Love is in the air! And most of us think about only spending Valentine’s dinners with our significant others. Which for me, is what I love.

But how about also hosting a party the “week of” Valentine’s Day for the friends you love?

Read more, below, but first of all I really want to thank LoveFeast Table for being a part of RE today!

I’ve done this several years in a row, and last year we were invited to our friends’, where we got to meet 2 new couples! It was awesome because I didn’t have to be the hostess, but got to be the guest!

Here are some simple tips for hosting a Valentine’s Dinner Party:

-Get together with your spouse and decide who you want to invite, and remember that just because it’s Valentine’s Day, the list doesn’t have to include couples! Think about your single friends as well.

-Make it as easy on yourself. Invite early so everyone can get the “date” on the calendar. Use Evite.com for new friends, because you can attach a map to your house. You include party details, add your guest list, click and send. It’s that easy!

-Is it possible to move your table to a new area? In my case, not really (though for summer outdoor entertaining, yes!) Change it up a bit and make it special!

-I used my wedding dishes (standard white) and of course, Dollar Store goblets, and added in red accents. And I also added the adorable HeartGrams (giveaway today, read more, below). Pretty decorating.

-Think of a simple meal you can either make ahead of time like lasagna or even spaghetti (Lady and the Tramp?), or one that only takes a few minutes like my QUICK Angel Hair Shrimp Scampi recipe found in my book (and so easy!) Buy fresh pasta and bread and you’re set!

-Ask your guests to each bring a bottle of wine or beverage of choice, or a light appetizer. You could even ask for a platter of strawberry-dipped chocolates to pass around while you’re rinsing the dishes and preparing for the next course: dessert!

-Store-bought desserts can be tantalizing if fresh and unique. IE, we have a store in Ashland, Oregon called Market of Choice. They have killer desserts that are perfect for last-minute parties, to just bring home, and serve on your own beautiful glass pedestal or serving platter.

-Conversation will just roll … it always does. Remember this dinner party is not designed for Valentine’s Day (you should be out with your sweetie!), but for the “week of.” Spread love, through encouraging words, and make your guests feel special!

Mix it up, both couples and singles, and just enjoy a great night together, with all the hearts, red and white touches, and a “love is in the air” attitude.

WHAT TO WIN:
One set of LoveFeast’s heart shaped velvet pumpkins (The HeartGram set comes with a 5in. Crimson and a 4in. Rose velvet, plush heart pumpkin. Each package contains apersonalize-able vintage inspired postcard and is tied with a satin ribbon. They are an excellent idea for an anniversary or any time you want to send a bit of love. You can read more about them, HERE.

HOW TO WIN:
Answer this question in a comment on this post.

If you were hosting a Valentine’s Dinner Party for 6 or 7, what would you serve?

EXTRA CHANCES TO WIN (1 extra chance each, please come back and comment and tell me):
Follow Reluctant Entertainer on Facebook
Follow LoveFeast Table on Facebook (Please tell them I sent you over!)
Follow LoveFeast on Twitter
Follow SandyCoughlinRE on Twitter
Tweet this:

Heartgram giveaway @SandyCoughlinRE thanks to @LoveFeast What would you serve for VD dinner party? http://su.pr/ALGUnZ #giveaway

Good luck, Friends!

US only. This post is sponsored by LoveFeast Table today. Contest ends 2/8/12 at midnight. Winner announced on 2/9/12.

Paperwhites … mine are growing nice and tall in the punch bowl I planted them in a few weeks back.

I love the crisp white of the flower.

It’s a good reminder that spring is on its way, as I walk by our piano and see these beauties standing nice and tall.

But … what’s the secret to getting them to stand so tall and pretty, without falling over?

F I S H I N G L I N E !!!

Clear fishing line.

Tie a piece around the middle.

You can barely see the knot.

And no one will even know!

If you planted bulbs this winter, have you thought about using fishing line, how are the bulbs growing, and would you share a picture of them over on my Reluctant Entertainer Facebook page?

I’m so happy to announce the winner to Nester’s Winter Giveaway Day who won the KitchenAid® 13-cup Food Processor:

Congratulations to …

Debbie Smith

Have I told you how much I love my “contour silver” 13-Cup Food Processor by KitchenAid®?

And if you are the lucky winner, you will, too!

And how excited I am when “giveaway day” rolls around over at Nesting Place? If you haven’t visited Nester’s place for one of her giveaways, head on over now and take a peek at ALL that you can win, including this KitchenAid® 13-Cup Food Processor!

I’ve really been enjoying my 13-cup Food Processor since Christmas, because it’s designed for precise slicing.

Here I am slicing 5 pounds of onions for my French Onion and Apple Soup (recipe to come on RE and it’s really yummy! and a good one to make for you and your sweetie for Valentine’s Day).

By sliding the switch, you choose the width you need for slicing, thick or thin!

There are also different blades you can use for either soft or hard foods. Brilliant!

Some other features are:
-The 3-in-1 Ultra Wide Mouth Feed Tube adjusts to three different widths for processing foods horizontally or vertically.
-Two Work Bowls – The BPA-free 13-cup (3.1 L) work bowl, 4-cup (0.9 L) mini bowl and lid allow the processing of large or small batches quickly.
-All the parts are easy to clean and dishwasher safe.
-Comfort design side handle for easy viewing.
-Optimized speeds for better results.
-Heavy duty base.

Today you may be the winner and YOU’LL GET TO CHOOSE YOUR OWN COLOR!

WHAT TO WIN:
KitchenAid® 13-Cup Food Processor; externally adjustable slicing disc, reversible shredding disc, multipurpose blade and mini blade; dough blade; BPA-free 13-cup work bowl and 4-cup mini bowl; 3-in-1 ultra wide mouth feed tube; storage case – $249.99 value.

HOW TO ENTER:
1. Leave a comment telling us what recipe you will make first if you won this 13-cup Food Processor and what color you’d choose?

-Silver
-Red
-Black
-White

Optional Entries: (You must leave a separate comment for EACH additional entry to count)
2. Follow Sandy Coughlin on TWITTER (@SandyCoughlinRE)
3. RT the following:

Win a 13-cup @KitchenAidUSA food processor @SandyCoughlinRE today, via @TheNester http://su.pr/2aQJjN #giveaway

4. Follow KitchenAid on TWITTER (@KitchenAidUSA)
5. Follow Sandy Coughlin on PINTEREST and PIN one of these photos from this post.
6. Like Reluctant Entertainer page on FACEBOOK.
7. Like KitchenAid page on FACEBOOK. Leave a comment on their wall telling them that Reluctant Entertainer sent you.
8. Become a NEW follower of RE blog (sign up for daily updates delivered to your email box; sidebar of RE, enter your email address)

(This giveaway is sponsored by KitchenAid® but they did not pay me to write this post today. And remember that you can enter as many giveaways as you’d like over at Nesting Place. Giveaway ends Thursday, Januray 26, at midnight. Contest is open to US residents..)

