Ever Heard Of Agave???????

Oh how I love Trader Joes! Over the past year, I have heard the word Agave on health shows and various radio shows covering health. Agave is a NATURAL SWEETENER that will NOT spike your blood sugar which means you can enjoy sweetening without worrying about sugar spikes in your bloodstream which causes weight gain. It is delicious...not as heavy as honey and is even delicious poured over icecream. If you are concerned about your health...trying to manage the pounds...are diabetic or if diabetes runs in your famly...RUN (don't walk) to Trader Joes or any healthy food store you might be affiliated with and give Natural Organic Blue Agave a try. They even have a Maple Syrup (and that is real maple my friends) made with Agave instead of suger. Artificial sweetners make you crave sweets from what I have learned so it doesn't help us as much as we think. Let us know if you buy it and how YOU like it! Hey Moms, how about giving the kids a healthy treat. Try making your favorite cookie recipe using Agave instead of sugar. I am going to be experimenting myself.

Per MSN Easy Ways to Cut 100 Calories at Lunch

Leave the Swiss cheese out of your sandwich.
Slather your bread with mustard rather than mayo and save 80 calories per tablespoon.
Pass up croutons at the salad bar.
Use up to 10 pumps of ranch dressing spray instead of pouring 2 tablespoons from a bottle.
Devour a slice of Pizza Hut cheese pan pizza instead of the meat lover's variety.
Take your iced tea unsweetened.
Reach for a Snapple raspberry white tea instead of a Snapple raspberry iced tea.
Stuff chicken salad into a whole-wheat pita instead of between slices of multigrain bread.
Make your burger turkey, not beef.
Slurp minestrone soup instead of cream of anything.
Go bunless—shed your hamburger roll.
Use south-of-the-border savvy: Have a quesadilla made with two 6-inch corn, not flour, tortillas. Two or more pizza slices? Blot off the grease with a napkin

Recipe Of The Week - Baked Ziti

This is one of my daughter Shae's favorite and famous recipes. QUICK AND EASY.

Ingredients
1 box of Ziti (prepare as usual..salt water if you prefer)
2 - 8 oz jars of Spaghetti Sauce
Sour Creme
10 slice Pack of Provolone Cheese
1 bag of shredded Mozzerella Cheese
Parmesan to sprinkle on top

Preheat oven to 350. Pour half of drained cooked noodles in a 9/12 casserole dish. Top the noodles with slices of Provolone (layer it). Spread some of the sour creme over the Provolone, to your liking. Pour about 1 jar of sauce straight from the jar over the first layer. Add the remainder of the cooked noodles, top with Mozzerella then add more sauce to cover. Sprinkle with Parmesan. Cover with foil if you like. Bake until cheese is melted. About 20 minutes.

Fabulous Tips From IVillage.com

• 10 things you can quit cleaning right now
• 16 stain-busting secrets
• What to do if your whites turn pink
• Fifteen 15-minute dinner ideas
• Lemon chicken and 19 other plucky recipes
• How to save time in the kitchen

Check Out This Website!!

More daily tips and tricks to help us get through the day!

http://www.hungry-girl.com/index.php

TGI FRIDAYS - Eat Out...SAVE MONEY!!!! These Coupons Can't Be Beat

Per MSN Easy Ways To Cut 100 Calories at Breakfast

Ditch the Pop-Tart for a slice of high-fiber toast with strawberry jam.
Gotta have carbs? Split a bagel with a co-worker.
Drink your two cups of joe black. Or order a single espresso instead of your usual latté.
Swap OJ for the real deal—one fresh orange.
Trade a side of regular sausage for turkey.
Top your waffles with Reddi-wip instead of syrup (or use sugar-free).
Skip the whip on any Caribou Coffee 16-ounce drink.
Eat your granola from a 4-ounce mug, not an 8-ounce bowl.
Lose the Yoplait Thick & Creamy and have a Yoplait Fiber 1.
Order pancakes, but hold the butter.
Scramble together four egg whites instead of two whole eggs.
Substitute nonfat cream cheese for regular on your bagel.

Words of Wisdom - Don't Worry...

Some situations can truly paralize us. Things people have said or done, caused pain, making it difficult for us to move on. But we MUST move on, and give God the glory. Don't let the enemy win. Here are some powerful words to live by:

There comes a point in your life when you realize
Who matters, Who never did, Who won't anymore,

And who always will..........
So, don't worry about people from your past,
There's a reason why they didn't make it to your future..

