Lifestyle: Interests, Opinions, Behavior, Culture

This month it’s all about Christmas and the Holidays!

Holiday and Christmas Gift Ideas!!

Still searching for Gift Ideas? Oprah’s 2021 Favorite Things List might be worth a look.

https://www.oprahdaily.com/life/a38004111/oprah-favorite-things-2021/#stylish

For the Jewelry Lover on Your List!

My friend Toni just started a great online jewelry business. All the pieces are so affordable! It’s unbelievable! Inexpensive pieces that look like quality and priced as low as $5. I picked up a couple of pieces that I love and the shipping was fast! Highly recommend! -K-

Paparazzi Jewelry
Visit: https://paparazziaccessories.com/482292

AND …

For the Readers on your list!

Amazon Reviewers give it 5 Stars!

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Want to Jumpstart Your 2022 But Need Some Motivation??

Take a Listen!! • Watch and Be Inspired!

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2022 Travel Plans –

Got a Destination Dream List?

It’s not too early to start thinking about 2022 travel plans. We’ve been cooped up and limited on what some might consider a REAL vacation, for almost two years. At least that’s the case at my house. We’ve taken short trips to Virginia Beach and OC, Maryland but have really missed the beaches in South Florida. We Love the vibe in Ft Lauderdale, Sunny Isles and Miami. Hoping to get back there and spend some extra time next year. I totally get the whole snow bird lifestyle! 😊  

I’m also invited to a friend’s wedding in Belize!! I’ve always imagined Belize to be a magical, tropical island like no other. The idea of possibly going there, has me pumped! I’m waiting to decide on going though. Gotta see what the next few months hold for COVID 19.  -K-

What 2022 destinations are on your list?

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New Year, New Goals:

This may sound a little crazy, but one of my personal goals for 2022 (in addition to those related to my Mind, Body and Spirit) is to become a better storyteller. Writing is one thing however, I really admire people who can articulate a good story and do it spontaneously and in the moment. A good storyteller captures everyone’s interest and attention. It’s effortless for them, and part of the way they naturally communicate.  

New Year Goal: Become a better storyteller----😊

With storytelling in mind, this is a Really Fun clip featuring Kevin Hart and his uncanny ability to tell a good story.

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Holiday Cooking Spotlight

Recipe: Collard Greens 

I’m sharing my recipe for this Must Have on lots of people’s holiday dinner tables. A few months ago my daughter, Brandi, asked for my recipe so, I wrote it down for her. Since I now have it in writing, and it’s Christmas, I thought I would share. The cream of celery soup in a simmered broth of onions, chicken stock and smoked turkey are what really set off this recipe. 

Karen’s Collard Greens

Ingredients:

• 1 to 2 bunches of collards

• 1 large smoked turkey wing or leg 

• 2 tbsp of olive oil and half stick butter

• 1 box unsalted chicken stock (32oz)

• Cream of celery soup or cream of mushroom (yep, you read that right)

• I large onion

• Seasonings – garlic powder, garlic/herb seasoning/Ms Dash/McCormick Season Salt (low sodium) or sea salt

Directions:

1. Cut stalks away from the collards and cut leaves into small pieces.
   Note: I don’t like the stalks but if you do, leave more of them. 

2. Put chopped collards in a large bowl and fill with water to thoroughly wash. Sprinkle a little salt in the water as you wash them. Drain water from the bowl

3. Chop the onion and place in a large pot. Add olive oil and butter and turn on medium high heat. 

4. When the onions begin to cook down, add the turkey, half the box of chicken stock and 3 tablespoons of the soup. Bring to a rapid boil and let cook for about 15 minutes. 

5. Add the collards, 1 tbsp each of garlic powder, herb seasoning, etc.

6. Once the collards start to boil, reduce heat to medium. Cover and simmer for 45 to 50 minutes. Checking and stirring every 10 minutes.

7. If the liquid gets too low, add more chicken stock. The goal is to not let it all evaporate and scorch  the collards. 

8. Taste test and add more seasoning if needed. They’re done when the desired tenderness is reached. 

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The Final Wrap Up:

I saw this segment with T-Pain on the CBS Sunday Morning Show and thought it was a great interview. Thought you might enjoy it too. I didn’t know much about him before, but I learned a lot. He is multi-talented. Who knew? Turns out he also has a New Book of Cocktail Recipes.

T-Pain: The Grammy Award Winner has a New BOOK of Cocktail Recipes.

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