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What is Your Word for 2023?

Happy New Year! 

Do you make new year’s resolutions? I’m not someone who does. Over the last few years, I’ve adopted creating a personal “word of the year” for myself, a theme word that can best describe where I am or where I want and need to be.

During the holidays, I like to reflect on the past year – both its challenges and the little moments that were worth celebrating. With all of the lessons and reflections of that year, I then like to choose one word that signifies my intentions for this new, fresh year ahead. As one simple word can be easier to focus your intentions, it can also  serve as your mantra when you fall off track or lose focus.

Here’s a look back at some of my words:

2014 – flourish
2015 – focus, be, leisure
2016 – nurture
2017 – manifest
2018 – clarify, courage, celebration
2019 – pivot
2020 – open
2021 – grounding
2022 –  grounding* though I didn’t write a word this year, the word grounding trickled into 2022

What is your word for 2023?

It’s difficult to distil a theme for the coming year into a single word. What word best sums up what you aspire to be, do, and accomplish? What is one word that you can use to describe the general theme of feeling you hope to have for 2023?  

Though I didn’t write a new word in 2022, my 2021 word “grounding” served well in 2022, and will continue to be one of those words I’ll always keep in my self-care toolbox. Grounding creates peace and calm, reminding us to live in the moment and practice gratitude. It connects us to our own bodies and souls, reminding us of our part in this vast universe. 

With grounding also comes stability and security, a welcoming feeling especially during these uncertain times. Staying grounded to nurture blessings is something I need to continue moving forward.

But I also feel there is a new word for 2023 that can best reflect how I’m feeling in the present moment.

Cultivate

enrich situation; give special attention

nurture, take care of

 

What is your word for 2023?

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Desserts

How to Make Chocolate Chip Almond Biscotti – Gluten Free Too!

Biscotti are popular Italian cookies that are especially enjoyed during Christmas, but also loved throughout the year as they are a delicious and crunchy companion to an afternoon latte or espresso. You’re going to love this Chocolate Chip Almond Biscotti and they’re gluten free too! 

Biscotti are dry and crunchy because they are twice-baked; first, they’re baked in logs, and then cooled slightly, cut and then baked again. They are the perfect accompaniment to coffee or tea as they’re dipped in to soften.

I love biscotti but being gluten-free, I wasn’t sure how substituting my own gluten-free blend of flours would work out. Luckily, these gluten-free chocolate chip and almond biscotti turned out delicious and not as hard as they would normally with regular flour!

Don’t be worried if the biscotti logs form a crack during the first bake; it’s normal and gives the top of the biscotti their cool texture. Also, they are dry cookies so don’t also fret if your biscotti crumble when you’re cutting them into slices. Just be careful when cutting and turning them onto the cut side for baking – especially the middle pieces.

These gluten-free chocolate chip and almond biscotti are great because you can easily substitute the gluten-free flours with regular flour too.

Here’s how to make chocolate chip and almond biscotti – gluten-free too!

How to Make Chocolate Chip Almond Biscotti – Gluten Free Too!

Chocolate Chip Almond Biscotti

Gluten-Free Almond Chocolate Chip Biscotti 

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups gluten-free flour*  (use regular all-purpose flour if not gluten-free and skip the xanthan gum of course)

Add 3/4 teaspoon of Xanthan Gum if you’re using a GF flour blend that doesn’t contain xanthan gum*

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup white sugar

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon almond extract

1/2 cup slivered almonds

3/4 cup mini chocolate chips

Method

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a separate bowl, mix flour and baking soda.

In a stand mixer, add butter, sugar, eggs, almond extract, and salt until well blended.

Add the flour with baking powder.

Once dough is mixed, fold in the almonds and chocolate chips.

Lightly flour a work area on a piece of parchment or wax paper.

Separate dough into two equal pieces, and form into logs about 1 1/2” thick and about 10” long. Carefully place on the parchment-paper-lined baking sheet with a couple of inches in between each log as they will spread.

Bake for 25 mins at 350°F.

Then remove from oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes.

Very carefully, slice the loaves into 1 1/2-inch biscotti. I cut them right on the baking sheet as they may crumble slightly.  Place the cut side down on the baking sheet. You’ll notice the ends of the logs are easier to cut as they are baked faster than the middle; be careful when cutting the middle pieces as I find they tend to crumble a little more.  

Reduce oven temperature to a 300°F oven and bake for 10 minutes.

Remove and flip the biscotti over and bake for another 10 minutes.

Notes:

*I use a blend of brown rice, sorghum, tapioca, and almond plus about 3/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum

** The rule is to use 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum for each cup of flour used. For this recipe, 2 1/2 cups works out to be just over 1/2 teaspoon of xanthan gum.

If you have extra chocolate, dip half or one side of the cookie in melted chocolate.

Yield: About 18

How to Make Chocolate Chip and Almond Biscotti - Gluten Free Too!

almond chocolate chip biscotti

These gluten-free chocolate chip and almond biscotti are crunchy and delicious, and can easily substitute the gluten-free flours with regular flour too.

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Additional Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups gluten-free flour*
  • Add 3/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum if you’re using a GF flour blend that doesn’t contain xanthan gum*
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1/2 cup slivered almonds
  • 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix flour and baking soda.
  3. In a stand mixer, add butter, sugar, eggs, almond extract,
    and salt until well blended.
  4. Add the flour with baking powder.
  5. Once dough is mixed, fold in the almonds and chocolate
    chips.
  6. Lightly flour a work area on a piece of parchment or wax
    paper.
  7. Separate dough into two equal pieces, and form into logs
    about 1 1/2” thick and about 10” long.
  8. Carefully place on the parchment-paper-lined
    baking sheet with a couple of inches in between each log as they will spread.
  9. Bake for 25 mins at 350°F.
  10. Then remove from oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes.
  11. Very carefully, slice the loaves into 1 1/2-inch
    biscotti. I cut them right on the baking sheet as they may crumble slightly.  Place the cut side down on the baking sheet.
  12. Reduce oven temperature to a 300°F oven and bake for 10 minutes.
  13. Remove and flip the biscotti over and bake for another
    10 minutes.

Notes

*I use a blend of brown rice, sorghum, tapioca, and
almond plus about 3/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum

** The rule is to use 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum for
each cup of flour used. For this recipe, 2 1/2 cups works out to be just over 1/2 teaspoon of xanthan gum.



© amotherworld.com
Category: Desserts

 

 

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Woman holding arms out in front of an ocean
lifestyle

12 Achievable Ways to Lower Your Stress Every Day

It’s the modern version of the age-old question – how do you reduce the stress in your life?

When you have endless daily responsibilities, it is easy to become stressed out. Juggling work-related duties, taking care of the family (which means figuring out what to make for dinner every single evening), paying the bills to keep the roof over your head… it can become overwhelming! Not to mention our tendencies to overschedule with obligations.

What may be helpful is learning how to deal with stress before it starts to take over. Here are 12 achievable ways to lower your stress every day.

12 Achievable Ways to Lower Your Stress Every Day

woman holding her hair and smiling

Get active.