Recipe Of The Week - Stir-Fried Steak Strips with Red Peppers & Cashews

In this stir-fry, the soy-ginger steak marinade is later cooked along with hoisin sauce to become an irresistible dressing. And you'll love the nutty crunch offered by the cashews. Servings: 4

Ingredients:
1 pound boneless steak
3 tablespoons light soy sauce
1 1/2 tablespoons mirin
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 large red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
6 scallions, cut into 2-inch pieces
1 cup unsalted cashews
1 1/2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1/4 cup water

Directions:
Cut the steak into thin slices, trimming any excess fat.
Place the meat in a bowl and cover with the soy sauce, mirin, vinegar and 1 tablespoon of the ginger. Toss to make sure the meat is covered on both sides. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

Remove the steak from the marinade, reserving the marinade.
In a wok or large skillet, heat half of the oil over high heat. Add half of the garlic, half of the remaining ginger and all of the steak strips. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 5 minutes. Remove the meat with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Put the remaining oil in the wok. Add the bell pepper, scallions and remaining garlic and cook, stirring frequently, for about 4 minutes. Return the steak strips to the wok and cook another 2 to 3 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Add the cashews during the last minute of cooking. Remove the mixture to a serving platter.

Add the hoisin sauce to the hot wok and stir in the reserved marinade and water, stirring well to create a smooth sauce. Let simmer for about 3 minutes, or until thickened. Spoon the sauce over the meat and vegetables and serve immediately.

Puppies Are Cute...But Can Be A LOT of Work

I love dogs. Growing up we always had at least two. For about 11 years we have had an American Dingo (Yes, it is a breed, Google it! - smile). So you'd think I would have known what I was getting into 3 weeks ago when I brought home Maggie Mae, my 5 week old Beagle Mix. She weighed 2 1/4 lbs. and as you can see, she is as cute as can be. But soon she got a very loud voice for such a little thing and had no problem letting us know that she wants to be in our presence. I love my puppy, I really do BUT I can't wait until I get a full nights sleep again! I can handle the housebreaking, no problem. Truly, the hardest part about having a new puppy and working fulltime for me at least, has been not being able to sleep for more than 4 hours!!

For those of you considering a new puppy let me offer this advice:

Do NOT forget to crate your puppy whenever left unattended. That's when the accidents happen. Puppies really do love their crates once they are used to them. It is their safe haven away from the chaos of the household.

Do get a puppy if you want to teach your older children about responsiblity and unconditional love.

Do NOT get a puppy if you have very young children at home unless you are prepared to do all the work. The Puppy Training Pads they sell at places like Target and pet stores are great! They help if you have to pen your dog in a small area and are unable to get home to let it out every couple hours. Eventually you just move the pads outside and they begin to learn that is where they are to go. And whenever you are home, take your puppy out often and allow it to experience the outside.

Do NOT bathe a puppy too often, however, get some baby wipes (the doggie ones are way too expensive) and use them to clean your puppies paws and bellies between baths.

Please be a responsible pet owner and keep your puppy's immunications up to date.

Top Ten Things Your Pet Would Like To Say To You

1. My life is likely to last 10 to 15 years, ANY SEPARATION from you will be painful for me.
2. Give me time to understand what you want from me.
3. Place your trust in me...it's crucial to my well-being.
4. Don't be angry with me for long, and don't lock me up for punishment. You have your work, your friends, and your entertainment. I HAVE ONLY YOU!
5. Talk to me sometimes. Even if I don't understand your words, I understand your voice when it's speaking to me.
6. Be aware that HOWEVER, you treat me, I'll never forget it.
7. Remember before you hit me, that I have teeth that could easily crush the bones of your hand, but I choose NOT to bite you.
8. Before you scold me for being uncooperative, obstinate or lazy, ask yourself if something may be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right foods, I've been out in the sun too long, or my heart is getting old and weak.
9. Take care of me when I get old...you too will grow old.
10. Go with me on difficult journeys. NEVER say, "I can't bear to watch it", or, "Let it happen in my absence," Everything is easier for me if YOU are there. Above all, remember I LOVE YOU.

Fantastic Birthday Parties

Last week I was talking with a worried Mom. Her daughter's 7th birthday was coming up and since her husband was laid off they didn't have the money for a big party.

I patted her on the back. "Oh good! Now you can have a really great party."

