Monday, December 14, 2009

Homemade Candy - Irish Cream Caramels and Crystal Cut Candy

Irish Cream Caramels
2 cups whipping cream
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup light corn syrup
2 tsp butter or margarine
1 tsp Watkins Irish Cream Extract
1 tsp Watkins Original Double Strength Vanilla
1/3 cup chopped walnuts

Combine cream, sugar, corn syrup, and butter in a large heavy saucepan. Using a candy thermometer, heat to 245 degrees F, stirring constantly. Remove from heat at once. Stir in extracts; pour into a buttered 8 x 8 x 2 inch pan. Cool just until firm. Loosen candy around edges with a knife; invert on cutting surface. Cut into 1-inch squares with a sharp knife. Cool completely and wrap each in waxed paper. Store in a cool place.

Crystal Cut Candy
2 cups white sugar
½ cup light corn syrup
½ cup water
Dash of salt
Few drops food color
Watkins extract or flavor of your choice

Combine sugar, syrup, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook to 290 degrees F (soft-crack stage) on a candy thermometer. Add food coloring, choice of extract or flavoring, and allow to set for a few seconds before stirring. Mix well and pour into lightly greased 8x8x2 inch pan. Let stand a few minutes until slightly cooled and a film forms over the top. Mark candy into “puffs” ¾ inch square (because the candy is cooler at edges, start marking at the outside and work toward the center using spatula or pancake turner). Press a line across pan ¾ inch from edge. Be careful not to bread the film. Repeat around pan, intersecting lines at corners to form squares. If lines don’t hold shape, candy is not cool enough. Retrace lines, pressing spatula deeper but do not break film. When spatula can be pressed to bottom of pan on all lines, candy will be shaped into square puffs. Cool thoroughly and break into sections. Store loosely covered in a cool, dry place.

Makes approximately 100 candies.

Extract Suggestions
1 teaspoon Watkins Peppermint Extract
2 to 3 teaspoons Watkins Fruit Flavor Extracts
1 teaspoon Watkins Wintergreen Extract
2 to 3 teaspoons Watkins Anise Extract

Eleisia
http://www.NotJustVanilla.com

Friday, December 11, 2009

Pumpkin Bread



Watkins Pumpkin Bread Mix was such a favorite that it sold out before Christmas. This Pumpkin Bread recipe makes a delicious substitute. Bake in 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 inch or mini loaf pans.

I made this recipe with and without chopped walnuts but did not add raisins. If is a moist bread with lots of flavor.

2/3 cup shortening
2 2/3 cups sugar
4 eggs
1 can (14 ounce) pumpkin puree
2/3 cup water
1 teaspoon Watkins Original Double Strength Vanilla
3 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons soda
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon Watkins Baking Powder
1 teaspoon Watkins Cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon Watkins Cloves
2/3 cup coarsely chopped walnuts
2/3 cup raisins (optional)

Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and dust with flour three 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 inch or 5 or 6 mini loaf pans. In large bowl, cream shortening and sugar until fluffy. Stir in eggs, pumpkin, water, and vanilla. Blend in flour, soda, salt, baking powder, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir in nuts.

Pour into pans. Bake 50 to 70 minutes depending on size of loaf pans used. Bake until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool slightly and then remove bread from pans and cool on rack. Slice and eat while warm or at room temperature. This bread tastes delicious with whipped cream.

Wrap in plastic wrap or foil and then in plastic freezer bags to freeze. This insures freshness. Wrap in decorative plastic wrap or bags for holiday gifts. Or use clear plastic wrap and tie with colorful ribbons.

Tuesday, December 08, 2009

Chocolate Rum Balls


Place Chocolate Rum Balls in decorative holiday tin to serve, give as a hostess gift, or give as a holiday gift for a neighbor.

Chocolate Rum Balls

3 pkg. (8 oz. each) semi-sweet chocolate
1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk
1 Tbsp. Watkins Rum Extract
2/3 cup finely chopped Pecans

Melt chocolate as directed on package. Stir in milk and extract. (Mixture will be very thick.) Let stand 5 min.

Roll into 84 balls, using 1 teaspoon of the chocolate mixture for each. Coat with nuts.

Store in airtight container at room temperature.

Substitute 6 OREO Cookies, crushed, or 16 NILLA Wafers, crushed, for the chopped pecans.

Eleisia
Order Watkins Rum Extract at http://www.NotJustVanilla.com

Holiday Cheese Truffles


The holidays bring friends and family together to share good food and good company. If you are planning a holiday party these Holiday Cheese Truffles are a savory and elegant yet simple appetizer.

2 pkg. (8 oz. each) cream cheese, softened
1 pkg. (8 oz.) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tsp. Watkins Garlic Powder
Dash Watkins Ground Red Pepper (cayenne)
1/4 cup chopped roasted red peppers
2 green onions, sliced
1-2/3 cups chopped pecans
Sociables Savory Crackers or other crackers of choice

Beat first 4 ingredients with mixer until blended. Divide in half. Add roasted peppers to half and onions to other half; mix each until blended.

Refrigerate several hours or until chilled.

Shape into 24 (1-inch) balls. Roll in nuts. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve with crackers. Use holiday picks to add to the festive look and make serving a breeze.

Other coatings for these tasty truffles - sesame seeds, finely chopped red bell pepper, chopped fresh parsley or Watkins Dried Parlsley, Watkins Omelet and Souffle Seasoning, Watkins Paprika and your favorite shredded cheese. Experiment with your own favorite ingredients.

Variations

Festive Wreath: Alternately arrange different flavored truffles in a large circle on platter to resemble a holiday wreath. Create a decorative bow out of green onion strips. Use to garnish wreath.

Cheese Logs: Roll each half into 6-inch log. Roll in desired coatings as directed.

Eleisia
http://www.NotJustVanilla.com

Friday, November 13, 2009

Pumpkin Bundt Cake

Thanksgiving countdown banner


Thanksgiving Prayer
For beauty in nature, Your glory we see
For joy and health, friends and family,
For daily provision, Your mercy and care
These are the blessings You graciously share.
So today we offer this response of praise
With a promise to follow You all of our days.
Mary Fairchild

Thanksgiving Day is almost here. As you plan your holiday dinner menu you may decide to add a new dish or vary your traditional fare. Pumpkin Pie is the standard dessert for most families. We love pumpkin pie with whipped cream! This Pumpkin Bundt Cake makes a tasty alternative to pumpkin pie for those guests who prefer cake instead of pie.

Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Watkins Nonstick Cooking Spray, for pan
4 cups cake flour (not self-rising), plus more for dusting
4 teaspoons Watkins Baking Powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon Watkins Ground Ginger
2 teaspoons Watkins Ground Cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon Watkins Nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon Watkins Ground Cloves
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature, plus more for pan
2 1/2 cups packed light-brown sugar
4 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin puree
Confectioners' sugar, for dusting

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray a 14-cup Bundt pan with cooking spray. Dust with flour, and tap out excess.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
3. Beat butter and brown sugar together in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, on medium speed until pale and fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition and scraping down sides of bowl. Reduce speed to low. Beat in flour mixture in 3 additions, alternating with the buttermilk. Beat until just combined. Add pumpkin puree, and beat until combined. Pour batter into prepared pan.
4. Bake cake until golden and a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean, about 55 minutes. Let cool on a wire rack for 30 minutes. Carefully turn cake onto rack too cool completely. Before serving, dust with confectioners' sugar.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Palmiers



This is a cinnamony-sweet crunchy cookie. Palmiers are best the day they're made, and you can bake them hours before the party.

