About Liz

Liz is an adventurous midwestern mom gone southern (accent in transition). She lives in North Carolina and loves cooking, baking, traveling, movies, crafts, wine, pizza and the occasional nap. She's also a cat lady in the making. Email her at liz@eatmovemake.com

Pumpkinhead – Horror Movie Drinks for a Killer Time

September 24, 2017 By Liz 23 Comments

This is the perfect time of year to brew up some horror movie drinks, which is exactly why I whipped up this Pumpkinhead drink recipe. It’s perfect for Halloween or any of your Fall and harvest celebrations.

I found the Pumpkinhead recipe in a fabulous creepy new book I was sent for review called Let’s Get Monster Smashed Horror Movie Drinks for a Killer Time by Jon Chaiet & Marc Chaiet. Inside are 55 recipes for gelatin, punches, shots, drinks and non-alcoholic beverages that pay homage to the classic pulp horror movies from the 80’s and 90’s.

Each of the ghastly recipes comes with a suggestion for a specific horror movie you might want to watch as you enjoy your drink. You may find yourself discovering some classic horror films you’ve never seen or haven’t watched in years. There are some great suggestions in the book.

Serve one or several at an upcoming Halloween party, fall get-together, movie viewing or just for some classic horror film throwback fun.

The spices used to make the Pumpkinhead drink are earthy and warm, but the beverage is served over ice, so it’s very refreshing. Although you could add spirits to it (yes, please,) the recipe is non-alcoholic so it works for any age.

If you love ginger beer, you’ll probably love the kick it gives to the Pumpkinhead. I know I do!

The layering comes from whipping up a bubbling froth of foam for the top. Creepy!

All you need to go along with the Pumpkinhead drink is the Pumpkin Head movie!

Pick up a copy of Let’s Get Monster Smashed: Horror Movie Drinks for a Killer Time for more horror movie drink recipes!

Horror Movie Drinks

Pumpkinhead

Servings 2

Ingredients

7 oz ginger beer
1 oz lemon juice
1 oz pureed pumpkin divided
2 oz milk
pumpkin spice

Pumpkin Spice

3 tbsp ground cinnamon
2 tso ground ginger
2 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp ground allspice
1 tsp ground cloves

Instructions

Combine the milk and 3/4 oz of the pureed pumpkin in a bowl. Aerate with a hand blender for 3 minutes, or until it foams up.
Combine the ginger beer, remaining pumpkin puree, and lemon juice in a highball glass with ice and stir.
Top with the foam and dust with the pumpkin spice.

Pumpkin spice

Combine everything in a small bowl and mix thoroughly.

Recipe Notes

Drink it while watching Pumpkin Head!

Tom’s of Maine: Why I Switched to a Natural Deodorant

September 20, 2017 By Liz 56 Comments

This is a partnered post to share the reasons #WhyISwitched to Tom’s of Maine 24-Hour Long Lasting Natural Deodorant a year ago and am still using it!

Deodorant is one of those things I really don’t want to have to think about or worry about. I need to know that when I put it on every morning after a shower, I’m good to go until my next shower. When I’m traveling, my schedule is non-stop from dawn to dusk and sometimes even later, and I need to have a product I can count on and feel good about.

It was about a year ago that I decided I needed to switch from what I was using, and there were several reasons why I chose to switch to Tom’s of Maine natural deodorant in particular.

#WhyISwitched to Tom’s of Maine Natural Deodorant

No Aluminum

The catalyst to change was driven by a huge concern about the possible negative effects of aluminum in personal care products, so I wanted an alternative to the products I had been using. Tom’s of Maine 24-Hour Long Lasting Deodorant contains no aluminum.

Tom’s of Maine is the #1 natural deodorant brand with a number of award-winning products among its deodorant portfolio

It’s #1, and that says a heck of a lot. I know it earned that reputation by having a great product line-up.

There are no secrets

Tom’s of Maine is completely transparent. There are no artificial colors, fragrances or preservatives and if you visit TomsofMaine.com, you can find out exactly what the source and purpose is for each and every ingredient.

It provides 24-hour odor protection

This is non-negotiable. I want to smell fresh the entire time between daily showers even if I’m involved in a strenuous, sweaty activity.

Multiple fragrance options

I get bored with the same scent every day, so I love that Tom’s of Maine has multiple fragrances from which to choose.

When I told my daughter (my healthy living mentor) that I had decided to switch to Tom’s of Maine, she told me she’d been using it for years, and that was the seal on the deal. She’s never failed me with recommendations, so I knew I’d made the right choice.

Now all I have to do is choose the fragrances I want when I restock, and since I’m fickle and am a terrible decision maker, I just buy 5 or 6 at a time in all different scents. Then whatever strikes my fancy in the morning is what I’ll put on. (Tip: Watch for sales and buy in bunches!)

The new Tea Tree fragrance has fast become a favorite, but I also really like the simplicity and classic scent of Natural Powder. On most travel days, I go with Wild Lavender because it’s such a calming, relaxing scent, but when I’m doing more physical activities on a trip like ziplining or paddling, I’ll reach for another favorite – Fresh Apricot.

As long as I reach for one of them, I know I’m covered. Tom’s of Maine natural deodorant is a travel must and I pack one in my checked bag and one in my backpack. No taking chances with essentials!

