look at Christmas lights and then come home and watch National Lampoons Christmas Vacation!

Country Living: Stitching Together a Tradition

How a simple tablecloth—embroidered with messages from 30-plus years of dinner guests—became one family's most treasured heirloom. By Lynne Palazzi

Country Living: Vintage Christmas Tablecloths

1 of 13

Vintage linens, with their vivid motifs, recall childhood memories of Yuletide traditions.

William Sonoma: Christmas Carols Tablecloth

Inspired by beloved Christmas carols, our tablecloth lends vibrant cheer to holiday entertaining.

You might also like

Etsy: Christmas Tablecloths For Sale

How To Make Holiday Candy

2011-12-17T09:12:00.000-05:00

My Recipes: How To Make Holiday Candy

1 of 8

Get tips, tricks, and recipes for making homemade candy, from divinity to buckeye balls.

'Tis The Season To Believe

2011-12-16T13:33:00.000-05:00

Anonymous Donors Pay Off Kmart Layaway Accounts

OMAHA, NEBRASKA-- The young father stood in line at the Kmart layaway counter, wearing dirty clothes and worn-out boots. With him were three small children....

Delish: Where Kids East Free Restaurant Deals A-Z

These days families can use all the freebies they can find. Whether it's an extra sundae for the kiddos or an all-out free feast, every little penny counts. Just be sure to contact your local restaurant outpost to be sure that the deals are still in place. Happy (free) eatin'!

Travel Alert: Best Airport Food Across The U.S.

1 of 25

Sluggishly slow ticketing lines, airport security...and a great meal? Food & Wine's ultimate airport dining survival guide features the best places to eat and drink in airports around the country...

'Tis The Season To Believe

Polar Express

Children, sleeping.

Snow is softly falling.

Dreams are calling,

Like bells in the distance.

We were dreamers,

Not so long ago.

But one by one, we

All had to grow up.

When it seems the magic slipped away...

We find it all again on Christmas Day.

Believe in what your heart is saying,

Hear the melody that's playing.

There's no time to waste,

There so much to celebrate.

Believe in what you feel inside,

Give your dreams the wings to fly.

You have everything you need, if you just believe.

Trains move quickly

To their journey's end.

Destinations...

Are where we begin again.

Ships go sailing,

Far across the sea.

Trusting starlight,

To get where they need to be.

When it seems that we have lost our way...

We find ourselves again on Christmas Day.

Believe in what your heart is saying,

Hear the melody that's playing

There's no time to waste,

There so much to celebrate.

Believe in what you feel inside,

And give your dreams the wings to fly.

You have everything you need, if you just Believe.

If you just believe.

If you just believe...just believe...just believe.

Joy To The World

2011-12-15T09:00:00.089-05:00

John Tesh: Joy To The World

Rome: Buon Natale!

Walking In A Winter Wonderland

Shopping in Canada

Johnny Mathis: We Need A Little Christmas

Christmas at the Biltmore Estates

Faith Hill - A Baby Changes Everything

Church Nativity

Big Time Rush: Beautiful Christmas!

Big City Lights At Christmas

Rascal Flatts - I'll Be Home Christmas

Christmas in Branson, Missouri

Examiner: 50 Christmas Trees Around The World

1 of 50

Beautiful Christmas trees all over the world!

SNOWGLOBE

A beautifully composed 3D animation following a year in the life of a Christmas Tree.
Seasons Greetings from all the creative teams at www.smoothe.com

The Dish On Christmas Movies

2011-12-14T10:10:00.000-05:00

My Recipes: The Dish on Christmas Movies

1 of 16

Celebrate the season with this A-list roundup of dishes inspired by our favorite Christmas movies.

ORNAMENTS

By Aaron Erimez

Ornaments is an award-winning 3D computer animated short story about a mischievous Christmas tree decoration with a hunger for some milk and cookies.