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon Watkins Cinnamon
1 package frozen puff-pastry sheets (such as Pepperidge Farm)

1. Heat oven to 400° F. Adjust rack to middle position.

2. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of sugar over the work surface. Unfold 1 sheet of the pastry and place it on the sugar. Roll it to an even thickness. Mix 2 tablespoons of the sugar and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon and sprinkle over pastry. Starting at one short side of the rectangle, roll the pastry toward the center of the sheet, stopping at the middle. Repeat with the opposite short end, so the rolls meet. Trim the ends with a knife.

3. Cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices and place flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them 1 inch apart. Sprinkle with 1 more tablespoon of the sugar.

4. Bake until golden and puffed, 20 to 23 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack.

5. Repeat recipe with the remaining puff pastry, sugar, and cinnamon. Serve hot or at room temperature.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Why You Should Order Our Quality Products

Even if I never got another customer order (bite my tongue and shut my mouth!) I would still be a Watkins Associate. My family and I use many of the superior quality products created by Watkins Incorporated. And I buy them at a 25% discount.

I cook with the soup and gravy bases, dessert mixes, extracts, herbs and spices. Have you ever tasted real whipped cream made with Watkins Pure Vanilla? Compare homemade real whipped cream with whipped topping on your Thanksgiving pumpkin pie. After whipping the cream and adding a little sugar and Pure Vanilla Extract take the taste test. So delicious!

Our medicine chest wouldn't be without Menthol Camphor Ointment, Medicated Lip Balm, Petro Carbo Salve, Pain Relieving Liniment Spray, and Pain Relief Burn Cream. We stay healthy by using Watkins Supplements - Superfood Multiple Vitamin, E+CoQ10 Softgels, Skin, Hair, and Nails, and Rezist Plus.

I love the delicately scented moisturizing lotions and creams - Aloe and Green Tea, Lavender, Lemon Cream, Mango, and Vanilla. The Peppermint Cream and Foot Scrub cool and invigorate your feet. Aloe Vera Moisturizing Sun Block is 95% natural, water resistant, SPF 30, chemical sunscreen and PABA free, with an eco-friendly formula.

The personal care kits with travel sized products are just the right size for your vacation. They are perfect for Christmas stocking.

Our new cleaning and home care products are natural and plant-based so they are safe for you, your family, and the environment.

I know most of us are tightening our financial belts and budgeting our income. Watkins brings you economically priced products that are tried-and-true and backed by a 100% money back guarantee.

Order from the online catalog http://www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney or the printed catalog. Email to request a printed catalog eleisiawhitney@watkinsonline.com

If you place an order for $100 or more I will give you a $10 gift certificate to use on your next order.

If you place an order for $150 or more shipping is free. Ask your friends, relatives, or neighbors to place a combined order with you and get your products shipped for free!

Monday, November 09, 2009

Natural Apothecary Now Has 40 Products Carrying the NPA Seal


With 40 products certified, including the new line extensions of facial and body care, J.R. Watkins Natural Apothecary is the second most certified brand.

WINONA, Minn., (Nov. 03, 2009) — J.R. Watkins Natural Apothecary has received Natural Products Association certification for its newest line extensions; Daily Cleansing Cream, Divine Day Cream, Nourishing Night Cream, Medicated Lip Balm, Peppermint Foot Scrub, Aloe and Green Tea Shampoo and Body Wash. With the addition of these products, the company now has the second most products certified out of fourteen companies that currently carry the seal.

This highly regarded seal represents natural products that are formulated with at least 95% natural ingredients made from renewable and sustainable resources.

The average woman slathers over 125 chemicals onto her scalp, body, face and lips each day. Wouldn't be such a big deal if they were all cleared by health officials, but only 11% of the 10,500 chemical ingredients that go into making personal care products are actually tested for safety.*

Meeting the NPA Standard
Products must follow strict guidelines set out by the Natural Products Association to carry the seal, including:

· At least 95 percent truly natural ingredients or ingredients that are derived from natural sources.
· No ingredients with any potential suspected human health risks.
· No processes that significantly or adversely alter the purity/effect of the natural ingredients.
· Ingredients that come from a purposeful, renewable/plentiful source found in nature (flora, fauna, mineral).
· Processes that are minimal and don't use synthetic/harsh chemicals or otherwise dilute purity.
· Non-natural ingredients only when viable natural alternative ingredients are unavailable and only when there are absolutely no suspected potential human health risks.
About Watkins, Incorporated
For more than 140 years, J.R. Naturals has been America's pioneer in natural living, utilizing only the finest natural ingredients. Watkins provides quality brands to meet consumer's needs for environmentally friendly and sustainable products — to help people feel better and live healthy lives.
Order at http://www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney

*www.Greenmuze.com, Natural Beauty Products? Written by: Adria Vasil, author of Ecoholic: Your Guide to the Most Environmentally Friendly Information, Products & Services

Sunday, November 08, 2009

New Products Today and Tomorrow

J. R. Watkins began with one product in 1868, "red liniment", now called "Original" Pain Relieving Liniment. This liniment is one of the top selling products today. In 1868 Watkins introduced America's first money back guarantee. 1895 saw the introduction of Vanilla Extract, Black Pepper, and Cinnamon.

Today the Watkins product line includes over 350 products. These products include Watkins Organic Vanilla Extract and USDA Certified 100% Organic Herbs and Spices, natural plant-based personal care products and natural plant-based home care and cleaning products.

The Natural Products Association has granted the J.R. Watkins Natural Apothecary products the NPA Seal of Compliance. To earn this coveted seal, products must be made out of at least 95% natural products from renewable and sustainable resources.

Watkins continues to improve the product line to meet the needs of today's families. New products to be introduced in 2010 include


  • Pet Wipes
  • Pet Shampoo
  • Pet Stain and Odor Remover
and a new Baby Line with


  • Lotion
  • Head to Toe Wash
  • Baby Oil
  • Butt Balm
With Watkins you can place your order online at my Watkins web site, by phone by calling 1-800-WATKINS (1-800-928-5467), or by mail (order form in master catalog and at my web site). Please give my Watkins ID# 335001 as your associate.

Contact me if you would like a Watkins catalog and product sample eleisiawhitney@watkinsonline.com

Holiday Beverages

After raking leaves or shoveling snow, a winter jog or walk, a snowball fight, or Christmas carolling enjoy a delicious hot beverage. Perfect for cuddling up by the fire or after a holiday meal, our instant cocoa mix delivers gourmet flavor. Get yours now.
Serve your family and guests one of these steaming Watkins beverages.

Peppermint Stick Hot Cocoa Mix #05347 $4.99 (available during November only)
White Chocolate Almond Hot Cocoa Mix #05315 $4.99 (available during November only) sold out
Traditional Cider Brew #05939 Regularly $8.99 Special $7.99 sold out

Chai Latte # 05311 $6.99 The exotic taste of chai – the creaminess of latte – the ease of instant cocoa

Eleisia
http://www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney

Monday, November 02, 2009

Holiday Giveaway


Greetings Everyone!

It's time for another Watkins Holiday Giveaway! Are you making plans for the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays?