One of the best ways to reduce stress and its negative effects on the body is through exercise. It’s best to stay active frequently to reduce stress. Consider taking a stroll whenever you feel on edge. As soon as I feel the stress of the day getting to me, I step outdoors for some fresh air. The endorphins your body produces as a result of physical activity may lift your spirits.  A daily stroll of even 15 minutes can have a significant impact on how much stress you experience on a regular basis. 

Just breathe.

To relieve stress, sometimes all you need to do is close your eyes and concentrate on your breathing. There are numerous breathing techniques to try, but taking simple, slow, deep breaths through your nose and exhaling through your mouth can be beneficial.

Take 5 deep breaths the next time you’re stressed; you’ll be surprised at how much they can help calm your mind, regroup your emotions, and focus. While deep breathing will not necessarily eliminate your stress or prevent a crisis, it does have physical and mental benefits, especially when done on a regular basis.

Listen to music.

Music is an excellent way to de-stress because it diverts your attention away from potential stressors and allows you to unwind. This is especially useful at night when you’re trying to sleep (because sleep is also a great stress reliever!).

There is growing scientific evidence showing that the brain responds to music in very specific ways, and one of them is reducing stress.  Turn on some of your favourite music to help you unwind and take a break from your day whenever you feel overly stressed. The music you listen to can add to your stress if it is not carefully chosen, so perhaps try sticking to calm, more instrumental music… But if you’re like me, sometimes you need some heavy metal or Rage Against the Machine to help get the stress out of your system!

Use aromatherapy.

Our sense of smell is a great partner in de-stressing. Some research has shown that Aromatherapy can help promote calm and relaxation. Aromatherapy can reduce the perception of stress, increase contentment, and decrease levels of cortisol, the “stress hormone.”

Scents like lavender, rose, frankincense, sandalwood, or orange blossom are excellent stress relievers. You can use these scents in essential oils in an aromatherapy diffuser, burning incense, adding them to your bath, in body creams (hint: massage), or in candles.

Use positive self-talk.

It can be challenging to be optimistic when you have the weight of the world on your shoulders. But staying positive can help you feel better and happier. Positive thinking helps with stress management and can even improve your health.

According to research, people who are more inclined to think optimistically are also more inclined to use positive self-talk and more active coping strategies when confronted with stressful situations and challenges. 

When you are generally optimistic, you are better able to deal with everyday stress in a more constructive way.  If you have a generally negative self-talk, you may be perceiving events in your life as more stressful than they need to be, causing yourself unnecessary anxiety and stress. With practice, your self-talk will become less critical of yourself and more accepting of yourself.

Put down the coffee.

From a fellow coffee lover to another, I understand your horror! But bear with me. According to studies, people who consume a lot of caffeine each day are more stressed and anxious than those who don’t.  This is not to say you should give up your daily cup of joe, but most caffeine consumption is through coffee, soft drinks or energy drinks.

If you drink more than one cup of coffee or one can of energy drink per day, it’s time to cut back. Consistently consuming less caffeine can do wonders for your stress and anxiety levels. 

Learn to say NO.

Busy schedules can raise our stress levels and eventually cause burnout. When your day is already jam-packed, any unexpected event can easily push you over the edge. 

Take a step back and figure out where you are able to cut back on obligations and tasks that weigh you down, cause you more stress, or don’t bring you joy. When you are asked or invited to do something that does not add value to your life, learn to say “no.” Setting boundaries can be challenging at first, but the more you do it, the easier it gets!

Don’t procrastinate.

There are certain things you can’t cut out of your life, like work and family! Putting things off that you don’t want to do may seem like a good idea at the time, but it doesn’t help your stress level. Procrastination forces you to work against a deadline, which adds additional stress to the task. If you’re a chronic procrastinator, it may take a bit of practice and self-discipline to get yourself to a place where you’re better able to schedule your time and tasks. How?

Prioritize your time.

Easier said than done, I realize. But through trial and error, figure out how best to prioritize your time. Whether that is prioritizing your day or week, setting schedules, reminders, or blocks of time for certain tasks, planning and ensuring you are doing what needs to be done, will make you feel more accomplished and less stressed.

Laugh more.

It’s no secret that laughter can help lift your spirits. It also improves your ability to cope with stress and relieves the physical tension that stress causes in your body. Make room in your life so that you can benefit from the power of laughter every day. Spend more time with friends who make you laugh or watch a funny TV show. Add some levity to your life whenever possible; it will make it more enjoyable.

Practice self-care.

When you are taking care of responsibilities and other people, it is easy to neglect your own personal well-being. However, continuing to put yourself last can be detrimental to your mental health.

Every day, set aside some time to focus on your personal wants and needs. This could be a 15-minute walk in the park, a longer-than-usual shower, bubble bath, or leisure reading before bed. You’ve earned this time just for YOU.

Evaluate your life.

Understanding the underlying causes of stress can help you reduce its impact on your mind and body. When considering the factors contributing to your stress, consider your job, relationships, and daily routines.

Although stress is normal, being overwhelmed by it on a regular basis is not. It may be time to make a change in one or more areas of your life to reduce the amount of stress you face. Changes could be minor or major. If it no longer brings you joy, it’s time to let it go.

 

See? It’s not as challenging or difficult as you might think to de-stress every day! It does require some planning and action on your part, but most of the ways I’ve shared are achievable ways to lower your stress every day. Small steps toward reducing stress and improving your mood will pay dividends in the long run.

 

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Family Travel

Visiting Disney for the First Time? Here are 10 Important Tips!

If it’s your first time visit to Walt Disney World , congrats! Visiting Disney is exciting, no matter if it’s your first or tenth time! Heading to Disney with kids for the first time, though, can be stressful if you don’t have a plan. Some tips for your first time visit to Disney may put your mind at ease, and help make your trip amazing for the family.

8 Important Things to Know Before Planning a First Trip to Disney

1. Plan, plan, plan

There are four theme parks in Disney World: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom, not to mention two water parks including Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. Breaking up your trip into one park per day is likely the only way to enjoy each park.

If you have any essential attractions you absolutely must see, or particular rides you must try, you will need to plan your day in advance. Create an itinerary while understanding that due to weather and line-ups, things may not go as planned. Give yourself plenty of time in between activities to account for waiting in lines, as well as meltdowns not only from tired kids but also stressed-out parents!

2. Use Plan Disney

If you’re in the early planning stages of a Disney vacation, you’ll find plenty of great resources at the Plan Disney. It’s a free forum where Disney ‘experts’ offer first-hand experience and advice and answer user questions about hotels, rides, and attractions.

3. Get there early

The early bird catches the worm, especially when visiting Disney! Get to the parks as early as possible, and get to your must-see attractions and rides first thing. Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels and select other hotels can take advantage of a 30-minute early entry into Walt Disney World theme parks every day. During the early entry period, certain attractions, merchandise and food and beverage locations will be open. Learn more about early entry here.

4. Patience is key

Traveling with kids can be tough, especially if you factor in ages, different temperaments, special needs, and stressed out parents! Everyone will need lots of breaks, and that’s okay. Plan breaks accordingly and try not to rush through. You don’t have to see everything in one day, so take your time and enjoy each attraction. You’ve planned a trip to Disney to create memories, right? Remember that when your 3-year-old has her third meltdown before noon.

Need to decompress? No problem! Check out the Baby Care Center, a quiet space for when you need to get away. There’s changing tables, a nursing area, a kitchen, and more.