If you haven’t yet switched to a natural deodorant or you’re considering it, I highly recommend Tom’s of Maine. I’m going on a year and a half since my initial switch, and I’m still a happy consumer!

BBQ Pheasant & Gouda Pizza (Inspired by a Visit to MacFarlane Pheasant Farm in Janesville WI)

September 17, 2017 By Liz 57 Comments

Making a BBQ pheasant and gouda pizza was never on my bucket list, but when the inspiration strikes, you have to go with it. The idea came from a hosted visit to the MacFarlane Pheasant Farm in Janesville, Wisconsin where I learned more than I ever thought there was to know about pheasants, including the fact the tiny little bird is a delicacy.

The farm began in 1929, and it has since grown into the largest pheasant farm on the continent. I visited near season’s end, so only 30% of the birds were still on the farm. Even so, it seemed as if the plucky little birds were everywhere.

The little glasses they wear are called peepers and they serve as blinders to help cut down on aggressiveness and cannibalism. Pheasants might look innocent, but they are meanies. They tend to peck at each other’s tails, and since the tail feathers are a hunter’s trophy, it’s essential to keep those intact.

The white ringnecks (which are used for food because they don’t taste gamey) are especially aggressive, and most of them are in open free roaming barns with dim light to keep them calmer.

The farm is divided into three components: food, eggs/chicks, and adult birds. The young birds stay in barns until they’re about 6 weeks old, and when they’re moved outside the weather has to be perfect for 3-5 days to help them make that transition safely. When they reach 20 or 22 weeks, they’re considered adults.

MacFarlane is also the only farm in North America to raise the highly coveted Hungarian partridge (the variety specifically requested by Michael Keaton). In that breed, females are more aggressive than males, and the super tiny ring-like peepers they wear are called bits.

The majority of mature birds are sent for stocking or to hunting clubs where they’ve been hunted by the likes of Queen Elizabeth! MacFarlane Farms crates and hand-delivers all of its birds to guarantee quality.

People request particular game bird varieties, the most popular being the ringneck, but some are smaller and quicker and some are heartier and can withstand temperature changes.

Another huge percentage of birds are sent offsite to be processed for use in restaurants, gift packs and mail-order. That’s where mine came from for the BBQ pheasant and gouda pizza.

About that pizza… I became fascinated with the idea of trying pheasant, so I finally broke down this month and ordered a smoked pheasant from MacFarlane Pheasant Farms. I decided to recreate their website recipe for BBQ pheasant and gouda pizza.

Voilà.

BBQ Pheasant and Gouda Pizza

Guess what? I was “pheasantly” surprised (that one was for you, Mike) by how much I liked it! It reminded me of chicken or turkey in its appearance and texture, but the taste of the smoked pheasant was very much like ham.

And it all began like this. Looks like smoked chicken, yes? But pheasant is lower in cholesterol and fat and higher in protein than chicken. It’s not oily like duck either. MacFarlane Farms likes to call it the other, other white meat.

To make the pizza, I chopped the pheasant breast into small chunks, then shredded some gouda cheese. Yum!

Then I spooned a spicy BBQ sauce over a pre-made crust and sprinkled on the cheese, pheasant, pepperoncini peppers, red onion and fresh cilantro.

Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5 from 4 votes

BBQ Pheasant & Gouda Pizza - MacFarlane Pheasant Farm

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

BBQ Pheasant & Gouda Pizza
1 12 inch pre-baked pizza crust
1 cup spicy barbeque sauce
2 skinless boneless Pheasant breast halves cooked and cubed*
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
1 cup chopped red onion
2 cup shredded Smokey Gouda Cheese*

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Place pizza crust on a medium baking sheet. Spread the crust with barbeque sauce. Top with Pheasant, cilantro, pepperoncini peppers, onion, and cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
You can substitute Smoked Pheasant for regular pheasant and then switch over to traditional Gouda cheese.

Enjoy!

If you love quirky attractions, take a trip to MacFarlane Pheasants in Janesville, Wisconsin. Another really interesting place I visited there is the Milton House Museum — a hexagonal stagecoach inn. Reach out to Janesville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau for help in planning a trip!

5 Tasty Toast Toppings Everyone Will Love

September 12, 2017 By Liz 51 Comments

Tasty toast toppings on a great piece of bread can be just what you need to encourage reluctant breakfast eaters to have a little something before heading out the door in the morning.

And when I say “great bread,” I really do mean great bread. It matters. Pique their interest with something new – like NEW Pepperidge Farm Swirl Oatmeal Bread and then add these 5 tasty toast toppers for some extra pizzazz.

Tasty Toast Toppings

Pepperidge Farm Swirl Bread comes in two flavors: Apple Cinnamon Swirl Oatmeal and Maple & Brown Sugar Swirl Oatmeal. Don’t they look good?

Baked with whole grains and zero artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners or high fructose corn syrup, it’s a delicious source of fiber you can feel good about.

You can try these toast toppings on whichever flavor you’d like!