The songs, in chronological order, are:

"Habanera" from the opera "Carmen" - George Bizet

"Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy" from "The Nutcracker" - Tchaikovsky

"Can Can" from "Orpheus in the Underworld" - Offenbach

"Barber of Seville" Overture - Rossini

"Trepak" from "The Nutcracker" - Tchaikovsky

Top 2012 Decorating Trends

2011-12-13T07:38:00.000-05:00

WATCH

House and Home: Top 2012 Decorating Trends

Bold graphic patterns, warm brass accents, grey kitchens and unique wall treatments are just a few of today's hottest design looks. In this episode, popular designer and HGTV co-host Tommy Smythe explains how he revived a historic family kitchen and attached lounge with daring tile, strong colours and traditional references. Lynda Reeves reveals on-trend paint colour picks and a few of her personal favourites. Plus, see how coffered ceilings, Egyptian lanterns and modern furniture coexist beautifully in Betsy Aziz's house, thanks to designer Connie Braemer.

What's On Your Christmas List?

2011-12-12T10:46:00.001-05:00

Epicurious: Best Cookbooks of 2011

10 standout titles that will make great holiday gifts.

The Life of Lulu Belle

50+ Christmas Stocking Ideas For Men

I love stockings; they are one of my favorite parts of Christmas. When I was younger, my mom would spend lots of time stuffing our stockings with goodies for me and my brother (actually, she still does stockings for us). They aren’t full of expensive gifts, usually just cheap little games or treats...

You might also like

Good Housekeeping: Best Christmas Gifts For Men (1 of 15)

Country Living: Old Fashion Gifts Kids Will Love

Good HouseKeeping: Classic Toys For Kids

Sur La Table: Gifts for the Cook

Redbook: Gifts for Friends

Grown-Up Christmas List
Amy Grant

It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas

2011-12-09T11:07:00.000-05:00

Curated Style

The City Sage: Christmas Tree Style Bare and Beautiful

Pinterest: The Perfect Palette

We Are Not Martha: Cranberry Mojitos

House and Home: Sarah Richardson's Holiday House

Recipes For Christmas Dinner

2011-12-08T10:04:00.000-05:00

Saveur: Christmas Dinner Recipes

Recipes for roast beef, ham, poultry, and more, each perfect to be the centerpiece

of your holiday table this winter.

You might also like

Saveur: A Feast of Seven Fishes

Cooking Light: How To Cook A Standing Rib Roast

The Chew: Mario's Arista Tosca

ATuscan Style Pork Roast

Step inside a modern country-style home dressed for Christmas!

2011-12-07T14:04:00.002-05:00

Good Housekeeping

Step inside a modern country-style home

that's dressed for Christmas!

C.B.I.D. Home Decor: Colors of Christmas RED

A beautiful holiday requires a little pre-planning. I like to change mine up a little each year ...

You might also like

My Madison Bistro: Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Make these cookies, I implore you. If you try just one new recipe this holiday season (and especially if you love chocolate + peppermint), you’ll regret not making these.

Christmas Buffet Recipes

2011-12-06T12:10:00.001-05:00

Holiday Appetizer Buffet Recipes

1 of 23

Whether you're hosting a holiday open house or going to a holiday potluck, these special recipes are sure to make your gathering a success.

Crowd-Pleasing Holiday Casseroles

1 of 38

Round out your holiday menu with one of these hearty casserole recipes and save leftovers for dinner the next day.

My favorite Christmas Casserole

Food.com: Shrimp and Artichoke Casserole (served over Yellow Rice)

Marcus Samuelsson's Swedish Meatballs

- The Chew

You might also like

Fresh Tart: Swedish Meatballs Party Appetizer

The Galley Gourmet: Shrimp Beignets with Dipping Sauce

Anjas Food 4 Thought: Stuffed Goat Cheese Balls

Recipes Your Sure To Remember

2011-12-05T09:21:00.000-05:00

Recipe.Com: Our Most Popular Cake Mix Cookie Recipes

1 of 7

If you prefer moist, cake-like cookies, we offer recipes that use cake mix to give you a great dessert cookie that your friends and family are sure to remember.