The winner of this giveaway will be chosen at random on Monday November 30th. The products will be shipped USPS Priority Mail so they will arrive the first week of December before the Christmas holiday in time for your holiday baking and entertaining!

This giveaway includes:

Pumpkin Bread Mix
Pumpkin Butter
Original Double-Strength Vanilla Extract, 2 fl oz
Butter Extract, 2 fl oz
Irish Cream Extract, 2 fl oz
Bakers Size Almond Extract, 6 fl oz
Mexican Soup and Seasoning Base
Roasted Turkey Gourmet Gravy Mix
Food Colors - Red, Green, Blue, Yellow
Black Pepper, 4 oz tin
Roasted Garlic Snack and Dip Seasoning
Bacon Cheddar Snack and Dip Seasoning
Cinna-Cream Sprinkles
Cinnamon
Body Oil
Winter Pine Holiday Room Spray
Menthol Eucalyptus Room Freshener
Lemon Cream Hand and Body Lotion, 1 fl oz Travel Size
Natural Beeswax Lip Balm
Vanilla Lip Balm

Total Product Value $122.05

(Because of Shipping Charges This Giveaway is For US Residents Only)

To enter the Holiday Giveaway, place any size order at my Watkins web site, by phone, or by mail. Watkins sends me a notification when you place an order. I will acknowledge your order by email or mail and enter you in the contest. You can also send me an email at eleisiawhitney@watkinsonline.com

Order online at http://www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney

Order by phone - call 1-800-WATKINS (1-800-928-5467)

Order by mail. Send order to

Watkins Incorporated
P.O. Box 5570
Winona, MN 55987-0570

Give my name and Watkins ID# when placing your order, Eleisia Whitney ID# 335001.

The winner will be announced here on December 1st and I will notify the winner by email or mail.

Good Luck!

Merry Christmas To All!



Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Roasted Garlic Snack and Dip Seasoning
Everybody loves Watkins Snack & Dip Seasonings! The classic flavors of roasted garlic and onion come together in this delightful blend. Makes a wonderful fresh dip or bagel spread. Just mix with sour cream, plain yogurt or cream cheese to create a delicious treat.

Try out this delicious dip recipe using Watkins Roasted Garlic Snack & Dip Seasoning — it's sure to be a hit!

Cheesy Roasted Garlic Bake
8 oz Colby Jack cheese, shredded
4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
8 oz cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup mayonnaise
3 tbsp Watkins Roasted Garlic Snack & Dip Seasoning
1/3 cup green onions, chopped
1 tbsp Watkins Omelet and Soufflé Seasoning

Combine all ingredients; spread into a deep-dish pie pan. Bake at 350ºF until bubbling (about 15 minutes). Serve with crackers or pita chips.

Pita Chips
Watkins Garlic Liquid Spice
Tortilla flat bread
Watkins Chili Powder
Watkins Seasoning Salt

Brush liquid spice on both sides of tortillas. Sprinkle with chili powder and seasoning salt on both sides. Use pizza cutter to cut tortillas into bite size chips. Bake at 400ºF for 3-5 minutes, until golden and crisp. Let cool and serve.

Roasted Garlic Snack and Dip Seasoning
05703 $8.99 USD — Special $7.49 USD — Save $1.50!

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Maple Spice Cake

Serve as a not-too-sweet alternative to pumpkin pie at Thanksgiving. Leftovers make a delicious after-school snack. Watkins spices give this cake lots of flavor.

Maple Spice Cake
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons Watkins Baking Powder
1 teaspoon Watkins Cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon Watkins Ground Cloves
1/2 teaspoon Watkins Nutmeg, plus more for garnish
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/4 cups firmly packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter or shortening, softened
3 large eggs, separated
1/2 cup half-and-half
1/4 cup maple syrup
Whipped cream, for serving

1. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Grease and flour a 13 by 9-inch cake pan.

2. Sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and salt. Combine the brown sugar and butter in a large bowl. Beat with an electric mixer set at high speed until creamy. Add the egg yolks and beat until blended. Add the flour mixture alternately with the half-and-half and maple syrup, beating well after each addition.

3. Place the egg whites in a medium bowl. Beat with an electric mixer set at high speed until stiff peaks form. Fold the egg whites into the batter.

4. Spoon the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 20 to 25 minutes. Cool in the pan on a wire rack.

5. Cut the cake into squares. Top each serving with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.

Monday, October 26, 2009

The right business opportunity for you!

  • Do you feel stifled at your current job?
  • Do you feel you are not being paid what you are worth?
  • Do you want more family time?
  • Do you seek a meaningful career with a secure future?
  • Are a healthy lifestyle and the environment important to you?
  • Are you looking for part-time income or a full time profession?
  • Do you dream about success and an income that could change your life and the lives of others?
If you find yourself answering YES to any of these questions, Watkins may be the perfect fit for you!

Ask me how to change your life! Visit http://www.vanillasage.com or www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney

Ask Me About an Opportunity For More!

A Watkins Home Business can offer you more of the things you want and less of the things you don’t.

What would you like from a Watkins business?

I would like more:
§ Ability to choose my hours and income
§ Financial security for my family
§ Free time and the money to enjoy it
§ Vacations with my family and friends

I would like less:
§ Living paycheck to paycheck
§ Time spent commuting to my job
§ Workplace stress
§ Pressure in my life

I would really enjoy:
§ Working with people who have similar goals
§ Being my own boss and setting my own schedule
§ Developing my talents and challenging my abilities
§ Starting my own business without having to leave my current job
§ Representing a company known for honesty and integrity
§ Earning free travel and rewards

Find out more about our Watkins home-based business opportunity

Network Marketing

There are a lot of misconceptions about Network Marketing.

Have you ever referred a friend to a good movie or a restaurant? Did the producer of the movie or the owner of the restaurant pay you for the referral? Think how often you refer friends and family to products and services you enjoy. Can you imagine getting paid on every referral?

That’s what network marketing is. Nearly all successful Watkins Associates started out loving Watkins products. They couldn’t help but share their results with others. Watkins rewards their referral with a nice compensation check.

"With even a smidgen of desire, almost anything is possible, and that includes your building a career in network marketing. ... We all want the same things out of life. We want to be happy, healthy, reasonably prosperous and secure, and to have friends, piece of mind, good family relationships, and hope. A career in network marketing can satisfy all these desires." ‐ Zig Ziglar, “Network Marketing for Dummies”

Friday, October 23, 2009

Pumpkin Pie Spice for the Holidays!


Watkins Pumpkin Pie Spice
isn't just for making fabulous pumpkin pies.

  • Sprinkle a little on holiday eggnog, hot cocoa, coffee, cappuccino, or latte.
  • Add Pumpkin Pie Spice to whipped cream or whipped topping for pumpkin pie. Add to cream cheese frosting for cakes, breads, and bars.
  • Add a sprinkle or two to pumpkin pancakes.
  • Tastes great in squash and sweet potato recipes.
Watkins combines an exclusive blend of spices in Pumpkin Pie Spice. This specially-blended seasoning is designed to perfectly enhance some of the most popular baked desserts and allow
you to save time by measuring one ingredient instead of several. With Watkins, you don’t have
to sacrifice quality for convenience.
• Premium herbs and spices—thoroughly inspected and tested.
• Expertly blended for consistently perfect results.
• Save time by measuring one seasoning instead of several.
• Packaged in our unique glass bottle for optimum beauty and flavor retention.
• Convenient shaker tops.
Order Watkins Pumpkin Pie Spice - 01982 for your autumn and holiday baking!