Today’s a fantastic day at RE because we’re giving away some beautiful gifts.

If you are seeking a wonderful gift for the treasured women in your life this holiday season, then look no further. One of the simplest pleasures of celebrating the holidays is giving to others.

The holidays can be occasions to connect deeply with God and one another, and to express creativity and appreciation, and to eat, laugh, enjoy – and to give.

I highly recommend any of these delightful gift ideas if you’ve not completed your shopping yet!

Where Women Cook: Celebrate!: Extraordinary Women & Their Signature Recipes

The newly released Where Women Cook: Celebrate! is a unique book showcasing 28 inspiring women. The book takes a peek into their kitchens, hearts and homes! Filled with stunning illustrations, heart-warming quotes, and mouth-watering recipes – this is a gift to be used for years to come to refer to for meal ideas and inspiration!

The stories alone make it a book I will keep in the basket where warm and cozy books sit, just waiting to be read. The recipes which go along with the stories are also fantastic. And did I tell you that RE has a featured dinner party included in the book, too? Very exciting … I’ll share a few of the pages with you.

WIN: One signed copy of Where Women Cook: Celebrate!

SDG Artistry

Original wall art by SDG Artistry. Create your original artwork by arranging alphabet tiles and original artwork tiles by artist Sherri Ohler. Aged tiles with iron rings hang on an iron rod with wonderful decorative glass finials. Get creative and have fun!

WIN:Letter Tiles N O E L
All hanging by Hand Rusted Rings from over 5 feet of Mixed Greens Garland with Pine Cones & Red Berries
Shipped in time for Christmas
Retail value is approximately $140.

HIP HOSTESS APRON

Debbie, from The Hip Hostess, has opened an Hip Hostess Etsy Shop, and she’s now doing custom orders and one-of-a-kinds. Brilliant idea, so for custom orders, you can go, HERE.

Today we’re giving away a really pretty apron that’s never been on the Hip Hostess website, and I think you will like it.

WIN: A beautiful Aqua Toile, just in time for Christmas.

HOW TO WIN (one of 3)

ANSWER …

Do you tend to give more inspirational gifts or more practical gifts for the holidays?

EXTRA CHANCES TO WIN
-Like The Hip Hostess on Facebook
-Like Where Women Cook on Facebook
-Like Reluctant Entertainer on Facebook
-Like SDG Artistry on Facebook
-Blog about this giveaway
-Tweet this giveaway:

Come win @SDGArtistry @WhereWomenCook @TheHipHostess gifts at @SandyCoughlinRE today! http://su.pr/2YQwDY #giveaway

Come back and tell us about each entry.

Winners will be announced on 12/15/11.

Last month I was able to visit Harry and David’s business in my hometown, Medford, Oregon. Harry and David are fabulous gift givers–I know because I was given a beautiful Harvest to Holidays gift basket featuring Martha Stewart’s new book Pies and Tarts.

I want to let readers know that Harry and David offers many baskets on their site, where you can choose which one and price works within your budget! It’s a very beautiful site and easy to navigate through.

But let me back up a bit. In the afternoon of our visit I was able to actually tour the gift basket department, as we got to make one of our own. Harry and David is trying to give an entire gift experience, so the packaging and the personalization of the gifts is important.

So lovely.

I adored meeting Pauline, who has worked at H&D for years. She even knew my 92 year-old Auntie who was a retiring supervisor (she devoted her life to H&D) just as she was coming to work there, many years ago.

They have a very elaborate process for packing the baskets and it goes like this.

You follow a chart, pack the basket, and then tuck the plastic around the basket so it won’t unravel.

There’s always a personalized note with the name of the person who packed the basket.

The ribbon gets tied and then a beautiful bow is wrapped around the basket … the finished product! (Every single bow is hand-tied to perfection!)

Here’s my friend, Sarah, who lives in Portland, Oregon and blogs at Go Gingham. We were basket-packing partners and had a great time together.

And Selena, from The Farm Chicks, also working with Pauline.

Because I’m excited to share the bounty and my H&D experience with my readers, I asked H&D if I could give away the same Harvest to Holidays basket away on RE, so are you ready to WIN?

And are you ready to kick off the holiday hospitality season?

Harry and David’s Harvest to Holidays gift basket is a perfect gift for the person who loves hospitality. One lucky winner will WIN this beautiful basket (value $139.95) which includes the following items and Martha Stewart’s Pies and Tarts cookbook. Thank you H&D!

6 Royal Riviera® Pears
3 beautiful Apples
Truffles (4 oz.)
Mixed Nuts (4 oz.)
Milk Chocolate Moose Munch® Snack (10 oz.)
Three-Seed Crackers (4 oz.)
Sharp White Cheddar Cheese (5 oz.)
Havarti Cheese (6 oz.)
Honey Hot Mustard (3.25 oz.)
Pepper and Onion Relish (10 oz.)
Black Pepper Dry Salami (8 oz.)
Keepsake Towel
Martha Stewart’s Pies & Tarts cookbook

ANSWER TO WIN

Tell me the first thing on your baking list that you’ll be making for the holidays? And, will you be giving it away?

Leave a comment and I will announce a winner on Friday, November 18th. You have until 11:59 pm on 11/17/11 (PST) to enter. U.S. residents only please. (Sorry non U.S. friends, there are specific rules about sending fruit across borders.)

EXTRA CHANCES TO WIN
1- “Like” Reluctant Entertainer on Facebook
2- “Like” Harry and David on Facebook
3- Tweet this giveaway:

Come WIN Harvest to Holiday gift basket with @HarryandDavid @MarthaStewart @SandyCoughlinRE http://su.pr/AHtIBu #giveaway

This giveaway is sponsored by H&D. They did not pay me to write this post today.

Happy November 1, friends! I’m excited for today, because it’s GIVEAWAY DAY (hosted by, and a big thank you to The Nester at Nesting Place, if she sent you over).

With many entertaining moments right around the corner, I want to encourage RE readers (by giving away a signed copy of my book) to reach out this month, to invite others into your home, to keep simplicity in mind by planning an easy menu, and not feeling like you have to do it all by yourself.

One secret to successful entertaining is to be relaxed and engaged when you greet your guests at the front door – something that often does not happen when there are too many details that we sweat about, or when we are frazzled from our preparations!

A simpler approach will help you enjoy your guests more, without a whole lot of fuss or formality and without feeling like you’re a slave in your own kitchen. – The Reluctant Entertainer

How can you make entertaining easier?