1. Pepperidge Farm Swirl Oatmeal Bread – (Maple & Brown Sugar) toast topping — apple cinnamon compote and whipped cream.

2. Pepperidge Farm Swirl Oatmeal Bread (Apple & Cinnamon) toast topping — Fig preserves and bacon.

3. Pepperidge Farm Swirl Oatmeal Bread (Maple & Brown Sugar) toast topping — Strawberry cream cheese and berries.

4. Pepperidge Farm Swirl Oatmeal Bread (Apple & Cinnamon) toast topping — Cookie butter and mini marshmallows.

5. Pepperidge Farm Swirl Oatmeal Bread (Maple & Brown Sugar) toast topping — Strawberry preserves and banana slices.

There’s also nothing wrong with the classic buttered toast as long as the bread is worth toasting, and I assure you that the new Pepperidge Farm Swirl Oatmeal Bread is top notch!

4.88 from 8 votes

Apple Compote Toast Topper

Prep Time 2 minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes

Total Time 12 minutes

Servings 2

Ingredients

2 slices Pepperidge Farm Swirl Oatmeal Bread
1 apple
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp butter
3 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp corn starch

Instructions

Peel and core apple. Slice into chunks.
Add apple, cinnamon, butter and brown sugar to non-stick sauce pan over medium-high heat. Cook 5-10 minutes or until apples are tender. Add cornstarch. Stir in and remove compote from heat.
Spoon over toast. Add whipped cream as desired.

Try Pepperidge Farm Swirl Oatmeal Bread with a special Ibotta offer! Save $1 off one package of Swirl Oatmeal bread.

French Toast Pancakes with Cinnamon Butter and Fresh Berries

September 10, 2017 By Liz 53 Comments

This recipe for french toast pancakes with cinnamon butter and fresh berries was created as part of a sponsored partnership with Krusteaz.

So if you’re anything like me, you love pancakes for breakfast, but you don’t make them all the time because you really want to start most days with a good source of protein.

But, what if you could have both? I’m not talking about pancakes with a side of protein. I’m talking about pancakes that are the protein!

French Toast Pancakes with Cinnamon Butter and Fresh Berries

Krusteaz recently introduced new buttermilk protein pancake mix, and I used it to make these french toast pancakes with cinnamon butter and fresh berries.

The idea came to me because I despise “eggy” flavored french toast and I needed a solution… so when I found out Krusteaz had made a pancake mix with a big ole protein boost, the cogs in my brain started clicking away and I wondered if I could make such a thing as french toast pancakes.

So I replaced the egg dunking with pancake mix dunking, and got to griddling.

Then I added cinnamon butter, fresh fruit and maple syrup, and took a bite.

Nailed it.

You might have to taste it to believe it, so get the recipe here, make up a batch and let me know what you think!

Enjoy!

Why You Need to Visit Florence Alabama and the Muscle Shoals Area

September 8, 2017 By Liz 55 Comments

The roots of American music are deeply entrenched in cities like Memphis, Detroit and New Orleans, but if you’ve seen the Muscle Shoals documentary you know that some of the most famous rock and roll songs and grittiest rhythm and blues came straight out of Muscle Shoals, Alabama. It was this music legacy that drew me to the area initially, but there are lots of things to do in the Florence Alabama and Muscle Shoals area whether you’re there for the musical heritage or not.

Until I visited, I didn’t realize that the Shoals isn’t a nickname for Muscle Shoals but rather a collective name for the quad-cities of Florence, Muscle Shoals, Tuscumbia and Sheffield. The curious spelling of “muscle” in Muscle Shoals probably comes from early immigrants who changed the spelling of the “mussels” that once lined its shores on the Tennessee River.

Exploring Florence Alabama and the Muscle Shoals Area

Muscle Shoals Sound

The recent release of the Muscle Shoals documentary has brought a deluge of visitors to the area, and the studios have developed tours to help tell those stories and let people see firsthand where that unforgettable Muscle Shoals sound began.

Fame Studios (Muscle Shoals) – Take a tour of the legendary studio and birthplace of the Muscle Shoals sound. Some of the greatest songs of all time were recorded here with the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section including artists such as Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett, Etta James, Duane Allman, Otis Redding and Alabama. The studio was founded by Rick Hall, whom many consider the “father of the Muscle Shoals sound.”

Muscle Shoals Sound Studios (3614 Jackson Highway) (Sheffield) – The Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section, aka the “Swampers” left FAME to start up this studio which is now on the National Register of Historic Places. The studio recorded music from artists such as the Rolling Stones, Lynryrd Skynyrd, Paul Simon and Rod Stewart. When Cher recorded her sixth album titled 3614 Jackson Highway, the address became a nickname for the studio. Public tours are offered daily.

Cypress Moon Studios (Sheffield) – Muscle Shoals Sound Studio moved to this location in the late 70’s, and artists like Bob Dylan, Bob Segar, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Jimmy Buffet recorded here. Now renamed, the studio serves primarily as a film and music production company. Tours by appointment.

Alabama Music Hall of Fame (Tuscumbia)- This museum celebrates the state’s native musicians and is home to Alabama’s tour bus, a 12-foot jukebox and the “Golden Country Car,” a 1960 Pontiac convertible encrusted with more than 500 silver dollars, 12 silver guns and Texas Longhorns as a hood emblem. It’s NUTS, but definitely a must-see!

W.C. Handy Birthplace and Museum (Florence) – Visit the cabin where W.C. Handy “the father of the Blues” was born, and visit the museum which houses an amazing collection of memorabilia including the original sheet music of “St. Louis Blues” and the piano on which it was composed.

