Kimmie D: The Official Blog

Cool Kid Craft-Holiday Cinnamon Ornaments

2010-12-05T17:04:00.009-07:00

by Lifestyle Expert, Kimmie Dillon

However your family celebrates the holidays, how would you like to spice them up even more? Here’s the perfect holiday project for the kids that will fill your home with the yummy aroma of cinnamon. So easy and fun to create, even the youngest members of your family will be able to make their own ornaments!

Here’s what you’ll need for this craft:

¾ cup applesauce, drained through a strainer

¾ cup cinnamon (a large, economical brand works great)
Rolling pin

Craft glue

Cookie cutters

Ornament hangers

Colorful ribbon

Scissors
embellishments, if desired

1. Preheat oven to 175°F. In a mixing bowl, combine the strained applesauce and cinnamon until a smooth ball of dough is formed. You will need to slowly add cinnamon until the dough resembles cookie dough. Then squeeze in about 3 Tablespoons of craft glue to help the dough stick together. If it gets too dry, sprinkle in some water. To make the dough easy to work with, chill in the refrigerator for about 2 hours. Just remember, even though this dough smells good enough to eat, it is not edible!

2. Dust surface and rolling pin with cinnamon. Do not use flour. Roll out half of the dough to about ¼” thickness. Cut out festive shapes with holiday cookie cutters. Unused scraps can be re-rolled and cut into additional ornaments. Place cinnamon ornaments on cookie sheets.

3. Carefully press the metal ornament hangers into the top of each edge. If you don’t have these, poke holes in the top with straws.

4. Place cookie sheets into pre-heated oven at 175°F for about 2 hours. As an alternative, you can also set them aside for several days to dry out. Either way, your home is going to smell great!

5. Tie ribbon through each hanger (or hole) to form a loop. Although these cinnamon ornaments look great undecorated, your child may want to add their own special touch. Embellishments like glitter, rhinestones and opaque paint markers can help them add even more pizzazz.

I think you’ll agree, these cinnamon ornaments are inexpensive and easy to create. And they make great homemade gifts for anyone on your child’s list. Let your kids hang them throughout the house to get everyone in the holiday spirit.

Enjoy!

10 secrets to keep your child from getting sick

2010-11-27T15:01:00.002-07:00

by Kimmie Dillon

Why do some children stay healthy and others walk around sick? By adopting these 10 healthy habits, parents can help their children avoid getting sick during this upcoming season.
1. Wash their hands
Since most cold and flu viruses are spread by direct contact, this simple habit makes a big difference. Hand washing sounds obvious, but studies show many children (and adults) are not consistent about scrubbing up. Pathogens are found on all types of surfaces including bathrooms, door knobs, railings and other people. And here’s a fact that’s nothing to sneeze at: according to the CDC, hand washing for 20 seconds is the most effective way to avoid the 1 billion colds that Americans catch each year. Yikes! Hand sanitizer is also great to keep available to your child.
2. Get plenty of rest
Sleep is one of the best ways for your child to stay healthy. A good night’s rest will restore the immune system. Your child also needs more zzz’s when they are feeling under the weather.
3. Eat healthy
The importance of a good diet often goes overlooked. Healthier foods contain high levels of disease fighting vitamins and antioxidants. Think of it as “arming” their body for battle when they come in contact with a sick bug.
4. Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of fluids can wash out any poisons in the body. The standard recommendation is for our kids to drink 6-8 glasses of water a day.
5. Stay active
Regular exercise keeps the body healthy by increasing virus-killing cells. According to a new study by Dr. Klentrou, kids who are less active and have excess body fat have more sick days. The doctor adds “exercise may keep kids healthy by providing a constant source of moderate stress, strengthening their body systems and enabling them to ward off bacteria and viruses.”
6. Avoid touching their eyes, mouth and nose
These are the areas where colds and viruses enter the body. Teaching our children to not touch these parts of their face can block the transmission of existing germs.
7. Wash shared toys
Wipe off toys with a good cleaner to prevent the spread of germs.
8. Take a daily vitamin
This will boost kids’ immune systems when the common cold comes knocking on their door. A good multi-vitamin contains a variety of supplements that the body needs to help protect itself from infection.
9. Avoid contact with sick kids
Easier said than done but this is common sense!
10. Get the flu vaccine
The CDC says the single best way to protect children against flu and its potential severe complications is to get a seasonal influenza vaccine each year. They recommend that everyone 6 months of age and older get the seasonal flu vaccine.