5. Bring a stroller

A stroller can be a pain to lug around if your kids are older, but if they’re at the age where they’re going to get tired and want to take a nap, a stroller is a must! Even 4 and 5 year olds can get worn out enough to take a little nap in a stroller. The alternative is carrying a 40+ pound kid and that gets tiring, fast. Plus, a stroller can carry all the bags!

6. Pack your own food

This is probably one of the number one questions asked, whether guests are allowed to bring food into Disney. You may bring snacks or foods that do not require heating, such as granola bars, cereal, fruit snacks, etc. If you’re traveling during the summer months, be sure to pack snacks that won’t melt! 

7. Download the Disney App

Make the most of your time at Disney by downloading My Disney Experience free app. This app will help you coordinate dining reservations, FastPass+, help you with wait times, maps and find out where Disney characters are hiding out.  Plus, all your family members can use the same account and follow the same itinerary.

Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom Park with Boys!

8. Kids get lost

Obviously losing a kid at Disney is a worst-case-scenario type thing, but wouldn’t you rather be safe than sorry? When you head to Disney with kids, make sure you have a Safety Plan in place. Talk to your kids about where to go and what to do if you get separated. Consider writing your phone number in permanent marker on the inside of your child’s arm (or using those phone number tattoos), so if they get lost and someone finds them, they can call you. If the kids are older, make sure they have your number memorized and know who they should (and should not) approach to get help if they’re trying to find you.

9. Make dinner reservations

If you want to dine at any of the resort’s 300-some restaurants, you’ll have to make dinner reservations in advance – even months in advance! Some visitors book their Disney vacation when they offer free dining promotions, which can include one quick-service meal, one table-service meal and one snack per person, per night of your stay. If you wait and plan your vacation when a promotion arises, you can save money.

Fantasyland at Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom

10. Where to Stay

When trying to decide whether to stay at a Disney resort or a non-Disney property, there are several factors to consider. You might think you’ll save a ton of money by staying off-site, but there are pros and cons to both options.

Most parents who have been to Disney will tell you that staying on-site is worth the extra you’ll spend. Once you factor in the extra stress staying off-site can bring, you might realize it’s worth it to splurge a bit. Plus, if the little ones need a break in the middle of the day, you’ll be able to head to the room to take a nap without the hassle of leaving the property. Bonus: Ask to get a wake-up calls from a Disney character.

Disney hotels are likely more expensive, but you’ll have quicker access to the parks. Plus, staying at a Disney resort grants you other perks like extended park hours (known as “Extra Magic Hours”), the ability to book early dining reservations and free transportation to the parks.

The Disney website has a filter option to help guests compare hotels on the property, an efficient tool for determining which resort is best for you and your family. For example, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort offer transportation to the parks with access to the monorail, while other properties like Disney’s Pop Century and Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort are more affordable, but not as close to the action.

If you have small children, Magic Kingdom and the water parks are huge attractions. Tweens and teenagers will want to be closer to Hollywood Studios, the Boardwalk, and Epcot’s World Showcase.

There are also lovely hotels in the Orlando area to consider, like the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress, as well as vacation home rentals.

Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress Luxury for the Family

Remember, the most important part of your Disney trip is to create memories! Take a break when the kids need it, or when you need it, and don’t overbook yourself. Have fun!

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lifestyle

Weight Loss Tips for Women at 40 and Over That Work

Over 40 and can’t lose weight? I feel you! It doesn’t matter if you’ve been active and in shape throughout your early years – those extra pounds sneak up on you. Suddenly you’re waking up to discover that your body has extra cushion in places you never once thought were possible.

As you age, menopause, hormonal changes, slower metabolism, and a host of other factors can make losing weight at 40 trickier – but it’s not impossible!

Skipping an extra scoop of ice cream or throwing in some workout routines could be the only thing you need to do to get your body back in shape in your 20’s. But at 40, when your hormones are starting to bubble out and your metabolism nosediving, what used to seem like your perfect formula for weight loss could simply become the recipe for a major weight gain.

Did you just celebrate your 40th birthday with plausible success in your life, family, and work but can’t say the same about your efforts at losing weight? It has always been the same story for every woman trying to shed some excess body weight and stay in top shape at 40 and over.

But every step you take at shedding some extra pounds doesn’t have to be an uphill battle for you anymore. If you’ve been struggling with your weight after clocking 40, and do not want to constantly upgrade your closet with the next size up every year, then here are some practicable and easy-to-do tips that can make a big difference in your weight loss journey at 40.

Eat mindfully and without distractions

Losing weight at 40 is already a tricky thing to do, but guess what makes it a lot trickier? Not paying attention to little things such as eating mindfully.

At 20, you could possibly get away with eating the delicious food you just bought or cooked while watching your favorite T.V series, but at 40, every extra bite you take without being mindful will boost your chances of gaining more weight.

Research by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that people who had one snack or the other while watching TV ate about 10% more per sitting than those who focused on their food.

At 40, it would be best if you start practicing mindfulness over meals while avoiding every form of distraction. You should listen more to your body and stop eating when you are satisfied and not when you feel stuffed.

Feed your gut

Paying attention to your gut health is important at any age, but at 40, you should take your gut health more seriously than before. Challenges associated with menopause and hormonal fluctuation can be regulated by introducing prebiotic-fiber-rich foods like leafy greens and asparagus. This has been found to help reduce the risk of colon cancer and estrogen concentrations in the bloodstream while also helping you avoid the mood swings and hot flashes that can hit around mid-life.

Stay active with weight/resistance training

Naturally, women have lower muscle mass than the male counterparts, and while you age, the little muscle tissues you have left get depleted over time. Studies show a 1% depletion over the years starting at age 30, and that’s 10% muscle loss at age 40. After age 30, you begin to lose as much as 3% to 5% per decade.  Having a higher muscle mass is associated with an increased metabolism rate, hence, the need to build and maintain your muscle mass by throwing in some lightweight and resistance training.  

At 40, you don’t want to hit the gym 7 days a week and 10 hours a day. Your bones and joints may have become weaker with lots of physical activities during your youthful years, so you don’t want to go about overworking them at this age. 30 minutes of strength training 3 to 5 times a week should just be enough.

It doesn’t matter if you only want to shed the weight around your midsection; you should focus on all muscle groups to lose weight and build muscles while also reshaping your body composition.

Try to reduce stress level

Between career and family responsibilities, it is easy for women at 40 to experience an increased stress level. What stress does at this age is pile up and lead to an increase in hormones like cortisol, known to be responsible for causing your body to store fat rather than burning them.

A quick fix to this is upping your vitamin c and omega-3 fatty acids. This has been found to reduce the circulation of stress hormones in the body.  

Cut on your alcohol consumption

What we eat often gets the spotlight when it comes to losing bodyweight. But, to really lose weight, what we drink is as important as what we eat.

The word “cut,” in this context, implies that if you just can’t let go of gobbling down your favorite alcoholic brand, then start doing it moderately.

Losing weight at age 40 takes some level of discipline. Alas, gulping 7 ounces of beer with 1.5 shots of distilled spirits and half a bottle of vino repeatedly every night must come to an end.