She was probably as confused as you are right now. The truth is that even though it's become some kind of contest to see which parent can provide the neatest venue for parties - the children usually don't care. They want to have some fun, do something different, sing Happy Birthday and eat cake. Beyond that, it's really not that important. Oh, your child may whine for a bit - but once the presents are sitting on a table, the pictures on the napkins don't really matter.

The best parties are when both parents or Mom and Aunt Susie put their own imagination into the party. I've heard about some great parties.

A scrapbooking party for 5 year old girls. Mom cut the paper ahead of time so it was just a matter of gluing and picking out pictures. She found her daughter's favorite character on line and was able to print off pictures to use in the scrapbook. She punched three holes in the sides of the paper they used for their books. They threaded ribbon through the holes to make the book. Each girl had a take home and the birthday girl had paper with her favorite cartoon character. The entire craft session was less than $15.

A superhero party for 7 year old boys. Dad helped construct a box city in the garage. When it was time for fun, the boys each received a pillow case cut in half. They painted their superhero name on it. The were given paint can stirrers that had been painted white. Each child had several minutes to find the villain in one of the boxes and destroy him with their White lasers. The final game was for all the superhero's to fly over the city. Mike told me the boys loved it so much they didn't want to come in for cake. Price $10 for pillow cases, everything else was free.

If your budget doesn't allow anything but a cake - how about a nature walk, meeting in the park to ride bicycles or skateboarding in the driveway.

Birthday parties are about having fun and giving of yourself - not spending a lot of money. Be creative and your child will love you for it.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Debbie

Skinny Songs!

This is definitley an original idea! Catchy tunes to inspire you to lose weight. A little silly but seemingly effective! Here is the story behind the music and a link to hear the songs:

Heidi Roizen created SkinnySongs after her weight hit an all-time high and she went searching for motivation. Heidi has since lost over 35 pounds and is back in her own skinny jeans again -- and is now passionate about bringing the positive power of SkinnySongs to the world.

You can download songs like "Skinny Jeans", "I'm a Hottie Now", and "Incredibly Shrinking Woman". Click here for the skinnysongs.com!

Eating during Lent, the Rachael Ray Way!

For those who observe Lent, we know Friday's are a day of abstinence from meat. While some of us have no problem sacrificing our carnivorous ways, other struggle (like my husband)!:) Here are some great meal ideas from Rachel Ray to help create fantastic meat-free meals. These are not only great during Lent, but any time of the year. For recipe ideas: click here.

$3 Off ANY Boston Market Purchase Of $6 or More Thru 4/12 But Fish Is Delish

To get your $3 off coupon, go to www.fishbowl.com/clt/bstnmkt/pc/200903/1/lntblst.htm

Recipe Of The Week - 10 Minute Szechuan Chicken

This quick and easy dinner recipe is fabulous any night of the week!

Serving: Serves: 4
Total Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon corn oil
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons cornstarch
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
1/2 red bell pepper, julienned
1 carrot, julienned
1 small zucchini, julienned
1/4 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon light brown sugar
1 bunch scallions, cut diagonally in 1-inch pieces
Hot cooked rice

1. Heat the oils in a wok over high heat. Toss the cubed chicken breast in a bowl with the cornstarch to coat.
2. Add the chicken and minced garlic to the wok and stir-fry until the chicken is lightly browned. Add the remaining ingredients except the scallions. Cover and cook for three minutes.
4. Add the scallions. Cover and cook for two more minutes. Serve with hot, cooked rice or fried rice

Supper on a Shoestring: Cooking with Clara

Our new favorite website is www.GreatDepressionCooking.com. We love Clara! She is a 93 year old grandmother who lived through the Great Depression. Her You Tube episodes highlight recipes from that era (and great money-savers for today). She also shares stories about growing up in difficult times and things she learned. Grab a cup of tea, a notepad, and a cozy blanket and enjoy cooking from Clara!

Book Review - Common Phrases And Where They Come From

I just finished reading the most delightful book by John Mordock & Myron Korach called, "Common Phrases And Where They Come From". Have you ever wondered how idioms were derived and isn't it interesting that we still use them to this day though some were created by ancient Egyptians and ancient people of Germanic or Celtic origin known as Teutons? Well now you can find out! Some of the info will really make you laugh. How often do you use idioms like Crocodile Tears or Mind Your P's & Q's and Spill The Beans, etc. with no thought of the history behind them? I know I do all the time but now, when I use them, they will be more meaningful to me. This book is very informative and an easy read. Enjoy!

Emergencies Happen To Everyone..Check Out This Site.

