7 Quickie cleaning tips

CLEAN UP YOUR ACT

Does your house cleaning chore list seem endless? In the hustle and bustle of daily life, maintaining a regular home cleaning schedule can seem impossible. Amanda Thomas, self-proclaimed domestic diva and owner of Arizona-based Moxie Girl Household Assistants, has the perfect cleaning shortcuts and cleaning tips to keep your home clean and your sanity intact.

Work from top to bottom and left to right.

This is a great rule of thumb to make the most of your cleaning time. "Work from top to bottom, knocking down dust and debris as you go. Just make sure to vacuum and/or mop at the very end," Thomas advises. "Also, move left to right through each room. By moving in a set pattern, you won't miss anything."

Keep glass cleaner and paper towels under every bathroom sink.

Talk about a time saver: Having the proper tools in the right place at the right time is a definite plus. "This way, the glass cleaner and paper towels are there when the water spots and toothpaste start to drive you nuts," says Thomas.

Clean tubs and showers as you use them.

"If you start to see the orange soap scum forming, take a rag into the shower with you and quickly wipe it away. After a bath, use the washcloth to quickly wipe down the edge and bottom of the tub to get dust and soap scum up," Thomas recommends.

Keep a toilet brush and disinfectant wipes next to every toilet.

Think of ways to multitask. For instance, use these tools to clean the toilet while the kids are in the bath. Thomas suggests using these items as soon as you see a ring or stain forming in the toilet bowl. "This quick cleaning will get you through until you have time to do a deeper clean."

Load dishes into the dishwasher as you use them.

Then, run the dishwasher after dinner each night. Thomas recommends making this a family affair. "Designate one person in your home to empty the dishwasher first thing in the morning so it can be filled throughout the day."

Pick up clutter with a basket.

Clear the chaos by picking up clutter with the help of a basket. Throughout the day, add items to the basket that don't belong in the room. "Then, as you move from room to room, put the items away in their appropriate homes," Thomas says. Another great organization idea: Label the storage boxes for your kids' toys. "Picking up goes much faster when you know where each item goes," says Thomas.

Invest in a duster with an extendable handle.

"Dusters with extendable handles are ideal for doing quick dusting of window blinds and shutters, leather furniture and especially baseboards. You don't even have to bend over!" Thomas says.

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Tonight's Dinner: Grilled antipasto sandwiches recipe

ANTIPASTO GOES FROM APPETIZER TO ENTREE

When people think of antipasto, they think of meats, cheeses, olives and peppers on a plate to nosh on. But these warmer months are the perfect time to grill up those meats and veggies and put them on a baguette.

Prosciutto, marinated artichoke hearts and provolone cheese are just three delicious options that make up a wonderful appetizer found in most Italian restaurants. And while these ingredients make for a delightful beginning to a great dinner, they make a deliciously filling entree as well. All you have to do is grill the meats and cheeses and place them on a lightly oiled baguette. These flavors, combined with the marinated artichokes and peppers, make for a delicious meal during these summer months. And the fact that it's easier than grilling up steaks or fish makes for a nice alternative to the standard cookout.

Grilled antipasto sandwich

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of prosciutto
• 1/2 pound provolone, cut into 3-inch sticks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large baguette
• 1 garlic clove, halved
• 1/2 pound marinated artichoke hearts, drained and sliced
• 1 (6 ounce) jar roasted red peppers

Directions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan and brush with olive oil.
2. Roll three of the provolone sticks tightly up in each piece of proscuitto. Repeat with the remaining proscuitto and cheese and then slice each roll into three pieces. Slide the proscuitto rolls onto two or three skewers and brush with olive oil.
3. Slice the baguette in half lengthwise and brush with olive oil. Place on the grill and cook until toasted, about five minutes. Rub the garlic over the inside of the bread and top one side with artichokes and red peppers.
4. Grill the prosciutto/cheese skewers until the cheese is melted, about five minutes. Remove the rolls from the skewers and place them on the bread. Place the other piece of the baguette on top of the prosciutto/cheese rolls, slice into four pieces and serve.

http://www.sheknows.com/food-and-recipes/articles/966217/tonights-dinner-grilled-antipasto-sandwiches-recipe

Natural hair highlights - Homemade hair treatments

SUMMER BEAUTY
NATURAL HIGHLIGHTS

This summer, instead of heading to the salon to get hair highlights, do it yourself at home naturally. Using ingredients you can find in your own kitchen, you can have beautiful sun-highlighted hair in no time.

LEMON

The best known of the natural hair highlighters is lemon. Mix 1/4 cup of fresh squeezed lemon juice and 3/4 cup of water in spray bottle. Spritz lemon water onto your hair but do not saturate scalp. Leave mixture on your hair for 2 hours, spending at least 30 minutes of that time in the sun. Be sure not to get lemon juice on your skin before going in the sunlight. It could cause blistering. Condition your hair before and after using lemon because it can dry your hair.