Hi, I'm Kimmie!

2010-11-01T17:56:00.001-07:00

Welcome to my official blog - poke around for some terrific do-it-yourself projects perfect for the holidays or simple improvements around the house.

If you're outdoorsy like me, be sure to check out the Outdoor Adventures section for tips and tricks concerning some of my favorite activities in the great outdoors.

As a parent, we are faced with numerous challenges. While our children provide us with the best of times, they can also test our sanity! Get sound advice right here on my Parent Project blog.

Cool Kid Craft-Holiday Giving Tree

2010-11-01T12:01:00.001-07:00

by Lifestyle Expert, Kimmie Dillon
The idea of giving thanks can be forgotten with all of the holiday festivities. Create this autumn ‘tree of gratitude’ with your children. Have them write something they’re thankful for on each leaf. You’ll create a cute craft and help inspire them to be thankful. It can even double as a centerpiece!

Here are the supplies you will need to create this “Holiday Giving Tree” project-
• pot or container
• tree branch
• sand, marbles or pebbles to fill your pot or container
• autumn leaves (optional)
• paper tags or paper leaves
• scissors
• hole punch
• ribbon
• permanent marker
1. Fill your container with sand, marbles or pebbles. You can also let the kids have fun by painting this container or pot in their own festive colors. Once ready, secure the branch inside the pot so it stands upright like a tree. For added color, attach autumn leaves to the branches with a hot glue gun.

2. Cut a variety of tags and leaf shapes with colorful cardstock. I encourage you to always supervise younger children when using scissors. Be creative here! For convenience, craft stores also carry pre-made tags and autumn shapes. In addition, a die-cutting machine is also useful for cutting out a variety of festive tags.
3. Use the hole punch to make an opening in each leaf. Thread a 10”piece of craft ribbon through the hole.
4. Have your children brainstorm what they are thankful for. Here’s where this craft project really starts to take place!
5. Using a sharpie, have each child write the 1 thing they are thankful for on each tag or leaf.

6. Next, thread the ribbon through the hole in the tag or leaf and tie to the tree.
7. Let each child hang their creation on the “Holiday Giving Tree!”
Your children now have a memorable craft project that they can be proud of. What a great way to celebrate Thanksgiving! You can also have your friends and family members add 'leaves' to your tree as they visit over the holidays. Keep a basket of blank tags next to your tree so everyone can reflect on what they’re thankful for.

Recycled Can Luminaries

2010-10-02T17:32:00.000-07:00

by Kimmie Dillon-DIY expert
Recycled Can Luminaries - Halloween

This craft is a great way to re-use your food cans. You can light up your walkway or countertop and let your guests know you are in the holiday spirit.

Recycled Can Luminaries - frozen

Recycled Can Luminaries - drilling can

Recycled Can Luminaries - glowing

These luminaries add such a festive welcome. You can paint some of them black like I did here. Add a candle or battery light in the bottom. These recycled can luminaries will work for the winter holidays, too!

Print or draw out a simple outline of a design. I used a trendy skull, bat and jack-o-lantern. Tape the design onto your now frozen can. Now you know I love power tools, so here’s where a drill comes in handy! However, if you don’t have one, a hammer and nail will work just fine. Start drilling “dots” around your pattern. Whether you’re using a drill or hammer and nail, be careful. Again, this is where the ice will keep the can from collapsing. Pull the paper pattern off and check the design. Recycled and really cool!