Listen to live music – Check here for who’s where and when but rest assured there’s always live music in the Shoals.

Famous Places

Ivy Green (Tuscumbia)- Helen Keller’s Birthplace, now on the National Register of Historic Places includes original furnishings, personal mementos and the actual well-pump where she learned to spell “water”.

By Jennifer Lee via Wikimedia Commons

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Rosenbaum House (Florence) – Take a tour of the only Frank Lloyd Wright structure in Alabama. The Usonian designed-home was built in 1939 from cypress, glass, and brick and it’s quite fascinating to see the original furnishings, narrow hallways and minimalistic layout. It’s not a house for hoarders!

Indian Mound Museum (Florence) – Standing at 42 feet high, the Florence Indian Mound is the largest domiciliary mound in the Tennessee Valley area.

Photo: Clint Alley via Flickr

Belle Mont Mansion (Tuscumbia) – This stunning example of Palladian-style architecture has a U-shaped floor plan opening to a courtyard. The architecture is believed to have been influenced by Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello.

Pope’s Tavern (Florence) – Once a stagecoach stop, tavern, inn, Civil War hospital and later a private residence, it’s also believed to have been a stop for Andrew Jackson on his way to the Battle of New Orleans. A collection of period memorabilia is now housed in the museum.

Photo: Visit Florence AL

George H. Carroll Lion Habitat (Florence)- Visit the University of North Alabama mascots Leo III and Una (get it?) in their campus home. They’re so regal!

Outdoor Oasis

Wilson Dam (Muscle Shoals) – The navigation lock is one of the highest single lift-locks in the world and it’s open to visitors Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and federal holidays.

Phillip Hendon via Flickr

McFarland Park (Florence)- On any given day, you’ll see a rainbow of hammocks throughout this tranquil park. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself buying a hammock and a good book and joining them.

River Heritage Park (Florence) – Stroll along the beautifully landscaped Walk of Honor pathway or take the kids to the splash pad. The park is next to the river and adjacent to the Marriott Shoals.

Old Railroad Bridge (Sheffield) – This metal railroad bridge is the oldest railroad bridge in Alabama and once carried trains across the Tennessee River. Now the bridge stops mid-air and serves as a pedestrian walkway and scenic Tennessee River overlook. It’s the perfect sunset spot!

Brent Moore via Flickr

Tom’s Wall (Te-lah-nay’s Wall) (Florence) – This touching memorial is built of rocks, each representing the steps Tom Hendrix’s grandmother took in her attempt to return to the Shoals after being forced to walk the Trail of Tears to Oklahoma. The variation in rock sizes reflect the difficulty of the obstacles she faced on her journey. The largest un-mortared wall in the United States is a must-see.

Photo: Visit Florence AL

Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve (Tuscumbia) – Enjoy a hike through canyons with waterfalls, wildflowers, cascading creeks and interesting rock formations.

Florence Harbor Marina (Florence) – A peaceful place to stroll, boat, fish or have dinner.

Quirky Finds

Coon Dog Cemetery (Cherokee) – This one of a kind burial site for hunting dogs began when Key Underwood laid his faithful coon dog companion Troop to rest in 1937. Don’t even think about burying anything but a coon dog here.

Photo: Terri via Flickr

Forks of Cypress (Florence) – Named for the convergence of Big and Little Cypress Creeks, this once stunning plantation home was the only Greek Revival house in Alabama to feature a two-story colonnade around the entire house, composed of twenty-four Ionic columns. In 1966, the home was struck by lightning and burned to the ground. This is all that remains.

Derek Bruff via Flickr

Rattlesnake Saloon (Tuscumbia) – Live music, food and drink under a rock — who can say no to that?

Photo: Mike Tilley via Wikimedia Commons

Fairy Doors (Florence) – Mysteriously appearing (and sometimes disappearing), these fairy doors can be found around Florence. Turn it into a scavenger hunt! For hints on where to find them, check this FB page.

Eats and Treats

Trowbridge’s Ice Cream (Florence) – You can’t visit Florence without trying Trowbridge’s signature orange pineapple ice cream.

City Hardware (Florence) – Great atmosphere, great music, great food. This downtown Florence restaurant is a winner.

Stanfield’s River Bottom Grille (Florence) – Visit the only restaurant in the Shoals completely surrounded by water, and try the smoked brisket flat if it’s available. People (including me) rave about it!

Odette (Florence) – This slightly upscale but comfortable downtown eatery serves elevated American fare with a Southern twist. The house-ground burgers are excellent!

Swampers (Florence) – Get your fix of live music while you eat, and be sure to try the bacon wrapped jalapenos!

Marriott Shoals 360 Grille (Florence)- Enjoy dinner at this rotating restaurant with an absolutely stunning view of the Tennessee River.

Where to Stay

Not only does the Marriott Shoals have two distinctive restaurants (mentioned above), but the hotel itself is pretty spectacular. Located in Florence, it’s the ideal home base as you venture out and explore the Shoals area.

There is so much to see and do in the Florence, Alabama and Muscle Shoals area, so reach out to VisitFlorenceAL.com for help with planning a trip and check out my other posts on nearby Red Bay and Dismals Canyon for more Alabama travel ideas.