OLIVE OIL

You may know that olive oil is a fabulous hair conditioner but many people don't realize it can be used as a natural hair lightener too. Comb a generous amount of olive oil through your hair. Spend about an hour in the sun and then wash out the oil. Your hair will not only be naturally highlighted, it will be moisturized too! Repeat three days a week until you achieve the desired highlights.

CHAMOMILE TEA

Believe it or not, brunettes can get natural golden highlights this summer with chamomile tea. Boil a pot of chamomile tea and allow it to cool completely. Wash and condition your hair normally, then rinse your hair with the tea. Relax outside in the sun with your tea-drenched hair for 30-60 minutes. Repeat every other day until your hair has beautiful natural highlights.

HONEY

Honey, though very sticky, can actually highlight your hair. You can apply honey straight to your wet hair and leave on for two hours. An alternative method is to mix equal parts of honey, lemon and water in a spray bottle. Apply to damp hair and spend an hour in the sun. You will need to wash your hair twice to get out all the honey. Honey gives hair a lot of bounce and natural highlights.

BEER

Light colored beer, such as Corona, is great for adding natural sun-kissed highlights to your hair. Get a six-pack of beer and empty four of the bottles into a basin. Saturate you hair in the beer and then head outside. Drink the other two beers while you wait for the beer to do its magic. About an hour later, rinse out your hair with cool water. Follow up with a moisturizing conditioner and style as usual. Repeat 2-3 times a week.

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SUMMER HAIRCARE

The Jim Wayne Salon in Beverly Hills is one of the top salons in the country. Celebrity clients includeHeidi Klum, Mischa Barton, Jonathan Knight, Keyshia Cold and several others.
We had the opportunity to talk with Jim Wayne and get these expert tips on summer haircare.
What trends in color do you see this season? 
Blonde, Blonde, Blonde! Blonde goes really well with the primary color trends in fashion right now especially since fashion dictates hair color, and blonde goes with everything. Colors like the reds are beginning to fade out.

What are easy ways to make your hair look good at the beach and pool?
Use hair powder and surf spray by Bumble and Bumble. It gives a lot of lift. You can jump in the pool, get it wet and just comb it out. After you get out of the pool, you can just put more in and it'll pump it right back up.

What hair care products to do you recommend to keep hair healthy in the summertime? 
Davines buffer gel is an absolute must for the pool and beach. The line also comes with shampoo and conditioner, but is the buffer gel is an absolute must have. It's not oily or greasy.
Any tips for quick summer hair styles?
Ellis bands (hair bands) are going to continue to be big this summer. The great thing about Ellis bands now is that they come assorted colors to match your outfit. Tape-on and add-on extensions are going to be big, but clip-ons are on the way out because they're too much of a hassle.

sheknows.com

Gluten-free Goodie of the Week: Blueberry, banana and mint smoothies

GET BLUE!

Whether you're on the go or just looking for a refreshing and healthy treat, you really can't beat this recipe for blueberry, banana and mint smoothies. They're chill and tasty!

These smoothies are berry good!They're perfect in a to-go cup as you're headed out the door, they make a good snack after a workout and they even taste great as a healthy dessert. Use mixed frozen berries if you'd like, add a few fresh berries or a touch of honey if you have more of a sweet tooth. The choice is yours! It takes little effort to create this smooth and chill treat!

Check out this recipe for cantaloupe-lemon shakes >>

Gluten can be found in many different foods and products, from ketchup to soy sauce to candy and seasonings. While SheKnows.com tries to ensure these recipes are gluten-free, carefully read the ingredient labels of all food and food products you use for these recipes to ensure they are also gluten free.

Blueberry, banana and mint smoothies

Yields 2, 12-ounce drinks

Ingredients:

• 6 ounces frozen blueberries
• 1-1/2 large bananas, cut into large chunks
• 1/2 cup gluten-free plain yogurt
• 1/2 cup gluten-free original coconut milk (not from a can)
• 2 mint leaves, torn

Directions:

1. Add all ingredients into a blender.
2. Pulse until well blended and you reach your desired consistency.
3. Serve garnished with fresh blueberries.

Blend up some frozen, healthy and tasty treats — these smoothies can't be beat!

Is coconut water good for you?

COCONUT WATER: 
HYPE OR HEALTHY?

With its cultish celebrity following, coconut water has become the new go-to for thirsty health nuts. Celebs such as Rihanna, Madonna, Courteney Cox, and Mischa Barton are public supporters of the drink, but new research indicates coconut water may not be the health elixir it and its followers claim it to be.

WHY COCONUT WATER?

Makers of coconut water claim their product is a healthy alternative to sports drinks because it not only hydrates, but also helps replenish electrolytes like potassium, sodium and magnesium.

According to WebMD, coconut water has been used as a way to rehydrate after exercise or illness, used as an emergency substitute for IV solutions, and may be a good storage solution for a tooth that has been knocked out until someone can see a dentist. Some substances in coconut water could theoretically have antioxidant benefits in the body. But before you race out and stock up, consider that though coconut drink has a strong A-list backing, it also lacks scientific support.

SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE IS LIMITED

Despite the health claims of coconut water followers, the scientific evidence is limited. WebMd says there are a couple of small studies that suggest coconut water may reduce the risk of heart attack and may significantly lower blood pressure, but that the celebrity-extolled drink has not been well-studied as a treatment and that there is no documented evidence to clearly prove the health benefits of coconut water.

NEW REPORT FINDS FALSE LABELING

More drink for thought: ConsumerLab.com recently tested the Zico, Vita Coco, and O.N.E. brands of coconut water and found that the only product that actually contained what the label listed was Zico. According to CNN.com, "the sugar and potassium content in the other two brands, Vita Coco and O.N.E., also matched the label. But the amounts of sodium and magnesium -- two nutrients key to hydration -- were as much as 82% and 35% lower, respectively, than the listed amount."

DON'T BE DECEIVED

If you are a hardcore fitness fanatic who works out long and hard, coconut water isn't going to replenish your electrolytes like a sports recovery drink specially formulated for athletes. However, if you like the way coconut water tastes and you want a little something extra after a modest workout, it won't hurt. Just beware that you may be just as well off drinking plain water. Bonnie Taub-Dix, a registered dietician and spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association, told CNN: "When something like this becomes wildly popular, people have a tendency to look at the claims rather than reality."

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7 Summer fashion rules

As the hot summer months approach, don't put your fashion sense on the back burner.

SEXY SUMMER
FASHION SENSE

Lani Rosenstock, style consultant based out of New York and Washington D.C., stresses that tiny mistakes, like exposed bra straps and ill-fitting outfits, can quickly turn fashion dos into fashion don'ts. So don't forget these style tips.

Get your whites whiter

White tanks and tees should be bought fresh every season, as they can become yellowed and stained, especially during the sweaty months. "One spot can turn an outfit into a fashion don't," says Rosenstock, who recommends the inexpensive versions from Old Navy and J. Crew.

Choose nude hued undergarments

Some women think they should wear white under white and other semi-sheer fabrics. But skin-toned underwear is what really keeps your undergarments undercover. If you are having a hard time finding the right shade for your skin tone, Rosenstock suggests trying My Skins, which sells lingerie in 20 skin-matching colors.

No flip-flops in the office

"I respect everyone's right to be cool and comfortable, but really, flip-flops should stop at the office door," Rosenstock says. Even if you are just sitting at your desk, flip-flops convey an unprofessional image. Instead, she suggests investing in a comfortable pair of sandals fromNaturalizer or Aerosoles.

No more straps

Exposed bra straps are never in style, so take the time to find the right bra for your outfit. Many summer dresses are backless, strapless or otherwise "bra-challenging." Find a good convertible bra that you can wear as a strapless, halter, racerback or one-shouldered.

No more nipples

Don't be caught exposing more than you intendto when the air conditioning kicks on at the office or a cool breeze rolls in at the park. Rosenstock suggests keeping a nicely tailored, neutral cardigan in the office to throw on before you go meet the boss and investing in a lightly lined T-shirt bra. You can also use products such asHollywood Fashion CoverUps, made specifically for this problem.

Say no to pantyhose

Pantyhose and open-toed shoes are a match made in fashion hell. If you insist on wearing pantyhose to cover your legs, opt for toe-less hose. If you choose to go bare legged, Rosenstock's favorite solution is a spray-on airbrush makeup like the one made by Sally Hansen, which the site says is like "spraying on pantyhose."

Don't use the heat as an excuse to over expose

Miniskirts, skimpy tops and dresses should be worn with care during the daylight hours, Rosenstock warns. "I'm always shocked by how many women are wearing such short skirts or revealing tops while walking down the street or going to work that they might as well be wearing a bikini," she says.

SMOOTH & SEXY LEGS

Many men can't resist a sleek and sexy set of legs. From short and sassy miniskirts boasting miles of gorgeous legs to long, silky skirts subtly showing off beautiful legs through tasteful slits -- fashion is your friend when it comes to accentuating your legs.

To emphasize your legs with very minor adaptations to your normal cleansing and beauty routines, read on for a few quick tips to bring out -- and maintain -- a sexy look for your legs!

DON'T RUSH WHEN YOU SHAVE

If you shave your legs, realize that nothing ruins super-smooth skin like nicks from a hurried shave. Hastily shaving your legs may cause the razor to snag your skin and remove tiny chunks at a time, especially around your knees, ankles and the thin areas of flesh on your shins. Also be sure your razor is still very sharp -- a dull blade can also cut.
To combat nicks from shaving too quickly or from a dull razor, rinse away the blood before exiting the shower, blot with a tissue or toilet paper, and apply a tiny corner of tissue to your wound. Allow it to dry the blood and decide whether the cut necessitates a bandage.

Smooth legs 101: How to get the closest shave >>

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MOISTURIZE

Shine adds a whole new dimension to smooth legs. A fragrant lotion creates softness, and newly applied moisturizer creates a nice glow that draws attention to your silky legs. You can also buy lotions with added shimmer for a little extra radiance.