Once your can is clean and label-free, fill with water. Freeze. Make sure to leave about an inch at the top for ice expansion. You don’t want an unexpected mess in your freezer! The reason I recommend this step is to make drilling through the can much easier. The ice will act as a barrier and make the drilling safer.

Nutrition-sneaking in those fruits and veggies

2010-08-20T00:33:00.001-07:00

by Lifestyle Expert, Kimmie Dillon

We’ve all been there. If left on their own, our children would probably eat macaroni and cheese for dinner every night. I know mine would! Getting our kids to eat their recommended portion of 5 fruits and vegetables a day can be challenging, at best. The goal here is to establish healthier eating habits without activating their well-tuned “radar” for anything unfamiliar! Here are 10 ideas for parents to “sneak” some healthier veggies and fruits into their favorite meals:
Pizza
I realize that cheese pizza can be sacred to youngsters. One solution is to add (or order) a ½ cup of finely chopped tomatoes underneath the layer of cheese. This will add a crucial serving of veggies while being blanketed with cheese. Toppings like pineapple, basil and finely diced peppers will also significantly add to the nutritious value of this popular dish.
Mac N Cheese
Yes, you can work in some “stealthy” vegetables into this child-revered favorite! If you’re like many of us and cooking it right out of the box, try adding some frozen veggies like cauliflower, butternut squash, peas and carrots. For pickier eaters, puree these veggies and then add them to the mix. Remember, everything tastes much better when it’s covered in cheese.
Meat
Camouflage veggies inside of ground meat. Grated veggies will go undetected in meatballs and meatloaf. You can even create a healthy spaghetti and lasagna this way.
Chicken Fingers
Another favorite fried dish that makes many parents cringe. You can make these guys a bit more nutritious by providing some healthy sides. Bake sweet potato fries instead of greasy French fries. For healthier nuggets, make your own. Dip cut-up chicken tenders in a skim milk/egg white mixture. Cover with finely crushed corn flakes and bake at 425 degrees for 20-25 minutes, turning once.
Mashed Potatoes
Try mashed sweet potatoes for a change. They contain more vitamin A and C than regular potatoes. Puree cauliflower and mix in to add another healthy serving of veggies. Kids and adults can’t resist the taste of creamy mashed potatoes whether they are sweet or regular!
Peanut Butter and Jelly
Jelly is full of sugar and empty calories. So what’s a parent to do when your child always requests this basic sandwich? To make this staple healthier, substitute in a thin layer of low-sugar jelly topped with an apple slice, banana or raisins. Healthier and low-fat versions of peanut butter are also available in grocery stores.
Soups and Stews
Carrot juice can be substituted for part of the liquid in sauces, soups and stews. This widely available juice is a great source of vitamin A. Bugs Bunny will be proud of you!
Baking
Substitute applesauce for half of the oil in baking recipes. Muffins, cakes and breads taste great with these fruity additions.
Smoothies
Kids love to eat what they help create. Provide strawberries, bananas, blueberries, peaches and oranges along with juices and yogurts. For an extra healthy smoothie, blend in ½ cup tofu.
Dipping
Finally, always keep fruit and vegetables washed and available. While your kids are engrossed with watching television, offer cut veggies and fruit along with individual dipping cups. Kids just love to dip! Other ideas include ready-to-serve fruit cups, bananas, and dried fruits.

Let's Go Fishing!

2010-07-23T17:42:00.001-07:00

by Kimmie Dillon
From an early age, I’ve been into fishing. There’s something about being outdoors (usually in the boonies) that is very mesmerizing to me. This is not to say that once I get there I’m asleep at my rod. NO WAY! It’s quite the opposite.