Saturday, October 17, 2009

Certified Organic Label Guide

Cooking and Living Naturally

Certified Organic Label Guide

Making sense of organic labeling can be difficult, and many consumers do not understand the significance of the USDA Organic label. Since October 21, 2002, the following guidelines were established by the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Organic Program (NOP) to assure consumers know the exact organic content of the food they buy.

Single-Ingredient Foods
On foods like fruits and vegetables, look for a small sticker version of the USDA Organic label or check the signage in your produce section for this seal.

The word "organic" and the seal may also appear on packages of meat, cartons of milk or eggs, cheese, and other single-ingredient foods.

Multi-Ingredient Foods
Foods such as beverages, snacks, and other processed foods use the following classification system to indicate their use of organic ingredients.


100% Organic
Foods bearing this label are made with 100% organic ingredients* and may display the USDA Organic seal.

Organic
These products contain at least 95–99% organic ingredients (by weight). The remaining ingredients are not available organically but have been approved by the NOP. These products may display the USDA Organic seal.

Made With Organic Ingredients
Food packaging that reads “Made With Organic Ingredients” must contain 70–94% organic ingredients. These products will not bear the USDA Organic seal; instead, they may list up to three ingredients on the front of the packaging.

Other
Products with less than 70% organic ingredients may only list organic ingredients on the information panel of the packaging. These products will not bear the USDA Organic seal.

Keep in mind that even if a producer is certified organic, the use of the USDA Organic label is voluntary. At the same time, not everyone goes through the rigorous process of becoming certified, especially smaller farming operations. When shopping at a farmers’ market, for example, don’t hesitate to ask the vendors how your food was grown.

*Salt and water are not included.

Source: Organic.org

Watkins product line includes USDA Certified Organic Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract and USDA Certified 100% Organic Spices and Herbs. See our complete line of Organic Herbs and Spices.


Monday, October 05, 2009

Ultimate Double Chocolate Cookies

These double chocolate cookies are the most decadent cookies you'll ever eat! The one third cup of all-purpose flour is a correct measurement. (I had my doubts the first time I made these cookies.) The dough is very soft and must be chilled before baking cookies. The directions say to form two logs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill. You could also leave dough in bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and chill. Then dip out tablespoonfuls, form balls, and bake on greased cookie pans.

Ultimate Double Chocolate Cookies
12 ounces Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
11 1/2 ounces 60% Cacao Bittersweet Chocolate Chips
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 eggs
1 teaspoon Watkins Double Strength Vanilla
1 cup sugar
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup chopped walnuts

In double boiler over hot water, melt bittersweet chocolate chips and butter. In large bowl with electric mixer or whisk, beat eggs and sugar until thick; stir into chocolate mixture. Add vanilla. In small bowl, stir together flour and baking powder; stir into chocolate mixture. Gently mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips and walnuts.

Using a sheet of plastic wrap, form dough into two logs, each 2 inches in diameter and about 12 inches long. As dough will be quite soft, use plastic wrap to hold dough in log shape. Wrap tightly; refrigerate at least 1 hour or until firm. (Dough may be frozen; thaw in refrigerator before proceeding with recipe.) Heat oven to 375°F. Unwrap dough; with sharp knife, cut into 3/4-inch slices. Place slices 1 1/2 inches apart on greased or parchment-lined cookie sheet.

Bake 12 to 15 minutes or until shiny crust forms on top but interior is still soft. Cool on baking sheet; do not remove cookies while warm because they will fall apart. Store in airtight tin up to 1 week. Makes 2 1/2 dozen cookies.

Tips for Melting Chocolate
Here are three methods for melting chocolate. Melt chocolate carefully. Overheating or adding moisture may cause chocolate to thicken.

Double Boiler Method
Break chocolate into small pieces, and place in top pan of double boiler over hot, but not boiling, water. You may also use a glass or metal mixing bowl on top of a saucepan half-full of water. Do not let bottom of bowl touch water.

Allow chocolate to melt, stirring occasionally.

Direct Heat Method
This method may be used if chocolate is to be added to a batter. Do not use for dipping or molding.

Use very low, even heat. Stir constantly to avoid scorching. Remove from heat when small lumps remain, and stir to complete melting.

Microwave Method
Using microwave-safe container, place chocolate in microwave oven at medium power (50 percent) for 1–1 1/2 minutes. Remove and stir.

If chocolate is not melted, return to microwave and repeat heating step, stirring every 15-30 seconds to avoid scorching. When small lumps remain, remove and continue to stir to complete melting.

General Tips
•Baking bars should be stored in a cool place, wrapped airtight.
•Break or cut chocolate into small (1/2-inch) pieces for even melting. Stir gently and frequently while melting.
•When melting chocolate, do not apply too much heat. Chocolate burns easily. It’s best to melt chocolate slowly. See tips for melting chocolate.
•Be certain that your work surface, pans, and tools are absolutely dry before melting chocolate.


Eleisia
http://www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney


Saturday, September 19, 2009

Beauty with a Conscience Awards Winner

J.R. WATKINS NATURAL APOTHECARY - BEAUTY WITH A CONSCIENCE AWARDS WINNER

J.R. Watkins Natural Apothecary Products Awarded
Best Foot Cream
Best Exfoliant
Best Lip Tint
Editor's Pick/Bath Product




Natural Solutions Magazine has named several J.R. Watkins natural products as winners and Editor's Picks at the second annual Beauty with a Conscience Awards.
• J.R. Watkins Peppermint Rejuvenating Foot Cream — Best Foot Cream
• J.R. Watkins Gentle Pore scrub — Best Exfoliant
• J.R. Watkins Lip Tint — Best Lip Tint
• J.R. Watkins Calming Bath Soak — Editor’s Pick, Bath Product


You can find this special editorial in the October Natural Solutions Magazine issue that is available at newsstands today.
Natural Solutions reaches over half a million consumers with every issue. Natural Solutions readers are 88% female, between 25-54 years of age, buy natural and organic products and are committed to a healthy lifestyle. These readers are also highly influential among family and friends.

The Beauty With a Conscience Awards were developed to find truly natural beauty products.
Natural Solutions utilized Whole Foods Market Premium Body Care standard research (http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/pdfs/pbc-booklet.pdf) for the basis of its award criteria. This standard lists over 250 toxins that are unacceptable in personal care products. Natural Solutions entire editorial staff — with the enlisted help of significant others — tested over 500 products to see if they passed their standards. From those, they chose their favorites!
J.R. Watkins Natural Apothecary line is highly regarded with Natural Product Association certification, formulated with at least 95% natural ingredients from renewable and sustainable resources.
Order these award-winning products at http://www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney

Friday, September 18, 2009

September is Pain Awareness Month

We all have aches and pains from every day activities such as sports, yard work, and household chores. Others have joint pain caused by arthritis. Watkins offers several products that provide temporary relief from aches and pains.

If your chronic pain interferes with everyday living and you seek the help of a doctor this tip will help.

Tip
Diagnosis of chronic pain conditions can be difficult. To help your doctor, keep a pain diary of when your pain occurs and what triggered the pain.