How to get smooth, glowing skin >>

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USE A LOOFAH PAD TO EXFOLIATE & BUFF OUT IMPERFECTIONS

Sometimes tiny blemishes caused by ingrown hairs or minor skin conditions render legs to be not as smooth as they once were. By gently exfoliating at least once or twice a week, your legs can be healthy, soft and blemish-free with very little effort.
If you aren't sure what a loofah pad looks like, they typically have a beige-colored surface on one side and terrycloth on the other -- see one at the right. Loofahs usually only cost a couple dollars, and they're well worth the investment!

Conquering cellulite: Can you get rid of cottage cheese thighs? >>

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TRY A VITAMIN-RICH BODY SCRUB

While exfoliating with the loofah pad provides a great scrubbing motion, indulging in a luxurious body scrub is as good for the senses and the spirit as it is for the body.
The nutrients contained in the scrub potion nourish the skin and welcome healthier cells to replace the dead skin cells shed through exfoliation. Don't just scrub away old cells -- promote new ones.

Tips for pampering your tired feet >>

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EXERCISE

While the aesthetic elements mentioned above will truly lend themselves to the overall condition of your legs, these products and practices won't do a thing for your muscle tone and body mass.
To keep your legs in swimsuit shape all year long, consider engaging in regular exercise several times a week. Get into a good habit of running, walking or jogging, bike riding, stair climbing or doing simple exercises like leg-lifts. Even the smallest amount of exercise can be beneficial to your body as you build your way up to longer routines.

Prepare your kids for the back-to-school routine

BACK-TO-SCHOOL PREP

Can it be true? Back-to-school time is looming ahead already? It may be a few (short) weeks away yet, but Mom, our back-to-school prep work begins now. We've got simple ways to subtly get your kids ready for school… before the bell rings.

Turn back time

Summertime usually means friend sleepovers and late nights. But the school bell leaves no time for sleeping in so you’ll want to make sure your kids are well rested come the first day of class.

Don’t wish your kids back to class yet — read 10 reasons to appreciate your kids >>

No matter how far off track you are from your kids’ ideal bedtime, it’s fairly easy to regain a routine bedtime. With older children, start working back to their school-year bedtime fifteen minutes at a time. If you’re kids have been staying up until 10:00 p.m., give them a shout out at 9:45 one night, 9:30 the next and so forth until you are back where you want to be with bedtime.

With younger children, you can usually cut back to the normal bedtime hour without too much trouble. I find that if I put my children to bed an hour earlier after a late night, they sleep longer and more soundly. With that in mind, try to stick to no later than an 8:00 p.m. bedtime for young school-goers.

Hint: A few weeks before school starts, begin waking your kids up a few minutes earlier day by day until you achieve the ideal wake-up call that gives them (and you) enough time to get ready for the day without mass chaos occurring.

Mornin’ sunshine

Your kids’ late summer nights have probably given way to sleeping in come morning. But your kids won’t have that luxury in mid-August (is it me or does school seem to start earlier every year?) so you’ll want to make sure they are used to getting up in time to get themselves ready (or have you help them) and have breakfast before they need to be off to school.

Check out these 7 ways to motivate kids in the morning >>

Mealtime match-up

As many things do during summertime, your family’s mealtime schedule may have gotten a little lax. But it’s important to maintain a consistent mealtime schedule so your child isn’t going hungry throughout the school day.

Even if your child claims she’s not hungry for breakfast, have her eat a little something to hold her over until lunchtime. Breakfast can be something as simple as piece of whole grain toast with apple butter or grapes and string cheese.

Try to match up your child’s lunchtime at home with the school’s lunch hour so he’ll be used to eating at that time when school begins. That way there will be fewer chances of him coming home with a full lunch box and an empty tummy.

Check out these back-to-school nutrition basics >>

The after-school snack or late afternoon snack tends to be the meal-breaker at the dinner table. Make sure your child doesn’t overindulge in empty calories during his afternoon snack. Veggies with dip, a yogurt or some fruit and nuts are all good choices that will satisfy him until supper without spoiling his desire to dine.

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Sunday Dinner: Green bean and tomato salad with creamy garlic dressing

SAVOR THIS SALAD!

Seems like summer will soon be over. Before it's gone, savor the flavors and colors of fresh produce with this recipe for green bean and tomato salad with creamy garlic dressing.

Taste the goodness

Time flies, especially during the summer season. If you can get your hands on fresh produce, go for it! Soon the sunny days and warm weather will be behind us, and summer meals will be a thing of the past.
It's a snap to put this tasty salad and dressing together! Have the family join in to lend a hand for meal prep. Snapping the ends off fresh green beans is the perfect job for a younger family member, while slicing the tomatoes is perfect for a teen or adult. This salad is a great addition to any meal.

Family fun

After dinner, get together to determine which veggies are family favorites and create a menu of meals to make before the end of summer. Compile the recipes you try and like in a family cookbook, and you'll be ready for the years ahead!