The other thing that really attracts me to fishing is the enormous sense of optimism and potential that I feel. Every time I head to the water, it doesn’t matter what the results of my last fishing trip were, I’m confident. When I’m walking down to a creek for the first time or driving a boat toward the open water, I’m anticipating how that fish will feel on my line. Any prior trips that were less than successful are somehow temporarily erased from my memory. It’s like going back to childhood where your spirit was completely intact. As we grow up, society can squash parts of our spirit. With our day-to-day lives of repetition and routine, pure optimism is not overly common in today’s world. But for some reason, fishing brings me back to childhood and my overwhelming sense of hope. YOU should try it!

It does not matter where you live, there’s a place to go fishing. Within a few hours, there’s always an ocean, lake, stream or city pond. And although you may not catch a fish every time, you will have a wonderful experience trying. Many anglers strictly prefer catch-and-release. Others take their fish home and cook up a tasty meal. Either way the choice is up to you. What’s important is that you get outside in the fresh air and feel that sense of potential you remember as a child.

Speaking of children, kids seem to go nuts over this sport. I especially enjoy the spending time with my child when we have a chance to get out on the water for a few hours. Talk about the memories that we have! We are both knowledgeable yet always still learning together. He gets so excited to try a new lure or bait. And I must admit…oh, there’s that optimism again…we are always hoping to catch that big one!

I know you’ve heard of the saying: “A bad day fishing is better than a good day at the office.” It’s true.

Active Kids-Have we forgot the importance of playing ball?

2010-07-05T15:05:00.000-07:00

by Lifestyle Expert, Kimmie Dillon

Did you know that there are numerous life lessons to be gained by playing ball? Yet with today’s hectic, high-tech lifestyle, playing a basic game of “catch” has gone by the wayside. I’ll never forget my amazement when my child’s teacher pointed out that many students in the class were unfamiliar with playing ball. So call it my mission…I am out to encourage all parents to head to the backyard and start spending some quality time together.

By playing catch with our kids, we are teaching them that quality time together matters. They will also learn the importance of perseverance and patience. That’s because it may take many throws before your child (or you!) is accurate at throwing and catching. Whenever a new skill is learned in life, we must exercise patience. Determination is also a good lesson that can be learned while playing ball. If a child just gives up, then no goals will be accomplished. And this is where a little parental encouragement comes in. By giving them a bit of a boost, we can teach our kids to have a “can do” attitude in life. Then there’s the physical stuff like good hand-eye coordination. By rolling the ball on the ground or throwing the ball in the air, our children learn how to measure distance and where to hold their hands to catch the ball. Similarly, judgment is another life skill that can be learned by this popular pastime. Our little ones will have to watch the ball, and judge its distance in order to successfully catch it. The same goes for them throwing the ball back to you. If you are standing 20 feet away, they will need to estimate this distance to make a successful throw. Probably the biggest gain your child will get is confidence. When you praise them for catching, rolling and throwing properly, you will elevate their self-esteem. In the long term, your child can apply this confidence to trying new things and finding success. Now plaaaaaaaaaaayyy ball!

Active Kids-getting them up and off the couch

2010-06-27T12:30:00.000-07:00

by Lifestyle Expert, Kimmie Dillon

Today’s lifestyle for children is different than it was when we were kids. The internet, handheld gaming devices and every possible type of show on TV helps to keep them inactive. Here are some ideas to get your kids up off the couch and outside into the autumn air.

Set an example-If we want active kids, then we as parents need to be active. Go for a brisk walk. Ride bikes together. Even start planning play dates at the park. We are a role model for our children and need to set a good example by leading a physically active life.

Limiting TV-One way to increase your child’s activity level is to limit the amount of screen time they are allowed to watch each day. This includes television, gaming and texting. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than 2 hours a day of quality programming. To make this even easier, avoid placing a television inside of your child’s room and limit the amount of text messaging.

Enroll them in some type of physical sport or activity-Let your children see how enjoyable sporting activities can be. Allow your child to have an active role in choosing the sport. Whether it’s a team sport or individual activity, they’ll make new friends while enjoying the health benefits. Show your support by buying the necessary accessories (like special shoes, shin guards, helmets, ballet shoes, racquets, gear, etc.) Be ready to drive them to lessons and practices. Then cheer them on when they show their stuff!