These Watkins products will help relieve everyday aches and pains.


Pain Relieving Liniment, 02317, 11 fl oz/325 ml, $12.99
Relieves the discomfort of minor aches, soreness, and stiffness by stimulating nerve receptors that feel heat.
Fast Relief
97% Natural
Eco-friendly formula and packaging

Pain Relieving Liniment Spray, 02350, 4 fl oz/120 ml, $9.99
Get quick relief from sore muscles, aches, and arthritis pain with this convenient, fast-acting spray. The natural pain-relieving properties of our Liniment are blended with the penetrating vapors of our Menthol Camphor Relief Mist to offer quick relief.
Perfect for difficult to reach areas
96% Natural
Eco-friendly formula and packaging

White Cream Liniment, 02316, 11 fl oz/325 ml, $12.99
This effective pain relief formula uses evergreen-based counterirritants to provide temporary relief from arthritis aches and pains, as well as muscle strains, aches, and soreness caused by exertion.
Cream lotion - won't dry the skin
Rubbing formula - rub into skin to stimulate circulation

Deep Muscle Cooling Gel in a tube, 12309, 3.3 oz/110 g, $7.99
Chill out muscle aches, minor arthritis, and simple pack pain. Natural menthol works overtime, overriding the sensation of pain by stimulating nerve endings that transmit cold, much like an icepack does.
97.2% Natural
Eco-friendly formula and packaging

Deep Muscle Warming Balm in a tube, 12311, 3.3 oz/110 g, $7.99
Wintergreen extract, menthol and capsacin join forces to warm-up muscles naturally. Carry in your gym bag or purse for deep-heating, greaseless, stainless pain relief on the go.
99% Natural
Eco-friendly formula and packaging

Menthol Camphor Ointment and Rub, 02358, 4.13 oz/117 g, $9.99
This cooling, soothing product has been making people feel better for more than 90 years. Besides helping to relieve the stuffed-up, congested feeling of a chest cold and suppress the accompanying cough, it provides temporay relief from backache, strains, sprains, arthritic pain, and rheumatic pain.

Pain Relief Burn Cream, 10498, 4 oz/113 g, $8.99
Our helaing, soothing burn cream is medicated with lidocaine and all-natural aloe gel to help relieve pain and itching from minor burns, sunburn, windburn, insect bites, and other minor skin irritations.

Order at http://www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney

Or call 1-800-WATKINS (1-800-928-5467) and give my ID# 335001 as your associate

Saturday, September 12, 2009

Pumpkin Butter Cupcakes

Pumpkin Butter is one of our 2009 Seasonal Favorites products available to order now through the end of December. This indulgent condiment has the homemade taste of Grandma’s. All-natural and absolutely delightful! Just spread on bread, toast, bagels, biscuits, or Watkins Pumpkin Bread.

Pumpkin Butter Cupcakes

2 1/4 cup/560 mL all-purpose flour
1 tbsp/15 mL Watkins Baking Powder
1/2 tsp/2.5 mL baking soda
1/2 tsp/2.5 mL salt
1/2 tsp/2.5 mL Watkins Organic Cinnamon
1/2 tsp/2.5 mL Watkins Organic Ginger
1/2 tsp/2.5 mL Watkins Organic Nutmeg
1/2 cup/125 mL butter, softened
1 1/3 cups/325 mL sugar
2 eggs
1 cup/250 mL Watkins Pumpkin Butter or canned pumpkin
3/4 cup/180 mL milk
3/4 cup/180 mL chopped walnuts

Brown Sugar Frosting

1/4 cup/60 mL butter
6 tbsp/90 mL brown sugar
6 tbsp/90 mL half-and-half
2 cups/500 mL powdered sugar
1 tsp/5 mL Watkins Original Double-Strength Vanilla

In medium bowl stir together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg. In large bowl cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy; beat in eggs. Blend in pumpkin butter. Stir in dry ingredients and milk, blending until batter is smooth. Stir in chopped walnuts. Spoon batter into paper lined muffin tins. Fill about 2/3 full. Bake at 375°F/190C for 18 to 22 minutes. Makes 16 cupcakes.

Brown Sugar Frosting
In 2 quart/2 liter saucepan melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar and half-and-half. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until mixture comes to a boil (2 to 3 minutes). Remove from heat and add powdered sugar and vanilla; beat until well mixed (1 to 2 minutes). Let cool to spreading consistency (5 to 10 minutes). Frost cupcakes.

Pumpkin Butter


Eleisia
http://www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Chunky Apple Cake


Autumn is apple-picking season in North America. Start collecting recipes to show off your apple baking talents.

My Dad and I used to pick apples every autumn. The apple orchards used to open for several days to allow people to pick apples. We got up before sun up to be one of the first to get to the orchard on the opening day. The orchard provided a limited number of very tall ladders for the apple pickers and we had to get there early to get one of the ladders. We picked several bushels of apples for eating and baking. The apples were stored in a cool dry place and lasted through the winter.

Chunky Apple Cake

This tender, moist cake is full of old-fashioned comfort, and the yummy brown sugar sauce makes it special. Top with a dollop of whipped cream.

1/2 cup butter, softened
2 cups sugar
1/2 teaspoon Watkins Original Double Strength Vanilla
2 eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1-1/2 teaspoons Watkins Ground Cinnamon
1 teaspoon Watkins Ground Nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
6 cups chopped peeled tart apples

Butterscotch Sauce
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup butter, cubed
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

In a large bowl, cream butter, sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla. Combine the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt and baking soda; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well (batter will be stiff). Stir in apples until well combined.

Spread into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish. Bake at 350° F for 40-45 minutes or until top is lightly browned and springs back when lightly touched. Cool for 30 minutes before serving.

Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine brown sugar and butter. Cook over medium heat until butter is melted. Gradually add cream. Bring to a slow boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat. Serve with cake. Yield: 12-14 servings.

Eleisia
http://www.NotJustVanilla.com

Wednesday, September 09, 2009

Why Choose Watkins?

I use Watkins products everyday. I buy from my Watkins online store and get at least a 25% discount. I am proud to offer you superior quality products as well as a home-based business that can improve your life.

Why Watkins?

1. A stable company with a solid reputation
2. Summit Group, company, and team support
3. Flexible Marketing Methods
4. Exceptional Earning Potential
5. No territories
6. No Inventory Required - Toll-free and online ordering
7. Work your own hours
8. No quotas to remain an associate
9. Superior quality products that people use everyday
10. Products that you will proudly use in your home

If you join Watkins with me as your sponsor I will give you a $30 Watkins gift certificate. Use this gift certificate to purchase products for yourself.

Take the free online no-obligation tour at http://www.vanillasage.com

You can join at the site mentioned above or at http://www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney under Join Us - As an Associate or call the Membership Line 1-800-WATKINS (1-800-928-5467) and give my name and ID# 335001.

Eleisia Whitney
Independent Watkins Manager ID# 335001

Saturday, September 05, 2009

PLU Codes on Fresh Fruit - Conventional or Organic


If you look at the sticky label that comes on fresh produce you buy at the grocers, you can learn a bit about how the fruit was grown from the Price Look-Up (PLU) code. This code helps identify the produce at checkout.