Try this tasty recipe for quinoa salad with radishes and feta >>

Green bean and tomato salad with creamy garlic dressing

Recipe courtesy of Grab a Plate
Salad serves 4; dressing yields about 1/2 cup

Ingredients:

For the salad

• 1 pound fresh green beans, washed, ends trimmed and snapped in half
• 1/2 pint red grape tomatoes, washed and cut in half
• 1/2 pint yellow grape tomatoes, washed and cut in half

For the dressing

• 3 cloves garlic, cut into pieces
• 1 shallot, cut into a few pieces
• 1/8 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup spicy brown mustard
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons pecans, toasted and chopped for garnish (substitute almonds or pine nuts if you'd prefer)

Directions:

For the dressing

1. Add all the ingredients to a blender and pulse until smooth. Taste the dressing and season, as needed.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

For the salad

1. Refrigerate the clean tomatoes until ready to assemble the salad.
2. Blanch the green beans in boiling water for about three minutes. Drain them and immediately place them in ice water. Once cold, drain and refrigerate until ready to assemble the salad.
3. When ready to serve, add the green beans and tomatoes to a large bowl.
4. Drizzle the chilled dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Serve on individual plates and garnish with the toasted pecans.
6. Add more dressing as desired.

Nothing beats the flavors of fresh veggies like the ones in this salad!

5 Summer Games that burn serious calories

GET FIT WITH THE
SUMMER GAMES

Yes, "I'll have bacon on my burger and a slice of chocolate cheesecake for dessert" could be part of your vocabulary! Oh, to dream.

But for us mere mortals who don't train six hours a day, that sort of diet would land us at the tailor's with a request to let out all the seams of our pants.
The good news is you don't have to take your workout to extremes to reap the benefits of an active life. You can still perform some of the same sports and games and burn off a respectable number of calories -- maybe not enough to reverse a cheesecake bender but enough to lose a pound a week if you made it a habit.
Here are some of the top calorie-torching activities you, too, can do. After all, what's more important, a gold medal or being able to fit into your summer capris? I think you know the answer.
The following calories counts are from the American College of Sports Medicine for a 150-lb woman exercising for 60 minutes:

1

Rowing

Calories burned: 500

This refers to stationary rowing, no lake required. With or without water, you'll develop killer back muscles (hello, backless swimsuit), toned shoulders and biceps. Legs also get into the action through the push-pull.

2

Tennis

Calories burned: 500 for
singles/approx. 400 for doubles

Start playing because of the cute outfits, stay for the calorie burn and the fun. It's worth taking a few lessons from a pro to avoid injuries like tennis elbow.

3

Mountain biking

Calories burned: up to 600

At 600 calories, mountain biking is hardly a hard sell. Join a biking club to learn proper technique and safety. Many groups meet on weekends and after work, and can take the place of cocktail hour if you're really motivated. Get ready to sweat.

4

Gymnastics

Calories burned: 286

You'll likely need some coaching if you think vaulting and doing somersaults mid-air is the way to go. Secondarily, calisthenics class burns just as many, if not more, calories and can be found at most fitness clubs.

5

Swimming

Calories burned: 500 to 700

Since not staying afloat isn't an option, kicking, doing laps -- whatever it takes to keep you on top of that liquid playing field is going to take some calorie-burning. No wonder Michael Phelps has to eat up 10,000 calories a day.

SAY YES TO SERUMS

If you’re not sure about serums, you’re not alone. Many people still scratch their heads about what these small bottles of liquid do when it comes to keeping skin healthy, soft and smooth. But we’re big fans of these potent complexion perfectors and wanted to share our beauty product top picks for the best in skin saving serums worth trying.

What is a serum?

What is your top skin care problem? Wrinkles Sun spots Acne scars Pimples or blackheads Droopy Skin All of the above View Results

A serum is a concentrated skin care product aimed at targeting a specific complexion concern, from fine lines and wrinkles to dryness and even breakouts. They're packed with potent ingredients such as antioxidants, vitamins and plant extracts all formulated with smaller molecules so they better penetrate to deeper layers of the skin. Whereas moisturizers sit on top of the skin, serums dig deeper. They are used as part of your skin care routine, either alone (if you have oily skin) or under your regular moisturizer.

To brighten

No one we know would ever say no to brighter, healthier looking skin, so if that's what you're coveting, we suggestJoanna Vargas Daily Serum ($85). This has been our secret to great skin ever since we started using it several weeks ago and we can't get enough. The powerful formula is packed full of green tea and chlorophyll to brighten, oxygenate and restore a radiant glow to tired or stressed skin. Simply apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin.

To banish breakouts

Give breakouts the boot with Sonya Dakar Deep Pore Clarifying Serum ($42), a blemish-busting serum that penetrates pores to help control breakouts. The gentle, non-drying formula helps regulate oil production and promote a clear, smooth complexion. Key ingredients include salicylic and lactic acid to clean out pores and organic acai. Apply to affected areas both in the morning and at night.