Surfing - You Can Do It, Too!

2010-06-08T23:40:00.001-07:00

by Kimmie Dillon
I’ve finally figured out what it is about surfing that attracts me. Look, we all love walking the beach and listening to the waves. But there’s something more that makes me want to pull on a wetsuit and head out. It’s that the ocean is a mysterious being that dances to its own rhythm. By surfing, I am succumbing to the unyielding strength of this massive force of nature.

At first I thought why would I spend countless hours and dollars trying to get in synch with something that would never even skip a beat if I left? The surf is a natural force with no regard to anything in its path. And that’s why I’m intrigued so much by it.

Surfing is easy and like all things, just takes practice to perfect. If you get the right advice in the early days with surf lessons, you will fast track the learning curve. Although I’m still in this learning phase, I really get while people fall in love with surfing. To find a wave’s energy, to harness it and then be able to run with it-that’s what surfing is all about. I look forward to the day where I go from standing on the wave to actually drawing lines on this liquid canvas. To all of the pros out there, I sure have admiration for how you have mastered your elements.

There are those that may not call surfing an extreme sport, but I do. It’s certainly an activity where one of the main elements of pleasure is derived from an intense thrill. And don’t forget that in most extreme sports, you need some sort of precise balance and a certain element of…risk. Riding big waves is all of this and lives up to the description as an extreme sport in my eyes.

So if you want to know what it really means to completely let go and live on the edge a bit, try surfing. You’ll give in to something much bigger than you, and you’ll love every minute of it.

Radically yours,
Kimmie

Do It Yourself Concrete Staining

2010-04-26T12:35:00.000-07:00

Do it yourself concrete staining is both popular and inexpensive. With the warmer weather, now is the time to revitalize your existing surface. Staining concrete combines the best of both worlds: beauty and functionality.

TYPES OF STAIN
There are two types of concrete stains to choose from, acid stains and acrylic stains. For this particular example, I will demonstrate how to apply an acrylic stain to an old pool deck. Before you get started with your particular project, here are the materials you will need:

Broom
Stiff brush
Concrete stain (I used Behr semi-transparent in “Grotto” STC-11)
Muriatic acid
Plastic watering can
Rubber gloves
Boots
Safety goggles
TSP cleaner
Bucket
Paint roller and brush
Pressure washer, if you have one
Acrylic sealer

Can you say “lackluster?” An acrylic concrete stain will work great on this old concrete pool deck because age increases the porosoity in concrete. For newer concrete, I’ve found that acid concrete stain works the best because of the availability of free lime. Now let me show you how you can do it yourself!

LET'S GET STARTED
Use muriatic solution to clean and etch your concrete. Remember to wear protective clothing like rubber boots and gloves. Pour equal parts of muriatic acid with water into a plastic watering can.

This picture shows the concrete being sprinkled with the solution. The purpose of this step is to neutralize the concrete’s alkalinity, so let it etch for about 30 minutes before rinsing with water. If this solution comes in contact with your skin, immediately rinse it off.

*By the way, if your concrete has stubborn oil or stains, a pressure washer and a degreaser may also be needed.

Next apply your TSP cleaning solution (mixed according to the directions on the box) to the wet concrete. This will remove any residue left over from the acid wash. Use a stiff-bristle brush to scrub out all of the crevices. This doubles as a good upper-body exercise! ;-)

Rinse your surface thoroughly with fresh water. If you have access a pressure washer, even better! Once the surface is dry, the roughness should resemble that of sandpaper. Properly cleaning and rinsing your surface will allow you to admire your concrete for years to come.

Let the concrete dry for at least 48 hours and then sweep off any dust or leaves. Start by applying your concrete stain with a roller or brush in any style or pattern you desire. If a second coat is needed, wait 24 hours between coats.

You have the opportunity here to be really creative by using blending or marbling effects with your color. You can even use an accent stain for a washed and natural stone look. In this photo, I am using an old, flexible cutting board to keep the edging neat. This dull concrete is starting to look much more appealing!