Chia Spice Girl Cookies

Recipe.Com: Make Ahead Holiday Cookie Recipes

Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without a big platter of holiday cookies for dessert. Choose from shortbread, sandwich cookies, or rolled and dropped cookies for a spectacular dessert assortment.

You might also like

Food and Wine: Chocolate Red Wine Cake

Food and Wine: Graham Cracker Pound Cake

Bon Appetit: Peppermint Meringues

Bon Appetit: Cherry Pistachio Nougat

Southern Living
How To Make Chocolate Candy Bark

Finishing Touches: Decorating With Christmas Ornaments

2011-12-04T11:59:00.000-05:00

Country Living: Decorating With Holiday Ornaments

1 of 22

Whether they're placed in a vase or hanging from a tree, glittering ornaments add the perfect finishing touch to your holiday home decor.

BHG: Decorating With Christmas Ornaments

1 of 22

Try these creative ideas for decorating around the house with Christmas ornaments.

You might also like

Simple Craft Project from Crystal @

Little Bit Funky: Reindeer Thumbprint Ornaments

ONE KINGS LANE

How To Decorate for the Holidays (With Ornaments)

I Want A Tacky Sweater For Christmas, Only A Tacky Sweater Will Do

2011-12-02T07:51:00.003-05:00

Marie Claire: 12 Christmas Party Themes You Haven't Thought Of Yet

1 of 13

This holiday season, try one of these festive ideas to set your fete apart.

Appetizers For Your Ugly Christmas Sweater Party

1 of 10

Whip up some tacky, but delicious, appetizer recipes that are as entertaining as your ugly Christmas sweater!

Ugly Christmas Sweaters are Cool?

You might also like

Taste of Home: Christmas Party Themes and Recipes

Celebrations: Christmas Party Game Ideas

Centrinet: Office Christmas Party Games

The Mason Family Christmas Party (A Not So Silent Night) !!!

Warning: You May Feel The Urge To Eat Your Screen!

2011-12-01T08:45:00.001-05:00

My Recipes: 50 Fabulous Holiday Cookies

1 of 50

From brownies to sugar cookies to pecan bars, we've collected 50 of our best holiday cookies. Warning: You may feel the urge to eat your screen!

The Chew: Evette's Christmas Sweets

Evette goes to Dallas to find the most amazing Christmas sweets!

Buche de Noel Recipe

Bûche de Noël is a traditional French Christmas cake shaped and decorated to look like a tree log. It's filled and frosted with silky chocolate buttercream. Crunchy meringue mushrooms are the perfect contrast. Chopped pistachios scattered around resemble moss growing on the (chocolate) log.

Make-Ahead Ooey-Gooey Sticky Buns

Treat your family to an out-of-this world weekend breakfast or brunch featuring

these decadent sticky buns.

You might also like

Krissys Creations: Caramel Pecan Cinnamon Rolls Sticky Buns

Surly Kitchen: Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

Alton Brown: Tres Leche Cake Recipe

Foodgawker: Tres Leche Cake Recipes

This Little Light Of Mine: Outdoor Christmas Lights

2011-11-30T09:59:00.000-05:00

Lowes Creative Ideas: Time To Shine

Spotlight snow-covered settings with these bright outdoor lighting ideas.

BHG: Magical Outdoor Christmas Lights

1 of 25

Light up the outside of your home this Christmas season with ideas that are as simple

as they are magical.

Winter Topiary

Pottery Barn Outdoor Decorations

You might also like

Christmas Decorating Using What You Have

1 of 31

Check out these inventive Christmas decor ideas that won't deplete your pocketbook.

A Collection Of Free Christmas Printables

2011-11-29T09:03:00.000-05:00

Sassy Sites!: Free Christmas Printables

Are you ready for this?!

Sassy Sites! has collected 35 FREE Christmas printables

from all over the blog world to share with you!

Skip To My Lou: Free Holiday Printables

Here are some great printables from around the web.