Heavy alcohol consumption has been linked to lowering inhibitions and stimulating appetite. Mindlessly eating more than what your body needs would mean increased calorie intake, and this will do you no good when trying to cut some slacks on your body weight at 40.

Sleep disruption is also one of the effects of heavy alcohol consumption. A healthy or poor sleep cycle plays a crucial role in weight management and belly fat accumulation. A quick fix to this is establishing a drinking strategy that may include limiting alcohol intake to weekends only or reducing your consumption to one drink per day.

Eat more protein

For your body to burn more calories, it needs to work harder. A simple trick to help your body burn more calories is by upping your amount of protein intake. Naturally, your body does more work digesting proteins than it does for carbs and fats. Studies have found that an increase in your protein intake to about 30% of your total calories can boost the calories your body burns during digestion while also preventing lean muscle protein breakdown, which may help you speed up weight loss.  

Avoid some medications if possible

At 40, you need to be mindful of what side effects medication has on your body composition. Weight gain may be influenced by some medications or even diseases such as thyroid, which most women suffer from at this age. Before you try to lose weight on your own, talk to your doctor about getting some tests done to be sure your weight increase isn’t caused by a medicine or disease.

Watch what you eat at night

Most people don’t associate eating late at night with weight gain. In fact, some people think it’s a myth. But it’s not just about eating late at night. When it comes to body weight management, it’s what you eat at night that can be a problem. Calorie-dense, high-sugar foods, such as ice cream in the evening or midnight munchies, might make weight loss more difficult.

Avoid a sedentary lifestyle at all cost

At 40, it is understandable that you may become less active and may even want to do more of working remotely than going out daily. If you are having problems managing your body weight, inactivity and a sedentary lifestyle can be major factors.

A study carried out by the American Journal of clinical nutrition has found a sedentary lifestyle to be a predominant factor in weight gain. Staying active won’t only enhance your metabolism. The endorphins released during exercise will also boost your mood. Taking a daily walk while listening to your favorite music or podcast in the company of a group of walk buddies can be one of the better ways to stay active at 40.

Switch up your fragrance

This one definitely looks weird, but the results of a study published in the Journal of Neurological and Orthopaedic Surgery reveal that sniffing scents like apple and mint increased weight loss among study subjects.

So, if you’ve always loved scents, now is the time to sniff your way to a smaller physique. Fragrant goods, such as tea tree shampoo or an apple-inflected perfume, should be added to your shopping list.  

Spice up your sex life

At 40, has your sex life plummeted and doesn’t seem to be on your list of things you now prioritize? What if you knew that a little action between the sheets could cut some weight off the scale? Studies have found that apart from sex being a great stress reliever, it can also lower the belly-fat-storage hormone cortisol in your bloodstream. 

What’s a better reason to get a little action between the sheets anyway?

 

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How to make traditional Tiramisu
Desserts

How to Make an Easy Authentic Italian Traditional Tiramisu

With Easter season comes the request from the husband for traditional Tiramisu. Traditional tiramisu is made with ladyfinger cookies dipped in coffee and layered with a mascarpone cheese mix and whipped cream.

tir·a·mi·su
[ˌtirəməˈso͞o] NOUN 

an Italian dessert consisting of layers of sponge cake soaked in coffee and brandy or liqueur with powdered chocolate and mascarpone cheese.

Tiramisu is a velvety concoction of savoiardi lady fingers biscuits soaked in espresso, covered with delicately sweetened beaten eggs and mascarpone cheese, and dusted with chocolate powder. Its name, tirami sù, means “pick me up,” possibly referring to the stimulating effects of the caffeine in the espresso and chocolate used in the recipe.

The ultra-creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture is pure bliss, and eating this classic Italian dessert is a must. Tiramisu has been used to make a wide range of cakes and sweets, and different variations too – like this Lemon Tiramisu with fresh lemon curd and Limoncello.  The origins of Tiramisu are a source of contention between the Italian regions of Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia.  The most traditional kind is the coffee-flavoured version.

Here is how to make an easy, authentic Italian traditional Tiramisu.

How to Make an Easy Authentic Italian Traditional Tiramisu

Ingredients

6 egg yolks (large)

3/4 cup white sugar

2/3 cup milk

1 1/4 cups heavy cream

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

475 grams mascarpone cheese

1 cup espresso (about 3 long espressos) or strong coffee, room temperature

3 tablespoons rum

400 gram package savoiardi lady fingers

2 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder

Method

  1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until well blended.
  2. Whisk in milk and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture boils. Boil gently for 1 minute, remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
  3. Cover tightly and chill in refrigerator 1 hour.
  4. In a medium bowl, beat cream with vanilla until stiff peaks form.
  5. Whisk mascarpone into yolk mixture until smooth.
  6. In a shallow bowl, combine coffee and rum. Quickly dip lady fingers one by one to line the bottom of a 7 x 11 inch dish.
  7. Spread half of mascarpone mixture over ladyfingers.
  8. Spread half of whipped cream over the mascarpone.
  9. Repeat with one more layer of ladyfingers, mascarpone and whipped cream.
  10. Sprinkle cocoa over top.
  11. Cover and refrigerate 4 to 6 hours, until set.

How to Make an Easy Authentic Italian Traditional Tiramisu

How to make traditional Tiramisu

 

How to Make an Easy Authentic Italian Traditional Tiramisu

How to make traditional Tiramisu

The ultra-creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture of this authentic, traditional Italian Tiramisu is pure bliss.

Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Additional Time 6 hours
Total Time 7 hours 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 6 egg yolks (large)
  • 3/4 cup white sugar
  • 2/3 cup milk
  • 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 475 grams mascarpone cheese
  • 1 cup espresso (about 3 long espressos) or strong coffee, room temperature
  • 3 tablespoons rum
  • 400 gram package Savoiardi Lady Fingers
  • 2 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder

Instructions

    1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until well blended.
    2. Whisk in milk and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture boils. Boil gently for 1 minute, remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
    3. Cover tightly and chill in refrigerator 1 hour.
    4. In a medium bowl, beat cream with vanilla until stiff peaks form.
    5. Whisk mascarpone into yolk mixture until smooth.
    6. In a shallow bowl, combine coffee and rum. Quickly dip lady fingers one by one to line the bottom of a 7 x 11 inch dish.
    7. Spread half of mascarpone mixture over ladyfingers.
    8. Spread half of whipped cream over the mascarpone.
    9. Repeat with one more layer of ladyfingers, mascarpone and whipped cream.
    10. Sprinkle cocoa over top.
    11. Cover and refrigerate 4 to 6 hours, until set.
    © amotherworld.com
    Cuisine: Italian / Category: Desserts

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    parenting

    9 Ways to Connect with Your Teen

    Being a parent is hard but being a parent to a teenager is even harder. 

    Teenagers are hormonal! They’re dealing with pressures from school, their peers, and in this high-tech environment, social media too. They’re also testing their boundaries, branching out to be more independent, and truly becoming their own person.

    Connecting with your teenager is important to maintaining a healthy and open relationship. But when hormones, rebellion, and peer pressure come into play, finding ways to connect with your teen seems even more challenging.

    Despite the challenges, the teenage years are quite incredible… and with the right approach, your relationship with your teenager can reach a deeper level.