Here's how to decipher the stickers.
Items that are conventionally grown have four-digit PLU codes that begin with the number 3 or 4, while their organically grown counterparts have codes that are five digits long and begin with the number 9. For instance, a conventionally grown banana is labeled 4011, while an organic banana is labeled 94011. Genetically modified fruits and vegetables are rare finds but can be identified by five-digit PLU codes that begin with the number 8. For instance, genetically modified bananas would be labeled 84011. A code number beginning with 6 identifies precut fruits and vegetables.

Friday, September 04, 2009

Oatmeal Butterscotch Cookies

These chewy oatmeal cookies taste great with a glass of cold milk.

Bake large sized cookies for a school bake sale or carnival. Wrap individual cookies in zip loc bags and place in a basket for a nice presentation. Attendees can purchase a cookie to munch while they enjoy the activities!



Oatmeal Butterscotch Cookies
3/4 cup (1-1/2 sticks) butter or margarine, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon Watkins Vanilla Extract
1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon Watkins Ground Cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cups quick-cooking or regular rolled oats, uncooked
1-3/4 cups (11-oz. pkg.) butterscotch chips

1. Heat oven to 375°F.

2. Beat butter, granulated sugar and brown sugar in large bowl until well blended. Add eggs and vanilla; beat well.

3. Combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt; gradually add to butter mixture, beating until well blended. Stir in oats and butterscotch chips; mix well. Drop by heaping teaspoons onto ungreased cookie sheet.

4. Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown. Cool slightly; remove from cookie sheet to wire rack. Cool completely. About 4 dozen cookies.

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Cinnamon Brown Sugar Dip


Dip crisp apple wedges in this dip for a special treat.

1/4 cup cream cheese spread
1/4 cup sour cream
1 Tbsp. brown sugar
1/4 tsp. Watkins Ground Cinnamon
1 Tbsp. milk
2 apples, each cut into 8 wedges

Mix first 5 ingredients until blended.

Serve with apples for dipping.

For a simple desert, serve this dip with graham crackers or vanilla wafers.

Friday, August 28, 2009

Living Naturally - The Power of Green!


Sorting through the confusion of green cleaning products?

Many companies are re-evaluating their product lines to better fit "green" standards.

Watkins didn't know it at the time, but the products that we have been committed to developing and bringing to your family for 140 years are getting a lot of attention and actively sought after by consumers.

Today we have many choices for natural and environmentally friendly cleaning products. How do we weed out the truly natural products from impostors? Lets find out!

What makes a green cleaning product "green?"

At Watkins we have defined green cleaning products as items that use renewable, non-toxic, phosphate-free and biodegradable ingredients. Products that work, but don't create fumes or leave behind residue that may affect the health of your family or impact the environment.

How do "green" cleaners work?

Green cleaners break down dirt and grease using surfactants from natural renewable resources. For example, instead of using ammonia as the active ingredient, Watkins uses natural plant extracts. These active ingredients act like magnets pulling dirt up and away from the surface.

What should we be looking for when we are looking for "green" cleaning products?

Watkins of course! Your first indication that a cleaning product isn't as natural as it could be is the use of colorants or dyes. A neon pink or purple cleaner should send up a red flag. Pay close attention to ingredient decks. These might be an indication that the product isn't as natural as it could be.

How do we know a "green" cleaner is truly not going to harm our environment?

The Clean Water Fund, a non-profit organization, estimates that the average American uses forty pounds of environmentally harmful household cleaners each year. Multiply that number by 245 million Americans and the effects are significant! The important claims to look for with regard to environment are biodegradable and phosphate free. Also steer clear of aerosol cleaners that can deplete the ozone.

What ingredients should we steer clear of?

Watkins has established a freedom code for our Natural Home Care line complete with all the ingredients we steer clear of:

Ammonia Free
Animal Ingredient Free
Benzene Free
Biodegradable
Bleach Free
Boron Free
Butyl/Ethyl Cellosolve Free
Diethylene Ether Free
Dye Free
Formaldehyde Free
Isopropanol Free
Kerosene Free
Mineral Spirit Free
Never Tested on Animals
Non-toxic
Paraben Free
Petrochemical Free
Phosphate Free
Phosphoric Acid Free
Phthalate Free
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Free
Sulfuric Acid Free

Environmentally friendly cleaning tips:

  • Cut down on skin irritations by using natural cleaning products on surfaces that will come in direct contact with your skin, upholstery, carpets, and kitchen counter tops.


  • Use a dishwasher detergent that is phosphate-free. Phosphates cannot be removed from water sources with current waste water treatments and end up in fresh water areas.


  • Invest in a quality set of microfiber cloths. Use these instead of paper towels when cleaning to lessen your impact on the environment. Every little effort helps!


  • Dispose of old, toxic cleaners properly. Contact your local recycling center.


    Tuesday, August 25, 2009

    New Product - Home Care Travel Kit


    Announcing the newest addition to the Home Care Family! This product is available to order now.

    Home Care Travel Kit

    Clean your home, office or car with this powerful and convenient natural cleaning kit containing our most popular J.R. Watkins Natural Home Care products.

    This travel pack is the perfect size for putting in your glove compartment for quick clean ups when you're on the go. The attractive packaging makes it ideal for use at the office to keep your work area neat and tidy. You'll get hooked on these safe cleaning products for your home, your family and the environment.

    The Home Care Travel Kit will first be featured in the November Sales & Promotions Catalog.
    Contains:
    • 1 fl. oz. Lemon All-Purpose Cleaner*
    • 1 fl. oz. Lavender Window Cleaner*
    • 1 fl. oz. Orange Citrus Room Freshener*
    • 1 fl. oz. Aloe & Green Tea Liquid Hand Soap
    • 1 fl. oz. Lemon Liquid Laundry Detergent Packet♦

    16706 Home Care Travel Kit — $7.99 USD
    Order now at Home Care Travel Kit

    * More than 250 Sprays! Adjust usage as needed.
    ♦ Enough laundry detergent for one load.

    Order at http://www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney

    Saturday, August 22, 2009

    2009 Seasonal Favorites Available Now!






    Above are just a few of this year's Watkins 2009 Seasonal Favorites Gift products.

    This year's 2009 Seasonal Favorites products are available to order now through December 2009. Most will be featured in the monthly highlights catalogs September through December.

    Although these items are primarily designed for holiday gift-giving, they could be used (just like any other Watkins products) for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, or any other occasion.

    Every year a few gift items run out well before the end of the season, so order early, and stock up especially if there are products that you really love!

    Video and Audio Presentations of 2009 Watkins Seasonal Favorites.
    http://www.tsgnet.com/90821a.php

    Near the end of the presentation is information about the 2009 Seasonal Favorites Assortment available at a specially-discounted price if you join my Watkins team. This assortment is available until September 30. Email me for more information about this assortment and how to join my Watkins team eleisiawhitney@watkinsonline.com (Join with me as your sponsor at http://www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney under Join Us As an Associate. Please give my name and ID# as your sponsor, Eleisia Whitney ID# 335001.)

    Presentations of US and Canadian 2009 Watkins Seasonal Favorites including product details and recipes.

    US Presentation

    Canadian Presentation

    Order 2009 Seasonal Favorites products (under Gifts on the menu) as well as our complete product line at http://www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney , call 1-800-WATKINS (1-800-928-5467) and give my ID# 335001 as your associate, or mail your order to Watkins Incorporated and give my name and ID# as you associate, Eleisia Whitney ID# 335001. There is an order form in each mainline catalog and online at my Watkins web site http://www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney. You may also request a printed order form by emailing me at
    eleisiawhitney@watkinsonline.com
    . I'll send an order form if you give me your name and mailing address.