While no one likes to think about emergencies and disasters, they are a reality of life and we need to be prepared to handle these issues as best we can. Check out www.ready.gov. This site has information, check lists and printouts that you can use. Help for you...Help for your family. Pass the word!

Target's Dollar Bins are AWESOME!!

If you haven't visited a Target store lately, please do and check out the Dollar Bins that are usually right in the front of the main entrance. At some of their locations, you will find the bins at the left and right entrances. These bins are filled with all kinds of goodies that the kids will love and there are wonderful things for your home and office. The reason we love it the best is that it changes regularly and you can also find seasonal items there. These bins will fit your budget and might stimulate your creative side.

Join Team Fish with Gina Hart For The Annual American Breast Cancer Walk!

Hello Fishy Friends!

It's that time again! I really hope you are able to join my team again this year. Last year we surpassed our goal and I am confident that we can do the same this year. Our team was the top fundraising team in Cleveland...that's something to get us motivated early!

If you haven't joined my team yet...today is the day! So, hurry up and join today and start sending those emails.

Below is a link to my team page. I hope you will visit my site and sign up to join my team once again. Hope starts with US!. Please join my team and walk with us to experience an incredible day of inspiration and meaning, and to provide hope for all people facing breast cancer. What would we do without you?!?!

Hope starts with you and me – let's walk together! Feel free to contact me at ghart@salemcleveland.com.

Paste the URL into your browser to visit my PERSONAL page:
http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/MakingStridesAgainstBreastCancer/MSABCFY09Ohio?px=1235110&pg=personal&fr_id=11730&fl=en_US&s_tafId=194485

Paste the URL into your browser to visit our TEAM's page:
http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/MakingStridesAgainstBreastCancer/MSABCFY09Ohio?team_id=379546&pg=team&fr_id=11730&fl=en_US&s_tafId=194485
- - - - -
The American Cancer Society state fundraising notices can be reviewed at: main.acsevents.org/statefundraisingnotices

Paste the URL into your browser to visit our COMPANY/ORGANIZATION's page:
http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/MakingStridesAgainstBreastCancer/MSABCFY09Ohio?company=WFHM+-+95.5+The+Fish+-+Salem+Communications&pg=company&fr_id=11730&fl=en_US&s_tafId=194485

This message has been sent by a friend who thought you would be interested in information about the American Cancer Society's special events. If you no longer wish to receive emails messages sent from your friends, family members or colleagues on the subject of the American Cancer Society's special events, please paste this URL into your browser: http://main.acsevents.org/site/TellFriendOpt?action=optout&toe=a4eccd9f3afec7b27955669f55695b84130c38d715dc78ddc157793613dbaef5

This Video Will Make You Smile & Touch Your Heart

Please turn your volume up and make sure you watch to the end.

A DAY OF COMPASSION @ 95.5 THE FISH TIL 6PM

Business Benefactor Program

Make a partially tax-deductible donation in your businesses name, that takes care of 5 kids for 1 year for $1,924 and you will receive: -

- Twenty (20) :60 second commercials on 95.5 the Fish

- Twenty (20) :60 second commercials on AM 1420 WHK

- One professionally produced :60 second radio commercial

- One year to run the schedule - Fully transferable: to your church,

business associate, etc…

- Spots must run 6am-12mid and additional spots may be purchased

Click on the banner above or call 877-521-4700 and make your donation. Then call our General Sales Manager: Tim Vaughn at 216-525-1818 and he will set you up with the campaign.

Recipe Of The Week - Pork Chops & Pears

As you probably know, pork and apples make great partners. But have you considered matching pork chops with ripe, juicy pears? Try this delicious, superquick entree -- you'll love the flavor combo so much that you may never go back to applesauce. Servings: 4

Ingredients:

1/4 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper
4 (3/4-inch) boneless loin pork chops (3 to 4 ounces each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth
1/3 cup chopped scallions
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1 firm ripe pear, cut into thick slices (about 3/4 inch thick)
2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions:

Combine the flour with 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper on a shallow plate. Add the pork chops, tossing to coat. In a large skillet, heat the oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the pork chops and cook, turning once, about 8 minutes total or until cooked through. Remove to a plate; cover loosely with foil to keep warm. In the same skillet, add the wine, scallions, cream, lemon juice and remaining salt and pepper, stirring to scrape up any browned bits and until the sauce has thickened, about 5 minutes. Gently stir in the pear slices; cook until just heated through, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Pour over the chops; sprinkle with parsley.