To hydrate

If your skin is dry or dries out in the winter, adding a hydrating serum to your skin care routine can help keep your complexion soft and well-moisturized. An effective, affordable choice is The Body Shop Vitamin E Moisture Serum ($20), which smoothes and hydrates skin with vitamin E, wheat germ oil and rice bran oil. This ultra-softening serum also helps skin retain moisture and protects it from harmful environmental elements.

To minimize fine lines

Don't just hide fine lines, show them the door and kiss them goodbye with Nude Skincare Advanced Cellular Renewal Serum ($92). This anti-aging superstar increases cellular renewal by up to 70 percent, reduces cellular damage by up to 50 percent and works hard to reduce the depth of wrinkles and smooth skin. The result is a firmer, more contoured face and soft, younger looking skin.

www.sheknows.com

How music can make you stronger

SOUNDTRACK 
FOR YOUR LIFE

A powerful force is pulsing from your speakers. The music you listen to can have a strong impact on your mind and body. Choose your tunes carefully and you can put together a soundtrack for your life that lifts your spirits, focuses your mind and primes your body for action.

Crank up your workout with music

Tracks to try: “Gold on the Ceiling” by the Black Keys, “Beautiful Day” by U2, “Young Folks” by Peter Bjorn and John

Music can change your mood, thoughts and emotions. If you play inspiring songs during a low- to moderate-intensity workout, you can improve your endurance, power and strength. In fact, sports psychology researchers Costas Karageorghis and David-Lee Priest recently wrote that “music can be thought of as a type of legal performance-enhancing drug.” To energize your next workout, load up your mp3 player with songs that have 125 to 140 beats per minute (bpm) before you hit the bike or the treadmill.

Music helps you tune out stress

Tracks to try: “Holocene” by Bon Iver, “Falling Slowly” by Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova, “The Greatest” by Cat Power

Freaking out? Music can soothe your frayed nerves, according to the American Music Therapy Association. Researchers at Yale University School of Medicine found that surgical patients were less stressed if they listened to 30 minutes of their favorite music while they waited for their procedures. Critically ill patients in the intensive care unit at Massachusetts General Hospital felt less anxiety after they listened to an hour of Mozart’s piano sonatas. Harmonious tunes with notes that progress from low to high tend to be most relaxing, but the best music for reducing anxiety is the music that you like best.

Get into the groove at work

Tracks to try:“Hoppipolla” by Sigur Ros, “Your Hand in Mine” by Explosions in the Sky

Low-key tunes might even make you a better professional. The journal Work recently published a study showing that young workers concentrated better when they listened to music without lyrics. Instrumental background music could help focus your attention on your next project at the office. Beware of music that you feel strongly about, though. If you really like (or really don’t like) a piece of music, it can distract you from the task you’re working on.

Pump up the tunes but lower the volume

There’s one potential downside to the magic of music: the risk of noise-related hearing loss. Your music player fits in the palm of your hand, but it can amplify your tunes to seriously dangerous levels. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, noises louder than 85 decibels can cause permanent hearing damage. (To put that in context, the sound of a lawnmower is about 90 decibels.)  If you turn your iPod up to maximum volume, you will be blasting your ears with more than 100 decibels. A good rule of thumb: If your friend next to you on the bus can hear the music coming from your headphones, it’s a good idea to lower the volume.

SLIMMING WITH THE STARS

Many of our favorite female Hollywood stars have something in common: they are paid well to be perpetually slim and trim. While some celebrities go to dramatic and often unhealthy lengths to maintain those million-dollar figures, most A-list stars maintain their sizes the old fashioned way - through nutritious foods and regular exercise. Here are five of our favorite celebrity diet secrets that really work!

1. EXERCISE IS ABOUT QUALITY.

Taking a long, leisurely stroll around the neighborhood every night is nice, but it is not going to knock 10 or 20 pounds off your frame. You have to raise your heart rate for 20 to 30 minutes each day to shed the fat! A trainer at your local gym can calculate your target heart rate for you, usually at no charge. Celebs favor running, Pilates and yoga to stay trim and toned. Bonus tip: exercising in the morning keeps your metabolism raised for the rest of the day, meaning your body can burn more calories with no more effort than if you had waited until later for your workout.

2. REACH FOR NUTRIENT-RICH FRUITS AND VEGGIES.

These major components of the food pyramid offer necessary vitamins and minerals in fewer calories than other foods. To get the most bang for your calorie "buck," swap empty-calorie items and reach for foods and beverages that are rich in beneficial nutrients. A study from the University of Florida shows that pink grapefruit juice provides more nutrients per calorie than many other commonly consumed 100 percent fruit juices, including apple, grape, pineapple and prune. So, think "pink" when you drink!

3. LOAD UP ON FIBER.

Fiber-rich foods, including fruits and vegetables, help to move things through your digestive system and can help make you feel full longer. Many stars favor asparagus, which may have natural diuretic effects, before red carpet events. Fruits and vegetables should be eaten as close to their natural state as possible: raw or lightly steamed, with no sauce.

4. BAN WHITES.

While ridding your diet of all carbohydrates is extreme, you should favor whole grains such as whole wheat flour, brown rice and oatmeal over "white" or refined carbs such as white flour, white rice, white potatoes and refined cereals. Whole grains are better for your body, and the fiber will help keep you feeling fuller, longer.