    Self-Discipline

    Self-discipline is the key to personal greatness. It is the magic quality that opens all doors for you, and makes everything else possible. With self-discipline, the average person can rise as far and as fast as his talents and intelligence can take him. But without self-discipline, a person with every blessing of background, education and opportunity will seldom rise above mediocrity.

    "The most important success principle of all was stated by Thomas Huxley many years ago. He said, "Do what you should do, when you should do it, whether you feel like it or not." There are many other success principles but without self-discipline, none of theses principles work.

    Excerpt from Introduction from The Power of Discipline By Brian Tracy

    As an Independent Watkins Associate self-discipline is a very important attribute and key to your success.

    Friday, August 21, 2009

    Positive Attitude in Life and Business

    In many ways, we're alike; however, one little difference almost always makes a big difference. The little difference is attitude.

    William James, over a century ago, said, "The greatest discovery of this generation is that a human being can alter their life by altering their attitudes." I believe this with all my heart, and over the years have seen it happen countless times. What most people fail to realize is that your attitude not only impacts your happiness and your success, it also can impact the happiness and success of all the people around you...your family, your friends, and your peers at work. Attitudes truly are contagious, and from time to time we need to ask ourselves..."is mine worth catching?"

    There is no way to overstate the importance of a positive attitude in your life. However, no one can underestimate the difficulty in maintaining it. It's not easy, and it's a very personal thing, but it can be done.

    Mac Anderson - Simple Truths

    Monday, August 10, 2009

    Limited Time Offer $4.95 Shipping for Watkins Products

    Limited Time Offer Get $4.95 Shipping on Online Orders of Watkins Products

    From August 10 – 16, 2009 place an order of $60.00 or more in the US catalog or the Canadian catalog and you will pay only $4.95 for shipping and handling. That’s a $5.00 Saving! Order all of your favorite Watkins Products today and take advantage of the fantastic savings!

    Save even more by taking advantage of our monthly specials!

    Ways to Earn with Watkins

    A Watkins Home Based Business offers several business-building methods to help you earn. You choose the methods that fit into your life style and schedule.

    Living Naturally
    Group events, presentations, and samplings present Watkins product and business opportunity to a group of people at the same time. These are very time effective methods for building your business and can represent significant "now money."

    Public Events
    Trade Shows, Public Displays, and Fairs bring the public to you. This is a fantastic fit for those who are free to work their business on the weekends and are willing to invest in inventory.

    Online
    Bring customers and prospects right in to your virtual home anytime of day! Work your business full or part-time when you like.

    One-on-One

    One-on-One: Present the product and business opportunity to individual prospects any time in any setting. This is a highly duplicable avenue for building your Watkins business.

    Personal Presentations and Opinion Appointments: These methods almost always result in sales or sponsoring opportunities. People love to give their opinion, and they appreciate personalized service. Approaching people this way takes a bit more time since you are only talking to one or two people at a time.

    Repeat business: Once you have established a customer, you can introduce them to other products. As they fall in love with the product, they may also be interested in exploring the business opportunity or will gladly refer you to others if you ask.

    Out and about in daily activities: It's simple to "make friends" wherever you go. Most people are willing to share a smile or a comment with you, and these are the people you want to talk to! Decide to "make new friends" each time you're out. Your goal is just to get a name and phone number so you can follow up.

    For more information about our products and home based business opportunity please visit http://www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney
    http://www.vanillasage.com
    http://www.everydaynecessities.com

    Chocolate Zucchini Cupcakes


    Your kids and grand kids won't believe there are veggies in these cupcakes, so don't tell them! They make a tasty treat after school, packed in lunches, family get togethers, or served as dessert after dinner.

    Chocolate Zucchini Cupcakes
    1-1/4 cups butter, softened
    1-1/2 cups sugar
    2 eggs
    1 teaspoon Watkins Vanilla Extract
    2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
    3/4 cup Watkins Baking Cocoa
    1 teaspoon Watkins Baking Powder
    1 teaspoon baking soda
    1/2 teaspoon salt
    1/2 cup plain yogurt
    1 cup finely grated zucchini
    1 cup finely grated carrots
    1 can (16 ounces) chocolate frosting or home made frosting

    In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla. Combine the flour, baking cocoa, baking powder, baking soda and salt; add to the creamed mixture alternately with yogurt, beating well after each addition. Fold in zucchini and carrots.

    Fill paper-lined muffin cups two-thirds full. Bake at 350° F for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely. Frost cupcakes. Yield: 24 cupcakes.

    Testing Baking Powder and Baking Soda


    If you don't seem to have much success with making baked goods, there may be a simple answer - your baking powder and/or baking soda may not be fresh. The shelf life for these products is about 6 months, but here's how to test for freshness to be sure:

    For baking powder, place 1 teaspoon baking powder in a cup and add 1/3 cup hot tap water.

    For baking soda, place 1/4 teaspoon baking soda in a cup and add 2 teaspoons vinegar.

    If active bubbling occurs, the products are fine to use. If not, they should be replaced. When buying a new can, check for an expiration date.

    Order Watkins Baking Powder

    Tuesday, August 04, 2009

    Cooking Tip - Draining Fat From Ground Beef


    We had spaghetti with meat sauce for dinner tonight. I almost always make my meat sauce from scratch with tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, ground beef and/or Italian sausage, mushrooms, minced garlic, basil, oregano, and onion flakes. Sometimes I add chopped onion and green pepper.

    To remove as much fat as possible from the ground beef pour the cooked meat into a colander or spaghetti strainer while still hot. The fat drains from the meat, cutting the fat content in the sauce.

    Around the Kitchen Table Newsletter - August 2009


    Welcome to another issue of Around the Kitchen Table!

    It's difficult for me to believe that August has arrived but that's what my calendar says, Tuesday August 4, 2009.

    The new 2009 Watkins Midyear Catalog is available. Watkins has added a few new products and updated the packaging on others but there are no price increases!

    Recipes this issue are Caramelized Beef Skewers, Tomato Zucchini Casserole, Summer Ice Cream Cake, and Gingersnap Ice Cream Sandwiches.

    Caramelized Beef Skewers
    1 lb. beef sirloin steak, thinly sliced
    1/4 cup Watkins Steak Sauce, divided
    1/4 cup Watkins Original Gourmet Barbecue Sauce
    1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard

    Heat grill to medium-high heat. Toss meat with 2 tablespoons steak sauce; let stand 10 minutes. Meanwhile, combine remaining steak sauce, barbecue sauce and mustard.

    Thread meat onto 8 skewers. If using bamboo skewers, soak in water 20-30 minutes before using.

    Grill 6 minutes or until meat is done, turning after 3 minutes and brushing occasionally with barbecue sauce mixture.

    Serve with hot cooked rice, a tossed green salad, and garlic bread.

    August's Newsletter Giveaway is a bottle of Lavender Natural Room Freshener from our new all-natural plant-based home care products.

    If you are considering a home based business please take a look at Watkins. I will give you a $30 gift certificate to buy products for yourself. Just join with me as your sponsor, Eleisia Whitney ID# 335001. Sign up at my business information web site http://www.vanillasage.com, at http://www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney under Join Us - As an Associate, or by calling Watkins at 1-800-928-5467. Give my name and ID# as your sponsor.