    Here are some ways to connect with your teenager.

    Say I love you often

    It may seem obvious but telling your teen that you love them is important. Hug them, kiss them on the cheek with that big embarrassing kiss, and scream your love for them through the schoolyard… well, maybe not that last one! Saying “I love you” often reminds your teenager that you are always there for them and love them unconditionally. 

    One of the few constants in a child’s life is their parents’ love. You’re not flawless and neither are they, but you share a special bond that will last a lifetime. To get through the toughest moments, you’ll need each other. Your teen may grow weary of hearing those words and may not say it back every time, but they’ll remember you said it often and you were always there for them, demonstrating your affection. Showing them you are thinking about them and love them can be also as simple as making them their favourite dessert, or surprising them with tickets to a movie.

    Talk to your teen.

    Communicating with your teen is important to maintaining a positive relationship. Talk with your teenager. Make jokes, ask questions, and tell stories. In any relationship, communication is crucial. If you can make them smile and laugh with you, you’ve succeeded.

    Nowadays, people are absorbed with teeny-tiny windows on their phones. You’ll never know who your teen is if you let them hide behind their phone or laptop. It’s mind-boggling how much you may lose out on if you don’t make an effort to interact with someone who lives with you.

    While technology can have its benefits – sometimes texting with your teen is also a great way to bond – it will never be the same as face-to-face communication.

    Also, be ready for your teen to come to you when they feel like talking… even if it’s later in the night. I find often that my teenager will come into my room in the evening when I’m already in bed, and they’ll want to chat at 10:00 p.m. These are the moments when they’re ready to talk – and while I’m ready for bed, I make it a point to be available and listen.

    Just Listen.

    Simply, what teenagers need are parents who are genuinely interested in what they have to say. The teen years are tough for young adults! While you may see their problems as minor, don’t minimize them; these “little” things can feel monumental to them. Their “teen angst” is real. Whether they’re struggling with school, feeling rejection, dealing with bullies, or simply feeling overwhelmed by life, be there to listen. No matter what, you want to be the person they turn to when things go wrong. You will want your teen to feel encouraged to approach you when they need a shoulder to cry on, or someone to talk to. You will want them to feel safe coming to you, and in a judgement-free environment.

    Make time for your teen.

    Your time is the most precious thing you can give to anyone. That is something your children are entitled to. People grow apart as they get older. It is, nonetheless, critical to maintain constant contact with your adolescent. If you have more than one teenager, make an effort to spend one-on-one time with each of them whenever possible.

    I cherish the times I spend with my teenagers together, but that one-on-one time is so precious. I find conversations in the car the best ones with my teenagers; when we’re together driving somewhere and it’s just the two of us, we’ll start to really let lose, open up and start talking about what’s on their mind.

    With hectic schedules and our teenagers’ activities and homework, finding time to do much else may quickly become an afterthought. Schedule regular “dates” with your young adults, such as going for a drive, watching a movie, taking a walk, or playing a game or sport. Spending more time together doing something fun is a guaranteed way to strengthen your relationship.

    Give them space.

    At the same time, give them space. If you notice your teen needs some time away from you, give them the courtesy of that space. They may not be ready to talk to you or hang out with you.

    Don’t force them to open up or spend time together – this will only make things worse. It’s important to let them know you’re there for them. 

    On the other hand, keep an eye out if they begin to fully retreat. Don’t assume everything is fine and they’ve been hiding out in their room for days as normal behaviour, because “they’re a teenager”. While not every adolescent suffers from depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideation, these issues are common among teenagers. If you suspect your young adult is dealing with a mental health concern, reach out for help.

    Have an open door.

    At this age, teenagers’ friends are so important. Invite your teen’s friends over as often as possible, allowing your home to become a welcoming, pleasant hangout spot for after-school hangouts and weekend get-togethers. You may get to know your child’s friends and keep a close eye on them without being too pushy – and even understand your teen even better too!

    Be interested in what they do.

    What does your teenager like to do? Do they have hobbies they enjoy? Encourage your teen to pursue something they love and show interest in it too. Sure, you may not be a fan of the video games they play, the music they listen to, or the movies or shows they watch. But you should want to be open to hearing all about it! It’s important to support your kid’s interests and get involved when and where you can.

    Do they enjoy watching or playing a sport? Participate by watching the game with them, or being that parent at their games, cheering on from the sidelines. They will appreciate it in the future and remember that you were there.

    Share meals together.

    No matter how busy a household can be, finding time to sit down and eat together is the best way for the family to stay connected. Make it a habit in your home to sit down and eat meals as a family, whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, a weekend brunch, or dinner. You may keep up on current events and trends, share stories of the day from school, or talk about the latest news in pop culture.  Pre-COVID, my family and I used to enjoy our bi-weekly dinners out; it became a ritual and something we all looked forward to doing together.

    Set healthy boundaries.

    While you’d like to be your teenager’s friend, remember that you’re still their parent. Most teenagers don’t need another friend; they need you to teach, nurture, and guide them as their parent. Don’t confuse your connection for friendship; it’s obviously a lot stronger.

    Setting proper limits is an important aspect of being a parent, and it’s also a good way to strengthen your bond with your teen. Even if the “you’re the worst mom/dad ever!” comments start flying when you set limits, your teens will appreciate you later when they have grown into respectful, responsible adults.

    When I didn’t allow my teen son to go out with friends because he hadn’t finished his school assignments, he was angry with me. It was only later that he told me how much he appreciated my sternness when I took away those privileges – he actually thanked me for being firm. Mind blown!

    Healthy limits are vital for teens, even if they aren’t always easy. You’re not doing them any favours if you let them run all over you because you’re afraid of offending them.

    group of teenagers sitting and smiling

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    15 Best Warm Resorts To Escape to this Winter
    Family Travel

    15 Best Warm Resorts To Escape to this Winter

    Need a warm winter escape this winter? I do too! Our winters can feel endless so here are 15 best warm resorts to escape to this winter.

    15 Best Warm Resorts To Escape to this Winter

    Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa – Saint Lucia

    Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa is Saint Lucia’s most popular Premium All-Inclusive and a wonderful choice for families with travelling with children from infants to teenagers. The resort is ideally located to the island’s world-famous Pitons and the Drive-In Volcano, and minutes from the airport. Coconut Bay boasts a 50,000 square-foot kids’ club up to age 12 and all included in the resort’s rates.

    Kids can learn about Saint Lucia’s history from pirates to current customs, culture, ecology and native wildlife of Saint Lucia through arts and crafts, nature walks, and hands-on culinary activities, There is also a teen program too. The CocoLand Waterpark is the islands largest featuring big fun for everyone from tubing around the Lazy River to twisting through the Coconut Coaster waterslide.

    15 Best Warm Resorts To Escape to this Winter - Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa - Saint Lucia

    JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort – Florida

    Located in Marco Island in southwest Florida, the  JW Marriott MarcoIsland Beach Resort offers soft, sandy beaches and calm waters on the Gulf that are ideal for families with members of all ages. Many families choose the Lanai Suites, where rooms spill right out onto the beach. The resort offers a main pool and a Tiki Kids pool complete with waterslide and waterfall. The resort offers a day camp for kids 5-12, a complimentary yoga program for kids and teens. End a sun-kissed day by watching the resorts sunset celebration, a live Fire Dancer show which pays homage to the Balinese inspiration and design aesthetic of the resort.