As you can see, there’s an instant difference in the appeal of this pool decking! Once you’ve finished applying your acrylic concrete stain (1 or 2 coats, whichever look you like,) paint a coat of clear acrylic sealer to the dry surface. This will add durability and UV protection while enhancing the overall appearance.

I think you’ll agree: this do-it-yourself project gives you some great results. And the best part is YOU can do the job for a bunch less than you’d pay someone else. Sweet!

How to photograph your baby like a pro

2010-04-11T11:49:00.000-07:00

by Lifestyle Expert, Kimmie Dillon

One of the classic rites of parenthood is photographing the baby. Capturing those amazingly precious early days will be rewarding for generations to come. Here are some professional pointers to take your everyday snapshots to a new level.

Move in
This is one of the most important tips to create classic images. Most amateurs make the mistake of shooting from a distance. As a result, your baby typically gets lost amidst the clutter of an area. Instead, force yourself to get closer. While it may feel more comfortable to stand back, push yourself to move into their “space.” If your camera has a good zoom lens, use it to crop out everything but your baby. By following this one simple tip, you’ll capture your baby’s special personality and features.

Shoot and keep shooting!
Since we’re not shooting film anymore, there’s no reason to take only a few shots. Photographing a baby can require numerous images to get that perfect look. This is where quantity really leads to quality. With a digital camera, don’t be afraid to fill up your camera’s memory in one attempt. With photographing babies, the more pictures you take the better chance of catching that perfect moment.

Flip off the flash
What, you say? Flash lights up your subject so you can see it better, right? Well not in this situation. The cold flash of your camera will destroy your pictures. To take classic baby photographs, stick to natural light from a window or doorway. Your baby will look beautiful.

Capture the moments
Nobody grins all of the time. Not even your baby! It’s ok to capture a pout or mood, especially in baby photography. Getting that cooperative smile can present a special challenge. A rested and fed baby usually makes for the best “happy time.” Having your baby’s favorite toy can help to breakout a big smile. It also helps to have someone else stand close to encourage that precious grin. Remain patient and shoot fast. This is where using the “continuous shooting mode” on your digital camera can really help you capture that perfect image!

Don’t give up!
If you don’t capture your ideal shot the first session, keep trying! You’ll get that beautiful baby shot eventually. And remember, babies change every day so always keep your camera nearby. Make photographing your baby part of your new routine to track all of his or her phases and firsts.

A Fresh and Edible Table Centerpiece

2010-04-08T09:30:00.001-07:00

by Kimmie Dillon

I always enjoy creating edible centerpieces and now you can, too. This eye-catching flowery fruit bouquet is both beautiful and tasty. It’s also a healthy counterpoint to sweet treats. Who knows, maybe you could substitute it for that cupcake tower at your child’s next celebration?!

Using cookie cutters and a paring knife, create cantaloupe, watermelon and honeydew into floral shapes. Cut the tops off of strawberries. Now thread skewers into the melon pieces. Add grapes and berries for an additional splash of color. Enjoy being creative with a variety of fruits!

For the base, I used a head of red cabbage that I had in the fridge. You could also use the rind from your halved melon.

Place into a basket or on a plate and get ready to create your new fruit bouquet! Simply imagine the fruit stems just like a floral arrangement then start poking in the skewers. Add height, fullness and dimension.

Finishing touches could also include sliced lemons, rinsed leaves and chocolate dipped strawberries. Serve with little bowls of fruit dip or yogurt. On the flip side, I’ve also demonstrated this with veggies and ranch dip!

Enjoy this simple and sensible new décor along with our springtime weather. Great for some healthy snacking, too!

Bra Talk

2010-03-12T09:14:00.000-07:00

by Kimmie Dillon

How do you and your daughter know when it’s time for her first bra? Some girls can’t wait to get the new undergarment and want to race off to the mall. Others just dread the thought. Here is a simple guide to helping you and your “tween” approach this touchy subject.