KitchenAid is here supporting my message, “The Power of Simplicity” by giving away this beautiful product, a beautiful 13-cup Food Processor, highlighting its revolutionary features, including an externally adjustable slicing blade.

I’ve found that having efficient tools and appliances in the kitchen definitely makes for easier preparation, and makes my experience in the kitchen much more enjoyable.

So … Here’s what we are giving away today.

KitchenAid® NEW 13-Cup Food Processor, designed for precise slicing

• First Ever and Only Externally Adjustable Slicing – Easily adjust from thin to thick slicing by simply sliding the lever from left to right.

• Optimized Speeds for Better Results – The uniquely designed blade and multiple speeds give precise slicing and accuracy for soft and hard foods.

• The Only 3-in-1 Ultra Wide Mouth™ Feed Tube – Adjusts to three different widths for processing foods horizontally or vertically.

A copy of my book, The Reluctant Entertainer, signed to whoever you’d like.

Here’s HOW to WIN the NEW KitchenAid® 13-Cup Food Processor & the book, The Reluctant Entertainer

1. COMMENT: What’s your favorite appliance in your kitchen that you cannot live without?

2. Join our Facebook pages and leave a comment telling me that you did (Reluctant Entertainer and KitchenAid).
{If you’re already a member, leave a comment. You guys get one too!}

3. Follow us on Twitter and leave a comment telling me you did. @SandyCoughlinRE and @KitchenAidUSA
{If you’re already a follower, leave a comment. You guys get one too!}

4. Facebook about the giveaway, and leave a comment, telling me you did.

5. Tweet about the giveaway, and leave a comment telling me you did.
RETWEET THIS: 13-cup Food Processor GIVEAWAY @SandyCoughlinRE and @KitchenAidUSA today. http://su.pr/2UcW0b #giveaway

6. Blog about the giveaway, and leave a comment telling me you did.

It’s your choice to just comment, or do all of the above. That’s a lot of chances to win today! GOOD LUCK, Friends!

Contest ends Thursday, November 3, 2011 at 11:59 PM. Winner will be announced Saturday the November 5, 2011.

The Nester is featuring all of her sponsors today over at Nesting Place, so head over there for a kazillion more giveaways and chances to enter for some incredible prizes. You can enter as many as you’d like! Go for it! Perfect way to get some early Christmas shopping done. KitchenAid provided this giveaway item today, but they did not pay me to write this post.

My friend, Melissa, from The Inspired Room, just wrote her first eBook and I could’t be more proud of her accomplishment. It’s long past due and today 3 people get the chance to WIN a copy!

Melissa’s simple approach to authentic living is inspiring and catching! Through her new ebook creation, Not a DYI Diva, she encourages us to find our own way of homemaking, by not letting perfectionism get in the way.

She shows, in a beautiful way, that hospitality matters and starts with us–in our homes, in the ways we show people we care, and in our attitudes toward others in our everyday lives.

I love this! I hope everyone buys her book because it’s fantastic!

Yes, warm connections start in the home. And with or without a family, I love the thought of helping teach the next generation the importance of living an authentic life.

Today Melissa and I are giving away 3 copies of her new book!

If you can’t wait to see if you’re one of the winners, head over to The Inspired Room to purchase your copy for $3.99 and check out Melissa’s comment contest going on.

COMMENT:
In what ways do you struggle with perfectionism when it comes to being hospitable in your own home? Or, do you feel that your attitude has anything to do with being a hospitable person?

TWEET:
Tweet this giveaway today (1 entry)

FACEBOOK:
Become a new friend of The Inspired Room on Facebook (1 entry)
Become a new friend of Reluctant Entertainer on Facebook (1 entry)

(contest ends Wednesday at midnight, 10/26/11)

Keep up with all the 31 Days of Warm Connections, HERE.

If you want to change up your menu a bit for Thanksgiving this year, you’re going to love this post today! (And a cool giveaway.)

Recently I was in Montana with these friends, who I consider very “warm” friends. I never dreamed I’d have friends all over the country when I started blogging 5 years ago, the connections being far more than acquaintances. This group in particular is like family.

(Cheryl, Katie, Aggie, and me)

What are warm friends? When there are feelings of acceptance, love, lots of hugs, smiles, laughter, compliments, invitations, conversation, and encouragement.

Today I want to share with you Jeffrey Saad’s Cumin Chicken with Bush’s Black Bean Stuffing recipe. It’s fantastic and a different alternative for Thanksgiving next month.

It even tasted better cooking it in the great outdoors. (Here’s Jeffrey and his beautiful wife, Nadia, with Aggie, from Aggie’s Kitchen.)

Are you comfortable cutting up a whole chicken? We got a great lesson from Jeffrey on how to cut a chicken. (That’s Aggie, again, proud of her accomplishment.)

We did get a little silly (Mm-m-m, that would be Tidy Mom.)

And then we did some grilling. We had 2 variations of the recipe, both turning out fantastic.

(That’s Amy, Laura, Cheryl, Kristin.)

The taste and flavor from tossing the tortillas on the grill, and mixing in with the peppers to make a “stuffing” was brilliant!

Now for the GIVEAWAY …

This is what you can WIN:
Staub Grill Pan
Fabulous Apron
Silpat
Bean Strainer
Recipes made at the event
Various spices to the make recipes
Coupons for free cans of Bush’s Beans

To enter, simply leave a comment:
Do you know how to cut up a whole chicken?
What’s your favorite “beans” recipe, using chicken?

It’s that easy! Giveaway will end on Wednesday, October 26th at midnight.

(Top photo of the Bush’s group courtesy of Crackle Photography.)

The invitations have been sent, the menu planned, groceries in the fridge.

You spend the day cooking and preparing for the guests you’ve invited to dinner.

About an hour before they are to arrive, it’s time to wrap up the final details and get yourself ready!

(Btw, the cake recipe above is in my book. Mm-m-m, good.)

Ding-Dong.

The doorbell rings and your guests are at the front door.

Do you feel ready for company or are you frazzled and in the same clothes you’ve had on all day?

Ever want that designer look, but you don’t have a fortune to spend on expensive, designer silver jewelry?

My friend Melody Davis started her business, Designz Divine, so that women would have affordable options for dressing up their wardrobes, designer style! One piece of classic jewelry can really enhance your wardrobe. She offers a 30 Day Money Back Guarantee and a One Year No Worry Warranty on all products and a portion of all sales is donated to charity to help others in need. I love her heart. (This month, a portion of all proceeds goes to support the Salvation Army, which provides all types of humanitarian relief here in the United States.)