    15 Best Warm Resorts To Escape to this Winter -JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort

    Crane Resort – Barbados

    With 252 rooms, The Crane Resort attracts families with its relaxed atmosphere, unparalleled on-site amenities and spacious, luxurious accommodation. Surrounded by natural beauty and tranquillity, families can spend quality time together lounging, swimming at award-winning Crane Beach or by the several pools overlooking the ocean. The main attraction is Calypso Kids Club where kids can learn about Bajan culture and create arts and crafts while adults enjoy Serenity Spa.

    15 Best Warm Resorts To Escape to this Winter Crane Resort Barbados

    San Ignacio Resort Hotel – Belize

    San Ignacio Resort Hotel is Belize’s premier local family-run establishment. Their on-site personalized tour company, Cayo Gial Tours, creates itineraries that showcase Belize’s natural beauty, culture, thrilling landscapes and history. Ideal for multigenerational travel, experiences include visiting a Maya Temple, birdwatching on a private reserve, taking a guided rainforest hike, touring Belize’s botanical gardens. The resort’s new River and Jungle View Suites boast large outdoor living spaces with lounge chairs and dining areas designed for guests to come together and enjoy scenic views of the Macal River, its surrounding rainforest valley and Belize’s natural jungle setting.  Dubbed as “the only jungle in town”, guests can also get up-close and personal with iguanas as part of their Iguana Project.

    15 Best Warm Resorts To Escape to this Winter San Ignacio Resort Hotel - Belize

    Rosewood Bermuda

    Rosewood Bermuda is the island’s premier ultra-luxury resort with plentiful activities such as snorkelling and scuba diving, golfing on the 200-acre Tucker’s Point Golf Course, or a pro-led tennis lesson. Adults looking for a unique activity can indulge with a rum tasting masterclass at their renowned Conservatory Bar, led by Bar Manager John Lake.   Children can make new friends at the Rosewood Explorers Club, offering a host of activities from tennis to science experiments to locally inspired arts and crafts.

    15 Best Warm Resorts To Escape to this Winter Rosewood Bermuda Palm Court Pool

    Las Brisas Huatulco  – Mexico

    Las Brisas Huatulco is nestled into a coastal hillside is surrounded by 50 acres of lush tropical gardens along the coast of the western side of Tangolunda Bay. It boasts 484 rooms across 4 villages, and a variety of activities for all ages, making it the perfect destination for a family vacation. This village-style resort offers something for the whole family: a kids club with a separate pool, tennis courts, kayaking, snorkelling, windsurfing, mini golf, dance lessons and more. The resort offers 5 different restaurants with Arabian, Mediterranean and Mexican cuisines.

    15 Best Warm Resorts To Escape to this Winter - Las Brisas Huatulco

    Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale – Arizona

    For a warm escape for a family vacation with older kids, the Boulders features 160 guest Casitas and 61 one-, two- and three-bedroom villas, five restaurants and a lounge, two championship golf courses, eight tennis courts and a full-service Spa.

    Adventurous families (likely not for little ones) will love rock climbing, desert fly fishing, horseback rides, desert hikes and Jeep excursions. Home to some of Arizona’s most dramatic landscape, The Boulders bicycle trails are ideal for active families to exercise together while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Exhilarating hot air balloon rides are offered at sunrise and sunset and include breakfast. Families can take a Desert Seaplane Adventure with extraordinary views of the golden canyons of Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake, Apache Lake, Roosevelt Lake, Haystack Island and the lime cliff of the “Painted Desert.”15 Best Warm Resorts To Escape to this Winter Boulders Resort and Spa Scottsdale Arizona

    Jewel Runaway Bay – Jamaica

    Jewel Runaway Bay is an all-inclusive resort surrounded by Jamaica’s lush foliage, scenic views and exotic adventures. Guests can enjoy innovative swim-up suites, an array of authentic dining venues, and world-class spas. The Jewel Lagoon Water Park is right on site. The resort includes seven casual and formal restaurants serving delicious cuisines. Families can venture outside the resort on a tour to explore the Green Grotto Caves, swim with dolphins or zip-line through canopies.

    15 Best Warm Resorts To Escape to this Winter - Jewel Runaway Bay Jamaica

    Westin Mission Hill Rancho Mirage – California

    Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa is a AAA four-diamond resort nestled in the heart of the Greater Palm Springs. Spread out over 365-acres, the resort offers three pools, a 75-foot waterslide that kids (and adults) will love, two bubbling spas and pool-side ping-pong and pool tables.

    The Westin Kids Club Discovery Room is available for children ages 3-12 and provides activities such as movies, music, arts & crafts, games and storytelling, pottery, sand art and t-shirt making. Parents can enjoy a cocktail on the patio overlooking the resort’s lush plant-life and fountains before heading to dinner at the signature Italian restaurant, Pinzimini. Guests can try their hand at one of the resort’s two championship golf courses or seven tennis courts and then unwind at the intimate spa after a full day of activities.

    15 Best Warm Resorts To Escape to this Winter - Westin Mission Hills Palm Springs

    Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort

    The Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort is situated on the scenic Seven Mile Beach and offers families endless activities. Families can enjoy water sports such as snorkelling, paddle boarding and swimming with stingrays, or relax by the beachfront pool. The multiple on-site restaurants allow for easy meals for families and the upscale rooms and suites are perfect for a relaxing night in.

    15 Best Warm Resorts To Escape to this Winter Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort

    Eden Roc Miami Beach

    Eden Roc offers guests an exhilarating atmosphere, an international perspective and a fresh take on luxury centrally located in the heart of Mid-Beach. The hotel boasts 415 spacious, oceanfront guest rooms, three refreshing pools, 22,000 square feet of spa and fitness facilities, and 70,000 square feet of meeting and event space. The hotel also offers a kids program that focuses on activities that allow children to learn more about beaches, marine life and local culture.

    15 Best Warm Resorts To Escape to this Winter - Eden Roc Miami

    Turtle Beach Resort   –  Barbados

    Like the turtles that come to nest on the 1,500-ft. stretch of warm, white sands, Turtle Beach is a vibrant all-inclusive in Barbados that exudes an energetic, playful vibe. Guests can catch a wave while boogie boarding or sailing (all watersports are complimentary), and learn how to surf in Aqua School with Captain Sam along the south coast. After enjoying some island delicacies like macaroni pie and flying fish at Sand Trap, the new beachfront eatery, guests can learn a few words of Bajan slang with dialect lessons, jump in for a game of beach cricket, or take a pastry class. For travellers seeking a little more excitement, they can party at the St. Lawrence Gap, the island’s hub for dining, shopping and nightlife.

