How to decorate festively in a condo

(NC) Living in a condominium, townhome, or apartment shouldn't mean that you have to forgo festive holiday decorating. Some of this year's hottest décor trends come in very small packages - and with a little guidance you can create your very own Christmas in Condoland. Karen Sortino, a home organization specialist at Lowe's Home Improvement encourages condo dwellers to repurpose as much of their existing home décor as possible. This includes making use of your current colour scheme to achieve a festive impact.

"Holiday décor is no longer limited to the traditional green and red, many decorations are available in a range of colours that will match or compliment your existing colour pallet, including neutrals, metallics, and bolder tones." Sortino also has the following tips from decorating small spaces:

• Brighten hanging pictures by swapping the current image with ones that capture a special holiday moment.

• Attach evergreen to the top of the frame as an accent.

• Replace existing accent pillows, throw blankets, bathroom, kitchen and dining linens with ones that are holiday themed.

• Break out festive dishware and keep it on display throughout the season.

• Hang wreaths and garlands on walls, window wells and frames.

• Monogrammed hooks can be installed temporarily to hang stockings or wreaths to your walls and mantles, and crystals or ornaments can be dangled from ceilings using ribbon or clear fishing wire.

Many people also insist that a Christmas tree is essential to fostering holiday spirit and to suit varying needs, there are many options available such as miniature trees (natural or artificial), table top trees, or half trees that sit flush against your wall. There are even peel and stick Christmas tree wall decals.

For those who have space to spare, Sortino points out that Lowe's offers a beautiful 7 foot pre-lit Aspen fir pencil tree from GE that measures only 35 inch diameter. If you have a balcony or solarium, consider putting a tree outside and using outdoor lights. This will free up some living space and will look beautiful when dusted with a light coating of snow.

More holiday decorating ideas can be found at www.lowes.ca/holiday.

Finding your path to a secure financial future

Trying to find a secure savings path through market swings is similar to being on a safari. Imagine that you've just embarked on the adventure of a lifetime: a safari in Kenya. Now, imagine again if you had to choose between two ways of enjoying this adventure:



• Walking along a bush path in single file with an armed guide at either end, ready to protect you against any wild creature that might pounce from behind the high grasses. Of course your guides are well-trained, but there's always the chance that they might miss the shot.

• Up high off the ground in a large caravan truck with an open roof, safe and sound from any of the dangerous animals. Now you can enjoy the ride, secure in the knowledge that you'll be back to camp in one piece with a camera full of memories.

The second option is best, don't you think? And shouldn't your savings plan be just as secure? The simple answer according to Djamal Saleh, regional vice-president of Individual Savings Product sales with Desjardins Financial Security, is yes. While he admits that market fluctuations can make it hard to stay the course, it is possible to achieve the future of your dreams."These ups and downs can be compared to the peaks and valleys of a mountain range," says Saleh. "At least that's what market yields look like nowadays when you plot them on a graph. We all want to reach the top of the mountain and have different ways of getting there. Some of us like to tackle the steep slope without a harness or ropes. It'll be an exciting climb for sure, but the fall could be pretty brutal. This is why more cautious climbers will set solid anchors at regular intervals as they make their way to the top. So if they lose their footing, their fall will only be as far as the last anchor. They've built in peace of mind and security."

This analogy is particularly true for those looking to securely grow their retirement nest-egg. One solution that promises predictable returns is a term investment sold by insurance companies. Its key features are:

• Guaranteed minimum return or principal guaranteed at maturity

• Risk-free exposure to securities of well-established companies from the healthcare, financials and consumer staples sectors

• Higher return potential than fixed-interest term investments

• No portfolio management and no management fees

• Principal is 100% guaranteed at death

• Eligible for RRSPs, LIRAs, RRIFs, TFSAs and non-registered savings

For more information about this market-linked investment, speak with your financial advisor. Or for immediate answers, visit the Insurance and Savings section of the Desjardins Financial Security website at www.desjardinslifeinsurance.com.

Impromptu party planning: How to create great gatherings in 30 minutes or less

(BPT) - Parents have never been more crunched for time. Balancing work demands with parental duties is complex - 56 percent of working moms and 50 percent of working dads say they find it very or somewhat difficult to balance these responsibilities, according to a recent report about modern parenthood from the Pew Research Center. But just because you're time strapped doesn't mean you need to stress when it comes time to host after-school activities or weekend gatherings with friends and family. With a few key strategies, even impromptu parties are a snap to pull together.



Did your teen just call to tell you he's having the baseball team over for an Xbox live tournament tonight? Has a pop-up neighborhood party suddenly happened at your house? Did you forget about the Girl Scout meeting after school today? Whatever the reason, embrace spontaneous gatherings and go from zero to party in 30 minutes or less with these ideas:



Astounding activities



Great parties make everyone feel included, no matter how young or old. For spur-of-the-moment parties, gather your favorite board games and a few decks of cards to spread around on various tables. For outdoor gatherings, nothing beats classic lawn games like Frisbee, bocce, ladder ball or horseshoes. Groups are sure to gather to indulge in the fun, and lively conversation will inevitably follow.