Melody’s biz, Designz Divine, offers high end, high quality, designer inspired sterling silver, gold and rhodium jewelry for a fraction of the cost of the real thing so you can dress like a million bucks without breaking the bank.

After receiving a beautiful bracelet which I love from Melody, and seeing the quality of her product, today I am thrilled to host a beautiful giveaway from Melody to you.

Her jewelry is affordable and would make a perfect birthday gift for a friend, or keep in mind that Christmas is right around the corner!

Remember, always feel your best when entertaining and wear what you love, so you feel not only good about your party, but about yourself, too. And the trick to accessorizing well is in finding a piece that you can wear with the majority of your wardrobe- whether dressed up or down.

Here’s what we’re giving away today:

A Tiffany-inspired pendant necklace and a pair of sparkle stud earrings (cubic zirconia). Value $129 for the pair. From Designz Divine.

HOW TO WIN the above beautiful jewelry!

1. Answer this question – 1 ENTRY

Does it matter to you whether you freshen up before your company arrives for dinner? And what does freshening up mean to you?

2. Like “Designz Divine” Facebook page and tell us (over on FB) how you like to accessorize when entertaining? Come back and let us know here that you commented. – 1 EXTRA Entry

3. Tweet this giveaway – 1 EXTRA Entry

Win beautiful jewelry by Designz Divine over at @SandyCoughlinRE ‘s today. http://su.pr/2fu35g #giveaway

Added BONUS
Melody will be pulling an additional winner from her Facebook page, so there are several ways of winning today when you leave a comment here and there. Very exciting!

Contest ends Wednesday, Sept. 28, at midnight.

There’s a new publication that hit the stands today by USA Today, designed specifically for women.

It’s called Your Life: Guide to Women’s Health.

Christine Neff, from USA Today, wrote an excellent article in this fabulous magazine called, “Holiday Entertaining Made Easy!”

I’m honored that she included RE as part of the interview on each beautiful page of this feature.

Take a peek at these fabulous pages!

There are fantastic recipes, tips on bringing the outdoors in, simplifying during the holidays, staying sane and “putting perfections aside,” and most importantly, realizing the benefits of entertaining.

There are so many benefits to entertaining, the most obvious in my opinion being forging beautiful relationships!

Your Life is also full of good eats, tips, advice, and plenty of reminders that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

Which brings us to our GIVEAWAY here today!

Do you own a stand mixer by KitchenAid? I think I’ve owned a couple in my 30 years of entertaining. I just wear them out, they’re used so much for baking, cooking, and canning. I tend to think of my KA as a friend, who I rely heavily upon.

Today in celebration of RE featured in USA Today, KitchenAid is giving away a 7-quart Stand Mixer. This product is brand new, so the winner will be one of the first to own it.

Here are the details (winner gets to choose between silver, black, or red):

KitchenAid’s Best Performing Stand Mixer
• Our Most Powerful, Quietest Available – 1.3HP high efficiency DC motor is designed to run longer and delivers optimum torque with less at build-up. Easily handles recipes requiring longer mixing, kneading and whipping times. The all-metal, precise gear design produces a smooth, quiet sound.
• Our Longest Lasting – Designed for long life of high performance; backed by 2 year hassle-free replacement warranty.
• Our Most Efficient – Advanced feedback control communicates in micro seconds to the motor to ensure optimal power is delivered to the bowl.

Professional-Style Attachment Power Hub
Fits all current KitchenAid® attachments and future larger capacity commercial-style attachments

Largest Capacity Residential Bowl-Lift Available 7-Quart (6.6 L)
• Handles 8 ½ lbs of mashed potatoes, 8 ½ loaves of bread, 14 dozen cookies.

Dishwasher Safe Accessories
Maximize bowl coverage with the stainless steel 11-wire Elliptical Whip, coated metal Flat Beater and Power Knead™ Dough Hook. Handles small and large jobs equally well.

Cooking for the Cure, presented by KitchenAid, reminds us that cooking with a purpose (and supporting the Cure) helps to bring an end to breast cancer in our lifetime.

Oh, how do I believe in this. My mom had breast cancer, and then ovarian cancer took her life. So cancer is fresh in our family and a reminder that we need to do all we can to help.

–CONTEST IS OVER, COMMENTS ARE NOW CLOSED. THANK YOU!–

HOW TO ENTER THIS CONTEST TODAY – ANSWER TO WIN:

When you host holiday parties, do you make everything yourself or do more of a potluck affair where everyone brings something to share?

EXTRA WAYS TO WIN/PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD:

1. Retweet (copy and paste):

Thank you @KitchenAidUSA @SandyCoughlinRE @USATYourLife 7-qt Stand Mixer Giveaway! http://su.pr/2HzeqE ‎#giveaway

2. Like Reluctant Entertainer Facebook page

3. Like KitchenAid Facebook page

4. Like USA Today Your Life Facebook page.

5. Post about this giveaway on your blog. (You can use one of my pictures.)

6. Share this giveaway on your Facebook page. (Post this link.)

On extra entries, come back and tell us in a separate comment.

Contest Ends this Friday at midnight, September 23, 2011. This post is sponsored by KitchenAid.

It’s here! Balcony Girls eBook 2 is now complete and available for $9.95.

Six years ago I opened my home once a week during the school year to a group of elementary-aged girls (these girls are now in High School). You can read more about The Balcony Girls, HERE.

Balcony Girls teaches pre-teen and teen girls about the deeper meaning of friendships, how to grow their faith, and how to stand by their friends during these difficult years as a growing girl. Each Balcony Girls afternoon consists of a lesson, craft or snack idea, a game or object lesson that goes along with the study, and tips, ideas and instruction on how to make it all personally impacting for the girls.

I’m thankful for my friends who are here helping celebrate today: The Hip Hostess, Bakerella, and Red Letter Words.

LOOK WHAT YOU CAN WIN!
1. Copy of BG2 (4 winners)
2. Cake Pops Book by Bakerella (1 winner)
3. The Hip Hostess NEW Cafe Apron (1 winner)
4. “A Friend Loves at All Times” plaque from Red Letter Words (1 winner)
5. The Reluctant Entertainer (1 winner)

Just in time for a new school year, BG2 has 8 brand new lessons::
{Lesson 1: Hospitality is a Gift} – HOSPITALITY
{Lesson 2: Speak Up and Stand Up For Yourself & Others} – ASSERTIVENESS
{Lesson 3: Steadiness with Moody and Prickly Friends} – STEADFASTNESS
{Lesson 4: Respect is What you Offer a Friend} – RESPECTFULNESS
{Lesson 5: How to Protect Yourself from the Bully} – COURAGE
{Lesson 6: Being Perceptive About Friendships} – PERCEPTIVENESS
{Lesson 7: Giving Thanks Makes for Happier Girls} – THANKFULNESS
{Lesson 8: Learning Forgiveness in the Garden} – FORGIVENESS

If you don’t have Balcony Girls 1, you can purchase this eBook, HERE, which covers these virtues: Caring, Self-discipline, Trustworthiness, Confidence, Self-esteem, Unity, Authenticity, and Friendship.