    15 Best Warm Resorts To Escape to this Winter - Turtle Beach Resort - Barbados

    Andaz Costa Rica Resort At Peninsula Papagayo – Costa Rica

    The Andaz Costa Rica embraces the Pura Vida philosophy and makes you feel welcome as soon as you enter through the resort gates. The sprawling property sits right on the 1,400-acre Peninsula Papagayo in its own private oasis. The rooms are designed with natural elements such as wood, bamboo, and stone, so you always feel you are one with nature.  The resort offers (for a fee) Barista and Mixology classes, pottery painting, dancing lessons, yoga, and more. The resort also offers golf, tennis, and a kids’ program. Andaz can also assist you in making arrangements for day trips including ziplining, horseback riding, and hiking. The Andaz features three restaurants; Rio Bhongo which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner; Chao Pescao that features tapas and live music, and Ostra which is the resort’s upscale restaurant.

    Andaz Costa Rica Peninsula Papagayo Infinity Pools

    Key West  Parrot Key Hotel & Villas  – Florida

    Nestled along the Florida Bay, a short drive from historic Old Town Key West, Parrot Key Hotel & Villas is surrounded by lush landscaping and gardens. Like much of Key West and the rest of the Florida Keys, Parrot Key suffered damage from Hurricane Irma. Since then, the property has been completely redesigned with a brand new, refined, and completely refreshed look. Guests can go for a swim in one of the 4 outdoor pools, participate in watersports right onsite and, then enjoy a snack from the poolside The Grove Kitchen & Bar. Downtown Key West and famous Smathers Beach are a quick shuttle ride away.

    15 Best Warm Resorts To Escape to this Winter Parrot Key Hotel Key West Florida

    Velas Resorts Riviera Nayarit – Mexico

    Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is uniquely situated where the jungle meets the sea and provides tourists with a picturesque landscape that is unique among Mexican resort destinations. Guests will find all of the usual beach activities such as jet-skiing, parasailing, surfing, boogie boarding and sunbathing. But there are other unique activities to experience including tropical jungle expeditions to learn about the flora and fauna indigenous to the area, as well as ziplining. Guests can also get a traditional taste of Mexican culture by touring nearby towns and learning the area’s history and traditions.

    15 best Warm Resorts To Escape to this Winter - Velas Resorts Riviera Nayarit Mexico

     

    15 Best Warm Resorts to Escape to This Winter | amotherworld.com

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    Family Travel

    What to Bring on a Day Trip to Ontario Parks

    Looking for a little family getaway outdoors but just for the day? Pack some outdoor gear, a picnic lunch, and head out to one of Ontario’s Parks!

    What to bring on a day trip to an Ontario Park? It all depends on which Ontario Park you choose! Since there are over 300 provincial parks in Ontario, with more than 100 operating parks with visitor facilities, there is undoubtedly a park close by for you to enjoy with the family.

    We’re lucky to have Sibbald Point Provincial Park about a half hour away from home. Located on Lake Simcoe, this park has camping, picnicking, fishing, boating, and swimming from its clean and sandy beach. Living close to nature and spending time outdoors has so many benefits including reducing stress and improving your mental health. So, we’ll be sure to take several day trips to Sibbald Point during the summer – it’s our go-to spot for sun and sand.

    What do we bring for the day? Typically, we pack a cooler, portable BBQ, mini-tent and beach chairs and head up to the lake for a day of beach fun. The most important part in our family? The food! My hungry teen boys like to ensure we’ve packed enough food and snacks for our visits to the park.

    Packing sandwiches is fast and convenient, but when you want something a little extra, we like to make something hot off the grill, like our own homemade burgers with some yummy sides.

    Bringing a picnic lunch to an Ontario Park takes a little bit of preparation but it’s oh so worth it when you’re hungry from swimming in the lake. I’ll break it down for you with some tips and ideas on what to bring on a day trip to Ontario Parks.

    What to bring on a day trip to Ontario Parks

    Prep ahead of time

    The key to having a delicious picnic is all about preparation! Plan out your lunch menu and snacks ahead of your trip. Instead of bringing everything with you to prepare there, have everything ready beforehand, and leaving the finishing touches at the Ontario Park of your choice.

    For this visit, I’m making homemade burgers with a pasta salad and coleslaw – you’ll find my recipes below. I’ll have mostly everything prepared in advance so that once it’s time to start cooking, the prep is minimal.

    I prepared the burgers at home and placed the patties in between wax-paper, then stored in a plastic container. I find using reusable containers and cutlery the easiest and greenest way to store food for the day. Also, I prepared the pasta salad and coleslaw but didn’t add the dressings until it was time to eat, to avoid soggy sides.

    Don’t forget to pack fresh fruit as well! I’ll chop up half a watermelon and store in a container to avoid making a mess on site.  Nuts and/or trail mix, granola bars, and cheese and crackers are good snack options too.

    The Ontario Parks website has some great tips on what you need to help plan your day-visit or camping trip. 

    Packing food

    We have a large cooler with a drain plug and wheels, which is convenient to carry.  I usually pack some ice at the bottom of the cooler, and then add the meat and mayo-based dishes closest to the ice, then adding bottled drinks and fruits closer to the top.

    Adding frozen drinks such as water to the cooler serves two purposes: extra ice for the cooler and ice-cold drinks during a heat wave!

    Make sure to keep a few garbage bags with you; one to collect recyclables, and one for garbage. Since we’re only going for the day, we bring our garbage (which is minimal) back with us. Any paper towel or napkins can go right back into the food containers to bring home.

    Other food ideas?

    Other than sandwiches and burgers, what else can you bring to your picnic? Think of your regular lunch fare and kick it up a notch!

    • Add some oomph to your regular hot dogs by cooking a chili in advance and use as a topping; heat up some chili before you head out to the Park and keep in a thermos to stay warm.
    • Skewers are a quick and delicious option. Chicken or pork souvlaki with Tzatziki and pita is a winner anytime, anywhere.
    • Sausage on a bun with corn
    • Ontario Parks website has some other great camping meal ideas.

    Portable grill or camping stove?

    Most people who camp use a camp stove or the campfire. But if you’re heading out for a day visit, a portable propane grill is your best bet. While charcoal BBQ tastes good, it does tend to cause a lot of smoke and smell, especially if you’re grilling in a picnic area close to a lot of other visitors.

    If you’re a regular camper, you may prefer a camp stove or simply your campfire.  It might be more convenient because you can bring both a frying pan and a pot for cooking different types of foods. You can cook just about anything on a two-burner camping stove that you could cook on your stovetop at home. The trick is making sure that your stove offers decent wind protection and simmer control. 

    In our case, my propane grill wasn’t working properly so I opted to use a camp stove to cook our burgers. Cooking food on the campfire can be fun but it does take longer to cook as you won’t want to cook your food right over the flames, but off to the side.  Many fire-pits in come with a camp grill at Ontario Parks. You can use some aluminum foil and place directly on the grill, or with a cast iron pan – be sure to have heat-resistant oven gloves. Ontario Parks has some great tips on camping stoves.

    Here is my simple and easy recipe for Homemade Hamburgers and Easy Pasta Salad:

    Homemade Hamburgers

    Ingredients:

    • 1 ½ lbs of AAA or Angus ground beef, lean
    • 1 onion, shredded
    • 1 tbsp ketchup or barbecue sauce
    • 1 tsp garlic powder
    • 1 tsp onion powder
    • 1 tsp mustard powder
    • 1 tsp sea salt
    • ½ tsp pepper
    • ½ tsp chipotle sauce or dried
    • 1 egg

    Directions:

    1. In a large bowl, add ground beef, and all other ingredients.
    2. Mix well and then form the well-seasoned beef into patties.
    3. Pack them between layers of waxed paper and store in a reusable container.
    4. Grill on each side for about 5-7 minutes.
    5. Enjoy!