To appeal to younger kids, create a makeshift theater stage with a blanket or shower curtain, and pile up costumes, hats and props. Even wallflowers are sure to bloom during this fun activity that inspires make-believe.



For teenagers, video games are ideal - just make sure your system, game options and high-speed Internet are ready for intensive group play and there are plenty of snacks on hand. Add some comfy pillows and throws so everyone can spread out and enjoy the friendly competition. Ask friends and neighbors to bring over their games too for even more variety.



Fantastic food



Time-crunched parents don't have to worry about fancy food when parties suddenly pop up; guests don't expect an elaborate meal. Take a no-nonsense approach by serving flavors everyone will love. Frozen appetizers you can pop in the oven and serve beside fresh seasonal items are ideal.



Bite-size foods are best for easy snacking. Bake some Farm Rich Mozzarella Sticks, which are made with 100 percent real mozzarella and lightly seasoned. Kids and adults alike will devour these snacks with a crispy coating and warm cheesy center. Add some zesty Farm Rich Jalapeno Peppers and everyone's taste buds will be dancing. These snacks, available at Walmart and other grocery stores, pair well with fresh seasonal fare, so set out fresh grapes or strawberries, juicy sliced melon or chopped veggies with dip - whatever you have on hand or can get quickly at the local market - and you'll have a spread that will disappear almost instantly.



Set the scene



There's no need to deep clean, but spending a few minutes to tidy up creates a welcoming environment for guests. Focus your efforts on areas where people will gather - like the kitchen, patio or living room. Don't forget to stock toiletries in the bathrooms, too.



If you have time, decorate for your last-minute shindig with simple yet clever decor. Hosting a video game gathering? Make a banner such as "Nelson's Awesome Arcade" and hang above the TV. Have memorable photos of your guests? Run a ribbon and attach photos side-by-side with clothespins so everyone can enjoy the fun imagery. Want to add a summer vibe to your party? Skip the florist and cut some fresh buds from your backyard. If you're stuck, a quick visit to Pinterest is sure to inspire.



When really strapped for time, skip decor and focus on the music - play songs everyone will enjoy and that reflect the theme of the party. Upbeat songs that embrace the warm weather always set the right mood. From the Beach Boys to the most current chart-toppers, some toe-tapping tunes will help guests get in the party groove.



With these tips and tricks, you'll throw a party or get together that'll make everybody happy. You'll stress less and no one will know you put the whole thing together in minutes.

DECEMBER 2014 MARKET UPDATE!

 December 2014

DeLena Ciamacco

Included in this blog post is a link to my Real Estate Update Newsletter. Please click on the link below to get the latest Real Estate Update for December! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call or email my office. 

614-882-6725

delena@delena.com

 http://realtytimes.com/193/DeLenaCiamacco

Help stave off sickness with citrus

(NC)-Like it or not, winter is here, and making healthy diet choices from morning 'til night is crucial to warding off aches and sore throats.

Your mother may have told you to take your vitamins, and she was right. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and a key nutrient that helps support a healthy immune system and aids your body's natural ability to fight colds and flu. Vitamin C can also help the absorption, transport and storage of some forms of iron.

"Having a glass of orange juice or a whole grapefruit as part of a healthy breakfast is an easy way to brighten your morning, provide a full day's supply of vitamin C and give your immune system what it needs to function at its best," says registered dietitian Lydia Knorr. "However, healthy eating doesn't have to stop at breakfast. Adding orange juice or a few slices of Florida grapefruit into your lunches and dinners is an easy way to help get your recommended 7-10 servings of fruits or vegetables daily."

Knorr also points out that citrus fruits and juices are versatile ingredients that fit easily into modern cuisine and add a boost of flavor to traditional winter fare. The following recipe incorporates Florida grapefruit juice as a fresh complement to a festive feast:

Grapefruit Coriander Mussels

2 tbsp (25 mL) butter

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

1/3 cup (75 mL) chopped fresh coriander

1 tsp (5 mL) ground cumin

1 cup (250 mL) Florida grapefruit juice

Half red bell pepper, diced

1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced

1 bag (about 2 lbs/1kg) fresh mussels, rinsed

In large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Cook onion, garlic, half of the coriander and cumin for about 3 minutes or until softened. Add juice, red pepper and jalapeno; bring to the boil. Stir in mussels. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes or until mussels are open.

Sprinkle with remaining coriander before serving.

Makes 2 servings.

A fun approach to teaching kids nutrition wisdom

"The more parents can do to involve children in the process, the decisions on what they are eating and where their food comes from, the better off they will be at helping them learn reverence and appreciation for food," says Anni Daulter, professional cook, nutrition expert, and author of several books, including "The Organic Family Cookbook."