Adventures of a Betty Crocker Wannabe:
CHRISTMAS SCRIPTURE PRINTABLE
I've seen a lot of these in blogland, but I was really looking for one that spoke to the true meaning of Christmas. I couldn't find it, so I decided to create my own.

You might also like

Magic Moonlight Free Images: Vintage Postcards

Decorate with Tiny Christmas Trees

2011-11-28T10:27:00.000-05:00

Midwest Living: Decorate with Tiny Christmas Trees

1 of 13

Why stop at just one Christmas tree? We show you clever ideas for using miniature versions to create beautiful displays throughout your house

DigsDigs: 41 Beautiful Tabletop Christmas Trees

Tabletop trees are perfect for those who don’t have the room for a full-size tree. They also are cool to add Christmas touches around the house. They could be made homemade or be bought in stores. Many of them aren’t real trees but cool alternative ones

You might also like

BHG: Holiday Ideas for Small Spaces

1 of 27

There's no need to downsize your holiday expectations with a small space to decorate.

Our space-saving ideas bring the merriment of the season into even the tiniest corners.

Candy Trees with Sandra Lee

Prepare Your Taste Buds

2011-11-23T08:16:00.001-05:00

Coastal Living: Terrific Seafood Soups and Stews

1 of 26

Prepare your taste buds: These soothing soups pack a flavorful.

You might also like

William Sonoma: Celebrate Thanksgiving With Our Signature Recipes

Soundtrack for Thanksgiving Morning

Saveur: Thanksgiving In A Meatball

My Recipes: Dress Up Your Stuffing

My Recipes: Our Top Sweet Potato Casseroles

Thanksgiving Song - Mary Chapin Carpenter

Easy Thanksgiving Side Dishes

2011-11-20T08:21:00.001-05:00

Delish: 10 Easy Thanksgiving Side Dishes

To survive the cooking marathon that invariably accompanies Thanksgiving Day, make your side-dish selections based on ease as well as flavor. You can still include the classics, like sweet potatoes and stuffing, plus a few new additions that'll impress and please. With these easy side dish recipes from Martha Stewart, cooking Thanksgiving dinner will seem a lot less intimidating.

You might also like

Roasted Asparagus with Garlic Sauce

Aunt Peggy's Sweet Potato Souffle

New Orleans Corn Pudding

Picky Palate: Gooey Pumpkin Butterscotch Brownies

Cooking With Kids: Maple Pecan Baked Apple

Ina's Special Occassion: Spinach Gratin!

This classic spinach dish is so delicious, even the kids will love it.

This video is part of Barefoot Contessa show hosted by Ina Garten

Ina's Classic Homemade Gravy

Gravy woes? Let Ina Garten help.

This video is part of Barefoot Contessa: Back to Basics show hosted by Ina Garten

Decorating Your Home For The Holidays

2011-11-17T10:04:00.000-05:00

BHG: Pretty Christmas Living Rooms

1 of 30

Add some Christmas cheer to your living room with these decorating tips

change your house from everyday to holiday.

Traditional Home: Decorating Holiday Mantels

1 of 50

Decorating for the holidays is a family tradition, and whether your taste is casual or formal, exuberant or minimalist, the fireplace is the focal point of the room and the spot where you can express your distinctive style. Here's how a few of our homeowners chose to add seasonal flourishes to their décor.

You might also like

Southern Living: Vintage-Inspired Christmas Decorations

Tennessee homeowner Genia Gilchrist shares her tips
for decorating a Southern home for the holidays.

Real Simple: 15 Easy Christmas Craft Projects

Create your own holiday decor with these easy crafts and projects.

Baked Versus No-Baked Christmas Cookies

2011-11-16T10:17:00.000-05:00

BAKED

Almond Icebox Rounds

Cream Cheese gives these almond-studded,

slice-and-bake cookies moistness and richness.

Red Velvet Shortbread Cookies

Melted white chocolate and crushed pistachio nuts

dress up simple shortbread cookies.

Fruitcake Maccaroons

Featuring the delicious flavors of two classic holiday desserts,

this crowd-pleasing cookie makes an ideal gift.