For many girls, breast development starts somewhere between 7 to 14 years old. As a parent, the most important thing is to be sensitive and aware of her feelings. The first sign of development can be no big deal to many girls. Others will understandably feel awkward and uncomfortable. Just remember there is no “right” time to start wearing a first bra. The best time is probably when she starts to feel self-conscious without one.
Measure Up
1. Use a flexible tape to measure the diameter around the rib cage directly below the bust. This will be her frame size.
2. To determine the “Bra Size”, add 5 inches to this above number. If this new number is odd (say 27”) add another inch (now 28”) since bra sizes only come in even sizes.
3. Then measure over and around the fullest part of the breast.
4. To determine “Cup Size,” subtract the initial frame measurement (#1 above) from the breast measurement (#3 above.) Here is a general guide-
AA cup: ½” difference or less
A cup: ½” to 1” difference
B cup: 1” to 2 ½” difference
C cup: 2 ½” to3 ½” difference
D cup: 3 ½” to 4 ½” difference

The 2 of you may prefer to leave the measuring to a professional. This can be especially true, yet not limited, to single fathers. Many department stores offer professional bra fitting in their lingerie sections. Simply head to the lingerie department to have your young lady sized for her first brassiere.
Adjusting to the look
I must say “training” bras today look quite a bit different than when I was a pre-teen. Didn’t we have like 2 choices, beige and white? And extra padding and push-up features never entered into the picture. Today, many young girls are thrilled will all of the exciting styles.

Others, however, may be just the opposite and a bit more anxious about her new shape under clothing. Try offering her a tank top with a built-in shelf bra. Another solution is to introduce her to a sports bra or snug-fitting camisole. These can offer her the nipple coverage she needs at this initial stage without overwhelming her with under wires, contour cups and lacey details.

Either way, the bra needs to fit and feel right. Have her try on different brands and styles. You want her to feel comfortable and happy with her new selection.

A time to bond
Choosing your daughter’s first bra can be a memorable occasion. By encouraging your girl to be open with her thoughts and apprehensions, this will be a bonding time for both of you. What’s important is that we as parents are there for her during this time. Maybe she’ll thank you for it (don’t hold your breath) but she’ll certainly always remember the process and how you supported her (pun intended!) through it.

Tangy Arrangement

2010-03-06T23:29:00.002-07:00

by Kimmie Dillon

Creating this tangy citrus arrangement is just as simple. Use a bag of key limes ($1.99 on sale) for color and stability. You can even mix different fruits to pull in additional color.

Fill a clear container with water. Then cut floral stems to about 6” long and insert down between the fruit. For added filler, you can also enhance with clippings from your tree or garden.

Change the water daily to keep your new project fresh. If you prefer to not immerse your fruit in water, use water tubes for each flower stem. You can find these at your local grocery store or florist for just a few cents.

Horseback Riding

2010-01-30T14:39:00.003-07:00

by Kimmie Dillon

In some parts of the world, riding a horse is an essential means of transportation. In most places, however, we can enjoy our countryside by horseback and consider it an exciting outdoor adventure.

Imagine this scenario: A good horse beneath you, a blue sky above, trails and countryside out ahead in the distance. Never ridden you say? Or you had a bad stable experience when you were a child? I’m here to tell you about the wonderful world you can discover on the back of a horse. With all that goes on in our daily lives, wouldn’t it be nice to just get outside and be in harmony with nature?

I tell you this because I grew up speaking one language: HORSE. As a very young girl, I tied string like a harness and pretended to be the prancing horse pulling the wagon. At age 6, I got my first pony. Age 7 my first blue ribbon. A room-full of ribbons, saddles, trophies and buckles later, I am still hooked!

YOU can learn to ride, too. Find a local stable. Take a vacation to a dude ranch. See how cows are really gathered on an authentic cattle drive. I encourage you to do your research and find a reputable place to ride. Make the effort and you won’t be sorry.