5. PRACTICE PORTION CONTROL.

Most of us eat portions that are far beyond what a serving should be. Many stars go so far as to measure each portion as a means of controlling their calorie intake. A proper serving of meat is the size of a deck of cards; fruit and vegetables, the size of your fist; steamed brown rice, the size of a cupcake wrapper; and pasta, the size of a scoop of ice cream. Stars are aware that portion control translates to fewer calories, and fewer calories mean a slimmer look on the red carpet!

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SOUFFLÉS SIMPLIFIED

People are frightened to make soufflés. It seems that whenever they see a soufflé recipe in a cookbook or online, they run in the opposite direction, but the reality is, they are simple if you know how to whip egg whites. Here are simple tips for a perfect soufflé from celebrity chef Joanne Weir.

1. MASTER WHIPPING EGG WHITES

Here are a few tips on how to whip the frothiest, lightest egg whites. Once you've mastered this technique, you'll see how easy it is to make soufflés.

2. START WITH FRESH EGGS

First of all, start off with fresh eggs. Make sure you check the date of the eggs; just like milk, they have an expiration date on the end of the box. If they're out of date, don't use them, get some new eggs.

3. USE ROOM TEMPERATURE EGGS

Next, make sure your eggs are at room temperature. Never try to whip cold egg whites, they will whip, but it will be much more work and you won't get the same volume as with room temperature or warm egg whites.
And, if you want extra volume and stability, you can place the egg whites in your bowl and set them over a low to medium electric or gas flame; swirl the bowl and heat the whites just until they are warm to the touch on your fingertip. Do not let the egg whites get white in the bowl. If you do, you've scrambled the egg whites and they'll never whip.

4. A COPPER BOWL WORKS WONDERS

I know a copper bowl is not something available in every kitchen, however, if you do have one, use it for your egg whites. You will be amazed how much more volume you will achieve.

5. ELECTRIC OR BY HAND, DOESN'T MATTER

You can whip your egg whites by hand with a whisk or use an electric mixer with the whip attachment. If you whip them by hand, you will want a big balloon whisk with lots of spokes or prongs and, of course, by hand takes a lot more energy.

6. WHAT THE EGG WHITES SHOULD LOOK LIKE

When you begin whipping your whites, you will see that the bubbles are inconsistent and light yellow in color. As you continue to whip the egg whites, the bubbles will be consistently tiny and pure white.

7. WHAT EXACTLY IS A STIFF PEAK?

Make sure you stop whipping your egg whites when they form stiff peaks. What does that mean? Simply turn the bowl over periodically and cautiously to see if they flow or run out of the bowl. If they begin to flow out of the bowl, keep whipping, if they don't, they are done. If they look grainy, you've gone too far and need to start again.
Here is a recipe for a wonderful, no cholesterol raspberry soufflé. You'll love how simple it is to make and how delicious it is to eat. The best part? You'll no longer be afraid to whip egg whites.

WARM LITTLE RASPBERRY SOUFFLÉS

Serves 6

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 cup excellent quality raspberry jam, room temperature
• 4 egg whites
• 2 teaspoons kirsch*

*Kirsch is a brandy made from cherries that brings out the

Sauce

• 1 1/2 cups raspberries, fresh or frozen raspberries, defrosted
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon kirsch
• Fresh berries, optional

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Butter 6, 5-ounce soufflé dishes; dust very lightly with sugar and tap out the excess; place the soufflé dishes on a baking sheet.
2. Strain the raspberry jam through a fine mesh strainer. Place the egg whites in a bowl and warm the whites directly over the burner of the stove, swirling the bowl just until the egg whites are warm to the touch; whip the whites to stiff peaks; fold the jam and kirsch into the whites with as few folds as possible.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared soufflé dishes and bake until well puffed and the center does not shake when lightly jiggled, 10 to 15 minutes.
4. In the meantime, purée the raspberries until smooth; strain; stir the sugar and kirsch into the sauce until the sugar is melted.
5. When the soufflés are removed from the oven, serve immediately.
6. Serve the sauce on the side. To serve the sauce, cut a hole into the center of each soufflé and pour the sauce into the center. Garnish with berries, if desired.

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SUMMER GAMES-INSPIRED NAILS

From fencing and football to water polo and weightlifting, there’s something for everyone. And while most of us won’t be making our way to London, we can still get in on the fun from home.
You don’t need to be a nail art pro to pull off these Olympics-inspired nail designs. All you need is a little creativity and patience, and you’ll be rocking a killer mani all the way until the Closing Ceremony.llic nails. Take your marks, go!