MORE DETAILS ABOUT THE GIVEAWAY …

Red Letter Words. Excellent gift/reminder for the group of girls.
Dee offers custom designs based on your favorite scripture, travel destination, street names, family mottos or any other combination of words that speaks to your heart. Look at her JUST FOR GIRLS page?

Dee is GIVING AWAY “A Friend Loves at All Times.” (photo above/USE CODE: BG215 good for 15% off through 10-31-11; not valid on custom prints)

Bakerella. Cake Pops Book. Fun recipes to try with your Balcony Girls group.
What’s cuter than a cupcake? A cake pop, of course! My friend, Bakerella (aka Angie Dudley), has turned cake pops into an international sensation! Cute little cakes on a stick from decorated balls to more ambitious shapes such as baby chicks, ice cream cones, and even cupcakes, these adorable creations are the perfect alternative to cake at any party or get-together. I love the spirit of Bakerella, and also the fact that my friend is doing so well after her recent kidney transplant! God is good.

Angie is GIVING AWAY a copy of her “Cake Pops” book.

Hip Hostess Apron. As the Mom or Leader, tie this on when hosting your Balcony Girls group.
-Debbie’s Café Style Aprons are top-notch quality!
-4 Full front pockets to stash your stuff
-Darts at the waist for a comfy fit
-Extra long ties to wrap up front or tie in back
-Wear it high at the waist or low on the hip
-Comes neatly folded and tied with coordinating grosgrain ribbon

Debbie is GIVING AWAY this apricot beauty!

The Reluctant Entertainer. A book that will help you get over your fears in opening up your home.
I’m happy to give a signed copy to the reluctant or apprehensive person who struggles in the art of hospitality. You’ll find genuine encouragement and advice in this book, emphasizing the forgotten goal of entertaining – connecting deeply with others. I’ll help you create memorable experiences for both you and your group of girls.

ANSWER TO WIN:
Are you interesting in starting a girls group, have you already incorporated BG curriculum, or do you know someone who might be interested in starting a BG group?

EXTRA ENTRIES:
Retweet this for 1 extra entry (copy and paste):

Balcony Girls 2 eBook GIVEAWAY @SandyCoughlinRE @Bakerella @RedLetterArt @TheHipHostess http://su.pr/1991KN #giveaway

Answer to win, and if you retweet, please come back and tell me.

Giveaway ends 9-19-11 at midnight. USA, only.

I’d be very grateful if you’d please pass this on to your friends who have girls or who may be interested in starting a BG group!

Thank you, friends!

Thank you Deanna Garretson, who put up with my busy schedule and did a fabulous job on BG1 and BG2.

Are you a friend of Reluctant Entertainer’s Facebook page?

In my recent post about REI, what we call the “outdoor candy store for the entire family,” I wrote about the services, products, and activities that they offer.

We have an older VW Westfalia pop-up camper that we camp in. My husband will take the boys out fishing and they’ll spend the night, or he and I will take a 24-hour camping date night trip. Our boys recently went on a backpacking trip, and when our kids were little we camped a lot as an entire family. Now that we have 3 teens, and with jobs and sports, it’s hard for us to all get to the great outdoors together, unless it’s a planned vacation.

The beauty of camping for our family, over the past 15 years, is that it can lead to the best conversations around the fire. It’s not always perfect and clean, and you learn to roll with the punches. Weather can change on you, but if you’re dry and warm, it’s all good. The food always tastes better. The air feels fresher and the fires add an element of surprise and wonder, especially for the kids.

Camping creates unity and I’m thankful for the years our family has made outdoor memories this way. Having the right “gear” definitely adds an element of comfort and ease.

Going through REI on my shopping spree was a blast. And head to the end of the post where you can enter to win your own shopping spree!

Of course the COOKING section was my favorite.

I love the heavy-duty Dutch ovens.

We bought new retractable forks for roasting marshmallows for S’mores.

My husband and I love coffee in the outdoors. So we purchased a brand new French Press just for the VW. We think coffee never tastes as good as when you’re by a fire outside enjoying nature.

Our boys stocked up on backpack foods for a 5-day trip they just went on.

I bought a brand new pair of Scott sunglasses.

My daughter was able to get a new bag for her computer. Love the bright colors they offer.

The store is filled with camping, cycling, hiking, climbing, water and skiing and outdoor clothing and shoes, tents and sleeping bags … you name it.

REI is an outdoor candy store for the entire family, and I’m really hoping that we get one soon in my area. For now we have to travel up to Portland.

What outdoor activity do you pledge to do with your family this summer and how would a $100 REI gift card help you get there?

Take the REI Outdoor Pledge (below) and submit your comment to be entered.

No duplicate comments.

You may receive (2) total entries by selecting from the following entry methods:
a) Leave a comment in response to the sweepstakes prompt on this post
b) Tweet about this promotion and leave the URL to that tweet in a comment on this post
c) Blog about this promotion and leave the URL to that post in a comment on this post
d) For those with no Twitter or blog, read the official rules to learn about an alternate form of entry.

This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older and runs from 9/7 – 9/27 .
Winners will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by e-mail.
You have 72 hours to get back to me, otherwise a new winner will be selected.
The Official Rules are available here
Head to the BlogHer Roundup Page for more chances to win.

My friend, Laura from OrgJunkie.com and I go way back (2006). She was one of my first blogging friends (even though we’ve never met) and now she has a fantastic book out called Clutter Rehab, 101 Tips and Tricks to Become an Organization Junkie and Love It!

Today I’m giving away 3 copies of Laura’s book!

Exciting! I love so many of her organizing tips. Here are some of my favorites:

3. Consolidate everything (using containers)
12. Put vertical dividers in the kitchen cupboards
18. Have a donation station
38. Work together with a friend for inspiration and motivation
46. Toss your junk mail right away
50. If You haven’t used something in a year, get rid of it
62. Embrace plan B and let go of perfectionism
80. Think about your habits
89. Organize your pantry

I love 92. Invite company over for motivation

I have a hard time with 99. Focus

And I appreciate 101. Use multitasking wisely

Memory Binders
What I want to share today is #56: Use memory binders to organize your kids’ memories or keepsakes

Laura and I have shared the same method and since about 2000, I will say my kids’ memories are stored and there’s easy access for reading through the binders. It’s a fabulous way, and so easy, if you have kids. This might be a new concept to some of you, but my faithful readers have heard me chat about this for years.