    Read this issue now
    http://www.everydaynecessities.com/august1-09newsletter.htm

    Until next month,
    Eleisia

    July Gveaway Winner


    July's Watkins Giveaway winner is Shirley from California. She wins a jar of Mandarin Orange Fruit Dip Mix. Mix with sour cream, yogurt, cream cheese or whipped topping for a luscious fruit dip. Mix with cream cheese for a bagel spread.

    Monday, July 27, 2009

    Why Chose A Watkins Home Based Business?

    For over 140 years Watkins have been committed to using only the finest natural ingredients. While we are quite proud of our rich past, we are even more proud of our commitment to your family and future. Bringing you products that are family approved, Watkins guaranteed, and trusted for generations. From our natural home care cleaning line to our organic spices and extracts, Watkins has products everyone will love.

    The Watkins Story began in 1868 with the vision of a 28-year old entrepreneur, J.R. Watkins. With confidence in the exceptional quality of his first product, Watkins Red Liniment, he offered the first-ever money-back satisfaction guarantee by inventing his famous "Trial-Mark" bottle. Demand for Red Liniment quickly multiplied. To meet this demand, he hired salesmen to market this growing line of products from home to home, thus founding the Direct Sales Industry.

    "The Watkins Man" became a household name as North America developed and grew. J.R.'s dream lives on in the vision and entrepreneurial spirit of today's Watkins Associates. Watkins invites you to become part of this tradition.

    Extraordinary Products — People use our consumable products every day.

    Trusted Brand — People all over North America know and respect the Watkins brand. We boast a 100% money-back satisfaction guarantee and have been committed to quality since 1868!

    Brand Awareness — A small percentage of Watkins products can be found in select retail locations — a great opportunity for you to gain new customers, service their on-going needs, generate new business leads and grow your Watkins business.

    Simple Business — Watkins business system is easy to duplicate.

    Exceptional Compensation — Watkins rewards Associates in relation to their efforts and offers leadership bonuses!

    Low Start-up Cost — Watkins has one of the lowest start-up costs for a home-based business and requires no inventory.

    Support — Receive business support from me as your sponsor, your upline leaders, the Summit Group, and Watkins Home Office Staff.

    Incentives and Recognition — Watkins rewards top performers with powerful recognition, rewards, and luxury travel.

    What About You?
    You Deserve to be Rewarded!


    Whether you are looking to:


    • Save on your monthly grocery budget.
    • Pay off outstanding debt/credit cards.
    • Make a mortgage/auto payment.
    • Pay for your children's education.
    • Pay for your children's extra curricular activities.
    • Take that special vacation with your family that many have had to forfeit in these tough economic times.
    • Save for retirement.
    • Buy products people know — and love! — and earn extra income.
    Watkins is the perfect solution!

    You Decide What Marketing Method

    Living Naturally — Group events, presentations, and samplings present Watkins product and business opportunity to a group of people at the same time. These are very time effective methods for building your business and can represent significant "now money."
    Public Events — Trade Shows, Public Displays, and Fairs and Trade Shows bring the public to you. This is a fantastic fit for those who are free to work their business on the weekends and are willing to invest in inventory.
    Online — Bring customers and prospects right in to your virtual home anytime of day! Work your business full or part-time when you like.
    One-on-One — Present the product and business opportunity to individual prospects any time in any setting. This method is highly duplicable avenue for building your Watkins business.
    Team Building Personal Use - Buy the products you use everyday from your Watkins store and build a team by sponsoring other associates who do the same.

    Start during July with a Watkins Membership Package for Only $39.95 and receive a $10.00 Gift Certificate from Watkins and a $30 Gift Certificate from me.

    Learn more and sign up here.

    Business Opportunity http://www.vanillasage.com and http://www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney

    Fresh Strawberry Ice Cream






    Fresh Strawberry Ice Cream
    Eat a bowl of creamy strawberry ice cream or make ice cream cookie sandwiches with chocolate cookies. There's nothing better on a hot summer day.

    1 pint fresh, ripe strawberries
    3 tablespoons lemon juice
    1 cup granulated sugar, divided
    1 cup milk
    2 cups heavy cream
    1 teaspoon Watkins Vanilla Extract
    1 teaspoon Watkins Strawberry Extract

    In a small bowl, combine 1 pint ripe strawberries that have been stemmed and sliced with 3 tablespoons lemon juice and 1/2 cup sugar. Stir gently and allow the strawberries to macerate in the juice for at least 2 hours. Strain the berries, reserving the juice. Mash or puree half of the berries. Set aside.

    In a medium mixing bowl, use a hand mixer on low to combine 1 cup milk and 1/2 cup sugar until the sugar is dissolved. (It seems tempting to do this step by hand, but it really does make a difference in the texture of the ice cream, so I suggest not skipping this one.) Stir in 2 cups heavy cream, the reserved juice, the mashed strawberries, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon strawberry extract.

    Turn on the ice cream maker and pour the mixture into the freezer bowl. Let mix until thickened, about 20 - 25 minutes (or according to directions for your ice cream maker). Five minutes before mixing is complete, stir in the remaining sliced strawberries and let mix completely. This will be soft and creamy; you may place in an airtight container and freeze for an additional hour before serving. Makes 4 to 6 servings.


    Watkins Strawberry Extract, 2 fl oz


    Eleisia
    http://www.watkinsonline.com/eleisiawhitney

    Friday, July 24, 2009

    Bagel Chips



    I had a stale bagel and didn't want to throw it away so I made Bagel Chips. I ate half the chips with Artichoke Jalapeno Dip. yum!


    Bagel Chips
    Bagels
    Butter or Watkins Grapeseed Oil
    Watkins Garlic Liquid Spice
    Watkins Garlic Salt or Watkins Garlic Powder

    First, slice the bagel. Place sliced bagel on a baking sheet. Brush with a mixture of melted butter or grapeseed oil and Watkins Garlic Liquid Spice. Use just a small amount of the liquid spice because it is concentrated. Then sprinkle slices with Garlic Salt or Garlic Powder depending on desired amount of saltiness. Bake in preheated oven at 350 degrees F until golden brown. Tastes great by themselves or with dip.

    Wednesday, July 22, 2009

    Double Chocolate Chip Cookies



    Make these delicious chocolaty cookies. If you like chewy cookies don't over bake.

    Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

    1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
    1/2 cup granulated sugar
    1/2 cup brown sugar
    1 large egg
    1 teaspoon Watkins Vanilla Extract
    1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
    1/4 cup Watkins Baking Cocoa
    1/2 teaspoon baking soda
    1/2 teaspoon Watkins Baking Powder
    1/2 teaspoon salt
    1/2 cup milk-chocolate chips
    1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips

    1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Cream the butter and sugars in a large bowl with an electric mixer on high speed. Lower to medium speed and add the egg and vanilla. Sift together the flour, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. On low speed, add the dry mixture to the butter mixture. Beat until fully incorporated. Fold in the chocolate chips.

    2. Form the dough into approximately 1 1/2-inch balls. Place on greased or parchment-lined baking sheets, 2 inches apart.

    3. Bake until the centers are just set, about 12 minutes. Let cool on sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.

    This recipe makes 3 dozen cookies.