Steps to create this nail art design:

1. Show your love for Team USA by sporting the iconic colors of the flag on your digits. For my red, white and blue polishes, I chose RGB Too Red, China Glaze Frostbite and a white nail art pen/brush from Models Own. If you don’t have a nail art brush, you can use an angled eyeliner brush, a Q-tip or a paper clip to apply the stripes. You’ll also need a silver glitter like Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics in Arsenic.
2. Paint your nails with red polish, except for a “status nail” on each hand, which you’ll paint blue.
3. Using your nail art brush or other tool, paint thin diagonal lines of white polish across each red nail. It’s OK if they aren’t perfect -- they’ll still look great even if your lines are a little shaky.
4. To create “stars,” apply small dots of glitter onto the blue “status nail.”
5. Clean up around the edges with remover, and then add a glossy top coat. Now you’re ready to cheer for your home team in style.

Steps to create this nail art design:

1. The Olympic rings are the most iconic image of the Olympic Games, and since there are five rings, they translate perfectly into nail art. Begin by choosing five polishes in the colors of the rings, as well as a white or neutral base. I’m using China Glaze Electric Beat, Mattese Elite Almost Famous, Mattese Elite Black, China Glaze Gaga for Green and RGB Too Red, plus the off-white OPI My Boyfriend Scales Walls as my base.
2. Paint each nail with a neutral shade like white, gray or nude. I love how the colors pop against a bright or slightly off-white polish.
3. Unfold a paper clip and carefully dip the end into your first color. Make small dots with the tip of the polish-dipped paper clip, forming a circle on the nail. Wipe off the paper clip and continue with the remaining colors until each nail is adorned with a ring.
4. Before adding a top coat, make sure to let the colored polish dry completely to avoid smearing the festive rings.

Steps to create this nail art design:
Thumb - Swimming:From diving to synchronized swimming, the pool is a Summer Olympics hotspot. Begin with a dark blue polish like China Glaze First Mate. After applying a top coat and letting the polish dry completely, cut a piece of Scotch tape with decorative scrapbooking scissors in a scalloped pattern to create a wave-like edge on one side of the tape. If you don’t have decorative scissors, you can freehand a wavy pattern onto the tape with a small pair of scissors. Press the tape firmly onto the nail and fill in the bottom portion of the nail with a brighter blue like Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Pool Boy. Carefully remove the Scotch tape to reveal your finished design.
Pointer finger - Tennis:To get this simple tennis ball look, paint your nail with a bright green polish like Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Wasabi. Using a nail art pen/brush, draw two curved lines onto the sides of the nail with white polish. It’s as simple as that!
Middle finger - Basketball:Begin with a gold, brown or bronze polish like Sephora Vivid Metallic. Once the base polish is dry, pick up some black polish on the tip of a paper clip or a small nail art brush and carefully paint a vertical line down the nail, followed by a horizontal line across the center. Finish with two slightly arched lines at the top and bottom of the nail to create the classic basketball stripes. Make sure to let the polish dry completely before adding a top coat so you don’t smear your handiwork!
Ring finger - Gymnastics:Gymnastics is one of the most-watched sports of the Olympics, and the still rings are an iconic symbol of the sport. Begin by painting your nail with a dark base like Kure Bazaar Mon Bleu. Paint two thin vertical stripes in the color of your choice from the top of the nail, stopping about half-way down. At the base of the stripes, create two small circles using a paper clip or a pointy Q-tip dipped in shiny silver polish like Sally Hansen Insta-Dri in Silver Sweep. Allow the design to dry completely and finish with a glossy top coat.
Pinky finger - Archery:
To create an archery bull's eye on your nail, begin with a coat of white polish. Once the white has dried, paint an oval of black polish, just slightly smaller than the shape of your nail. Continue with blue, red and yellow until you’ve reached the center of the nail. As the circles get smaller, you can switch to a Q-tip or a paper clip to get a more precise design.

Steps to create this nail art design:

1. A small makeup sponge is the ideal tool for creating a gradient nail design with ease. In addition to the sponge, gather a gold, yellow, orange and red polish to create this fiery look. I’m using Color Club Disco Nap, Mattese Elite Almost Famous, Essie Meet Me At Sunset and RGB Too Red.
2. Paint each nail with yellow polish. Once the yellow is dry, apply a drop of orange polish onto the tip of the makeup sponge. Dab excess polish onto a paper towel, and then begin sponging orange onto each nail, concentrating most of the color at the base.
3. Apply red polish to a clean edge of the sponge and sponge the polish onto the very base of the nail. Don’t worry about getting polish on your skin. Once you’re happy with the look, use a small brush or Q-tip dipped in remover to clean up all excess polish.
4. To create the gold torch, paint your thumb nail with metallic polish. Add a top coat for protection and shine.

Steps to create this nail art design:

1. For this chic metallic manicure, choose three polishes to represent the Olympic medals -- gold, silver and bronze. I’m using Color Club Disco Nap, Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Silver Sweep and Sephora Vivid Metallic.
2. Begin by painting a stripe of gold down the center of each nail. I like to do this freehand, but you could create perfect lines by using Scotch tape as a barrier.
3. Add a silver stripe on one side of the gold, followed by a stripe of bronze polish on the opposite side.
4. Clean up any stray color with remover and add a glossy top coat to bring even more shine to this podium-worthy nail art.