My friend, Heidi, recently reminded me of one thing we both have in common. I have 3 teenagers and she has 3 kids under the age of 5, but we both are not crazy about the time involved in scrapbooking, and wanted to incorporate our kids’ memories into something tangible, with easy access for both us and for our kids’ enjoyment. (I thumbed through my oldest son’s book one year ago as we sent him off to college, and found a very sentimental letter. I try to fill the books with anything memorable that will be fun for the kids to look at as they get older.)

That’s when I posted several years back about making easy, very inexpensive Memory Binders for your kids.

-Heidi wrote me last week and sent me a picture of her books, and I love how she organized them by her kids’ ages.

-My books are organized by my kids’ school years.

-Either way, I’m linking to my original post, but here are the simple supplies that you will need.

Supplies to buy for creating Memory Binders
2” white binders from Costco (4 in a pack)
Scrapbook paper (or plain colored paper)
1 box sheet protectors
Starting with Pre-K, I have saved art, special memories, class pictures, sports awards, first book report, every report card, articles their dad has written – you name it, and have filed these papers into these books.

Answer this question to WIN a Clutter Rehab Book (3 winners)

In what area do you need help with organization?

Extra entry by retweeting this:

Clutter Rehab book giveaway @SandyCoughlinRE @OrgJunkie today. Come Win a copy! http://su.pr/2U4ftG #giveaway

And liking “RE” Facebook page.

Also liking “Org Junkie’s” Facebook page.

Make sure and come back and let me know.

Good Luck to all! 3 AWESOME books … you will be a happy, organized person when you are done reading this book, whoever you are!

Drawing ends Saturday night at midnight, 9/3/11. Winner announced on Monday, 9/5/11.

I’m so excited to tell you about a nifty new napkin that I’ve found, one that I love for summer entertaining.

They are called MyDrap Napkins and they are brilliant!

They are cotton-linen napkins that tear off a roll. They can be washed 5-6 times and reused and then are just thrown away.

You can see where I washed them, here.

And then ironed them, here.

They look like fine cotton napkins, even edged in white, and are perfect for so many occasions when you don’t want to use your fine linen napkins.

They are perfect for cocktail and dinner parties, as well as picnics, dinners on the beach — whatever and whenever!.

They are made from fibers obtained from the flowers of flax and cotton plants and are biodegradable.

So many pretty colors and patterns to choose from.

The already used (I washed and ironed them) napkins were perfect, as I folded them over like an appetizer napkin.

We enjoyed some cherries out by the pool. By the way, have I told you how much I love cherries? They are messy to can, but OH, so delicious! Do you ever sit outside with a bowl of fruit and just nibble away? It’s one of my favorite things to do in the summertime.

And enjoying a bowl of fruit is even better when you’re in the presence of a friend!

Have you heard of MyDrap Tearoff Napkins and would you want to give them a try?

(MyDrap did not pay me to write this post today.They are a bit expensive, but I wanted to give them a try to see what the buzz was all about. I heard about them first (can’t remember exact source) in a magazine this past Spring.)

There are two more day left in my 30 Days to Summer Entertaining series, and to help celebrate all of YOU for participating and leaving your lovely comments, I’m giving away a signed copy of my book, The Reluctant Entertainer, and a beautiful Hip Hostess apron.

An easy way to celebrate summer and friends is to put a bowl of fresh fruit out on the table.

A centerpiece or casual appetizer.

It’s beautiful.

It’s inviting.

It’s tasty and fresh.

Today summer entertaining is about enjoying the strawberries from my garden, cooking and inviting others over to celebrate friendships.

They can be so sweet!

Comment to WIN
What do you love about summer entertaining?

6 Extra chances to WIN
1. Retweet this giveaway and come back and share the link:

Summer Entertaining is Fresh Giveaway @SandyCoughlinRE @TheHipHostess http://su.pr/2ypZNx #giveaway #entertaining

2. Share this link on your facebook page. (Come back and share the link.)
3. Post this giveaway on your blog. (Come back and share the link.)
4. Become a BRAND NEW follower of Reluctant Entertainer FB page. (For new folks! Come back and tell me.)
5. Sign up to receive RE posts directly to your email. (Become a BRAND NEW follow of RE blog. Come back and tell me.)
6. Become a BRAND NEW follower of The Hip Hostess FB page. (Again, for new folks! Come back and tell me.)

Giveaway ENDS midnight, June 30th. Winner announced on RE July 1! Come back to see who wins.

If you’ve missed the last 27 days of this series, you can catch up now:

Day 1: Summer Entertaining is About the People
Day 2: When Perfect Robs You of Something Good
Day 3: Who To Invite to Dinner
Day 4: Planning the Menu for Outdoor Entertaining
Day 5: Setting the Table Using What You Have
Day 6: Using One Classic Water Glass
Day 7: Napkin Options for Summer Entertaining
Day 8: When You Feel Like Canceling the Party
Day 9: Leave Your Technology at the Front Door
Day 10: Candles That Enhance Good Conversation
Day 11: Serving Flavored Herb and Fruit Water
Day 12: Leafy Greens and a Tiny Bit of Agave
Day 13: Keeping Nut and Fruits and Cheeses on Hand for Easy Appetizers
Day 14: Move Your Table to a Different Space
Day 15: Greek Salad on a Stick and Getting the Kids Involved
Day 16: Three Lies of Perfectionism that Ruin Entertaining Moments
Day 17: Be Creative When You Run Out of Linens for Your Dinner Party
Day 18: Gather Around a Fire for Intimate Summer Entertaining
Day 19: Last Minute Father’s Day Invite and Pork Chops with Glazed Apricots
Day 20: Summer Entertaining GIVEAWAY from National Pork Board
Day 21: Create a Simple Appetizer Basket for Last-Minute Guests
Day 22: How to Change the Menu When Guests Cancel & Sweet Summer Salad
Day 23: Keeping the Conversation Strong with Summer Berry Crisp
Day 24: Music at a Summer Dinner Party
Day 25: Adding Dried Rosemary to your Barbecue
Day 26: Using Accent Dishes to Compliment Your Table Setting
Day 27: How To Barbecue Salmon on the Grill

Feel free to grab my button and share it with your readers .

<a href=”http://reluctantentertainer.com”><img src=”http://reluctantentertainer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/30dosu125Flowers”</a>

Thanks for joining me in my “30 Days of Summer Entertaining” series. (Scroll down to the bottom for previous posts in this series)

Grilling is a big part of summer entertaining, so today’s post is a very exciting one!