VERSUS

BHG: No-Bake Christmas Cookies

1 of 14

Tight on time? We show you how to make gourmet-quality

Christmas cookies without ever turning on the oven.

You might also like

BHG: Showstopping Christmas Cookies

My Recipes: Readers' Favorite Christmas Cookies

My Recipes: Top 10 Cookie Secrets

Nigella's Christmas Chocolate Cookies

Nigella Lawson Christmas Chocolate Cookies Recipe

NO-BAKED Rum Balls

Joy of Baking.com

Let's Talk Turkey

2011-11-15T11:14:00.001-05:00

Top Turkey Questions Answered

1 of 9

Marge Perry, the voice of culinary wisdom behind our "Ask the Expert" blog, is an award-winning food writer and instructor at the Institute for Culinary Education in New York City. Read on for her expert advice on the most common questions about cooking a turkey, from thawing methods to the correct way to take the turkey's temperature.

photo: Todd Coleman, Saveur

Saveur: Thanksgiving Turkey Recipes

1 of 18

Roasting turkey wings, legs, and breasts over root vegetables, butternut squash, and herbs not only lends the meat a sweet and vegetal flavor but also allows you to treat each piece like a mini roast that can be taken out of the oven as soon as it's cooked to the correct temperature.

My Favorite Bird Recipe

Roast Turkey with Sage Butter and Bacon

You might also like

Tasty Kitchen: Mayonnaise Roasted Turkey

McCormicks: Savory Herb Rub Roasted Turkey

Giada's Delicious Turkey with Herbs and Citrus
from "Everyday Italian" on Food Network

The Day After Recipes

Turkey and Dumplings

Ina Garten's Favorite Turkey Sandwich

Tasty Kitchen: Stromboli Sandwich

Turkey Brie and Apple Grilled Sandwich

Swags Of Greens: Christmas Garlands

2011-11-14T09:14:00.000-05:00

BHG: Decorate Your Staircase

1 of 13

Swags of greens, pretty bows, and a few unique embellishments are all
you need to dress up your staircase and brighten your entryway for Christmas.

Country Living: Christmas Garlands

1 of 21

Creative ways to use garlands to spruce up your home for the holidays.

Holiday Decorations: Colonial Williamsburg

P. Allen Smith

How to Make Christmas Garlands

You might also like

Duncan Crafts: Super Easy Bow Making Video

The Ultimate Comfort Food

2011-11-12T08:27:00.001-05:00

The Plain Chicken: Sausage Cheese Muffins

"The only difference is these muffins have a secret ingredient - Fiesta Nacho Cheese soup. These were a hit at the tailgate. I took the whole batch and only had a few leftover; they reheated well for breakfast the next morning..."

Easy and Delicious!!!!

Mama Loves Food: Baked Potato Soup Slow Cooker Style

"I've been looking for a baked potato soup recipe that didn't involve heavy cream for a while, and boy was I delighted when I found one --for the slow cooker!"

You might also like these recipes

Chicken and Dumpling Bake Casserole

Goat Cheese Quiche With Hash Brown Crust

Butter Buns (Dinner Rolls)

DIY: Sonic Cherry Limeade

Tuscan Beef Ragu
Annabel Langbein Fresh Everyday

Home Is Always On My Mind

2011-11-11T10:13:00.000-05:00

BHG: Effortless Napkins for Thanskgiving

1 of 27

Use these beautiful napkin treatments to celebrate fall and decorate for Thanksgiving.

BHG

Holiday Decor that Lasts from Thanksgiving to Christmas

1 of 25

Transition your holiday decor through the seasons with a few easy changes.

BHG

Classic Christmas Decorating Ideas

1 of 23

Whether your home is traditional, contemporary, or eclectic, these Christmas decorating ideas will inspire a simply perfect holiday style.

Coastal Living: Festive Holiday Rooms

1 of 20

Whether you want your holiday décor to be fun and family-friendly or chic and sophisticated, our collection of rooms has fresh ideas for every style.