The Fastest, Steepest Most Thrilling Zipline in the US is in North Carolina

September 5, 2017 By Liz 53 Comments

I thought the novelty of ziplining had worn off on me until I went to The Gorge Zipline in Saluda, NC. It’s the fastest and steepest zipline in the United States, and on a recent Hendersonville media tour I experienced exactly how thrilling it was!

The Gorge Zipline traverses the Green River Gorge and drops 1,100 feet in elevation over the course of 11 ziplines, a sky bridge and 3 rappels, and it’s the most exciting zip experience I’ve ever had. Get yourself to North Carolina pronto, folks. It’s worth it!

After a thorough training and practice run, we began our 3 1/2 hour adventure at the first zip line. Fair warning: there’s no easing into the speed at The Gorge and even though I’d been warned that the first run was fast, it nearly took my breath away when I started flying across the cable.

It was absolutely exhilarating!

The first three ziplines feel the fastest, but the longest zips are yet to come… nearly twice as long. If you allow yourself to look around while zipping, you’ll catch stunning views of the mountains and forest as you soar through the canopy.

Because the zipline course is designed for speed, it’s also designed to help you slow down and stop safely, and you don’t need to use your hands for self-braking. Automatic zipstops do the braking for you. If you’ve never experienced zipstops before, they take some getting used to, but they are fabulous!

Unless you weigh 250 pounds, you’ll likely stop a few feet from the platform and need to pull yourself in backwards with a hand-over-hand sloth-like action. The lighter you are, the further from the platform you’ll be, and although it’s not difficult to pull yourself in, you may very well feel it in your upper arm muscles the next day. I sure did!

After zipping a few runs, you’ll cross the swinging bridge. It’s pretty wiggly but you’re safely harnessed the whole time, so don’t worry!

You’ll also be rappelling three times, but if the thought makes you nervous, you need not be. It’s actually more like you’re being lowered to the ground than anything else.

Our group was led by two exceptional guides (Christian and Brett) and they made the experience all the more fun and memorable. They were upbeat, humorous, encouraging and very safety-conscious, and they also shared some fascinating stories about how the zipline was constructed and about the area’s flora and fauna.

If you love adventure, you will love The Gorge Zipline. I promise you!

What you need to know:

No cameras or phones are allowed on the course, but the guides take fantastic photos along the way for you.

Don’t leave anything in your pockets, and leave your car keys in the office. If you drop something, there’s no way to get it back and that’s not a risk worth taking.

Once you’ve finished the aerial course, you’ll take a short hike to the van pick-up spot (water available) where you’ll be transported back to the top. Once there, you can see the photos the guides took, use the restroom, visit the gift shop and be on your way.

The Gorge Zipline is just 20 minutes from Hendersonville, 30 minutes from Asheville, 40 minutes from Greenville, SC and 2 hours from Charlotte. Hours 8am-5pm daily. Address – 166 Honey Bee Drive Saluda, NC 28773

Visit the website for more information and check out VisitHendersonvilleNC.org for ideas on where to stay, eat and play while in the area.

Slimy Slurpie for Halloween

September 4, 2017 By Liz 32 Comments

Try this slimy slurpie for Halloween and watch your guests scream in frightful delight. With fizzing bubbles and gelatinous goo, this eerie October potion is meant to scare you.

Slimy Slurpie

You’re sure to add some festive fun to any Halloween party when you offer a slimy slurpie to your guests. The bewitching colors and gushing bubbles will bring smiles to all ages.

I’ve also included directions on how to make a “spirited” version for the over 21 crowd.

Slimy Slurpie

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 4 hours

Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes

Servings 4

Author Liz Mays

Ingredients

1 3- oz pkg lime-flavored JELL-O
1 3- oz pkg grape-flavored JELL-O
2 cups boiling water
2 cups cold water
Ginger ale or lemon-lime soda

Instructions

Prepare JELL-O as directed on package.
Refrigerate JELL-O 4 hours or until firm. Using a fork, scrape across the Jell-O breaking it into bits. In each of 4 glasses, alternate colored layers of Jell-O leaving about 1/2-inch to 1-inch space on top.
Pour soda over Jell-O layers to rim of glass. Add a straw, and serve immediately.

Recipe Notes

To make with spirits for adults only: When adding cold water to Jell-O, use 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup vodka instead of 1 cup cold water. Refrigerate until firm and follow remaining directions as written.

Happy Halloween!

Extra Tender Pineapple Bacon Habanero Spareribs

September 1, 2017 By Liz 28 Comments

This pineapple bacon habanero spareribs recipe post was sponsored by Smithfield as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.

Although I live in a state where Labor Day doesn’t mean the end of grilling season, I still treat the day like it’s the last big grilling hurrah of the summer. You know what that means?

RIBS!

These pineapple bacon habanero spareribs, to be exact.

Pineapple Bacon Habanero Spareribs

We cook them over charcoal — I’m convinced you simply can’t beat the smoked flavor of charcoal, and don’t try to convince me otherwise. Just don’t. Besides, firing up the grill means that my boyfriend helps me do the cooking for the day because he loves grilling as much as I do.

And we’re both crazy about ribs. The only time we have them is when we make them at home, and these pineapple bacon habanero spareribs are extra tender and hit the spot big time.

But when it comes to ribs, you have to choose carefully, and I highly recommend you try Smithfield® Extra Tender Fresh Pork Ribs for your Labor Day party this year.