So get outside and ride a horse. Rather than machines or cell phones, you’ll hear leather and hoof steps. .

Chomping at the bit for my next ride,
Kimmie

Fabulous and Fresh: Fruit & Veggie Centerpieces

2009-03-06T17:39:00.002-07:00

While temperatures outside may be rising, our decorating budgets are doing just the opposite. Times are lean, but that doesn’t mean your creativity has to plunge like the economy.

Here are some quick and inexpensive projects that you can make yourself.

One of my favorite ways to put winter in the rearview mirror and bring an instant uplift to the home is with fresh fruit. Incorporating fruit into a centerpiece or arrangement is a hot trend now that also soothes our senses. You can create simple, professional-looking decorations in a matter of minutes.

Here are just a few of my examples:

Dress up a plain dinner table with some bright hues. Using citrus from the tree and lemons from the farmer’s market, this table is cheery and light. Look through your own produce bin in your fridge-you never know what you might find.

Next, select a container or platter for your centerpiece; layering is even better! And remember for deeper bowls, you don’t need to waste fruit at the bottom. Use crumpled paper or foam for bulk and then layer your pretty fruit on top.

A fruit and veggie centerpiece can also doulble as an appetizer plate!

Start by shopping your local produce aisle for fresh, organic veggies. Pick a color theme and create a healthy, decorative tray. Once all of your veggies are washed and dried, arrange by colors. You can even line the bottom with cabbage leaves. Offer an array of dips in hollow-out bell peppers or squash. Now your guests can really enjoy "vegging out!"

Trail Safety in the Great Outdoors

2009-03-04T17:41:00.000-07:00

by Kimmie Dillon
The snow is melting and spring is calling. Most of us have had enough of winter and are ready to get outside.

Ok, let’s face it…we have a bit of cabin fever and are craving some fresh air. If you are looking for a great way to get outdoors, lose weight, or spend time with others-take a hike!

I’m writing this to encourage you to dust off your hiking stick and start planning your mountain trek. As with any outdoor adventure, preparation is the key. Here are some tips to help make your outing enjoyable and safe:

Weather
Springtime hiking is a thrill but can also be wet. While our days may be bright and warm, many trails will still be muddy. It’s important to check your local conditions by visiting http://www.nws.noaa.gov/. Always remember that spring rains can make for some hazardous water crossings.

Mud
Summer-like conditions can lead to snow melt and mud on many trails. During this mucky period, it’s often best to look for trails at lower elevations with southern exposure. Hikers should seek out areas with well-draining soils. In general, until the leaves return, hardwood forests receive more sunlight than coniferous forests and will usually be the driest of the trails. Be aware of bridges and sections of trails that may have washed away with adverse conditions. If you plan to cross a creek, unbuckle your waist belt and loosen the shoulder strap of your pack.

By the way, creeks are usually at their lowest levels in the early mornings.

Gear
Before heading out, be sure to grease up your hiking boots so they’ll shed water efficiently. Gaiters are a good idea to help keep muck out of your boots and socks. A hiking stick will help you with your balance at times. Sun block and bug spray can be priceless. I admit that it’s obvious, but food, water and a mini first-aid kid should always be packed.

Navigation
It’s refreshing to go out and get lost in the woods…but not literally. Even if you only plan to follow well-marked trails, it’s wise to have some navigational skills. Getting lost can be a very scary and possibly dangerous situation. Even if you’re familiar with the area, it’s a good idea to have a local map. A compass is a must-have and will keep you headed home on the right course. A modern GPS device is also a good investment if you plan to very far into the hills. Along with a good topo map, a GPS can pinpoint your exact location. Finally, do you have memories of learning how to spot the big dipper? Remember to find north, look for the clear star at the end of the big dipper.

Finally, for some up-to-date information on trails, here are some helpful links:
http://www.nps.gov/
http://www.fs.fed.us/

Sounds a lot better than that stair walker, doesn’t it?
Have fun!