Back in May, I was invited by my cute and inspirational friend, Marla Meridith, from Family Fresh Cooking, to attend a wonderful evening with … the National Pork Board. It was called a Pork Crawl, hosted by Jaden Hair from Steamy Kitchen. Basically, a group of bloggers went to some of the finest restaurants in Atlanta, where chefs created pork recipes in ways I’ve never experienced before.

Lori @ Recipe Girl, Angie @ Bakerella, Jenny @ Picky Palate, Jaden @ Steamy Kitchen, Sandy @ Reluctant Entertainer, Georgia @ Georgia Pellegrini, Marla @ Family Fresh Cooking, not pictured Carrie Minns @ La Pomme De Portland, and photo credit by Amanda @ Kevin & Amanda

And the night didn’t end there … when we got back to our hotel room, we were given a gift of great cooking tools and spices for making our own pork chops when we arrived home. (Items in very top photo – my favorite? The grilling pan and juicer! Both awesome!)

Yesterday I shared this fantastic recipe that our family enjoyed for an early Father’s Day celebration using fresh pork chops and glazed apricots.

Today I am sharing with YOU the exact same items I received from the National Pork Board, to give away here at RE to ONE LUCKY WINNER!

As the generosity continues … here are the items I’m giving away here on RE today:
Pork Be Inspired brand Apron
Pork Be Inspired Brochure
Digital Meat Thermometer
Cuisinart CCJ-100 Citrus Pro Juicer
Vacu Vin Pineapple Slicer
Norpro Grip-Ez Jalapeno Pepper Corer
Cuisinart Grill Pan (I’m most excited about this!)
Dry Ingredients (Salt, Light Brown Sugar, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Chili Powder)

If you are interested in receiving this generous gift from the National Pork Board, leave a comment and tell me:

What is it about summer entertaining that stressed you out?

Extra ways to win, 1 point each, and please come back and share the link.
-Tweet this giveaway (@SandyCoughlinRE)
-Share this post on your Facebook page
-Post this giveaway on your blog
-Become a brand NEW follower of RE Facebook page
-Become a brand NEW follower of ReluctantEntertainer.com (Brand NEW folks, easy to sign up with your email)

Contest ends Wednesday at midnight, 6/22/11. Winner announced Thursday, 6/23/11 on RE.

(Very top photo credit of giveaway items from Carrie, La Pomme De Portland.)

If you’ve missed the last 19 days of this series, you can catch up now:

Day 1: Summer Entertaining is About the People
Day 2: When Perfect Robs You of Something Good
Day 3: Who To Invite to Dinner
Day 4: Planning the Menu for Outdoor Entertaining
Day 5: Setting the Table Using What You Have
Day 6: Using One Classic Water Glass
Day 7: Napkin Options for Summer Entertaining
Day 8: When You Feel Like Canceling the Party
Day 9: Leave Your Technology at the Front Door
Day 10: Candles That Enhance Good Conversation
Day 11: Serving Flavored Herb and Fruit Water
Day 12: Leafy Greens and a Tiny Bit of Agave
Day 13: Keeping Nut and Fruits and Cheeses on Hand for Easy Appetizers
Day 14: Move Your Table to a Different Space
Day 15: Greek Salad on a Stick and Getting the Kids Involved
Day 16: Three Lies of Perfectionism that Ruin Entertaining Moments
Day 17: Be Creative When You Run Out of Linens for Your Dinner Party
Day 18: Gather Around a Fire for Intimate Summer Entertaining
Day 19: Last Minute Father’s Day Invite and Pork Chops with Glazed Apricots

Feel free to grab my button and share it with your readers .

<a href=”http://reluctantentertainer.com”><img src=”http://reluctantentertainer.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/30dosu125Flowers”</a>

Springtime in Oregon means we’re able to eat most meals outside on our back patio. We practically live in this outdoor space for 5 months out of the year.

It’s funny though, because now that my kids are older, we’re more “lax” about the “family table,” as in, we don’t always set the table and have a formal meal together.

BUT … we still gather.

In our outdoor space, for Mother’s Day, my husband hung my brand new beautiful artwork from S.D.G. Artistry that had just arrived in the mail …

… on this empty wall.

To read more about this incredible gift and home decor design and manufacturing company (and sponsor of RE), you can read their story, HERE. You’ll catch a glimpse of the story that brought Sherri and her husband to the “here and now,” to their sweet spot within S.D.G. Artistry. Enjoy your visit to their lovely site … grab your favorite “cuppa,” and get lost in the pages of your own imagination …

My imagination took me to the Alphabet Line.

I love this meaningful piece of artistry, “GATHER,” because it reminds me when we’re all hanging out together on our back patio, and why we come together. Even though we may not eat at the “table”, we still find purpose in eating together as a family.

Sometimes we just grab our food and head out to the great outdoors … our patio.

Then there’s the Fine Art Tiles.

Eating together with those you love is intimate and often sacred. Our meal time is a time of connecting with each other and catching up from the day’s events.

It’s when we look each other in the eye and share our frustrations and our joys..

We reel our lives back in; we commune, break bread, and hold each other accountable.

Lots of love takes place …

And then our friends and family come.

We open our lives and we invite others in.

We share, we give, and we bolster each other with encouragement.

This is why we gather.

HERE ARE THE GIVEAWAY DETAILS TODAY… IT’S A FABULOUS ONE!

What to win
-Any S.D.G. Artistry wording – up to 6 letters
-One Fine Art Tile
-All the pieces to hang it with

Comment to win
Share with RE readers what “gathering” means to you?

More chances to win (but not required)
1. Hit LIKE on RE Facebook page, if you haven’t already.
2. Hit LIKE on SDG Artistry Facebook page, if you haven’t already.
3. Link to this giveaway on Facebook OR Twitter.
4. Become a NEW follower of RE.
5. Leave a comment here telling where you mentioned this giveaway (FB or Twitter or Blog).
6. Copy and Tweet this:

Amazing giveaway at @SandyCoughlinRE thanks to beautiful art tiles by @SDGArtistry http://su.pr/1iKmKp #giveaway

Winner announced on Thursday, May 19th. Comments closed on Wednesday, May 18th at midnight. (Sorry, U.S. this giveaway is open to U.S. residents only.)

Today on RE, one blessed woman is going to win this fun package, perfect for Mother’s Day:

A signed copy of my book, The Reluctant Entertainer, a Hip Hostess Pink Lemonade Demi Apron, Simple Mom’s book, Organized Simplicity, and Lavendar Spa Booties by Planet Gift Basket.

1. Hospitality is probably the most tangible and practical expression of love that exists today. Anyone can do it, although many people today need help doing it. This is where my book comes in to help others.

2. The Hip Hostess has graced my kitchen and many of my friends’ kitchens with incredibly beautiful aprons. Today we want to grace YOU with a “Pink Lemonade” demi-style apron. (Look at this brand new bright and cheery, springy fabric!)