Here are some simple yet effective tips from Daulter to get your kids excited about nutrition and help them make good food choices:



1. Make mealtime special



"In our fast-paced lives, we have somehow lost the concept that eating is not just about the actual food. It's about the connection, the time spent enjoying every bite, laughing, talking and sharing. Our families need this time together," Daulter says.



Create a routine. Consider starting dinner at a similar time each night. Designate different nights for different types of meals, such as vegetarian Monday, or make-your-own pizza Saturdays. Have children help with the meal prep and cleanup, if age-appropriate. Light a candle during dinner, and allocate plenty of time for conversation - it's one of the best ways to bond with loved ones.



2. Adopt a healthy morning routine



While most families are time-crunched on weekday mornings, it's important to make time for breakfast so kids get the nutrition they need before heading to school. Healthy breakfasts incorporate whole grains, protein, fresh fruit, and supplements that support brain and body health.



"Supplements can be an easy way for mom and dad to ensure that their children get the important nutrients they need, especially during busy mornings," says Daulter. "I recommend giving kids a boost of brain-building nutrition with a kid-friendly omega-3 supplement. I like chewable, strawberry-flavored Nordic Naturals Children's DHA. This essential nutrient is brain food, proven to support brain growth and health. Additionally, omega-3s support a healthy immune and nervous system, too."



3. Create tasty school lunches



"When your children are fed better, they learn better," says Daulter. "Their bodies react to being fed good pure foods that give them the fuel they need to get through each and every school day."



Save time by making lunches the night before or do a big Sunday cut-and-chop day for raw ingredients throughout the week. Here is a sample of what you'll find in Daulter's children's lunch baskets:



Black Bean Soup Lunch

* Classic Caesar salad

* Homemade wheat parmesan chips

* Raw: Asian pears and clementines



4. Have healthy snacks on hand



"Kids bodies tend to be more in tune with their internal signals and they inherently seem to know that they need more little meals throughout the day, rather than three big meals," Daulter says. "Eating smaller portions frequently throughout the day provides more energy when we need it and is easier for our bodies to digest."



Daulter keeps several small kids tables throughout the house so her children can nibble on snacks while they continue to play. What sorts of things does she like to feed her kids for snacks? Nuts, homemade fruit roll-ups, pumpkin seeds, veggie popcorn, fresh fruits, carrot sticks, and cheese are all healthful snacks that keep kids' bellies full.



5. Teach healthy eating habits through activity



"My kids and their friends love to cook and help us prepare meals, and the more we include them in the process, the more invested they become in their own health," says Daulter.



You may be surprised by how excited your children get by being involved in the entire meal process. When you go to the grocery store or farmers market, have children help pick out veggies. If you grow your own, let them pick the produce and help wash, peel and prep it for meals.



"Even the youngest child can help mix in flour for fresh bread or learn to whip her own honey butter," says Daulter. "These tasty teachings will not only give them practical and valuable life skills, but will leave them with loving memories of family cooking days that were spent laughing, creating, and of course, eating!"

Gourmet cooking made easy

(NC)-When it comes to comfort foods, nothing quite compares to warm caramelized onions or stretchy melted cheese - and this appetizer has plenty of both. Created by TV host and cookbook author, Sabrina Tutino, these Mozzarellissima Pan-Seared Scallops with Caramelized Onions and Figs are sure to please any palate at your next get-together.



More tasty recipes can be found online at www.mozzarellissima.ca.

Makes: 4 to 6 servings

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 25 to 30 minutes

Ingredients:

olive oil, to taste

4 to 6 large sea scallops (approximately 1 lb (500 g))

2 large onions, finely chopped

salt and pepper, to taste

¾ cup (175 mL) brandy, to deglaze (or white wine, water or broth)

⅔ cup (150 mL) fig jam

8 oz (250 g) Mozzarellissima cheese, grated and divided

fresh parsley, to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat a non-stick frying pan over high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and place the scallops in the pan, ensuring they do not overlap. Sear scallops for a few minutes on each side without moving, until they are a nice golden color. Remove from pan and set aside.

2. In the same hot pan, add a drizzle of olive oil and toss in onions. Stir well to coat the onions with oil, and add a pinch of salt and pepper.

3. Cook the onions for a few minutes, stirring occasionally until they become soft and dark caramel in color. If they begin to stick to the pan, add a splash of brandy (or white wine, water or broth) to deglaze and continue cooking. This step can be repeated until the desired color is obtained.

4. Remove the pan from heat and thoroughly mix in the fig jam with the onions.

5. Place 4 to 6 ramekins on a cookie sheet, placing one scallop in each, topped with 1 tbsp (15 mL) of the onion and fig mixture. Sprinkle with grated Mozzarellissima.

6. Cook for 5 minutes on broil until cheese is melted and slightly golden brown in color.

7. Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley and serve.

Tips:

- For easier grating, put Mozzarellissima in the freezer for 20 minutes, then grate.

- Caramelized onions can also be used to add great flavor to soups, sandwiches or salads.