Michael Buble` - Home

Company Is Coming

2011-11-10T15:11:00.000-05:00

BHG: Get Your Home Ready For Guests

1 of 15

Does your home easily accommodate family and friends? If the answer is no, here are 15 ways to make your home comfy and cozy for guests.

My Recipes:

Best Slow-Cooker Soups and Stews

1 of 15

Make a meal that feeds a crowd with these satisfying recipes for slow-cooker soups and stews.

My Recipes:

5-Ingredient Thanksgiving Recipes

1 of 19

Holiday meal planning is easy when you plan your menu around these festive 5-ingredient recipes.

Tweak Your Beauty Routine

2011-11-09T10:47:00.000-05:00

Redbook: 5 Face-Washing Tricks for Glowing Skin

If you've been lathering up the same way for years, it's time for a clean slate. Use these tips to learn how. Upgrade your cleanser, tweak your routine, and reveal glowing skin — tonight.

There are many things in life that will catch your eye,

but only a few will catch your heart...Pursue those.

Author Unknown.

Adjust your makeup to the light in which your wear it.

Helena Rubinstein

The Beauty Department.com

The Beauty Dept: The Fishtail Braid

The hardest thing about doing a fishtail braid on yourself is getting it started. In this video, I’m giving you one of my favorite secret tricks…

Thanksgiving Throwdown

2011-11-08T09:56:00.002-05:00

The Bitten Word: Thanksgiving 2011 Recipe Index

What the FOOD MAGAZINES are recommending

and some of our favorite holiday dishes....

You might also like

Pioneer Thanksgiving Throwdown

What happens when you combine a pinch of city,

a dash of country and a scrumptious Thanksgiving Feast?

You get Pioneer Woman.

Meet Ree Drummond, former city slicker turned cowgirl.

Do not be fooled by her sweet face —

Ree makes a mean, hard to beat Thanksgiving feast with all the fixings.

We're sure city slicker Chef Flay has his work cut of or him in this exciting

Thanksgiving Throwdown.

My favorite recipes featured:

Ree's Roasted Thanksgiving Turkey

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranates and Vanilla-Pecan Butter

Picture Perfect Desserts

2011-11-05T09:41:00.001-04:00

Cooking Light: Beautiful Desserts

1 of 13

These picture-perfect desserts will be the star of your holiday table.

Pumpkin Praline Souffle

Vanilla créme anglaise sauce makes a divine topping for this comforting Pumpkin Praline Souffle from BHG.

Lemon Chess Pie

Chess pie? No one seems certain where the name for this simple pie comes from. A simple combination of eggs, sugar, and butter, with the tiniest bit of flour or cornmeal for thickening, chess pies appeared in print as early as the late 19th century...

You might also like

Holiday Pies

Paula Deen Test Kitchen: Perfect Pie Dough

It’s just not Thanksgiving without a piecrust homemade from scratch. That rich, buttery flavor and flakey texture makes for a happy memory that stays with us all year long. Whether it’s Apple, Pecan, or Pumpkin pie, a homemade piecrust is an essential part of the holiday season.

Contemporary Kitchen Features

2011-11-04T08:41:00.003-04:00

Translucent glass blocks are a great way to bring light

into a contemporary space when the outside view

is less than desirable...

BHG: Contemporary Kitchen Ideas

1 of 19

Contemporary kitchens feature sleek, clean design, but they are often
personalized with natural wood tones or high-contrast materials.

Recycled glass mosaic tiles, grid-back stools, and cabinets faced

with alder veneer show this is no cookie-cutter design scheme...

BHG: Warm Contemporary Kitchens

1 of 18

Think you know what a contemporary kitchen looks like? Think again. These days, well-chosen colors, materials, and personal objects take the chill out of modern work spaces.

You might also like

BHG: Kitchen Cabinet Ideas

HGTV Dream Home Kitchen 2011

If you like to see more of this HGTV Vermont Dream Home
Go here or Go Here.