3. My friend, Simple Mom (Tsh), is moving to Oregon and she’ll only be 2.75 hours away (don’t you love the .75?) from me, and I couldn’t be happier. Her book is a “must have” for women who love organizational inspiration. (I’m raising my hand here!) The Mother’s Day basket will include Organized Simplicity, by Tsh Oxenreider.

4. Lastly, Baby Gift Baskets, Co., and Planet Gift Baskets, who specializes in sympathy gifts, are both partners of RE (thank you, thank you, ladies). Part of their donation to Make ONE MOM HAPPY is Lavendar Spa Booties – perfect for soothing overworked and stressed feet. (Now I’m raising TWO hands!) You add a little healing lotion to your feet and then slip them on … ahhh!

COMMENT TO WIN ALL 4 ITEMS
If you could choose one thing that would make you happy on Mother’s Day, what would it be?

EXTRA ENTRIES
For more entries, do one or all of these and PLEASE COME BACK TO TELL US:

-Facebook this giveaway on YOUR FB page (1 extra entry)
-Become a NEW RSS follower of RE, which means to subscribe to RE by email, on the sidebar of my blog (1 extra entry – sorry, only for the new folks)
-POST this giveaway on your BLOG (2 extra entries)
-Become a NEW follower of RE Facebook page (1 extra entry)
-TWEET this giveaway using this info (2 extra entries):

Make 1 MOM HAPPY today at @SandyCoughlinRE with @SimpleMom and @TheHipHostess http://su.pr/2azXMi #giveaway #mothersday PLZ RT.

WINNER ANNOUNCED
One winner will be chosen to win the above items, which will be mailed to your house individually, and announced on Thursday, May 5th. Contest is closed Wednesday, May 4th, at midnight. (There is no guarantee that you will receive these items by Mother’s Day).

Have fun, Ladies!

(Hand in the air … pick me! pick me!)

Winners to my last giveaway are Becky (no blog) and Elen Grey. Congrats, Ladies!

My friend, Kristen Welch, wrote a book that has just been released, just in time for …

Mother’s Day!

Today I’m giving away TWO COPIES of her devotional book, Don’t Make Me Come Up There! but I also plan on giving a few copies away to some young mommies that I know, because I remember all too well how I loved reading books of inspiration when my kids were young.

Basically, I needed to know that my life was “normal” and that I wasn’t the only one exhausted, and yes, that some days I didn’t feel like being a mom anymore. (My 3 kids were all little about 10 years ago.)

Does this sound familiar?

Last week was not bad. Not the kind of bad you can blame on a broken dishwasher or a naughty child or someone else.

It was a week filled with me failing.

I wasn’t a great mom or a good wife. I raised my voice too much and didn’t listen enough. I was short-tempered and impatient and just generally unhappy.

Sure, I can come up with excuses that might justify some of my behavior. But I had a choice of how to handle my frustrating week. And I failed. It hurts to admit that I had a test and I got a big fat zero on it.

We live in a world that doesn’t like failure. It’s ugly and messy. Our world wants perfection, perfectly manicured people who never mess up. Just turn on the television or go to the movies or ask a friend if he or she has messed up lately.

Failure makes us uncomfortable. Failure makes us want to cover it up, excuse it. Failure makes us want to run away …

… and then Kristen goes on to share a way to freedom and offers hope.

… while sharing 52 inspirational and true-life stories and reflections written for real, everyday moms.

COMMENT to WIN
Do you find reading something inspirational every day actually helps you through the day, to become a better wife and mom?

POST this GIVEAWAY on TWITTER or your FACEBOOK page
Come back and tell me for a SECOND chance
(@SandyCoughlinRE and @WeAreThatFamily)

ARE YOU a FOLLOWER of RE?
Do you follow RE on Facebook?
Become a NEW follower of my blog or Facebook for another entry. (Let me know.)

WINNERS CHOSEN
I’ll be announcing the 2 lucky winners on Monday, May 2nd.

Thank you, Kristen (who blogs at We Are That Family and who also hosts WFMW every week) for writing such an amazing devotional for moms. For being authentic and real and sharing yourself and your family with all of us!

I’ve been cooking my way through my friend Connie Guttersen’s new book, The New Sonoma Diet Cookbook. I met Connie a year ago and twice we’ve cooked together at the Culinary Institute in Napa Valley along with Bush’s Beans. I’ve been anxiously awaiting her new book to try her recipes, and to read more about her philosophy, and I’ll tell you I’ve not been disappointed.

First of all, I want to say that The New Sonoma Diet book is really not a diet book. It’s a book that encourages healthy eating. You just live it out by eating the top twelve power foods and eliminating the junk from your diet (come on, we all know what is NOT healthy, right?)

The success of The Sonoma Diet is based on eating good foods, not avoiding them. Deprivation can’t be the focus, for the simple reason that it won’t work. Moderation, balance, and a mindful approach to making smart food choices are the keys to losing weight and gaining health. – Connie Guttersen

You can see all the pages I’ve marked as a great resources and amazing recipes. And we’ve been talking a lot about the “12 Power Foods” in my household, and incorporating them into our diet.

Top Twelve Sonoma Diet Power Foods
-almonds
-beans
-bell peppers
-blueberries
-broccoli
-citrus
-grapes
-olive oil
-spinach
-strawberries
-tomatoes
-whole grains

At this dinner party, I made Connie’s hummus and I was secretly hoping there’d be some leftover. Nope! None left over. It was scooped up and eaten in no time.

HUMMUS
(and it only takes 15 minutes to make!)

1 15 ounce can garbanzo beans (Bush’s Beans are the best!), drained and rinsed
1/2 cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
3 T. water
2 T. lemon juice (I used Meyer’s lemons)
1 T. extra-virgin olive oil
1 clove garlic, halved
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
1 T. flat-leaf parsley
Lemon juice (optional)

Mix together in a food processor (except parsley). Transfer to a medium bowl. If desired add more lemon juice, sprinkle with parsley.

Serve with baked pita chips or veggies.

Next time I’m making a double batch!

For me, food served at a dinner party is all about the connection with our friends–good conversation, love and understanding–paired with good flavor and abundance.

Now it’s your chance to win!

COMMENT TO WIN
Share with me why you’d like to win this book?

3 Signed-COPIES GIVEN AWAY
Three people will win a signed copy of Connie’s NEW BOOK!

CONTEST ENDS
The contest ends on Thursday midnight. Winners announced Friday 4/15. Please tweet or Facebook this giveaway for extra chances to win. Also become a “brand new” follower. Please come back to tell us if you did any of this for extra entries.

Good Luck, Friends!