They make it easy to look like a chef extraordinaire because they’re enhanced to be as juicy and tender as possible (but have no artificial ingredients,) so everyone is going to be super impressed with your grilling skills.

Smithfield Extra Tender Fresh Pork Ribs are so so good that they’re Pitmaster Preferred — look for the stamp on every package. They’re perfect for a Labor Day gathering!

You’ll find Smithfield Extra Tender Fresh Pork Ribs at Food Lion (save $1.00 with this coupon) in the following varieties:

Smithfield Extra Tender Fresh Pork Back Ribs
Smithfield Extra Tender Fresh Pork Spareribs
Smithfield Extra Tender Fresh Pork St. Louis Style Spareribs

Once you’ve picked up your ribs, fire up the grill, mix up this pineapple bacon habanero rub and rub it all over both sides of the ribs.

Cook them low and slow over indirect heat on the grill, and in a couple of hours, you’ll have a dinner you’ll never forget.

Pineapple Bacon Habanero Spareribs

Servings 2 servings

Author Liz Mays

Ingredients

1 rack Smithfield Extra Tender Fresh Pork St. Louis Style Spareribs
5 strips bacon cooked crisp and cooled
1 habanero pepper w/ seeds
1/2 cup dried pineapple
2 Tbsp brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 tsp grated ginger

Instructions

Cut rack of ribs in half if desired. Score membrane on backside of ribs. Set aside.
Process remaining ingredients in food processor until fine. Rub into meat on both sides.
Cook ribs over indirect heat on charcoal grill for 2 hours or until thoroughly cooked.

Enjoy, and be sure to save $1.00 at Food Lion when you purchase your Smithfield Extra Tender ribs!

How to Ease Separation Anxiety in Pets During the Back-to-School Season

August 31, 2017 By Liz 53 Comments

If you have cats or dogs, you’ve probably noticed some pet separation anxiety from time to time. With the arrival of fall, families are heading back to school and work, and pets may start to feel lonely or experience separation anxiety when home alone.

Pets are very tuned into us, so they sense when schedules are off and they let you know what they think about it. They may sit inside your suitcase or school backpack to prevent you from packing, or they may ignore you or even express their displeasure with you upon your return. One of my best friends’ cats meows at her angrily for about an hour when she gets home.

Whether dramatic or subtle, all pets react to change, so I’ve teamed up with Purina to share several tips on what pet owners can do to help address these pet separation anxiety issues.

Purina aims to drive the health and well-being of pets so they can live bigger, healthier and happier lives together with their families.

How to Ease Pet Separation Anxiety

Just as people need time to adjust when routines change, the same goes for pets. The sudden extended absence of human companions can really confuse pets and take a toll on them. Being proactive and taking steps to help balance the changes can really help your furry friends remain happy and healthy.

Establish a new routine quickly.

Animals are creatures of habit, so help your pets ease into a new normal by quickly creating new patterns and timelines they can count on by leaving and returning at the same time every day. Be sure to allow time for play in your new schedule. When they can count on what to expect, it helps minimize loneliness and anxiety.

Spend quality time.

Pets look forward to our return, so spend some focused time loving on them and playing with them when you get home. It’s a great time to go for a walk or just cuddle! The quality time helps keep pets active, mentally sharp and prevents them from feeling neglected.

Make your departures low-key.

One of my cats is particularly tuned in to me, and she watches me carefully for signs of impending doom (ie. my departure). All I want to do is baby her and love on her before I go, but I know it’s probably best that I don’t make my leaving a big deal.

Gift a toy.

A lonely pet is often a bored pet, and that can sometimes lead to destructive behavior. A new toy or a novel treat dispenser will help entertain your furry little friend when you’re not at home. Chew toys for dogs or scratching posts or window seats for cats can help stave off boredom.

Encourage playtime when you’re home.

Help your pets release their extra energy and stress by providing opportunities for exuberant play, so they won’t have pent-up energy while you’re away.

Consider adopting a friend.

Having another cat or dog around to play with can make your time away pass quicker and help keep your pets happily occupied until your return.

As long as you’re considering the feelings of your pets as you make your schedule changes, you’ll find yourself doing the right things to help them adjust as quickly as they can.

For more information on pet separation anxiety and how you can address it with your cat or dog, check out this piece at www.purina.com/better-with-pets/7-tips-separation-anxiety and be sure to check out Purina’s recent Facebook Live on this topic.

Uterine Fibroids, You Can’t Stop Me!

August 29, 2017 By Liz 51 Comments

Thank you Boston Scientific for sponsoring this post. Learn more about treatment options available at FreedomFromFibroids.com.

Dear U, don’t mess with my travel plans. I don’t want to know you’re around when I’m having the time of my life. Understand?

I’m about to share the story of how I discovered I had uterine fibroids, a pretty personal part of my life, but they impacted my life so tremendously that I feel it’s important to let other women know they’re not alone if they’re experiencing the same symptoms I was. And best of all, fibroids can be treated.

I was losing so much blood every month that I literally could not keep up with it.

I remember knowing something was really wrong when I was on my period while on a media tour in Texas last fall. I was using the most absorbent combination of tampons and pads I could find, but they were no match for the strength of my period. I was a nervous wreck and practically in tears the entire time, and I don’t know how I managed to make it through that trip at all. It was a nightmare.