    Easy Pasta Salad

    Ingredients:

    • 500 grams rotini or fusilli pasta (regular or gluten-free)
    • 1 red onion sliced thin
    • 2 carrots, shredded
    • ½ cup black olives, sliced
    • ½ yellow or red pepper, sliced
    • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
    • ¼ cup white vinegar
    • 1 tbsp. each oregano, basil, garlic powder, thyme, rosemary
    • 1 tbsp. sugar
    • 1 tsp each salt and pepper

    Directions:

    1. Cook pasta until al dente. In the meantime, slice or shred all vegetables and add to a medium-size reusable container.
    2. In a small container, mix olive oil, vinegar and spices and sugar, and shake until mixed.
    3. When pasta is ready, remove from heat and immediately drain with cold water. Once cool, add pasta to a reusable container.
    4. Add 2 tbsp of olive to pasta to keep moist. Keep dressing and vegetables separate until ready to serve.
    Yield: 6

    Homemade Hamburgers

    Homemade Hamburgers

    Ingredients

    • 1 ½ lbs of AAA or Angus ground beef, lean
    • 1 onion, shredded
    • 1 tbsp ketchup or barbecue sauce
    • 1 tsp garlic powder
    • 1 tsp onion powder
    • 1 tsp mustard powder
    • 1 tsp sea salt
    • ½ tsp pepper
    • ½ tsp chipotle sauce or dried
    • 1 egg

    Instructions

      1. In a large bowl, add ground beef, and all other ingredients.
      2. Mix well and then form the well-seasoned beef into patties.
      3. Pack them between layers of waxed paper and store in a reusable container.
      4. Grill for about 7 minutes on one side, flip and grill for another 7 minutes on the other side.
    © amotherworld.com
    Yield: 4

    Easy Pasta Salad

    Easy Pasta Salad

    The perfect side dish for my homemade hamburger recipe for a picnic or day visit to an Ontario Park.

    Prep Time 15 minutes
    Cook Time 10 minutes
    Total Time 25 minutes

    Ingredients

    • 500 grams rotini or fusilli pasta (regular or gluten-free)
    • 1 red onion sliced thin
    • 2 carrots, shredded
    • ½ cup black olives, sliced
    • ½ yellow or red pepper, sliced
    • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
    • ¼ cup white vinegar
    • 1 tbsp each oregano, basil, garlic powder, thyme, rosemary
    • 1 tbsp sugar
    • 1 tsp each salt and pepper

    Instructions

      1. Cook pasta until al dente. In the meantime, slice or shred all vegetables and add to a medium-size reusable container.
      2. In a small container, mix olive oil, vinegar and spices and sugar, and shake until mixed.
      3. When pasta is ready, remove from heat and immediately drain with cold water. Once cool, add pasta to a reusable container.
      4. Add 2 tbsp. of olive to pasta to keep moist.

    Notes

    Keep dressing and vegetables separate until ready to serve.

    © amotherworld.com
     

    How to visit an Ontario Park

    Reserve your daily vehicle permit in advance of your visit to avoid disappointment. Select Ontario parks are offering free visits from Monday to Thursday! To learn more, visit Ontario Parks:  https://www.ontarioparks.com/reservations

     

     

     

    This post is proudly sponsored by Ontario Parks. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.

     

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    Family Travel

    Best Places to Travel With Kids in the U.S.

    There are so many places to travel with kids in the U.S., and so many variables, too! Where you should go depends on what your family likes, how old your kids are, what your budget is, and how long you have for your trip. But what are the best places to travel with kids in the U.S.?

    If you and your family have a tight budget, consider staying local. Search your state + vacation + budget to find the best spots that won’t break the bank. There are so many beautiful places to travel with kids in your own state, that you can easily take a road trip.

    But if you’re considering a different state, travelling with kids when they’re young can provide savings too; when they’re under 2 years old, they fly for free! So that’d be the perfect time to fly to Hawaii or another far-away location before you have to pay for a plane ticket.

    How can you decide where to travel with kids in the U.S.? We’ve narrowed it down a little for you… Here are the best places to travel with kids in the U.S.

    Best Places to Travel With Kids in the U.S.

    Niagara Falls

    Known as America’s Oldest State Park, Niagara Falls is home to the Aquarium of Niagara, which will probably be your child’s favorite part of the visit! You can get up close and personal with penguins and even sharks!

    Photo by hk on Unsplash

    Grand Canyon

    Just like Niagara Falls, people travel from all over the world to visit the Grand Canyon. If you’re visiting, be sure to check out this Arizona Bucket List before you go!

    Photo by Christine Roy on Unsplash

    San Diego

    With year-round warm weather, miles of gorgeous beaches and fun outdoor activities, San Diego is a top vacation spot in the U.S. because of its fun family vibe. One of the most-visited cities in the world and home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the U.S., families can explore 70 miles of shoreline during their San Diego family vacation. San Diego also features some of the top tourist attractions for families; there’s plenty to do and see for kids of all ages.

    San Diego is a Fun Destination for the Family - Belmont Park rides

    Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

    This is one of those spots that you don’t want to forget your camera for! Go hiking, visit the Jagger museum, take the Crater Rim Tour, or just drive Chain of Craters Road. Before you go, you can check the volcano conditions. Sounds crazy, right? “Check volcano conditions before you go!”

    Image by Tommy Beatty from Pixabay

    Golden Gate Bridge

    Take a walk on the pedestrian pathway on the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Older kids will love the absolutely breathtaking views of this great city, but with more than 10 million annual visitors, there’s a lot of hustle and bustle so be mindful if you have little ones. Plan your visit before you go.

    Photo by Carl Solder on Unsplash

    Outer Banks, North Carolina

    The Outer Banks, or OBX, is a 200-mile long string of narrow barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, beginning in the southeastern corner of Virginia Beach on the east coast of the United States. The stunning barrier islands are home to some of the largest undeveloped beaches on the East Coast, making OBX a popular beach vacation destination for families.  If you’re looking for casual lodging for the family in The Outer Banks, North Carolina, then Waves Village Resort in Rodanthe is a wonderful choice.

    10 Fun Activities to Do Outdoors in the Outer Banks Rodanthe Pier

    Yellowstone

    The world’s first national park, Yellowstone is one of a kind. Explore mountains and forests, catch a glimpse of hot springs and geysers, and watch wildlife in its natural habitat. Be sure to check for road closures before you head to Yellowstone in the winter.

    Photo by Donovan Atherley on Unsplash

    Disney World

    You and your kids can have a wonderful vacation at any Walt Disney World resort, but the flagship in Orlando has to be the happiest place on earth. The toughest part will be decided which one of the parks to visit; Magic Kingdom, Epcot Centre, Hollywood Studios, or Animal Kingdom.

    Photo by Brian McGowan on Unsplash

    Cedar Point

    You’ll enjoy live entertainment, water rides, thrill rides, and events for the whole family at Cedar Point. Located in Ohio, this is a spot you’ll want to visit during summer!

    Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

    Where’s your favorite spot to travel with kids?  

     

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