When I returned home, the blood loss continued and although much more easily managed at home, I knew I couldn’t go on that way, and I made an appointment with my ob-gyn.

During my exam, she barely touched my cervix and it started to bleed again. She suspected uterine fibroids so she did an ultrasound. Funnily enough, nothing showed on the screening, but she still suspected the fibroids were there, so she decided to do an internal ultrasound and BAM. There they were… three uterine fibroids just as cozy as could be.

At the time I didn’t even know exactly what uterine fibroids were, so she explained that they’re non-cancerous growths that form in, on, or outside the uterus. They appear in various sizes and numbers and can grow very slowly or quickly.

Because I had been experiencing such dramatic blood loss, she also tested me for anemia and discovered that I was severely anemic… to the point where she was surprised I could even stand up.

Sheesh, I was a mess! At that point, we had to decide on a treatment, both for the fibroids and for the anemia they’d brought on. Fortunately, there are a number of treatment options for fibroids, so I opted to try estrogen hormones and they worked like a charm. However, I discovered I had high blood pressure shortly afterward, and if you have high blood pressure, estrogen can greatly increase the risk of strokes, so I was back to square one.

At this point, I’m still looking to avoid a hysterectomy, a definitive end to the problem, but it can be both a physical and emotional loss. Nearly 1/3 of hysterectomies find their origins in uterine fibroids, and I’m pretty sure that was the reason my own mom had one.

I’m considering an option without hormone therapy or surgery called Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). It’s less invasive, takes less than an hour and doesn’t require an extended hospital stay, but the treatment still successfully treats fibroids. The UFE procedure blocks blood flow to uterine fibroids, so they can’t receive the oxygen and nutrients they need to grow.

I have no intention of letting uterine fibroids stop me from my greatest passion: travel. I simply can’t be me without it, so learning about all the treatment options is essential, and I encourage you to do the same if you’re dealing with fibroids.

Because we all have better things to do.

Don’t lose your U.

Take charge of the situation by educating yourself, and write down your symptoms before meeting with your doctor. No matter how insignificant those details may seem, they could be related to what’s going on.

Share your story here!

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of CLEVER and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.
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Oatmeal Scotchie Crisp Bars

August 27, 2017 By Liz 56 Comments

For a twist on the standard oatmeal cookie, try these oatmeal scotchie crisp bars! Playing around with cookie mixes is one of my favorite parts about working with Krusteaz, and my latest cookie creation is one of my new favorite treats.

The recipe deliciousness starts with a box of Krusteaz Oatmeal Scotchie Cookie Mix. You’ll bake the cookies as directed on the box, but you’re going to have to resist them when they come out of the oven. You need them for the recipe.

Well, maybe you can have one. But just one!

You have to crumble the rest. I know, I know… it rips a tiny piece of your heart up to do it, but trust me. It’ll all work out in the end.

Combine the cookie crumbles with some melted marshmallow, butter, crisped rice and chocolate covered raisins and folks, you’ve got a cookie sensation you’ll never forget!

If you have any bake sales or cookie swaps coming up, oatmeal scotchie crisp bars make perfect bake sale treats.

Enjoy!

Get the entire list of ingredients and how-to’s on the Krusteaz recipe website!

Garden Fresh Quinoa Salad with Ginger-Curry Dressing (made hands-free faucet style)

August 21, 2017 By Liz 56 Comments

This recipe for garden fresh quinoa salad with apples and ginger curry dressing is part of a sponsored campaign on behalf of GROHE and Millennial Blogs.

This garden fresh quinoa salad with apples and ginger curry dressing combines summer’s fresh from the garden taste with a hint of fall’s earthy and warm flavors.

I grew up having a salad with every single meal and I LOVE salads, but over the years I’ve slacked off on having one everyday. Why? I guess it’s that making a salad feels like such a production to me, and I’ve gotten lazy. BUT… making this salad was a pure delight, and you’ll probably never guess why, so I’ll just tell you.

Garden Fresh Quinoa Salad with Apples and Ginger Curry Dressing

It’s my faucet, y’all – the GROHE K7 from heaven. Ok, I added the from heaven part because it has foot control technology. Do you even understand what that means? I don’t have to touch the faucet handle, holler for someone to come turn the water on for me or wave my hands wildly trying to activate a motion sensor (you know… like in public restrooms).

Get this… I turn the water on and off by just tapping my foot on an activation plate hidden under my kitchen cabinet base. It blows my mind! Pure water enjoyment.

I’m dead from happiness. Dead.

Even my plumber was all ooh-y and aah-y over the GROHE German-based approach to design when he installed it for me. The design innovation and excellence exceed customers’ expectations (like mine) and I feel kinda cool since it’s a semi-professional kitchen faucet.

It makes filling up heavy pots with water so much easier, and I really appreciate that I don’t have to touch the faucet handle, so it inhibits the potential spread of germs. Mostly, I just love that I have both of my hands free for whatever I’m doing.

In this case… rinsing off my fruits, veggies and greens.

Oh, and while you don’t have to touch the faucet, you can touch the faucet. A rocker switch lets you go from regular water flow to spray, and the 360° turntable spring arm can be pivoted to suit your needs.

Can you tell I love it? GROHE changes people’s lives by making life easier, healthier and more beautiful. (And GROHE is changing my life by bringing salads back into my meals on a regular basis.)

Yummy.

Time to eat. Wash your hands at my kitchen sink, and I’ll meet you at the table! (Find out more about the GROHE K7 faucet here.)

Garden Fresh Quinoa Salad with Ginger-Curry Dressing

Course Salad

Author Liz Mays

Ingredients

3 cups baby spinach or romaine
1/2 cup tricolor quinoa
1 cup water
1/2 cucumber washed and sliced in half moons
1/2 carrot peeled, washed and cut into peels
1/2 stalk celery washed and sliced
1/3 cup raisins
1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Dressing

2 red apples washed, peeled and chopped fine
3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 Tbsp lemon juice juice of one lemon
3 Tbsp honey
1/4 tsp crushed garlic
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1 Tbsp minced ginger
4 Tbsp dried cherries chopped
Dash black pepper

Instructions

Cook quinoa in water according to package directions. Rinse in fine-mesh strainer; set aside.
While quinoa is cooking, whisk together salad dressing ingredients. Set aside.
Place spinach leaves in bottom of salad bowl. Add quinoa, cucumbers, carrots, celery, raisins and walnuts.
Serve with salad dressing on the side.

Enjoy!

Yogurt Drinks for Nutrition on the Go

August 20, 2017 By Liz 54 Comments

Yogurt Drinks

I really wish I liked to eat breakfast more than I do. I can sip on something all morning long, but I’m not interested in chewing anything before lunch. It’s not a problem when I’m just sitting home working at my desk all day, but when I’m traveling (which is a lot,) I need protein.

The way I trick myself into “eating” is to have a protein smoothie on the go. There are places that make them to order (and they’re delicious,) but I’m starting to prefer the simplicity, convenience, and affordability of having portable yogurt drinks in the fridge at home. I can just grab one on my way out the door!

I used to buy individual bottles of Dannon® Light & Fit®, but I just found both the Dannon® Light & Fit® and Dannon® Oikos® Nonfat Yogurt Drinks in 4-packs in Walmart’s drink section, and with the $1.00 Ibotta savings, it’s a great deal and I have enough for a week at a time.

Not only are yogurt drinks delicious, but I love that they’re a portable source of protein (9 grams in Light & Fit, 10 grams in Oikos) with no fat.

With 4-packs, there’s enough to share with the family but fair warning: if you leave town, there’s no telling what could happen. I had seven in the fridge when I left for a trip earlier this week, and when I got home today, they were all gone.

Guess I need to stock up again and since I can use the $1.00 Ibotta savings, it fits into my budget easily. But maybe this time I’ll hide one or two in the back of the fridge drawer.

I love how they taste! They’re like a creamy milk shake, and they’re satisfying without making me feel full. They’re the perfect snack for after school, after a workout or to get through that afternoon energy slump, and you can’t beat how portable they are.

If you love smoothies, you’ll love these yogurt drinks, and you’ll be getting a nice protein boost in an on the go snack! Look for them in Walmart’s drink section, and be sure to take advantage of the $1.00 Ibotta savings offer!

Wine and Music Pairings Awaken All Five Senses

August 16, 2017 By Liz 41 Comments

This post about wine and music pairings was sponsored by Cambria Winery as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.

Whenever I drink wine (often) and whenever I visit a winery (also often,) I enjoy the music playing in the background. There’s something about music that enhances the wine tasting, the conversation, and the experience as a whole. It just goes together, don’t you think? For the record, music goes well with a cold beer too, but a different musical genre, for sure.

Cambria Wines is onto something extraordinary (besides their delicious Santa Maria Valley-grown wine) with their innovative Notes of Cambria wine and music pairings. They created a 4-part video series (each video is about 2 minutes in length) and it shows how pairing wine and music elevates the wine tasting experience in a brand new way.

Cambria Wines challenged the ultra-talented musician Kalei Yamanoha to create musical pieces that evoke the very essence of two of their estate grown and bottled flagship wines: Cambria’s Benchbreak Chardonnay and Cambria’s Benchbreak Pinot Noir. If you watch the videos, I think you’ll see how brilliantly the music captures the flavor profiles, from opening sip to fluid finish.

Take a moment to enjoy the music. The first two video shorts show how they came up with the idea and music, and in the last two video shorts you’ll hear “Chardonnay Shanty” and “Pinot Noir Waltz”. (Pretty sure you’ll need this Cambria Wines Store Locator afterward.)

When I listened to “Chardonnay Shanty”, it made me feel light, energetic and happy — just what I would imagine in a crisp, white wine. I imagined my little family playing board games while sipped our Cambria’s Benchbreak Chardonnay on the back deck of an ocean front cottage.

When I listened to “Pinot Noir Waltz”, I envisioned it being part of our upcoming fall decorating and baking party. The music seemed to echo how the wonderful fruity notes of Cambria’s Benchbreak Pinot Noir cling to the palate as they develop their full flavor.

If you’ve never thought about wine and music pairings before, I hope you’ll take the opportunity to listen to the Notes of Cambria series while enjoying this high quality, immensely flavorful wine from California’s Santa Maria Valley wine region.

The musical pairings are a wonderful way to experience, learn, talk about and explore wine, so use this store locator to find Cambria’s Benchbreak Chardonnay and Cambria’s Benchbreak Pinot Noir and invite your family and friends over for a true five senses experience.

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